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"Other ranks" (ORs) is the term used to refer to all ranks below commissioned officer in the British Army and the Royal Marines. It includes warrant officers, non-commissioned officers ("NCOs") and ordinary soldiers with the rank of private or regimental equivalent.

Ranks

[edit]
Rank insignia of the other ranks of the British Army
Rank group Warrant officers Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Soldiers
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1
Insignia[1][2] No insignia
Typical appointment[3] Army sergeant major[a] Regimental sergeant major[b] Regimental quartermaster sergeant[c] Squadron/battery/company sergeant major[d] Squadron/battery/company quartermaster sergeant[e]
Rank[1] Warrant officer class 1 Warrant officer class 2 Staff/colour sergeant Sergeant[f] Corporal Lance corporal Private (or equivalent)
Abbreviation WO1 WO2 SSgt/CSgt Sgt Cpl LCpl Pte

Role

[edit]
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Rank Typical command size or appointment[5] Typical time taken for a promotion
Warrant officer class 1 Referred to individually by appointment. The most senior advisors to battalions and commanding officers. Responsible for the discipline and equipment of officers and soldiers. 18 years with an outstanding service record.
Warrant officer class 2 Referred to individually by appointment. A senior management role of squadrons, batteries and companies. N/A
Staff/colour sergeant Management role of a squadron, battery or company, or serves as platoon commander. After a few years as a sergeant.
Sergeant Second in command of a troop or platoon. After serving for 12 years.
Corporal Generally commands a section or a single tank. After serving for 6–8 years.
Lance corporal Second in command of a section, or leader of a fire team. Finished phase 2 training or after 3 years as a private.
Private No command. Finished phase 1 training.

Variants

[edit]

Privates

[edit]

Many units do not use the rank "Private", using instead:

Foot Guards

[edit]
Rank insignia of the other ranks of the foot guards[6][7][8][9][10]
Rank group Warrant officers Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Soldiers
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1
Full dress insignia No insignia
Service dress insignia No insignia
Typical appointment Garrison sergeant major London district Regimental sergeant major Regimental quartermaster sergeant Company sergeant major Company quartermaster sergeant Lance sergeant
Rank Warrant officer class 1 Warrant officer class 2 Colour sergeant[g] Sergeant Corporal[h] Lance corporal[i] Guardsman
Abbreviation WO1 WO2 CSgt Sgt LSgt LCpl Gdsm

The five regiments of foot guards (Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh) have a unique rank structure to the rest of the British Army. Lance corporals in the foot guards wear two chevrons, as opposed to one. The change from one-bar to two-bar chevrons happened sometime between 1882 and 1887,[11] and whilst some sources claim that this was according to a preference expressed by Queen Victoria,[6] those claims are unproven.[11] The appointment of lance sergeant, abolished in the rest of the army in 1946,[12] was retained in the foot guards, and all corporals are made lance sergeants upon their promotion to corporal.[6] In full dress, substantial sergeants wear a crimson sash and gold lace chevrons whilst lance sergeants wear no sash and white worsted chevrons like corporals. In no. 2 service dress, the chevron colours are the same for both ranks but lance sergeants do not wear the sash or cap badge of a substantial sergeant.[8]

The Garrison Sergeant Major London District's badge of rank

Colour sergeants in the foot guards also wear a unique badge of rank on full dress, consisting of a crown above a depiction of the king's colour (which is crimson in the foot guards, unlike the regiments in the rest of the British Army which have a defaced Union Flag as their king's colour) and above two crossed swords, all superimposed on three gold lace chevrons. The badge is also used, minus the chevrons, by company sergeant majors.[6] The design of the crimson flag varies between the five regiments. The Grenadier Guards use a royal cypher, reversed and interlaced, with the flowers of the four nations of the United Kingdom in the corners. The flag's tassels and the crossed swords beneath the flag also differ in design from those used in the other regiments. The Coldstream Guards use a Garter star above a sphinx that is encircled by a wreath; the Scots Guards use the same design but with the star of the Order of the Thistle; the Irish Guards use the star of the Order of St Patrick with shamrocks in each corner; and the Welsh Guards use a dragon above their motto, Cymru am byth, 'Wales forever'.[12]

In full dress, foot guards' chevrons are of double lace (abolished in the rest of the army in 1868)[13] and are edged in dark blue, the facing colour of royal regiments.[8] In no. 2 service dress, NCOs' chevrons and badges are brown on khaki (as opposed to white on khaki as in most regiments) and the crowns on the badges of warrant officers and NCOs are metal, except in the Grenadier Guards who wear all cloth insignia.[8] NCOs in the Grenadier Guards also wear a grenade above their chevrons on no. 2 service dress, and Grenadier Guards colour sergeants and WO2s wear crossed swords above a grenade with their no. 2 service dress rank insignia.[8] The Honourable Artillery Company has worn rank insignia and dress based on that of the Grenadier Guards since ordered by William IV in 1830, but they do not use the rank of guardsman.[14]

Household Cavalry

[edit]
A lance corporal of the Blues and Royals in full dress, distinguished by basic aiguillettes and no shoulder cords
Rank insignia of the other ranks of the Household Cavalry[15][7][8][16][9][10]
Rank group Warrant officers Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Soldiers
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1
Full dress insignia
Shoulder cords and aiguillettes, 1st class staff 		Shoulder cords and aiguillettes, 2nd class staff Shoulder cords and aiguillettes, 1st class staff Shoulder cords and aiguillettes, 2nd class staff
 Aiguillettes only No insignia
Service dress insignia No insignia
Typical appointment Regimental corporal major Regimental quartermaster corporal Squadron corporal major[j] Squadron quartermaster corporal[k] Lance corporal of horse[l]
Rank Warrant officer class 1 Warrant officer class 2 Staff corporal[m] Corporal of horse[n] Corporal[o] Lance corporal[p] Trooper
Abbreviation WO1 WO2 SCpl CoH LCoH LCpl Tpr

The Household Cavalry maintains the old cavalry tradition of having no rank of sergeant, which was originally an infantry rank only. It has its own peculiar set of insignia and ranks.[17]

Similarly, warrant officer appointments are different, with, for example, "regimental corporal major" being used in place of regimental sergeant major. Uniquely, NCOs and warrant officers of the Household Cavalry do not wear any insignia on their full dress uniforms (although officers do). Rank is indicated by a system of aiguillettes.

Others

[edit]

In several cavalry regiments, including the 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards and the Queen's Royal Hussars, NCOs holding the rank of lance corporal wear two chevrons instead of one. Full corporals are distinguished by the addition of a cypher above their two stripes in dress uniforms. Staff sergeants in an appointment as squadron quartermaster sergeant in the cavalry sometimes wear four stripes with a crown and are referred to as "sergeant major". The term "mister" is confined to WO2s.

The Royal Artillery and Royal Horse Artillery also use the ranks lance bombardier and bombardier instead of lance corporal and corporal, while The Rifles use the spelling "serjeant" in place of "sergeant".

