Ensign

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Ensign was the higher grade of junior officer in the British Royal Navy. Though a more senior position than midshipman, it still was not a commissioned position. It often served as a bridging point between being a cadet and a full fledged Lieutenant.

This was the rank people were given if they joined the Navy at an older age, instead of becoming a midshipman as a teenager. The rank was also reserved for cadets who were too old to be considered such. The older cadets were usually those who did not achieve a passing grade on the mandatory exam for a lieutenant's commission. It acted as a sort of purgetory for those who were no longer apprentices but not truly officers yet. A lot of times ensigns remained ensigns indefinately and were too old to be promoted and commisioned. That didn't mean that it wasn't possible to achieve a commission, though as it actually happened quite often.

Sometimes the experience of ensigns was crucial onboard a ship. They were the most sought after individuals when it came to commanding a captured prize ship because of experience. because of this, they often recieved temperary promotions to Acting Lieutenant.

Ensigns were a low variation of Lieutenant, who were responsible for the ensign, or the ship's flag and colours, hence the name. There were usually about two or three Ensigns on board a Royal Navy Frigate.

Gallery of notable Ensigns

160px-Ensign Grimm.jpg

Grimm

Behind the scenes

• In the Pirates of the Caribbean films, Ensigns are recognizable by a single golden line on the sleeves of their uniforms.
• In Pirates of the Caribbean Online, Ensigns are dressed like the Redcoat soldiers.

Appearances

• Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
• Pirates of the Caribbean Online