History of Commander in Timeline

Commander is a rank used in various military and formal organizations, particularly in naval forces where it is often equivalent to a frigate captain. Its application extends beyond the navy to include other armed forces, police forces, and formal organizations, signifying a level 8 ranking in some systems. The title's versatility makes it a common designation across multiple fields.

1918: Royal Air Force Formation

In 1918, the Royal Naval Air Service merged with the Royal Flying Corps to establish the Royal Air Force. Pilots held appointments with insignia reflecting their roles, such as flight commander, squadron commander, and wing commander, displayed through rank stripes and an eagle.

1946: Introduction of Commander Rank in Metropolitan Police

In 1946, the Metropolitan Police introduced the rank of commander after splitting the rank of deputy assistant commissioner. Senior DACs retained their rank, while junior DACs were regraded as commanders. The Metropolitan Police also used the rank of deputy commander, ranking just below commander, between 1946 and 1968.

1968: Deputy Commander Rank Abolition

In 1968, the Metropolitan Police discontinued the rank of deputy commander, which had ranked just below commander since 1946.

1968: Abolition of Deputy Commander Rank and Rank Badge

Until the abolition of the rank of deputy commander in 1968, a commander in the Metropolitan Police wore the same badge of rank as a deputy assistant commissioner.

1974: LAPD Rank Change from Inspector to Commander

In 1974, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) changed the name of its rank equivalent to an inspector in other large US departments from inspector to commander.

1980: Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA)

In 1980, the United States Department of Defense implemented policies derived from the Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA). These guidelines suggested that 70% of lieutenant commanders should be promoted to commander after serving a minimum of three years at their present rank and after attaining 15 to 17 years of cumulative commissioned service. However, this percentage may vary.

October 24, 2002: Change in Terminology for U.S. Military Command

On October 24, 2002, the term commander-in-chief (CINC) was officially changed to "commander" at the highest levels of the U.S. military command structure, although the term CINC is still used in casual speech.

August 2017: Commissioner Cancels Phase-Out of Commander Rank

In August 2017, the new Commissioner Cressida Dick of the Metropolitan Police Service cancelled the plan to phase out the ranks of commander and chief inspector, which was initially announced to occur by summer 2018.

2018: Planned Phase-Out of Commander Rank

The Metropolitan Police Service announced plans to phase out the rank of commander by summer 2018. This plan was later cancelled in August 2017 by the new Commissioner Cressida Dick.