Navy (One Piece)
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This article is about the Navy (海軍 Kaigun) in One Piece, a manga and anime series by Eiichiro Oda. It is a fictional military force under the command of the World Government (世界政府 Sekai Seifu) that exists within the series.
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[edit] Navy or Marine Corps?
In the Japanese version of the series, the military forces are referred to by the term Kaigun (海軍), which means "Navy." The Navy's emblem prominently features the word "MARINE", and as a result, many English-speaking fans of the series call the Navy the "Marines" instead. The English manga adaptation by VIZ Media addresses this by calling the organization the "Navy" and its soldier-sailors "Naval Marines," while the English dub by 4Kids Entertainment goes as far as painting over every instance of the "MARINE" emblem to read "NAVY."
Evidence from the series (specifically, the author's frequent use of vocabulary from mainland European languages) suggests that the use of "Marine" in the Navy's emblem may come from French or German, where "Marine" has the same meaning as the English word "Navy". In English, to call the Navy the "Marines" or the "Marine Corps" can be considered a mistake, because Marines (in the English sense of the word) only make up a portion of the Navy's forces. Nevertheless, fans of the series generally accept either term, though some who are fans of the Japanese version (but do not actually speak Japanese) have been known to criticize the use of the word "Navy," either as a knee-jerk reaction against the English dub of the anime (which uses the term) or out of unawareness that the word "Navy" is a correct translation of the term "Kaigun."
[edit] The Navy and "Justice"
[edit] The Doctrine of "Absolute Justice"
The Navy of One Piece follows a strict motto of "Absolute Justice" (絶対正義 Zettai Seigi), when it comes to prosecuting those who violate the government's laws. It is a central tenet of Naval doctrine, to the point where the word "Justice" (正義 Seigi) is emblazoned on the uniform coats of all commissioned officers. Pirates have been especially singled out by the Navy as a major threat to order. They are considered criminals regardless of whether they have committed any crimes other than raising the Jolly Roger. Civilians, too, are targeted by the prohibition against piracy: persons known to have associated with pirates are barred from entering the Navy (there are notable exceptions), and providing aid or comfort to pirates is a serious crime, especially if they are well-known bounty heads.
[edit] "Absolute Justice" vs. "Moral Justice"
One of the ongoing themes of One Piece is the misapplication of the principle of "justice" by the Navy. While the Navy wishes to maintain law and order by apprehending criminals, the techniques that it (or at least some of its members) uses can often be no better than the pirates they seek to wipe out, trampling the rights or needs of civilians in order to pursue its own ends. They are also shown to willingly sacrifice the lives of other Marines in attempts to pursue their justice, often sacrificing large numbers for the sake of one or two criminals.
Still, despite firm stature on justice, the Navy is not immune to corruption. More than once, officers of the Navy and operatives of the World Government have been shown to be no better, and at times even worse, than the pirates they are supposed to fight against. Usually, these officials are more interested in their own position and power rather than the Navy's doctrine, although some will go as far as to have their own definitions of "justice". Examples include Morgan and Nezumi.
Further complicating the issue is the Buster Call, which can be likened to a scorched earth policy. With a Buster Call in effect, not only are its intended targets and all innocent caught in between wiped out, but all traces of the land that the targets are on is also destroyed. Although the Buster Call is very delicate and the four highest ranking officers of the Navy are authorized to launch one, this shows how far the Navy is willing to go for what they consider to be "justice"; they have no hesitance at wiping an entire civilization off the map, or even their own installations (ie, Enies Lobby).
[edit] Rank System
The system of military rank in place for the One Piece Navy is fairly straightforward, where each rank is clearly delineated.[1] This too is a source of confusion among English-speaking fans, because Japanese terms for military rank equate to different English words, depending on what kind of military force they refer to. This has led to fan-translations that mix naval terms with those from other armed forces, as well as fierce debate as to which terms are the "right" ones to use.
This is not a problem exclusive to One Piece; there have been many such debates among fans of Mobile Suit Gundam over the past two decades that have never fully been resolved. One notable example is that of Char Aznable, the famous Red Comet. His rank of Taisa could be translated as Colonel (Army) or Captain (Navy). However, as the American branch of Bandai has chosen to follow the Naval rank system for their translations, Char's "official" rank is considered Captain.
Generally speaking, the ranks of commissioned officers seem to best fit the Navy model, as these officers are typically in command positions in bases and on ships. On the other hand, non-commissioned officers appear to be a hybrid of traditional sailors and infantry soldiers, being essentially part-marines. But since they are members of the Navy, ranks given here will also conform to the Naval model, as per the Viz adaptation of the manga.
