View source for File:US Navy 031029-N-6236G-001 A painting of President John Adams (1735-1826), 2nd president of the United States, by Asher B. Durand (1767-1845)-crop.jpg

Naval Historical Center, Washington, D.C. -- A painting of President John Adams (1735-1826), 2nd president of the United States, by Asher B. Durand (1767-1845). Every October 30th, the birthday of John Adams, Naval Reserve Center (NRC) Quincy, Mass., conducts a wreath-laying ceremony at First Parish Church. Both Adams and his son President John Quincy Adams are buried at the church. Adams was one of the leading advocates for the creation of a Continental Navy, he drafted the first set of rules and regulations for the new navy. He was able to convince the Congress to pass an “Act Providing a Naval Armament,” which was less than he thought was necessary but at least provided for the equipping of three frigates, the Constitution, the United States, and the Constellation. U.S. Navy photo.