The Affectionate Title of “Old Man” to the Commanding Officer in the Army: Tradition, Origin, and Enduring Relevance

In military tradition, few terms carry as much warmth and respect as the affectionate reference to a commanding officer as the “old man.” Though it may sound casual or even irreverent to an outsider, within the regiment it conveys reverence, loyalty, and trust. Its meaning lies not in age, but in responsibility, leadership, and the paternal role that a commanding officer assumes for his troops.

Origins in the British Army

The expression “old man” gained prominence in the British Army during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At that time, commanding officers were often much older than the men they commanded. Many had risen through decades of service, and by the time they held command, they were indeed “old” in comparison to their young soldiers.

But beyond physical age, the title came to symbolize the commanding officer’s role as a father figure to his unit—someone who guided, protected, disciplined, and cared for the men under his charge. Just as the head of a household ensured the welfare of his family, the commanding officer ensured the welfare of his soldiers. The term stuck and became part of regimental culture, an informal yet deeply meaningful way of acknowledging the CO’s pivotal role.

Adoption in the Indian Army

When the British military tradition extended to India, so too did this terminology. The Indian Army inherited not just regimental systems, uniforms, and structures, but also the customs and ethos of the British Army. Among these was the reference to the CO as the “old man.”

Interestingly, in today’s Indian Army, a commanding officer may assume command at the relatively young age of 35 to 40 years. He is far from “old” in years, yet the title remains firmly in use. It has transcended its literal meaning to symbolize something far more important: leadership and moral responsibility.

The Role of the “Old Man”

The continued relevance of this tradition lies in what the “old man” represents. The commanding officer embodies multiple roles within the unit:

• Head of the Regimental Family:

Much like the patriarch of a household, the CO is responsible for ensuring cohesion, harmony, and a family-like atmosphere in the unit.

• Leader by Example:

He sets the standards for discipline, courage, honesty, and integrity. The buck stops at him.

• Bearer of Responsibility:

Every shortcoming of the unit is his responsibility. Yet every success must be credited to the men, not to himself.

• Trainer and Mentor:

He oversees rigorous training in peacetime to ensure preparedness for war.

• Wartime Leader:

In conflict, he leads from the front, balancing tactical brilliance with the welfare of his soldiers.

• Welfare Guardian:

The CO not only ensures the well-being of troops but also looks after their families, recognizing that the strength of a soldier is deeply tied to the security of his home.

• Guide, Friend, and Philosopher:

For the men under his command, the “old man” is a confidant and a source of wisdom.

• Symbol of Justice and Fairness:

His sense of balance, impartiality, and fairness earns the trust of all ranks.

In essence, the commanding officer personifies the regiment itself. He is the moral compass, strategic anchor, and emotional pillar of the unit.

Enduring Legacy Across Armies

The affectionate title “old man” has thus traveled far beyond its British origins. It continues to be used in the Indian Army, other Commonwealth armies, and even in informal usage within various military forces worldwide.

While its literal meaning has faded—the “old man” of today may be young, dynamic, and battle-ready—the spirit behind it remains timeless. It is not about chronological age but about shouldering the burdens, guiding the destinies, and protecting the lives of those entrusted to one’s command.

Conclusion

The affectionate term “old man” is more than a piece of military slang; it is a living tradition that embodies the deepest values of military leadership. From the British trenches of the early 20th century to modern Indian Army regiments, it has endured because it reflects the essence of command: responsibility, care, and example.

In the end, the commanding officer is not merely a superior officer—he is the regimental father, the unifying figure, and the trusted guide. That is why, across generations and geographies, the affectionate title of “old man” continues to command respect, loyalty, and affection in the armed forces.

Guchi.