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Sir George Rooke ( 1650 – January 24 1709 ), English naval commander, was born near Canterbury in 1650 . Entering the navy as a volunteer, he served in the Dutch Wars and became Post Captain in 1673 . He became Rear Admiral in 1690 , and fought at the Battle Of Beachy Head . In May 1692 he served under Russell at the Battle Of Barfleur , and he greatly distinguished himself in a night attack on the French fleet at La Hogue , when he succeeded in burning six of their ships. Shortly afterwards he received the honour of knighthood and a reward of £1,000. In 1693 he commanded the Smyrna convoy, which was scattered and partly taken by the French Admiral Tourville near Lagos Bay . Till the Peace Of Nijmegen ( 1697 ), he continued to serve in the Channel and Mediterranean . In 1702 he commanded the disastrous expedition against Cádiz , but on the passage home destroyed the Spanish Treasure Fleet in the Battle Of Vigo Bay . With Sir Cloudesley Shovell he took part in the capture of Gibraltar on July 21 1704 , becoming military Governor Of Gibraltar from July 24 to August 4 . On August 13 1704 , he attacked the French fleet off Málaga , the battle being drawn. On account of the dissatisfaction expressed indirectly at the result of the contest, he retired from the service in February 1705 . REFERENCES
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