Q&A ยท 1:53:06-1:53:50

How the fleet managed sailors ashore

Strict discipline and consular coordination limited diplomatic trouble during mass liberty calls, though incidents still occurred.

Question

How did the fleet keep sailors from causing diplomatic incidents during port visits?

Short answer

Commanders imposed strict discipline, and consular officials worked closely with local police, although some incidents still occurred.

Notes

Moving thousands of sailors through foreign ports created a diplomatic risk. Commanders imposed strict discipline, while American consular officials stationed themselves at local police stations to deal with problems. Incidents still occurred. A viewer recalls a large fight, possibly in Chile, but the location is not firmly established in the exchange.