ABSTRACT
Cowan was temperamental, hasty, aggressive, highly strung and lacked judgment but proved himself a tactful but forceful diplomat and his mission succeeded in its aims. Cowan expected high standards from his subordinate officers, notably alertness and responsibility. Cowan's reports did much to mark Cunningham as a potential flag officer. In conjunction with the other reserve flotilla, Cunningham, in the leader Shakespeare, endeavoured to send a flotilla to join the Atlantic Fleet on exercises, while he managed to keep other ships in practice despite shortages of men and fuel. It was a sight to delight anybody, professional and layman alike, and many were the signals 'Manoeuvre well executed' the people received from Senior Officers. In July 1927, Cunningham was ordered to destroy the wreck with depth charges and succeeded in making a thorough job of the demolition, once again earning Cowan's praise.
