Which rank does the Chief of Naval Operations typically hold?

The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) typically holds the rank of Admiral, which is a four-star flag officer position in the United States Navy. This rank signifies a high level of responsibility and leadership within the Navy's hierarchical structure. The CNO is the highest-ranking officer in the Navy and serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary of the Navy and the President of the United States concerning naval operations, personnel, and policy.

While other ranks such as Captain, Commander, and Major are important within the Navy and other branches of the military, they do not hold the same level of authority or responsibility as the rank of Admiral. Captain and Commander are ranks below Admiral, and Major is typically a rank associated with the Marine Corps, not the Navy. Therefore, the rank of Admiral is the correct and appropriate title for the Chief of Naval Operations.