A petty officer receives general authority from which document?

The correct answer is based on the understanding that a petty officer receives general authority from the U.S. Navy Regulations. This document serves as the foundational source of guidance for the conduct of naval personnel, including petty officers. It outlines the roles, responsibilities, and standards expected of all members of the Navy, detailing the authority structure and operational procedures that govern their duties.

The U.S. Navy Regulations are essential for establishing discipline and operational efficiency within the Navy. They provide the legal framework within which personnel must operate, ensuring that every member understands their authority and the boundaries of that authority. Consequently, a petty officer, by virtue of their rank, is empowered to exercise certain levels of command and responsibility, as delineated in this document.

In contrast, the other options do not specifically provide the same level of comprehensive authority or regulatory framework that is required for a petty officer's responsibilities. For example, the U.S. Military Handbook and the Navy Training Manual may serve as educational resources or references, but they do not replace or provide the same regulatory authority that the U.S. Navy Regulations do. The Joint Service Manual typically includes broader inter-service policies and procedures that apply across different branches of the military, but it does not specifically address the unique authority assigned to petty officers