How many gold stripes are found in the sleeve insignia of a Captain?

In the naval rank structure, a Captain in the United States Navy is represented by four gold stripes on the sleeve insignia. These stripes indicate the officer's rank and are a key part of the uniform that distinguishes the Captain from other ranks. The numerical representation of these stripes is important for recognizing the hierarchy within the Navy; as ranks increase, so too does the number of stripes. A Captain, being above a Commander who has three stripes and below a Rear Admiral who has a different insignia, is therefore associated with this specific number of stripes. Understanding this detail not only helps with rank identification but also fosters a deeper appreciation for naval traditions and officer responsibilities.