Domain of Neptunus Rex: ruler of the raging man.

A certificate which documents when a sailor crosses Equator for the first time. It is made out to Capt. Ben J. Leland of the United States Navy.

  • OCLC #: 968133369
  • Physical Location: Pritzker Military Museum & Library — Staff Office-409 — PRINT 02798
  • Production, Publication, Distribution, Manufacture, and Copyright Notice: [United States] : United States Navy, 1944.
  • Physical Description: 1 print : color ; 38 x 54 cm
  • General Notes:
    • Title from item.
    • "To all sailors wherever ye may be, and to all Mermaids, Sea Serpents, Whales, Sharks Porpoises, Dolphins, Skates, Eels, Suckers, Lobsters, Crabs, Pollywogs and other Living Things of the Sea. Greetings: Know ye: That on this 9 day of Feb., 1944, in Latitude 000000 and Longitude "military secret" there appeared within the limits of Our Royal Domain, the U.S.A.T. - Seascamp bound southward for South Sea Islands. Be it remembered that the said Vessel and Officers and Crew thereof, have been inspected and passed on by Ourself and our Royal Staff. And be it known: By all ye Sailors, Marines, Land Lubbers and others who may be honored by his preserve that "Capt. Benn J. Leland" having been found worthy to be numbered as One of our trusty shell backs has been gathered to our fold and duly initiated into the solemn mysteries of the ancient order of the deep. Be it further understood: that by virtue of the power invested in me, I do hereby command all my subjects to show due honor and respect to him wherever he may enter Our Realm. Disobey this order under penalty of Our Royal Displeasure. Given under our hand and seal this 15th day of February 1944. Signed Davy Jones and Henry Johnson, Ships Master."