Admiral Byng

Born the son of George Byng, a favorite of the king and himself an admiral and member of the admiralty board (and later First Lord of the Admiralty), John Byng seemed destined for a shining career in the Royal Navy. He saw his first fleet action at Cape Passaro, the elder Byng''s finest hour, as a Captain''s Servant, aged just 14. He qualified as a lieutenant at 19 years old (although the minimum ...