What is the rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force?

In the United States Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force, lieutenant colonel is a senior officer rank. It is positioned directly above the rank of major and immediately below the rank of colonel.

What are the ranks immediately above and below a lieutenant colonel in these U.S. military branches?

In the United States Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force, the rank immediately below a lieutenant colonel is major, and the rank immediately above is colonel.

What is the naval equivalent rank to a lieutenant colonel in the United States?

The rank of lieutenant colonel in the Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force is equivalent to the naval rank of commander in the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard.

What is the pay grade assigned to a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. armed forces?

The pay grade for the rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States armed forces is O-5. This pay grade signifies a senior officer level within the military structure.

What is the typical insignia for the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. armed forces?

The insignia for the rank of lieutenant colonel in the United States armed forces is a silver oak leaf. This symbol is used across different branches, though slight stylistic variations may exist.

How do the insignia for lieutenant colonel differ slightly between the Army/Air Force and the Navy/Marine Corps?

While the insignia for a lieutenant colonel is generally a silver oak leaf, there are slight stylized differences between the versions worn by the Army and Air Force compared to those worn by the Navy and Marine Corps. These variations are specific to each service's design standards.

What legislation governs the promotion of officers to lieutenant colonel in the Active Component of the U.S. armed forces?

The promotion of officers to the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Active Component of the U.S. armed forces is governed by policies derived from the Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA) of 1980. This act provides the framework for managing officer personnel and promotions.

What legislation governs the promotion of officers to lieutenant colonel in the Reserve Component of the U.S. armed forces?

The promotion of officers to lieutenant colonel within the Reserve Component, which includes the Reserve and National Guard, is governed by the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act (ROPMA). This act is the counterpart to DOPMA for non-active duty personnel.

According to DOPMA guidelines, what percentage of majors are typically promoted to lieutenant colonel?

DOPMA guidelines suggest that approximately 70 percent of officers holding the rank of major are typically promoted to lieutenant colonel. This indicates a selective promotion process at this level.

What is the minimum cumulative commissioned service typically required for a major to be promoted to lieutenant colonel?

For a major to be considered for promotion to lieutenant colonel, they generally need to have served at least three years at their current rank and have accumulated between 15 to 17 years of cumulative commissioned service. These time-in-grade and total service requirements are part of the promotion criteria.

What are the common abbreviations used for the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force?

The U.S. Army commonly uses the three-letter abbreviation "LTC." The Marine Corps uses "LtCol," while the Air Force uses "Lt Col," noting the space between the two words.

What abbreviation does the United States Government Publishing Office recommend for the U.S. Army lieutenant colonel rank?

The United States Government Publishing Office recommends the abbreviation "LTC" for U.S. Army lieutenant colonels.

What abbreviation does the United States Government Publishing Office recommend for the U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel rank?

The United States Government Publishing Office recommends the abbreviation "LtCol" for U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonels.

What abbreviation does the United States Government Publishing Office recommend for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank?

The United States Government Publishing Office recommends the abbreviation "Lt. Col." for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank.

What abbreviation does the Associated Press Stylebook recommend for the U.S. Army lieutenant colonel rank?

The Associated Press Stylebook recommends the abbreviation "Lt. Col." for the U.S. Army lieutenant colonel rank.

What abbreviation does the Associated Press Stylebook recommend for the U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel rank?

The Associated Press Stylebook recommends the abbreviation "Lt. Col." for the U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel rank.

What abbreviation does the Associated Press Stylebook recommend for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank?

The Associated Press Stylebook recommends the abbreviation "Lt. Col." for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank.

What are some historical slang terms used for lieutenant colonels in the U.S. military, and what do they imply?

Historically, slang terms for lieutenant colonels often playfully mocked their rank relative to a full colonel. Examples include "light colonel," "short colonel," "light bird," "half colonel" (British in origin), "bottlecap colonel" (referring to the insignia), and "telephone colonel" (used when self-identifying over the phone). These terms generally imply a lesser status than a full colonel.

What is the origin of the rank of lieutenant colonel, and where was it used historically?

The rank of lieutenant colonel has existed in England since the 16th century. It was also adopted and used in the militias and provincial forces of the Thirteen Colonies prior to the formation of the United States.

