Final answer:
The commanding officer of the Sailor must approve DEP/OP status when a Sailor can't perform the PRT due to deployment or operational commitments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Within the United States Navy, when a Sailor is unable to perform the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) due to deployment or operational commitments, the approval for Delayed Entry Program (DEP)/Operational (OP) status must be given by the Sailor's commanding officer. This is outlined within the Navy's physical readiness program instructions. The commanding officer has the discretion to grant this status based on the operational needs and the individual circumstances of the Sailor's inability to participate in the PRT.