The Purpose of the Chain of Command

Purpose

This lesson defines chain of command, and identifies and describes the two purposes of the chain of command.

Lesson Objectives

1. Define “Chain of Command”

2. Identify two purposes of the chain of command

3. Describe how the chain of command decentralizes authority

4. Describe how the chain of command links different levels of command

Introduction

A line of responsibility and authority extends from top to bottom Relationships

between and within sections are spelled out.

Chain of Command Defined

The chain of command is the system used to ensure that each individual receives instructions for a particular task from ONLY ONE SUPERVISOR.

A chain of command provides proper avenues of communication.

When a commander wants a specific task accomplished, a subordinate is given an order that is passed down the chain of command.

The chain of command varies based on the command involved. (i.e. Plt / School / Work)

Purposes of the Chain of Command

The chain of command serves two purposes:

1. Decentralizeauthority

Purposes of the Chain of Command

The chain of command serves two purposes:

1. Decentralize authority

2. Links the different levels of command

Decentralize Authority

Since it is extremely difficult for one person to supervise every task personally, assignments are passed down through the levels of command.

This is called decentralized authority.

The commander gives an order to the junior officers(platoon commanders).

They give the order to the NCOs (squad leaders).

They give the order to their squad members.

Decentralize Authority

EXAMPLE:

Link Levels of Command

Another purpose of the chain of command is to link the different levels of command.

Go through each level of command in your chain of command one step at a time until the problem is resolved or the question is answered.

Rule of 3’s

Fire Team Leader

Team Member

Team Member

Team Member

Rule of 3’s

Squad Leader

Fire Team Leader 1

Tm Member

Tm Member

Tm Member

Fire Team Leader 2

3 Tm Members

Fire Team Leader 3

3 Tm Members

Rule of 3’s

Platoon Commander

Squad Leader 1

FT 1 FT 2 FT 3

Squad Leader 2

3 FTs

Squad Leader 3

3 FTs

Rule of 3’s

Company Commander

Platoon Commander 1

Sqd 1

3 FTs

Sqd 2 Sqd 3

Platoon Commander 2

3 Sqds

Platoon Commander 3

3 Sqds

Regimental

Cmdr

Battalion Cmdr

Company Cmdr

Platoon Cmdr

Squad Leader

Team Leader

Lesson Question

True or False:

One of the main reasons for a chain of command is to ensure that each individual receives instructions for a particular task from only one supervisor?

A. True

B. False

Lesson Question

A chain of command provides proper avenues of ___________.

A. Communication

B. Authority

C. Decision making

D. All of the above

Lesson Question

True or False:

If you have a problem that needs to be resolved, the best way is to go immediately to the highest level of authority.

A. True

B. False

Lesson Question

Name two purposes of the Chain of Command.

Decentralize Authority

Link the different levels of command

Lesson Question

What part of the organizational structure is highlighted in this diagram?

A. Battalion

B. Platoon

C. Squad

D. Company