Frank Knox, born on 1 January 1874 in Boston, Massachusetts, served in the famous "Rough Riders" in the Spanish-American War, after which he remained active in the Army Reserve during his distinguished career in journalism. He served in France during World War I, rising to major, and in later years was commissioned colonel. His outstanding service as Secretary of the Navy from 11 July 1940 until his death in Washington on 28 April 1944 was marked by brilliant administration of the vast growth of the Navy in those years, as well as a clear understanding of sea power and its key role in national defense.
