John Edelsten facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir John Edelsten
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John Edelsten (1953)
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| Born | 12 May 1891 Enfield, Middlesex, England |
| Died | 10 February 1966 Liphook, Hampshire |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
 Royal Navy |
| Rank | Admiral |
| Commands held | 1st Battle Squadron 4th Cruiser Squadron Mediterranean Fleet Portsmouth Command |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
| Awards | Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order Commander of the Order of the British Empire |
Sir John Hereward Edelsten (born May 12, 1891 – died February 10, 1966) was a very important officer in the Royal Navy. He rose through the ranks to become an Admiral. One of his most important jobs was leading the Portsmouth Command.
Early Life and Family
John Edelsten was born on May 12, 1891, in Enfield, England. He was the third son of John Jackson Edelsten and Jessica Gooding. His father owned a business that sold tea.
On December 14, 1926, John Edelsten married Frances Anne Hoile Masefield. They got married at the Holy Trinity Church in London. Frances was born on October 14, 1900, in Scotland. Her parents were Henry Valentine Masefield and Caroline Gordon.
John Edelsten joined the Royal Navy in 1908. He served his country during World War I. After the war, he became the Deputy Director of Plans in 1938. This role involved helping to plan naval strategies.
World War II Service
During World War II, Edelsten had several important roles. He started as the Senior Naval Officer. He helped lead operations against Italian Somaliland. In 1941, he became the Chief of Staff for the Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean Station. This meant he was a top helper to the main commander in the Mediterranean Sea.
In 1942, he was made Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff. His job was to focus on fighting against U-boats (enemy submarines) and protecting trade ships. By 1945, he became the Rear Admiral (Destroyers) for the British Pacific Fleet. This put him in charge of many fast warships in the Pacific Ocean.
Post-War Leadership
After World War II ended, Edelsten continued to serve. He commanded the 1st Battle Squadron. Then, he led the 4th Cruiser Squadron. In 1947, he became the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff. This was a very high position in the Royal Navy.
In 1950, he was made Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean Fleet. From 1952, he also held a dual role as the NATO Commander Allied Forces Mediterranean. This meant he led both British and NATO naval forces in the Mediterranean.
During this time, he visited Israel for two days. His final job was as Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth in 1952. He also became the NATO Allied Naval Commander-in-Chief, Channel Command. He retired from the Navy in 1954.
From 1953 to 1954, he was also a special naval aide to the Queen. This was an honorary role. In 1953, he received a special award called the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. This was part of the 1953 Coronation Honours.