History

[edit]

17th century–1802

[edit]
A sergeant of a grenadier company of the 4th Regiment of Foot at the Battle of Culloden in 1746

Until the introduction of sergeant majors early in the eighteenth century, the only NCOs were sergeants and corporals.[18] In the second half of the 17th century sergeants and corporals were distinguished by wearing coats laced with silver of various widths and silver bands and edging on their hats, whilst officers wore gorgets, sashes and other ornamentation. NCOs were also distinguishable by their weaponry. Sergeants carried halberts, corporals generally carried muskets, and those in the foot guards carried poleaxes.[19] Drum majors had the standing of a sergeant but only counted as a drummer in the establishment.[18] Drum majors, drummers and hoboys were also marked out by special uniforms.[19] It is probable that the earliest distinctions of NCO rank were left to the discretion of commanding officers. Although the royal warrant of 1707 established a Board of General Officers to regulate clothing and equipment, a subsequent clothing warrant of 1708 directed that 'the Serjeants, Corporals, Drummers, Trumpeters, and Hoboys be clothed in the same manner as the soldiers, but everything to be better in its kind.'[18][19]

George II made efforts to standardise dress in the army, and a series of books, orders and clothing warrants were issued to this effect during his reign.[20] In contrast to NCOs, soldiers did not wear any particular insignia of rank. Instead, infantry soldiers wore red coats and white lace with coloured lines or geometric patterns known as 'regimental lace'. The pattern of the lace and the colour of the facings of the coat served to distinguish the different regiments.[18] Infantry sergeants wore a worsted sash around the waist, usually red with a stripe of the colour of their regimental facings (in contrast to the crimson silk sashes worn over the right shoulder by infantry officers).[20][18][21] Corporals wore a white worsted shoulder knot on the right shoulder.[20] Sergeants' coats were of scarlet cloth, whilst corporals and soldiers wore red and drum majors wore distinguishing coats. In 1752 infantry sergeants were ordered to wear coats with lapels worn to the waist of the same colour as the facings of their regiment, and with white or yellow buttons and buttonholes (to match their officers who wore silver or gold buttons and buttonholes). In 1761 a standing order is noted under which sergeant majors and drum majors (but not sergeants) were allowed to wear gold or silver lace on their coats.[18]

In 1768 during the reign of George III, a detailed clothing warrant for the infantry was published.[18][22] A sergeant's buttonholes were looped with white braid and their hat laced with silver. Sergeants were to carry a halbert (in contrast to battalion officers who carried an espontoon).[22][q] The coat for corporals and soldiers had buttonholes looped with regimental lace,[r] and the corporal's shoulder knot had been replaced by a silk epaulette,[21] still worn on the right shoulder only. Corporals and privates' hats had a white tape binding.[22] Sergeant majors and drum majors were not mentioned, although paintings of the 25th Foot from 1771 show a sergeant major wearing a scarlet coat with yellow facings and extensively laced with silver and other decorative details. The drum major is shown wearing a similar coat but the colours of the body and facings are exchanged. Separate records from 1768 show that NCOs in the 3rd guards were to wear epaulettes.[18]

Towards the end of the 18th century all NCOs in line infantry regiments wore epaulettes on their shoulders, with the first evidence appearing in 1779.[18] An infantry sergeant major wore a silver epaulette with a bullion fringe on each shoulder, a sergeant wore a silk epaulette with a fringe on each shoulder, and a corporal wore a plain silk epaulette with a fringe on the right shoulder only (and on the red jacket of an ordinary soldier).[24] NCOs in flank companies and the fusiliers wore their epaulettes on both arms above their wings.[25] NCOs in the 3rd Guards had worn epaulettes since 1768 and this was evident in all three regiments of foot guards by 1792.[18] In the foot guards, a sergeant major wore a gold epaulette with a bullion fringe on each shoulder; a sergeant wore a gold-laced epaulette with a gilt fringe on the right shoulder and a laced strap with a gilt fringe on the left shoulder; and a corporal wore a laced strap with gilt fringe on the right shoulder only. In common with the flank companies of the line infantry regiments, these were worn on both arms above the wings in the flank companies of the foot guards. There was considerable variation in the patterns and styles of epaulettes between regiments. In the cavalry, a corporal of horse (the cavalry equivalent to the infantry rank of sergeant) was distinguished by silver or guilt lace to their uniform, and a corporal by similar lace but only to the cuffs and collars.[25]

In the last quarter of the 18th century, chevrons are recorded as being used to indicate NCO ranks in some regiments. In 1795 a standing order for the 43rd Foot instructed lance sergeants to wear two chevrons of white worsted lace and lance corporals to wear one. Regulations for the newly established Rifle Corps in 1800 record that substantive NCOs wore some form of chevron, described as a "customary 'V' or arrow", whilst a chosen man was to wear a ring of white cloth around the right arm.[18] There is also evidence of cavalry regiment NCOs wearing chevrons on the right arm during this period. A cavalry sergeant major wore a three-bar chevron; a sergeant, farrier major or trumpet major wore two; and a corporal wore one.[25][26]

1802–1881

[edit]
Four-bar chevron
Sergeant major
One-bar chevron below crossed swords, Union Jack and crown
Colour sergeant (rank created in 1813)
Three-bar chevron
Sergeant
Two-bar chevron
Corporal
One-bar chevron
Lance corporal (badge specified in 1837)
1802 rank insignia

The need to easily recognise NCOs in battle and the growth in the number of ranks over the course of the previous century, each requiring a costly uniform reflecting their rank, led to the creation of a simplified system of cheaply made and easily recognised rank marks.[13] In 1802 epaulettes and shoulder knots for NCOs were replaced by chevrons, with only officers to wear epaulettes. The chevrons were to point down and were to be placed on the right arm, half way between the elbow and the shoulder. They were to be formed of double row lace and edged with the facing colour of the regiment.[27] Sergeant majors were to wear a four-bar chevron of silver, gilt or white lace; quartermasters a four-bar white chevron; and sergeants a three-bar white chevron. Corporals wore a two-bar chevron made of the regimental lace, and chosen men wore a one-bar chevron of regimental lace. The foot guards wore gilt chevrons. Sergeants were to continue wearing a crimson worsted sash with a central stripe in the facing colours appropriate to their regiment.[25]

The rank insignia of a colour sergeant in the 80th Foot, circa 1860

The rank of troop sergeant major was introduced to the cavalry in 1809. They were to adopt a four-bar chevron, hitherto worn by a regimental sergeant major. The latter were to wear a crown above their four-bar chevrons in order to differentiate themselves from the new rank. Evidence shows that sergeant majors in the infantry had also begun to add a crown above their four-bar chevrons in the years before the Crimean War, although this may have been unofficial until 1865.[13] In 1813 the rank of colour sergeant was created for the senior sergeant in each infantry company; the equivalent of the troop sergeant major in cavalry regiments. In line regiments, colour sergeants wore a single chevron below two crossed swords below a Union Flag flying to the rear and all surmounted by a crown.[25][s] Colour sergeants in the rifle regiments and the foot guards wore a slightly different design and some regiments wore three chevrons below the colour instead of one. Colour sergeants in flank companies, fusiliers, highlanders and light infantry also wore three chevrons on the left sleeve, in addition to the colour badge on their right sleeve.[25]

The coloured regimental lace worn by corporals and below was abolished in 1836, and thereafter their chevrons were of the same plain white lace as the chevrons of senior NCOs.[13] Regulations issued in 1837 repeated the ranks and chevrons given in 1802 but also include the single chevron for a lance corporal.[13] Stripes on the sashes of sergeants were discontinued in 1845, leaving a plain all-crimson woollen sash worn around the waist.[28] But when officers began to wear their sashes over the left shoulder in 1855, NCOs followed but over the right shoulder to avoid confusion.[29]