How was the rank of lieutenant colonel utilized within the Continental Army?

Within the Continental Army, the rank of lieutenant colonel mirrored the British Army's structure, serving as the highest-ranking officer in a line infantry regiment immediately subordinate to the colonel. Additionally, certain staff officers, such as aides to the Commander-in-Chief, officers serving under the Adjutant General, Inspector General, and Judge Advocate General, also held the rank of lieutenant colonel.

In the British Army, what was the typical role of a colonel, and how did this affect the lieutenant colonel's position?

In the British Army, the position of colonel was often titular, with the incumbent frequently being absent from their regiment to serve as a senior staff officer, general officer, or hold political or courtly roles. Consequently, the lieutenant colonel often held the actual command of the regiment.

How did Continental regiments begin to simplify prisoner exchanges regarding the rank of colonel starting in May 1778?

From May 1778 onwards, Continental regiments began to eliminate colonels by attrition and replace them with lieutenant colonel commandants. This change was implemented to simplify prisoner exchanges, as the lieutenant colonel was the officer actively commanding the regiment, unlike the often titular British colonels.

Who was the sole lieutenant colonel in the United States Army between 1784 and 1791?

Josiah Harmar served as the sole lieutenant colonel in the United States Army from 1784 until 1791, during which time he also acted as the army's commanding officer.

What were the roles of lieutenant colonels serving as aides to the Commander-in-Chief in the Continental Army?

In the Continental Army, lieutenant colonels served as aides-de-camp to the Commander-in-Chief, Lieutenant General George Washington. This role placed them in a position of significant trust and responsibility directly supporting the highest command.

In the 19th century, what was the typical career trajectory for a lieutenant colonel, and why was the rank of colonel considered prestigious?

During the 19th century, lieutenant colonel was often a terminal rank for many officers, meaning it was the highest rank they achieved. The rank of colonel was considered extremely prestigious and was typically reserved for only the most successful and distinguished officers.

How did the rank of lieutenant colonel evolve during the American Civil War?

The outbreak of the Civil War saw the rank of lieutenant colonel become much more common. It served as a crucial "stepping stone" for officers who commanded smaller regiments or battalions, with the expectation that they would be promoted to full colonel as the unit's manpower increased.

What was the status of the lieutenant colonel rank after the Civil War, and what does the term "brevet status" refer to in this context?

After the Civil War, the lieutenant colonel rank often reverted to being a terminal rank for many officers. However, some lieutenant colonels were elevated to higher positions through "brevet" status, which was an honorary promotion that did not typically involve increased pay or command authority, as seen with George A. Custer who held the brevet rank of major general while being a regular army lieutenant colonel.

How did the lieutenant colonel rank function in the U.S. Army during the 1930s?

During the 1930s, many officers found the rank of lieutenant colonel to be a terminal rank once again. This was because the rank of colonel was highly restricted and reserved for only a select few officers during that period.

In the modern U.S. Army and Marine Corps, what size unit does a lieutenant colonel typically command?

In the modern U.S. Army and Marine Corps, a lieutenant colonel typically commands a unit of battalion or squadron size, which generally comprises between 300 to 1,200 soldiers or Marines.

Who typically serves as the executive officer (XO) to a lieutenant colonel commanding a battalion or squadron?

A major typically serves as the executive officer (XO) to a lieutenant colonel who is commanding a battalion or squadron-sized unit. The XO assists the commander in managing the unit's operations.

Who serves as the principal non-commissioned officer or senior enlisted advisor to a lieutenant colonel in the Army and Marine Corps?

The principal non-commissioned officer (NCO) or senior enlisted advisor (SEA) to a lieutenant colonel in the Army is usually a Command Sergeant Major, while in the Marine Corps, it is typically a Sergeant Major. This individual provides enlisted leadership and advice to the commander.

In what higher-level staff positions might a lieutenant colonel serve within a division, MEB, MAW, or MLG?

Lieutenant colonels can serve as principal staff officers on the general staff ("G" staff) of a division, Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB), Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW), or Marine Logistics Group (MLG). They may also hold junior staff positions at higher echelons.

