Which two positions typically lead a platoon?

• A. Platoon Leader (2LT/1LT) and Platoon Sergeant (SFC)
• B. Captain (CPT) and First Sergeant (1SG)
• C. Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) and Command Sergeant Major (CSM)
• D. Sergeant and Corporal

Answer: (A)

A platoon is led by a small leadership pairing: a junior officer and a senior noncommissioned officer. The platoon leader, typically a 2nd or 1st lieutenant, is responsible for planning the mission, issuing orders, and guiding the platoon in combat or training. The platoon sergeant, usually a Sergeant First Class, serves as the senior NCO and handles the day-to-day discipline, training, administration, logistics, and readiness, acting as the key adviser to the platoon leader. Together, they command and control the platoon, ensuring the unit operates smoothly and cohesively.

The alternative of a captain and first sergeant is a company-level leadership team, not a platoon one. A lieutenant colonel and command sergeant major lead a battalion or higher, while a sergeant and corporal are lower-level NCOs and do not command a platoon.