18The White House
Washington, D.C.
December 1903
In December 1903, Lieutenant Commander William Sims met with President Roosevelt at the White House. A favorite of the energetic president, Sims had become a frequent guest, for Roosevelt truly enjoyed his company and valued his advice. Roosevelt recognized him as a kindred spirit and had been surreptitiously grooming him to become his naval aide. Toward the end of their meeting, Roosevelt decided to share a dilemma with Sims and ask for his counsel.
“You know, Commander, I’ve got a bit of a situation brewing at the Secretariat’s office. Secretary of the Navy William Moody has tendered his resignation to me. It is to become effective this coming summer.”
“I didn’t know he was considering leaving, Mr. President,” replied Sims. "He’s a ve
