Mess Night Traditions.

[ronone]

I made posts about this book, Charles J. Gibowitz, Mess Night Traditions, on a couple other forums.   I believe it is a worth while book to have in your collection of professional material.

Givowitz, (deceased) was a retired Navy captain.  He is not a professional historian but, like many, had an interest in history and put together a neatly done book about traditions of the officers mess.

There are many good tips about how the traditions of not only the mess operated but of "crossing the line" and other naval traditions.  There are also descriptions of "officer" games that would not pass the PC detector today. 

This one should be on the CG's reading list because of its historical and cultural value; plus being entertaining. Ever want to know what "Dog's Body" was when it appears on the menu? You will find it here.

 At the low cost of $15 for a hardback it is worth the price.

It is put out by Authorhouse where very low cost electronic copies and paperback copies may be purchased.

[Cutterman65]

I ordered it on Wednesday, looking forward to the read.

[MastersMate]

Had the pleasure of attending a Dining In over 20 years ago, before the era of PC kicked in.

It was an extremely enjoyable evening of good food, drink, comraderie and naval tradition.

The conduct of the mess, the toasts, passing of the port, no glass uncharged, lighting the smoking lamp, and just the fact of watching the senior officer corps let loose for a semi boisterous good evening.

For a Warrant Officer, it reminded me of when, as a CPO, the cutters CPO quarters would make the migration to the Chiefs Club at some Navy Base for an evenings liberty as messmates. But with just a little more organization to it.

I got the impression that the senior officers, at least back then , relished this "liberty" party in much the same manner.

The capstone of the evening was the slow escort of maybe 30 or 40 , W-2  thru O-5 , in Dinner Dress Blue Jacket, back down Hanover Street from the Pubs up at Fanuel Hall, by the Boston PDs finest mounted patrol. Like herding penguins. What a great libo.

[Cutterman65]

My copy came yesterday, now I just need to figure out where it goes in my stack of books to read.