The Snapshots in Time Collection

Crossing-the-Line Equator Ceremony Aboard USS Petrof Bay (CVE-80)

Crossing-the-Line Equator Ceremony Aboard USS Petrof Bay (CVE-80)

Sailors aboard the escort carrier USS Petrof Bay (CVE-80) take part in the time-honored 'Crossing the Line' ceremony, initiating first-time equator crossers ('pollywogs') into the ranks of 'shellbacks.' Such rituals provided morale-boosting entertainment for crews during long deployments at sea in World War II. Project: 218428