George Dewey was Admiral of the Navy, he was the only person in U.S. history to have attained the rank. Admiral Dewey is best known for his victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish–American War. He lived from December 26, 1837 – January 16, 1917. He also fought following wars:

American Civil War

Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip

Battle of New Orleans

Battle of Port Hudson

First Battle of Fort Fisher

Second Battle of Fort Fisher

Spanish–American War

Battle of Manila Bay

The success at the battle of Manila Bay made him an American hero. InMarch 1899 Congress created a new rank especially for Dewey, Admiral of the Navy. He was given this rank with the provision that he could choose to either remain on active duty for the rest of his life or retire at full pay. When he eventually returned to the United States in September 1899 he was honored with massive parades in New York and Washington, D.C..

Biography of George Dewey