Who is Victor Henry (Pug) from War and Remembrance and what is their importance?

Victor Henry (Pug) is an important, longtime, member of the military. At the start of the novel, Pug is just coming off what would be considered a disastrous assignment..... he even expects to be reprimanded after the sinking of his ship, but surprisingly is offered a promotion. He is to report to Russia where he will oversee the production of landing craft.