When The Bluejackets' Manual first appeared in 1902, there were few sources of information available for the fledgling bluejacket. The author, Lieutenant Ridley McLean, made available a manual of practical information for recruits as well as a handbook for the use of petty officers who wished to advance themselves. Today there are literally thousands of different Navy references: textbooks, rate-training manuals, technical manuals , etc. The twenty-first edition makes no attempt to be a comprehensive textbook, but rather it is a " back to basics" handbook that covers a wealth of information for the newest recruit or oldest salt. BJM information is updated with each annual prin ting . This is the eighth update of this edition. Graduation from boot camp does not mean you should discard the twenty-first edition. Its usefulness as a reference aid will continue throughout your Navy career. AIthough The BJM is intended as a "Navy primer, " this edition includes a great deal of information of interest to career Navy men and women. It is thus a valuable reference book for ali sailors. Of particular interest is the extensive bibliography (appendix J). which offers additional references, both official and unofficial. on hundreds of subjects. This should be especially useful to ship and station career counselors, retention teams , and other administrators, as well as to division officers and petty officers. The twenty-first edition of The BJM is a blend of the old Navy and new Navy. While the old is reflected in the Navy's time-honored customs and ceremonies. new material has been added to keep The BJM current within the technological advances and intricacies of today's Navy.