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Helmcmds PDF
Helmcmds PDF
Provided by http://www.boatswainsmate.net
The following are “Standard Helm Commands” which are the same except for minor variations
from ship to ship. They are used frequently and in combination with each other.
The Helmsman is the person who physically steers the ship. The helmsman repeats each
command back to the conning officer before executing the command. This is done to ensure
that the helmsman fully understands the command. If you are in doubt as to whether you
heard the command correctly, your response shall be “command”.
The Conning Officer will repeat the given command. Upon repeating the command you shall
execute the given command. After executing the command you shall advise the conning officer
that the command was executed. This informs the conning officer that the command has been
executed. The conning officer shall respond with “very well” if an officer, or with “aye aye” if an
enlisted person. Every response to the conning officer will be followed by sir/ma’am as
appropriate, unless the conning officer is enlisted, in which case only the proper response is
required.
All of the commands listed below will follow the procedure described above. Only the first
command gives an example of the complete procedure. For the remaining commands only the
command and execution will be described.
HELMSMAN’S “Command.”
RESPONSE
DEFINITION Given by the helmsman when the command from the conning
officer is unclear or misunderstood. Also, when the helmsman
believes an improper command was given. For example, the
conning officer orders left ten degrees rudder when a vessel is fifty
yards off your ship’s port bow.
PROCEDURE FOR When the helmsman is making a large turn, the compass headings
SOUNDING OFF will be sounded off to the conning officer every five to ten degrees.
For example, passing 320, passing 330, passing 340 etc. This is
PASSINGS done so that the conning officer can tell how far and fast the vessel
is swinging, and allows for corrective action if required. The term
“passing” is not a helm command, but is standard operating
procedure on most Coast Guard Cutters. If used aboard your ship
you will automatically sound off “passings”, unless directed
otherwise. The conning officer will sound off “belay your passings”,
if they are not needed. Remember compass headings and courses
are always stated in three distinct digits.