Several incentives made a naval career attractive to Carter. Georgia Tech president Blake Van Leer encouraged service as a way to develop Carter's curiosity and leadership. Carter also wanted to see the world, while marriage to Rosalynn Smith made an immediately paid career with reliable prospects especially practical. At the Naval Academy he paired strong academic performance with sprint football and cross-country running. He graduated 60th among 821 midshipmen and received his commission in 1947, giving the later submarine volunteer a solid technical and physical foundation.
Chapter · 10:04-12:04
Why Carter chose a United States Navy career
The video traces Carter's attraction to naval service, the practical need for a career, and his strong Naval Academy performance.