Which 1942 U.S. wartime campaign used the slogan “Loose lips might sink ships”?

The 1942 U.S. wartime campaign using the slogan “Loose lips might sink ships” warned civilians and service members not to reveal military information.

The phrase appeared on posters and in other World War II security messaging. Its central warning was that casual conversations could disclose details about troop movements, ship departures, destinations, or military preparations. Information gathered by an enemy could potentially endanger lives and operations.

The wording used rhyme and a concrete image to make secrecy memorable. “Loose lips” represented careless talk, while “sink ships” connected that talk with direct battlefield consequences. Similar wartime slogans appeared in Britain and other Allied countries, reflecting widespread concern about espionage and accidental disclosure.

The phrase is often quoted as “Loose lips sink ships,” but the well-known U.S. version includes “might.” It was not a single product advertisement; it was a public-information and wartime security campaign designed to influence everyday behavior.