[Taxman]

Yes! There were several RIFs (Reduction in Force) after WW II and Korea.

Back in 1963, I knew a retired USAF Full Bull Colonel B-52 Command Pilot who served his last two years or so as an E-8. He was enlisted, went through pilot training and got commissioned during WW II.

There was a provision to allow RIFFed Officers to continue on active duty so as to qualify for a 20 year retirement at their highest grade honorably held.

Don’t know if that particular “benefit” is still available to former enlisted men who accept a commission and are later RIFFed.

[Little Bill]

Saw the same thing with an Army Master Sergent, E-8, in 1968, did his 30 and retired as a Major. Operations Sergent in a Transportation Battalion, RED BALL in WW2.