Some Ultramarines Wear Red Helmets Because of a Madman

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 is the talk of the town right now with everyone singing the game’s praise. While playing the game, you may have noticed that some Space Marines wear a red helmet, including Gadriel, a member of Lieutenant Titus’ squad. While the red color simply signifies the rank of Sergeant, its origin is much deeper.

These red helmets were once a mark of censure and punishment for Ultramarines, but now wear this color as a badge of honor. And it’s all thanks to Aeonid Thiel, the Ultramarine who transformed this mark from disgrace to distinction.

Space Marine 2 Is a Great Showing of the Warhammer 40K Universe

In the Warhammer 40K universe, the Ultramarines are known for their strict adherence to the Codex Astartes, a set of organizational rules laid down by their Primarch, Roboute Guilliman. The lore of Warhammer 40K is so ingrained into fans of the franchise that it even leaks into the Space Marine 2 experience.

The reason why some Ultras wear red helmets.
byu/Saul-Tarvitz in40kLore

Aeonid Thiel was a Sergeant in the Ultramarines 13th Chapter who was censured by his superiors for a radical suggestion: that the Ultramarines should prepare for the possibility of fighting other Space Marines. At the time, this idea was seen as bordering on treason, as Space Marines were the Emperor’s finest warriors and the thought of civil war was unthinkable.

Thiel’s suggestion was rejected, and he was sent to await reprimand by the Chapter Master, or even the Primarch himself, Roboute Guilliman. Thiel’s unorthodox thinking was vindicated, however, when the Word Bearers, a fellow Space Marine legion, launched a surprise attack on the Ultramarines at the Battle of Calth.

Since #MarchForMacragge is trending, I think we need to reiterate the following:
Aeonid Thiel is the best Ultramarine. Period. pic.twitter.com/oq9jNRx9Be

— Remleiz – 40K Theories (@40KTheories) March 1, 2024

On the battlefield, Thiel quickly took command of scattered forces as the Ultramarines struggled to reorganize. Realizing that their traditional communication systems were down and their command structure shattered, Thiel’s tactical insight became invaluable. He ordered his troops to paint their helmets red, making it easier to identify squad leaders in the chaos.

Aeonid Thiel Forever Changed the Meaning of the Red Helmet

In recognition of Thiel’s unorthodox bravery, Guilliman officially decreed that the red helmets would remain a permanent symbol for the sergeants of the Ultramarines. No longer a sign of punishment, these helmets now represented leadership, bravery, and the willingness to think beyond what is normal.

These qualities are also highlighted in Space Marine 2, the latest game in the Warhammer universe. Players follow Lieutenant Titus alongside Chairon and Sergeant Gadriel as they face the Tyranids and the forces of Chaos. The game has easily been one of the best of 2024 and is a great showcase of the 40K universe.

Saber Interactive’s CEO:

“I hope that games like Space Marine 2 and Black Myth: Wukong are the start of a reversion to a time when games were simply about fun and immersion.” pic.twitter.com/r6grDd1anN

— GermanStrands (@GermanStrands) September 17, 2024

Thiel’s legacy did not end with the Battle of Calth. He went on to fight bravely in many more battles, including aboard the orbital platform where Guilliman himself led a boarding party against the traitorous forces of the Word Bearers. As we know now, the impact of Thiel’s actions extended beyond his lifetime.

Today, the red helmet remains an iconic symbol within the Ultramarines and several other Codex-adherent Chapters. It signifies not only rank but also the legacy of a hero who challenged convention and adapted to face the unimaginable.

Did you notice these red helmets in Space Marine 2? Let us know in the comments!