Aboard or On Board?

Aloha, shipmates, and happy Monday!

I had planned today to discuss the use of -ly adverbs and the punctuation of such when used as a compound modifier. However, something else came up that I want to talk about today. That is aboard vs. on board. Remember, when in doubt, check it out. This time, the place to check it out is on the Navy style Web page. Here's what this fountain of knowledge said:


These two terms mean nearly the same thing and in some uses are interchangeable. "Aboard" is the preferred usage. Use "on board" as two words, but hyphenate on board when used as an adjective.

"Aboard" means on board, on, in or into a ship. The crew is aboard the ship. An on-board medical team uses the on-board computer. BUT NOT: The Sailor is going on board the ship.


Also, a Sailor is stationed "on," "at," "is serving with" or "is assigned to" a ship. A Sailor does not serve "in" a ship. A ship is "based at" or "homeported at" a specific place. A plane is "stationed at" or is "aboard" a ship; is "deployed with" or is "operating from" a ship. Squadrons are "stationed at" air stations. Air wings are "deployed with" ships.


I hope that clears up that question ...

Before we close, I want to highlight today's selected photo, which comes to us from Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson. This photo cracked me up!

Until next time ... Write on!