author
Alfred Francis Blakeney Carpenter
1881–1955
A decorated Royal Navy officer best remembered for leading HMS Vindictive in the Zeebrugge Raid, he later wrote a firsthand account of that famous First World War operation. His life combined frontline action, high command, and the rare distinction of receiving the Victoria Cross.
1 Audiobook
The Blocking of Zeebrugge
by Alfred Francis Blakeney Carpenter
About the author
Born in Barnes, London, on 17 September 1881, Alfred Francis Blakeney Carpenter built a long career in the Royal Navy and became one of the best-known naval figures associated with the First World War. He was educated at Bedales and then joined the navy as a cadet, rising through the ranks during years of active service.
Carpenter is especially remembered for his role in the Zeebrugge Raid of April 1918, when he commanded HMS Vindictive in the dangerous attempt to block the Belgian port used by German forces. For his leadership in that action, he received the Victoria Cross, one of the highest awards for gallantry in the British honors system. He later continued his naval career and retired with the rank of vice-admiral.
He also left a written record of the events that made his name familiar to many readers: The Blocking of Zeebrugge, a memoir-like account of the raid. Carpenter died on 27 December 1955, remembered both as a fighting naval officer and as an eyewitness author of a dramatic wartime episode.