What identifies the CDO?

What identifies the CDO?

• A. Gold pin on the uniform
• B. White identification lanyard
• C. Blue cuff insignia
• D. Red badge with CDO

Answer: (D)

The person in charge on deck, the Command Duty Officer, is identified by a red badge bearing the letters CDO. This red badge is a clear, universal signal that allows everyone onboard to recognize who has command authority during the watch, ensuring quick and correct direction and decision-making when needed. The other items don’t designate that role—gold pins are for other awards or qualifications, blue cuff insignia indicate rank or specialty, and a white identification lanyard is used for different purposes and does not identify the CDO.

The person in charge on deck, the Command Duty Officer, is identified by a red badge bearing the letters CDO. This red badge is a clear, universal signal that allows everyone onboard to recognize who has command authority during the watch, ensuring quick and correct direction and decision-making when needed. The other items don’t designate that role—gold pins are for other awards or qualifications, blue cuff insignia indicate rank or specialty, and a white identification lanyard is used for different purposes and does not identify the CDO.