Sailor’s Boxing Win on Navy Warship Earns Praise from President Truman

During World War II, Joseph “Joe” Spotswood lied on his documents to enlist in the Navy at age 17. While serving aboard the USS Augusta, he participated in significant conflicts, such as the invasion of Normandy. However, Spotswood's spirit of combat went beyond the battlefield; he became well-known as a boxer and participated in unofficial bouts known as "smokers" aboard Navy ships.

‍

Navy "smokers" were boxing competitions frequently hosted on ships during periods of inactivity. These fights, which started out as friendly contests among sailors, eventually became a mainstay of Navy culture. They allowed Spotswood to demonstrate his boxing prowess, even against more formidable and seasoned opponents.

‍

As World War II ended, Spotswood took part in a momentous smoking aboard the USS Augusta on August 7, 1945. President Harry Truman watched the match from the ship as he returned from Europe. The sailors praised Spotswood for winning his fight despite being underdogs, and Truman gave him special recognition.

‍

After the altercation, Truman visited with Spotswood, thanked him, and shook his hand. According to Spotswood's son Chase, the president even scrawled, "Many thanks to Joe Spotswood for a wonderful fight," on a napkin and signed it. For the little sailor, this small act turned into a treasured keepsake.

‍

In addition to being an unusual instance of acknowledgment from a sitting U.S. president after a worldwide combat, Spotswood's narrative demonstrates the spirit and brotherhood of the Navy.

‍