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1 potential matching record has been identified.
These records may contain service-list entries, vessel metadata, source-page references and protected full-size document images. A match does not by itself prove that the vessel participated in Operation Dynamo.
“Potential match” means a candidate returned by one or more indexing rules; it is not necessarily an exact identity match. Depending on the source, matching may use a normalised vessel name, a partial text or OCR hit, an alias, or related metadata. Roman-numeral suffixes such as I, II, III, IV and V may be absent, misread or separated from the base name, so records for similarly named vessels can be grouped incorrectly. Multi-word names can also produce candidates where only one significant word matches. Confirm the full name, numeral, vessel type, dimensions, builder, ownership, dates and source context before treating two records as the same vessel.
We are compiling and checking transcriptions, metadata, vessel-name matches, source references and reuse permissions before publishing further detail. This work helps prevent incomplete OCR, historic spelling variations or unverified associations from being presented as established fact.
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211 potential matching records have been identified.
These records may contain OCR text matches, source files, page references and digitised page imagery. A match does not by itself prove that the vessel participated in Operation Dynamo.
“Potential match” means a candidate returned by one or more indexing rules; it is not necessarily an exact identity match. Depending on the source, matching may use a normalised vessel name, a partial text or OCR hit, an alias, or related metadata. Roman-numeral suffixes such as I, II, III, IV and V may be absent, misread or separated from the base name, so records for similarly named vessels can be grouped incorrectly. Multi-word names can also produce candidates where only one significant word matches. Confirm the full name, numeral, vessel type, dimensions, builder, ownership, dates and source context before treating two records as the same vessel.
We are compiling and checking transcriptions, metadata, vessel-name matches, source references and reuse permissions before publishing further detail. This work helps prevent incomplete OCR, historic spelling variations or unverified associations from being presented as established fact.
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These details have been aggregated from multiple sources and may include contemporary records, later recollections, claims or assertions for which no corroborating evidence has been identified. Inclusion does not establish that any account or assertion is accurate. The information may be incomplete, out of date, disputed or incorrect and should be checked against the underlying source records and independent evidence before being relied upon.
Source: Lloyd’s Register Foundation, Heritage & Education Centre, Lloyd’s Register of Yachts 1939, digitised via Internet Archive. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. Images have been converted, resized and watermarked for web display; machine-generated table OCR has been added.
No Lloyd’s records.
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Source: Lloyd’s Register Foundation, Heritage & Education Centre, Lloyd’s Register of Yachts 1939, digitised via Internet Archive. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0. Images have been converted, resized and watermarked for web display; machine-generated table OCR has been added.
| Cooper,24 | 17 | 45.0 | 60 | 5.0 | White&Co.,Ld. Builders | 1912 | 1W.T.B. J.SamuelWhite,Cowes | conv. from Admiralty Picket | boat,24 |
| 1032 | Captiva II Steel | TwnSc | 218 | - | 2125 7'9 | NewJersey | Elizabeth, | 2 Petrol Motors | Empire Dock & Boat | Houston, |
| 148001 | Par.Mot. | 11:37 13 | worksCo.Ld. conv.life boat | 1902 | 2Cy.4}"-6$" Bergius.Gls.23 | M.B., Ch.B. |
| Slp Ratsey,36 | 2 | 16.8 16.7 | 0.65 174 | Giles,Ld. MorganGiles | 1936 | Nat.Jollyboat | ||||||||
| 1492 149788 MNSW | Cyrilla | Wood | BmSlp Ratsey,27 Cranfield,3. | 4.29 5:02 6 | 286 34.5 240 | 7.5 4.9 567 | 5:1 5.1 | Berthon Boat Co. Builders | Lymington 1926 | R.BurnhamRst.C. | Maurice 0. Gill | London |
| 1666 | Diana II | TwnSc | 16:15 | 550 | 12:0 57 | BirmalBoats | Southmpton | 2 Petrol Motors | Albert Batchelor | London | Cws | + |
| 162615 | Aluminium Alloy Elec.Light Pet.Mot. | 27.81 33 | - 45.0 | 6.5 — BK | C.Simpson | 1931 8mo | 4S.C.SAeach6Cy.5"- Kermath,Detroit | 53" | A.S.Cws.3,34 For Se | rvice in e | Speed Boat- nclosed waters | |
| 149321 | Pet.Mot. | Ratsey,28 | 6.21 7 | 28.9 26.0 | 5.4 4.2 | BoatCo.Ld. | 1928 | 2Cy.3}"-4}" Thornycroft,Reading,34 | ||||
| Ratsey,38 | 6 | 345 24'0 | 46 5.] 530 | BoatCo.Ld. Builders | 1931 | W.SolentRst.C. | C. H. C. Guest |
| 165109 | Pet.Mot. | Cut | 6'31 | 37.7 | 62 | 60 | BoatCo.Ld. | 1937 | 4Cy.2₅ⁿ-3" | ||||
| 2029 | Enis Wood | AuxCut | 3.65 | 250 | 80 | 48 | Rowles | Bristol | Petrol Motor | Belsize Boat Yard, Ld. | Bristol |
| 22.2 | 543 | Fishing boat,2 | 1 1899 | DeDion,26 | ||||||||
| 163663 | Elec.Light Pet.Mot. | Cut | 10.51 | 36.7 | 6:0 5.5 | BoatCo.Ld. | 1935 | 4Cy.2·24"-3·26" |
| 4994 | Nepenthe Wood | Cutter | 26.5 | 76 | Summers& | Southmpton | Belsize Boat Yard, Ld. | Southmptn |
| 5235 | Old River | Wood | TwnSc | 286 | - | 260 64 | FogelBoat | Miami,Fla. | 2 Petrol Motors | The Exors. of the late | New York | ||
| 5247 | Olive K. | Steel | TwnSe | 306 | — | 262 11.8 | Defoe Boat | BayCity, | 2 Oil Engines | C. F. Kettering | Detroit. |
| Pet.Mot. | 31:3 | 185 | conv. ships life | boat | Austin |
| Par.Mot. | 20 | conv.fishing boat | Chard,24 | |||||||||||
| 5364 | Paddy | Wood Pet.Mot. | ScLch | - 6 | 30:0 30.0 | 6.9 5.5 | I 18 | Chester Boat Co.Ld. Builders | Chester 1927 | Petrol Motor 4Cy.23"-34" AilsaCraig | E. C. Bickersteth | Chester |
| 164724 | pt.Steel frames Pet.Mot. | 13:07 12 | 31.8 | 6:0 2.8 | conv.fromLife- boat,36 | Thornycroft,33 |
| Pet.Mot. | Ellis,34&36 | 3 | 19.5 19.0 | 50 50 380 | HarleyMead | 1905 | BritishMot.Boat Mfg. Co.,Ld.,35 |
| 6149 163617 | San Toy | Wood Pet.Mot. | Sc | 3.53 5:43 5 | 242 24:2 23:3 | 75 | 46 2.5 | Southmpton Launch&Boat Co. A.T.Yates | Southmpton 1933 | Petrol Motor 4Cy.2-24"-3:27" MorrisMotors,Ld.Cowley | Edwin Heasman | Southmptn |
| 163642 | (erLady Shahrazad) | 9:60 | 37.5 | 60 | 2:75 | PowerBoatCo. | Hants | each 6Cy.88:5mm.-1 | 20mm. | |||||
| Pet.Mot. | 10 | 36:08 | 1934 | Power Boat Co. |
| 6471 | Shireen Wood | ScCut | - | 240 | 75 | 40 | BlythBoat- | Blyth | Motor | H. G. Busk | Lymingtn | ||
| 6473 | Shirl Wood | TwnSc | 14.19 | 560 | 13.6 | 5.8 | Gidley Boat | Penetang- | 2 Petrol Motors | T. W. Seagram | Midland, | ||
| 165102 | Pet.Mot. | Slp | 14.0 | 46.2 | 6:3 | 7.0 | BoatCo.Ld. | 1937 | 4Cy.24"-4" 4NH | 12&16yrsMat | LA&CP | 7.37 |
| 6880 | Suvretta (exDinah) | Wood | BmSlp Ratsey,38 | - 6 | 286 345 23:0 | 75 50 | 51 5:1 530 | Berthon Boat Co.Ld. Builders | Lymington 1924 | W.SolentRst.C. | James M. Sebag- Montefiore | Hamble |
| Pet.Mot. | Slp Zeilstra,32 | 7 | 28.4 28.3 | 5.1 2.9 355 | conv. ship's lif | boat | 2Cy. Archimedes,32 | ||||||
| 7066 230245 | Thalia GyC. | Steel OilEng. | TwnSc | 262 386 | 160.0 | 24.5 12.5 8.4 | Defoe Boat& MotorCo. | Bay City, Mich. | 2 Oil Engines each6Cy.14"-16" | Thomas M. Howell | New York |
| 7418 | Varinka Wood (exTwenti) pt.Steelframes Par.Mot. | TwnSc Lug | [ ] — 10 | 30.5 31.0 30.0 | 92 50 5.7 3:0 120 | Capt.Murrys NestedBt.Co. conv."Olympic | 1920 "lifeboat | 2 Paraffin Motors each2Cy. Bergius,28 | Maurice Ellison Cabin added, 36 | London | ||
| 16 | 39:2 | Boat | (1)6Cy.3}"-5" Chrys | ler,29 |
| MPYT | 10 | 34.0 | conv.fromLife | boat,26 | Bergius,Gls.17 |
| Pet.Mot. | Cut | 12 | 36.5 | 60 | 55 | BoatCo.Ld. | 1939 | 4Cy.21"-3}" | |||||
| 8100 | No. 158 Steel OilEng. | TwnSc | [ ] — | [ ] — | - | - | DefoeBoat& MotorWorks Cox&Stevens,1 | BayCity, Mich. nc. 1938 | 2 Oil Engines Winton | ||||
| 8104 | No. 441 Wood Pet.Mot. | - 8 | 275 | 9:0 | 45 | Southmpton Launch&Boat FredCooper | Southmpton Co. 1939 | 2 Petrol Motors Gray | Capt. A. G. Lamplugh | (Class | A contemplated) |
| Faerie | BmSlp | 19:3 | 60 3.25 | British Boat Club. | ||||
| British Boat Club, Alexandria | 225 | Alexandria | Hispania | c.b.Bm | 17.2 5.9 | 16 | Optional |
| British Boat Club, Alexandria | Slp | 18:0 | C. E. Nicholson | Trearddur Bay S. C. | Slp | 14.0 | Sons, Ld. | |
| Looe ... | c.b.Bm | 140 48 08 | Optional | National Jolly Boat | c.b.Bm | 17.5 | 5.4 07 | Caruana |
| Amateur Boatbuilders' Club | 7 | 631 | Club de Regatas Galicia de Villagarcia de Arosa | 641 | |
| British Boat Club, Alexandria | 2 | 634 | County Antrim Yacht Club | 638 | |
| Cambridge Motor Boat Club | 8 | 635 | Deutscher Motorboot Club | 639 |
| Hamworthy & Bournemouth Sailing Club | 3 | 643 | Lytham St. Annes Motor Boat Club | 9 | 647 |
| Keyhaven Yacht Club. The | 9 | 645 | New Zealand Power Boat Association | - | 651 |
| Belgique Club et Motor-Boat-Club des Flandres | - | 641 | Upper Thames Sailing Club | 11 | 660 |
| Sunderland Yacht Club | 10 | 657 | Yacht and Motor Boat Association | - | 662 662 |
| TREAS. Club House: Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh. | Club Boat: Garson," Anchor Bay, Erith, Kent. |
| H. SEC. Lt.-Col. H. S. C. Richardson, Rossfod, Ballinamallard, N. Ireland. Club House: The Boat House, Crom Castle, Newtownbutler, N. Ireland. | H. SEC. W. H. Milligan, Abbey House, Athlone. Club House: Ballyglass, Athlone. | H.SEC.& TREAS. Lt.-Col. J. B. Batten, D.S.O. Club House: The Quay, Lymington, Hants. |
| ROYAL LYMINGTON YACHT CLUB. Est. 1922. | LYTHAM YACHT CLUB. Est. 1890. | LYTHAM ST. ANNES MOTOR BOAT CLUB. Est. 1928. |
| The Old Hall, Hethersett, Norwich. Club House The House Boat, Barton Broad, Norfolk. | TREAS. & Yngvar Jespersen, SEC. Parkveien 57, Oslo, Norway. Club House: Dronningen," Bygdöy, pr. Oslo. | H. TREAS. K.M. Moore. H. SEC. Robert E. Workman, 6, Dublin Road, Belfast. Club House: Cultra, co. Down. |
| STOWE SCHOOL SAILING CLUB. Est. 1926. Annual Subscription, £0 5 0. COM. Major R. Haworth, D.S.O., M.V.O. H. SEC. & TREAS. J.P.T.Dawson, Stowe School, Buckingham | STRANGFORD LOUGH YACHT CLUB. Est. 1935. Entrance Fee, £0 10 0. Annual Subscription, £1 10 0. COM. The Rt. Hon. Viscount Bangor, O.B.E. V.-C. The Rt. Hon. J. M. Andrews, D.L., M.P. R.C. Robert Garrett. H. TREAS. P. S. Bass, A.S.A.A. H. SEC. Wm. A. Lewis, 9, James St. South, Belfast. Club House: Whiterock, Killinchy, Co. Down. | SUNDERLAND YACHT CLUB. (Formerly The Sunderland Motor Boat and Yacht Club.) Est. 1911. Entrance Fee, £0 10 6. Ladies and Cadets, Nil. Annual Subscription, £1 1 0. Ladies and Cadets, £0 10 6. COM. Harry Turley. V.-C. R. Hanson. R.-C. T. O. Gibbons. H. TREAS. W. A. Archbold. H. SEC. Selby Ord, 52. Frederick Street, Sunderland. Club House: North Dock, Roker, Sunderland. |
| ROYAL BRIGHTON YACHT CLUB | BRISTOL CHANNEL YACHT CLUB | BRITISH BOAT CLUB, ALEXANDRIA |
| M C c B CAMBRIDGE MOTOR BOAT CLUB | CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY CRUISING CLUB | ROYAL CANOE CLUB | CEYLON MOTOR YACHT CLUB | ПОНТ CHICHESTER YACHT CLUB | +++ CHRISTCHURCH SAILING CLUB |
| VOODD KONINKLIJKE WATER- SPORT-VEREENIGING "LOOSDRECHT | LORN CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB | LOUGH ERNE YACHT CLUB | LYMINGTON SAILING CLUB | LYTHAM YACHT CLUB | LYTHAM ST. ANNES MOTOR BOAT CLUB |
| Oomterus | 12 | a. Nicky II. | boat No. 370 | 9 | m. Donia. | Pearl | 79 | m. Rezala. |
| T. M. Tons | T. M. | Tons | T. M. Tons | BathIron Works,Corpn. | Bellingham, A., | Berthon Boat Co., Ltd., |
| a. Jane | 4 | a. Whiteadder 3 | a. Samphire 4 | a. Phyllis 6 | Decked Lifeboat | |
| a. Lexia Linette a. Lollypoppet | 40 6 14 | Boats & Cars | Bonnin, G., Frères, | Bothén, B., 1:a Långgatan 12, Gothenburg. | Son, now again operating under that name.) | |
| a. Malista | 4 | Le Pellerin, Loire Inferieure | Kingston-on-Thames. | a. Aile Noire - | British Power Boat Co., |
| (Formerly G. De Coninck | Defoe Boat & Motor | m. Elizabeth 51 | m. Riska 2 |
| Halifax Boat Works, | (See also Lloyd's Register | m. Gannet II 8 | m. Egeria - | a. Bettine (see page 606) — |
| Sunny III 5 | m. Capri (designed only) 11 | (See Berthon Boat Co., | (Including R. Kemp & |
| a. Kirin 202 | a. 4 | a. Sunbeam | 3 | Minx | - | (See Berthon Boat Co., | |
| m. Taormina 190 | Tiny 4 | a. Hallowe'en 29 | Topaz | 5 | m. Puffin | 21 | Decked Lifeboat Co., Ltd |
| Devonshire Boat House, Grove | a. Rosalind (designed | m. Deerfoot 29 | Galahad II | 8 | of American Yachts.) | (Late A. Mylne) |
| Rampart Boat | Atair | 16 | a. Pan II 13 | Circe | 5 | a. Curlew 8 |
| Goole, | a. Marika II 12 | m. Exile 20 | (See Berthon Boat Co., | a. Golden Hind 144 | ||
| Corinna 3 | Boat Co., | Silroc 5 | Stephen, A., & Ltd., | a. Scepter III 9 | a. Iras 11 |
| Adr. | R. Yacht Club Italiano | Bel. | BelfastMotorBoat&Sailing | Buc. | Buccaneer | Chn. | Crosshaven |
| Amr. Ang. | Amateur Boatbuilders' Royal Anglesey | Bnm. S | Burnham-on-Crouch Sailing | C. Ils. | Royal Channel Islands | Crn. | Royal Cornwall Cairo |
| Arc. | Cercle de la Voile d'Arcachon | Bpl. Brc. | Blackpool & Fleetwood Club Maritim de Barcelona | Cam. | Cambridge University Cruising Motor Boat | Cst. Cum | Cumbraes Cowes |
| B. B. C. | British Boat Club, | Br.M | British Motor | Can. | Royal | Deb. |
| Motor Boat Club des | Hna. | Habana | Lon. C. | London Corinthian Sailing | N. Ir. | Royal North of Ireland | |
| Gal. | Royal Galway | Jam. | Royal Jamaica | Motor Boat | Boat Association | ||
| Gca. | Club de Regatas "Gali- cia" de Villagarcia | K.M.K. K.S.S.S. | Motorbåt Klubben Royal Swedish | M.B.A. | Yacht & Motor Boat Association | Nat. Nav. | National Royal Naval Sailing |
| Bartlett, J. D., Killin, Salterns Lane, South Hayling Island, Hants.-Hay. m. Marita 11 | Bashford, P. F. R., Norton, Dartmouth, Devon. Drt.-Nav.-Tor.S.-Trq. a. Svenska 8 | Batchelor, George, Boat Yard, Temple Manor, Strood, Kent. m. The Lady of Clennell 312 | a. Puritan 187 Baugé, André, 3. rue des Côtes, Maisons-Laffite (Seine-et-Oise), France.-Y.C.F. | Bayldon, Lt.-Col. O. H., 70, Melton Court, Onslow Crescent, London, W.7.-L.S.-Mtr. m. Ramille 16 |
| a. Kirsty (P.O.) 16 | a. Maid Honor 67 | Belsize Boat Yard, Ltd., | Y.C.F.-Din.-Mlo. a. Lord Jim 19 | m. Mildred (P.O.) 51 |
| Ellison, Maurice, 8, Winchfield Close, Kenton, Middx. m. Varinka 10 | Elverston, Alfred, Ranworth, Warren Drive, Deganwy, N. Wales.-Con.-Mtr. m. Dora 19 m. Doratoo 14 | Embiricos, G. E., 18, Homer Street, Athens, Greece.-Phl. Afroessa II (P.O.) 33 | Empire Dock & Boat Co., Inc., Corpus Christi, Texas. m. Captiva II 279 | Erikson, Robert, Drewitts, Warninglid, Hayward's Heath, Sussex.-Tms. m. Elna 62 |
| 12a, Marlboro Street, Cork, Eire. Ish.C.-Mun. m. Marion 11 Hanbury, D., | Handcock, The Exors. of the late Maj. Gerald C.S., Carantrila Park, Dunmore, Tuam, | Hannaford, Charles A., The Boat House, Wroxham, Norfolk. N. & S.-Nfk. m. Vega 12 | Hansen, Lauritz, Backersvej 15, Copenhagen.-Kbn.M. m. Vega 8 | Saltedge, West Mersea, Essex. Btr.-Msa. a. Mary Joy 4 |
| a. Wych (P.O.) 14 Howard, Major E. S. G., | Howells, J. Graham, Alameda, Stock Road, Billericay, Essex.-Nrw. | Hubbard, John W., Granite Building, Pittsburg, Pa., U.S.A.-N.Yk. | m. Gannet II 8 Rt. Hon. R. | Eastern Boat House, Burnham-on- Crouch, Essex.-Gvs. a. Yselmeer 29 |
| MacLennan, A., Marine Hotel, Mallaig, Inverness-shire. m. Ossianic 36 | McLoughlin, H. F., Red Lodge, Blackroot Road, Sutton Coldfield, Warwick. m. Zelea 18 | McMorland, Daniel, Clyde Motor Boat Agency, 25, Kempock Street, Gourock. | Eversdale, Hawkhead Road, Paisley. C.Crz. a. Hadassah 11 | McPherson, C. M., 89. Kingsway, London, W.C.2.-Bnm. Thalassa (P.O.) 5 |
| Mickles, John B., Weston, Mass., U.S.A.-Nsk. Maikai II 51 | Mills, F. G., Lands End House, Twyford, Berks. a. Allegro 12 | Miller, James & John M., Belmont, Ellersly Road, Edinburgh. Alm.-For. a. Goodewind 21 | c/o Pekin Syndicate, Ltd., Tsao Tsai, Honan, China.-Shi. Viking (P.O.) 7 Mills, Miss Ethel A., | worth Wood, Birmingham.-N.W. a. Marguerite T. 35 Milward, Mrs. Louise M., Boat House Cottage, Priest Hill, Old |
| Russell, Miss Agnes, The Boat House, Newton Ferrers, Plymouth, Devon.-L.S. a. Ardglass 7 | Russell, Reginald, 67, Becmead, Avenue, Streatham, London, S. W.16. a. Nancy Blackett 7 | Rust, Arthur, 1020, North Yakima Avenue, Tacoma, Wash., U.S.A. m. Electra 126 | Ruys, Th. A. W., Westplein, 10, Rotterdam.-Maas. m. Zuiderkruis 37 Ruys, W., Bzn., | Rye, E., The Ridge, Glyn Garth, Menai Bridge, Anglesey.-Ang.-Mer. a. Vireena (P.O.) 20 |
| Tracy, Hon. Hubert Hanbury, Longwood, Torquay, Devon. Tor.(v.C.). a. Beatrice 5 | a. Olga (P.O.) 19 Treacy, W. F., Limerick Boat Club, Limerick. a. Colleen 6 | Tremayne, John C., High Bank, Lostock Park, Bolton, Lanes.-Ocn. a. Galante 14 | Trimnell, F. W., Lascelles Hall. nr. Huddersfield, Yorks. Sth. a. Sylvia 63 | Trower, W. G., 5, New Square, Lincoln's Inn, London, W.C.2.-Lym.-Lym.S. a. Kalypso - |
| Nitchevo 13 Vella, Joseph, Hay Wharf Boat House, Floriana, Malta. | m. Why Not 52 Vernon, R. R. C., D.S.O., Bishop's Lydeard, Somerset.-R.Y.S. a. Varuna 28 | Vestlund, Karl, Kristinehamn, Sweden. Gerd VII 5 | Vignoles, Lt.-Col. Walter A., D.S.O., 78, Highlands Heath, Putney, London, S.W.15.-Bos.-L.S. Audrey 6 | Vingerhoets, C. L., 38, rue du Monastère, Brussels. Y.C.B a. Zeemeeuw 35 |
| Watson, E. H., Watson's Boat Yard, Fishbourne, I.W. m. Miele 4 | a. Lindy 5 Watson, R. S., 1, Osborne Place, Dundee.-Tay. | Watt, H. R., Burnside, Fishbourne. I.W.-Isl.-Mtr.- Svw.-Vic.-W.Wt. | Wearne, T. J. B., c/o Wearne Bros. Ltd., Singapore. Sng. | Weber, Sophus, Gamle Hestehauge, nr. Svendborg, Denmark.-Buc.-Dan |
| Berthon Boat Co., Ltd. ... ... | 18 |
| 167166 | Pet.Mot. | 8:00 | conv.fromLife | boat,23 | 4Cy.2&"-4" |
| 7070 | Thanet | Term of years for which vessel's class | 7814 | Wigeon II | Owners Belsize Boat Yard, Ltd. |
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
| May | 1900ca |
| - | |
| 0715 | |
| 0930 | |
| 0725 | |
| 1615 | |
| 1652 1710 | |
| Authority - | M.3422/40. |
ABDY BEAUCLERK R.N.L.I. (Aldeburgh Life boat). [This E.M.E.D.] account 1s based on the report of the M.L/B 31st May 1900ca Arrived Dover. 1st June 0715 Taken in tow by the dfr. Thrifty. Other ships on the tow were the E.M.E.D., Summer Maid and the White Bear. 0725 Left Dover, the dfr. Kindred Star in company. En route, the tow parted several times. 1615 Air attack. 1652 The drifters head for home. 1710 The Abdy Beauclerk and E.M.E.D. continue in company heading for Dunkirk. 1718 The M.L/B Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn join company. 1821 Air attack. 1838 The Abdy Beauclerk and Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn turn back. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.230. 4
ABUKIR (P.V.) G.S. N. Coy. R.M. woolfenden, Master 27th May 2200ca Left Ostend for the U.K. with about 200 troops and Belgian refugees on board. 28th way 0015 Near North llinder Buoy, a torpedo crossed 50 feet aliead of the ship. 0045ca A torpedo passed about 20 ft. astern of the Abukir. Almost immediately a third torpedo was fired and also missed. 0100ca Sighted un E-boat 300 ft. on the port beam. 0105ca The Abukir attempted to ram the E-boat, which fired a fourth torpedo at 150 yards range. The Abukir was hit and Bank in about 11 minutes. There was no time to lower boats, and the E-boat turned on her search- light and machine-gunned the survivors in the water. 0700ca The drs. Codrington, Javelin, Crenade, and Jaguar on patrol, sighted the Abukir's survivors. They picked up the Master and 32 others, including 2 women (See Appendix П.6). The survivors were transferred to the Grenade and taken to Dover. [The Abukir took no part in Operation Dynamo]. 7
AGNES GROSS Port Reserve (R.N.L.I.) M.I./B Lt.J.P.Alexander, Used as a reserve life boat at Dover. Did not R.N.V.R. 291h go over to Dunkirk. Sailed from Hamble in company with the eight other yechte of the Inner Putro (see Seriola). 30th May 0840 Arrived Dover. 2150 Salled with the Inner Potrol flotilla for Bray. 31mt May 0600 The Ahola arrived off Bray, Hailed by B destroyer [the Keith] and told to proceed 5 miles to the east and assist embarkation from the beach. When about to proceed 100 hailed "by scacone else" and told to stay where we vere and assist embarkation from the beach. (1) Towed various small craft to off lying ships. 1700ca Ordered by a "sloop" [the W/S Rebe] lying off La Panne to collect 6. whaler and return. Hailed by Commodore [0.0. Stephenson] in the N/Y Bounty and told to ferry as many men as possible between 2100 and 0400. Returned to "sloop" off La Panne. Ordered to take whaler inshore and bring offo.H.O. staff. Towed whaler inshore and slipped. Bubsequently the whaler returned with Lord Oort's kit, valet and driver. Closed Bounty for orders and told to take whaler to the M/Y Thele. 1830ca Transferred Lord Gort's kit, valet and driver to the Thele. 1900/ Ferried troops to the "sloop", After 2200 dark no more troops come off. 10% June 0300 Embarked 5 troops who swum off from the beach. 0400 Closed Bounty and was ordered to return to Dover. 1150 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 5 troops. Total 5(2) The Ahola 16 estimated to have ferried about 700 troops from the bench to ships. Authority - R.O.II, p.304. The following neardo were made: Wentinn in Despatches P.O. H.IL Hollands. mells P.IL Vinch. (1) Capt. J.D. Howson, R. lla (0.0.1.0. beaches) embarked in the Ankh at about 0610 und states that he instructed "half the yeahter [of the Inner Patrol] to work off Bray and half off La Panne. (2) D.R. states "Athola" disemberked 6. 15
in ALBATROSS M/B (Owner ? H.W. Copeland). THE 20th May 1200 Left Did not return from Operation Dyanmo. the 5th 2130 Arrived off Bray bench- Sent boats inshore to embark troops. Tide low, and 0 smill but troublesome surf. Authority - TO.9144 Troops in good spirite though short of rations. TO.9436 Landed dry provisions in the skiff. 2330 A bomb dropped about 1 mile to seasord of the Albery. 29th May 0230 Proceeded to Margate. 1340 Arrived Margate, Disemburked 162 troops. Sailed for the beaches, 1930 Arrived off Malo. Considerable bombing in progress. Proceeded towards 8 grounded and burning paddle-steamer [the Created Eagle which was full of troops and survivore and in a bad way. All boats and Carley floats were sent away and many survivors picked up. Bonba dropped continually around the Albury and the P/S during this operation. Signalled for fighter assistance, which arrived later in the evening. 57 cot cases were brought off, mostly suffering from severe burns. The C.O. and other survivors from the dr. Gronade were also embarked. Having embarked all known survivors, the Albury proceeded to Bray and embarked troops from several boats. A Captain Churchill, from the H.O. Staff came off and said that he had to get over to England to see his uncle, the Prime Minister, by 0600. Proceeded to Margate, 30th May 0550 Arrived Margate. Disembarked AS and survivors and Captain Churchill, Bailed to Shoerness for coal and comunition. That usy USDO Left Sheerness for the beaches. OTTO Arrived off Malo benon. Considerable surf. Embarkation greatly nosleted by a large power boat. 1230 Bailed for Margate. 1700 Arrived Margate, Disembarked 130 troops 18000s Sailed from Margate under the orders of the 8,0,, 5th M.S.F. 2200 The 51h M.S.F. rendezvoused at W buoy. 2345 Anothered off T.S. Funne, Spasmodic bombardment by shore gune. 2310 riotilla VISA ordered to carry on ambarkation, using shiph' boats. AUGUSTER now en there were practically construons bombing attreke, mostly W DAVA nombers. to the M/D Speedwell 903 aground and towed her off. 18
ALBURY (N.41) 5th M.S.F. Cdr. C.H.Corbet-Singleton R.N. 28th May 1200 Left Harwich in company with the 5th M.S.F. 2130 Arrived off Bray beach. Sent boats inshore to embark troops. Tide low, and a small but troublesome surf. Troops in good spirits though short of rations. Landed dry provisions in the skiff. 2330 A bomb dropped about 1 mile to seaward of the Albury. 29th May 0230 Proceeded to Margate. 1340 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 161 troops. - Sailed for the beaches. 1930 Arrived off Malo. Considerable bombing in progress. Proceeded towards a grounded and burning paddle-steamer [the Crested Eagle] which was full of troops and survivors and in a bad way. All boats and Carley floats were sent away and many survivors picked up. Bombs dropped continually around the Albury and the P/S during this operation. Signalled for fighter assistance, which arrived later in the evening. 57 cot cases were brought off, mostly suffering from severe burns. The C.O. and other survivors from the dr. Grenade were also embarked. Having embarked all known survivors, the Albury proceeded to Bray and embarked troops from several boats. A Captain Churchill, from the H.Q. Staff came off and said that he had to get over to England to see his uncle, the Prime Minister, by 0600. -0020 Proceeded to Margate. 30th May 0530 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 445 troops and survivors and Captain Churchill. Sailed to Sheerness for coal and ammunition. 31st May 0300 Left Sheerness for the beaches. 0930 Arrived off Malo beach. Considerable surf. Embarkation greatly assisted by a large power boat. 1230 Sailed for Margate. 1700 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 130 troops. 1800ca Sailed from Margate under the orders of the S.O., 5th M.S.F. 2200 The 5th M.S.F. rendezvoused at W buoy. 2345 Anchored off La Panne. Spasmodic bombardment by shore guns. lst June 0230ca The flotilla was ordered to carry on embarkation, using ships' boats. 0400ca From now on there were practically continuous bombing attacks, mostly by dive bombers. 0500ca Passed a wire to the M/S Speedwell which was aground and towed her off. 19
A.L.C.5 Landing Craft Cdr. R.A. Cassidi, R.N. In command of the eight A.L.C's in the Clan Macalister. 29th May 1000ca Off Dunkirk. The 3rd A.L.C. to be hoisted out of the S.S. Clan Macalister. Proceeded some way up the coast and then carried on inshore. "Immediately rushed on all sides by a wild, undisciplined, mob of French soldiers, so many of whom got on board that the boat was grounded." Some of the troops had to be forced off the boat before she could be [ot off the beach. "The second attempt to embark French troops showed that their undisciplined behaviour was likely to imperil the safety of the craft", so A.L.C.5 proceeded to La Panne beach. Thence British troops were ferried from the beach to off-lying ships at the rate of about 3 trips an hour, 50 men per trip. A.L.C.5 continued ferrying throughout the 29th May, being interrupted only by continuous air raids. 30th May 0400ca Air raids less intense. (A.L.C.17 joined A.L.C.5 off La Panne, but had to return to Dover for repairs). Ferrying continued. p.m. Shifted towards Dunkirk. Large numbers of troops ferried until after dark. 2400ca Grounded on a falling tide. 31st May 0500ca Refloated. Heavy surf. eather deteriorating. - While overloaded, A.L.C.5 grounded beam on. Transferred some troops to a ship's lifeboat, and refloated. Continued ferrying and towing boats. - Screws fouled; port engine out of action; starboard engine unable to go astern, and only dead slow ahead. 1800ca Transferred crew and 35 troops to the L/Y Caleta, which took A.L.C.5 in tow. Between Dunkirk and No.8 W buoy, A.L.C.5 twice broke away from the tow, but tow was re-established. 1st June 0945 Arrived Sheerness, damaged and leaking badly. Cdr. Cassidi estimates that between 2 and 3 thousand troops were ferried by A.L.C.5. Authority - R.O.III, pp.508, 514. R.O.I., p.177. 25
A.L.C.15 Landing Craft S/Lt. G.B. Eyre, E.N.V.R. 29th May 0930ca Off Dunkirk, the second A.L.C. to be hoisted out of the S.O. Clan Macalis- ter. Proceeded inshore after some delay in starting the engines. Ferried troops, making 15 trips, 1.e. about 750 troops. 2000ca Left for Dover with troops on board. Shortly after passing Dunkirk, met A.L.C's 3 and 8 and proceeded in company. 30th May 0400ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 25 troops. (1) Evening Left Dover, A.L.C's 3 and 8 in company. 31st May 0400ca Off Dunkirk. Engine trouble, but A.L.C.15 ferried troops and towed boats. - Damaged propellers on a submerged lorry. A.L.C.15 out of control, drifted ashore, beam on. The crew launched a stranded small boat and made their way to a drifter. - A.L.C.B landed A.L.C. 15's engineer. He evidently considered it impossible to salve A.L.C.15, and set her on fire. When the fire reached the petrol tanks she blew up. Total 25. (1) Authority - R.O.III, p.513. The (1) S/Lt. Hardstaff of on a of the of his legs the a 0.8 a in of B. but they (1) Estimated. 28
A.L.C.16 Landing Craft S/Lt. R.O. Wilcoxon, R.N.V.R. 29th May 0900ca Off Dunkirk the first A.L.C. to be hoisted out of the S.S. Clan Macalister Proceeded to Dunkirk beach and ferried troops. After about 7 successful trips, "she was boarded by a mob of French soldiers, who overwhelmed the boat to such an extent that she became partially swamped, the star- board battery was flooded and both engines failed". "Eventually, sufficient French were evicted to enable A.L.C.16 to be floated off and the port engine started." 1800ca In going astern however, the port stern tube was damaged and water poured in to the boat. Continually pumping and baling, A.L.C.16 continued ferrying for a further 1½ hours. She then went alongside the sloop Bideford and transferred her load of troops. S/Lt. Wilcoxon went on board Bideford to arrange for a tow back to England. 2007 Dive bomb attack. Bideford's stern blown off; S/Lt. Wilcoxon, in Bideford, mortally wounded; (1) A.L.C.16 was heavily damaged, and sank in a few minutes. 2030 M/S Kellett came alongside Bideford, and took off the crew of A.L.C.16 together with other survivors and wounded. Note: The capacity of the A.L.C's was about 50 men, so that A.L.C.16 probably ferried about 600 troops Authority - R.O.III, p.523. (1) S/Lt. Wilcoxon was found by P/O Gill and Sto. Hardstaff of A.L.C. 16 sitting on a bollard, just for'd of the Bideford's Q.D. with one of his legs blown off above the knee. They used a rifle pull-through as a tourniquet. s/Lt. Wilcoxon sent them in search of a doctor, but they were unable to rind one. 29
A.L.C.17 Landing Craft 29th May 1100ca The 4th A.L.C. to be hoisted out of the S.S. Clan Macalister. She followed A.L.C.5 up the coast towards Bray. "On approaching the beach she was promptly boarded by a crowd of French troops who so overloaded the boat that she grounded." With a falling tide she remained stranded for 3 hours. 1430ca As the tide rose "the French..... again attempted to rush the boat", but "the Cox'n of A.L.C.17 procured the assistance of some British troops, who, with fixed bayonets, drove off the French." These British troops with a few French were taken to a destroyer where the British only were disembark- ed. A.L.C.17 took the French to a nearby vessel. Air attack. A.L.C.17 partially flooded, BO that engines stopped. Boat baled out; engines re-started. Continued to ferry troops from La Panne beach for the rest of the day, and all night, until engines broke down. 30th May a.m. Taken in tow by a drifter. 2200 Arrived in tow at Dover. Engines repaired. 31st May - Towed over to Dunkirk by a tug. (1) - A few ferrying trips only carried out, when engines again broke down. - Towed back to Dover by the tug that had brought her out. 1st June p.m. Arrived in tow at Dover. 3rd June 1300 Arrived Hayling Island with crews of A.L.C's 8 and 15 on board, and with A.L.C.3 in company. Authority - R.O.III, p.525. (1) This "tug" cannot be identified. 30
AMBLEVE (Ex-Belgian) Canal boat S/Lt. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. [s/Lt. Blows was previously in the M/B Minikoi] 30th May 1556 The Ambleve and a sister ship, the Sambre, left Dover for Bray in tow of the M/S Skipjack. In company were the M/S's Halcyon and Salamander 2100 Arrived off Bray. The Ambleve ferried troops to the Halcyon. - A crew from the Halcyon relieved the Ambleve's crew for a stand easy. This crew ran the Ambleve aground. - S/Lt. Blows and his crew returned in the Skipjack. Nil [on lst June S/Lt. Blows went to Dunkirk in a M.L/B]. Authority - R.O.II, p.391. 44.
AMETHYST A/S Trawler (?) 01000 30th May On patrol, 9.2.5.60 (see Appx. J, 1st June 2300 Sailed signal from J.16a and J.20). 2nd June 2nd June On the patrol line with the tr. Spurs 1035 and another trawler (see Appx. J, signals J.40 and 41) when they from university Di came under fire from shore guns. 1700 Salled. Ust for 11. Goodwin and route X as for se Dunkirk west channel. 3rd June 0010 Observed the first of the returning transports, end escorted her. 0150 Opened fire on a plane. 0250 Opened fire on a plane. 0430 Pound 8 wooden M/S from Dunkirk with 100 Prench troops on board. This ship, demaged in collision, had lost her any, her crew being overshelmed and unable to pull themselves together. The Amlena put a petty officer and three men on board, and they brought the vessel to Dover. 0900 Anchored off Dover. 2000 Sailed with the name orders as before. yog very thick; compelled to return and anchor off the N. Goodein. 4th June 0450 Bailed, to essort the transports from Dunkirk which bed anchored in the vicinity of the Amiens. 1850 Ordered to proceed under orders of the dr. Spervier, and in company with the Bl. Amiral Houches, to find and take in LOW the French motor boat V.T.B.26. 2100 Under orders of the Knervier. Arrenged to sail in search of the V.T.B. as about dawn [0400]. During the night, was informed that V.T.B.26 had arrived at Clacton. 5th June 0600 Sent the Mouchet to Ramegate, and proceeded to Largate. N11 Authority - French Admiralty record, Polio No.22. (1) Not mentioned in D.R.'s list of ships. 46
AMIENS French sloop (Aviso) Capitaine de corvette Monick. 1st June 2300 Sailed from Cherbourg. 2nd June 1035 Anchored off Dover. Received orders to protect transports returning from Dunkirk. 1700 Sailed. Set course for N. Goodwin and route X as far as Dunkirk west channel. 3rd June 0010 Observed the first of the returning transports, and escorted her. 0150 Opened fire on a plane. 0250 Opened fire on a plane. 0430 Found a wooden M/S from Dunkirk with 100 French troops on board. This ship, damaged in collision, had lost her way, her crew being overwhelmed and unable to pull themselves together. The Amiens put a petty officer and three men on board, and they brought the vessel to Dover. 0900 Anchored off Dover. 2000 Sailed with the same orders as before. Fog very thick; compelled to return and anchor off the N. Goodwin. 4th June 0450 Sailed, to escort the transports from Dunkirk which had anchored in the vicinity of the Amiens. 1850 Ordered to proceed under orders of the dr. Epervier, and in company with the sl. Amiral Mouchez, to find and take in tow the French motor boat V.T.B.26. 2100 Under orders of the Epervier. Arranged to sail in search of the V.T.B. at about dawn [0400]. During the night, was informed that V.T.B.26 had arrived at Clacton. 5th June 0600 Sent the Mouchet to Ramsgate, and proceeded to Margate. Nil Authority - French Admiralty record, Folio No.22. 47
ANDORA(1) M/B R.N. A1r Station, Ford. L/Sea. H. Cook, Coxswain. S/Lt. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. 29th May 1930ca Littlehampton to Newhaven. June 2130ca Arrived Newhaven. 30th May 0600 Left Newhaven. 1630 Arrived Ramsgate. 31st May 1200 Left for Dunkirk, S/Lt. E.T. Garside R.N.V.R. (2) in command. Whaler in tow, 1630 Arrived Dunkirk. Sent whaler inshore for troops. Air attack. Embarked 23 French from whaler. 1805 Slipped the whaler to another boat and proceeded. - About 12 miles out - air attack. 2130ca Engine broke down. - Engine repaired. 1st June 0300 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 23 troops. (3) Engine required repairing, and the port screw was damaged. Total 23 Authority - R.O.II, p.213. R.O.III, p.485. (1) Referred to in Sheerness report as "Andora II", but called the Andora by the C.O. of R.N. Air Station, Ford. This is no evidence to show that there was both an Andora II and an Andora - as stated in D.R. (2) s/Lt. Garside had already been over to Dunkirk in the M/B in Elizabeth Green. He returned to her after his trip the Andora. (3) Not mentioned in D.R. Ramsgate report states "20 Allied" troops at 0045. 50
ATLANTIC Skoot Lt. Cdr. L.E. Fordham, R.N.R. 25th May 1300 At Poole, a Naval crew took over the ship from the Dutch crew. The Dutch Captain remained on board. 1430 Sailed from Poole. 2200 Arrived Portsmouth. 26th May 1030 The Dutch captain disembarked. 27th May 1940 Proceeded to Newhaven. 28th May 0730 Entered Newhaven harbour. 1120 Sailed for Dover. 2045 Anchored outside Dover. 29th May 0900 Proceeded by Y route for La Panne beach. 1200 Delayed off N. Goodwin L.V. 1530 Proceeded on original course. 30th May 0300 Arrived off La Panne beach. Ship aground at low water. Embarked troops in the ship's two lifeboats. 0930 About 300 troops on board, mostly French. 1000 Proceeded to Ramsgate by Y route. 1730 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 240 troops. (1) 2300 Sailed for Dunkirk by X route. 31st May 0530 Anchored 1 mile east of Dunkirk [i.e. off Malo beach] strong tide and cross wind; embarked about 50 troops slowly. Tide falling. Engines having failed to start, the Atlantic was assisted to deeper water by the Sk. Ruja. In the meantime a motor lifeboat came alongside and took the Atlantic's boats. Waited all day in vain, for troops to be sent. 2100ca Obtained the use of a motor boat [ the Lansdowne] and whaler and recommenced embarking troops. 2400 The Lansdowne's propeller fouled. 1st June 0300 Unable to clear the Lansdowne's propeller. 0400 Proceeded with about 100 troops on board, and the Lansdowne in tow. 0425 Rescued the crew and passengers of a drifter the Fair Breeze] which had struck a sunken wreck. While doing this, a ketch nearby was struck by a bomb and completely disappeared. 0445 Proceeded down Dunkirk channel. The Lansdowne broke adrift, and was abandoned because of the presence of enemy bombers. (1) Ramsgate report. Not mentioned in D.R. 75
BASILISK (H.11) Cdr. 11. Richmond, O. B.E. R.N. 31st May Disembarked 420 338 357 } troops 1st June 0815 Off La Panne. Dive bomb attack by 9 A/C. About 45 bombs dropped. All engine room and boiler room personnel killed. Bulkhead to No. 3 boiler room blown away; main and auxiliary steam lines and main oil fuel supply pierced; after magazine and shell room flooded; upper deck and sides of the ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the main- mast. Ship rendered immobile. Torpedoes and depth charges were jettisoned. [A tug (1) which had been attending on dr. Keith signalled Basilisk to sink Keith, and then proceeded. i? French] 0930ca The Belgian F.V. La Jolie Mascotte or DEED, was summoned to assist, and a tow was passed. 0945ca Level bombing attack by about 9 A/C. No hits. A second attempt made to tow the Basilisk clear. 1200ca Attacked by a squadron of dive bombers. Basilisk smothered by hits and near misses, began to settle. Ship abandoned. La Jolie Mascotte picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings. dr. Whitehall picked up 2 officers and 52 ratings. Other survivors got away in the motor boat and a whaler. 1213 The Basilisk sank in approx. position 060°, 2.4 miles from 6 E occulting buoy, with her upper deck awash. hitehall fired guns and torpedoes at her and the ship was left on fire forward. Total 1115 Authority - D.R. N.017681/40. (1) Probably the Vincia. 86
BASILISK (continued) The following awards were made: D.S.C. 2130 Lt. Cdr. W.G. Boaks, R.N. 30th May D.S.H. A.B. H.A. Alderson. A.B. R. Mumford. of a French from the Mention in Despatches (Posthumous) Gnr. E.G. Francis, R.N. (Retd). to 2 wounded.(1) Mention in Despatches. Emberited stores and proceeded for Cdr. M. Richmond, O.B.E., R.N.Rirk. Act. L/Sea. H. Rawstron. miles from Dunkirk, observed the 0.8. T.M.II. Hancock, R.H.V.R.sch being bombed. Continued on to east of Dunkirk. Alb attack. troops. A small boat loaded troops seen to receive B direct hit. with 100 troops on Discmbarked 100 Total 116 87
BAT M/V (Pickford's Ita.) J.T. T. Butchers, Captain. G.J. Underdown, Engineer F. Butchers, Mate. F. Botten, 4th Hand. 29th May 2130 Arrived Portsmouth from Cowes. 2345ca Left Portsmouth. 30th May 2200ca Arrived at a S.E. coast port [?Ramsgate]. - Sailed for Dunkirk. 31st May 0500ca Located the wreckage of a French destroyer [Bourrasque], bottom upwards. Transferred from the wreck 15 naked and oil covered survivors. 0700ca Proceeded to Ramsgate. 1400 Ramsgate. Disembarked 14 and 2 wounded. (1) - Embarked stores and proceeded for Dunkirk. - 4 miles from Dunkirk, observed the beach being bombed. - Continued on to east of Dunkirk. Air attack. - Embarked troops. A small boat loaded with troops seen to receive a direct hit. 1st June 0015ca Proceeded with about 100 troops on board. 0930ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100 troops. Total 116 Authority - Pickfords Ltd. (1) Ramsgate report. Not mentioned in D.R. 88
BEE M/V (Pickford's Ltd) W.C. Trowbridge, Captain. F. Reynard, Engineer. H. Downer, Mate. M.I. Hocking, 4th Hand. 29th May 2030 Left Portsmouth with a Naval Lieutenant on board. Speed 61/2 knots. 30th May 1530ca Arrived [?Ramsgate]. at a south-east coast port 1930 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2400 Arrived 3 miles from shore of Dunkirk and anchored. 31st May 0300 Weighed and made for the shore. 0330ca Air attack. - Ran the Bee ashore in about 4½ ft. of water. Embarked 360 British troops. Refloated and transferred the troops to a tug. - Anchored. Embarked 10 men from a naval pinnace, which capsized owing to heavy seas, on her return journey to the beach. Embarked 5 French troops from a boat and 1 British sailor from the capsized pinnace. 1100 Proceeded. 1800 Ramsgate. Disembarked 15 troops. (1) Total 15 Authority - Pickford's Ltd. (1) Ramsgate report states "2 British, 5 Allied" at 1655. Not mentioned in D.R. 91
BEN & LUCY M/S drifter Capt. W.A. Watling, R.N.R., (Portsmouth) Skipper Actg. Lt. F.G.M. Iles, R.N.V.R. Unit Officer 29th May 2400 Left Portsmouth the dfr. Dorienta in company. 30th May 1645 Arrived off Ramsgate. 31st May 1350 Proceeded to Dunkirk, with 4 pulling boats in tow. The Dorienta was in company also towing small craft. 2000 Off Dunkirk channel. Air attack. The dfrs. Lord Hood and Fair Breeze(1) 2100 Off Dunkirk beach. Sent the boats inshore. Dorienta was instructed to return as soon as she was loaded. One of Ben & Lucy's 4 boats destroyed by a shell. - Embarked troops. The dfr. Feasible's engines having been disabled by a shell, took her in tow. Proceeded westward in search of troops. - Off harbour entrance, embarked 3 boat- loads of troops and put the boats in tow, astern of Feasible. Proceed homewards. Embarked a rating from a water-logged whaler. 1st June 0100ca Took a fishing smack (the Letitia), short of fuel, in tow. 0230ca Aircraft heard overhead. 0330ca Heavy explosion on port quarter of Feasible. (Subsequently informed by Letitia that another smack, the Rowan" [i.e. the Renown which had attached herself to the tow had been sunk). 0700 Gave course for N. Goodwins to Vernon Pinnace V.4, which proceeded ahead. 0745 Making water at about 1 ft. per hour. Sighted N. Goodwins. 3 miles from Ramsgate Letitia slipped and made off. 1 mile from Ramsgate, Ben and Lucy fouled her propeller. A launch came off and 100 troops were transferred. (2) Ben & Lucy and Feasible anchored. 3rd June 1000 Both vessels towed in by the dfr. Renascent. Total 100 Authority - R.O.II, p.339. (1) A bomb fell 50 yards from Fairbreeze, but did not explode (s/Lt. Gabbett-Hulhallen R.N.) (2) D.R. dates this 2nd June. 94
BIDEFORD(1) 1st 3loop Division Lt.Cdr. J.H. Lewes, R.N. 29th May 1200 Sailed from Dover for Braye-Dunes buoy. via the Downs and South Ruytingen 1645 Entered Dunkirk roads. 1700 Fired at a squadron of bombers. One shot down. [During the next 3 hours fire was opened at frequent intervals on aircraft, but no further hits were observed.] 1710 Attacked by a squadron of bombers. 4 bombs fell in a line on the port side, 50 yards away. One casualty. Machine gunned by a low flying aircraft. No casualties. 1730 Arrived Braye - Dunes and hove-to. [The ship remained hove-to for the next 3 hours. 1750 The first boat loads of troops (mostly French troops) came alongside. "Confusion was evident. The boats were dangerously overcrowded and several swamped on the way off from the shore. On arrival alongside the men would all Jump on board and let their boats drift off on the tide. Paddles were lost overboard rendering the boats useless. Bideford's. M/B was lowered and ordered to collect and tow inshore any empty boats. The whaler was lowered and two officers and a signalman were sent in to endeavour to take charge on the beach ..... this was next to impos- sible. The men rushed the boats and capsized them in shallow water, and then left the boat without making any attempt to right it and use it again. There were only 2 motor landing craft in the vicinity [A.L.C's 16 and 17 (q.v.)] one A.L.C. 17] had one engine out of action; the other was blown up subsequently when lying alongside the ship." 1915ca Dive bombing attack. 4 bombs fell 80 yards on port quarter. 2000ca Machine gunned by a low flying A/C. Several casualties. 2007 Dive bomb attack - 4 bombs dropped; one landed 30 yards from the ship; one hit the quarter deck and one either hit or closely missed the stern, detonating a depth charge. Severe damage; about 40 ft. of the stern blown away completely; a further 40 ft. reduced to a tangled mass of metal; the mainmast fell 0.5" m.g. platforms, wrecking both; in 3 pieces on the searchlight and severely shaken, a bulkhead dished the bridge superstructure was and several frames cracked. The (1) Administered by Captain (D) Plymouth. 101
BOAT (16 ft.) Owner, W. Robertson. Bonhum, Hells 29th way Did not return from Operation Dynamo. 0815 Lott Dover In compuny with 5 other bosts, (see Viewfinder). Later 1730ca joined by A/A Rediu Arrived Le Panner Towed boats from Authority - TO.9144. bench to shipp. Received home damage TO.9436. while alongoide 13 dectroyer which Buddenly went TUII shead. 2400ca Lngines giving trouble; foal screw and rudder. - linde fast to the 11/8 Albory, which 30th May Belle later proceeded to Margote. [The Doheli was apparently left behind] [s/Lt. Bonham transferred to the BK. Horst on 31st] 2nd June - Bobeli, stranded on the beach at Donkirk, was sighted by the Ц/В Advance. the did not return to Englund. N11 Authority - R.O.II, D**392, 393. R.O.III, p.320. TO.9436. 110
BOUCLIER French Torpedo boat Capitaine de frégate de Division of Torpedo boats. Fourniere, Commanding the la 14th [The following by the T/B's account is compiled from the made Bourrasque, Branlebas and reports Cyclone] 30th May 1045 Sailed from the Downs for Dunkirk, the. T/B Branlebas in company; the T/B 1345 Came under fire from shore guns when Bourrasque also joined company. Banks. between Middel Kerke and Nieuport 1440ca Embarked troops from Dunkirk harbour. - Disembarked 767 troops( 1) (presumably at Dover). 31st May 0522 The Bouclier joined company with the torpedoed T/B Cyclone, and escorted her towards Dover, until relieved by 0845 the M/S Arras. 1st June 1455ca In the Downs, the Branlebas joined company and the 2 ships proceeded to Dunkirk, being joined later by the T/B Flore. 1800 Embarked troops at Dunkirk and proceeded. 1825 Sailed for Folkestone, the Branlebas in company. 2140ca Disembarked 300 troops(1) (presumably at Folkestone) 2nd June p.m. Sailed for Dunkirk, where troops were embarked. 3rd June - Disembarked 340 troops (1) (?at Folkestone) - Sailed for Dunkirk. 4th June - Embarked troops at Dunkirk. 0100ca Proceeded. Disembarked 318 troops (1) at Folkestone. - 1800 Sailed for Cherbourg, the Branlebas in company. Total 1725 Authority - French Admiralty record Folios 3, 4, 16, 17 and 31. See also next page (1) D.R. 116
BOUCLIER French Torpedo boat Capitaine de frégate de la Division Fourniere, Commanding the 14th of Torpedo boats. [The following by the T/B's account is compiled from the made Bourrasque, Branlebas and reports Cyclone] 30th May 1045 Sailed from the Downs for Dunkirk, the. T/B Branlebas in company; the T/B 1345 Came under fire from shore guns when Bourrasque also joined company. Banks. between Middel Kerke and Nieuport 1440ca Embarked troops from Dunkirk harbour. - Disembarked 767 troops 1) (presumably at Dover). 31st May 0522 The Bouclier joined company with the torpedoed T/B Cyclone, and escorted her towards Dover, until relieved by 0845 the M/S Arras. 1st June 1455ca In the Downs, the Branlebas joined company and the 2 ships proceeded to Dunkirk, being joined later by the T/B Flore. 1800 Embarked troops at Dunkirk and proceeded. 1825 Sailed for Folkestone, the Branlebas in company. 2140ca Disembarked 300 troops (1) (presumably at Folkestone) 2nd June p.m. Sailed for Dunkirk, where troops were embarked. 3rd June - Disembarked 340 troops (1) (?at Folkestone) - Sailed for Dunkirk. ed troops at Dunkirk. by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept. ed. rked 318 troops (1) at Folkestone. for Cherbourg, the Branlebas the figure of 767 t200ps mpany. Total 1725 disembarked & the 30th of May looks very doubtfull )rd Folios 3, 4, 16, 17 and 31. Bauche's was a small see also previous page torpedo. boat (600 t.) and the average for there ships was between 300 and 400. A ship of the Jame clar, Brancebas wasquite overcrowded with 520 after having resurd 100 Troops from 116A
French
GURRASQUE
destroyer
Capitaine Commanding de frégate R. Fouque,
Division. 4th Torpedo boat
0600
May
0930
Anchored in the Downs in fog.
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1040ca
The T/B's Bouclier and Branlebas
route and proceeded between the
joined company. Took the northern
minefields Hinder. as far as the West
1345ca
Between the Middel Kerke and Nieuport
buoys, engaged by shore batteries
(4 or 6 inch) firing from La Panne or
Nieuport. It was not possible to
reply, as the gun flashes were
invisible in the mist.
Near Nieuport buoy, the Bourrasque
was closely straddled. Smaller
calibre guns were also firing, but
very short.
-
Numbers of troops in disorder seen on
the beach, marching towards Dunkirk.
English destroyers very close in,
have their boats in the water.
Passed close to several wrecks.
1435ca
Arrived off Malo beach. A pinnace
brought orders to the 3 destroyers
individually. The Bourrasque received
the order to go alongside the Quai
Felix Faure, astern of the T/B
Flore (in fact, the Branlebas), and
was informed that there were no tugs.
-
The Bourrasque berthed accordingly.
Numerous wrecks everywhere. Crowds
of soldiers, sailors and civilians
on the quay; behind, numerous
stretchers with wounded, mainly
English, and smashed ambulance cars;
the whole quay was laid waste.
The restricted by the French embarkation it
number to be embarked was
officers 1) to about 600. But was
difficult to control the rush even
a show of grenades and machine the
with Having sheered off from alongside
guns. the Bourrasque went
Sailed. again Air attack; no damage. proceeded Left
quay, to embark a few more.
1530ca
at the off An full attempt harbour speed, swiftly make met revolutions the an and approximate T/B had for 28
Foudroyant,
count given in There passengers; the of up, was gangways a of great officers artillerymen, and diversity without Moroccan among sailors troops, the
a troops, from <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< r officers, .....
THE even one ("I did not notice her
(1) Le Capitaine de frégate Sticca and L'Enseigne de vaisseau
Montaut.
119
BRANLEBAS French Torpedo boat ( (11th Torpedo boat Capitaine de corvette Division) de Cacqueray. 2330 29th May Sailed from Cherbourg. 0820 30th May Anchored in the Downs by order of the T/B Bouclier. 1045 Sailed for Dunkirk by the northern route, the T/B's Bouclier and 1345 Bourrasque in company. Between Middel Kerke and Nieuport Banks the flotilla came under the fire of shore batteries. 1440 Went alongside the Qua1 Felix Faure. Embarked about 300 troops. Air attack; bombs fell wide. 1525 Proceeded via the eastern channel. Rejoined the Bourrasque and formed line ahead 4 cables astern of her. After passing Nieuport buoy, the Bourrasque took the left of the channel [through the French minefield] to avoid shore bombardment. 1625 Heavy explosion took place in the Bourrasque which disappeared from view in a column of smoke and water, about 44 miles north of the Nieuport buoy. When the column subsided, the Bourrasque appeared to have broken in two and was sinking rapidly. It was thought that she had struck a mine. The Branlebas stopped and lowered boats. Ships on the horizon were signalled to assist. A small English minesweeping craft [the drfr. Ut Prosim] and a Dutch [?English] motor boat joined in the rescue operations. 1635ca The Bourrasque sank. Her captain stood on her bridge saluting his ship. (About 1/08 hour after she sank there a heavy explosion in the wreck). 100 1835 The was Branlebas had picked up over survivors; [the Ut Prosim picked up about 65 of the crew and 200 Bresengers had drifted on to During this time, the the There were no more survivors in the the French minefield. 1836 water, Bourrasque's bow, which had left come to to be but some were seen on collected Branlebas, the surface. by out already small These of the craft, overloaded, were minefield. and Kerke the 1852. Regained proceeded the Nieuport - Middel Dover. channel, en route for Air Secured to a buoy at Dover. attacks; no damage. 2015 2232 520 31st May 0130 Anchored off to wait for the 0910 P/V Rouen. (1) D.R. 125
BRANLEBAS French Torpedo boat (11th Torpedo boat Capitaine de corvette Division) de Cacqueray. 29th May 2330 Sailed from Cherbourg. 30th May 0820 Anchored in the Downs by order of the T/B Bouclier. 1045 Sailed for Dunkirk by the northern route, the T/B's Bouclier and Bourrasque in company. 1345 Between Middel Kerke and Nieuport Banks the flotilla came under the fire of shore batteries. 1440 Went alongside the Quai Felix Faure. Embarked about 300 troops. Air attack; bombs fell wide. 1525 Proceeded via the eastern channel. Rejoined the Bourrasque and formed line ahead 4 cables astern of her. After passing Nieuport buoy, the Bourrasque took the left of the channel [through the French minefield] to avoid shore bombardment. 1625 Heavy explosion took place in the Bourrasque which disappeared from view in a column of smoke and water, about 44 miles north of the Nieuport buoy. When the column subsided, the Bourrasque appeared to have broken in two and was sinking rapidly. It was thought that she had struck a mine. The Branlebas stopped and lowered boats. Ships on the horizon were signalled to assist. A small English minesweeping craft [the drfr. Ut Prosim] and a Dutch [?English] motor boat joined in the rescue operations. 1635ca The Bourrasque sank. Her captain stood on her bridge saluting his ship. was a heavy explosion in the wreck). (About 1/08 hour after she sank there 1835 The Branlebas had picked up over 100 survivors; [the Ut Prosim picked up about 65 of the crew and 200 passengers]. During this time, the Branlebas had drifted on to the French minefield. 1836 There were no more survivors in the water, but some were seen on the Bourrasque's bow, which had come to the surface. These were left to be collected by small craft, and the Branlebas, already overloaded, 1852. Regained the Nieuport - Middel Kerke proceeded out of the minefield. channel, en route for Dover. 2015 Air attacks; no damage. 2232 Secured to a buoy at Dover. 31st May 0130 Went alongside and disembarked 520 troops and survivors. (1) Anchored off Folkestone to wait for the 0910 P/V Rouen. (1) D.R. 125
BRANLEBAS - continued. 1500 31st (contd. May Returned condenser. to Dover for repairs to the 0950 1st June Sailed for Dunkirk via route Y. 1218 After passing the Ruytingen buoy saw in 51° 06' 40" N., 2° 11' E. a mail boat on fire and capsizing [it was the P/V Scotial near another similar ship which had sunk and whose super- structure only was above water. Near the wreck was an English destroyer [the Esk] picking up sur- vivors; the Branlebas also went to the rescue. 1359 The Branlebas had picked up about 60, in the course of which a Ju.87 attacked without result. 1400 Set course for the Downs. 1430 Seeing an English merchantman making for the Downs, the Branlebas went alongside and transferred the 60 survivors to her. 1455 Joined company with the Bouclier, and later the T/B Flore and set course for Dunkirk. 1800 Went alongside Dunkirk west pier. Embarked about 300 troops, during an air attack. 1825 Proceeded. In the channel joined company with the Bouclier. 1840 Air attack by 3 bombers. 2140 Arrived Folkestone. Disembarked 300 troops. (1) 2nd June 0920 Returned to Dover. 2135 Sailed, the T/B Incomprise in company. 3rd June 0125 Off Dunkirk harbour, a small English "cruiser" hailed not to enter the 0200ca Asked port. a small ship if one could now enter the harbour; she advised going alongside the east pier. No troops could be seen. At the moment of going alongside, an English destroyer coming out, obliged the Branlebas to withdraw. There were no troops on board the English The destroyer. Branlebas reported to the Incomprise that there were no troops for embarkation. Both T/B's then Left Dover for Dunkirk, the Incomprise set course for Dover. 2008 Vibration developed in the port in company. propeller; continued course on one 2350 The engine. Branlebas and Incomprise entered 2400 Went alongside and embarked 300 troops. Dunkirk outer harbour. (1) Not mentioned in D.R.
