Details

ABEL DEWULF (N.58)
Belgion trawler
3rd June
-
Together with the tr. Andre Lucienne
(N.53) disembarked at Dover 35
May
troops. (1) Dover,
stori in company were the skoots
Alica and KARD Falgu, both londed
with food. Total 17 Senior
Officer.
usy
0500en
Arrived La Panner The 3 skoots were
beached shortly after high seter.
Lt. Cdr. went ashore to arrange for
07300a
unlonding. He located 0.11.0. and
reported to General who
was of puramount importance to
evacuate troops.
1400ca
Six bombers attack the 3 skoots and 15
beach. Lt. Car. Crick wounded,
Licot. Griffiths subsequently died
of his wounds. One rating tus mm
Liest. O.E.S. Beal R.N. commenting
the KS80 Falga assumed the daty or
senior officer of the 3 skoots, and
took command of the Abal Tasman.
Lt. Cdr. Crick took passage to
England in the or. Calcutta.
1530
Emberked troops.
1700
Kasp Falgs and Alice refloated on the
rising tide and got under way.
1730ca
The Alice broke down while trying to
tow the Abel Tasmon's atern off.
1765
High water. The Abel Tasman refloated
and proceeded.
time
0700
Arrived Dover. Discrborked
and 20 French start officero.
2200
Sailed to Newhaven to disembark
ammunition.
Took no further part in Operation
Dynamo.
Total 220(1)
- R.O.II, vp.3, 6.
the Abel Yoamon, 8h 29th on Alice and MAY. Knap THIS Palga 10
900
(1) D.R.
the Alles were abundoned 4 troops. at Dunkirk and the
brought
5

Details

ABEL TASMAN
Skoot
Lt. Cdr. T.G.P. Crick, R.N.
Lieut. Griffiths R.N.V.R., 1st
Lieut.
27th May
1900
Sailed from Dover, loaded with ammuni-
tion; in company were the skoots
Alice and Kaap Falga, both loaded
with food. Lt. Cdr. Crick, Senior
Officer.
28th May
0500ca
Arrived La Panne. The 3 skoots were
beached shortly after high water.
Lt. Cdr. went ashore to arrange for
0730ca
unloading. He located G.H.C. and
reported to General Adam who said it
was of paramount importance to
evacuate troops.
1400ca
Six bombers attack the 3 skoots and the
beach. Lt. Cdr. Crick wounded.
Lieut. Griffiths subsequently died
of his wounds. One rating was killed.
Lieut. C.E.S. Beal R.N. commanding
the Kaap Falga assumed the duty of
senior officer of the 3 skoots, and
took command of the Abel Tasman.
Lt. Cdr. Crick took passage to
England in the cr. Calcutta.
1530
Embarked troops.
1700
Kaap Falga and Alice refloated on the
rising tide and got under way.
1730ca
The Alice broke down while trying to
tow the Abel Tasman's stern off.
1745
High water. The Abel Tasman refloated
and proceeded.
29th May
0700
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 200 troops
and 20 French staff officers.
2200
Sailed to Newhaven to disembark
ammunition.
Took no further part in Operation
Dynamo.
Total 220(1)
Authority - R.O.II, pp.3, 6.
(1) According to D.R. the Abel Tasman, Alice and Kaap Falga
together disembarked 900 troops on 29th May. This is
incorrect; the Alice was abandoned at Dunkirk and the
Kaap Falga only brought back 4 troops.
6

Details

ALFRED PAUL
D.2)
French trawler
Lieut. M.M. Glater, R.N.
Lient.
See under Prins Boudewijn
R.N., lot Lieo
26th May
0000
Seiled from Southampton for Dover
loaded with stores; is company were
the skoots Kaan Pelps and Abel
Tasman (s.o.)
27th May
1600
Arrived Dover. Ordered to La Panne to
discharge stores.
-
4 miles from La Fanne picked uppilot
Sergeont T. Boyd, 516716, from & sho
down Hurricane of 213 Fighter Squadro
28th May
0500ca
Arrived La Panne. The Abol Tasman vas
blose in shore unloading: close to
her the Karp Falgn was anchored.
The Alice closed the Abel Tesuan and
grounded.
Licut. Slater went ashore to arrange
labour for unloading.
1500ca
On his return he found that the senior
officer (Lt. Cdr. Crick in Abel
Tasmen) had been wounded in the cours
of 4 air attacks. Lieut. Beal of the
Kaap Falga had transferred to the
Abel Tasman as Senior Officer; Liest
Wykeham-Martin had been put In
consend of the Kaap Falga. The Kaap
Falga could been seen about 2 miles
distant, proceeding westward; the
Abel Tasman was endeavouring to
refloat, and there appeared to be no
signs of life on board the Allice
Lieut. Slater went on board the Seal
Tasman, and ascertained that the Alia
had been refloated and enchored, but
that her engines had seized up 08 0
reoult of damage during the air
attacks; her crew had gone over to
the Knap Falge.
It was decided to abandon the Alice (1)
and Lieut. Slater examed the daties
of 1st Lieutement of the Abel
Tasman.
N11
Authority - Portswooth 8520/601 of 26/7/40.
ILO.II, pp+ 11, 13, 15.
(1) Licut. Wykahem-Martin had proviously abandoned ship, after
flooding the ballast tanks, DO that water should enter
the engine room through the damaged hull, when the tide rose
34

