John Lawrence Sullivan, a distinguished figure from Manchester, New Hampshire, holds a significant place in United States naval history, notably as the first Secretary of the Navy under the newly established National Defense Act of 1947. Appointed by President Harry S. Truman, John L. Sullivan served in this pivotal role from September 1947 to May 1949, succeeding James Forrestal, who transitioned to become the nation’s inaugural Secretary of Defense. Prior to this landmark appointment, John L. Sullivan had already made substantial contributions to the Navy Department, serving as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Air and subsequently as Under Secretary of the Navy.
John L. Sullivan, in his capacity as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Air in 1945, demonstrating his early commitment to naval aviation and preparedness.
Early Career and Path to Naval Leadership
Born on June 16, 1899, in Manchester, New Hampshire, John L. Sullivan was the son of Patrick Henry Sullivan and Ellen J. (Harrington) Sullivan. His early life was steeped in legal and political circles; his father served as personal counsel to Frank Knox, then a newspaper owner and later Secretary of the Navy. This connection fostered a close relationship between the younger John L. Sullivan and Knox, with Sullivan eventually becoming counsel for Knox’s Manchester newspapers.
Sullivan’s commitment to public service was evident early in his career. A lawyer by profession, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Dartmouth College in 1921 and a Bachelor of Laws degree from Harvard Law School in 1924. Admitted to the New Hampshire Bar in 1923, he joined his father’s law firm, Sullivan and White, in Manchester. His dedication to public service led him to the role of county Solicitor for Hillsborough County, New Hampshire, from 1929 to 1933, a position previously held by his father. He further honed his legal career, becoming a partner and later sole owner of his own law firms in Manchester.
His foray into federal government began in September 1939 with an appointment as Assistant to the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, followed by his designation as Assistant Secretary of the Treasury in January 1940. During his tenure at the Treasury Department until November 1944, John L. Sullivan oversaw crucial divisions including the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Legislative Bureau, and Procurement Division, gaining valuable experience in government administration and finance.
Wartime Naval Service: Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Air
John L. Sullivan‘s direct involvement with the Navy commenced during World War I when he enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve Force as an Apprentice Seaman. After wartime service, his deeper engagement with naval affairs began during World War II, culminating in his appointment as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Air on July 1, 1945.
His appointment as Assistant Secretary for Air was marked by an extraordinary event: his swearing-in ceremony took place on July 2, 1945, aboard the aircraft carrier USS Shangri-La (CV-38) off the coast of Japan. This dramatic wartime setting, amidst active combat operations, underscored John L. Sullivan‘s proactive approach and desire for firsthand understanding of naval operations. Admiral Aubrey W. Fitch, then Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Air, administered the Oath of Office on the carrier deck, surrounded by officers and crew in battle gear, with patrol planes overhead and warships nearby.
The historic swearing-in of Assistant Secretary of the Navy John L. Sullivan aboard the USS Shangri-La (CV-38) on July 2, 1945, highlighting his immediate immersion into naval operations during wartime.
Immediately after taking the oath, John L. Sullivan addressed the assembled personnel, emphasizing the critical role of naval air power in achieving a swift victory and maintaining post-war peace. This event was part of a broader tour of Pacific combat areas from June 21 to July 15, 1945, where he traveled extensively by air and sea, engaging with top Navy and Marine Corps commanders, pilots, and sailors to gather insights into the challenges and needs of naval forces.
From Under Secretary to Secretary of the Navy
Following his tenure as Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Air, John L. Sullivan was appointed Under Secretary of the Navy on June 17, 1946, continuing his upward trajectory in naval leadership. He then reached the pinnacle of his naval career with his appointment as Secretary of the Navy on August 21, 1947, officially assuming office on September 18, 1947. Chief Justice Fred M. Vinson administered the oath at the Pentagon, marking the beginning of his term as the first Secretary under the reorganized defense structure.
As Secretary, John L. Sullivan became a staunch advocate for a robust and modern Navy. He championed the development of strong submarine and aircraft carrier forces, recognizing their vital roles in projecting naval power and maintaining global security. He emphasized close collaboration between the Navy and its industrial partners to ensure efficient procurement and technological advancement. Further, he pushed for reforms in Naval Justice procedures and the expansion of Naval Reserve components, advocating for a technically proficient reserve force, including a Naval Research Reserve, ready for rapid mobilization in emergencies. His tenure was characterized by his unwavering commitment to naval preparedness as a cornerstone of national security and international stability.
Assistant Secretary Sullivan engaging with naval personnel on the USS Shangri-La, July 2, 1945, illustrating his hands-on approach to understanding the needs of the Navy.
Recognition and Civic Engagement
John L. Sullivan‘s distinguished service was formally recognized with several prestigious awards. In January 1948, President Truman awarded him the Medal for Merit, citing his “exceptionally meritorious conduct” and “outstanding services to the United States” from 1940 to 1946, acknowledging his significant contributions at both the Treasury and Navy Departments. The citation specifically highlighted his expertise in tax legislation and his vital role in naval administration during critical periods. Prior to this, in February 1947, he received the Treasury Department’s Distinguished Service Award and Silver Medal for his contributions to the war finance program during World War II. Duquesne University further honored him with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in June 1948.
Beyond his government service, John L. Sullivan was deeply involved in civic and community affairs, particularly in New England Democratic circles. He served as a Director of the New Hampshire Children’s Aid and Protective Society, a trustee of the Daniel Webster Council, Boy Scouts of America, and a trustee of Camp Carpenter, demonstrating his commitment to youth and community welfare. He was also a member of numerous professional and social organizations, including the New Hampshire Bar Association, the American Bar Association, the American Legion, and the Knights of Columbus, along with various fraternities and clubs. His personal interests included fishing and golf, reflecting a well-rounded individual engaged with both public service and personal pursuits.
John L. Sullivan‘s career reflects a dedicated public servant who significantly contributed to the strength and modernization of the U.S. Navy during and after World War II. His leadership as Secretary of the Navy solidified his legacy as a champion of naval preparedness and a key figure in shaping post-war American naval strategy.
