The Presidency of Gerald R. Ford Gerald R. Ford was the 38th President of the United States, having gained office under extraordinary circumstances. His goodwill and friendly demeanor helped him climb the political ladder higher than he had anticipated. His political career began in his law firm, eventually ending in the Oval Office. Although her presidency was short-lived, she is remembered for the many crucial decisions she had to make. After graduating from Yale Law School in 1941, Gerald R. Ford returned to his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to start a law practice with his friend Phillip Buchen. He also became active in local politics. However, less than a year passed before he joined the Navy in 1942 to assist in the United States' efforts in World War II. For two years he served in Ann Arbor, Michigan; and Annapolis, Maryland, as a physical trainer for soldiers preparing to leave for battle. In 1944 he was sent to sea aboard the USS Monterey, where he served as both an athletics officer and gunnery officer. In 1945, Ford was promoted to lieutenant colonel and stationed in Illinois where he spent the next two years training new naval officers ("Gerald R. Ford Timeline" 3). Ford's time in the Navy became the necessary experience and expertise he needed during multiple events during his presidency. After his time in the Navy ended in 1946, Ford began to pursue a deeper career in politics. In 1948 he was elected to the House of Representatives for Michigan's fifth congressional district. Ford was a member of the House of Representatives from 1948 to 1973. During his tenure he served on the House Appropriations, Military Appropriations, CIA, and Foreign Aid Committees ("Gerald Ford Fast Facts" 2). Like...middle of paper......rd-escaped-2-assassination-attempts-Both-2481771.php"Gerald Ford Fast Facts." CNN.com. NP, July 16, 2013. Web. April 8, 2014. "Gerald R. Ford." us-history.com. NP Network. April 7, 2014. "Gerald R. Ford Timeline." geraldrfordfoundation.org. NP Network. April 6, 2014. "President Ford Pardons Former President Nixon." history.com. NP Network. April 9, 2014. "Key Presidential Events." millercenter.org. NP Network. April 6, 2014. "Vice President Nelson Rockeller." . NP Network. 9 April 2014. .