Mayor Takes Naval Oath, Governor Inspects Coast Guards

At 33, Zidler exchanges his honor title for a military one. Harold Stassen, Minnesota's 35-year-old governor, starts active duty as a Lieutenant Commander. As a young Republican governor, he serves 48 states, symbolizing democracy in uniform.

What is the age of Harold Stassen when he began active duty?

What is the significance of the phrase 'volunteer symbol democracy in uniform'?