Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Sergeant

A sergeant is a (NCO) rank in the forces of numerous countries, typically denoting mid-level responsible for supervising junior enlisted personnel, enforcing , and executing orders from commissioned officers. The term derives from the Latin serviens, meaning "one who serves," evolving through serjant to describe attendants or officials in medieval European during the feudal period. In contemporary usage, sergeants bridge the gap between lower ranks and command structures, focusing on training, morale, and operational readiness within small units such as squads or platoons. In the United States Army, the sergeant ranks span pay grades E-5 through E-9, marking the progression from entry-level NCO leadership to senior advisory roles. The base rank of serves as a team leader, supervising 3–5 soldiers and ensuring their training, welfare, and compliance with standards. Advancing to involves leading squads of 8–16 soldiers, mentoring junior NCOs, and contributing to mission planning. Higher echelons include as platoon sergeants overseeing 30–40 troops, as technical experts in operations, and as the principal enlisted advisor for company-sized units of up to 200 soldiers, emphasizing personnel management and discipline. At the pinnacle, and provide counsel to commanders at , brigade, or division levels on policies, training, and well-being, with the unique advising the Army on enlisted matters nationwide. The role of sergeants has evolved significantly since their formalization in the Continental Army during the American Revolution in 1775, where five NCO ranks—including sergeant—were established to maintain order and efficiency in infantry units. By the 19th century, distinctions like sergeant major emerged as senior positions, with the modern U.S. structure solidified post-World War II through reforms emphasizing professional development and leadership training. Today, sergeant ranks embody the NCO Corps' motto of serving as the "backbone of the Army," adapting to diverse operational environments from conventional warfare to special operations. Variations exist across branches and nations; for instance, the U.S. Marine Corps uses sergeant (E-5) similarly but equates staff sergeant (E-6) more closely to Army counterparts, while Commonwealth forces often feature specialized roles like colour sergeant.

Definition and Etymology

Role and Responsibilities

A sergeant serves as a (NCO) responsible for supervising junior enlisted personnel, enforcing discipline, training recruits, and acting as a vital bridge between commissioned officers and lower-ranking enlisted members in structures. This role emphasizes hands-on leadership, ensuring unit readiness, soldier welfare, and adherence to standards through daily oversight and corrective actions. In hierarchical terms, in systems like the U.S. , the base rank of sergeant corresponds to E-5, marking it as the entry-level NCO rank accessible without formal officer commissioning and positioning it above junior enlisted ranks (E-1 to E-4) but below senior NCOs, with higher sergeant ranks extending through E-9. In military contexts, focus on tactical , such as leading small teams of 3-5 soldiers, conducting inspections, and providing practical advice to commanders on ground-level operations and troop morale. They train personnel in occupational specialties () and basic skills, enforce conduct, and maintain accountability for personnel and resources to support mission effectiveness.

Linguistic Origins

The term "sergeant" originates from the word sergent, denoting a servant or attendant, which traces back to the Latin serviens, the present of servīre, meaning "to serve." This etymological root reflects the word's initial connotation of and subordination in feudal . The earliest documented usage of "sergeant" in English appears around , borrowed directly from , where it referred to various attendants, including armed retainers and court officials in 12th- and 13th-century . In this period, sergeants functioned as non-knightly vassals who provided personal to lords, often involving military or administrative duties, predating its specialized adoption in structured armies. By the , the term underwent a significant semantic shift, transitioning from a broad feudal servant to a non-commissioned officer responsible for leading small units. This evolution paralleled developments in English , where a variant spelling "serjeant" designated elite legal practitioners known as serjeants-at-law, who held privileges akin to knighthood and influenced the term's authoritative connotations in both legal and contexts. In , the standardized spelling is "sergeant" for ranks, with "Sgt." as the common abbreviation, while the legal distinction has largely faded.

Historical Development

Origins in Medieval Europe

In the feudal system of medieval , particularly from the 11th to 14th centuries, sergeants functioned as mounted attendants and retainers to knights, occupying a status below full but above common peasants. These individuals, known as servientes in Latin or serjants in , held fractional fiefs—typically half a knight's —in exchange for rendering , administrative, or domestic services to their lords. As non-noble vassals, they often provided cavalry support in battles, equipped with lances, shields, and swords, though their armor was lighter than that of knights, such as hauberks or padded garments in earlier periods. This role positioned sergeants as key enforcers of feudal order, including the maintenance of discipline and security within manors under a knight's , where they acted as household officers ensuring compliance with the lord's directives. By the , sergeants assumed more defined military leadership duties within emerging professionalized units, notably in English forces during the (1337–1453). These leaders, drawn from experienced yeomen or minor , bridged the gap between noble commanders and rank-and-file soldiers, emphasizing mobility and discipline in dismounted . Their contributions helped solidify the English army's reliance on massed , transforming sergeants from feudal retainers into tactical subordinates essential for battlefield cohesion. Parallel to these military developments, the sergeant role extended into legal and courtly functions, exemplified by the "sergeant-at-arms" in royal households. Originating in 13th-century France under monarchs like Philip II Augustus, sergents served as armed enforcers for policing and judicial enforcement, executing arrests and upholding royal authority without warrants, symbolized by their ceremonial maces. This practice influenced English courts, where Edward I established a bodyguard of 20 sergeants-at-arms in the late 13th century to perform similar duties, including tax collection and protecting parliamentary privileges. The term's roots in servant-like obligations evolved into these authoritative positions, blending martial prowess with administrative control. While Tudor England (1485–1603) saw the emergence of more professional military elements, such as and trained bands, there was no full transition to formalized standing armies, as monarchs like and continued to rely on feudal levies, militias, and mercenaries for defense against internal unrest and continental threats. In these forces, sergeants served as non-commissioned leaders, overseeing drill, pay, and small-unit command in infantry bands. This evolution reflected broader European trends toward , with English ordinances from the onward specifying sergeants' roles in maintaining order and executing maneuvers, laying groundwork for modern hierarchies. The term, derived from sergent meaning "servant," underscored their foundational duty as reliable subordinates in this emerging military framework.

Evolution in Modern Militaries

The sergeant rank underwent significant standardization during 18th-century military reforms, particularly in the and armies, marking a shift toward more professional (NCO) structures. In , following the devastating defeat at Jena-Auerstedt in 1806, reformers like and August von Gneisenau reorganized the army, emphasizing a disciplined NCO where sergeants enforced , maintained order, and trained recruits in linear tactics essential for massed infantry formations. This professionalization built on earlier 18th-century efforts under to create reliable cadre leaders, reducing reliance on unreliable conscripts and enabling rapid mobilization. Similarly, the advanced sergeant roles through 18th-century and exercise manuals, such as the 1764 regulations on foot exercises, positioning them as vital links between officers and enlisted men, with a focus on rigorous training to sustain the army's reputation for discipline during global conflicts. During the (1799-1815), sergeants emerged prominently as drill instructors in both armies, adapting to the demands of large-scale warfare. In the forces, sergeants led company-level training in musket volleys and bayonet drills, ensuring units could execute complex maneuvers under fire, as seen in battles like where their expertise minimized chaos in prolonged engagements. Prussian sergeants, reformed into a more merit-based cadre, similarly instructed recruits in the Krümmper system, a covert training method that bypassed treaty limitations to build reserves, highlighting their role in sustaining army readiness amid Napoleon's dominance. These reforms elevated sergeants from mere enforcers to essential trainers, fostering the tactical cohesion that characterized Enlightenment-era militaries. The saw the sergeant's role expand in colonial contexts, exemplified by the where European sergeants oversaw native troops in expansive imperial operations. By the mid-1800s, with the army numbering over 250,000, British sergeants acted as intermediaries, drilling Indian recruits in European-style tactics while managing cultural and logistical challenges during campaigns in and , thus bridging command gaps in diverse forces. This oversight extended to discipline and basic leadership, allowing a small cadre of British NCOs to command larger indigenous units effectively in suppressing rebellions like the 1857 Indian Mutiny. The World Wars accelerated the sergeant's evolution into frontline leaders, particularly as key NCOs in the static conditions of (1914-1918). American and Allied sergeants coordinated small patrols, enforced rotations in the trenches, and maintained morale amid high casualties, often stepping into command when officers fell, as evidenced by their critical role in battles like the where they directed machine-gun sections and supply runs. In (1939-1945), the emphasis shifted toward technical leadership, with sergeants training soldiers in specialized skills like tank maintenance, radio operation, and anti-aircraft defense, enabling rapid adaptation to mechanized warfare; for instance, U.S. technical sergeants led workshops that kept armored divisions operational during advances like . Post-1945 professionalization transformed sergeants into formalized leaders through dedicated NCO academies, addressing the needs of Cold War-era conscript armies. The U.S. Army established its NCO Academy system in 1957, standardizing courses in , tactics, and to produce skilled supervisors for mass-mobilized forces facing potential Soviet threats, with over 100 academies training thousands annually by the . This institutional focus, echoed in allies, emphasized sergeants' role in and technical proficiency, evolving them from wartime improvisers to career professionals essential for deterrence in prolonged standoffs.

