Ensign (j.g.)

[J.T. Broderick]

As you may know, in March 1883 the US Navy changed the rank of "master" to "lieutenant (junior grade)," and also created the new rank of "ensign (junior grade)." Ensign (j.g.) was supposed to be for midshipmen who were serving two years in the fleet after graduation from the Naval Academy, and was abolished in June of the next year. But curiously, the uniform regulations of 1883 describe insignia for ensign (j.g) as well as midshipmen graduated from the Naval Academy. My guess is that the regs were drawn up before they knew for certain what legislation would be approved, and they covered both possibilities. But I though some of you might be interested in the little-known insignia for ensign (j.g.), which employed a "clear" rather than a "foul" anchor.



Best regards,
Justin