It was no longer regarded as a mere blockading force, but was menacing the coast of the Confederate States, penetrating their rivers, and neutralizing the strength of thousands of Rebel soldiers who were withdrawn from armies in the field to man the fortifications rendered necessary by this unexpected form of attack.

These facts made a deep impression of Congress.

Since the close of the second war with Great Britain the navy had enjoyed no opportunity for distinction.

The war with Mexico was wholly a contest on land, and for a period of forty-five years the navy of the United States had not measured its strength with any foe.
Meanwhile however it had made great advance in the education and training of its officers and in the general tone of the service.
Under the secretaryship of George Bancroft, the eminent historian, (in the cabinet of Mr.Polk,) an academy had been established at Annapolis for the scientific training of naval officers.

By this enlightened policy, inaugurated if not originally conceived by Mr.
Bancroft, naval officers had for the first time been placed on an equal footing with the officers of the army who had long enjoyed the advantages of the well-organized and efficient school at West Point.