Crossing The Line Ceremony

Where lowly Pollywogs are cleansed by the decree of King Neptunus Rex: ruler of the raging main.

Translation: you’re gonna go through some shit. It’s a time honored tradition and while it’s all in good fun- you better take it seriously. If you haven’t ever crossed the Equator on a Navy cruise- you’re a Pollywog. Once you’re crossed and gone through the ceremony- you’re a Shellback. If you’re fortunate enough to cross the Equator at the International Dateline then you’re a Golden Shellback.

The ceremony itself is something to look forward to- and you shouldn’t know too much going in. We wouldn’t want to steal any Shellback thunder. Just be prepared to get slightly abused for about six hours for a large ship and about three for a small ship.

You will need a spare uniform (utilities) that you wouldn’t mind losing. What they do to you- it will be beyond washing.

It’s not required that you go, but you’ll be a pussy if you don’t. Everything is supervised and it’s not meant to humiliate you- sailors have been going through this for quite some time. So suck it up and get in the game.

Want to know more?

What is a WESTPAC?

A deployment of Naval forces to the Western Pacific (ocean area) in support of maritime objectives and operations to the US Military. During this six month deployment the fleet visits many ports in the Asian/Middle Eastern area.

Things Sailors Need To Know:

• Don't be a jackass. You're nothing special until you have some years under your belt so don't get too cocky.



• Do your job, keep the bitching to a minimal. Everyone is miserable... even the higher ups. Crying about YOUR situation doesn't do anything but lower people's perception of you.



• Have fun. It's all you have. Keep yourself in check and be smart. There is a brain in that head of yours and it's saying "don't pay for sex in Thailand."