Commissioned officers in pay grades O-1 to O-3 are referred to as what?

Commissioned officers in pay grades O-1 to O-3 are referred to as company grade officers. This designation includes second lieutenants (O-1), first lieutenants (O-2), and captains (O-3). Company grade officers typically hold leadership positions at the company level within the military structure and are responsible for leading small units and making tactical decisions. This rank classification reflects their role and experience within the organization, distinguishing them from higher-ranking officers, such as field grade officers (O-4 to O-6), who usually command larger units and have more extensive responsibilities.

The other classifications, such as field grade officers, senior officers, and warrant officers, apply to different groups. Field grade officers encompass those ranked O-4 through O-6, senior officers typically refer to more experienced officers usually at the O-5 and O-6 pay grades, and warrant officers are a separate category that does not include the commissioned officers who fall within the O-1 to O-3 range. Thus, company grade officers is the correct and specific term for commissioned officers in those pay grades.