What is the name of the shoulder boards that are worn by Naval Officers?

The shoulder boards worn by Naval Officers are referred to as epaulettes. This term specifically describes the ornamental shoulder pieces that typically feature rank insignia, distinguishing the ranks of the officers. Epaulettes serve both a decorative purpose and a functional one, as they clearly indicate an officer's rank to others within the military hierarchy.

In naval uniforms, the design of epaulettes may vary based on the branch of service and the specific regulations in place, but they are consistently used to convey an officer's rank. This is particularly important in military settings, where rank and chain of command must be easily recognizable to maintain order and discipline.

The other terms refer to different aspects of military uniforms or insignia. Shoulder straps generally do not denote rank in the same way epaulettes do, commander plates are not a recognized term in this context, and naval insignia typically refers more broadly to the badges or symbols of a service member's branch, job, or qualifications rather than the specific shoulder adornments worn by officers.