John Baird

Admiral Sir John Kennedy Erskine Baird, KCB was an officer in the Royal Navy, who is chiefly remembered for commanding the losing side in the 1888 annual naval manoeuvres. Early life Baird was born on 16 September 1832, the fourth son of Sir David Baird, 2nd Baronet (see Baird baronets) and Lady Anne Baird (née Kennedy). Naval career Baird entered the Navy in December 1845. He was promoted to lieutenant on 28 February 1854. On 3 July 1857 he was promoted to commander. In 1858, he commanded the paddle-sloop Devastation on the North America and West Indies station. From 23 December 1859 to August 1863 he commanded the screw gun-vessel Alacrity in the Mediterranean.