Existing comment:
1942: Semper Paratus ... Fort McHenry in World War II:
When the storm of World War II broke upon the United States with the attack on Pearl Harbor, Americans turned to Fort McHenry for inspiration and service. Although the fort remained open to visitors, the United States Coast Guard established a fire control and port security training facility on the adjacent grounds. During the course of the war, over 26,000 men and women trained here.
Port security was a top priority. Coastguardsmen patrolled nearby dry docks where ships were built, guarded ammunition dumps, and performed security duties on foreign ships.
As the war progressed, training in shipboard firefighting, damage control, and fire safety took precedence. Many of these techniques are still used today.
The fort and its flag acted as a beacon of inspiration throughout the conflict. The first captured Japanese flags were displayed here as war trophies in 1942. Enlistment ceremonies, recruiting drives, and special radio broadcasts all stressed the importance of the birthplace of the National Anthem.
"I remember raising the flag over the fort for morning colors. That was a big honor for me."
-- Peter Mozzo, US Coast Guard |