Originally Posted by
India Four Two
I have often wondered why a submariner was appointed as commander of the Task Force. How did that happen?
Was there a more "air minded" officer available who might have made a better commander?
Thoroughly agree with Alfred - the First Sea Lord of the day appoints seagoing Flag Officers on the basis of their perceived overall ability to exercise command at sea, irrespective of their original branch, coupled with their suitability for further promotion. Of the some 14 officers who held the appointment of Flag Officer First Flotilla, Sandy Woodward's appointment at the time concerned, all but one went on to at least Vice Admiral, five went on to Admiral, and one to Admiral of the Fleet. Four, including Admiral Woodward, were submariners.
Jack