Details

ALICE (D.B.2)
Skoot
Lieut. H.M. Slater, R.N.
Lieut. H.R. Wykenham-Martin,
R.N., 1st Lieut.
26th May
2000
Sailed from Southampton for Dover
loaded with stores; in company were
the skoots Kaap Falga and Abel
Tasman (s.o.)
27th May
1600
Arrived Dover. Ordered to La Panne to
discharge stores.
-
4 miles from La Panne picked uppilot
Sergeant T. Boyd, 516716, from a shot
down Hurricane of 213 Fighter Squadron.
28th May
0500ca
Arrived La Panne. The Abel Tasman was
close in shore unloading; close to
her the Kaap Falga was anchored.
The Alice closed the Abel Tasman and
grounded.
Lieut. Slater went ashore to arrange
labour for unloading.
1500ca
On his return he found that the senior
officer (Lt. Cdr. Crick in Abel
Tasman) had been wounded in the course
of 4 air attacks. Lieut. Beal of the
Kaap Falga had transferred to the
Abel Tasman as Senior Officer; Lieut.
Wykeham-Martin had been put in
command of the Kaap Falga. The Kaap
Falga could been seen about 2 miles
distant, proceeding westward; the
Abel Tasman was endeavouring to
refloat, and there appeared to be no
signs of life on board the Alice.
-
Lieut. Slater went on board the Abel
Tasman, and ascertained that the Alice
had been refloated and anchored, but
that her engines had seized up as a
result of damage during the air
attacks; her crew had gone over to
the Kaap Falga.
It was decided to abandon the Alice (1)
and Lieut. Slater assumed the duties
of 1st Lieutenant of the Abel
Tasman.
Nil
Authority - Portsmouth 8520/601 of 26/7/40.
R.O.II, pp. 11, 13, 15.
(1) Licut. Wykeham-Martin had previously abandoned should ship, enter after
flooding the ballast tanks, BO that water
the engine room through the damaged hull, when the tide rose
35

Details

BEAL( 1)
M/V (Tyne-Tess S.S. Co. Ltd)
J.W. Liley, Waster
8th May
2230
Left the Downs, the U/V's Yewdale and
Bullfinch in company.
9th May
0430
Arrived off the benches.
1600
Embarked troops by use of boats.
Proceeded in company with the Yewdale
1650/
and a destroyer.
Air attacks.
1800
0th May
0825
Arrived Romagate. Disembarked 364
troops. (2)
Total 364.
thority - TM.6213/40.
Not mentioned in D.R.
Ramsgnte report.
89

Details

(1)
BULLFINCH
M.V. (G.S.N.Co.Ltd.)
28th May
2230
Left Small Downs for La Panne the
M/V's Beal and Yewdale in company.
29th May
0450ca
Arrived off the beaches. Ordered to
beach the ship.
0545ca
Ship aground fore and aft, owing to
kedge anchor not holding. Embarked
troops.
1815
Ship refloated and proceeded with 1500
troops on board. Air attack when
passing Dunkirk. Damage by concussion
to steering gear, which was repaired;
after which ship again proceeded.
-
Air attacks; two aircraft claimed shot
down. (2) (Afterwards found that both
compasses had been put out of action
by concussion from bombs).
30th May
1100
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 600
troops. (3)
Total 600
Authority - - P.L.A. Monthly.
(1) 433 tons. Noramlly engaged by the G.S.N.Co. in the North
France trade.
(2) (3) Not Estimated. mentioned D.R. in D.R. states that Bullfinch, troops. Silver Dawn and
Forsa disembarked together 913
134

Details

KAAP FALGA (D.B.3)
Skoot
Lieut. C.E.S.B. St. G. Beal,
Lieut. J. Culmer, R.N.V.R., R.N.
1st Lieut.
26th May
2030
Left Southampton for Dover, the skoots,
Alice and Abel Tasman in company.
27th May
1600
1900
Arrived Dover Roads.
Sailed for the Downs.
2030
Left the Downs for La Panne, in
Tasman. company with the Alice and the Abel
28th May
0800
Arrived La Panne and anchored near the
Abel Tasman which was beached broad-
side on and unloading ammunition.
Began unloading Kaap Falga's deck
cargo of provisions.
1300
Lieut. Beal went ashore with the C.O. of
the Alice to ascertain what the
authorities wished to be done. They
met the C.O. of the Abel Tasman
who told them that he was evacuating
troops and that they should do the
same.
1400
Air attack by 20 bombers. The C.O.
of the Abel Tasman was wounded and
his 1st Lieutenant was mortally
wounded.
Lieut. Beal then assumed the role of
senior officer of the 3 skoots. He
took command of the Abel Tasman, and
gave instructions that Lieut. Wykeham-
Martin, 1st Lieut. of the Alice, was
to take command of the Kaap Falga.
1700
The Kaap Falga refloated. Licut.
Wykeham-Martin boarded her, and took
over from Lieut. Culmer.
[The Alice had been damagedin theair
attack and had been abandoned. Her
crew, an Army officer and 4 soldiers,
had transferred to the Kaap Falga.
The Kaap Falga proceeded due north
from La Panne, over the sandbanks
into Nieuport roads.
29th May
0300
Arrived in the Downs.
31st May
1200ca
Proceeded to Dover, and unloaded the
cargo. Owing to engine trouble the
Haap Falga took no further part in
the Operation.
Total 5(1)
Authority - R.O.II, pp. 3-24-
(1) See footnote to Abel Tasman.
106