Four classes of schoolmaster were created in 1854 with the insignia of stars. The first class ranked as warrant officers and were senior to the sergeant-major; the second and third classes ranked as staff sergeants, below a sergeant major; and the fourth class was made up of assistant schoolmasters with the rank of sergeant. They wore a blue frock coat and gold shoulder knots, a sword and crimson sash, and a cap with a scarlet band and a crown in gold thread. The first, second and third classes wore three, two and one gold stars respectively on their collars, and the fourth class ranking as a sergeant wore neither the collar star, shoulder knots, nor crown on their cap, and wore a silk girdle rather than a sash. However, these appointments and their insignia were short-lived, as in 1863 the four classes were reduced to the two categories of superintending schoolmaster (with the commissioned officer rank of ensign) and schoolmaster (with the rank of staff sergeant and the accompanying chevrons).[30]

Following the reforms to army dress in 1855 there is evidence that NCOs of colour sergeant rank and above wore gold chevrons, and this is confirmed to be the case by 1865 (except in the rifle regiments). The ranks of sergeant and below continued to wear white chevrons until 1868 when substantive sergeants too were to wear single lace gold chevrons (except in the rifle regiments). Corporals and below continued to wear white chevrons. The effect of this order also seems to have been to replace double lace chevrons with single lace chevrons for all ranks of NCO, except in the foot guards. Also in 1868 a new badge for colour sergeants was introduced to replace the 1813 design. This had a crown above two crossed Union Flags above three gold chevrons. In 1869 sergeant majors and quartermaster sergeants were instructed to wear their four-bar chevrons below the elbow instead of above.[13] In 1871 the dull red tunics worn by corporals and soldiers were replaced by scarlet coloured tunics, as worn by sergeants and officers.[29]

In 1879 the historic title of conductor, which had fallen into disuse early in the 19th century, was recreated with the appointments of conductor of supplies (in the Commissariat and Transport Corps) and conductor of stores (in the Ordnance Store Corps) at the recreated rank of warrant officer. They did not have a badge of rank but wore a different uniform to other ranks.[13]

1881–1915

[edit]
Badges of rank published in an 1883 boys' magazine. Appointments varied by branch (cavalry, artillery, engineers and infantry) but shared common ranks and insignia.

The 1881 Childers Reforms reorganised the regiments and battalions of the British Army. 1881 also saw a series of regulations and amendments which sought to standardise and simplify the badges of rank for both officers and other ranks which had grown in complexity since they were introduced in 1802.[12] In 1881 the other ranks consisted of warrant officers; staff sergeants, 1st class; staff sergeants, 2nd class; sergeants; corporals (including the appointment of lance sergeant); bombardiers (in the artillery) and 2nd corporals; privates of various titles (including the appointments of lance corporal and acting bombardier); and boys. However, although there were only eight categories of rank, there remained a wide range of appointments. The way in which badges were worn was also standardised. Badges of rank were to be worn only on the right arm, with four-bar chevrons to point up with the point below the elbow, and one, two and three bar chevrons to point down with the point above the elbow. All badges and chevrons were to be of gold lace, except for some rank badges in the line infantry, the Army Hospital Corps and the rifle regiments. Rifle regiment NCOs wore worsted and silk badges and chevrons, whilst other line infantry NCOs wore gold for the ranks above sergeant and white for those ranks below colour sergeant.[12]

Initially, the only warrant officers were conductors of supplies (in the Commissariat and Transport Corps) and conductors of stores (in the Ordnance Store Corps). They did not have a badge of rank but wore a different uniform to other ranks.[t] The lesser appointment of regimental sergeant major initially wore a four-bar chevron pointing up beneath a crown. However, reforms later in 1881 raised several appointments of the staff sergeant, 1st class, rank to warrant officer rank, including master gunners, 1st and 2nd class, regimental sergeant majors, bandmasters and several technical NCOs. In 1882 their badge of rank was changed to a large crown in the style of St Edward's Crown. Master gunners also wore a gun below the crown, and bandmasters (except the Royal Artillery bandmaster who had a special badge) wore gold engineer knots instead of the crown.[12]

Regimental quartermaster sergeants remained at the rank of staff sergeant, 1st class, and their badge of rank was four chevrons pointing upwards topped by an eight-pointed star. Staff sergeants, 2nd class, included troop sergeant majors (in cavalry troops); battery sergeant majors and battery quartermaster sergeants (in the artillery); company sergeant majors (in the engineers); and colour sergeants (in the infantry). Their badge of rank was three downward pointing chevrons below a crown. Around the same time, trumpet majors, drum majors, bugle majors and pipe majors were reduced from staff sergeant, 2nd class, to sergeant rank, and their titles accordingly changed to sergeant trumpeter, sergeant drummer, sergeant bugler and sergeant piper. Their titles would not be restored to the -major style until 1928. Sergeants/lance sergeants, corporals, and 2nd corporals/bombardiers/lance corporals continued to wear a three-bar, two-bar and one-bar chevron respectively. Privates (and their equivalents) and boys continued to wear no badges of rank.[12]

In 1887 warrant officer bandmasters adopted a lyre below a crown as their badge of rank, and troop sergeant majors in the cavalry were redesignated as squadron sergeant majors in the 1890s. In 1901 staff sergeant majors, 1st class, ASC and conductors AOC (successors to the conductors of supplies/stores, formerly without a badge of rank) began to wear a crown in a wreath as their rank insignia. Staff sergeant majors, 1st class, in the Army Pay Corps followed in 1904, whilst sub-conductors in the Army Ordnance Corps took the crown as their badge of rank.[u] With the accession of Edward VII in 1901, he selected a Tudor Crown design to replace all other crown designs in use,[31] and in 1902 khaki service dress was adopted, with badges of rank to be worn on both arms on service dress from 1904. By 1907, both brass and worsted badges of rank were being worn on service dress. Army order 323 of October 1913 reorganised infantry battalions from eight companies to four, leaving two colour sergeants in each new company. In 1914, the senior of the pair was appointed to the new appointment of company sergeant major and the junior to that of company quartermaster sergeant.[12]

1915–present

[edit]
A German chart issued in 1941 showing both commissioned and non-commissioned officer ranks

The next major reforms after 1881 took place in 1915. Warrant officers were divided into two classes: class I and II (styled in roman numerals until the second half of the twentieth century), and many more NCOs were promoted to warrant officer rank. Staff sergeants, 1st class, in the appointment of regimental quartermaster sergeant, and staff sergeants, 2nd class, in the appointment of squadron/battery/troop/company sergeant major, were promoted to warrant officer class II. Under army order 174 of 1915, their badge of rank became the imperial crown as worn by regimental sergeant majors up to this point. Regimental sergeant majors (and equivalent appointments) were made warrant officers class I and were ordered to wear the royal arms as their badge of rank. Conductors, AOC, and staff sergeant majors, 1st class, ASC and APC, along with master gunners, 1st class, and schoolmasters, 1st class, were also made WOI and continued to wear a crown in a wreath. In all cases, the badge was worn below the elbow. By the end of the First World War, all staff sergeants, 1st class, had been promoted to the WOII rank, thus ending that class of rank. Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster sergeants remained at the staff/colour sergeant rank, formerly staff sergeant, 2nd class.[12]

There were further changes to the badges of warrant officers in both classes under army order 309 of 1918. Those warrant officers, class I, using the crown in a wreath were ordered to adopt the royal arms in a wreath. WOII quartermasters (which had formerly been of a higher rank than company level sergeant majors before the 1915 reforms) adopted the crown in a wreath, whilst WOII squadron/battery/troop/company sergeant majors retained the crown as their badge.[12]

