Splice the mainbrace

Splicing in a large run of hemp was strenuous work, and generally the ship's best able seamen were chosen to carry out the task under the supervision of the boatswain ("bosun").

[6] However, in regard to those who could "splice the mainbrace", any man or officer over the age of 18 who desired to take it received an extra issue of one-eighth of a pint of rum.

On USS Barb,[12] a skipper on combat patrols in WWII, during the boat's 8th and 9th missions in 1944, did in fact announce on the 1MC, "Splice the mainbrace," after each successful attack and sinking of a Japanese ship.

[19] In Canada, the order was most recently given by Queen Elizabeth II on 29 June 2010 at the conclusion of the International Fleet Review for the occasion of the Royal Canadian Navy's 100th Anniversary.

She signalled: It has given me great pleasure to return with the Duke of Edinburgh to Halifax, Nova Scotia, to witness the International Fleet Review celebrating the Centennial of Canada's Navy.

Maritime Command has confirmed through the smartness of its people and ships, and superb execution of the International Fleet Review, the best traditions of service on the sea.

I know how greatly the dockyard and other supporting services have contributed to making this International Fleet review an occasion which I shall long remember.

The Royal Canadian Navy can take great pride in the accomplishments of the past, in its ongoing service to Canada, and the Significant contribution to Security on the world's oceans.

Prince Philip and I send our warm good wishes to all of you and look forward to following your important endeavours as you sail to meet the challenges of another century of service.