- Author
- Birch, Albert
- Subjects
- Biographies and personal histories
- Tags
- None noted.
- RAN Ships
- None noted.
- Publication
- June 1977 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)
Stevenson’s crowning achievement came on 23rd November 1973 with the announcement of his appointment as Chief of Naval Staff. He was promoted to Vice Admiral. As CNS he served under Admiral Sir Victor Smith, Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee. He was to hold this coveted post until his retirement on 22nd November 1976. It culminated 45 years of loyal and devoted service to the Royal Australian Navy and his country. Further honours were bestowed on him. He was made a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 1975 and following upon his retirement he was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 1977.
After shedding the burden of responsibility Sir David and Lady Stevenson enjoyed a well earned holiday. However, as Chairman for the ACT for the Queen Elizabeth Fund for Young Australians Sir David is still contributing to the community and will continue to do so.
A fitting end to a splendid career, much more than the ambition of the cadet who yearned for command of his. own ship. Well done, Sir David.
Addendum:
The Jervis Year of cadets was: Vice Admiral Sir H.D. Stevenson, Rear Admiral G. J. B. Crabb, Rear Admiral B. W. Mussared, Rear Admiral W. J. Dovers, Commodore A. N. Dollard, Captain J. R. McMurray, Commander R. J. Bassett, Lieutenant Commander T. R. Fenner, Lieutenant (E) A. H. J. Mears (Lost in HMAS Sydney 1941), Lieutenant W. L. Gay (Prisoner of War following loss of HMAS Perth 1942) Lieutenant R. R. Brown, Mr. P. J. G. Penny (Resigned in 1936 and later served in RAAF.)