George Jellicoe

SAS & SBS Commander

Published 2022

The story of a multifaceted man, in the words of a former Ambassador to Washington, Sir Nicholas Henderson’s words, “Four Georges.” An acclaimed politician, businessman, diplomat and war hero. After serving as 2iC in David Stirling’s SAS, Jellicoe formed the SBS that raided the Greek islands before liberating liberating Athens where, as the first Allied soldier in the city, he arrived on a bicycle.

**Completely revised and updated.** More than one hundred years after the battle of Jutland, the first and largest engagement of Dreadnoughts in the twentieth century, historians are still fighting this controversial and misunderstood battle. What was in fact a strategic victory stands out starkly against the background of bitter public disappointment in the Royal Navy and decades of divisive acrimony and very public infighting between the camps supporting the two most senior commanders, Jellicoe and Beatty. This book not only re-tells the story of the battle from both a British and German perspective based on the latest research, but it also helps clarify the context of Germany s inevitable naval clash. It then traces the bitter dispute that ensued in the years after the smoke of war had cleared; right up to his death in 1935, Admiral Jellicoe was embroiled in what became known as the Jutland Controversy. Nick Jellicoe is uniquely placed to tell the story of Jutland. His naval connections are strong: his father, the second Earl served as First Lord of the Admiralty while his grandfather, Sir John Jellicoe commanded the Grand Fleet for the first two years on the war, from 1914 to 1916, and was famously described by Churchill as being the only man who could have lost the war in an afternoon.

Reviews

“A hugely powerful tale of one of the most revered and inspirational Special Forces commanders of WWII.”  Damien Lewis, bestselling author, SAS. Band of Brothers

“An exceptionally informative and enjoyable tribute to an important pioneer of Britain’s world-famous Special Forces.” The Guards Magazine

“A fascinating read.”  Julie Peakman, author, Hitler’s Island War

“…well told and enjoyable to read…provides applicable historical lessons for modern military leaders.”  International Journal of Naval History

Animations

The Battle of Jutland

A full account of the Battle of Jutland narrated by Admiral Jellicoe’s grandson as part of the Jutland Centenary Commemorations. The 24 minute animation gives the viewer an overview of the major “chapters” of the battle – the opening battle cruiser action, the Grand Fleet deployment, the Turn Away and the Night Destroyer actions. Additionally the 1917 submarine campaign is explained as a consequence of Scheer’s decision not to risk another Fleet-to-Fleet encounter. Graphics, animation, animated maps and contemporary photography illustrate key points.

Podcasts & Interviews

The importance of the Battle of Jutland

Nick Jellicoe and Alan Bush Battle of Jutland Descendants

Two descendants of the Battle of Jutland share why they are so keen to be involved in the Jutland’s Legacy Project.

Yarkshire Gamer Podcast - Episode 56 Nick Jellicoe - Prelude to Jutland

Yarkshire Gamer Podcast - Nick Jellicoe - Episode 57 - The Battle of Jutland and its aftermath

Documentaries

Britain's Greatest Sea Battle

Events Gallery

Erata
  • P.xviii. John McCartney should be “McCarthy”
  • Index: Sir Julian Berry should read Julian Berry. He was not knighted.
  • P161. 3rd paragraph should read …’by the Sardinia operation with Langton invalided out and Verney captured. Maclean had been sent off to work…’
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