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Manning the Rails: A Time-Honored Tradition in the US Navy
The US Navy has a rich history filled with traditions that have been passed down through generations of sailors. One of these traditions, known as “manning the rails,” is a time-honored practice that takes place when a warship departs a port. This tradition is a powerful symbol of the ship’s departure and the crew’s readiness for duty.
What is Manning the Rails?
Manning the rails involves sailors lining up along the ship’s rails, facing outward, as the ship departs. This practice dates back to the age of sail, when sailors would physically man the rails to handle the ship’s sails and rigging. Today, while the practical purpose is gone, the tradition remains as a visual representation of the crew’s dedication and the ship’s departure.
The Significance of the Tradition
Manning the rails holds deep significance for the US Navy. It represents the following:
- Respect for the past: The tradition pays homage to the sailors who came before, who risked their lives to defend their country and maintain the freedom of the seas.
- Pride and unity: The crew stands together as one, demonstrating their pride in their ship and their commitment to their mission.
- Readiness for duty: The sailors are ready to carry out their tasks, whether it’s sailing the ship, fighting for their country, or performing their assigned duties.
- Farewell and welcome: Manning the rails serves as a farewell to the port and a welcome to the open sea.
The Ceremony
The ceremony of manning the rails is a precise and solemn event. As the ship prepares to depart, the crew is called to their stations. The ship’s bugler plays the traditional call “Man the Rails.” The crew then takes their assigned positions along the rails, standing at attention, facing outward, and saluting as the ship departs.
The Evolution of the Tradition
While the tradition of manning the rails has remained largely unchanged over the years, it has evolved to reflect the changing nature of naval warfare. In the past, the ceremony was primarily a practical necessity, with sailors needed to handle the ship’s sails and rigging. Today, however, the ceremony is more symbolic, representing the crew’s dedication, pride, and readiness for duty.
A Lasting Tradition
Manning the rails is a powerful and moving tradition that continues to be observed by the US Navy today. It serves as a reminder of the long and proud history of the Navy, the dedication of its sailors, and the importance of the mission they carry out. The next time you see a US Navy warship departing a port, take a moment to appreciate the tradition of manning the rails and the significance it holds for the sailors and the nation they serve.