What is a boatswainʼs mate in the navy?

What is a Boatswain’s Mate in the Navy?

The United States Navy is a highly organized and structured military force, with a rich history and a strong focus on teamwork and camaraderie. One of the most important roles within the Navy is that of the Boatswain’s Mate (BM). But what exactly does a Boatswain’s Mate do, and what kind of skills and training are required to become one?

What is a Boatswain’s Mate?

A Boatswain’s Mate, or BM, is an enlisted sailor who is responsible for the maintenance, upkeep, and operation of the ship’s deck and navigation equipment. They are the "deck hands" of the Navy, working closely with other sailors and officers to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the ship.

Responsibilities of a Boatswain’s Mate

So, what specific tasks are Boatswain’s Mates responsible for? Here are some of their key responsibilities:

• Deck Maintenance: Boatswain’s Mates are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the ship’s deck, including cleaning, painting, and repairing deck surfaces.
• Navigation Equipment: BMs are responsible for the maintenance and operation of navigation equipment, including compasses, gyroscopes, and radar systems.
• Deck Operations: Boatswain’s Mates work closely with other sailors and officers to coordinate deck operations, including the loading and unloading of cargo and personnel.
• Crew Training: BMs are responsible for training new sailors in the skills they need to perform their jobs, including deck operations, maintenance, and emergency procedures.

Types of Boatswain’s Mates

There are several types of Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy, each with their own specific responsibilities and skill sets. Some of the most common types of BMs include:

• Boatswain’s Mate (BM1): The most senior type of Boatswain’s Mate, responsible for overseeing the deck and navigation departments.
• Boatswain’s Mate (BM2): Responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and operation of deck and navigation equipment.
• Boatswain’s Mate (BM3): The most junior type of Boatswain’s Mate, responsible for learning the skills and duties of the BM rating.

Requirements to Become a Boatswain’s Mate

So, how do you become a Boatswain’s Mate in the Navy? Here are some of the key requirements:

• Age and Education: BMs must be at least 17 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Physical Standards: BMs must pass a physical fitness test, which includes swimming, running, and other physical tasks.
• ASVAB Scores: BMs must score a minimum of 40 on the Mechanical Comprehension and Arithmetical Reasoning sections of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).
• Boot Camp and "A" School: BMs attend Basic Training (boot camp) and then "A" School, where they receive advanced training in deck and navigation operations.

Benefits of Being a Boatswain’s Mate

So, what are some of the benefits of being a Boatswain’s Mate in the Navy? Here are a few:

• Job Security: BMs are in high demand, and their skills are essential to the safe and efficient operation of the ship.
• Advancement Opportunities: BMs have opportunities to advance to higher ranks, including BM1 and beyond.
• Travel and Adventure: BMs get to see the world and experience new cultures and countries.
• Competitive Pay and Benefits: BMs receive competitive pay and benefits, including education benefits and health insurance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Boatswain’s Mate is a critical member of the Navy team, responsible for the maintenance, upkeep, and operation of the ship’s deck and navigation equipment. With their unique skills and training, BMs play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of the ship. Whether you’re looking for job security, advancement opportunities, or travel and adventure, becoming a Boatswain’s Mate in the Navy can be a rewarding and challenging career.

Table: Boatswain’s Mate Responsibilities

Bullet Points: Boatswain’s Mate Benefits

• Job security
• Advancement opportunities
• Travel and adventure
• Competitive pay and benefits
• Education benefits and health insurance