Definition of the word platoon

The word "platoon" originated during the early 20th century, in the aftermath of World War I. In that time, the traditional infantry regiment of approximately 2,000 soldiers was deemed too large and unwieldy for the new tactics of modern warfare. As a result, the French military began to experiment with smaller, more flexible units, dubbed "groupements de combat." The English-speaking world adopted this concept as well, and in 1928, the British Army introduced a new structural component called the "patrol." Each patrol, which consisted of approximately 30 men, was led by an officer and two NCOs (Noncommissioned Officers). In 1937, the United States Army adopted a similar system, but it referred to these units as "platoons." The term "platoon" derived from the French word "peloton" (literally meaning "a group of soldiers"), which the British had earlier expanded into "patrol." The US Army's platoon consisted of 37 soldiers, commanded by a lieutenant and assisted by an NCO in the role of platoon sergeant. Over time, the size and composition of platoons has varied based on the needs of the situation, but they remain a critical tactical unit in modern military operations around the world.