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Abandon Ship appreciates your support of arts and education. Your donation will support our mission to bring live theater to elementary school students.
Able Seaman
An Able Seaman knows “the ropes,” the complex system of rigging required to set the sails and has served for at least two years as a “ordinary seaman”. An AB (as they were called) is also a good helmsman, qualified to take a turn at the wheel and pilot a vessel to instruction when on watch. The difference between a seaman and a mate is that a mate is a mariner who can navigate.
Boatswain
A Boatswain (pronounced /ˈboʊsən/, often spelled bosun or bos'n) is a high-ranking petty officer or warrant officer responsible for the deck crew, ship maintenance (rigging, anchors, hull), and overseeing daily operations. Acting as the senior foreman, they ensure the vessel’s deck and equipment are functional.
First Mate
A First Mate is second in command and reports directly to the captain. The first mate is responsible for managing the deck crew, supervising cargo operations, ensuring vessel stability, and taking command if the captain is incapacitated. Being a first mate is a steppingstone to being a captain.
Captain
A Captain is a master mariner who is qualified to command a vessel. In the mid-1800s, a captain had to be at least 21 years old with at least six years at sea (two as an officer, and one as first mate). A captain chooses where the ship will sail, under what sail power and at what risk to the ship and the crew.
Admiral
An Admiral is a high-ranking flag officer who commands a fleet or group of ships, rather than just a single vessel. They are "big picture" leaders responsible for strategic decisions, naval policies, and large-scale operations. Admirals generally hold four-star ranks (O-10) and are equivalent to army generals.
Custom
A Customs Officer enforces regulations at shipping docks, managing the movement of goods, people, and agricultural products. They ensure compliance with import/export laws, collect duties and taxes, and prevent illegal contraband from entering a country.
Donations will display as “OneOC” with Tax ID 95-2021700, registered 501c3 non-profit organization.