Berwick Curtis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Berwick Curtis
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| Born | 9 October 1876 |
| Died | 9 May 1965 (aged 88) |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Navy |
| Years of service | 1896 – 1945 |
| Rank | Vice-admiral |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards |
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Vice-Admiral Berwick Curtis (born October 9, 1876 – died May 9, 1965) was a brave British Royal Navy officer. He served in the navy for many years and earned several important awards for his service. He played a key role in both World War I and World War II.
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Berwick Curtis started his naval training at HMS Britannia. This was a special training ship for future naval officers. In May 1896, he officially became a sub-lieutenant.
He quickly moved up the ranks. By December 1898, he was a lieutenant. In 1911, he became a commander.
World War I Hero
During World War I, Berwick Curtis showed great courage and skill. In 1916, he was promoted to captain. He was recognized for his actions at the Battle of Jutland, a huge naval battle.
He received the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) in May 1917. This award is given for bravery in battle. He earned a second DSO (called a 'bar') in October 1917. He was also made a Companion of the Order of the Bath in 1919.
He even received an award from Russia, the Order of St Stanislas 2nd Class, in June 1917.
Service in the Baltic Sea
After World War I, in 1919, Captain Curtis served in the Russian Civil War. He was in charge of the Twentieth Destroyer Flotilla in the Baltic Sea. This was a group of fast warships.
For his excellent leadership, he was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in January 1920. He personally commanded the ship HMS Abdiel.
His actions helped a lot in the relief of Riga, a city in Latvia. He worked closely with French naval forces to achieve success.
Later Career and World War II
In 1928, Berwick Curtis was promoted to rear-admiral. The next year, he became the rear-admiral-in-charge of the Gibraltar Dockyard. This was a very important naval base. He held this position until 1931.
He retired from the navy in September 1932 with the rank of vice-admiral. However, when Second World War began, he returned to service. He worked as a commodore for convoys. Convoys were groups of ships that traveled together for safety.
Berwick Curtis passed away on May 9, 1965, at the age of 88. He is remembered for his long and distinguished service to the Royal Navy.
