"I haven't yet figured out how I was made first captain, because I was not an outstanding student. I was an adequate student"

William Westmoreland's quote reflects his humbleness and his surprise at being picked as very first captain. He acknowledges that he was not a remarkable trainee, but rather a sufficient one. This suggests that he was selected for his management qualities, instead of his scholastic achievements. His surprise at being picked indicates that he was not anticipating to be selected, and that he was not actively looking for the position. This might be since he was not confident in his capabilities, or since he was not aware of the opportunities offered to him. His quote also recommends that he was figured out to take advantage of the opportunity he was given, and to show himself worthy of the position. This determination most likely added to his success in the military, and his ultimate rise to the rank of General.