This chart represents the U.S. Navy enlisted rate insignia (their rating symbols are generic). All rates E-4 and higher are considered non-commissioned officers (NCOs). Advancement to any rate of Chief Petty Officer (E-7) or above requires an additional step of peer review by existing Chief Petty Officers. This goes beyond the normal examination score and performance evaluation process.
Gold Petty Officer chevrons and service stripes are granted if a sailor completes 12 years of honorable service without any official record of bad conduct, including, but possibly not limited to, non-judicial punishment or court martial. The gold chevrons and stripes are separate from the Good Conduct Medal, which is awarded for three years of honorable service.
The United States Coast Guard uses the same insignia structure as the Navy, except that Seaman Recruit continues to carry one diagonal stripe in the Coast Guard, which is no longer the case in the Navy.
Links U.S. Navy Ranks-Enlisted
Last updated: 05-13-2005 07:56:04