According to the article, why did the captain of the Planter let Robert Smalls pilot the ship?

Question

A.Smalls had learned to pilot a ship as a young boy.
B.Smalls had learned to pilot a ship in the U.S. Navy.
C.Smalls had served in Congress for five terms.
D.Smalls knew the correct signals to flash while sailing.

Answer 1

B. Smalls had learned to pilot a ship in the U.S. Navy.