It’s not just a smell, rank in the Guard is a matter of fun, characterization, and determining who has the pain-in-the-ass responsibility for leading the Unit or sub-elements of the Unit in combat. No one is required to salute, kowtow, or otherwise suck up to “higher-ranking officers” — but you’re welcome to make up your own silly salute and (ab)use it as much as you wish!

Promotion to the next higher rank happens as soon as you reach the new level, and Promotions are officially recognized at Feasts and camp-outs (generally 6-8 times a year).

Each time a member is promoted, the date and rank of promotion shall be noted in The Book of the Guard, and the member being promoted shall enter a new Regulation into The Book.

Guard rank is based on service to the Guard and to Dagorhir, including running activities, volunteering time to help build and maintain Guard equipment, training new members, and recruiting new meat…er, MEMBERS (without a constant influx of new people, the Guard and Dagorhir would perish from attrition). We’re like a pyramid scheme…with swords.

Guard First Class

Member who has participated in costume in at least three official events with the Guard (practices don’t count). Must own at least one costume which meets Dagorhir requirements, have their own equipment (weapons, feast gear, etc.), have a valid Dagorhir waiver on file, and have submitted a biography/history to the Guard.

Corporal

Wears a red leather hash-mark on their uniform.

Sergeant

Wears two red leather hash-marks on their uniform.

Sergeant Major of

the Guard

Wears two red leather CHEVRONS on uniform; there is only one Sergeant Major of the Guard at any time. Veteran member regarded as “THE Old Man;” gets more respect than any officer and outranks all other enlisted ranks.

Lieutenant

Member who has made major contributions to the Guard, usually including significant recruiting (at least 10 GFCs). Lieutenants wear one brass bar on their uniform and may form a separate Command within the Guard with its own name, symbol, and motto.

Captain

Member who has made major contributions to the Guard including significant recruiting (at least 20 GFCs). Captains wear two brass bars on their uniform.

Commandant

Member who has made major contributions to the Guard including recruiting at least 50 GFCs. Commandants wear three brass bars wherever they want to wear them.

Knight

Member who has made such major contributions to the Guard that we have no way left to recognize them other than promoting them into the ranks of the nobility. Generally considered the worst punishment which can be meted out to a Guard Member. Knights wear a chain from which hangs the Skull of Dante.

Duke

Member who has recruited at least 100 GFCs. Duke wears three brass bars surrounded by a brass ring. The only reason being a Knight is worse than being a Duke is that the Duke gets a cool hat, a throne, and sometimes gets to ride in a chariot.