Types and Classifications

Ranks versus Appointments

In military hierarchies, a refers to a permanent grade achieved through promotion, conferring a fixed level of authority, pay, and status within the (NCO) structure, such as (E-6 in the U.S. Army), which remains with the individual across assignments. An , by contrast, denotes a temporary or specialized assigned based on unit requirements and the NCO's qualifications, without altering the underlying , such as , where a (E-7) leads a in training and discipline. The primary differences lie in permanence and scope: ranks establish a baseline of and compensation that supports long-term progression, while appointments impose additional duties tailored to operational needs, like a (typically held by a , E-8) managing company-level enlisted welfare and readiness. Appointments do not confer extra pay or permanent status but enhance the NCO's influence within the unit, often selected by commanders for expertise in areas such as (e.g., mess sergeant) or training (e.g., drill sergeant). This separation allows flexibility in assigning roles without disrupting the rank-based hierarchy essential for discipline and command. Historically, pre- military systems emphasized appointments over fixed ranks, with sergeant roles like functioning primarily as temporary positions for unit administration and oversight, as seen in 15th-century armies where they supervised daily operations without a standardized . The shift toward modern separation began in the early , particularly after when U.S. Army reforms eliminated top NCO ranks like to streamline costs, only to reintroduce them in 1958 via the Military Pay Bill, establishing permanent grades (e.g., E-8 , E-9 ) with service prerequisites to support structured career advancement. By 1967, the creation of distinct billets like further formalized this divide, enabling senior NCOs to hold leadership appointments while retaining their base rank for progression.

Military versus Non-Military Roles

In military contexts, a serves as a responsible for leading small units, such as squads of 8 to 14 soldiers, with a primary emphasis on and tactical execution. These leaders oversee the daily , equipping, and welfare of their troops, ensuring readiness for operations that may involve direct engagement in hostile environments. For instance, in units, sergeants command squads during maneuvers, directing fireteams of 4 to 5 soldiers to maintain formation, suppress enemy positions, and achieve mission objectives under fire. In non-military roles, such as , sergeants function as first-line supervisors focused on operational coordination and public safety rather than combat. sergeants direct activities, assign officers to shifts, and review incident reports to ensure with departmental protocols and legal standards. They often oversee shift operations, including coordinating patrols to prevent and responding to disturbances, while training subordinates in techniques and evidence collection. Fire department sergeants, acting as station officers, prioritize response supervision and in civilian settings. These roles involve directing firefighters during incidents like structure fires or hazardous material spills, ensuring equipment readiness, and conducting station maintenance to support rapid deployment. Similarly, in correctional services, sergeants oversee within facilities, monitoring movements in units or recreation areas to prevent violence and enforce rules. They supervise staff in conducting searches for and intervening in altercations, maintaining order through routine counts and security protocols. While and non-military sergeant roles share overlaps in enforcing and providing hands-on —such as personnel and resolving conflicts—key differences arise in their operational focus and risks. sergeants operate in wartime scenarios with potential for lethal exposure, emphasizing tactical maneuvers and under duress. In contrast, non-military positions, like those in or services, center on protocols, , and to minimize harm in domestic environments, without the structured deployment cycles of armed forces. sergeants, for example, balance inmate oversight with support, differing from duties by avoiding offensive operations.

Insignia and Symbols

NATO Standardization

The NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 2116, titled "NATO Codes for Grades of Military Personnel," establishes a unified coding system for military ranks across Alliance member states to promote interoperability and clear recognition of authority in multinational contexts. Promulgated in its original form in 1956 and revised multiple times since, this agreement assigns Other Ranks (OR) codes to enlisted personnel, with OR-5 designated as the basic sergeant level, OR-6 as staff sergeant, and OR-7 as sergeant first class (or equivalent senior non-commissioned officer roles like gunnery sergeant in some forces). These codes facilitate standardized personnel requisitions, command structures, and operational assignments within NATO commands, ensuring that a sergeant (OR-5) holds consistent supervisory responsibilities over junior enlisted personnel regardless of national origin. While STANAG 2116 focuses on rank grades rather than visual designs, in many NATO member armies, particularly those of English-speaking countries, the insignia for the sergeant (OR-5) commonly consists of three chevrons, with the points typically upward in the US Army but downward in the British Army—a tradition rooted in historical military symbolism and adopted widely for clarity in joint environments. National variations exist in material and color to align with service uniforms—for instance, the United States Army uses gold-colored chevrons on a blue background for dress uniforms, while the British Army employs gold chevrons on a red backing for certain regiments. Higher OR levels add rockers (curved bars below the chevrons) or additional elements, such as a central diamond for OR-7 in some armies, but the core three-chevron motif for OR-5 remains a recognizable baseline in those forces using it across the Alliance. This standardization enhances joint operations by enabling seamless integration of forces from diverse nations, reducing communication barriers and command confusion during multinational missions. For example, in the (ISAF) in from 2001 to 2014, the OR code system allowed over 50 contributing countries to coordinate effectively, sharing tactical leadership roles and resources under unified command structures. Overall, STANAG 2116 supports NATO's broader goals, contributing to more efficient , , and crisis response among member states.

National Variations

In the United States, sergeant consist of chevrons worn point-up on the upper sleeves, a configuration adopted in as part of uniform reforms that standardized smaller, branch-colored designs for better visibility and practicality with modern weaponry. Higher grades, such as and , incorporate rockers—curved arcs beneath the chevrons—to signify increased seniority and leadership roles within units. In the United Kingdom, sergeant insignia typically feature three downward-pointing chevrons on the right upper arm, but in select infantry regiments like the Foot Guards, a crown is placed above the chevrons for ranks such as colour sergeant, emphasizing regimental traditions and distinguishing specialized duties. France employs a distinct sleeve-based system for non-commissioned officers, where the sergent rank is represented by two gold chevrons, termed galons, positioned on the lower sleeves to maintain a tradition of visible, non-shoulder insignia that dates to imperial and republican uniform codes. Beyond Western NATO members, non-Western militaries adapt sergeant-equivalent insignia with culturally specific symbols. In Russia, the starshina—a senior sergeant role in the ground forces—uses shoulder boards featuring a wide transverse stripe topped by one or more embroidered stars, arranged to denote progression within the non-commissioned hierarchy. In Israel, military police sergeants combine standard IDF rank stripes on the shoulders with corps-specific tags, featuring a flame for the Corps to denote the unit.)

Usage in English-Speaking Countries

United States

In the Army, the sergeant ranks form the backbone of the (NCO) structure, beginning with Sergeant (E-5) as the entry-level NCO position responsible for leading small teams and mentoring junior soldiers. Above this are (E-6), who supervises squads and provides tactical expertise; (E-7), serving as sergeants or operations NCOs; (E-8), focusing on staff roles and unit training; and (E-9), the senior enlisted advisor to commanders at various levels, including the . Promotions to Sergeant and occur through a semi-centralized system involving points from performance evaluations, weapons qualification, , and correspondence courses, including 150 promotion points for completion of the (BLC). As of 2025, ongoing reforms emphasize job proficiency in promotions, including potential skill set testing for enlisted ranks. For and higher, centralized promotion boards evaluate candidates based on records, interviews, and demonstrated , ensuring selection of the most qualified for increased responsibilities. The employs a similar NCO progression, with (E-5) leading fire teams, (E-6) managing squads, and (E-7) holding a distinctive role centered on technical proficiency in weapons systems, tactics, and gunnery training to support combat operations. This structure continues to or (E-8) for battalion-level advising and or (E-9) as senior enlisted leaders providing strategic guidance. Promotions are merit-based through selection boards that assess time in service, professional military education, fitness reports, and operational performance, with often requiring specialized courses in and marksmanship. In the United States Air Force and , the sergeant equivalent at the junior NCO level is (E-5), but (E-6) represents the primary mid-level NCO rank, emphasizing advanced technical skills, supervision of work centers, and quality control in specialized fields like cyber operations, maintenance, or space systems. Higher ranks include (E-7), (E-8), and (E-9), with promotions determined by weighted factors such as decorations, education, and board evaluations for E-6 and above, prioritizing expertise in mission-critical technologies. Within U.S. enforcement, the of Sergeant serves as the initial supervisory in municipal and departments, typically requiring at least three to five years of service as a , passage of a written , oral , and sometimes a minimum of 60 credits. Sergeants oversee shifts, conduct reviews, and ensure with procedures, distinguished by badges or rather than chevrons. In the (FBI), there is no formal "sergeant" ; instead, the first supervisory role is Supervisory Special Agent (GS-14), generally attained after five or more years as a through competitive selection emphasizing investigative experience and leadership potential.