BRIGHTON BELLE P.M/S (10th M.S.F.) Lieut. K.Perrin, R.N.V.R. 2100ca 27th May Sailed from the Downs in company with the P.M/S's Sandown, Medway Queen and Gracie Fields. 2300ca Arrived Dunkirk. off the beach 3 miles east of Embarked troops, with the assistance of an ex-Belgian canal boat and a small pulling boat. 28th May 0320 The dr. Vimy arrived and sent her boats to assist in filling up the Brighton Belle. 0445 The Vimy proceeded to Dunkirk but left her boats with the Brighton Belle. 0715ca The Brighton Belle sailed for Ramsgate with about 350 B.E.F. on board. (1) 1230 While in company with the Sandown and during an air attack, the Brighton Belle struck a submerged object 3 cables 183° from the Gull Light Buoy. The troops were transferred to the Sandown, the Medway Queen and the ex-Belgian canal boat Yser. The Brighton Bellewas then taken 1300 in tow by an Examination tug, but her efforts were unavailing, and the ship sank. N11 Authority - R.O.I, pp.156, 304, 364. R.O.II, pp.136, 252. M.017681/40, Ships Lost during op. Dynamo. (1) D.R. states that the Brighton Belle disembarked 304 troops Incidentally, the sk. Tiny the Brighton Belle. This appears she on 28th May; this is evidently states an that error. she was towed from was unlikely. The Southampton Tiny on 27th May, and after to be 3 hours by gives no dates, except that one commissioned trip, paid off at in the Surrey Docks at 1800, 5th 12 June. While at La Panne, the Tiny was beached for over hours to unload ammunition.
BRIGHTON BELLE P.M/S (10th M.S.F.) Lieut. L.K.Perrin, R.N.V.R. 2100ca 27th May Sailed from the Downs in company with the P.M/S's Sandown, Medway Queen and Gracie Fields. 2300ca Arrived Dunkirk. off the beach 3 miles east of Embarked troops, with the assistance of an ex-Belgian canal boat and a small pulling boat. 28th May 0320 The dr. Vimy arrived and sent her boats to assist in filling up the Brighton Belle. 0445 The Vimy proceeded to Dunkirk but left her boats with the Brighton Belle. 0715ca The Brighton Belle sailed for Ramsgate with about 350 B.E.F. on board. (1) 1230 While in company with the Sandown and during an air attack, the Brighton Belle struck a submerged object 3 cables 183° from the Gull Light Buoy. The troops were transferred to the Sandown, the Medway Queen and the ex-Belgian canal boat Yser. The Brighton Bellewas then taken 1300 in tow by an Examination tug, but her efforts were unavailing, and the ship sank. N11 Authority - R.O.I, pp.156, 304, 364. R.O.II, pp. 136, 252. M.017681/40, Ships Lost during op. Dynamo. (1) D.R. states that the Brighton Belle disembarked 304 troops on this is Tiny evidently states an that error. she was towed from the sk. the Brighton Belle. This appears was commissioned at Southampton on 27th May, and after to be unlikely. 3 hours The Tiny by gives no dates, except that she one trip, paid off in the Surrey Docks at 1800, 5th June. While at La Panne, the Tiny was beached for over 12 hours to unload ammunition. 128
BURTON Sailing barge DA. Recess See under Sun III 4d 1615 Left immage with 4 drifters of the lot M/R flotilla, 7181 the Pidget, Fisher DOZ. Jooketa and 2300 Entered DURKIPE harbour. MITER Armitage R.N.V.E. who WAS temporarily in command of the 1st M/R.P.(1) case on board. 25300a Recd. signal that the A.B/V King Oret use in danger of foundering. Her 0.0., however, stated that he did not propose to abandon her. 12th seall 003068 The Bystander went alongside the pier and embarked, in all, 74 troops, about 30 of whom were French. lisan- while the King Orty had left her berth and yes leaving the harbour. 0130 The Bystander was a cable esters of the King Orry when she foundered. The Bystander lovered her boat and menned it with seaman-took Ja Biton and seamen Iso Boott. Largely due to the former's efforts, 25 officers and mon were resoued. The Bystander sailed. 0830 Arrived Ramagate, Disembarked 74 troops(2) STX ressued GROUP 1715 Chiled for Dunkirk in company with the 2830 Engine broke down. The Bratanier lat M/R.F. returned to Ramagate. Total 74 Minustry - R.O.II, P.158. R.O.III D.332. the Pattering number were meder CASE J.E.H. Bison. (1) (2) 14, D.B. Cdr. - but A.J. not commanded repart. the let M/R.P. 136
EYSTANDER E/S Yacht (1st M/R flotilla) s/Lt. H.J.B. Barge, R.N.V.R. 29th May 1615 Left Ramsgate with 4 drifters of the lst M/R flotilla, viz: the Fidget, 2300 Fisher Boy, Jacketa and Silver Dawn. Entered Dunkirk harbour. Lt. L? N.R. Armitage R.N.V.R. who was temporarily in command of the lst M/R.F. (1) came on board. 2330ca Recd. signal that the A.B/V King Orry was in danger of foundering. Her C.O., however, stated that he did not propose to abandon her. 30th May 0030ca The Bystander went alongside the pier and embarked, in all, 74 troops, about 30 of whom were French. Mean- while the King Orry had left her berth and was leaving the harbour. 0130 The Bystander was a cable astern of the King Orry when she foundered. The Bystander lowered her boat and manned it with seaman-cook J. Elton and seaman L. Scott. Largely due to the former's efforts, 25 officers and men were rescued. The Bystander sailed. 0830 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 74 troops and 25 of rescued crew. 1715 Sailed for Dunkirk in company with the 1st M/R.F. 1840 Engine broke down. The Bystander returned to Ramsgate. Total 74 Authority - R.O.II, p.158. R.O.III p.332. The following awards were made: C.G.M. Seaman Cook J.H.H. Elton. (1) Cubison, D.S.C., R.N. commanded report. the 1st M/R.F. (2) Lt. D.R. Cdr. - but A.J. not mentioned in Ramsgate
THE 0.3. Harbour 0650 launch LOST (Portsmouth) Anmagate A/B E. Knights, Durin. Coxn. Harbour duties at Remsgate. Took no part in the Dunkirk evacuation. in on destroyer boat to the (vanhoel which was being towed by a tog. [The Peraial. 1110 Ordered to tow a second destroyer(1) the Havent). On arrival found that Authority - R.O.II, p.409.. t'eir vas being taken off by B sloop the M/B Baltashl, which then preceeded to sink the destroyer by gunfire. Air attack. Witnessed sinking of the E/S Brighton Queen and the P/V Scotta. 1200 Proceeded to the resoue of survivors. Air attack. 1250 Ordered by dr. Bak to proceed with survivors, visi Captain and 1st Officer of Brighton Queens 8 French army commander and 27 others. Progress slow owing to troops in the 1230 Wounded water. airman embarked from tr. Carton Exke. 1650 Registre, bischarged survivors 4073 Brittsh, 22 1710 Allend proops. (2) Total 23 8 The Ramagate Master report. believed this 19 be the on Keith. 139
Tug (Portsmouth) C.9 J. Treleaven, Master. 1st June 0650 Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk. 1030 Air attack. 1050 "ordered by officer in motor boat to assist in towing damaged destroyer [the Ivanhoe] which was being towed by a tug. [The Persia]. 1110 Ordered to tow a second destroyer(1) [ the Havant]. On arrival found that crew was being taken off by a sloop [ the M/S Saltash], which then proceeded to sink the destroyer by gunfire. Air attack. Witnessed sinking of the M/S Brighton Queen and the P/V Scotia. 1200 Proceeded to the rescue of survivors. Air attack. 1250 Ordered by dr. Esk to proceed with survivors, viz: Captain and 1st Officer of Brighton Queen; a French army commander and 27 others. Progress slow owing to troops in the 1230 Wounded water. airman embarked from tr. Cayton Wyke. 1650 Discharged Ramsgate. survivors - J. British, 22 1710 Allied troops. (2) Total 23 (1) (2) The Ramsgate Master report. believed this to bead the in dr. D. R. Keith. 140
CAPE ARGONA - Continued. 1st June 1315 (contd.) (contd.) Took off the crew and casualties (1 killed, 5 wounded) of the M/S Saltash which also took the M.T.B. and transferred them to the 2100 M.T.B. in tow. (1) The Cape Argona took charge of a group consisting of the Sphene and the tr. Lord Melchett and patrolled between 8 buoy and West Hinder. 2nd June 0711 Picked up 12 refugees from a small boat which was abandoned. 0740 Guided by a Hudson aircraft (P.O. Elworthy), picked up refugees from a small open boat. Took the boat in tow and continued patrol. 0955 Attacked by dive bombers. 15 bombs dropped in 3 attacks. Considerable damage. Proceeded to Harwich escorted by Sphene. 1900 Arrived off Harwich. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.401. (1) The however Saltash shown says in she the was Red M.T.B.175- List at this The period, M.T.B.175 nor is not until July 1940. 161
| May | 2000 | life boat Prudential proceeded to Dunkirk the Carama. eight boats in town one of which "with was On arrival |
| 2230 | was lost. The remaining 7 boats, described as wherries were also lost. | |
| 29th May | 2330ca 0400 | [The Prudential with the remaining small boats' crews returned to Ramsgate on 1st June]. Proceeded. |
CECIL & LILIAN PHILPOTT R.N.L.I. (Newhaven) A/B W.J. Morris, Cozn. life boat [Report by A.B. Morris, Sto. Sproy and Ord/Sea. Whyte]. 31st May 0500 Left Dover for Dunkirk. - Arrived Dunkirk beach. Ran aground for 2½ hours. Rescued 2 British and 3 French (washed out of a boat in tow). p.m. Small boats seen leaving in tow. Cerons (dark) Ferried a load of troops from a grounded barge to a trawler. Proceeded. 1st June 0400ca Starboard engine broke down. Taken in tow and returned to Dover. 2nd June 1600 Left Dover with the M.L/B Thomas Kirk Wright in tow of the tug Foremost 87. 2115ca Slipped the tow. 2230ca Went alongside Dunkirk jetty. Made 6 Pan ferrying trips to a troopship. On 6th trip, told to take up tow astern cherooung with troops on board. "Saved about 600/800 troops all told" 3rd June - Arrived Dover. Disembarked 51 troops. (1) Total 51 Authority - R.O.II, p.251. The following awards were made to the crew of the Newhaven of the Newhaven R.N.L.I. lifeboat: (2) D.S.M. A.B. W.J. Morris. Mention in Despatches Sto. 1st C1. W. Spray. 0/8 T.E. Whyte, R.N.V.R. (1) D.R. 168
CERONS French wetkins escort vessel Ltd.) See La Nantaise Left Dover, sailing Revelty in tow, and the Earais Lowing two seiling 183rk in company. 0720 mile enot of Dunkirk pier, Revelty being towed at full speed, alipped tow, and beached herself head on, on b Malo beach. Air attack. Nine bombo fell in a line Cerons P 2 10ng the starboard eide of dr. Keith, which was outside Cervie. Cervia got under way to avoid the accxiciary Patrol Boat up crew and boat of Royalty and twisting destroyer. and also of 8/8 Duchess. Entrigue 08000a de vaineau EVE una were going all the Keith began to ist, and was again time 80 she steemed round and round, She then stopped and let go her nchor. AS the crew began to abandon 400 troops Panded began machine to pick gunned up them. in cheroourg survivore, and the tug St. Abbe got Keith's bow. A 0100p(1) also went to her assistance. Cervia turned round and picked up soldiers from B. M/B. At this time, the dr. Ivenhoe, to the Note by Cdr. 0815cm Cras of French Historical seen to be disabled, and B. "small tanker" [the N/S Dept. Skipjaok] astern of Vincia, went ap in flames, Cervia then took the sailing burge Tellesbury, which had 200 hatches, in tow. The Orient was edded to the tom, and Cervin went of the pierhead, Typethoo and proceeded down Jhon to be in tow of the VALID and Vincia, with of passed the Cervis. No.5 11. buoy, about 20 appeared. Ivenhoe a DOODS sear B however, 100 the the In 169
CERVIA Tug (william Watkins Ltd.) W.H. Simmons, Master. 31st May 2145 Left in Dover, sailing barge Royalty two tow, and the tug Persia towing in company. sailing barges Sark and Shetland] 1st June 0720 1 mile east of Dunkirk pier, Royalty being towed at full speed, slipped the tow, and beached herself head on, on Malo beach. Air attack. Nine bombs fell in a line along the starboard side of dr. Keith, which was outside Cervia. Cervia got under way to avoid the turning and twisting destroyer. Picked up crew and boat of Royalty and also of S/B Duchess. 0800ca Keith began to list, and was again bombed; her guns were going all the time as she steamed round and round. She then stopped and let go her anchor. As the crew began to abandon ship, the bombers machine gunned them. The tug Vincia began to pick up survivors, and the tug St. Abbs got alongside Keith's starboard bow. A sloop(1) also went to her assistance. Cervia turned round and picked up soldiers from a M/B. 0815ca At this time, the dr. Ivanhoe, to the westward, was seen to be disabled, and a "small tanker" [the M/S Skipjack] astern of Vincia, went up in flames. - Cervia then took the sailing barge Tollesbury, which had 200 troops under hatches, in tow. The M.L.B. Orient IV was added to the tow, and Cervia proceeded down Dunkirk roads. When west of the pierhead, Ivanhoe was seen to be in tow of the Persia and Vincia, with decks full of survivors, At No.5 W. buoy, about 20 planes passed the Cervia. 0900ca appeared. Ivanhoe put up a smoke screen, and 9 bombs fell near a cross-channel boat which, however, kept on Cervia's port bow, bomb going. 5 bombs fell about lifting 100 feet tug cut of the water. A the the between a sloop and towing exploded destroyer she was In disabled [M/8 the Downs Saltash Cervia towing to was dr. Ramsgate. met Havant] by the Java brought about 230 troops( and and ordered 2) all "In tug 1500ca Cervia Dunkirk, the Tollesbury and the crew out crews of of Duchess and Royalty, Orient IV." (1) The sk. Hilda and that the M/S this the up survivors. troops in (2) It 1s considered Tollesbury. 170
CHAMOIS( 1) M/V (Pickford's Ltd.) A.E. Brown, Captain. 1330ca L. Church, Engineer. 29th May Left Portsmouth with a Lieutenant a 5 naval ratings on board "and towing and tug". 30th May 1700 Arrived Ramagate. 31st May a.m. Ordered to Dunkirk. Obliged to come back twice owing to air raids, but got away on the 3rd attempt. - When 2 or 3 miles from Dunkirk saw 2 troop transports being heavily bombed. Went to the rescue - found the survivors were French and Belgian troops. Their clothes were on fire and the ammunition in their pouches was exploding as they were lifted out of the water. Several got caught up in our propeller and had to be released with boat hooks. Rescued about 120 and transferred them to a French trawler, which was on the way to Dunkirk. 1st June 0400ca Unable to reach Dunkirk as it was day- light and the beach was being heavily bombed and shelled. 2000 Arrived at a south-east coast port ?Ramsgate 2nd June "We had a day off". 3rd June "started off for Dunkirk". "Unable to reach the beach owing to the air raids and shells ..... no troops on the shore as it was daylight ..... BO returned to England without any troops." Nil Authority - Pickford's Ltd. (1) The Brown's report are one day accordingly. ahead of the dates correct in Captain dates. They have been amended 173
CHANTECLER Dutch eel-boat (13 tons) S/Lt. T.K. Edge- 1830 Partington, R.N. 28th May S/Lt. in Sheerness twice during the night. down 29th May p.m. The Vera was towed into Ramagate. S/Lt. Edge-Partington was then given 2200 Left Ramsgate with the M/B Golden Lily command of the Chantecler in company. (a Lieut-Cdr. in command) and the eel-boat Johanna. 2215ca Chantecler only doing 4 knots, parted company. The "compass which was situated over the engine ..... revolved slowly round and round". 30th May 0900ca Arrived off Dunkirk. Proceeded to the east beach. Troops waded out; about 30 of them hauled on board. 1030 Proceeded. 1800 S. Goodwin Light. 2200 Arrived Dover. Landed 30 British troops 31st May 1300 Returned to Ramsgate. - S/Lt. Edge-Partington returned to Sheerness in the M/B Liebestraum with S/Lt. Carew-Hunt, R.N. Total 30(2) [On 1st June, S/Lt. Edge-Partington took my M/Y "Alhena" [?Aljanor] to Ramsgate in a convoy of 12, arriving at 1900. On June 2nd he went as navigator of the W.D/M.L. Marlborough] Authority - R.O.III, p.302. (1) S/Lt. Edge-Partington states she was a 13 ton vessel. (2) Not mentioned in D.R. 174
CHARLES COOPER HENDERSON R.N.L.I. life Dungeness) boat ? 30th May 1900ca Arrived Dover. 31st May At Dunkirk. 1750 Outside Dunkirk harbour, was taken in tow by the P.M/S Queen of Thanet and towed to Margate. 1st June 0005 Arrived Margate. b Nil Authority - R.O.I, p. 347. 175 5
CHARLES DIBDIN R.N.L.I. ( Walmer) Life boat. 30th May 1900ca Arrived Dover. Went over to Dunkirk but no details are available. b 176
CLAUDE Water boat Weater 25th May yook no Left Sheerness, without a crew in tow of the tug Fairplay I. [Left of Dayse for Du Was sunk while at Dunkirk. 1040/25). Dunkirk about 0020/25 Bover and explosives. left Reached Dunkirk the evening D 191
COMFORT Danlayer (Dover M/S Command) Skipper, J.D.Mair, R.N.R. 28th May 1700 Left Dover for La Panne, the tr. Nautilus in company. 29th May 0030ca Near Kwinte Bank buoy, Comfort picked up 16 survivors of the d r. Wakeful, including her captain, Cdr. R.L. Fisher, R.N.oNautilus picked up 6 and proceeded on to Dunkirk. The M/S Gossamer arrived and picked up about 15. The Comfort returned to the wrecked destroyer to take off survivors clinging to the stern. The dr. Grafton and the M/S Lydd were close to the wreck; Comfort went alongside the Grafton to warn her of the danger of torpedoes. 0250ca At that moment the Grafton was torpedoed; the Comfort was lifted into the air and then momentarily swamped. Cdr. Fisher was washed overboard. The Comfort went off at full speed and came round in a wide circle, where upon, mistaking her for an enemy M.T.B., the Lydd and the Grafton opened a heavy fire. 0307 The Lydd then rammed the Comfort amidships, cutting her in half. Some of Comfort's crew attempted to leap aboard the Lydd, and the Lydd mistak- ing them for boarders, opened up with rifle fire. There were 5 survivors from the Comfort, 4 of whom were originally from the Wakeful. 0515 Cdr. Fisher who had been swimming about was picked up by a boat from t Norwegian S.S. Hird which was returning from Dunkirk carrying ab 3,000 troops. Authority - R.O.II, 498. M.017681/40. 199
COMMODORE 1) Open M/B s/Lt. Thompson, R.N.R. 31st May 0400ca Left two. Dover under tow, in two tows of - Slipped tow near Dunkirk beach. Ferried troops from beach to dr. Worcester. Took about 20 a trip. About 1 hour for the round trip. Boat machine-gunned, holed and abandoned. N11 Crew joined the Eastbourne Queen. Authority - - TO.9144/41. R.O.II, p.250. (1) Report by Sto. Beech of the Commodore. 201
CONIDAN Echo sounding Yacht(1) (Dover M/S Command Skipper R.G. Snelgrove 30th May - Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk, and embarked troops. - Returned to Dover. Disembarked 80 troops. 2nd June - Life-saving duties on route X. Total 80 Authority - R.O.II, p.497. (1) Fast Motor boat. 202
CONIDAN Echo sounding Yacht( 1) Dover M/S Command Skipper R.G. Snelgrove 30th May - Sailed embarked from Dover for Dunkirk, and - troops. Returned troops. to Dover. Disembarked 80 2nd June - Life-saving duties on route x. Total 80 Authority - R.O.II, p.497. (1) Fast Motor boat. 202
CONSTANT NYMPH M/C Dr. B.A. Smith, Owner/Skipper 30th May 1530 Left Ramsgate in tow of the Sk. Jutland, which also towed a cutter, 2130ca a whaler, and the eel-boat Johanna. Arrived some miles east of Dunkirk. Towed the cutter and whaler to the beach after the Jutland had anchored. Ferried several loads of French troops to the Jutland. - Shifted nearer to Dunkirk and ferried British troops. 31st May 0300ca The Jutland having filled with troops(1) proceeded. 0500ca The Constant Nymph, with the cutter and whaler, then attached herself to a "similar ship", a skoot(2) [i.e. the Twente] and commenced filling her with troops. 0800ca The skoot was full; (3) the cutter was aground under a stranded barge; the Constant Nymph's propeller was fouled and her petrol tank empty. Constant Nymph's crew were transferred to the skoot, and the M/B and whaler were turned over to a drifter. The skoot proceeded. 1730ca(4) The skoot arrived Margate and disembarked her troops. She then Constant Nymph was eventually found proceeded to Ramsgate. stranded at Broadstairs and was returned to her owner. [On 1st June, Dr. Smith was appointed to the M/C Count Dracula (q.v.)] Nil (2) Dr. Ramsgate report and the only (1) states 205 troops (but see Jutland). that R.N.V.R. 2 cannot Smith officers remember states Dr. on Smith board this why were he was is the rather was the a names Lieut. BO "Laudania", deaf sure of R.N.R. the and of 2 the states officers. and name a that S/Lt. he "Laudania". He did not ascertain that the so-called "Laudania" A.W. was in It 1B considered commanded by Lieut. R.N.V.R.), McMullon for the R.N.R., fact the (lst skoot Lieut. Twente, was s/Lt. Adderley all the The following following Twente requisite reason: is the only conditions; skoot them. which indeed satisfies s/Lt. no other R. N. V.R. skoot satisfies more than one of (b) (a) (c) Officers She She a M/B embarked disembarked and - "a a Lieut. troops cutter about about and R.N.R. 400 whaler" dawn troops and a 31st [or at wargute at at about at assisted Ramagate] by (a) [D.R. 1800 She after mentions left on the May. a troops a (3) Margate name which report evidently states that Twente disembarked 350 on arrival. (4) Margate report states 1845. 204
CONSTANT NYMPH M/C 30th May 1530 Dr. B.A. Smith, Owner/Skipper Left Ramsgate in tow of the Jutland, a which also towed Sk. 2130ca Arrived Towed some miles east of Johanna. whaler, and the eel-boat a cutter, beach after the Jutland had anchored. the the cutter and whaler Dunkirk. to Ferried several loads of French - troops to the Jutland. Shifted nearer to Dunkirk and ferried British troops. 31st May 0300ca The proceeded. Jutland having filled with troops(1) 0500ca The Constant Nymph, with the cutter and whaler, then attached herself to a "similar ship", a skoot(2) [i.e. the Twente] and commenced filling her with troops. 0800ca The skoot was full; (3) the cutter was aground under a stranded barge; the Constant Nymph's propeller was fouled and her petrol tank empty. Constant Nymph's crew were transferred to the skoot, and the M/B and whaler were turned over to a drifter. The skoot proceeded. 1730ca(4) The skoot arrived Margate and disembarked her troops. She then proceeded to Ramsgate. Constant Nymph was eventually found stranded at Broadstairs and was returned to her owner. [on 1st June, Dr. Smith was appointed to the M/C Count Dracula (q.v.)] Nil (1) Ramagate report states 205 troops (but see Jutland). (2) Dr. Smith states this was the"Laudania", and that the only 2 officers on board were a Lieut. R.N.R. and a S/Lt. R.N.V.R. Dr. Smith is rather deaf and states that he cannot remember why he was BO sure of the name "Laudania". He did not ascertain the names of the 2 officers. It 1B considered that the so-called "Laudania" was in fact the skoot Twente, commanded by Lieut. A.W. McMullon for the R.N.R., (lst Lieut. was s/Lt. Adderley R.N. V.R.), The following reason: only skoot which satisfies all the following Twente requisite is the conditions; indeed no other skoot satisfies than one of them. (b) (a) Officers more - a Lieut. R.N.R. about dawn and a 31st s/Lt. May, cutters"]. R.N.V.R. assisted by (c) (a) She She a 1800 M/B embarked disembarked on and 31st Margate "a May. cutter troops about [to and return 400 whaler" troops to her [or at base Margate "2 at Ramagate] at about [D.R. name She after mentions which left the evidently a the a (3) Margate report states that Twente disembarked 350 troops on arrival. (4) Margate report states 1845. 204
COTE D'ARGENT French mail boat, transferred to the orders of V.A. Dover. 29th May Disembarked 800 troops. 31st May Disembarked 400 troops. 1st June Disembarked 1,000 troops. 2nd June Disembarked 1,250 troops. 3rd June Disembarked 955 troops. 1900 Left Dover for Dunkirk. 4th June 0030 Left Dunkirk. - Disembarked 1,349 troops. Total 5754(1) Cote d 'Argeut Capitaine are long cours GRAILHON Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept. (1) D.R. 209
COTE D'AZUR French mail boat, transferred to the orders of V.A. Dover. The Cote D'Azur was sunk by bombs before her first trip, and took no part in Operation Dynamo. Cote d 'Azur - Capitaine are long Cours BERTOLOTTI Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept. 210
COUNT DRACULA M/C (Owner, K. Greiner) Mr. Greiner writes as follows: ?Master. without My motor cruiser was requisitioned at the time my knowledge, 80 that I was not able accompany that the boat. I understand, however, from to Master the Count Dracula made 4 trips to Dunkirk the and brought back to Ramsgate 75 B.E.F. men on each trip. (1) On the first trip after taking the men on board a Nazi bomb dropped about 25 yards away, lifted her clean out of the water, but she luckily found an even keel. On her last trip back to Ramsgate she developed clutch slipping, and was eventually towed into Ramsgate harbour. On her trip from Ramsgate to Richmond, she sustained considerable sustained". damage. Previous to that no damage was According to Dr. B.A. Smith, D.S.M., (a member of the Little Ship Club, and Owner Skipper of the M/C Constant Nymph, q.v.), however, it seems that the Count Dracula did not go to Dunkirk at all. Dr. Smith, having arrived at Ramsgate from Dunkirk (via Margate) says: "On Saturday, 1st June I ..... asked for another boat and before lunch-time had taken over one which had only been brought (2) into Ramsgate that morning This boat was an old German Admiral's barge from the last war ..... the steam engine had been taken out and a petrol engine substituted, a dummy funnel being fitted where the original funnel existed ..... it had no self starter and worked with a clutch, being in fact a lorry engine. The engine was a brute to start and the gear lever required a strong man to put it into any position, but the engine was started and run over for a few minutes by the man who stated that he had brought the ship round from the Thames, (3) and he assured me that it was good for 12 knots without undue pressing ..... cigarettes and other little comforts had been provided on the boat by the owner for the rescued troops. This boat could have taken 35 men I should think. ..... we cast off to go across the harbour and get yards petrol of leaving [the] moorings and refused had to fire Engineer so I had to boat konked out within a few ..... Within an hour we an Commander anchor ..... R.N.V.R., an Engineer Sub-Lieutenant, R.N., ..... two Petty Officers Artificers and one leading Artificer investigating the question of our engine trouble. mystery ..... to me that that boat was ever brought round her the magneto was simply dripping oil ..... it is to a Ramsgate from the Thames as the experts worked on until 2000 that night, by which time they had succeeded in getting the engine running again. We ..... On to take there was no increase in speed but started ..... her for a trial round the harbour ..... a most opening throttle noise from the clutch which was was obviously very slipping badly. the engine on sight as could very terrible The Engineer Commander ..... a amused, old Scammel he had lorry identified engine converted ..... nothing be (1) the Count Dracula in the Ramsgate in any There report 1s of no mention disembarkations, of nor is she mentioned (2) It other report. means towed or escorted; own power. or whether (3) This she 1s was not clear brought if in this by her she Master, had not under yet been her to Dunkirk. seems to imply that 211
CYB M/B (Owner, Chelsea Yacht and Boat Club) ? (6th Division) (D), (Note: The Did not return from Operation Dynamo. G.H.T. In order to conform to other French reports, they 020 here converted to B.S.T.) Authority - TO.9144. TO.9436. Assembled in the Downs, at hour's notice vers the French T/B's Gyolone and Sirooo, the dr. Nugrvier, and the minesweeping Bloops [avisos] Bondouss, Impetueuse, Arres and Belfort, (The T/B Vistral had sailed from the Downs at 0800 to refuel at Dover). 1015 The Gyolone, Sirooo and Supplier sailed for Dunkirk, and the The W00 ordered to rejoin Cyclose. 1050 The Mistral joined company with the Gyclone and the Epervier WSD ordered back to the Downs. The 6th Division, bette the Cyclone, Biroco and Mistrel net course at 24 knots via West Hinder end Kvints booy. 1330 A battery from Niesport opened fire on the Cyclone. 1332 The 6th Division opened fire, the Gyclone firing 34 rounds. 1430 The Cyclone Donkist out pier, but USD discred by the Credit controller to 40171 to the QUES Poliz Faure. The STREET and 217000 went alongaide the weet pier. - The Cyclone 575 tropps, During the there vore several ais offects, and the Mistrol was hit [the your VSD hisl. 1630 The Cyclone processed via the channel cast of Dunkirt, 1700/ Attacked by 12 boad-org, The Gratene 1730 atraddled: elight domago to use hull. 1755 A ship 2 allas sheed use 2003 sinking by the bowds 1757 An R.A.F. plane fall in the water nearby. Geveral tuge IN sight, one of which want to the recous of the The airmon. Crolone processed to the assistance of the sinking ships the Picked up 158 Saveral proved to be the P.M/B waverier. tage arrived and picked up 1640 Bet survivors. course for Dover. 2200 Arrived Dover. 2230 Disembarzed 1,60.(1) 30th Key At Dover were the T/D's Cyclone, The sloop Devorgnan which Birgery, Nistral and Fondroyent. had just arrived, the Mistral (1) D.E. According to the Cyclons she had 733 on board. 217
CYCLONE French Torpedo boat Capitaine de vaisseau (6th Division) U. de Portzampare, Capt. (D), 2nd Flotilla. [Note: The times given in this French report G.M.T. In order to conform to other French are reports, they are here converted to B.S.T.] 29th May 0900 Assembled in the Downs, at 1/2 hour's notice were the French T/B's Cyclone and Siroco, the dr. Epervier, and the minesweeping sloops [avisos] Boudeuse, Impetueuse, Arras and Belfort. (The T/B Mistral had sailed from the Downs at 0800 to refuel at Dover). 1015 The Cyclone, Siroco and Epervier sailed for Dunkirk, and the Mistral was ordered to rejoin Cyclone. 1050 The Mistral joined company with the Cyclone and the Epervier was ordered back to the Downs. The 6th Division, i.e. the Cyclone, Siroco and Mistral set course at 24 knots via West Hinder and Kwinte buoy. 1330 A battery from Nieuport opened fire on the Cyclone. 1332 The 6th Division opened fire, the Cyclone firing 34 rounds. 1430 The Cyclone wentalongside Dunkirk east pier, but was ordered by the traffic controller to shift to the Quai Felix Faure. The Mistral and Siroco went alongside the west pier. - The Cyclone embarked 575 troops. During the embarkation there were several air attacks, and the Mistral was hit [the quay was hit]. 1630 The Cyclone proceeded via the channel east of Dunkirk. 1700/ Attacked by 12 bombers. The Cyclone was 1730 straddled; slight damage to her hull. 1755 A ship 2 miles ahead was seen sinking by the bows. 1757 An R.A.F. plane fell in the water nearby. Several tugs in sight, one of which went to the rescue of the airman. The Cyclone proceeded to the assistance of the sinking ship. She proved to be the P.M/S Waverley. Picked up 158 survivors. Several tugs arrived and picked up other survivors. 1840 Set course for Dover. 2200 Arrived Dover. 2230 Disembarked 460. (1) 30th May At Dover were the T/B's Cyclone, - Siroco, Mistral and Foudroyant. The sloop Savorgnan de Brazza which had just arrived, ordered the Mistral (1) D.R. According to the Cyclone she had 733 on board.
3 CYCLONE - Contd. 31st May 0522 (contd. The Bouclier joined company and 0845 remained as an escort. The Arras joined company, thus 1245 freeing the Bouclier. Stopped near the North Goodwin. Transferred two serious casualties 1600 to an English motor boat. Secured to a buoy at Dover. 1st June 1830 Sailed for Cherbourg escorted by the French aircraft tender Belfast. Total 460 Authority - - French Admiralty record, Folio, No.1, 15 and 31. 220
CYRIL AND LILIAN BISHOP R.N.L.I. M.L/B (Hastings) Actg. P.O. W.H. Atkin 31st May 0700 The Hastings life boat arrived Dover. P.O. Atkin had previously been to Dunkirk in the canal boat Yser. He now made a trip to Dunkirk in the Hastings life boat, but no details are available. to to to to the to 221
D.C/M.B. (H.M.S. Excellent's) Lieut. E.F. Hamilton- Meikle, R.N. 29th May 2100 Left staff Dover for Dunkirk (car. Cazalet, of V.A. Dover and Lt. Cdr. Dennis, board). S.O., M.T.B's Dover, on 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 Engine breakdown. survivors from the A.B/V. King Orry. 30th May 0200 Taken in tow by the dr. Vivacious. One engine towed in and started. 0300 Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400 Embarked 15 Allied troops. 0415 Air attack. 0425 Proceeded for Dover, speed 8 knots. 0945 Dover. Disembarked 15 troops. Boat's engines unsatisfactory. Total 15(1) Of the officers in D.C/M.B., Lieut. R.H. Mead R.N.V.R. assumed command of the Walton and Frinton life boat [E.M.E.D.]; Lieut. Hamilton- Meikle assumed command of a 40 foot ship's fast motor boat. Authority - R.O.II, pp.484, 612. (1) Not mentioned in D.R. 225
DE RUYTER (2.25) Belgian trawler 3rd June 0200 Arrived at Dunkirk with the Belgian patrol boat A.5 and the Belgian h trawlers H.75 Gods Genadé and 0.92 [Graaf van Vlaanderen] - Sailed for Ramsgate in company with the A.5. 0935 The 2.25 disembarked 84 Allied troops at Ramsgate. (1) Total 84 as Authority - M.3422/40. 1915 - P.O.II. P.51. (1) (1) Ramsgate report. 232
DINKY BANK loft. boat (Owner, H.H. Miramo) Did not return from Operation Dynamo. 26th usy Took Dalled Authority - TO.9144. TO.9436. 27th may 1600 Belled 28th May 1200ca 2000ca 23100s 29th Rug 0400 075000 29th/30th Ney 30th May Fles May (1) Lieut. Bargabo Margets 241
DOGGERSBANK Skoot Lieut. D.T. McBarnet, R.N. Lieut. P.G.C. Dickens, R.N., lst Lieut. 26th May Took over the Doggersbank from her owner captain at Gravesend. p.m. Sailed for Sheerness. 2000ca Arrived Sheerness. 27th May 1600 Sailed for Dunkirk, but anchored in the Thames estuary during darkness. 28th May 1200ca Arrived Dunkirk. (1) Ordered to Bray, where the ship was grounded. Depth too great for troops to wade out, so a boat and a raft were sent in; on arrival they were rushed and swamped. Later, they were righted, and army officers and military police organised the traffic. 2000ca About 450 on board. Shifted berth closer inshore. Transferred troops to destroyers 2310ca [including the Grafton]. 29th May Picked up some abandoned boats and embarked more troops. 0400 Shifted to La Panne. 0750ca Reported to the dr. Codrington, which, joined by another destroyer ] returned with the Doggersbank to Bray. (Whilst Lieut. McBarnet had been reporting to the Codrington, the Doggersbank's boats went inshore to embark some French troops. "They immediately mobbed and capsized the boats, threatening my sailors with revolvers when they tried to evict some"). During the day, transferred another ship-load of troops to destroyers, being much assisted by Codrington leaving her boats behind for Doggersbank's use. 29th/30th - During the night the Doggersbank was May beached for about 1/01 hour either side of low water, and 300/350 troops were able to walk out of the ship. 30th May Refloated 2 hours after low water, and - Disembarked 350 troops at Margate, where sailed for Margate. 1200ca( "I was very much impressed by the efficient organisation of the pier Sailed staff". for Dunkirk. "Night" - Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked troops. 31st May a.m. Sailed Disembarked for Margate. 400 troops at Margate. (3) 1855 (1) Lieut. McBarnet says this was on 27th May. (3) Margate report. (2) Margate report states 2100. 242
H.M.S. DOLPHIN'S power boat S/Lt. E.J. Cornish-Bowden, R.N. 29th May 1915 Left Gosport. 2200 Arrived Littlehampton. - Sailed for Dover, via Ramsgate, the Dutch M/L M. 73 in company. 30th May 1400 Arrived off Dover. 31st May 0030ca Sailed for La Panne, in company w1th H.M.S. Excellent's A/A motor boat, which was bound for Bray. 1115ca The Dolphin arrived off La Panne. No petrol obtainable. Proceeded to Bray. It was decided "by the senior officer present" that the Dolphin would be of doubtful value off the beaches. 1415 Dolphin sailed for Dover, in tow of the yacht Sargasso. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p. 228. R.O.III, p.13. 244
DUCHESS Sailing barge (Wakeley Bros. H.J. Wildish, Master. and Co. Ltd.) 31st May 1000 2100 Left Dover in tow of the tug St. Abbs. 2145 Broke adrift from tow. Taken in tow by the M/S Lydd. been 1st June 0330 Arrived Dunkirk. 0400on The master of the tug Cervia states that he picked up the "boat and crew of the barge Duchess that had 0900 100 anchored in the roads". 1010 2100 The barge was abandoned. to Ramagate, 106 troopa. (2) 31st May(3) 1130 Bailed from Ramsgate. Authority - M.017681/40. Shelled by shore batteries when pessing R.O.I, p.289. Nieuport. Turned away and zig-zagged W.W. out of range. 1600 Arrived Bray bench- Sent boats in. 2015 Proceeded to Ramagate with 535 troops. Let June 0700 Arrived Remagete. Disembarked 535 troops.(2) Proceeded to Sheerness for coal and stores. 1630 Bailed from Sheerness. 2510 Arrived off Malo, Found no troops. Directed to go to Dunkirk. 2nd Juno I Berthed alongside Donkiek pier. Imbarked Col. Winterton and 550 troops. 0245 Sailed from Dunicize. 0900 Arrived Remagate. Diseabarked 550 troops.(4) Proceeded to Margate roads for cool. 1945 Sailed from Margate. 2400 Arrived Donkirk and berthed slongside. Embarked 390 French troops and proceeded. Juis 0645(5) Arrived Ramagute. Disembarked 300 troops. (2) Total 1801 thom Ln a minessesper (except on 3rd June), D.E. 12. 30th my - but this appeare to be an D.B. states 390 256
DU GUESCLIN (D.G.910) French M.F.V. 30th May 1030 The Du Guesclin and the Surcouf together landed 35 troops in England.(1) 31st May 1335 Routed from the Downs to Dunkirk by 2000 the destroyer Leopard. (see under Margaux (D.692)) left 1st June 0920 With 4 naval ratings 18 sailed from Remagate, wi Total Princess, both tugs towing the I.O.W. forry boat Fishbourne. 1030ca But the Duke's tow rope into the Princess and went ahead. [1120ca The Princess's tow rope broke, She got another connected.] 1250ca The Commander on board the Fishbourne ordered the Dute to contact the tog Bun III and her 4 sailing barges. Did DO, and took the 8/B Heate Away from the Bun III. Bed visibility, lost contact with other tugs and the Fishbourne. The B/B Ada Mary having twice broken away from the Sun III. the Dake took her in tow. 1440ca Approx. 2 miles from Denkirk. Air raid in progress. Picked up 20 soldiers from n drifting life bost and left 20 others and 1 naval rating for the Sun III to pick up. 1620es Took from the dr. Basilisk's lifeboat 11 ratings and midshiman; their lifeboat WILLS then put astern or the 2 sailing barges. 1705 Directed by 2 aircraft to net course 181508 south, and was led to two lifeboate. The Sun III tock the larger; the Duke took from the other, 13 Spaniards and 1 Canadian. 20200a Another 8/B [the Bhannon) broke adrift from the Sun III and the puke look her in tow. 7x8 June 0600ca Arrived Ramagate. Small craft were sent out to take off the 44 survivors. 0730ea The Duks left the 3 sailing barges off the DOWNE, and went into harbour. 083000 Was sent out to retch the Fichbourgs This was done- [See tog Primeral into herbour, as she was diasbled, Jane 0800(2) Proceeded with the Log context to Shosburyness. 7000140 Authority W.W. (1) D.R., which records that "Sourcouf du Quesclin" lunded the 35 troops. 1115. 258
DUKE(1) Tug (Saml. Williams & Sons Ltd.) B.P. Mansfield, Captain. 31st May 1030 Left Gravesend. Dagenham for Southend, via Left Southend, for Ramsgate, towing 2000 the S/B Ashingdon. Entered Ramsgate harbour having left the barge in the Downs. 1st June 0920 With 4 naval ratings on board, sailed from Ramsgate, with the tug Princess, both tugs towing the I.O.W. ferry boat Fishbourne. 1030ca Put the Duke's tow rope into the Princess and went ahead. [1120ca The Princess's tow rope broke. She got another connected.] 1250ca The Commander on board the Fishbourne ordered the Duke to contact the tug Sun III and her 4 sailing barges. Did so, and took the S/B Haste Away from the Sun III. Bad visibility, lost contact with other tugs and the Fishbourne. - The S/B Ada Mary having twice broken away from the Sun III, the Duke took her in tow. 1440ca Approx. 2 miles from Dunkirk. Air raid in progress. Picked up 20 soldiers from a drifting life boat and left 20 others and 1 naval rating for the Sun III to pick up. 1620ca Took from the dr. Basilisk's lifeboat 11 ratings and 1 midshipman; their lifeboat was then put astern of the 2 sailing barges. 1705 Directed by 2 aircraft to set course 1815ca south, and was led to two lifeboats. The Sun IIItook the larger; the Duke took from the other, 11 Spaniards and 1 Canadian. 2020ca Another S/B [the Shannon broke adrift from the Sun III and the Duke took her in tow. 2nd June 0600ca Arrived Ramsgate. Small craft were sent out to take off the 44 survivors. 0730ca The Duke left the 3 sailing barges off the Downs, and went into harbour. 0830ca Was sent out to fetch the Fishbourne This was done. [See tug Princess] into harbour, as she was disabled. 3rd June 0800(2) Proceeded with the tug Contest to Shoeburyness. Total 44 Authority W.W. (1) (2) Not TugsPrince mentioned and in Princess D.R. state they left in company with the Contest at 1115. 259
DUMPLING Boat (Owner, G. Stead) Lost at Dunkirk. Authority - TO.9144. TO.9436. 260
EDVARD NISSEN Blockship Lt. E.J. King-Wood, R.N.R. 2nd June 2015 Sailed from the Downs in company with Westcove and Holland, Vivacious way. (with M.T.B.107 in tow) leading the 2117 M.A/S.B.7 L.V. joined company off S.Goodwin 3rd June 0215 Anchored off Dunkirk - less Holland, which was somewhere astern. 0240 Weighed and proceeded. 0310 Passed Dunkirk outer breakwater 3 cables astern of Westcove. When a cable and a half past the occulting light on the inner west pier, Westcove rammed the pier and swung athwart the Channel. The out-flowing stream (about 2 knots), however, reduced her athwartship angle, so by arrangement with Westcove the Nissen endeavoured to strike her stern as she passed on her way to ram the east breakwater. The strength of the ebb stream was however mis judged, and the Nissen passing close under Westcove's stern, rammed the east breakwater, abreast of the Westcove. Nissen let go an anchor and applied full port helm and all engine power to increase the blocking angle. Westcove then "blew up and caught fire aft", and it was seen that the gap between the 2 ships' sterns had increased from 20 feet to 80 feet, owing to the current. The motor boat ran a hawser to the Westcove's stern and by heaving on this the gap was reduced to 50 feet. Nissen was then abandoned and the scuttling charges fired from the boat. 0413 Edvard Nissen blew up and settled rapidly. The crew were transferred to M.A/S.B.7. Authority - M.011431/40. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches. Lt. E.J. King-Wood, R.N.R. S/Lieut. I.R. Griffiths, R.N. C.P.O. H. Woods. 271
EDWARD z. DRESDEN R.N.L.I. (Clacton) Lt. Cdr. R.W. Faulkner, life boat R.N.R.[?Reta.] W.P. Trotter (Bank of England), a Lieut. R.N.R., a Lieut. R.N.V.R. and the Naval crew. 2nd June p.m. Left Ramsgate too late to get to Dunkirk and had to return. 3rd June Lt. Cdr. Faulkner joined on this day. 1730ca Left Ramsgate with several other vessels in company. Outside Ramsgate was taken in tow by a London tug, [the Tanga] bound for Dunkirk. Four other vessels were on the tow, one of them being the M/B Madame Sans- Gene. - En route, the Sans Gene and another M/B got rope round their propellers, and the latter had to be cut adrift. - Sighted a floating mine. Unsuccessfully tried to sink it by M/G fire. 2300ca Off Dunkirk, the tug cast off the tow. One of Edward Z. Dresden's propellers became fouled. - Attempted to tow off a stranded skoot [the Lena] without success. Ferried French and other troops to ships outside the harbour. Made several such trips. 4th June 0300 Proceeded. 10 miles out picked up a ship's life boat full of soldiers, and embarked them. 0730ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked troops. Estimated Total 50(1) Authority - J.D.C. (1) Ramsgate report states "Two life boats - 184 Allied troops." 272
EILLA II (No.9) Portsmouth Yacht Inner Patrol Lt. E.H. Batt, R.N.V.R. 29th May 1750 Left Hamble for Dover in company with the 8 yachts of the Inner Patrol (see Seriola) 30th May 0600 Arrived Dover. 2130 Sailed from Dover in company with the Inner patrol flotilla. 31st May 0545 Eilla II arrived alongside the dr. Keith off Bray and embarked a naval officer "to assist in organisation" - Ordered to La Panne beach to transport troops to destroyers Keith and "Emerald (2) and the "sloop" [i.e. the M/S] Hebe. - Several trips made between La Panne and Bray. - Ordered to proceed to seaward when shelling and bombing became severe. - Returned to La Panne and embarked [?ferried] more troops. 1100 The"Dover Patrol vessel Blue Bird"(3) was aground with foul propellers. The Eilla II towed her off. Owing to an on-shore wind, small boats found it very difficult to get off to the Eilla II, whose motor launch was eventually lost in the heavy sea. - The Eilla II developed a leak and engine trouble. 2130 The Naval officer in charge of operations in the yacht Ankh [Capt. J.M. Howson, R.N.] ordered the Eilla II to return to Dover. 1st June 0700 Arrived Dover. 5th June 1130 En route for Hamble, picked up 3 French troops in a ship's boat off Folkestone and landed them at Newhaven. The Eilla II ferried about 200 troops from shore to ships. Total 3 Authority - - R.O.II, 306. (1) Not clear who this was. He was disembarked "before the (2) There Eilla II not began destroyer, nor any other vessel means of this embarking troops". name, was in operation & Dynamo. Lt. Batt probably (3) There the dr. Express. vessel named Blue Bird in Dover Patrol. from 26th The May danlaying - 4th yacht June. A M/B, the Blue Bird, over to was no Blue Bird was at Liverpool was towed Dunkirk on lst June. 275
EM GERBERA M/L's WINDSORA (Owner, Charles Hill & son, Windsor) [+++ 10% June 0715 Taken in tow by the are. Thettix. Other ships in the top sere the N.L/Ba These vessels were unsuitable and took no 1975, part 0725 in Dynamo. d White Bear. Moid Left Dover. 1537 Net the Yvonne of Mombe (of Oravalines) with 1 English soldier heading for England - she turned and headed towards Dunicise. 1615 Air attach Tow broken by blast. Men thrown in water; all picked up. About this time, the Yvonne 03 Nombe was sunk by a direct hit. 1635 Air attack continues. 1652 Bombe heard dropping. Drifters heading home without leaving orders. Some small boats turn back. 1710 Abdy Beanclork, only, in company. 1718 The life boat "Hosa Bood" [1.00 the ROBS good and Phyllis Lunn Joined company. The None Wood and Phyllis Lunn decided to return to Dover. 1740 Closed B. drifter. 1821 Air attack continues, The Abdy Resueler's and the Rosa wood turn back. 1854 Lieut. Meed in the carried on towards Dunkirk. 1926 The M/B Cairngory in reply to B query, signalled "steer 0.55 E. for Dustirk". 2030ca Joined company with the tog SUN IV . 2044 Arrived off Dunking vith son IV. 2100 Lt. Mond boarded the Sen IT- 2135 Dunkirk harbour. PASSION Eroope to the M/S Nisst and other ships lying out- side the harbour, shilst coming alongside the towing a boat in which was Bee Codet Jest, 31dmouth- Willing), a sholl exploded nearby; Lientenent Head WSS mortally wounded, and died in 15 minutes.(1) 2nd June 0423 The left Dankirk in tow of the 1010 Arrived Bun IV. 1030 The Bun XY and the LEER together disembarked 142 $20000. (See Qua IV) 3rd June 1026 Left Benagate. 1355 Arrived Dover- Total S Authority - R.O.II, D.230+ The following evards Hentton in Degratches (Posthunous) 17, Linot. R.H. Head, B.S.V.R. Brassen in Despatchee A.D. Tol. Wells Gooley* Mecksnus. (1) Report by Burg. Lieut. 278 of EXHIR
X E.M.E.D. Walton & Frinton life boat Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R. [see Tel. W.H. Cooley. 1st June 0715 Taken in tow by the dfr. Thrifty. Other ships in the tow were the M.L/Bs Greater London, Abdy Beauclerk, and the M/B's P.E.42 Summer Maid and White Bear. 0725 Left Dover. 1537 Met the Yvonne et Moabe (of Gravelines) with 1 English soldier heading for England - she turned and headed towards Dunkirk. 1615 Air attack. Tow broken by blast. Men thrown in water; all picked up. About this time, the Yvonne et Moabe was sunk by a direct hit. 1635 Air attack continues. 1652 Bombs heard dropping. Drifters heading home without leaving orders. Some small boats turn back. 1710 Abdy Beauclerk, only, in company. 1718 The life boat'Rosa Wood" [i.e. the Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn] joined company. The Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn decided to return to Dover. 1740 Closed a drifter. 1821 Air attack continues. The Abdy Beauclerk and the Rosa Wood turn back. 1854 Lieut. Mead in the E.M.E.D. carried on towards Dunkirk. 1926 The M/B Cairngorm in reply to a query, signalled "steer S.55 E. for Dunkirk". 2030ca Joined company with the tug Sun IV. 2044 Arrived off Dunkirk with Sun IV. 2100 Lt. Mead boarded the Sun IV. 2135 Dunkirk harbour. Ferried troops to the M/S Niger and other ships lying out- side the harbour. Whilst coming alongside the Niger [towing a boat in which was Sea Cadet Lieut. Sidmouth- Willing], a shell exploded nearby; Lieutenant Mead was mortally wounded, and died in 15 minutes. (1) 2nd June 0423 The E.M.E.D. left Dunkirk in tow of the Sun IV. 1010 Arrived Ramsgate. 1030 The Sun IV and the E.M.E.D. together disembarked 142 troops. (See Sun IV) 3rd June 1026 Left Ramsgate. 1355 Arrived Dover. Total 39 Authority - R.O.II, p.230. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches (Posthumous) Ty. Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R. Mention 1n Despatches P.O. Tel. W.H. Cooley. A.B. J.L. MacManus. (1) Report by Surg. Lieut. of Niger. 279
ENCHANTRESS M/B (Owner, Allchorn & Sons) ? 1st June(1) 0900 S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyze (ex-Salquhain) Abandoned 2000 at Dunkirk. te for Durddrk. reported to Lt. 062, Wilson. 2200 FLORED soldiers in life boat, 2215 Sailed for Remagate. Arrived Dunkirk, Filled up with soldiers Authority - TO.9144. Arrived Remainte. Disembarked 44 TO.9436. troops.(2) Total Lile [s/Lt. MacIntyre then trumferred to the W/B Bantosy] Authority - R.O.II, D.550. (1) says 16 una 31st a "motor May. launch" disembarked it was 1st June. 44 (2) Remagate S/Lt. MacIntyre report states that B/Lt. MacIntyre says at 0540 on 2nd 287
ENCORE M/B Lt. Cdr. Wilson. 1st June(1) 0900 S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyre (ex-Balquhain) 1600 reported to Lt. Cdr. Wilson. 2000 Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk. 2200 Picked up soldiers in life boat. 2215 Arrived Dunkirk. Filled up with soldiers Sailed for Ramsgate. 2nd June 0545 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 44 troops. (2) Total 44 [s/Lt. MacIntyre then transferred to the M/B Santosy] Authority - R.O.II, p.550. (1) (2) S/Lt. says it was 31st May. launch" disembarked 1st June. 44 Ramsgate at 0540 MacIntyre report on 2nd states June. that S/Lt. a MacIntyre "motor says it was 288
ESCAUT (.15) (ex-Belgian) canal boat M 28th May This vessel was lost BRILLED during Operation Dynamo. R.N. 2040 company with the on Express. Dover in Bailed from Dowey by route Y, under the orders or Caps 0.16 (walcolm), also in company. the dre. henress. Salkori and Scimites 29th May 0015 Arrived off Bray beach- Boate lowered. Embarkation commenced. - Embarked about 400 troops from a shoot [probably the Hildal. - Proceeded. - Arrived Dover. Disembarked 100 troopa. 1700 Embarked 12 small beach parties and R.A. Dover. 2100 Left Dover, and was followed to Dunkirk by Mr. Vanquisher. 30th May 0100ce Dunkirk, Disembarked R.A. Dover and the beach parties.($ Embarked troops. 1130 Proceeded with about 900 on hourd. 1500ca Doyer. Disembarked 884 typese. (1) 1600ca Proceeded. 1930 Entered Dunkirk harbour. substituted about 1200 troops, - Proceeded. 31st May 0430 Dover, Disembarked 1,041 treate(1) - Proceeded. - Arrived Bray. Enburked troops. One wheler loat inshore, pollo shore One soldier killed, six wounded. Some damage to Esk. Proceeded. Air attacks is Dunkirk channel. Dover, Disembarked 100 (2) 1st June 0500ca Proceeded. 0900cm orr Dunkirks Air attock. Entered the herbour. Embarked a fee troops. Ordered to assist P/V Presse which however could not be founds while searching, sighted 2/V Scotts on fire and singing) embarked from her about 1,000 French troops, during Captain, and proceeded, leaving the air attack. Embarized 093008 Scotta's survivors in boats to be collected by the traulers which had Arrived by then Doysr. arrived. Disembarked 979 EPOODS. 2nd June 2030 Proceeded. 3rd June 00300A Arrived Dunkisk assbarked about 500 Franch troops. Proceeded. Arrived Dover. Disemberred 500 troops. Total 3,204 (1) D.B. (2) Not mentioned End 293
ESKBURN S.S. EXST (W.G. James & Sons Ltd.) 1st June Fill New 1430 Disembarked 27 troops. (1) Dover Londed with stores, in tow or the tog Essa 0.0. Bolled on to the benoh, cast or The crow trunsferred to a *gun boat". The Sthel Everard wes abandoned and blown up- arthority - T.0.9436/40. A NEW ETHEL EVERARD 37.9.04 MEMORY OF A SHIP LEFT AT DUNKIRK (1) D.R. 296
ETHEL EVERARD Sailing barge (F.T. Everard & Sons Ltd.) T. Willis, Master 31st May 1430 Left Dover loaded with ammunition and stores, in tow of the tug Sun XII. 1st June a.m. Sailed on to the beach, east of Dunkirk. The crew transferred to a "gun boat". The Ethel Everard was abandoned and blown up. Authority - 0.9436/40. Etoila Polaire AD 390 any M/S Second Maike de managure guenole was in Ostend and sailed the 28th of May with the French Naval Party ostend. Called in Folkestour the Same day at 2000 Did not take part to Dysama Note by Cras of A NEW ETHEL EVERARD 27.9.49 MEMORY OF A SHIP LEFT AT DUNKIRK When the necessary formalities are com- pleted the steamship Empire Newfoundland, of 3,500 tons gross, hitherto owned by the Ministry of Transport, is to be known as the Ethel Everard in commemoration of a sail- ing coaster which sailed with the fleet of little ships to Dunkirk in 1940 but did not return. Driven on to the beaches, she had to be abandoned. At the time she was engaged in carrying fresh water for the troops. Later a book which the Germans distributed in prison returning prisoner of war brought with him a camps showing the Ethel Everard lying beached. The founder of the firm of F. T. Everard and Sons, Limited, who have acquired the Empire Newfoundland, named his vessels after three sons. A daughter of Mr. William his daughter Ethel, who died this year, and his Everard, a director of the company, is named Ethel. 297
EVE Open M/B (24 ft. K 8 ft.) L/Sea. N. Furse, R.N.R. [Date?] At Dunkirk ferried 6 boat loads of troops to waiting ships. On 7th trip boat was overcrowded by panicky French soldiers and when under way, filled and sank. L/Sea. Furse swam for several hours before reaching the beach. He believes he was the only survivor. [The above information 1s provided by Lt. W.B. Hunkin, R.N. (Retd.) There is no information as to who was the owner of the Eve and she is not in the D. of S.T.'s list of requisitioned boats]. Authority - J.D.C. 299
H.M.S. EXCELLENT'S A/A Motor boat S/Lt. A.W.M. Matthew, R.N. 30th May 2400ca Left Dover for Braye-Dunes in company with H.M.S. Dolphin's power boat. 31st May a.m. Arrived off Bray. Went inshore to tow small boats to the ships. A heavily laden boat capsized. Most of the men (in full equipment) sank like stones. Picked up one man. The A/A motor boat's screws fouled and she was driven aground. S/Lt. Matthew went ashore, refloated an abandoned cabin-cruiser, and left her to carry on in charge of the A/A motor boat's crew. It was now found that the A/A motor boat "was of no further use". S/Lt. Matthew got a ship's life boat and made several trips. When she became holed, he obtained another. By this time, the cabin cruiser's engine was giving trouble, so the crew rejoined S/Lt. Matthew in the life boat and continued ferrying. 2345ca The life boat was now much damaged and the crew were exahusted with their efforts. They all transferred to 1st June 0115 the P.M/S Princess Elizabeth which 0735 proceeded and arrived at Margate. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.604. 301
| leaving a to Jeguar. | |
| 21,00 | Arrived |
| 0920 | Proceeded by route Y. |
| Alongside 800 troops. | |
| 1315 | Proceeded. |
| 1650 | Arrived Dover. troops.(1). |
| 1000 | Proceeded by route Y. |
| 2630 | |
| 0250 | Embarked R.A. Dover 02. wordester. |
| 0700 | transferred Embarked |
| 1115 | Arrived Dover, |
| EUDO | Left |
| 0200 | Entered Dunkins. to of in |
| 0500 | Dover- |
| 2200 | Left Dover. |
| 0230 | Arrived 1.0. punkin's. mined, pier. the |
FAIR BREEZE Drifter Lt.Car. A.R.W. Sayle, R.N.R. 30th May 1130 Lt. Cdr. Sayle embarked in the Fair Breeze and with S/Lt. J.E. Washbourn, R.N. and Mr. Golding (Trinity House pilot) 1600 whalers in tow. proceeded for Dunkirk with 2 Arrived off Dunkirk and proceeded to Bray beach. 1630 Arrived off Bray beach and hove-to in 2 fathoms. 1645 The after whaler, found to be holed, was cut adrift; the other was sent in shore. Requested the M/L Canvey Queen to tow off any boats she could find; she rendered valuable assist- ance in this way. 1700 Commenced embarking troops. 1800 Filled with troops, proceeded to the westward. Instructed by the Sp. S/V Royal Eagle to transfer the troops to her. 1815 Having transferred the troops, returned to Bray beach. 1830 Recommenced embarking troops. 1900 Air attack on beach. 2030 Filled up with troops and proceeded. 31st May 0440 Disembarked 307 British and 9 Allied troops at Ramsgate. (1) 1200 Left Ramsgate 2) towing a motor life- boat (s/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N. in charge) and 3 other lifeboats. 1700ca Approaching Dunkirk, heavily bombed; one bomb landed 50 yards away but did not explode. The M.L/B, with the 3 lifeboats in tow proceeded in shore. They found no troops, so left one L/B behind and proceeded with the other two towards La Panne. The lifeboats ferried troops to the Fair Breeze. After 2 trips, 2 of the L/B's broached to and were swamped. The others continued to ferry troops to the Fair Breeze. lst June 0330ca Fair Breeze being filled with troops, 0400 Struck proceeded. a sunken wreck; heavy list. s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen sent out an S 0 S on the siren, which was answered Transferred troops to the skoot which by a skoot [ the Atlantic]. 0425 proceeded, leaving the Fair Breeze to sink( (1) (2) It Ramsgate is not report. clear who was in command of the Fair Breeze (3) D.R. for does this not second mention trip. the sinking of the Fair Breeze. 307
0001 FAIRPLAY(1) Tug (Managed by W. Watkins Ltd.) S. Wright and G. Finch 25th May Towed the water boat Claude to Dunkirk. 31st May 1600 Left Dover, with barges in tow; tug Sun XII in company. 2350 Arrived Dunkirk. Put barges on the beach at Braye-Dunes. Proceeded, in company with Sun XII, to the eastward. 1st June 0400 Returned to Braye-Dunes. Proceeded. 1030 Arrived Dover. 2155ca Left Dover for W buoy in company with 6 other tugs (See Sun XI). 2nd June 0920ca Arrived back at Dover. 1530ca Left Dover, in company with tugs Sun X, Sun XI, and Foremost 87, for Dunkirk. 2215ca Arrived Dunkirk. - Returned to Dover. Nil (1) This account of Fairplay tugs. I's activities is compiled from Dive at the reports of 309 other
/ FOREMOST 87 Tug. (W. Watkins Ltd.) J.' Fryer, Master S/L. H.M. Davis R.N.R. 30th May 0800 Left Dover for Dunkirk. - Entering Dunkirk roads saw "large 1445 oil tanker" settling by stern. 1700ca Arrived Dunkirk harbour and entered. By order, beached the dumb barges Sark and Shetland (which were at anchor off Malo) 100 yards apart off Malo Casino. Air attacks and gunfire. Returned to vicinity of Dunkirk harbour and assisted ships wherever possible. 2100 Towed P/V Prague from eastern arm to 2400ca Dunkirk roads. (See Lady Brassey) Assisted a destroyer to berth. 31st May 0200ca Proceeded with a few troops on board. 0700ca Dover. Disembarked troops (number not stated). 1445 Left Dover for Dunkirk with 2 S/B's loaded with provisions in tow. 2300 Beached the 2 barges on Malo beach as ordered. 2400 Steaming off the harbour. 1st June 0330ca Proceeded. 0730 Dover. 2nd June 1600ca Left Dover with the M.L.B's Cecil and Lilian Philpott and Thomas Kirk Wright in tow. S/L. H.M. Davis, R.N.R. took passage in Foremost 87 in this trip. 2145 ca Arrived at given position and cast off tow (2) Proceeded to assist H/C Paris which had been bombed and was sinking slowly in a position approx. 2 milea to seaward of No. 5 buoy. Picked up 95 survivors of Paris including 5 nurses ( the full comple- ment). 2145 Picked up 13 Spanish seamen from a small boat. Proceeded. 3rd June 0430 Dover. Landed survivors( 1) one of whom (Deck Boy Bullock, aged 16) had died, and the 13 Spanish seamen. 1630 Picked up 3 men from a destroyer which was in collision in the harbour with an empty transport. (3) Total 100 (estimated) Authority - R.O.II, pp. 215, 430. W.W. TM. 6213/40. (1) D.R. "Foremost" disembarked 91. (2) S/L. says Tug "Knowing that my 2 Cox'ns boats, 1/c of I cast the life- them boats off and were proceeded capable to embark the survivors Davis Bays, of navigating their of the [H/C] (3) These Paris. vessels cannot be identified. 330
FORMIDABLE Aircraft carrier (under construction) Cdr. E.K. Le Mesurier, M.V.O., R.N. 1st Shown in D.R. as having taken part in Operation Dynamo. Cdr. Le Mesurier went to Dunkirk in the tugs Sun and Sun IV. He sent in 2nd June his report, giving as his address "H.M.S. Formidable, c/o G.P.O. London". It is thought that this accounts for a vessel named the Formidable having found its way into the list of ships. No other Formidable can be traced. 1930 the Cantain from the R/C Paris, Picked up wounded from wreated 11.00 Authority - R.O.II, p.418. boats. Picked up 6 took in tow. 2005 Picked up another life boat, the occupante of which Spanish. 2100 Engines overheating owing to of tow. 2115 Transferred all survivors to clsss $08.(1) motor boat making water rapidly; the tug took her in tow. 2130 The crew transferred to the tug which continued to tow the bost, 3rd June 0415 Arrived pover in tow. N11 Authority - R.O.II, p.612. (1) Not 334
"40 ft. Ship's fast motor boat" [See E.M.E.D.] Lt. E.F. Hamilton-Meikle, R.N. 1st June Assisted the M.T.B,107 (Commodore Hallet) to regulate rescue traffic between Dover and Dunkirk. 2nd June Escorted the M.A.S.B.10 (Admiral Somerville) towards Dunkirk, but lost touch. Continued towards Dunkirk. 1900 Sighted aircraft attacking à hospital ship [the Paris]. 1910 Air attack. 1930 Took off the Captain and some officers from the H/C Paris. Picked up wounded from wrecked life- boats. Picked up 6 lifeboats and took in tow. 2005 Picked up another life boat, the occupants of which spoke Spanish. 2100 Engines overheating owing to weight of tow. 2115 Transferred all survivors to a "Sun" class tug. (1) "40 ft. motor boat" making water rapidly; the tug took her in tow. 2130 The crew transferred to the tug which continued to tow the boat. 3rd June 0415 Arrived Dover in tow. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.612. (1) Not identified.
