The new boys at the U.S. Naval Academy were surveyed in 1919 about why they had joined, and their answers varied considerably. Five favorites:

• “I came here mainly to beat out a friend at West Point.”
• “Life here must be one continual round of hops, entertainments, fights, escapades, and every other wildly romantic thing not to be found in Iowa.”
• “I saw many naval officers at Charleston. They attended all the balls there and made great hits with the ladies.”
• “Father’s last words were, ‘Don’t let James lead any other life than that of a naval officer.’”
• “I had tried several other things without success, and so I thought I would try this.”

Why They Entered Annapolis: One “Thirsted for Power,” Another Wanted to Dance and “Make a Hit With the Ladies,” But Eagerness for Education and Patriotism Were Not Lacking Why They Entered Annapolis

Published: Sunday, June 22, 1919