What rank is recognized with a 15 gun salute?

A 15 gun salute is specifically reserved for the rank of Vice Admiral in the U.S. Navy. The practice of rendering honors with gun salutes is a long-standing naval tradition, with the number of guns fired corresponding to the rank of the individual being honored. A Vice Admiral, being a three-star officer, is recognized with this specific number of guns as a mark of respect and recognition of their position and authority within the naval hierarchy.

Understanding the significance of various gun salutes helps reinforce the naval customs and courtesies that are an integral part of military life, allowing service members to uphold traditions while also establishing a sense of order and respect among ranks. Other ranks, such as Admiral or Rear Admiral (both Upper and Lower Half), receive different numbers of guns which are lower than that given to a Vice Admiral, illustrating the graduated nature of naval salutes based on rank. This hierarchy emphasizes the respect afforded to each rank within the service.