Sideboy

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A sideboy is a member of an even-numbered group of seaman posted in two rows at the quarterdeck when a visiting -political, military, diplomatic or royal- dignitary boards or leaves the ship, historically to help (or even hoist) him aboard, presently as a ceremonial guard of honour, in a ceremony known as tending the Side. Sideboys are instructed by the piping of the Boatswain's Mate. The Quarterdeck being a ceremonial location on a weatherdeck of the ship, usually at the location of the accommodation (boarding) ladder.

Since 1843, United States Navy regulations have stipulated the number of Sideboys according to the protocollary importance of the guests, which are similarly entitled to other honors; viz., the tune and number of ruffles and flourishes and the number of cannon fired as a salute.