Here's an article from Philadelphia Inquirer talking about shore permits. Click on the link to read the article. If it does not go directly to the article do the search for document "6589068.htm" from the newspaper's site.

http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/business/6589068.htm

I agree with this article. I am retired Navy (22+ years) and I know how important it is for sailors to go ashore and not be bound to the ship. We are in the process of starting a new port ministry here in Hachinohe Japan with everything being in the planning and prayerful stage and here in Japan, this is also an issue but I am not sure how strong it is yet. Please be in prayer for us. Thank you.
Mark Bjorndal
Chaplain

Look for the related posting of October 23 regarding Coast Guard regulations on Shore Leave and Chaplain/Welfare Workers access.

http://www.network54.com/Hide/Forum/message?forumid=261887&messageid=1066885753