In the Canadian Forces, the appointment of regimental sergeant major is normally held by an army chief warrant officer.
Due to the integrated nature of the Canadian Forces, however, it is not impossible for an air force chief warrant officer or a naval chief petty officer 1st class to rise to that post, especially in units with a high number of support trades personnel; examples might include a Royal Canadian Logistics Service CPO1 being appointed RSM of a service battalion, or an air force Communications and Electronics Branch CWO appointed to the position in a communication regiment.
The RSM, during any visit from a general officer, marches slowly in front of the military procession with a brightly coloured and decorated wooden stick.
On the parade square, the RSM, with his pace stick, is "king" as he has authority over all soldiers and even has the power to order punishment for subalterns (junior commissioned officers such as captains and lieutenants)[citation needed].
In fact, the RSM may conduct "subalterns' parades" – private sessions for junior officers to perfect their foot and sword drills away from the critical eyes of the other ranks.
In the British Army and Royal Marines, the RSM, who always holds the rank of warrant officer class 1 (WO1), is addressed as "Sir" or "Ma'am" by his or her subordinates.
The most senior warrant officer in the Royal Marines holds the appointment of Corps Regimental Sergeant Major.