Military ranks symbolize a service member’s role, highlighting their authority, responsibilities, position, and influence within the organization. Throughout history, different ranks have been introduced and eventually retired, often linked to roles or duties that have become obsolete.
In recent military reorganizations, many traditional ranks have been retired. Below are examples of unique and lesser-known ranks that are no longer in use.
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.
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.”
Commodore
The rank of Commodore, steeped in naval history, traditionally sits between the ranks of captain and rear admiral. Its roots trace back to the knightly orders of France, where the commandeur wielded a lot of power.
Historically, Commodore has functioned as both a title and an official rank. As a title, it often referred to officers commanding several ships, sometimes on a temporary basis. In an official role, a commodore typically led a squadron within a fleet and reported directly to an admiral.
In the United States, the rank fell out of use in the early 20th century but was reintroduced during the Second World War, only to be discontinued again after the war. It experienced a brief resurgence in the 1980s but was eventually replaced by the rank of rear admiral (lower half) to prevent confusion with honorary titles.
Cornet
The rank of cornet in the British cavalry was the lowest commissioned officer rank, sitting below lieutenant and captain. The name comes from the trumpet-like instrument, the cornet, played by a musician in each cavalry unit. However, it’s important to note that the musician was not referred to as “Cornet.”
This rank was retired from the British military in 1871 following the Cardwell Reforms, with the second lieutenant now serving as its modern-day equivalent. Other nations also adopted the cornet rank. Notably, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill held this rank while serving with the 4th Queen’s Own Hussars, making him one of the most well-known individuals to have held the title.
Sergeant major general
Another lesser-known rank, sergeant major general, is no longer in use, but it once stood as the most junior position among generals. The rank caused some confusion among enlisted soldiers, as sergeant major general ranked below lieutenant general, despite a major being ranked higher than a lieutenant – yes, we’re trying to wrap our heads around it, too.
The most famous sergeant major general was Philip Skippon, a senior officer in the New Model Army during the English Civil War. While the rank is occasionally used within militias today, it has otherwise been excluded from 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.