Legal Definitions - lieutenant general

A Lieutenant General is a senior commissioned officer rank within the United States Army. It is a three-star general officer rank, positioned directly above a Major General (a two-star general) and directly below a General (a four-star general). Officers holding this rank typically command large operational formations, such as a corps, or hold significant strategic and administrative positions within major commands or at the Pentagon.

Here are some examples to illustrate the role and significance of a Lieutenant General:

• Example 1: Commanding a U.S. Army Corps

  Imagine a scenario where a large-scale military exercise is being planned in Europe. The officer designated to lead the entire U.S. Army V Corps, a major operational unit consisting of tens of thousands of soldiers and numerous divisions, would typically hold the rank of Lieutenant General. This officer would be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and overall command of all units within that corps during the exercise and any real-world operations.

  This example demonstrates how a Lieutenant General is entrusted with commanding a significant combat formation, illustrating their position as a high-ranking officer responsible for large-scale military operations, above a Major General who might command a single division, but below a General who might command an entire theater of operations.

• Example 2: Leading a Major Army Command

  Consider the U.S. Army Futures Command, which is responsible for modernizing the Army and developing future combat systems and doctrine. The commanding general of such a critical and expansive organization, overseeing research, development, and acquisition efforts for the entire Army, would be a Lieutenant General. This role involves strategic foresight, managing vast resources, and shaping the future capabilities of the armed forces.

  This example highlights a Lieutenant General's role in leading a major functional command that is vital to the Army's long-term strategic goals, showcasing their responsibility for high-level administrative and strategic leadership beyond direct combat command.

• Example 3: Serving in a High-Level Pentagon Role

  Within the Pentagon, a Lieutenant General might serve as the Director of the Joint Staff. In this capacity, they would be responsible for assisting the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in coordinating operations, policy, and planning across all branches of the U.S. military. This involves intricate inter-service coordination, strategic communication, and ensuring the seamless execution of national defense objectives.

  This example illustrates a Lieutenant General's critical role in the highest echelons of military leadership, demonstrating their involvement in strategic decision-making and inter-service coordination at the national level, a position requiring extensive experience and authority.