What is a Platoon Sergeant?

In many militaries, a platoon sergeant is the senior enlisted member of a platoon, who advises and supports the platoon’s commanding officer in leading the unit.

Outline of Duties in Defence (i.e. in the field)

There are three steps to the duties of a Platoon Sergeant in defence:

1. Preparation:
   • Know the battalion and company plan.
   • Ensure the correct orbat, including attachments and detachments.
   • Organise distribution of ammunition, surveillance devices, and other specialist equipment and defence stores.
   • Brief junior non-commissioned officers (JNCO’s) on all preparation administration points and work parties.
   • Liaise with the Platoon Commander and Company Sergeant Major (CSM).
2. Occupation:
   • Ensure Platoon security plan is working.
   • This will include (depending on the nature of the threat) air, ground, and chemical sentries.
   • Enforce battle discipline, for example: track plan; noise; and wearing of equipment etc.
   • Control use of plant and digging kit to Platoon.
   • Ensure re-supply system works.
   • Update Platoon Commander and CSM on administration, as required.
   • Brief and supervise Platoon Headquarters (HQ).
3. Routine:
   • Continue checks on battlefield discipline.
   • This will include the use of latrines and disposal of rubbish.
   • Ensure re-supply system works.
   • Ensure security plan is continued.
   • Oversee the running of Platoon HQ.
   • Control back-loading of unused defence stores.
   • Organisation of further work parties, as required.
   • Liaise and update Platoon Commander and CSM.