Officers and recruits present at Naval Headquarters are considered "Super-elites". All ranks present from "Lieutenant" above are usually trained here, exceptions being those in command of other Naval bases which includes Axe-Hand Morgan and Nezumi. [2]
[edit] Rank Insignia
The One Piece Navy does not have a system of rank insignia per se. There is significant variation in the kind of uniform worn by officers, with many opting to wear a variety of dress showcasing their own eccentric style. However, as a general rule set down by the author, uniform guidelines are as follows:[3]
- Upon first entering the Navy, new recruits are given the standard uniform, consisting of a white short-sleeved shirt emblazoned with the Naval emblem, a simplified seagull with "MARINE" underneath it, on the back; a blue neckerchief; dark blue trousers; and a baseball cap with "MARINE" across the front. All officers at the rank of Seaman (一等兵 Ittōhei) and below wear this. The quasi-rank of "Zatsuyō" (雑用 "various tasks"), commonly referred to as "Chore Boy" in fan translations, adds the kanji 雑 Zatsu ("various" or "odds and ends") to the sleeves, and to the Naval emblem on the back.
- Once an officer has reached the rank of Petty Officer (伍長 Gochō), he or she can choose from a number of different uniforms, including his or her personal clothes. Only those who really want to appear "sailor-like" will stay with a more traditional uniform.
- Sailors at the rank of Warrant Officer (准尉 Jun'i) and above are allowed to wear the coat with "Justice" (正義 Seigi) on the back. This coat tends to be worn like a cape, draped over the shoulders with the arms not in the sleeves, the exception being Tashigi.
- For the rank of Lieutenant-Commander (少佐 Shōsa) and above, a suit worn underneath the "Justice" coat is the preferred attire.
There are, of course, exceptions: Jango and Fullbody wear their own clothes with the "MARINE" hat, despite holding the rank of "Seaman Recruit" (三等兵 Santōhei). This may have something to do with the exceptional circumstances by which both of these men were brought into their present situation, or it may simply be lenience on the part of Hina, their Captain.
[edit] Buster call
Buster Call: A Buster Call is a military order that requires Five Vice-admirals and ten warships to attack and annihilate a select target. The two known Buster Calls to date have been to the Island of Ohara, and more recently on Enies Lobby, in order to take out the Straw Hats. Buster calls can only be ordered by Admirals, to date, there are only four people in the world that are known to be able to call for a Buster Call: Akainu, Aokiji, Kizaru, and Sengoku. In recent chapters, Aokiji gave the right to call for a Buster Call (in the form of a Golden Den Den Mushi) to Spandam the head of CP9, who accidentally used it to call for an attack on Enies Lobby, mistaking it for another (regular) Den Den Mushi. Also, his father Spandine, the former head of CP9, was given permission to launch a Buster Call on the island of Ohara twenty years ago.
[edit] Characters in the Navy
These are characters in the series who are known members of Navy. The list is sorted by rank.
[edit] Fleet Admiral
The rank of Fleet Admiral is carried by only one Marine in the Navy, and is the highest rank within the organization. He oversees Naval operations from Naval Headquarters on the Grand Line.
[edit] Sengoku
Fleet Admiral Sengoku (センゴク元帥 Sengoku Gensui), nicknamed "Sengoku the Buddha" (仏のセンゴク Hotoke no Sengoku), is the supreme commander of all Naval forces in the One Piece world, his status apparent by the life-size seagull attached to his hat. He oversees the workings of the Navy from his base in the Sanctuary of Marie Joie, and is subordinate only to the leaders of the World Government, the Gorōsei (五老星). He also has a pet goat, it is possible he might have a Devil fruit power, as he is not only the leader of every Marine in the Navy, and the fact that some of his Marine subordinates have Devil Fruit powers, such as Smoker, Hina, and Aokiji. It's also possible that he may have access to Devil Fruits and gives them to subordinates that are deemed worthy. Note that "Sengoku" can be written in kanji as 戦国, meaning "warring states," which is a period of Japanese history. He was the one who, twenty years ago, as an admiral entrusted the Golden Den Den Mushi to Spandine, allowing him to order the Buster Call on Ohara.
Sengoku is considered by Whitebeard one of the few people that know the seas from the time of Gold Roger. The other two he notes are Vice-Admiral Garp and Roger himself.
