PFW-F6008 - Sous-lieutenant of Infantry

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A Sous-lieutenant of Infantry is the junior commissioned officer rank in the infantry of the French Army. It is equivalent to a Second Lieutenant in many other militaries.

🪖 French Army context

In the French Army, the sous-lieutenant serves as the entry-level officer rank, usually commanding a small unit such as a platoon.

🎖️ Rank position

Typical officer progression in the French infantry:

  • Aspirant (trainee officer)
  • Sous-lieutenant (junior officer)
  • Lieutenant
  • Capitaine (company commander)

⚔️ Role in infantry operations

A sous-lieutenant would normally:

  • Command a section (platoon) of about 30–50 soldiers
  • Lead troops in training and combat
  • Relay orders from higher command (lieutenant/captain)
  • Manage discipline, positioning, and tactical movement
  • Coordinate with NCOs (sergeants and corporals) in the field

🪖 Historical context (WWI & WWII)

During major conflicts such as World War I:

  • Many sous-lieutenants were young graduates from military academies or promoted from enlisted ranks
  • They often led infantry assaults during trench warfare
  • High casualty rates among junior officers made the role extremely dangerous

They served in formations such as:

  • French Army infantry regiments on the Western Front

🧭 Uniform and symbols

A sous-lieutenant typically wore:

  • Kepi or field cap with officer insignia
  • Shoulder bars indicating rank (single bar in many eras)
  • Officer’s sabre (earlier periods)
  • Field binoculars and map case in combat roles

🧭 In summary

A Sous-lieutenant of Infantry is:

  • A junior commissioned officer in the French Army
  • Usually a platoon leader
  • Responsible for tactical command of small infantry units
  • A key link between enlisted soldiers and higher command

Brand: Team Miniatures