What was the nickname given to enlisted medical personnel who served porridge to the sick aboard ships?

The correct choice is associated with the historical role of enlisted medical personnel who provided care to sick sailors, specifically through the task of serving porridge or gruel, which was considered a staple for healing and nourishment. The term "Loblolly Boys" emerged during the early days of the U.S. Navy, where these medical attendants were responsible for the general welfare and diet of sick crew members aboard ships.

This designation highlights their essential role in the ship's medical care team, emphasizing the connection between nutrition and recovery, which was particularly vital during long voyages. The term "loblolly" itself refers to a kind of porridge, directly linking their duties with their nickname. As time progressed, the role of the Loblolly Boy evolved into what we now recognize as the Hospital Corpsman in the Navy, indicating a historical legacy of medical support at sea.