That Rich Flattop Shellback Tradition
As the grand old carrier Nimitz is on the tail end of her final cruise, drawing an epic 51-year career to a close, she held court for one last group of Shellbacks upon Crossing the Line (equator).
Neptunus Rex, the Royal Barbers, and company held sway once again, with Poseidon, the ship’s Expeditionary Facility Dog, included. Knot work and baptisms for all.
It should be noted that the Shellback ceremony on Nimitz comes roughly 90 years to the day that USS Lexington (CV-2) held her 1936 line crossing ceremony.
From the latter’s cruise book:
Embrace that tradition, swabs.