
New York, 1917. "Mascots aboard Recruit." Furry/feathery companions for sailors on the "landship" in Union Square. View full size. G.G. Bain Collection.
On the the chief petty officer 2nd class I count seven stripes. That's one stripe for each four years of continuous service. 28 years makes for an Old Salt. You can bet he's seen a few things in his time compared to the landlubbers.
Note: "Poop deck" = priceless.
jnc
I suppose this is what's called the poop deck.