A lieutenant colonel is a senior military officer rank, typically found in the armies, air forces, and marine corps of various countries. It is usually positioned above a major and below a colonel. In the United States Army, for example, a lieutenant colonel often commands a battalion, which consists of several hundred soldiers. Lieutenant colonels wear a distinctive insignia, often featuring a silver eagle, to signify their rank. This rank is crucial for leadership and operational planning within military units, and officers at this level are expected to have significant experience and training in their respective fields.