Complete guide with hints, spangram, and all theme words for Jul 23's puzzle
Strands Theme of Jul 23 is:
This word describes the entire system of classifications used to categorize personnel in the sea-based military service.
Reveal letter by letter or uncover a full solution

The theme refers to specific hierarchies and roles within a particular branch of the armed forces. It suggests a formal structure where every member has a designated title based on their seniority.
Spoiler Warning
Strands answer for Hail to the chief petty officer are revealed below!
Below is the complete solution for Today's Strands. Enjoy the game!

Strands is a free daily word puzzle from The New York Times. Each day, you get a theme and a letter grid where you must find hidden words. Like Wordle and Connections, it refreshes at midnight with a new puzzle.
You get a 6×8 grid of letters. Find all theme words plus the "spangram" that spans the grid and reveals the theme. Connect letters horizontally, vertically, or diagonally to form words. Find 3 non-theme words to unlock a hint.
This Strands Hint points toward the specialized vocabulary used by sailors and maritime personnel to denote their level of authority. Identifying words related to military hierarchy will help you unlock the grid. Check out the full Strands Hint below for more details.
The difficulty depends on your familiarity with governmental or defense-related terminology. It uses specific professional designations that follow a very structured order of importance. Check out the full Strands Hint below for more details.
Try to scan for common suffixes or formal prefixes often found in official government titles. Many of these words are recognized internationally within naval organizations. Check out the full Strands Hint below for more details.
The spangram acts as a bridge across the board, defining the organization these roles belong to. It connects two edges by naming the specific maritime branch and its hierarchy system. Check out the full Strands Hint below for more details.