FRIDAY FOTO (April 2, 2021)

Haul Away Joe!

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kaleb J. Sarten)

Artificial intelligence, machine learning, Global Positioning, cyber warfare — and a coronavirus pandemic,  the 21st century has gotten pretty complicated for the U.S. Navy. But some things never change, like hauling a line.

Here we see Sailors heave in line as the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) prepares to depart Souda Bay, Greece, on March 24, 2021. Mitscher is operating with the IKE (USS Dwight Eisenhower) Carrier Strike Group on a routine deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national interests and security in Europe and Africa.

Click on the photo to enlarge the image. For a little atmosphere try listening to the age-old sea shanty (you say shanty, I say chanty) “Haul Away Joe.” There are two versions below.

The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem,accompanied by historic 19th century Navy pictures. OR try members of the U.S. Navy Band in full evening dress, or as they call it, mess dress.

Let us know which one you liked, or if you can recommend an even better version.

Please note: These Sailors are wearing masks while doing some strenuous work. If they can do it, you should, too. Please, mask up until we’re all safer.