What is command?

• A. The authority that a commander in the armed forces lawfully exercises over subordinates by virtue of rank or assignment
• B. A suggestion to subordinates to follow orders
• C. The act of planning missions for a unit
• D. The ability to influence subordinates without formal authority

Answer: (A)

Command is the formal authority a commander has to direct subordinates and accomplish missions by virtue of rank or assignment. This authority allows you to issue orders, assign tasks, and make decisions within your unit, carrying the responsibility to guide actions, maintain discipline, and ensure mission success. It isn’t merely a suggestion to follow orders—that’s influence without formal authority. It isn’t just planning missions—that’s part of the process, but not the authority to command. And it isn’t about influencing others without authority—that describes leadership without formal command. The essence of command is that official power to direct others comes from rank or position.