Karel Willem Frederik Doorman, born at Utrecht, Netherlands 23 April 1889 and killed on board of his flagship Hr. Ms. De Ruyter during the battle of the Java Sea 27 February 1942 against the Japanese navy. He with the rank of rear admiral commanded the Allied task group called ABDA consisting of ships of the American, Australian, British and Dutch navies which fought against the Japanese forces. During the battle of 28 February-1 March all most all allied ships were destroyed. Doorman became famous for the words All ships follow me, which was afterwards by many people interpreted as I attack, follow me. There are until three Dutch warships (including two carriers and a frigate) named after him. The fourth ship which will bear his name, a Joint Support Ship, is presumably to be built in the next years.
