Though he could have claimed an exemption from the draft as a Quaker, or a deferral due to his government service, Richard Nixon nevertheless sought a commission in the Navy and was appointed a lieutenant junior grade in 1942. His first assignment was aide to the commander of the Naval Air Station Ottumwa in Iowa but he soon requested active sea duty. In 1943 Nixon shipped to the Pacific Theater and was promoted to lieutenant. For this service, he received two Navy Letters of Commendation stating in part: “meritorious service, tireless effort, and devotion to duty.” In 1945, he was promoted to lieutenant commander and in 1953, he was further promoted to commander in the U.S. Naval Reserve. Nixon retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1966.

The details on this handpainted figurine are extraordinary.

The Presidential Library system comprises 14 Presidential Libraries overseen by the Office of Presidential Libraries in the National Archives and Records Administration. The Presidential Libraries Act was passed in 1955 and amended in 1986. Through archives, museums, and public programs, Presidential Libraries continue to preserve the documents and artifacts of our Presidents, helping us learn about our nation and our democracy.