While a number of Napoleon 's marshals served in the Royal army prior to the Revolution , Kellermann was the only one to have reached such senior rank under the former regime .
Kellermann became brigadier - general in 1784 , and in the following year marechal - de-camp .
While a number of Napoleon 's marshals served in the Royal army prior to the Revolution , Kellermann was the only Kellermann to have reached such senior rank under the former regime .
Kellermann became brigadier - general in 1784 , and in the following year marechal - de-camp .