[@knighthawk]
I'm guessing the chief battle-master is more of a title than anything. A veteran whose proven himself to the point where he doesn't have to prove himself any more...or so his appointers think. I'd imagine it'd get into the whole "Back in my prime, when I was allowed to be on the field instead of telling others what to do on the field..." kinda thing.
Sad how age effects people.

But that's just my take.