Charles Gage Stuart facts for kids

Rear Admiral Charles Gage Stuart, DSO, DSC (born February 2, 1887 – died 1970) was a brave officer in the British Royal Navy. He was known for his service in both the First World War and the Second World War. After World War II, he played a very important role. He became the leader of the military government in Guernsey, a small island, right after the Germans left.

A Life in the Royal Navy

Charles Gage Stuart began his career in the Royal Navy in 1906. This was a time when navies around the world were very important. He quickly showed his skills and dedication.

Serving in World War I

Stuart served bravely during the First World War. This was a huge global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. He earned a special award called the Distinguished Service Cross. This award is given for great bravery in battle.

He received this honor for his part in a naval battle in March 1915. This battle was called the Battle of Más a Tierra. During this fight, the German cruiser SMS Dresden was sunk. Stuart's actions helped achieve this important victory.

Bravery in the Baltic Sea

After World War I, Stuart continued to serve. He was involved in actions in the Baltic Sea in 1919. For his excellent service and leadership there, he received another high honor. This was the Distinguished Service Order. This award recognizes outstanding service during wartime.

Leading Naval Bases

As his career progressed, Charles Stuart took on more leadership roles. In 1932, he became the Captain of the Dockyard in Malta. A dockyard is a place where naval ships are built, repaired, and maintained. It's a very busy and important place.

In 1935, he moved to become the Captain of the Dockyard at Chatham in England. Then, in 1937, he was made Captain-in-Charge at Simon's Town in South Africa. These roles meant he was responsible for managing large naval operations and many people.

Taking Charge of Guernsey

Charles Stuart became especially well-known at the end of the Second World War. This global war lasted from 1939 to 1945. In May 1945, the war in Europe was ending. Stuart was given a very important task.

He was sent to the island of Guernsey. This island had been occupied by German forces during the war. Stuart's job was to take control of the island from the Germans. He then led a special military government there. This government helped the island return to normal life after the occupation.

He continued in this role until August 1945. At that time, Lieutenant General Sir Philip Neame took over. Sir Philip Neame became the first post-war Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey. This meant he was the official representative of the King on the island.

Family Life

In 1916, Charles Gage Stuart married Elizabeth Ellen Buckland. They built a family together. They had two sons and two daughters.