Story 1. First in Defence

The United States Navy possesses the largest and most powerful fleet of ocean-going vessels on the planet. In the many years that have passed since it was founded,

the brave men and women serving within this institution have been exposed to numerous incidents

of an inexplicable and unsettling nature.

In this week's episode, we examine three such occurrences. I'm going to be. And then. In June of 1775, following the outbreak of the American Revolution,

legislation was passed calling for the arming of civilian ships and merchantmen

in the war against Great Britain.

It soon became clear, however, that this measure, along with the ongoing cooperation of French naval

forces, would not be sufficient to break the vice-like grip which the empire held over the seas surrounding

the continent. The Royal Navy was a vital component of the British

forces in the colonies. Without it, the King's armies would be starved of men and resources,

as well as the ability to bombard coastal targets.

Recognising the importance that control over these waters represented,

the colonies funded the construction of 13 frigates, specifically designed for war.

This new military force was named the Continental Navy, and would go on to fight against the British with both courage and distinction.

The experience and skill which these sailors would gain over the next 10 years would become

integral to the future of an independent America, but the price of this

knowledge was great, with more than 80% of her ships being sent to the bottom of the sea

before the war's end.

It would not be for nearly another decade in response to repeated attacks on American merchant

ships by Barbary pirates that the US Congress enacted new legislation.

The Naval Act of 1794 provided funding for six new frigates.

...