Able Bodied Seaman

Experienced deck department worker aboard a Merchant Ship of the United States. After working as an AB for awhile, one AB may be appointed Boatswain, or 'foreman' of the deck department.

Aside from the duties of an Ordinary Seaman, the AB may also be called on to steer the vessel as part of a bridge watch, and takes a more active role in loading/unloading the ship than the O.S.