The Malagasy name for Diego Suarez is "Antsiranana." This sign indicates some of the city's history as a capital, an important seaport and a battlefield. The harbor is one of the very best in the Indian Ocean. The French established a naval base here in the late 19th century. British troops took it away from Vichy French during World War II. Now the independent country of Madagascar maintains the military installations here. (photo by "Ambler")