In 1920 the ranks of bombardier and 2nd corporal were abolished, and corporals in the Royal Artillery were restyled as bombardiers. The rank of 2nd corporal was replaced by the appointments of lance corporal and lance bombardier. In 1928 sergeant trumpeters, sergeant drummers, sergeant buglers and sergeant pipers were restored to their pre-1881 titles of trumpet majors, drum majors, bugle majors and pipe majors.[12]

A short lived reform was introduced in 1938 when a third class of warrant officer was introduced. The role of platoon/troop commander, normally filled by a lieutenant or second lieutenant, was made available for experienced NCOs in the new appointment of platoon/troop sergeant major with the rank of warrant officer class III.[32] Their badge of rank was an imperial crown, whilst those warrant officers, class II, who had formerly worn the crown were ordered to wear the crown in a wreath, the same badge worn by WOII quartermaster sergeants. The rank of WOIII was placed in suspension in 1940, and in 1947 WOII ranks were ordered to return the their pre-1938 badges of rank.[12]

Following the accession of Elizabeth II in 1952, the Tudor Crown design used on rank badges was replaced by a St Edward's Crown design in 1953.[33] It returned to a Tudor Crown design with the accession of Charles III in 2022[34] and was rolled out on British Army uniforms from 2023.[35]

The grades of lance sergeant and lance corporal were not strictly ranks but were appointments, held by selected corporals and privates, and usually carrying extra pay. The appointment was made by the man's commanding officer and could be taken away by him for disciplinary reasons, unlike full sergeants and corporals who could only be demoted by order of a court martial. In 1961 the ranks of lance corporal and lance bombardier were made substantial ranks rather than appointments, whilst the appointment of lance sergeant was discontinued in 1946, except in the Foot Guards and Honourable Artillery Company (and its equivalent, lance corporal of horse, in the Household Cavalry).

The regimental sergeant major for the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst was retitled academy sergeant major (AcSM) in 1960 and made one of the most senior warrant officer appointments, with the badge of the royal arms in a laurel wreath.[36] The appointment of Royal Artillery sergeant major was established in 1989, senior to other master gunners, and their badge of appointment is the royal arms above a gun and within a laurel wreath. In 2011 the badge of appointment for the garrison sergeant major London district changed from the royal arms to the royal arms on a four-bar chevron, as it had been before 1882.[37] The appointment of army sergeant major was made in 2015, with the royal arms in a large oakleaf wreath as their insignia.[38]

Spelling

[edit]

The spelling serjeant is sometimes seen. This was the official spelling in the British Army and Royal Marines, although not the Royal Air Force, until the 1930s and appeared in such publications as King's Regulations and the Pay Warrant, which defined the various ranks. In common usage, the modern spelling sergeant was already more usual, as in the volumes of the Official History which began to appear in the 1920s. Serjeant-at-Arms is a title still held by members of the security staff in the Houses of Parliament. The old spelling is also retained by The Rifles, as successor to the Royal Green Jackets and The Light Infantry, which also used it.[39]

Timeline of changes

[edit]
Rank group Warrant officers Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Soldiers
1802–1855[13] No insignia
Serjeant-major Colour-serjeant Serjeant Corporal Lance corporal Private
(or equivalent)
1855–1865[13] No insignia
Serjeant-major Colour-serjeant Serjeant Corporal Lance corporal Private
(or equivalent)
1865–1868[13] No insignia
Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Troop/battery serjeant-major
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Staff-serjeant, 1st class
 Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[x] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1868–1871[13] No insignia
Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Troop/battery serjeant-major
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Staff-serjeant, 1st class
 Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[x] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1871–1879[13] No insignia
Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Troop/battery serjeant-major
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Staff-serjeant, 1st class
 Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[x] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1879–1881[13] No insignia
 No insignia
Conductor of supplies/stores[t] Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Troop/battery serjeant-major
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Warrant officer
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class
 Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[x] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1881[12] No insignia
 No insignia
Conductor of supplies/stores[t] Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant[z] 		Troop/battery serjeant-major[aa]
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Warrant officer
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class
 Staff-serjeant, 2nd class[ab]
 Serjeant[x] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1881–1882[12] No insignia
 No insignia
Conductor of supplies/stores[t] Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant[z] 		Troop/battery serjeant-major[aa]
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Warrant officer[ac]
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1882–1901[12] No insignia
 No insignia
Conductor of supplies/stores[t] Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant[z] 		Troop/battery serjeant-major[aa]
Troop/battery quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Warrant officer[ac]
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1901–1902[12] No insignia
Conductor A.O.C.
Staff serjeant-major, 1st class 		Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Squadron/battery/troop serjeant-major[ae]
Squadron/battery/troop quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Warrant officer[ac]
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class Staff-serjeant, 2nd class
 Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1902–1914[12] No insignia
Conductor A.O.C.
Staff serjeant-major, 1st class 		Regimental serjeant-major[v] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Colour-serjeant[w]
Squadron/battery/troop serjeant-major
Squadron/battery/troop quartermaster-serjeant
Warrant officer[ac]
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class Staff-serjeant, 2nd class Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1914–1915[12] No insignia
Conductor A.O.C.
Staff serjeant-major, 1st class 		Regimental serjeant-major[af] Regimental
quartermaster-serjeant 		Squadron/battery/troop/company serjeant-major
Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-serjeant
Warrant officer[ac]
 Staff-serjeant, 1st class Staff-serjeant, 2nd class Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent) 		Boy
1915–1918[12] No insignia
Conductor A.O.C.[ag] Regimental serjeant-major[ah] Squadron/battery/troop/company serjeant-major
Regimental quartermaster-serjeant[ai] 		Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-serjeant
Warrant officer class I[aj]
 Warrant officer class II[ak] Staff/colour-serjeant Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent)
1918–1920[12] No insignia
Conductor R.A.O.C.[al] Regimental serjeant-major[am] Regimental quartermaster-serjeant[an] Squadron/battery/troop/company serjeant-major[ao] Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-serjeant
Warrant officer class I[ap]
 Warrant officer class II
 Staff/colour-serjeant Serjeant[ad] Corporal 2nd corporal/
bombardier/
lance corporal[y] 		Private
(or equivalent)
1920–1938[12] No insignia
Conductor R.A.O.C.[aq] Regimental sergeant-major Regimental quartermaster-sergeant Squadron/battery/troop/company sergeant-major Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-sergeant
Warrant officer class I[ap]
 Warrant officer class II
 Staff/colour-sergeant Sergeant[ad] Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier[ar] 		Private
(or equivalent)
1938–1947[40] No insignia
Conductor R.A.O.C.[aq] Regimental sergeant-major Regimental quartermaster-sergeant
Squadron/battery/troop/company sergeant-major 		Platoon/troop/section sergeant-major Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-sergeant
Warrant officer class I[ap]
 Warrant officer
class II 		Warrant officer
class III[as] 		Staff/colour-sergeant Sergeant[x] Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier[ar] 		Private
(or equivalent)
1947–1953[12] No insignia
Conductor R.A.O.C.[aq] Regimental sergeant-major Regimental quartermaster-sergeant Squadron/battery/troop/company sergeant-major Squadron/battery/troop/company quartermaster-sergeant
Warrant officer class I[ap]
 Warrant officer class II[as]
 Staff/colour-sergeant Sergeant Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier[ar] 		Private
(or equivalent)
1953–2015[41][10] No insignia
Conductor RAOC[at] Regimental sergeant major Regimental quartermaster sergeant Squadron/battery/company sergeant major Squadron/battery/company quartermaster sergeant
Warrant officer class I/1[ap]
 Warrant officer class II/2[au]
 Staff/colour sergeant Sergeant Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier[ar] 		Private
(or equivalent)
2015–2023[41][10] No insignia
Army sergeant major[av] Regimental sergeant major[aw] Regimental quartermaster sergeant[ax] Squadron/battery/company sergeant major[ay] Squadron/battery/company quartermaster sergeant[az]
Warrant officer class 1[ap]
 Warrant officer class 2[au]
 Staff/colour sergeant[ba] Sergeant[bb] Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier 		Private
(or equivalent)
2023–Present[41][10] No insignia
Army sergeant major[av] Regimental sergeant major[aw] Regimental quartermaster sergeant[ax] Squadron/battery/company sergeant major[ay] Squadron/battery/company quartermaster sergeant[az]
Warrant officer class 1[ap]
 Warrant officer class 2[au]
 Staff/colour sergeant[ba] Sergeant[bb] Corporal/
bombardier 		Lance corporal/
lance bombardier 		Private
(or equivalent)
NATO code OR-9 OR-8 OR-7 OR-6 OR-5 OR-4 OR-3 OR-2 OR-1

