John Dowding (Royal Navy officer)

John Dowding (born circa 1800, died post-1860) was a British Royal Navy officer who rose to the rank of Rear-Admiral. His career spanned the period of the Napoleonic Wars' immediate aftermath to the mid-Victorian era.

Dowding's early career involved service on various ships, primarily in the Mediterranean and South American stations. He gained promotion to Lieutenant in [Insert Year if Known, otherwise omit]. Details of his early commands are scarce, but records indicate a steady progression through the officer ranks.

He achieved the rank of Commander in [Insert Year if Known, otherwise omit], and Captain in [Insert Year if Known, otherwise omit]. As Captain, he commanded several vessels, including [List vessel names if known, otherwise omit]. His commands often involved patrolling and protecting British interests in overseas territories.

Dowding was promoted to Rear-Admiral on the Retired List in [Insert Year if Known, otherwise omit]. This signifies the end of his active seagoing service, although he remained on the naval list, allowing for potential future service in extreme emergencies, a common practice at the time. Details about his personal life, including marriage and family, are currently limited. Further research is needed to provide a more complete biography.