The Platoon is the basic combat unit capable of maneuvering in the conduct of combat operations. The Platoon is commanded by a commissioned officer (Lieutenant, O-1/O-2) and assisted by a Platoon Sergeant who is a Sergeant First Class (E-7).

Second Lieutenant O-1
or
First Lieutenant O-2
Sergeant First Class SFC E-7

A Platoon consists of two to four Squads/Sections depending upon the type of unit. For example, an Infantry Platoon consists of three Squads. A Mechanized Infantry Platoon consists of four fighting vehicles (M2A2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle), divided into two Sections. Each vehicle holds 8-9 soldiers. A Tank Platoon consists of four tanks (M1A2/A3 Abrams Main Battle Tank), organized into two Sections of two tanks each.