Station HYPO

I’ve spent some time contemplating what it means to be an O-5 in the military.

As a junior officer, I frequently sparred with those in this rank who were described colloquially as “The Frozen Middle.” This term refers to those mid-to early-senior grade officers who are perceived to place risk aversion over change adoption. Oftentimes, The Frozen Middle prioritizes career progression or comfort in ways that can feel at odds with a commander’s stated goals of innovation and change.