Post by Queenie on Aug 30, 2012 16:57:46 GMT -5
The positions on the Navy ships are as follows:
Captain
[/b][/u]Captain
The title of Captain was universal to the most senior officer commanding a ship whatever his actual rank. Duties on board ship were to prepare the ship for sailing, make inventories of stores and write reports for the Admiralty on work being done on the ship. He also had to recruit the ship’s complement and record details in the muster book. During a voyage, he was responsible for the ship and crew’s well being, including feeding, clothing, health and discipline, maintain the log of the ship, and delegate authority as necessary. He was also responsible for directing the ship’s activities in naval engagements.
Commander[/b][/u]
The rank of Commander is equal to that of the pirates First Mate, as the term became used for the Captain’s second-in-command. They are responsible for the organisation of the ship and administration under the guidance of the Captain.[/color]
Lieutenant[/b][/u]
The rank of Lieutenant can be traced back centuries, with the simple reason of being an understudy to the Captain in case of accident or illness, although they were not permanently established. He was responsible for maintaining discipline and navigation and with the junior lieutenants responsible for ensuring the crew carried out their duties. He was in charge of watches. Lieutenants received their commissions for particular ships and the position within the officer ranks.
Boatswain[/b][/u]
Boatswains had responsibility for rigging, cables, anchors, sails and boats. They were not eligible to command ships but could stand watches. The sailmaker and boatswain mate were under the command of the boatswain. This rank was one of the five standing officers appointed to a ship.
Gunner[/b][/u]
Gunners were responsible for the maintenance of guns and their equipment. They had to adhere to strict rules. They made tackle and breeches for guns and make regular inspections during a voyage. Another responsibility was to ensure that powder in the magazines were kept dry.
Midshipmen[/b][/u]
This rank was a senior Petty Officer, usually filled by young gentleman with aspirations to become commissioned officers. The number of Midshipmen in a ship was fixed by the rating of the ship and it was at the discretion of the Captain as to who was carried. This position will include jobs such as Boatswain’s Mates, Sailmakers, Cooks, Armourers, Surgeon’s Mates, Carpenter’s Mates, Clerks, Schoolmasters for the sake of this forum.
All information gained is from this site here[/center]