What is the ninth general order?

The ninth general order is specifically "To call the Officer of the Deck in any case not covered by instructions." This order emphasizes the importance of chain of command and the proper communication pathways on a naval vessel. By requiring personnel to notify the Officer of the Deck when situations arise that are not addressed by existing instructions, this order ensures that leadership is informed and can make decisions effectively. This is critical for maintaining safety and operational integrity aboard the ship.

Each general order serves a specific role in maintaining discipline and security, with the ninth order highlighting the need for vigilance and appropriate action in uncertain circumstances. The expectation is that every sailor knows to promptly escalate issues to the Officer of the Deck when they're uncertain, promoting a structured response to incidents or unusual occurrences.