 He was succeeded as supreme commander by Cornelis Tromp in 1679.De Ruyter was highly respected by his sailors and soldiers, who used the term of endearment "bestevaêr" ("grandfather") for him, both because of his disregard for hierarchy, as he was himself of humble origin, and his refusal to turn away from risky and bold undertakings, despite his usually cautious nature.He is honoured by a statue in his birthplace, Vlissingen, which stands looking over the sea.