Colonel-in-chief

The Norwegian Army, for example, appointed a king penguin named Sir Nils Olav as a colonel-in-chief.

The practice extends at least back to 1740 in Prussia when Frederick II held that position (German: Regimentschef) in the newly created Garde du Corps, an elite heavy cavalry regiment.

By the late 19th century the designation could be given to the children of royalty; there are pictures of the daughters of Russian Czar Nicholas II in the uniforms of their regiments.

They do not have any operational role, or the right to issue orders, but are kept informed of all important activities of the regiment and pay occasional visits to its units.

While it is traditional for a royal personage to hold the position,[citation needed] it is at the discretion of each regiment whom they invite.