Battle of Cape Spartivento
After a 1937 stint as naval ADC to King George VI, he was promoted to Rear admiral and became commander of the 3rd Battle Squadron of the Atlantic Fleet in January 1938, flying his flag in HMS "Resolution" and then commander of the 2nd Battle Squadron, in August 1939 he was appointed Rear-Admiral, Commanding, Channel Force in September 1939. He then became Admiralty representative at the Air Ministry. He was promoted to Vice Admiral backdated to Aug 1940 after commanding Cruiser Force H during the Battle of Cape Spartivento on 27 Nov 1940.