An Act toauthorize the President to proclaim regulations for preventing collisions at sea
PL 88-131 (H.R.6012), enacted 09/24/1963

194 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
Public Law 88-131 
AN ACT 
September 24, 1963 
[H. R. 6012] 
TQ authorize the President to proclaim regulations for preventing collisions at sea. 
Collisions at 
sea, prevention. 
Proclamation 
authorization. 
Publication in 
F. R. 
Lights dis-
played by vessels, 
exemptions. 
Publication in 
F. R. 
33 u s e 143-
147d. 
Be it enacted hy the Senate and House of Representatives 
of the 
United States of America in Congress assemoled, That the President 
is authorized to proclaim the regulations set forth in section 4 of this 
Act for preventing collisions involving waterborne craft upon the 
hi,gh seas, and in all waters connected therewith. 
The effective date 
of such proclamation shall be not earlier than the date fixed by the 
Inter-Govemmental Maritime Consultative Organization for applica-
tion of such regulations by Governments which have agreed to accept 
them. 
Such proclamation, together with the regulations, shall be 
published in the Federal Eegister and after the effective date specified 
m such proclamation such regulations shall have effect as if enacted 
by statute and shall be followed by all public and private vessels of the 
United States and by all aircraft of United States registry to the 
extent therein made applicable. 
Such regulations shall not apply 
to the harbors, rivers, and other inland waters of the United States; 
to the Great Lakes of North America and their connecting and tribu-
tary waters as far east as the lower exit of the Saint Lambert Lock at 
Montreal in the Province of Quebec, Canada; to the Eed Eiver of the 
North and the rivers emptying into the Gulf of Mexico and their tribu-
taries; nor with respect to aircraft in any territorial waters of the 
United States. 
SEC. 2. Any requirement of such regulations in respect of the num-
ber, position, range of visibility, or arc of visibility of the lights 
required to be displayed by vessels shall not apply to any vessel of 
the Navy or of the Coast Guard whenever the Secretary of the Navy 
or the Secretary of the Treasury, in the case of Coast Guard vessels 
operating under the Treasury Department, or such official as either 
may designate, shall find or certify that, by reason of special construc-
tion, it is not possible for such vessel or class of vessels to comply 
with such regulations. The lights of any such exempted vessel or 
class of vessels, however, shall conform as closely to the requirements 
of the applicable regulations as the Secretary or such official shall find 
or certify to be feasible. Notice of such findings or certification and 
of the character and position of the lights prescribed to be dis-
played on such exempted vessel or class of vessels shall be published 
in the Federal Register and in the Notice to Mariners and, after the 
effective date specified in such notice, shall have effect as part of such 
regulations. 
SEO. 3. On the date the regulations authorized to be proclaimed 
under section 1 hereof take effect, the Act of October 11, 1951 (65 
Stat. 406), is repealed and the regulations proclaimed thereunder shall 
be of no further force or effect. Until such date, nothing herein shall 
in any way limit, supersede, or repeal any regulations for the pre-
vention of collisions which have heretofore been prescribed by statute, 
regulation, or rule. Any reference in any other law to the Act of 
October 11, 1961 (65 Stat. 406), or the reflations proclaimed there-
under, shall be deemed a reference to this Act and the regulations 
proclaimed hereunder. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
195 
SEC. 4. The regulations authorized to be proclaimed under section 1 
hereof are the Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1960, 
approved by the International Conference on Safety of Life at Sea, 
1960, held at London from May 17,1960, to June 17,1960, as follows: 
"REGULATIONS FOR PREVENTING COLLISIONS AT SEA 
"PART A.—PRELIMINARY AND DEFINITIONS 
"Rule 1 
" (a) These Rules shall be followed by all vessels and seaplanes upon 
the high seas and in all waters connected therewith navigable by 
seagoing vessels, except as provided in Rule 30. Where, as a result 
of their special construction, it is not possible for seaplanes to comply 
fully with the provisions of Rules specifying the carrying of lights 
and shapes, these provisions shall be followed as closely as circum-
stances permit. 
"(b) The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with in all 
weathers from sunset to sunrise, and during such times no other lights 
shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot be mistaken for the 
prescribed lights or do not impair their visibility or distinctive 
character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out. 
The 
lights prescribed by these Rules may also be exhibited from sunrise 
to sunset in restricted visibility and in all other circumstances when 
it is deemed necessary. 
"(c) In the following Rules, except where the context otherwise 
requires— 
"(i) the word 'vessel' includes every description of water craft, 
other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used 
as a means of transportation on water; 
"(ii) the word 'seaplane' includes a flying boat and any other 
aircraft designed to manoeuvre on the water; 
"(iii) the term 'power-driven vessel' means any vessel pro-
pelled by machinery; 
"(iv) every power-driven vessel which is under sail and not 
under power is to be considered a sailing vessel, and every vessel 
under power, whether under sail or not, is to be considered a 
power-driven vessel; 
"(v) a vessel or seaplane on the water is 'under way' when she 
is not at anchor, or made fast to the shore, or aground; 
"(vi) the term 'height above the hull' means height above the 
uppermost continuous deck; 
'^(vii) the length and breadth of a vessel shall be her length 
overall and largest breadth; 
" (viii) the length and span of a seaplane shall be its maximum 
length and span as shown m its certificate of airworthiness, or as 
determined by measurement in the absence of such certificate; 
"(ix) vessels shall be deemed to be in sight of one another 
only when one can be observed visually from the other; 
"(x) the word 'visible', when applied to lights, means visible 
on a dark night with a clear atmosphere; 
"(xi) the term 'short blast' means a blast of about one second's 
duration; 
"(xii) the term 'prolonged blast' means a blast of from four 
to six seconds' duration; 
"(xiii) the word 'whistle' means any appliance capable of 
producing the prescribed short and prolonged blasts; 
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PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
"(xiv) the term 'engaged in fishing' means fishing with nets, 
lines or trawls but does not including fishing with trolling lines. 
a 
PART B.—^LIGHTS AND SHAPES 
"Kule 2 
"(a) A power-driven vessel when under way shall carry— 
"(i) On or in front of the foremast, or if a vessel without a 
foremast then in the forepart of the vessel, a white light so con-
structed as to show an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon 
of 225 degrees (20 points of the compass), so fixed as to show the 
light 1121^ degrees (10 points) on each side of the vessel, that is, 
from right ahead to 22'1^ dejgrees (2 points) abaft the beam on 
either side, and of such a character as to be visible at a distance of 
at least 5 miles. 