FOUDROYANT French torpedo boat Flotilla) (2nd Division, 2nd Capitaine de corvette Fontaine 30th May 1000ca 1530ca Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk. (1) Off Zuydecoote, met the T/B Bourrasque - coming from Dunkirk. (2) Returned to England, with 763 troops( 31st May - Went to Dunkirk. - Returned to England with 487 troops( 1st June 0800 Sailed for Dunkirk. The M/S Speedwell reports: 1030ca When some distance south-east of W buoy, two consecutive salvos of bombs were seen to hit a French destroyer which was in company with another vessel. "This vessel [presumably the French destroyer] sank within 2 or 3 minutes of being hit. (4) The tr. Gava reports: 1400ca Embarked from a damaged French trawler 137 members of the Foudroyant's ship's company. The M/B Naiad Errant reports: - About 3 miles from Dunkirk a French destroyer blew up. The Naiad Errant picked up about 20 survivors and transferred them to a nearby French tug. The French M/S Bernadette also picked up survivors. (5) Total 1250 (1) Cyclone's report. (2) Bourrasque's report. (4) The D.R. was sunk in Dunkirk channel, Landriau, at commanding the beginning (3) of route X Flotilla of the Pas No.17. de Foudroyant TReport by Rear Admiral Calais). (5) French the French Admiralty record, Folio 338
FRISO(1) Skoot Lt. G.O. Symons, R.N. 26th May(2) 1315 Arrived Newhaven from Portsmouth. 27th May 2100 Sailed for Dover. 28th May 0900 Arrived Dover. 1230 Sailed boat. for Dunkirk towing a pulling 2330 Entered Dunkirk roads. Steamed close inshore, from 6 miles to the eastward, up to Dunkirk. Saw no troops. 29th May 0030 Entered Dunkirk and secured alongside the Mole. Embarked troops. - The sk. Sursum Corda secured outside the Friso and embarked troops across her. (3) 0130/ Several skoots endeavoured to come 0300 alongside the Sursum Corda. Lt. Symons instructed the C.O. of the Sursum Corda to tell these skoots to berth further up the mole. 0315ca Left the mole with about 354 on board, and proceeded. 1500ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 354 troops. 2100ca Having embarked provisions and water tins, sailed for Dunkirk by the Calais channel. 30th May 0245ca Observed a large derelict 2-funnel ship with a list to port and apparently sinking. (4) - A bomb dropped 250 yards on Friso's starboard bow. 0415ca Entered Dunkirk harbour but left at once as the mole was deserted and shelling was in progress. Proceeded along the coast and anchored off a beach crowded with troops. Lowered boats and embarked troops 0630 Air raid; no ships in the vicinity were hit. During the morning it was noted that the skoots Hebe II and Sureum Corda were beached. During the forenoon a large motor pleasure boat was got alongside and the Friso transferred 250 troops to her. 1230ca Slipped and sailed with 648 troops on board. In Dunkirk roads, ordered by a (1) Not included in D.R's list of ships. (2) Friso's dates, throughout, appear to be one day ahead of D.R.'s dates of disembarkations are also other day ships (Sec M/S Fitzroy, and the skoots Hebe II 1 and Sursum ahead. Corda) the correct date, and have been amended accordingly. (3) According to the Sursum Corda's report, no were (4) Not in harbour The Sursum Corda which was about astern 1/2 of mile the when she entered. Friso west of Dunkirk harbour entrance. It was probably identified. describes it as a "wreck", situated the ..B/V King Orry. 345
GIPSY KING (D.R.89) M/B (G. Riley) A. Betts. H. Brown. F. Hook (Deal boatman) 31st May(1) 1100ca Left Deal for Dunkirk in tow of the sk. Hilda. 1800ca Ferried troops. "stayed there about 48 hours", but there is no precise information as to time of return. Authority - - TO.9144 J.D.C. (1) Mr. Betts says evidence the date that was this "about boat 28th did May". more There than one is, however, trip and no that was on 31st May.
/ GLEN AVON (P.m/s). 8th M.S.F. Ty. Lieut. B.H. Loyns, R.N.R. 30th May 1340 2225 Left Harwich for Dunkirk beaches. La Panne. Anchored close inshore. Engaged inshore. enemy aircraft. Sent boats 2245 Embarkation of troops commenced. 31st May 0400ca Ship went aground. 0525 587 officers and men of the B.E.F. and 3 French officers on board. Refloated. Engaged enemy A/C, be- lieved to have been shot down. Proceeded. 1520 Arrived Harwich. Secured alongside the M/S Snaefell. Disembarked 590 troops. (1) 1st June 1450 Sailed for the beaches, with cutters and a motor boat in tow. on passage two of the cutters became damaged and were cut adrift. [2230ca] When one mile west of Dunkirk mole, what was "apparently a trawler" [it was the F.A.A. yacht Grive] was seen to blow up. There were several small craft in her vicinity. (4) 2245 Arrived off Malo-les-Bains beach. 2315 Sent away lifeboats and commenced em- barkation. The ship's M/B broke down and had to be abandoned. 2nd June 0300 Ordered by the beach officer to sail. There were 295 officers and men aboard. 0430 Met a M.L.B. of the S.S. Alphacca(2) with 3 French soliders and 24 Spaniards. Embarked them, searched them and placed them under arrest. Sank the M.L.B. 1145 Arrived Harwich. Disembarked 295 troops(3) and the 27 rescued men. Total 888 Authority - R.O.I., p.252. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches Sea. A.G. Farrow. (1) D.R. states that the "trawler Glenavon" disembarked 652 (2) A Dutch troops. ship of 5759 tons. port of Co. origin, Rotterdam. (3) Owners, Van that the "trawler Glenavon" the Grive disembarked blew up 294. at Nievelt Goudriaan & (4) D.R. Including states the tr. Gula, which says 2345. 377
(J.16) GLEN GOWER P.M/S. (8th M.S.F.) Actg.Car. M.A.O.Biddulph, R.N., S.O. 8th M.S.F. 30th May 1345 Sailed from Harwich, the P.M/S's Glen Avon and Snaefell in company, with orders to proceed to beaches 8 miles east of Dunkirk [1.e. La Panne] Ordered the ships of the flotilla to 1845 proceed independently. Altered course 1 nto the main channel for Dunkirk. Vessels of all types were heading in the same direction, while others were coming back laden with troops. 2058 The Glen Gower turned, to run along the coast past Dunkirk. 2117 Passed Dunkirk light. 2210 The Glen Gower anchored off La Panne; the Glen Avon and Snaefell were anchored on either side of her. Sent in the ship's 2 boats. By this time it was completely dark. 2330 The first boat came back laden with troops, followed closely by the second. Great difficulty had been experienced in refloating the boats owing to the rapidly falling tide and the very gradual slope of the beach. The soldiers were tired, and disin- clined to help get the boat off. Troops were also embarked from local flat bottomed boats. 31st May 0205 Weighed anchor and ran the Glen Gower on to the beach, but the ship was still some way from the water's edge. Continued to embark troops in the ship's boats. - The Kedge anchor dragged, and the ship became hard and fast, broadside to the beach. 0425 530 troops had been embarked. R.A. Dover ordered all paddle minesweepers to proceed alongside Dunkirk pier. The Snaefell towed Glen Gower's stern clear, and the ship was soon afloat. The Snaefell then proceeded. The Glen Avon was still aground but managed to refloat successfully. 0520 Glen Gower proceeded to Dunkirk. 0600 Entered the harbour and secured along- side, ahead of a destroyer and astern of trawlers. 0617 About ten 4.2" howitzer shells fell near the ship. One of them pierced the deck of the Glen Gower's fo'c'sle, exactly between the feet of S/Lt. N.A. Williams, R.N.V.R., and burst on the stokers' messdeck, killing 5 soldiers and wounding 7. S/Lt. Thereafter, the ship, the approach Williams was unharmed. road and the town were bombed at intervals of 20 minutes. Shells fell r / all round the ship, but she was not The destroyer astern [the Harvest hit again. 0650 sailed. (1) Shown in D.R. as a trawler.
GLEN GOWER - Continued. 31st May 0700 (contd.) Glen billet. Gower occupied the destroyer's 0810 0836 Continued embarking troops. 0850 Slipped and proceeded to Harwich. 1715 Spitfires seen in some numbers. Arrived Harwich. Disembarked 800 troops 1st June 1400 Ships of the 8th M.S.F. were ordered to proceed to the beaches, 1 to 1 ¹/2 miles east of Dunkirk [1.e. Malo-les- Bains]. Boats were taken in tow, Glen Gower having the dr. Gallant's M/B, and 2 cutters and a pinnace from Shotley. Ships proceeded independent- ly. 1430 Glen Gower sailed. 1930 Spitfires and British bombers were seen mostly going homeward. 2123 Fires could be seen at Dunkirk blazing furiously. 2150 Passed the wrecks of the P.M/S Brighton Queen and of a large vessel which was on her side and still burning. Dunkirk and environs now appeared an inferno. Huge flames were shooting up from fires in the town and the noise of gunfire and bursting shells was terrific. 2245 Just after passing Dunkirk, a very heavy explosion, obviously due to a magnetic mine, took place astern, and seemed to lift the ship out of the water. A big column of water was seen to go up round a "small coaster"; when the column subsided, the "coaster" had disappeared. [In fact, it was the yacht Grive which had been blown up by a mine]. 2250 Informed by a "M.T.B." [probably it was M.A/S.B. No. 10 which, with R.A. Dover on board, was directing operations] that the Glen Gower was now in the correct position and was to go inshore and anchor. 2355 Anchored in 4 fathoms off Malo beach, and sent in the ship's boats. From now on the ship was continually under fire from shore guns and howitzers. One cutter became water-logged and had to be cut adrift, and the pinnace was left grounded. The same "M. T. B. " hailed to proceed at 2nd June 0210 0300. its last trip the Gallant's motor cut on boat was hit by shrapnel and was Weighed adrift. and proceeded to Harwich a with 0320 about 500 troops, including Brigadier. embarkation last vessel The had to leave been Glen Malo. Gower very trying: was The the and hearing were almost overwhelmed "Sight by the ruddy glow of the flashes of gunfire, and the shrieking the noise of their explosion they flames, of shells all around, as burst". 379
GODS GENADE 1) (H.75) Belgian trawler 3rd June 0200 Arrived at Dunkirk with the Belgian trawlers De Ruyter (2.25), and patrol boat A.5 and the Belgian Graaf van Vlaanderen (0.92). 3rd June The Gods Genade together with the barge V.P.19, landed at Dover 149 troops. (2) Total 100 Authority - M.3422/40. I (1) vessel "Cods Cenade". name 11.75. It is also shown D.R. in D.R. names a this second time under the (2) D.R. 283
GOLDEN EAGLE (continued) dritter 2nd June 0240 (continued) under Alongside Mole. Only 1 French soldier 0300 could be induced to embark. Ordered to proceed. A blockship 0320 [westcove] entered the harbour. Passed out of Dunkirk harbour. - The Picked up a Service motor launch and a life boat and towed them to the D.B.M. North Goodwin. Seaman Cook R.G.A. Remblance, Total 1,750 Authority - R.O.II.pp.282, 284, 293a. TM. 6213/40. 385
GONDOLIER III M/B (Owner, Pool and Ltd. Swanage Speed boat Co. Did not go to Dunkirk. Authority - T.O. 9436/40. -a2
GONDOLIER III M/B (Owner, Pool and Ltd.) Swanage Speed boat Co. Did not go to Dunkirk. Authority - T.O. 9436/40. a
GONDOLIER KING M/B (Owner, Pool and Ltd.) Swanage Speed boat Co. Appears to have gone to Dunkirk, but no details are available. Authority - T.0.9436/40. 393
GONDOLIER QUEEN M/B (Owner, Pool and Swanage Speed boat Co. Ltd. Appears to have gone to Dunkirk but no details are available. Authority - T.0.9436/40.
GRAAF VAN VLAANDEREN 0200 (0.92) Belgian trawler 3rd June Arrived De patrol at_ boat Dunkirk A.5 with the (H.75). Ruyter ( (2.25) and , and the Gods Belgian Belgian Genaders. The brought troormation ofthe, troormation of the, but back a 0.92's there proceedings is no Authority - M. 3422/40. at set 3
GREATER LONDON R.N.L.I. (Southend) life boat S/Lt. W.D.F. 31st May 0630 Arrived Dover. Claydon, R.N.R. 3rd June p.m. Sailed for Dunkirk. 4th June 0100ca In Dunkirk harbour, whilst the Greater London was ferrying troops to a transport outside the harbour entrance, she was hailed by the Liaison Officer to stand by the M/S Kellett which had run aground by the bows. The Greater London towed the Kellett's stern away from the wall, so that she was able to back out. The Greater London continued ferrying and having loaded up with a final 0205 batch, set off for Ramsgate. 1200 The Greater London landed 48 French troops at Ramsgate. (1) Total 48 Authority - R.O.III, p.275.
GUIDE OF DUNKIRK(1) R.N.L.I. life boat S/Lt. [s/Lt. M/B Iote Amos and had S/Lt. already been to Dunkirk Frinton. 1700 Wallace in M. L/B Orient in the IV] 3rd June S/Lt. and Wallace sailed embarked in the the tug Sun from XV. Ramsgate in V.L/B tow of 2200ca The tow rope parted and fouled the propeller. Signalled many ships but 0400ca could get no reply. S/Lts. Amos and Wallace went over the side and made an unsuccessful attempt to clear the screw with knives. Blankets were then rigged as sails in order to keep the vessel away from the French coast. 1300 Cleared the propeller and set course N.W. for England, having no charts and not knowing the position. 4th June 2000 Contacted No.82 light-ship near Harwich, and the M.L/B's complement of 7, put up in her for the night. 5th June 0800 Left for Sheerness. 1130 Arrived Sheerness. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.391. R.O.III, p.307. Na Date William Lad had just ink she
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HALCYON (N.42) 6th M.S.F. Lt.Cdr. J.M. S. Cox, D.S.C., R.N. Cdr. E. P. Hinton, M.V.O. R.N. 26th May 2015 Arrived Dover in company with the M/S Skipjack. 27th May 1244 Anchored in the Downs. 1530 Weighed and proceeded with the dr. Impulsive, the Skipjack and the Trinity House vessel Patricia to sweep a new channel [afterwards known as "route x"] and to lay U, V, and W buoys. 2225 Anchored off Goodwin Knoll. 28th May 0600 Weighed and returned to 0750 Dover. Cdr. Hinton took over command of the ship from Lt. Cdr. Cox. 1447 Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk. In the Downs, the M/S's Sutton, Skipjack Fitzroy and Salamander joined company. 2115 Arrived off La Panne. Sent s/Lt. Worthington R.N.V.R. in charge of the M/B and 2 whalers to embark troops. 29th May Swell made boat work difficult. 0525 Weighed and proceeded with 192 troops on board. Shortly after, a big and unaccountable explosion occurred just off the bow. 1240 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 192 troops. 1600 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2000ca In the vicinity of Dunkirk, enemy aircraft were engaged, and a deliberate attack on a hospital ship [the Isle of Guernsey was observed. "One wounded man from this ship was picked up out of the water". (1) - On arrival at Dunkirk, out-going destroyers informed Halcyon to keep clear until dark. 30th May 0035ca The M/S Sharpshooter joined company and both ships anchored just to the eastward of the burning wreck of the Crested Eagle, [?the S.S. Clan Macalister].(2) 0330 Weighed and proceeded with 232 troops, leaving the M/B for the destroyers to use. - off Dunkirk, another unexplained explosion occurred in the water. 0820 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 232 troops. (3) 1556 Sailed for Dunkirk, in company with Skipjack and Salamander. (1) This was probably the airman whom the Isle of Guernsey had been attempting to pick up. (2) The Sharpshooter at this time was off La Panne. The Crested Eagle was ashore between Malo and Bray; the Clan Macalister was about 1 mile west of La Panne. (3) D.R. gives 213. 9
2 HALCYON - Continued. 30th May 2100 (contd.) Anchored off Bray. Embarked 422 troops assisted by a large private motor boat [the Ambleve ] the exhausted Naval crew of which were relieved by S/Lts. Vann and Worthington and ratings. After this M/B had broken down, the Skipjack's M/B was borrowed, used for towing whalers, and then handed over to the destroyers. 31st May 0325 Weighed and proceeded. 0830 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 422 troops. 1820 Sailed for Dunkirk. The passage up Dunkirk roads was more difficult than usual owing to the number of new wrecks in the channel, the complete darkness, and the large amount of traffic. A magnetic mine was seen dropping off 12 E buoy, about 1/2 cable from the ship. 1st June 0050 Anchored off La Panne. An intense bombardment was in progress. 0330ca Sent in whalers for troops, who also swam or paddled off in rubber boats. During this operation 30 fighters machine-gunned the ship, the boats and the beach. Lieut. N. Thurston, R.N., was mortally wounded; the 2 whalers were riddled and one rating seriously wounded. Three ratings on board were also wounded. One of our fighters crashed in the sea near the ship and the pilot was rescued. - Orders were received to go alongside Dunkirk pier. This was done during heavy dive-bombing attack. While embarking French troops, about 40 planes dive-bombed the mole and the ship without causing damage. 0840 Sailed for Dover. Shells from shore batteries west of Dunkirk missed astern. 1000ca off W. buoy, attacked by dive-bombers. Four heavy bombs fell between the Halcyon and the P/V Prague. The latter reported she was making water aft; while Halcyon was closing her, about 30 darts were dropped, falling close on either side of the Halcyon. - Having escorted the Prague for a few miles, Halcyon went on ahead as she had 17 serious casualties on board and there were other ships in the vicinity. 1340 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 508 troops. (1) - Delay in ammunitioning ship. Reverted (1) to 21/2 hours notice. (1) D.R. gives a second disembarkation, of 243, on lst June, which 1s evidently an error. 10
HALCYONE( 1) Fast M/B This boat was based on Ramsgate. The W.D/M.L. Haig reports that while she was escorting the damaged dr. Ivanhoe on lst June off the North Foreland, the Halcyone closed her and was ordered to Margate to get doctors for the wounded in the Ivanhoe. The Halcyone took 58 troops from the destroyer and landed them at Margate at 1740 on lst June. (2) There is no evidence that the Halcyone went to Dunkirk. Total 58. Authority - R.O.II, p.121. (1) Not mentioned in D.R's list of ships. (2) Margate report, which refers to the "Halcyon". 12
HANORA M/B (Owner, s/Lt. C. Minchin, R.N. C.E. Thompson) 29th May 0600 Sailed from Dover in company with the M/Y's Viewfinder, Advance, Bobeli and Elizabeth Green. Also in company was a sixth yacht, which, however, turned back. 0700 The flotilla of 5 yachts was joined by the M/B Reda. 1500 All six vessels arrived off La Panne S/Lt. Minchin who had arrived at La Panne in the M/S Lydd, and had ferried in the Lydd's M/B until she broke down, thentook over the Hanora, and towed small craft to off-lying ships. 1900ca The Hanora fouled her propeller, and was abandoned. Her crew transferred to the Elizabeth Green and thence 1250 to the Lydd. The Hanora did not return from Dunkirk. Off fire Hieuport. Smoke made to cover the approach of a Division of French destroyers then Authority - R.O.II, p.569. coming down the channel. TO. 9436. rived Dover. Disembarked 600 troops. 30th MAY 0500 sailed for Obserness, in company the drs, Javelin, Ivanhoe, Introvid, Icarge and Havent. 0836 Arrived Sheerness, 1651 Sailed in company with Ivanhoe, Icaros and Impulsive. 2005 Detached with Carus to go to Le Penne, 21000a Anchored and storted embarkation. Ambarkation very slow. 2132 Signalled for extra boats to assist. 2210 Icarus reported enemy U.T.B's. 2306 Torpedo passed down the port side missing the storn by about 5 yards. 2316 Another torpedo passed even less distance shead. Hydrophone effect heard on the searned bearing. 31st May 0426 Ordered to Dunkirk. 0635 Becored to Dunkirk pier, Filled up with troops. 0655 Sailed. 0930 Arrived Dover, Disembarked 207 troops 1124 Bailed. 1400 Aprived punkirk. The motor boat took letters from Toarus (for Lord Gort) to H.Q. Proceeded alongside a transport 4) and embarked troops. (1) Mackey says the time was 0005 on 29th May. (2) B/Lt. Croswell says that Lord Gort name to La Panne besch on 30th May and ordered the pier to be built. Built the direction of Col. Porter, it was ready for Use by 1400 the going day. (3) 8/1/20 Croswel remained on La Panne batch until 1830/31st Noy, when be embarked in the M/Y Thele, which entled for Pasagate at 0325 on 1st June. (4) Rot 1dentified. 15
HARVESTER (H.19) 9th Destroyer Flotilla Lt. Cdr. M.Thornton, R.N. 28th May 2035 Sailed from Dover via Y route, dr. Mackay in company. 2330(1) Mackay grounded west of Zuydcoote Pass. 29th May 0050 Off Braye-Dunes. Sent the M/B inshore 1/c of S/Lt. E.C. Croswell, R.N.; he reported troops on the beach. All boats sent in and embarkation 7 began; it was very slow at first, but improved considerably when, at about 0500, Harvester had moved to La Panne, it was possible to get troops from a grounded "paddle- steamer" [the P.M/S Oriole] 0500ca S/Lt. Croswell was landed with a small beach party with instructions to ask the Army to make a pier. (2) 1250 The Harvester proceeded with 600 on board, S/Lt. Croswell and 2 ratings being left behind. (3) - Off Middelkerke buoy a shore gun opened fire from Nieuport. Smoke was made to cover the approach of a Division of French destroyers then coming down the channel. 1540 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 600 troops. 30th May 0500 Sailed for Sheerness, in company the drs. Javelin, Ivanhoe, Intrepid, Icarus and Havant. 0836 Arrived Sheerness. 1651 Sailed in company with Ivanhoe, Icarus and Impulsive. 2005 Detached with Icarus to go to La Panne. 2100ca Anchored and started embarkation. Embarkation very slow. 2132 Signalled for extra boats to assist. 2210 Icarus reported enemy M.T.B's. 2306 Torpedo passed down the port side missing the stern by about 5 yards. 2316 Another torpedo passed even less distance ahead. Hydrophone effect heard on the seaward bearing. 31st May 0426 Ordered to Dunkirk. 0635 Secured to Dunkirk pier. Filled up with troops. 0655 Sailed. 0930 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,207 troops 1124 Sailed. 1400 Arrived Dunkirk. The motor boat took letters from Icarus (for Lord Gort) to H.Q. Proceeded alongside a transport and embarked troops. (1) Mackay says the time was 0005 on 29th May. (2) S/Lt. Croswell says that Lord Gort came to La Panne beach on 30th May and ordered the pier to be built. Built under the direction of Col. Porter, it was ready for use by 1400 the same day. (3) S/Lt. Croswe 11 remained on La Panne beach until 1830/31st May, when he embarked in the M/Y Thele, which sailed for Ramsgate at 0325 on 1st June. (4) Not identified. 16
HAZARD M/B (Owner, Crescent Trade Facilities Ltd.) lst June Left Southend. 1130 Disabled, the Hazard arrived at Ramsgate in tow of the M/B Sea Hawk There is no evidence that the Hazard went over to Dunkirk. She was, however, lost, having "broken from tow" [probably when returning to her home station]. 0350 by 100 troope had been Authority TO.9144/40. number of stretcher then proceeded. 1010 Dover, Disembarked 550 troope.(1) 1410, Procesded for La Panne by route Y. 1840 ore whistle Buoy, Heavy dive bombing raid in progress, Hebe attacked by 1900 3 Heinkele. After the attack, picked up a wounded R.A.F. officer, and proceeded into Dunkirk harbour, where Capt. E.W. Buch, D.B.C., R.H. who had been acting as S.N.O. (afloat), was embarked.(2) 2115 Embarked survivors from a troop ship [the Crested Bagle, a wooden ship which had eaught fire] which had been sunk in the raid at 1900. There were several severe casualties suffering from burne. (See M.T.B.68) 2230 Arrived at La Panne, under the orders of Capt. Bush. 30th May 0045 Received a signal from the are Sex to send a boat for the Red. Dover [Rear-Admire] U.P. Wake-Walker 0.8.5. and staff. 0100 staff embarked in Hobel [Capt. Bush then made B general situation report to R.A. Dover, who had been appointed B.N.O. (afloat)]. Troops unbarked from boats between La Panno and Bray, 1000 Proceeded alonguide at Dunkirk and filled to consecty. [The R.A. Dover landed, to see the @.N.O. Dunkirk Capt. 0. Tennant, R.N.), but he use away on 4A visit to Co.nt as LA Pannel. The Haba laft under the orders Off aray, R.A. Dover. the R.A. Dover and his staff tronsferred to the are Windsor(b) (1) D.R. This 1a considered excessive and is probably a mincript for 150. (2) D.R. states that Captain Bush was sent to Hebe as "S.N.O. afloct off the besches". (3) R.A. nover gives the time 0.0 0200. Generally speaking, Heba's times differ from those of ReAs Dover by about 45 minutes. R.A. Dover states, however, that such of his report had to be completed from memory. (4) The Rebe's report incorrectly states that R.A. Dover to the 21 Keith at 1515.
HEBE (N.24) lst M.S.F. Lt.Cdr. J.B. G.Temple, R.N. 28th May 1723 Arrived Dover. 1830 Ordered to raise steam and proceed to La panne, using route Y. - Experienced difficulty in finding the Whistle Buoy marking the channel off Braye-Dunes. Having eventually 29th May 0110 found the buoy, the Hebe anchored off La panne. [on passing the Whistle Buoy, a heavy explosion occurred about 1/4 mile to the eastward Using ship's boats, embarked troops 0350 until dawn, by which time about 100 troops had been embarked, 'including a number of stretcher cases. Hebe then proceeded. 1010 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 550 troops. (1) 1410 Proceeded for La Panne by route Y. 1840 off Whistle Buoy. Heavy dive bombing raid in progress. Hebe attacked by 1900 3 Heinkels. After the attack, picked up a wounded R.A.F. officer, and proceeded into Dunkirk harbour, where Capt. E.W. Bush, D.S.C., R.N. who had been acting as S.N.O. (afloat), was embarked. (2) 2115 Embarked survivors from a troop ship [the Crested Eagle, a wooden ship which had caught fire] which had been sunk in the raid at 1900. There were several severe casualties suffering from burns. (See M.T.B.68) 2230 Arrived at La Panne, under the orders of Capt. Bush. 30th May 0045 Received a signal from the dr. Esk to send a boat for the R.A. Dover [Rear-Admiral W.F. Wake-Walker O.B.E.] and staff. 0100 R.A. Dover and staff embarked in Hebe( [Capt. Bush then made a general situation report to R.A. Dover, who had been appointed S.N.O. (afloat) - Troops embarked from boats between La Panne and Bray. 1000 Proceeded alongside at Dunkirk and filled to capacity. [The R.A. Dover landed, to see the S.N.O. Dunkirk (Capt. W.G. Tennant, M.V.O., R.N.), but he was away on a visit to Lord Gort at La Panne]. The Hebe left Dunkirk under the orders of R.A. Dover. 1530 off Bray, the R.A. Dover and his staff transferred to the dr. Windsor( 4) (1) D.R. This 1a considered excessive and is probably a miscript for 150. (2) D.R. states that Captain Bush was sent to Hebe as "S.N.O. afloat off the beaches". (3) R.A. Dover gives the time as 0200. Generally speaking, Hebe's times differ from those of R.A. Dover by about 45 minutes. R.A. Dover states, however, that much of his report had to be completed from memory. (4) The Hebe's report incorrectly states that R.A. Dover transferred to the dr. Keith at 1515.
3 HEBE (continued) Lieut. A,H, Rowlandson, R.H. Glout. R.A.B. Powell, R.Ne 1st June 0420 Proceeded to Dover by X route. (contd). 0830 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 420 troops.(1) 25th May Commissioned at Porten Total 1,140ca 27th May Bailed for Dunkirk and the beaches, "in company with the rest of the group". Authority - R.O.I, p.274. ved off Dunkirk. Approached the twice but found no troops. R.O.III, p.374. alongside Dunkirk east pier and embarked all the troops that were there. Sailed for Dover with about 150 on The following awards were made: sced 150 troops at Dover. (2) D.S.C. 2000 Sailed from Dover by the Calais route. Lt. Cdr. J.B.G. Temple, R.N. 30th May orr Dunkirk, encountered the ek. Sursum-Cords which was lowering a D.S.M. boat near a wreck; a man's voice C.P.O. S.F. Piggott. WBS heard. A M/S arrived, and the Hobe II continued on her course. Passed Dunkirk harbour entrance; the Mention in Despatches. jetties and piers' were deserted. E.R.A.3rd Cl. H.B. Biles. Beached the ship near a large body of British troops. Lowered the only boat and a carley float, and commenced embarkation. "Approsched the beach, and, bows to the shore, enabled men to wade out and climb on board". When about 300 were on board, ferried them to a destroyer. 0430 Repeated the operation, taking the troops to the M/S Fiteroy. No other large ships were lying off Dunkirk. The Sk. Friso was embarking troops and the Sursum-Corde was aground close inshore. Attempted to tow the latter orf, but was driven aground and remained 80 until 1830. 1830 Refloated, loaded about 250 troops and proceeded towards La Penne to transfer them to a destroyer. Resourd men from the water, embarked men from boats and pontoons and transferred them to a destroyer. 2300 Sailed for Dover with about 250 on board. 31st May 1100ea Arrived Dover, Disembarked 365 troops.(3) Sailed for Ramagate, the Friso in company. 2nd June Bailed to Dover, with 249 German prisoners on board. 1600 Arrived Dover. (1) Corred to in D.R. B.B. "Hebe". mentioned in D.R. (3) D.P. dates this disembarkstion 1st Jone, 24
HEBE II(1) Skoot Lieut. A.H. Rowlandson, R.N. Lieut. P.A.B. Powell, R.N. 24th May The ship was taken over by a naval crew. 25th May Commissioned at Portsmouth. 27th May Sailed for Dunkirk and the beaches, "in company with the rest of the group". 28th May 0030ca Arrived off Dunkirk. Approached the beach twice but found no troops. Went alongside Dunkirk east pier and embarked all the troops that were there. Sailed for Dover with about 150 on board. - Disembarked 150 troops at Dover. (2) 29th May 2000 Sailed from Dover by the Calais route. 30th May - Off Dunkirk, encountered the sk. Sursum-Corda which was lowering a boat near a wreck; a man's voice was heard. A M/S arrived, and the Hebe II continued on her course. - Passed Dunkirk harbour entrance; the jetties and piers' were deserted. Beached the ship near a large body of British troops. Lowered the only boat and a carley float, and commenced embarkation. "Approached the beach, and, bows to the shore, enabled men to wade out and climb on board". When about 300 were on board, ferried them to a destroyer. 0430 Repeated the operation, taking the troops to the M/S Fitzroy. No other large ships were lying off Dunkirk. The Sk. Friso was embarking troops and the Sursum-Corda was aground close inshore. Attempted to tow the latter off, but was driven aground and remained so until 1830. 1830 Refloated, loaded about 250 troops and proceeded towards La Panne to transfer them to a destroyer. - Rescued men from the water, embarked men from boats and pontoons and transferred them to a destroyer. 2300 Sailed for Dover with about 250 on board. 31st May 1100ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 365 troops. (3) - Sailed for Ramagate, the Friso in company. 2nd June Sailed to Dover, with 249 German prisoners on board. 1600 Arrived Dover. (1) Referred to in D.R. as "Hebe". (2) Not mentioned in D.R. (3) D.R. dates this disembarkation 1st June. 25
High Speed Launch 120 R.A.F. Stn. Calshot R.N. Lieut. lide Berry, R.N.V. R., let See under "Seaplane Tenders". Lieut. 26th May 1000 The ship commissioned at Tilbury, 27th May 0500 Sailed for Southend and thence to Sheerness for stores. 1800 Proceeded to Southend for route instructions. 2030ca Left Southend in company with the 8%. Doggersbank. Anchored at dusk. 28th May 0400 Proceeded "by the medium length route" probably route 2]- 1200ca Arrived Dunkirk and went alongside. Ordered to the beaches. Proceeded to Bray-Dunes and went close inshore where there was a large concentration of troops. The troops waded out "on masse", and very soon surrounded the ship. They overcrowded the ladders, which ware too steep for them to climb unaided, and got into difficulties by getting out of their depth. Had great difficulty in getting the exhausted and water-logged soldiers on board. 1900 Transferred the 500 troops on board to 8. destroyer, and went in again. Embarked about 100 troops by the ship's boat. 2000ca The Hilds grounded and could not get off. 29th May 0130 400 troops waded off and embarked (there was than only about 2 feet or water round the ship). 0400cm The ship refloated and the troops were transferred to a destroyer [probably the Rsk]. - Embarked 6. forther 100 troops, including some very severe casualties and transferred them to a destroyer. - Proceeded to La Panne and was ordered by the dr. Keith to transfer troops from a grounded 2/8 to the destroyers, This proved to be impossible, 00 the Hilda enchored and used the ship's bonts. p.m. Embarkation continued all the afternoon. The dinghy, holed by bomb splinters was abandoned. 1900 With 600 troops on board, haved eastward in search or & destroyers The only ones visible were moste distance away, and were being heavily hombed. Two were seen to be hit. (1) Sailed for Dover by Y route. 30th kay 0800ca Arrived Dover. Disembarred 305 troone.(2) 01% a/Lieute. R.N.R. and 25 ratings joined for boats' GIVING. (1) Bo destroyers were hit at this time. Probably they appeared to be hits (2) D.R. 30
HILDA Skoot Lieut. A. Gray, R.N. Lieut. H.J. Berry, R.N.V.R., lst Lieut. 26th May 1000 The ship commissioned at Tilbury. 27th May 0500 Sailed for Southend and thence to Sheerness for stores. 1800 Proceeded to Southend for route instructions. 2030ca Left Southend in company with the Sk. Doggersbank. Anchored at dusk. 28th May 0400 Proceeded "by the medium length route" [probably route z]. 1200ca Arrived Dunkirk and went alongside. Ordered to the beaches. Proceeded to Bray-Dunes and went close inshore where there was a large concentration of troops. The troops waded out "en masse", and very soon surrounded the ship. They overcrowded the ladders, which were too steep for them to climb unaided, and got into difficulties by getting out of their depth. Had great difficulty in getting the exhausted and water-logged soldiers on board. 1900 Transferred the 500 troops on board to a destroyer, and went in again. Embarked about 100 troops by the ship's boat. 2000ca The Hilda grounded and could not get off. 29th May 0130 400 troops waded off and embarked (there was then only about 2 feet of water round the ship). 0400ca The ship refloated and the troops were transferred to a destroyer [probably the Esk]. - Embarked a further 100 troops, including some very severe casualties and transferred them to a destroyer. - Proceeded to La Panne and was ordered by the dr. Keith to transfer troops from a grounded P/S to the destroyers. This proved to be impossible, BO the Hilda anchored and used the ship's boats. p.m. Embarkation continued all the afternoon. The dinghy, holed by bomb splinters was abandoned. 1900 With 600 troops on board, moved eastward in search of a destroyer. The only ones visible were some distance away, and were being heavily bombed. Two were seen to be hit. (1) Sailed for Dover by Y route. 30th May 0800ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 305 troops. (2) Six Lieuts. R.N.R. and 25 ratings joined for boats' crews. (1) No destroyers were hit at this time. Probably they appeared to be hit. (2) D.R. 31
HILDA - Continued 31st May 0600 Six volunteer motor boat drivers joined. Lieut. Beery, suffering from exhaustion, was discharged ashore, sick. The Hilda sailed for Deal. 0830 Arrived Deal. The ship was placed under the orders of Captain R. Pim, R.N.V.R. - Sailed for Dunkirk, towing six M/B's [ the Britannic, the Rose Marie, the Lady Haig, the Moss Rose, the Golden Spray II and the Gipsy King] (1) and two life boats [ex the Belgian steamer Flandres (1). 1600ca Arrived La Panne. Lay off for 30 minutes until the enemy shore guns ceased shelling. 1630ca Closed the beach slightly and Capt. Pim went ashore to organise the embarkation. 2030 Having embarked 600 troops, they were transferred to the dr. Scimitar. Returned to the beach and embarked 100 troops. Capt. Pim re-embarked and the Hilda shifted to the westward. 1st June 0400ca Closed the beach and embarked about 100 stragglers from the main body of troops marching on Dunkirk. 0800ca Closed the dr. Keith, which was flying the flag of Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker. Captain Pim reported the situation and was ordered to close the beaches east of Dunkirk and if there were no troops to proceed to England. 0820ca Shortly after, the Keith was repeatedly attacked by strong formations of bombers, put out of action and abandoned. During this period, the Hilda remained under way, zig- zagging (as apart from the Keith and the M/S Skipjack, there was little else for the A/C to attack). The Hilda at once proceeded to rescue Keith's survivors, and assisted by M/B's, recovered a large number, including 2 British brigadiers and a French general. (2) While so engaged, 0849 aircraft re-appeared and sank the Skipjack half a mile distant. Hilda then proceeded to pick up all Skipjack's survivors( except about 12, which were recovered by a tug [the St. Abbs]. 1100ca Sailed for England with more than a full load of troops. 1130ca Passed Dunkirk breakwater. Shortly after passing 6 W buoy, was overtaken and passed by the P/V Scotia and a paddle steamer [the P.M/S Brighton Queen] laden with troops. When these 2 ships were about 1 mile ahead, dive bombers appeared and sank them very rapidly. The Hilda proceed to the spot and (1) George Hammond & Co. Lloyd's Agency, Deal. (2) Capt. Pim says "some 50, including the Q.M.G. of the B.E.F. and other Staff Officers". (3) Capt. Pim says "some 60 or 70". 32
3 HILDA Continued 1st June 1130ca picked up a few survivors. When (contd.) (contd.) other ships arrived, she continued her course to Ramsgate. 1730ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 530.(1) 1930 Sailed for Dover. 2200 Arrived Dover but was not allowed to enter harbour. Anchored off the south breakwater. 2nd June 0030ca A magnetic mine dropped close astern. Reported its position and shifted berth. 0800 Sailed for Deal to disembark Capt. Pim. - Sailed for Ramsgate. 1900 Embarked Sea Cadet Lieut. H. Sidmouth- Willing as 1st Lieutenant, [ex. tug Sun IV] and sailed for Dunkirk with 2 boats in tow. 3rd June 0130ca Arrived off Dunkirk and sent the boats inshore under the command of the 1st Lieut. 0330 Closed the Sk. Rika and there found one of Hilda's boats. Cdre. Taylor closed the ship in his launch [the White wing], confirmed that there were no troops on the beach and ordered the Hilda to return to Ramsgate. The Cdre. subsequently picked up Hilda's other boat and 1st Lieut. 0900ca The Hilda arrived Ramsgate. Total 835. Authority - R.O.II, p.63. The following awards were made: D.S.O. Lieut. A. Gray, R.N. D.S.C. Sea Cadet Lieut. H. Sidmouth-Willing. Bar to D.S.M. Actg. P.O. L.C. Curd. D.S.M. A.B. G.L.E. Godfrey. (1) D.R. 33
HILFRANOR M/B (F. Parham) S/Lt. C. Minchin, R.N. When his M/B Hanora broke down at Dunkirk on 29th larly May (see Viewfinder) S/Lt. Minchin returned to attack Margate in the M/S Lydd on 30th May 3rd June Against orders S/Lt. Minchin tried to go over to Dunkirk in the Hilfranor but she broke down. May In the the This M/B took no effective part in Dynamo. been torpedoed and BUNK by an M.T.B., at about 0230 the motor drifter Comfort had been remmed and annic by the u/s Lydd, and at about 0430, the dr. Grafton Authority - R.O.II, p.391. been Bunk by gunfire by the dr. Ivanhoe after having been torpedoed by an M.T.B. - shouts were heard from the water. The Hird lowered & boat which was manned by volunteers and picked up survivors. 0515ca Among the survivors, the Hird's boat picked up Cdr. H.L. Fisher R.N., Captain of the Wukeful. The Hird proceeded - to which British port 18 not stated - but Cdr. Fisher sent in a report from Chathsm, dated 30th May, of the circumstances attending the Wakeful's loas. Total 3500(2) Authority - H. and A. 8/42. M. 017681/40. The awards were made: Home O.B.E. (civil) Captain A.M. Prodhjem. B.S.M. (civil) A.B. И.И. Ree. stude J. hikkelson. Posthumous Commentation Mr. K. Jonessen, 3rd Officer. Corpenter N.I. Lode. Commendation Mr. X.X. Bloodje, Chief Eng. We To Baba, 2nd Officer. (1) 4950 gross tons. Owned by Jacobsen and Salvenen. Port of - Oglo. Bot mentioned in D.R. (2) Hot mentioned in D.R. information this and RL 1980, in 34
HIRD Norwegian S.S(1) Captain A.M. Fredhjem. During this ship's stay at Dunkirk, particularly from 18th to 28th May she was exposed to attack night and day. 28th May 2400ca The Hird escaped from Dunkirk with 3,500 troops on board. 29th May 0430ca In the vicinity of the Kwinte Whistle buoy where at about 0045, the dr. Wakeful had been torpedoed and sunk by an M.T.B., at about 0230 the motor drifter Comfort had been rammed and sunk by the M/S Lydd, and at about 0430, the dr. Grafton had been sunk by gunfire by the dr. Ivanhoe after having been torpedoed by an M.T.B. - shouts were heard from the water. The Hird lowered a boat which was manned by volunteers and picked up survivors. 0515ca Among the survivors, the Hird's boat picked up Cdr. R.L. Fisher R.N., Captain of the Wakeful. The Hird proceeded - to which British port is not stated - but Cdr. to weal staint cherboarg Fisher sent in a report from Chatham, disembarked CM. tisher dated 30th May, of the circumstances Of Dover. attending the Wakeful's loss. Total 3500(2) Authority - H. and A. 8/42. M. 017681/40. The following awards were made: Hon. O.B.E. (Civil) Captain A.M. Fredhjem. B.E.M. (Civil) A.B. H.H. Ree. Stwd. J. Mikkelsen. Posthumous Commendation Mr. K. Jonassen, 3rd Officer. Carpenter N.I. Lode. Commendation. Mr. K.E. Skodje, Chief Eng. Mr. T. Saba, 2nd Officer. (1) 4950 gross tons. Owned by Jacobsen and Salvesen. Port of origin - Oslo. Not mentioned in D.R. (2) Not mentioned in D.R. "Yop further imprimation about this ressel see consepandence with S.V. hour and RA RL Fisher 1980, in D /NHB/3/9/7 35
HOUND M/V (Pickford's Ltd.) H.W. Knight, Captain. C.A.Hocking, Engineer. C.H.Lockyer, Mate. 29th May p.m. Left Cowes for Portsmouth. 2200ca Portsmouth. A Sub-Lieut. was put in command. 30th May 0100ca Left Portsmouth. 2200 Arrived at a S.E. coast port. 31st May 0400ca Arrived at another S.E. coast port [Ramsgate?]. 1100ca Sailed for Dunkirk. Air attack 10 miles from Dunkirk. 1800ca Arrived Dunkirk. Anchored about 200 yards from the shore. 1815ca Embarked 6 troops with aid of a small boat. - Embarked 6 troops, using a ship-to- shore rope. - Shifted to a pier of lorries. Using a naval float, embarked about 500 troops. Continued embarkation. 2215ca Left Dunkirk with approx. 100 troops on board. 1st June 0600 Arrived Ramsgate. 1000ca Disembarked 98 French troops. (1) During next 3 days received orders 3 times to proceed to Dunkirk, but each time they were cancelled. Total 98 Authority - Pickford's Ltd. (1) Ramsgate report, not mentioned in D.R. /13
HOWSON. Captain J.M., R.N. (N.O.I.C. beaches) Report by 29th May At 1600 an additional beach party of 7 officers [among them Cdr. H.G. Gorton, R.N. and Cdr. R.J.O. Otway-Ruthven, R.N. under Captain J.M. Howson, R.N. was sailed from Dover in the dr. Sabre for Dunkirk. [Captain E.W. Bush, D.S.C., R.N., who had already visited Dunkirk, also took passage in the Sabre, to act as S.N.O. Afloat off the beaches, in the M/8 Hebel. "on leaving Dover", says Capt. Howson, "the intention had been that ..... my officers should work on the beaches in two batches either side of Bray, and that I should either double- bank the S.N.O. [Capt. Tennant, R.N., S.N.O. Dunkirk] or alternatively, work on the beaches, with H.Q. at or near Bray, the whole being subject to S.N.O.'s [capt. Tennant's] wishes on arrival". On the party's arrival at Dunkirk, Capt. Tennant was found to be away on a visit to Lord Gort at La Panne, and Capt. Howson was not able to confer with him until 2300/29. On his return to Dunkirk Capt. Tennant decided that he did not wish to be double-banked. At about 2330 Capt. Howson therefore divided his force into 2 parties; one party under Cdr. Gorton, proceeded along the beach to work east of Bray, the other, under Cdr. Otway-Ruthven proceeded to Bray. Capt. Howson went with the latter party. 30th May About 0100, a boat from the M/S Medway Queen, which was anchored off, was hailed. A second pulling boat and later a power boat also appeared. Troops in the vicinity were hailed and some 700-750 were sent off by early morning. Later, the Sp. S/V Crested Eagle was passed, high and dry, and still burning after being bombed. on approaching Bray, at about 0300, Capt. Howson saw 4 or 5 destroyers and minesweepers, and some skoots off shore; men were embarking in the few odd boats that were available. Several boats were ashore, holed, or without oars. Capt. Howson made contact with Corps H.Q. in a house at Bray at about 0600 and met Cdr. Gorton. He also met some naval officers [probably the beach party working under Cdre. T.H. Hallett, C.B., C.B.E., R.N.] who had been working on the beach before his arrival [1.e. since 2330, 29th May]. It was then about 0800, and Capt. Howson proceeded by motor cycle to La Panne where he met Care. J.S. Dove, O.B.E., R.N., who took him to see the Q.M.G. with whom he discussed the situation. Having learnt of R.A. Dover's presence in a ship lying off [the M/S Hebe], Capt. Howson signalled to him the urgent need of boat keepers. Throughout this day, says Capt. Howson, vast bodies of French troops covered the beaches and dunes on their westward march to Malo; fortunately the visibility was poor. "More and more British troops continued to arrive, but there were practically no ships for them to embark in and only a few boats and pontoon craft and perhaps a couple of power boats. An A.L.C. A.L.C.5 operating off La 44
I HOWSON. Captain J.M., R.N. (continued) 30th May Panne appeared to be invaluable". Captain (contd.) Howson returned to Bray from La Panne, and then went to Dunkirk to meet the S.N.O. [En route, he noticed the water boat Claude high and dry, 3 miles west of Bray; on his return to Bray later, he informed the military authorities of this, because water was then a most urgent need for the troops.] S.N.O. Dunkirk told Capt. Howson that about 12/13 thousand had been evacuated from Dunkirk the previous night. Capt. Howson, for his part, estimated that about 6/7 thousand had been embarked from the beaches - and stressed that ships and boats were urgently wanted, especially small power boats. Great numbers of British troops were now at, and just east of Dunkirk, and many French troops were at and near Malo. During this day the R.E's assisted by 1st Division, constructed a long pier of lorries and planks off Bray; it was invaluable, later, for small craft to lie alongside, except in a lop, when they were liable to hole themselves. It was, however, insufficiently stable for larger ships to secure to. Apart from a skoot or two, no ships had arrived off the beaches during the forenoon, but some paddlers and a yacht or two anchored west of Bray in the afternoon. Later, 2 or 3 destroyers and sloops passed eastward to La Panne; because the 1st Division had been waiting in vainfor ships and boats, Capt. Howson tried to signal these passing ships to anchor east of the lorry pier, but the improvised signalling apparatus was ineffective. [Capt. Howson here states that he did not learn till some days later that all ships from Dover had been given specific instructions as to their destination]. Later in the evening, Capt. Howson passed a message to R.A. Dover asking for a ship to be anchored east of the pier. Meanwhile, many of the lst Division troops had set off for Dunkirk. Whilst watching the embarkation at Bray, it was noticed that, time after time, boats which had taken troops to ships were subsequently cast adrift without boat keepers. It was therefore evident that power boats were required to organise the collection, and towage back to the beaches, of these drifting craft. Capt. Howson decided to go to La Panne that night and obtain R.A. Dover's approval for this to be done. During the night it was learnt that the enemy were closing in and that the final evacuation would probably take place the following day - or night at latest. Capt. Howson left Bray for La Panne at about 2000, and an hour later embarked in R.A. Dover's "flagship", at that time the dr. Worcester. R.A. Dover [who had been visiting Lord Gort at La Panne] returned to the Worcester at 2200 and approved Capt. Howson's proposal that - in spite of him being N.O.I.C. beaches - he should go afloat the next day and direct the small boat traffic off the beaches. 45
HOWSON. Captain J.M., R.N. (continued) 31st May R.A. Dover, his staff, and Capt. Howson transferred to the dr. Express at about 0130; and Captain Howson transferred to the tr. Olvina off Bray at 0300; later, still off Bray, he transferred to the dr. Scimitar's M/B. The 9 yachts of the Portsmouth Inner Patrol arrived at 0610(1) and Capt. Howson transferred to the Inner Patrol Yacht Ankh, and used her as his H.Q. for the remainder of the day. During the forenoon there were ample ships for embarkation but a lop had developed which seriously hampered heavily laden boats. With the falling tide a considerable number of boats grounded and remained ashore till the afternoon, but thanks to the organisation of boat keepers, few were left to drift. At La Panne, there appears to have been a great shortage of boats and power boats, but at Bray there was a great improvement on the previous day. At noon the lop subsided. The G/B Mosquito anchored close to Bray pier, and embarkation accelerated rapidly. An enemy gun beyond La Panne opened up on the Mosquito and other craft, forcing them to withdraw to the westward. Some 30 enemy bombers escorted by many fighters appeared at 1930. Most of them went on to bomb Dunkirk; the remainder bombed the Mosquito and other craft in the vicinity. The Ankh was damaged by a near miss and started making water forward and through the stern glands Being of the opinion that the Ankh was unlikely to stand up to further "rough treatment", Capt. Howson decided at about 2000 to return to Dover, and ordered the yacht Amulree to keep company. Being some 2 or 3 miles to seaward, in the failing light, Ankh was unable to pass a message to R.A. Dover's flagship [at this time the dr. Keith]. Shortly after, the Inner Patrol yachts Caryanda and Eilla II 2) closed the Ankh; the former reported that she needed fuel, the latter that she was leaking, had slipped her astern gear, and also needed lubricating oil. As the fuel drifters Lord Keith and Lord Collingwood, which had been promised, had not turned up, the Caryanda was ordered to Dover to refuel. The Eilla II was ordered to close destroyers inshore, if she had fuel; in the event, she too proceeded to Dover. 1st June At 0145, the escorting yacht Amulree was rammed by the dr. Vimy in the Downs and sunk; her crew were picked up. The Ankh, which had kept down the water by baling arrived at Dover at 0815. Capt. Howson reported to V.A. Dover's office and requested to return to the beaches; he was however in an extremely fatigued condition and had completely lost his voice. (1) Capt. Howson says there were 10 or 12 yachts, and that he directed half of them to work off Bray and half off La Panne. Actually, 3 of the I.P. yachts worked off La Panne and six (2) Referred to by Capt. Howson as the "Isla II". off Bray. 46
| 0700 | Arrived ore only boat was power boat in the alongaide [1t vas Towing outter whaler, the small Rutchine in work under difficult between 0800 and about 450 troops |
IMPULSIVE 20th Destroyer Flotilla Lt. Cdr. W.S. Thomas, R.N. 27th May 0840 Arrived Dover from Immi ngham. 1140 Sailed with the M/S's Skipjack and Halcyon and the Trinity House Vessel Patricia to establish and buoy the searched channel from the North Goodwin L.V. to Dunkirk, afterwards known as Route X. 1919 This operation was completed. 2200 Impulsive anchored in the Downs. 2228 Sailed for the beaches east of Dunkirk, using route Y. 28th May 0345 Arrived off La Panne. Both power boats being broken down, sent two whalers into the beach to embark troops; then ferried troops to large M/B's lying further off shore. 0520 Impulsive ordered by the cr. Calcutta to Dunkirk east pier. 0620 Secured alongside east pier and embarked about 750 troops. - Proceeded, using route Y. 1110 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 675 troops. 1235 Sailed for Dunkirk using route Y. - Off Kwinte Bank buoy, bombed by 6 Heinkels; 6 ratings wounded, B gun put out of action, D.G. coil punctured - Set course for Dunkirk in company with drs. Greyhound and Verity which had arrived from eastward. Anchored off Dunkirk, and waited for a vacant berth, there being 4 destroyers Worcester, Anthony, Grenade and Jaguar alongside. 1730 Grenade sailed and Impulsive took her place. Embarked about 1,000 troops. 1900ca Sailed with Jaguar in company, by route Y. 29th May 0100 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 779 troops. 0500 Sailed for Sheerness, in company the 30th May drs. Javelin, Intrepid, Ivanhoe, Icarus, Havant and Harvester. 0900 Arrived Sheerness. 1600 Sailed for Dunkirk using route x, under orders of Ivanhoe in company the Icarus and Harvester. 2100ca Secured alongside Dunkirk east pier and embarked 1,300 troops. - Proceeded by route X. 2400 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,112 troops. (1) 0400 Sailed for Dunkirk beach by X. route. 31st May 0700 Arrived off Malo-les-Bains. Impulsive's only boat was a whaler. The only alongside [it was the Swallow]. power boat in the vicinity came whaler, the Swallow, with Lt. Col. Towing cutter and Impulsive's Hutchins in charge, "did magnificent and between 0800 and 1315 had transferred to work under difficult conditions, about 450 troops from the beach the ship". (1) date as 31st May.
