A Lieutenant Commander is a mid-level officer rank in the United States Navy and other naval forces. It is above the rank of Lieutenant and below Commander. Officers at this rank typically have several years of service and may command smaller ships, submarines, or aviation squadrons. They often hold important staff positions and are responsible for leading teams and managing operations. Lieutenant Commanders usually wear a silver oak leaf insignia on their uniforms. This rank is equivalent to a Major in the United States Army and Marine Corps. Promotions to this rank require a combination of time in service, performance evaluations, and completion of professional military education.