Sergeant Major of the Army

The Sergeant Major of the Army is a unique non-commissioned rank in the United States Army. The holder of this rank and post is the senior enlisted member of the Army, and is appointed to serve as spokesperson to address the issues of enlisted personnel to the Army's highest positions. As such, he or she is the senior enlisted advisor to the Chief of Staff of the US Army. His exact duties vary, depending on the Chief of Staff, though he generally devotes much of his time to traveling throughout the Army observing training, and talking to soldiers and their families. Kenneth O. Preston has held the rank since January 15, 2004.[1]

General Harold Keith Johnson, then the Chief of Staff of the Army, created the position in 1966 after asking Commanders of the major commands for a personal recommendation. He asked that it not be considered a contest or retirement-type assignment. He listed seven duties and functions he expected the sergeant major to perform, including service as a personal advisor and assistant to the chief of staff on those matters pertaining to enlisted men. Johnson whittled the 4,700 candidates down to 21 nominees and then selected the only one then serving in Vietnam, the sergeant major of the 1st Infantry Division, William O. Wooldridge.[2]

Despite the unique duties of this position, the Sergeant Major of the Army is still classified as a non-commissioned officer (NCO) and as such must salute all men and women higher in rank.