staff officer
military rank
Quick Summary
A staff officer is a commissioned officer assigned to a military commander's staff. This role is distinct from a line officer, who typically commands troops directly. Staff officers provide support and expertise to the commander, handling administrative, logistical, intelligence, or operational planning functions. They are crucial for the efficient functioning of military operations, assisting in decision-making and the execution of strategies. The term has been in use since at least 1648.1
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