This book chronicles the stories, ships and sailors of the U.S. navy from its earliest beginnings when wind was the only source of energy to power these ships. Much of our history and language has its roots in these wooden ships as we expanded Americas influence from the original 13 colonies. This book was primarily researched and written by Dr. Harry Baehr, PH.D. the former chief editorial writer of the International Herald Tribune and many thanks to the Navy Heritage Archives for use of their information, pictures and illustrations and to the many mariners who keep our nautical traditions alive