Which rank typically commands a battalion?

• A. Colonel
• B. Lieutenant Colonel
• C. Major
• D. Brigadier General

Answer: (B)

Battalion-level command is held by a lieutenant colonel. A battalion is a mid-sized unit made up of several companies and typically commands a few hundred to about a thousand soldiers, which requires the experience and authority of a field-grade officer. A colonel usually leads a regiment or brigade, while a brigadier general would command a brigade or serve at a higher level. A major is typically senior to a captain and might command a company or serve as a battalion executive officer or staff officer, but not as the standard battalion commander. So the best match for commanding a battalion is the lieutenant colonel.