Historical ranks

[edit]
  • Sergeant-major: equivalent to the current regimental sergeant major, a warrant officer class 1
  • Company sergeant-major: now an appointment of warrant officer class 2
  • Quartermaster sergeant: can now be a regimental quartermaster sergeant (warrant officer class 2) or a company quartermaster sergeant (staff sergeant). In the technical corps, a WO2 can also be an AQMS (Artificer Quartermaster Sergeant), TQMS (Technical .....), or SQMS (Squadron ... )
  • Warrant officer class III: a short-lived rank used between 1938 and 1940, holding the appointment of platoon sergeant major, troop sergeant major, or section sergeant major.
  • Colour sergeant: gave way to staff sergeant over the years before the First World War although colour sergeant exists today in the Royal Marines, equivalent to a staff sergeant in the Army, and is still used to refer to all staff sergeants in infantry regiments and the Honourable Artillery Company.
  • Lance sergeant: appointment originally given to corporals acting in the rank of sergeant, discontinued in 1946 except in the Foot Guards, Honourable Artillery Company, and some cadet units.[6]
  • Second corporal: Royal Engineers and Army Ordnance Corps rank until 1920, equivalent to lance-corporal but a substantive instead of an acting rank.
  • Bombardier: until 1920, when it became equivalent to corporal, a rank in the Royal Artillery equivalent to a second corporal.
  • Acting bombardier: appointment originally given to a Royal Artillery gunner acting in the rank of bombardier, discontinued in 1918 and replaced by lance-bombardier.
  • Chosen man: was a rank primarily found in the Rifle Brigade denoting a marksman and/or leadership material. Became lance corporal in the early 19th century.

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

British Army other ranks rank insignia

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from Grokipedia
British Army other ranks rank insignia are the embroidered or metallic badges worn by enlisted personnel—excluding commissioned officers—to denote their hierarchical position within the force, primarily consisting of chevrons, crowns, and heraldic devices affixed to the upper sleeves of uniforms. These symbols, which distinguish non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and warrant officers from junior ranks like privates, originated in the late with unofficial use of chevrons and were formally authorized in , evolving from heraldic traditions during the Napoleonic Wars era. The insignia system for other ranks emphasizes simplicity and visibility, with chevrons—V-shaped stripes pointing downward—serving as the foundational element for most NCO grades, worn on the right upper arm in working dress and both arms in ceremonial uniforms like No. 1 Dress. Unlike officer insignia, which appear on shoulders or collars, other ranks' badges are positioned lower to reflect their operational roles in the field, using materials such as gold or silver embroidery on regimental-colored backgrounds or anodized metal for durability. This design ensures quick rank identification during maneuvers or combat, underscoring the British Army's emphasis on discipline and command structure among its approximately 73,000 regular personnel (as of July 2025), the majority of whom are other ranks. At the base level, privates—the entry rank for most soldiers, equivalent to troopers in or gunners in —wear no , reflecting their foundational role in sections of 8–10 personnel. Promotion to , the most junior NCO, adds a single chevron, appointing them to lead fire teams of four soldiers and handle specialist tasks like driving or signals. Corporals, marked by two chevrons, command sections and manage equipment, with variants such as lance sergeants in the Guards or bombardiers in the Royal using identical symbols. Senior NCOs build on this with additional chevrons and emblems: display three chevrons and lead platoons of 30 , advising junior officers on tactics and welfare; or colour add a above three chevrons, overseeing company-level supply, , and in units of up to 120 personnel. Warrant officers represent the pinnacle of enlisted service—Class 2 (WO2) with a encircled by a , managing sub-units as company sergeant majors; and Class 1 (WO1) with the royal , serving as regimental sergeant majors to advise commanding officers on welfare and standards. Regimental variations add nuance, such as the Household Cavalry's use of inverted chevrons on the lower sleeve or the Royal Armoured Corps' arm-of-service stripes, while like maintain standard chevron patterns to preserve uniformity across the Army's 30,000 combat personnel. These insignia not only signify authority but also trace the evolution of enlisted leadership, from 19th-century lace chevrons to modern embroidered versions compliant with standards, ensuring interoperability in multinational operations.

Current Ranks and Insignia

Warrant Officers

Warrant Officers Class 1 and Class 2 form the apex of the British Army's other ranks structure, holding the highest non-commissioned positions and warrant appointments that emphasize advisory and leadership roles without commissioned authority. These ranks bridge enlisted personnel and officers, providing expertise on , , and unit welfare. for warrant officers traditionally feature crowns and heraldic elements, distinguishing them from the chevron-based markings of junior non-commissioned officers. The Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1), typically serving as (RSM) or equivalent, acts as the senior enlisted advisor to the in a or , overseeing discipline, morale, and operational readiness with over 18 years of service often required for eligibility. Promotion to WO1 involves competitive selection boards evaluating , experience, and performance from senior non-commissioned ranks. The standard insignia comprises the royal —depicting a quartered shield with lions, harp, and lion and unicorn supporters under a crown—sometimes encircled by a for specific appointments, executed in wire on dress uniforms or subdued embroidered versions on attire. The Warrant Officer Class 2 (WO2), frequently appointed as (CSM), manages company-level administration, training, and soldier welfare, advising the major on sub-unit matters with responsibilities extending to around 120 personnel. Advancement to WO2 typically requires around 16–18 years of service and selection through assessment boards focused on proven competence. includes a alone for roles like CSM, or a above or within a incorporating unit-specific lettering—such as "RAMC" for quartermaster sergeants—using similar gold embroidery for formal wear and fabric adaptations for field use. In 2023, following King Charles III's accession, a royal directive reinstated the Tudor Crown—a rounded imperial design last used before 1953—across all warrant officer insignia, supplanting the St Edward's Crown from Queen Elizabeth II's era to align with the new royal cypher and symbolize continuity in military tradition, which remains in use as of 2025 across defence emblems including rank insignia. This update applies to crowns and related elements in badges, ensuring uniformity in dress, combat, and cap insignia.

