World: Speed Limit

At a Solomons base, the U.S. Navy issued a stern order: commanders of naval vessels, particularly PT boats, must not exceed 25 knots through the inlet. Reason: the wake at higher speeds (as delighted small-boat skippers had discovered) washed the Army privies off their stilts, dropped the establishments and their occupants into the water. Also forbidden: paint-up pictures of privies on small-boat bridges, with scores marked underneath.

...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!