Father of the U.S. Navy

Born to a gardener in 1747, and christened John Paul Jones, this early day hero came from modest upbringings. John had a fascination with ships from early age, often strolling to the harbor to eye in wonder at the many docked ships. Once he was 13 years old, Jones decided to become a seaman’s apprentice.

He began working for King George transporting slaves in 1764, but left after tiring of the trade. Several years later Jones was credited with safely bringing his ship back to port after the captain had died from illness. At 25 years old, he was honored with the title of Captain. In 1775 he was appointed Lieutenant of the Continental Navy when war was declared between Britain and the United States.

He was known as a ruthless pursuer of his adversaries and was credited with capturing many ships during his time as a Commodore in 1777. He heightened his reputation a few years later after a British ship almost destroyed his own ship and told him to surrender. Despite all odds against him, Jones was still able to capture the larger ship.

After the U.S. gained its independence from Britain, Jones went on to become an admiral in the Russian Navy. After a short stint in Russia, Jones relocated for France and passed away at age 45, but was honored by being buried in the French Royal Cemetery. The United States had Jones’ remains brought back to the U.S. in 1905 so he could be properly honored for his war efforts. Today he lies with many other great war heroes at the guarded chapel in the U.S. Naval Academy.

Labels: Commodore, John Paul Jones, Russian Navy, US Military, US Naval Academy, US Navy