Details

YEWDALE( 1)
Shipping Ltd.
John Stewart & Co.
0400
Captain E. Jones.
27th May
0640
Sailed Twequacity ine Downs with the M/V
0700
Picked Shelled hit Shelling original Zagged amidships. by to shore batteriater increased. The Sequacity resumed Zig-
0820
Calais) up 5 men on a raft (from
Downs German channel. for hands. when They north Decided stated of Dunkirk Dunkirk to return was to in
and which destroyed the rafts by
aircraft, information. Gunned
1010
a life boat.
The her Sequacity crew. began to sink. Embarked
1020ca
The Sequacity "sank in position 52°
1230
04' 20" N., 1° 38' 36" E. approx.
Arrived Downs. Provisioned ship.
28th May
2230
Left Downs, the M. V's Beal and
Bullfinch in company.
29th May
0430
Arrived La Panne. Anchored. Later,
moved down channel. Picked up 2
boats with 10 soldiers in them.
Sent in ships boats for troops.
Assisted by several M/L's.
1230
500 troops on board.
1430
About 1000 troops on board - ship
filled to capačity.
1435
Closed a destroyer for advice.
1600
Air attack. Proceeded in company with
the destroyer and Beal.
1650/
Air attacks. 5 killed, 78 wounded.
1800
Six soldiers jumped overboard. One
A/C shot down by ship's gun.
Wireless and Compass smashed; steered
by small field compass.
2310
One mile off Deal pier. Waited till
dawn.
30th May
0600
A doctor arrived. Yewdale ordered to
0930
Disembarked Ramsgate. 940 troops at Ramsgate(2)
-
Proceeded to Sheerness for repairs.
Total 240 890
Authority T.M. 6213/40.
8 A tramp Rate of 823 tons gross. Not mentioned in D.R.
report.
251

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233
- 248
PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE.(CONTD).
Page 2.
Before leaving the beach, I explained the situation to the
Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. unit who had been accompanying no
during the afternoon.
On arrival onboard the ABRL TASHAN, Licutenent Doal
informed me that in my absence Licutenant Wykehm-Hartin
had refloated the ALICE and achored her. He then received
a message from the ALICE informing him that the engines
of the ALICE had completely broken down and also informed
me that the crew etc. had gone over to the KAAP-PALOA which
weighed and proceeded without orders from Lieutenant Deal,
or informing him of his intentions.
The situation was then appreciated by the Commanding
Officer La Panne, Lieutenant Beal and myself, and Lieutenant
Beal decided that Lieutenant llykeham-Martin and his First
Lieutenant were capable of dealing with the situation that
had arisen. The Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who une remaining
ashore knew the orders that had been issued. The possibility
of towing the-ALICE to Bray Dunes by the ABEL TASMAN was
considered. Owing to the absence of personnel, boats and
goar, this project was considered warrantable to delay
departure. I consulted Lieutenant Beal and the Colonel
Commending the R.A.S.C. unit, who was Senior Officer, La Panne,
and It was decided that I should take over the duties of
First Lieutenant (Lleutenant Deal being single handed) and
assist in bringing the ABSL TASMAN back to Dover as it was
considered that I could serve no useful purpose otherwise.
The situation who reported to Commander-in-Chief,
Dover, on arrival and he, approving of the appointment, I
remained as second in command.
The movements of ABRL TASHAH have been reported
by the Commanding Officer.
VIOE ADMIRA
10 JUN 1940
LIBUTENANT R.N.
's

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Deprams 131.
Biw? 40
PM
SUBJECT: PROCESSINGS PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE.
253
C: (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised
October, 1935.)
me that in my absence benting
$$
Wyken has Martin had Mosled the 60
Alce and anchard her He then
65
received a manage from the Alice
70
aform have that the engans of the 75
informed Alice had completely Loken down 2 to
Ganah me/nat the inem at had
#
gone
Long over to the KAAP- Falga." 90
which neighed and proceeded whatever
from L'enterat Beal on inform him
100
7 her intenting
105
Co.ha Panne Li Beal and right
The situation me her appointed 110
and 41 Beal duided that Dentain 115
wyken Tankin and he fun Leutenat
120
the Capable of dealy mith the
125
130
sit nat in that had aphae The
a dj have 7 the RASE the know remaining the dides 135
that had been issued Q The probibity 140
145
of Loriby the Alice k Bray Dues
1
by the Abre Tasm dn m conclosed Hw 150
(40543) Wt. 25/m - 11/39 19621

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14
PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE (CONTD).
Page 2.
Adjutant Before leaving of the the beach, I explained the situation
during the afternoon. R.A.S.C. unit who had been accompanying to the the
had refloated the ALICE and schored her. He then received
informed me that in my absence Licutenant Wykeham-Martin
On arrival onboard the ABEL TASMAN, Licutenant Boal
a message from the ALICE informing him that the engines
of the ALICE had completely broken down and also informed
me that the crew etc. had gone over to the KAAP-FALGA which
weighed and proceeded without orders from Lieutenant Beal,
or informing him of his intentions.
The situation was then appreciated by the Commanding
Officer La Panne, Lieutenant Beal and myself, and Lieutenant
Beal decided that Lieutenant Wykehem-Martin and his First
Lieutenant were capable of dealing with the situation that
had arisen. The Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who was remaining
ashore knew the orders that had been issued. The possibility
of towing the ALICE to Bray Dunes by the ABEL TASMAN was
considered. Owing to the absence of personnel, boats and
gear, this project was considered warrantable to delay
departure. I consulted Lieutenant Beal and the Colonel
Commanding the R.A.S.C. unit, who was Senior Officer, La Panne,
and it was decided that I should take over the duties of
First Lieutenant (Lieutenant Beal being single handed) and
assist in bringing the ABEL TASMAN back to Dover as It vas
considered that I could serve no iseful purpose otherwise.
The situation was reported to Commander-in-Chief,
Dover, on arrival and he, approving of the appointment, 1
remained as second in command.
The movements of ABEL TASMAN have been reported
by the Commanding Officer.
VICE AD MIRAL 1940
DIRUTENANT R.N.
*
R
E
the

