Aviation Boatswains Mate Fuels

• Origins in WWII: The Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels), or ABF, rating was created during World War II to manage the rapidly growing need for safe and efficient fueling of naval aircraft aboard carriers. • Nickname “Grapes”: ABFs are commonly called “Grapes” in the Navy—a nod to the distinctive purple shirts they wear while working on the flight deck. • High-Risk Job: ABFs routinely work in hazardous conditions, handling volatile jet fuels (JP-5) near active aircraft and hot engines, making theirs one of the most dangerous jobs on a carrier. • Complex Fuel Systems: Modern carriers can hold over 3 million gallons of aviation fuel, with ABFs responsible for maintaining, testing, and operating intricate fueling systems below and above decks. • Firefighting Skills: Due to the risk of fuel fires, ABFs receive extensive firefighting training and often serve as first responders in flight deck emergencies. • Critical to Air Operations: No aircraft can launch or recover without the efforts of “Grapes”—the tempo of carrier operations depends on their speed and accuracy. • International Influence: The U.S. Navy’s ABF training and operational procedures have been adopted and adapted by several allied navies around the world. • Historic Mishaps: ABFs have been central to the response during major carrier accidents, such as the 1967 USS Forrestal fire, helping save their shipmates and the vessel. • Endurance and Teamwork: During high-tempo flight operations, ABFs may work 12-hour shifts or longer, often in extreme weather, requiring strong teamwork and endurance. • Legacy and Pride: Many ABFs take great pride in their heritage, with a tradition of passing down stories, lessons, and even “lucky” purple gear from generation to generation.