Chevrons

[PhilB]

An esteemed member has recently pointed out that, heraldically speaking, a chevron should be point uppermost since it is a representation of rafters. British NCOs rank chevrons are point down while LS&GC stripes are point up. Does anyone know when stripes were first used, why they`re point up and whether one or the other way is more popular worldwide? Phil B

[gericht 1914]

An esteemed member has recently pointed out that, heraldically speaking, a chevron should be point uppermost since it is a representation of rafters. British NCOs rank chevrons are point down while LS&GC stripes are point up. Does anyone know when stripes were first used, why they`re point up and whether one or the other way is more popular worldwide? Phil B

I read somewhere recently that they are an ancient symbol of office pre-dating heraldic tradition many fold. Something that represented the female deity or "earth goddess" or something. It was a symbol of office/rank at least as far back Ancient Rome ("pointing" upwards).

D.

[mutley]

There is a reference to chevrons in Dan Browns book "The Da Vinci Code" where the chevron with the tip pointing up symbolises man and the chevron with tip pointing down symbolises woman, the chalice, cup etc.

From my experience of working with foreign armies the point downwards as per British rank squadrons seems more popular.

[squirrel]

IIRC chevrons were first used in the British Army at some time in the last half of the 18th century for o/r's.

Prior to that lower ranks had used lace or ribbon tied to the shoulder strap or round the arm. More senior NCO's were distinguished by the colour/pattern and amount of lace worn on the hat, collar, cuffs, shoulder straps etc.

Sorry not to be more specific but no reference books at work.

[Muerrisch]

Good shot Squirrel. I do have my library handy so

From Dawnay:

1777. first recorded use, on cavalry.

1788 first recorded 'a distinction ON the arm for cpls 22nd Foot. [clearly a lace knot on the shoulder]

1795 Standing Orders 43rd Foot LSgts 2 chevrons white worsted lace point uppermost above the right elbow, Lcpls one such.

1802 general introduction 2 bar and 3 bar, point down, usual ranks, the single bar had to wait until 1813 as part of Csgt badge, appointment below Cpl was Chosen man, white tape no chevron.

Soldiers of 1802 would recognise most marks of rank and appointment in use in 2005.