Harold Kinahan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Harold Kinahan
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Born | Belfast, Northern Ireland |
4 June 1893
Died | 22 March 1980 Almondsbury, South Gloucestershire, England |
(aged 86)
Allegiance | ![]() |
Service/ |
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Years of service | 1906-1952 |
Rank | Admiral |
Commands held | HMS Orion HMS Anson 1st Cruiser Squadron of the Mediterranean Fleet Royal Naval College, Greenwich |
Battles/wars | World War I World War II |
Awards | Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire Companion of the Order of the Bath |
Admiral Sir Harold Richard George Kinahan was an important officer in the Royal Navy. He was known for his long and brave service, especially during both World War I and World War II. He eventually became an Admiral and led the famous Royal Naval College, Greenwich.
Contents
A Life at Sea
Harold Kinahan began his exciting career in the Royal Navy in 1906. He joined as a cadet at the Royal Naval College, Osborne. This was a special school where young people learned to become naval officers.
Serving in World War I
During World War I, Harold Kinahan saw action in the Gallipoli Campaign. This was a very tough battle. After the war, he became an expert in gunnery, which is the skill of using naval guns.
World War II Service
When World War II began, Sir Harold continued to serve his country. From 1940, he worked with the Commander-in-Chief of the Home Fleet. This fleet protected Britain's waters.
In 1942, he took command of the mighty battleship HMS Anson. Later, in 1943, he became the Director of Personal Services at the Admiralty. This role involved looking after the people serving in the Navy.
Important Commands and Retirement
After World War II, Sir Harold Kinahan continued to hold important positions. In 1946, he became the Flag Officer commanding the 1st Cruiser Squadron of the Mediterranean Fleet. This meant he was in charge of a group of powerful warships in the Mediterranean Sea.
He then served on the Ordnance Board, which deals with naval weapons and equipment. His final role was as President of the Royal Naval College, Greenwich, starting in 1950. He retired from the Royal Navy in 1952, after many years of dedicated service.