Rank
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RANK. The order or place in which certain officers are placed in the army
and navy, in relation to others, is called their rank.
2. It is a maxim, that officers of, an inferior rank are bound to obey
all the lawful commands of their superiors, and are justified for such
obedience.
A Law Dictionary, Adapted to the Constitution and Laws of the United States. By John Bouvier. Published 1856.