WWII, UNITED STATES NAVY, U.S.N. SPECIALIST ATHLETIC INSTRUCTOR, 3^RD CLASS, ON WHITE, RATE

Specialist A: Athletic Instructor, Physical Training Instructor

The Specialist rating was created in late 1941 to allow for new enlisted ratings that would be needed in wartime but didn't fall within the established navy structure. Specialists could be appointed directly from civilian life to any petty officer grade depending upon their skill level.