This Veterans Day, we spotlight W. Graham Claytor, Jr. who not only served as Secretary of the Navy, rose to the rank of Lt. Commander and commanded three vessels during his career. While leading the U.S.S. Cecil J. Doyle, he famously rescued 300 sailors from the U.S.S. Indianapolis which had been sunk by a Japanese submarine. Under President Carter, Claytor also served as Deputy Secretary of Defense.

A longtime rail enthusiast Claytor would serve as Chief Executive of both the Southern Railway and Amtrak, leading both carriers to peak points in their history.

We hope you will use this day to thank Veterans in your life and network for their service to our great Nation.

Links:

  1. Southern Railway's W. Graham Claytor, Jr. (Southern-Railroads.org)
  2. William Graham Claytor, Jr. (Naval History and Heritage Command)

Photo Credit: Naval History and Heritage Command