How do you announce the CO of another ship when they come on board?

When announcing the Commanding Officer (CO) of another ship upon their arrival, the proper protocol is to sound four bells followed by the ship's name and the word "Arriving." This practice adheres to standard naval traditions and protocols, ensuring that the announcement is formal and respectful. The use of four bells signifies the rank and importance of the individual being honored, as it is a customary way to acknowledge their presence. Including the ship's name serves to clarify the identity of the vessel associated with the CO, which is especially important in a naval environment where multiple vessels may be present.

The other responses do not follow the traditional protocol as closely. For instance, three bells typically signify a lesser level of announcement, while two bells do not convey the same level of acknowledgment and formality as four bells. Simply stating the ship's name without the necessary bells would lack the ceremonial aspect associated with welcoming a commanding officer on board. Therefore, the correct answer not only adheres to the naval customs of announcing dignitaries but also reflects the respect afforded to the visiting commanding officer.