ADMIRAL WILLIAM SHEPHERD BENSON : First Chief of Naval Operations by Klachko, Mary. with David Trask

Annapolis 1987, Naval Institute, US First hard bound edition in dust jacket, 7x10, Fine/Fine condition, xviii, 1268 pages, numerous illustrations, notes, bibliog & index. ---------------------------------This biography of Admiral William Shepherd Benson-the result of more than fifteen years of extensive research-makes a significant contribution to the annals of U.S. naval history. Until now, surprisingly little has been written about the man who became the first chief of naval operations in 1915 and led the U.S. Navy through World War I. Unlike many other important naval figures of his day, Admiral Benson did not write his memoirs, so his own account of events has never been made public.To write this book, however, Dr. Mary Klachko was given exclusive access to the admiral's private papers and made use of numerous other primary sources. In addition, she interviewed Benson's family, friends, and professional colleagues, as well as American and British naval officers who participated in events that involved the admiral. Her conscientious efforts have allowed her to make authoritative interpretations of Benson's career as chief of naval operations.One of the important points made by the author is her contention that Admiral Benson's concept of naval policy did not derive from anti-British sentiments, as some of his critics argue, but from his American nationalism and commitment to the well-being of the U.S. Navy. Here, Dr. Klachko offers a judicious evaluation of his sound leadership abilities, crediting the admiral with skillfully balancing the political requirements of President Woodrow Wilson's administration against the needs of the navy and with acting as an effective intermediary between the fleet and Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels, who stood well with the president but not with naval officers. Here, too, are valuable insights into Benson's sometimes difficult relationship with Admiral William Sims.This book also brings to light Benson's attempts after the war to create a strong American merchant marine. His long and dedicated service first as chairman and later as an active member of the U.S. Shipping Board is fully covered.Students of naval history, World War I buffs, and professional historians will welcome this scholarly study for the understanding it provides of a distinguished naval leader who helped create a powerful modern navy.