Q&A · 41:21-43:07

Why Bruce Fraser could not jump directly to First Sea Lord in 1940

Fraser's rank, seniority, and lack of a recent fleet command make a 1940 appointment implausible.

Bruce Fraser First Sea Lord Naval Leadership Royal Navy

Question

What if Bruce Fraser replaced Dudley Pound as First Sea Lord in 1940?

Short answer

It is highly unlikely because Fraser was too junior and had not yet held the fleet command normally expected for the post.

Notes

Fraser stood behind serving fleet commanders and several senior admirals, including officers in major shore commands. In wartime, Andrew Cunningham, a Home Fleet commander, or another senior figure such as Ramsay, Horton, or Noble would be more credible.