Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:36:04-4:37:15

Willis Lee promoted before Pearl Harbor

Earlier promotion would make Willis Lee available for additional wartime commands, but his eventual posting remains uncertain.

BattleshipsCarrier GroupsPearl HarborUS NavyWillis A. Lee
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Question

Where would the US Navy send Willis Lee if he became a rear admiral and commanded Battleship Division 6 just before Pearl Harbor?

Short answer

His posting is uncertain, but a shortage of senior officers could put him in command of a fast carrier group despite his battleship background.

Notes

The scenario already places Lee in command of Battleship Division 6 before Pearl Harbor. His battleship background does not settle where the Navy would subsequently use him. A shortage of senior officers could lead to a fast carrier-group command. Temporary command at Pearl Harbor is also suggested, then questioned because other officers there would outrank a newly promoted rear admiral.