"(ii) Either forward or abaft the white light prescribed in 
sub-section (i) a second white light similar in construction and 
character to that light. 
Vessels of less than 150 feet in length 
shall not be required to carry this second white light but may do so. 
"(iii) These two white lights shall be so placed in a line with 
and over the keel that one shall be at least 15 feet higher than the 
other and in such a position that the forward light shall always 
be shown lower than the after one. The horizontal distance 
between the two white lights shall be at least three times the 
vertical distance. The lower of these two white lights or, if only 
one is carried, then that light, shall be placed at a height above 
the hull of not less than 20 feet, and, if the breadth of the vessel 
exceeds 20 feet, then at a height above the hull not less than such 
breadth, so however that the light need not be placed at a greater 
height above the hull than 40 feet. 
In all circumstances the light 
or lights, as the case may be, shall be so placed as to be clear of 
and above all other lights and obstructing superstructures. 
"(iv) On the starboard side a green light so constructed as to 
show an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112% degrees 
(10 points of the compass), so fixed as to show the light from right 
ahead to 221/^ degrees (2 points) abaft the beam on the starboard 
side, and of such a character as to be visible at a distance of at 
least 2 miles. 
"(v) On the port side a red light so constructed as to show an 
unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112% degrees (10 
points of the compass), so fixed as to show the light from ri^ht 
ahead to 22% degrees (2 points) abaft the beam on the port side, 
and of such a character as to he visible at a distance of at least 
2 miles. 
"(vi) The said green and red sidelights shall be fitted with 
inboard screens projecting at least 3 feet forward from the light, 
so as to prevent these lights from being seen across the bows. 
"(b) A seaplane under way on the water shall carry— 
" (i) In the forepart amidships where it can best be seen a white 
light, so constructed as to show an unbroken light over an arc 
of the horizon of 220 degrees of the compass, so fixed as to show 
the light 110 degrees on each side of the seaplane, namely, from 
right ahead to 20 degrees abaft the beam on either side, and of 
such a character as to be visible at a distance of at least 3 miles. 
"(ii) On the right or starboard wing tip a green light, so con-
structed as to show an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 
110 degrees of the compass, so fixed as to show the light from right 
ahead to 20 degrees abaft the beam on the starboard side, and of 
such a character as to be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
197 
" (iii) On the left or port wing tip a red light, so constructed as 
to show an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 110 degrees 
of the compass, so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 20 
degrees abaft the beam on the port side, and of such a character 
as to be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"Kule 3 
"(a) A power-driven vessel when towing or pushing another vessel 
or seaplane shall, in addition to her sidelights, carry two white lights 
in a vertical line one over the other, not less than 6 feet apart, and 
when towing and the length of the tow, measuring from the stern of 
the towing vessel to the stern of the last vessel towed, exceeds 600 feet, 
shall carry three white lights in a vertical line one over the other, so 
that the upper and lower lights shall be the same distance from, and 
not less than 6 feet above or below, the middle light. Each of these 
lights shall be of the same construction and character and one of them 
shall be carried in the same position as the white light prescribed in 
Rule 2(a) (i). None of these lights shall be carried at a height of less 
than 14 feet above the hull. In a vessel with a single mast, such lights 
may be carried on the mast. 
"(b) The towing vessel shall also show either the stern light pre-
scribed in Rule 10 or in lieu of that light a small white light abaft the 
funnel or aftermast for the tow to steer by, but such light shall not be 
visible forward of the beam. 
"(c) Between sunrise and sunset a power-driven vessel engaged in 
towing, if the length of tow exceeds 600 feet, shall carry, where it can 
best be seen, a black diamond shape at least 2 feet in diameter. 
"(d) A seaplane on the water, when towing one or more seaplanes 
or vessels, shall carry the lights prescribed in Rule 2(b) (i), (ii) and 
(iii) ; and, in addition, she shall carry a second white light of the same 
construction and character as the white light prescribed in Rule 2(b) 
(i), and in a vertical line at least 6 feet above or below such light. 
"Rule 4 
"(a) A vessel which is not under command shall carry, where they 
can best be seen, and, if a power-driven vessel, in lieu of the lights 
prescribed in Rule 2(a) (i) and (ii), two red lights in a vertical line 
one over the other not less than 6 feet apart, and of such a character 
as to be visible all round the horizon at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
By day, she shall carry in a vertical line one over the other not less 
than 6 feet apart, where they can best be seen, two black balls or shapes 
each not less than 2 feet in diameter. 
"(b) A seaplane on the water which is not under command may 
carry, where they can best be seen, and in lieu of the light prescribed 
in Rule 2(b) (i), two red lights in a vertical line, one over the other, 
not less than 3 feet apart, and of such a character as to be visible all 
round the horizon at a distance of at least 2 miles, and may by day 
carry in a vertical line one over the other not less than 3 feet apart, 
where they can best be seen, two black balls or shapes, each not less 
than 2 feet in diameter. 
"(c) A vessel engaged in laying or in picking up a submarine cable 
or navigation mark, or a vessel engaged in surveying or underwater 
operations, or a vessel engaged in replenishment at sea, or in the 
launching or recovery of aircraft when from the nature of her work 
she is unable to get out of the way of approaching vessels, shall carry, in 
lieu of the lights prescribed in Rule 2(a) (i) and (ii), or Rule 7 (a) (i), 
three lights m a vertical line one over the other so that the upper and 
198 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
lower lights shall be the same distance from, and not less than 6 feet 
above or below, the middle light. 
The highest and lowest of these 
lights shall be red, and the middle light shall be white, and they shall 
be of such a character as to be visible all round the horizon at a dis-
tance of at least 2 miles. By day, she shall carry in a vertical line 
one over the other not less than 6 feet apart, where they can best be 
seen, three shapes each not less than 2 feet in diameter, of which the 
highest and lowest shall be globular in shape and red in colour, and 
the middle one diamond in shape and white. 
