4 August, 1999 - I joined the Army, a lowly, puny, E1 Private. 6 May, 2000 - I get promoted to Private, Second Class. 10 October, 2000 - I get promoted once again, to Private, First Class. 1 February...was nowhere for me to advance, based on how the National Guard is set up for rank. Until now. 3 October, 2008 - I get promoted to Sergeant. I have to grin like an idiot for a while, now, excuse me