From the Introduction by Admiral Ernest McNeill Eller: "Some men make a deep impression upon the events of their times and greatly affect the future without becoming well know to history. Admiral Wainwright was apparently one of these men. He has left his enduring mark upon the development of the powerful U.S. Navy that today is the first defense of not only America but of all nations that love freedom."
After being appointed to United States Naval Academy by President Lincoln at recommendation of Admiral Farragut, Wainwight went on to become a hero of the Spanish American War, and eventually Rear Admiral of the United States Navy.