Who has final authority to approve an official Navy award recommendation?

• A. The person who originates the nomination.
• B. The board that reviews the award.
• C. The commanding officer (or designated approving authority) as defined by policy for the specific award.
• D. The human resources director.

Answer: (C)

Final approval is vested in the commanding officer or the designated approving authority defined by policy for that specific award. In the typical process, a nomination is submitted and goes up the chain, with a board or panel reviewing merit and offering recommendations. The authority to grant the award is explicitly assigned by policy, ensuring consistency, and that role can be a CO or someone higher as the designated approving authority. The originator or the human resources director handle preparation and administration, but they do not make the final award decision.