George Dewey

George Dewey was a prominent United States Navy officer, best known for his decisive victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish–American War. His command of the Asiatic Squadron led to the swift destruction of the Spanish fleet in the Philippines, making him a national hero and the only person ever to hold the rank of Admiral of the Navy. Dewey's career spanned from the American Civil War to the early 20th century, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the rise of American naval power.

Early life and education

Born in Montpelier, Vermont, he was the son of a local physician. He received his early education at Norwich University before securing an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Graduating in 1858, he was assigned to the steam frigate USS *Wabash* as a midshipman, beginning his naval service just prior to the outbreak of the American Civil War.

Naval career

His early service during the American Civil War included blockading duties and participation in major engagements such as the Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip and the Battle of New Orleans under Admiral David Farragut. After the war, he held various sea and shore assignments, steadily rising through the ranks. He served as the executive officer of the USS *Colorado* and later commanded the USS *Narragansett* and the USS *Pensacola*. In 1897, he was appointed to command the Asiatic Squadron, a crucial posting based in Hong Kong.

Spanish–American War

Upon the outbreak of the Spanish–American War in April 1898, he was ordered by Assistant Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt to attack the Spanish fleet in the Philippines. On May 1, 1898, he led his squadron into Manila Bay and, in a one-sided engagement, completely destroyed the Spanish fleet under Admiral Patricio Montojo. The victory, achieved with no American fatalities, was celebrated across the United States and marked a turning point in the war. His forces then cooperated with the United States Army and Filipino insurgents under Emilio Aguinaldo during the subsequent Battle of Manila.

Later life and legacy

Returning to the United States in 1899, he was greeted with a hero's welcome, including a grand parade in New York City and a reception at the White House. He was promoted to the special rank of Admiral of the Navy in 1903. He served as president of the General Board of the United States Navy, an advisory body, and was an advocate for a modernized fleet. His name was briefly floated as a candidate for the Democratic Party presidential nomination in 1900. Numerous monuments, including Dewey Monument in San Francisco, and several naval vessels have been named in his honor.

Personal life

In 1899, he married Mildred McLean Hazen, the widow of General William Babcock Hazen, in a ceremony at St. Paul's Church in Washington, D.C.. The couple resided in the capital and were prominent figures in Washington society. He was a member of several social and military organizations, including the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States. Following his death in 1917, he was interred at the Washington National Cathedral.

Category:United States Navy admirals Category:Spanish–American War recipients of the Medal of Honor Category:People from Montpelier, Vermont