Who were the Best and Worst Admirals of WW2?

In this Echoes of War Podcast, Craig and Gaurav explain who were the Best and Worst Admiral of WW2

In a discussion about the naval commanders of World War II, the hosts delve into the contrasting legacies of various admirals. They highlight Admiral Max H. Donitz of the Kriegsmarine as a pragmatic leader who understood the importance of supplies in warfare. Despite his strategic insights, he faced challenges with limited resources and the early setbacks of his U-boat fleet. Conversely, Admiral Sir Dudley Pound of the Royal Navy is critiqued for his outdated tactics and inability to adapt to new technologies. His leadership during critical moments, such as the disastrous Convoy PQ 17, where poor intelligence led to significant losses, tarnished his reputation. Pound's reliance on Churchill and his failure to support his commanders further diminished his effectiveness. The discussion also touches on Eric Raeder, the first commander-in-chief of the Kriegsmarine, who is deemed the worst due to his doctrinal failures and inability to secure necessary resources for the navy. His ambitious plans, like Plan Z, were unrealistic and ultimately futile. As the conversation wraps up, the hosts reflect on the complexities of leadership during the war, acknowledging that while some admirals achieved notable successes, others faltered under pressure, leaving lasting impacts on their respective navies and the war's outcome. They conclude by teasing an upcoming episode focused on the air commanders of World War II, promising to explore the often-overlooked figures in aerial warfare.