Bosun

The Bosun (or Bo's'n both contracted forms of boatswain) or in the Cliffs' Fleet, an Able-Bodied Maintenance Man (ABMM), was the foreman of the Deckhands.

Duties: Bosun or ABMM's duties are usually assigned by the First Mate; they usually revolve around maintenance of all deck equipment and the cleanliness of the deck areas. The Bosun and the Deckhands ensured that winches, the hatch crane, anchor windlasses, landing boom, and other auxiliaries operated correctly. The Bosun could call for Engineers if necessary to help with repairs. The Bosun is familiar with all aspects of deck operation -- marlinespike seamanship (lines, cables, hoisting, scaffolding, etc.). He opens and closes hatches and supervises the deck crew when cleaning up/hosing after loading and unloading.

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