Simply put, a title/rank/position is a common noun or adjective unless it immediately precedes a person's name. The phrase “lieutenant colonel,” for example, should be capitalized only when it is used as a title before a name but not when it is used generically: Lieutenant Colonel Peterson commanded the operation.

Should position titles be capitalized?

To summarize the capitalization of job titles, you should always capitalize the job title when it comes immediately before the person's name, in a formal context, in a direct address, in a resume heading, or as part of a signature line.

Should military ranks be capitalized?

Capitalize a military rank when used as a formal title before an individual's name. ... If one is used before a name in a subsequent reference, do not capitalize or abbreviate it.