[edit] Admiral
There are only three Marines with the title of Admiral in the Navy of One Piece. They are known by their aliases, "Blue Pheasant" (Aokiji), "Red Dog" (Akainu), and "Yellow Monkey" (Kizaru). Aokiji and Akainu, who both appeared in Robin's flashback to the Buster Call that wiped out her home island of Ohara, have been referred to by their real names, while Kizaru remains unseen and anonymous. The three admirals and the Fleet Admiral are the only Marines within the Navy who are capable of issuing Buster Calls, which dispatch 10 warships commanded by 5 Vice-Admirals to obliterate a specific target.
[edit] Aokiji
See main article: Aokiji
[edit] Akainu
Akainu, the "Red Dog" (赤イヌ 大将 Akainu Taishō) , Known as Vice Admiral Sakazuki before his promotion, was present at the Ohara incident. He ordered the destruction of a ship of civilians, claiming it needed to be destroyed in case any scholars snuck on board. His entire face is not seen during his appearance, as it is hidden by the hood of his jacket. He believes in "absolute justice", which is against Aokiji's way of thinking. In the G8 anime filler arc, Commander Johnathan claims to be friends with Akainu.
[edit] Kizaru
Kizaru, the "Yellow Monkey", is the third of the three Admirals. Nothing is known about him aside from his alias, as his only appearance in the series so far has been a silhouette.
[edit] Vice-Admiral
A Vice-Admiral is the Navy Rank under Admirals, they may often act as assistants to Admirals, or act independently under the command of the World Government. One of the official duties of Vice Admirals is to participate and lead Buster Calls.
[edit] The vice-admirals of the buster call on Enies Lobby
These are the five vice-admirals that attacked Enies Lobby. Four of their faces were grim on approach, and the fifth one appeared to always smile. It is unknown if any of them will be introduced.
Three of them have been unofficially introduced, but unnamed. The one covered in scars was the one to reveal Rob Lucci's past to the readers, and seems to respect his lower-ranking sailors. He also appears to be level-headed as he maintained his grim face after seeing Lucci's defeat by Luffy. He also seem to bear some level of insight for when Spandam ordered the marines to continue their assault, he merely remained indifferent. But nevertheless focused his eyes over to Spandam, suggesting that he saw through his lie that the latter was "given" a direct order from Aokiji to obliterate the Straw Hats. The smoking one in the helmet seems to have morals similar to those of Axe-Hand Morgan, having ordered the attack force to fire upon the ship that Luffy and Rob Lucci were fighting over. This resulted in the deaths of 1000 sailors, as well as a sailor that argued against the Vice Admiral's orders (he was shot in cold blood). The one on the far left of the picture seems to have a level of comradeship, saving every sailor trapped on Enies Lobby, and refused to attack the Franky Family before the sailors were evacuated.
[edit] Monkey D. Garp
See main article: Monkey D. Garp
[edit] Tsuru
Vice-Admiral Tsuru (つる中将 Tsuru Chūjō) the "Great Tactician" (大参謀 Dai-Sanbō) is one of Sengoku's direct subordinates at the base in the Sanctuary of Marie Joie. Tsuru seems to act as an information supplier to Sengoku, as seen when Lafitte appears at the gathering at Marie Joie. She was present for the gathering of the Shichibukai to choose a replacement for Sir Crocodile.
Eiichiro Oda seems to enjoy naming women after birds. The tradition continues with Tsuru, whose name means "Crane."
[edit] Komir
Vice-Admiral Komir (コーミル中将 Kōmiru Chūjō) is the commander of Naval Base G2 in Ace's chapter title-page mini-story. Komir's administrative meetings are plagued by bitter coffee, as Ace witnesses firsthand when he infiltrates the base posing as a Naval officer. Though Ace's cover is blown, he ends up saving the day by reuniting the milkmaiden Moda with her parents on the Naval Grocery Ship. This ensures a steady supply of milk to Base G2, as well as pleasant meetings with tasty coffee for the Vice-Admiral.
[edit] Jaguar D. Saulo
Seiyuu: Takeshi Kusao
Vice-Admiral Jaguar D. Saulo (ハグワール・D・サウロ中将 Haguwāru D. Sauro Chūjō) is a former Naval officer introduced in Nico Robin's flashback during the Enies Lobby arc. Saulo is a giant, but unlike previously introduced giants in the One Piece manga, Saulo did not originate from the viking-inspired warrior's paradise, Elbaf. Saulo is also characterized as having a unique, but awkward laugh ("Dereshi") that he finds somewhat embarrassing.
