> He didn’t have a choice, he was sent to a naval academy which demands a commitment to the navy for several years after you graduate...
The article says that he “accepted appointment” to the Naval Academy — which I interpret to mean that he could have said “no”.
I betcha the training he got was worth a small fortune, which would be why they would want him to commit for a couple years after getting out.
Presumably he applied to them? — they surely wouldn’t have had a Press Gang like the old British Navy had, getting him drunk then grabbing him off the street to serve in His Majesty’s Ships?
Anyrate, hunting pirates would be alot more fun than pro baseball. Still no sympathy from me: I almost wish I could trade places with him. Pirate hunting would be a HOOT!!
Huh?
“Anyrate, hunting pirates would be alot more fun than pro baseball.”
Well, not necessarily. I gave up my chance because I didn’t think I could feed my family on minor-league pay. There hasn’t been a summer since that I haven’t questioned that decision.
There are some who think baseball is just a fun game, just as they think chasing pirates is a fun game. Some of us would disagree with both views but for different reasons. As for me... if there were a time machine to take me back to my youth, the only pirates I’d be worried about play in Pittsburgh.