Josephus Daniels

“ In the trying months that have followed, the readiness and fitness of our men and ships have been tested and established, amid perils more insidious and baffling than those ever before confronted by a nation at war. The navy has sunk submarines, captured officers and men on U-boats, and driven many into hiding. ”

“ In one week last summer, the navy made contract for more destroyers than have been built since the American nation -- the American people -- established a navy. It has built and is building other fighting craft as rapidly as the resources of the country admit. In personnel the navy has expanded from 75,000 to 300,000 men officers. So popular is the naval service the only embarrassment is that men volunteer so rapidly we have to work overtime to give them hardy, adequate housing and proper training. ”

“ To compel the nation with challenge the traditional American doctrine of freedom of the seas, every man and every ship in the navy is solemnly pledged. ”