It is a non-commissioned officer found in most armies, ranked between corporals and staff sergeants.A sergeant is also a senior police officer, below the rank of lieutenant.
Unit First Sergeants are referred to as "Top" due to their position as the chief or highest ranking NCO within the unit. Top is also a term of respect.
There are four addresses for NCOs in the Army. Corporal, Sergeant, First Sergeant, & Sergeant Major. Addressing NCOs by rank, such as the uses of "Master Sergeant" as a form of address is not...