What is the primary duty of the Lee Helmsman?

The primary duty of the Lee Helmsman involves standing watch at the engine order telegraph and controlling the ship's speed. This role is crucial for maintaining the vessel's maneuverability, especially when navigating in currents or during difficult conditions where precise speed adjustments are necessary. The Lee Helmsman must be attentive to the commands given by the Officer of the Deck and execute those commands accurately to ensure the ship operates safely and efficiently.

Understanding this role is essential as it directly impacts the ship's performance and crew safety. While navigating through narrow channels, conducting safety checks, or managing the crew during docking are important responsibilities, they fall under the purview of different positions or duties on the vessel. The Lee Helmsman's focus on speed control and engine orders is critical for overall maritime operations, making it the defining aspect of this role.