This is a “Crossing The Line“ Initiation photo. The laying down is most likely a “Pollywog” and getting his ass crack greased. There is a guy in the background with a tell tale “Shellback“ t-shirt with a skull and crossed bones. I went through this initiation when I was onboard an Aircraft Carrier in the Indian Ocean.
group of cute Sailors. During the WWII, sailorS were not required keep their work uniform as squared away.
on occasion when out to sea for extended periods the ship would give non duty section sailors a day off from normal routine. Supply Department would usually set up a grill cook food. they might also have a boxing match on deck. It was called a “Steel Beach Picnic.“.