Admiral Sir Percy Noble (1880-1955) joined the Navy in 1894 and served in the Grand Fleet 1914-1919, being promoted Captain in 1918. Between the wars he commanded various sea- going warships and shore training establishments and was Director of the Operations Division of the Naval Staff 1928-30. He was promoted Rear-Admiral in 1929 and commanded the 2nd Cruiser Squadron 1932-34. Promoted Vice-Admiral in 1935 he was Fourth Sea Lord, with responsibility for Supplies and Transport 1935-37. His next appointment was as Commander-in- Chief, China Station during the very difficult period 1938-40. He was promoted Admiral in 1939 and was given the very important command of Commander-in-Chief, Western Approaches with responsibility for all the North Atlantic shipping protection 1941-42. His final active service appointment was as Head of the British Admiralty Delegation, Washington and Admiralty representative on the Combined Chiefs of Staff Committee 1942-44.