Q&A · 2:20:14-2:20:54

Where to find Rowley-like commanders in the world wars

The closest analogues are the steady admirals commanding battle and cruiser squadrons, especially around Jutland.

Question

Who were Rowley's equivalents in the First and Second World Wars?

Short answer

Look among solid battle- and cruiser-squadron admirals, particularly those at Jutland, who reliably avoided defeat without spectacular glory.

Notes

Many squadron commanders in both world wars fit Rowley's pattern. They were expected to produce a sound result and avoid losing the action, even if their victory would never resemble Trafalgar. Their value lay in keeping a formation effective while a fleet commander pursued the larger plan. The Battle of Jutland's battle-squadron and cruiser-squadron admirals offer especially useful examples.