Good insights.
I’m a ground pounder. What is the difference between an Able Bodies Seaman vs. an Ordinary Seaman?
Thank you for asking. An ordinary seaman is an entry rating, no experience necessary. With no experience or training one can be hired as an OS. If the OS sailing for one year, he or she can take US Coast Guard administered exams to become an able bodied seaman, AB. The AB are more skilled and most have the experience to steer a ship under the direction of a licensed deck officer (more training, more sea time and passing exams). Also, now more formal training is required for all positions in the deck and engine departments of a merchant ship. I am a hawsepiper-I obtained three years of seatime and went to navigation school for four months. Other officers have gone to the US Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point) or one of the six state maritime academies.
These terms refer to the qualification and experience level of merchant sailors. An Able Bodied Seaman has at least two years sea experience and is qualified as helmsman, lookout etc. An Ordinary seaman has only a few months experience at sea and is not qualified for those watches. These are not terms used in the U.S. Navy.
Means you are not in sick bay for any reason.