Radio Conversation

This is the transcript of an actual radio conversation of a U.S. naval ship with Canadian authorities off the coast of Newfoundland in October, 1995. Radio conversation released by the Chief of Naval Operations 10-10-95.

Americans: "Please divert your course 15 degrees to the North to avoid a collision."

Canadians: "Recommend you divert your course 15 degrees to the South to avoid a collision."

Americans: "This is the Captain of a U.S. Navy ship. I say again, divert your course."

Canadians: "No. I say again, you divert your course."

Americans: "This is the aircraft carrier USS Lincoln, the second largest ship in the United States' Atlantic Fleet! We are accompanied by three destroyers, three cruisers and numerous support vessels! I demand that you change your course 15 degrees North, that's one-five degrees North, or counter-measures will be undertaken to ensure the safety of this ship!"

Canadians: "This is a lighthouse. Your call."