Dalrymple-Hamilton commanded in Iceland from September 1941 to August 1942, supporting the naval base while trying to minimize friction with the Icelandic population. The post suited an officer accustomed to independent command and practical problems far from home. His subsequent appointment as Naval Secretary made him an adviser to the First Lord and First Sea Lord on promotions and senior appointments. He could recommend relatively junior captains and officers below the usual age for particular roles, with Creswell and Vian among the examples. Having previously influenced new officers at Dartmouth, he could now shape the service through the officers selected for higher command.
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From Iceland command to shaping promotions
Promotion after Bismarck gives Dalrymple-Hamilton a distant base command and then influence over the Royal Navy's senior appointments.