Military ranks indicate a service member’s position, illustrating their authority, duties, placement, and influence within the organization. Throughout history, various ranks have been introduced and later phased out, typically associated with roles or functions that are now obsolete.
In contemporary military restructuring, many classic ranks have been retired. Here are examples of specialized and lesser-known ranks that are no longer active.
Commodore
The rank of Commodore, with its deep roots in naval tradition, traditionally stands above captain and below rear admiral. Its origins can be traced back to the knightly orders of France, where the commandeur held a lot of power.
Historically, Commodore has been both a title and an official rank. As a title, it often denoted officers in charge of multiple ships, sometimes on a temporary basis. As an official rank, a commodore typically commanded a squadron within a fleet and reported to an admiral.
In the United States, the rank fell out of use in the early 20th century but was reinstated during the Second World War, only to be discontinued once more after the conflict. It saw a short revival in the 1980s but was ultimately replaced by the rank of rear admiral (lower half) to avoid confusion with honorary titles.
US Air Force chief warrant officers
Chief warrant officers are a common presence in many militaries worldwide, including the United States – although, the US Air Force had ceased using this rank after the retirement of its last “Chief Airman” in 1992. In branches that utilize warrant officers, these individuals attain their position based on their specialized expertise within their respective service.
The Air Force had discontinued the use of chief warrant officers in 1952, deeming them unnecessary for its operations. However, amid ongoing discussions among airmen, a persistent rumor suggested a potential return of the rank.
This was confirmed in February 2024, when Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin announced the plan to reintroduce it, specifically for airmen in the cyber and information technology fields. This decision aims to enhance the branch’s readiness for challenges posed by “Great Power Competition.”
Cornet
The rank of cornet in the British cavalry was the lowest commissioned officer rank, ranking below lieutenant and captain. It takes its name from the trumpet-like instrument played by a cornet player in each cavalry unit. However, it’s important to clarify that the player themselves were not called “Cornet.”
This rank became obsolete in the British military in 1871 due to the Cardwell Reforms. Its modern-day equivalent is the second lieutenant. Besides the British, other nations also used the rank of cornet. Notably, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill held this rank during his service with the 4th Queen’s Own Hussars, making him one of the most famous individuals to have held this title.
Quartermaster sergeant
In the US military, a quartermaster sergeant was tasked with managing the supplies for regiments and battalions and supported the regular quartermaster. Their other duties included supervising camp setups, distributing supplies, and managing the company’s tools and property. Although they seldom faced combat, they still participated in the drills and training necessary for regular non-commissioned officers, enabling them to step in on the frontline if needed.
The rank of quartermaster sergeant was discontinued in 1921 following a command restructuring.
Sergeant major general
Another obscure rank, sergeant major general no longer exists, but it was once the most junior on the hierarchy of generals. The rank caused some confusion among enlisted troops, as sergeant major general was ranked below lieutenant general. However, a major is ranked above a lieutenant – we know, our brains are trying to understand this, too.
The most famous sergeant major general was Philip Skippon, who was a senior officer in the New Model Army during the English Civil War. Today, the rank is sometimes use within militias, but is otherwise kept out of modern military hierarchies.
Drum major
In the US Marines’ Marine Band, the drum major used to be the leader. Although it is not a rank anymore, the drum major is still responsible for the band’s overall appearance, decorum, and drill, as well as directing its members. They also wear a distinctive uniform, which includes a bearskin headpiece and a mace used for directing the musicians.
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The role still exists, but its rank no longer does. The current drum major, Master Gunnery Sgt. Duane F. King, serves as the 40th Drum Major of “The President’s Own” US Marine Band. He became part of the ensemble in May 2014 and previously held the position of assistant drum major.