United States Naval Academy - Lucky Bag Yearbook (Annapolis, MD)

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Si ' i ' ;.4M lu ' nmk Ml -■■ (, ORTY-FIVE years ago I reported at the Naval Academy, took the entrance examination, and failed so completely that the Superintendent wrote my Congressman advising him to appoint a more promising candidate. However, I was reappointed and the next year I just scraped in. I failed at the first semi-annual exams, but later was allowed re-exams in certain subjects, one being algebra. I never could do sums. I inhabited the wooden sections for about two years, but gradually pulled up and was finally graduated in the middle of the class. There is a reason. Before going to the Academy, I had never been away from a brother who was a sort of a math fiend. I allowed him to do all my sums for me, so left my head behind when I went away from home. I have never quite recovered from the handicap of that fundamental mistake. The lesson is: avoid the habit of relying upon others. Work out your own salvation. The above may serve to encourage any boy of average abihty who is inclined to be discouraged. He can get through the Academy if he has the necessary sand. It is also true that such a boy may become a reasonably good Naval officer, provided he understands that his success will depend upon what he learns after he enters the service. His usefulness will depend upon how successfully he learns to handle men, how thoroughly and conscientiously he performs his assigned duties, how loyally he supports those in authority, and how completely he devotes himself to acquiring a knowledge of the art of warfare, and to training his mind in the application of its principles. Read the standard works on this subject. Get a clear understanding of the true meaning of military character, and the vital bearing of loyalty upon efficiency. A position in the Navy is not an occupation; it is a trust. Your obliga- tion is to prepare yourself for responsible duties upon the successful discharge of which may some day depend the welfare of our country. A lifetime is not too long for this preparation. It can be acquired only by systematic and continuous study. If deferred until you reach a position of responsible command it will be too late. You can best promote the efficiency of the Navy, at least during the earlier part of your career, by applying your energies to your own self-development — by becoming an efficient, conscien- tious and loyal officer. u -?o W c?yF B ;-s 5 = rc .;: ll:inul ' i»A--: ' . -Th ' ' .