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"Smoker"
was the term given to a variety of entertainment onboard ship. With
the War giving little time for relaxation, or for time inport and
liberty, smokers provided a significant and unique means for the
crew to get a respite from the War, even if it was only for a brief
period.
Whether
it was physical exertion from tug-of-war, boxing matches, or other
athletic contests between divisions or departments, homegrown comedians
or theatrical skits, or the ship's band, the crew generated much
of their own entertainment. Periodically, however, USO performers
such as the legendary Joe E. Brown, bands such as Artie Shaw's,
and other performers would bring their shows onboard.
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