Four-star Royal Marines officer makes history with new appointment

General Sir Gordon Messenger has been confirmed as Rear-Admiral of the United Kingdom. Jonathan Day 22nd March 2022 at 4:32 pm

For the first time ever, a Royal Marine has become Rear-Admiral of the United Kingdom.

Her Majesty the Queen has approved General Sir Gordon Messenger’s appointment in the role, which, according to the UK’s official public record, the London Gazette, dates back to 6 December 2021.

Gen Messenger served as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS) from 2016 until his retirement in 2019, with his military career also including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq, where he held several commands.

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The First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, confirmed the appointment and paid tribute to Gen Messenger on Twitter, posting: “HM the Queen’s approval of Gen Sir Gordon Messenger as Rear-Admiral of the United Kingdom marks the first time a Royal Marine has held the role.

“A former VCDS and the first Royal Marine full General for 40 years, he epitomises the values and standards of the @RoyalMarines.”