What Do Sailors Call Their Ships?

When considering the names of naval ships, one might wonder what official protocols dictate these choices. However, the naming of ships often extends beyond these official designations, reflecting a unique flair from the ship's crew. This exploration delves into the history and methods behind naval ship naming, tracing patterns and variations.

Historical Naming Protocols

The official naming of naval ships has evolved over time, reflecting the military and cultural contexts of each era. For example, during World War II, the United States Navy followed specific protocols for different types of ships. These protocols varied:

Destroyers: Named after individuals who had been awarded major medals. Cruisers: Initially named after cities, but now after battles. Battleships: Name after states. Carriers: Initially named after famous ship battles and later, secretaries of the Navy, and then, finally, after Presidents. Modern carriers also bear names of famous ships from the past. Submarines: Initially named after fish and later, SSNs (nuclear-powered attack submarines) named after cities. SSBNs (nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines) were named after states, with battleships named after presidents.

It is crucial to note that these naming conventions can change over time, making it essential to understand the context in which these ships were commissioned.

Ship Naming Customs and Quirks

Naval personnel often refer to ships with affectionate or witty names that differ from their official designations. These names often reflect the crew's experiences and memories of their service. For example:

The ship Constellation is referred to as Connie. The Enterprise is called the Big E. The Truxtun is known as Tommy T.

Each of these alternative names has its own story and often a bit of good humor or fondness associated with it. For instance, a submariner who served on the Abraham Lincoln might have called it the “Sinkin’ Stinkin’ Lincoln”, capturing a mix of embarrassment and frustration during an event that the crew would rather forget.

Global Naming Trends

Ship naming practices vary significantly across different countries and cultures. In the British Royal Navy, for instance, destroyers were often named after indigenous groups throughout the former Empire, such as:

Sioux Zulu Ashanti Haida

Similarly, in the United States, ships in certain classes were named similarly, such as the 27 British, Canadian, and Australian Tribal class destroyers of the 1930s and 1940s, which were mostly named after indigenous groups. This practice underscores the cultural and historical significance attached to ship names within these navies.

Modern Naming Practices

Modern naval practicing continues to adopt a mix of naming styles, combining historical and contemporary elements:

ISS Nimitz: Named after the renowned admiral. USS Gerald R. Ford: Named after the former president. USS Missouri and USS Arizona: Both named after historic battles and sites. USS Chicago: Named after a major city. USS Spruance: Named after a battle.

However, not all ships are named in this manner. Some remains mundane, such as:

USS Samuel B. Roberts: Named after a person (a naval hero). USS Spruance: Named after a battle.

The diversity in ship naming practices reflects the rich tapestry of military history and the evolving nature of naval traditions.

Conclusion

The names of naval ships, both official and crew-adopted, offer a fascinating glimpse into the history, culture, and legacy of maritime warfare. These names not only honor those who have served but also provide a lifeline of memory for the sailors who were there at the critical moments. Whether named after heroes, battles, or indigenous groups, these names serve as a testament to the enduring spirit and ingenuity of naval traditions.