Thomas Grenville (Royal Navy officer), Date of Birth, Date of Death

Thomas Grenville (Royal Navy officer)

Royal Navy officer killed in action during the War of the Austrian Succession

Date of Birth: 03-Apr-1719

Date of Death: 03-May-1747

Profession: politician, naval officer

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Thomas Grenville (4 April 1719 – 3 May 1747) was an officer of the Royal Navy and Member of Parliament for Bridport.
He saw service during the War of the Austrian Succession. Born into a politically well-connected family, Thomas Grenville rose quickly through the naval ranks to his first commands during the War of the Austrian Succession.
A fortunate encounter while in his first command brought him a valuable prize, while political influence ensured he received prime postings.
He was to have gone on an independent cruise early in 1747, but the requirements of the service meant that he was instead attached to the fleet in the Atlantic under George Anson.
Anson came across a French fleet under the Marquis de la Jonquière, off Cape Finisterre and attacked them in the Battle of Cape Finisterre.
He won a decisive victory, but Grenville was among the casualties, having been wounded in the leg, and subsequently dying of his injuries after a few hours.
His body was returned to England for burial, and a memorial was raised to his memory by his relative, at Stowe House.