He shared with the sailors the following - I found it online, but I don't have the name of the original author. FYI - I have never in my life heard my 85 year old father curse.

"Why I swear"
1. It pleases mother so much.
2. It is a fine mark of manliness.
3. It proves I have self-control.
4. It indicates how clearly my mind operates.
5. It makes my conversation so pleasing to everybody.
6. It leaves no doubt in anyone’s mind as to my good breeding.
7. It impresses people that I have more than ordinary education.
8. It is and unmistakable sign or culture and refinement.
9. It makes me a very desirable personality among women and children and in respectable society.
10. It is my way of honoring God who said, “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.”