"(d) (i) A vessel engaged in minesweeping operations shall carry 
at the fore truck a green light, and at the end or ends of the fore yard 
on the side or sides on which danger exists, another such light or 
lights. 
These lights shall be carried in addition to the light prescribed 
in Kule 2(a) (i) or Eule 7(a) (i), as appropriate, and shall be of such 
a character as to be visible all round the horizon at a distance of at 
least 2 miles. By day she shall carry black balls, not less than 2 feet 
in diameter, in the same position as the green lights. 
"(ii) the showing of these lights or balls indicates that it is danger-
ous for other vessels to approach closer than 3,000 feet astern of the 
minesweeper or 1,500 feet on the side or sides on which danger exists. 
"(e) The vessels and seaplanes referred to in this Rule, when not 
making way through the water, shall show neither the coloured side-
lights nor the stern light, but when making way they shall show them. 
"(f) The lights and shapes prescribed m this Rule are to be taken 
by other vessels and seaplanes as signals that the vessel or seaplane 
showing them is not under command and cannot therefore get out of 
the way. 
"(g) These signals are not signals of vessels in distress and requir-
ing assistance. Such signals are contained in Rule 31. 
"Rule 5 
"(a) A sailing vessel under way and any vessel or seaplane being 
towed shall carry the same lights as are prescribed in Rule 2 for a 
power-driven vessel or a seaplane under way, respectively, with the 
exception of the white lights prescribed therein, which they shall 
never carry. 
They shall also carry stern lights as prescribed m Rule 
10, provided that vessels towed, except the last vessel of a tow, may 
carry, in lieu of such stern light, a small white light as prescribed in 
Rule 3(b). 
"(b) In addition to the lights prescribed in section (a), a sailing 
vessel may carry on the top of the foremast two lights in a vertical 
line one over the other, sufficiently separated so as to be clearly dis-
tinguished. 
The upper light shall be red and the lower light shall be 
green. 
Both lights shall be constructed and fixed as prescribed in 
Rule 2(a) (i) and shall be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"(c) A vessel being pushed ahead shall carry, at the forward end, 
on the starboard side a green light and on the port side a red light, 
which shall have the same characteristics as the lights prescribed in 
Rule 2(a) (iv) and (v) and shall be screened as provided in Rule 
2(a) (vi), provided that any number of vessels pushed ahead in a 
group shall be lighted as one vessel. 
"(d) Between sunrise and sunset a vessel being towed, if the length 
of the tow exceeds 600 feet, shall carry where it can best be seen a 
black diamond shape at least 2 feet in diameter. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
199 
"Kule 6 
"(a)When it is not possible on account of bad weather or other 
sufficient cause to fix the green and red sidelights, these lights shall 
be kept at hand lighted and ready for immediate use, and shall, on 
the approach of or to other vessels, be exhibited on their respective 
sides in sufficient time to prevent collision, in such manner as to make 
them most visible, and so that the green light shall not be seen on 
the port side nor the red light on the starboard side, nor, if practi-
cable, more than 221^ degrees (2 points) abaft the beam on their 
respective sides. 
"(b) To make the use of these portable lights more certain and 
easy, the lanterns containing them shall each be painted outside with 
the colour of the lights they respectively contain, and shall be provided 
with proper screens. 
"Eule T 
"Power-driven vessels of less than 65 feet in length, vessels under 
oars or sails of less than 40 feet in length, and rowing boats, when 
under way shall not be required to carry the lights prescribed in 
Rules 2, 3 and 5, but if they do not carry them they shall be provided 
with the following lights— 
"(a) Power-driven vessels of less than 65 feet in length, except as 
provided in sections (b) and (c), shall carry— 
" (i) In the forepart of the vessel, where it can best be seen, and 
at a height above the gunwale of not less than 9 feet, a white 
light constructed and fixed as prescribed in Rule 2(a) (i) and of 
such a character as to be visible at a distance of at least 3 miles, 
"(ii) Green and red sidelights constructed and fixed as pre-
scribed in Rule 2(a) (iv) and (v), and of such a character as to 
be visible at a distance of at least 1 mile, or a combined lantern 
showing a green light and a red light from right ahead to 221/^ 
degrees (2 points) abaft the beam on their respective sides. Such 
lantern shall be carried not less than 3 feet below the white light. 
"(b) Power-driven vessels of less than 65 feet in length when towing 
or pushing another vessel shall carry— 
"(i) In addition to the sidelights or the combined lantern pre-
scribed in section (a) (ii) two white lights in a vertical line, one 
over the other not less than 4 feet apart. Each of these lights 
shall be of the same construction and character as the white light 
prescribed in section (a) (i) and one of them shall be carried 
m the same position. In a vessel with a single mast such lights 
may be carried on the mast. 
"(ii) Either a stem light as prescribed in Rule 10 or in lieu of 
that light a small white light abaft the funnel or aftermast for 
the tow to steer by, but such light shall not be visible forward 
of the beam. 
"(c) Power-driven vessels of less than 40 feet in length may carry 
the white light at a less height than 9 feet above the gunwale but it 
shall be carried not less than 3 feet above the sidelights or the com-
bined lantern prescribed in section (a) (ii). 
"(d) Vessels of less than 40 feet in length, under oars or sails, 
except as provided in section (i), shall, if they do not carry the side-
lights, carry, where it can best be seen, a lantern showing a green light 
on one side and a red light on the other, of such a character as to be 
visible at a distance of at least 1 mile, and so fixed that the green light 
shall not be seen on the port side, nor the red light on the starboard 
side. Where it is not possible to fix this light, it shall be kept ready 
for immediate use and shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent 
200 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
collision and so that the green light shall not be seen on the port side 
nor the red light on the starboard side. 
"(e) The vessels referred to in this Rule when being towed shall 
carry the sidelights or the combined lantern prescribed in sections 
(a) or (d) of this Rule, as appropriate, and a stern light as prescribed 
in Rule 10, or, except the last vessel of the tow, a small white light as 
prescribed in section (b) (ii). When being pushed ahead they shall 
carry at the forward end the sidelights or combined lantern prescribed 
in sections (a) or (d) of this Rule, as appropriate, provided that any 
number of vessels referred to in this Rule when pushed ahead in a 
group shall be lighted as one vessel under this Rule unless the overall 
length of the group exceeds 65 feet when the provisions of Rule 5(c) 
shall apply. 
