Beaches

Guantanamo Bay is a well kept secret through out the Military.  I guess I should say it was a well kept secret because now the whole world knows about it.  Before GTMO started hosting "tourists" from the other side of the world though it was best know as a Navy port that hosted visiting ships for "refresher training" also affectionately know as "reftra" to many sailors.  Ships would visit and undergo rigorous damage control and general quarters training for anywhere from a couple days to a week or more.  During this time they would be kept aboard ship except for half day excursions and midnight liberty when they could leave and enjoy a ship's party at Cable Beach or sample the liquor in the military clubs.  Those that ventured to the beach would always remember how clear the water was and how breath taking the views.

Those that lived there knew that the easy beach access and crystal clear waters made for great swimming, snorkeling, diving, cook-outs, and just plain fun.  Spending every weekend or every other weekend was not an unusual occurrence.  Of course for those of us who were there for 6 years even a beautiful beach starts to get boring.  I never tired of going to the beach though and laying out to catch some rays.  The snorkeling was always an adventure.  

Things have changed there now with the beaches.  Several are now off limits except for security patrols, and even the ones you can get to are crowded with all the young folks guarding the "tourists".  So these pictures are of an era on the beach in GTMO that has passed into history, enjoy them.