Which of the following was NOT a duty of the Loblolly Boys?

The role of Loblolly Boys in the early days of the Navy involved various duties that supported the health and safety of sailors. Among their responsibilities were tasks like ringing a bell to announce sick call, which was crucial for ensuring that crew members received timely medical attention.

Filling containers with sand for deck safety helped prevent slips and falls, which were common in the maritime environment. Additionally, providing water and containers for amputated limbs was part of their duty to manage injuries sustained during battles or accidents at sea, ensuring proper handling of medical waste.

Conducting surgeries, however, was not within the responsibilities of the Loblolly Boys. They served primarily in supportive roles and were not trained as surgeons. Surgical procedures were typically performed by trained physicians or surgeons aboard ships. This distinction is essential in understanding the level of medical care available during this period and the specific roles assigned to different personnel within naval medical teams.