Cornelis Tromp vs Sam Manekshaw

Cornelis Tromp commanded a Dutch squadron in the Battle of the Sound, supporting the Dutch Republic's ally Denmark against Sweden. The Dutch victory broke the Swedish blockade of Copenhagen and secured Danish independence.

Tromp served as a vice-admiral under Michiel de Ruyter at the Battle of Solebay. He commanded the rear squadron and fought aggressively against the English fleet, contributing to the Dutch strategic success in preventing an invasion.

Tromp commanded the van squadron of the Dutch fleet at the Battle of the Texel. His aggressive tactics helped secure a Dutch tactical victory over the Anglo-French fleet, preventing an invasion of the Netherlands.

Tromp was dismissed from the Dutch navy after a conflict with the States General over his conduct and insubordination. He was later reinstated but the dismissal reflected his difficult personality and political rivalries.

Tromp was appointed Lieutenant-Admiral of the Admiralty of Amsterdam, one of the highest naval commands in the Dutch Republic. This appointment restored his career after his earlier dismissal.

Manekshaw served in the Burma Campaign during World War II. He was wounded in action and awarded the Military Cross for gallantry, gaining combat experience that shaped his later career.

Manekshaw was appointed Chief of Army Staff in 1969. He oversaw the modernization of the army and prepared it for the 1971 war, despite political pressure to act earlier.

As Chief of Army Staff, General Manekshaw led the Indian Army to a decisive victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. The campaign resulted in the creation of Bangladesh and the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops.

Manekshaw was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal, the first Indian army officer to receive this five-star rank. The promotion recognized his leadership in the 1971 war and his long service.