Command Sergeant Major

A Command Sergeant Major (CSM) is a non-commissioned rank and position of office in the United States Army. The holder of this rank and position is the most senior enlisted member of a color-bearing Army unit (battalion or higher). The CSM is appointed to serve as a spokesman to address the issues of all soldiers, from enlisted to officers, from warrant officers and lieutenants to the Army's highest positions. As such, they are the senior enlisted advisor to the commander. The exact duties vary depending on the unit commander, including observing training and talking with soldiers and their families.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, left, bears the colors of Army Futures Command, as General Mark Milley, then-Secretary of the Army Mark Esper, and General John M. Murray unfurl the colors on 24 August 2018, in Austin, Texas

History

The Command Sergeant Major (CSM), as the most senior sergeant of a color-bearing unit, began in December 1975. In contrast, the duties of a Sergeant Major have been defined in the US Army since the days of von Steuben (1779). The need for a senior enlisted advisor to a commander was recognized in the Vietnam era (December 1966).[1]

CSMs are selected for assignment only after training as top enlisted leaders.[1]

Insignia
  • CSM insignia timeline
  • 1966–1968, the only authorized insignia for all sergeants major[2]
  • 1968–1979, became Command Sergeant Major

See also

References
  1. CSM-Retired Daniel K. Elder (2 Jan 1998, revised 26 Oct 2008) The History of the Sergeant Major Fort Bliss, Texas
  2. Mages, Robert M. (2013). "The Sergeants Major of the Army (CMH Pub 70–63–1)" (PDF) (3rd ed.). Washington, D.C.: Center for Military History.
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