The lower ranks of Rome 's early military forces were citizen - commoners , conscripted at need by the state ; or in practice , by their patrons , who were expected to serve a senior officers during wartime .
The lower ranks of Rome 's early military forces were citizen - commoners , conscripted for the duration of hostilities and expected to provide their own arms and armour . 
 In practice , they were called upon by their patrons , who were expected to serve as senior officers during wartime .