Framed US Navy Certificate For Crossing The Equator

This wonderful certificate was given in 1961 by the United States Navy to a worthy vessel for crossing the Equator. This item is beautifully framed with a yellow matting that suits it well, and measures 27 1/4 in. wide and 23 1/2 in. long. It is colorfully inscripted with lovely art work and the signature of the commanding officer. It portrays the seal of Neptune, Zephir, Boreas, starfish, and seahorses and various other sea life and reads as follows::: "IMPERIUM NEPTUNI REGIS (the u's are replaced by the V) To all sailors wherever ye may be: and to all mermaids, whales, sea serpents, porpoises, sharks, dolphins, eels, skates, suckers, crabs, lobsters, and all other living things of the sea GREETING: Know ye, That on the 4th day of September, 1961 in Latitude 00000 and longitude 74-08 there appeared within Our Royal Domain the USS Hammerberg (DE-1015) bound for the Equator. Be it Remembered That this said vessel and officers and crew thereof have been inspected and passed on by Ourself and our Royal Staff, And Be It Known: By all Sailors, Marines, Land Lubbers and others who may be honored by his presence that Benjamin D. Delvin Jr. Having Been Found Worthy To Be Numbered As One Of Our Trusty Shellbacks. He Has Been Duly Initiated Into The Solemn Mysteries Of The Ancient Order of the Deep. Be It Further Understood: That by virtue of the power invested in me, I do hereby command all my subjects to show due honor & respect to him wherever he may be. Disobey This Order Under Penalty Of Our Royal Displeasure. Signed DAVEY JONES His Majesty's Scribe, NEPTUNE REX, Ruler of the Raging Main, and his servant the commanding officer." This is a very noble item to own and would add majesty to any home or office. ~Enjoy!