Sturdee

As for the navy, Fisher proposed that Admiral Sturdee take a fleet of British predreadnought battleships and ram this force through the Dardanelles into the Sea of Marmara.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

The interview lasted five minutes, during which, according to Sturdee, Fisher displayed no interest in the battle except to criticize his failure to sink Dresden.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

Fisher felt that it must have been obvious where Dresden was headed and that immediately after the action, Sturdee should have sent at least one ship to Punta Arenas.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

Sturdee immediately accepted, turned over his duties as Chief of Staff to Rear Admiral Sir Henry Oliver, and departed by train for Devonport.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

As Invincible and Inflexible had to come home, this would have meant transferring Sturdee to Carnarvon, an inferior command for a vice admiral and a public slap on the heels of his recent triumph.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

At 10: 00 on the morning of November 28, Sturdee led his force to sea.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

Had the battle begun three hours earlier, had the visibility been that of the Falkland Islands battle, had there been the same ample sea room given Sturdee against Spee, the outcome at Jutland would have been different.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

Meanwhile, Sturdee calmly set about making his tactical arrangements.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

“Very well,” Sturdee said laconically, “we sail at four p.m.”

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003

There had been unfounded rumors that German nationals were gathering at South American ports to occupy and garrison the Falklands, and Sturdee ordered Bristol and Macedonia to intercept and destroy these ships.

Castles of Steel Massie, Robert K., 1929- 2003