What are the typical staff sections (G-staff) where a lieutenant colonel might serve?

Lieutenant colonels may serve in various staff sections, often designated by "G-n," such as G-1 (administration and personnel), G-2 (intelligence), G-3 (operations), G-4 (logistics), G-5 (planning), G-6 (computers and communications), and G-9 (Civil Affairs). The "G-n" designation can refer to the section itself or the staff officer leading it.

In the U.S. Air Force, what types of units or groups might a lieutenant colonel command or lead?

In the U.S. Air Force, a lieutenant colonel generally commands a squadron within an operations group, mission support group, or maintenance group. They may also command or be a division chief within a medical group, or serve as a Director of Operations (DO) in an operations squadron before assuming command.

What is the role of a lieutenant colonel in Air Force acquisition career fields?

Lieutenant colonels in the Air Force's acquisition career fields can be selected for roles such as "Materiel Leaders," which involve managing programs or leading branches. This is analogous to the squadron command roles held by lieutenant colonels in other operational fields.

In U.S. Army ROTC detachments, who typically commands the unit?

In U.S. Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) detachments, the commander is typically a lieutenant colonel, supported by other officers and non-commissioned officers.

In U.S. Air Force ROTC detachments, who might command the unit?

U.S. Air Force ROTC detachments may be commanded by either full colonels or lieutenant colonels, with the specific rank depending on the size of the detachment and the associated college or university.

What is the insignia for the U.S. Army lieutenant colonel rank?

The insignia for the U.S. Army lieutenant colonel rank is a silver oak leaf. This is typically worn on the collar of the uniform.

What is the insignia for the U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel rank?

The insignia for the U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel rank is a silver oak leaf, similar to the Army's, though stylized differently. It is often displayed on shoulder boards or collars depending on the uniform.

What is the insignia for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank?

The insignia for the U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel rank is a silver oak leaf, with stylistic differences from the Army's version. It is commonly seen on shoulder boards.

What is the insignia for the U.S. Space Force lieutenant colonel rank?

The insignia for the U.S. Space Force lieutenant colonel rank is a silver oak leaf, reflecting its shared heritage with the Air Force, though specific service variations may apply.

Who was Allen Allensworth, and what branch of service was he associated with as a lieutenant colonel?

Allen Allensworth was associated with the U.S. Army and served as a lieutenant colonel. He is also noted for his later life as a Baptist minister and educator.

What notable political role did Eben Bartlett hold as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army?

Eben Bartlett, a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, also served as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, indicating a career that spanned both military and political service.

What significant role did Aaron Burr play in the Continental Army as a lieutenant colonel?

Aaron Burr served as a lieutenant colonel in the Continental Army. He is historically recognized for his military service during the Revolutionary War period.

What is Benjamin Busch known for in addition to his U.S. Marine Corps service as a lieutenant colonel?

In addition to his service as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps, Benjamin Busch is also known as a television and film actor.

Who was Ernest Childers, and what significant military honor did he receive as a lieutenant colonel?

Ernest Childers was a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army and is a recipient of the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by the United States.

What military branch was Jerry Coleman associated with as a lieutenant colonel, and what other notable career did he have?

Jerry Coleman served as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps. He is also widely known for his long career as a professional baseball player and broadcaster.

What military honor did Robert G. Cole receive as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army?

Robert G. Cole, a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, was a recipient of the Medal of Honor for his distinguished service and bravery.

What was David P. Cooley's branch of service as a lieutenant colonel?

David P. Cooley served as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force.

What was Philip Corso's branch of service as a lieutenant colonel?

Philip Corso served as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army.

For what actions did Bruce P. "Snake" Crandall receive the Medal of Honor as a lieutenant colonel?

Lieutenant Colonel Bruce P. "Snake" Crandall received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Ia Drang. He was recognized for his bravery and critical role in air cavalry operations.

Lieutenant Colonel United States Wiki: The Lieutenant Colonel: A Pillar of Command

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Rank Overview

Designation & Pay Grade

In the United States Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Space Force, Lieutenant Colonel is a senior officer rank. It is designated with the pay grade of O-5. This rank is positioned just above Major (O-4) and below Colonel (O-6).

