JOHN PAUL JONES

Part 1

John Paul Jones was a man. A man's man.

America recognizes Jones as the father of the U.S. Navy. During the Revolution, the Navy was known as the Continental Navy. His exploits and leadership in the War exhibited traditions of courage and professionalism which to this day are proudly maintained by the U.S. Navy.

In his first command against the British fleet, he captured 16 British vessels. His greatest victory was as Captain of the Bonhomme Richard in 1779. His ship and crew were in bad shape. The British commander recognized it. He offered Jones the opportunity to surrender. The term was struck. He was asked.....Have you struck? Jones' famous response.....I have not yet begun to fight. Three hours later the British commander surrendered.

U.S. Naval tradition perpetuates the following statement which reflects his fighting manner.

I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast for I intend to go in harm's way.

Jones died in Paris in 1792 at the age of 45. His body was subsequently returned to the United States aboard the USS Brooklyn accompanied by three cruisers. As the Brooklyn approached U.S. shores, seven battleships went out to greet and accompany Jones to shore.

Today, his body lies in a bronze and marble sarcophagus in the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel  at Annapolis.

Recall Marc Anthony's words to the people of Rome following Caesar's assassination.

The evil that men do lives after them, the good is oft interred with their bones.

It was not that way with John Paul Jones. His "good" has lived after him. Very few are aware of his other nature. I wish to share that unknown with you. However, it is lengthy and much too long to be concluded here. There will be a Part 2 to the Jones story. It will be published next week.

Let me leave you with the thought that John Paul Jones and World War II Generals Douglas MacArthur and George Patton were of the same ilk, cut from the same bolt of cloth. Each a supreme egomaniac. Each dashing, courageous, lacking in tact, arrogant, publicity seeking, personally flawed, and brilliant. Each with a conspicuous desire for glory. The comparison an inkling of Part 2.

Please return next week for Part 2. I guarantee you will find it interesting and surprising.