commander

noun
  1. A person in authority, especially over a body of troops or a military operation. noun
    The commander gave the order to advance.
    She was promoted to the rank of commander after years of service.
  2. An officer in charge of a particular aspect of a military operation. noun
    The air commander coordinated the aerial assault.
    He was appointed as the naval commander for the mission.
  3. A rank in some naval and air forces, above lieutenant commander and below captain. noun
    He was promoted to the rank of commander after serving as a lieutenant commander for several years.
    The commander of the submarine was well-respected by his crew.