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HMAS VAMPIRE Night Order book

Author CAPT John Hewett RAN (Rtd)

Date22 October 1984 - 5 December 1985

Object number00046511

NameNight order book

MediumPaper

DimensionsOverall: 210 x 150 x 15 mm

ClassificationsBooks and journals

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Captain John Hewett

Terms

DescriptionOfficer's Night order book belonging to Captain John Hewett, RAN (Rtd) covering the period 22 October 1984 - 5 December 1985 from his service on 9 December 1985 - 12 March 1986 , Daring class destroyer. Commander (now Captain) J W Hewett was commanding officer of HMAS VAMPIRE 22 October 1984 to 10 April 1986 A Night Order Book is a notebook in which the commanding officer writes orders with respect to courses and speeds, any special precautions concerning the speed and navigation of the ship, and all other orders for the night for the officer of the deck (OOD).HistoryNight orders are the captain’s orders of how he wants the ship run when he is not on the bridge. The book is normally divided into two separate parts: standing orders and night orders. Standing orders are the commanding officer’s statement concerning his policies and directions under all circumstances. Night orders, written on a daily basis, are a summary of tactical, navigational, and readiness information for bridge watch keepers. Additional information and guidance are added by the captain and the navigator as required. Prior to writing the night orders, the ship’s operational orders are reviewed and the nightly schedule of events for anticipated evolutions or activities is prepared. Should any conflicts exist between the schedule of events and the standing orders, the commanding officer is informed. The night order book is placed on the bridge. The watch keepers are required to read and initial the orders. This ensures that the orders have been read and understood. These Night Order Books by then Commander John William Hewett RAN date from his service as commanding officer of HMAS VAMPIRE, a Daring class destroyer, 1984-1986 during which time the destroyer was part of the Royal Australian Navy Training Squadron - enabling trainees to perform and undertake all duties involved with an active warship.SignificanceThis Night Order Book details the orders of the commanding officer of HMAS VAMPIRE 1984-1986 to those on watch when he was not on the bridge.