United Kingdom

In the and , the rank of (OR-5) is held by a who typically serves as the of a or of around 8 to 30 soldiers, taking responsibility for tactical execution, administration, discipline, and advising the on operational matters. Sergeants in these branches lead small teams in combat and training scenarios, ensuring and readiness while mentoring junior ranks. The , often an appointment or title variant within units, carries additional ceremonial responsibilities, such as safeguarding and presenting regimental colours during parades and formal duties, drawing from historical traditions of protecting flags. In the , the progression includes at OR-5 followed by at OR-7, where the latter emphasizes leadership in operations alongside ceremonial roles. In the Royal Air Force (RAF), the sergeant rank (OR-5) is the primary non-commissioned leadership position, with personnel undertaking flight-specific roles such as supervising technical teams, coordinating maintenance on , or managing air operations support within squadrons. Unlike the Army's distinction, the RAF lacks a separate "staff" variant for sergeants; instead, promotion leads directly to (OR-7 or OR-8), focusing on integrated and ground support duties without specialized administrative subdivisions. These roles emphasize technical proficiency and operational efficiency in environments, contributing to the RAF's mission readiness. Within services, the is the first supervisory above , responsible for managing small teams of officers, overseeing daily operations, investigating incidents, and ensuring compliance with policing standards and objectives. Sergeants allocate resources, mentor constables, and handle supervisory duties in response to public safety calls, often acting as the bridge between frontline officers and higher command. for the consists of three upward-pointing stripes worn on epaulettes, a design standardized across most territorial forces. Reforms in the 2020s have introduced integrated (NCO) training initiatives across the armed forces, culminating in the establishment of the NCO Academy in 2023 to provide standardized, academically rigorous for sergeants and above, enhancing among Army, , and RAF personnel. This program, operational from 2024, focuses on skills, professional education, and joint service collaboration to address evolving threats, building on broader defence modernization efforts.

Canada

In the Canadian Armed Forces (), the rank of sergeant is a (NCO) position in the Army and Air Force, positioned between and , with responsibilities including leading , training junior personnel, and advising officers on operational matters. The serves as an intermediate appointment, typically held by corporals who take on enhanced duties such as supervising small teams or acting as section seconds-in-command, bridging the gap to full sergeant responsibilities. These ranks derive from traditions but were standardized across services following the 1968 unification of the Royal Canadian Navy, , and into the . In the Royal Canadian Navy, sergeant equivalents are found among the petty officer ranks, with aligning to , to , and chief petty officer second class to sergeant, while first class represents a senior NCO role akin to . Post-unification insignia for these ranks feature standardized chevrons—three upward-pointing for sergeant—surmounted by a embroidered to symbolize national unity and service integration. Within the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the policing agency, is a mid-level NCO rank above and below , involving supervision of constables, investigation oversight, and administrative duties in . often manage sections within detachments or lead smaller rural outposts, ensuring enforcement of , provincial, and municipal laws across Canada's diverse regions. In , where is predominant, RCMP in bilingual positions must demonstrate proficiency in both official languages to effectively serve francophone communities and comply with bilingualism policies.

Australia

In the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the rank of sergeant holds a senior (NCO) position across the and Air Force branches. In the Australian , a sergeant typically serves as of a or of up to 40 personnel, advising junior officers on , , , and standards while often acting as instructors in schools; promotion to this rank generally occurs after about 12 years of service and equates to code OR-6. The consists of chevrons worn on shoulder slides or boards as part of the standard uniform. In the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the sergeant rank is also a senior NCO role, positioned immediately below and above within the other ranks hierarchy, with responsibilities focused on in technical and operational teams. The rank badge is designated as "Sergeant" with the abbreviation SGT, displayed on epaulettes. is an junior enlisted rank below , preceding the progression to sergeant. Sergeant ranks in are primarily state-based, with variations in structure and , though the federal () follows a similar model. In the (NSWPF), the largest state force, a sergeant leads teams of constables and senior constables, with comprising three chevrons in a "junior navy" soft fabric slide on uniforms, supplemented by a silver chin strap on service headdress. The employs a comparable system, where sergeants (team leaders) wear three downward-pointing chevrons in silver metal or white-on-black woven fabric on shoulders or sleeves to denote non-commissioned status. Within the ADF, temporary or acting appointments allow corporals to perform sergeant duties, particularly during operational deployments where immediate leadership needs arise; such acting service counts toward substantive promotion increments if continuous and immediately preceding the permanent rank change, as per pay and conditions regulations. The may authorize temporary promotions under statutory provisions to address service requirements. In the 2020s, the introduced gender-neutral uniform and grooming policies to enhance inclusivity, allowing gender-fluid, , and personnel to select from male, female, or neutral options across most dress orders, following a 2023 directive prompted by individual advocacy within the forces. These updates align with broader Defence efforts to provide gender-neutral uniform variants where available, supporting diverse service members.

Usage in European Countries

France

In the , the rank of sergent corresponds to code OR-5 and serves as the entry-level grade within the sous-officiers hierarchy, responsible for leading small teams and ensuring discipline and operational execution at the level. This rank is distinguished by two gold or silver galons worn on the cuffs, with gold typically used for , , and units, and silver for and logistical services. The sergent-chef, at OR-6, builds on this by adding a above the galons, reflecting greater experience and supervisory duties, such as training junior personnel; this grade was formally established in 1928 to consolidate prior administrative roles like sergent-major into a unified operational position. The Gendarmerie Nationale, a military force with policing duties, employs analogous ranks: maréchal des logis (equivalent to sergent, OR-5) and maréchal des logis-chef (equivalent to sergent-chef, OR-6), where personnel focus on maintaining public order, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas through patrols, investigations, and . Insignia in the departmental gendarmerie—responsible for rural policing—are white galons on cuffs to signify their civilian-oriented mission, while mobile units and the use yellow galons for operational distinction. These ranks emphasize practical leadership in diverse scenarios, from traffic control to in countryside settings. The sergent rank traces its roots to the , where it was restored in 1804 after abolition during the , preserving a of non-commissioned leadership essential for troop cohesion amid rapid expansions of the ; promotions to this level were deliberately paced to foster expertise, often requiring years of service as caporal or soldat. This structure has endured with minimal alteration, underscoring the rank's foundational role in French military .

Germany

In the German , non-commissioned officers (NCOs) are categorized into junior and senior levels, with the rank of representing the entry-level junior NCO at NATO code OR-5. Unteroffiziere typically emerge after 12 months of service and vocational training, serving as specialists in fields such as , , or support, while also leading small teams or acting as instructors. The senior NCO ranks commence with at OR-6, requiring at least three years of service; lead squads, oversee training, and often function as company first sergeants, emphasizing leadership and operational expertise. This division traces back to Prussian military traditions, where senior NCOs (Unteroffiziere mit Portepee) were distinguished by wearing a sword knot (Portepee), a practice retained symbolically in the modern to denote authority and professionalism. The Bundeswehr's NCO rank structure was formalized during its establishment in 1955, as part of West Germany's rearmament under NATO integration, deliberately reviving pre-1933 Imperial and Weimar-era nomenclature to avoid any continuity with Nazi Wehrmacht titles and symbols. This reform ensured the armed forces aligned with democratic principles, banning NSDAP affiliations and emphasizing denazification, with ranks like Unteroffizier and Feldwebel selected for their historical neutrality and focus on merit-based advancement. Insignia for these ranks appear on shoulder boards as gold-colored metallic stars on a branch-specific background—typically one star for Unteroffizier and two for Feldwebel in the Army and Air Force—mounted on everyday or field uniforms to clearly denote hierarchy without evoking past regimes. In police organizations, which operate at the () level with federal coordination, the rank of Polizeihauptmeister equates to a and fulfills supervisory duties within the gehobener Dienst (middle service) career , at A9. Polizeihauptmeister oversee patrols, manage teams of Polizeimeister (constables), and handle administrative tasks in operational settings, such as traffic enforcement or , often requiring 2-3 years of prior service and academy training. This rank supports leadership in non-commissioned roles, bridging enlisted officers and higher command, with insignia consisting of silver stars on shoulder epaulets—usually three stars for the base rank—to indicate authority in uniform.

