Perhaps he stepped forward into his naval career looking back with longing at that which he thought he'd lost.

Speculation of personal angle: It might explain why he hadn't gotten married all that time. Perhaps he knew (or hoped) that Anne would look at those Lists and see that he was yet single and maybe he was hoping she would be single too... waiting for her bonny Bobby Shaftoe...

Still, as far as his career was concerned, I am fully convinced he was a determined man with or without LR or Anne. However, I do certainly agree that it's an added bonus to have Anne in his thoughts. You put it well: "I'll show her!" I think that was a boost!