Conch Republic Military Forces

Like many proud nations, the Conch Republic (also known as Key West and the Florida Keys) was born from trouble. The trouble started back in the dark days of March 1982 when the U.S. Federal Government placed a Border Patrol Roadblock at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City.

A 17-mile traffic jam immediately ensued as the Border Patrol stopped every car leaving or entering the Keys, supposedly searching for illegal drugs and aliens who might be hiding under the front seats, in glove compartments and in trunks.

As the stories of the traffic jam poured out across the nation and the world, visitors started canceling reservations to come to the Keys. The courts refused to intercede, treating the Keys as if it were a foreign country. When asked what he was going to do, Mayor Wardlow replied, “we are going to go home and secede.

On Apr. 23, the Conch Republic flag was raised over city hall and the Schooner Western Union attacked the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Diligence with water balloons, Conch fritters and stale Cuban bread. And thus began the 1st Great Sea Battle of the Conch Republic. At the cessation of hostilities, the Republic surrendered and demanded foreign aid from the United States (which the Republic is still waiting for. The roadblock was unceremoniously removed and the glorious Conch Republic was born.