"(f) Small rowing boats, whether under oars or sail, shall only 
be required to have ready at hand an electric torch or a lighted lantern, 
showing a white light, w^hich shall be exhibited in sufficient time to 
prevent collision. 
"(g) The vessels and boats referred to in this Rule shall not be 
required to carry the lights or shapes prescribed in Rules 4(a) and 
11(e) and the size of their day signals may be less than is prescribed 
in Rules 4(c) and 11(c). 
"Rule 8 
"(a) A power-driven pilot-vessel when engaged on pilotage duty 
and under way— 
"(i) Shall carry a white light at the masthead at a height of 
not less than 20 feet above the hull, visible all round the horizon 
at a distance of at least 3 miles and at a distance of 8 feet below it 
a red light similar in construction and character. If such a vessel 
is of less than 65 feet in length she may carry the white light at 
a height of not less than 9 feet above the gunwale and the red 
light at a distance of 4 feet below the white light. 
"(ii) Shall carry the sidelights or lanterns prescribed in Rule 
2(a) (iv) and (v) or Rule 7(a) (ii) or (d), as appropriate, and 
the stern light prescribed in Rule 10. 
"(iii) Shall show one or more flare-up lights at intervals not 
exceeding 10 minutes. 
An intermittent white light visible all 
round the horizon may be used in lieu of flare-up lights. 
"(b) A sailing pilot-vessel when engaged on pilotage duty and 
under way— 
"(i) Shall carry a white light at the masthead visible all round 
the horizon at a distance of at least 3 miles. 
" (ii) Shall be provided with the sidelights or lantern prescribed 
in Rules 5(a) or 7(d), as appropriate, and shall, on the near 
approach of or to other vessels, have such lights ready for use, 
and shall show them at short intervals to indicate the direction 
in which she is heading, but the green light shall not be shown on 
the port side nor the red light on the starboard side. She shall 
also carry the stern light prescribed in Rule 10. 
"(iii) Shall show one or more flare-up lights at intervals not 
exceeding ten minutes. 
"(c) A pilot-vessel when engaged on pilotage duty and not under 
way shall carry the lights and show the flares prescribed in sections 
(a) (i) and (iii) or (b) (i) and (iii), as appropriate, and if at anchor 
shall also carry the anchor lights prescribed m Rule 11. 
"(d) A pilot-vessel when not engaged on pilotage duty shall show 
the lights or shapes for a similar vessel of her length. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
201 
"Rule 9 
"(a) Fishing vessels when not engaged in fishing shall show the 
lights or shapes for similar vessels of their length. 
"(b) Vessels engaged in fishing, when under way or at anchor, 
shall show only the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule, which 
lights and shapes shall be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"(c) (i) Vessels when engaged in trawling, by which is meant the 
dragging of a dredge net or other apparatus through the water, shall 
carry two lights in a vertical line, one over the other, not less than 
4 feet nor more than 12 feet apart. 
The upper of these lights shall 
be green and the lower light white and each shall be visible all round 
the horizon. 
The lower of these two lights shall be carried at a 
height above the sidelights not less than twice the distance between 
the two vertical lights. 
"(ii) Such vessels may in addition carry a white light similar in 
construction to the white light prescribed in Rule 2(a) (i) but such 
light shall be carried lower than and abaft the all-round green and 
white lights. 
"(d) Vessels when engaged in fishing, except vessels engaged in 
trawling, shall carry the lights prescribed in section (c) (i) except 
that the upper of the two vertical lights shall be red. 
Such vessels if 
of less than 40 feet in length may carry the red light at a height of 
not less than 9 feet above the gunwale and the white light not less than 
8 feet below the red light. 
"(e) Vessels referred to in sections (c) and (d), when making way 
through the water, shall carry the sidelights or lanterns prescribed 
in Rule 2(a) (iv) and (v) or Rule 7 (a) (ii) or (d), as appropriate, 
and the stern light prescribed in Rule 10. When not making way 
through the water they shall show neither the sidelights nor the stern 
light. 
"(f) Vessels referred to in section (d) with outlying gear extend-
ing more than 500 feet horizontally into the seaway shall carry an 
additional all-round white light at a horizontal distance of not less 
than 6 feet nor more than 20 feet away from the vertical lights in the 
direction of the outlying gear. 
This additional white light shall be 
placed at a height not exceeding that of the white light prescribed 
m section (c) (i) and not lower than the sidelights. 
"(g) In addition to the lights which they are required by this Rule 
to carry, vessels engaged in fishing may, if necessary in order to 
attract the attention of an approaching vessel, use a flare-up light, or 
may direct the beam of their searchlight in the direction of a danger 
threatening the approaching vessel, in such a way as not to embarrass 
other vessels. They may also use working lights but fishermen shall 
take into account that specially bright or insufficiently screened work-
ing lights may impair the visibility and distinctive character of the 
1 ights prescribed in this Rule. 
"(h) By day vessels when engaged in fishing shall indicate their 
occupation by displaying where it can best be seen a black shape con-
sisting of two cones each not less than 2 feet in diameter with their 
points together one above the other. 
Such vessels if of less than 65 
feet in length may substitute a basket for such black shape. If their 
outlying gear extends more than 500 feet horizontally into the seaway 
vessels engaged in fishing shall display in addition one black conical 
shape, point upwards, in the direction of the outlying gear. 
"NOTE.—Vessels fishing with trolling lines are not 'engaged in fish-
ing' as defined in Rule 1(c) (xiv). 
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PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
"Rule 10 
"(a) Except where otherwise provided in these Rules, a vessel 
when under way shall carry at her stern a white light, so constructed 
that it shall show an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135 
degrees (12 Points of the compass), so fixed as to show the light 67i/^ 
degrees (6 points) from right aft on each side of the vessel, and of 
such a character as to be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"(b) In a small vessel, if it is not possible on account of bad weather 
or other sufficient cause for this light to be fixed, an electric torch or a 
lighted lantern showing a white light shall be kept at hand ready for 
use and shall, on the approach of an overtaking vessel, be shown in 
sufficient time to prevent collision. 
