The American Public Health Service was established in 1798 to provide medical treatment for injured seamen. The beginning of the service marked the end of the 'pegleg' era of seafarers, a fact much lamented by traditionalists who valued scurvy for its old-world appeal. Some years later, young seamen, favouring the vintage look, would dip their toes in mercury to induce gangrene.
Since 1889, Public Health commissions have been granted by the President, approved by the Senate, and socially shunned by the Cabinet*. Indeed, such commissions may be ostracised for wearing their hair too long. Ranks go from assistant surgeon to surgeon general (except on Sundays), and are much like the Navy's lieutenant and rear admiral (see plate II: Haddock in breadcrumbs with mixed leaves).
* Cabinet. Not to be confused with the United Kingdom's Privy Council, a group of advisors for the Monarch's outdoor toilet.
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