After the sound of exploding fireworks have faded, and the last 4th of July hotdog eaten, it is worthwhile to remember the Navy’s role in the War for Independence.

America’s first unified Navy was formed in 1775, at the beginning of the American Revolution. Two particular officers helped establish America as a powerful force at sea: Commodore John Barry and Capt. John Paul Jones.

Barry and Jones were both fearless captains in the Continental Navy. Each man had a passion for victory that was seen in bold strategic moves and a refusal to accept defeat. To this day, however, a mild controversy surrounds Barry and Jones.

Which man is truly the Father of the Navy?

Barry was born in Ireland around 1745. As a boy he gained experience sailing and moved to Philadelphia to work on merchant vessels. He became such a talented sailor and skipper that on December 7, 1775, he became the Continental Navy’s first captain.

Barry’s prowess as captain was notable. In 1781, Barry and his crew were aboard the Alliance when they encountered the British vessels Atlanta and Trepassy. A battle ensued between the boats, and Barry was wounded in the shoulder. When it became apparent that the crew could not win without their captain, Barry returned to the deck with his wound and won the battle.

Barry was well liked by his crew and the leaders of America’s blooming government, which awarded him the title of commodore in 1798. This was a new rank that was higher than the rank of captain.

Jones was born in Scotland in 1747, and, like Barry, was an unwavering patriot. He developed his skills as a sailor aboard merchant vessels like Barry did, and became a captain in the Continental Navy on August 8, 1776, aboard Providence.

Jones’ most well known victory came September 23, 1779, aboard the Bonhomme Richard. Jones and his crew were off the coast of England and encountered the British vessel Serapis. A battle between the ships ensued, and the Bonhomme Richard was badly damaged. Refusing to give up, Jones continued to fight aboard his floundering ship. His persistence intimidated the British captain of Serapis, who eventually surrendered to Jones.

During the fray, one of Jones’ crew members allegedly surrendered to the British because he thought Jones was dead. When the British asked for confirmation, Jones hotly replied that he would never surrender. Although his reply has been obscured by legend, it resembles the phrase, “I may sink but I’ll be damned if I strike!”

Jones was successful in deterring numerous British vessels. However, he was a strict disciplinarian, which gave him an unpleasant reputation. Jones never rose above the rank of captain while serving America, but became a rear admiral in the Russian navy in 1788.

Comparing these two leaders only deepens the controversy surrounding them. Both men aided our country in its defining moment, making both men deserving of the title Father of the Navy.