A commissioned officer is a member of a military force who holds a commission or writ of authority from a political leader or government.

Commissioned officers are authorized to use deadly force to carry out the lawful orders of their government, either directly or through orders to non-commissioned officers or soldiers.

Having officers is one requirement for combatant status under the laws of war.

Table of contents
1 Commissioned Officer Ranks
2 US Commissioned Officer Ranks

Commissioned Officer Ranks

US Commissioned Officer Ranks

Army/Air Force/Marine Corps

Naval/Coast Guard Ranks

  • Ensign
  • Lieutenant, Junior Grade ((or simply (j.g) ))
  • Lieutenant
  • Lieutenant Commander
  • Commander
  • Captain
  • Rear Admiral (Lower Half)
  • Rear Admiral (Upper Half)
  • Vice Admiral
  • Admiral
  • Fleet Admiral (War Time Only) (Navy Only)

See also:
military, warrant officer, laws of war, Non-commissioned officer