"(c) A seaplane on the water when under way shall carry on her 
tail a white light, so constructed as to show an unbroken light over an 
arc of the horizon of 140 degrees of the compass, so fixed as to show 
the light 70 degrees from right aft on each side of the seaplane, and 
of such a character as to be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"Rule 11 
"(a) A vessel of less than 150 feet in length, when at anchor, shall 
carry in the forepart of the vessel, where it can best be seen, a white 
light visible all round the horizon at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
Such a vessel may also carry a second white light in the position pre-
scribed in section (b) of this Rule but shall not be required to do so. 
The second White light, if carried, shall be visible at a distance of at 
least 2 miles and so placed as to be as far as possible visible all round 
the horizon. 
"(b) A vessel of 150 feet or more in length, when at anchor, shall 
carry near the stem of the vessel, at a height of not less than 20 feet 
above the hull, one such light, and at or near the stem of the vessel and 
at such a height that it shall be not less than 15 feet lower than the 
forward light, another such light. Both these lights shall be visible 
at a distance of at least 3 miles and so placed as to oe as far as possible 
visible all round the horizon. 
"(c) Between sunrise and sunset every vessel when at anchor shall 
carry in the forepart of the vessel, whereit can best be seen, one black 
ball not less than 2 feet in diameter. 
"(d) A vessel engaged in laying or in picking up a submarine cable 
or navigation mark, or a vessel engaged in surveying or underwater 
operations, when at anchor, shall carry the lights or shapes prescribed 
in Rule 4(c) in addition to those prescribed in the appropriate preced-
ing sections of this Rule. 
" (e) A vessel aground shall carry the light or lights prescribed in 
sections (a) or (b) and the two red lights prescribed in Rule 4(a). 
By day she shall carry, where they can best be seen, three black balls, 
each not less than 2 feet in diameter, placed in a vertical line one 
over the other, not less than 6 feet apart. 
"(f) A seaplane on the water under 150 feet in length, when at 
anchor, shall carry, where it can best be seen, a white light, visible all 
round the horizon at a distance of at least 2 miles. 
"(g) A seaplane on the water 150 feet or upwards in length, when at 
anchor, shall carry, where they can best be seen, a white light forward 
and a white light aft, both lights visible all round the horizon at a 
distance of at least 3 miles; and, in addition, if the seaplane is more 
than 150 feet in span, a white light on each side to indicate the maxi-
mum span, and visible, so far as practicable, all round the horizon at a 
distance of 1 mile. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
203 
"(h) A seaplane aground shall carry on anchor light or lights as 
prescribed in sections (f) and (g), and in addition may carry two 
red lights in a vertical line, at least 3 feet apart, so placed as to be 
visible all round the horizon. 
"Eule 12 
"Every vessel or seaplane on the water may^ if necessary in order to 
attract attention, in addition to the lights which she is by these Rules 
required to carry, show a flare-up light or use a detonating or other 
efficient sound signal that cannot be mistaken for any signal authorised 
elsewhere under these Rules. 
"Rule 13 
"(a) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of 
any special rules made by the Government of any nation with respect 
to additional station and signal lights for ships of war, for vessels 
sailing under convoy, for fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a fleet 
or for seaplanes on the water. 
"(b) Whenever the Government concerned shall have determined 
that a naval or other military vessel or waterborne seaplane of special 
construction or purpose cannot comply fully with the provisions of 
any of these Rules with respect to the number, position, range or arc 
of visibility of lights or shapes, without interfering with the military 
function of the vessel or seaplane, such vessel or seaplane shall comply 
with such other provisions in regard to the number, position, range or 
arc of visibility of lights or shapes as her Government shall have 
determined to be the closest possible compliance with these Rules in 
respect of that vessel or seaplane. 
"Rule 14 
"A vessel proceeding under sail, when also being propelled by 
machinery, shall carry in the daytime forward, where it can best be 
seen, one black conical shape, point downwards, not less than 2 feet 
in diameter at its base. 
"PART C.—SOUND SIGNALS AND CONDUCT IN RESTRICTED 
VISIBILITY 
"PRELIMINARY 
"1. The possession of information obtained from radar does not 
relieve any vessel of the obligation of conforming strictly with the 
Rules and, in particular, the obligations contained in Rules 15 and 16. 
"2. The Annex to the Rules contains recommendations intended 
to assist in the use of radar as an aid to avoiding collision in restricted 
visibility. 
"Rule 15 
"(a) A power-driven vessel of 40 feet or more in length shall be 
provided with an efficient whistle, sounded by steam or by some sub-
stitute for steam, so placed that the sound may not be intercepted by 
any obstruction, and with an efficient fog horn to be sounded by 
mechanical means, and also with an efficient bell. A sailing vessel 
of 40 feet or more in length shall be provided with a similar fog horn 
and bell. 
204 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
"(b) All signals prescribed in this Rule for vessels under way shall 
be given— 
"(i) by power-driven vessels on the whistle; 
" (ii) by sailing vessels on the fog horn; 
"(iii) by vessels towed on the whistle or fog horn. 
"(c) In fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms, or any other 
condition similarly restricting visibility, whether by day or night, 
the signals prescribed in this Rule shall be used as follows— 
"(i) A power-driven vessel making way through the water 
shall sound at intervals of not more than 2 minutes a prolonged 
blast. 
" (ii) A power-driven vessel under way, but stopped and making 
no way through the water, shall sound at intervals of not more 
than 2 minutes two prolonged blasts, with an interval of about 
1 second between them. 
"(iii) A sailing vessel under way shall sound, at intervals of 
not more than 1 minute, when on the starboard tack one blast, 
when on the port tack two blasts in succession, and when with the 
wind abaft the beam three blasts in succession. 
"(iv) A vessel when at anchor shall at intervals of not more 
than 1 minute ring the bell rapidly for about 5 seconds. 
In 
vessels of more than 350 feet in length the bell shall be sounded in 
the forepart of the vessel, and in addition there shall be sounded 
in the after part of the vessel, at intervals of not more than 1 
minute for about 5 seconds, a gong or other instrument, the tone 
and sounding of which cannot be confused with that of the bell. 
