Lieutenant junior grade, often abbreviated as LTJG, is a military rank used in the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. It is a junior officer rank and is equivalent to the rank of first lieutenant in the United States Army and Marine Corps.
A lieutenant junior grade is one step above an ensign and one step below a lieutenant in the promotion hierarchy. This rank is usually held by officers who have completed their basic training and have acquired some years of experience in their respective branch. They are considered as mid-level officers, responsible for supervising and leading their respective divisions or units.
Lieutenants junior grade are typically assigned a position of greater responsibility than ensigns but are still under the guidance and mentorship of higher-ranking officers. They are expected to demonstrate leadership skills, make tactical decisions, and carry out their assigned duties with a high level of competence and professionalism.
The insignia of a lieutenant junior grade consists of a single gold bar placed above a gold strip, signifying their rank. They are addressed as "Lieutenant" and their surname.
In terms of pay grade, the lieutenant junior grade falls within the O-2 pay grade, which provides them with specific benefits, allowances, and entitlements in accordance with their rank and service years.
Overall, the rank of lieutenant junior grade represents a significant milestone in the career progression of a U.S. Navy or Coast Guard officer, reflecting their growing expertise and responsibilities within the military hierarchy.