Details

Portsmouth Form 21
(Late 21a)
(Revised July, 1988)
STATE
M
2682
Commissioning Order
19401R.0
By Sir William Milbourne James, Knight Commander of the
Most Honourable Order of the Bath, Admiral in His
Majesty's Fleet and Commander-in-Chief of His Majesty's
ships and vessels employed and to be employed within
the Portsmouth Naval Command.
8820/500.
No.
MEMORANDUM.
The Lords having decided that His
is to be
commissioned
Majesty's Ship
Saturday
25th May, 1940
or as soon afterwards as
on
the
xxxxxx as a tender to H.M.S. VICTORY,
circumstances permit, with &
you are to proceed to commission that vessel, and to cause the utmost
despatch to be used, so far as the same may depend upon you, in preparing
for sea accordingly.
25th
Given under my hand May, at Portsmouth, this 40
19
day of
Admiral,
Commander-in-Chief.
ant C.E.S.B.St.G. Beal, Royal Navy,
M.S. to:- KAAPFALGA, The Secretary of the Admiralty. Southampton. (2516/8820)
The The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth.)
Flag Officer-in-Charge,
500-10-39.

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Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Calcutta contacts Lord Gort
On receipt of this signal at 0345 the Calcutta, which had already been embark-
ing troops from La Panne beach, sent her boats in again, in charge of Mr. F.J.
March, Gunner. Mr. March made personal contact with Lord Gort about
8 miles inland, and placed the Calcutta at his disposal for his or his staff's evacua-
tion. Lord Gort, however, courteously refused to be evacuated at this
stage¹.
La Panne beach cleared of troops
Meanwhile the Calcutta was proceeding with the embarkation, having en-
listed the assistance of the minesweepers Sutton and Salamander, the tug Java,
five drifters2, and three motor launches³. By 1357 the Calcutta had embarked
1200 troops, with whom she proceeded to Sheerness.
In addition to the ships assisting the Calcutta, 7 minesweepers4, 4 skoots5,
and 5 destroyers⁶ also embarked troops from La Panne beach. Of the
destroyers, the Greyhound was bombed and severely damaged (see p.42).
The minesweepers embarked, in all, 3415 troops, the skoots 1137 and the des-
troyers 2100. The tramp Yewdale and the motor vessels Beal and Bullfinch
between them brought off 1,854. The assault landing craft A.L.C.15 ferried
about 750 troops from the beaches to off-lying ships, and finally transported
25 to Dover ; the A.L.C.5 also ferried troops throughout the day.
The paddle-minesweeper Oriole had beached herself at La Panne at about
0600, thus permitting about 2,500 troops to pass over her decks to be embarked
by other ships before she refloated at about 1800. In this connection, Sub-
Lieut. Croswell, who had been landed at La Panne at about 0600 with a small
beach party in the Harvester's motor skiff, says : " On the beach we found
14 boats which we launched. A line ferry was established from a paddle-
steamer [the Oriole] which was aground close inshore, and this steamer served
as a pier alongside which other boats were able to come.
Throughout
the
day embarkation continued."
Later in his report, Sub-Lieut. Croswell says " About 1400
bombing
commenced - there were no casualties though 8 heavy bombs fell within 100
yards of the place of embarkation. A supply ship [the danlayer Nautilus]
to the right of the beach was fired and destroyed by a near miss, and a destroyer
[the Greyhound] was hit by an incendiary bomb [in fact she was severely
damaged by a near miss] but continued in action. I joined up with the Army
Staff controlling evacuation - there were no other naval officers at La Panne.⁷
About 2300
I requested that piers should be built but was told nothing
could be done that night.
Lord Gort arrived on the beach on Thursday
morning [30th May] and asked what could be done to assist. I again sug-
gested erection of piers, and under Colonel Porter's direction this was begun,
the pier at La Panne being ready and in use by 1400".
I Calcutta's report.
2 The Golden Sunbeam, Lord Rodney, Lord Keith, Lord St. Vincent, and Lord Collingwood.
3 The Angler II, Nayland and New Britannic.
4 The Emperor of India, Gracie Fields, Halcyon, Hebe, Oriole, Princess Elizabeth and
Waverley.
5 The Reiger, Doggersbank, Jutland and Oranje.
6 The Shikari, Harvester, Anthony, Sabre and Greyhound.
7 Sub. Lt. Croswell was not given orders by his commanding officer to remain ashore.
He says as at La Panne there was no liaison between Army and Navy, I realised I could
do a much more useful job by remaining there," and he stayed there until 1st June. Com-
menting on this, Lt. Cdr. M. Thornton, R.N., Captain of the Harvester says: " This young
officer wisely accepted responsibility of missing his ship and then took charge of the beaches
and embarkation.
(C.W.23187/40.)
47