United Kingdom (Police Focus)

In the , the sergeant rank within forces occupies a pivotal position in the operational hierarchy, situated immediately above the and below . This structure ensures that sergeants serve as the primary supervisors for frontline policing teams, bridging the gap between entry-level officers and more senior management. Promotion to sergeant is generally available only after an officer has successfully completed their initial probationary period as a , which typically spans 2 to 3 years and involves rigorous training and on-the-job assessment to confirm competency in core policing duties. The process follows the National Police Promotion Framework (NPPF), a standardized four-step system that includes competence demonstrations, legal examinations, local selection interviews, and a temporary promotion period of at least 12 months before full confirmation in rank. Sergeants bear primary responsibility for team leadership, overseeing groups of 8 to 12 constables in daily operations across response, neighborhood, or investigation units. Their duties encompass providing technical supervision, allocating resources, and ensuring adherence to policing procedures during incidents such as public order events or routine patrols. In crime scene management, sergeants coordinate initial responses, secure perimeters, direct evidence collection by specialists, and liaise with investigators to preserve scene integrity while minimizing disruption. Additionally, they act as key community liaisons, fostering relationships with local residents, businesses, and partners to address neighborhood concerns, prevent crime through proactive engagement, and build public trust in policing. The insignia for sergeants consists of three upward-pointing stripes made of cloth, worn on the epaulettes of the , a standardized across most forces since the 1950s to denote supervisory authority. These stripes are typically accompanied by a number for identification, distinguishing sergeants from constables who wear no such markings. In formal or ceremonial dress, the stripes may appear on the upper sleeve instead. In the 2020s, forces have intensified efforts to promote diversity in sergeant selections as part of broader reforms to make leadership more representative of the population. Initiatives include targeted recruitment from underrepresented groups, bias training in promotion panels, and positive action measures under the to address historical underrepresentation, with reports highlighting slow progress in ethnic minority and female promotions to this rank. The Remuneration Review Body's 2025 recommendations emphasized accelerating diversity at supervisory levels to enhance service effectiveness and public confidence.

Other European Nations

In , the rank of sergente serves as the primary junior (NCO) position in the , equivalent to a sergeant in structures, and is denoted by featuring horizontal chevrons or stripes on the sleeve or shoulder. This rank leads small units and is part of a broader NCO category that includes higher grades like sergente maggiore. The , Italy's militarized police force integrated within forces, employs analogous sergente ranks to maintain operational alignment with structures, facilitating military-police duties such as public order and border security. In Spain, the cabo primero functions as a junior sergeant equivalent in the army, positioned above the basic cabo (corporal) and below full sargento, with NATO code OR-5, and is responsible for supervising squads in infantry and other units. This rank emphasizes leadership in tactical operations and is marked by distinctive sleeve insignia, reflecting Spain's adaptation of traditional European NCO hierarchies. In the Netherlands, the korporaal 1e klasse serves as the OR-5 sergeant equivalent in the Royal Netherlands Army, leading small teams with insignia of two chevrons topped by a star, aligning with NATO standards for interoperability. In , the fanjunkare represents a senior NCO leadership role, equivalent to a (OR-7), positioned above sergeant and focused on platoon-level command and training within the army. Similarly, in , the kersantti (sergeant) is the core NCO rank for unit leaders, featuring three chevrons as and serving as the primary sergeant equivalent for oversight in the defense forces. Across these nations, equivalents have seen trends toward since the 1990s, influenced by initiatives for cross-border policing and NATO's STANAG 2116 of grade codes, enabling in joint operations without altering national traditions.

Usage in Other Countries

Israel

In the (IDF), the rank of Rav Samal, equivalent to (OR-5), serves as a senior position responsible for leading small units and providing supervisory guidance in the conscript-based army structure. These personnel often function as sergeants or squad leaders, mentoring junior conscripts and ensuring operational readiness in combat and support roles. Due to Israel's mandatory —36 months for men and 24 months for women—promotions to Rav Samal occur relatively rapidly for capable soldiers, after several years of service and completion of advanced training, reflecting the need to quickly develop in a citizen-soldier force. The rank's insignia consists of three chevrons topped with a , worn on the for enlisted personnel, while berets feature unit-specific pins often incorporating or bars to denote . Following the 1995 Supreme Court ruling on in military training, which paved the way for women's into roles starting in 2000, the has maintained fully gender-integrated ranks, allowing female soldiers to achieve Rav Samal and higher NCO positions on equal footing with men in mixed units. By 2022, women comprised about 18% of IDF forces, with continued expansion in integrated units. In the , the corresponding rank is Samal Mishteret (), a non-commissioned role focused on supervising patrols, coordinating field operations, and training junior officers in duties. This position plays a critical part in maintaining public order, with similar rapid advancement opportunities based on performance during mandatory contributions or career progression. for police Rav Samal include chevrons with bars on the uniform, and dark blue berets adorned with a star-embellished badge signifying the force's authority. Gender integration mirrors the , with women serving in these supervisory roles since the force's early years, enhanced by reforms in the to promote across ranks.

Russia

In the , sergeant ranks form a key part of the (NCO) structure, with Serzhant designated as OR-5 and Starshiy Serzhant as OR-6 in equivalency terms. These positions emphasize technical expertise and squad-level execution rather than broad , distinguishing them from NCO models where sergeants often handle more command responsibilities. Following the 2008 "New Look" reforms under Defense Minister , roles were largely abolished and transitioned into contract-based sergeant positions to build a NCO cadre, reducing reliance on conscripts for skilled roles and aiming for approximately 425,000 contract servicemen by 2012. The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) employs analogous sergeant ranks within its and , including Serzhant and Starshiy Serzhant, adapted for and security duties. In the , these ranks support investigative units handling criminal cases, while in the —a force under MVD—these NCOs lead operations, crowd management during unrest, and border security tasks, often in coordination with regular . Contract service is similarly prioritized here, mirroring armed forces reforms to enhance professionalism amid growing domestic security demands. This sergeant framework retains significant Soviet legacy from the , where ranks like Serzhant were established in 1943 alongside the reintroduction of shoulder straps for —typically featuring transverse stripes for NCOs rather than stars—to denote on uniforms. The post-Soviet system preserved this structure, including the "SA" (Sovetskaya Armiya) imprint on early shoulder boards, adapting it for modern use while maintaining centralized dominance over NCOs. The 2022 invasion of intensified focus on sergeant development, exposing training shortfalls in and unit cohesion, prompting expanded use of combat veterans from and prior operations to instruct new NCOs and mobilized reservists. Reforms now include accelerated NCO academies (up to 2 years, 10 months) and veteran-led supplemental to bolster frontline , though challenges persist with rushed deployments of underprepared personnel.

Singapore

In the (SAF), the sergeant ranks form a key part of the structure within the specialist cadre, comprising Third Sergeant (3SG, denoted by three chevrons), Second Sergeant (2SG), (1SG), and (SSG). These ranks are attained through mandatory (NS), where male citizens and permanent residents aged 18 and above undergo two years of full-time service, with promotions to sergeant-level specialists often occurring after completing leadership courses like the Section Commander Course to lead sections of 8-12 personnel. Due to its heritage, the SAF's rank system mirrors influences but has been adapted for Singapore's conscript-based defense framework. Within the Home Team, encompassing the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), the sergeant rank serves as an entry-level supervisory position for operational leadership. In the SPF, sergeants (SGT) wear three chevrons and typically oversee patrols, investigations, or station duties after promotion from corporal or direct entry for qualified recruits. Similarly, in the SCDF, sergeants (including sub-grades like Sergeant 1, 2, and 3) manage firefighting teams, rescue operations, or emergency response units, with direct-entry options available for diploma holders to start at this rank. In uniformed youth organizations, such as the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC), sergeant ranks are awarded to cadets, usually in their third year, to foster skills through drill, footdrills, and activities. NPCC sergeants, denoted by chevrons similar to , assist in training junior s and may progress to before becoming cadet inspectors. Singapore's multi-ethnic composition, with official languages including English, , , and , influences institutional nomenclature, though military and Home ranks are standardized in English for uniformity; equivalents exist in other languages, such as "Sarjan" in for sergeant.

Denmark and Nordic Countries

In , the sergeant rank, known as sergent, holds the NATO code OR-5 within the Royal Danish Army and serves as an entry-level (NCO) position responsible for leading squads and providing tactical guidance to enlisted personnel. This rank is typically achieved through professional military education and experience, aligning with standardization for interoperability in joint operations. In , the sergeant rank (sergeant) was reestablished as part of the military reforms that modernized the NCO , positioning it at OR-5 to enhance in platoon-level tactics and replacing elements of the previous fanjunkare structure, which now functions as a higher specialist role. sergeants undergo specialized training focused on operational command and are integral to the all-volunteer force structure post-conscription era. Finland's equivalent to the sergeant is the kersantti (OR-5) in the , a key NCO role emphasizing leadership and combat readiness, often filled by conscripts who complete advanced training courses. The rank plays a central role in the nation's reserve-based defense system, where kersantti-level personnel participate in supplementary to maintain skills, with programs expanding to train reserve NCOs starting in 2025. In , the employs vingsersjant as the OR-5 equivalent, denoting NCOs who oversee technical and operational teams in units, reflecting the branch's focus on specialized support roles. This supports the integrated NATO-aligned , with sergeants advancing through to ensure high readiness in air defense missions. Across , , and , sergeant-equivalent ranks have benefited from regional trends toward high in promotions since the , driven by policies granting women equal access to and paths, resulting in a shared of voluntary integration and balanced NCO advancement by the . This approach prioritizes merit-based progression, with women comprising a growing proportion of NCO roles amid broader societal commitments to .

