What is the rank designation for a Petty Officer Second Class in the U.S. Coast Guard?

The rank designation for a Petty Officer Second Class in the U.S. Coast Guard is indeed PO2 E-5. In the United States military, ranks are often designated by abbreviations that include "PO" for Petty Officer, followed by a numeral that indicates the specific class or level of rank. In this case, "2" denotes the Second Class.

As for the pay grade, the "E-5" indicates that a Petty Officer Second Class holds the fifth enlisted pay grade within the hierarchy. This rank signifies that the individual has reached a level of responsibility that often includes leadership roles, as well as specialized technical skills in their area of expertise.

Understanding the structure of ranks and pay grades is crucial for recognizing the hierarchy and responsibilities of personnel within the Coast Guard, which helps in both operational effectiveness and organizational communication.