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INDEX
await embarkation, 82; surf stops embarkation, 82; evacuation from beaches and
harbour compared, 124;
Bray, 23, 28, 29, 31 (bombed), 36, 42n (bombed), 50, 52, 58-60, 69, 71, 78-82.
Coxyde, 26.
doned), 83 (Devonia used as pier), 86.
La Panne, 23, 26, 27-28, 30-32, 42n (bombed), 46-7, 50, 52, 58-60, 66, 70, 75-83 (aban-
Malo, 23, 27, 31, 71-2, 84, 101.
Zuydcoote, 27, 31.
Beaching boats, See small craft.
Beal, 47.
Beatrice Maud, 60, 114n, 118 (towed to Dover), 120.
Beckwith-Smith, Brig. M. B., 66.
Belgium invaded, 1; Belgium Army bad news of, 1; withdraws 2, 12; collapses, 15
craft, 73, 86.
Belgians, King of 6, 19 (surrenders); Belgian troops sink Viewfinder, 53; Belgian fishing
Ben and Lucy, 71m, 73.
Benlawers, 11.
Ben-My-Chree, in collision, 110.
Bennett, S/Lt. P. H.E. Wounded, 74.
Bernadette, 92.
Berthon, Capt. E. L. 90 (two ships sunk under him).
Biarrits, 19, 28.
Biddulph, Act. Com. M. A. 0., 101.
Bideford: damaged, 45-6, 52; ashore off Bray, 58 calls for towing ropes, 61.
Bill, Lt. R. 39, 44 (restores order).
Billotte, General, 1, 3, 6.
Black, Lt. Cdr. A. R. M., died of wounds, 10.
Black Arrow, 60n.
Blackburn Rovers, 34n, 38 (sinking of), 110 (sunk).
Blanchard, General, 1, 11, 13, 14, 19, 26.
Blount, Air V.M., C. H., 4.
Blyskawica, 34, 42, 69.
Board of Trade Officials, 94.
Boatkeepers, lack of, 60, 81.
Boats, See Small Craft.
Bobeli, abandoned, 53 ; sunk, 55.
Bonny Heather, 60n, 120.
Bornrif, 20n, 24, 114n, 116-7.
Botanic, 13.
Bouclier, 62n, 69, 107n, 109.
Boulogne, evacuated, 8-10.
Bounty, 66, 71n, 83.
Bourrasque, sunk, 62-3.
Boy Roy, 23n, 31 (damaged).
Boyle, Cdr. R. C., 44.
Brandaris, 20n, 24.
Branlebas, 62n, 63.
Bray. See Beaches.
Brighton Belle, 23n, 27, 31 (sunk).
Brighton Queen, sunk, 92.
Britannic, 72n.
British Expeditionary Force ; movements 10th May-4th June, XIV ; reaches Dyle R., 1;
withdraws, 2, 3, 6, 14, 15; communications cut, 3, 6 ; evacuation foreseen, 4, 14
put on half rations, 8; short of ammunition, 11; discipline, 36n, 58, 80, 127-8; in
good heart, 57 evacuation of rearguard, 65, 70, 108; under Adm. Abrial's orders, 66 ;
rearguard held up, 103; evacuation complete, 108.
Brock, 13n, 39.
Brooke, Lt. Gen. A. F., 2.
Buchanan, Cdr. H. J., R.A.N., 118.
Buffalo Bill, 73n.
Bullfinch, 47.
Bush, Capt. E. W., S.N.O. afloat off Beaches, 49, 50 ; hands over to R.A. Dover, 58
goes home to press for more boats, 58.
Butler, Pay S/Lt., W. J., R.N.V.R., killed, 31.
Buttercup Force, 8.
Bystander, 51n.
196

Details

'PHONE:-
TEMPORARY ADDRESS
COBHAM 2851.
OHE
AMS: "FREETRADER, PHONE, LONDON."
CITY OFFICE: 37 MARK LANE, E.C.3.
HONE: STEPNEY GREEN 1200 (16 LINES).
TELEPHONE: MANSION HO. 2394 & 3997.
GIE
914069028
FREE TRADE WHARF Co. LTD.
21
DIRECTORS
SUTHERLAND HOUSE,
CHAIRMAN SIR ARTHUR M. SUTHERLAND.
BART.. K.B.E., D.L., J.P.
CLAUD E. PEASE. J.P.
338/344, THE HIGHWAY,
H. ARMSTRONG.
F. WHITTOCK, MANAGING DIRECTOR.
F. G. HOSKING. SECRETARY.
LONDON, E.1.
3
TYNE-TEES STEAM SHIPPING Co., Ltd.,
NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE.
19th June 1940
F. H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
London, W. 1.
Dear Sir,
We thank you for your kind letter of the 19th instant,
enclosing separate letters to each Captain of the Tyne-Tees
Steam Shipping Company's vessels who took part in the recent
evacuation from Dunkirk.
These letters will be handed over to the Officers
concerned, and we are quite sure the sentiments expressed
therein will be very highly valued by the Officers and Crews.
We would mention that the four ships to whose Masters
you have addressed letters were the only ones taking part in
the evacuation, so that there is no omission. The name of
the BEAL's Captain was Liley, not "Miley", and we have therefore
corrected the spelling of the Captain's name in this instance.
If we may be allowed to say so, all our Officers and
Crews feel very proud that they were able to take part with
their small vessels in the evacuation from Dunkirk.
Yours faithfully,
For and sh behalf of
Forerwhestock FREE TRADE WHARF CO. LTD.
Managing Directure
Capt. E.
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
John Stewart & Street, Ltd.,
3,
NORMANNI
Capt R.
/CANTERBU
YEWDALE
MAID OR
John stewart & streat, Shiping States Ltd.,
/BIARRITZ
/AUTOCARRI
YEWGLEN
308, C.1.
Glasgow,
(4182) 1508/558686 30m in all 6/41 & Co. 745(8)
and
should
NOT
be
exhibited

