<P> The rank and position were based on those of the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps ( established in its current incarnation on 23 May 1957 ) . The Chief of Staff of the Army created the position in 1966 after asking leaders of the major commands for a personal recommendation . He asked that it not be considered a near - retirement type assignment . He listed seven duties and functions he expected the Sergeant Major to perform , including service as a personal adviser and assistant on matters pertaining to enlisted soldiers . From 4,700 proposed candidates , 21 nominees were selected . Finally chosen was the only one then serving in Vietnam , Sergeant Major William O. Wooldridge of the 1st Infantry Division . </P>
<P> The rank and position were based on those of the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps ( established in its current incarnation on 23 May 1957 ) . The Chief of Staff of the Army created the position in 1966 after asking leaders of the major commands for a personal recommendation . He asked that it not be considered a near - retirement type assignment . He listed seven duties and functions he expected the Sergeant Major to perform , including service as a personal adviser and assistant on matters pertaining to enlisted soldiers . From 4,700 proposed candidates , 21 nominees were selected . Finally chosen was the only one then serving in Vietnam , Sergeant Major William O. Wooldridge of the 1st Infantry Division . </P>
when was the sergeant major of the army established
when was the sergeant major of the army established
1966
1966