Vice-Admiral SIR Francis Arthur Marten, K.B.E., C.B., C.M.G., C.V.O., Royal Navy, Retired (7 January, 1879 – 14 March, 1950) was an officer in the Royal Navy.
Marten was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on 31 December, 1900.
Marten was promoted to the rank of Commander on 31 August, 1911.
Marten was appointed to St. Vincent as executive officer on 5 January, 1912. In December of that year, he was commended by Rear Admiral Madden for having the lowest punishment returns in his ship to be found anywhere in the fleet. His service in her ended on 20 April, 1914. He served as Flag Commander in Impregnable in August and early September, and then became Flag Commander in Columbine on 7 September, 1914.
Marten left Columbine when he was appointed to Galatea as executive officer on 22 February, 1915.
He was promoted to the rank of Captain on 15 September 1916, antedated to 30 June, 1916 for his services at the Battle of Jutland.
In April 1917, Marten was instrumental in ensuring that Portsmouth was equipped and ready to support 550 Motor Launches and received commendations from the Admiralty.
Marten was appointed in command of the light cruiser Inconstant on 21 August, 1917, remaining in command until the end of war.
Marten participated in Baltic operations in 1919 and was very strongly recommended for a decoration by Rear Admiral Cowan, but this was declined given his recent awards. He was, however, to receive special consideration in future promotions.
Marten's performance between October 1925 and November 1926 elicited an adverse report by Rear-Admiral Stavely that he "has distinct ability, but his zeal, energy & judgment are inclinde to be influenced more by a desire to enjoy and easy & pleasant time than by the best interests of H.M. Service." This was seconded by Vice Admiral Hodges, prompting Keyes to spell an end to Marten's sea-going career. Marten was informed of these discussions and knew that he would not be retained long after promotion to Rear Admiral.
Marten was promoted to the rank of Rear-Admiral on 14 January, 1928.
Marten was promoted to the rank of Vice-Admiral on 24 September, 1932.