Where is the Officer of the Deck (OOD) stationed?

The Officer of the Deck (OOD) is primarily stationed on the bridge of a naval ship. The bridge serves as the command center for navigation and ship operations where the OOD oversees the safety and integrity of the vessel.

Being on the bridge allows the OOD to directly communicate with the crew and make real-time decisions regarding navigation, maneuvering, and the management of the ship’s watch team. The position requires constant situational awareness and the ability to oversee the ship's operations and respond to various situations, including emergencies.

While the quarterdeck is an important location for receiving visitors and managing entry and exit from the ship, it is not where the OOD typically operates. The conning tower and command center are also specific areas of the ship used for navigation and management, but the primary role of the OOD is exercised on the bridge, where the strategic oversight of the vessel is conducted.