Baby, it’s Cold Outside

ATLANTIC OCEAN

11.18.2018

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Thomas Gooley 

USS Harry S Truman

Walrus, huskies, foxes, wolves, whales, polar bears, reindeer and all other living denizens of the frozen north – friend or foe, knowingly or not, they all recognize the distinguished title of those who belong to a special breed of sorts - a Bluenose.

A Bluenose is no ordinary Sailor, but rather a Sailor revered by those who share the misfortune of missing out on a ritual that christens a rare group who braved perhaps the most challenging operating environments in this world of seas.

“Crossing the line ceremonies, such as the Bluenose ceremony for crossing the Arctic Circle, are customs [of the Navy] which harken back to the earliest days of seafaring,” said Lt. Christopher Giglio, who became a Bluenose in 2016. “They are a direct link not only between us and the early Navy of the age of sail, but also mariners of every era and every nation. Keeping those traditions alive help us to preserve an immensely rich shared maritime culture.”

Giglio said crossing the line ceremonies are an opportunity for the crew to build comradery by participating in a shared ordeal; all in the spirit of good fun.

“Sailors go through several different steps throughout the day on their way to earning their Bluenose. Doing so, shoulder to shoulder, with their shipmates helps to add to a sense of teamwork and accomplishment,” said Giglio.

Only a small fraction of the crew aboard Truman can call themselves a Bluenose, those who can identify as such will lead the initiation for the rest of the crew.

“I have no idea what becoming a Bluenose will entail,” said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Alexandra Saldana. “I’ve only heard rumors, but I’m equally anxious as I am excited. It’s a once in a lifetime experience and when all is said and done I’ll get to say I am a part of a small group of Sailors that Blue-nosed aboard an aircraft carrier.”

Carrier Strike Group (CSG) Eight Master Chief Michael Bates, a 30-year Bluenose, says these events are special and something Sailors will remember forever, especially this one.

“This Bluenose ceremony is unique to us because it has been thirty or so years since aircraft carrier has operated this high north,” said Bates.
Aside from submarines, ships just don’t get up to the Arctic that often, added Giglio.

“Epic chapters of maritime history have taken place in the Arctic and Antarctic, so Sailors earning their Bluenose will be joining a proud, select few,” said Giglio. “Try to enjoy yourself. Every step along the way is designed to be safe and enjoyable in its own way, so embrace the spirit of the day.”

Currently operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations, Harry S. Truman will continue to foster cooperation with regional allies and partners, strengthen regional stability, and remain vigilant, agile and dynamic.

For more information about Truman, visit www.facebook.com/USSTruman or www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/.

• Date Taken: 11.18.2018
• Date Posted: 12.28.2018 10:06
• Story ID: 305569
• Location: ATLANTIC OCEAN