Is lieutenant higher than sergeant major of the marine corps?

Answer 1

Yes. 100%. However, in practicality, as a Marine I can tell you that it isn't that cut and dry lol. In official capacities, any officer is superior to any enlisted personnel. But you have to understand the rank of Sergeant Major. It is an E-9, the highest possible rank, same as another rank, Master Gunnery Sergeant. Here's the difference, after Master Sergeant (E8), you get the choice to either continue as a master of your profession (Master Gunnery Sergeant) or, the more political route as a leader of troops and advisor to the commander of the battalion (Sergeant Major). Thus, the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is the highest enlisted rank, above that of a regular Sergeant Major, and his job is to make sure the enlisted below him carry out the orders of the Commandant. His job is to execute policy changes, travel to bases and speak to the troops, etc. But remember I said there's a difference? What I mean is this... a Marine officer leaves school and arrives at their unit as a second Lieutenant (butterbar, lol) and automatically picks up first Lieutenant six months later (silver bar). Bottom line, Lieutenant -- less than two years if they have a silver bar. Sergeant Major -- 20+ years (you can retire after 20 so now they're doing it for the love). A Lieutenant trying to "pull rank" on a Sergeant Major in a disrespectful way wouldn't be advised. Case in point, I've seen a Master Gunnery Sergeant walk past a 2nd Lt. without saluting (probably didn't see him or was doing something). Now, according to rules and traditions, he's required to salute. So, the Lieutenant, in a rude and demeaning way, asked the Master Gunnery Sergeant why he didn't salute him and the Masters Guns without hesitation told him to "climb the rockers on my collar before you speak to me *expletive*". Ouch. He's not technically allowed to do that, but what do you expect when you've been in less than six months and get smart with someone who can retire today. Bottom line, the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps will salute a Lieutenant because it's required and proper, but no Lieutenant would try to throw their weight around or get mouthy with the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, nor should they.

Answer 2

Yes, a 2nd lieutenant is higher in rank than sergeant major. Lieutenants are commissioned officers and sergeants enlisted non-commissioned officers.