Ambitious Ensign
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Loading ...A young ensign had nearly completed his first overseas tour of duty when he was given an opportunity to display his ability at getting the ship under way. With a stream of crisp commands, he had the decks buzzing with men, and soon the ship had left port and was steaming out of the channel.
The ensign’s efficieny had been remarkable! In fact the deck was abuzz with talk that he had set a new record for getting a destroyer under way. The ensign glowed at his accomplishment and was not at all surprised when another seaman approached him with a message from the captain.
He was, however, a bit surprised to find that it was a radio message instead of his being congratulated in person. He was even MORE surprised when he read:
“My personal congratulations upon completing your exercise according to the book and with amazing speed. In your haste, however, you overlooked one of the unwritten rules–make sure the captain is aboard before getting under way.”