Which pay grade corresponds to the rank Major/Lieutenant Commander?

• A. O-4
• B. O-3
• C. O-5
• D. O-6

Answer: (A)

Pay grade alignment across services places Major and Lieutenant Commander at the same level, O-4. In the Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps, Major is the O-4 rank; in the Navy and Coast Guard, Lieutenant Commander is the O-4 rank. This means both positions share the same pay scale and level of seniority, reflecting equivalent responsibilities and leadership roles. O-3 is the step below, while O-5 and O-6 are more senior levels.