the memory palace

Episode 148: Safe Passage

Jan 28, 2023
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ANECDOTE

The USS William D. Porter Incident

  • During WWII, President Roosevelt needed to travel to Tehran for a crucial meeting with Churchill and Stalin.
  • The USS William D. Porter, tasked with protecting his ship, was involved in a series of mishaps, culminating in an accidental torpedo launch toward the President's vessel.
ANECDOTE

The Unraised Anchor

  • The William D. Porter's crew, new to their roles, failed to raise the anchor fully during departure.
  • This resulted in damage to another destroyer, necessitating repairs and paperwork but the Porter, under strict orders, couldn't even radio an apology.
ANECDOTE

Accidental Torpedo Launch

  • During a torpedo drill, a live torpedo was accidentally launched from the William D. Porter towards the Iowa, carrying President Roosevelt.
  • The torpedo ultimately missed, exploding harmlessly, but not before causing panic and highlighting the Porter's string of blunders.
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