Editing Centurion (section)

==Qualities==
According to a 5th century text on the Roman military, a centurion was required to have numerous elite traits:

{{blockquote|The centurion in the infantry is chosen for his size, strength and dexterity in throwing his missile weapons and for his skill in the use of his sword and shield; in short for his expertness in all the exercises. He is to be vigilant, temperate, active and readier to execute the orders he receives than to talk; Strict in exercising and keeping up proper discipline among his soldiers, in obliging them to appear clean and well-dressed and to have their weapons constantly rubbed and bright.|[[Vegetius]]. [[De Re Militari]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~madsb/home/war/vegetius/dere05.php#04 |title=Digital &#124; Attic - Warfare : De Re Militari Book II: The Organization of the Legion |access-date=2009-05-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090410070558/http://www.pvv.ntnu.no/~madsb/home/war/vegetius/dere05.php#04 |archive-date=2009-04-10 }}</ref> II, 14}}

Centurions had to  be at least 30 years of age, literate (to read written orders), have letters of recommendation, and have at least several years of military service. As a commander, a centurion had to be able to maintain his troops’ morale in peace and inspire his men in battle.