Checkpoint Charlie at night was something else. I sat there many a night all alone, and I could not believe it! The British and French would go to sleep, and the Americans and Germans would stay awake. The Albanians had a "penthouse" nightclub right on the street, and they would often party ALL NIGHT LONG! I used to hassle their asses, knowing full well the German Polizei would back me up in a heartbeat. BTW, I was always unarmed at CCP (I know you're a 2nd Amdt advocate as I am,) and I learned how to use my mouth (I also was the Russian translator for the MPs.) I have my concealed weapons permit, but I generally never carry my weapon. But, as I grow older and frailer, I'll probably get my a$$ kicked, so I'll start carrying my weapon---it's a tough life---hah! hah!