WW1 Gun Crew Photo Rates and Badges

[Jtski]

Hoping anyone can provide more insight into this photo and potentially narrow down the ship type or class based on the background details.

 

The photo shows a 9-man Gun Crew posing with their Efficiency award.

 

The sailor on the left appears to be a Gunner's Mate with their Efficiency badge beneath on their right arm. The man in the far right appears to be a Boatswain's Mate with "E" on the right arm and possibly a Gun Captain badge on their left.

 

Could someone explain what the white stripe on the right shoulders of some sailors indicate?

 

Thank you.

 

Jeff

[Allan H.]

What a great photo! The white shoulder stripe is for unrated deck crew. The white stripe came off when they made Petty Officer 3rd Class. The Engine Room sailors who hadn't earned PO wore a red stripe on their left shoulder. The stripes correspond to the arm which a rating badge would be worn.

 

I hope this helps.

Allan

[Jtski]

Thanks Allan much appreciated, this photo comes with a larger unattributed grouping I initially posted here:

 

Thinking there may be a chance to ID the ship type based on the unique looking structures on the fore deck behind the group. I would imagine also a certain size of ship and up would have Gun crews?