Before unification of the Canadian Forces in 1968, rank structure and insignia followed the British pattern.Typical appointments for colonels include: The rank insignia for air force uniform is four 1⁄2-inch (1.3 cm) stripes, worn on the cuffs of the service dress jacket, and on slip-ons on other uniforms.

The insignia worn on the headdress for an army or special operations colonel is the crest of the Canadian coat of arms: a crowned gold lion with a maple leaf in its paw standing on a red-and-white wreath, all beneath the royal crown; the collar insignia is two crossed sabres.

Personnel holding these honorary ranks are not part of the military operational chain of command.

Rather, they serve in a ceremonial manner, often as a guest of honour at parades, mess dinners, or at other military traditions such as during Remembrance Day.

Usually, honorary ranks are filled by people who have had a prior association with the battalion, regiment, or squadron they represent.