History of Commander in Timeline

The term "Commander" denotes both a naval officer rank and a job title within various armies. It's also employed as a rank or title in formal organizations, such as police forces. In some nations, the naval rank is equivalent to a frigate captain. The use of 'Commander' transcends specific military branches, encompassing a broader range of organizations and highlighting its significance beyond naval contexts.

1918: Royal Air Force Formation

In 1918, the Royal Naval Air Service merged with the Royal Flying Corps to create the Royal Air Force. Pilots held appointments with insignia reflecting the role, such as a wing commander wearing three rank stripes with a Royal Navy curl and an eagle.

1946: Introduction of Commander Rank in Metropolitan Police

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

1968: Deputy Commander rank abolished.

In 1968, the Metropolitan Police abolished the rank of deputy commander, which ranked just below commander, since its introduction in 1946.

1968: Abolition of Deputy Commander Rank and Badge of Rank

Until the abolition of the rank of deputy commander in 1968, 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 rank of 'inspector' to 'commander', aligning it with the equivalent rank in other large US departments such as the NYPD.

1980: Implementation of DOPMA

In 1980, the Defense Officer Personnel Management Act (DOPMA) established guidelines for promotions in the U.S. Navy, suggesting that 70% of lieutenant commanders should be promoted to commander after 3 years in their rank and 15-17 years of service.

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

On October 24, 2002, the term 'commander' began to officially refer to what was formerly known as commander-in-chief (CINC) at the highest levels of the U.S. military command structure, though CINC is still used informally.

August 2017: Cancellation of Phase-Out Plan

In August 2017, Cressida Dick, the new Commissioner, cancelled the Metropolitan Police Service's plan to phase out the rank of commander, along with that of chief inspector, which was initially announced for summer 2018.

2018: Planned Phase-Out of Commander Rank

In 2018, The Metropolitan Police Service had planned to phase out the rank of commander, along with that of chief inspector, by summer. This decision was later cancelled in August 2017.