Saulo is the fifth character in the series to possess a "D" as his middle initial, and was the first to explain that the "D" is in fact a family or clan-name. This is used as a basis for the theory that he and/or Gol D Roger are related to Monkey D. Luffy
While on duty, Saulo's vessel encountered a wanted ship run by the Archaeologists of Ohara, who left West Blue to locate and decipher the mysterious Poneglyphs that bear an ancient, forgotten history of the One Piece world. Despite ordering his men to take the archaeologists alive, Saulo's crew slaughtered all but one; Nico Olvia, the mother of future Straw Hat crewmember Nico Robin. After her capture, Saulo was informed by Sengoku that he would be one of the five chosen Vice Admirals to lead a Buster Call against the Ohara for its crimes of deciphering the Poneglyphs. Rejecting the study of history as a justification for the order, Saulo, like Smoker, would begin to doubt the Naval doctrine of "Absolute Justice".
After interrogating Olvia, Saulo grew disgusted with the military's brutal intentions and defected against the World Government by releasing her. Shortly thereafter, he was shipwrecked in a storm, then sent adrift in the ocean until fatefully landing on Ohara itself. There, he met and befriended Nico Robin and was reunited with Nico Olvia. After promising Olvia to ensure Robin's safety, Saulo was frozen by Vice Admiral Kuzan (Aokiji). As he was being frozen, Saulo smiled and laughed, cryptically echoing the way Gold Roger was executed two years prior. Because Saulo had been good friends with Aokiji, Aokiji let Robin go according to Saulo's wishes.
[edit] John Giant
Vice-Admiral John Giant (ジョン・ジャイアント中将 Jyon Jyaianto Chūjō) is one of the naval officers shown in the Naval Headquarters during the announcement of Luffy's first bounty. At that time he was giving a speech regarding the "Justice". His name and rank are revealed in One Piece Blue.[4]
[edit] Commodore
[edit] Purin-Purin
Commodore Purin-Purin (プリンプリン准将 Purinpurin Junshō) is a Naval officer in the Navy's 77th Branch, who is dispatched to Arlong Park to evacuate the survivors of Arlong's tyrannical reign. He never arrives. When Purin-Purin sees the fish-man's base, hubris gets the better of the Commodore, and he orders an attack. This provokes Arlong's ire, and the fish-man crew makes quick work of Purin-Purin and his ship, sending it to the bottom of the sea in an artificial maelstrom.
- Note: "Purin" means "pudding".
[edit] Captain
[edit] Morgan
- Seiyuu: Banjo Ginga
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Michael Alston Bailey
Ex-Captain Morgan (モーガン大佐 Mōgan Taisa), called "Axe-Hand Morgan" (斧手のモーガン Onote no Mōgan) since he literally has an axe for a right arm, is the first Naval officer of significant rank to be seen in the series.
When Morgan is first introduced, he is governing over the small island of Shell Town, where his Naval base is located. Yet he is ruling by fear, abusing his rank to make people pay taxes, and even going as far as killing his own men if they do not obey his commands. He has a very spoiled son named Helmeppo, who is just as bad at using his father's rank to get what he wants from the island's inhabitants. This all changes however when Luffy comes to town to help Koby fulfil his dream and possibly recruit Roronoa Zoro into his crew. After Luffy accidentally breaks a newly finished statue of Morgan, the captain immediately sets after him, confronting Luffy in the courtyard of the Navy base. Morgan is defeated by Luffy without even landing a single blow, though he is finished off by Zoro as Luffy has to deal with Helmeppo holding Koby hostage.
Later, it is revealed in the Captain Kuro Arc that he was the only survivor in an attack by Kuro on a Navy ship, which left him with a broken jaw. He was hypnotised by Jango into believing that he had captured Kuro (actually a lookalike pirate), gaining him immediate fame and possibly setting him on the path to his current obsession with rank and power.
The last that was seen of Morgan in the series was in a chapter title page mini-story, as a prisoner stripped of rank on Vice-Admiral Garp's ship, where both Koby and Helmeppo also happen to be serving. However, he slashes Garp and escapes the ship by using his own son as a hostage. Helmeppo disowns him shortly thereafter and returns to the Navy ship, leaving Morgan alone and drifting the ocean.
He was seen again as a cameo in Jango's Mini-arc taking a nap in the ocean as Jango unknowingly passes him.
In the video game "One Piece Grand Battle" a picture shows Morgan leaning over Don Krieg's shoulder, leading some to believe that there's a pact between the two.
The word "Möwe", which appears on Morgan's metal jaw, is German for "seagull."
