what are the levels of command in the army

Army Ranks: Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (E-7 to E-9)

• Sergeant First Class (Platoon Sergeant) (E-7)
• Master Sergeant (E-8)
• The First Sergeant (E-8)
• Sergeant Major (E-9)
• Command Sergeant Major (E-9)
• Sergeant Major of the Army (E-9S)

Full Answer

What are the different command levels of the Army?

This list reflects the SHAPE structure — sometimes referred to as the Napoleonic Staff:

1. , for personnel/manpower
2. , for Intelligence or security
3. , for Operations
4. , for Logistics or supply
5. , for Plans
6. , for Communications
7. , for training
8. , for Finance
9. , for civil affairs.
10. Often there are higher special purpose staffs (e.g. J10)

What is the lowest level of Army Command that is considered a command at the operational level of war?

The company is the lowest echelon an AO is assigned as only a commander is assigned an AO. FM 3-90-1, Offense and Defense, March 2013, explains that “assigning an AO to a subordinate headquarters maximizes decentralized execution by empowering subordinate commanders to use their own initiative to accomplish their missions ….

What is the lowest level of command in the Army?

The base of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) ranks, CPLs serve as team leader of the smallest Army units. Like SGTs, they are responsible for individual training, personal appearance and cleanliness of Soldiers. SERGEANT (SGT) (Addressed as "Sergeant") Typically commands a squad (9 to 10 Soldiers).

What is the highest command in Army?

The highest ... of staff of Maine Army National Guard from 2016–20, commander of the 286th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion in Bangor and deployed to Afghanistan in 2009. She was the first female general officer, first woman to command a brigade ...

What are the ranks in the Army lowest to highest?

Army Ranks - Enlisted and Officer, from Lowest to HighestPay GradeRankAbbreviationE-4CorporalCPLE-5SergeantSGTE-6Staff SergeantSSGE-7Sergeant First ClassSFC25 more rows

What are the chain of command in the Army?

The Army Chain of Command is a line of authority and responsibility, in which orders are transmitted from one unit to another and one Soldier to another. Orders are transmitted down the chain of command from a higher ranking Soldier, such as a Commissioned Officer or NCO to a lower-ranking Soldier.

What are the levels of command?

There are three tiers of command: strategic, operational, and the tactical level.

What is the highest level of command in the Army?

Commissioned officersCommissioned officers are the highest ranks in the Army. These officers hold presidential commissions and are confirmed at their ranks by the Senate.

What is the order of chain of command?

It starts with the top position such as CEO or the business owner, all the way down to the front-line workers. Companies create a chain of command in order to flow instructions downward and accountability upward by providing each level of workers with a supervisor.

What are the four Army commands?

Combatant Commands and their Army Service Component CommandsCombatant CommandArmy Service Component CommandU.S. Pacific CommandU.S. Army Pacific (theater army)U.S. European CommandU.S. Army Europe-Africa (theater army)U.S. Central CommandU.S. Army Central (theater army)8 more rows

Is Chief higher than captain?

Grades above captain are generally by appointment of the chief or sheriff. In addition, there must be vacancies for a higher rank. In police departments, the second-highest rank is usually similar to a chief of staff.

Is sergeant higher than commander?

The master sergeant is the principal noncommissioned officer at the battalion level and higher. The first sergeant is the principal NCO and life-blood of a company. He is the disciplinarian and counselor. He instructs other sergeants, advises the commander and helps train all enlisted Soldiers.

What are the 5 ranks of generals?

The highest rank in the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps is General (four star), followed by Lieutenant General (three star), Major General (two star) and Brigadier General (one star). Five men have held the rank of General of the Army (five star), George C. Marshall, Douglas MacArthur, Dwight D.

What are the 13 ranks in the Army?

There are 13 enlisted Army ranks: private, private second class, private first class, specialist, corporal, sergeant, staff sergeant, sergeant first class, master sergeant, first sergeant, sergeant major, command sergeant major and sergeant major of the Army.

Can a Sgt major become an officer?

