Which rank is categorized under E-9 within the Coast Guard?

The rank categorized under E-9 within the Coast Guard is the Area Command Master Chief (Command Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard) (MCPOCG). This is the highest enlisted rank, and individuals at this rank typically serve as senior advisors to command staff and play a significant role in the leadership and management of enlisted personnel. The MCPOCG is a significant leadership position, overseeing critical operational and organizational aspects within the Coast Guard.

The other ranks mentioned—Petty Officer Second Class, Chief Petty Officer, and Petty Officer Third Class—are categorized under lower enlisted pay grades. E-5 corresponds to Petty Officer Second Class, E-7 corresponds to Chief Petty Officer, and E-4 corresponds to Petty Officer Third Class. Therefore, these ranks do not fall under the E-9 classification, which is why they are not the correct answer in this scenario.