The thread about five-star officers reminded me of an old aggravation. I am always amused at the various experts who pipe up on almost any subject, so here is another chance for you guys.

Tell me about the rank of Commodore? I gather it is never used anymore... ? I also gather it was the equivalent of a BGN.

If a Navy Captain is "roughly the equal" of an Army Colonel, how is it that Navy general officers skip the one-star rank and go on to Rear Admiral (Major General)?

This has always puzzled me and I have never heard a plausible explanation. Anyone care to jump in?