DeWitt Coffman
1854–1932 (age 78)
United States Navy admiral
Biography
Admiral DeWitt Coffman (1854–1932) devoted more than four decades to the United States Navy, rising through the ranks as the service forged a modern steel fleet. He commanded ships and battleship divisions at a time when American sea power was expanding overseas, helping his crews meet the exacting standards of gunnery and seamanship required for the era.
His leadership extended beyond the bridge to mentoring younger officers and advocating for the Navy's presence at home; he retired as an admired strategist and returned to the Naval Academy community, where he is buried at the United States Naval Academy Cemetery.