I've just received an inexpensive paperback reprint from Kessinger Publishing of MAN-O'-WAR RHYMES by Burt Franklin Jenness, originally published by The Cornhill Publishing Co., Boston, US, © 1918, pp. 84-85.

The Rookie

When you are a rookie, an' most o' the crew
Are natcherly makin' a goat out o' you;
The ship is unsteady – an' you are too sick
To turn to an' swing up your bloomin' hammick –
Jest break out a blanket an' roll up on deck –
Don't mind if some lubber does step on your neck –
You've joined the outfit, so show 'em your grit;
Buck up an' be happy – you're doin' your bit.

When letters from home are all trembly an' blue,
An' matters back there are discouraging you;
When the pages are blurred, for the tears in the way,
Jest up with your neck'ch'f an' brush 'em away,
Then roll up th' makin's – forget what has been –
An' mosey up for'ard where th' gang is, an' grin.
You're only a rookie, but shoulder your kit;
Buck up an' be happy – you're doin' your bit.

If your ship is torpedoed an' sinks like a lead,
An' half the crew's wounded – the other half dead –
You're all shot to pieces, an' somewhere in France
You're laid up in bed, an' your life is all chance,
Why, think of the glory of jest bein' there!
Your shattered old leg it will do for a pair –
– An' you were in range, or you wouldn't a' got hit –
So, buck up an' be happy – you're doin' your bit.

Notes:

Jenness captures the gallows humor of the younger navy crew members during the World War 1 period.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble