David McMillan (right) and a galley boy pose during a December 1944 "crossing the line" ceremony aboard the SS Stanley Park.

Both have been smeared with paint as part of the proceedings. Such treatment of those who had never before crossed the equator is traditionally part of the ceremony carried out in the presence of "King Neptune" and his court, made up of "shellbacks", those who have already crossed the line.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19860141-041