Leader/follower synergy: Escort group commanders and their subordinate ship commanders in the Battle of the Atlantic

This article looks at the interrelationships of three of the leading British commanders of escort groups and support groups with their subordinate ship commanders during the Battle of the Atlantic in the Second World War. This behaviour is related to a model of leadership and followership that has previously been applied to the conduct of Lord Nelson and his captains.[1] The group commanders researched are Vice Admiral Sir Peter Gretton RN, Captain Donald Macintyre RN, and Captain Frederick ‘Johnny’ Walker RN (who commanded both an escort group and a support group). The focus of research has b…