Discharging problem men working well, Navy says

The Navy is getting quick results from a program giving the boot to more than 2,600 sailors who don't carry their weight. The two-month Project Upgrade improved morale and fighting readiness, said naval officials pleased with the program despite an existing personnel shortage.

The project enabled supervisors to work more with people who were performing well and to dismiss "problem" sailors -- through a swift, 24-hour, honorable discharge -- without going through the costly administrative procedures normally required. One commander noted that the same amount of work is accomplished on his ship despite the discharge of 20 sailors.