Luckily, all five branches of the armed forces have made it possible for an enlisted service member to become an officer. Although a service member can be promoted to warrant officer because of his technical expertise, someone who wants to become a commissioned officer must attend officer candidate school.

Does a 2nd Lt outrank a Sgt major?

The LT absolutely does not outrank the sergeant major or first sergeant.

Command Relationships

The relationship between command, unity of command, and unity of effort is symbiotic. The Joint Chiefs of Staff (2013) state, “Command is central to all military action, and unity of command is central to unity of effort” (p. xx).

Unity of Command

Unity of command applies when all forces work for a single commander who directs them in pursuit of a common purpose (Joint Chiefs of Staff, 2020). Effective unity of command can be traced back to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant as he took responsibility as supreme commander over Union forces, organizing U.S.

Command Authorities

In a military force, there are many important positions beyond just the supreme commander. As the supreme commander passes down commander’s intent, that intent is then disseminated throughout the different echelons resulting in different levels of command authority.

Importance

Senior NCOs in the joint force are advisors to the staff and commander. In order to be effective, they must understand the principles of command and command authorities as well as the commander’s intent (Department of the Army, 2019).

Conclusion

It is important for current and future senior NCOs to understand the levels of command authority, as well as how to build unity of command and unity of effort to quickly and seamlessly create cohesion and mutual trust when working in multi-domain operations as part of a joint force.

What are the elements of the Army?

In between are the intermediate elements of Army organization, including the squad, platoon, company, battalion, brigade and division.

How many soldiers are in a field army?

A field army combines two or more corps, with 50,000 or more soldiers, and is typically commanded by a lieutenant general or higher-ranking officer. An army group plans and directs campaigns in a theater of operations, and includes two or more field armies under a designated commander.

How many soldiers are in a platoon?

Normally, a platoon includes 16 to 44 soldiers and is led by a lieutenant with an NCO as second in command. A platoon usually consists of three to four squads or sections. A company contains three to five platoons and a total of 60 to 200 soldiers. It's commanded by a captain with a first sergeant as the commander's principal NCO assistant.

How many riflemen are in a fire team?

A Fire Team is comprised of 2 Riflemen, one being the Team Leader, a Grenadier, and an Automatic Rifleman used when small recon or special missions are required. Led by a sergeant. A squad, which is the smallest element in the Army structure, is typically made up of four to 10 soldiers and normally is commanded by a sergeant or staff sergeant.

What is a division in military?

It can conduct major tactical operations and sustained battlefield operations and engagements. Divisions are numbered and are assigned missions based on their structures. Divisions perform major tactical operations for the corps and can conduct sustained battles and engagements.

Why would an aviation company have a different number of troops assigned than an infantry company?

For example, an aviation company would have a different number of troops assigned than an infantry company because it has a different mission, different equipment, and therefore different requirements . The usual Army structure is battalion, brigade, division. Battalions that are organized into regiments are the exception.

Who is the command sergeant major in a battalion?

A battalion normally is commanded by a lieutenant colonel, and a command sergeant major serves as principal NCO assistant . A battalion can conduct independent operations, if they're of limited scope and duration, and operates its own administration.

How many commands does the Army have?

The chain of command begins with the President of the United States. Beyond the executive offices, the Army has four commands.

What is the Army chain of command?

To understand the Army chain of command, you must first know the Department of the Army falls under the Department of Defense of the United States of America. There is both an operational and institutional side to the chain of Command. Furthermore, the operational side covers the numbered armies, divisions, brigades, ...

What is MEDCOM in the army?

The MEDCOM is a direct reporting unit that provides health services and protection to the Army. Moreover, this type of medical support is critical while caring for both troops and their families. Lastly, Lieutenant General R. Scott Dingle is the U.S Army Surgeon General and Commanding General.

What is the USACE?

U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) The Army Corps of Engineers has three areas of their mission. They are an engineer regiment that also handles military construction. Also, the Army Corps of Engineers works with civilian organizations, as well.

What is the operational side of the chain of command?

There is both an operational and institutional side to the chain of Command. Furthermore, the operational side covers the numbered armies, divisions, brigades, battalions, and corps. Also, the institutional side of the Army supports the operational side. Related Article – Air Force Chain of Command.

