Final answer:
The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) retains authority for all awards to officers at or above the O-6 grade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) retains authority for all awards to officers at or above O-6 grade. In the United States Navy, officer grades range from O-1 (Ensign) to O-10 (Admiral) based on the officer's rank and level of responsibility. The SECNAV, who is the civilian head of the Navy, is responsible for approving and issuing awards to officers at or above the O-6 grade, which is the rank of Captain or Colonel.