[edit] Nezumi
- Seiyuu:
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Dan Green
Captain Nezumi (ネズミ大佐 Nezumi Taisa) is a Naval Officer of the Navy's 16th Branch, in the East Blue. His appearance and manner are rodent-like (as "nezumi" is Japanese for both "mouse" and "rat"), and he is arrogant and decidedly corrupt. Nezumi takes bribes from Arlong, so the fish-man pirate can keep a low profile. Acting on a tip from Arlong, he uncovers the treasure that Nami had been hoarding in order to buy back Cocoyashi Village (Coco Village in the English dub), and confiscates it from her. After Arlong is defeated, Nezumi attempts to intervene against the Straw Hat Pirates, but he is quickly defeated. His report back to his superiors is what prompts the Navy to assign Luffy with his first bounty. Like several characters in One Piece, Nezumi has a unique laugh("Hyik hyki hyik"!).
[edit] Hina
- Seiyuu:
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Kathleen Delaney
Captain Hina (ヒナ大佐 Hina Taisa) is an officer in the Navy, and the object of both Jango and Fullbody's affections. She has received the nickname "Hina the Black Cage" (黒檻のヒナ Kuro-Ori no Hina) because of her Ori Ori no Mi (オリオリの実) ability, which allows her to form restraints on people by swiping her limbs through them. Hina has a tendency to speak in the third person, though this only seems to add to her attractiveness for her subordinates. It is usual for young children in Japan to refer to themselves by using their own name. This is seen as "cute". For her part, however, she coldly spurns any advances made towards her. She treats Jango and Fullbody very well, giving them their own two ships, allowing them to wear their own clothes, and and assigning them special assassination tasks.
She is a long-time friend of Captain Smoker, joining the Navy at the same time as him, and helping him getting out of situations where Smoker could have been fired.
She is 32 years old. [5]
In a recent Japanese Fan Poll, Hina is currently ranked the 36th most popular character in One Piece.
[edit] T-Bone
- Seiyuu:
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment):
Captain T-Bone (Ｔボーン大佐 Tī-Bōn Taisa) is a Naval officer working with the Government-employed agency CP9. He was assigned to help escort the CP9 agents to Enies Lobby, the Judicial Heaquarters of the World Government on the Grand Line, where T-Bone is usually stationed. T-Bone is also known as the "Ship-Cutter" (船切り Funegiri), for his mastery of swordsmanship allows him to slice open large objects (like ships or Sea Kings). This skill is similar to something that Hawk-Eye Mihawk can do. T-Bone has a hideous face, but he is a very honorable and considerate person, and absolutely abhors needless violence. When he sees an injured comrade, he will always tear a piece of fabric off his own cloak to use as a bandage for each of his men's wounds, and will protect them from harm. His attacks are composed of creating a blue line of energy which acts as a blade. This is powerful enough to cut through trains, boats, and sea kings.
After his car is detached from The Sea Train, Puffing Tom, T-Bone sets out on the tracks by himself, seeking help. He is defeated and knocked into the sea by Roronoa Zoro as Rocketman, the prototype Sea Train, speeds down the tracks.
In a recent Japanese Fan Poll, T-Bone is currently ranked the 40th most popular character in One Piece.
[edit] Smoker
- See Smoker.
[edit] Commander
[edit] Ripper
Commander Ripper was one of Axe-Hand Morgan's officers at his base in the East Blue. After Morgan's defeat, he takes control of the base's operations. He allows Luffy and Zoro to escape for ending Morgan's tyranny, and later puts himself on food restrictions for doing so. He is the one who also allows Koby, and forces Helmeppo, to join the Navy.
[edit] Lieutenant-Commander
[edit] Brandnew
Brandnew is a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy, who appears at a base while Luffy and crew are en route to Logue Town. He is the officer who announces Luffy's first bounty of 30 million Belis.
[edit] Lieutenant
[edit] Fullbody
- See below.
[edit] Lieutenant Junior Grade
[edit] Hexagon
Lieutenant Junior Grade Hexagon (ロッカク中尉 Rokkaku Chūi?) was one of Axe-Hand Morgan's officers at his East Blue base. When Hexagon refused Morgan's order to kill Rika, Morgan killed Hexagon with his axe-hand (he was knocked into a coma in the English anime, with Morgan using the blunt end of his axe-hand). His name apparently comes from a villain in Romance Dawn v.2, a prototypical One Piece manga. This is the only resemblance between the characters. Interestingly, Hexagon has a face shaped like his namesake.
