Commanding Officers may waive time-in-rate requirements for Early Promote Sailors in which pay grades?

The correct choice pertains to the eligibility of Early Promote Sailors for waiving time-in-rate requirements specifically for the pay grades E-5 and E-6. Commanding Officers have the authority to waive these requirements to facilitate the advancement of sailors who demonstrate exceptional performance and potential for increased responsibility.

This flexibility allows Commanding Officers to recognize and reward deserving sailors sooner than the standard policy would typically permit. The Early Promote designation is awarded to those who meet or exceed the expected performance levels significantly, justifying the need for earlier advancement.

In regard to your answer, focusing on E-5 and E-6 as the applicable grades is significant because those are critical progression points within the enlisted ranks, where demonstrating leadership potential is essential for continued advancement. The decision to offer waivers in these grades supports the Navy's commitment to retaining and promoting top talent in its ranks.