I've managed to boost my Service Record level to three stripes (not through any skill but sheer # of battles)
I'm still just in the "Cruiser" branch of the tech tree.
I've got the Tier I Erie that I started with.
A Tier II Chester (the (B) upgrade) that I upgraded to.
A still have to Hashidate that I've barely played with.
I'm playing mostly the Chester.
My marksmanship still needs alot of work-- I end many battles with only about 12-16 XP points added.
I might shoot a hundred times in a battle and not hit anything.
I try to line up on the ship with the little target thingy, and try to lead if I see them moving but have many more misses than hits.
I have more success hitting things from inside of 2km but that is not a recipe for longevity.

I'm getting the cruiser tactics down--saw some good How To videos on You Tube (for example: Cruisers should lead and support the Battleships, Don't go off on your own to Lone Wolf it--gather with others for mutual support, etc)
I've added all three of you to my contacts. Would be interested in playing a squad game but I make no representations as to my skills.
I think that I have mastered the art of bravely sinking.
