What is the insignia for a First Lieutenant?

• A. Gold bar
• B. Two connected silver bars
• C. Silver bar
• D. Oak leaf

Answer: (C)

Insignia show rank with specific symbols on the shoulders, and color plus shape distinguish each grade. For lieutenants, a single bar is used, but the color tells you which lieutenant. A silver bar marks the first lieutenant, while a gold bar marks the second lieutenant. Two connected bars indicate a captain. An oak leaf is used for field-grade officers, with a gold oak leaf for major and a silver oak leaf for lieutenant colonel. So the symbol for a First Lieutenant is a silver bar, which is why that option is the correct choice.