Here's the Navy's definition:
SNIPES (n)
Engineering staff. (See black gang)
BLACK GANG(n)
The engineering staff aboard ship, (also called snipes). The term arose from the (mid-19th century) days of steamships propelled by coal, when all those working on or near the engines were perpetually covered with coal dust Most modern ships are powered by diesel fuel, and a few by nuclear engines.
__________________
Boats
O Almighty Lord God, who neither slumberest nor sleepest; Protect and assist, we beseech thee, all those who at home or abroad, by land, by sea, or in the air, are serving this country, that they, being armed with thy defence, may be preserved evermore in all perils; and being filled with wisdom and girded with strength, may do their duty to thy honour and glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
"IN GOD WE TRUST"
|