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Note added at 19 mins (2009-02-03 07:22:37 GMT)
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A command hierarchy is a group of people committed to carrying out orders "from the top", that is, of authority. It is part of a power structure: usually seen as the most vulnerable and also the most powerful part of it. Command hierarchy - In sociology. In sociology it is seen as the most visible element of a power network, which itself usually organizes many social networks. The entire network has social capital which is mobilized in response to the orders that move through the hierarchy - and closely con ...
http://www.experiencefestival.com/command_hierarchy_-_commun...

A command hierarchy is a group of people committed to carrying out orders "from the top", that is, of authority. It is part of a power structure: usually seen as the most vulnerable and also the most powerful part of it.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Command_hierarchy

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Note added at 29 mins (2009-02-03 07:31:58 GMT)
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A formation of troops in which each unit is positioned successively to the left or right of the rear unit to form an oblique or steplike line.
A flight formation or arrangement of craft in this manner.
A similar formation of groups, units, or individuals.
A subdivision of a military or naval force: a command echelon.
A level of responsibility or authority in a hierarchy; a rank: a job in the company's lower echelon.

http://www.answers.com/topic/echelon