Manning the rail

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Sailors of the USS Abraham Lincoln man the rails during her return to port after participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom
Sailors of the USS Abraham Lincoln man the rails during her return to port after participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom

Manning the rail is a method of saluting or rendering honors used by naval vessels. The custom evolved from that of manning the yards, which dates from the days of sail. On sailing ships, men stood evenly spaced on all the yards (the spars holding the sails) and gave three cheers to honor distinguished persons. Today the crew are stationed along the rails and superstructure of a ship when honors are rendered.

The United States Navy prescribes manning the rail as a possible honor to render to the President of the United States and for rulers of foreign nations. A similar but less formal ceremony is to have the crew "at quarters" when the ship is entering or leaving port.[1]

Manning the rail is also the traditional way to honor the USS Arizona Memorial when it is passed by U.S. ships.

[edit] References

  1. ^ United States Navy (February 2002). "Chapter 9 Customs and Courtesies", Basic Military Requirements NAVEDTRA 14325 (PDF), Naval Education and Training Professional Development And Technology Center, 9-9 – 9-10. NAVSUP Logistics Tracking Number 0504-LP-101-1377. Retrieved on 2006-12-16. 
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