The Duncan comparison leads back to a more measured judgment of Carleton Wright. He had real strengths but appears to have been strongly attached to rules and formal plans. That temperament becomes important because a night action can invalidate assumptions faster than a distant commander can issue new instructions. The watch point frames the battle as a test of adaptability and delegated judgment as well as courage and technical equipment.
Notable Point · 32:58-34:16
Wright's rule-bound style meets a fluid night battle
Wright had real professional qualities, but his literal, plan-centred command style may have been poorly suited to an action demanding improvisation.