July 16, 1862
Today, way back in 1862, the United States Congress created the rank of rear admiral. David G. Farragut held the first rear admiral rank.
David Farragut
His real name is James Glasgow Farragut, born in Tennessee and started in the navy when he was 8 years old, as a midshipman.
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/damn-torpedoes
Capt Porter became James' guardian and in honor of him, James changed his name to David Farragut.
Battle of Mobile Bay
During the Civil War, David Farragut was commandeering a fleet Tecumseh, Manhattan, Winnebago and Chickasaw to name a few.
Painting by Tom Freeman www.tomfreemanart.com
Farragut was remembered for his reply while moving towards a cross fire in the middle of Mobile Bay. He had no choice over the matter. It's either move forward or collide his fleet.
Damn the torpedoes
Damn the torpedoes
This idiom is now used to express one's decision or resolve to continue with the intended plan no matter how risky it is.