Charles Dixon 1872-1934

The second H.M.S. Iron Duke was the flagship of Admiral Jellicoe.  She fought at the Battle of Jutland as part of the 2nd Battle Squadron.  The Battle of Jutland took place on 31st May 1916.  The British fleet had an enormous advantage over their enemy since they could decipher German codes. 

Having engaged the German Fleet under the command of Admiral Reinhardt von Scheer, Admiral Beatty was pursued North.  The Germans' apparent advantage soon evaporated when Admiral Jellicoe and the main British fleet joined the fray West of Jutland. A fierce battle ensued with both sides losing ships.   However Admiral Scheer was outnumbered and ordered his ships North.  Jellicoe was wary of being led into a minefield and instead led the fleet South in attempt to cut off the Germans return to port.  Another engagement took place that night and the German fleet was forced to retreat once more.  Jellicoe again decided against pursuit.  Both sides claimed victory and Jellicoe was criticised for his caution.  He retorted, with some justification that, unlike the Germans, the British fleet was intact and ready for further operations.

H.M.S. Iron Duke served briefly in the Second World War, and gave her name to a battleship class.