Willem Joseph, Baron van Gendt, attributed to Jan de Baen, third quarter 17th century. Following a career in the army, Van Gendt (c. 1625-1672) was given command of the newly raised regiment of marines. Two years later - in 1667 - Van Gendt commanded the first squadron to reach the English naval base at Chatham. He was killed fighting the English in the Battle of Sole Bay off the southeast coast of England.