[edit] Master Chief Petty Officer
[edit] Tashigi
- Seiyuu: Junko Noda
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Priscilla Everett
- Birthday: October 6th [6]
Master Chief Petty Officer Tashigi (たしぎ曹長 Tashigi Sōchō) is a Naval officer serving under Captain Smoker. She was first introduced when the Straw Hat Pirates docked in Loguetown, where she was stationed. Smoker, her Captain, seems to regard her as a protégé; the two work very well together and share what appears to be almost a father-daughter relationship. While adept at sword fighting, she is unusually clumsy, which tends to gets on Smoker's nerves. She is also very well-versed in famous katana, knowing their names and origins. Tashigi wields the Shigure, a Wazamono sword (sharp sword).
Tashigi's stated goal is to remove all Meitō (named swords with prestigious histories) from the hands of those who would use them for their own selfish ends. After meeting Roronoa Zoro (whom she had inadvertently helped pick new swords before she learned his name), she set out to sea with Smoker, chasing after him and the rest of the Straw Hat crew. So far the known swords she has collected is Kashū.
Like Smoker, Tashigi has her own view of "Justice" which differs from the Navy's own definition, and will fight for what she sees as the right thing to do. During the battle for Alabasta, Tashigi is badly wounded while fighting against Nico Robin, and bears witness to the triumph of Luffy and his crew in the name of their friends. Though association with pirates is a serious offense, neither she nor Smoker feel the need to pursue any charges against the Royal Family of Alabasta, opting instead to continue sailing the Grand Line.
When he first saw Tashigi, Zoro was instantly struck by how much Tashigi looks like his deceased childhood friend Kuina (so shocked that, in the anime, he accidentally crushed Tashigi's glasses in his hand). It is a promise made with Kuina that motivates Zoro to be the greatest swordsman in the world, and Kuina left him the Wadō Ichimonji, his greatest treasure. It remains to be seen if there is a more than coincidental connection between Kuina and Tashigi.
She and Smoker haven't been seen since the two of them left Alabasta save for a cameo in the cover of chapter 432.
[edit] Trivia
- Tashigi is 21 years old and is 170cm tall. Her birthday is October 6th. If Kuina was alive today, she would be 21 as she was two years older than Zoro.
- In Japanese Fan Polls, Tashigi is currently the 20th most popular character.
- Tashigi is also playable in the new One Piece Grand Adventure game.
[edit] Koby
- Seiyuu: Mika Doi
- Voice Actor (4Kids): Kayzie Rogers
Master Chief Petty Officer Koby (コビー曹長 Kobī Sōchō), a small, timid, bespectacled boy, is the first person Luffy meets on his haphazard journey. Koby had intended to board a ship for a fishing trip one day, but by accident, instead found himself amid the dangerous crew of Lady Alvida. To stay alive, he 'volunteered' to become a lowly cabin boy for this band of pirates, but fostered a desire to escape one day, and even join the Navy. His fear of Alvida prevented him from leaving, but Luffy's arrival and triumph over the 'ugly old hag' (as Koby summoned the courage to call her) finally brought him hope. After helping Luffy and Zoro free a nearby Naval base from the grip of the tyrannical Captain Morgan, Koby is admitted to join the Navy and become a Marine as a Zatsuyō (雑用 Zatsuyō "various tasks"), alongside the Captain's disgraced son Helmeppo.
In his and Helmeppo's title page mini-arc, the two become unwillingly involved in an escape attempt by Morgan the prisoner (Morgan takes his son hostage and steals a ship). Though Morgan escapes, the bravery shown by the two earns them the respect of their superiors, and the attention of Vice-Admiral Garp. He and Helmeppo are currently serving under the Vice-Admiral Garp, at Marine HQ. Koby reappears with Garp and Helmeppo in Chapter 431 at Water 7, looking significantly stronger and more mature. It appears that Koby has also learned Soru, similar to that of CP9 members, and with it was able to kick Luffy. Soon after, Luffy slammed him to the ground and only after that he admitted defeat.
His dream is to become an officer so he can catch criminals such as Alvida. In addition, he also wants to become strong and earn the rank of Admiral, and fight one-on-one with the person he sees will become Pirate King — Monkey D. Luffy.
It has not been explained by Oda how he changed so drastically in the facial part (nose, hair, forehead scar, etc).
[edit] Chief Petty Officer
[edit] Helmeppo
- Seiyuu:
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Sean Schemmel
Chief Petty Officer Helmeppo (ヘルメッポ軍曹 Herumeppo Gunsō?) is Axe-Hand Morgan's bratty son. After Morgan is defeated, he does petty work for the Naval Base in Shell Town along with Koby. This changes when they meet Vice-Admiral Garp, who takes them to his own base on the Grand Line to watch over and help guide their progress. His dream is to become an officer so he can regain the life of luxury he had before he was defeated by Luffy. He also wants to surpass his father, and capture him, as well as able to fight one-on-one with Zoro.
