Leadership & Command Structure Flashcards

In Marine Corps leadership, what does 'span of control' refer to?

Answer: The number of subordinates a leader can effectively supervise

Span of control is the number of subordinates or elements that one leader can effectively supervise and direct.

Which leadership style involves a Marine leader explaining decisions and soliciting input from subordinates before finalizing a plan?

Answer: Participative (Democratic)

A participative or democratic leadership style involves the leader seeking input from team members while retaining final decision authority.

What is the purpose of a 'back brief' in Marine Corps operations?

Answer: To allow subordinates to repeat the plan back to the commander for confirmation

A back brief allows the commander to verify that subordinates understand the plan, intent, and their roles.

Who serves as the principal advisor to the Commandant of the Marine Corps on enlisted matters?

Answer: Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps

The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (SMMC) is the senior enlisted Marine and principal enlisted advisor to the Commandant.

In a Marine rifle platoon, what is the typical role of a platoon sergeant?

Answer: Advising the platoon commander and managing administrative matters

The platoon sergeant is the senior enlisted Marine who advises the platoon commander and handles administrative and logistical functions.

Which doctrine concept describes the Marine Corps' philosophy of empowering subordinate leaders to act on commander's intent?

Answer: Mission tactics (Auftragstaktik)

Mission tactics, rooted in Auftragstaktik, empower subordinate leaders to use initiative to achieve the commander's intent without detailed instructions.

What Marine Corps publication (MCDP) focuses specifically on leadership?

Answer: MCDP 6 — Command and Control

MCDP 6, Command and Control, addresses leadership and the philosophy behind how Marines exercise command authority.