Which type of officers are technical specialists who perform duties requiring extensive knowledge and skills of a specific occupational field?

The correct answer identifies Chief Warrant Officers (CWOs) as technical specialists who possess in-depth knowledge and skills in a particular occupational field. CWOs typically have extensive hands-on experience in their area of expertise and serve as the subject matter experts within their respective fields. Their primary role often centers around providing leadership, guidance, and technical support to junior personnel and other officers. This specialization enables them to tackle complex tasks and problems that require a high degree of technical skill.

In contrast, Limited Duty Officers (LDOs), while also skilled, are more focused on filling specific leadership roles that bridge the gap between enlisted personnel and higher-ranking officers, rather than serving primarily as technical experts. Field Grade Officers typically refer to those in ranks O-4 and above, such as Majors and Lieutenant Colonels, who have broader operational responsibilities rather than the specialized focus seen in CWOs. Petty Officers are enlisted personnel and, while experienced, do not hold the officer status that confers the technical specialist duties associated with CWOs.