Helmeppo reappeared in chapter 431 at Water 7, along with Koby and Garp, looking significantly stronger and more mature, both physically and mentally. He has grown his hair out, replacing his old onion-shaped haircut and seems to be skilled with kukri swords. Interestingly, this gives him a similar appearance to Sarquiss of the Bellamy Pirates, with the exception that the latter wields one large kukri. Helmeppo attempted to fight Zoro in chapter 432, but he was defeated. He was also upset when Luffy and Zoro did not recognize him, because he wanted them to forgive him from the Morgan fiasco.
[edit] Seaman Recruit
[edit] Jango
- Seiyuu: Kazuki Yao
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment): Pete Zarustica
Seaman Recruit Jango (ジャンゴ三等兵 Jango Santohei, romanized in English adaptations as Django, possibly to avoid comparison to Jango Fett) is the first mate and hypnotist of Captain Kuro. He uses disks that double as chakrams to hypnotize people to his advantage in battle.
Jango wears strange clothes, including a long coat covered in the disks he uses to fight and hypnotize, and red-lensed heart-shaped glasses. (Later, his eyes were revealed to actually be heart-shaped) It can be assumed that his character was based on Michael Jackson, as when he travels he usually moonwalks, and he uses flashy gestures similar to his dance moves. Other notable similarities include his trench coat and his heart-shaped sunglasses; not to mention the socks, gloves, and Jackson-like facial features (the thin nose, etc.).
Jango possesses the power of hypnosis, which he uses to put people to sleep, to make Captain Kuro's crew far more powerful and fierce and to serve other purposes necessary to help fulfil his plans. He is not, however, perfect with his hypnosis - when he puts people to sleep, he usually falls asleep as well. And when he hypnotizes the crew to make them stronger, he also accidentally hypnotizes Monkey D. Luffy - with unpleasant results.
Jango is ordered by Kuro to kill Kaya, but before he can kill her, Usopp hits him with his exploding stars. Jango is thought dead, but secretly survives. Through many adventures and lots of hypnosis, he ends up a Navy recruit, working alongside the disgraced Ironfist Fullbody, under the command of Hina (whom they both adore).
He and Fullbody don't wear the official uniform that naval marines of their rank should, something that Hina allows them to do (Fullbody is shown wearing the full uniform before joining Hina's crew). <This is proof that it is indeed Hina who allows them to wear their own clothes> Hina treats the two of them as if they were higher ranking officers, like allowing them wear their own clothes, and giving them command of their own two ships when they went up against the Straw-hats. It all stands to reason, given that both men are much more skilled than their rank would imply. He and Fullbody are never far from each other, and appear to act as assassins; possibly why Hina treats them so good. Despite not wearing the uniform, Jango has his special variation of the blue scarf; a blue tie.
According to the answer to some fan mail Eichirō Oda received, Jango gained his powers after eating a mushroom that had grown on his chin while he was sleeping. He only ate the cap and the trunk of the mushroom still resides on his chin (whether or not this is a joke from Oda or not is yet to be proven). [7]
Jango also makes an appearance in the featurette of the 2nd One Piece Movie called 'Jango's Dance Carnival'.
[edit] Fullbody
- Seiyuu:
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment):
Fullbody (フルボディ Furubodi, refrence to the wine quality, as according to Eichiro Oda in the SBS section.) is a Seaman Recruit (三等兵 Santōhei), serving under captain Hina along with his friend Jango. He was once a Lieutenant (大尉 Tai'i) with the nickname "Ironfist Fullbody" (鉄拳のフルボディ Tekken no Furubodi), and a suave ladies' man. Sanji ruins his date with a woman by humiliating the arrogant man, and completely thrashes him when he ruins Sanji's soup. Fullbody, his ego in tatters, flees the oceangoing restaurant Baratie once the pirate Gin breaks out of his cell on Fullbody's ship.
The next time Fullbody is seen, he is competing in a dance contest on Mirrorball Island. After coming in 2nd place behind Jango (who is in disguise so as not to be caught by the authorities), the two become fast friends while remaining oblivious to the other's identity. This is not to last long though, as Fullbody's men find Jango's trademark clothes in an alleyway. As a pirate crew invades the island, Jango takes the opportunity to escape while Fullbody attempts to fight them off. He is thwarted when their leader takes a woman hostage, and Fullbody surrenders to keep her safe. Suddenly, Jango bursts back onto the scene to save his friend. Putting aside their allegiances, Jango and Fullbody wipe out the pirates.
