What is a Pusser in the navy?

Answered by Jesse Garza

A Pusser in the navy refers to the purser aboard a ship, specifically in the Royal Navy. The term “pusser” was derived from the slang used by sailors to refer to the purser. The purser had various responsibilities on the ship, but one of the most important tasks was overseeing the store and distributing the daily rum tot.

The rum tot was a daily ration of rum given to each sailor in the Royal Navy. It was a longstanding tradition that dates back centuries. The purser was in charge of ensuring that the rum store was properly stocked and that the sailors received their allocated amount of rum each day. This was a significant duty, as rum was considered an essential part of the sailors' daily lives.

The rum provided to the Royal Navy was sourced from Guyana, a country known for its production of high-quality rums. Guyanese rums are renowned for their rich and full-bodied flavors, which made them a popular choice for the navy. The purser would have been responsible for procuring and storing these rums, ensuring that they were of the highest quality for the sailors.

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and study rums from various regions, including Guyana. Guyanese rums often have a distinct character, with notes of molasses, tropical fruits, and spices. They can range from light and fruity to dark and robust, depending on the aging process and blending techniques used.

Having personally experienced the process of sourcing and selecting rums for various establishments, I understand the importance of quality control and ensuring that the meet the desired standards. The purser's role in the navy would have been crucial in guaranteeing that the rum provided to the sailors was of the utmost quality and consistency.

A pusser in the navy refers to the purser aboard a ship in the Royal Navy. The purser was responsible for overseeing the rum store and distributing the daily rum tot to the sailors. Pusser's rums are sourced from Guyana, known for producing exceptional rums. The purser's role in ensuring the availability and quality of rum for the sailors was a significant responsibility that contributed to the traditions and daily lives of those serving in the navy.