Sea Skills: Ranks and Rates

In the Second World War, the Royal Navy was made up of thousands of people with different ranks, rates and jobs. From junior cadets to captains and admirals, everyone had a place in the chain of command.

The Navy divided its people into two broad groups:

• Officers – leaders and decision-makers. They were commissioned by the King and were responsible for navigation, tactics, engineering decisions and the overall running of the ship. Examples include Midshipman, Sub-Lieutenant, Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander, Commander and Captain.
• Ratings – specialist sailors and technicians. They carried out the practical work: steering the ship, manning guns, keeping engines running, sending signals and cooking meals. Examples include Ordinary Seaman, Able Seaman, Leading Seaman, Petty Officer and Chief Petty Officer.

Within these groups there were different branches, such as seaman, engineering, communications and supply. A rating might be an engine-room artificer or a wireless operator, while an officer might be a navigator or gunnery officer.

In this game you will see cartoon badges and short job descriptions. Your task is to decide whether you are looking at an officer or a rating, and which job they are most likely to do.