Non-Commissioned Officers

Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the serve as mid-level leaders, bridging the gap between enlisted personnel and commissioned officers by supervising small units and providing tactical and administrative guidance. Their rank primarily consist of chevron designs worn on the right upper arm, with variations in number and additional elements like crowns to denote increasing seniority and responsibilities. These are standardized across the but may incorporate regimental colors or badges for distinction in ceremonial dress. The rank of is marked by two chevrons, typically embroidered or in material, placed point-down on the right upper arm. are responsible for leading small teams of around four to ten soldiers, often handling equipment or vehicles, and are usually promoted after six to eight years of service based on demonstrated ability. In uniforms, the chevrons appear in subdued colors such as on rank slides to maintain low visibility. Sergeants wear three chevrons in a similar configuration and placement, often featuring a regimental or device within the upper V for identification in full uniforms made of gold lace on colored backings. This rank involves section leadership of eight to twelve soldiers or acting as of a of up to 35 personnel, with promotions occurring after approximately 12 years of service. Materials shift to for working and subdued for operational environments. Staff sergeants and equivalents are distinguished by three chevrons surmounted by a , worn on the right upper arm in embroidered gold for ceremonial No. 1 dress or subdued variants for combat. They undertake platoon-level duties in technical, supply, or administrative roles, such as company quartermaster-, typically after a few years as . The , often St. Edward's pattern, emphasizes their elevated status under oversight in larger units.

Enlisted Ranks

Enlisted ranks in the represent the entry-level positions for other ranks, focusing on foundational soldiers who form the backbone of units through basic operational duties. These ranks include the Private, the most junior trained soldier, and the Lance Corporal, an initial role. for these ranks are minimal, emphasizing unit affiliation over hierarchical markings, and reflect the soldiers' primary responsibilities in fire teams or support roles without formal beyond personal tasks. The Private holds no specific rank , such as chevrons or badges, and is identified solely by the unit and any applicable trade badges denoting specialized skills. This rank serves as the basic or support personnel within fire teams, performing essential duties like patrolling, weapon handling, and logistical support under supervision. Entry into this rank occurs after completing initial training, typically spanning 6-12 months, which includes 13 weeks of Phase 1 basic training followed by Phase 2 trade-specific instruction varying by role. Naming variations exist across branches, with "Private" as the standard term for , but equivalents include "Gunner" for personnel operating field guns and "Trooper" for members handling mounted or armored operations. Privates possess no beyond self-management and self-discipline. The insignia consists of a single chevron worn on the upper arm, marking the transition to an acting position. This rank involves leading small detachments or serving as second-in-command in a section of about four soldiers, often handling specialist tasks such as or signaling while assisting the full . Promotion to Lance Corporal typically follows 3–5 years of service after basic training, based on performance evaluations and completion of a junior leadership cadre course, though timelines can vary by unit and role. In units, this rank is termed Lance Bombardier. From here, further promotion leads to Corporal in the non-commissioned officers structure.

Unit Variants

Foot Guards and Honourable Artillery Company

The Foot Guards and the Honourable Artillery Company feature distinctive adaptations to the standard chevron-based rank insignia system used by other units, emphasizing their elite ceremonial and operational roles. These variations include enlarged or modified chevrons and regimental badges that integrate historical symbols, worn primarily on the upper sleeves in working dress and with enhanced embroidery in full dress. Such designs maintain uniformity while highlighting the units' prestige within the . In the regiments—comprising the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish, and —the rank of is marked by a single chevron worn on the upper sleeve. The regiments omit the Corporal rank altogether, with Corporal-equivalent duties performed by a wearing two chevrons on the upper sleeve. Sergeants wear three chevrons. This structure upholds the Guards' elevated status during palace duties. The entry-level enlisted rank of Guardsman, equivalent to Private, bears no chevron insignia but incorporates regimental identifiers in state and ceremonial dress, such as the flaming grenade badge on the collar for Grenadier Guardsmen and colored plumes on the bearskin cap—white for Grenadiers, red for Coldstream, and none for Scots Guards—to denote unit affiliation during public duties. These elements underscore the Guards' role in high-profile ceremonies like Trooping the Colour, where precision in appearance is paramount. The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), functioning as a reserve artillery unit affiliated with the Household Division, employs rank insignia closely aligned with Foot Guards patterns but augmented by HAC-specific motifs, including crossed field guns integrated into badges and shoulder slides. The junior non-commissioned officer rank is Lance Bombardier, denoted by a single chevron (equivalent to Lance Corporal). Bombardier, with two chevrons, is equivalent to Corporal. This reflects the HAC's artillery heritage while maintaining compatibility with infantry-style hierarchies. Ceremonial enhancements for these units include gold aiguillettes worn on the left shoulder by senior non-commissioned officers during public duties, such as mounting the , to signify leadership in formal parades and state events. Following the 2023 Tudor Crown update mandated by King Charles III, the and HAC adopted the new crown emblem on applicable rank badges and regimental devices without unit-specific alterations, aligning with the broader reinstatement across insignia.

Household Cavalry

The , comprising the Life Guards and the , maintains a unique rank structure for other ranks that diverges from standard conventions, reflecting its historical cavalry traditions. Unlike most regiments, it omits the rank of entirely, a practice originating from Queen Victoria's aversion to the term's resemblance to "servant," leading to the use of cavalry-specific titles instead. The serves as the equivalent to a , performing supervisory duties within troops or squadrons, and is identified by three downward-pointing chevrons surmounted by a metal crown on the upper arm in service dress. This rank also features a distinctive —a gold cord worn on the right shoulder—to denote status in ceremonial contexts. The Lance Corporal of Horse, equivalent to a corporal, holds a junior non-commissioned role focused on oversight in smaller units and is marked by two downward-pointing chevrons with a cloth crown above in service dress. In full dress uniforms, non-commissioned officers and warrant officers of the Household Cavalry forgo traditional chevron insignia altogether, with rank instead conveyed through variations in aiguillettes or fourragères looped over the shoulder. All ranks wear shoulder chains—chain mail epaulettes—for protection and tradition in mounted full dress, emphasizing the unit's equestrian heritage. Enlisted personnel at the base level are termed Troopers (or occasionally Horsemen in historical contexts), serving as the private equivalent with no chevrons or badges on standard uniforms. Their distinction in mounted dress includes sabre knots—decorative white leather cords attached to the sword hilt—as a simple identifier of rank without additional insignia. Following the accession of King Charles III, uniforms incorporated the new emblem on helmets and collar badges starting in 2023, replacing the to align with contemporary royal cyphers. (Note: While is not cited as a primary source, the detail is corroborated by visual records from official presentations.).jpg)
RankEquivalentInsignia (Service Dress)Unique Elements
SergeantThree chevrons point down, metal above on right shoulder; no chevrons in full dress
Lance Corporal of HorseTwo chevrons point down, cloth above variations in full dress; supervisory in troops
PrivateNoneSabre knot in mounted dress; shoulder chains for all in full dress

Royal Armoured Corps Regiments

In the (RAC), the rank of serves as the equivalent to Private in other arms of the , with no chevrons or rank-specific insignia worn on the sleeve. Instead, in RAC regiments, particularly those in vehicle crew roles, display unit identification through Tactical Recognition Flashes (TRFs) on the right arm of combat uniforms, such as the dark green tank arm badge with black outline adopted by the Royal Tank Regiment in 2011. These flashes emphasize the mechanized focus, distinguishing crew members operating armoured vehicles from mounted traditions in precursor units like the . The rank in the RAC is denoted by a single embroidered chevron worn on the upper sleeve of No. 2 Dress or equivalent uniforms, serving as the lowest level with responsibilities often including command within armoured vehicles. In regiments like the Royal Tank Regiment, this chevron features a distinctive gold-on-black to align with regimental colouring, placed on battledress for operational use. This underscores the transition from basic roles to junior leadership in or operations. Variations in RAC insignia incorporate trade-specific qualification badges alongside standard rank markings, particularly for roles like or Operator in mechanized units. The (MT) or Driver Radio badge, a cloth with a star motif, is worn on No. 1 or No. 2 Dress by qualified personnel across all regiments, including RAC, to denote proficiency in vehicle operation essential for armoured formations. trades may pair these with general badges, but rank chevrons remain consistent on battledress sleeves for armoured regiments such as the Royal Tank Regiment, adapting from historical horse-mounted to modern vehicle-centric duties. Post-2020, RAC rank insignia have seen no structural changes to chevrons or core placements, maintaining the 2020 standards for sleeve-worn markings, though modern roles incorporate broader qualification badges without altering rank distinctions.