Contemporary Adaptations and Reforms

Recent Changes in Armed Forces

In the early , particularly since 2010, U.S. and forces have integrated skills into (NCO) training to address evolving digital threats. The U.S. Army established the Cyber Corps in 2018, building on foundational efforts from 2010 when it introduced the 255S Information Protection Technician military occupational specialty focused on defense for NCOs. This integration expanded through the Army Cyber School at , which offers courses like the Cyber Common Technical Course for intermediate operations skills tailored to sergeants and other enlisted leaders. has supported this via the Defence Education Enhancement Programme (), enhancing professional military education for NCOs across member states since the program's expansion post-2010. In 2025, the U.S. Army implemented several key reforms to NCO professional development. The (TC 7-22.7) was updated and published on August 19, 2025, streamlining content to better equip NCOs for current and future challenges. Changes to were announced in October 2025, emphasizing sustained leader development responsibilities for NCOs. Additionally, in March 2025, the top enlisted leader promised promotion reforms for , including reviews of E-8 assessments and selection processes for advanced roles through 2025. Diversity reforms in the have significantly increased female representation among sergeants in global militaries, reflecting broader equity initiatives. In the UK , women comprised 10.4% of personnel as of 2025, up from 9.3% in 2020, driven by the 2016 lifting of restrictions on roles and subsequent recruitment drives under the Future Army@100 strategy. Among other ranks, including sergeants, female participation reached 10.6% for senior positions by 2025, marking a steady rise from 9.3% in 2018 amid targeted programs for women. These changes align with NATO-wide efforts, such as DEEP-supported integration , which has boosted female NCO retention by emphasizing inclusive . Russia's full-scale invasion of in 2022 prompted enhanced leadership training for sergeants in armies, incorporating lessons on decentralized command and resilience. NATO's Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP) for , launched in 2023, extended to allies through DEEP, updating NCO curricula with Ukraine-derived tactics like agile small-unit operations and counter-disinformation skills. For instance, the 17th Annual of Armies for Noncommissioned Officers in 2024 focused on post-invasion adaptations, emphasizing response in professional military education. This has informed broader updates across members with lessons from Ukrainian NCO experiences. In the , and have expanded sergeant roles to counter , blending conventional and non-state threats. 's Armed Forces restructured in 2025 to integrate uncrewed systems and elements into NCO , creating new vocations for sergeants in digital defense amid demographic shifts reducing recruit pools. This builds on post-2014 focus, with sergeants now leading multi-domain units in exercises like Valiant Mark. 's Defense Forces, responding to operations, reformed NCO in the 2020s to emphasize tactics, including urban combat and integration, as outlined in the 2020 multi-year plan shifting from low-intensity to high-threat preparedness. These expansions prioritize sergeant-led adaptability in gray-zone conflicts, with incorporating real-time lessons from 2023-2025 engagements.

Police and Paramilitary Applications

In modern policing, there has been a notable global shift toward community-oriented models, particularly following widespread reforms after 2020, where sergeants have increasingly served as mentors to foster and between officers and communities. This evolution emphasizes sergeants' roles in supervising teams to prioritize problem-solving and relationship-building over reactive enforcement, as seen in initiatives that train first-line supervisors to guide officers in and community outreach activities. In paramilitary organizations, sergeant-equivalent ranks play supervisory functions in border security operations across the , where coordinates multinational teams of border guards who perform tasks akin to those of traditional sergeants, such as leading patrols and verifying identities at external frontiers. Similarly, in India's (), the Assistant Sub-Inspector rank functions as the equivalent to a sergeant, overseeing constables and head constables in high-risk and counter-insurgency duties, including and anti-Naxalite operations. Since around 2015, police sergeants have incorporated into their supervisory responsibilities, including the oversight of body-worn cameras to ensure compliance with activation policies and the review of footage for and purposes. This includes managing from camera recordings to identify patterns in officer-citizen interactions, thereby supporting evidence-based improvements in departmental practices. Sergeants in these high-stress roles face unique challenges, including elevated risks of and from repeated exposure to and operational demands, prompting the development of targeted support programs that train them to monitor subordinates' well-being while accessing and counseling themselves. These initiatives, often led by first-line supervisors, aim to mitigate secondary traumatic stress through training and post-incident debriefings.

