Which of the following states the level to understand Commander's Intent?

• A. At all levels of command.
• B. Only by the immediate staff.
• C. Two echelons lower in the chain of command.
• D. Only by the commander.

Answer: (C)

Commander's Intent must permeate down the chain so that those closest to executing tasks can act with purpose even when plans change or orders aren’t immediately in hand. When the intent is understood two echelons lower, mid- and junior leaders have a clear picture of what success looks like and why it matters, which lets them interpret and adapt actions in real time while still pursuing the commander’s end state. This depth of understanding empowers initiative at the right level, keeps the force coherent, and prevents delays that would occur if guidance stayed too high or limited only to the staff. If the intent stayed only with the commander or only with the immediate staff, execution would stall or become disconnected from the overall aim; spreading understanding too broadly without depth can dilute guidance, but two levels down provides a practical balance for timely, aligned action.