JANE HANNAH (L.N.98) M.F.V. (Owner, B. Chase) Harbour duties at Ramsgate on 4th June. 2nd June 160 [see under Eastern District Fishing Fleet]. Ryn.II. [1.0, the Bun x](1) Cest off outside Dunkirk. Readued two French sailors in the herbour and took them to a destroyer. Authority - T0.9436. went right up harbour. French troops T0.9144. refused to embark. 3rd June 0330ca Rejoined the tog outside harbour. Ordered to collect beach masters from B and C beaches. They had however, left. Returned to Dunkirk. Found all ships had gone. 04300a Proceeded. Engine broke down. 0500ca Taken in tow by a M/B. Engines re-sterted, cust off. After about is miles the engine caught fire. A "O.M.B." [evidently the M.A/S.B. 7 dame to the reacue. Crew transferred. Life boat in flames and abandoned. M.A/S.B.7 appears to have taken the crew to Dover). 6th June The Jane Hollard yes found drifting OR the English Channel. Her fore-and box was store in; she had over 500 bullet holes in her, and WAS full of water. She vus brought in to Dover. Authority - R.O.II, D.245. R.O.III, D*529. (1) It is probable that the Jane Holland was towed over on End June by the Bun XI together with the life boat Michael Stephene. 78
JANE HOLLAND R.N.L.I. Sto. J. Strangeways. (Eastbourne) Sto. A.H. Shaw. lifeboat. S/Lt. E.R. Ponsonby, R.N.V.R. 2nd June 1600 Left for Dunkirk in tow of the tug Sun II. [1.e. the Sun XI ](1) - Cast off outside Dunkirk. Rescued two French sailors in the harbour and took them to a destroyer. Went right up harbour. French troops refused to embark. 3rd June 0330ca Rejoined the tug outside harbour. Ordered to collect beach masters from B and C beaches. They had however, left. Returned to Dunkirk. Found all ships had gone. 0430ca Proceeded. Engine broke down. 0500ca Taken in tow by a M/B. Engines re-started, cast off. After about 4 miles the engine caught fire. A "C.M.B." [evidently the M.A/S.B. 7] came to the rescue. Crew transferred. Life boat in flames and abandoned. [M.A/S.B.7 appears to have taken the crew to Dover]. 6th June The Jane Holland was found drifting on the English Channel. Her fore-end box was stove in; she had over 500 bullet holes in her, and was full of water. She was brought in to Dover. Authority - R.O.II, p.245. R.O.III, p.529. (1) It is probable that the Jane Holland was towed over Michael on 2nd June by the Sun XI together with the life boat Stephens. 79
JOHANNA Dutch eel-boat S/Lt. A. Carew-Hunt, R.N. [s/Lt. Carew-Hunt was previously in the M/B Lieberstraumwhich broke down]. 29th May 2200 Left Ramsgate in company with the M/B Golden Lily [a Lieut. Cdr. in command of her] and the eel-boat Chantecler. The Golden Lily out-distanced the two eel-boats, which also became separated from each other. - Having no charts, the Johanna secured to a ship near the North Goodwins, and stayed there the night. 30th May a.m. Returned to Ramsgate. 1530ca In company with the M/B Constant Nymph and a cutter and a whaler, was towed to Dunkirk beaches by the sk. Jutland. (1) 2330 The Jutland anchored 2 miles east of Dunkirk. The Constant Nymph towed in the cutter and whaler. About 200 troops were ferried to the Jutland and the Johanna, the latter assisting to load the former. 31st May 0300 Proceeded with 10 troops on board [whether in company with, or in tow of, the Jutland is not clear]. 1100ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 10 troops. S/Lt. Carew-Hunt then rejoined the Liebestraum]. Total 10 Authority - - R.O.III, pp.302, 308, 329. (1) The Johanna sent in 2 reports; in one she says she was towed over on the 29th, in the other on "Thursday" [i.e. 30th May]. It is considered that the correct date was the 30th May. 93
JOLIE MASCOTTE (0.1347) French M. F.V. 31st May 1600 Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk with 16 other vessels (see under 2.50 [Lydie Suzannel). 1st June 1200ca When the dr. Basilisk was sunk in an air attack, her C.O. sent a motor boat to the Jolie Mascotte which 1500 picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings. The Basillsk's survivors were transferred to the tr. Olvina. June 1200 For the remainder of the Jolie Mascotte's proceedings see under 2.50 [Lydie Suzanne]. R.O.II, p.188, 391. 97
JUTLAND Skoot Lieut. G.L. Barwell, R.N. (Retd.) Lt. Cdr. W.R.T. Clements, R.N.R. (30th-31st May) Lt. L. Hutchinson, R.N.R. (1st Lieut). 27th May 0500 Lt. Barwell in command. Proceeded. 1500 from Sheerness to the Downs. Sailed for Dunkirk via West Hinder Light 2200ca and Kwinte Bank buoy. A hospital ship coming from Dunkirk signalled "Dunkirk has fallen". [See Canterbury] Then another ship made the same signal adding "I am returning". Jutland replied "I am proceeding". - Waited 3 hours near Nieuport Bank buoy for orders. Then, in company with the sk. Patria decided to return. 28th May 1000 Arrived in the Downs. 1730 Sailed for Dunkirk. - Arrived Dunkirk. Shifted 4 miles to the east. 29th May 0250 No troops found. Decided to return. 0830 Arrived Ramsgate. 1000 Sailed for Dunkirk. 1715 Off Middel Kerke Bank buoy. Air attack. - Arrived La Panne. Embarked French troops. Air attack. - Proceeded with about 275 troops on board. 1830ca Encountered the P.M/S Gracie Fields which had been damaged by bombs. While the Gracie Fields, (out of control) steamed round in a circle, the Jutland took off some of her troops from the port side. Another ship [the M/S Pangbourne] did the same on her starboard side. 2130ca Proceeded on homeward voyage. 30th May 0630 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 300 troops. (1) Lt. Barwell and crew relieved by Lt. Cdr. Clements (ex-Tilly) and a fresh crew. 1530ca(3) Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk beaches, towing the eel-boat Johanna(2) the M/B Constant Nymph and a whaler and a cutter. 2330ca Arrived Dunkirk beaches. Embarked troops, assisted by the Constant Nymph and Johanna. 31st May Took in tow 5 boats which were adrift, 0300ca and proceeded. (1) (2) Not Johanna mentioned in D.R. In one she says she was towed sent in 2 reports. on 29th the on the "Thursday correct (3) Lt. date over night" was by [i.e. the 30th Jutland 30th May, May ]. when Officer Lt. It Cdr. of Clements the Jutland, sailed was in under for command. J. Bald R.N.V.R., lat says that the Jutland 1st June. Lt. Dunkirk Cdr. on Clements, 31st May and returned on 104
KAYELL M/B (Owner J.H. Senior). J.H. Crook, Skipper(1) The following account is stated by Mr. Senior to the name of the boat in his account. apply to his boat. Mr. Crook does not however mention 2nd June 1930ca Sailed for Dunkirk beaches (see White Wing). 3rd June 0130 Arrived at the beaches, but could find no troops. Pulled off a boat with a crew of six which had run aground - it was low water. - Then went into Dunkirk harbour. 0400ca Seized a drifting ship's life boat and embarked 70 Frenchmen in it. Then took her in tow and proceeded. 1200ca "Back on the south-east coast". According to R.O.II, p.393 the Kayell's story 1s as follows: "Mr. Burns (from Southend), took over the Kayell, arriving on the beaches at 0130, June 3rd. He picked up the crew of the Black Arrow which was ashore(2). He ferried French troops to a French destroyer and a fishing smack." Kayell was subsequently beached at Ramsgate. It is however evident that Kayell was one of the 12 unnamed M/B's that went over on 2nd June with Admiral Taylor (in the White Wing) Authority - TO.9144. R.O.II., p.392. 1424 (1) Mr. Crook stockbroker, He states he had a crew of 3 - viz: a yachtsman, was a an ex-P. and o officer, and a naval (2) Glitter rating. II also reports having seen the Black Arrow aground. 107
KEITH (D.06) 19th Destroyer Flotilla Capt. (D) E.L.Berthon, 30th May 1732 Left Dover by X route for Dunkirk. D.S.C., R.N. 1959 2020 Secured alongside Eastern arm, Dunkirk. Being in search of R.A. Dover, slipped and proceeded eastward. (4) MA 2050 Re-entered Dunkirk and embarked about 2119 1,400 troops. Proceeded. 31st May 0045 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,200 troops 0305 Proceeded. 0552 Passed Dunkirk harbour. R.A. Dover was in the dr. Express, and Keith was ordered to follow. 0608 Stopped off Braye-Dunes. 0645 R.A. Dover and his staff transferred by whaler from Express to Keith. 0655 Proceeded to La Panne. 0742 Anchored off La Panne. 0808 R.A. Dover embarked in the M/Y Bounty(2) (q.v.) to inspect the beach. 0910 R.A. Dover returned to Keith. 0930 Commodore Stephenson, N.O.I.C.La Panne came alongside in "No. Yacht" to confer with R.A. Dover. 0934 Cdre. Stephenson slipped. 1113 Weighed and proceeded to Braye-Dunes. 1134 Proceeded to Dunkirk, marshalling boats and tows of boats and ordering them to the more eastern beaches. 1154 Off Dunkirk. Enemy artillery firing on S.S. Clan Macalister, started a small fire; she had been on fire since 29th May. 1255 Returned to Braye, arriving 1331. 1424 Off La Panne. 1540 Off La Rosendal. R.A. Dover disembarked into an M.T. B. (3) to consult with beach staffs. He returned at 1630. 1703 Dive bomb attack. Two A/C shot down. No damage. 1716 Near miss on the port quarter. 1815 Off La Panne. 1845 Between La Panne and Braye, the M/B and whaler were sent inshore to embark the Army G.H.Q. Staff. 1908 Embarked the first boat load of the Army Staff. Lord Gort had gone to the M/8 Hebe in a yacht L viz: the Lahloo]. 1937 Air attack. 1942 Embarked the second boat load of Army Staff Officers. 2005 Air attack. 2016 Embarked the 3rd and last boat load of Army B taff. (2) Keith 200 troops. "M.T.B. " and that R.A. Dover went (1) D.R. states to converse says this with was Lord an Gort's C.S.O. At 1240/31, M.T. B. 102 (3) i.e. the BOUNTY. says she embarked R.A. Dover to inspect the beaches. (4) Cdr. Maund R.N (Retd.), whowas Abo! of elubarkation peni pier there 108 that
KELLETT (continued) 3rd June - 0730 Sailed for Sheerness. Arrived troops. Sheerness. Disembarked 364 1530 Sailed for Dunkirk. 4th June 0100 Arrived off Dunkirk harbour. Attempted to go alongside the west pier, but the Kellett's bows grounded. Obtained a life-boat [the M.L/B Greater London] which towed the Kellett's stern away from the wall, so that she was able to back away. Embarked troops from M/B's. Ordered to leave by R.A. Dover. 0220 Sailed for Margate. 0530 Encountered the M/S Leda with her bows damaged(1) and escorted by the M/S Albury. Sent the Albury on to Margate, while Kellett proceeded with Leda. 0615 The Albury reported that a ship had been mined. Kellett went to her assistance. (2) She was the French auxiliary Emile Deschamps. Picked up survivors who were nearly all very badly injured. Also in the vicinity were the P/V King George V and a "Belgian scoot" [the French M/S/Ste. Elisabeth full of soldiers. As soon as the survivors were picked up, a rog came down. 0830 The Kellett led the "scoot" into Margate. The Kellett disembarked 30, plus 3 French women. (3) Total 1456 Authority - R.O.I, p.279. R.O.III, p.275. The following awards were made: D.S.M. Ord/Sea. J.F. Shiret. Mention in Despatches Cdr. R.C. Haskett-Smith, (4) R.N. E.R.A.4th Cl. G.H. Redmoud. L/Tel. E. Hatch. (1) She had collided with and sunk the Belgian trawler (2) The Marechal corvette Foch. Kingfisher escorted the Leda to Margate. (3) (4) Margate Referred report. the London Gazette of 16th August 1940, Supplement to in No. 34925, as "Hasket-Smith". 117
KINDRED STAR M/S drifters T.W. Sheridan, Tempy. Skip. THRIFTY (Portland) G. Corney, Tempy. Skip. R.N.R. Lieut. A.J. Dunbar, R.N.V.R., R.N.R. Unit Officer 29th May 1900 Left Portland. 30th May 1730 Arrived off Dover. 31st May 1400 Berthed alongside Prince of Wales Pier. 1st June 0700 Both ships sailed, each towing 6 small boats. (1) 1530 Air attack in vicinity of Dunkirk roads. 1610 Air attack. The tows were slipped for safety. Altered course away from shore batteries. A trawler was seen to be hit, afterwards sinking; 1620 another vessel was blown to pieces. (2) Kindred Star received damage in engine room. The tow had scattered and returned to port independently - 1800 except 3 life boats. These were taken in tow, and then slipped at their request. 1830 Air attack near V buoy. - Entered Ramsgate harbour. 2nd June Repairs to Kindred Star. Thrifty reported to be leaking badly. 4th June 0925 Left Ramsgate for Portland. Nil be Authority - R.O.II, p.344. (1) Vessels were:- Greater London life the boat, Abdy Beauclerk in tow of life Thrifty boat, E.M.E.D. life boat, and Among those in 42, tow of Kindred star were the M/B's M/B's P.E. Summer Maid, and White Bear. (2) This was probably the French vessel Yvonne et Moabe Wings of the Morning, windsong. (See under E.M.E.D.) 117
KINGFISHER Corvette (Portsmouth Command) Lt.Cdr. G.A.M.V. Harrison, R.N. 30th May 1317 Left Dover for Dunkirk by route X, with "large motor boat 'Sambra'' [1.e. the ex-Belgian canal boat Sambre] in tow. - Magnetic mine exploded by minesweeper, 1 mile ahead of the Kingfisher, in swept channel 3 miles east of Dover. 1930 Arrived Malo beach. Embarked troops, using the M/B, the whaler and the Sambre. 2300 Proceeded with 180 British troops on board. 31st May 0510 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 180 troops. (1) (Had to wait for the tide before going alongside Ramsgate pier). 0533 Proceeded back to Dunkirk. 0800 Arrived Malo beach. Embarked troops with M/B and whaler. No other boats available. 1100 It was nearing low water, and a small ship [1.e. the Sk. Sursum-Corda] which had been beached, and which the boats had been using as a jetty was of no further use. [The C.O. and ship's company of the Sursum-Corda, which was unable to refloat, trans- ferred to the kingfisher(2 The Kingfisher proceeded with 80 troops, 1 serious casualty and 20 French. 1440 Arrived Margate pier. Disembarked 91 troops. (3) 1518 Proceeded back to Dunkirk. 1835 Arrived Malo beach. Few troops, but a number of tugs and small boats waiting off. Proceeded to Dunkirk harbour, but had to wait for a berth. 1900 High level bombing raid. Kingfisher considers she shot down one aircraft 4). 2010 Secured alongside east pier. Ambarked troops. 2105 Proceeded with 180 British troops. let June 0005 Anchored off Margate. 0133 Alongside Margate pier. Disembarked 157 troops. (5) 0700 Proceeded to Dunkirk. 1000 Alongside Dunkirk east pier. Embarked Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry]. and the Battn. H.Q. of the 2nd Battn. troops [among them Major Joslen Almost continuous high level bombing in progress. (1) D.R. report gives 268 for the "Kingfisher, gives 268. and Ramsgate Laroc, and the lighter F.W.23". (2) Not mentioned by Kingfisher. (3) Margate report. (4) Not mentioned in D.R. (5) Margate report.
LADY OF MANN(1) (I.O.M.S.P.CO.) Capt. T.C. Woods, Master. P/V 31st May Noon Arrived off Dunk1rk Pier. 1420 Berthed alongside east pier. Embarked 1500 casualties from the French hospital, of which 300 were stretcher cases. Also embarked 1,000 British and 500 French troops. Air attacks. Shot down one plane. 1700 Proceeded. 2400 Arrived Folkestone. Disembarked 1,500 troops. 1st June 0430 Sailed for Dover. 0600ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,500 casualties. (2). p.m. Sailed for Dunkirk. 2215 Arrived off Dunkirk. Ordered to wait outside. 2nd June 0300 Proceeded to Dover in accordance with previous orders. 0630ca Arrived Dover. 2030 Left Dover for Dunkirk. 2345 Arrived off Dunkirk. Ordered to wait outside. Embarked some French soldiers from a boat. 3rd June 0212 Ordered back to Dover. 0530ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 18 French troops. 1830 Left Dover. 2215 Entered Dunkirk harbour. 4th June 0030 Made fast alongside. Embarked about 1,500 French troops. 0200 Proceeded. 0600ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1244 troops. Total 4,262. Authority - R.O.III. p.130. TM.6213/40. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches. Captain T.C. Woods, Master. (1) Capt. Woods sent in 2 reports which show some variation in (2) D.R. gives one disembarkation of 870. the times. 137
| 1330 | Anchored off Dunkirk beach. Sent a boat in to beach. Air attacks. Embarked a boat load of troops. Sent | |
| boat in again. Air attack. Boat damaged and useless. | ||
| - | 478 troops on board. Hoisted boat [i.e. the "pleasure craft"]. After 30 minutes, managed to get clear of sands, and proceeded. Air attack in fairway. |
| 30th May | 0900 | Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk by Admiral Abrial. (see Cyclone). |
| 1st June | 1500ca | Sai led for Dunkirk in company with the T/B's Bouclier and Branlebas. |
| 1800ca | Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked troops and proceeded. | |
| - | Disembarked 351 troops. (1) [port not stated | |
| 3rd June | The Flore made a second trip to Dunkirk and brought back 451 troops. (1) | |
| La Flore a fait | ||
| quatre voyages | ||
| feer P 'an gleterre | ||
| et em fees la Hauza | ||
| ( ea 30)- | ||
| Eele a Transporte' | ||
| ey tout 1207 | ||
| houmes. |
LAHLOO Portsmouth Inner Patrol Yacht Lt. J.V. Ould, R.N.V.R. 29th May 1740 Slipped Hamble. and proceeded to sea from Took station with the yachts of the Inner Patrol on course for Dover (see Ankh). 30th May 0830 Arrived Dover. 1050 Depth charges removed. 1940 Cast off, and proceeding from harbour, took station with yachts. Crossed channel in station with yachts. 31st May 0610 Lahloo arrived off Zuydcoote. Towed boat loads of troops to destroyers, and picked up 7 men from a boat which had capsized in the somewhat rough sea. p.m. Ordered by Cdre. Stephenson in the yacht Bounty to proceed to La Panne and close the destroyers off shore. went alongside the M/S Hebe and was given a boat with 3 ratings, told to lay off La Panne, and put the Hebe's boat ashore to take off General Lord Gort. 1700 Lay off La Panne as ordered, and while waiting took several boat loads of troops (who had rowed out) to destroyers. 1830 The Hebe's boat brought Lord Gort and his A.D.C. to the Lahloo, which put them aboard the Hebe. While this was taking place the enemy shelled and bombed the beach and bombed the Hebe. - Off La Panne. The Lahloo continued to ferry troops, which were now coming off slowly - about 2 men to a boat. - Lay alongside the dr. Keith, but lost touch with her in the dark. 1st June 0330ca Closed the yacht Seriola. 0400ca Ordered by a destroyer to collect empty drifting boats and tow them inshore. Bombed and machine gunned while doing this. - Closed by the yacht Bounty, with Cdre. Stephenson on board. He told Seriola to take Bounty in tow, and ordered the Lahloo to slip the boats she was towing and to lead him back to Ramsgate. 0815 Set course over route X for Ramsgate. On the way back the yacht was bombed and shot up by fighters. off the N. Goodwin L.V., a launch came - alongside the Lahloo and ordered her to return to Dunkirk. In view, however, of the Commodore's orders to precede him to Ramsgate, and because Lt. Ould and his crew had had no sleep for 5 nights, the Lahloo continued on her course. 143
LARK Sailing barge (T. Scholey and Co. Ltd.) R.H. Scott, Master 31st May 2230 Left Dover in company with the S/B 10th May 0030 Glenway in tow of the tug Persia. 1st June 0800 Arrived 1 mile east of Dunkirk pier. The beachwards. Lark and the Glenway sailed - The Lark beached herself by order of the French for whom she was carrying stores. The Lark's crew transferred 1400ca to the barge Thyra. The Lark did not 1930cm return from Dunkirk. troops 2200 Sailed for Nil comended. 31st May 0500 Arrived Ramagate. Disemberked 75 troops. 0600 Sailed for Dunkirk with shaler in tow. Authority - Γ.0.9436/40. Anchored off Malo beneh. 1100 Collected two "Inrge passenger bonte" and embarked troops. Note: At 1100, the Adventuress landed 85 troops at Margate, 1515ca "All three ships filled" - about 170 troops. Proceeded. 1930ca Arrived Ramsgate. The Large disemberked 50 troops. 1st June 0600 Sailed for Dunkirk. 1000ca off const between Gravelines and DOBRITK. Heavy Combing of large ships, A damaged British destroyer [the 1005ca Havent was taken in too by tug [the K/8 Saltash]. 1015ca Steared N.W. from 5 W booy to get clear of big ships. 1025cm Salvo of bombo dropped 30 yards astern of a troopship [the Proguel near 9 W 1030ca French beuy. destroyer [the Foudrovant] hit by bombs) she Bank within about one minute, about 1 mile north or 13 W 10350a British booy. destroyer [the Keith) bombed 3 miles N.N.E. from 5 W buays She WB.D later suns by nunfire from a sloop Proceeded to Picked up 8 men [the M/S Salamander|- 1115 from B. small boat. 1800 Arrived Proceeded. Remugate, pisembarked 12 troops 1815 Perried about 310 troops from ships outside the harbour to Ramsgate pier.(3) Total 147 Gervice veesel of this name appears for the time in the Red List on 23rd June, report in D.R. 55 landed at 2030. or Ramegate report. 151
LAROC Yarmouth Examination Service Yacht. Capt. G.B. Butler, Master/Owner. 29th May 2230 Arrived Portsmouth from Yarmouth. 30th May 0030 Left Portsmouth. 1130 Arrived Dover. Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk with the tug "Foremost 4" [it was the Foremost 22], "H.M.S. Grieve" [ the M/Y Grive], "Foremost 2" [?], the Adventuress(1) and the M/V Lady Sheila. 1400ca Left Dover accordingly. 1930ca Arrived Malo beach. Embarked about 75 troops from rowing boats. 2200 Sailed for Ramsgate as air raid commenced. 31st May 0500 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 75 troops. 0600 Sailed for Dunkirk with whaler in tow. 1030 Anchored off Malo beach. 1100 Collected two "large passenger boats" and embarked troops. Note: At 1100, the Adventuress landed 85 troops at Margate. 1515ca "All three ships filled" - about 170 troops. Proceeded. 1930ca Arrived Ramsgate. The Laroe disembarked 60 troops. (2) 1st June 0600 Sailed for Dunkirk. 1000ca Off coast between Gravelines and Dunkirk. Heavy bombing of large ships. A damaged British destroyer [the 1005ca Havant was taken in tow by tug [the M/S Saltash]. 1015ca Steered N.W. from 5 W buoy to get clear of big ships. 1025ca Salvo of bombs dropped 30 yards astern of a troopship [the Prague] near 9 W buoy. 1030ca French destroyer [ the Foudroyant] hit by bombs; she sank within about one minute, about 1 mile north of 13 W 1035ca British buoy. destroyer [the Keith] bombed 3 miles N.N.E. from 5 W buoy. She was later sunk by gunfire from a sloop [the M/S Salamander]. 1115 Proceeded to Dunkirk. Picked up 8 men from a small boat. 1800 Arrived Proceeded. Ramsgate. Disembarked 12 troops 1815 Ferried about 310 troops from ships outside the harbour to Ramsgate pier. (3) Total 147 Examination vessel of this name appears for the Cirst time Service Red List on 23rd June. annentioned in the Ramsgate report. Lieote report in mentions D.R. or 55 landed at 2030. 152
LAROC - Continued. (owner, I.E. E.O. Arrost, Authority - R.O.II, p.184. base and depote ship at while the 0209 of 3 went over to LA Penno in a 30 it. motor boat. The following awards were made: Dunkirk Mention in Despatches. Captain G.B. Butler. Mr. J.Lynn, Mate. Mr. R. Crane, Engineer. . Deckhand L. Lynn. Stwd. H.A.E. Frost. (1) A Swedish pilot cuttor of 14 tous. 153
L'ATALANTA( 1) (Owner, Lt. W.G. Arnott, R.N.V.R.) Used as a "base and depot" ship at Ramsgate gate while the crew of 3 went over to La Panne in a 30 ft. motor boat. Took no part in Dunkirk evacuation. ) (1) A Swedish pilot cutter of 14 tons. 154
LEDA (N.93) 5th M.S.F. Lt. Cdr. H. Unwin, R.N. 1200 28th May Proceeded to Dunkirk beaches, in company with the 5th M.S.F. On 2120 receiving the order to act indepen- dently, anchored off Braye-Dunes. 4 whalers, a skiff and a motor boat were lowered and sent in 1/c of S/Lt. Jamieson, R.N. 29th May 0320 Hoisted all boats and proceeded via Dyck buoy. 0917 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 301 troops. (1) 1015 Sailed for Dunkirk. 1445 Anchored off Braye-Dunes. Lowered boats and embarked troops, assisted by a large number of Army self- propelled boats [1.e. A.L.C's]. 1545 Engaged enemy bombers; one probably damaged. Proceeded to Margate with 525 troops. The 3 whalers and the M/B were left inshore 1/c of S/Lt. Jamieson, with orders to assist other ships. 1630ca After passing Middelkerke buoy enemy bombers were seen attacking a hospital ship [the St. Julien] and the M/S's Kellett and Pangbourne, all outward bound. 2044 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 500 troops. (2) 2155 Proceeded towards the French coast by the Dyck buoy. No ships were sighted during this passage, so when off 30th May 0130 the Dyck buoy, decided to return to the North Goodwin L.V., and proceed by X route. - Arrived off Braye-Dunes, anchored and embarked troops. A search was made for S/Lt. Jamieson's party, but without success. 1220 Proceeded towards Margate with 650 troops. 1815 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 537 troops. (3) s/Lt. Jamieson returned on board and reported that he had embarked troops in the P.M/S Gracie Fields and the G/B Locust until 0200/30, when only the M/B was left, the whalers having been sunk during an air raid the previous afternoon. The M/B was later abandoned because of engine trouble and lack of fuel. 1955 Proceeded towards Dunkirk. 3let May 0000ca The enemy were now shelling Dunkirk harbour. The Leda signalled her arrival to the signal station on Dunkirk east pier, and received a general message to the effect that (2) (1) Margate report. Leda gives 365. (3) Margate Leda gives 525. Margate report. report. Leda gives 650. 157
LENA - Continued 0145 4th (contd.) June (contd.) ship. Part of the crew embarked in a British drifter, part in a French drifter, and the remainder, including the officers were ferried in a life- boat to the G/B Locust which was outside the harbour. The British drifter and the Locust landed their parties at Dover, the French drifter at Ramagate. Total 996 Authority - R.O.II, p.27. M.017681/40. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches L/Sea. L.M.W. Gibb. 1
LEOPOLD ANNA - Continued. - (contd.) About about 1 mile out, an enemy plane, an to attack, was intercepted by allied plane; the latter however, damaged, and came down was, near the H.76. The pilot could not be picked up because of the risk of grounding the ship. An English plane then appeared and shot down the German with one burst of fire; the machine crashed on Dunkirk beach. - Altered course at 5 W buoy and passed near an English ship, which was bombed but not hit. The enemy plane then circled round and aimed a salvo of bombs at H.76, but none hit. Zig-Zagged out of the danger zone and came close to two English "patrol" ships which exploded 2 magnetic mines. The concussion was extremely violent, but the H. 76's engines stood up to it. 1540 Arrived Ramsgate and disembarked 90 British and 22 French troops. (1) The H.76 was "4 hours later than the convoy, of which the greater part of the ships had returned without troops". 1930 Sailed for Dunkirk in a convoy of 10 ships [see St. Pierre IV]. 3rd June 02 30ca Arrived off Malo-les-Bains. Went alongside Dunkirk east pier and embarked about 90 troops. - Sailed. In the darkness, ran aground outside the harbour. Because of the falling tide was not able to refloat for 8 hours. Another ship ran aground nearby. Refloated at high tide and proceeded. Came under fire from Gravelines 12 battery. miles out picked up 26 Spanish sailors from a boat under oars. Took the boat in tow. 1900ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 57 Allied troops and 25 Span1sh(2) 5th June Sailed in convoy to Havre, under - command of Officier des Equipages Vigue. [Total 289. This total has been included in the total for the 17 ships headed by the 2.50 and the St. Pierre IV] Authority - French Admiralty record, Folios No.12 and 34. (1) Ramsgate report, which however names the A7 1900311908 (2) Ramsgate "Lena". report. 166
LETITIA (L.0.220) Cockle Bawley boat A.J.Dench, Skipper 31st May 1045ca Left Southend in company with the 5 other Bawley boats, Defender, Resolute. Endeavour, Reliance, Renown and - At Reliance. the Nore L.V., taken in tow by Defender toward Endeavour, and Renown towed Resolute. 1410 On passing Margate received order "proceed straight to Dunkirk". Seeing hundreds of trawlers, etc., going to Dunkirk, we went with them. 1900ca Air attack. Made for Dunkirk beach. Swell made beach work impossible. - Proceeded to Dunkirk je tty; embarked 2130 load of troops and transferred them to the sk. Tilly. Ferried 3 more - loads, and towed a lifeboat full of troops to a "trawler" [i.e. the drft. Ben and Lucy]. The "trawler" was towing another "trawler", [i.e. the drft. Feasible] which in turn was towing 2 lifeboats - one of them being swamped and the other having 2 sailors on board. 1st June 0100ca Letitia made fast to this tow. 0115ca Shortly, the Renown made fast astern of Letitia, the rope between the 2 cockle boats being about 3½ fathoms, 0330ca An explosion took place and a hail of wood splinters came down on Letitia's deck. "In the pitch dark we could see nothing, and after the explosion we heard nothing, and we could do nothing, except pull in the tow rope which was just as we passed it to the Renown about KF. hour before...." The Renown had been blown to pieces. 0830 Letitia left the tow and proceeded to Ramsgate. Thence she sailed to Southend. Nil Authority TO.9144. 168
LETITIA M/B (W. E. Browning) S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyre, R.N. 3rd June 0945 At Ramsgate. S/Lt. MacIntyre (ex M/B Santosy) took command. 1630 Left in tow of the tug Sun XV, 2 other M/B's and a life boat also on the tow. 2300 Arrived off Dunkirk. Proceeded inside harbour and took off troops by order of Cdre. Taylor. 2400 Arrived alongside a gunboat [the Locust] embarked a demolition party. 4th June 0045 Proceeded alongside the G/B Mosquito. 0145 Fixed demolition charges. Took the demolition party back to the gunboat [Locust]. 0210 Left the gunboat.. One of Letitia's engines running badly. 0230 Taken in tow by a P/S, which already had a boat in tow. 0245 The P/S altered course to avoid a buoy causing the other boat in tow to lose 2 men overboard. 0300 The Letitia picked up 1 man - a Dutch smack rescued other man. 0330 Letitia only making 4½1/2 knote. 0345 Asked a tug for a tow. Ordered to abandon ship. 0700 Letitia's crew arrived Ramsgate in the tug. Nil Authority. R.O.II, p.550. Navy 169
LIEBESTRAUM M/V (Owner, H.C. Hunt) S/Lt. A. Carew-Hunt, R.N. 28th May 1730ca Left whalers. Sheerness for Dover towing Six miles outside Sheerness, the boat broke down and was picked up by 29th May a.m. the tr. Asama and towed to Deal, and thence to Ramsgate. [s/Lt. Carew-Hunt was then appointed to the eel-boat Johanna] 31st May p.m. S/Lt. Carew-Hunt re-joined the Liebestraum, which was B till at Ramsgate, and took her to Sheerness. 2230 Arrived Sheerness. [The following day, S/Lt. Carew-Hunt took command of the M/B Thark] Although the Liebestraum suffered some damage, there 1s no evidence that she went over to Dunkirk. Authority - TO.9436/40. R.O.III, p.329. 172
, INCOMPRISE French Torpedo boat (11th Division) Capitaine de corvette Gras. [The report]. following account is based on the T/B Branlebas's 2nd June 2135 Left Dover for Dunkirk, the T/B Branlebas in company. 3rd June 0125 Arrived off Dunkirk harbour. Hailed by a "small cruiser" not to enter. 0200ca The Branlebas entered the harbour and returned to report to the Incomprise that there were no troops. Both the T/B's returned to Dover. 2008 Left Dover for Dunkirk, the Branlebas in company. 2350 Entered Dunkirk harbour. 4th June 0030 Berthed alongside the Branlebas. 0050 The Branlebas sailed for Folkestone. [Probably the Incomprise also sailed. There is no record of her having brought back any troops.] Nil(1) Authority - French Admiralty record, Folios No.3, 16 and 17. "Incomprese a fait dout P'un a'vide. EPRe a Lameke a'chacum des darx auths voy ages enverory 3 00 houmes. Note by Cdr. Cras of French Section. Historical (1) D.R. 174
LORD ST. VINCENT Drifter E.N.I.I) S. Perker, Correin 30th May See under Lord Rodney. targate for Dunkirk in tow of 6 motor "burgon (1) commanded by a Naval officer. Boate were taken from the fore shore, and omborked 02 various staft that were also going over. 2400ca Arrived Dunkirk, The barge ron aground neer Ricuport [7] and the lireboat, unable to refloat her, loid out an anchor on a long length of stre. The barge eventually reflocted. The life bost ferried British and Prench troops to the barge, By now 18 was low tide and the life boat WGB hard on the send; she had to wait for the tide to flow, Ust May 04000a Continued ferrying Cill daylight, *go could see the troops cost and west of 08 stretching along the came B.S. far as we could 800". 060000 There was now a neaty mit on the shore. Forried $20000 to R destroys [the Icarnel. "Troope were rushing out to us from all directions and were being drowned closs to us and we 00010 not get to them ***** 10 seemed to NO we were doing core harm by draning the men off the shore, as with their heavy otothing, the surf was knooking them 0782 and they were unable to get 40% "The wheler Crom the destroyer was awamped, so was the mine pinnace that was working with the whaler, and 80 it V60 413 along the sands 80 for EA I could zee, both 1 sides of 08, and there west not a boat left aflost*, 0830 Procesded. Neur Bonkirk picked do a pavel officers and 15 retings from a whaler which USE anst adrift. 2450 Arrived Margate. Memberskall 17- Total 17. The Lord Soothborough ferried about 500 troopa. Authority - TO. 9144/41. (1) Not identified. 19607
LORD SOUTHBOROUGH Margate (R.N.L.I) Life boat. E. Parker, Coxswain. 30th May 1730 Left Margate for Dunkirk in tow of a motor "barge" (1) commanded by a Naval officer. Boats were taken from the fore shore, and embarked on various craft that were also going over. 2400ca Arrived Dunkirk. The barge ran aground near Nieuport [?] and the lifeboat, unable to refloat her, laid out an anchor on a long length of wire. The barge eventually refloated. The life boat ferried British and French troops to the barge. By now it was low tide and the life boat was hard on the sand; she had to wait for the tide to flow. 31st May 0400ca Continued ferrying till daylight. "We could Bee the troops east and west of us stretching along the sands as far as we could see". 0600ca There was now a nasty surf on the shore. Ferried troops to a destroyer [the Icarus]. "Troops were rushing out to us from all directions and were being drowned close to us and we could not get to them ..... it seemed to me we were doing more harm by drawing the men off the shore, as with their heavy clothing, the surf was knocking them over and they were unable to get up". "The whaler from the destroyer ..... was swamped, 80 was the motor pinnace that was working with the whaler, and BO it was all along the sands as far as I could see, both sides of us, and there was not a boat left afloat". 0830 Proceeded. Near Dunkirk picked up 2 naval officers and 15 ratings from a whaler which was cast adrift. 1450 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 17. Total 17. The Lord Southborough ferried about 500 troops. Authority - To. 9144/41. (1) Not identified. 197
COPYN°2 LOUISE LOUISE MARIE LUTTEUR( 1) OTH French M/S trawler French tug Dorleston) 30th May boat The 2 ships together transported 157 1st June 2300ca orr Malo troops. (2) 2nd June 2nd June 0230 The The Lutteur transported 208 troops. (2) At this time, one OF her orizeers, S/Lt. 8.0. Total Louise Marie 57 ferrying in Lutteur 308 Scott. The Mary Scott broke down, and s/Lt. Dickinson took passage home in the Louise Stephens. 0800 The Louise Stephens arrived at Ramsgate. Disembarked 49 B.E.F.(1) Louise Marie AD2 49 awx. M/S Ensigue devaipean Riche Authority - R.O.I. 238. Lutteur Remorgueus dragneur depa Marine Natiorale. Expique are variau Collot Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept. (1) (1) Referred to in D.R. as "Lutter". (2) D.R. 201
| 1st June | 2300ca | Off Malo beach. |
| 2nd June | 0230 | The M/S Emperor of India sailed. At this time, one of her officers, S/Lt. S.C. Dickinson, R.N.V.R. was Scott. still ferrying in the M.L/B Mary |
| The Mary Scott broke down, and S/Lt. Dickinson took passage home in the Louise Stephens. | ||
| 0800 | The Louise Stephens arrived at Ramsgate. Disembarked 49 B.E.F. (1) |
LUCY LAVERS Aldeburgh life boat s/Lt. T.W. Betts, R.N.V.R. veesel, 2nd June 1400ca Left for Dunkirk in tow of the dfr. "Golden Sunshine" [i.e. the Golden Sunbeam]. - Arrived Dunkirk harbour. Took on a load of French troops. - Towed back to Dover by the drifter [to which apparently the troops had been transferred]. N11 Authority - R.O.II, p.221. (1) D.R. 204
MADAME POMPADOUR M/B (Owner, Lt.Col. H.E.Day) Lt.Cdr. Faulkner, R.N.R. Retd. Mr. Morley Lawson, Engr. 1st June p.m. Left Maidstone for Sheerness. 2nd June a.m. Arrived Sheerness. - Sailed for Ramsgate in company with a tug which was towing ship's lifeboats; (the life boats had to be cut adrift- en route). 1800ca Arrived Ramsgate. 1900ca Sailed for Dunkirk, with two pulling $ boats in tow. - One of the P/B's became swamped, and was cut adrift. 2200ca Unable to make Dunkirk within the prescribed time limit, the Madame Pompadour was ordered to return to Ramsgate. [Lt. Cdr. Faulkner went to Dunkirk on 3rd June in the Clacton life boat Edward Z Dresden. ] Authority - TO.9144/41.
MADAME SANS GENE 45 ft. River M/L (Owner, S/Lt. K. Adderley, R.N.V.R. G. Shelley) Mr. E.H. Jeffreys (and his brother) Mr. R. Brown, Engr. Mr. G. Kimber, Deck Hand(1) 3rd June 1700 Left Ramsgate with a life boat and three other boats in tow of the tug Tanga. En route, a rope, trailed by Tanga, got wound round the U/L's port propeller. 2320ca On arrival at Dunkirk, the Sans Gene's other propeller was damaged, but she E was retained in tow of the Tanga. 4th June 0200ca The tug was ordered into the harbour, and the crew of Sans Gene transferred to her. The tug embarked troops and proceeded. In Dunkirk Channel (near No.14 buoy), the towing winch pulled out and the Madame Sans Gene 0245 was cut loose from the tow and abandoned. 0800 The crew, in the Tanga arrived Ramsgate. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p. 394. R.O.III, P. 263. J.D.C. ffice. 215
MAID OF HONOUR M/B (Owner, H. Sands). Capt. Reported to have left Chatham in charge of Muster. a Sub. Lieutenant and 2 naval ratings. with No further information 1B available, except that the Maid of Honour did not return. to effect entrance and returned to Doyer*, Dover 1) * Authority - J.D.C. Processed to Denkirk, escorted by dr. TO.9436/40. W124 Swan Intered Dunkirk and barthed slongside r MOTATA ween, which was already loaded: with troops, at the Gare Maritime) where the P/V None's Queen proceeded, Maid 02 Orders Look her borth elongside and landed water and stores. Troops were than emberked. 2030 1/1 Canterbury borthed outside Mid of Crienns and embarked troops. my 0020 Cepterbury procesded. 0300cm Hard of Orleans prosseded. 0600 Dovers Disambarked 980 Groops and 8 Date To Donkirs. Kids punkirk roads. The I/V Centerbury signalled to Maid of Orleans the B.T.O. (TO.N.O.) Dunkirk's order not to ontsr. Proceeded. Vehicle May Dovers Capt. Larkins reported sick. Walker took command. 1918 way 0437 To Dunkirk, 1 Berthed alongside Dunkirk East 10)6. Embarked troops. Alongside about 5 hours. Shirted barth 3 times 00 the tido ebbed. Proceeded. Off Hieuport picked BD 2 Frendo afficers I from & small open boat. Dover. Disemberked 1372 troors, - 50th May 2145 TO Dunking. Stat May 0100ca Serthod alongaide Seat 8026. Arrived Dover, Disembarks 1253 1253 troops. A.M. (including U stretcher 0009014 300 June 0030 To Berthed at East Hole. Alomgride dostreyers about Dunkirk. 033008 during which too while 23, imbursed 5 hours troops anross the decise Embarked sir 1,056 troops. processed. attacks were in progrees. 090068 air attents 4 bombo (1) D.R. states 986 troops Landed or 25th days this eppears (2) Insure to be and incorrect. Venguisher out the anys abs WASHINGTON 614 borthes not APPLYS anys alongaide at she 81. Donkirk Hillior", on let June until 1530* EXPIRES declare secured alongaide 217
MAID OF ORLEANS S.Ry.Co. Capt. A.E. Larkins, Master. P/V Ts, Capt. G.D. Walker, Master. 26th May 1100 Left Dover (Capt. Larkins 1/c), with 6,000 2-gallon cans of water, stores and 250 troops. - Off Dunkirk. Air raid. "Unable to effect an entrance and returned to 1503 p.m. Dover 1) and created back to Dover. Dover". was mer in mid Channel by the dr. wildSwan 1726 Proceeded to Dunkirk, escorted by dr. W1ld Swan. 2000ca Entered Dunkirk and berthed alongside E Mona's Queen, which was already loaded with troops, at the Gare Maritime; where the P/V Mona's Queen proceeded, Maid of Orleans took her berth alongside and landed water and stores. Troops were then embarked. 2030 P/V Canterbury berthed outside Maid of Orleans and embarked troops. 27th May 0020 Canterbury proceeded. 0300ca Maid of Orleans proceeded. 0600 Dover. Disembarked 980 troops and 8 civillans. p.m. To Dunkirk. - Dunkirk roads. The P/V Canterbury Captain Albert Edward Larkins, master of the railway-owned cross-Channel vessels signalled to Maid of Orleans the for 20 years, died on Wednesday at Canter- S.T.O. [?S.N.O.] Dunkirk's order not bary at the age of 57. He was in command to enter. Proceeded. of the Maid of Orleans at the evacuation of Dunkirk. Times 20.7.1956 28th May - Dover. Capt. Larkins reported sick. Capt. Walker took command. 29th May 0437 To Dunkirk. - Berthed alongside Dunkirk East Mole. Embarked troops. Alongside about 5 hours. Shifted berth 3 times as the tide ebbed. Proceeded. - off Nieuport picked up 2 French officers from a small open boat. Dover. Disembarked 1372 troops. - 30th May 2145 To Dunkirk. 31st May 0100ca Berthed alongside East Mole. Embarked Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1253 troops 1253 troops. a.m. including 42 stretcher cases). lst June 0030 To Dunkirk. 0330ca Berthed at East Nole. Alongside about 6 embarked troops across the decks while hours during which two destroyers (2) Embarked 1,856 troops. Proceeded. air attacks were in progress. 0900ca Air attack; 4 bombs dropped. (1) D.R. states 988 troops landed on 26th May. This appears (2) Icarus to be incorrect. Icarus says she berthed arrive alongside at she "Sto and Vanquisher. but the St. Helier did Vanquisher not says Dunkirk secured Hillier", alongside on 1st June Icarus; until 1530. Windsor outside Vanquisher. 218
| 2nd June | 0430 | On patrol line. - Off T buoy, picked up a boat with 21 troops on board and took them to Dover 37a). (see Appx. J, signals J. 37 and |
MALCOLM (continued) 0309 1st (contd.) June Arrived off Dunkirk. Spoke the dr. 0315 Worcester, lying off. Secured alongside east pier, which was crowded with troops and no other 1,000. ships alongside. Embarked about Soon after, other destroyers and transports entered. 0442 Proceeded by route X. 0758 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,200 troops E 2nd June 2206 Sailed for Dunkirk. 3rd June 0145 Off Dunkirk. 0212 All destroyers ordered back to Dover except Malcolm and Whitshed. 0248 R.A. Dover ordered all destroyers back to Dover. 0530 Arrived Dover, empty. 1730 Embarked food for French troops and 2 French naval ratings to assist in their embarkation. 2108 Proceeded. 4th June 0023 Arrived off Dunkirk. Several destroyers and other vessels waiting to go in. The G/B Locust was lying off and embarking men from small craft. 0210 Secured alongside east pier. Embarke/ about 800 French troops, carrying their enormous packs. 0225 Locust came alongside, ahead of Malcolm, and filled up with about 200 French troops. 0245 Slipped. Outside Dunkirk met Shikari and signalled her to return to Dover. Found she was escorting a blockship [the Gourko]. A magnetic mine exploded alongside the blockship just after Malcolm passed her at about 1/2 a cable's distance. - In fog, near North Goodwin, picked up some survivors of a "schuyt" which had been sunk by collision with a minesweeper [the M/S Leda had sunk the Belgian trawler Marechal Foch]. Took in tow a French motor boat which was picking up survivors and whose propeller had been disabled by wreckage; Admiral Abrial, French Commander-in-Chief, Dunkirk was on board her. (1) 0600ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 736 French troops, and the French C. in C. who was received by the V.A. Dover. Total 5,851. Authority R.O.I. p.104. (1) See also the Newhaven, which states she embarked Admiral Abrial. 223
MALCOLM (continued) (001, Lamons) Lawris, The 30th following May awards were made: Left Cheerhese for and Engine Remagete. broke the my to Capt. T.E. Halsey, R.N. D.S.O. Taken in too by the tr, Streth All out. the bollards and elease polled 1215 D.S.C. Lieut. I.N.D. Cox, 1020 R.N. Taken in low stern first, with 45 right the boat. orr Dunkirk beaches. Pumps choked, E Cost. bilgs All of witer D.S.M. R.E. Lines. THE C.P.O. Dont the C. Yeo. Sig. A.C.M. Shepherd. abandoned. C.P.O.Tel. C.H. Bycroft. C.E.R.A. R.W. Atkinson. P.O. W.A.R. Hooper. Yeo.Sig. A.C. Halls. J. Sowerby, R.F.R. L/Sea. sto. let Cl. W.S. Grimmitt. 7122 large Mention in Despatches. and left to full or Lieut. D.B.N. Mellis, R.N. 2400/31. on 2nd no Lieut. R.J. Robertson, R.A.N. the the Wt.Eng. A.G. Scoggins. E.R.A.2nd Cl. L.A.G. Dyer. P.O. A.G. Cooper. P.O. E.W. Simpson. P.O. Stwd. G.R. Nokes. L/sea. W.A. Hart. A.B. W.A. Clarke. A.B. F.W. Jacobs, R.F.R. 224
MALDON ANNIE IV M/B (Col. Lamont) S/Lt. T. Lawrie, R.N.V.R. 30th May Left Dunkirk. Sheerness for Ramsgate and - Engine Ramsgate. broke down on the way to 31st May 0845 Taken in tow by the tr. Strath Elliott All out. the bollards and cleats pulled 1215 Taken in tow stern first, with a strop right round the boat. 1620 Off Dunkirk beaches. Pumps choked, E bilge full of rubbish, making water fast. The boat drifted on to the beach and was abandoned. It fulfilled some useful purpose however, by being used as a pier. Nil [s/Lt. Lawrie transferred to a large diesel- engined barge and left in her, full of troops, for Ramsgate about 2400/31. on 2nd June, he was given command of the M/B Wings of the Morning. ] Authority - - R.O.II, pp.394, 531, 533. 225
MANXMAN (P/V) I.O.M.S.P.Co.Ltd. Capt. P.B. Cowley, Master. 27th May 1535 Southampton for Dover. 28th May 0215 Off Dover. 1835 Sailed for Dunkirk, P/V Prague and H/C 2250 Paris in company. Grounded on Smal Bank. 29th May 0230 Refloated. 0355 Rejoined Prague near Nieuport Bank 0600 buoy and with Paris, proceeded. Off Dunkirk. 1,000 feet astern, the P/V Mona's 0840 Queen blew up on magnetic mine. Berthed Dunkirk Mole. 1030 Proceeded board. with about 2,000 troops on 1615 Dover. Ordered to Folkestone. 1735 Folkestone. Disembarked 1,266 troops(1) 30th May 2042 To Dunkirk. 31st May 0514 Berthed Dunkirk Mole. Embarked about 1,700 troops. Air attacks. 0815 Left Dunkirk. 1320 Folkestone. Disembarked 951 troops. (1) 1st June 1905 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2nd June 0506 Dunkirk. Embarked about 200(3) troops, including Brig. Massey, R.A. - Left Dunkirk. 1 mile out, picked up a small boat containing five soldiers. 1043 Dover. Disembarked 177 troops. (1) 2115 Refused to sail (from Folkestone). (2) "New crew put on board, the engineers remaining. She started a trip but failed to make Dunkirk. on return, the original captain rejoined with some of the original crew. She should then have sailed at 2010/3, but the Captain reported 3 engineers short at the last minute. It was not considered necessary to wait for the engineers, and the Master and crew disembarked and a new crew was provided. Before use could be made of her, the evacuation terminated". Total 2394(4) Authority - R.O.III,PP.162, 238. The following award was made: Mention in Despatches. Capt. P.B. Cowley, Master. (1) D.R. (2) According to Cdre. Jukes-Highes, P.S.T.O. Dover. (4) According states to "about R.O. III, p.238, the number was 233; this (3) M.O. 450". appears to be an error. 230
MARE Harwich drifter Skipper A.H.W. Pendle, R.N.R. Group Offr: Cdr. J.W.D. Powell, D.S.C. (Bar) R.N.R 31st May 0930 Arrived Ramagate with 7 other Harwich drifters in company. 1st June - Left for Dunkirk with the dfrs. Three Kings, Tweenways and Unicity 1248 in company. Rounding S.E. Outer Ruytingen buoy, bombed. observed 3 patrol trawlers being 1300 Saw troopship Scotia lying on her side. The Mare's life boat brought in 9 French soldiers, and 6 others were hauled on board. These were transferred (together with 2 picked up by the Three Kings and 1 by the Tweenways) to the Ramsgate-bound dfrs. Jacketa and Fidget. One wounded man was taken off the burning Scotia. 1540 Off Dunkirk. Went alongside west pier. Air attack. Embarked about 230 French and Belgian troops. 1645 Proceeded with 14 men in a life boat towed astern. Air attacks off No.5 buoy, and Dyck Bank buoy. 2200 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 219 troops and 1 dead. (1) Total 219(2) Authority - - R.O.II, p.331. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches Cdr. J.W.D. Powell, D.S.C. (Bar), R.N.R. magate report, which names the ship "Marie". mentioned in D.R. 233
| 29th May | 0247 - | Picked up survivors from a mined French transport. Signalled to a French destroyer to stand by. Transferred survivors to French vessel retaining six serious French casualties and an Air Force captain who were attended to by the M.O. of the dr. Esk, which was near by. Arrived off Bray. Lowered 2 life boats |
| - | and embarked troops. Heavy surf Embarkation running. assisted by a destroyer's M/B and a surf motor boat. | |
| 1st June | 1621 2155 | Arrived Dunkirk roads. Sent boat ashore Sailed for Dunkirk. to locate troops. |
MARQUIS
Tug. (Saml. Williams & Son. Ltd). er. Skimer,
28th May
Disembarked 45 troops. (1)
favoRes
[Marquis left Ostend at 2200 on 26th May.
There is no evidence that she took part a
in Dynamo.
motor lighters X.217 company (0/1. Remalds
were
the
1600ca
Pool, R.N.), X-213 nnd X.149(1)
Arrived beach. Harmayry
It was rushed by about 50 French trons
(Ther (Th) into the bench.
and enpaised.
U.S. Olivier DAYS: ","ithdrew my ship
to review the positions.... linnaged
to pick up 0 ***** navel cutter which
we used a little further down
channel".
Mr. Olivier continues: "Took off
many boat loads for some 5 hours,
loading X.217, S.G. Poem Queen,
S.S. Jaba and so one On this first
I
day we also managed to pull Form
Queen off the mod". The captain of
the FOR Queen, a vessel of 1,000
tons, Buys that she "floated off at
1.
high water".
[2100ca]
S/Lta Pool in the X.217 says: "Having
collected some 250 French troops
I took the motor boat [1.0. the
Harsayrul and cutter in tow und left
for home".
The warsayru evidently broke away
from the tow shortly after starting,
because she who found by a Navel
100 June
1400ca
steam Pinnace 15/Lte Godman) at
about 31:00 on 101 June OX) Pannas
drifting with the tide and unocoupied
she WIS senvorsby and her engines
were A order. S/Lte Godman
took cocumed or the Naresvry pus
a orew on board her, started up the
engine, cabarked about 24 troops
("there T/GS insurficient room for
more" be says) and proceeded to
260 June
0800
Remognte, which he reached at 0800
on 2nd June.
"Lator", says s/Lt. Codenn, "the
again, on instructions from N.O.I.O
provious crew took the boat over
Mr. foregoing accounts After stating on 31at my, the
Oliviere' report differe - that from
Poom the 00067 una pulled off the mud
Un Drivier coysi
(11)
the days all a and
complete under constant fire anything. *****
Jush10 or (And) the usre but
ship was not his by
on you us vore singled for
del - 2nd out
vitention while Rd by
(en alone, away) nearest
RIV
(1) D.R.
244
MARSAYRU
M/B (42 ft. 6 in.)
See also under
Hr. G.D. Olivier, Skipper,
Naval Steam Pinnace] S/Lt. T.E. Godman, 31st R.H.V.R., May
lat-2nd June
31st May
0530ca
Left Sheerness for Dunk1rk with a
whaler in ton. In company were the
motor lighters X.217 (s/Lt. R.A.W.
1600ca
Pool, R.N.), X.213 and X.149(1)
Arrived off Dunkirk beach. Marsayru
sent her whaler into the beach.
It vaB rushed by about 50 French troops
and capsized.
Mr. Olivier says: Withdrew my ship
to review the position..... Managed
to pick up a ..... naval cutter which
we ..... used a little further down
channel".
Mr. Olivier continues: "Took off
many boat loads for Bome 5 hours,
loading X.217, S.S. Roam Queen,
S.S. Jaba and BC on. on this first
day we also managed to pull Foam
Queen off the mud". [The captain of
the Roam Queen, a vessel of 1,000
tons, says that she "floated off at
high water".]
[2100ca]
S/Lt. Pool in the X.217 says: "Having
collected some 250 French troops
I took the motor boat [1.e. the
Marsayru] and cutter in tow and left
for home".
The Marcayru evidently broke away
from the tow shortly after starting,
because she was found by a Naval
lst June
1400ca
Steam Pinnace (s/Lt. Godman) at
about 1400 on lot June, off La Panne,
drifting with the tide and unoccupied;
she was seaworthy and her ongines
were in working order. S/Lt. Godman
took command of the Narsayru, put
a crew on board her, started up the
engine, embarked about 24 troops
("there was insufficient room for
more" he says) and proceeded to
2nd June
0800
Ramogate, which he reached at 0800
on 2nd June.
"Later", says S/Lt. Godman, "the
previous crew took the boat over
again, on instructions from N.O.I.C"
Mr. Oliviers' report differs
ammont
from
the foregoing account. After stating that the
Foam Queen was pulled off the mud on 31st May,
Dr. Olivier says:
"Throughout this day and the days and
nights that followed (its all a
complete jumble in my mind) we were
..... under constant fire ..... but
ship was not hit by anything.
on ..... one day - Sunday 2nd June I
think - we were singled out for
uttention (we were alone, nearest
ship being about miles away) by
Bays: "X.217 and two other drifters".
