4. Winston Churchill visited Shangri La in the spring of 1943
When Camp David opened for presidential use, the crew of the disused USS Potomac were transferred to the camp, supplemented by US Marines. Later, units from the Naval Construction Battalions (Seabees) were assigned, to complete modifications and new construction at the camp. The US Navy has operated the camp ever since, which it officially designates Naval Support Facility Thurmont. Additional security is provided today by the Secret Service, but in Roosevelt’s day, the president’s Secret Service detail was only on-site when the president was visiting. FDR found the site a fine place to fish, and to work on his beloved stamp collection.
He also conducted business there. During the Trident Conference in May, 1943, Churchill stayed at the White House as the two leaders and their staffs discussed the invasion of Europe set for the following spring. On one weekend Roosevelt went to Shangri La, taking Churchill with him. During the weekend both men enjoyed a little fishing, and Churchill is alleged to have visited a local restaurant in Thurmont on a Sunday afternoon, enjoying both a libation and the establishment’s jukebox. The visit to Thurmont is unsubstantiated by anything other than local lore, but the visit to Camp David is historical fact, as is Churchill’s fondness for both drink and music.