Historical Development

17th to 19th Century Origins

The origins of rank insignia for other ranks in the trace back to the , when distinctions were primarily informal and governed by regimental customs rather than centralized regulations. Corporals were typically identified by sashes or decorative knots, with red sashes commonly used in units to signify their role over small groups of privates. These markers, often tied at the waist or shoulder, served both functional and symbolic purposes but lacked uniformity across regiments, reflecting the decentralized nature of the established after the . No standardized chevrons existed at this time, and variations depended on local traditions and available materials. By the , efforts to formalize distinctions began, particularly with the introduction of epaulettes for non-commissioned officers. Sergeants received fringed epaulettes made of worsted wool, worn on both shoulders to denote their authority in and ; these were typically or laced with regimental colors and appeared in by the late 1770s. Drummers, essential for signaling on the battlefield, were distinguished by inverted chevrons or loops on their sleeves, often in reversed regimental colors to ensure visibility amid the smoke of fire. A key milestone came in with the royal Clothing Warrant, which established basic guidelines for foot regiments, including silk epaulettes on the right for corporals and silver-laced bindings for sergeants, while explicitly avoiding more elaborate symbols like crowns to maintain simplicity. In the early 19th century, prior to the reforms, distinctions for junior ranks like lance corporals evolved through knots and tapes sewn onto sleeves or shoulders, using white or materials to mimic without excess ornamentation. These subtle markers, such as a single knotted tape for lance corporals, emphasized hierarchy in close-order formations. The heightened the need for clear visibility in , prompting regiments to refine these for better recognition under fire, though full awaited later regulations. This period's practices laid the groundwork for the chevron system introduced in .

19th Century Reforms

In 1802, the British Army formalized the use of downward-pointing chevrons as the primary insignia for non-commissioned officers (NCOs), replacing earlier epaulettes and shoulder knots that had been used informally since the late 18th century. This General Order specified two chevrons for a corporal, three for a sergeant, and four for a sergeant-major, all worn on the upper right sleeve midway between the shoulder and elbow to denote rank clearly in the field. The design emphasized practicality for line infantry and cavalry units during the Napoleonic Wars era, marking a shift toward standardized visual hierarchy among other ranks. By 1836, further updates refined the system, mandating that badges of rank be worn on both arms for greater visibility and introducing formal "acting" appointments such as to allow corporals to temporarily assume higher duties without full promotion. These changes also abolished the ornamentally colored regimental previously used for chevrons below rank, standardizing to plain white across units for uniformity and reduced cost. This material shift from elaborate to durable enhanced practicality, as better withstood campaign wear while maintaining a professional appearance. Regulations in 1837 formalized the rank with a single chevron. The 1881 Childers Reforms, building on Edward Cardwell's earlier initiatives, significantly standardized insignia across the infantry by linking regiments to specific counties, which promoted recruitment from local populations and abolished varied local rank titles that had caused inconsistencies. This reorganization assimilated regimental distinctions, ensuring chevron designs and placements were uniform for NCOs regardless of unit, while for higher ranks with four chevrons (such as warrant officers), the chevrons were changed to point upward and worn below the elbow; lower ranks continued with downward-pointing chevrons above the elbow. These measures addressed post-Crimean War inefficiencies, emphasizing merit-based advancement and operational efficiency.

20th Century to Present

In 1915, the British Army formalized the structure of warrant officers by introducing two classes through Army Orders 70 and 174, distinguishing Warrant Officer Class I (typically for regimental sergeant majors) from Class II (for company or battery sergeant majors), with the latter adopting a St Edward's Crown as their primary badge of rank worn on the upper sleeve. This marked a shift from earlier ad hoc appointments, standardizing insignia to reflect the crown's imperial symbolism under King George V, while non-commissioned officer chevrons were repositioned to the lower arm for better visibility in field conditions during World War I. These changes built on 19th-century foundations but adapted to the demands of industrialized warfare. During (1939–1945), rank insignia on battledress uniforms were adapted for combat effectiveness, featuring subdued colors in thread to minimize visibility against the drab wool fabric, contrasting with the brighter pre-war parade dress. Additionally, Army Council Instruction 1118 of 1940 mandated arm-of-service strips—colored cloth bands worn below formation badges on the upper sleeves—to denote corps affiliations, such as red for infantry or blue for , enhancing unit identification in diverse theaters. These modifications prioritized practicality over tradition, reflecting the shift to mechanized and global operations. Post-1947 reforms incorporated standardization influences, aligning British other ranks titles with alliance codes (e.g., for ) while retaining unique chevron-based , though without adopting 's common symbols. By the , Army Dress Regulations simplified wear by confining chevrons to the right arm only, reducing duplication from wartime practices and streamlining production for readiness. No major structural changes to rank have occurred since 2020, preserving the post-war framework amid ongoing modernization. In 2023, following King Charles III's accession, the Tudor Crown was reinstated across all British Army insignia, including chevrons, crowns, and cap badges, per updates to the royal cypher, replacing the St Edward's Crown used since 1952 and symbolizing a return to Elizabethan-era heraldry for ceremonial and operational uniforms. This aesthetic update, rolled out starting with the coronation on 6 May 2023, affected over 70 regiments without altering rank hierarchies or chevron configurations.

Specific Changes and Legacy

Timeline of Insignia Evolution

  • 1768: The first comprehensive uniform regulations for the British Army were issued via the Clothing Warrant, introducing epaulettes as distinguishing insignia primarily for officers, with some non-commissioned officers in elite units like the Guards adopting similar shoulder ornaments to denote rank.
  • 1802: The chevron system was formally established for non-commissioned officers in line infantry and cavalry, with corporals wearing two downward-pointing chevrons on the upper sleeve and sergeants three, replacing earlier inconsistent knot and lace distinctions.
  • 1881: Following the Childers Reforms, rank insignia were standardized across infantry regiments, simplifying chevrons and badges by removing regimental numbers from most other ranks' sleeve markings and unifying placement on the lower right arm for consistency.
  • 1915: Warrant officer ranks (Classes I and II) were introduced by Army Order 70, with insignia shifted to the lower right arm; WOII wore a crown above three chevrons, and WOI a larger crown or royal arms, distinguishing them from traditional NCO sleeve badges.
  • 1953: Upon Queen Elizabeth II's accession, the St Edward's Crown replaced the Tudor Crown in rank insignia, appearing above chevrons for staff sergeants and warrant officers, as well as in cap badges and trade distinctions.
  • 2023: King Charles III reinstated the Tudor Crown in military insignia, updating chevrons, crowns, and cap badges to feature this design alongside the royal cypher "C III R," rolled out starting with the coronation for all other ranks, with full implementation across uniforms by 2025.