245
M.A/S.B.6 89th A/S Group, Portland Lieut. W.G. Everitt, R.N. 28th May 2117 Left Dover to find the S.S. Clan 2300ca Macalister in the Downs. Found the Clan Macalister, and embarked 2 stretcher cases. 29th May 0015 Collided with and sank the M/L "Mineko1" [1.e. the Minikoi] with a whaler in tow. Saved the crew of 3 (including 0255 the C.O., S/Lt. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R(1)) Secured at Dover and landed the 2 stretcher cases. 0441 Sailed from Dover, to turn back to Ramsgate all small craft from the Thames estuary. Took in tow 6 cutters and 1 whaler, found drifting. 0630 Recalled to Dover; handed the tow over to a M/B to take to Ramsgate. 1921 Sailed from Dover to rendezvous off Kwinte buoy at 2100 with 2 M.T.B's from Harwich, and to carry out an anti-M. T.B. patrol. 2200ca M.A/S.B.6 arrived at rendezvous 1 hour late. 2230 The 2 M.T.B's arrived, but were not contacted. 30th May 0230ca Contacted the two M.T.B.'s and carried out patrol. 0710 Secured at Dover. 0901 Left Dover with a Lt. Cdr, to marshal and instruct all small boats arriving from south coast. 1335 Secured at Dover. 3lst May 1140 Sailed for Ramsgate to rendezvous with a small boat convoy. 1453 Sailed from Ramsgate for Dunkirk escorting 5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between 3 and 15 small open boats. The convoy straggled on the way over, 1930 Bo at the Ruytingen buoy, eased down in order to enable the vessels to close up. There were a large number of ships of all classes in the vicinity and a general bombing raid commenced. British fighters then arrived whereupon the attack became disorganised, and the bombers eventually disappeared inland. The off Dunkirk. 2110ca THE the directed the convoy to When beaches returning to the Keith, M.A/S.B.16 to be a as required. 2315ca medium-sized collided yacht. While M.A/S.B.6's the with what appeared being inspected by light damage of was a shaded torch, she was fired on by a German plane. (1) S/Lt. Blows then went over in the Ambleve. 252
2 M.A/3.B.6 - Continued. 31st May 2400ca (contd. On return to the Keith, General Leese was embarked and instructions were given to collect Lord Gort from the M/S Hebe and return to England. 1st June 0030ca By the time the Hebe was reached, Lord Gort had gone over to the Keith; M.A/S.B.6 therefore returned to the Keith. 0304 Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese. 0547 Arrived Dover. Disembarked Lord Gort and General Leese. 2nd June 1201 Left Dover to search for the dfr. Girl Gladys (reported broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk) and also for about 30 soldiers in an open boat (reported by aircraft to be 3 miles off Dunkirk). 1330 3 miles off Dunkirk, collected 5 Spaniards and about 6 troops from 2 open boats. Then went alongside a Thames barge( 1) (containing about 220 troops including 2 colonels, an artillery major and some wounded), which was endeavouring to sail to England. An attempt to repair the barges diesel engine was unsuccessful. M.A/S.B.6's First Lieutenant, S/Lt. T.E.B. de Hammel, R.N.V.R. was transferred to the barge with instructions to sail the barge to M.A/S.B.6 Dover. continued unsuccessfully to search for the Girl Gladys. Two miles to the east, M.A/S.B.6 When east of La Panne, abandoned the picked up 18 troops from an open boat. search for the Girl Gladys, and set to intercept the barge. When course out of sight of land, M.A/S.B.6 was 20 1720ca attacked by about 7 dive bombers. 50 ahead and M.A/S.B.6 passed to yards of the ship. One exploded 30 bombs were dropped within 10 to through just the splash. Two casualties. Arrived Dover. Sent out a tug to troops search Proceeded to Dover. 1922 for the barge. Disembarked 24 The and barge 5 was found by the tug(2) about. Spaniards. [2100 10 miles fron Dover.] Total 26(3) Authority - R.O.II, pp. 391, 468. (1) Not identified. (2) Not identified (3) Not mentioned in D.R. 253
M.A/S.B.7 89th A/S Group, Portland s/Lt. A. Ecclestone, R.N. 27th May 1700 Arrived Dover from Felixstowe, 1952 M.A/S.B.6 in company. Embarked the "Chef de Cabinet" and the "Secretaire" of the King of Belgium; also the "Ancien Ministere". 1955 Left Dover for Nieuport, M.T.B.107(1) in company. 28th May 0300 Disembarked Belgian Ministers at Nieuport jetty. 0315 Left Nieuport jetty, M.T.B's 107(1) and 22 in company. 0330 Set course for Dover. The two M.T.B's set course for Harwich. 0525 Arrived Dover. 30th May 0020 Left Dover for Dunkirk with 13 Military Officers carrying secret messages. 0240 off Dunkirk. The military officers were landed at the 3 beaches. Entered harbour to deliver secret message to S.N.O. Dunkirk. 38 French troops embarked. I 0725 Proceeded. 1035 Arrived Dover. 1100 Disembarked 38 French troops. 1135 Left Dover to rendezvous off Ramsgate 31st May with M.A/S.B. No.6 to escort convoy of small craft. 1147 Off Deal, developed a fire in port 1203 Fire engine. extinguished. M.A/S.B.7 taken in tow by tug Doria. 1517 Arrived Dover for repairs. 1730 Repairs completed. 2nd June 2100 Left Dover. 2117 Joined 3 blockships, in convoy off South Goodwin L.V. 3rd June 0200 Proceeded to lead the 3 blockships Westcove, Edvard Nissen and Holland] 0230ca The rear blockship Holland] was into Dunkirk Channel. "rammed and sunk by a troopship this blockship to take off the C.O. to leaving Dunkirk". Went alongside and Vivacious]. Proceeded of crew, who were transferred a the THE the them 107 to brought off the crew Left blockship. Dunkirk. 7 miles to lifeboat, the westward, 0400 picked down and on fire [the up the crew of a Jane Holland]. broken Abandoned the life boat. 0625 2100 Left Arrived for Dover. Dunkirk ]. escorting an R.A.F. M/B [ (1) Error for M.T.B.67. 254
M.A/S.B.10 89th A/S Group Portland Lieut. R.G.H.G. Eyre, R.M. 1st June 1715 Embarked Dunkirk. R.A. Dover and proceeded to 1900 Secured Dunkirk. at inner end of Eastern arm 2115 slipped. Underway throughout the night directing evacuation. 2nd June 0300 Set course for Dover. 0430 Arrived Dover. 1815 Embarked R.A. Dover and Adm. Sir James Somerville and their staffs and proceeded to Dunkirk. 1945 Arrived Dunkirk. 2100 Slipped( and remained under way throughout the night directing evacuation. 3rd June 0300ca Embarked some naval ratings of the shore party from eastern arm and proceeded with the R.A. Dover. 0427 Arrived Dover. 1500 Embarked Capt. G.A. Garnons-Williams R.M. and proceeded to the Downs to issue orders to blockships. Returned to Dover 1630. 1800 Proceeded to join the dr. Shikari which was with 3 blockships the Gourko, Moyle and Pacifico]. Carried out screening duties ahead of the block- ships on passage to Dunkirk. 4th June 0115 Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked the C.O's of the blockships and Capt. E. Danger- field, R.N. Reconnoitred the harbour. 0200 Returned to the blockships. 0215 The Gourko blew up. "Picked up all survivors" and transferred them to the Shikari". (2) 0345 Embarked the last of the block-ships' crews and proceeded to Dover. 0600 Arrived Dover. N11 Authority - R.O.II, p.474. The following award was made: Mention in Despatches Lieut. R.G. H.G. Eyre, R.N. (1) S.N.O. Dunkirk that General the Hon. H.R.L.G. Wake-Walker 2nd June. in Alexander a"M.T.B." 2130 second on Despatch, According to is the stated Appendix that to General Alexander S.N.O. Dunkirk left Dunkirk however, in a motor it boat [1.e. M.T.B.102] with (Capt. Tennant, R.N.) e M.T.B.107. 257
MASSEY SHAW Thames fire float Sub. Officer A.J. May 31st May 1400 Left command. Ramagate, S/Lt. R.P. Lucey in 1900 Arrived Dunkirk. Anchored 3 miles east of the harbour. Dinghy swamped by surf. 2000 Air raid. 2300 Embarked 30 troops by means of a vag- ed pulling boat. 2330 Embarked a further 30 troops. 1st June 0100 Weighed, and towed a disabled M/B to her parent ship. 0700ca Arrived Remsgate. Disembarked 60 British troops. (1) [s/Lt. Lucey then transferred to the Nelson's M/B] Lieut. G.F. Walker, R.N.V.R. assumed command. 1820 Left Ramsgate with a landing party of 20 Naval ratings. 2345ca Arrived Dunkirk. Ferried about 500 troops in 10 trips. 2nd June 0340 Proceeded with 46 troops on board. 0750 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 46 troops. (2) 1840 Left Ramsgate. 3rd June 0115 Arrived Dunkirk. Entered the harbour. Not possible to embark any troops, 0315 Bo proceeded to Ramsgate. - Arrived Ramsgate. (3) 4th June 0530 Left Ramsgate for London. 0600 2 ¹/2 miles east of the N. Foreland, the French auxiliary Emile Deschamps, 200 yards away, struck a mine and sank in about 2 minutes. The Massey Shaw rescued 40 French sailors, which were transferred to the M/S Albury. Total 106 Authority - - R.O. III, p.47, 282. T0.9144/41. The following awards were made: D.S.M. Sub-Officer A.J. May, London Fire Brigade. Mention in Despatches. Fire Service, London Fire Fire Brigade. Brigade. Fireman Fireman H.A.W. E.G. Wright, Ray, Auxy. Auxy. Fire Service, London (1) (2) Ramsgate Not mentioned report in states D.R. or "27 Ramsgate Br. and report. 1 Allied". D.R. states but (3) Lt. 27 Walker troops. says that the Massey Shaw made 4 trips - this appears to be incorrect. 258
MATILDA M/B (Owner, C.G. Burge). Mr. Burge states that the boat W&B sunk at Dover, but salvaged and subsequently returned to him - by shell or bomb splinters". (1) He states that "full of bullet holes and also somewhat damaged he "discovered" the following information: The Matilda went to Dunkirk and ferried troops - 37 trips in all. She troops". then returned to Dover "crowded with beached". "Then she sank, presumably after being [The Matilda was formerly in the R.N.L.O.I. service]. Authority - - T0.9144/41. TO.9436/40. (1) damage to a vessel named Company". Matilda, TO.9436/40 owned by records the "Chelsea yacht and Boat 259
M/B 275 R.N. Air Station, Ford C.P.O. Leighton. A.B. L.F. Strand. sto. A. Benham. [The following report 1s by A.B. Strand and Sto. Benham. 29th May p.m. Left Littlehampton and arrived Newhaven the same evening. 30th May a.m. Left Newhaven for Ramagate. p.m. Arrived Ramsgate. 31st May 0430 Ordered to sail for Dunkirk. 0730 Developed leak and returned to Ramsgate. 1st June 0430 Sailed for Dunkirk, having embarked 2 volunteer Sub-Lieutenants R.N.V.R. and an extra able seaman. - When near Dunkirk, struck a submerged object. No damage. - Just off shore at Dunkirk, all small boats suddenly turned about and left, as if ordered to do so. Decided to do likewise, and on turning, saw "two large ships" packed with troops steaming away from Dunkirk. - Suddenly a crowd of German bombers came out of the clouds. Direct hits were made on both the big ships which sank within about 20 minutes. [probably the P/V Scotia and the P.M/S Brighton Queen]. - All small boats went to the rescue. M/B 275 picked up 10 survivors. A destroyer which was being bombed, kept the raiders off. - After about 3/4 hour, sighted 3 trawlers, two on the starboard hand, one on the port. [They were the Cape Argona the Arctic Pioneer and the Sphene One of them, the Cape Argona made a signal in morse. A.B. Strand shouted to C.P.O. Leighton to stop engines, and he asked for a torch to signal back with; but either he "was not heard or was disregarded". A shot was fired across M/B 275's bows, but she still steamed fast towards the trawlers. 1315ca All three trawlers opened a heavy fire at about 1,000 yards. A hit wrecked the wheelhouse. All hands except the R.N.V.R. officers and A.B. Strand jumped over the side. A.B. Strand seized the wheel, and then waved an ensign; the trawlers ceased fire. One of the trawlers [the Cape Argona] sent a boat to pick up the in the water, and got the M/B 275 men alongside. Both officers, C.P.O. wounded; one of the crew of Leighton and several survivors the were sunk transport was killed. 261
| lst June(5) | 1100 1300 | Picked up open boat with 10 Spanish Sailed for Malo beach. refugees. Embarked troops. |
MERMAIDEN C.C.B., Weymouth M/B (Owner, Actg. S/Lt. C.E.S.Beale, Lt.Com. P.M.Filleul, R.N. R.N. P/O F.J. Norton, R.F.R. 29th May 1830 Left Weymouth, Lt. Martin R.N.R. in command. 30th May 1500 Arrived Dover. Lt. Martin disembarked. 31st May 2300ca Left Dover for Dunkirk, Pensioner P/O F.J. Norton in command. - Air attack. 1st June a.m. Arrived La Panne. Ferried troops. - Air attack. - Picked up 24 British troops and 1 French officer from small boat. - Proceeded. - Air attacks. Making water. Engine trouble. 1420 Ramegate, Disembarked 25 troops. (1) Carried out repairs to engines. 3rd June The crew not being willing to proceed, with the exception of L/Sto. W.A.S. Horne, they were relieved by Actg. S/Lt. C.E.S. Beale, R.N. and 3 other volunteers. Commodore A.H. Taylor was embarked. 1600 The Mermaiden left Ramsgate, in tow of the tug Sun IV, one of a company of 14 M/B's, in tow of the tugs Sun IV, Sun XV, Tanga and Racia. After passing "W" buoy, Cdre. Taylor transferred to the W.D/M.L. Marlborough. In the neighbourhood of the S.W. Ruytingen buoy, the tugs slipped the tows. 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Proceeded to Quai Felix Faure. Ferried troops to a "sloop" (2) outside the harbour and assisted small boats. 4th June 0230 Proce ded to Ramsgate in company with sun IV. 0340 Taken in tow by Sun IV. 0745 Arrived Ramsgate. Total 25 Authority - R.O. II, pp. 364, 422, 588, 592, 595. R.O.III. pp. 305, 488 (1) (2) Should Ramsgate report states 26 troops troops. to the G/B Locust, It anchored had off been the arranged Mole but for she Locust to use a box lamp a group have transferred could not be identified. with of long flashes every 2 minutes. 267
| Not say | 1000 X 8,2, address 3003 |
| Brites for Duakies 3500ca S craim) contranced 11 trupps by 132 larger TRANSL Properied 50 the gold, NAMMERS about 200 $torps implesing n Phone were the list to Yes | |
| Discrime WE now 2230am Procered. bested 100% | |
| 3st June | 1030ms W VALUE |
| AMOUNT Repuired engine. Ordered to Portations. |
MICHAEL STEPHENS R.N.L.I. (Lowestoft) life boat s/Lt. M.J.R. Yeatman, R.N.V.R. [Sub-Lieut. Skylark] Yeatman transferred from the M/B 2nd June 1500 Proceeded in tow of the tug Sun XI. 2230ca Arrived Dunkirk. The Michael Stephens entered harbour. Rammed by a M.T.B. - Went alongside east pier. Embarked 12 French troops. - Proceeded out of harbour to find the tug; she had disappeared. Transferred the troops to a trawler. Returned to harbour. Rammed by another M.T.B. Embarked 52 French troops. After searching for the tug for some time, and being hit by a 3rd June 0100 fishing boat, proceeded under own power to Dover. 0710 Arrived Dover. Landed French troops. Total 52 Authority - - R.O.II, p.223. 27122
Minesweeper Groups - Continued The boat tows were not in signal communication with Bo that marks the M/S's had to - which had anchored so as to - be relied upon to see that would shepherd the tows to the new positions. 277
M/B (Owner Capt. Shelford) MINIKOI s/Lt. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. 0015 29th May In the Downs, with a whaler in tow, was on the way to Dunkirk. Was rammed and sunk by the M.A/S.B.6. The crew of 3 were picked up. [s/Lt. Blows then went to the ex-Belgian canal boat Ambleve.] Authority - R.O.II, pp.391, 468. 278
MIRANDA (No.58) M/D Boat (Owner, W.H. Goldsmith) Bee Did not return from Dunkirk. Authority - TO.9144. TO.9436. 283
MISTRAL French Torpedo boat (6th Capitaine de corvette Division, 2nd Lavene. Flotilla) Lieutenant de vaisseau Guillanton. 29th May 1010 The 6th Division (the Cyclone, Siroco, 1330 and Mistral) sailed from Dover. Fired on by shore batteries from 1530 Ostend, about 10,000 yards distant. The Mistral secured alongside the west pier, Dunkirk. 1535 The Siroco, assisted by 2 tugs, secured alongside the Mistral's port side. The Cyclone went alongside the east pier, but shifted, by order, to the Quai Felix Faure. 1540 Attack by 12 bombers. 1555 One bomb struck the edge of the quay and exploded. The Mistral had 3 killed, 4 seriously wounded, including the Captain, and 3 slightly wounded. The second officer, Lieutenant de vaisseau Guillanton, took command. 1700 Attack by 15 dive bombers on a group of British ships secured alongside the north end of the east pier. The group included 2 destroyers [1.e. Grenade and the Jaguar], 3 trawlers [actually there were six, viz: the Fyldea, Arley, Brock, Calvi, John Cattling and Polly Johnson and a personnel vessel the Fenella]. All the British ships were hit except a destroyer [the Jaguar] which got under way at the beginning of the attack [she was severely damaged by a near miss off the harbour entrance]. During the course of this attack there were no allied aircraft present. An enemy plane was shot down on to the beach to the west of the channel. 1705 French soldiers commenced to embark. The Captain of the Siroco decided to embark to full capacity. The Mistral was to take what she could. 1715 Air attack, directed against the troops embarking. 1730 The Siroco sailed. The number of troops for embarkation fell away rapidly. At this time the Mistral was the only target afloat in the harbour [the tr. John Cattling was still there] a British destroyer [the Grenade was on fire and sinking by the bows; two trawlers were abandoned and sinking [only one, the Calvi and the personnel ship Fenella hit, had taken a list. No French troops were in view and the bombardment continued. While getting under way, the Mistral - attempted to hoist in her motor boat; The she nearly capsized however, Bo the 4 troops in her were embarked and she was abandoned. 285
2 MONA'S ISLE (continued) 2nd June 0150 Arrived off Dover. May 0300 Berthed alongside and disembarked 1214 troops. (1) helled by shoro batteries; attacking airore down attacked by A/C, Total 2634 1630ca (présomably by our fighters). Arrived Maritime. Dunkirk. Berthed at the Gard Authority - R.O.III, p.58. Proceeded with a full load of troops (see Maid of Orleans), 27th May a.m. Dover. Disembarked troops. Probably about 1,200.(2) The following awards were made: Duggan relieved by Capt. Holkhan. 29th May H.M. Left Dover for Dunkirk. D.S.O. Capt. Holkham then says: Cdr. J.C.K. Dowding, R.D., R.N.R. 0 mile off Dunkirk(4) the ship was mined and sank within 2 minutes, the survivors being researed D.S.M. P.O. L.B. Kearley-Pope. RNR the destroyer Venquisher. The dr. Intrepid states that she vas anchored off Dunkink harbour. At 0530oa the "Mona's Isles" (?Mona's Queen] which was anchored setern of her blew up on a magnetic mine. Intrepid lowered a boat to assist reacue work.(1) The dr. Vanguisher states that while she was at anchor awaiting entry into Donkirk on 28th May [729th May] the Mona's Queen blew up and senk at about 0630. Vanquisher's whaler was sent away and picked up.32 survivors 10⑉ cluding the Master. One or the survivors(3) died on the return trip. Total 1,200 Authority - R.O.I. pp.72, 140. Tm.6213/40. (1) Intrepia ways "H.M.S.Viny also lowered boats". Viar however (2) satimated (not mentioned in D.R.) Nons's Queen was 2756 tons did not leave Dover for DUNKIRE until 0705+ as compared with Haraman, 2030 tons and Haid.of Orieans (3) HAVE P. Gallagher, the Purser. 2386 tone. (4) 3.8.0. Donkirk Boys the position was about 2 milso east of Dunicipe Pier Light. (1) D.R. 296
MONA'S QUEEN P/V I.O.M.S.P.Co.Ltd. Capt. R.Duggan, Master. Capt. A.Holkham, Haster. 26th May 1200 Left the Downs for Dunkirk, (Capt. Duggan i/c). - Off Calais, shelled by shore batteries; attacked by A/C. Two of the attacking aircraft were shot down 1630ca (presumably by our fighters). Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed at the Gare Maritime. 1730ca Proceeded with a full load of troops (see Maid of Orleans). 27th May a.m. Dover. Disembarked troops. Probably about 1,200. (2) 2230 Capt. Duggan relieved by Capt. Holkham. 29th May a.m. Left Dover for Dunkirk. Capt. Holkham then says: "within 1/2 a mile off Dunkirk (4) the ship was mined and sank within 2 minutes, the survivors being rescued by the destroyer Vanquisher. The dr. Intrepid states that she was anchored off Dunk1rk harbour. At 0530ca the "Mona's Isles" [?Mona's Queen] which was anchored astern of her blew up on a magnetic mine. Intrepid lowered a boat to assist rescue work. (1) The dr. Vanquisher states that while she was at anchor awaiting entry into Dunkirk on 28th May [?29th May] the Mona's Queen blew up and sank at about 0630. Vanquisher's whaler was sent away and picked up 32 survivors in- cluding the Master. one of the survivors died on the return trip. Total 1,200 Authority R.O.I. pp.72, 140. Tm. 6213/40. (1) Intrepid says "H.M. S. Vimy also lowered boats". Vimy however (2) Estimated (not leave mentioned in D.R.) Mona's Queen was 2756 tons did not Dover for Dunkirk until 0705. as compared with Manxman, 2030 tons and Maid.of Orleans 2386 tons. (3) Mr. R. the Purser. (4) S.N.O. Gallagher, Dunkirk says the position was about 2 miles east of Dunkirk Pier Light. 297
la MOSQUITO - Continued. 1st June 0500ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 620 troops. (1) 0830 [1024] Sailed for Dunkirk. 15 miles from Dunkirk attacked by 1 dive-bomber. One near miss caused damage, (2) but was able to continue on course. 1230ca Arrived off Dunkirk. Embarked about 30 French and Belgian troops from a M/B [the Rapid] with life-boat in tow. Telling the M/B to follow, the Mosquito proceeded to the assistance of a transport [the Scotia] reported to be sinking at the west end of the channel. Almost immediately, the 1330ca Mosquito was attacked from different directions by at least 6 of a flight of 20 Ju.87's. The 4th Salvo "literally enveloped" the ship; there was a direct hit and a near miss. Boiler and engine rooms were badly holed, the sick bay wrecked, and the steering gear jammed with the rudders hard over; the ship took a heavy list to port. The pom-pom's crew were all killed or knocked out except L/Sea. Thirlwall; he "although shockingly badly wounded in at least 4 places", kept the one undamaged barrel firing until ammunition ran out. Able seaman Hirschfield proceeded aft, where the 0.5" gun's crew were all wounded, and single-handed brought the gun into action. After giving the order to abandon ship Lieut. Gardiner went below to burn the books. The executive officer, Lieut. A.H. Manwaring, R.N., having been mortally wounded, S/Lt. Flint took charge of the abandoning of the ship. Survivors were picked up by a motor boat [the Rapid] and 2 drifters (one of them the Lord Cavan) (3). Mosquito then had a list to port of about 20 degrees and water was pouring in through 3 holes in the boiler room and a large hole in the condenser. Lieut. Gardiner was taken [in the Lord Cavan] to Dunkirk where he embarked in the dr. Worcester. During an air attack on the way to England he was wounded. Total 1183. Authority - M.017681/40. (2) Calcutta says, "At 1024 detached Shearwater to stand by (1) D.R. states 610. (3) Lieut. Hosquito." Gardiner says, the "Earl of Cavan". 303
E EGI ONLY [Open] Motor life boat - S/Lt. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.I S/Lt. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V. 3rd June 1700 2300 Left Ramsgate in tow of the tug Sun XV. Tow parted and fouled propeller. Signalled many ships but could get no reply. 4th June 1300 Propeller cleared. Set course N.W. for England. No charts, and where- abouts unknown. 2000 Contacted No.82 L.V. near Harwich. 10.2 Stayed on board the L.V. for the nigh 10.8 additional 5th June 1130 Arrived Sheerness. Took no part in the evacuation. 1D 78 Authority - R.O.III, p.307. ) Bourgain any M/S (hotoly form of learn) 1 306
2 M.T.B.68 - Continued. Flotting Licut. C.M.O.Dreyers R.N. Authority - R.O.II, pp.445, 465. Dover 10 sast for Dunkirk. pier, Denkirk harbour. Ordered by B.N.O. Dunkirk to take Handerson and M.O.D. Ellwood to inspect La Panne beach. Attacked The following awards were made: by 3 ed airoraft to Dunkirk, on passage, disemberked the 2 commanders, embarked 20 British Mention in Despatches. troops and proceeded. Lieut. L/Sea. P. R.K.L. Ward. Walker, R.N.V.R. 10 Le Heaurier in the Stopped D.O. Mator by miles S.E. of Dover. A.B. S.W. Davey. Boat and took him back towards Dunkirk to pass messages to 3 tuge on their way to Dunkirk. 31st May 0030 Dover. Disembarked 20 troops. 1100 Proceeded to La Panne. 1240 orr Is Panne. Ambarked R.A. Dover from the dr. Keith. Ho inspected the beaches and was returned to Keith. 1530 Towed boatloads of troops to transports. 1640 Proceeded to Dover. 1800 Dover. 1st June 0600 Proceeded to Dunkirk. 0750 Arrived Dunkirk, (having passed the dr. Ivanhos being bombed). 0800 Keith had just been bombeds appeared to be not under control. went alongside and took off R.A. Dover and Staff. Ordered 2 tugs 18th Abbs and Vincia] to assist Keith. 0805 Air attack. 0810 Keith again bombed and considerably damaged. 0830 N.T.B.102 alongside Dunkirk. 0915 Proceeded to Dover with R.A, Dover and staff on board. 1100 Dover. 2nd June 2035 To Dunkirk 2255 Alongside cast pier Denkirk herbour. 2310 Embarked B.N.O. Dunkirk, Capt.Tennent Car. Ellwood, and Cdr. Banke and his demolition party; also a Brigndierd and one R.A.F. officer (dressed 00 a Belgian peasant). 2315 Proceeded. 3rd June 0120 DOVOR- 2015 Proceeded to Dunkink with M.A. nover and STATE on board. 2200 Arrived Dunkirs harbour. Proceeded under orders OF THE Dover, who use directing the outaristion of soldiere. 4th June 0135 Large explosion just mat or the eact 0315 Operation pier. completed. Passed blockships and sailed for Dover. 0505 Batled Daver. for portemouth- 1000 Total 20 (1) Bee M.A/S.B.10, 313 note (1)
1 M.T.B.102 3rd M.T.B. Flotilla Lieut. C.W.S.Dreyer, R.N. 30th May 1300 1430 Left Dover for Dunkirk. Alongside east pier, Dunkirk harbour. Ordered by S.N.O. Dunkirk to take Cdrs. H.P. Henderson and M.O.D. Ellwood to inspect La Panne beach. ttacked 2000 by 3 aircraft on passage. Returned to Dunkirk, disembarked the 2 commanders, embarked 20 British 2115 troops and proceeded. 10 miles S.E. of Dover. Stopped by Cdr. Le Mesurier in the D.C. Motor Boat and took him back towards Dunkirk to pass messages to 3 tugs on their way to Dunkirk. 31st May 0030 Dover. Disembarked 20 troops. 1100 Proceeded to La Panne. 1240 Off La Panne. Embarked R.A. Dover from the dr. Keith. He inspected the beaches and was returned to Keith. 1530 Towed boatloads of troops to transports. 1640 Proceeded to Dover. 1800 Dover. 1st June 0600 Proceeded to Dunkirk. 0750 Arrived Dunkirk, (having passed the dr. Ivanhoe being bombed). 0800 Keith had just been bombed; appeared to be not under control. Went alongside and took off R.A. Dover and Staff. Ordered 2 tugs [st. Abbs and Vincia] to assist Keith. 0805 Air attack. 0810 Keith again bombed and considerably damaged. 0830 M.T.B.102 alongside Dunkirk. 0915 Proceeded to Dover with R.A. Dover and staff on board. 1100 Dover. 2nd June 2035 To Dunkirk 2255 Alongside east pier Dunkirk harbour. 2310 Embarked S.N.O. Dunkirk, [Capt. Tennant] Cdr. Ellwood, and Cdr. Banks and his demolition party; also a Brigadier,(1) and one R.A.F. officer (dressed as a Belgian peasant). 2315 Proceeded. 3rd June 0120 Dover. 2015 Proceeded to Dunkirk with R.A. Dover and staff on board. 2200 Arrived Dunkirk harbour. Proceeded under orders of R.A. Dover, who was directing the embarkation of French soldiers. 4th June 0135 Large explosion just east of the east 0315 Operation pier. completed. Passed blockships and sailed for Dover. 0505 Dover. 1000 Sailed for Portsmouth. Total 20 (1) See M.A/S.B.10, footnote (1) 314-
EUJITUAN Naval pontoon boat You T.B. Godern, R.N.V.R. [0/20. Godman had been to Denkirk in yay njës the yeaht See under Portsdown he had transferred to the yacht Noneta, in which he took over the Naval Steam Pinnace. returned to Remsgate. At 0530 on 1st June, he 1st June 0600 Left Hamegate with a crow of 5 and 0830 fuel for six hours steaming. A passing trawler temporarily repaired the Steam Pinnece's engine and give her 3 sacks of coal. Bhe then took the steam pinnace in ton. 1030 The tow rope broke for the third time. The steam pinnace was taken in tow by another trawler which had overtaken her. 1200 Blipped the tow outside Dunkirk harbour and proceeded towards La Panne. Air attack on a sloop off the herbour entrence [1t was the G/B Mosquito]; the sloop half submerged, consed fire Just west of La Panne, picked up a dinghy and making several tripe, ferried 15 British troops to the steam pinnace. 1400ca Off La Penne, sighted the M/B Marsayru drifting with the tide and unoccupie [She had broken away on the previous night when in tow of the lighter X.217 The Mareayru was found to be in work- ing order; the engine wes started up, and an A.B. and a moldier were taken as crew. P.O. Morrison use loft to charge of the steam pinnace, with orders to 1ay off and wait for the return of the Marsayru. With the dinghy in tow, the Marsayru proceeded to the western end of the besch and anchored; the dinguy ferried about 24 troops to her. There WES insufficient room in the to take any more. 1700 The kareayro weighed anchor, cast the disghy advist. and proceeded eastward to pick up the steam pinnace. She VILTORIA was found anchored, near the harbour, and deserted. It wes decided to leave her there. The Marasyni proceeded to Remagate. 1900 Closed the OF Decreasebank which gave the MATURATH case Fuel and the course for Desegate. It USD observed that the stemp pinnes's orew were ou board END 2330 usde fast to a contant risabing bucy and unsted for anytight. 2nd June 0430 A travier truis the to tow to 0800 Arrived CANADA 19 FORMA 325
N.D. DES MIRACLES 16/20 French trawler /Lient. R.P. Luggy, 16.3. Lieut. Mahri Holmons STATE 29th May See 2601 under Prins Boudewijn Lucsy 1/0. Ignition drive of starboard engine Kractered, chodering the starboard smiting Proless 192 the receiver OF the correction. 30th May 0500 Arrived Sestiven, Repoire carried out 1200 Late Reshaven. de holl and coutre engins. 1500 Centre expire breaksous, causing small 2200 fire. Proceeded 00) port engine. Arrived Resegate. 310% May 0900 Repairs commended on centre engine. 9/Lient. Luccy transferred to the fire/lost Hossey Shaw Licat, Bolman boarded Nalkon's N/A under orders to prooced to Dundric, let June(2) 1310 Lort Remigato, Pervent an despensive Onfeide the herbour air Locks developed In centre and port engines. Returned to harbour. 1645 Again left Recogate. 1700ca 2 milee south of N. Goodwin L.V. wes signalled to by Lieut. Nowell, N In charge of the Northarn Inspection tug [Juna], which use standing by the tr, "Jucita" [1.t. Jacintal. The trawler had struck a submerged wreek and was listed about 25° to port, Licut. Newell desired the Pronoh colonial troops on board the stranded trawler to be trunsferred to the tag, before attempting to reflest her. Malson's M/A spent 00 hour doing 1800ca this and then resumed her journey to Dunkirk. 2200 Arrived Dunkirk Rost sole. Requested to have 22 Aritiah troups detailed for the W/B with these, the M/B / proceeded, as she one shopt of petrol 2nd June Anothored in the Donne till daylight. 0355 Arrived Disemberked 22 Briting 3/1.1eut. Lucey who, on his return from Dunkirk in the Menery Shay, had unauccessfully attempted to make a trip to Dunkirk DD the afternoon of 1st June in a W.D./S.L., now renumed command of Welson's N/B.] 2000 Left Ramsgate with extra petrol In cans. (1) S/Lieut. Luccy calls this vessel "Nelsons power boat"; (2) Licut. Holman in his report implies that be left Hemagnte Lieut. Holman calle It "Nelson's N/L". also the date of destrture from Remagete IS 31st Lt.Cdr. W.R.T. Climents, R.N.R., commending the Pervent, on Blat Rey; this 16 elmost certainly incorrect, although by M/D 8/Lieut. (which vas 10 company), and by the Joninta's master May. Locey, by Hr. De: Kirkaldie, commonin tog given Lieut. Holman left on 1st time. This 18 corroborated or the of the Pervent Java (who STATES that he transferred troops on Int June), (3) Romegate report. 330 331.
H.M.S. NELSON'S M/B(1) S/L1eut. R.P. Lucey, R.N. Lieut. H.L. Holman, R.N.V.R. 29th May 2200 2201 Left Portsmouth, S/Lieut. Lucey 1/c. Ignition drive of starboard engine fractured, rendering the starboard engine useless for the remainder of the operation. 30th May 0500 Arrived Newhaven. Repairs carried out 1200 on hull and centre engine. Left Newhaven. 1500 Centre engine breakdown, causing small 2100 fire. Proceeded on port engine. Arrived Ramsgate. 31st May 0900 Repairs commenced on centre engine. S/Lieut. Lucey transferred to the firefloat Massey Shaw. Lieut. Holman boarded Nelson's M/B under orders to proceed to Dunkirk. 1st June(2) 1310 Left Ramsgate, M/L Fervent in company. Outside the harbour air locks developed in centre and port engines. Returned to harbour. 1645 Again left Ramsgate. 1700ca 2 miles south of N. Goodwin L.V. was signalled to by Lieut. Newell, R.N. R. in charge of the Northern Inspection tug [Java], which was standing by the tr. "Jacita" [1.e. Jacinta]. The trawler had struck a submerged wreck and was listed about 25° to port. Lieut. Newell desired the French colonial troops on board the stranded trawler to be transferred to the tug, before attempting to refloat her. Nelson's M/B spent an hour doing 1800ca this and then resumed her journey to Dunkirk. 2200 Arrived Dunkirk East mole. Requested to have 22 British troops detailed for the M/B. With these, the M/B proceeded, as she was short of petrol. 2nd June - Anchored in the Downs till daylight. 0355 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 22 British troops. (3) [S/Lieut. Lucey who, on his return from Dunkirk in the Massey Shaw, had unsuccessfully attempted to make a trip to Dunkirk on the afternoon of 1st June in a W.D./M.L., now resumed command of Nelson's M/B.] 2000 Left Ramsgate with extra petrol in cans. (1) S/Lieut. Lucey calls this vessel "Nelsons power boat"; (2) Lieut. Holman in his report implies that he left Ramsgate Lieut. Holman calls it "Nelson's M/L". also W.R.T. the date of departure from Ramsgate as 31st Lt.Cdr. May; Clements, R.N.R., commanding the on 31st this 1s almost certainly incorrect, Fervent, although M/L by S/Lieut. which was in company), and by Jacinta's tug master May. Lucey, by Mr. D. Kirkaldie, coxswain the gives Lieut. Holman left on lst June. This is corroborated of the of the Fervent Java who states that he transferred troops on 1st June). (3) Ramagate report. 331
with H.M.S. Nelson's Picket Boat. NE See under Santosy. coandoped AS enot OF Abthority - 10. 20.9436, should .Я - Estrodium 333
NIGER (N.73) 4th M.S.F. Cdr. St. J. Cronyn, R.N. S.O., 4th M.S.F. 30th May 2145 On passage to N. Goodwin L.V. in company with the M/S Dundalk, received signal to carry out ferry Panne. service between Sheerness and La 31st May 0700 Anchored 5 cables off La Panne. Sent in both whalers and the M/B. Considerable surf running. There was no one 1n charge ashore, and as soon as the boats arrived in they were seized by soldiers. One was swamped, the other overloaded and capsized. Embarked troops from yachts. 1045 Sailed with over 200 troops for Dover (being less distance than to Sheerness). Lieut. R.P. Hichens, R.N.V.R. was left behind. He moored 2 yachts as pontoons, secured grass lines to the pier of lorries and organised the boats "pulley-hauly" on these lines, thereby increasing the rate of embarkation and avoiding the risk of capsizing boats. 1445 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 205 troops. 1715 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2240 Anchored off Braye-Dunes. 2315 A boat under oars came off with some 30 soldiers under the command of S/Lt. R.H. Bygott, R.N.; the boat had been towed by the tug Tanga. S/Lt. Bygott reported that there were 150 troops abreast the ship. Niger's boats were sent in, but finding no troops, returned empty. 2350 A S/Lt. R.N.V.R. (name unknown) (1) from the tug Sun VIII swam off from the beach and reported that his motor boat and a ship's boat were aground with some 60 soldiers, that he had got 30 off in another boat, and that about 50 more were waiting. Niger sent her boats in again, to tow the boats off and fill up; by the time they got in, the boats had got off and left, and the troops had gone. 1st June 0100 A large shore boat 1/c of Lt. Cdr. Craig came alongside with 40 and Towel. At this time, the Niger's soldiers, including Brigadiers Robb boats returned with troops and continued to bring them off regularly As dawn came, large numbers of Niger's troops but slowly. 0330 were floats were pressed seen on the beach and into carley Lifebelts were also sent and in service. some soldiers put these on low and off. It was now nearly swam Bray had been shelled from Nieuport water. continuously throughout the night. (1) The speaks of a Lieut. Navy Puckley; List. there was Sun no VIII's officer report of this name in the 343
NIGER - Continued 1st June 0500 (contd.) Aircraft made machine gun attacks 0610 on ships and beaches. With about 330 troops, Niger proceeded, the M/S Sutton in company. A message was received from Major- General Montgomery, through the M/S Salamander, that troops had been ordered to proceed to Dunkirk. Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 310 troops. (1) 1800 2215 Sailed for Dunkirk, Sutton in company. The Niger anchored off Malo. The Sutton proceeded into Dunkirk. 2225 No boats being worked from the heach. The Niger lowered her M/B, one whaler and a boat which had been borrowed from the Sk. Vrede in Dover. 2230 The boats were sent in, in charge of Lieut. Hichens. 5 cables to the westward he found some French troops and embarked 50 of them. 2nd June 0000 British troops were then embarked some 6 cables further eastward. 0255 Proceeded with about 300 troops. - Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 300 troops. (1) 2055 Sailed for Dunkirk. 3rd June 0015 Secured alongside Dunkirk east pier. Embarked about 700 French troops. 0120 Slipped, whilst turning, an unknown French craft crossed Niger's bows and was rammed. The Skipper came on board. A few minutes later the French craft came back and rammed the Niger. - Arrived Folkestone. Disembarked 700 French troops. (2) The Skipper of the French craft was turned over to the military authorities. 2100 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2233 Dense fog; speed 8 knots. 4th June 0030 Visibility unimproved. Passage abandoned. 0135 Anchored 3 miles from N. Goodwin Light. Total 1,515 Authority - R.O.I., p.313. (1) D.R. (2) D.R. states 430. 344
| 25' WA | Metor Boat (30 |
| Chriscraft 25' M/B | Motor Boat (30 ft.) |
| Count Dracula | Motor Boat (36 ft.) |
| Chriscraft 25' M/B | Motor Boat (30 ft.) |
| Count Dracula | Motor Boat (36 ft.) |
OCEAN BREEZE Drifter Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. Skipper Bailley (?) 30th May 1245 Sailed from Ramsgate with 2 whalers in 1920ca tow, by X route for Dunkirk. Arrived off Malo beach. Commenced embarking troops. A motor boat, manned by civilians, towed the Ocean Breeze's boats to and from the beach had been embarked. until dark, by which time 170 troops Contacted Lieut. McMullan in the Sk. Twente. 2300 Turned over the 2 whalers to a tug. Sailed for Ramsgate by X route. 31st May 0400 Arrived Ramagate. Disembarked 107 British and 2 French troops. (1) 0830 Sailed by route X for Dunkirk. 1340ca Arrived off Malo beach. No boats available. 1500 Was able to borrow a whaler. Air attacks commenced and continued almost without pause. Seven bombers were brought down by gunfire. 1530 The whaler had by now made one trip. Contacted S/Lt. Cornish in a N/B [the Lansdowne] who was of great assistance. 1700 Having embarked mostly French troops, shifted to La Panne, with S/Lt. Cornish and his M/B and embarked British troops. 2030 Turned over the whaler to S/Lt. Cornish and asked him to report to the sk. Atlantic which needed boats. Sailed by route X (during an air attack) with about 150 troops on board lst June 1600 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 150 troops. (2) Total 259 [On 2nd June, Lieut. de Mauny went over in the W.D/M.L. Haig]. Authority - R.O.II, p.547. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches. Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (2) (2) (2) Estimated. Ramsgate report. Ramsgate report states "sandown, Ocean Breeze (1) and Jackeve, 564". 355
\OLVINA Trawler- Portland s/Lt. J.H. Cooper, R.N.V.R. Unit Officer, 40th A/S Group 29th May 1700 Proceeded Topaze. to Dover in company with 30th May 1045 Having become detached from Topaze, the 1810 Olvina reached Dover independently. 2210 Left the Downs for Bray. Anchored 1 mile east of Dunkirk; then shifted eastward. 2345 Anchored off Bray. Embarked 31 troops, and 1 stretcher case which was put aboard a destroyer. 31st May a.m. After re-fuelling it from the Icarus, ferried troops in the dr. Scimitar's 1) motor boat and embarked 240 in Olvina. Use WAB made of a pier of motor lorries, having planks lashed to their roofs. 1120 The north-westerly breeze freshened to force 3/4, 80 the Olvina proceeded. Between Dunkirk and the N. Goodwin L.V., took in tow from the Dwarf, the diesel-engined Thames barge Viking with 70 troops on board. 2200 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 244 troops. (2) It was then ascertained from Captain A/P that the Olvina should not have gone to Dunkirk but should have been on A/S patrol (see also Appendix J.27). 1st June 0820 Proceeded to a patrol station, 17 miles N.N.W. of Dunkirk. 1500 70 survivors from the dr. Basilisk came alongside in a French fishing boat, [the Jolie Mascotte]. 1917 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 103. (3) Total 347 Authority - R.O.II, ₽.397. WARYI kosrzina it was the Sabre's W/B; Sabre, her. however, was at Bays at the time as had her N/B with ************* that "Olivia" (q.v.) disembarked 103.
Holder ORANJE Skoot Lieut. H.T. Crispin, R.N. Lieut. K.W. Ratledge, R.N.V.R., 1st Lieut. 26th May Having loaded 200 tons of army provisions at Deptford, completed with naval stores at Sheerness. 27th May 1400 Ordered to proceed to Dover. A lighter came alongside with further stores. 1430 Oranje sailed. Before reaching Garrison Point a motor boat brought orders to proceed to Southend for onward routeing to Dunkirk. 1500 Ascertained at Sheerness that the order to sail for Dunkirk, cancelled the order to sail for Dover. Proceeded accordingly. Off the Nore L.V., a tug from Southend brought route instructions. Proceeded via the West Hinder and Kwinte Bank buoys. 28th May 0100ca When about 2 miles south of the West Hinder buoy, sighted a merchant vessel approaching ahead. The ships passed about 2 cables apart. When about 10° abaft the beam, this ship fired 12 rounds of rifle fire at the Oranje, 2 of which hit the ship's side. 0400 In company with 2 other skoots and a merchant ship [the Dorrien Rose] in the vicinity of Middelkerke Bank Buoy, observed the P/V Queen of the Channel approaching on opposite course. When 1/4 mile away she was attacked by a Heinkel dive bomber which dropped four 100 lb. bombs round her stern. She stopped and settled by the stern. The Oranje went to her assistance but was warned to keep off as the bomber was returning. A 500 lb. bomb was then dropped about 50 yards on the Oranje's starboard bow as she was leaving the Queen of the Channel. The Dorrien Rose went to the assis- tance of the Queen of the Channel and the Oranje continued on to Dunkirk. In the Zuydcoote Pass, met 2 destroyers full of troops. This, and the previous meeting of the Queen of the Channel was the first intimation that an evacuation of troops was in The progress. Oranje went alongside a "barrage vessel" off Bray. A enemy-piloted markings dropped a number of small Blenheim bomber with British bombs on the beach and was met by and rifle fire. on m.g. approaching Dunkirk, a returning she skoot informed Oranje that was small to be of any use, nor should could she too land stores, and that she return. The Oranje turned about, and embarking 366
you ORIENT IV Orient Line M.L/B S/Lt. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. [31st May? ](1) Was towed over to Dunkirk beaches. The engine failed and the boat was beached and abandoned. S/Lt. Wallace started pulling in a life boat but was taken in tow by the dfr. Alcmaria to which he transferred. The tow parted during the night and the L/B was left drifting. 1st June [0825 The Alcmaria arrived at Ramsgate. ](2) 0830ca The tug Cervia, off Dunkirk and proceed- ing homewards, added the Orient IV to her tow of barges. 1500ca Still in tow, Orient IV arrived at Ramsgate. 2nd June 0930 Arrived Gravesend. N11 [At 1700 on 3rd June S/Lt. Wallace left Ramsgate for Dunkirk in the M.L/B Guide of Dunkirk]. Authority - R.O.II, pp.391, 392. (1) June (1) 0745 troops.(1) 0900 Oriole's C.O. and by the 2000 The for 0015 to 0220 30 2 for (1) Cdre. states that s/Lt. Wallace was towed IV] over in an "Orient Line also that s/Lt. Wallace returned arrived in A.H. Taylor M.L/B" [presumably the Orient on the 2nd June; The dfr. Alcmaria make back the at Ramsgate "trawler on Alcmaria". 1st June and did not apparently a second trip to Dunkirk. therefore that s/Lt. Wallace sailed as for Dunkirk in the that he went over again the Guide June It seems probable Orient IV on 31st May, particularly on 3rd Cdre. "in a Taylor new but states unnamed power life boat" [i.e. (2) Ramsgate of Dunkirk]. report (which refers to the dfr. as the "Alcimaica") 368
| 15th pay 26th 27th May | 1200 1400 0620 0930 0000 0900 1300cc 2300 | Orems for Duten skoots processed Leon Portsmonth to 200184 where the accired Stort noons having the Bursh orce at Dovonce InlaM, the Henitio united For Yarmouthy 1.0.3, Outlet can Arrived Portemouth Ballen at Cark Doz the als. America. Associtics STATE and Paliaboll La company. Arrived off Resheved. AS dark walled for the Dorrie with 6 payty of alx Borther alonmide at Dovers Saving 18.00 the porty at six excess. Took area a life-neat from one VIC the stower ekhoto that we Grouping benindi The Products forged obded of the other 4 RESOLTS The Eactor groupded on a sandbeth La Pence. Sext in the Large lire-boat with orders to troops to other ship |
| 29th May | 0200 0430 | When the tide 1000, tito Facilie perfonted. Bont the ship's lifeboat and sitt Inshore. They brought otr 8 treeps and thereafter Lost South with the Pacific In the Ordere had been received at Dover to Loave shore before 0330, but Pacific, writing in vata for her boats, did not Leove ontil 0430, when 11 VIA destight, procesding by Y route, |
| 0900 | Anchored 01090 boat, but collected 2 from a and 620 troups departing skoot, | |
| 1881 | 0800 2100 | Anenored French Embarked 8 small boat load of voved troops. * nile forther esst. Assisted by a Large U/B, embarked Seiled troops for |
PACIFIC Skoot Lt. Cdr. C.J. Skrine, R.N. Lt. C.J. Triscott, R.N.R., 1st Lieut. 25th May Crews for Dutch skoots proceeded 1200 1400 arrived about noon. from Portsmouth to Poole, where they Having discharged the Dutch crew at Bownsea Island, the Pacific sailed for Yarmouth, I.O.W. 26th May 0430 Sailed for Portsmouth. 0930 Arrived Portsmouth harbour. - Sailed at dark for Newhaven, the sks. Amazone, Atlantic, Zeus and Pascholl in company. 27th May 0400 Arrived off Newhaven. : At dark sailed for the Downs with a party of six skoots. 28th May 0900 Berthed alongside at Dover. 1300ca Sailed with the party of six skoots. Took over a large life-boat from one of the slower skoots that was dropping behind. The Pacific forged ahead of the other 4 skoots. 2300 The Pacific grounded on a sandbank off La Panne. Sent in the large life-boat with orders to ferry troops to other ships. 29th May 0200 When the tide rose, the Pacific refloated. Sent the ship's lifeboat and skiff inshore. They brought off 8 troops and thereafter lost touch with the Pacific in the darkness. Orders had been received at Dover to leave shore before 0330, but Pacific, waiting in vain for her boats, did 0430 not leave until 0430, when it was daylight, proceeding by Y route. 1630ca Arrived Dover: Disembarked 8 troops 30th May 0240 Sailed for Dunkirk. 0900 Anchored close off Malo beach. Had no boat, but collected 2 from a Sailed with 30 officers and 620 troops. departing skoot. 1600 Air attack while crossing Inner Ratel 2100 Arrived Bank. Ramsgate. Disembarked 523 troops. (1) 31st May 0230 Sailed for Dunkirk. 0800 Anchored off Malo beach. Heavy swell. Embarked a small boat load of French Moved troops. 1/2 mile further east. - Assisted 2 by a large M/B, embarked Sailed troops. for Ramsgate. 2100 (1) Ramsgate report. 373
PANGBOURNE (N.37) 5th M.S.F. Actg. Cdr. F. Douglas- Watson, R.N. 2400ca 26th May In company with the remainder of the North Shields to Harwich. 5th M.S.F., less Saltash, sailed from 2300ca 27th May Arrived Harwich. 1200 28th May The Pangbourne sailed for Malo beach. - On arrival off the beach, was ordered into Dunkirk harbour. 2145 Secured alongside the east pier, ahead of the M/S Gossamer. When about 150 troops had been embarked, Cdr. J.C. Clouston, R.N., N.O.I.C. on the jetty, asked the Pangbourne to go to the west pier, where, about 1½ miles wounded. further up, were a number of badly on arrival, about 1000 troops, stretcher cases, and walking wounded were found. - The tide was low and still ebbing, 80 gangways were rigged from the boat deck to the wharf. About 450 troops, stretcher cases and wounded were embarked. 29th May 0030 Slipped and proceeded down harbour. After rounding No.6 E whistle and bell buoy, encountered 2 or 3 French destroyers, stopped in the channel; as a result, No.1 E buoy was over- looked, and the Pangbourne grounded on a sandbank north of Zuydcoote Pass. Backed off and anchored until buoys could be seen; then proceeded. 0300ca Gunfire observed ahead, and several destroyers passed proceeding towards the French coast. - Passing the Kwinte buoy, one sunken destroyer [the Wakeful] and another badly down by the stern [the Grafton] were also passed. 1000 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 400 troops. (1) "The arrangements for disembarkation of troops at Margate were most efficient". (2) 1107 Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk, being joined by the M/S Lydd at N. Lydd reported a submarine to tarboard; Goodwin L.V. 1315 although it was not observed by 1321 1645/ a Several air attacks off Nieuport bank. Pangbourne, submarine warning was broadcast. 1715 Two apparently blown from the deck of exhausted British soldiers, (1) (2) D.R. Ty- Lieut. G.C. was the Pier Officer; the P.S/Lt. M.K. Newman, Hamilton, R.N.V.R., R.N.V. R. was in charge of office at Margate. in charge at Margate he was assisted was the by signalman Sig. W.T. Burton.
(II) PANGBOURNE - Continued. 1645/ (9th May 1715 some small ship, were picked up. (contd.) 1730 BOODES Several bombers appeared to be about to attack Pangbourne, but they passed overhead, and attacked, for Date a considerable period, a hospital ship [the St. Julien] 1 mile on the and starboard beam, without registering any direct hits. Just before passing Nieuport Bank buoy, picked up a large life-boat. Transferred 30 Belgian troops from her and took the L/B in tow. 1800ca on closing the beach, was ordered alongside the S.S. Clan Macalister, to embark her crew. She was on fire aft, and the ammunition round the after gun was continually exploding. The crew, including some 30 Lascars and several naval ratings (crews of M/B's) were all embarked. Anchored about half a mile off the beach, opposite the [Zuydcoote] Sanatorium [about 4 miles east of Dunkirk]. All available boats sent inshore in charge of Lieut. W.K. 0800 Tadman, R.N.R., and Mr. S.S. Rabbitts, Boatswain R.N. 1800/ Numerous air attacks. No direct hits, 1900 but near misses holed the ship on both sides, above and below the water line, and the D.G. coil was cut in several places. 7 ratings and 6 Belgian soldiers were killed, 7 ratings and 2 officers, and 2 Belgian soldiers were wounded; among the casualties were the 12 pdr. gun's crew. During a lull in the bombing the cable was slipped, the capstan being out of action, and the ship got under way. Troops, then coming off in boats, were picked up, and the boats abandoned, as they were holed and the boats' falls were shot away. On clearing Nieuport Bank, the P.M/S - Gracie Fields asked for assistance. Direct hits had put her out of contro and she was steaming at about 6 knots with her helm jambed, with 15L The Pangbourne went alongside Gracial starboard wheel on. Fields, took off about 80 British The M/S Kellett, by request, led the troops, and took her in tow. 2200 Pangbourne, whose compasses were still dead. 30th May 0130 The Gracie Fields reported that she sinking. Slipped her, took her off her was ship's company, abandoned By position this time Kellett was out sight and (51° 20' N., 02° 05' of E.) broadcast her approximate 10011 THE adv a and visibility was poor. E 377
3 PANGBOURNE - Continued. 0646 30th May Sighted the S. Goodwin L.V. and was (contd. Mosquito. (1) led into Dover by the G/B 1000 At Dover, disembarked 450 troops, and the wounded and dead. 2000 1st June Damage repaired but compasses still out of action. Sailed to rendezvous with the M/S Halcyon at N. Goodwin. Did not find her. (2) - Now too late to go to the beaches, BO proceeded eastward to assist ships returning in difficulties. 2nd June 0532 Passed T buoy. Off S buoy, transferred 23 British troops from the tr. Stella Rigel. 1030 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 23 troops. 2000 Proceeded to Dunkirk in company with the M/S's Halcyon and Speedwell. 3rd June 0030 Entered Dunkirk harbour. Ordered by R.A. Dover to wait outside, as there were no troops. 0200 A life-boat with 43 French troops and 4 officers came alongside and embarked They stated that they were from a French vessel, which had run aground on a sandbank. (3) Ordered by R.A. Dover to return to England. 0215 Followed the M/S Albury until clear of the channel and then made for Folkestone. - Arrived Folkestone. Disembarked 47 troops. Total 920 Authority - R.O.I, p.327. The following awards were made: D.S.O. Actg. Cdr. F. Douglas-Watson, R.N. C.G.M. L/sto. R.K. Robb. Mention in Despatches (Posthumous) P.O. W.G. Hoare. Mention in Despatches. L/Sea. A. Reid. (1) Not mentioned in Mosquito's report. (3) Probably the French mail packer Rouen. (2) She was delayed and had not left harbour. 378
Hospital carrier PARIS S. Ry. Co.) Capt. E.A. Biles, Master 1556 25th May Left Dover for Dunkirk, the H/C Isle of Thanet in company. 1815 Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed outside the Isle of Thanet. Embarked wounded. 000lca 26th May Left Dunkirk with wounded on board. - Arrived Dover. Disembarked wounded. (1) 28th May 1830 Left the Downs, the P/V's Manxman and Prague in company. 2250 All 3 ships grounded on Smac Bank. The Paris and Prague came off immediately, but the Manxman remained aground for some hours. 29th May 0355 The 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk, after which they acted independently. The Paris embarked troops and sailed. Disembarked 400 troops( 2) at a home port. 30th/31st - The Paris again went to Dunkirk and May returned with 230 troops. (2) 2nd June 1648 Left the Downs for Dunkirk. - Between the N. Goodwin L.V. and W buoy, 1855ca ran into thick fog. Near W buoy the fog cleared. (3) 1900ca About 15 miles N.W. of Dunkirk, attacked by 2 aircraft. Severe damage from near misses. Ship out of control, all lights extinguished. 2000ca Attacked by 3 aircraft. Further damage to ship and her lifeboats. A motor boat I see 40 foot ship's fast motor boat. took Paris's boats in tow. The Paris was abandoned. - All personnel transferred to the tug Foremost 87, and the boats abandoned. 2311 The tug Sun XV sighted Paris listing heavily to starboard; she made fast a wire, but it parted. 3rd June 0100 The tug Sun IV arrived on the scene. Air attack. It was decided by the tugs that an escort would be necessary - The tug Lady Brassey sighted Paris listing heavily and settling fast. 0400 The Paris sank 4 mile east of W buoy in 17 fathoms. Total 630 Authority - T.M. 6213/40. R.O.II, p.177 (2) 1) This was of Operation Dynamo. (3) D.R. D.R., para. before the commencement near W buoy, was shelled when off the 89 states, coast Engines put out be of action a the but French appears bombed. to 379
Trinity House Vessel. PATRICIA( 1) 1140 Sailed from Dover with the dr. 27th May Impulsive and the M/S's Skipjack and 10ᵗʰ June Halcyon to establish and buoy the searched channel from the North 3rd June Goodwin L.V. to the Ruytingen Pass and thence into the Dunkirk roads, June afterwards known as Route X. It yis shortened the round trip from 172 miles to 108. 1919 This operation was completed. awn Pahol boat Eletregier as Carpus (CARPIER) (20le by for beard Leach Photocical Siction) (1) Not mentioned in D.R. 383
French trowler FATRIE cannot 1st June (sto, detes form be the Transported the 157 troops. (1) SUPE names 3rd June Transported 350 troops. (1) 1:35h vayz] 4th June Transported 152 troops. (1) Processed, ME obtachn. Total 659 arriyed Named with his drew of 2 even then to the NATUROL, and 6012ed to burden THE alangatos Dunicist 2020 van decision by - ates. the THE Patrie B 36 and MASSA AC Resegute, Sto. returned with aux Patrol boat the and in bee *410 retro TRAPS 10 the behome# Singlard Entrgine are vaineau led On one trip, 2nd Carpier. (CARPIER) survivors from the as with on V1117 the ann: enno by S (Lote by bdr brasof health or M. M.L.C.21 to have of petrol and Physical Siction) on one night Ste. Banks anys be gave his "a run schore" in Dunkirk, and they spent à hour collecting souvenirs. Total 400 Authority - R.O.III. Dp.304. 5384 The following awards were 00001 A&M Storer D.T. Banks, D.R. Cerred to in Sto. Banks report on the "Horanole"
M/B (Owner F. Bridge) PEGGY IV S.H. Hughes, Skipper. Reported by Mr. Bridge. company with the soth [Date?] gay The Peggy IV went to Dunkirk. 0200ca 31st usy She did 2 trips from the shore to a 1000ca motor boat - carrying about 150 troops. On the 2nd trip, the boat was over- crowded and shipped a lot of water. After the troops had been transferred to the motor boat, the Peggy IV was abandoned. She did not return to England. and broke the steering. Closed the dr. Woroester, about 1] miles off-shore. Ordered by the Worcester to abandon ship. An effort Authority - TC.9144/40. TO.9436/40. to sink the ship during on of attack was unsuccessfal, 1st June 0500ca The Pellag II was found adrift by a party of Royal Engineers, which under Major M.C.A. Henniker R.E., had left Dunkirk in rowing boats. They boarded the yacht and managed to got the engines running. 0545 The G/B Locust closed the Pellag IL. transferred her troops and took her in tow. Shortly afterwards the tow parted. Two further attempts were made to tow, but as enemy aircraft were in the vicinity, it was events- ally decided to abandon her. An attempt to sink the Peling II by gunfire was not DDS she may have Nill Perried 33 troops. Additionalty R.O.II, 241. H.O. Case 6256. Not 1dentiried. (England) B.K. Vilson Ltd not -
W.D./M.L. E.L. Yealland, Mate. PIGEON S/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N. 1900 Arrived Ramsgate from Grimsby. 31st May - Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk. 1st June - Brought back "17 very badly wounded men". (1) - S/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen (ex Vernon I) 2nd June took command and sailed for Dunkirk. He was accompanied by S/Lt. C.A. Canham R.N. - Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops from the piers to waiting ships between midnight and dawn. 0430ca Proceeded. 3rd June 0700 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 20 French troops. (1) [s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen says: "The Pigeon carried approx. 25 troops. Between midnight and dawn each night I made on an average 20 trips [ferrying] arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m. on the last lap with the Pigeon full of troops. I continued this every night until Monday [3rd June] when having ferried all night ..... I waited alongside the pier for Cdr. Troup (2) - Sailed for Dunkirk. Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops. - 4th June 0305ca Came alongside the pier where Cdr. H.R. Troup R.N. was superinten- ding the embarkation of troops. Embarked Cdr. Troup and a French general and his staff. Cdr. Troup says: "About men stood to attention 4 deep 1,000 half-way along the pier, the and General about staff about 30 feet away; and his faced the troops, whose faces the were them showing up their heels, after indiscernable having in the dawn light, steel helmets, saluted and the then turned about and came down flames behind officers clicked their to the boat with me....." 0320 0645 Arrived Proceeded. Ramsgate. Disembarked the French general and his staff. (3) Total 60 (ca) (2) Not s/Ltentioned in Ramsgate only report made of or 2 D.R. 2nd/3rd trips to June Dunkirk and 3rd/4th in 3) Ramsgate the nights Pigeon and a "Motor Boat" of the & Wilson Ltd Asst. between report them landed states 202 that Allied the troops. The "Returned report full 10000000 eaks". Dir. of Mil. Transport only says, 395
W.D./M.L. E.L. Yealland, Mate. PIGEON S/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N. 1900 Arrived Ramsgate from Grimsby. 31st May - Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk. 1st June - Brought back "17 very badly wounded men". (1) - S/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen ( ex Vernon I) 2nd June took command and sailed for Dunkirk. He was accompanied by S/Lt. C.A. Canham R.N. Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops from the piers to waiting ships between midnight and dawn. 0430ca Proceeded. 3rd June 0700 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 20 French troops. (1) [s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen says: "The Pigeon carried approx. 25 troops. Between midnight and dawn each night I made on an average 20 trips [ferrying] arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m. on the last lap with the Pigeon full of troops. I continued this every night until Monday [3rd June] when having ferried all night ..... I waited alongside the pier for Cdr. Troup. "](2) - Sailed for Dunkirk. Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops. - 4th June 0305ca Came alongside the pier where Cdr. H.R. Troup R.N. was superinten- Embarked Cdr. Troup and a French ding the embarkation of troops. general and his staff. Cdr. Troup says: "About stood to attention 4 deep 1,000 men along the pier, the General and about half-way about 30 feet away; and his staff faced the troops, whose faces the were indiscernable behind them showing up their after having in the dawn light, steel flames officers clicked their heels, down helmets, saluted and the then turned about and came to the boat with me....." 0320 0645 Proceeded. Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked the French general and his staff. (3) Total 60 (ca) (2) Not or D.R. Dunkirk in (3) of 2 2nd/3rd trips to June and 3rd/4th viz, on the nights and a "Motor Boat" of the between Dirt them landed states 202 that Allied the Pigeon troops. The "Returned report full leaks". of Mil. Transport only says, 395
MORRIS Authority - R.O.IIIII pp.492, p.490. 544, 369. PIGEON - continued. following awards were boats, made: Motor Boat Vernon I, services Launch in "Ships Pigeon". Fast (c.w. 29685/40)]. D.S.C. Sub-Lieut. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N. LCA & Wilson Lid
P/S PORTSDOWN(1) S/Lt. S/Lt. R.H. Church, M.V.H. Caplat, R.N.R. R.N.V.R. 1st Lieut. 1230 Left patrol Sheerness for Dunkirk. R.A.F. 1st June entire aircraft encountered along the Abeam Dunkirk breakwater. route to F.G. buoy. 2150 2205 Anchored off beach. Under shore bombardment. Embarked troops, using the ship's 2 dinghies. One of them sank later. on its 4th trip; the other 0300 In 1 1/2 hours, a large motor boat had 2nd June ferried 500 troops to the Portsdown. 0400ca Early dawn. Proceeded. 0450 1 mile west of Dunkirk breakwater, transferred about 1,000 troops from a French vessel which was aground. Transferred. 25 troops from a motor boat, which declined a tow. - Picked up Cdr. J.C. Clouston R.N., and his party (about 12 in all) from a motor driven "Naval pontoon boat". Cdr. Clouston ordered that she was to be abandoned. Obtained a course from the cr. Calcutta, - 0930ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 168 B.E.F., and 450 French t roops. (2) Total 618 [As Portsdown was not degaussed, she was not again used in Dynamo]. Authority - R.O.II, p.107. R.O.III, p.66. The following awards were made: 8/Lt. R.H. Church, R.N.R. Mention in Despatches Cl. H. White. W. Ramel. Ord. Sea. P.A. Kent. A.T. Burton. (1) First later, The as ship a (2) crew. Wils report. even 403
Tug (saml. Williams & J. Benson, Master. Sons Ltd. 1000ca Left Dagenham for Southen via Gravesend. sist May 1330 Left Southend for Ramegate towing the S/B Basildon. (2) 1830 Ramsgate. Left the barge in the Downs. 0930ca with 2 naval ratings on board, left Ramsgate, with the ferry boat Jone Fishbourne in tow [the tuga Duke and Princess also had her in tow, but neither of these vessels mentions the Prince]. 2300 2 miles off Dunkirk. Ordered by Fish- bourne to return to Ramsgate, "as soon as possible as enemy aircraft were about". 0730ca Arrived Ramsgate. - June 1115ca Proceeded to Southend with the tug June Contest and thence to Dagenham. Nil Authority - W.W. & Capt. Not mentioned Benson says in D.R. it the "Bassildon". was 409
| 1st June | 0930 | Left boat Ramsgate, picking up the and Fishbourne. Took her in ferry tow proceeded to Dunkirk. |
ELIZABETH (J.111) P.M/S PRINCESS (10th M.S.F.) Lt. C.J. Carp, 26th May 28th At (see Dover, Sandown). in the Basin, boiler R.N.V.R. cleaning p.m. Undocked. 28th May a.m. 29th May 1300 Swung Sailed for from compass adjustment for D.G. 2013 Arrived Dover for La Panne. ship's off La Panne. Lowered guns were boats. Until dark, the both aircraft. constantly engaging enemy ship's 2103 Ordered by "M/S 10" [this was Sandown to whose pendant was J.20] the off assist the P.M/S Gracie Fields, the Middel Kirk buoy. On being informed by the Gracie Fields that she had been taken in tow [by the P.M/S Pangbourne], the Princess Elizabeth returned to La Panne and resumed embarkation. S/Lt. J. Tomkin R.N.V.R. who was in charge of the boats, rounded up 3 SCOWS and took them in tow, plying between the ship and the shore. 30th May 0536 Weighed and proceeded to Margate with about 450 troops. 1420 arrived Margate. Disembarked 460 troops. (1) Embarked 4 small boats and 4 ratings for beach work. 1518 Left Margate for La Panne. 2223 Anchored off La Panne. Sent boats ashore and embarked troops. A fleet minesweeper loaned a motor boat which was manned by P.O. H.G. Coalbran and Sto. G.E. Baker. Towing small boats, they filled the Princess Elizabeth. 31st May "The situation ashore was now showing signs of organisation, although our embarkation was necessarily slow owing to the majority of the troops 0645 Turned over the boats to the "Essex being wounded". Queen" (2) and sailed with about 400 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 374 troops for Margate. 1325 troops. (3) 1435 Sailed for Bray beach by X route. 1950 Arrived off Bray, being attacked by aircraft when let June Embarked of air attacks troops and, ceaseless shell fire. 0115 Left Bray for Margate with about 400 (3) (1) There Margate Margate of troops. this name in Operation Dynamo. report. D.R. the P.M/S gives Brighton 385 troops. Queen. Biley Dunn & Wilson Lad 411
River pleasure boat, M/B (Owner, C. Whatford & son) S/Lt. E.S. Forman, PRINCESS FREDA (Hampton Court R.N.V.R. ? Ferried from the beaches for a a towed Dutch the vessel, (1) which finally destroyer. Then ferried troops to 888 than Princess Freda to Ramagate. the N11 Junez 11 of Authority - T0.9144. R.O.II, p.391. (1) Ad. Taylor's it might have been ship the of "Besta". this name, Lloyds but report Register states Betje, that does a trawler not mention 18 186 tons. Riley Dunn & Wilson Ltd I gives part in Dynamo, 413
River pleasure boat 1) Prob. Ty. S/Lt. K.E.A. FRINCESS LILY Bayley, R.N.V.R. Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats, escorted by & trawler. 30th May a.m. The trawler left the convoy. a.m. Arrived Dunkirk. Ferried troops from ilst May Malo beach to ships. Proceeded to La Panne. Embarked troops, but fouled the propeller. Cleared the propeller, but could only go "astern". 2200ca Ferried troops to the G/B Mosquito. Engine trouble. Transferred crew to the Mosquito and abandoned ship. 0500ca Crew (in Mosquito) arrived at Dover. 1st June Nil Authority - R.O.II, p. 225. The following awards were made: Mention Probationary in Despatches Temporary S/Lt. K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R. 4 Filey Duan & % (1) c. (1) C. Whatford & Son. owners, Hampton Court.
