Jimmy Carter’s military career was unique among presidents

Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away Sunday, Dec. 29, at the age of 100, was known for his contributions to peacemaking and humanitarian work. However, his early years were shaped by his military career, which saw him serving in the U.S. Navy.

Carter was born in Plains, Georgia in 1924, and he attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Following his graduation in 1946 with distinction, he was commissioned as an ensign in the Navy and began his service on submarines.

Carter is one of three presidents who graduated from a U.S. military academy, but the only one to have graduated from the Naval Academy. 

Carter was initially stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, where he served on the USS Pomfret and the USS K-1. In 1948, he was assigned to the USS Alabama, where he worked as an electronics officer. Carter was responsible for maintaining the ship's sonar and radar systems, which played a critical role in the ship's defense.

Jimmy Carter observes submariners in the main control room of submarine USS K-1 sometime between June and October 1952. (Navy photo)

Carter's military career was not without its challenges. In 1952, he was selected for the U.S. Navy's new submarine program. He was preparing to become the engineering officer for the USS Seawolf, a vessel known for being one of the first to operate on atomic power. Carter, however, was forced to leave the program due to his father's death in 1953. 

Carter was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1953, having achieved the rank of lieutenant. His military career had a profound impact on his life and instilled in him a strong sense of duty and commitment to service.

(Photo by PhotoQuest/Getty Images)

The Seawolf-class submarine USS Jimmy Carter was eventually named after the former president.

In his later years, Carter frequently spoke about the importance of the military and the sacrifices made by those who serve. He remained involved with the Naval Academy, serving on its Board of Visitors and regularly attending football games.

Former President Jimmy Carter is piped aboard during his arrival at the change of command ceremony for USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23) at Naval Base Kitsap - Bangor, May 29, 2015. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kenneth G. Takada/Released

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Carter's military career was just the beginning of a lifetime of service to his country and his fellow men. He will be remembered as a true patriot and a leader who lived his life in service to others.