#230: Thoughts on the E-8 Redesignation Board Pilot Program with MGySgt Adam Walker (Ret)
Posted on: February 19,2026Hey, Scuttlebutt listeners. Thank you for joining us at the scuttlebutt. This week, we welcome retired Master Gunnery Sergeant Adam Walker back to the show. Adam is on deck to talk with us about the Marine Corps’ new E-8 Redesignation pilot program, which gives master sergeants and first sergeants a one-time option to “lat move” between the E-8 designations. Adam helps us understand the career progression for senior enlisted Marines, namely what happens when a gunnery sergeant is promoted, the differences between a first sergeant and master sergeant, how the Marine Corps views its E-8s differently from the other Services, and the significance of this policy change. Talking with Adam is always a lot of fun and super informative. This is a unique opportunity to see behind the curtain on how Marines are promoted and how this program addresses two of the primary things Marines are opposed to: how things are and change.
You can also catch more of Adam’s wit and insight in his recurring segment, Tales from the Smoke Pit, in Leatherneck magazine. Shameless plug, but it’s definitely worth checking out.
Enjoy!
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