As a subject matter expert with a deep understanding of military career progression, particularly within the context of the Navy, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the journey to becoming a captain. It's important to clarify that the term "captain" in the Navy can refer to both a rank and a position. The rank of captain is a high-ranking officer position in the Navy, and the path to achieving it is both rigorous and time-consuming.

**Step 1: Initial Training and Commissioning**
The journey to becoming a captain in the Navy begins with the initial training. Individuals interested in a naval career typically start by attending Officer Candidate School (OCS) or receiving a commission through one of the service academies, such as the United States Naval Academy. This phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for leadership and professional development.

Step 2: Progression through the Ranks
After commissioning, officers progress through a series of ranks, starting from ensign and moving up to lieutenant. Each rank comes with increased responsibilities and requires a demonstration of leadership and competence. Promotions are based on performance, time in service, and the needs of the Navy.

Step 3: The Path to Lieutenant Commander
Once an officer achieves the rank of lieutenant, they must serve for a specified period, typically three years, before they are eligible for promotion to lieutenant commander. This is a critical step as it marks the transition from junior officer to more senior leadership roles.

**Step 4: Serving as a Lieutenant Commander**
As a lieutenant commander, an officer serves for a minimum of two years. This rank is in the O-4 pay grade and is a significant milestone on the path to higher command. During this time, officers are expected to take on more complex roles and responsibilities, further honing their leadership skills.

Step 5: Promotion to Captain
Promotion to the rank of captain is not solely based on time in service but also on a variety of factors, including performance, leadership potential, and the needs of the Navy. After serving the required time as a lieutenant commander, an officer may be considered for promotion to captain. However, this is a competitive process, and not all lieutenant commanders will be promoted to captain.

Step 6: Additional Considerations
It's important to note that the time it takes to become a captain can vary widely based on individual performance, the needs of the Navy, and other factors. Additionally, achieving the rank of captain does not automatically equate to the position of a ship's captain. The position of commanding a ship or other significant unit requires further selection and assignment based on the officer's qualifications and the needs of the service.

**Step 7: Continuous Professional Development**
Throughout their career, officers are expected to engage in continuous professional development. This includes additional training, education, and professional military education (PME) to stay current with the latest strategic thinking and operational requirements.

In conclusion, the path to becoming a captain in the Navy is a long and challenging one, requiring a combination of time in service, demonstrated leadership, and a commitment to professional development. It is a career path that demands the utmost dedication and excellence.

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Promotion to the rank of captain, rather than the position of captain, requires nine years service. The candidate must serve three years as a commissioned officer below the rank of lieutenant commander. The candidate must then serve two years as a lieutenant commander, in the O-4 pay grade.read more >>