International Equivalency

Internationally, the rank is recognized within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) framework as OF-4. In naval services, the equivalent rank is Commander, reflecting a similar level of responsibility and command authority across different branches of service.

Promotion Pathway

Promotion to Lieutenant Colonel is governed by the Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA) for the Active Component and the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act (ROPMA) for Reserve components. Typically, officers achieve this rank after serving approximately 15–17 years of commissioned service, with about 70% of Majors being promoted.

Nomenclature & Abbreviations

Official Designations

The specific abbreviation for Lieutenant Colonel varies slightly across the branches:

U.S. Army: LTC
U.S. Marine Corps: LtCol
U.S. Air Force & U.S. Space Force: Lt Col (note the space)

Stylistic Conventions

Official style guides offer specific recommendations. The United States Government Publishing Office (GPO) suggests "LTC" for the Army, "LtCol" for the Marine Corps, and "Lt. Col." for the Air Force. The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook recommends "Lt. Col." for all three branches.

Informal Terms

Historically, various slang terms have been used, often humorously referencing the rank's position below a full Colonel. These include "light colonel," "short colonel," "half colonel" (of British origin), and "bottlecap colonel," referring to the insignia.

Historical Evolution

Early Origins

The rank of Lieutenant Colonel has roots dating back to the 16th century in England. It was adopted by the colonial militias and provincial forces of the Thirteen Colonies. In the Continental Army, the Lieutenant Colonel served as the second-in-command to the Colonel within a regiment, sometimes referred to as "lieutenant to the colonel." In the British Army, Colonels often held titular positions, making the Lieutenant Colonel the de facto commander.

19th Century Dynamics

During the 19th century, Lieutenant Colonel was frequently a terminal rank, as the rank of Colonel was highly prestigious and reserved for the most distinguished officers. However, the outbreak of the Civil War saw an increase in the rank's prevalence, often serving as a stepping stone for officers commanding battalions or regiments, with the expectation of promotion to Colonel as units grew.

Modern Establishment

Following the Civil War, the rank often reverted to being terminal for many officers, though brevet promotions were common. The 20th century solidified the Lieutenant Colonel's position as a senior officer rank, though periods like the 1930s saw it again become terminal for many due to the limited number of Colonel positions available. Today, it represents a critical command and staff level.

Modern Roles & Responsibilities

Command Positions

In the Army and Marine Corps, a Lieutenant Colonel typically commands a battalion or squadron-sized unit, comprising 300 to 1,200 personnel. They are supported by a Major as their Executive Officer (XO) and a senior enlisted advisor (Command Sergeant Major or Sergeant Major).

Staff Officer Functions

Lieutenant Colonels frequently serve as principal staff officers within higher echelons, such as divisions or brigades. These roles include leading sections like G-1 (Administration & Personnel), G-2 (Intelligence), G-3 (Operations), G-4 (Logistics), and others, contributing to strategic planning and execution.

Air Force & Space Force

Within the Air Force and Space Force, Lieutenant Colonels often command squadrons within operational, maintenance, or support groups. They may also serve as Deputy Commanders or Directors of Operations. In acquisition career fields, they can lead Materiel Leader programs. Senior Lieutenant Colonels may also command groups, particularly in Reserve or National Guard units.

Rank Insignia

The Silver Oak Leaf

The insignia for a Lieutenant Colonel is a silver oak leaf. While the basic design remains consistent, slight stylistic variations exist between the Army/Air Force/Space Force version and the Navy/Marine Corps version, reflecting branch-specific heraldry and design traditions.

Method of Wear

The insignia is typically worn on the collar of the Army and Air Force service uniforms, and on shoulder boards or epaulets for the Marine Corps and Air Force dress uniforms. This visual identifier immediately signifies the officer's senior rank and authority.

Notable Figures

Distinguished Service

Throughout American military history, numerous individuals have served with distinction at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Their contributions span various fields, from combat leadership and strategic planning to political service and technological innovation.