References

  1. [1]
    Army Ranks: A Complete Guide to Enlisted and Officer Ranks
    Aug 1, 2025 · Explore U.S. Army ranks from private to general. Learn rank structure, pay grades, insignia, and promotion paths in this complete guide.
  2. [2]
    Sergeant - Etymology, Origin & Meaning
    Originating c. 1200 from Old French and Medieval Latin, sergeant means a servant or officer, derived from Latin servire, meaning "to serve."
  3. [3]
    [PDF] ORIGINS OF THE TERM 'SERGEANT'
    The term 'Sergeant' has its official origins dating back to the 12th Century during the European Feudalism. The term Sergeant itself means 'servant'. During ...
  4. [4]
    Army NCO History (Part 1): American Revolution
    There were five NCO ranks: corporal, sergeant, first sergeant, quartermaster sergeant and sergeant major. ... meaning "little shoulder," to signify their rank.Missing: definition | Show results with:definition<|control11|><|separator|>
  5. [5]
    [PDF] The Sergeants Major of the Army - GovInfo
    The creation of the Office of the Sergeant. Major of the Army in July 1966 represented a major milestone in the development of the U.S.. Army. For the first ...
  6. [6]
    History of the Rank of Sergeant Major - 720th Military Police Battalion
    The first official U.S. use of the term was in 1776, when a Sergeant Major (SGM) was appointed to the headquarters of each infantry battalion of the Continental ...
  7. [7]
    History of the Sergeant Major - NCO Historical Society
    Jul 20, 2020 · The long history of the sergeant major can be traced back to the fifteenth century.
  8. [8]
    Duties, Responsibilities and Authority of the NCO - GlobalSecurity.org
    It is the first sergeant's duty to hold formations, instruct platoon sergeants and assist the commander in supervising unit operations. It is the duty of the ...
  9. [9]
    How to Become a Police Sergeant
    A Sergeant's Role & Responsibilities · Surveillance · Follow-up investigations · Run command at major field assignments (i.e. mass shootings, police shootings, etc ...
  10. [10]
    Criminal Justice Careers: Police Ranks Explained | The Link
    Apr 28, 2020 · A step up in responsibility, sergeants oversee the day-to-day operations of a department and supervise, train and motivate the officers under ...Patrol Officers, Detectives... · Corporals · Chiefs And Sheriffs
  11. [11]
  12. [12]
    sergeant | serjeant, n. meanings, etymology and more
    OED's earliest evidence for sergeant is from around 1200, in Trinity College Homilies. sergeant is a borrowing from French. Etymons: French sergent. See ...
  13. [13]
    Sergeant - Naval History and Heritage Command
    May 13, 2014 · Sergeant was not a rank but an occupation. He might lead others he might fight alone or as a member of a group of sergeants, or he might ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  14. [14]
    SERGEANT or SERJEANT - Law Dictionary of Legal Terminology
    SERGEANT or SERJEANT, Engl. law. An officer in the courts of the highest grade among the practitioners of the law.Missing: distinction Sgt
  15. [15]
    SERGEANTS, 11th-13th CENTURIES from 'Armies of Feudal ...
    Sergeants (Latin servientes, French serjants or sergents) came in many different guises. In feudal terminology they were vassals of less than knightly status ...
  16. [16]
    (PDF) The Origin of Some Military Terms - Academia.edu
    The term 'sergeant' originated from the French word for 'servant' and evolved into a military rank with significant responsibility.
  17. [17]
    Hundred Years' War English Armies Organization - History Forum
    Dec 5, 2011 · The English foot soldiers, and probably the French too, were organized in platoons of 20 soldiers, commanded by a ventenar, and five platoons would be ...
  18. [18]
    Serjeant at Arms - UK Parliament
    The post of Serjeant at Arms originated in the late thirteenth century when Edward I formed a bodyguard of 20 Serjeants at Arms.
  19. [19]
    History of Sergeant-at-Arms - Nova Scotia Legislature
    The title of Serjeant-at-Arms takes its name from the time of the Crusades, when Philip the August, King of France, employed special bodyguards to protect him ...
  20. [20]
    [PDF] The Prussian Reform Movement - DTIC
    Using this movement as a case study in defense reform, the author determines the basis of the Prussian "tradition of excellence" central to understanding the ...
  21. [21]
    Prussian Military Reforms 1786–1813 9780231888783
    This deployed the troops in great breadth and reduced the battle order to three ranks. Precise alignment, speed of fire, and maintenance of discipline even in ...
  22. [22]
    [PDF] the recruitment of the british army 1807-1815
    The Napoleonic Wars continued the pattern of the growth of the British army during the eighteenth century. Successive wars in the 1700s had seen the British ...
  23. [23]
    Organization, Strategy & Tactics - The Napoleon Series
    How the British Army paid its officers on the staff. How Senior Officers Were Promoted in the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars. A look at the ...
  24. [24]
    Prussian Reforms 1806-15 - War History
    Dec 13, 2024 · As such the Prussians effectively redefined the purpose of conscription: Napoleon was using his levées to sustain his armies in wartime—the ...
  25. [25]
    Armies of the East India Company | National Army Museum
    By the early 19th century, the Company's army was 250,000-strong, larger than that of many nations. The officers were British and there were several regiments ...
  26. [26]
    Army NCO History (Part 5): World War I
    During the late 1930s, NCOs fought to keep their rank and place in the Army, while training Soldiers unique tactics learned from fighting in World War I, all ...
  27. [27]
    What Was a “Tech Sergeant” in World War II? - Army Technician
    Oct 4, 2025 · The “T” stood for “Technician” and indicated some special trade. Technicians didn't lead men. They did specialized jobs, like drafting or crystal grinding.
  28. [28]
    Standardizing NCO Academies - NCO Historical Society
    May 30, 2020 · The Army's NCO Academy system was formalized in 1957 when the Department of the Army published its first regulation to establish standards for NCO Academies.
  29. [29]
    [PDF] The Evolution of Noncommissioned Officers in Training Soldiers
    General Pershing's concerns regarding non commissioned officers in World War I resulted in the army's addressing duties and responsibilities of non commissioned.
  30. [30]
    [PDF] Army NCO Guide
    Jan 1, 2020 · Narrator: As leaders, NCO's must be proven worthy of the rank of Sergeant. Keep an attentive ear as you listen to your First Sergeants while ...
  31. [31]
    [PDF] The Evolution of the Rank of Sergeant Major
    Dec 10, 2004 · Career progression for senior NCOs had become nonexistent. Reliefcame in the form ofthe Military Pay Bill of 1958.
  32. [32]
    U.S. Army Sergeant - Pay Grade and Rank Details - FederalPay.org
    A Sergeant is a soldier in the United States Army. Soldiers holding the rank of Sergeant serve as squad leaders, groups of eight to fourteen soldiers.
  33. [33]
    Army Sergeant - Military-Ranks.org
    Sergeants command small units of soldiers ranging in size from a fireteam, 4-5 soldiers, to a squad, which consists of two fireteams, and have a great deal of ...Army Sergeant Major of the Army · Army Staff Sergeant · Army Sergeant Pay
  34. [34]
    [PDF] Job Description Police Sergeant
    They are responsible for overseeing, organizing, training, and directing the activities of assigned law enforcement personnel and equipment as instructed by the ...
  35. [35]
    POLICE SERGEANT - HIS ROLE, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
    A police sergeant must act for the department, train personnel, coordinate efforts, place employees appropriately, resolve conflicts, plan for growth, and ...
  36. [36]
    None
    ### Summary of Fire Sergeant Duties (Cherokee County, GA)
  37. [37]
    Correctional Sergeant (6777) - Oregon.gov
    The Correctional Sergeant controls, directs, and monitors inmates within an adult correctional institution or satellite facility by regular assignment to the ...
  38. [38]
    The similarities and differences between law enforcement ... - Police1
    Oct 15, 2020 · Both law enforcement and military require tactical approaches, and 20% of US law enforcement are veterans, offering unique skills.
  39. [39]
    [PDF] nato codes for grades of military personnel
    Nov 12, 2001 · (2). A General who holds, or has held, the appointment of Chief of General Staff for the Armed Forces, Deputy Chief of General Staff for the ...
  40. [40]
    Military Ranks of the World - GlobalMilitary.net
    The NATO ranks system was codified in the NATO Standardization Agreement (STANAG) 2116. ... OR-7, Sergeant 1st Class. OR-6, Staff Sergeant. OR-5, Sergeant. OR-4 ...
  41. [41]
    Topic: Standardization - NATO
    Oct 14, 2022 · A Standardization Agreement (STANAG) is a NATO standardization document that specifies the agreement of member nations to implement a standard, ...Missing: ranks | Show results with:ranks
  42. [42]
    Topic: Interoperability: connecting forces - NATO
    Apr 11, 2023 · Interoperability is what helps all the pieces fit together and run smoothly, and NATO has been striving to improve the ability of NATO forces to ...Missing: benefits | Show results with:benefits
  43. [43]
  44. [44]
    Dating U.S. Army Chevrons
    In 1902 chevrons were redesigned and worn point up. With smokeless powder ... There were an even larger number of different chevrons worn after 1902.
  45. [45]
    Enlisted Insignias 101 - Soldiers' Angels
    Feb 11, 2025 · Sergeant Major – Three chevrons pointing upwards with a pointed tip and four rockers. The center is a star. Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps – ...
  46. [46]
    British Army ranks | National Army Museum
    Three chevrons beneath a crown. This is a non-commissioned officer rank with specific duties such as supply within the sub-unit - an appointment known as ...
  47. [47]
    WWI British Army Ranks & Insignia Explained - Paddelaters
    May 13, 2025 · Corporal: 2 chevrons; Sergeant: 3 chevrons; Staff Sergeant/Colour Sergeant: 3 chevrons with a crown above; Company Sergeant Major: Large crown ...
  48. [48]
  49. [49]
    WW1 French Uniform Insignia: Meanings & Military History of France ...
    Apr 30, 2025 · 1. Rank Insignia · Enlisted men and NCOs wore horizontal chevrons on their sleeves, with variations in colour and placement depending on the rank ...
  50. [50]
    Military ranks in Soviet Army - Safar Publishing
    Mar 16, 2023 · For them, like the military marshals, a single large star is introduced in place of four general stars arranged in a vertical row.
