[Rabble]

Kerry's service number is only 6 digits on the form. This seems odd to me. My service number is 8 Digits. I was in the Army and have never seen a service number less than 8 digits.

Does anyone know is the Navy ordinarily uses a six digit service number?

[Jay Howard Smith]

Kerry's service number is only 6 digits on the form

Interesting......Mine was 8 digits also....

[BIGLOOK]

1967. A letter, A,B and 6 numerals. Dead men's service numbers recycled. For enlisted.

[William Tell]

Rabble asked: "Kerry's service number is only 6 digits on the form. This seems odd to me. My service number is 8 Digits. "

It may be that commissioned officers have a different numbering system than enlisted personnel. Since there would be far fewer officers, it makes sense that there would be fewer digits.