Marty Dennis, age 15, of Monroe, La., for his question:

WHO WAS HORATIO NELSON?

Horatio Nelson was Great Britain's greatest admiral and naval hero. In 1805, he defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets at Trafalgar in the greatest naval victory in British history. Nelson's victory broke the naval power of France and established Great Britain's rule of the seas for the rest of the 1800s.

Nelson was made commander in chief of the fleet in May, 1803. Sailing on the flagship named Victoria, he went in search of the French. He chased them to the West Indies and back. But finally, after two years, he brought the French fleet to battle off Cape Trafalgar on the coast of Spain, on Oct. 21, 1805.

With only 27 vessels, Nelson attacked the combined French and Spanish fleets. One of the greatest naval battles of all time followed. Napoleon's fleet, with a total of 33 warships, was destroyed.

Nelson was wounded at the height of this clash. He died before the battle ended, but lived long enough to know that the British fleet had won a great victory.

Nelson joined the Royal Navy at the age of 15 and became a lieutenant when he was 18. In 1779, when he was not yet 21, he was given command of a frigate named Hichinbrook. His professional ability and his talent for getting along with his men helped him to rise rapidly in the service.

Nelson distinguished himself at the Battle of Cape St. Vincent in 1797. This was after he had participated in almost continual warfare at sea and had lost an eye. He was made a rear admiral.

A few months later Nelson lost an arm in another naval battle, but he quickly returned to duty.

In the war against France, there were battles that continued to build Nelson's fame. Especially good for him was the Battle of the Nile in 1798.

Nelson became a vice admiral in 1801 and sailed for Copenhagen, claiming the right to search neutral ships for contraband. What might have been a defeat turned to a great victory.

One of Nelson's greatest characteristics as a commander was his willingness to give credit to his officers and men.

Poet Robert Southerly said of Nelson: "England had had many heroes. But never one who so entirely possessed the love of his fellow countrymen. All men knew that his heart was as humane as it was fearless . ..."

History shows that within Nelson's frail body was a great spirit. He had the power to inspire men with his own courage and confidence. Nelson is a symbol of Britain's navy.

In the heart of London, in the famous Trafalgar Square, stands a tall monument to the memory of Nelson. It is one of the great man made landmarks of the world. Also, it has been said that if you are looking for an Englishman whose address is unknown, that man will someday pass the Nelson monument in Trafalgar Square.