Field grade意思

"Field grade" is a military term used in the United States Armed Forces to describe officers of the rank of major, lieutenant colonel, and colonel. These ranks are considered field grade because they typically command units in the field, as opposed to general officers who hold higher ranks and are more likely to hold staff positions or command larger formations.

Here's a breakdown of the ranks typically referred to as field grade officers:

  1. Major (O-4): A major is typically a battalion-level executive officer or a brigade-level staff officer.
  2. Lieutenant Colonel (O-5): A lieutenant colonel is often a battalion commander or a brigade executive officer.
  3. Colonel (O-6): A colonel may command a brigade or serve as a staff officer at a higher echelon, such as a division or higher.

Field grade officers are considered mid-level managers in the military hierarchy and are responsible for the day-to-day operations and tactical decisions of their units. They play a critical role in the execution of military operations and the development of their subordinates.