Navy updates liberty policy for sailors in Japan

The Navy I remember not only tolerated, but encouraged drinking. Every event centered around drinking. I enjoyed it for the most part, but am aware just how lucky I am to have survived far too many close calls where alcohol is involved in my ten years of service. I don't know if restricting liberty in this fashion will bring about the change they want in an area largely outside of their control, but I do know that there were/are many opportunities to change behavior at least within the confines of their bases.

For example, I was stationed at gtmo 95-98. Every liberty activity involved drinking. I'm counting 5 bars (golf course bar, Barrell Club, Marine Hill, o-club, and at least one on the leeward side - Harbor Fights had already closed). That's not to mention a couple restaurants that served and the club for docked ships they steered sailors to. You could drink at all beaches, as well as the ball fields. This is all on a very small base.

So if the Navy is starting to address their shortcomings where alcohol is involved, that's great, but articles like this seem to put the lions share of the burden on sailors while protesting innocence for themselves. Like the drug dealer saying he's just providing a service to fill a need.

What it ever fashionable??

Drunk is one thing. Criminal behavior is another.