Porter Assumes Command of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron

OCTOBER 12TH, 1864:  Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter assumed command of the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron, relieving Acting Rear Admiral Lee.

In one of his early general orders, Porter said: "It will be almost useless to enjoin on all officers the importance of their being vigilant at all times.  We have an active enemy to deal with, and every officer and man must be alert...."

Porter's efforts would soon turn to the most effective means of enforcing the blockade-- the capture of Wilmington, the main port of entry remaining for the Confederates.

--Old B-R'er