Filipino Children Examine a Crew Member’s Tuba

Port calls helped the U.S. Navy build relationships with citizens of other countries. These activities took on particular significance during the Cold War (1947–1991). The Navy hoped that goodwill activities would show the United States as a friendly—and powerful—ally. Donating food, supplies and blood underscored the American commitment to supporting people in need.

The crew of the aircraft carrier Intrepid participated in humanitarian activities as part of an official Navy program called Operation Handclasp. In July 1968, commanding officer Capt. Vincent Kelley and other crew members visited four village schools in the Philippines. Crew members distributed medical supplies and textbooks. The ship’s band performed, prompting a tuba inspection from these curious onlookers.