ADMIRAL GRANT DEAD

Southland Times, Issue 18821, 14 May 1920, Page 2

ADMIRAL GRANT DEAD

THE CA R MAN IA - CAP TRAFALGAR FIGHT.

The death occurred recently of RearAdmiral Noe! Grant, C.8., who commanded the Canmmia when she sank the Cap Trafalgar in mid-Atlantic after an action lasting two and a half hours, on September 14, 1914. The action between the Carmania and the Cap Trafalgar was the first insctancc of armed merchant vessels engaging in battle, and was one of the most, gallantly fought engagements in the annals of naval history. Both vessels were heavily armed and had no armour protection, and opened fire at about 12,000 yards’ range, which was varied, the vessels closing to within 2000 yards. The action was undoubtedly won by the skilful manoeuvring and technical skill of Captain Noe! Grant., who finally sank his adversary, although his own ship was riddled by shell and very badly on fire. Captain Grant received a C.B. for hia distinguished service, and was appointed shortly after to the command of the Cochrane, but unfortunately, owing to illness, largely brought about by his experience in the Carmania, he was sent to hospital with pneumonia, a return of which after a severe operation for appendicitis caused his death.