Ernest J. King

ModernGeneralUnited States1878 — 1956

Fleet Admiral and Chief of Naval Operations in WWII.

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Quick Facts

Born

1878

Died

1956

Country

United States

Era

Modern

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)65

Political (20%)70

Influence (20%)65

Legacy (20%)68

Leadership (15%)78

Strategy (15%)76

Total Score69.6

Ernest J. King — Complete Timeline

1941 AD

Appointment as Commander-in-Chief, US FleetPolitical Action◆ Major

King was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the US Fleet (COMINCH) in December 1941, following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was given authority over all naval operations in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.

World War IINaval CommandPearl Harbor

Impact: globalconstructive

1942 AD

Victory at the Battle of MidwayWar

Under King's strategic direction, the US Navy decisively defeated the Japanese fleet at the Battle of Midway. The victory turned the tide in the Pacific War, destroying four Japanese aircraft carriers and shifting the strategic initiative to the Allies.

World War IIPacific WarNaval Battle

Impact: globalconstructive

Appointment as Chief of Naval OperationsPolitical Action◆ Major

King was appointed Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) in March 1942, combining the roles of COMINCH and CNO. He became the single most powerful naval officer in US history, directing all aspects of the Navy's war effort.

World War IINaval CommandUnified Command

Impact: globalconstructive

1944 AD

Promotion to Fleet AdmiralPolitical Action◆ Major

King was promoted to the newly created rank of Fleet Admiral (five-star rank) in December 1944. He was one of only four US naval officers to hold this rank during World War II.

World War IIPromotionFive-Star Rank

Impact: nationalconstructive