From the Collections
Shore Leave
The aircraft carriers of World War II were the floating cities of the United States Navy. Everything you could need to care for 3000 men was aboard and conveniently just minutes away from bunks and battle stations! Want a book? The library was open and ready. Hungry after a long shift? The galley served four meals a day—complete with ice cream and cakes for special occasions. Ready to unwind with a show? Sailors screened movies in the hangar bay and Navy musicians stood by for concerts.
How about some time on dry land or a drink after a hard day? Not a chance! Not unless you were due for shore leave. Also called ‘liberty’ for the much-needed freedom it provides, shore leave was a guaranteed amount of time off the ship to rest and unwind.
Featured are photos of sailors enjoying themselves during shore leave. Sleeves were rolled up, drinks flowed, and smiles appeared all around during liberty. From luaus in Hawaii to impromptu beach parties at Leyte Gulf, the location didn’t matter once they could relax from the pressures of a world at war.
How about some time on dry land or a drink after a hard day? Not a chance! Not unless you were due for shore leave. Also called ‘liberty’ for the much-needed freedom it provides, shore leave was a guaranteed amount of time off the ship to rest and unwind.
Featured are photos of sailors enjoying themselves during shore leave. Sleeves were rolled up, drinks flowed, and smiles appeared all around during liberty. From luaus in Hawaii to impromptu beach parties at Leyte Gulf, the location didn’t matter once they could relax from the pressures of a world at war.
