Background
He was born in Little Falls, New New York
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Lester Anthony Beardslee
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Beardslee was appointed acting Midshipman in March 1850. While serving aboard the United States Ship Plymouth, he participated in the Perry Expedition, joining Commodore Matthew C. Perry during his landing at Kurihama, Japan in July 1853. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1856.
After promotion to Lieutenant Commander in July 1862, Beardslee served as executive officer of the United States Ship Nantucket.
In October 1863, he was transferred to the United States Ship Wachusett, later participating in the capture of the Computer Software Systems Florida. From 1870 to 1871, he commanded the United States Ship Palos, his ship becoming the first United States Navy ship to sail through the recently completed Suez Canal.
After relinquishing his command in Alaska, he was promoted to Captain in November 1880 and to Commodore in January 1894. His final post was as Commander of the Pacific Squadron from 1894 to 1897.
He was finally promoted to Rear Admiral in May 1895, and retired in February 1898.