  51. [51]
    Rank insignia - Replika
    Rank: first sergeant or "starshina" in Russian. ... You can buy buttons for shoulder boards in our shop too... 13.10 €. In stock. Pair of stars on shoulder boards.<|separator|>
  52. [52]
    Pins & Badges - IDF Insignia - ZAHAL
    Largest Israel military Army/Navy online store | Israel Defense Forces insignia: Huge selection of all IDF Pins & Badges, all units, old rare & new.
  53. [53]
    Soldiers to pin on corporal after BLC | Article | The United States Army
    Jun 4, 2021 · Now Soldiers who have been recommended for promotion to sergeant and completed the required training will have that distinction. Gaskins said ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  54. [54]
    The Revised Army Enlisted Promotion Process - Army University Press
    Sep 3, 2024 · The US Army implemented a critical change in the enlisted promotion process on June 21, requiring Soldiers to demonstrate proficiency in Army Warrior Tasks.Missing: 9 | Show results with:9
  55. [55]
    Ranks - Marines.mil
    First sergeants serve as the senior enlisted Marine in a company, battery, or other unit at similar echelon, while sergeants major serve the same role in ...Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
  56. [56]
    Staff NCO Promotions - Manpower & Reserve Affairs
    Marines selected to the rank of staff sergeant through sergeant major/master gunnery sergeant require 24-months of obligated service remaining on contract ...
  57. [57]
    Enlisted Ranks - AF.mil
    Technical Sergeant stripes (TSgt). Technical Sergeant stripes (TSgt), E-6 (ABU color). This graphic is provided by Defense Media Activity ...
  58. [58]
    Enlisted Promotions - Air Force Personnel Center
    AIR FORCE PROMOTION LIST · Staff sergeant (E-5) · Technical sergeant (E-6) · Master sergeant (E-7) · Senior master sergeant (E-8) · Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) ...
  59. [59]
    Police and Detectives : Occupational Outlook Handbook
    Promotions to corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain usually are made according to scores on a written examination and on-the-job performance. In large ...
  60. [60]
    [PDF] Sergeant (Police) - NYC.gov
    May 25, 2022 · ELIGIBILITY TO BE PROMOTED: To be eligible for promotion, you must have served permanently in the rank of Police Officer in any one or the ...<|separator|>
  61. [61]
    Special Agent Application and Evaluation Process | FBIJOBS
    The process consists of ten consecutive steps designed to identify applicants suited to become special agents.Missing: ladder | Show results with:ladder
  62. [62]
    Rank Structure - The British Army
    A Sergeant is typically the second in command of a troop or platoon of around 30 soldiers. In this role they are responsible for administration and tactics.
  63. [63]
    Royal Marines ranks: How do they work? - Forces News
    Jun 14, 2021 · - Sergeant. - Colour Sergeant. - Warrant Officer Class 2. - Warrant Officer Class 1. What are the different Royal Marines officer ranks? - ...
  64. [64]
    RAF Ranks | Royal Air Force
    Here is the rank structure for commissioned ranks of the Royal Air Force. Ranks are shown in ascending order.
  65. [65]
    Sergeant - College of Policing
    Sergeants are responsible for developing competence within their team. This includes ensuring organisational standards are met and objectives are achieved. This ...
  66. [66]
    UK Policing Ranks from PC to Chief Constable - Police Success
    ... police guide. Sergeant epaulette insignia. Sergeant. Police Sergeants are the first supervisory rank in policing and generally remain operational. It's a tough ...
  67. [67]
    NCO Academy confronts warfare realities - Soldier Magazine
    Lauded by the then Chief of the General Staff, Gen Sir Patrick Sanders, when it was launched in 2023, its primary mission is to equip NCOs with the skills they ...
  68. [68]
    'Sandhurst for soldiers' will be created to boost skills, says Army head
    Sep 12, 2023 · A new academy for non-commissioned officers (NCOs) will be launched next year to give soldiers an academic understanding of the military.Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  69. [69]
    Military ranks - Canada.ca
    Oct 6, 2025 · Sergeant (Sgt). Junior Non-Commissioned Members, Master Seaman (MS), Master Corporal (MCpl). Leading Seaman (LS), Corporal (Cpl). Able Seaman ( ...Canadian Army ranks and... · Canadian Special Operations...
  70. [70]
    A return to the Royal Canadian Air Force ranks - Canada.ca
    Apr 21, 2022 · Even before unification in 1968, the use of the RAF rank structure within the RCAF was not without some controversy.
  71. [71]
    Royal Canadian Navy ranks and badges - Canada.ca
    Oct 6, 2025 · Petty Officers. Chief Petty Officer, 1st Class (CPO 1). Chief Petty Officer, 2nd Class (CPO 2). Petty Officer, 1st Class (PO 1). Petty Officer ...
  72. [72]
    Rank & Appointment Insignia - Canadian soldiers
    Unification of the Canadian Armed Forces - 1968​​ Generals retained shoulder straps on their uniform jackets, and wore badges of rank there, with maple leaves ...
  73. [73]
    rcmp ranks and salaries - Join RCMP
    Apr 17, 2025 · Constable; Corporal · Sergeant; Staff Sergeant; Sergeant Major; Corps Sergeant Major ; Inspector; Superintendent; Chief Superintendent; Assistant ...
  74. [74]
    Become an RCMP officer: Before you apply
    May 6, 2025 · You must be fluent in either English or French, including being able to speak, write, and read either official language. You do not need to be ...
  75. [75]
    Language Proficiency Requirements for RCMP Officers - Join RCMP
    Oct 14, 2025 · Bilingual positions require a Second Language Evaluation (SLE) test, with proficiency levels ranging from A (Beginner) to C (Advanced). However, ...
  76. [76]
    Ranks | Australian Army
    Promotion to Major generally occurs after 8-10 years service. Majors are field rank officers who command a company, squadron or battery of up to 120 officers ...Missing: temporary | Show results with:temporary
  77. [77]
    Ranks - Royal Australian Air Force
    Rank badge Warrant Officer. Warrant Officer WOFF. Senior Non-Commissioned Officers. Rank badge Flight Sergeant. Flight Sergeant FSGT. Rank badge Sergeant.
  78. [78]
    [PDF] NSW Police Force Dress Policy
    The 'R' insignia is to be situated at the bottom of the board, below any rank insignia (Figure 1). Figure 1. 2.22. Former members of the NSW Police Force, both ...<|separator|>
  79. [79]
    Australian Federal Police police badges, uniforms and symbols - AFP
    Our sworn staff wear a uniform with badges and patches that identify their rank and role. For example, our police officers wear a check band on their hats.
  80. [80]
    Division 3: Increments - ADF Pay and Conditions - Defence
    3.2.36 Promotion after previous service at temporary or acting rank · Periods of service must add up to full years of service to be counted towards an increment ...
  81. [81]
    defence (personnel) amendment regulations 2002 (no. 1 ... - AustLII
    The Governor-General may promote an officer to a rank temporarily. The Chief of the officer's Service may extend the period during which the officer holds the ...
  82. [82]
    ADF captain's choice to wear female army uniform overhauls gender ...
    Jul 13, 2023 · In April, the forces command issued a new directive stipulating that gender-fluid, non-binary and intersex people could choose the uniform, ...Missing: 2020s | Show results with:2020s
  83. [83]
    Gender Identity | Defence Gay & Lesbian Information Service
    This page contains information designed to assist anybody who is interested in learning about serving in the ADF as a TGD person.
  84. [84]
    Les grades dans l'armée de Terre
    ### Summary of Sergent (OR-5) and Sergent-Chef (OR-6) in the French Army
  85. [85]
    Accueil - gendarmerie nationale
    ### Summary of Ranks in Gendarmerie Nationale (Sergent and Sergent-Chef)
  86. [86]
  87. [87]
    sergent-chef, maître ou maréchal des logis-chef -echelle de solde n° 3
    Jan 1, 2024 · Les différents grades du corps sous-officier de la gendarmerie nationale selon le grade. Major · Adjudant-chef · Adjudant · Maréchal des logis- ...
  88. [88]
    Les grades militaires de l'armée de terre
    Jan 31, 2024 · Le sergent est le plus bas grade de sous-officier. ... Il a été aboli pendant la Révolution française, mais rétabli par Napoléon Bonaparte en 1804 ...
  89. [89]
    Junior noncommissioned officers
    ### Summary of Junior Noncommissioned Officers (NCOs) in the Bundeswehr
  90. [90]
    Senior noncommissioned officers - Bundeswehr
    In the Army and Air Force, the senior NCO ranks are “Feldwebel” (sergeant; OR-6), “Oberfeldwebel” (staff or technical sergeant, senior grade; OR-6), “ ...
  91. [91]
    The Establishment of the Bundeswehr
    As part of the democratisation process, the NSDAP (the Nazi Party) and all associated organisations were banned. All Germans had to face denazification ...
  92. [92]
    The Bundeswehr's troubled traditions – DW – 05/16/2017
    May 16, 2017 · Here, the army said that the Wehrmacht was not to be seen as the foundation of the Bundeswehr, and that any Nazis symbols were banned from ...Missing: NCO avoid associations
  93. [93]
    [PDF] German Police Overview - SAINT | SSD
    Polizeihauptmeister = Senior Sergeant. Polizeiobermeister = Sergeant. Polizeimeister = Constable / Officer. * Metropolitan and City of London Police. Rank ...
  94. [94]
    Sergeant | Join The Police
    You'll be responsible for a team of constables, exercising day to day, general and technical supervision and providing support to your team. Here's a bit more ...
  95. [95]
    National police promotion framework (NPPF) - College of Policing
    The NPPF is a four-step process for police promotion to sergeant or inspector, including competence, law exam, local selection, and temporary promotion with ...
  96. [96]
    Core rank profiles - College of Policing
    May 21, 2025 · Core rank profiles ; Service deliverer roles · Constable ; Team leader or technical lead roles · Sergeant ; Manager or expert adviser roles · Chief ...
  97. [97]
    [PDF] Role Profile Local Policing Team - Sergeant - Gloucestershire Police
    Sep 5, 2024 · The LPT Sergeant will manage Constables and Police Staff in their designated area. They will ensure that resources are.
  98. [98]
    [PDF] Rank Guide - Police Chaplaincy UK
    Police constables wear their warrant number on their shoulders, as do police sergeants. (along with their stripes). From the rank of Inspector upward ...
  99. [99]
    [PDF] Police Remuneration Review Body - GOV.UK
