§ 3023. Promotion of ensigns to grade of lieutenant (junior grade)
(a)
In general
An officer in the permanent grade of ensign shall be promoted to and appointed in the grade of lieutenant (junior grade) upon completion of three years of service. The authorized number of officers in the grade of lieutenant (junior grade) shall be temporarily increased as necessary to authorize such appointment.
(b)
Separation of ensigns found not fully qualified
If an officer in the permanent grade of ensign is at any time found not fully qualified, the officer’s commission shall be revoked and the officer shall be separated from the commissioned service.