William Shepherd Benson: A Naval Admiral and Unexpected Artist William Shepherd Benson, a name inextricably linked to the annals of American naval history, was far more than just the first Chief of Naval Operations during World War I. Emerging from the quiet landscape of Schenectady, New York, in 1855, he possessed a dual identity – a distinguished admiral and a surprisingly accomplished artist. His life’s journey, marked by service, strategic leadership, and a hidden passion for capturing the world around him, offers a fascinating glimpse into the multifaceted nature of a man who shaped the…