What is a Plank Owner in the U.S. Navy?
The United States Navy has a rich history, and one of the most significant and prestigious honors a sailor can receive is the title of Plank Owner. But what does it mean to be a Plank Owner, and how is it earned? In this article, we’ll delve into the history and significance of being a Plank Owner in the U.S. Navy.
What is a Plank Owner?
A Plank Owner is a sailor who has been assigned to a newly commissioned ship or aircraft carrier and has been a part of the crew since the ship’s beginning. The term "Plank Owner" originates from the wooden planks that made up the deck of early sailing ships. The first crew members to step onto the ship’s deck were said to be the "plank owners," as they were literally the first to set foot on the new vessel.
History of Plank Owners
The tradition of Plank Owners dates back to the early days of the U.S. Navy. The first recorded Plank Owner was Joseph S. Meigs, who served on the USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides," during its commissioning in 1797. Since then, the tradition has continued, with each new ship and aircraft carrier having its own Plank Owners.
Significance of Being a Plank Owner
Being a Plank Owner is a significant honor in the U.S. Navy. It represents the sailor’s commitment to serving on the ship from the beginning and being part of its inaugural crew. Plank Owners are often referred to as the "pioneers" or "founders" of the ship, as they set the standard for future crews.
Qualifications and Eligibility
To become a Plank Owner, a sailor must meet specific qualifications and eligibility requirements. These include:
- Initial assignment: The sailor must be assigned to the ship or aircraft carrier as part of its initial crew.
- Continuous service: The sailor must have continuous service on the ship or aircraft carrier from its commissioning date to the present.
- Meet service requirements: The sailor must meet the service requirements for their rating (job specialty) and rank.
Responsibilities of a Plank Owner
As a Plank Owner, a sailor is expected to take on additional responsibilities, including:
- Mentoring: Plank Owners serve as mentors to newer crew members, sharing their knowledge and expertise.
- Leadership: Plank Owners often take on leadership roles within the ship’s crew, setting an example for their fellow sailors.
- Pride and tradition: Plank Owners are ambassadors for the ship and the Navy, representing the ship’s history and tradition.
Benefits and Privileges
Being a Plank Owner comes with several benefits and privileges, including:
- Unique recognition: Plank Owners are recognized with a special certificate and badge, acknowledging their status as pioneers of the ship.
- Increased pride: Plank Owners have a sense of pride and ownership in the ship, as they are part of its inaugural crew.
- Leadership opportunities: Plank Owners are often given leadership opportunities, allowing them to develop their skills and advance in their careers.
Plank Owner Timeline
Here is a general timeline of the Plank Owner process:
| Phase | Timeline | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assignment | Prior to commissioning | The sailor is assigned to the ship or aircraft carrier as part of its initial crew. |
| Commissioning | Date of commissioning | The ship or aircraft carrier is officially commissioned, and the Plank Owners take their positions. |
| Continuous Service | Ongoing | The sailor continues to serve on the ship or aircraft carrier, meeting service requirements and taking on additional responsibilities. |
| Recognition | Date of recognition | The Plank Owner is recognized with a special certificate and badge, acknowledging their status as pioneers of the ship. |
Conclusion
Being a Plank Owner in the U.S. Navy is a significant honor and privilege. It represents a sailor’s commitment to serving on a ship or aircraft carrier from its beginning and being part of its inaugural crew. Plank Owners are expected to take on additional responsibilities, including mentoring, leadership, and pride and tradition. The benefits and privileges of being a Plank Owner include unique recognition, increased pride, and leadership opportunities. As the U.S. Navy continues to evolve and grow, the tradition of Plank Owners will remain an important part of its history and culture.
