You are spot on. A merit Captain ran the district not appointed Majors. Captains for the most part earned that rank through hard work, good policing, proven leadership, and experience. Yes there were exceptions to this but for the most part Captains were seasoned veteran officers. Many Captains eventually became staff officers with years of experience. Others finished their careers as Captains. Today officers have two earned ranks Sergeant and Lieutenant. Having appointed rank serve as district