I.

Introduction

Military Rank, position in the military hierarchy. A type of symbol is worn by members of the armed forces to denote their status within the military hierarchy (see Military Insignia). Ranks were first employed effectively by the Roman Empire. In 31 bc the Emperor Augustus consolidated his legions with those of Mark Antony to form a new standing army. A professional officer structure was introduced, with command of each legion passing to a legate, appointed directly by the emperor. The legate was supported by six tribunes, the senior of whom (the tribunus laticavius) wore a broad stripe on his tunic denoting his candidature for the Senate.

Modern military rank was not introduced until the 18th century, when it became customary for soldiers, as well as officers, to wear a recognizable badge denoting their status within the regiment. Initially, badges of rank were ornate, befitting the flamboyant uniforms of the day. During the 19th century uniforms, and with them badges of rank, were simplified—in part as a response to the growing importance of concealment on the battlefield, and in part because of calls for utility and economy. Most modern armies have now introduced camouflaged rank badges, often attached to the front and back of the soldiers' combat jackets, for use in the field. It is not unusual for special forces units, when operational, to abandon rank insignia completely. In Britain all officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the Special Air Service (SAS) wear rank insignia on removable shoulder slides.

Officers in Britain and a number of Commonwealth countries, including Australia and New Zealand, are said to hold the Queen's Commission, and take an oath of loyalty to Elizabeth II. Elsewhere, officers hold a commission granted by their own royal family, president, or head of state.