Adam Duncan's victory over the Dutch at Camperdown gives his name its historical weight. Duncan, Blake, and other recurring names act as shorthand for qualities expected of a ship and crew. Their force depends on knowing the naval history behind them, which is why the name is described as a shibboleth. It becomes an internal call to arms and an external signal to anyone familiar with the Royal Navy's record.
Notable Point · 3:51-5:03
Admiral Duncan as a signal of naval standards
Repeated names such as Duncan and Blake remind sailors and informed outsiders of the standards attached to Royal Navy service.