Who is the Sergeant Major of the Army?

Sergeant Major of the Army. Sergeant Major of the Army’s position is the highest possible position for an enlisted member of the Army. Currently, Michael A. Grinston is the Sergeant Major of the Army. This position’s responsibilities include advocating for the needs of enlisted members of the Army.

Who is the commander of SDDC?

Also, this Command works with commercial transportation to ensure their mission. Furthermore, the SDDC’s Commander is General BG Hoyle.

What is the military command hierarchy?

Military Command Hierarchy. A command is generally referred to as an organizational unit which comprises of the military personnel. A command takes the responsibility of planning and using the available resources in an effective way and to coordinate and direct the military forces in achieving the assigned missions successfully.

How many functional commands are there in the military?

The military organization is generally divided into four functional commands such as. Now coming to the basic chain of command that is prevalent in the military organization, is as follows: The basic building blocks of all the military organizations are the individual soldiers.

How many soldiers are in a squad?

Squad: A Squad consists of nine to ten soldiers. The size of a squad is dependent on the function or the mission, in which they are engaged or are going to be engaged. A squad is commanded by a sergeant or a staff sergeant. The Squad is the smallest section in the military hierarchy structure.

What is the way in which all the commands in the army are connected to each other?

The way in which all the commands in the entire army are connected to each other is known as military command hierarchy. Each and every military organization has a typical chain of command through which all the official orders and essential procedures flow.

When was the military command hierarchy last modified?

Military Command Hierarchy was last modified: November 30th, 2017 by hierarchystructure.

Who is the head of the corps?

The corps is headed by a lieutenant general. The corps groups are engaged in performing the multinational operations. Army: The army is the largest unit of the military line of command. It generally consists of soldiers, numbered above fifty thousand. The army is headed by a commander in chief.

What is the role of a first sergeant in a battalion?

A first sergeant acts as the principal assistant of the captain. Battalion: A battalion is a comparatively larger group, consisting of three hundred to one thousand soldiers. A battalion is headed by a lieutenant colonel. A major sergeant acts as the principal assistant of the captain of the battalion.

What is the most junior rank in the army?

The most junior rank in the Army. Abbreviated PV1. Eligible for promotion to private E-2 (PV2) after six-months time in service. Primary role is to carry out orders issued to them. Private. Second most junior rank in the Army, and the first at which a Soldier wears rank insignia. Abbreviated PV2.

What is the job of a major in the army?

Instructs skills at service schools, U.S. Army combat training centers and is often a staff officer at the battalion level (300-1,000 Soldiers). Major. Serves as the primary staff officer for brigade and task force command regarding personnel, logistical and operational missions. Lieutenant Colonel.

What is a brigade in military?

Brigades are comprised of multiple battalions that generally include the brigades primary combat arm, as well as sustainment and supporting functions. Armored Cavalry units of this size are referred to as regiments. Special Forces units of this size are referred to as groups and Ranger units are regiments. READ.

What is a cohesive tactical unit?

A cohesive tactical sized unit that can perform a battlefield function on its own. It is capable of receiving and controlling additional combat, combat support or combat service support elements to enhance its mission capability.

What is an advanced level expert?

Advanced-level experts who perform the primary duties that of a technical and tactical leader. Provide direction, guidance, resources, assistance, and supervision necessary for subordinates to perform their duties. Primarily support operations levels from team or detachment through brigade. Chief Warrant Officer 4.

What is an enlisted soldier?

Enlisted Soldiers are the backbone of the Army. They have specific specialties within an Army unit, perform specific job functions and have the knowledge that ensures the success of their unit's current mission within the Army. A trainee starting Basic Combat Training.

What is the Army profession?

The Army profession is a unique vocation of experts who are entrusted to defend the Constitution and the rights and interests of the American people. More than an indication of pay grade, Army ranks provide a system of leadership that indicates a Soldier's level of expertise, responsibility and authority inside that profession.

What is the lowest rank in the army?

