As a rule, states promote their ANG/ARNG officers. Then, once state orders are cut for the promotion, federal recognition is applied for. Once the federal recognition is granted, the promoted officer pins on the new rank and receives the higher pay.

Years ago, my father was asked about my brother and me. When we were both promoted to 1LT about the same time, Dad was asked who was promoted first. His answer was both. My brother was AD USAF and pinned on O-2 first. Because I was ARNG, my DOR was three weeks earlier based upon the federal recognition of my state promotion orders. My brother wasn't exactly pleased. He did make O-3 before I did.