A unit of 30-40 soldiers, usually commanded by a lieutenant asisted by an NCO. A platoon is formed by at least two sections or squads (usually 3 or
4) and is smaller than a company. Typically, there are
3-
4 platoons in a company. Most platoons are infantry platoons; some carry other designations such as mortar or heavy weapons platoons. A platoon is the smallest military unit led by a commissioned officer
Also a very kick ass movie from
Oliver Stone that won Best Picture for 1986.
In the British
Army, a platoon is led by a lieutenant or second lieutenant.
It'
s the same in the Canadian Forces and the U.S.
Army.