Multiple American presidents, leaders of church, state, and industry, Hall of Fame athletes — you’ll find all of these and more in At the Helm: My Journey with Family, Faith, and Friends to Calm the Storms of Life, the compelling autobiography of John Dalton WG71, the 70th Secretary of the Navy. After Dalton grew up in Louisiana, he became a naval lieutenant commander, attended Wharton, began a career in banking, finance, and real estate in Texas, and then spent five and a half years overseeing the Navy and Marine Corps. (In honor of his service and his support of women in the military, a submarine will bear his name.) From his home in Washington, D.C., the 83-year-old reflected on leadership, adjusting to retirement, and why it’s unlikely he’ll ever write another book.
Some of the best advice I’ve received came from the superintendent of the Naval Academy when I was there, Rear Admiral Charles C. Kirkpatrick. He would say, “You can do anything you set your mind to do, and don’t you forget it.” He said that every time he spoke, and it really resonated with me.
The best decision I ever made was marrying my wife, Margaret. I’ve learned the importance of listening to her.
We have two sons and four grandsons. I love each one immeasurably. I’ve learned you can never get precious time back.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Listen to others. You may not be the smartest person in the room.
The most significant person in my life was President Jimmy Carter. I met him at the Naval Academy Alumni Association when he was running for president. We were both Southerners, Naval Academy graduates, and submariners, and we just hit it off. He said, “I want a government as good and honest and as filled with love as are the American people.” That sold me.
When I was appointed Secretary of the Navy, morale was at an all-time low. I emphasized the positive and let them know that each sailor and Marine was important and valued. I improved the quality of life for them and their families, and I was easily accessible.
Most people believe making a lot of money is success. I believe success comes from loving what you do — enjoying your work, having a positive attitude, having family and friends that you love, and taking time to enjoy life.
The low point in my life was when I lost Freedom Capital [a savings and loan holding company]. I was broke, had no job, and owed the bank $1,000,000. We had a minister in San Antonio who said miracles still happen. Five years later, I was sworn in as Secretary of the Navy.
I had no intention to write At the Helm. But at my retirement party, I said I’m thinking about writing a book, and I got this thunderous applause. I really enjoyed calling old friends to recollect. I hope that relatives down the line will enjoy knowing about their ancestor’s life.
Treat everyone with dignity and respect. Trust your co-workers. Let each one know that they’re important.
Not having an assistant was a huge adjustment in retirement. Have a plan before you retire, and stay occupied. Keep up with your friends, exercise, and be grateful for every day that passes.
I start each day watching the morning prayer at the Washington National Cathedral, and I read several devotionals, including Abraham Lincoln’s Daily Devotional.
Margaret said that if I ever decide to write another book, it will be with another wife.
Published as “John H. Dalton WG71” in the Spring/Summer 2025 issue of Wharton Magazine.
