Brass brilliance on battleships is time-honored legacy
Shining the brass on a battleship is not merely a mundane chore; it’s a tradition deeply ingrained in naval culture, symbolizing pride, discipline, and reverence for the ship and its crew. Dating back centuries, the practice of maintaining the brass fittings and fixtures aboard naval vessels serves both practical and symbolic purposes, reflecting the commitment to excellence and attention to detail that defines naval service.
Brass, a durable alloy of copper and zinc, has long been favored for its resistance to corrosion and its attractive golden hue. On battleships and other naval vessels, brass fittings and fixtures are ubiquitous, adorning everything from handrails and portholes to bells and cannons. The harsh marine environment, with its saltwater spray and constant exposure to the elements, can take its toll on brass, causing it to tarnish and lose its luster over time.
Shining the brass on a battleship is a labor-intensive process that involves cleaning, polishing, and buffing the metal to restore its shine and brilliance. This task is typically assigned to junior sailors, who learn the intricacies of brass maintenance as part of their training and duties aboard the ship. While it may seem like a simple chore, shining the brass requires patience, attention to detail, and a steady hand to achieve the desired results.
The tradition of shining the brass on a battleship goes beyond mere maintenance; it’s a symbolic ritual that instills discipline, pride, and a sense of ownership among the crew. By meticulously caring for the ship’s brass fittings and fixtures, sailors demonstrate their dedication to preserving the vessel’s integrity and upholding its proud heritage. The act of shining the brass fosters camaraderie and teamwork among the crew, as they work together to ensure that every inch of brass gleams with perfection.
Beyond its symbolic significance, shining the brass on a battleship also serves practical purposes. Clean, well-maintained brass fittings and fixtures contribute to the overall appearance of the ship, projecting an image of professionalism and readiness to allies and adversaries alike. Regular maintenance helps prevent corrosion and deterioration, prolonging the lifespan of the brass and reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Shining the brass on a battleship is often accompanied by other cleanliness and maintenance rituals, such as scrubbing the decks and painting the hull. Together, these tasks contribute to the overall upkeep of the ship and reinforce the importance of cleanliness, order, and discipline in naval operations. They serve as a visible reminder of the crew’s commitment to excellence and their role in safeguarding the ship and its mission.
While the tradition of shining the brass on a battleship may seem antiquated in today’s technologically advanced navy, it remains a cherished practice that honors the time-honored traditions of naval service. Whether aboard a modern warship or a historic vessel, sailors continue to take pride in caring for the ship’s brass fittings and fixtures, knowing that they are upholding a legacy that stretches back centuries. In doing so, they not only preserve the physical integrity of the ship but also honor the sacrifices and achievements of those who have served before them.
Shining the brass on a battleship is far more than just a routine maintenance task; it’s a tradition steeped in symbolism, discipline, and pride. By meticulously caring for the ship’s brass fittings and fixtures, sailors demonstrate their dedication to preserving its integrity and upholding its proud heritage. The act of shining the brass fosters camaraderie and teamwork among the crew, reinforcing the importance of cleanliness, order, and discipline in naval operations.
—Christy Hinko is a managing editor at Anton Media Group and is a U.S. Navy veteran.
