Mustafa Ertuğrul was a Turkish artillery officer who served in both the Ottoman Army during World War I and the Turkish Army during the Turkish War of Independence. He is best known for his role in the sinking of the British seaplane tender HMS Ben-my-Chree with shore artillery fire in 1917.
Early Life and Military Career
Ertuğrul was born in 1893 in Hanya, Crete, to Turkish Cretan parents. His family moved to Istanbul in 1903, where he attended the Ottoman Military Academy. He graduated as an artillery officer in 1912 and served in the Ottoman Army during World War I.
During the war, Ertuğrul participated in the Gallipoli Campaign and the Caucasus Campaign. He was awarded the Ottoman War Medal and the German Iron Cross for his bravery in battle.
The Sinking of HMS Ben-my-Chree
In 1917, Ertuğrul was assigned to a battery of four 77mm German-made mountain guns in Kaş, southwestern Turkey. He was tasked with defending the coast from Allied naval attacks.
On January 11, 1917, Ertuğrul’s battery spotted the HMS Ben-my-Chree, a British seaplane tender, approaching the coast. Despite being heavily outnumbered and outgunned, Ertuğrul ordered his men to open fire. After a fierce exchange of fire, the Ben-my-Chree was hit and sunk. This was the first time in history that a seaplane tender had been sunk by shore artillery fire.
Later Life
After the war, Ertuğrul continued to serve in the Turkish Army. He was wounded in an ambush during the Turkish War of Independence in 1919 and spent the rest of his life in Antalya as a disabled officer. He died in 1968.
Legacy
Mustafa Ertuğrul is considered one of the most brilliant Turkish artillery commanders of all time. His daring attack on the HMS Ben-my-Chree is a testament to his courage and skill. He is remembered as a hero in Turkey and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of Turkish soldiers.
Avice News Turkey