PROVIDER (R.19) (1) M.F.V. (Owner, Stanley Rowden) F. Hannaford, Skipper a.m. 31st May At Mr. Dunkirk, embarking troops. 1420 drowned Penn, one of the crew, 30th pay in when the small boat was he The was swamped. Scate (montly was Provider returned to England. 2000 Arrived or the boats beach Nil ratinges pont One bunking 2.2, 3100 HAT The boats ferried troops to the life bost and the life boat to off+lying ships. About 800 Ferried on Authority - T.O. 9144/40. the 00 Mr. Enight BOYS that troope were refried to the One Mian, which proceeded to Esmagate with faulty engines (sea 11th 2 of Prodentials' ozew on board to state in mavigation). let June The life best continued ferrying throughout the night or 32st Ney/ 1st June. 0130 Left Dunkirk. 0630 Applyed an evener of trough Cervice 2600 THE ns these occretions wherries Authority - TO-9144/41. The following awards were meder D.S.K. NPC H.P.O. Enight, Coxsvain. (1) Ramsgate fishing trawler. 119
R.N.L.I. PRUDENTIAL (Ramsgate) H.P.C. Knight, Coxswain life boat 1420 30th May Left at Ramsgate for the beaches wherries) loaded with fresh water Dunkirk, towing 8 boats (mostly at and manned by naval ratings. One 2000 Arrived at beach east of Dunkirk. of the boats was the punt Carama. a.m. 31st May The boats ferried troops to the life boat and the life boat to off-lying ships. About 800 were ferried on the night of 30/31st. Mr. Knight says that troops were ferried to the Sk. Rian, which proceeded to Ramsgate w1th faulty engines (and with 2 of Prudentials' crew on board to assist in navigation). 1st June The life boat continued ferrying throughout the night of 31st May/ lst June. 0130 Left Dunkirk. 0630 Arrived Ramsgate. Nil Approx. number of troops ferried was 2800. During these operations all the 8 wherries were destroyed. Authority - TO.9144/41. The following awards were made: D.S.M. Mr. H.P.C. Knight, Coxswain.
| May | 0405 | Anchored off La Panne. Embarked about 170 troops by the ship's boats. |
| 1750 | Sailed from Dunkirk. Outside the harbour, took in tow the Dungeness life boat [the Charles Cooper Henderson]. |
M/B (Owner C.L. Hunt) QUEST 0500ca 31st May Arrived Sheerness from Putney. This boat went over to Dunkirk, with the Hurlingham Yacht Club burgee nailed to the mast stepping. No information of her activities at Dunkirk is available. She returned, damaged, to England. 0100 Authority - TO.9436/40. TO.9144/40. two enslare. 50 beach and sent in I by but the were by Quicksflver, with 0 in steamed along off the beach. 0400ca to Hilda but found she to proceed, Quickstlyer went into the 25 Allied Air attack. 0900 Disembarked 20 2100 Left Insurate with Capt. Revoir (Fre NAD on board. [He intended to go in the D/M.L. Swallow which however, left at 20001- Delayed weather, Arrived Dunkirk. by French N.A. to Encountered tog. 0800 Arrived Deal. 20 Da 571. s/Lt. "31st trip the 2000 as the "let the 422
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RAPHAEL-RAYMONDE (H.43) Belgian trawler Clarke, R.N.V.R. 31st May 1930 Sailed from the Downs for Dunkirk in company with the Pharailde (q.v.) and 5 other trawlers. No details 2345 are available. 2 broken down N/B's. 31st May 0130 Proceeded for Dunkirk, the W/B Mary Done in tow, the in company. Had trouble with the too during the night. 0600ca Handed the MOTY Rose 0787 to the Strathelliot and carried on to Dunkirk alone. 0915ca Arrived Dunkirk beach. Embarked 72 troops and transferred than to sn off-lying ship. Made use of a drifting small boat to collect troops from the beach. 2130 Transferred the last of 3 boat loada to the Bleok Jave.(2) 2300 Engine feiled. Anchored and repaired engine. lat June 0410 Took two hoat loads to the M/S Skipjack which loaned the Ranid I a boat and crew (8/Lt. E.V. Ruck, R.N.V.R. 1/c). S/Lte Ruck filled the Rapid and his own hoat with troops, and book in tow 0 grounded M/L, with 32 French troops on board. The Rapid I was unable to locate the Skipjack, 80 she followed a tog the St. Abbel towards La Panne; the tug W&B dodging large salvoes of bombs. [0930ca] The tug was hit by a bomb and complete y disappeared; DO survivors were seen, although the Rapid searched for ha f an hour. The Rapid I headed back to Dunkirk. Picked up 3 sailore from a wrock. 1230ca Commenced transferring treops to the G/B Mosquito, which however proceeded to the assistance of 8 sinking transport [the Scotta]. The followed. When 2 miles ahead, the Mosquito was hit by bombe and sunk. The Rupid picked up 22 survivors including S/Lt. E.S. Flint, R.N.R. DE Casting adrift a leunch which was in tow, the Rapid I proceeded. - 15 miles off Margate, she was taken in tow by the Sk. Antie. 2100 Arrived Margate and lended 28 injured and survivory. Total Number of Brittsh and Allied troops FROM beach 788 RODPOX. 460. (1) B/Lt. Clarke incorrectly calls this vessel the "Repide". Several other reports copy this orror. (2) No vessel of this insure centre traced, although Lt Occurs in D. E's list of ships.
RAPID I(1) M/B (Owner, S/Lt. J.C. Clarke, R.N.V.R. P.G. Broom 30th May 1400 At Sheerness. Ordered to proceed to the Downs in convoy with other M/B's, under escort of the tr. Strathelliot. 2345 Arrived Downs, towing 2 broken down M/B's. 31st May 0130 Proceeded for Dunkirk, the M/B Mary Rose in tow, the Strathelliot in company. Had trouble with the tow during the night. 0600ca Handed the Mary Rose over to the Strathelliot and carried on to Dunkirk alone. 0915ca Arrived Dunkirk beach. Embarked 72 troops and transferred them to an off-lying ship. Made use of a drifting small boat to collect troops from the beach. 2130 Transferred the last of 3 boat loads to the Black Java. (2) 2300 Engine failed. Anchored and repaired engine. 1st June 0410 Took two boat loads to the M/S Skipjack which loaned the Rapid I a boat and crew (S/Lt. E.V. Ruck, R.N.V.R., i/c). S/Lt. Ruck filled the Rapid I, and his own boat with troops, and took in tow a grounded M/L, with 32 French troops on board. - The Rapid I was unable to locate the Skipjack, so she followed a tug [the St. Abbs] towards La Panne; the tug was dodging large salvoes of bombs. [0930ca] The tug was hit by a bomb and completely disappeared; no survivors were seen, although the Rapid I searched for half an hour. - The Rapid I headed back to Dunkirk. Picked up 3 sailors from a wreck. 1230ca Commenced transferring troops to the G/B Mosquito, which however proceeded to the assistance of a sinking transport [the Scotia]. The Rapid I followed. - When 2 miles ahead, the Mosquito was hit by bombs and sunk. The Rapid I picked up 22 survivors including S/Lt. E.S. Flint, R.N.R. - Casting adrift a launch which was in tow, the Rapid I proceeded. - 15 miles off Margate, she was taken in tow by the Sk. Antje. 2100 Arrived Margate and landed 28 injured and survivors. Total 28 Number of British and Allied troops ferried from beach was approx. 460. (1) S/Lt. Clarke incorrectly calls this vessel the "Rapide". Several other reports copy this error. (2) No vessel of this name can be traced, although it Occurs in D.R's list of ships. 7
RAPID I(1) M/B (Owner, S/Lt. J.C. Clarke, R.N.V.R. P.G. Broom, 30th May 1400 At Sheerness. Ordered to proceed to the Downs in convoy with other M/B's, under escort of the tr. Strathelliot. 2345 Arrived Downs, towing 2 broken down M/B's. 31st May 0130 Proceeded for Dunkirk, the M/B Mary Rose in tow, the Strathelliot in company. Had trouble with the tow during the night. 0600ca Handed the Mary Rose over to the Strathelliot and carried on to Dunkirk alone. 0915ca Arrived Dunkirk beach. Embarked 72 troops and transferred them to an off-lying ship. Made use of a drifting small boat to collect troops from the beach. 2130 Transferred the last of 3 boat loads to the Black Java. (2) 2300 Engine failed. Anchored and repaired engine. 1st June 0410 Took two boat loads to the M/S Skipjack which loaned the Rapid I a boat and crew (S/Lt. E.V. Ruck, R.N.V.R., i/c). s/Lt. Ruck filled the Rapid I, and his own boat with troops, and took in tow a grounded M/L, with 32 French troops on board. - The Rapid I was unable to locate the Skipjack, so she followed a tug the St. Abbs] towards La Panne; the tug was dodging large salvoes of bombs. [0930ca] The tug was hit by a bomb and completely disappeared; no survivors were seen, although the Rapid I searched for half an hour. - The Rapid I headed back to Dunkirk. Picked up 3 sailors from a wreck. 1230ca Commenced transferring troops to the G/B Mosquito, which however proceeded to the assistance of a sinking transport [the Scotia]. The Rapid I followed. - When 2 miles ahead, the Mosquito was hit by bombs and sunk. The Rapid I picked up 22 survivors including S/Lt. E.S. Flint, R.N.R. - Casting adrift a launch which was in tow, the Rapid I proceeded. - 15 miles off Margate, she was taken in tow by the Sk. Antje. 2100 Arrived Margate and landed 28 injured and survivors. Total 28 Number of British and Allied troops ferried from beach was approx. 460. (1) S/Lt. Clarke incorrectly calls this vessel the "Rapide". Several other reports copy this error. (2) No vessel of this name can be traced, although it Occurs in D.R's list of ships. 7
REINE AMELIE (D.G.668) French M.F.V. 3rd June 0940 Disembarked at Ramsgate about 40 30th May 0300 French troops and 8 sailors. (1) Portsmonth. 1510 Arrived off Dover. 2200 Went alonguide th Total 48:hip Cap Pinede and embarked munitions. 31st May 0400 Completed embarkation of munitions. 0550 Sailed B.B. escort of a convoy consistin of: the Ingenieur Cachin, Cap D'Antifer, Francois Tixier, and Isma 1200 Moored at Dunkirk. Unloaded munitions D.M. Embarked 100 French troops, straggling British troops and French administra tive personnel. 1600 Sailed. 1620 Heavy air attack in Dunkirk roads. 2200 Anchored off the South Foreland. let June 0800 Secured in Dover harbour. Disembarked 62 troops. (1) 1330 The Reine des Flote sailed for Dunkirk 1650 In the vicinity of U bucy, attacked by six bombers. Near misses. 1710 Four of the bombers retreated and the other two were driven off by a Britis fighter. 2030 Secured in Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 350 troops. 2130 Sailed. 2nd June 0115 Anchored off North Goodwin. 0630 Arrived off Ramsgate. Disembarked 350 troops (2) in English boats during the forenoon. 1600 Sailed for Dunkirk. The dr. Epervier signalled only to sail by night. Navigation rendered difficult by the number of wrecks in the fairway. Ships grounded and on fire. 2000 The H/C Paris was attacked by aircraft and ran aground. 2230 Secured in Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 500 troops during a violent bombard- ment. 2300 Sailed. Air attacks en route. 3rd June 0400 Anchored off North Goodwin. 0900 Arrived off Ramagate. Disembarked 500 troops, (3) by English boats. 1900 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2400 Arrived off Dunkirk. Picked up 3 shipwrecked sailors and 2 soldiere from a boat. 4th June 0020 Secured alongaide. Embarked 400 troope 0100 Sailed. 0200ce off 6 W buoy, in collision with an English mail boat on opposite course. Damaged. (1) Ramsgate report records that D.G.668 and 2 other vessels together disembarked 122 Allied troops and 24 sai lors. D.R. does not mention. 13
REINE DES FLOTS (P.39) French Enseigne de vaisseau patrol Le Bitoux. vessel 30th May 0300 Sailed from Portsmouth. 1510 Arrived off Dover. 2200 Went alongside the cargo ship Cap Pinede and embarked munitions. 31st May 0400 Completed embarkation of munitions. 0550 Sailed as escort of a convoy consisting of: the Ingenieur Cachin, Cap D'Antifer, Francois Tixier, and Emma. 1200 Moored at Dunkirk. Unloaded munitions. p.m. Embarked 100 French troops, straggling British troops and French administra- tive personnel. 1600 Sailed. 1620 Heavy air attack in Dunkirk roads. 2200 Anchored off the South Foreland. 1st June 0800 Secured in Dover harbour. Disembarked 62 troops. (1) 1330 The Reine des Flots sailed for Dunkirk. 1650 In the vicinity of U buoy, attacked by six bombers. Near misses. 1710 Four of the bombers retreated and the other two were driven off by a British fighter. 2030 Secured in Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 350 troops. 2130 Sailed. 2nd June 0115 Anchored off North Goodwin. 0630 Arrived off Ramsgate. Disembarked 350 troops (2) in English boats during the forenoon. 1600 Sailed for Dunkirk. The dr. Epervier signalled only to sail by night. Navigation rendered difficult by the number of wrecks in the fairway. Ships grounded and on fire. 2000 The H/C Paris was attacked by aircraft and ran aground. 2230 Secured in Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 500 troops during a violent bombard- ment. 2300 Sailed. Air attacks en route. 3rd June 0400 Anchored off North Goodwin. 0900 Arrived off Ramsgate. Disembarked 500 troops, (3) by English boats. 1900 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2400 Arrived off Dunkirk. Picked up 3 shipwrecked sailors and 2 soldiers from a boat. 300.8 June 0020 Secured alongside. Embarked 400 troops. 0100 Sailed. 0200ca Off 6 W buoy, in collision with an English mail boat on opposite course. Damaged. D. R. Mm-1 Not mentioned in D.R. 42N6 Not mentioned in D.R. 14
RELONZO LL Trawler Skpr. Slater Hannaford, (Dover M/S Command) R.N.R. 31st May Carried out LL duties off Dover. Dunkirk. Arrived Dunkirk. Directed by B. destroyer to the beach 8 miles to the eastward. Authority - R.O.II, p.503 Air attack. Embarked troops from small boats. Ordered by a destroyer to go back to the westword. 1700cs On the way west, ordered by an "Eagle" paddle-steamer [the Golden Eagle] to transfer the troops then on board to her. - Ran the Renascent on to the beach and embarked troops, vice Refloated, having embarked 180 troops. 2030 Proceeded. Air attack. 1st June 0800 Arrived Ramagate. Disembarked 180 troops. (1) 1740 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2300 While in Dunkirk roade, and *following a large steam yacht" [the P.A.A. Ymoht Grive], the yacht blew up and disappeared. She had been mined. Renescent lowered a boat and picked up 4 survivors. Visibility WRS very poor and the smoke from the shore was hanging on the water. Proceeded into Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 80 British troops. The French would not embark. 2nd June 0200 Proceeded. 0700 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 80 troops. (2) Total 250 Authority - R.O.II, p.372. (1) Ramagate report states 66. D.R. does not mention. (2) Remagate report states 70. D.R. states 80. 117
RENASCENT Drifter (Sheerness Skpr. R.E. Hannaford, M/S Command) R.N.R. 31st May 0500ca Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk. - Arrived Dunkirk. Directed by a destroyer to the beach 8 miles to the eastward. - Air attack. Embarked troops from small boats. - Ordered by a destroyer to go back to the westward. 1700ca On the way west, ordered by an "Eagle" paddle-steamer [the Golden Eagle] to transfer the troops then on board to her. - Ran the Renascent on to the beach and embarked troops. - Refloated, having embarked 180 troops. 2030 Proceeded. Air attack. 1st June 0800 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 180 troops. (1) 1740 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2300 While in Dunkirk roads, and "following a large steam yacht" [the F.A.A. Yacht Grive], the yacht blew up and disappeared. She had been mined. Renascent lowered a boat and picked up 4 survivors. Visibility was very poor and the smoke from the shore was hanging on the water. - Proceeded into Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 80 British troops. The French would not embark. 2nd June 0200 Proceeded. 0700 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 80 troops. (2) Total 260 Authority - R.O.II, p.372. (1) Ramagate report states 66. D.R. does not mention. (2) Ramsgate report states 70. D.R. states 80. 18
RIAN( 1) Skoot Lt. Cdr. J.I. Miller, D.S.O., R.N. Lt. R.H.W. Jackson, R.N.V.R. (1st Lieut) [There is no report of proceedings of this skoot. The following account has been compiled from the reports of the vessels mentioned]. 28th May 1745ca Left Deal for Dunkirk with 5 skoots in company, including the Tilly, the Patria, the Twente and the Bornrif. There is little information about the Rian's activities at Dunkirk, but 30th May p.m. on the night of 30/31st May - she left Dunkirk for Ramsgate with troops on board. Her engines were in a bad state and 2 of the crew of the Ramsgate life boat [the Prudential were embarked to assist in navigating her. Near Ramsgate, the skoot Jutland found the Rian with her engines disabled. She took Rian in tow and anchored her within 2 mile of Ramsgate Pier. 31st May 1120 The Rian arrived at Ramsgate and disembarked 257 troops. (2) Total 257 (1) Rian was a Dutch vessel of 232 tons gross (Lloyds Register) She is not mentioned in D.R's list of ships nor in the Director of Sea Transport's list of skoots. She was however a Dutch skoot. (2) Ramsgate report. 23
RIG Harwich Skipper E. Beckham, R.N.R. drifter welbourne, (let 31st May Lieut. 1100 Left Ramsgate, towing a life boat. May 1700 Arrived Dunkirk. Dropped anchor near 1644 beach and embarked troops during an air attack. Ship 1815 Towed a grounded motor launch off the beach, and filled it with 3 life boat loads of troops. 2100 Proceeded with about 60 French troops 30th May 0830 on board. 1st June 0830 Ramsgate. Disembarked 60 French 31st May 1430 troops. (1) broken down 2 off Total 60(2) lat June 0700 Left Dover with the M/B Skylark and three motor launches from Vrede in tow. 1300 Arrived Dunkirk roads. Ordered by Authority - R.O.II, p.331. Capt. R. Pim R.N.V.R. in the sk. Hill to return to the Downs and make Dunkirk again at nightfall. 1340 Intercepted by French destroyer T.113 and asked to take over 80 French ard 9 British survivore, some wounded. 1400 Proceeded to Ramsgate, having sent the launches to Dover under their own power. 1800 Arrived Remseate. Disembarked 200 troops. (1) 2nd June 2000 Proceeded with lannch and one boat in tow, under command of Lt. Cdr. Miller R.N.R., to rendesvous with Admiral Taylor off Dunkirk Pier. 3rd June 0115 Arrived off Dunkirk entrance. Occasional air attacks. Contacted troops. 0330 Ordered by Admiral Taylor to return to Ramsgate. 0800 Arrived Ramsgate. Total 495 Authority - R.O.II, p.126. (1) Ramsgate report states that 26 British troops were disembarked. (2) Not mentioned in D.R. 24
RIKA Skoot Lt. Cdr. J.J. Youngs, R.N.R. Lt. M.E. Melbourne, R.N.V.R. (lst Lieut.) 29th May 0500 Left Sheerness by Y route for La Panne. 1644 Off Middelkerke Buoy. Two dive-bomb attacks. Ship severely shaken. 1815 dr. Jaguar hit by bombs near miss]. Transferred about 280 troops from her and proceeded to Downs. 30th May 0830 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 295 troops. (1) 31st May 1430 Towed in the skoot Vrede / which was broken down 2 miles off Dover. 1st June 0700 Left Dover with the M/B Skylark and three motor launches from Vrede in tow. 1300 Arrived Dunkirk roads. Ordered by Capt. R. Pim R.N.V.R. in the sk. Hilda to return to the Downs and make Dunkirk again at nightfall. 1340 Intercepted by French destroyer T.113 and asked to take over 80 French and 9 British survivors, some wounded. 1400 Proceeded to Ramsgate, having sent the launches to Dover under their own power. 1800 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 200 troops. (1) 2nd June 2000 Proceeded with launch and one boat in tow, under command of Lt. Cdr. Miller R.N.R., to rendezvous with Admiral Taylor off Dunkirk Pier. 3rd June 0115 Arrived off Dunkirk entrance. Occasional air attacks. Contacted no troops. 0330 Ordered by Admiral Taylor to return to Ramsgate. 0800 Arrived Ramsgate. Total 495 Authority - R.O.II, p.126. 5 ) D.R. 25
| Station | Troops Transported | |
| Abdy Beauclerk | Aldeburgh | - |
| Cecil & Lilian Philpott | Newhaven | 51 |
| Charles Cooper Henderson | Dungeness | - |
| Charles Dibdin (Civil Service No.3) | Walmer | - |
| Cyril & Lilian Bishop | Hastings | - |
| Edward Z. Dresden | Clacton-on-Sea | 50 |
| E.M.E.D. | Walton & Frinton | 39 |
| Greater London (Civil Service No.3) | Southend-on-Sea | 48 |
| Guide of Dunkirk(2) | [Rowhedge Iron Works (Essex), Building Yard. | - |
| Jane Holland | Eastbourne | - |
| Lord Southborough(1) (Civil Servi ce No.1) | Margate | 17 |
| Louise Stephens | { (Gt. Yarmouth and Gorleston. | 49 |
| Lucy Lavers | Aldeburgh | - |
| Mary Scott | Southwold | - |
| Michael Stephens | Lowestoft | 52 |
| Prudential (1) | Ramsgate | 17 |
| Rosa Wood & Phyllis Lunn | Shoreham harbour | - |
| The Viscountess Wakefield 3) | Hythe | - |
| Thomas Kirk Wright | (Poole and Bournemouth | - |
| Total | 323 |
ROSABELLE OD & F.V. (Owner, J.C. Wood) Nameo of Cozn. and Shoreham orew are not known. Did not return from Operation Dynamo. Said to have made 1 trip to the benches and 1 to Dunkirk harbour. [See also R.M.E.D.) Authority - TO.9144 the report by P.O. Cooley of the M.IV TO.9436 1st June 1718 On the way to Dunkirk, Joined company with the M.L/B's E.M.B.D. and Abdy Beauclerk. Air attacks. 1821 The Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn and the Abdy Beauclerk turned back. According to C.W. 29685/40, the Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lung which is erronsously said to be the Newhaven life boat : 2rd/3rd pm Went to Dunkirk harbour and ferried to June ships about 700 troops. Assisted to remove troops from the B/V Rouen aground in the harbour. 3rd June Returned to Dover. Disembarked 51 troops. (2) It is considered that this report does not apply to the Rosa Wood but to the Cegil and Lilian Philpott (q.v.) Authority - .W.29685/40. The following awards were made to the crew of the Newhaven life boat, not to the Shorsham life boat. Bee, Cecil and Lilian Philpott. D.B.M. A.B. W.J. Morris. Mentionin Despatches Sto. 1st 01. W. Spray. 0.8. T.E. Whyte, R.N.V.R. (1) Supplement 34925, to the London Gazette of 16th August 1940 erroneously calls this the Newhaven life boat. (2) D.R. 32 33
ROSA WOOD & PHYLLIS LUNN(1) R.N.L.I. Names of Coxn. and Shoreham crew are not known. life boat Said to have made 1 trip to the beaches and 1 to Dunkirk harbour. [See also E.M.E.D.] According to the report by P.O. Cooley of the M.L/B E.M.E.D. : 1st June 1718 On the way to Dunkirk, joined company with the M.L/B's E.M.E.D. and Abdy Beauclerk. Air attacks. 1821 The Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn and the Abdy Beauclerk turned back. According to C.W. 29685/40, the Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn ( which is erroneously said to be the Newhaven life boat ) : 2rd/3rd pm Went to Dunkirk harbour and ferried to June ships about 700 troops. Assisted to remove troops from the P/V Rouen aground in the harbour. 3rd June Returned to Dover. Disembarked 51 troops. (2) It is considered that this report does not apply to the Rosa Wood but to the Cecil and Lilian Philpott (q.v.) Authority - C.W. 29685/40. The following awards were made to the crew of the Newhaven life boat, not to the Shoreham life boat. See Cecil and Lilian Philpott. D.S.M. A.B. W.J. Morris. Mention in Despatches Sto. 1st Cl. W. Spray. O.S. T.E. Whyte, R.N.V.R. (1) Supplement 34925 to the London Gazette of 16th August 1940, erroneously calls this the Newhaven life boat. (2) D.R. 33
ROSE MARIE (D.R.78) M/B (Owner, F. Upton) 31st May 1100ca 28th May Left Deal in tow of the skoot Hilda, 1210 Le with 5 other M/B's and 2 lifeboats also in the tow. 2140 On arrival off Dunkirk, 4 of the M/B's were taken over by a motor launch. 1740 Two of the M/B's and the 2 lifeboats were sent into the beaches. 29th May 0506 No other information, except that the Rose Marie eventually returned to 0828 England. to rendezvous with the M/S Gosssmer at N. Goodwin L.V. The two M/S's swept the channel between the Dyck and Middel- Authority - TO.9436/40. kerke buoys. No mines were found. J.D.C. Both M/S's commenced double Oropesa sweep along route X, from W buoy towards No Goodwin L.V. No mines were swept. 2100 Gosssmer and Ross proceeded by route X towards Dunkirk. 30th May 0210 Off 11 W buoy in Dunkirk channel, closed the P/V Normania, which had been bombed and was sinking by the stern, and took off 53 survivors including 43 troops [the G/B Mosquito which had been towing the Normania, also picked up survivors]. Proceeded. 0405 Anchored off Bray. 0630 Sailed by route X for Margate, with a further 410 troops on board. 1032 Arrived Margate. 1240 Disembarked 453 troops. (2) Proceeded to Sheerness to coal. 31st May 0248 Left Sheerness, the M/S's Sutton and Lydd in company. by route X to Dunkirk. 0815ca Cdr. Apps slipped on the bridge, fell heavily and broke a rib. The 1st Lieutenant, Lieut. Gadd took command. 0910 Anchored off Zuydooote and embarked troops. The army had constructed an improvised jetty of motor lorries and other vehicles; unfortunately the wind had got up during the night, causing a wind of about 3, which made boat work difficult. Beveral boats were damaged when going alongside the jetty, by striking under water projections of the vehicles. Consequently, after 2 hours, only 121 troops were embarked. 1110 Transferred 121 troops to the Lydd, and proceeded in company with Button and Lydd by route X. 1553 Rose anchored off Margate. Cdr. Appa was landed by boat and taken to hospital. 300. 3⁻ 37
ROSS (N.45) 5th M.S.F. Actg. C.O.: Lt. K.A. Gadd, R.N.R. Cdr. J.P. Apps, R.N. (Retd.) 28th May 1210 Left Harwich in company with the 5th M.S.F., less Saltash. 2140 Secured alongside east pier Dunkirk. Embarked 353 troops. 2300ca Slipped and proceeded to Margate by route Y. 29th May 0606 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 383 troops. (1) 0828 Slipped and proceeded to rendezvous with the M/S Gossamer at N. Goodwin L.V. The two M/S's swept the channel between the Dyck and Middel- kerke buoys. No mines were found. 1530 Both M/S's commenced double Oropesa sweep along route X, from W buoy are towards N. Goodwin L.V. No mines were swept. 2100 Gossamer and Ross proceeded by route X towards Dunkirk. 30th May 0210 Off 11 W buoy in Dunkirk channel, closed the P/V Normania, which had been bombed and was sinking by the stern, and took off 53 survivors including 43 troops [the G/B Mosquito which had been towing the Normania, also picked up survivors]. Proceeded. 0405 Anchored off Bray. 0630 Sailed by route X for Margate, with a further 410 troops on board. 1032 Arrived Margate. 1240 Disembarked 453 troops. (2) Proceeded to Sheerness to coal. 31st May 0248 Left Sheerness, the M/S's Sutton and Lydd in company, by route X to Dunkirk. 0815ca Cdr. Apps slipped on the bridge, fell heavily and broke a rib. The lst Lieutenant, Lieut. Gadd took command. 0910 Anchored off Zuydcoote and embarked troops. The army had constructed an improvised jetty of motor lorries and other vehicles; unfortunately the wind had got up during the night, causing a wind of about 3, which made boat work difficult. Several boats were damaged when going alongside the jetty, by striking under water projections of the vehicles. Consequently, after 2 hours, only 121troops were embarked. 1110 Transferred 121 troops to the Lydd, and proceeded in company with Sutton and Lydd by route X. 1553 Ross anchored off Margate. Cdr. Apps was landed by boat and taken to hospital. (2) D.R. and Ross's report. Margate report states 300. (1) Margate report. Ross states 353. 38
ROYAL SOVEREIGN (continued) 4th June 0255 Leaving harbour, saw crew of an (continued) (conta) unknown vessel Pblockship Gourko]/lhe being rescued by small boats. 0600 Margate. Disembarked 1350 troops. 1st June 0720 While being towed Total 6,772(1) 1 mile or Do the Royalty clipped the tow rope, set sail, and steared head first on to the beach at Malo. Soldiers began to run down the beach towards Authority - R.O.III. p.190. her, but to TM.6213/40. was The crew of the Royalty and about 6 soldier atevedores, rowed off in their boat to the tug Cervia, 0830ca The Ceryia took the barge Tollesbury tow and sailed for Ramagate. The following awards were made: Royalty was D.S.C. Capt. T. Aldis, Master. Mr. A. Sinclair, Chief Engineer. D.S.M. Ch. Stwd. T.E. Manser. (1) "Exact number unknown, but approximately 11,000" - Master's report. 47
ROYALTY Sailing barge H. Miller, Master. (F.T. Everard & Sons, Ltd. 31st May 2145 Left Dover, with fresh water and provisions, in tow of the tug Cervia. 1st June 0720 While being towed at full speed about 1 mile east of Dunkirk pierhead, the Royalty slipped the tow rope, set sail, and steered head first on to the beach at Malo. Soldiers began to run down the beach towards her, but withdrew to shelter when an air raid alert was sounded. The crew of the Royalty and about 6 soldier stevedores, rowed off in their boat to the tug Cervia. 0830ca The Cervia took the barge Tollesbury in tow and sailed for Ramsgate. The Royalty was abandoned. Authority - T.M.6213. 48
SABRE (H.18) 16th Destroyer Flotilla Cdr. B. Dean, R.N. (Retd) 27th May 2300 Off Dover. Ordered to proceed to beaches east of Dunkirk. 28th May 0120 Off beach, 2 miles east of Dunkirk. Embarked about 100 troops in the ship's 3 boats. Machine gunned by aircraft. One casualty. Two drifters came alongside and trans- ferred their troops. - Proceeded to Dover by Z route. 0520 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 158 troops. 0618 Sailed for Dunkirk. 0830 Took station astern of dr. Montrose and followed her through Zuydcoote Pass. 1030 One mile east of Dunkirk, went along- side a wreck (1) and took off about 20 troops. Off Dunkirk, sent in the M/B to take 100 off the crew of a disabled Hurricane. The M/B grounded on a falling tide and got sand in the engine. 1100 Montrose berthed at the east pier and Sabre berthed on her. Embarked about 800 troops. 1230 Both destroyers proceeded, via Zuydcoote Pass. 1410 Attacked by a squadron of H.L. bombers. = No damage. 1820 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1077 troops. 2130 Proceeded by Z route. 2345ca Off Bray beach, sent in the only ship's boat - a whaler. No troops seen. 29th May - Further east, troops were seen on a a wreck. Went alongside and took off a few B.E.F. The remainder, all French were taken off by a French gunboat. More destroyers were seen off La Panne, and the whaler brought off some troops from there. 0515 Ordered to proceed alongside east pier, leaving whaler and 1st Lieutenant behind. 0550 Proceeded via route Y, with about 500 troops. 1030 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 531 troops. 1600 Having embarked some naval officers (2) for Dunkirk, proceeded by X route. 1815ca Arrived Dunkirk, went alongside and disembarked the naval party. Embarked a few troops. The pier was dive bombed. One Ju.87 seen to crash. Sabre left the pier. Outside the harbour rescued some survivors from the water, including the Second Engineer of the Sp. S/V Crested Eagle (1) that of the P/V Queen of the Channel. (2) Probably This a party of seven officers for duty on R.N.; the beaches, among under the Cdr. H.G. Gorton, R.N. (Retd.), R.N., and was command of Captain J.M. Howson, Cdr. R.J.O. Otway-Ruthven, R.G. Wardrop, R.D., R.N.R. Sabre. (Retd.). E.W. them were R.N., Lt. Cdr. Cockburn, Capt. Lt. Bush, Cdr. R.N. also took passage in the 52
ST. PATRICK Owner). M/B (W.B. Thompson, Tempy. Lieut. R.R.H. Few, R.N.V.R. of the M/S Sandown reports as follows: Whilst loading up the ferry boat St. Patrick alongside the pontoon at Braye-Dunes on 31st her/ May, the engine seized up. The fully loaded boat was pulled down the pontoon into deep water, while Lieut. Few went in an army float to search for a tow. He was however, unsuccess- ful, and (the Sandown having sailed) he eventually transferred to the Sk. Hilda, in which he reached Ramsgate at about 1900 on 1st June. The St. Patrick did not return from Dunkirk. F41 Nil £ Authority - - R.O.I, p. 368. R.O.IV, p.128. T.O. 9144. 100 T.O.9436.ino : = 1 69
ST. SEIRIOL Liverpool & N. Wales Steamship Co. Ltd Capt. R.D. Dobb, Master 27th May 1330 To Dunkirk in company with P/V 1930 Queen of the Channel (1). Entered Dunkirk harbour. Air raid in progress. 2000 Proceeded to the beaches, and sent in 3 2200 life boats to embark troops. Before the life boats came back, the St. Seiriol returned to Dunkirk the Wolthound harbour at the request of a destroyer. There she embarked about 600 troops. 2400ca Left the Mole and proceeded to look for the life boats. They were being used for ferrying. 28th May 0415ca Left Dunkirk. Queen of the Channel(1) bombed and sunk. 0600ca Folkestone. Disembarked 493 British 176 and 1 Fr. troops. (2) 29th May(3) 0900 To Dover. 1230 Left Dover for Dunkirk. 1800ca Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed alongside mole with the P/V Fenella and the Sp. S/V Crested Eagle. Shifted to the beaches. Crested Eagle, which had left the mole, was hit by a bomb and set on fire. St. Seiriol lowered her 4th life boat and picked up 150 men from Crested Eagle. 30th May 0300 Fog. Anchored in the Downs. 0630ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 178 troops. The Master and crew, suffering from strain, were examined by a Medical Officer. He found them "unfit to carry on any longer, consequently they all returned to their homes. (4) Total 672 Authority - R.O.III, pp.213, 241. T.0.6213/40. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches Lieut. A.R. MacKewn, R.N.R. (1) The report erroneously states "Channel 499. Queen". (2) (3) D.R. The Master's states 800. Folkestone sail. Lt. report A.R. states MacKewn, R.N.R., 6 ratings, took command. 1000/29 and six stokers joined ship proceeded. Master refused At to a naval party of the 1 P.O., ship. The Master (4) Report was 1 Sto. put by P.O., under the Chairman open arrest, of the and Liverpool the and N. Wales Steamship Co. Ltd. 72
| Closed the dr. Brig.-Gen. Holden the motor dr. Icarus had to | and embarked and a boat to the no power boat. W, V and U |
SALAMANDER (N.86) 4th M.S.F. Lieut. Cdr. L.J.S. Ede, R.N. 26th May 2000 Left the Humber, under orders of M/S Sutton in company with the M/S's the Sutton and Fitzroy. 27th May 1510 Anchored in the Downs. 28th May 1540 Proceeded under orders of Sutton, in company with Sutton and Fitzroy roads. via R,S, and T buoys, to Dunkirk - Rendezvous-ed with the M/S's Halcyon and Skipjack by S buoy, and proceeded in company. 2130 Anchored off La Panne. Using motor boat and whalers, embarked 150 troops during the night. 29th May 0900 Transferred the 150 troops to the cr. £ Calcutta. Proceeded back to La Panne and embarked troops by ship's boats and small pulling boats. 1600ca(1) Air attack by Ju.87's. The dr. Greyhound, one cable distant, was hit she received 2 near misses] as were several small ships. 1730 Proceeded via Dunkirk roads. Air attack. Dunkirk and neighbouring 1= beaches heavily bombed. Proceeded via T, s and R buoys in company with Sutton. 2320 Anchored off Dover in fog. 30th May 0740 Alongside Admiralty Pier. Disembarked 289 troops. (2) 1610 Proceeded to Dunkirk roads, via U, V and W buoys. 2100 Anchored off Bray. Embarked 397 men during the night. Closed the dr. Shikari and embarked Brig.-Gen. Holden and a staff officer. Transferred the motor boat to the dr. Icarus which had no power boat. Proceeded to Dover via W, V and U - buoys. 31st May 0810 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 393 troops. (3) 1800 Left Dover in company with Halcyon and Skipjack to rendezvous with the remainder of the M/S's at W buoy in ^ppx.Q.i] an error accordance with V.A. Dover's 2200 At the and Fitzroy "followed astern of the other two (4) / groups"/ through Dunkirk roads, past (1) the air attack took place the attack in the Salamander forenoon; states the Greyhound that gives the time of as (2) 1600. 29th May; May, it also which records is D.R. a disembarkation dates this disembarkation of 324 troops on 30th (3) evidently incorrect. (4) There D.R. were 3 Groups of 82 Salamander was in Group 3. (See Groups"
SAMBRE Ex-Belgian Canal Boat S/Lt. C.A. Thompson, the R.N.V.R. (M/B Cordelia) reports on Sambre as follows: 29th May 1800 Three the ex-Belgian boats, the Sambre, 1815 tow of the drifter G.R.1740.6) (2) Yser and one other left Dover in One Belgian boat got a rope round its 1830 propeller and returned to Dover. The M/B Cordelia now joined company with G.R.1740 and the 2 remaining Belgian boats. 2000 A destroyer( 1) took one of the two Belgian boats in tow. [2010 The Cordelia tied up astern of the remaining Belgian boat and proceeded in tow of G.R.1740 towards La Panne]. I According to Cdre. A.H. Taylor: 170 30th May The Sambre was towed over to Dunkirk with a sister ship the Ambleve, by the M/S Skipjack. The Sambre, subsequently returned to England. Total Unknown Authority - R.O.II, pp.239, 391. )ᵃ (1) No mentions this. (2) destroyer Gerrais Bentrus where Fishing Number 740; 11 designation "G.R.17ap" s incomect. 86
SANDOWN (J.20) P.M/S (10th M.S.F.) Actg. Cdr. K.M. Greig, 2100 R.N., S.O. 10th M.S.F. 27th May Slipped, Gracie ships in company, the P.M/S's 2 Princess Fields, Medway Belle. Elizabeth( 1) Queen, and Brighton p. 28th May 0200 Passed Dunkirk - heavy bombing and 0315 Anchored off La Panne. Sent in machine gunning in progress. available boats with an ex-Belgian all canal boat. [the YSERI Assisted by the cr. Calcutta's boats, attacks. embarked 600 B.E.F. Frequent air 0615 Proceeded alongside the cr. Calcutta and transferred troops. er [About an hour later, the Sandown apparently sailed from La Panne]. £ 1230 While in company with the Sandown, the Brighton Belle struck a wreck off the Gull Light Buoy during an air attack and sank. All the crew and troops were rescued and trans- ferred to the Sandown, the Medway Queen and the ex-Belgian M/B Yser. Paymaster S/Lt. W.J. Butler, R.N.V.R. of the Sandown was killed and 2 : ratings wounded. All 1430 Arrived Margate. Disembarked 201 troops. (2) 1930 Returned to Dover. 29th May(3) 0530 Slipped and proceeded with the Gracie Fields to La Panne. 1430 Anchored off La Panne. Sent in all boats and embarked 800 troops during 1) heavy bombing. Had to get under way twice. Gracie Fields reported sinking, after an attack off Middel Kerke Buoy. 2103 Dispatched the Princess Elizabeth to stand by her [in the meantime, however, the M/S Pangbourne had em- barked the Gracie Fields' troops and taken her in tow]. 2150(4) Proceeded with 800 British troops to Ramsgate. 30th May 0500 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 860 troops. (5) (1) According to the Captain of the Princess Elizabeth, that vessel in the Basin undergoing boiler cleaning during Medway Queen does not mention that the Princess Elizabeth 26th-28th was May and did not undock until p.m. 28th. The (3) D.R. records report. 600 troops disembarked on 29th May. This (2) Margate was in company on 27th May. (4) Sandown to be Sandown's report is in two-day periods; appears incorrect. (5) D.R., which times are on this confusing occasion includes Sandown among the her says 1050. and sometimes inaccurate. fleet minesweepers. 89
2 SANDOWN - Continued. 0500 30th May (contd. (contd.) Proceeded ammunition. to Dover for coal and 2100 Sailed from Dover. 0235 31st May Anchored to off N. Goodwins in response Gift which was aground with 250 an S o S from the dfr. Golden troops on board. 0645 Took off the troops in the motor boat (five trips) and returned to Ramsgate to disembark them. [The tug Doria reports that at 0800 she was ordered to take off troops from a minesweeper off Ramsgate (believed to be the Sandown). She embarked about 120 troops, and er landed them at Ramsgate east pier. Ramsgate report, however, states & that only 90 were landed]. 1100 Proceeded to Bray. Shelled by Nieuport batteries off Middel Kerke buoy. 1430 Anchored off Bray. Embarked 900 British troops. Heavy air attacks and 6-inch shelling throughout the afternoon. Had to shift billet twice. 2330 Proceeded. Shaped course for N. L Goodwin L.V. 1st June 0500 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 494 800 troops. (1) 0800 Returned to Dover. The Sandown was not degaussed and was ordered to remain in harbour. Volunteer officers and crew from the Sandown assisted in the M/S Medway 1) Queen. Total 1,555 1861 Authority - R.O.I., pp.279, 329, 336, 364. R.O.III, pp.484, 492. The following made: D.S.O Actq.Cdr KM Greig, RN. (REA) (1) Ramsgate report. D.R. states 800 494 troops. 90
SANTOSY Motor yacht and Owner L. Odell) Actg. S/Lt. J.M. H.M.S. Nelson's Picket boat Chappell, R.N. 30th May 1730 S/Lt. Chappell arrived Ramsgate, from Portsmouth on in Nelson's Picket boat, 2330 one engine. The Picket boat left. for Dunkirk. Two miles out, air attack. 31st May 0530ca Arrived Dunkirk roads. Damaged by shell fire. Loaded with troops and left. 1400 Making water slightly. The picket boat arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 16 troops. 1st June 0830 Left for Dunkirk. Making water rapidly. Bottom boat. damaged. Beached the picket r S/Lt. Chappell then took command of the - Santosy and left for Dunkirk. Presumably reached Dunkirk]. - On the return journey, the port engine only was working. The Santosy was towed by a trawler which ran on to a wreck east of N. Goodwin L.V. and turned over on top of the Santosy. 1 severe casualty. - The Santosy arrived Ramsgate on 1 engine. 2nd June 1900 Actg. S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyre R.N. (ex- Encore) took out the Santosy. She broke down; returned at 2000. [s/Lt. MacIntyre then took over the M/B Letitia 3rd June 1600 S/Lt. Chappell, in the Santosy left Ramsgate for Dunkirk, towed by the 2130 tug Sun IV. The tow parted near W buoy. The starboard engine failed. (1) 1) The Santosy was abandoned. The crew transferred to the Sun IV. Total (Nelson's Picket boat) 16 Santosy) Nil Authority - R.O.II, pp. 421, 550. R.O.III, pp. 278, 292. (1) Some of the petrol cans used at Ramsgate were subsequently found to contain water. 91
SARAH & EMILY Boat (Owner, J. Todd) Did not return from Dunkirk. Authority - TO.9144. TO.9436. 93
SARAH HYDE Harwich drifter Skipper Unit H.G. Meen, R.N.R. Offr: Lt. J.I. Cruicks- hank, R.N.V.R. 1330 31st May Left with Ramsgate the for Dunkirk in company vessels. dfr. Strive and other 1920 In 3 Dunkirk channel, in an air 2135 2300 Arrived Shifted off Malo beach. Boats crash. in. enemy planes were seen to fight, of shore bombardment. billet 300 yards west because sent 1st June 0015 A motor boat, with two life boats in tow, made fast astern of the Sarah Hyde. No soldiers had been located on the beach. 0145 Four smacks [Cockle Bawley boats] put 5 officers and 95 men an board. One of the smacks [the Endeavour] having smashed her rudder was taken in tow. Proceeded. Air attack in Dunkirk Channel. 0850 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100 troops. (1) Total 100(2) Authority - - R.O.II, p.331-2. ) x (1) Ramsgate report states 88 B.E.F. and 2 Allied. (2) Not mentioned in D.R. 94
SAUTERNES French escort vessel See La Nantaise. p. el 1 1)1 Sauternes P.22 awx. Patrol Boat Entregive Lacas de vaineau a fait trois boyages dout un fees cherbourg Nowbre de toldats de' Bargues ey U.K. liscounce a cheebourg 530 98
SCOTIA L.M.S.Ry. 27th May 2130 Capt. H.W. Hughes, Master. Left Southampton for Dover. 1700 2 28th May 2145 Left was the Downs for Dunkirk. [Ts.Malines. Off Dunkirk, Malines in company. 0055 P 29th May Whilst torpedo in Dunkirk Eastern a keel struck the Scotia's channel, bilge 0130 Berthed alongside east pier Dunkirk. but failed to explode.(1) Embarked troops. "The counter showed 2,700, but many more had taken aboard. estimated fully 3,000 been 0355 [British] troops on board". Proceeded. It was now gettting light. On the way, passed a large number of vessels of every description, either proceeding towards or returning from Dunkirk. 1000 Dover. Disembarked 3,000 troops. (2) 30th/31st May. Coaling ship at Dover, Sheerness and Margate. 1st June 0740 Left Margate roads for Dunkirk. - 2 miles from No.6 buoy, 10 A/C attack. No hits. - Approaching Dunkirk, attacked by 2 A/C. No hits. 1 1100 Berthed alongside Dunkirk west mole. Embarked about 2000 French troops. 1125 Proceeded. - After passing No. 6 buoy, attacked by about 12 dive bombers. Several bombs hit, one passing down the after funnel. Ship sinking by the stern and heeling over to starboard. Engines out of action. "Abandon ship" ordered. From Dunkirk, the dr. 1) Esk came to assist. By now the boat deck, starboard side, was in the water and Scotia was still heeling over. When the Scotia's forward funnel and mast were in the water 2 A/C again attacked, dropping 4 bombs and machine gunning. those swimming and clinging to wreckage. The Esk kept firing and drove the enemy away. The Scotia's port bilge keel was now out of the water, and hundreds of troops were huddled on the bilge. The bombers returned but were driven away by the Esk's fire. The Esk transferred about 1,000 French troops. Further survivors 1305 were picked up by other craft, (3) (2) D.R. 3) 40 were says 2000. M/L Bonnie Heather, 16 by the dfr. dfr. Mare, picked 2 by the up dfr. by Three Kings, and 1 by the the French Tarpeta Tweenaways, a few Warenster loas Branlebas pickes up about 60. 103 however, (1) Report by Caplam Hughes. 2vis nots) clear whence This torpede came. The cidenvis nov mentioned in D.R.
SCOTIA L.M.S.Ry. 27th May 2130 Capt. H.W. Hughes, Master. Left Southampton for Dover. 28th May 1700 2 2145 Left was the following. Downs for Dunkirk. Ts.Malines Off Dunkirk, Malines in company. 0055 P 29th May Whilst torpedo in Dunkirk Eastern a keel struck the Scotia's channel, bilge 0130 Berthed alongside east pier Dunkirk. but failed to explode.(1) Embarked troops. "The counter showed 2,700, but many more had taken aboard. estimated fully been 3,000 0355 [British] troops on board". Proceeded. On It was now gettting light. the way, passed a large number of vessels of every description, either er proceeding towards or returning from Dunkirk. 1000 Dover. Disembarked 3,000 troops. (2) 30th/31st May. Coaling Margate. ship at Dover, Sheerness and 1st June 0740 Left Margate roads for Dunkirk. - 2 miles from No.6 buoy, 10 A/C attack. No hits. - Approaching Dunkirk, attacked by 2 A/C. No hits. 1 1100 Berthed alongside Dunkirk west mole. Embarked about 2000 French troops. 1125 Proceeded. - After passing No. 6 buoy, attacked by about 12 dive bombers. Several bombs hit, one passing down the after funnel. Ship sinking by the stern and heeling over to starboard. Engines out of action. "Abandon ship" ordered. From Dunkirk, the dr. 1) Esk came to assist. By now the boat deck, starboard side, was in the water and Scotia was still heeling over. When the Scotia's forward funnel and mast were in the water 2 A/C again attacked, dropping 4 bombs and machine gunning those swimming and clinging to wreckage. The Esk kept firing and drove the enemy away. The Scotia's port bilge keel was now out of the water, and hundreds of troops were huddled on the bilge. The bombers returned but were driven away by the Esk's fire. The Esk transferred about 1,000 French troops. Further survivors 1305 were picked up by other craft, (3) (2) 3) D.R. 40 were says picked 2000. by M/L Bonnie Heather, 16 by the dfr. Mare, 2 by the up dfr. Three Kings, and 1 by the dfr. the Freuch Tarpeta Tweenaways, and a few Warcester loat Branlebas pickes upabout 103 60. however, (1) Report by Caplain Hughes. 2vis nots elear whence This torpede came. The cidear is nov men Trained in D.R.
SEA FALCON M/B - (Owner W.H.Elce) L/Sea. A. Westbrook 1/c 30th May Left about Dover after dark - towed tows, 5 other boats" by a tug "with - 2 22 - Foremost boat of opposite four, broke adrift, stern swung back, hit Sea Falcon's pipe, sheete and broke her main feed P*p* - Came under/shore bombardment between Gravelines and Brays - Filled boat by grounding, and pulling in the soldiers. 31st May Continued ferrying from dawn till dusk. On last trip, rising tide and wind swamped the boat and carried it broadside on. er Crew abandoned the Sea Falcon and swam ashore. About 60 troops were carried in each trip. Authority - R.O.II, p.248. 1)) 106
| 30th 30th May | p.m. Left about Dover, after dark in company There 5 other vessels in tow of with a tug. hit boat of the opposite 4 broke adrift, were two tows. The foremost feed pipe. the Sea Falcon and broke her main | ep |
M/B SEA HAWK A. May, Owner Skipper 0430 1st June Left Southend. 1130 Arrived Ramsgate with the disabled M/B 2 Hazard in tow. The Sea Hawk did not go over to Dunkirk, but was used 'p- in the Downs and off Ramsgate as a picket boat to take wounded ashore, etc. On one occasion she went to the P/V Prague, which was beached off Deal, and took off some 30 troops. er 1)¹ 110
SEAMEW M/B F.O.I.C. boat Harwich was sent states from [(M) J.60/40 of 15/6/40] Dynamo, this and that it was Harwich lost. to take part in Operation that Authority - T.0.9144/40. 210 III
Seaplane Tenders Seaplane Tenders of the Marine Section, R.A.F. Station, Calshot. (1) P 30th May 0430 Seaplane Tenders 243, (2) 254, (3) 276, (4) 291,(3) and A.M.C.3, (3) under the command of Pilot Officer C. Collings, R.A.F. (in S.T.243) left Calshot, in company, for Dover. [Pinnace No. 32 proceeded to Ramsgate independently and then to Dunkirk. En route, she fouled her propeller, and returned to Ramsgate without taking any part in the evacuation]. en 31st May 0500 S.T's 243, 254, 276, 291 and A.M.C.3 left Dover for Dunkirk in tow of a tug [viz: Sun VII]. - Owing to rough weather, the tow had to be cast off, and the S.T's proceeded to Dunkirk under their own power. (See Sun VII). - Dunkirk. The S.T's ferried about 500 troops to ships. During this work S.T.254 was lost through overcrowding; A.M.C.3 ran aground after damaging : her propellers. 1 - S.T's 243, 276 and 291 returned to Dover with the crews of the lost S.T's. S.T.291 was damaged and took no further part in Dynamo. 2nd June 1500 S.T's 243 and 276 sailed for Dunkirk; en route, S.T.243 was bombed and sunk. (For detailed reports see under these two vessels' names in 1) alphabetical record). 3rd June - High Speed Launch 120(3) (Pilot Officer G.R. Spencer R.A.F.) left Calshot for Dover. - Left Dover for Dunkirk. (No details available). 4th June - High Speed Launch 120 returned to Calshot. (1) Report by Commanding Officer, R.A.F. Station, Calshot. Referred to in D.R. as "Motor Boat 243 (R.A.F.)". (1) Referred to in D.R. as "Motor Boat 270 (R.A.F.)". Not mentioned in D.R. 112
Seaplane Tender 243( 1) R.A.F. Stn. Calshot. Comr. J.C. Clouston, Pilot Offr. C.Collings, R.N. R.A.F. 30th/31st See under "Seaplane Tenders". May 2nd June 1500 ep Left Dover for Dunkirk with a embarkation party on board, S.T.276 naval in company. 1855 About 6 miles from Gravelines, attacked by 4 A/C. S.T.243 received severe r damage from a near miss, began to sink, and was abandoned. 1900 Cdr. Clouston ordered S.T.276 to proceed, because the A/C's were still attacking. S.T.276 subsequently arrived at Dunkirk. de Cdr. Clouston and S/Lieut. M.H.B. Solomon R.N.V.R. of S.T.243, attempted to swim to an empty boat about 6 miles away. Cdr. Clouston had to abandon the attempt and was subsequently seen drowned. 2300ca S/Lieut. Solomon boarded a drifting cutter. 3rd June 0130ca S/Lt. Solomon was picked up by the French fishing boat Stella Mavis which took him to Dover, where he was 31 arrested on suspicion of being a spy. A.C.I. B. Kernohan, the only other survivor of S.T.243 clung to the wreckage of S.T.243, until, at 0030 on 3rd June he was picked up by a destroyer [viz: the Whitshed] Authority - R.O.II, p.191. R.O.III, p.314. (1) Referred to in D.R. as "Motor Boat 243 (R.A.F.)". 113
Seaplane Tender 276(1) Calshot. R.A.F. Stn., S/Lt. R. Wake, R.N. Corpl. Flowers, R.A.F., Coxswain. 2 30th/31st May See under "Seaplane Tenders". 2nd June 1500 Left The Dover in company with S.T.243. p- consisted of the R.A.F. personnel complements of the two vessels and a naval embarkation party on passage to Dunkirk; two French naval officers. officers and two French petty 1900 Eight enemy aircraft attack. S.T.243 damaged by a near miss, heeled heavily to starboard. 1910 S.T.276 had been busy taking avoiding action. By now only S.T.243's bows er were visible, and the whole crew were in the water. Cdr. J.C. Clouston, R.N. (of S.T.243) ordered S.T.276 to proceed at full speed for Dunkirk. S.T.276 was still under air attack and was repeatedly hit by m.g. bullets, which put 1 engine out of action. Lieut. de Vaisseau Roux [of the French M.T.B. No.24. and his P.O. : H. Kroener, maintained a continuous L/G fire on the attacking A/C, the IN crew of one of which was seen to bale out. 2100 Arrived Dunkirk. Subsequent movements not reported. Authority - R.O.II, p.191. (1) Referred to by S/Lt. Wake, and in D.R., as "R.A.F. Motor Boat 270". 115
SEMOIS (ex-Belgian canal boat) This vesse vas lost during Operation Dynamo. L 27th gay p- I 1 er ik = 1 1)1 120
SEQUACITY (1) M/V (F.T. Everard & Sons Ltd.) Capt. J. Macdonald. 0400 27th May Left Yewdale. the Downs in company with S.S. 2 0640 Off batteries. Calais. Under fire from main side, at the waterline through port One shell came shore p- side. hold, and went out the starboard in the Next of the shot came through the side engine room and smashed port starboard action. side. Pumps put out of auxiliary engines; it went out the the Third shot came through the wheel house, went through the hatches, down the forehold and through the ship's bottom. Ship then shaped course er away from the shore. Attacked by 11 planes. Another shell put the Bren gun out of action and wounded the chief engineer. Wind freshened, ship making water and took a nasty list. 0820ca Signalled to Yewdale (which had been 1010 picking up some men on a raft). Launched life boat and transferred crew to the Yewdale. 1020ca Sequacity went down by the head and sank 1630 1 1800 Nil for I Authority - TM. 6213/40. by 1) in La Cow to let 0830 of troops a the to the to 0845 the [Lt. and the in and e (1) Not mentioned in D.R. Sequacity was a vessel of about 900 tons gross. 121
SERIOLA Portsmouth Yacht Inner Patrol Lieut. D.A. Dawson, - 29th May S/Lt. T.E. Godman, R.N.V.R. was R.N.V.R, 1800 The sailed divisions of the Inner patrol transferred 2 to the Seriola. The from Hamble in 2nd Division comprised company. the Noneta. yeachts Seriola, Eilla II, Ahola 4 and ep the [The 1st 5 yachts Ankh Bounty, Caryanda, Lahloo and Thele] 30th May 0930 2200 The flotilla arrived at Dover. The flotilla sailed from Dover for Bray. 31st May 0500 The Seriola, leading her division, arrived off Bray. The yachts then acted independently. Seriola ferried troops from the beach de 1000ca to off-lying destroyers. Ordered by a destroyer to proceed to La Panne and ferry troops from the beach. 1500 Signalled by the dr. Keith to collect 2 whalers for operations off La Panne during the evening. 1530 The Noneta having had 1 killed and another badly wounded, asked for the services of S/Lt. T.E. Godman. He was transferred. 1630 Collected 2 whalers and proceeded to La Panne. 1800 Ordered to close the Bounty which was flying the flag of Cdre. G.O. Stephenson. The commodore asked for a special effort to be made that night. Continued ferrying troops from La Panne™ throughout the night. 1st June 0700 Signalled by a destroyer to collect all boats in the channel between La Panne and Dunkirk, tow them to Dunkirk, and then let them drift ashore. 0830 Embarked several boat loads of troops and ferried them to a destroyer off Dunkirk; her Captain asked the Seriola to tow the Bounty to Ramsgate as her port engine was broken down. 0845 Closed the Bounty and embarked her C.O. [Lt. Lundy] and Cdre. Stephenson. Took the Bounty in tow and on the Commodore's orders set course for Ramsgate; the Lahloo (q.v.) was in company. Slight damage from aircraft machine gunning. 1430 Arrived Ramsgate. (1) Cdre. Stephenson and Lt. Lundy disembarked. Nil (1) Ramsgate the "Lalm" [i.e. Lahloo], "Servion" report [i.e. states Seriola] that and Bounty together disembarked 11 B.E.F. The Lahloo herself states that she disembarked 15. 122
16th(9) SHETLAND Dumb barge 28th May See under Sark. Imirgried 2000 to Welled Join in the company, dru. STATES TAX and orders, Primiter 29th MAY 0100 Arrived DET Ln Panne beach. Commetions Heavy to ourf) whaler expoized, owing embarkation woing M/D AND whaler. 03300m troops rushing the boat, Embarkation spended up, greatly r Drifting boats were towed in by the assisted by navil lending cruft. (1) K/B Ohikari. with boat keepers from the 1215 Ship rull. Proceeded to Dover by 1630ca reute I, Soimitar in company. 14 Arrived Dover. Disemberked 396 troons. (2) 1745 Left Dover for La Panne. Air attacks in vicinity of Coat Dyck bucy, Closed the M/S Gracis Fielda which had been hit; sufficient craft already coeded. assisting, ao Shikari pro- 30th May 0030ca Ran aground OD approaching the comet. 0330ca Refloated OR rising tide, Embarked troops from La feme. 0800 will Ship full, Proceeted to Dover. - Passing Niedport buoy, came under fire from 8 battery behind Nisuport. 1300 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 417 troops.(2) Repairs executed. 1930 Ssiled for La Penne, using X route for the first time. - Approaching Dunkirk the gyro-compess failed. Continued an to La Panne. 2230 Derkness alowed down embarkation. When uncertain of Ohikari's position, Shikari's bonts ferried troops to ships lying closer inshore. 31st May 0400 R.A. Dover ordered Shikari to Dunkirk, Secured alongaide east jetty and filled ship during an air attack. 0520 Sailed for Dover. - Arrived Dover, Disemberked 600 troops.(2) 0930 Sailed for La Panne. - Near No.6 W buoy, in Dunkirk channel, came under fire from aliore battery to the west or Dunkirk. - While embarging troops from La Panne, the Shikari was under fire from the Nieuport battery. 1300ca Ship straddled; moved west towards Bray. Benches shelled. 1800 Air attack. Shikari's boats asked to bring off Lord Gort's luggage (see Ahola) (1) The 8.8. Clan Mecalister arrived off Dunkirk and commenced (a) D.hoisting out A.L.C's at about 0900 on 29th May. 131
SHIKARI (D.85) 16th(?) Destroyer Flotilla Lt.Cdr. H.N.A.Richardson, 1930 R.N. 28th May Arrived the dr. off Dover. Instructed to join 2000 Sailed the under Capt. (D) 16's orders, 16). Malcolm (Capt. (D) in drs. Express, Esk and Scimitar company, using Y route. ep- 29th May 0100 Arrived off La Panne beach. Commenced Heavy surf; whaler capsized, owing embarkation using M/B and whaler. 0330ca to troops rushing the boat. Embarkation speeded up, greatly Drifting boats were towed in by the assisted by naval landing craft. (1) M/B Shikari. with boat keepers from the 1215 Ship full. Proceeded to Dover by ler 1630ca route Y, Scimitar in company. Arrived Dover. Disembarked 396 troops. (2) 1745 Left Dover for La Panne. Air attacks in vicinity of Oost Dyck buoy. Closed the M/S Gracie Fields which had been hit; sufficient craft already assisting, so Shikari pro- ceeded. 30th May 0030ca Ran aground on approaching the coast. 0330ca Refloated on rising tide. Embarked troops from La Panne. il 0800 Ship full. Proceeded to Dover. - Passing Nieuport buoy, came under fire from a battery behind Nieuport. 1300 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 417 troops. (2) Repairs executed. 1930 Sailed for La Panne, using X route for the first time. - Approaching Dunkirk the gyro-compass failed. Continued on to La Panne. 1) 2230 Darkness slowed down embarkation. When uncertain of Shikari's position, Shikari's boats ferried troops to ships lying closer inshore. 31st May 0400 R.A. Dover ordered Shikari to Dunkirk. Secured alongside east jetty and filled ship during an air attack. 0520 Sailed for Dover. - Arrived Dover. Disembarked 600 troops. (2) 0930 Sailed for La Panne. - Near No. 6 W buoy, in Dunkirk channel, came under fire from shore battery to the west of Dunkirk. - While embarking troops from La Panne, the Shikari was under fire from the Nieuport battery. 1300ca Ship straddled; moved west towards Bray. Beaches shelled. 1800 Air attack. Shikari's boats asked to bring off Lord Gort's luggage (see Ahola) (1) The S.S. Clan Macalister arrived off Dunkirk and commenced (2) D.hoisting out A.L.C's at about 0900 on 29th May. 132
SILVER QUEEN M/L S/Lt. ? May A.B. P.T. Sullivan, C/JX.147897 2 29th May - Left Sheerness for Dunkirk. 2200 Sailed Stopped at Ramsgate for about 1 hour. Triton and 6 M/L's. in company with the M/B p- 30th May 0500 Arrived La Panne. Ferried others. troops to the dr. Esk and Ferried, in all, about 1,000 troops in about 11 trips. Went to Dunkirk harbour and then proceeded for Ramsgate without charts or compass, with about 100 troops on board. Blundered into Calais. Hit by shore er batteries, as was the ex-Belgian boat Yser, which was in company. 2100 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100 troops. The ship was then slowly sinking. Total 100(1) Authority - - R.O.II, pp.193, 199. ) (1) Not mentioned in Ramsgate or Dover reports. 140
SILVER QUEEN M/L S/Lt. ? May A.B. P.T. Sullivan, C/JX. 147897 2 29th May - Left Sheerness for Dunkirk. 2200 Sailed Stopped at Ramsgate for about 1 hour. Triton and 6 M/L's. in company with the M/B p- 30th May 0500 Arrived La Panne. Ferried others. troops to the dr. Esk and Ferried, in all, about 1,000 troops in about 11 trips. Went to Dunkirk harbour and then proceeded for Ramsgate without charts or compass, with about 100 troops on board. Blundered into Calais. Hit by shore er batteries, as was the ex-Belgian 2100 boat Yser, which was in company. Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100 troops. The ship was then slowly sinking. Total 100(1) L Authority - R.O.II, pp.193, 199. ) (1) Not mentioned in Ramsgate or Dover reports. 140
SIROCO French Torpedo boat (6th Division, 2nd Capitaine de Flotilla) de Toulouse-Lautrec-liontfal [The made following by the account is partly based on trawler Fyldea]. T/B's Mistral and Cyclone, and reports the British 29th May 1010 Left Dover for Dunkirk, in company with 1535 the T/B's Cyclone and Mistral. Secured alongside the Mistral in Dunkirk 1540 Air attack. The Mistral damaged by a harbour, at the west pier. may. near miss. 1700 Air attack. The dr. Grenade and the 1705 tr. Calvi at the east pier were sunk. 1730 Embarked troops to capacity. Left Dunkirk harbour. 1800 Sailed for Dover, the Mistral in company. 30th May 0335 Arrived Dover. Dis embarked 509 troops. (1) 1330ca Sailed for Dunkirk. 170 - Embarked troops at Dunkirk. X 31st May 0145 Near T buoy, a German M.T.B., stopped and unseen, fired 2 torpedoes which missed ahead. The Siroco opened fire. Two more torpedoes were fired and struck the Siroco near the port propeller. The dr. Vega, 4 miles to the south-east, saw a column of flame 200 feet high. 0200ca The Siroco capsized in position 51° 18' N., 02° 06' E., 18 miles N.N.W. of Dunkirk. (2). She af 150 The tr. Wolves picked up 50 survivors, apparently troops; the tr. Stella Dorado picked up 55, of whom 33 were of the Siroco's ship's company; 150 survivors were picked up by the corvette Widgeon and 15 by the Polish dr. Blyskawica. Total 509 Authority - French Admiralty record, Folios 5 and 31. R.O.II, p. 352. R.O.III, p.73, 1176A D.R. Widgeon's report (c. in C. Nore, 0511/31, War Diary). 145
SKIPJACK (N.38)
6th M.S.F.
