What rank is indicated by a gold oak leaf insignia?

The rank indicated by a gold oak leaf insignia is Lieutenant Commander. In the U.S. Navy and other branches of the Armed Forces, the gold oak leaf is a recognized symbol of this rank. A Lieutenant Commander is typically referred to as an officer with responsibilities that include leadership roles and administrative duties, bridging the gap between junior and senior officers.

The gold oak leaf signifies that the officer has achieved a certain level of experience and authority, and it is important to accurately associate this insignia with the corresponding rank. The other ranks listed each have distinct insignia: Captain is represented by four gold stripes, Commander by a silver oak leaf, and Rear Admiral Lower Half by a silver star. Understanding these insignias is crucial for proper identification of naval ranks within the military structure.