Details

ALSO AT: LONDON, MIDDLESBROUGH. STOCKTON, SUNDERLAND & SCARBOROUGH
ESTABLISHED 1864
TYNE-TEES STEAM SHIPPING COMPANY LTD.
HEAD OFFICE:
77
25, KING STREET,
ALL LETTERS TO
TELEGRAMS
BE ADDRESSED TO
"TYNETEES" NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE
THE COMPANY.
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE,1.
TELEPHONE
NEWCASTLE 23111
12th June 1940.
NOTES FOR THE CHAIRMAN, SIR ARTHUR M. SUTHERLAND, BART. K.B.E.
m.v. "BEAL"
This vessel made one trip assisting in the Dunkirk evacuation.
Crew list attached. She brought back a full load of troops. An A.B.,
A.D.C.Hall of 33, Normount Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, swam a considerable
distance to the shore with a line attached to his body in order to make
arrangements for towing off boats. The Bo'sun, .Storey of 12, Ransome
Crescent, Macton Estate, Ipswich, and the 2nd Engineer, W.G. Shaw, 77
Farndale Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, made many trips in the ship's life-boat
doing valuable service.
m.v. "SANDHILL"
This vessel arrived at Dunkirk on Friday, 24th May, with a cargo
of about 940 tons of high explosives. There were no electric cranes
available and the vessel had to discharge with her own gear. A large
proportion of the cargo was discharged under heavy air raids before the
vessel was finally ordered to leave Dunkirk. The whole crew behaved
splendidly and the Captain especially mentioned the Chief Officer, Mr D.K.
Wright, whose address is c/o Mrs Relf, 30, South Road, Newhaven, Sussex. Crew
list attached.
The draft of the "Foremost 22" is 13 feet aft. and the
tide was ebb, it being about 2½ hours after high water.
When I arrived in Dunkerque Roads there were a large
number of other vessels in the vicinity, both large and small.
There was some confusion owing to the heavy bombardment
from the shore and the activity of hostile aircraft.
Just after 11 p.m. I heard the sound of a heavy
collision close to my vessel.
-1-
P.T.O

Details

CREW LIST M. V. "BEAL" DUNKERQUE.
78
Wilson.
J. W. Liley, Master.
55 Milton Hall Road, Gravesend.
D. Wright. Chief
W. Wilson,
Mate.
1, Croydon Road, Middlesbrough.
F.
Storey,
Bosun.
12, Ransome Crescent, Mactom Estate, Ipswich.
Newhaven,
Officer,
G. Bradley, A.B.
3, Dean Street, Middlesbrough.
G.
Girdwood,
Bosun.
18
D. Nicholsom.A.B.
1, Ailsa Road, Troon, Scotland.
W. Hill.
117
A.D.C.Hall. A.B.
33, Normount Road, Newcastle-on-Tyne.
B. H. Locke.
A. Clark.
Steward.
4, Bilsmoor Avenue, High Heaton, Newcastle/Tyne.
F. Brennan,
S. Robinson. Chief
44, Fern Avenue, North Shields.
x.
Hamill.
Engimeer.
Lour Place, Newhaven, Sussex
GWW
G.
Shaw.
Second
77, Farndale Road, Newcastle-on-Tyne, 4.
Engineer. Road, Clapham Junction, London S.W.11.
S. H. Brown. Steward. 77, Newminster Road, Fenham, Newcastla-on-Tyne.
R. P. Thomas. Assistant
Steward. Cherry Grove, Skelty, Swansea.
J. E. Bracken, Chief Engineer. 28, Lewes Road, Newhaven, Susaex.
R. Clark.
Second 3, Ancroft Avenue, North Shields.
Engineer.
R. Wonders.
Third Engineer. c/o Father, 65 Mortimer Road, South Shields.
entrance to vensel, 1 decided to go back to the Harbour
see whether I could be of any assistance there
to
tide was ebb, it being about 21/2 hours after high water.
The draft of the "Foremost 22" is 13 feet aft. and the
number of other vessels in the vicinity, both large and small.
When I arrived in Dunkerque Roads there were a large
There was some confusion owing to the heavy bombardment
from the shore and the activity of hostile aircraft.
Just after 11 p.m. I heard the sound of a heavy
collision close to my vessel.
-1-
P.T.O

Details

STATE
84
79
John THE wod edd. your
if
ENTRAL 9156-9159
OPMAST GLASGOW
BOE CODE
83
T.M. 6213/40/S.T.A.6.
25th August, 1940.
&
124
ANY SHIPPING
NERS
Limited
ons
Gentlemen, have to acknowledge the receipt
125
of your I letter EWM/MG of the 23rd instant
STREET
OW
&
thank you for the interesting
23rd August 1940.
and to of the Master of the s.s. "YEWDALE" vessel
report regarding the part played by his
in the Dunkirk operations.
6.
I am, Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
we enclose herewith
(Sgd-) whipan
"YEWDALE" regarding
for Director of Sea Transport
f Dunkirk.
abl
have not yet been
send
& Co.
suitable, we shall
G Ltd.
ac/arlane Director
* 101 AUG * CENVED
4.30 29th and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and we arrived Downs in company
with m.v. DO carry. "BEAL" At 10.30 p.m. 28th May left expect and what
we
none I a.m. decided May. to move We down anchored the Channel to await orders but at Le as Panne, we received at
our boat out take them ashore again for more troops. leaving two men put
each ten troops soldiers boat were to gathering. in them. We When took shifting the men we on to picked board where up a large two boats number with of in
other years boats old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge MacKenzie the
(16 which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. We also
also steering took the charge boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie himself (Second Engineer)
and directed the soldiers who were rowing, of one of
The rest of of the boats and made several trips to beach.
Fred employed Williams in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army were Captain
crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen the
kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