Every vessel at anchor may in addition, in accordance with Rule 
12, sound three blasts in succession, namely, one short, one pro-
longed, and one short blast, to give warning of her position and of 
the possibility of collision to an approaching vessel. 
"(v) A vessel when towing, a vessel engaged in laying or in 
picking up a submarine cable or navigation mark, and a vessel 
under way which is unable to get out or the way of an approach-
ing vessel through being not under command or unable to 
manoeuvre as required by these Rules shall, instead of the signals 
prescribed in subsections (i), (ii) and (iii) sound, at intervals of 
not more than 1 minute, three blasts in succession, namely, one 
prolonged blast followed by two short blasts. 
"(vi) A vessel towed, or, if more than one vessel is towed, only 
the last vessel of the tow, if manned, shall, at intervals of not more 
than 1 minute, sound four blasts in succession, namely, one 
prolonged blast followed by three short blasts. A^Hien practicable, 
this signal shall be made immediately after the signal made by the 
towing vessel. 
"(vii) A vessel aground shall give the bell signal and, if 
required, the gong signal, prescribed in sub-section (iv) and shall, 
in addition, give 3 separate and distinct strokes on the bell imme-
diately before and after such rapid ringing of the bell. 
" (viii) A vessel engaged in fishing when under way or at anchor 
shall at intervals of not more than 1 minute sound the signal pre-
scribed in sub-section (v). A vessel when fishing with trolling 
lines and under way shall sound the signals prescribed in sub-
sections fi), (ii) or (iii) as may be appropriate. 
"(ix) A vessel of less than 40 feet m length, a rowing boat, or a 
seaplane on the water, shall not be obliged to give the above-men-
tioned signals but if she does not, she shall make some other effi-
cient sound signal at intervals of not more than 1 minute. 
"(x) A power-driven pilot-vessel when engaged on pilotage 
duty may, in addition to the signals prescribed in sub-sections 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
205 
(i), (ii) and (iv), sound an identity signal consisting of 4 short 
blasts. 
"Rule 16 
"(a) Every vessel, or seaplane when taxi-ing on the water, shall, in 
fog, mist, falling snow, heavy rainstorms or any other condition simi-
larly restricting visibility, go at a moderate speed, having careful 
regard to the existing circumstances and conditions. 
"(b) A power-driven vessel hearing, apparently forward of her 
beam, the fog-signal of a vessel the position of which is not ascertained, 
shall, so far as the circumstances of the case admit, stop her engines, 
and then navigate with caution until danger of collision is over. 
"(c) A power-driven vessel which detects the presence of another 
vessel forward of her beam before hearing her fog signal or sighting 
her visually may take earlj; and substantial action to avoid a close 
quarters situation but, if this cannot be avoided, she shall, so far as 
the circumstances of the case admit, stop her engines in proper time to 
avoid collision and then navigate with caution until danger of collision 
is over. 
"PART D.—STEERING AND SAILING RULES 
"PRELIMINARY 
"1. In obeying and construing these Rules, any action taken should 
be positive, in ample time, and with due regard to the observance of 
good seamanship. 
"2. Risk of collision can, when circumstances permit, be ascertained 
by carefully watching the compass bearing of an approaching vessel. 
If the bearing does not appreciably change, such risk should be deemed 
to exist. 
"3. Mariners should bear in mind that seaplanes in the act of land-
ing or taking off, or operating under adverse weather conditions, may 
be unable to change their intended action at the last moment. 
"4. Rules 17 to 24 apply only to vessels in sight of one another. 
"Rule 17 
"(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as 
to involve risk of collision, one of them shall keep out of the way 
of the other as follows— 
"(i) When each has the wind on a different side, the vessel 
which has the wind on the port side shall keep out of the way 
of the other. 
"(ii) When both have the wind on the same side, the vessel 
which is to windward shall keep out of the way of the vessel which 
is to leeward. 
"(b) For the purposes of this Rule the windward side phall be 
deemed to be the side opposite to that on which the mainsail is car-
ried or, in the case of a square-rigged vessel, the side opposite to that 
on which the largest fore-and-aft sail is carried. 
"Rule 18 
"(a) When two power-driven vessels are meeting end on, or nearly 
end on, so as to involve risk of collision, each shall alter her course 
to starboard, so that each may pass on the port side of the other. 
This 
Rule only applies to cases where vessels are meeting end on, or nearly 
end on, in such a manner as to involve risk of collision, and does not 
apply to two vessels which must, if both keep on their respective course, 
pass clear of each other. 
The only cases to which it does apply 
206 
PUBLIC L
A
W 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
are when each of two vessels is end on, or nearly end on, to the other; 
in other words, to cases in which, by day, each vessel sees the masts of 
the other in a line, or nearly in a line, with her own; and by night, 
to cases in which each vessel is in such a position as to see both the 
sidelights of the other. It does not apply, by day, to cases in which a 
vessel sees another ahead crossing her own course; or, by night, to 
cases where the red light of one vessel is opposed to the red light of 
the other or where the green light of one vessel is opposed to the 
green light of the other or where a red light without a green light or 
a green light without a red light is seen ahead, or where both green 
and red lights are seen anywhere but ahead. 
"(b) For the purposes of this Kule and Kules 19 to 29 inclusive, 
except Eule 20(c) and Eule 28, a seaplane on the water shall be 
deemed to be a vessel, and the expression 'power-driven vessel' shall be 
construed accordingly. 
"Kule 19 
"When two power-driven vessels are crossing, so as to involve risk 
of collision, the vessel which has the other on her own starboard side 
shall keep out of the way of the other. 
"Eule 20 
"(a) When a power-driven vessel and a sailing vessel are proceed-
ing in such directions as to involve risk of collision, except as pro-
vided for in Eules 24 and 26, the power-driven vessel shall keep out 
of the way of the sailing vessel. 
"(b) This Eule shall not give to a sailing vessel the right to hamper, 
in a narrow channel, the safe passage of a power-driven vessel which 
can navigate only inside such channel. 
"(c) A seaplane on the water shall, in general, keep well clear of 
all vessels and avoid impeding their navigation. In circumstances, 
however, where risk of collision exists, she shall comply with these 
Eules. 
