An Army Platoon is a military unit typically composed of two to four squads, or sections, and containing 16 to 50 soldiers. It is the smallest military unit led by a commissioned officer and is the basic element of organization in most armies. The platoon leader is usually a junior officer, such as a second or first lieutenant or an equivalent rank. The platoon is the smallest unit led by a commissioned officer. The platoon leader is responsible for leading the platoon in combat operations, training, and other duties as assigned.