Signalmen (SM) stand watches on signal bridges; send and receive messages by flashing light, semaphore, and flaghoist; prepare headings and addresses for out-going messages; handle, route, and file messages; encode and decode message headings; operate voice radio; maintain visual signal equipment; render passing honors to ships and boats; display ensigns and personal flags during salutes and during personal and national honors; perform duties of lookouts; send and receive visual recognition signals; repair signal flags, pennants, and ensigns; take bearings, recognize visual navigational aids, and serve as navigators' assistants.
