Enlisted Rates in the U.S. Navy: How Watch Duties Differ

The U.S. Navy, like any well-organized military force, meticulously allocates responsibilities and duties among its enlisted rates to ensure maximum efficiency and readiness. Among the various roles, the amount of watch time—duties requiring personnel to stand watch—can significantly vary depending on the rate and the type of ship. This article delves into the differences in watch duties across various enlisted rates, highlighting how the nature of each role directly influences the amount of watch time required.

Administrative and Support-Oriented Enlisted Rates

Enlisted rates that are more administrative or support-oriented typically require fewer watch duties. These roles are often focused on tasks that are not directly related to the ship's primary operational objectives. For example, the Yeoman (YN), Logistics Specialist (LS), and Personnel Specialist (PS) are examples of such roles. Their primary responsibilities revolve around administrative tasks, supporting the ship's operations rather than standing direct watches.

While these rates may have less watch time, it is important to note that the actual duties can still vary based on the specific ship's mission, the number of personnel onboard, and the operational tempo. This variability means that individuals in these roles may still be required to perform crucial tasks during critical periods, even if their primary focus is not on standing watch.

Watch Duties on Submarines

With submarines, the only individual who does not stand a regular watch is the "Doc," or the Medical Corpsman (HM). However, the Corpsman is on call 24/7, making him the busiest person on board when medical emergencies arise. On submarines, junior cooks (Culinary Specialists) and those involved in administrative and supply duties often have the least amount of watch time when the ship is at port. But even then, they have defined working hours to perform their administrative tasks.

Small Ship Operations

On small ships, the dynamics of watch duties are different. Junior cooks may not stand watches while the ship is in port, but they might need to stand watches when the ship is underway, especially during low visibility events. They generally spend the least amount of time on watch compared to other roles. Similarly, Corpsmen (HM) do not stand watch when the ship is underway but are always on call. They also have working hours to perform their duties, which might be more administrative in nature.

The Downside of Minimal Watch Duties

While the roles with minimal watch duties have their benefits in terms of predictable working hours, they often come with significant challenges. For instance, Corpsmen (HM) are always on call, with the responsibility to respond to any medical emergencies on board. This constant need to be ready can be demanding and stressful, as evidenced by the Corpsman's involvement in every critical scenario, from battle stations to casualty drills.

Personal Insights from a Former Sailor

Having served on submarines, one of the highlights of my experience was the regulated balance between work and rest. While the primary focus is on being fully prepared to respond to any medical emergency, the routine and structure of being on call can be both demanding and rewarding. Being part of a watch-stander rotation, even if infrequent, provided a sense of routine and continuity in a chaotic world.

In conclusion, the amount of watch time for U.S. Navy enlisted rates can vary greatly depending on the nature of the role and the type of ship. While some rates may have less watch duties, it is crucial to understand that these roles also come with specific responsibilities and demands. Whether it's administrative tasks, support duties, or the constant readiness required of medical personnel, every role plays a vital part in the overall success and readiness of the Navy.