The act of sailors saluting when boarding a ship is a maritime tradition that has its roots in naval history and customs. Saluting is a way for sailors to show respect and pay homage to the ship they are about to board and the flag it represents. Here are some reasons why sailors salute when boarding a ship:
Respect for the Ship: Saluting the ship is a way for sailors to show respect for the vessel that will carry them and their crewmates on their journey. In naval tradition, ships have been regarded as living entities, and saluting the ship is a sign of acknowledgment and reverence for its significance in their lives.
Respect for the Flag: When sailors salute, they are also paying respect to the national flag or naval ensign that is flown on the ship. The flag represents the country's sovereignty and authority, and saluting is a way to show allegiance to it.
Recognition of Authority: Saluting is an act of acknowledging the authority and command of the officers on the ship. It is a show of deference to the chain of command and the hierarchical structure of the naval service.
Military Tradition: Saluting is deeply rooted in military traditions and is a way to maintain discipline and show unity among sailors.
Formality and Etiquette: Naval services around the world place a strong emphasis on formalities and etiquettes. Saluting is one of these rituals that reinforce the discipline and professionalism of the sailors.
Continuation of History: Maritime traditions are often steeped in history and have been carried forward from generation to generation. Saluting when boarding a ship is a practice that connects today's sailors to their naval predecessors.
It's worth mentioning that saluting in the naval context is not limited to boarding a ship. Sailors also salute when they encounter senior officers, during flag ceremonies, and on various other occasions as a mark of respect and tradition. The specific rules and customs surrounding saluting can vary between different navies and countries, but the underlying principles of respect and tradition remain consistent.