We asked senior warrant officers what impact their first regimental sergeant major had on them…
When I joined nearly 30 years ago, being in front of the RSM meant you’d really messed up. If I saw him coming, I’d turn around and walk the other way. I’m command sergeant major of the NCO Academy these days and still remember the impact he had on me.
- WO1 Matt Howarth, RE (pictured above)
My first RSM had a fearsome reputation – I only ended up in his office once and I never, ever wanted to do it again. He was scary but I think it is important to acknowledge the qualities of past leaders – they were right for their era.
- WO1 Paul Carney, Army Sergeant Major
I avoided mine like the plague, and spent a lot of time dodging him in the corridors. He was a big character and military life was new to me. But as time went on, I learnt a lot from him and the way he listened. I’ll carry this with me in my new role as an RSM in the Army Welfare Service.
- WO1 Bekki Sugden, AGC (SPS)
Mine was about four-and-a-half feet tall. I remember him being angry most of the time. But things have changed these days.
- WO1 Jock Colvan-Graham, RA
I remember the RSM being the person who did the shouting if you did things wrong. It’s different now. In my last role as a squadron sergeant major I only ever raised my voice once.
- WO1 Will Laughlan, RE
I was in the Welsh Guards when I first joined and I remember the RSM to this day. He was tall with a deep, Welsh voice and could make you sweat just by looking at you.
- WO1 Ni Butler, RAMS
