The New Model Army was the army of the Commonwealth of England from 1645 to 1660. Parliament formed the New Model Army in 1645 to centralize its forces - previously raised and organized on a regional basis. It was to be a disciplined army with uniforms, regular pay, and a reliable supply system. Its first commander, Thomas Fairfax, ensured that its officers were appointed on merit, and he assembled an effective staff. Oliver Cromwell, appointed second-in-command, had responsibility for the cavalry, while other competent officers were in charge of supply, intelligence, military justice, and artillery and engineering. Although many of the infantry were reluctant conscripts, a core of dedicated veterans made sure the New Model Army became an ideologically motivated force. In 1647, soldier representatives asserted that they were "not a mere mercenary army", but fighting for "the defense of our own and the people's just rights and liberties." Successful in battle and siege, the army gained a decisive political influence, forcing the execution of King Charles I of England in 1649 and permitting Cromwell's assumption of power as Lord Protector in 1653.
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