Current Naval usage of the anchor:
Single anchor (large, on left sleeve above seaman stripes);
A Seaman that has passed all requirements, but not yet promoted to Boatswain’s Mate Third Class. Usually referred to as the ‘Leading Seaman’. (In all other rates he would be called ‘a Striker’.)
Crossed Anchors (on the upper left sleeve):
Boatswain's Mate, considered the Navy's most senior rating (enlisted 'specialty). Considered all knowledgeable an matters of ships, ship handling and small boats.
Fouled Anchor (on cap and collar devices):
Chief Petty Officer, in the U.S. Navy (plus Senior Chief & Master Chief) & Royal Navy (Acting Chief & Chief) and most of the worlds navies. The senior enlisted ranks with the direct contact to and guidance of the Officers (specifically the junior officers and occasionally more senior officers).
Any elaboration Olli?
Fair Winds,
Leo
Evening Light, CD33 #38 (The sloop you will all have forgotten about by CD Race 2002
)PS: You want me to do a little on the Corpsman's slang terms??
macdore@aol.com