Private (E-1) Private, the lowest Army rank, normally is held only by new recruits while at Basic Combat Training (BCT), but the rank occasionally is assigned to soldiers after a disciplinary action has been taken. The Army private (E-1) wears no uniform insignia.

What is the rank of junior enlisted?

Army Ranks: Junior Enlisted (E-1 to E-3) The term as a military rank seems to come from the 16th century when individuals had the privilege of enlisting or making private contracts to serve as private soldiers in military units. Before then, many soldiers were forced (conscripted) into service by royalty or feudal lords.

What is the backbone of the NCO?

As the NCO Corps is known as the backbone of the Army, the corporal is the backbone of the NCO Corps. Information Courtesy of the U.S. Army. Moving up the Army ranks: Normally, unit commanders may advance PFCs to corporal once they have met the following qualifications: 26 months in service.

How many pay grades are there in the SNCO?

Although there are only three pay grades, the SNCO ranks actually cover six separate ranks or designations -- sergeant first class (platoon sergeant), master sergeant, first sergeant, sergeant major, command sergeant major and sergeant major of the Army.

What is the first sergeant in the German army?

In the German Army, the first sergeant is referred to as the "Mother of the Company.". The first sergeant is the provider, the disciplinarian, the wise counselor, the tough and unbending foe, the confidant, the sounding board, everything that we need in a leader during our personal success or failure.

What is the role of a corporal in the army?

Like the grade of sergeant, corporals are responsible for individual training, personal appearance and cleanliness of their soldiers.

What is the authority of a sergeant?

The authority of the sergeant is equal to that of any other grade or rank of the NCO. Professionally competent leaders inherently command respect for their authority, and the sergeant must be unquestionably competent in order to carry out the mission correctly, accomplish each task and care for assigned soldiers.

What is the lowest rank in the army?

Private is the lowest enlisted rank in the Army. Privates are typically promoted automatically after six months of service, so this rank is primarily for recruits in Basic Combat Training. However, some individuals are demoted to private as part of disciplinary action. There is no uniform insignia for a private.

What is an enlisted rank?

Army enlisted ranks define the structure and organization of this branch of the United States military. Enlisted ranks are those below the level of U.S. Army officers. Understanding Army ranks may help you set your own goals for service or better understand the accomplishments and responsibilities of soldiers.

What is an SFC in military?

An SFC typically serves as a platoon sergeant or NCO in charge of a section. Platoon sergeants serve as the primary assistants to platoon leaders and will take over in the platoon leader’s absence. Platoon sergeants train and oversee soldiers and staff sergeants in their crews, squads or small units.

How many years of service does a master sergeant need?

A master sergeant must have eight years of service in the Army. This individual serves as the principal NCO at battalion level or higher. At this rank, duties center more around delegation than direct leadership.

What is the E-9S rank?

E-9S, sergeant major of the Army. Only one person may serve as the sergeant major of the Army at a time. This rank goes to one of the most senior members of the enlisted ranks. The SMA is chosen based on their experience, leadership and communication skills.

What is a sergeant in a military unit?

Sergeants ensure the competency of the members in their unit. They’re responsible for the individuals who serve beneath them as well as the property those soldiers are issued. Sergeants oversee soldiers that are training for their primary mission role and typically lead teams or sections.

How many soldiers does a sergeant major oversee?

A sergeant major serves at the battalion level or higher and typically oversees 300 to 1,000 soldiers. At this rank, you must have achieved a level of expertise in your technical field. You will serve as the primary advisor for policy development and provide an analytical review of regulatory guidance.

What is the highest rank in the army?

The highest rank achievable in the Army is General of the Army.

What is the history of the army?

The Army's heritage is traced back to the Revolutionary War, when each State of the Union had its own Army, lended to the command of General George Washington.

by Sgt. Maj. Jeremy Crisp

Command Relationships

Unity of Command

Command Authorities

• In a military force, there are many important positions beyond just the supreme commander. As the supreme commander passes down commander’s intent, that intent is then disseminated throughout the different echelons resulting in different levels of command authority. These command authorities are combatant command (CCMD), operational control (OPCON)...

See more on armyupress.army.mil

Importance

Conclusion

References