Obsolete Ranks

The chosen man was a 19th-century rank primarily used in the Rifle Brigade to designate a senior private selected for marksmanship or leadership potential, serving as an informal equivalent to a . Insignia typically consisted of a white lace loop or knotted cord worn on the upper right arm to distinguish the wearer from ordinary riflemen. This designation was phased out in the early to mid-19th century amid efforts to standardize non-commissioned ranks across the , with the introduction of around 1837 eliminating regimental variations that complicated command structures. The rank, established in 1813 for units, originally denoted a tasked with safeguarding the regimental colours during battle, wearing a above a over crossed swords above a single chevron on the sleeve. In 1868, this was simplified to a above three chevrons, distinguishing the from standard sergeants (three chevrons without crown) and marking its seniority within companies. Following Army Order 70 of 1915, which introduced Class II, the company appointment previously held under the colour sergeant title was reclassified as WOII with a large in , while the quartermaster variant persisted as colour sergeant in ; this reform sought to clarify distinctions between non-commissioned and warrant appointments, reducing overlaps in . Prior to 1915, the —encompassing both company and regimental roles—was a senior non-commissioned appointment indicated by four inverted chevrons topped with a on the lower sleeve, signifying overall disciplinary and administrative oversight. This badge evolved from 19th-century practices and remained in use until integrated into the framework through early 20th-century reforms, including the 1915 introductions and subsequent royal warrants that merged duplicate senior ranks to promote uniformity and professionalism. These changes ultimately led to the absorption of titles into modern Class II and Class I structures.

Nomenclature Variations

The nomenclature for ranks in the 's other ranks has exhibited variations in spelling and titles over time, reflecting historical, linguistic, and organizational influences. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the rank of was officially spelled "serjeant," a form derived from the "sergent" and retained in military warrants and regulations to preserve traditional usage. This spelling persisted in official documents until the early 20th century, with "serjeant" remaining the standard in the up to the outbreak of the War in 1914, after which the anglicized "sergeant" became predominant across most units for broader consistency and alignment with civilian . Certain branches of the Army have employed distinct titles for equivalent ranks, often tied to specialized roles or traditions. In the , the lowest other rank is designated "gunner," while the equivalent of a is "bombardier," a term originating from historical operators handling bombards or mortars; pre-1950s establishments also included appointments like "" for personnel managing projectiles in support roles. Similarly, the Royal Corps of Signals uses "" as the title for its entry-level other ranks, emphasizing their communication duties, with this nomenclature standardized since the corps's formation in 1920. Unit-specific variations further highlight regimental traditions, particularly for the private equivalent. In fusilier regiments, such as the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, the base rank is "fusilier," evoking the historical use of fusils (light muskets) by these units. The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) employs "gunner" for its other ranks in subunits, aligning with its ceremonial and reserve heritage dating back to the , while infantry elements may use "private" or "" depending on attachments. Following the of 1881, which reorganized the infantry into linked depot battalions and aimed to standardize regimental structures and uniforms, nomenclature achieved greater consistency across the Army, reducing proliferation of unique titles. However, exceptions endure in specialized branches, such as "trooper" for the private equivalent in the Royal Armoured Corps (RAC), reflecting traditions, and "crewman" as a functional descriptor for armoured vehicle personnel, though the formal rank remains trooper. These variations persist today to honor regimental identities while maintaining operational uniformity.

References

  1. https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/british-army-ranks
  2. https://www.history.navy.mil/research/library/online-reading-room/title-list-alphabetically/w/naval-traditions-names-of-rank/enlisted-ranks/chevrons.html
  3. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5feca474d3bf7f089f9998ed/s_3-3.pdf
  4. https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/ranks/
  5. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/quarterly-service-personnel-statistics-2025/quarterly-service-personnel-statistics-1-july-2025
  6. https://bootcampmilitaryfitnessinstitute.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/0-warrant-officers-in-the-british-armed-forces-2015-02-26.pdf
  7. https://www.forcesnews.com/king-charles/military-unveils-new-cap-badges-showing-kings-cypher
  8. https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/2025/08/01/defence-emblems-reflect-new-reign/
  9. https://rmhistorical.com/files/content/Army%20Dress%20Regulations%20January%202011.pdf
  10. https://www.forcesnews.com/news/british-army-ranks-how-do-they-work
  11. https://jobs.army.mod.uk/how-to-join/training/soldier-training/
  12. https://www.forcesnews.com/services/army/earning-your-stripes-soldiers-first-step-ranks-lance-corporal
  13. https://thecrownchronicles.co.uk/explanation/guards-regiments-uniforms-spot-the-difference/
  14. https://www.army.mod.uk/news/what-is-trooping-the-colour/
  15. https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/british-foot-guards-army-field-offrs-311689199
  16. https://www.cadetdirect.com/blog/new-british-army-crowned-cap-badges
  17. https://royalsignals.org/royal-signals/editorial/new-era-for-british-army-cap-badges
  18. https://www.hcavfoundation.org/about/about-the-household-cavalry/a-z-regimental-terms/
  19. https://www.forcesnews.com/services/army/who-are-household-cavalry-and-why-are-they-trusted-guardians-monarch
  20. https://www.wyedean.com/the-household-cavalry/
  21. https://www.alanharding.com/Military/ranks/armytraditions.html
  22. https://britishbadgeforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18394
  23. https://pooleysword.com/accessories/sword-knots/household-cavalry-troopers-knot
  24. https://royaltankregiment.com/the-regimental-history/rtr-customs/
  25. https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/about-the-army/corps-regiments-and-units/royal-armoured-corps/
  26. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5feca456e90e0711fe7f5d36/s_3-2.pdf
  27. https://www.militaryheritage.com/sash1.htm
  28. https://www.keepyourpowderdry.co.uk/2021/11/sashes.html
  29. https://www.redsandrevs.co.uk/clothing-warrant-1768
  30. https://www.queensroyalsurreys.org.uk/regimental-music/drummers-origins.html
  31. https://cuttersguide.com/pdf/Military-and-Uniforms/uploads/april2025/pdf/Brasseys_History_of_Uniforms_-_Napoleonic_Wars.pdf
  32. http://www.lightbobs.com/uploads/9/2/1/3/9213075/1896_obli_regimental__uniform__word_.pdf
  33. https://militaryheritage.com/militarybraid.htm
  34. https://bootcampmilitaryfitnessinstitute.com/2022/06/21/what-were-the-childers-reforms-1881/
  35. https://www.longlongtrail.co.uk/soldiers/a-soldiers-life-1914-1918/british-army-ranks-during-the-great-war/
  36. https://paddelaters.com/blogs/ww2-british-uniform-guide-history-equipment-identification-for-collectors
  37. http://www.petergh.f2s.com/armstrips.html
  38. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/govuk-launches-new-official-crown-logo-for-his-majesty-the-king
  39. https://www.nwta.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/203_1768.pdf
  40. https://cgsc.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/api/collection/p15040coll2/id/5829/download
  41. http://www.uniformology.com/HEAVY-CAV-07.html
  42. https://www.nam.ac.uk/explore/regimental-badges
  43. https://www.forcesnews.com/technology/uniform/british-armys-new-king-charles-iii-cap-badges-shown-their-crowning-glory
  44. https://www.forcesnews.com/news/rarer-army-ranks-and-roles-how-many-these-did-you-know
  45. https://www.findmypast.com/articles/honourable-artillery-company-glossary
  46. https://bootcampmilitaryfitnessinstitute.com/2024/01/04/what-were-the-childers-reforms-1881-2/
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