Shellback Certificate, Crossing the Equator Group, Partly Printed Document, Ephemera, too

Description

This fascinating group of World War II documents surrounds a Shellback certificate for Seaman 1st Class Albert E. Friedrichs. A colorful Shellback certificate was issued to Friedrichs for crossing the equator for the first time as the USS Marcus Island (CVE-77) was embarking on her first mission after her shakedown cruise. Friedrichs was a crew member on the voyage as the escort carrier ferried aircraft to the Solomon Islands.

Historically a Shellback ceremony has been a rite of passage celebrating a sailor becoming a more experienced seaman. The certificate is signed in type by “Davey Jones” and Neptunus Rex” and features an image of Neptune rising from the waves with mermaids and other sea life framing the certificate. The document is also signed by hand by King Neptune’s servant, Captain Charles F. Greber, USN.

Charles F. Greber enjoyed a distinguished career in the Navy, graduating from the Naval Academy at Annapolis in 1921, and retiring with the rank of Rear Admiral. Greber earned The Navy Cross at the 25 October, 1944 Battle off Samar Island, part of the Battle of Leyte Gulf. It can be presumed that Seaman Friedrichs also fought in that legendary battle, as well as the other actions of the USS Marcus Island.

These Shellback certificates are highly prized for their colorful display and fascinating backstory. This example is part of a group of personal documents relating to Albert A Friedrichs that include:

1. The Shellback Certificate “Imperium Neptuni Regis.”
2. Friedrichs’ Ancient Order of the Deep wallet card.
3. Partially Printed Document, signed J. R. Hume, Captain USN. Friedrichs’ discharge from the service, dated 6 May, 1945.
4. Framed photo of Albert Friedrichs in uniform, including his service ribbons, his identity tag, and his “Ruptured Duck” overseas service pin.
5. Two photographs, framed depicting the USS Marcus Island Second Division sailors, 1944-1945.

Wallet has been carried and has expected wear. All other items fine condition; not examined outside of frames. 

IMPERIUM NEPTUNI REGIS. Partly Printed Document, signed by Captain Charles F. Greber, USN (1898-1974). South Pacific on board the USS Marcus Island (CVE-77): 27 May, 1944. Oblong folio; 1p.; Navy Department foil seal and ribbons. Group of 5 documents.