The distribution of the total 272 line and staff rear admirals of the active list is: Admirals.. Vice admirals_ Rear admirals, upper half. Rear admirals, lower half. 4 27 124 117 From the above, it will be noted that 7 more rear admirals of the active list are entitled to upper half pay than are entitled to the pay of the lower half. This, because of the running mate principle adopted by the Congress for the staff corps and its concomitant with respect to the restricted line officers. As indicated, the foregoing relates only to the active list. In addition to the above, 14 rear admirals of the active list and 1 Reserve rear admiral are employed on active duty; 13 of these officers are entitled to upper half pay and cannot legally be reduced in pay. Limitations of the nature proposed in the amendment, would have the effect of denying to the Navy the services of specially qualified retired rear admirals. |