    What can be done to increase, at pace, the diversity of the police service both on entrance and at higher ranks? • How will the police service attract and ...
  100. [100]
    New police leadership commission launched | College of Policing
    Oct 23, 2025 · Commission will lead a review into police leadership, assess current capabilities and make recommendations for change.
  101. [101]
    [PDF] Traditions, History, Education of the Italian Army's NCO Corps
    Feb 27, 2003 · Today, in Italy, the sergeant's category is used to indicate junior NCOs and includes two ranks, the sergente (comparable to the U.S sergeant) ...
  102. [102]
    FEATURE: The Carabinieri Contribution to the ARRC
    The move by the ARRC to bring Saccocci into its ranks was motivated by the desire to bolster the capability of its Military Police branch. Because of the unique ...Missing: sergeant | Show results with:sergeant
  103. [103]
    Spanish Army Ranks - Military Factory
    Cabo. Corporal. OR-4. Cabo primero. Corporal 1st Class. OR-5. Cabo mayor. Major Corporal. OR-6. Sargento. Sergeant. OR-7. Sargento primero. First Sergeant. OR-8.
  104. [104]
    [PDF] FÖRSVARSMAKTENS GRADBETECKNINGAR
    Fanjunkare. Över- fanjunkare. Förvaltare Regements- förvaltare. Sergeant ... SWEDISH ARMED FORCES RANK INSIGNIA. SOLDIERS, AIRMEN AND SEAMEN. JUNIOR NON ...<|separator|>
  105. [105]
    Military ranks - The Finnish Defence Forces - Puolustusvoimat
    Non-commisioned officers ; Sergeant, Sergeant's collar insignia has three thin chevrons side by side. Sergeant's M05 field insignia has three thin chevrons one ...
  106. [106]
    [PDF] summary.pdf - NATO
    Mar 7, 2016 · In accordance with STANAG 2116, 2010 (Edition 6):. • Officers ... Models (Officers and Other Ranks) has been developed to provide alternate.
  107. [107]
    Israeli Army Ranks - Military Factory
    Rav Turai. Corporal. OR-3. Samal. Sergeant. OR-4. Samal Rishon. Staff Sergeant. OR-5. Rav Samal. Sergeant 1st Class. OR-6. Rav Samal Rishon. Master Sergeant. OR ...
  108. [108]
    IDF revamps promotion timetable - Israel National News
    Oct 22, 2017 · Under the new guidelines, an IDF combat soldier will be promoted to First Sergeant after 24 months of service, as opposed to the current 28.<|control11|><|separator|>
  109. [109]
    Women of the Israel Defense Forces: History in Combat Units
    1948-Late 1990's: No women allowed in combat roles ... In so doing, Barbivai became the first female ever to attain the rank of Major General in the IDF.
  110. [110]
    Russian NCOs - Army University Press
    Mar 11, 2019 · The Russian Federation abolished all warrant officer positions during the 2008 “New Look” reforms and converted all warrant officers into ...
  111. [111]
    Russian Army - 2008 Serdyukov Reforms - GlobalSecurity.org
    Nov 5, 2016 · The report argued that the Russian army must retain its four-tier command structure, as opposed to a three-tier command structure as Serdyukov ...
  112. [112]
    Red Army Insignia - Soviet Reenacting
    On January 6, 1943, the Soviet Military decreed they would reintroduce the use of shoulder board rank insignia, last seen in the Russian Imperial Army during ...
  113. [113]
    [PDF] (U) Training in the Russian Armed Forces: An Assessment of Recent ...
    Sep 27, 2023 · This paper examines how the Russian military trains its armed forces. It begins with an overview of training for.
  114. [114]
    Singapore Armed Forces (Ranks of Servicemen) Regulations 2010 - Singapore Statutes Online
    ### Summary of Ranks Related to Sergeant in the Singapore Armed Forces
  115. [115]
    Singapore Army Ranks - Military Factory
    OR-5. SCT. Specialist Cadet. OR-6. 3SG. Third Sergeant. OR-7. 2SG. Second Sergeant. OR-8. 1SG. First Sergeant. OR-9. SSG. Staff Sergeant. OR-10. MSG. Master ...Missing: structure | Show results with:structure
  116. [116]
    MOVING UP THE ARMY RANKS
    735 Army personnel were promoted, including 50 under MDES and 20 to 3rd WO. New ranks take effect from 1 July.
  117. [117]
  118. [118]
    SPF | Rank Insignia - Singapore Police Force
    Sep 4, 2025 · View rank insignias of the Singapore Police Force.
  119. [119]
    Ranks and drill commands - Singapore - CMPB
    Ranks denote the command status of each individual within the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF) hierarchy.
  120. [120]
    Everything You Need to Know About How Much SCDF Ranks Pay
    Oct 23, 2025 · Enlisting with the SCDF as a direct-entry sergeant means you can earn between $2,547 - $2,753 per month . This is the same whether you join as a ...
  121. [121]
    Rank | QTSS NPCC - Wix.com
    Year 3 cadets holding the rank of Corporal may be promoted to Sergeant if they fulfill the promotion criteria and pass the relevant tests. ​. Promotion Criteria ...
  122. [122]
    NPCC Ranks - National Police Cadet Corps @ Chai Chee Sec Sch
    National Police Cadet Corps. NPCC RANKS. Lance Corporal, Corporal, Sergeant, Staff Sergeant, Station Inspector.
  123. [123]
    [PDF] BADGES AND INSIGNIA OF THE ROYAL DANISH ARMY (RDA ...
    Sergeant First. Class (OR-7). Sergeant. (OR-5). Conscript Sergeant. COCKADE. DUTY STATION AND REGIMENTAL BADGES. CLERICAL PERSONNEL. Army Dean Army Chaplain ...
  124. [124]
    The Army - Forsvaret
    The total strength of the Danish Army is approximately 7000-9000 professional troops, excluding conscripts undergoing basic training.Missing: ranks sergeant
  125. [125]
    Reserve Supplementary Training Programmes - Intti.fi
    Reserve rank and file are trained into reserve NCOs starting in 2025, two courses per year. Reserve NCOs are trained into reserve officers from 2025 onwards in ...
  126. [126]
    Military ranks - Norwegian Armed Forces - Forsvaret
    Dec 20, 2023 · The specialist officer ranks · OR9: Sergeant Major (Army), Master Chief Petty Officer (Navy), Chief Master Sergeant (Air Force) · OR8: Master ...
  127. [127]
    Full article: A Nordic model of gender and military work? Labour ...
    A common Nordic model of gender and military work nonetheless emerged in the 1990s, marked by equal rights to military participation for women on a voluntary ...
  128. [128]
    Army Cyber Corps - A Prehistory | Article | The United States Army
    Jun 12, 2025 · Announced in 2010, the new 255S – Information Protection Technician would perform Information Assurance and Computer Network Defense measures, ...Missing: post- | Show results with:post-
  129. [129]
    Cyber School Functional Courses
    CCTC is a nine-week course that provides students with intermediate skills in Cyberspace Operations involving the analysis, exploitation, and remediation of ...
  130. [130]
    Topic: Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) - NATO
    Feb 28, 2025 · The Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) is a vehicle for reform, providing tailored practical support to individual countries in developing and ...Site Web · Russian · UkrainianMissing: skills Army
  131. [131]
    UK armed forces biannual diversity statistics: April 2025 - GOV.UK
    At 1 March 2025 there was a greater proportion of Female Officers in the Future Reserves 2020 (18.6 per cent) than the UK Regular Forces (14.9 percent).Missing: sergeants | Show results with:sergeants
  132. [132]
    Topic: Comprehensive Assistance Package (CAP) for Ukraine - NATO
    Jun 20, 2025 · In the years before Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, these reforms helped strengthen Ukraine's ability to defend itself. Through CAP ...Missing: NCO | Show results with:NCO
  133. [133]
    European military leaders gather to strengthen security cooperation ...
    May 16, 2024 · The 17th Annual Conference of European Armies for Noncommissioned Officers (CEANCO) took place in Tirana, Albania, May 6-10, 2024.Missing: enhanced | Show results with:enhanced
  134. [134]
    Adapt, Lead, Win: NCO Lessons from Ukraine - Army University Press
    Oct 18, 2024 · A new generation of UAF leaders, hardened by battle in Eastern Ukraine prior to 2022, paved the way for a more dynamic command structure adapted ...
  135. [135]
    Singapore investing in uncrewed systems, restructuring Armed ...
    Feb 27, 2025 · Singapore is boosting deployment of uncrewed systems and reorganizing Armed Forces personnel as demographic shifts shrink the pool of potential military ...
  136. [136]
    Finding Clarity in the Fog of Hybrid Warfare - RSIS
    Dec 5, 2024 · Singapore's interest in hybrid warfare grew significantly following the Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014. Although the term has gained ...
  137. [137]
    Israel rolls out new wartime plan to reform armed forces
    Feb 18, 2020 · Israel has announced a new multiyear plan to restructure its armed forces to face existing and potential future adversaries for decades.Missing: sergeant NCO hybrid 2020s
  138. [138]
    Israel Hybrid Warfare in Gaza: Regular Goals, Combined Means
    Jun 27, 2025 · Israel has adopted a combined approach in Gaza, blending conventional and hybrid warfare. But the strategy is not without risk.Missing: sergeant NCO reforms 2020s
  139. [139]
    [PDF] Promoting Excellence in First-Line Supervision:
    Sergeants hold officers accountable, and at the same time, sergeants look after the safety and welfare of their officers. Sergeants play a key role in creating ...
  140. [140]
    [PDF] Community Policing in Immigrant Neighborhoods: Stories of Success
    Aug 28, 2019 · All members of a police department can have roles in community engagement, but patrol officers have unique opportunities because of their high ...
  141. [141]
    Standing Corps - Frontex - European Union
    Category 1: Border guards directly employed by Frontex as staff members and regularly deployed to border guarding missions according to their professional ...
  142. [142]
    Gazetted Officer Ranks in the CRPF - BYJU'S
    The CRPF's organizational structure is primarily composed of three key rank classifications, namely Gazetted Officers (GOs), Subordinate Officers (SOs), and Non ...Missing: sergeant | Show results with:sergeant
  143. [143]
    [PDF] Body-Worn Cameras a Decade Later: What We Know
    Department's staggered implementation of body cameras found that “BWCs led to a significant decrease in the dismissal of [administrative] investigations due to ...
  144. [144]
    [PDF] Critical Response Toolkit for First-Line Supervisors
    When major events occur, the first officers on the scene will look to their sergeants for direction. Ensuring that these law enforcement professionals.
  145. [145]
    [PDF] Call for Help: Treatment Centers for Police Officers
    This document is a call for help regarding treatment centers for police officers, published by the Police Executive Research Forum.