83
TELEPHONE CENTRAL 9156-9159
TELEGRAMS TOPMAST GLASGOW
THE NEW BOE CODE
JOHN STEWART&COMPANY SHIPPING
DIRECTORS 1.0 HACFARLANE E.W. MACFARLANE # WHITTON
Limited
EWM/MG.
SHIPOWNERS
125
308. CLYDE STREET
PROMPT MODERN TONNAGE
BRITISH COAST OR NEAR CONTINENT
CLASGOW
23rd August 1940.
CARGOES 650 TO 1100 TONS
C.1
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
London.
Dear Sir,
YOUR REF. T.M. 6213/40/S.T.A.6.
EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
In reply to your letter of 7th August, we enclose herewith
copy of reports received from the Master of the S.S. "YEWDALE" regarding
the part played by that vessel in the evacuation of Dunkirk.
So far as the "YEWGLEN" is concerned, we have not yet been
able to contact the Master, but if he has anything suitable, we shall
it
send/on to you.
Yours faithfully,
JOHN STEWART & CO. SHIPPING Ltd.
Towayartand
Director
AUG P x 72 2 RECENTED 10/11/21
with 00 carry. At 10.30 p.m. 28th May we WHICH left CO Downs expect in and company what
we
4.30 I a.m. 29th May. We anchored to await orders but as we received
m.v. "BEAL" and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and arrived at Le Panne, at
none decided to move down the Channel to where a large number of
troops were gathering. When shifting we picked up two boats with
ten soldiers in them. We took the men on board leaving two men in
each boat to take them ashore again for more troops. We also put
our boat out which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. MacKenzie
(16 years old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge of one of the
other boats and directed the soldiers who were rowing, himself
steering the boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie (Second Engineer)
also took charge of the boats and made several trips to the beach.
The rest of crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen were
employed in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army Captain
Fred Williams kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

82
11th June, 1940.
(Tuesday)
S.S. "YEWDALE"
126
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk.
Sunday 26th May, 1940.
Whilst at anchor in the Downs I received orders from N.C.S.O. to
proceed to Dunkirk.
At 4.0 a.m. we hove up and proceeded in company with m.v. "SEQUACITY"
and passed Calais about 2 miles off at 6.40 a.m. with "SE UACITY"
about a quarter of a mile ahead. Twenty minutes later heavy gunfire
was heard and shells began to burst allaround the steamer. We
immediately took avoiding action by zig-zagging to seaward. Although
this involved the risk of striking mines, it appeared to me to be
safer than continuing on our course. This heavy firing continued
for about 20 minutes and seemed to be concentrated upon this steamer.
When haze appeared over the land firing ceased, and ship was brought
back on her course. Not long after when the weather cleared shelling
was resumed in much greater intensity and was directed mostly on
"SEQUACITY" which was about a quarter of a mile on our starboard bow.
We saw this ship being struck amidships and in engineroom as she was
altering course away from fire. At 8.20 а.ш. while still under fire
we managed to pick up five men on a raft who said they were solders
who had left Calais in the dark. They informed me that they believed
that Dunkirk had been captured by Germans. I then got in touch with
Master of "SEQUACITY" whose ship I could see was very badly damaged.
We were at this time north of Dunkirk channel about 1a miles north of
our course. As it meant coming back to the range of German guns to
get into Dunkirk, we decided to return to Downs for further information.
We were then attacked by 8 or 9 enemy Messerschmitt planes who swept
our decks with bullets destroying our rafts and port lifeboat. I
immediately sent out an S.O.S. Shortly afterwards the enemy disappear-
ed when British planes came on the scene. On the way back to Downs
at 10.10 a.m. "SEQUACITY" began to sink so we stood by and took on
board her crew while a British plane covered us until every man was on
board and only left us after we had given the signal that all was well.
The "SEQUACITY" sank in about 10 minutes from the time she began to
list (in position 52.04.20 N. and 1.38.36 E approximately).
We arrived in Downs at 12.30 p.m. and anchored. We were then asked
to go back to Dunkirk but as we had neither food nor water we were
allowed to remain until these could be supplied.
On Tuesday 28th May, after stores had been put on board, we were
ordered to Le Panne with full details of what to expect and what we
were to carry. At 10.30 p.m. 28th May we left Downs in company
with m.v. "BEAL" and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and arrived at Le Panne, at
4.30 a.m. 29th May. We anchored to await orders but as we received
none I decided to move down the Channel to where a large number of
troops were gathering. When shifting we picked up two boats with
ten soldiers in them. We took the men on board leaving two men in
each boat to take them ashore again for more troops. We also put
our boat out which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. MacKenzie
(16 years old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge of one of the
other boats and directed the soldiers who were rowing, himself
steering the boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie (Second Engineer)
also took charge of the boats and made several trips to the beach.
The rest of crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen were
employed in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army Captain
Fred Williams kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

