Commander
A field grade US Navy officer, O-5 and NATO OF-4, traditionally commanding a frigate, destroyer, or submarine.
Overview
Commander wears three full stripes and, in the classic pattern, takes command of a destroyer, frigate, submarine, or aviation squadron, some three hundred personnel. Command at sea is the defining assignment of the grade: the commanding officer is legally accountable for the ship in a way few billets match. The title descends from the master and commander of the eighteenth century Royal Navy, a rank created for officers commanding small ships without post captain status. OF-4 peers with the Army lieutenant colonel. Commanders also serve as executive officers of large ships and joint action officers.
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