The unit organization chart that follows is necessarily somewhat arbitrary. The size and composition of units in the field varied and was constantly changing according to their structure (there are more men in an infantry unit than an armored unit, e. g.), their immediate task, (special task units may be added or removed), or their casualties in battle.
The basic fighting unit of both the Allied and German armies in northwest Europe was the division, but the exact make up of a division was subject to constant tinkering by both sides. The numbers given below are good working averages and should be treated as such. By 1944/45, the Brigade was no longer part of the general organization but was still used for special units usually assigned specific tasks.
|
Unit Type: |
Usually comprised of: |
Usually commanded by: |
Approximate number of men: |
|
Army Group |
2-3 Armies |
General |
300,000 |
|
Army |
2-4 Corps |
Lieutenant General |
100,000 |
|
Corps |
2-5 Divisions |
Major General |
30,000 |
|
Division |
2-3 Brigades |
Major General |
15,500 |
|
Brigade |
3 Regiments |
Brigadier General |
7,500 |
|
Regiment |
3 Battalions |
Colonel or Brigadier General |
2,500 |
|
Battalion |
3 Companies |
Lieutenant Colonel |
800 |
|
Company |
3 platoons |
Captain |
180 |
|
Platoon |
3 Squads |
Lieutenant |
40-50 |
|
Squad |
2 sections |
Sergeant |
|
|
Section |
Corporal |