About 10 years ago I was out in Long Beach waiting for a ship assignment. When a ship is in a US port our union sends men down to take over watches from 1600 to 0800 so the ship’s mates could have a night off.
It was early December, I had the 1600–2400 watch on a container ship that would be sailing the next day on a six week Far East trip. Early into the watch I got a call from the chief mate telling me to report to his office. I had met the man when I first came aboard, had a brief conference with him before taking over the deck. He was young and ambitious, the type that would eat his young to get ahead.
When I got to his office he told me the captain wanted to talk to me and he’d be down shortly. Understand I’ve been doing this for over 30 years at this point and didn’t really need the drama. The captain came down, seemed a decent sort, and we introduced ourselves. He explained to me that the decorations, candy, and other items for Christmas had not arrived in the ship’s stores. Asked me if I had a car he could borrow so he could run out and pick up these items.
I had a rental car, told him he could borrow it but naturally he be responsible for it. I specified that there wasn’t to be any drinking. The chief mate appeared to be shocked at how direct I was being with his Captain. The captain himself was a little irritated then told me not to worry I’d get my car back fine. I just couldn’t resist it, “Cap, if I don’t get my car back you won’t get your ship back.”
This was met with a brief very loud silence, I’m thinking maybe I pushed it a bit too far. The chief mate’s lower jaw had dropped to the deck. The Old Man finally cracked a smile, “Fair enough” he replied.
Later that evening he returned the keys to me and I was able to wish him and his crew a Merry Christmas.

Kevin

Dangit! I was hoping that you still had the ship and we’d see pictures!

Ever once in a while the man in charge gets reminded they need you more than you need them.
Good stuff Kevin.