Cradock had served for 39 years when he died at 52. At Tampico he helped coordinate the evacuation of British and American civilians alongside Rear Admiral Frank Friday Fletcher, who thought highly of his work. His career included service on the China Station and a period as second-in-command of the Atlantic Fleet. He also wrote on seamanship and naval life, including Whispers from the Fleet in 1907. Despite kidney trouble that caused him to miss part of the term, he completed a staff course. This record supports the assessment that he understood the risks he faced at Coronel.
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Cradock was an experienced professional
Cradock's 39-year career, operational service, staff course, and professional writing undermine the later image of an unthinking officer.