Remembering President Carter

A Family Connection

The world is reflecting on the extraordinary life of President Jimmy Carter as tributes pour in. Among the many chapters of his remarkable journey, one small but meaningful connection ties our family story to his legacy: the SSK-1, a small experimental submarine. President Carter served as the engineering officer on this vessel, while my father, Frank Andrews, served as the commanding officer.

In a photograph from that time, you can see:
Front Row, 4th from Left – Jimmy Carter, unidentified officer, Roy Cowdry (Executive Officer), and Frank Andrews (Commanding Officer), alongside F. Joseph Callahan.

In the tight quarters of the SSK-1, camaraderie was inevitable. My father often spoke with the utmost respect for the officers who served alongside him. I’ve included links below to highlight some of these outstanding men in addition to President Carter. Their bond, forged in shared challenges, included moments that echoed profound principles.

One story stands out for our family. While stationed in the Bahamas, the wardroom was invited to a local government dinner. At the time, racial segregation meant that non-white crew members were not welcome. Without hesitation, the officers unanimously decided: all of us or none of us. They declined the invitation—a decision rooted in integrity and solidarity.

President Carter later reflected on these formative experiences in his autobiography, A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety. For our family, knowing that such moments helped shape the values of a future president fills us with pride.

Hope and Connection in 1977

In 1976, during the bicentennial year of the United States, I campaigned for Jimmy Carter while still in high school, fueled by the enthusiasm of a first-time voter. The connection to his candidacy wasn’t just political—it was personal. Knowing that he had shared my father’s wardroom lent a unique resonance to his vision of honesty and humanity in leadership.

One moment from my plebe year at the Naval Academy remains vividly etched in my memory. It was a football game between the Naval Academy and Georgia Tech—both schools President Carter had attended. We were winning comfortably when an announcement came over the halftime loudspeaker: President Carter had issued pardons for all midshipmen holding demerits. The roar from the Brigade was deafening, lasting for minutes. That mix of joy and camaraderie, characteristic of Academy life, made the game almost an afterthought.

As the game wound down, I wandered toward the stadium exit, noticing a pathway cordoned off for the President and First Lady’s departure. Seizing the opportunity, I joined the growing crowd in the front row. When the Carters emerged, President Carter began greeting the outstretched hands around him.

Without hesitation, I called out, “Frank Andrews, Mr. President! Do you remember Frank Andrews?”

Amid the press of people and the urgency of his schedule, he paused. Then he stepped back toward me, his face lighting up with recognition. “Of course I remember Frank Andrews,” he said warmly.

“I’m Frank Andrews’ daughter, sir,” I managed to say, overwhelmed.

His response was both simple and profound: “Well, bless me.” Then, with a kind smile, he kissed me on the cheek and offered, “I’d like for you to meet my wife Rosalynn,” but the press of the crowds urged him forward.

That brief exchange spoke volumes about the character of the man—a president who remembered the bonds formed in service and honored the connections that shaped his path.

A Legacy of Integrity

As the world honors President Carter’s life, I reflect on the values he championed, his transparent and deeply grounded Christian faith, and the moments where his humanity shone through. Whether in the wardroom of the SSK-1, on the campaign trail of 1976, or in that unforgettable post-game meeting, Jimmy Carter exemplified humility, fairness, and a deep respect for others.

Rest in peace, Mr. President. The world remembers you, and so does one Navy family who cherishes the stories of shared service and steadfast principles.

Bios of SSK-1 Wardroom

F. Joseph Callahan

Roy Cowdrey

National Cathedral Memoriam for Jimmy Carter

Frank A. Andrews