In the Beginning

"Although their names are not listed on the scholastic roster, the Dove of Peace is a classmate of the Dog of War at Newport, R.I. where the United States Navy operates its War College." - - - The quote above opens a clever and comprehensive article entitled "Battle Training Points Way to Peace" that was published by The Sunday Star newspaper in January 1929. It effectively conveys the fundamental dichotomy of the Naval War College as being "a place of original research on all questions relating to war and to statesmanship connected with war, or the prevention of war." It is the oldest institution of its kind in the world, and through its doors have passed more than 50,000 students, including Navy heroes such as Chester Nimitz, Ernest J. King, William F. "Bull" Halsey, Jr., and Raymond Spruance. This book tells the story of how this venerated institution came into being more than a dozen decades ago. It speaks in many voices, including seasoned and highly-respected military historians, and reporters and journalists covering the then-emerging story in the vernacular and context of the time in which they were writing. This combination brings forth the story in a unique and balanced manner never before attempted. It is a great read!