"Eule 21 
"Where by any of these Eules one of two vessels is to keep out of 
the way, the other shall keep her course and speed. When, from any 
cause, the latter vessel finds herself so close that collision cannot be 
avoided by the action of the giving-way vessel alone, she also shall 
take such action as will best aid to avert collision (see Eules 27 and 
29). 
"Eule 22 
"Every vessel which is directed by these Eules to keep out of the 
way of another vessel shall, so far as possible, take positive early action 
to comply with this obligation, and shall, if the circumstances of the 
case admit, avoid crossing ahead of the other. 
"Eule 23 
"Every power-driven vessel which is directed by these Eules to keep 
out of the way of another vessel shall, on approaching her, if neces-
sary, slacken her speed or stop or reverse. 
"Kule 24 
"(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in these Eules, every 
vessel overtaking any other shall keep out of the way of the overtaken 
vessel. 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
207 
"(b) Every vessel coming up with another vessel from any direc-
tion more than 221/^ degrees (2 points) abaft her beam, i.e., in such 
a position, with reference to the vessel which she is overtaking, that 
at night she would be unable to see either of that vessel's sidelights, 
shall be deemed to be an overtaking vessel; and no subsequent altera-
tion of the bearing between the two vessels shall make the overtaking 
vessel a crossing vessel within the meaning of these Rules, or relieve 
her of the duty of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until she is 
finally past and clear. 
"(c) If the overtaking vessel cannot determine with certainty 
whether she is forward of or abaft this direction from the other ves-
sel, she shall assume that she is an overtaking vessel and keep out of 
the way. 
"Rule 25 
"(a) In a narrow channel every power-driven vessel when pro-
ceeding along the course of the channel shall, when it is safe and 
practicable, keep to that side of the fairway or mid-channel which 
lies on the starboard side of such vessel. 
"(b) Whenever a power-driven vessel is nearing a bend in a chan-
nel where a vessel approaching from the other direction cannot be 
seen, such power-driven vessel, when she shall have arrived within 
one-half (i^) mile of the bend, shall give a signal by one prolonged 
blast on her whistle which signal shall be answered by a similar blast 
given by any approaching power-driven vessel that may be within 
hearing around the bend. 
Regardless of whether an approaching 
vessel on the farther side of the bend is heard, such bend shall be 
rounded with alertness and caution. 
"(c) In a narrow channel a power-driven vessel of less than 65 feet 
in length shall not hamper the safe passage of a vessel which can 
navigate only inside such channel. 
"Rule 26 
"All vessels not engaged in fishing, except vessels to which the pro-
visions of Rule 4 apply, shall, when under way, keep out of the way 
of vessels engaged in fishing. This Rule shall not give to any vessel 
engaged in fishmg the right of obstructing a fairway used by vessels 
other than fishing vessels. 
"Rule 27 
"In obeying and construing these Rules due regard shall be had to all 
dangers of navigation and collision, and to any special circumstances, 
including the limitations of the craft involved, which may render a 
departure from the above Rules necessary in order to avoid immediate 
danger. 
"PART E.—SOUND SIGNALS FOR VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER 
"Rule 28 
"(a) When vessels are in sight of one another, a power-driven vessel 
under way, in taking any course authorised or required by these Rules, 
shall indicate that course by the following signals on her whistle, 
namely— 
"One short blast to mean 'I am altering my course to starboard'. 
"Two short blasts to mean 'I am altering my course to port'. 
"Three short blasts to mean 'My engines are going astern'. 
"(b) Whenever a power-driven vessel which, under these Rules, is 
to keep her course and speed, is in sight of another vessel and is in 
208 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
doubt whether sufficient action is being taken b]^ the other vessel to 
avert collision, she may indicate such doubt by giving at least five short 
and rapid blasts on the whistle. The giving of such a signal shall not 
relieve a vessel of her obligations under Kules 27 and 29 or any other 
Rule, or of her duty to indicate any action taken under these Rules 
by giving the appropriate sound signals laid down in this Rule. 
"(c) Any whistle signal mentioned in this Rule may be further 
indicated by a visual signal consisting of a white light visible all 
round the horizon at a distance of at least 5 miles, and so devised that 
it will operate simultaneously and in conjunction with the whistle-
sounding mechanism and remain lighted and visible during the same 
period as the sound signal. 
"(d) Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of 
any special rules made by the Government of any nation with respect 
to the use of additional whistle signals between ships of war or 
vessels sailing under convoy. 
"PART F.—MISCELLANEOUS 
"Rule 29 
"Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner, 
master or crew thereof, from the consequences of any neglect to carry 
lights or signals, or of any neglect to Keep a proper look-out, or of 
the neglect of any precaution which may be required by the ordinary 
practice of seamen, or by the special circumstances of the case. 
"Rule 30 
"Reservation of Rules for Harbours and Inland Navigation 
"Nothing in these Rules shall interfere with the operation of a 
special rule duly made by local authority relative to the navigation 
of any harbour, river, lake, or inland water, including a reserved 
seaplane area. 
"Rule 31 
"Distress Signals 
"(a) When a vessel or seaplane on the water is in distress and 
requires assistance from other vessels or from the shore, the follow-
ing shall be the signals to be used or displayed by her, either together 
or separately, namely— 
"(i) A gun or other explosive signal fired at intervals of about 
a-minute. 
"(ii) A continuous sounding with any fog-signalling appara-
tus. 
"(iii) Rockets or shells, throwing red stars fired one at a time 
at short intervals, 
"(iv) A signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other 
signalling method consisting of the group . . . 
. . . 
in the Morse Code. 
"(v) A signal sent by radiotelephony consisting of the spoken 
word 'Mayday'. 
"(vi) The International Code Signal of distress indicated by 
N.C. 
"(vii) A signal consisting of a square flag having above or 
below it a ball or anything resembling a ball. 
"(viii) Flames on the vessel (as from a burning tar barrel, 
oil barrel, &c.). 
77 STAT. ] 
PUBLIC LAW 88-131-SEPT. 24, 1963 
209 
"(ix) A rocket parachute flare or a hand flare showing a red 
light. 
"(x) A smoke signal giving off a volume of orange-coloured 
smoke. 
