Historically the boatswain’s call was used to pass commands to the crew when the voice could not be heard over the sounds of the sea. Because of its high pitch, it could be heard over the activities of the crew and bad weather. Pipe aboard: Flag-rank officers or an important guest is boarding a Navy ship. This is part of a ceremony called “tending the side” which includes a party of sailors known as “side boys”. It has its origins in the need to hoist visiting senior officers aboard using a bosun’s chair when the weather was too rough for the use of ladders. The bosun would use his call to direct the side boys in the hoisting of the chair.

1100 hours 14 March 2014 Strom Thurmond High School:  Cadet Company Commander Meryl Prince has formed her company.  Boatswain’s call sounds as the official party enters the gymnasium at Strom Thurmond High School marking commencement of the annual NJROTC Pass-in-Review.  Captain Kenneth Gray Senior Naval Science Instructor Strom Thurmond High School, Mrs. Jill Jet Principal Strom Thurmond High School, Mr. Greg Anderson Superintendent Edgefield County Schools and LCDR Phillip Hickman, USN Associate Director S2 Transnational issues National Security Agency/Central Security Agency Georgia took their place for the review.

Following the parading of the colors the National Anthem was sung by Cadet Tyra Johnson and the invocation was provided by Cadet Hunter Reveille.  Unit commanders then exercised the Company and Drill Team followed by presentation of awards.  Twelve Cadets were awarded Exemplary Personal Appearance Ribbons. These Cadets did exceptionally well during a personnel inspection conducted in the morning by LCDR Phillip Hickman, the inspecting officer.  Receiving the award were Jared Bodiford, Tyasia Burton, Lanora Edwards, Schamona Holmes, Andrew Jackson, Tyra Johnson, Jacquel Josey, Taylor Kerr, Karla Moore, Bryson Perry, Marissa Smart and Bonnie Watson.

The Strom Thurmond High NJROTC Pass-in-Review concluded with the singing of God Bless America by the STHS Concert Choir and the Pass-in-Review.