I have always wondered, why navy personal stand around the edge of a ship when it comes into port. Can someone point me in the right direction to find out why this is done, and what the significance of iit is.
2007-06-28 10:04:06 · 4 answers · asked by pccomp666 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Military
Manning the rails is a form of saluting or rendering honors when departing or returning from deployments, entering/exiting foreign ports, and when pulling into Pearl Harbor to honor the USS ARIZONA.
It dates back to the early days of sailing when men lined the decks and shouted three cheers to honor distinguished persons.
2007-06-28 14:26:18 · answer #1 · answered by erehwon 4 · 4⤊ 0⤋
It is an awesome sight. I was very proud as I stood watching the USS Carl Vinson come into port after deployment to the Gulf. My son was on the ship and I was there for him. There was quite a crowd waiting for the ship. As the ship came into the Bay people were on the Golden Gate Bridge and throwing flowers down to the ship. All the water boats were spraying water and escorting her in. I had never seen anything like it. I know I didnt answer your question but I am a proud mother of a sailor and wanted to tell my story of seeing "Manning the Rail".
2007-06-28 10:22:45 · answer #2 · answered by mnwomen 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
It is a sign of strength, a sign of respect and a show of "all hands on deck" plus its pretty colorful
2007-06-28 10:12:36 · answer #3 · answered by D M 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
they can't wait to get to port and have some fun... its a long ride on a ship and when you get the time to hit the town... well you get overwhelmed.
2007-06-28 10:08:14 · answer #4 · answered by Tim 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