"(xi) Slowly and repeatedly raising and lowering arms out-
stretched to each side. 
"NOTE.—Vessels in distress may use the radiotele^aph alarm signal 
or the radiotelephone alarm signal to secure attention to distress calls 
and messages. The radiotelegraph alarm signal, which is designed to 
actuate the radiotelegraph auto alarms of vessels so fitted, consists of 
a series of twelve dashes, sent in 1 minute, the duration of each dash 
being 4 seconds, and the duration of the interval between 2 consecutive 
dashes being 1 second. The radiotelephone alarm signal consists of 
2 tones transmitted alternately over periods of from 30 seconds to 
1 minute. 
"(b) The use of any of the foregoing signals, except for the purpose 
of indicating that a vessel or seaplane is in distress, and the use of 
any signals which may be confused with any of the above signals, 
is prohibited. 
"ANNEX TO THE RULES 
"RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE USE or RADAR INFORMATION AS AN AID TO 
AVOIDING COLLISIONS AT SEA 
"(1) Assumptions made on scanty information may be dangerous 
and should be avoided. 
"(2) A vessel navigating with the aid of radar in restricted visibility 
must, in compliance with Rule 16(a), go at a moderate speed. Infor-
mation obtained from the use of radar is one of the circumstances to be 
taken into account when determining moderate speed. In this regard 
it must be recognised that small vessels, small icebergs and similar 
floating objects may not be detected by radar. 
Radar indications of 
one or more vessels in the vicinity may mean that "moderate speed" 
should be slower than a mariner without radar might consider mod-
erate in the circumstances. 
"(3) When navigating in restricted visibility the radar range and 
bearing alone do not constitute ascertainment of the position of the 
other vessel under Rule 16(b) sufficiently to relieve a vessel of the 
duty to stop her engines and navigate with caution when a fog signal 
is heard forward of the beam. 
"(4) When action has been taken under Rule 16(c) to avoid a close 
quarters situation, it is essential to make sure that such action is having 
the desired effect. 
Alterations of course or speed or both are matters 
as to which the mariner must be guided by the circumstances of the 
case. 
"(5) Alteration of course alone may be the most effective action to 
avoid close quarters provided that— 
"(a) There is sufficient sea room. 
"^b) It is made in good time. 
"(c) It is substantial. 
A succession of small alterations of 
course should be avoided. 
"(d) It does not result in a close quarters situation with other 
vessels. 
" (6) The direction of an alteration of course is a matter in which the 
mariner must be guided by the circumstances of the case. An altera-
tion to starboard, particularly when vessels are approaching appar-
ently on opposite or nearly opposite courses, is generally preferable 
to an alteration to port. 
93-025 0-64-16 
210 
PUBLIC LAW 88-132-OCT. 2, 1963 
[77 STAT. 
"(7) An alteration of speed, either alone or in conjunction with an 
alteration of course, should be substantial. A number of small altera-
tions of speed should be avoided. 
"(8) If a close quarters situation is imminent, the most prudent 
action may be to take all way off the vessel." 
Approved September 24, 1963. 
October 2, 1963 
[H. R. 5555] 
Public Law 88-132 
AN ACT 
T
<
> amend title 37, United States Code, to increase the rates of basic pay for 
members of the uniformed services, and for other purp(^ses. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives 
of the 
Uniformed Serv- United States of America in Congress assemhled^ That this Act may 
ices Pay Act of 
be Cited Rs the "Uniformed Services Pay Act of 1963'-. 
1963* 
*' 
BASIC PAY 
76 Stat. 456. 
SEC. 2. Scction 203 of title 37, United States Code, is amended to 
read as follows: 
"§203. Rates 
"(a) The rates of monthly basic pay for members of the uniformed 
services within each pay grade are set forth in the following tables: 
"Commissioned officers 
"Pay grade 
O-lOi 
0-9 
0-8 
0-7 
0 - 6 
0-5 
0-4 
0-32 
0-22 
0-12 
Years of service computed under sec. 205 
2 or less 
$1,200.00 
1,063.30 
963.30 
800.28 
592.80 
474. 24 
400.14 
326.04 
259. 36 
222. 30 
Over 2 
$1,315 
1,155 
1,050 
905 
690 
590 
515 
440 
375 
300 
Overs 
$1,315 
1,180 
1,075 
905 
735 
630 
550 
470 
450 
375 
Over 4 
$1,316 
1,180 
1,076 
906 
735 
630 
650 
620 
465 
375 
Over 6 
$1,316 
1,180 
1,075 
946 
736 
630 
560 
646 
476 
376 
Overs 
$1,365 
1,210 
1,155 
945 
735 
630 
585 
665 
475 
375 
Over 10 
$1,365 
1,210 
1,156 
1,000 
736 
660 
625 
696 
475 
375 
'' Pay grade 
O-IO' 
0-9 
0-8 
0-7 
0-6 
0-5 
0-4 
0-32 
0-22 
0-12 
Years of service computed under sec. 206 
Over 12 
$1,470 
1,260 
1,210 
1,000 
735 
685 
660 
625 
476 
375 
Over 14 
$1,470 
1,260 
1,210 
1,050 
760 
730 
690 
640 
476 
375 
Over 16 
$1, 575 
1,365 
1,260 
1,155 
880 
785 
720 
640 
476 
376 
Over 18 
$1,676 
1,365 
1,315 
1,236 
926 
830 
740 
640 
476 
376 
Over 20 
$1,680 
1,470 
1,365 
1,235 
946 
855 
740 
640 
476 
375 
Over 22 
$1,680 
1,470 
1,420 
1,235 
1,000 
885 
740 
640 
475 
376 
Over 26 
$1,785 
1,576 
1,420 
1,235 
1,086 
885 
740 
640 
476 
375 
Over 30 
$1, 785 
1.575 
1,420 
1.235 
1,086 
886 
740 
640 
475 
375 
"1 While serving as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Chief of Staff of the Army, Chief of Naval 
Operations, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, or Commandant of the Marine Corps, basic pay for this grade is 
$1,970 regardless of cumulative years of service computed under section 205 of this title. 
"2 Does not apply to commissioned officers who have been credited with over 4 years' active service as an 
enlisted member.