History of Commander in Timeline

The term "Commander" is a multifaceted term, denoting both a specific rank in naval forces and a job title across various military branches. It's equivalent to the rank of frigate captain in some countries. Additionally, "Commander" is utilized as a designation for level 8 positions within formal organizations like police forces, highlighting its broader application beyond exclusively military contexts.

1918: Royal Air Force Formation

In 1918, the Royal Naval Air Service merged with the Royal Flying Corps to establish the Royal Air Force. During this period, pilots held appointments alongside their Royal Navy ranks and wore insignia that reflected their appointment rather than their rank. A wing commander wore three rank stripes, distinguished by the Royal Navy curl and surmounted by an eagle.

1946: Introduction of the Rank in the Metropolitan Police

In 1946, the Metropolitan Police introduced the rank of commander. This followed a restructuring where the rank of deputy assistant commissioner was split, with senior officers retaining the DAC rank and junior officers being reclassified as commanders. The Metropolitan Police also used the rank of deputy commander, ranking just below that of commander, between 1946 and 1968.

1968: Deputy Commander Rank Abolition

In 1968, the Metropolitan Police Service abolished the rank of deputy commander. Before this change, a commander wore the same badge of rank as a deputy assistant commissioner.

1974: LAPD Rank Change

In 1974, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) changed the name of its 'inspector' rank to 'commander,' aligning it with the equivalent rank in other large US departments like the NYPD.

1980: Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA)

In 1980, the United States Department of Defense implemented the Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA), which set guidelines for promotions in the U.S. Navy, suggesting that approximately 70% of lieutenant commanders should be promoted to commander after a minimum of three years in their current rank and 15 to 17 years of cumulative service. However, this percentage could vary based on budget, force structure, and service needs.

October 24, 2002: Change in Terminology

On October 24, 2002, the term 'commander-in-chief' (CINC) was officially changed, although CINC is still used in casual speech in the U.S. military command structure. The term "commander" is officially applied to the commanding officer of army units.

August 2017: Cancellation of Rank Phase-Out

In August 2017, Cressida Dick, the new Commissioner, cancelled the Metropolitan Police Service's plan to phase out the ranks of commander and chief inspector, which had been announced for summer 2018.

2018: Announcement of Rank Phase-Out

In 2018, The Metropolitan Police Service announced plans to phase out the rank of commander, along with that of chief inspector. However, in August 2017 it was announced that the new Commissioner Cressida Dick had cancelled the plan to phase them out.