Image Source: George Buffham
Chester Nimitz’s life traces the arc of the U.S. Navy itself, from the age of coal-fired battleships to the dawn of the nuclear carrier fleet. The chronology below marks the milestones that defined both the man and the Pacific war he helped win.
Born February 24 in Fredericksburg, Texas
Enters the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis
Graduates from the Naval Academy
Commands early U.S. submarines; becomes a leading expert in diesel engine propulsion
Appointed Chief of the Bureau of Navigation
Named Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet, days after the attack on Pearl Harbor; assumes command December 31
Directs U.S. naval forces to victory at the Battle of Midway, a turning point in the Pacific War
Oversees the Central Pacific island-hopping campaign, including the Gilbert, Marshall, and Mariana Islands operations
Promoted to five-star Fleet Admiral
Represents the United States at Japan’s surrender aboard USS Missouri, September 2; becomes Chief of Naval Operations
Concludes tenure as Chief of Naval Operations
Dies February 20