1901. Illustrated. During the course of a colorful naval career Evans rose to the rank of Rear Admiral and had two destroyers named after him. One example of Evan's character can be found in the following anecdote: Because of his serious wounds, as he lay helpless in the hospital, he was approached by a surgeon who suggested amputation. Evans pulled out a pistol from under his pillow and said he would shoot at the first sign of a surgeon's saw. The surgeon concluded that Evans would die, and did not press for amputation. Obviously, the young ensign survived.