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A major general is a high-ranking commissioned officer who ranks above a brigadier general and below a lieutenant general, with the NATO ranking of OF-7. They are expected to demonstrate exemplary performance and meet military standards. Major generals wear two stars on their uniform insignia and are usually addressed as “surname major general.” The rank is usually filled by men, and diversity is encouraged but not common.
A major general is a commissioned officer who ranks above a brigadier general and below a lieutenant general. Numerous militaries around the world have a rank of major general among their general officers, with the naval equivalent of a rear admiral. The NATO ranking for major generals is OF-7. In regions where there is no rank of brigadier general, major general is the lowest-ranking general officer.
This military rank has its roots in the position of Sergeant Major General, which began to be phased out around the 17th century. Like other general officers, major generals are expected to work their way into this position by demonstrating exemplary performance and regularly meeting military standards during career reviews. As a general rule, only career officers reach the rank of major general, because it requires years of service and a commitment to military ideals. Because commissioned officers represent their nation and the president, they are expected to meet very high standards of conduct whether they are in uniform or not.
Major generals generally wear two stars on their uniform insignia, although various designs and insignia are used around the world. In the United States, major generals are at pay grade O8, and are commissioned by the president and confirmed by the Senate, like other commissioned officers. Major generals may work in a variety of contexts, providing their experience on the battlefield and in consultations on military policy and the future direction of the Army.
In written communications, this rank may be abbreviated as Maj. Gen. for convenience. A major general is usually addressed in person as a “surname major general,” unless someone is asked to do otherwise, and the lower ranks should salute major generals when meeting them. While civilians are not required to salute, they are expected to treat commissioned officers with respect and courtesy and give them priority in social introductions and seating arrangements, just as they would persons of high social standing.
Historically, the general ranks of armies around the world are filled with men, and these men are usually members of the dominant racial group in the nation they serve. In the United States, for example, a female or non-white major general is a very unusual sight. Many militaries have made an active effort to promote diversity and encourage women and racial or ethnic minorities to consider military service, but ingrained traditions are hard to shake.
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