Brigadier (rank)

A Brigadier, abbreviated to Brig., is a military rank, the seniority of which depends on the country. In many countries, especially those formerly part of the British Empire, a Brigadier, used in the British Army and Royal Marines, is either the highest field rank or most junior general appointment, nominally commanding a brigade of several thousand men. It ranks above that of Colonel but is subordinate to Major General. In Spain, Italy, France and the Netherlands it is a non-commissioned officer rank. The rank insignia for a Brigadier is a St Edward's Crown over three "pips" ("Bath" stars). The rank insignia for a Brigadier General was crossed sword and baton.