Existing comment:
The Great White Fleet was manned by 14,000 Sailors and Marines first under the command of Rear Adm. Robley "Fighting Bob" Evans, and subsequently under Rear Adm. Charles Stillman Sperry, all embarked on a historic once-in-a-lifetime adventure. They were the ambassadors of goodwill and the vehicles through which others perceived and judged America and the Navy. The good conduct the Americans displayed when on liberty left a positive impression in every port of call around the world. Similarly, the patriotism with which the Sailors of the Great White Fleet wore the uniform made an impression on their character that they carried throughout their lives.
Interestingly, junior officers among the fleet included Ensign Harold R. Stark and Ensign William F. Halsey. Later, they would rise to the ranks of Admiral and Fleet Admiral, respectively. Admiral Stark assumed command as the eighth Chief of Naval Operations in 1939. Fleet Admiral Halsey, renowned Commander of the Third Fleet, operated successfully against Japanese forces in World War II. |