Platoon leader explained

A platoon leader (NATO) or platoon commander (more common in Commonwealth militaries and the US Marine Corps) is the officer in charge of a platoon. This person is usually a junior officer – a second or first lieutenant or an equivalent rank. The officer is usually assisted by a platoon sergeant. Some special units, such as specific aviation platoons and special forces, require a captain as platoon leader, due to the nature and increased responsibility of such assignments. Platoons normally consist of three or four sections (Commonwealth) or squads (US).

Responsibilities of a Platoon Leader

The duties and responsibilities of a platoon leader is similar in the armies. Based on the US Army publications,^[1] it is possible to address that a platoon leader:

• Leads the platoon in supporting the higher headquarters missions. He bases his actions on his assigned mission and intent and concept of his higher commanders.
• Conducts troop leading procedures.
• Maneuvers squads and fighting elements.
• Synchronizes the efforts of squads.
• Looks ahead to the next “move" of the platoon.
• Requests, controls, and synchronizes supporting assets.
• Employs mission command systems available to the squads and platoon.
• Checks with squad leaders ensuring 360-degree, three-dimensional security is maintained.
• Checks with weapons squad leader controlling the emplacement of key weapon systems.
• Issues accurate and timely reports.
• Places himself where he is most needed to accomplish the mission.
• Assigns clear tasks and purposes to the squads.
• Understands the mission and commander’s intent two levels up (company and battalion).
• Receives on-hand status reports from the platoon sergeant, section leaders, and squad leaders during planning.
• Coordinates and assists in the development of the obstacle plan.
• Oversees and is responsible for property management

In Mechanized infantry units, also, the platoon leader:

• Normally dismounts when the situation causes the platoon to dismount.
• Serves as Armoured personnel carrier or Infantry fighting vehicle commander when mounted.
• Develops the fires with the platoon sergeant, section leaders, and squad leaders.

See also

• Crew chief (disambiguation)
• Team leader
• Squad leader
• Platoon Leader (film)
• Platoon Leader (memoir)
• Platoon Leaders Class

Notes and References

1. ATP 3-21.8, https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/ARN13842-ATP_3-21.8-001-WEB-4.pdf, Last accessed: 03.02.2023