Details

-2-
11/6/40.
S. S. "YEWDALE"
127
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk (contd)
we had 500 men on board. As we were at that time being assisted by
several Motor Launches and other small boats, counting become almost
impossible, Another Officer who also assisted a great deal counted
20 men boarding in 5 minutes. This we maintained until 2.30 p.m. when
I decided that we were too tightly packed to hold any more.
The soldiers numbering about 1000 were put into the cargo hold of
vessel and in addition every available space on the deck (which being
a. self-trimming vessel was very limited) was covered with men. Every
room and space on the ship including the engineroom and stokehold was
packed with men.
2.35 p.m. we hove up and closed a Destroyer for advice and we were
told that we could travel in company with her.
There had been a few Air Raids during the day but no bombs had
dropped, at least not close to us. At 4.0 p.m. several German planes
were seen overhead, and bombs dropped close to this ship. We then
hove up and proceeded on our passage to Downs with m.v. "BEAL" about
1 mile ahead and a Destroyer about 1 mile astern. At 4.50 p.m.
several enemy planes appeared overhead and began dive-bombing; several
bombs fell very close. This continued of and on for about three-
quarters of an hour with one final attack shortly before 6.0 p.m.
During the third attack shrapnel struck the steamer and five men were
killed and 78 wounded (two I believe died later). Our Mate, W.
Watterson, was struck in the leg and seriously injured.
About six soldiers who apparently thought the ship to be sinking
jumped overboard. These men possibly were picked up by the Destroyer
astern. It would have been dangerous, to all those on board for us
to turn back for them. In the next raid a Dive-Bomber was hit by
our guns and appeared out of control, it lost height and as it passed
close over the ship our gun kept firing and each tracer bullet was
seen to enter the plane until it got out of range. Several soldiers
ctually saw it striking the water about half a mile on our port bow.
At 6.0 p.m. the Raiders were driven off, we believe by our own planes.
During these Raids our compass had been smashed and we had to depend
entirely on other ships and on a small field compass which could only
give us an approximate direction when used on top of wheelhouse.
At 9.30 p.m. as we were approaching the Coast I signalled the Destroyer
to report that I had wounded men on board. I also kept calling UD
other ships when entering Downs where we eventually arrived at 11.10
p.m. one mile off Deal Pier. After continuing calling up by flashing
(wireless was smashed) until 11.40 p.m. we gave up and awaited dawn.
We then attracted attention by firing our Lewis guns and a Naval ship
got in touch with the Coastguard and at 6.0 a.m. a lifeboat with a
Doctor on board arrived, and we were then ordered to Ramsgate where
we arrived and disembarked all troops by 9.30 p.m. and then proceeded
for temporary repairs to Sheerness.

Details

7
- 2 -
Slater and took him on board.
The ship was by now, 1745, afloat but bumping and being
driven inshore by the on-shore wind. I managed to get the
stern clear by putting the troops forward and then the bows by
moving them aft. We then went ahead and after grounding
heavily twice got into deep water. As the German aircraft
were still present we took advantage of a rain squall and
sailed immediately.
KAAP-FALGA had by now proceeded on a Westerly course across
the Banks.
0700, Wednesday 29th. Arrived Dover and landed troops,
approximately 200 R.A.S.C. and units.
Also about 20 French Staff Officers.
2200, Wednesday 29th. Sailed for Newhaven to disembark
ammunition remaining, about 200 tons.
0800, Thursday 50th.
Arrived Newhaven.
P.M.
Completed to full stowage of amminition.
0300 Friday 31st.
Sailed to Dover for orders.
Noon Friday 31st.
Arrived Dover Roads anchored and reported
myself to Examination Vessel. At Midnight
the roads were cleared and I proceeded
Westwards as far as Dungeness returning to
anchor.
Saturday 1st June at 0500.
Sunday 2nd June.
Entered Submarine basin at 0800 and secured
alongside H.M.S. SANDHURST from whom we
took in Lubricating 011.
1015.
Proceeded to Newhaven to discharge.
1830.
Arrived Newhaven.
Monday 3rd June.
Discharging at Newhaven.
Tuesday 4th June.
Completed discharging.
Wednesday 5th 0615.
Sailed for Poole.
1800.
Arrived Poole.
Thursday 6th June
Payed off.
Beal.
LIEUTENANT.
II.
The Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded. The behaviour of the ALICE would appear
to need some explanation.
(Sd.) H. T.C. WALKER
R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth.
8th June 1940.
COMMODORE.

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-
14
PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE. (CONTD).
Page 2.
Before leaving of the the beach, I explained the situation
Adjutant during the afternoon. R.A.S.C. unit who had been accompanying to the me
had refloated the ALICE and schored her. He then received
informed me that in my absence Licutenant Wykeham-Martin
On arrival onboard the ABEL TASMAN, Lieutenant Beal
a message from the ALICE informing him that the engines
of the ALICE had completely broken down and also informed
me that the crew etc. had gone over to the KAAP-FALGA which
weighed and proceeded without orders from Lieutenant Beal,
or informing him of his intentions.
The situation was then appreciated by the Commanding
Officer La Panne, Lieutenant Beal and myself, and Lieutenant
Beal decided that Lieutenant Wykeham-Martin and his First
Lieutenant were capable of dealing with the situation that
had arisen. The Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who was remaining
ashore knew the orders that had been issued. The possibility
of towing the ALICE to Bray Dunes by the ABEL TASMAN was
considered. Owing to the absence of personnel, boats and
gear, this project was considered warrantable to delay
departure. I consulted Lieutenant Beal and the Colonel
Commanding the R.A.S.C. unit, who was Senior Officer, La Panne,
and it was decided that I should take over the duties of
First Lieutenant (Lieutenant Beal being single handed) and
assist in bringing the ABEL TASMAN back to Dover as it vas
considered that I could serve no iseful purpose otherwise.
The situation was reported to Commander-in-Chief,
Dover, on arrival and he, approving of the appointment, I
remained as second in command.
The movements of ABEL TASMAN have been reported
by the Commanding Officer.
VICE ADMIRAL
LIEUTENANT R.N.
JUN 1940
*
R
DOV
E