commanding officer
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May 11, 2025
A commanding officer (CO) is the military leader in charge of a unit, base, ship, or battalion. They have authority over all personnel in their command and are responsible for operations, discipline, and mission success. A commanding officer might be a captain, major, colonel, or admiral, depending on the size of the unit.
George Washington is arguably the most famous US commanding officer, having led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War and holding the unique rank of General of the Armies. Other top contenders include WWII leaders Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton, along with Civil War commander Ulysses S. Grant. This short depicts some of the most important US Generals.
In military hierarchy, the CO is the final decision-maker for their unit and answers to higher-ranking officers. The term is used across all branches of the military worldwide.
George Washington is arguably the most famous US commanding officer, having led the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War and holding the unique rank of General of the Armies. Other top contenders include WWII leaders Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton, along with Civil War commander Ulysses S. Grant. This short depicts some of the most important US Generals.
In military hierarchy, the CO is the final decision-maker for their unit and answers to higher-ranking officers. The term is used across all branches of the military worldwide.
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Data from Google Books Ngram Viewer. Licensed under CC BY 3.0.
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