USS Philadelphia - CL-41

Crossing the Equator - Pollywog to Shellback - A Navy Tradition

"Shellbacks" (those who have crossed the equator before) conduct the traditional ceremony for the "pollywogs" (those who are about to cross the equator for the first time) are properly indoctrinated. All pollywogs, even the Commanding Officer if he has not crossed before, must participate.

The photos of Philadelphia's crossing were provided by Richard Whitehead.
His uncle T. R. (Rudolph) Whitehead became a "Trusty Son of Neptune" on July 24, 1940.

Here's a closeup of "Neptunus Rex and his Royal Court"



"Walking the Plank" is a traditional part of the ceremony.