Alférez
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Alférez (from Arabic الفارس al-fāris, meaning "horseman" or "cavalier") is a Spanish junior officer rank also used in Argentina and Chile. A naval variant, "Frigate Alférez", is used in Spain and Peru.
Alférez is often translated as ensign, although it does not derive from any meaning of carrying the flag, and is sometimes translated as sub-lieutenant or second lieutenant. These translations are approximate.
The rank of alférez was first used by Spanish armies during the reconquista in the middle ages.
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[edit] Argentina
In Argentina, the rank of alférez is used by both the air force and the gendarmerie. It is, however, used differently in the two services. The air force uses the rank for newly qualified officers, while the gendarmerie uses "alférez" ranks as an equivalent for the army's "lieutenant" ranks.
The other armed forces of Argentina do not use the rank of ensign.
| Argentine Air Force Rank | Argentine Gendarmerie Rank | Equivalent Commonwealth Ranks for comparison |
|---|---|---|
| ------------- | ------------- | ------------- |
| Alférez | Sub-Alférez | Acting Pilot Officer / 2nd Lieutenant |
| Lieutenant | Alférez | Pilot Officer / 2nd Lieutenant |
| First Lieutenant | First Alférez | Flying Officer / Lieutenant |
[edit] Chile
In Chile, an officer cadet is known as a sub-alférez. On graduating from officer training, he becomes an alférez for a year while carrying out training specific to his arm. After this the alférez is promoted to sub-lieutenant.
[edit] Peru
Frigate Alférez is the lowest naval officer rank.
[edit] Spain
Alférez is the lowest officer rank in Spain, immediately below lieutenant. Frigate Alférez is the lowest naval officer rank.