Lieut. Cdr. F.B. Proudfoot,
R.N. (Retd.)
1300
27th May
The M/S's Skipjack and Halcyon, the
destroyer Impulsive, the T.H.V.
Patricia, ing duties and a trawler for minesweep-
[viz:
L.V., for the purpose of laying the
rendezvous-ed off the N. Goodwin
light buoys U, V, and W on, and
sweeping, the new middle Route X.
This operation was carried out under
1919
orders of Skipjack.
The operation being completed, the
Patricia proceeded to Harwich, the
other ships to the Downs.
28th May
1545
The M/S's Sutton, Fitzroy and Salamander
sailed from Dover and
1630ca
were joined by the Skipjack and
Halcyon near S buoy. The 5 ships
proceeded in company to La Panne.
2130
Arrived off La Panne. The Skipjack
embarked troops and proceeded.
29th May
-
The Skipjack disembarked 184 troops
at Dover. (1)
30th May
-
The Skipjack, having apparently again
been over to Dunkirk, disembarked 231
troops at Dover. (2)
1556
V/ Exant/
The Skipjack, towing the ex-Belgian
canal boats Amblene and Sambre, and
in company with the Halcyon and
Salamander, left Dover for Bray.
2100
Arrived off Bray. The Skipjack
embarked troops and proceeded.
31st May
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 450 troops (1)
1800
Left Dover in company with Halcyon and
Salamander to rendezvous with other
M/S's at W buoy by 2200.
1st June
0030
The Skipjack anchored off La Panne.
She had only one small boat
(without a rudder); the ship's
boats had been left behind on the
previous trip. No boats came off
from the shore.
0330ca
At break of dawn, weighed, and
proceeding westward, managed to
secure 3 boats. Some troops were
also picked up.
Course was continued to about 1
mile east of Dunkirk, where there
was only one small skoot operating
[probably the Hilda]. Boats were
then sent in and embarkation
0530ca
The commenced. Skipjack was kept under way because
of the considerable air activity.
From this time onwards there was were
{1} D.R.
D.R. According to C.W. 29685/40, however, the Skipjack
made only three trips to Dunkirk, and was sunk on the
third trip.
146
SKYLARK [I] A Brighton beach boat S/Lt. E.C.B. Mares, S/Lt. H. McClelland, R.N.V.R. R.N.V.R. MARY ROSE (1) M/L & S/Lt. H. McClelland, R.N.V.R. 31st May 0205 Both vessels left Ramsgate in tow of the tr. Strathelliot. Dunkirk. Both vessels were damaged en route to 0730 The Mary Rose was abandoned and sunk. 0820ca The Skylark was abandoned and sunk. Crews of both vessels were taken on board the Strathelliot. Nil Authority - R.O.II, P. 378, 393. (1) Owner O.Dives. 151
SKYLARK, (southend) M/B P.O. (and R.A. Smith, R.F.R. crew of 5). "Two trips to east of Dunkirk". On and the bombing, last trip, "during subjected which to shelling Picked French destroyer up 50 survivors. "T.41" was the sunk' sunk"(1) 31st May Returned to Dover. Boat unseaworthy. Total 50 P.O. Smith then "Took over the Folkestone Belle. " Authority - - R.O.II, II, p.242. (1) This may have been the Foudroyant which was sunk by bombs near W buoy at about 1030 on 1st June. 156
SPEEDWELL (N.87) 6th M.S.F. Lt. Cdr. F.R.G. Maunsell, R.N. 1800ca (Retd.) 31st May Left other Sheerness to rendezvous 2400. to arrive off La Panne 2200, at orders M/S's at W buoy at with with 1st June 0030 Speedwell anchored slightly west of La Panne, 2 other vessels of her group being to the eastward. Troops were to have been brought off by appeared. waiting M/B's, but no boats 0145 Signals were received from the shore asking for boats to be sent in. Speedwell's M/B and 2 whalers were lowered, and ferried troops to the ship. The M/B also towed in the M/S Dundalk's whalers. 0400ca The Speedwell weighed anchor and closed the shore. Enemy aircraft machine-gunned the troops on shore, the ship, and the boats. 0500ca Shortly after low water the Speedwell grounded aft. While aground, many troops were embarked. Eventually the M/S Albury(1) towed her off. During embarkation 1 rating from Speedwell was drowned when a boat capsized. Both Speedwell's whalers were lost. 0645ca Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk as soon as boats were cleared of troops. 0730 Proceeded to Dunkirk. Off the entrance, the dr. Ivanhoe was hit by a bomb as she was passing the Speedwell. Speedwell went alongside the Ivanhoe and transferred about 100 of the latter's troops. 0800ca Repeated dive-bombing and high level bombing attacks, supported by fighters. 0830ca Secured to Dunkirk east pier and embarked troops. 0950 Proceeded to Dover with about 800 troops. - When some distance south-east of W buoy, two consecutive salvos of bombs were seen to hit a French destroyer [prosably the Foudroyant] in company [presumably the with another vessel. "This vessel sank within 2 or 3 minutes of being hit". - Arrived Dover. Disembarked 972 troops. (2) 2nd June 2020 Left Dover in company with the M/S's Niger and Halcyon. 3rd June 0130 The Speedwell secured alongside Dunkirk east pier. Embarked French troops, the harbour being regularly, but not heavily shelled, from the direction of La Panne. (1) Speedwell incorrectly states that it was the M/S Kellett (2) D.R. that towed her off. 166
STELLA RIGEL Harwich trawler Unit Skipper L.P. Keable, R.N.R. ? Offr: S/Lt. J.W. 29th May 1515 Wykenham, R. N. V. R. Proceeded picking to patrol area east of S buoy, Lord up the trs. Argyllshire and Melchett outside the harbour. 30th May 0750 Area of S. Falls buoy for patrol. Argyllshire in company. 31st May 2100 Ordered to by Argyllshire to patrol S buoy West Hinder during the night. 1st June 0230 Argyllshire sunk by torpedo. (1) Lowered a boat and picked up 5 survivors, which were transferred to the dfr. Gervais Rentoul outside Ramsgate. Picked up Lord Melchett and patrolled S. Falls buoy area. 2nd June 0430 Picked up a M/B with 23 soldiers. Embarked the troops and took the M/B in tow. 0745 Transferred the 23 soldiers and the M/B to the M/S Pangbourne. 1100 Air attack. 3rd June 1135 Arrived Parkeston. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.330. (1) The having seen a S/M crash dive, and torpedo. while manoeuvring Captain reported to attack he was struck amidships by a 176
STELLA RIGEL Harwich trawler Unit Offr: S/Lt. J.W. Skipper L.P. Keable, R.N.R. ? Wykenham, R. N. V. R. 29th May 1515 Proceeded to patrol area east of S buoy, Lord Melchett outside the harbour. picking up the trs. Argyllshire and 30th May 0750 Area of S. Falls buoy for patrol. Argyllshire in company. 31st May 2100 Ordered by Argyllshire to patrol S buoy to West Hinder during the night. 1st June 0230 Argyllshire sunk by torpedo. (1) Lowered a boat and picked up 5 survivors, which were transferred to the dfr. Gervais Rentoul outside Ramsgate. Picked up Lord Melchett and patrolled S. Falls buoy area. 2nd June 0430 Picked up a M/B with 23 soldiers. Embarked the troops and took the M/B in tow. 0745 Transferred the 23 soldiers and the M/B to the M/S Pangbourne. 1100 Air attack. 3rd June 1135 Arrived Parkeston. Nil Authority - R.O.II, p.330. (1) The having seen a S/M crash dive, and while manoeuvring Captain reported to attack he was struck amidships by a torpedo. 176
SUN Alexander Towage Co. Ltd. (Tilbury) Cdr.E.K. Le Mesurier, M.V.O., R.N. H.R. Cole, Master. 1st June 1500ca The Sun arrived at Ramsgate from (inc signal G.69) / 1730 Tilbury, with 20 pulling boats in tow. Sailed for Dunkirk, Cdr. Le Mesurier in command, assisted by Lieut. J.V. Wilkinson R.N., and Lieut. R.E. Lloyd, R.N. A motor boat and 5 pulling boats were in tow. (1) [The tug Tanga (Lt. Cdr. R.E. Sherwood, R.N.R.) with 2 pulling boats [4 in tow(2) sailed about the same time. The tug Racia, evidently unwilling to sail, was left behind. (3) The tug Sun IV (Cdr. Tyler R.N.) (4) had sailed at 1515 with two boats in tow.] On passage, three of Sun's pulling boats were swamped and were abandoned. 2330ca Arrived Dunkirk. The Tanga had arrived a little earlier. Sun and Tanga anchored about 3/4 mile east of Dunkirk Mole. Using her boats, Sun embarked about 45 British troops. She then went alongside and embarked about 50 French troops, and picked up 28 French and 4 British ratings from a broken down M/B; then returned to anchorage. 2nd June 0245ca [The Tanga proceeded. Her M/B was left stranded on the beach]. 0300ca The Sun embarked 50 British troops from her own boats. 0315ca Sun proceeded with about 175 British and French troops, and 28 naval officers and ratings. One pulling boat was swamped on passage. 0815ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 175 troops. (5) 3rd June 1230 Sun left for Tilbury, towing 6 boats. [Cdr. Le Mesurier took command of tug Sun IV] Total 175 Authority R.O.II, p.418/9. A.T.C. & Capt. Cole "a launch and 2 life boats in tow." Tanga states says, she had 4 boats in tow, and they were apparently (3) It M/Bs. seems however, that S/Lt. W.R. Williams R.N., took her (5) Not mentioned in Dover or Ramagate reports. The Navy List night gives Cdr. T. St. V. Tyler, R.N. (Retd.) over that (see under Racia) 182
SUN IV Tug (Alexander Towage Co. Ltd.) Mr. C.G. Alexander, Lt. J.E.L. Master. Martin, R.N. 0200 31st May Slipped from Tilbury Docks with 12 Sun IV was Mr. C.G. Alexander, lifeboats in tow. The Master of the Managing Director of the Alexander Towage Co. Ltd. A Trinity House pilot, Mr. Glasboro was embarked and remained in the tug throughout the operation. 1145ca Arrived Ramsgate. 1330 Embarked Cdr. Tyler [?Cdr. T.St. V. Tyler, R.N. (Retd. )], Lieut. J.V. 1430 Wilkinson, R.N., and a naval party. Sailed for Dunkirk, towing 9 boats. 1915 Air attack. Two sailors overboard by wash of a dèstroyer. Cast off tow. 1 man rescued, 1 lost. Picked up tow and proceeded. ml 2230 Anchored off beach above harbour. The boats were sent in with Lieut. Wilkinson and Lieut. Fletcher R.N.R. in charge. 82 B.E.F. embarked during night. bn 1st June 0315ca Left Dunkirk with 3 boats in tow. 0445 One boat swamped, by a destroyer manoeuvring in an air attack, was cut adrift and abandoned. 0800 Another boat swamped and abandoned. 0945 Ramsgate. At 1100, 82 troops landed by tender. (1) 1515 To Dunkirk with 2 boats in tow. [Sea Cadet Sidmouth-Willing appears to have been on board for this trip]. 1645 South of N. Goodwin L.V., a small trawler was seen to strike a mine. 1730 Air attack. 3 bombers, 10 bombs, no hits. 1800 Spoke the M.L.B. E.M.E.D. Piloted her to Dunkirk. 2100 Cdr. Tyler, proceeded to Dunkirk harbour in E.M.E.D. 2130 Sun IV arrived Dunkirk. Shifted billet from time to time during the night. [Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R. commanding E.M.E.D. was killed about 2200 whilst alongside M/S Niger]. 2nd June 0340 Left Dunkirk (at low water) with 112 B.E.F. on board and E.M.E.D. (with 39 troops) and a lifeboat in tow. The tug grounded on the way out of the harbour but refloated after about 10/15 minutes. 0930 Arrived Ramsgate. 142 troops landed by tender. (1) Cdr. Tyler disembarked. 2045 Proceeded to search for H/C Paris. 3rd June 0100 Located Paris; she was abandoned. Air attack. Decided (with Sun XV) that Paris being heavily down by the stern, would require an escort. Proceeded homeward. (1) Not mentioned in Dover Report. 184
SUN VI (continued). 0515 3rd June) Arrived Ramsgate. 0700 1600 At Towed Sun XV off Quern Bank. Mesurier, 4 M.L's. M.V.O., R.N. Took in Le tow Ramsgate. Embarked Cdr. E.K. 1700 Sun R.E. IV, and the tugs Tanga (Lt. R.N. R. Sherwood, R.N.R.), Sun XV Cdr. (two J.I. officers) and Racia (Lt. Cdr. between Miller, D.S.O., R.N.R. towing for Dunkirk. Commodore A.H. Taylor them 14 motor boats, sailed O.B.E., took passage in the leading motor boat, Mermaiden; half way Marlborough. across he transferred to the W.D/M.L. The following boats were abandoned on passage or at Dunkirk: M.B. Thark, was abandoned half way (foul propeller and rudder). ml M/B Santosy was abandoned near W buoy (water in petrol). M/B Diana Mary( 2) was abandoned at Dunkirk (engine trouble). Admiral Superintendents barge 3 (Portsmouth) piled up on some sub- merged masonry in Dunkirk harbour and was abandoned. 2320ca The convoy arrived at Dunkirk, most of the towed boats having been slipped in the vicinity of the S.W. Ruytingen buoy. 2330 Sun IV picked up 12 French troops from an open boat at the entrance of the harbour, and anchored east of the entrance. 4th June 0115 One of the M/B's [Mermaiden] returned and reported "no more troops at Quai Felix Faure", and that Commodore Taylor had left the Quai. 0200 Followed dr. Malcolm into the harbour, with the tug Racia. 0230ca Sun IV proceeded, picked up the waiting M/B, Mermaiden] which was slightly damaged, and sailed for Ramsgate. (Sun XV picked up another vessel half way across and towed it home). 0340 Took Mermaiden in tow. of the 14 M/B's which started for Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be abandoned. The remainder found their way back to Ramsgate. 0746 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 12 troops, (1) by launch. [In his report Cdr. Le Mesurier says: "The spirit of the Masters and crews of the ..... tugs (especially the Sun tugs) was excellent" and refers to the fact that the "owner of the Alexander tug Company" was himself the Captain of the Sun IV]. Authority R.O.II, pp. 406, 420. Total 236(1) W.W. (1) (2) Not mentioned in Diana Mary returned D.R. to Dover with 28 troops. 185
SUN VIII Tug (W.H.J. Ltd.) Alexander & Co. S. Smith, Master 2130ca 30th May Left for Tilbury with 12 lifeboats in tow Ramsgate. - 31st May At Ramsgate "Lieut Puckley"(1) joined the Sun VIII. 1330ca Joined a convoy of tugs and trawlers bound for Dunkirk, with orders not to arrive there before dark. About 20 miles from Dunkirk, air attacks commenced. 2130ca Entered Dunkirk roads. 2230ca Arrived Bray-Dunes. The lifeboats went into the beach. Sun VIII anchored in 3 fathoms - 2 hours before L.W. The boats ferried troops to ships and also to Sun VIII 1st June 0030 Shifted to seaward because of falling ml tide. 0430ca Ordered to leave. Passed 9 lifeboats to a "Sloop's" motor boat and abandoned 3 others. Proceeded with about 120 troops. 3 0930 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 120 troops. (+) (2) Total 120 Authority - W.W. A.T.C. (1) (2) There is no officer of this name in the Navy List. Not mentioned in Dover Report. 188
Tug (W.H.J. Alexander SUN XI & Co., Ltd.) J.R. Lukes, Master. 2330 30th May Left for Tilbury, Ramsgate. towing 3 sailing barges 1300 31st May 1530 Arrived Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dover. Dover with barges. Sailed with a lighter, loaded with 1730 Arrived Dunkirk. A M/B took over the stores and cans of water, in tow. 1800 Proceeded. lighter and beached her. 1900 Air attack. A drifter was sunk; the 1930 tug Contest picked up her crew. Passed the tugs Sun XV, Sun VIII and Sun IV going in. 2300 "Sorry for them, glad to get out". Arrived North Goodwin. Anchored inside S. Brake at 2400. 1st June 2130 Berthed a destroyer [the Worcester] which had been in collision inside Dover harbour. 2155ca Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and pick up anything. 2400 Off North Goodwin, there were seven tugs, in single line ahead, viz. the Challenge, Ocean Cock, Crested Cock, Fairplay I, Sun VII, Sun XI, Sun XII. 2nd June 0200 Sighted small lights. Found a large Govt. lighter Y.C.63 broken down and full of wounded and troops. Among them was "Captain (D) of the 19th Flotilla whose destroyer [ the Keith had blown up". 0230 Took Y.C.63 in tow. 0630 Arrived Dover. Berthed lighter. 1400 Captain Fraser R.N. came on board. 1500ca Left Dover, towing 4 boats, (1) followed by tugs Sun X, Fairplay I and Foremost 87. [2115ca] Foremost 87 picked up 6 life boats full of wounded and survivors [from H/C Paris] and turned back. 2245 Anchored west of Dunkirk Mole. Sun x alongside. Embarked troops from M/B's 2330 Ordered inside the harbour to refloat a grounded transport. Too shallow. Transferred her troops by M/B's. 3rd June 0245 Went inside harbour again to assist a sloop. Low water, went aground. Had to back out. 0330 Daybreak. Full of troops, proceeded, with a large life boat full of troops in tow and also one small one [the M/B Skylark III] 0900 Arrived Dover. Unloaded 188 troops. Total 188 Authority W.W. (1) One of which was the M. L/B Michael Stephens [and probably the Southern Queen, and Jane Holland]. 190
SUN XV Tug (W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd.) J.J. Belton, Master 31st May 0015 Left with Tilbury 12 for Southend and Ramsgate 1150 1430 Arrived Ramsgate. life boats in tow. Left tow. for Dunkirk with 6 life boatsin 1930 2215 Air attack by 28 bombers. Off Dunkirk pier head. Proceeded to La Panne. 2400 Anchored off La Panne. 1st June 0005 The life boats proceeded into the beach 50 yards distant, and ferried 70/80 troops to the tug. Five of the boats were lost in this operation. - 0200 Proceeded with the 6th life boat in tow. The life boat sank and was cut adrift. 0430 4 miles west of Ruytingen buoy took in tow the disabled lighter Y.C.72 which had been towing the lighter Y.C.71. Both were full of troops. 0900 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 75 troops by small craft. 2nd June 2100 Proceeded in search of the H/C Paris, with Cdr. J. Elliott, R.D., R.N.R. on board and tug Sun IV in company. 3rd June 0100ca Sighted the Paris, which had a bad list to starboard. Made fast a wire, but it parted. Air attack. The tow was abandoned, because it was decided an escort would be necessary. - Ordered to proceed to the west, and cruised around. 0340 Sighted the dfr. Yorkshire Lass disabled and full of troops. Took her in tow. 0437 The Yorkshire Lass asked to be cast off as her engines were repaired. 0745 The Sun XV arrived at Ramsgate. 1700 Left for Dunkirk, Lieut. T. Galloway, R.N.R. and another R.N.R. officer on board and towing 4 M/B's one of which was the M. L/B Guide of Dunkirk. (3) 2235 Arrived Dunkirk pier head. 2315 Commenced embarking troops. 4th June 0200 Went alongside the eastern arm. Practically all troops had gone. 0230 Proceeded. 0320 Air attack. 0420 Took in tow the disabled H.M. drifter 0815(1) Arrived L.H.W.D. Ramsgate. Disembarked 31 troops. (2) Total 106 Authority - W.W. R.O.III, p. 307. R.O.IV, p.71. (1) Ramsgate times L.H.W.D. 's arrival as 0900. (2) A launch landed 31 troops at Ramsgate at 0820. These may (3) Guide of Dunkirk broke away from the tow before reaching be assumed to have come from Sun XV, Dunkirk. 192
SUNSHINE (R.13) M/B (A.J.Berrion) - 30th May Went over to Dunkirk beaches, where she was used to assist the Ramsgate life boat Prudential. She was in company with 7 other boats, all of which carried out ferrying duties, that night. - 31st May By this time only the Sunshine and 2 other boats remained to assist the Prudential, the others having been damaged or stranded. - Sunshine was badly damaged too, and the 2 other boats were scarcely sea- worthy. - By the evening, while on tow to the Prudential, the Sunshine broke away and had to be abahdoned. Nil [Report by the Coxewain of Prudential] Authority - - TO.9144/41. 195
SURREY M/L (Owner E.T. Thomas) On arrival at Sheerness from Kingston, the Surrey was boarded by a rating and 3 reservists. have Nothing is to known of her movements, but she may gone Dunkirk, as a French rifle the owner. found in a locker when the boat was returned was to of Authority - TO.9144. in the 0 and 2 akcota were lying DIT, and 2 ships just The western side of the harboor was ablass. 0330 Embarked about 370 British troops and selled for Dover. By this time 6 or 7 other akoots and a hospital ship had entered the harbour and were embarking troops. 1130 Arrived DIE Dover, Disemberred 370 B.B.F.(1) 2100 Bailed indepentantly for Dunktrk by the Oalais route. 30th May West or Dunkirk sighted a wreck in the approach channel and a man's ories were heard. Lowered a boat; but BB a W/S from Dunkirk arrived on the ecene, the Surem-Cords proceeded. (See Hebe II). : 0430 Suraum-Cords orrived off beach east of Dunkirk Malol. Closed the M/D Fitzrov, and was asked to ferry troops to her and to the Av. Vanquisher, 32 cables to the westward. AB there were only 4 or 5 muhll hoats to assist, decided to close the beach and embark tecops over the ship's howe. Two trips were thus made, after which the Fltaroy and Vanquisher sailed. A third trip Van then attempted, but the Gurcum-Corda, overloaded, went securely aground and, in spite of the efforts or the Sk. Hebe II, could not be refloated. 0800 Decided to wait for high mater. 1800/ Purther unsuccessful efforta made to 2030 refloat, which resulted in damage to the ship's engines. May 0430 Transferred BOWN sounded to an 0520 Transferred ambulance. of to a The M/B. 12300a Capt. and crow the corvette Kingfisher, Ramagete. Authority Total_370 197
SURREY M/L (Owner E.T. Thomas) On arrival at Sheerness from Kingston, the Surrey was boarded by a rating and 3 reservists. Nothing is known of her movements, but she may have gone to Dunkirk, as a French rifle was found in a locker when the boat was returned to the owner. the 197
SURSUM-CORDA Skoot Lieut. C.L.G. Philpotts, R.N. Lieut. Brooks, 1st Lieut. 1600 24th May Left Poole for Portsmouth. 2130 Arrived Portsmouth. Remained in company with other skoots, under the orders of the Sk. Fredanja. 28th May 1400 Sailed for the evacuation of troops, via North Goodwin and Middelkerke. 2230ca Arrived off the beaches. Entered Dunkirk harbour. There were a large number of troops on the mole, but apparently no other ships in the harbour; a transport and 2 skoots were lying off, and 2 ships were just leaving. The western side of the harbour was ablaze. 29th May 0330 Embarked about 370 British troops and sailed for Dover. By this time 6 or 7 other skoots and a hospital ship had entered the harbour and were embarking troops. 1130 Arrived off Dover. Disembarked 370 B.E.F.(1) 2100 Sailed independently for Dunkirk by the Calais route. 30th May - West of Dunkirk sighted a wreck in the approach channel and a man's cries were heard. Lowered a boat; but as a M/S from Dunkirk arrived on the scene, the Sursum-Corda proceeded. (See Hebe II). 0430 Sursum-Corda arrived off beach east of Dunkirk [Malo]. Closed the M/S Fitzroy, and was asked to ferry troops to her and to the dr. Vanquisher, 3/2 cables to the westward. As there were only 4 or 5 small boats to assist, decided to close the beach and embark troops over the ship's bows. Two trips were thus made, after which the Fitzroy and Vanquisher sailed. - A third trip was then attempted, but the Sursum-Corda, overloaded, went securely aground and, in spite of the efforts of the Sk. Hebe II, could not be refloated. 0800 Decided to wait for high water. 1800/ Further unsuccessful efforts made to 2030 refloat, which resulted in damage to the ship's engines. 31st May 0430 Transferred some wounded to an 0520 Transferred ambulance. remainder of wounded to a The M/B. Sursum-Corda was abandoned. - 1230ca Capt. and crew transferred to the corvette Kingfisher, which sailed for Ramsgate. Total 370 Authority - R.O.II, p. 132. (1) Not mentioned in D.R. 198
SUTTON (N.78) 4th M.S.F. Actg. Cdr. G.M. Temple, R.N. S.O. 4th M.S.F. 26th May 1900 Sailed from Grimsby, the M/S's Salamander and Fitzroy in company. 1600 27th May Anchored in Downs. The M/S's Skipjack and Halcyon near by. Destroyers full of troops continually passing at high speed. 3 28th May 1545 Proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F. in company, with the M/S's Salamander and Skipjack, later joined by Halcyon. 1730 Steering jammed; proceeded under hand steering. 1750 Fifth M.S.F. coming up astern. Sutton's steering repaired. 1825 Off Kwinte Bank buoy, a ship was seen to be sinking. The Sutton rejoined the 4th M.S.F. Hurricanes passed overhead. 2030 More Hurricanes passed. Dunkirk fires seen 10 miles away. Detached the Fitzroy to investigate a boat. 2050 Turned towards the beaches and proceeded eastward. Large numbers of troops seen along Malo beach, with more scattered and smaller groups towards La Panne. 2125 Anchored off beach about 4 miles east of Dunkirk [Bray]. M/B sent in to contact troops. 2130 Commenced embarkation. 29th May 0200 103 troops embarked. 0300 Proceeded further eastward. Embarked troops of the Leicester Regt. 0730 Went alongside the cr. Calcutta, some miles off shore, and transferred troops to her. The salamander did the same. 0830 Returned to the beaches. Lack of boats; rate of embarkation about 30 per hour, using ship's boats. 227 troops embarked. Large masses of French troops persistently attempted to intercept boats and demand passage. Assisted by British troops to head of French swimmers by rifle fire from 50 yards further along the beach. Dunkirk burning with much smoke. No R.A.F. sighted all day. 1600 High level air attack on Sutton, Salamander, the dr. Greyhound and a A. salvo of bombs straddled Sutton. paddle M/S the Sandown]. No hits. A dive bomb attack on Sutton and Greyhound; the Greyhound One line of 5 bombs close to G.H.Q. set on fire by a near miss. sea front; the last 2 of these Small bombs were used, with several on fell on either side of the Sutton. incendiaries, one of which set on fire a drifter, 2 cable from Sutton [the tr. Nautilus (q.v.)]. Greyhound damaged by bombs. 199
SUTTON (continued) 1706 29th May Left with La Panne for Dover, in (contd.) passage. Salamander. No R.A.F. company seen on 2300 Arrived off Dover. Air raid in progress. Anchored. Observed a plane at about 1500 feet, drop 3 magnetic mines about 2 cables ahead. Sound of mines striking water clearly³ audible. Signalled position of mines to V.A. Dover. 30th May 0600 Entered Dover and disembarked 193 troops. (1) 1052 Proceeded to Sheerness for repairs to one boiler, which had been damaged by a near miss. 31st May 0205 Left Sheerness in company with the M/S's Lydd and Ross. 0812 Passed 4 planes wrecked on the beach west of Dunkirk; two of them had French markings. 0829 Passed Dunkirk harbour; huge fires; continual gunfire, some from beach west of Dunkirk [Mardyck]. 0835 Hurricanes and Spitfires overhead, proceeding homewards. One cargo ship sunk alongside Dunkirk east pier [i.e. the P/V Fenella]. Two French destroyers and several cargo ships sunk east of Dunkirk. Long columns of troops marching westward into Dunkirk. A column, 1 mile long, on Zuydecoote beach (3 miles east of Dunkirk). 0906 Anchored off La Panne. Embarked troops using the M/B and whaler, and 2 army pontoons [probably A.L.C's] Since the previous day, a pier of lorries had been constructed, which considerably expedited the loading of boats, in spite of the risk of damage to boats against the pier, in a swell. Collected troops from an overturned 1137 Transferred pontoon. 120 troops to the Lydd. 1150 Proceeded to N. Goodwin L.V. (Lydd and Rose proceeded to Margate to discharge troops.) 1538 Anchored at N. Goodwin L.V. (2) 1855 Sailed for Dunkirk in company with the M/S Niger. Passed a great number of small craft, destroyers and 2115 Passed paddlers. Dunkirk harbour. Heavy gunfire Dunkirk from beach 2 miles west on of harbour. Fires in Dunkirk more 2147 Anchored extensive. off Bray. No boats. 2235 A boat from the shore reported troops further eastward; only boat (1) (2) D.R. According to D.R. the Sutton disembarked 110 troops on 31st May. This is evidently incorrect. 200
SUTTON (continued)
2235
{contd. 31st May
(contd.)
available eastward. run aground. Moved 1 mile
0100
1st June
No troops yet contacted. No boats
parachute mines descending 3 cables
except Sutton's available. Observed
ahead and 1 cable astern.
0130
Embarked troops with own M/B and whaler³
and a ship's life-boat found off
0400ca
beach. Later assisted by a M/Y.
Level bombing attack, followed by
machine-gunning. One wounded
soldier hit, while being helped
over the side. Observed heavy and
accurate shelling of La Panne beach
and lorry pier.
0600
Proceeded to Dover.
1130
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 453
troops. (1)
1810
Sailed from Dover, Niger in company.
2121
Passed Dunkirk harbour and arrived off
beach. Met by R.A. Dover in "C.M.B."
[i.e. M.A/S.B.10] and ordered to
Dunkirk to load at east pier.
-
Made fast at seaward end of east pier.
Embarked 725 troops of which 1/3
were French, in about 1½ hours.
2nd June
0007(2)
Proceeded out of harbour for Dover.
0432
Arrived Dover. Secured alongside the
dr. Worcester "which had 45 killed
and many injured in bombing raid on
Dunkirk shortly after Sutton left"
[?]. (3) 7 survivors of the dr.
Keith also arrived alongside with
Captain (D) 19, in small motor barge
[i.e. Y.C.63], "sunk in the same
raid" [?](4).
The Sutton disembarked 725 troops.
3rd June
2010
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
2052
Developed engine trouble. Encountered
2346
Anchored fog. at N. Goodwin L.V.
4th June
0517
Proceeded to Dover.
Total 1371
Authority - R.O.I., p.382.
(1) D.R.
(2) Sutton says 1207.
(3) The Worcester was bombed in Dunkirk roads and received
(4) The Keith was sunk at 0940 on 1st June.
casualties at 1630 on 1st June.
201
SWALLOW W.D/M.L. (1) Lt.Col. R.L. Hutchins, M.C., S/Lt. W.R. Williams R.N. Grenadier Guards. W.R. Clarke, Master. 30th May p.m. Arrived Ramsgate from Woolwich. 31st May 0340 Left Ramsgate with Lt. Col. R.L. Hutchins, in command, and the W.D/M.L's Marlborough, Wolfe and Vulture in company, en route for the beaches. On passage to Dunkirk, the Swallow damaged her propellers on wreckage. Arrived Dunkirk. The Marlborough, Wolf and Vulture did not go to the beaches as had been arranged, but entered the harbour and embarked troops from a P.M/S. The Marlborough then reported a damaged propeller and proceeded at once for Ramsgate. - The Swallow proceeded to the beaches alone. Lt. Col. Hutchins describes the situation as follows: 0600 "Dunkirk was under a pall of smoke from fires which appeared to be mainly to the south and west of the port. There were numerous wrecks outside the harbour, and along the beaches. There were large numbers of troops on the shore as far as it was possible to see to the eastward, and the beach was strewn with all forms of motor transport. Along the fore shore were a very large number of pulling boats, aground, capsized or damaged, and abandoned. There were also a considerable number of motor boats, motor launches and yachts aground and, in most cases, abandoned, and several wrecks close inshore. About one mile out in the Dunkirk roads were numerous destroyers and other vessels waiting to embark troops, but scarcely any boats were running between the shore and these ships ..... the beaches were quiet except for occasional shelling and intermittent bombing. The Swallow pulled off a M/Y which was aground, and laid her alongside a small coaster which was at anchor. 1200 Ferried troops to the dr. Impulsive until midday, and thereafter to the 1730 dr. Winchelsea, until about 1730. Air attacks. Ferried, in all, about 1800ca The 700. Swallow proceeded with about 30 troops on board. 2200 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 30 troops 1st June Under repair. 2nd June S/Lt. Williams [ex-X.209] took command of the Swallow and left (p.m.) for Dunkirk. (1) 45' Scott Paine power boat. 203
French torpedo boat T.113 See under T.112, and * Rike 208
T.113 French torpedo boat See under T.112, and sk. . Rike 208
l T.143 French torpedo boat See under T.112. 209
TANGA Tug (William Watkins Ltd.) H.P. Gouge, Master. 29th May Towed to the barges Snowdon and Saladin Ramsgate, where they remained. 1000ca 31st May Anchored off Ramsgate. 1400 Embarked 4 Lewis guns and 2 gunners - also a Lt. Cdr. (1) and a Lt. R.N.R. Proceeded with 6 boats (one of them a M.L/B) in tow, towards Dunkirk. Skpr. A. Gardner, R.N.R. took passage in the Tanga. 1930 Air misses. attack when nearing Dunkirk. Near 2040 Off Dunkirk harbour. Proceeded 6 miles further east. Slipped boats and hung off. [Skpr. Gardner, helped to ferry troops in the M. L/B, which, however, broke down and was abandoned. Skpr. Gardner returned on 1st June in with the M/S Leda]. 1st June 0350ca Some of the boats returned with about 160 troops. Abandoned all but 1 motor boat "and had to run for it". When abreast of Dunkirk harbour, picked up 6 men from a small boat - survivors from the tug St. Fagan. A mile further on, picked up the A/B Pudge with 4 men on board. Took her in tow. 0900 Anchored off Ramsgate. Motor boats came off and landed 160 troops. (2) 1600 Proceeded, towing 4 boats, to Dunkirk. 2230ca Arrived off Dunkirk. Slipped the tow, and "paddled about outside". 2nd June 0330 "Ordered to clear out and run for it". None of the 4 boats had returned. Other boats had brought the Tanga about 90 British and 80 French troops. Proceeded, towing a disabled M/B. 0800 Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 170 troops. (2) 3rd June 1630 Left Ramsgate towing 4 M/B's(3) 2300 Arrived off Dunkirk. Slipped the tow, and waited as before. 4th June 0200ca The tugs Sun IV, Sun XV, Racia and Tanga were ordered to go alongside the pier and get as many troops as The possible. Tanga embarked 37 troops. "Ordered to clear out". None of the 4 boats towed over had returned. [See Madame Sans Gene]. 0235ca Cleared the pierhead. Air attack. Claimed to have shot down a plane. Off N. Goodwin L.V. took in tow a - French fishing lugger with crew of three. (1) On 3rd June, Lt. Cdr. Sherwood R.N.R. was in command of (2) Not mentioned Ramsgate or Dover Reports. Tanga. (3) The Madame Sans in Gene, a life boat and 3 other boats. 210
I TANGA - Continued. (R.96) Travler (Orger, Stanley J. Bannaford, 4th June 0730ca (contd.) Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked Skinnery from boat loads of soldiers, 37 troops. (1) In "Heig" and other vessels took after, the tow rope fouled the tly tow a disabled Total 367 propeller. troops. Continued to embark D. Taken in tow by a "patrol ship" and Authority - R.O.II, R.O.III, p.393. Every available space on board was towed to Remogate. T.M., 6213/40. p.263. filled with troops. W.W. M.016146/40. Retimated Total 50 Authority - T.0.9144/40. R.O.III, ₽.333. (1) Not mentioned in Ramsgate or Dover Reports.
TANKERTON TOWERS (1) (R.96) Trawler (Owner, Stanley Rowden) J. Hannaford, Skipper. 31st May During the afternoon, after having the WD/ML from embarked some boat loads of soldiers, "Haig" and other vessels took in tow a disabled M/Y. Shortly after, the tow rope fouled the propeller. troops. Continued to embark p.m. Taken in tow by a "patrol ship" and towed to Ramsgate. Every available space on board was filled with troops. Estimated Total 50 Authority - T.0.9144/40. R.O.III, p.333. (1) Ramsgate fishing trawler. 212
THE BOYS F/B drifter Skpr. A. Buchan R.N.R. Not mentioned in Captain A/P Dover's report. see under Flare burning drifters. See also slarlight Rays Arrived Dover. The following awards were made: for Bray in company the flotills. D.S.C. Skipper A. Buchan R.N.R. Gray. Proceeded to La orders from the M/Y Ankh J.M. Howson, R.N. to take Mention in Despatches troops off the beach. Seaman G.F. Mathews, R.N.P.S. off La Panne. Forried troops from surf boats to destroyers. Ordered by 5 destroyer to place the Thele at the disposal of a "paddle steamer" anchored off the beach. Collected her boats, and with their assistance, ferried croops to the "paddle The Comodore [0.0. Stephenson) 3.95 the K/Y Bounty suggested that Thele her N/L. It WAS however enached while being launched. 1040da Ordered by teith to anchor entern of her. 1113 Keith weighed. Thele resained in situ 00 & "despatch boat", but gos under way DUE bombs were dropping. The Commodore arrived in a transferred to the Their and this comend of her. The round La Panna and Say, ships and transmi the orders. slengside the R/J DALA box Creptain. Put the on 8 paddle Devental. Air pendie the Commodore on Board Heavy sir The ST the Mehe There de ships to The Thele the LTT transfer test) and bearnes air the of to by 1238 to 218
THELE Portsmouth Inner Patrol Yacht Lt. H.M. Glassborow, 1800 R.N.V.R. 29th May Left other Hamble for Dover in with (see Seriola) 8 yachts of the Inner company Patrol 30th May 0600 Arrived Dover. 2130 Sailed for Bray in company with the Inner Patrol flotilla. 31st May 0600 Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under orders from the M/Y Ankh [Capt. J.M. Howson, R.N. ] to take 0630 troops off the beach. Arrived off La Panne. Ferried troops - from surf boats to destroyers. Ordered by a destroyer [ ] to place the Thele at the disposal anchored off the beach. [ Collected of a "paddle steamer" ] her boats, and with their assistance, ferried troops to the "paddle steamer" - The Commodore [G.o. Stephenson] in the M/Y Bounty suggested that Thele used her M/L. It was however smashed while being launched. 1040ca Ordered by Keith to anchor astern of her. 1113 Keith weighed. Thele remained in situ as a "despatch boat", but got under way as bombs were dropping. - The Commodore arrived in a small boat, transferred to the Thele and took command of her. The Thele then sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and transmitting the Commodore's orders. 1300 Went alongside the M/S Hebe and embarked her Captain. Put the Commodore on board a paddle steamer [the M/S Devonia]. Air attack - the paddle steamer weighed and left with the Commodore on board her. - Heavy air attack. The Capt. of the Hebe ordered Thele to signal all ships to move 1/2 mile to the westward. - The Thele followed the Hebe to try and transfer her Captain. Arrived alongside Hebe off Bray, and after some delay because of an air attack, the Captain of the Hebe was transferred to his own ship. Ordered by Hebe to proceed to La Panne, - to deliver Night Operation Orders to Lord Gort, and to take off G.H.Q. Proceeded personnel. to La Panne, escorted by the - Hebe and lay off the pier. 1630 Sent the dinghy inshore, in charge of C.P.O. Gutsell, with the Night Operation Orders for delivery to Lord Gort. While waiting, embarked 1830 The troops. dinghy returned with S/Lt. E.C. Croswell, R.N., of the dr. Harvester; since he had been on La Panne beach attached 29th himself to Lord Gort's staff. May, having temporarily 219
| THOMAS KIRK WRIGHT | R.N.L.I. Bournemouth) life boat. | L/Sea. H. Huntington |
Thornycroft Motor boat. drifter Shilver 9.7. mith See under Y.C.72 WARRIER R.S.E. 1800 31st May 2030 Arrived Dunkirk from Remagate. Proceeded with 150 British troops, lifted from beach. 1st June 0215 Anchored off Ramsgate. 0530 Disembarked 150 troops. (2) - Bailed for Dunkirk; the dfrs. Mare, 1540 Tweeoways and Unicity in company. Arrived off Dunkirk. Entered harbour. 1615ca Proceeded. Embarked 200 French troops. 2200 Arrived Remegate. Disembarked 200 French troops. (3) Total 350 Authority - R.O.II, ₽.333. The following award was made: Vention in Despatches skipper A.V. Long, R.N.R. 03 It the skipper, In the smith course and of Skipper the Group Officer's report, mentioned. The June the Captain M/S. is not clear who WGB skipper 0.A. will 1940 Ravy List A.V. Long gives Skipper are G.W. both Smith. A report by Not bentioned report in D.B. or Ramagate Recegate speaks of "KF. states J.A. Smith". 59. Not mentioned report. in D.R. 227
M/L. TIGRIS I H. Hastings, Owner, Skipper - 28th May Left Kingston for Sheerness. 0230 29th May Left Sheerness for Ramsgate. 1100 Arrived Ramsgate. "We were still without a pilot, having one naval officer and two ratings". 1430 30th May Left for Dunkirk, with orders "to follow a pilot boat". - 31st May The "Pilot boat" broke down. Tigris I was ordered to steer for the flames of Dunkirk, about 2 hours distant. a.m. Arrived Dunkirk. Tigris I ferried troops in conjunction' with the M/B's Lansdowne and Princess Lily, off La Panne. - Engines gave trouble and the boat went back to Dunkirk, where 5 ferrying trips were made. - On the 4th ferrying trip at Dunkirk, Mr. Hastings was blown overboard by bomb blast, but got back on board. - The Tigris I became disabled and was abandoned. 1st June - The crew returned to Ramsgate "in the same boat as the troops". The Tigris I eventually returned to England. Mr. Hastings estimates that 800 troops were ferried. Authority - TO.9144/40. 233
TRITON M/B (Owner, W.D. Wills) Lieut. R.H. Irving, R.N.R. 29th May 1200ca Left Sheerness with 13 launches. 1930ca Arrived Ramsgate, without the M/L 2200 Beverley, which failed to turn up. Sailed from Ramsgate with the M/L La Silver Queen and six other M/L's for Panne, without navigating instruments or current charts. - Off the N. Goodwin L.V. it was found that 3 of the M/L's had had engine trouble and had returned to harbour. 30th May 0420ca Saw a cruiser[ loaded with troops. She had been damaged aft by shell fire. - One of the M/L's was damaged in collision with the Triton at this time. Except for that, "all five of us had crossed safely". 0500 Arrived off beach near La Panne. Commenced towing boat loads of troops to trawlers and destroyers. The Silver Queen distributed petrol supplies. 1200ca Commodore G.O. Stephenson came on board. - The Commodore landed on the beach, but returned after an hour. 1545ca Went alongside a destroyer [the Windsor and embarked R.A. Dover and his Chief of Staff. Closed the surf to land him by his whaler which was in tow, but R.A. Dover did not land. The Triton took him back to the destroyer. The Triton continued ferrying and towing. 31st May 0100 Lieut. Irving rescued 7 soldiers from drowning. 0200 The Triton went aground. 0400 Refloated. 0600 Cdre. Stephenson transferred to a "M.T.B. " [the M/Y Bounty]. 1300 Heavy shelling was taking place and ships moved away from La Panne. The Triton moved to Dunkirk with a heavy boat load of troops in tow. Heavy air attack. The M/V "Prince of Wales" [i.e. the New Prince of Wales] was hit. Embarked from her 2 wounded officers and 2 ratings. She was sinking slowly and had 2 dead on board. Picked up the troops from a heavily 1730ca loaded boat which had capsized. A rope fouled the Triton's rudder and one propeller. Managed to get alongside the G/B Mosquito, and transferred the troops and wounded to her. Could not clear the rope. Taken in tow by the yacht Caleta, but the tow parted and the Triton was abandoned. Nil 242
Skoot TWENTE Lt. Cdr. H.G. Boys-Smith, Lt. N.J. Mountfield, R.N.R. R.N.V.R. (lst Lieut.) 25th May p.m. Sailed from Tilbury to Sheerness. 27th May p.m. Sailed from Sheerness to Dunkirk via West Hinder Buoy, in company with other skoots. 28th May 0330 When approaching beaches, was ordered by a Naval M/L to return to Ramsgate. 0400 Air attack. a.m. Arrived Ramsgate. 1745ca Sailed for Dunkirk via U, V, W, buoys. 2345ca Arrived Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 380 troops, which were ferried off by drifters. - Proceeded. "Fierce fires were blazing all over Dunkirk, lighting up the sea". 29 th May a.m. Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 390 troops. (1) a.m. Sailed for La Panne, via West Hinder Buoy. p.m. Air attack. In the vicinity of Middel Kerke buoy, the P.M/S Gracie Fields was bombed and hit amidships. She was "unable to stop her engines". Her "upper deck [was] enveloped in clouds of steam. Operation of going alongside had to be performed whilst both ships were proceeding ahead. Secured alongside. Terrible mortality and shambles on board. Transferred as many injured and others as the Twente would hold". Another skoot [the Jutland], secured on the other side of the Gracie Fields and took off the remainder. - Proceeded to Ramsgate. 30th May 0400ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 399 troops. (1) Entire ships company relieved for 24 hours. The Twente sailed immediately with a relief crew, commanded by Lt. A.W. McMullan, R.N.R. with S/Lt. Adderley R.N.V.R. as 1st Lieutenant. 2230 Arrived off Dunkirk roads. Anchored. 31st May 0500 Embarked 400 troops, assisted by a "motor boat and two cutters" [actually these were the M/B Constant Nymph, with a cutter and a whaler]. Proceeded. [a.m. As the Twente had not returned, Lt. Cdr. Boys-Smith took command of the 2 W.D/M.L's Kestrel and Grouse] (1) D.R. 248
VANQUISHER (continued) 0530 (continuea) (contã) The pier was crowded and the greatest possible number was embarked, believed to be not less than 1,200. Air raids during embarkation. 4 bombs seen to drop near dr. Vivacious's bow. Vanquisher's 0630 aerials shot away by Icarus 0.5" m. g's Sailed for Dover. 0930 Dover. Disembarked 1200 troops. 2nd June 1100ca Lt. Cdr. Alers-Hankey resumed command. [Lt. Cdr. Bushell was sent to assist the master of the P/V. Tynwald]. 2130 Sailed for Dunkirk. 3rd June 0030 Off Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 35 French troops from a small boat while lying off. 0230 Ordered by dr. Codrington to return to Dover. When 3 miles off Dunkirk a transport(1) was observed to collide with a vessel understood to have been 1 a blockship 2). 0445 Dover. Disembarked 37 troops(3). Lieut. R.N. Hankey R.N., (1st Lieut.) was landed for rest. 2045 Sailed for Dunkirk. 2400 Arrived off Dunkirk. 4th June 0200 Berthed alongside Eastern Pier, Dunkirk. Embarked troops. 0240 Proceeded. 0430 Anchored off N. Goodwin L.V. in thick fog. 0615 Dover. Disembarked 414 troops. Total 3941 Authority - R.O.I., pp. 20, 138, 143. None of the P/V's leaving Dunkirk at that time mentions incident. the S.S. Holland D.R. 261
3 VANQUISHER (continued) Car. C.I. Horton, R.N. usy The following awards were made: or the correttes Shearwater sup- and from Sheerness with and In D.S.M. while they conducted 8 C.E.R.A. F.H. Patrick. for the destroyers, ships and small search, and in support L/Sea. D. Anderson. Proceeded along asarched channel Q.Z.S. evacuating troops from Dunkirk". Mention in Despatches. 60 until Xwinte Bank buoy WRS abeam. Cdr. C.B. Alers-Hankey, R.N. serwater and Sheldrake to ships working or roote X* Lieut. Lieut. C.W.C. Checucci, R.N. channel Q.Z.S.60 to the C.P.O. R.N. Hankey, R.N. setward, and to work in conjunction F.A. Calver. P.O. C. Morrice. Widgoon. with the corvettes Mallard and Sto. P.O. W. King. When Yesa 188 cast of Ewinte Bank buoy she was joined by the Polish destroyer Blyskawics. 2330 Year and Blyskawica patrolled between 1. & G. booys. say 0335 Both ships returned to eastward or west Hinder buoy. 0648 Two torpadoes passed ahead of Vega a in position 51° 23' N., 2" 32' E. Vega and Alyskawics counter attacked and hunted until 1043. 1130ca Directed by a plane, closed a sailing boat and plaked up 34 British and Allied troops from Hieuport. 1715 Vega joined Sheldrake off T buoy and in 1750 company carried out a B/M search. 2010 Patrolling independently. 30th May 0330 Between U and W buoys, Sheldrake 78⑉ joined. 2000ca Vega and Sheldrake rendezvoused at R buoy with Blyskawica and widgeon. 2030 Picked up the crew of an Allied plane near Y buoy. 2100 In company with Blyskawice, Eldgeon and Sheldrake, Vega patrolled between R buoy and West Hinder. 2346/ Four French destroyers on opposite 2359 course passed at high speed. Stat tay 0121 Heavy explosion heard to the north eastward. 0145 Tracer bullets seen 4 miles to the north eastward followed by a column of flames 200 feet high. The French destroyer Sirocco had been torpedoed by an enemy WASH 150 survivors were picked up by Widgeon and 15 by 0700 Vega Blyskawica.( relieved by the dr, Jackal. Vega about 40 soldiers, sailors and airmen. Total 34 abthority - R.O.III, D.476, Tot mentioned in D.R. tr. Wolves picked up 50 and the tr. Stella Doredo. 33. 262
VEGA( Destroyer (Nore Command) Cdr. C.I. Horton, R.N. 28th May 1230 Sailed from Sheerness with and in sup- Sheldrake while they conducted a port of the corvettes Shearwater and submarine search, and in support "of the destroyers, ships and small craft evacuating troops from Dunkirk". - Proceeded along searched channel Q. Z.S. 60 until Kwinte Bank buoy was abeam. 2026 Covered ships working on route Y. Ordered Shearwater and Sheldrake to patrol channel Q.Z.S.60 to the westward, and to work in conjunction with the corvettes Mallard and Widgeon. 2138 When Vega was east of Kwinte Bank buoy she was joined by the Polish destroyer Blyskawica. 2330 Vega and Blyskawica patrolled between T. & S. buoys. 29th May 0335 Both ships returned to eastward of west Hinder buoy. 0648 Two torpedoes passed ahead of Vega 1 in position 51° 23' N., 2° 32' E. Vega and Blyskawica counter attacked and hunted until 1043. 1130ca Directed by a plane, closed a sailing boat and picked up 34 British and Allied troops from Nieuport. 1715 Vega joined Sheldrake off T buoy and in 1750 company carried out a S/M search. 2010 Patrolling independently. 30th May 0330 Between U and W buoys, Sheldrake re- joined. 2000ca Vega and Sheldrake rendezvoused at R buoy with Blyskawica and Widgeon. 2030 Picked up the crew of an Allied plane near Y buoy. 2100 In company with Blyskawica, Widgeon and Sheldrake, Vega patrolled between R buoy and West Hinder. 2346/ Four French destroyers on opposite 2359 course passed at high speed. 31st May 0121 Heavy explosion heard to the north eastward. 0145 Tracer bullets seen 4 miles to the north eastward followed by a column of flames 200 feet high. The French destroyer Sirocco had been torpedoed by an enemy M.T.B. 150 survivors were picked up by Widgeon and 15 by Blyskawica. (2) 0700 Vega relieved by the dr. Jackal. Vega disembarked about 40 soldiers, - sailors and airmen. Total 34 Authority - R.O. III, p.476. (1) Not mentioned in D.R. (2) The tr. Wolves picked up 50 and the tr. Stella Dorado, 33. 263
VENUS - Continued 1100 1st (contd.) June The Venus and Moussaillon sailed for Dunkirk. [The Denis Papin and the President Briand were 3 miles ahead, 1530ca having sailed earlier(1 ]. Near the Ruytingen buoy, the wrecks of two transports, sunk during the night were seen; two torpedo boats were heading north. The Denis Papin and the President Briand were both returning having been unable to enter Dunkirk approach channel because of gunfire from a shore battery opposite 6 W buoy. 1600 The President Briand signalled the Venus to scatter, because of an impending air attack. 1610 Dive bombed by 9 aircraft, which directed their bombs on the Venus and the Denis Papin. The Venus received a direct hit and sank in less than 4 minutes. Before sinking she managed to launch one 1 raft. It was then seen that the Denis Papin had also been sunk. The President Briand lowered two boats The Moussaillon picked up Enseigne de 0 vaisseau Rosec and 3 sailors of the Venus. Hardly had she done so than she herself was hit, and sank in less than one minute, that is to say, instantaneously. Half an hour later, an English pilot boat summoned by the President Briand picked up 9 survivors of the Venus including her captain. The President Briand which had been machine gunned by the planes, and was damaged, did not wait. Totals 218 (Venus) 309 (Moussaillon) Authority - French Admiralty record, Folio No. 27. (1) Report by the Denis Papin. 26,9
11 & 12 VERITY Movements may 22-25 22nd 1150 Escorted Canterbury & Maid of Orleans to Calais. 1418 Back at Dover 23rd 2140 To Calais with McNaughton and Canadian staff. 2255 Entered harbour; landed McN. in Gulzar. Paris (h.s.) slipped and Verity took her place alongside, 24th 0137 McN. re-embarked. To Dunkirk along swept channel. 0247 Attacked by single a/c. 0327 Arrd. Dunkirk; alongside Quai Felix Faure. Quiet. 0500 McN. landed, said would be 2 hours. 0700 Tide falling, nothing from McN., so patrolled outside, leaving motor boat inside. 0850 Heavy air attack. Another at 0943. 1035 McN. returned. Back to Dover. 1120 Shot down one float plane. 1206 Shelled by Calais shore battery. 1255 Arrd. Dover. Oiled & embarked military ammunition. 1914 Proceeded to salvage Wessex; reported sunk so returned. 1950 Went to assistance of Burza, damaged by bombs. Escorted her in to Dover (2050). 2120 War Office ordered land military ammunition. 2127 VA Dover ordered embark 80 (actually 76) RM and ammunitia 2230 Somerville took passage. 2335 Proceeded to Calais. 25th 0050 Entered harbour; alongside Gare Maritime. 0105 Shelled by battery to westward - not hit. 0120 Shifted berth to Quai de Maree, ahead of Wolfhound. Landed men & stores without casualties. 0215 Left for Dover; Somerville still on shore. 0415 Arrd. Dover. 270A
VIKING III Dinghy (Owner, J.S. Houlton) Did not return from Dunkirk. 27th May P/V's 01, Helier and in caspany with the via poute & Ordered to return to Dover because or Authority - TO.9144. enemy batteries at Oravelines. TO.9436. Anchored in Dover. Proceeded in company with the dr. Anthony, the S.8. Kyno and the and Royal Unfrodil overtward through the Downe. 1140 The B/C's St. Andrew and 8t. Julien joined company 0.0 they had no sharts for route Y. 1230 The Anthony and the Kyno returned to the Downg. 1445 Between West Winder and Kwinte Bank booys, two bombing attacks were made on the hospital carriers. Both salvos missed. 1622 Joined the dr. Wolsey, which was lying Dunkirk breakwater. 8t, Helier a and Royal Deffodil proceeded inside the herbour. The hospital ships repained outside. 1740 Both transports left the harbour and lay off outside. Royal Daffodil ordered to remain off the harbour. 1750 The Viny in company with the St. Helier and the 2 hospital ships proceeded by route Y for Dover. While the Visy was off Dunkirk the town was continuously bombed by high level humbers. 2200 The convoy anchored in the Downs. 2308 The Viary proceeded to Dunkirk. 2355ea Lt. Car. Knowling left the bridge, and was not seen again. 28th May 0300 Licot. A.P. Northly assumed command of the Viny, 0320 Arrived off beach 3 miles east of Dunkirk. The M/S Brighton Belle was embarking troops from G French canal boat and a small pulling boat. The Vimy lowered her boats and sent them to assist in rilling ep the 0445 Leoving her boats behind, the Viry went Brighton Beller alongside Dunkirk East pier and embarked about 600 troops. 0545 Proceeded to Dover by poute Y. 1015 Arrived Dover, Disembarked 613 troops. Bailed for Dunkirir via route 1. 1105 Between Kwinte Hank and Nivoport Bank 1415 bunys, about 20 Heinkele attacked Vimy and your in the vicinity. No damage. 1532 Entered Dunkirk and 1807 Proceeded for Dover by route ¥ with the dr. Gronade at east pier 2250 Arrived 591 about 630 278 19
VIMY (D.33) Destroyer (Nore Command) Lt.Cdr. R.G. K. Knowling, R.N. Lieut. A.P.W.Northey, R.N. Lt.Cdr. M.W. E. Wentworth, R.N. 27th May 0630 Sailed from Dover in company with the P/V's St. Helier and Royal Daffodil, via route Z. 0710 Ordered to return to Dover because of 0810 enemy batteries at Gravelines. Anchored in Dover. 1054 Proceeded in company with the dr. Anthony, the S.S. Kyno and the St. Helier and Royal Daffodil - northward through the Downs. 1140 The H/C's St. Andrew and St. Julien joined company as they had no charts for route Y. 1230 The Anthony and the Kyno returned to the Downs. 1445 Between West Hinder and Kwinte Bank buoys, two bombing attacks were made on the hospital carriers. Both salvos missed. 1622 Joined the dr. Wolsey, which was lying off Dunkirk breakwater. St. Helier a and Royal Daffodil proceeded inside the harbour. The hospital ships remained outside. 1740 Both transports left the harbour and lay off outside. Royal Daffodil ordered to remain off the harbour. 1750 The Vimy in company with the St. Helier and the 2 hospital ships proceeded by route Y for Dover. While the Vimy was off Dunkirk the town was continuously bombed by high level bombers. 2200 The convoy anchored in the Downs. 2308 The Vimy proceeded to Dunkirk. 2355ca Lt. Cdr. Knowling left the bridge, and was not seen again. 28th May 0300 Lieut. A.P. Northey assumed command of the Vimy. 0320 Arrived off beach 3 miles east of Dunkirk. The M/S Brighton Belle was embarking troops from a French canal boat and a small pulling boat. The Vimy lowered her boats and sent them to assist in filling up the Brighton Belle. 0445 Leaving her boats behind, the Vimy went alongside Dunkirk East pier and embarked about 600 troops. 0545 Proceeded to Dover by route Y. 1015 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 613 troops. 1105 Sailed for Dunkirk via route Y. 1415 Between Kwinte Bank and Nieuport Bank buoys, about 20 Heinkels attacked Vimy and four other destroyers in the vicinity. No damage. Entered Dunkirk and secured alongside 1532 the dr. Grenade at east pier Proceeded for Dover by route Y with 1807 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 591 troops. about 650 troops. 2250 279
VIMY - Continued 29th May 0705 Sailed the for Dunkirk via route company. drs. Worcester and Anthony Y, in 1018 Received V.A. Dover's signal, timed 1040 0941, while off Bray. Proceeded into Dunkirk and delivered letter for S.N.O. Dunkirk to the Sheerness. dr. Ivanhoe. Sailed immediately for 1545 Arrived Sheerness. Lieut. Cdr. M.W.E. Wentworth R.N., 1905 embarked and took over command. Sailed from Sheerness. 2102 On receipt of signal (Admiralty 1938) proceeded to Dover. 2230 Arrived off Dover. 30th May 0425 Sailed, by route X, for Dunkirk. 0645 The dr. Vanquisher reported Dunkirk habour practicable. 0712 Proceeded alongside east side of east pier. Embarked troops. 0731 Proceeded for Dover. 1100 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 524 troops. 1 1248 Sailed by X route to Dunkirk. 1615 Arrived Dunkirk and lay off outside. 1717 Attempted to secure "bows out", but unable to on account of shelling by shore batteries. 1802 Secured alongside and embarked troops. 1825 Sailed for Dover. 2132 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 948 troops. 31st May 0445 Proceeded. - Between N. Goodwin buoy and N.W. Goodwin buoy, sighted the periscope and conning tower of a submarine. Dropped a depth charge and started A/S hunt between latitudes of Goodwin Knoll buoy and S.W. Goodwin buoy. - The corvette Sheldrake joined the hunt in accordance with C. in C. Nore's signal timed 0708. 1030 Proceeded for Dunkirk, leaving the hunt to the Sheldrake and trawlers. 1230 Arrived off Dunkirk. 1300 Secured alongside east pier, bows out. 1400 Shifted billet, and secured alongside the end of the pier, bows in. 1538 Proceeded for Dover. 1856 Arrived Dover. Disembarked 300 troops. 1st June 0100 Proceeded for Dunkirk. 0156 In collision with the yacht Amulree in position 270° N.W. Goodwin buoy, 1 cable. She sank immediately. The only remaining boat, a skiff, was lowered, and all members of the yacht's crew picked up 0233 Vimy proceeded to Dover. 0349 Arrived Dover. 2nd June To Portsmouth for repairs. Total 2976. 280
VISCOUNTESS WAKEFIELD R.N.L.I. (Hythe) life boat According to the Coxswain of the Ramsgate life boat (the Prudential) on 31st May, he had seen the Hythe life boat approaching La Panne. "She was put aground. The soldiers waded out to her, and with the men on board she was knocking up on the shore, and there she stopped" The Viscountess Wakefield was the only R.N.L.I. life boat which did not return to England. a 284
Blockship WESTCOVE 2010 Sailed and other from the Downs, Vivacious lead- Ltd.Cdr. A.M. McKillop, R.N. 2nd June blockships in company. 0215 3rd June Anchored No. 16 W off buoy. Dunkirk to the west of 0240 0300 Weighed and proceeded. Passed western between Dunkirk eastern into the outer breakwater and proceeded. and inner harbour. channel leading to the When in her allotted position, Westcove put her wheel hard astarboard, to ram the inner west pier. Her bows struck mud about 50 feet from the pier, with the ship about 30° across the channel. This angle was increased to 50° by going full ahead on the engines. The Edvard Nissen which was following with the intention of ramming the east breakwater, endeavoured to strike Westcove's stern a glancing blow so as to increase her angle to the Channel before she was scuttled. The strength of the current was under- estimated however, and the Nissen passed close under Westcove's stern, heading for the east breakwater. Westcove then fired her scuttling charges, which, probably owing to coal gas in the bunkers, caused a large column of flame and smoke to cover the ship's stern. When this had cleared, and the boat with the crew on board had pulled clear, it was seen that Westcove had slid off the sloping bank of the channel; she was lying on an even keel in the line of causing a minimum of obstruction. the piers, almost in midstream thus The crew embarked in M.A/S.B.7. Authority - M.011431/40. The following awards were made: Mention Lt. in Despatches. C.E.R.A. W.H. Pryor. Cdr. A.M. McKillop, R.N. 306
WESTWARD-HO (J.43) P.M/S (7th M.S.F. Ty.Lieut. A.L. Braithwaite, - 30th May(1) - The 7th Westward-Ho sailed R.N.V.R. 0400ca Harwich. for La Panne. 31st May Arrived boats off La Panne. Sent ship's parallel work swamped. towing difficult. in. with A Ground M/B the made Boats swell, coast several repeatedly made and the a boat set then broke the ship's boats; her trips, and down, she drifted ashore engine became capsized. The ship's cutter waterlogged. Picked boats Dover had been embarked, the troops which made 2 trips. When up a 150 to signalled the ship to R.A. order Dunkirk and embark troops. proceed This and was almost immediately cancelled stand by to beach herself. This the Westward-Ho was ordered to too was cancelled, and the ship proceeded alongside the outer Dunkirk east pier and embarked 602 troops. A heavy bombardment was in progress. Westward-Ho was ordered to proceed to Margate. - Arrived Margate. 1st June 0600(2) Disembarked 720 troops. (2) - Sailed for Dunkirk. 1400ca Arrived Dunkirk. Ordered into the lock entrance to embark French troops. Embarked 900 French troops including a French general and staff. 1600ca Proceeded. Attacked by 2 bombers. Near misses caused slight leak. The ship took a heavy list to port, her sponson was submerged and the port alleyway filled up. The troops were moved to the starboard side and the ship re-assumed an even keel. The attack continued for about 1/2 hour and about 90 bombs were dropped. Machine-gun attacks were also made, killing 6 and wounding 21. Three planes were shot down by the ship's guns. (3) 2030(4) Arrived Margate. Disembarked 918 troops and 1 alien under arrest. (4) The French general decorated P.O. Wilcox R.N.R. and Ord/Sea. Banner with the Croix de Guerre for bringing down the planes. (1) (2) Lieut. Brai thwaite the 31st May. Margate Report. D.R. says records it was 752 troops landed on 31st (3) Notay, The C. C. Bays: and shows in Westward-Ho D.R. as a was fleet engaged minesweeper. at the time (4) Margate re of our Air "No Force other ship was D.R., there". the Westward-Ho made 3 disembarkations According to one as a fleet minesweeper and 900 troops) troops), and on two 1st as June; a paddle minesweeper (918 309
WHIPPINGHAM( (1) I.O.W. (S.Ry. Paddle Ltd.) Ferry Boat Lieut. E. Reed, R.N.R. May 1200 31st May Arrived The Ramsgate from but Whippingham as it then seemed required Portsmouth. fresh water, master would R.N.), ordered be at in the Ramegate order final to save (Capt. trip, likely time, the E.F. pier that Wharton this 1345 1630 Left Ramsgate her for to fill Dunkirk. up with salt water. Off Malo beach. 1700/ 1830 Made 3 unsuccessful attempts to put the 1830 Anchored. ship's stern on the beach. 2130 2200 Ordered to take troops off Dunkirk mole. Secured troops. alongside the mole. Embarked 1st June 0130 Completed the embarkation of 2,700 troops. Overladen. Sponsons only about 12 inches above the water. Ship straddled by shell fire, which led to the troops rushing over to the port side, causing a list of 20°. Chief mechanician Ford checked the rush and moved the troops back to starboard this preventing a disaster. Proceeded. 0800 Ramsgate. Ordered to Margate. 0930 Margate. 1130 Disembarked 2,700 troops. (2) Total 2,700 Authority - - R.O.III, pp.75, 335. The following awards were made: D.S.M. Ch. Mech. 2nd Cl. F.A. Ford. (1) Shown in Margate D.R. as a minesweeper. report states 2,500.
