Naval Units Organizational Structure
The United States Navy is organized differently from the other military services at the unit level, although it keeps the same basic pyramid shape. The manning and necessary skills needed aboard a ship dictate the structure that the Navy uses. If there are casualties aboard a ship, the sailors are expected to be able to "move up" to the next highest step and continue the job.
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Command and Executive Officers
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The Commanding Officer is the senior officer in the unit. He is expected to delegate authority for decisions and actions to junior personnel, but he can never delegate responsibility. Immediately below the Commanding Officer is the Executive Officer. His task is to see that the Commanding Officer's desires are carried out.
Department and Divisions
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Various departments report to the Executive Officer, including the weapons and deck, engineering, supply, operations, navigation and administration. Some of these departments may be subdivided into various divisions such as the personnel, payroll, and admin divisions within the administration department.
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Specialty Departments
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Specialty departments such as the medical and chaplain report directly to the Commanding Officer. The department heads are not within the "chain of command" that might be called upon to command the ship and sailors during times of emergency.
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