Fullbody still has his duties, however, and arrests Jango. But, as Jango is tried in court, Fullbody returns the favor and offers an objection dance which gets the whole courtroom caught up in a huge emotional dance-fest. Unable to deny the power of the men's friendship, the court acquits Jango on the condition that Fullbody be demoted to the rank of Seaman Recruit. Afterwards, Jango is about to hypnotize Fullbody into forgetting their friendship ever occurred (so that neither of their careers would be jeopardized in the future), when they both spot the beaufitul Captain Hina. Inspired, they both become members of her crew.
Fullbody later appears in Alabasta, sporting two iron plates, chin stubble, and the new nickname "Double-Ironfist Fullbody" (両鉄拳のフルボディ Ryōtekken no Furubodi). Like his friend Jango, he is completely enamored of Hina and will do anything to please her. He and Jango attempt to prevent the Straw Hat Pirates from escaping Alabasta, but are soundly defeated.
Fullbody appears much later in the story, tracking down remaining members of Baroque Works with Jango and Hina on Kyūka Island. He and Jango assist Hina in capturing Miss Valentine, and are hunting down Mr. 5, Miss Goldenweek, and Mr. 2 Bon Clay (disguised as Mr. 3).
He and Jango don't wear the official uniform that naval marines of their rank should, something that Hina allows them to do (Fullbody is shown wearing the uniform before joining Hina's crew, this is proof that it is indeed Hina who allows them to wear their own clothes). Hina treats the two of them as if they were higher ranking officers, like allowing them wear their own clothes, and giving them command of their own two ships when they went up against the Straw-hats. He and Jango are never far from each other and appear to act as assassins.
Since working with Jango, his personality turned from a high-society gentleman to a bruiser, though he still loves to dance with Jango. He and Jango serve as comic relief characters.
[edit] Bellemere
- Seiyuu: Noriko Hidaka
- Voice Actor (4Kids Entertainment):
Bellemere (ベルメール Berumēru; belle-mère is French for "stepmother") was Nami and Nojiko's adoptive mother, seen in a flashback during the Arlong arc. It is said that in her youth she was as rambunctious and mischievous as Nami was as a child. Bellemere raised the two girls after they found her near death after a fight between naval marines (of which Bellemere was one) and pirates that left their home island in ruins.
It is unknown what post or rank she held in the Navy before adopting Nami and Nojiko and getting shot by Arlong, however, do to her uniform and blue scarf, it can be easily deduced that she was a seaman recruit.
While Bellememre had very little income, she gave everything to her girls and survived by eating the mandarin oranges she grew. One day Bellemere scolded Nami when she got caught stealing (Nami stole a book because she knew they were poor). Nami wouldn't acknowledge the three of them as a real family, and ran off, saying that she wished she were adopted by rich people.
That same day Arlong invaded the island and found her home, Bellemere tried to fend them off but was quickly subdued. When asked for the fee needed to stay alive, it turned out all the money Bellemere had would either save herself or her two daughters. Things would've been okay, as Arlong was unaware of the two girls' existence, but Bellemere gave it to her two girls as she would rather have died than not call herself a mother. To that end, Arlong shot her right in front of the eyes of her two adopted daughters, but not before Bellemere apologized to Nami for not being richer, and not being able to buy the girls whatever they wanted. With that, she said her final words to the girls: "I love you." Bellemere is hardly ever seen without a cigarette. She has the word "Mace," on her shirt. Both the word and the cigar are edited out in the English Dub.
In the English version of the anime, she is sent to the dungeon for not paying her fee and is killed off screen.
In a recent Japanese Fan Poll, Bellemere is currently ranked the 32nd most popular character in One Piece.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga - Vol.8 - Chapter 66, The Navy ranking system explained
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga - Vol.29 - Chapter 265, The difference between those present at the Naval HQ
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga - Vol.24 - Chapter 217, The Marine uniform explained
- ^ One Piece Blue: Grand Data File - Chapter 2, Characters Directory.
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga - Vol.27 - Chapter 248, Fan question: What are the profiles of Smoker and Hina?
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga Vol.33 Chapter 311, Fan question: Tashigi's birthdate suggestion?
- ^ SBS questions: One Piece Manga - Vol.6 Chapter 45 and One Piece Manga - Vol.14 Chapter 124 , Fan question: What is that thing growing on Jango's chin?
[edit] External links
- My Justice, a Sergeant Major Tashigi
- Hina the Black Cat Fanlisting
- ArlongPark's Marine Ranks - this ranking system is more based on US Navy ranks
