CB,
The Ruxted Group offer's to you our version of "The RSM".
Soldiering in the 21st century, especially in Afghanistan, is a strange mix of Buck Rogers and the Roman legions.
Soldiers have modern technology which allows them to stay ‘connected’ on a global basis but the need for human interconnectedness, the unbreakable bonding which will allow, indeed require soldiers to die for one another, is as strong on Afghanistan’s plains in 2006 as it was when Roman legionnaires stood, shoulder to shoulder, 2000 years ago.
Just as the centurions bound the men in the legions together so, do the sergeants, today, for Canadian soldiers. It is a tired but true statement that the Sergeants’ Mess is the heart of the regiment. The officers may guard its soul – as they do the Regiments Colours on which are emblazoned its timeless battle honours – but the sergeants give the Regiment heart and spirit.
The Regimental Sergeant Major is at the top of the heap. He is the ‘top soldier’. There is no first among equals nonsense when the RSM is concerned; he is the first, period. He worked hard to get there – there are no shortcuts: he was stronger, smarter and tougher than dozens of his peers – he was also fair, tireless, loyal to and caring about his subordinates, his mates, his regiment and the whole damned army. He always strove to be better: a better soldier, a better leader, a better husband and father and a better man. While he was raising two or three children he was also raising dozens of young non-commissioned officers so that one or two of them might become just as brave, tough, smart and loyal as he and, eventually, take his place as ‘top soldier.’
Whenever there is need for a ”thin red line of ‘eroes”, at Balaclava or Panjawai, you will find the RSM at its end, holding it steady, giving it heart, giving it his all, unto death.
