Madden became First and Principal Naval Aide-de-Camp to the King in 1922. Created in 1830, the appointment signaled that its holder was being considered for the highest naval commands and often the First Sea Lordship. The court office therefore worked as an informal succession marker alongside formal rank and fleet appointments. The appointment was united with the First Sea Lord's office in 1972.
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The monarch's principal naval aide signaled future leadership
Appointment as the monarch's principal naval aide often identified an admiral as a candidate for the highest professional commands.