I was once asked who the most senior soldier was before my post was created a decade ago.
The academy sergeant major is the one that springs to mind – but for me it always made sense to have a single point of contact linking troops to the senior echelons.
I’ve been the third person to hold the title, and it has been the greatest privilege of my 27-year career.
It has taken time and effort to develop the role, but the cold truth is that it only works if all of you – soldiers and NCOs, who form our military backbone – are fully supportive and stay on comms with us.
The fourth Army sergeant major will take over when I stand down from the Service next month.
That has now been confirmed as WO1 John Miller (R Signals, more on him in a future Soldier).
Don’t be afraid to speak your mind with him as you have done with me. It is important you tell him your views about how we need to improve.
He is plugged directly into the chief of the general staff – but he will only be as good as the picture you provide.
We are living in volatile times and the world has arguably become more dangerous since I arrived in 2021.
It is therefore important we pull together, support each other and ensure we’re ready for anything.
There is new kit arriving in the shape of armoured vehicles, improved comms, and the latest unmanned aerial systems. And, more than ever, there are greater opportunities to develop leadership skills.
We need to be in the best shape if we are to treble our fighting power by the end of the decade as CGS plans.
Let’s do our leader proud.
Contact Paul on Defence Connect