Allen Allensworth (U.S. Army)
Eben Bartlett (U.S. Army)
Aaron Burr (Continental Army)
Benjamin Busch (U.S. Marine Corps)
J. P. Carter (U.S. Army)
Ernest Childers (U.S. Army)
Jerry Coleman (U.S. Marine Corps)
Robert G. Cole (U.S. Army)
David P. Cooley (U.S. Air Force)
Philip Corso (U.S. Army)
Bruce P. Crandall (U.S. Army)
George Armstrong Custer (U.S. Army)
Jimmy Doolittle (U.S. Air Force)
Tammy Duckworth (U.S. Army)
Charity Adams Earley (U.S. Army)
Joni Ernst (Iowa Army National Guard)
William Montague Ferry Jr. (U.S. Army)
Rick Francona (U.S. Air Force)
John C. Fremont (U.S. Army)
Tulsi Gabbard (U.S. Army)
Gregory D. Gadson (U.S. Army)
Gus Grissom (U.S. Air Force)
Dave Grossman (U.S. Army)
David Gurfein (U.S. Marine Corps)
Iceal Hambleton (U.S. Air Force)
Alexander Hamilton (Continental Army)
Anthony B. Herbert (U.S. Army)
Christopher B. Howard (U.S. Air Force)
Lisa Jaster (U.S. Army)
Shawna Rochelle Kimbrell (U.S. Air Force)
Gus Kohntopp (U.S. Air National Guard)
Robert Kuertz (U.S. Air Force)
John Laurens (Continental Army)
Bruce R. McConkie (U.S. Army)
Bob McDonnell (U.S. Army)
Amy McGrath (U.S. Marine Corps)
Hal Moore (U.S. Army)
Michael Mori (U.S. Marine Corps)
Dick Muri (U.S. Air Force)
Oliver North (U.S. Marine Corps)
Ellison Shoji Onizuka (U.S. Air Force)
Ralph Peters (U.S. Army)
Rob Riggle (U.S. Marine Corps)
William R. Rowley (U.S. Army)
Stuart Scheller (U.S. Marine Corps)
Richard Scheuring (U.S. Army)
Francis R. Scobee (U.S. Air Force)
John Shimkus (U.S. Army)
Ronald Speirs (U.S. Army)
Michael Strobl (U.S. Marine Corps)
Tench Tilghman (Continental Army)
William Travis (Texas Militia)
Matt Urban (U.S. Army)
John Paul Vann (U.S. Army)
Alexander Vindman (U.S. Army)
Allen West (U.S. Army)
Ed White (U.S. Air Force)
Earl Woods (U.S. Army)

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Lieutenant Colonel United States" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about lieutenant_colonel_united_states while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

infarction

lowestoft war memorial museum

john edwards

chen jintao

greater richmond region

anaphylaxis

switzerland

peugeot 607

united states department of justice

cerebral edema

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Lieutenant colonel (United States) Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not represent the most current or exhaustive information available.

This is not professional military advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for official military doctrine, regulations, or consultation with qualified military personnel. Always refer to official sources for definitive guidance and operational procedures.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

The Lieutenant Colonel: A Pillar of Command

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Rank Overview ℹ️

🇺🇸 Designation & Pay Grade

🌍 International Equivalency

📈 Promotion Pathway

Nomenclature & Abbreviations 🔠

📝 Official Designations

📚 Stylistic Conventions

🗣️ Informal Terms

Historical Evolution ⏳

📜 Early Origins

⚔️ 19th Century Dynamics

⚙️ Modern Establishment

Modern Roles & Responsibilities 🛡️

🎖️ Command Positions

🏢 Staff Officer Functions

🚀 Air Force & Space Force

Rank Insignia ⭐

🌟 The Silver Oak Leaf

👔 Method of Wear

Notable Figures 👤

📜 Distinguished Service

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Rank Overview

Designation & Pay Grade

International Equivalency

Promotion Pathway

Nomenclature & Abbreviations

Official Designations

Stylistic Conventions

Informal Terms

Historical Evolution

Early Origins

19th Century Dynamics

Modern Establishment

Modern Roles & Responsibilities

Command Positions

Staff Officer Functions

Air Force & Space Force

Rank Insignia

The Silver Oak Leaf

Method of Wear

Notable Figures

Distinguished Service

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice