Naval Traditions and Culture

Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the "crossing the line" (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.

Royal Naval College of Canada Rugby Game

In these 1917 photographs, the Royal Naval College of Canada's rugby team plays against Windsor Collegiate School in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Organized sports formed part of the curriculum at the naval college. As elsewhere in the military, they were seen as a way of promoting fitness and good sportsmanship, and of providing appropriate recreational activities. These photographs show what is likely the team's second match ever, on 3 November 1917, which Windsor Collegiate won 14-8.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19800603-001_32