On the Word of Command: A Pictorial History of the Regimental Sergeant Major

by Richard Alford, Geoffrey Howlett

For all its splendor and magnificence, the tradition of the Regimental Sergeant Major is comparatively recent by British Army standards, dating back to the early years of the 19th century. But since that time, these senior Warrant Officers have provided a vital link between Commanding Officers and their colleagues, and the Junior NCOs and soldiers under their command.

By sheer force of personality and quality of leadership, many an RSM has struck terror not only in the hearts of lesser breeds but also in those of junior commissioned officers theoretically superior in rank. But in battle, too, from Waterloo to the Falkland Islands, as well as during two World Wars, Regimental Sergeant Majors have displayed courage and devotion to duty of the highest order, as well as kindness, loyalty, and concern for the men in their charge. Their outstanding qualities and richness of character shine through the pages of this book, which tells their story - in historical terms as well as by anecdote and potographs - and reveals the full extent of the influence they have exercised in the making of the British Army of today, and of days long past.

216 pages, Hardcover

First published April 30, 1990