Formal posting distinguished a confirmed captain from an officer temporarily commanding a ship. A lieutenant or commander could act as captain of a smaller vessel, but posting publicly confirmed an officer's captaincy and place in the seniority system. Continued sea employment and accumulated experience mattered because captains left without enough sea time could stop advancing toward flag rank. Seniority was not automatic: exceptional bravery or support from influential admirals could still move an officer faster through the list.
Notable Point · 9:29-11:53
What becoming a post captain meant
The Royal Navy's posting system separated temporary command from formal captaincy and opened the route toward flag rank.