WHITE WING N/Y (Owner, F.J. Cook) S/Lt. A.S. Mullins, R.N.R. Assisted by Mr. A.D. Divine [Commodore Taylor says: 3 skoots and 12 W/B's were available. They sailed between 1800 Harwich, did not come]. 1900", on 2nd June. A M.A/S.B., expected from and 2nd June 2045ca Left Ramsgate for Malo with Cdr. A.H. Taylor on board. Owing to a head sea and some engine trouble, White Wing did not overtake the slow convoy of skoots and M/B's. 3rd June 0200ca The 3 skoots were contacted between E.12 buoy and the shore, and the M/B's which had gone inshore, were closed. The latter had found the beach deserted. Cdre. Taylor says: "After giving one boat, which had broken down, to a skoot to tow, I ordered them all [presumably the M/B's] to return to Ramsgate, and went back to the beach" to see no one was left behind. - The Nieuport battery (four 6" guns) landed a salvo on the Eastern Mole. Another round sank a transport that was just entering Dunkirk. Decided to proceed. - Sighted a life boat [in charge of Sea Cadet Lieut. Sidmouth-Willing], from the Sk. Hilda; the occupants were embarked in the White Wing, and the life boat taken in tow. The M/B Singapore, ashore, was also sighted, but her crew decided to wait till the incoming tide refloated her. - Off Dunkirk, picked up 6 French troops, pulling in a fishing boat. 0800ca Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 6 troops. Total 6 Authority - R.O.II, pp.367, 389. (1) Referred to by Cdre. Taylor as "White Wings". D.R. also shows a M/B of this name. TO.9144 refers to the boat as "Whitewing". White Wing was owned by F. J. Cook and appears in Lloyds Register of yachts (1939). (2) Mr. Divine had previously gone across in the Little Ann, which was lost. These were evidently the Hilda the Rika and the Tilly. Not identified. 316
WHITSTABLE. (P/V) S.Ry. Co. 0350 Capt. W. Baxter, Master. 31st May On Sailed route. from Dover for Dunkirk by X 0820 Off 21 Bray. fathoms. Anchored close in shore in 0956 Tide off falling. Shifted billet further 1430 shore, in 41/2 fathoms. 1530 Embarked 14 troops from a boat. "Boiler and water was running very low the anchorage was subjected 2020 Arrived Dover harbour. Transferred 14 a severe bombardment", so proceeded to 1) troops to a War Dept. tender. Total 14 On Authority - TM. 6213/40. R.O.III, p.232. C. in C. 0511/31. (1) Capt. that the S.S. Glengarriff Dover mentions [868 same tons; time be with John Baxter Kelly 26 troops says Ltd] on left board. Bray No for other report this vessel. 318
WINDSOR (L.94) June Destroyer (Nore Command) Dover. Lt. Cdr. P.D.H.R.Pelly 2300 25th May Left Dover, dr. 0140 26th May 0300 Off It a raft. picked up 3 vessels to out Calais, cover the if soldiers ordered. to carry from R.N. so craft was assisted decided back to Verity not Dover. to to evacuate escort Calais, small 0645 0745 Dive-bomb attack - no hits. Anchored in Downs. Disembarked 3 Fervent. soldiers into a boat from the Returned 1700 Retired to Dover. 27th May 0635 0904 Left Dover to patrol. Closed Mona's Isle, full of soldiers; she had been machine gunned. Escorted her to Dover. 1515 Resumed patrol. 28th May 1145 Close to No.: buoy (near S. Goodwin Light Vessel), attacked by 15 dive-bombers supported by 10 fighters. No direct hits but extensive damage by bomb splinters and m.g. bullets. W/T out of action, 30 casualties. 1400 Secured alongside. Repairs put in hand. 30th May 0930 Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk. 1330 Arrived off La Panne. Embarked troops from small boats. 1530 R.A. Dover transferred his staff from the M/S Hebe to the Windsor. [1630 R.A. Dover landed at La Panne to visit Lord Gort. Captain Tennant (S.N.O. Dunkirk) was with Lord Gort, and the situation was discussed. ](1) 1700 The R.A. Dover transferred to the dr. 2100ca Arrived Dover. Disembarked 606 troops. Worcester. The Windsor proceeded. 31st May 0200ca 0600ca Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked troops. Left Dover for Dunkirk. 1000ca Arrived Proceeded. Dover. Disembarked 658 troops. 1200ca 1615 Arrived Left Dover Dunkirk for Dunkirk. harbour. Secured which alongside the dr. Icarus was alongside the - Arrived Embarked Dover. troops and troops - 1st June 0545ca Left Arrived Dover drs. for Dunkirk. Berthed Icarus out- side and the the 2030 Sailed Embarked for Dover, troops. Icarus in company. (1) R.A. Dover's report. 325
WINGS OF THE MORNING (1) M/B Lord Dunboyne) R.E. S/Lt. Button,Skipper. a.m. Left in Littlehampton, company. the M/B Windsong R.N.V.R. 30th May p.m. Arrived Dover. - - Windsorg in company. the the Jianning. taken in repaired. Decided id. - Dover. 1st June 0700 Left Dover, with the Windsong and 4 other boats in tow of the dfr. Kindred company. Star. The dfr. Thrifty in - Arrived Dunkirk. Sent a 12 ft. boat into the beach to collect troops. She was blown up by bombs. Four ships were also blown up. p.m. Wings of the Morning proceeded. 2nd June - Arrived Ramsgate, where the boat was turned over to the Navy - and the crew returned to Littlehampton. S/Lt. Lawrie (who had already been to Dunkirk in the M/B Maldon Annie IV) then took command. p.m. Left Ramsgate with a number of other boats, when within a few miles of - Dunkirk, was ordered by a M.T.B. to return to Ramsgate. Nil [on 3rd June, S/Lt. Lawrie took command of the tug Dromedary Authority - J.D.C. R.O.II, p.533. (1) S/Lt. Lawrie refers to this vessel as"Wind of the Morning."
16th Destroyer Flotilla WIVERN Lt. Cdr. W.C. Bushell, R.N. The Wivern was refitting and took no part in Dynamo. Lt. Cdr. Bushell relieved the C.O. of the dr. Vanquisher on 31st May and made 2 trips to Dunkirk. He left the Vanquisher on 1st June and joined the P/V Tynwald with a party of 1 leading hand and 8 A.B's as a "stiffener". 1415 Sailed for 1930 Arrived Ramagete. troops. Sailed for Arrived proceeded. 0930 Off 6 W buoy, picked up 2 men from the of supporting the other.(3 - Arrived Remagate. Disembarked 17 troops and 2 sailors. Bailed for Dunkirk. 2nd June 0630 Arrived Remagate.(5 From this time of action. Authority - R.O.II, pp.44, 492. R.O.III, pp.286, 452. Cdr, C. report. R.N. Captain of the Brondaria. Remagate says that Khman, in probable the that Karlborough 18:took the Lt, who (See Lieutenant states of the Report ard on reports the Welfe occasionates that the 2 # Launch, report court open boat in empty. 330
, the other that afthe P.M/s. Brighba Queen) WORCESTER (continued) 1500 On buoy, approaching sighted x channel, near No.5 "transports the wrecks small [one that of the/Scotia]; the of two picked up a few. picking up survivors. Worcester were craft and destroyers V.A. At this time a signal was received from forthwith. Dover to return to harbour Being so close to Dunkirk, decided to continued on. In the roads, picked up some French soldiers from an open boat (one mortally wounded) and the crew of a broken 6]. down service M/L [the Skylark 1600 Arrived Dunkirk. Ordered to west pier. Considered this inadvisable, so secured alongside east pier. Embarked 900 troops during air attacks 1630 Proceeded. Attacked by successive waves of dive bombers in Dunkirk roads. Several near misses. Further attacks near No.5 buoy. Great damage to personnel. Estimated that in all, over 100 bombs dropped near the ship. A heavy volume of A/A fire was maintained in spite of casualties to gun's crews. Two A/C were shot down and one Casualties probable. were: Naval, 6 dead, 40 Military, wounded. 40 dead, 140 wounded. - 5 miles from the N. Goodwin the bomb stoppage of main engines. Signalled damage to the fuel tanks caused 1803 After tug 4 hour was able to proceed under St. Olaves to take in tow. - 2030 Entering own power. Dover inner harbour, due owing to to sustained to screws impaired manoeuvrability and damage collided with the P/V way Maid rudder, Orleans which was on Dover. the out. 2100 Disembarked of 900 troops at Total 4,545 545 Authority - R.O.I., pp. 182, 200. R.O.III. p.374 [P.T.O. 338
x.209(1) X Lighter (Royal Clarence Yard, Gosport. S/Lt. Capt. W.R. R.G. Williams, Banks, R.N. 0130 Actg. 30th May 2000 Left Gosport. Master. were for orders Williams S/Lt. 2130ca Sailed from for Dunkirk which - 31st May 0200 In "Good with Slight about boat collision progress orders, 5 damage miles Ramsgate with was and to to an with accordance which X.209's seaward in unknown a accordance. of ship, Gravelines (4) (2) 3 went astern. smashed, as the lighter in tow of X. 209 was bows; the and army 15] punts [probably A.L.C's Contacted to company, and arranged with them in bound for Dunkirk. Proceeded 3,8 0400ca(5) Arrived off beach and embarked 57 ferry troops to X.209. 1100 Sailed for Ramsgate. British and French troops. 1715(6) Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 62 B.E.F. and 5 Allied troops( The X.209 remained at Ramsgate( 8) until 3rd June when she proceeded to Portsmouth in company with tugs C.9, and Prima and the hopper Foremost 101. Total 67 (on 1st June S/Lt. Williams went to a tug whose master refused to go to Dunkirk again [probably the Racia]) Authority - R.O.II, p.567. R.O.III, pp.82, 83, 488. The following award was made: Captain A.G. Banks, Actg. Master. Mention in Despatches & Speed 5 to 6 Capt. R.G. Banks's knots. report. S/Lt. Williams says "ordered to (3) Capt. sands Banks's between Gravelines and Williams Calais." says "Anchored off sands. Landed report. in boat S/Lt. engaged two [enemy] and believe (4) S/Lt. shot both; returned to ... my ship". place on 1st June. Captillianka says this took collision place on took 31st May, but the he date countersigned &/Lt. Williamssreport which gave dates countersigned S/Lt. many instances of mistaken (5) s/Lting operation There are Rams Williams report. Dynamo. Capt. Banks says 0800. (7) report. report. Capt. Banks says 1915 returned to Dunkirk 2130 cal. This the. troops, after liams landing says that the X.209 at dusk [1.00 He furtherpears noon doubtful that troops in were view THE to confirm on 1st this. June. There is 343
| Thornycroft (towing Y.C.71 on board. motor boat) with and troops a | ||
| 2400ca | Y.C.72's engines broke down. Thornycroft motor boat was able to proceed to Ramsgate. [He SUNXV |
| Y.C.71 Thornycroft on board. motor boat) with and troops a | ||
| 2400ca | Y.C.72's engines broke down. Thornycroft motor boat was able to proceed to Ramsgate. [He SUNXV SUN XV |
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
YOUNG MUN F/B drifter See under Flare burning drifters. O.A. Thompson 29th my 1800 In canal company with two 1815 One & [the 00 the returned round her Item) [apparently propertes to end Report by 0/11. Don, R.N. 50th Way 0100 S/Lt. she Don having taken over the Less 0400ca The escorting drifter had to taxe convoy of 18 onall orers. sailed from Remagate in $ back with 2 other small craft, The Year, being rester, left the 0900 remainder of the convey well estern. The beaches. Yesr ran aground off Donking 2000 Ucable to reflost, the 0.0. and cres took passage home in a name college, Benort by P.O. W.H. Atkin: Joined boat at Gravasene. let trip To Calais. Fired on and retired. 2nd trip To beach by Hieuport budy Perrying troops. On the vay back to Dover, researed troops from the P.K/S Brighton Belie [sunk at 1300 on 28th May]. [30th May]* To basch north of Dockink. purcial troops. On return journay in company with the K/B Silver CURRED binndered into Calais and shelled. to make Remagate, [at 2100 Dd 3018 Leaking badly, managed May]- [P.O. Atkin then went byer 10 the M.W OXFIL And Authority - 2.0.11, PP.039, 252, 539- me following REGISTR Mention V.H. ASKIN. Presentable 353
(Ex-Belgian) Canal YSER Boat S/Lt. R.W.D. Don, D.S.C., P/O W.H. Atkin. Report M/B Cordelia. by S/Lt. C.A. Thompson R.N.V.R. of the R.T. 1800 29th May In canal company boats with two 1815 Sambre), dfr. of "G. the R.1740". left other ex-Selgian other ex-selgian other ex-Belgian of the One got a canal boats [the returned rope round her Yser?] [apparently to propeller Ramsgate]. and Report by S/Lt. Don, R.N. 30th May [.] 0100 S/Lt. she Don having taken over the Yser sailed from Ramsgate in a 0400ca convoy of 18 small craft. The escorting drifter had to turn back with 2 other small craft. The Yser, being faster, left the 0900 remainder of the convoy well astern. The beaches. Yser ran aground off Dunkirk 2000 Unable to refloat, the C.O. and crew took passage home in a motor coaster. Report by P.O. W.H. Atkin: Joined boat at Gravesend. 1st trip To Calais. Fired on and retired. 2nd trip To beach by Nieuport buoy ferrying troops. On the way back to Dover, rescued troops from the P.M/S Brighton Belle [sunk at 1300 on 28th May]. 3rd trip [30th May]? To beach north of Dunkirk. Ferried troops. On return journey in company with the M/B Silver Queen blundered into Calais and was shelled. Leaking badly, managed to make Ramsgate, [at 2100 on 30th May]. Total not known [P.O. Atkin then went over in the M.L/B Cyril and Lilian Bishop]. Authority - R.O.II, pp. 239, 252, 539. The following awards were made: Mention in Despatches. Atkin. 354
YVONNE ET MOABE French ship. Gravelines. - 1st June 1537 Was E.M.E.D. reported sighted to The by the Yonne motor et life-boat sunk by a bomb. have Moabe By Dura 4g Wilson Lad - 356
Source: The National Archives, Kew, RED LIST INDEX 1939 40. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
| D Eden | Plymouth. ferred. | Scrapping | De- |
| Bilsdean XD - | Tynemouth. | Repairs. | Date |
| [14] Ben Urie XD | uncertain. | ||
| [62] Bervie Braes LL/D | |||
| [11] Lord Inchcape | |||
| X/LL D [11] Luda Lord | |||
| X/LL D [25 Lord Grey X/LL D | Plymouth. | ||
| [40] Asama X/LL D | |||
| [40] St. Melante X/LL D | |||
| [24] Anna Marie C | Swansea. | ||
| [24] D Rhodora A - | |||
| [3] Hiniesta A - | Left Grimsby 4 July for Plymouth. | ||
| [24] D Oracle A D ' | Plymouth. |
6 7 WESTERN APPROACHES COMMAND-continued. (LIVERPOOL AREA-continued.) WESTERN APPROACHES COMMAND-continued. (BELFAST AREA.) BARROW. HOLYHEAD. BELFAST. LARNE. Base Ship-Clio. Base Ship-Torch Base Ship-Caroline. Base Ship-Racer. 1st M A/S Boat Flotilla. 35th A/S Group (Trawlers). M/S Trawlers. [35] Paynter A [28] No. (S.O.) [28] M A/SB No. Holyhead. M/S Drifters. [35] Lord Hailsham AD Larne. [28] M A/SB No. [6] Boy John S - Clyde. [35] Victrix A D - [6] Eloquent S - Barrow. [6] Rime S - M/S Drifters. M/S Trawlers. [7] Gloamin S - Belfast. [15] Tehana X Liverpool. [7] Harvest Reaper S- Belfast. Attached M/S Trawler. [7] Jewel S - - Belfast. [35] Sir John Lister XD Larne. Harbour - Defence Patrol Craft. Cysne II - - Milford Haven. Repairs. Date uncertain. [9] Quest F - - Barrow. Verity - f.o. Gosport. Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. M/S Trawlers. [7] Duchess of Down [7] May II F - - [7] Reaper F - - Belfast. [7] Sceptre F - - M/S Drifters. [7] Surly F - - CAMPBELTOWN. A/S Base Ship-[28] Nimrod. Rescue Tug. S/S Englishman Campbeltown.
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Eileen Emma - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Forecast - - | Dover. |
| [25] Gervais Rentoul | |
| [25] Girl Gladys- - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Golden Gift - | |
| [25] Torbay II D - | |
| [25] Lord Howard - | Dover. |
| [25] Lord Howe - | |
| [25] Midas - - | |
| [25] Netsukis - - | |
| [25] Reverberation - | |
| [25] Shipmates D - | |
| [25] The Boys - | Dover. |
| [25] Golden Sunbeam | |
| [25] Ut. Prosim - | Grimsby. Completed. |
| [25] Yorkshire Lass - | |
| [25] Young Mon - | Dover. |
| 5 C Gossamer X D (S.O.) | Grimsby. |
| 5 D Albury X | Plymouth. |
| [32] C Kellet X D | Sheerness. |
| 5 P Leda E/S T/W X D | Dover. uncertain. Boiler Cleaning. Date |
| 5 D Pangbourne X- X | Plymouth. |
| 5 P Ross X | Portsmouth. Repairs. Com- |
| 5 C Saltash X | pletes 8 April. Chatham. Defects and de- |
| [25] Arley X | Yarmouth. |
| [25] Brock X D - | Chatham. |
| [25] John Cattling x/s | Dover. |
| D [25] Northcoates X D | Scapa. |
| [25] Polly Johnston X | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| 5 C Halcyon X D (S.O.) | Grimsby. |
| 5 Speedwell X | Grimsby. |
| 5 D Hussar X | Dover. |
| [5] C Harrier X | Dover. B.C. Date uncertain. |
| [5] C Shipjack X D | Dover. |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| Boy Roy | |
| 3 Eileen Emma Forecast | Deptford. |
| 3 Gervais Rentoul | |
| 3 Girl Gladys- | Tilbury. |
| 3 Girl Pamela | |
| 3 Golden Gift | Rochester. |
| 3 Torbay II | |
| 3 Lord Howard | Thames. |
| 3 Lord Howe | |
| Midas | |
| 3 Netsukis | Colchester. |
| Paxton | Hull. |
| 3 Reverberation | Hull. Completes |
| 3 Shipmates | Hull. 12 April. |
| 3 The Boys | Hull. |
| Golden | Hull. |
| 3 Sunbeam Ut. Prosim | Completes 14 April. |
| Yorkshire | |
| Lass Young Mon | Grimsby. Date uncertain. |
| Flotilla. | |
| [25] P Sandown X (S.O.) | Dover. |
| [14] D Ambassador | Dover. |
| [43] C Duchess of Rothesay X [43] P Emperor of India D | Dover. Defective. To be taken under C. & M. in hand at Southampton Dover. |
| [25] P Gracie Fields X | Dover. |
| [25] P Kylemore X C Medway Queen X D | Southampton. (To be re- Dover. turned to owners). |
| P Princess Elizabeth X | Dover. |
| M.L. Training Boat. | - Sheerness. [3] Corbrae | 1st A/S Group (Trawlers.) | (S.O.) [5] Speedwell X D Harwich. |
| [45] Sylph (Fast Motor Boat) | [2] Salvo X/L - | 3rd A/S Group (Trawlers). | [62] C Queen Empress XD (S.O.) [62] C Oriole x D |
| [45] Norse X/LL D certain. Date un- [45] Kennymore X/LL D [8] Conquistador | [45] Golden Eagle - Chatham. Repairs. Completes [45] Royal Eagle D 10 July. - Sheerness. | [2] Boy Pat - Approved suitable for Dan- laying. [2] London Pride Harwich. (Fast Motor Boat) | [24] Joseph Button x/s Sheerness. Repairs, Completes D 9 July. [15] Red Gauntlet x/s D Harwich. |
12 NORE COMMAND. 13 (THE NORE AREA.) NORE COMMAND-continued. SHEERNESS. THE NORE AREA. HARWICH-continued LONDON. Base Ship.-Wildfire. SHEERNESS-continued. M/S Trawlers. Base Ship-Pembroke. Base Ship.-St. Tudno. Ba M/S Drifters. Group 4. M/S Craft. M/S Yachts. [45] Boy Allen M/S [2] Corenna X London. Repairs. Completes New Prince of Wales I Sheerness. 22 kw. Sheerness. 22 November. [45] Aronia D [2 Britannia I (Captain M/S). Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- [40] P Berberis x/s D Harwich. - - [45] Devon County M/S [45] Sylph Rochester. certain. Refit. Date un- 22 kw. certain. [44] Stella Leonis X Ipswich. Degaussing. Date [2 Girl Pat - (Fast Motor Boat) [45] Forerunner M/S uncertain. 22 kw. [2] Flemming X D Harwich. [: Echo Sounding Yacht. Sheerness. Echo Sounding Yacht. [45] Go Ahead M/S [: Myris [43] Alouette II - - f.o. Southampton. 22 kw. - [45] Lichen x/m Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- [ Paddle Minesweeper. certain. Group 5. City of Rochester Chatham. Future under con- [45] Monarda X/M [2] Stella Rigel x THAMES AND MEDWAY. sideration. [45] Plumer M/S Sheerness. Harwich. 22 kw. [2] Waveflower X Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. M/S Trawlers. [43] Aisha [45] Tilly Duff x/M D Harwich. - - f.o. Southampton. Group 2. [2] Lord Melchett X D Ipswich. [43] Amalfi . [45] Vernal x/M D Sheerness. f.o. Southampton. [45] C Myrtle X D XN/HB Sheerness. [2] William Wesney X Harwich. [45] Amulree Sheerness. [45] Welcome Home M/S Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- [45] C Larch X D Sheerness. 22 kw. certain. [45] Caleta - Sheerness. [45] C Tamarisk XD Sheerness. [48] Caterina f.o. Gosport. [45] Pyrope X D Clorinde Sheerness. f.o. Southampton. Group 6. 45 Glala - Sheerness. Group 3. [40] Colne x/s D [45] Bernard Shaw X D Harwich. Majesta f.o. Cowes. Sheerness. [2] River Clyde X [43] Chrystobel II [45] Milford Prince x D HARWICH AREA. f.o. Southampton. Sheerness. [45] Ma Joie II Sheerness. [45] Edwardian X D Sheerness. HARWICH. [45] Tilburyness X Sheerness. Boom Defence Vessel. Base Ship.-Badger. M/S Trawlers (Ungrouped). [45] Loch Laggan M/S Trawlers (Ungrouped). [45] Arctic Hunter [2] Arkwright x Sheerness. Yarmouth. Mooring Lighter. X/L D [45] Asama X/L Cape Melville X [45] Sparsholt Sheerness. M/S Yachts. [45] Grampion X Yarmouth. [2] Boy Pat Approved suitable for Dan- [2] Clythness X/L D Grimsby. Allocated to Har- Examination Vessels. [35] James Lay X (Cdre. M/S) laying. wich. [45] Danube III Lowestoft. certain. Repairs. Date un- [2] Cordela X/L D - Sheerness, [45] Milford Princess [2] London Pride Harwich. Harwich. 45 Danube V Yarmouth. (Fast Motor Boat) [2] Earl Kitchener [45] Milford Queen X XD X/L D [45] Danube VI Sheerness. certain. Repairs. Date un- Yarmouth. [45] Nogi X [2] Suma X D Lowestoft. Repairs. Date [45] Keverne Yarmouth. uncertain. Sheerness. [45] Norse X/L D Danlaying Vessels. [45] St. Katherine Sheerness. Repairs. Completes [45] Solon X D 10 April. [2] Madeline - Yarmouth. Harwich. [45] St. Melante X/L D [2] Oakland Balloon Barrage Drifters. Sheerness. Boy Scout. M/S Tugs. Carry On. Ex Fortis. Citron. George Inverugie. & Albert. Marinus. Magnetic Ships. [2] Scythe S Comely Bank. [45] Corfield Constant Hope. Kiddawdry. Our Newspray. Kate. 45 Bushwood Clyde. Sheerness. Paddle Minesweepers. [2] Slogan S Harwich. Elsie and Nellie. Lavinia L. Triumph. Rose Emma. 12th Minesweeping Flotilla. [45] Golden Eagle D Special Service Vessels. [2] Souvenir S Young Alfred. [43] C Queen Empress x Harwich. Royal Eagle Sheerness. (Allocated to Irvine (S.O.) f.o. for Chatham. conversion Completes to A/S vessel.) [43] C Oriole x I Portsmouth. CHATHAM. M/S Trawler. Crested Eagle 9 April. [2] P Duchess of Fife Lowestoft. Repairs. Date Magnetic Ships. C Foyle f.o. Chatham. XD uncertain. Chatham. uncertain. Reboilering. Date 20 April. Completes Harwich. [2] P Borde - Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- [2] C Marmion X certain (about 2 weeks). Three Magnetic Aircraft. [2] C Waverley X Lowestoft. Refit. Date un- [2] Springdale Chatham. - Manston certain.
| Ben Earn XD - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| Caswell X - | f.o. Milford. |
| King Emperor X | f.o. Sunderland. |
| [62] Marconi x D - | f.o. Newport. |
| Mewslade X D - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| [62] Osako XD - | Lowestoft. |
| [44] Waltona. (Fast Motor Boat). | Tyne. |
| [6] Waltona. (Fast Motor Boat). | Tyne. |
6 WESTERN APPROACHES COMMAND-continued. 7 (LIVERPOOL AREA-continued.) WESTERN APPROACHES COMMAND-continued. BARROW. HOLYHEAD. (BELFAST AREA.) Base Ship-Clio. BELFAST. Base Ship-Torch. Base Ship-Caroline. LARNE. Base Ship-Racer. M/S Trawlers. 35th A/S Group (Trawlers). Kennymore X/L - 1st M A/S Boat Flotilla. f.o. S. Shields. [35] Paynter AD Examination Service. [45] Retako X/L - [28] D M A/SB No. 1A f.o. Tyne. (S.O.) Larne. Arrived Harwich 26 May. *Minona - - [35] Victrix A D [28] D M A/SB No. 4A Barrow. . *Shiona - - - [35] British Guiana AD [28] D M A/SB No. 5A Inverness. * To be be replaced by Providence and Harbinger whose [35] British Honduras Arrived Belfast 23 May. will will then undertaken be at Liverpool. Minona and Shiona f.o. AD re-allocated as required. M/S Drifters. [7] Gloamin S - Belfast. M/S Trawler. [7] Harvest Reaper S- Belfast. Attached M/S Trawler. [15] Tehana X D - Liverpool. [7] Jewel S - - Belfast. [35] Sir John Lister XD Larne. Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. Cysne II - - Barrow. [9] Quest F - - Barrow. Mirage - - f.o. Barrow. Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. [7] Duchess of Down [7] May II F - - [7] Reaper F - - Belfast. [7] Sceptre F - [7] Surly F - - Examination Service. Smeaton I - Belfast. Robina - - -
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. | |
| [25] Boy Roy - | ||
| [25] Eileen Emma - | ||
| [25] Forecast - | ||
| [25] Gervais Rentoul | ||
| [25] Girl Gladys- - | ||
| [25] Girl Pamela - | ||
| [25] Golden Gift | ||
| - [25] Torbay II D | ||
| - [25] Lord Howard | ||
| - [25] Lord Howe | Dover. | |
| - [25] Midas - | ||
| - [25] Netsukis | ||
| - [25] Paxton - | ||
| - [25] Reverberation | ||
| - [25] Shipmates D | ||
| - [25] The Boys | ||
| - [25] Golden Sunbeam | ||
| [25] Ut. Prosim | ||
| - [25] Yorkshire Lass | Grimsby. Completed. | |
| [25] Young Mon | Dover. |
12 NORE COMMAND. (THE NORE AREA.) 12A LONDON. THAMES Boom AND Defence MEDWAY NORE COMMAND continued. Gate Base Ship-Pembroke. [45] Idyll - - (THE NORE AREA-continued.) CHATHAM. M/S Craft. [45] Song - - Base Ship.-St. Tudno. SHEERNESS-continued. New Prince of Sheerness. Wales I [45] Sonnet - - M/S Drifters. Colette - - SHEERNESS. 45] Boy Allen S - [45] Ode - - Girl Pat - - Base Ship.-Wildfire. [45] Devon County S 20 kw. [45] Forerunner S M/S Yachts. 20 kw. [45] Aronia D [45] Go Ahead 20 kw. Sheerness. Echo Sounding Yacht. Mooring Lighter. [32] Myris (Captain M/S). - - [45] Sparsholt - - Sheerness. [45 Sylph Sheerness. [45] Lichen X/M - (Fast Motor Boat) [45] Monarda X/M - Paddle Minesweeper. [45] Plumer S 22 kw. Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- certain. City of Rochester I Chatham. Future under con- [45] Tilly Duff x/M D - Examination Vessels. sideration. To be paid off. [45] Vernal x/m D - [45] Danube III Sheerness. - THAMES AND MEDWAY. Danlayers (Trawlers). [45] Welcome Home S Sheerness. 20 kw. [45] Danube V - - [45] Strathelliot D - Tilbury. Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. [45] Aisha . - - Sheerness. [45] Danube VI - Chatham. uncertain. Repairs. Date [45] Bracon Heath - Special Service Vessels. [43] Amalfi [45] Golden Eagle , Sheerness. - - f.o. Southampton. [45] Keverne [45] Burnbanks - - - - Sheerness. [45] Amulree - - Sheerness. [45] Royal Eagle D : [45] St. Katherine [45] Dolores - - - Chatham. [45] Caleta - - [45] Crested Eagle Sheerness. [45] Caterina - - M/S Trawlers. [45] Chrystobel II - Group 2. Magnetic Aircraft. [45] Myrtle X D XN/HB Three I Manston [43] Clorinde - - f.o. Southampton. [45] Glala Balloon Barrage Drifters (Sheerness). Sheerness. [45] Larch X D - - - - Boy Scout - Sheerness. Majesta - - f.o. Cowes. [45] Tamarisk XD - - [45] Ma Joie II Carry On - [45] Pyrope x D - - Sheerness. Citron - - Group 3. Comely Bank - [45] Bernard Shaw X D Boom Defence Tenders. Constant Hope - [45] Milford Prince X D Sheerness. [45] Glitter II [45] Edwardian X D - - Elsie and Nellie - [45] Kelpy [45] Tilburyness x - Kennet } Civilian Sheerness. Ex Fortis - crews M/S Trawlers (Ungrouped). George and Albert [50] Arctic Hunter Queen of South I Inverugie X/LL D - Sheerness. [45] Asama X/LL D Queen of South II f.o. Queenborough. Sheerness. J.T. Hendry [45] Norse X/LL D - - Kiddaw [45] St. Melante X/LL D - - Lavinia L. [44] Star of Deveron f.o. N. Woolwich. Boom Defence Vessels. - [45] Loch Laggan L/L Marinus [24] Thomas Bartlett Dover. - Sheerness. - - [45] Buckingham L/L - Sheerness. Date uncertain. Engine defects. Newspray - Fentonian L/L f.o. S. Shields. - [45] Sasha- - Left Rosyth 24 May. Our Kate Wallena L/L - f.o. N. Shields. - [45] Cadella - - [45] Moorgate Left Rosyth 23 May. Rose Emma Magnetic Ships. I - - In tow from Scapa Flow. Triumph - [45] Corfield - - Dover. - [45] Bushwood - Clyde. Completes 31 May. Young Alfred - I
| [45] Corfield - - | Dover. |
| [45] Bushwood - - | Clyde. Completes 31 May. |
| [6] Waltona. (Fast Motor Boat). | Tyne. |
| Sir Walter Raleigh | Plymouth. |
| Sir Richard Grenville Sir Francis Drake | Plymouth. Boiler Repairs. Date uncertain. Plymouth. |
| [11] Black Arrow - | |
| [11] Boyne Water - | |
| [11] Dahinda II - | |
| [11] Duenna - - | Plymouth. |
| [11] Romaro - - | |
| [11] Siren - - | |
| [11] Susannah Jane - | |
| [24] Anna Marie C | |
| [24] D Rhodora A - | Swansea. |
| [3] Hiniesta A I - I | Plymouth. |
| [24] D Oracle A D - | Plymouth. |
| [27] Ijiun X D - | - Cowes. | ||
| [27] Milford Duchess XD | Gosport. | ||
| [3] Avalanche LL D' | Portsmouth. | ||
| [3] Regardo LL D - | Portsmouth. uncertain. Repairs. | ||
| [40] Milford King LL D [40] Resparko X/LL D - | Portsmouth. uncertain. Defects. | ||
| [40] Royalo LL D - | Portsmouth. | ||
| [40] Our Bairns LL D | Portsmouth. | ||
| Ex-French | M/S Trawlers. | ||
| F.S. Congue LL - F.S. Lucien Jean LL | Portsmouth. | ||
| (For | Disposal). | ||
| Cherwell x - | Portsmouth. Traffic control. | ||
| Strathcoe X | Portsmouth. | ||
| Vernon [27] | Experimental M/S Trawlers. | ||
| Cape Spartel X/LLD [27] Sawfly X D | Portsmouth. uncertain. Defects. Date Demagnetisation Exp. | ||
| [27] C Magnolia X/L L D | Portsmouth. | ||
| M/S [27] Ben and Lucy | Drifters (Exp.). | ||
| [27] Golden Harvest x/M | |||
| [27] Dorienta X/M x/M } | Portsmouth. | ||
| [27] Golden News x/M | |||
| M/S [27] Consolation X/M D | Drifters. Poole. | ||
| [27] Gilt Edge x/M | |||
| [27] Jeannie Leask x/M | Portsmouth. | ||
| [27] Arcady x/M D D | |||
| [27] Rosebud X/M D | Portsmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | ||
| [27] Solstice x/M | Poole. | ||
| Feaco LL/D - | |||
| B.T.B. LL/D - | Portsmouth. | ||
| Emerald Wings D Special I | Service Vessels. Scapa. | ||
| Holland D- - - | |||
| Moyle D - | Portsmouth. | ||
| Ahola | Lahloo. | ||
| Ankh | Letna. | ||
| Bounty | Naneta. | ||
| Caryanda | Navicula. D | Portsmouth. | |
| Diana | Portsmouth. | Semita. D | |
| Eilla II | Seriola. | ||
| Hurrying | Thele. | ||
| Angel. | Tamatine. | ||
| Ferry Belle - - | |||
| Ferry Prince - - | |||
| Laroc - - - | |||
| Leprechaun - - | |||
| Llanthony - - | |||
| Poinavon - - | Portsmouth. | ||
| Princessa - - | |||
| Sandringham - - | |||
| Sir John Baker - | |||
| Vadne - - - | |||
| [43] Resolve D | Portsmouth. | ||
| [43] Stalwart D | Portsmouth, | ||
| Amsterdam D (Dutch) | Holyhead. |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Eileen Emma | Whitstable. |
| [25] Forecast | Dover. |
| [25] Gervais Rentoul | |
| [25] Girl Gladys- | Whitstable. |
| [25] Golden Gift | |
| [25] Torbay II D | |
| [25] Lord Howard - | Dover. |
| [25] Lord Howe | |
| [25] Midas | |
| [25] Netsukis | |
| [25] Reverberation | |
| [25] Shipmates D | |
| [25] The Boys - | Dover. |
| [25] Golden Sunbeam | |
| [25] Ut. Prosim | Grimsby. Completed. |
| [25] Yorkshire Lass | |
| [25] Young Mon | Dover. |
12A NORE COMMAND-continued. 13 (THE NORE AREA-continued.) NORE COMMAND-continued. CHATHAM. SHEERNESS-continued. (HARWICH AREA.) Base Ship.-St. Tudno. D HARWICH. 6th Minesweeping Flotilla. Magnetic Ships. [5] Halcyon X D M.L. Training Boat. [45] Corfield Chatham. Base Ship-Badger. (S.O.) ML 103A . - Chatham. [5] Speedwell X D [3] Corbrae Harwich. [2] Springdale Sheerness. 1st A/S Group (Trawlers.) [5] Hussar X - SHEERNESS. [10] D Springtide Tyne. [1] Sapphire A D Harwich. [5] Harrier X LL/D Repairs. Base Ship.-Wildfire. 24 July Complete (S.O.) [1] Basset A Sheerness. M/S Yachts. [45] Aronia D [1] Tourmaline A - Paddle Minesweepers. Harwich. (Captain M/S). *12th Minesweeping Flotilla. [45] Sylph Sheerness. Experimental Flotilla. [1] Turquoise A D [62] C Queen Empress (Fast Motor Boat). Tugs. XD (S.O.) [2] Salvo X/L [62] C Oriole x D Lowestoft. Paddle Minesweeper. [62] P Duchess of Fife City of Rochester [2] Servitor X/L 3rd A/S Group (Trawlers). XD Chatham. Future under con- Sheerness. [11] Amethyst A D [62] C Marmion X D sideration. To be paid off. Repairs. Date uncertain. [2] Shako X/L (S.O.) [62] Lorna Doone X f.o. Plymouth. Danlayers (Trawlers). [11] Agate A D Harwich. [2] Burnbanks [2] Solitaire X/L D * To Lowestoft temporarily. - [2] Dolores Sheerness. Dockyard Control. [11] Jasper AD Defective. (To be used as [2] Bracon Heath Special Service.) M/S Trawlers. M/S Drifters. Group 4. M/S Trawlers. [45] Boy Allen S 11th A/S Group (Trawlers). [2] Corena X D [45] Larch X D Group 2. [3] Artic Pioneer A D [45] Devon County S [2] Berberis x/s D [45] Force X D 20 kw. Sheerness. [3] Drangey A D Harwich. [45] Forerunner S Harwich. [45] Tamarisk XD Sheerness. [2] Stella Leonis XD 20 kw. [3] Sphene AD [45] Pyrope X D [45] Plumer S 22 kw. Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- [2] Fleming XD [3] Viviana A D I certain. [45] Bernard Shaw X D Group 3. Group 5. [45] Milford Prince X D Auxiliary Patrol Vessels. Ex 19th A/S Group. [2] Stella Rigel x [45] Edwardian X D Sheerness. [45] Cervantes [1] Lord Plender A [2] Waveflower X D [45] Tilburyness XD Harwich. Harwich. [45] Elizabeth Green [2] Green Fly A [2] Lord Melchett X D [45] Mary Jane [8] Firefly X Group 30. Sheerness. [2] WilliamWesney X D [45] Silvery Breeze [8] Peter Carey x/s D [8] Wardour X/D Sheerness. [45] Shunesta A/S Trawlers. [8] Windward Ho X D [45] Margaret Mary [2] Lady Madeline A Group 56. Chatham. Repairs. Date un- Harwich. certain. Lady Lilian A D [24] Stour X D Harwich. [50] Arctic Hunter M/S Trawlers Sheerness. (Ungrouped). [24] Tranio X Sheerness. [45] Darogah X/LL D X/LL D [24] Joseph Button x/s Harwich. [45] Norse X/LL D Chatham. Repairs. Completes Special Service Vessels. D 27 July. [45] Golden Eagle M/S Yacht. [2] River Clyde X Harwich. [45] Kennymore X/LL D Chatham. [2] London Pride Harwich. [45] Royal Eagle D (Fast Motor Boat) [8] Conquistador Sheerness. [45] Resolvo X/LL D X/LL D Sheerness. Group 58. [45] Sunlight X/LL D [2] Edward Walmsley Dan-laying Vessels. XD Fentonian LL D Boom Defence Tugs. [2] Tehana X D- [45] Crevice [2] Madeline Harwich. Harwich. [2] Thomas Leeds X/SD [45] Kelpy Sheerness. [2] Boy Pat Approved suitable for Dan- laying, [15] Red Gauntlet x/s D
| Ben Earn x D - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| Caswell X - | f.o. Milford. |
| King Emperor X | f.o. Sunderland. |
| [62] Marconi x D - | Lowestoft. |
| Mewslade x D | f.o. Sunderland. |
| [62] Osako X D I | Lowestoft. |
| [2] Mare X/M - | |
| [2] Rig X/M - | |
| [2] Sarah Hyde X/M D | |
| [2] Strive X/M D | |
| [2] Three Kings X/M D | Harwich. |
| [62] Uberty X/M | |
| [62] Harvest Gleaner | |
| X/M D [2] Nairn Side X/M - |
| Charles Doran x - | f.o. Milford. |
| [44] Fontenoy x - | f.o. Pembroke. |
| [44] Irvana XD - - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Princess Mary X D | Yarmouth. |
| [25] P Sandown XD - (s.o.) | Yarmouth. |
| [43] C Duchess of Rothesay X | Southampton (C. and M.). Repairs. Completes about 17 August. |
| [25] P Princess Elizabeth X D | Yarmouth. |
| [25] C Medway Queen X D | Dover. |
| [25] Ryde XD - - | Yarmouth. |
| M/S | Trawlers. |
| [44] Cape Melville X (Cdr. M/S) | Yarmouth. |
| Group 10. | |
| [44] Pelton XD - - | |
| [44] Arkwright XD - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Milford Queen X D | { |
| [44]Milford Princess XD | |
| Group 11. | |
| [44] Nogi x D - - | |
| [44] Solon XD - - | Harwich. |
| [44] Tamora XD - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Contender XD - | |
| Group 12. | |
| [44] Grampion x D - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Suma XD - | Lowestoft. Repairs. Date |
| uncertain. | |
| [44] James Lay X - | |
| [44] Dorothy Lambert XD | Yarmouth. |
| Group 13. | |
| [44] Clothilde XD | |
| [44] Cotsmuir XD - | |
| [44] Madden XD - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Blighty XD - | |
| Group 14. | |
| [44] Epine XD - - | |
| [44] Star of Orkney | |
| x/m D [44] Cardiff Castle x D | } Yarmouth. |
| [44] Their Merit XD - | |
| Group 31. | |
| [44] Bracon Moor XD- | |
| [44] Carisbroke x/s D | |
| [44] Curtana X/D - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] George Robb X/D | |
| [44] Alcmaria X/M [44] Boy Philip x/s D | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. On completion to Rosyth. Yarmouth. |
| [44] Genius x/M D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Justifier x/s D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Margaret Hyde x/s D | Lowestoft. |
| [44] Rose Hilda x/s D- [44] Silver Crest x/s D | Yarmouth. Generator repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Feasible X/M D - | } Yarmouth. |
| [44] Swift Wing X/M D |
| [35] Paynter AD (S.O.) | Larne. | |
| [35] Victrix A D - | ||
| [35] British Guiana AD | ||
| [35] British Honduras AD | } Arrived Belfast 23 May. | |
| [X] [7] | Gloamin S - - | Belfast. |
| [X] [7] | Harvest Reaper S- | Belfast. |
| [X] [7] | Jewel S - - | Belfast. |
| Unitia - - - | ||
| Carbineer Il - - | ||
| Kastoria - - | On passage Grimsby to Larne. | |
| Namur - - - | ||
| Flying Wing - - | ||
| Cysne II - - | Barrow. | |
| [9] Quest F - - | Barrow. | |
| Mirage - - | f.o. Barrow. |
| ML 102 A - | St. Helens, I.O.W. (for duty as training boat, Portland). |
| [18] Fisher Boy X/M | Arrived Ramsgate 11 May. |
| [18] Fidget X/M - - | Ramsgate. |
| [18] Jacketa X/M - | Dover. |
| [18] Lord Cavan X/M | Ramsgate. |
| [18] Silver Dawn X/M - | Arrived Ramsgate 11 May. |
| [5] C Halcyon X D (S.O.) | Dover. |
| [5] Speedwell x D - | |
| [5] D Hussar x - | Tyne. Repairs. Date un- certain. |
| [5] C Harrier X D - | Gravesend. Repairs. Completes end June approx. |
| [5] C Skipjack x D - | Dover. |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Boy Roy - | Dunkirk. Beached. |
| [25] Eileen Emma - | |
| [25] Forecast - - | |
| [25] Gervais Rentoul | |
| [25] Girl Gladys- - | |
| [25] Golden Gift | |
| - [25] Torbay II D | Dover. |
| - [25] Lord Howard | |
| - [25] Lord Howe | |
| - [25] Midas - | |
| - [25] Netsukis | |
| - [25] Paxton - - | |
| - [25] Reverberation | Dunkirk. Beached. |
| [25] Shipmates D - | |
| [25] The Boys - | Dover. |
| [25] Golden Sunbeam - | |
| [25] Ut. Prosim | |
| [25] Yorkshire Lass - | Grimsby. |
| [25] Young Mon - - | Completed. Dover. |
| [45] Aisha - - | Sheerness. |
| [43] Amalfi - . - | f.o. Southampton. |
| [45] Caleta - - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Caterina - - | |
| [45] Chrystobel II - | Ramsgate. |
| [43] Clorinde - - | f.o. Southampton. |
| [45] Glala - - | Ramsgate. |
| Majesta - - | f.o. Cowes. |
| [45] Ma Joie II - - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Golden Eagle - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Royal Eagle D - | Left Sheerness 1 June. |
| Paddle 12th | Minesweepers. Minesweeping Flotilla. | |
| [2] C Queen Empress x (S.O.) | ||
| [2] C Oriole x D | June and | |
| [2] P Duchess of Fife XD | Arrived Harwich 26 | |
| [2] C Marmion x D - | Harwich. May, | |
| Lorna Doone | f.o. Plymouth. | |
| M/S | Trawlers. | |
| Group 4. | ||
| [2] Corena X D | ||
| [2] Berberis x/s D | ||
| [2] Stella Leonis x D | Harwich. | |
| [2] Fleming X D | ||
| Group 5. | ||
| [2] Stella Rigel X | ||
| [2] Waveflower X - - | Harwich. | |
| [2] Lord Melchett x D | Left Harwich 18 May. | |
| [2] William Wesney X | Ipswich. | |
| Group 6. | ||
| [2] River Clyde x D | Arrived Lowestoft 22 May. | |
| Group 55. | ||
| [15] E.D. Walmsley X D | ||
| [15] Richard Croft X/SD | Harwich. | |
| [15] Thomas Leeds X/SD | ||
| Group 56. | ||
| [24] Stour X - | Barry. Repairs. Completes | |
| [24] Tranio X | 10 June. | |
| [24] Joseph Button x/s | Harwich. | |
| D [15] Red Gauntlet x/s D | ||
| M/S Trawlers | (Ungrouped). | |
| [2] Clythness X/LL D | Dover. | |
| [2] Cordela X/LL D | ||
| [2] Earl Kitchener | Harwich. | |
| X/LL D [2] Lord Grey X/LL D | Dover. | |
| M/S | Tugs. | |
| [2] Scythe D 35 kw. | for | |
| [2] Slogan S D 35 kw. | Barrow. (To be f.o. towing Mark III skid.) | |
| [2] Souvenir D 35 kw. | ||
| Magnetic | Ships. | |
| [2] P Borde | Portsmouth. Completes | |
| Springdale | Tyne. Repairs. |
| [6] Waltona. (Fast Motor Boat). | Tyne. |
| Motor Boats. | |
| French Boats. |
| [27] Kingston Cairn- gorm A (S.O.) | Portsmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [27] Kingston Agate A D | |
| [27] Kingston Amber AD | Portsmouth. |
| [27] Kingston Ceylonite AD | |
| [27] Kingston Chryso- beryl AD | Portsmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [27] Cape Palliser A | Portsmouth. |
| [43] F.S. La Nantaise A | Portsmouth. |
| Cherwell X - | Portsmouth. Traffic control |
| Strathcoe X 1 | Portsmouth. |
| [27] Cape Spartel X/L L D | Portsmouth. |
| [27] Sawfly X D | Demagnetisation Exp. |
| [27] C Magnolia X/L D | Portsmouth. |
| Boats. |
| [35] Paynter AD (S.O.) | Larne. |
| [35] Victrix A D - | |
| [35] British Guiana AD | Belfast. |
| [35] British Honduras AD | Greenock. |
| Unitia - - - | |
| Carbineer Il - - | |
| Kastoria - - - | Larne. |
| Namur - - . | |
| Flying Wing - . | |
| Cysne II - - | Barrow. |
| [9] Quest F - - | Barrow. |
| Mirage - - | f.o. Barrow. |
| [50] Arctic Hunter X/LL D | Sheerness. (Ungrouped). |
| [45] Darogah X/LL D - | Chatham. Repairs. |
| [45] Norse X/LL D - | 27 July. Complete |
| [45] Kennymore X/LL D | |
| [8] Conquistador | |
| X/LL D [45] Resolvo X/LL D - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Sunlight X/LL D - | Repairs. Date |
| Fentonian LL D - | uncertain. |
| Libra LL D - | |
| [45] Sanson LL D - | Left London 20 July. |
| Magnetic | Ships. |
| [45] Corfield - - | Chatham. Defects. |
| [3] Corbrae - - | Complete 25 July. |
| [2] Springdale - | Sheerness. |
| [10] D Springtide - | Tyne. Repairs. Complete 24 July. |
| Experimental | Flotilla. |
| Tugs. | |
| [2] Salvo X/L - - | |
| [2] Servitor X/L - | |
| [2] Shako X/L - | Sheerness. |
| [2] Solitaire X/L D - | |
| M/S | Drifters. |
| [45] Boy Alan D - | |
| [45] Devon County S 20 kw. [45] Forerunner S | Sheerness. |
| 20 kw. [45] Plumer S 22 kw. | Sheerness. Repairs. Date up certain. |
| Auxiliary | Patrol Vessels. |
| [45] Cervantes - | |
| [45] Elizabeth Green | |
| [45] Mary Jane - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Silvery Breeze - | |
| [45] Shunesta | |
| [45] Margaret Mary | Chatham. Repairs. Date us certain.xood |
| [45] Madam Pompadour | |
| [45] Sheldrake | Sheerness. |
| Special | Service Vessels. Date |
| [45] Golden Eagle | Chatham. Defects, |
| [45] Royal Eagle D | uncertain. Chatham. Defects. 25 July. |
| [5] Halcyon X D (S.O.) | Harwich. |
| [5] Speedwell X D | Chatham. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [5] Hussar X | Harwich. |
| [5] Harrier X LL/D | Yarmouth. |
| [32] Cachelot - - | |
| [32] Curlew - - | |
| [32] Fedalma II - | |
| [32] Jong - - | Chatham. |
| [32] Lazy Days - | - |
| [32] Snow Bunting - | - - |
| [32] Wairakei II - | - - |
| Ahola | Lahloo. |
| Ankh | Letna. |
| Naneta. | |
| Bounty | Navicula. D |
| Caryanda | Semita. D |
| Diana | Seriola. |
| Eilla II | Thele. |
| Motor Boats | |
| Motor Boats. |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Eileen Emma - [25] Forecast - | Whitstable. |
| - [25] Gervais Rentoul - | Dover. |
| [25] Girl Gladys- . [25] Golden Gift | Whitstable. |
| - [25] Torbay II D - [25] Lord Howard - [25] Lord Howe | Dover. |
| [25] Midas - | |
| - [25] Netsukis - - | |
| [25] Reverberation - [25] Shipmates D - | |
| [25] The Boys . [25] | Dover. |
| Golden Sunbeam [25] Ut. Prosim | |
| [25] Yorkshire Lass [25] Young Mon , | Grimsby. Completed. Dover. |
| [18] P Lormont D - | Ramsgate. |
| [18] P Goodwin - | Arrived Ramsgate 7 June. |
| [18] D Holdfast - | Ramsgate. |
| Base Ship-Watchful | D | |
| [44] Taransay D (Captain M/S) D | Yarmouth. | |
| Lexa | Yarmouth. | |
| 10th | Minesweeping Flotilla. | |
| Paddle | Minesweepers. | |
| [25] P Sandown XD (s.o.) | Yarmouth. | |
| [43] C Duchess of Rothesay X | Southampton (C. Repairs. 17 August. | and M.). Completes about |
| [25] P Princess Elizabeth x D | ||
| [25] C Medway Queen XD | Yarmouth. | |
| [25] Ryde x D | ||
| M/S | Trawlers. | |
| [44] Cape Melville x (Cdr. M/S) | Yarmouth. | |
| Group 10. | ||
| [44] Pelton x D - | ||
| [44] Arkwright XD | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Milford Queen X D | ||
| [44]Milford Princess XD | ||
| Group 11. | ||
| [44] Nogi x D | ||
| [44] Solon x D - | Harwich. | |
| [44] Tamora x D - | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Contender XD - | ||
| Group 12. | ||
| [44] Grampion XD - | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Suma XD - | Lowestoft. | Repairs. Date |
| [44] James Lay X | uncertain. | |
| [44] Dorothy Lambert XD | Yarmouth. | |
| Group 13. | ||
| [44] Clothilde XD | ||
| [44] Cotsmuir XD - | ||
| [44] Madden x D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Blighty x D | ||
| Group 14. | ||
| [44] Epine XD - | ||
| [44] Star of Orkney X/M D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Cardiff Castle X D | ||
| [44] Their Merit x D | Yarmouth. uncertain. | Repairs. Date |
| [44] Boy Philip x/s D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Genius x/m D | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Justifier x/s D | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Margaret Hyde X/S D | Lowestoft. | |
| [44] Rose Hilda x/s D- | Yarmouth. Generator repairs Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Silver Crest x/s D | ||
| [44] Feasible x/m D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Swift Wing X/M D | ||
| The Brit - | Great Yarmouth. | |
| Waldemar | Great Yarmouth. and repairs. certain. | Docking Date un- |
| [45] Aisha - - | Sheerness. | |
| [43] Amalfi - . - | f.o. Southampton. | |
| [45] Caleta - - | Sheerness. | |
| [45] Caterina - - | ||
| [45] Chrystobel II - | Ramsgate. | |
| [43] Clorinde - - | f.o. Southampton. | |
| [45] Glala - - | Ramsgate. | |
| Majesta - - | f.o. Cowes. | |
| [45] Ma Joie II - | Sheerness. | |
| Drifters. | ||
| Constant Friend | f.o. Lowestoft. | |
| Ocean Retriever | ||
| Ocean Toiler - | f.o. Rowhedge, Essex. | |
| Peacemaker - | f.o. Lowestoft. | |
| Receptive - | f.o. Oulton Broad. | |
| Phyllis Rose | ||
| Ocean Treasure | f.o. Brightlingsea. | |
| Boom | Defence Tenders. | |
| [45] Glitter II - e | ||
| [45] Kelpy } Civilian Kennet crews | Sheerness. | |
| Queen of South I | ||
| Queen of South II | f.o. Queenborough. | |
| [45] Loch Laggan Boom | Defence Vessels. | |
| [45] Buckingham . Caliban I - | Sheerness. defects. | |
| [45] Sarba | ||
| , . [45] Cadella . | Rosyth. | |
| , [45] Moorgate | Sheerness. | |
| Thomas Conolly | Chatham. certain. Refit. Date un- Sheerness. | |
| [45] Danube III - | ||
| [45] Danube V - - | Sheerness. | |
| [45] Danube VI - | Chatham. Repairs. | |
| [45] Keverne - - | uncertain. | |
| [45] St. Katherine I - | Sheerness. | |
| [45] | Boy Allen S * S | |
| [45] | Devon County S 20 kw. | Sheerness. |
| [45] [45] | Forerunner S 20 kw. Go Ahead 20 kw. | |
| [45] | Plumer S 22 kw. | Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- certain. |
| [45] | Welcome Home S 20 kw. | Sheerness. |
| [45] Golden Eagle - | Sheerness. | |
| [45] Royal Eagle D - | Left Sheerness. |
| Paddle 12th | Minesweepers. Minesweeping Flotilla. |
| [2] C Queen Empress x (S.O.) | Sheerness. |
| [2] C Oriole x D - | Harwich. |
| [2] P Duchess of Fife | Harwich. |
| XD [2] C Marmion x D - | Harwich. |
| Lorna Doone x | f.o. Plymouth. |
| M/S | Trawlers. |
| Group 4. | |
| 2 Corena x D - | |
| [2] Berberis x/s D - | |
| [2] Stella Leonis x D - | Harwich. |
| [2] Fleming x D - | |
| Group 5. | |
| [2] Stella Rigel X - | |
| [2] Waveflower X - | Harwich. |
| [2] Lord Melchett x D | Harwich. |
| [2] William Wesney X D | Ipswich. |
| Group 6. | |
| [2] River Clyde x D I | Lowestoft. |
| Group 55. | |
| [15] E. D. Walmsley x D | |
| [15] Richard Croft X/SD | Harwich. |
| [15] Thomas Leeds X/SD | |
| Group 56. | |
| [24] Stour x - - | Barry. |
| [24] Tranio x - - | |
| [24] Joseph Button x/s | Harwich. |
| D [15] Red Gauntlet x/s D | |
| M/S Trawlers | (Ungrouped). |
| [2] Cordela X/LL D | |
| [2] Exyáhne LL - | Harwich. |
| [2] Earl Kitchener | Lowestoft. Docking. Date |
| X/LL D [3] Lord Irwin X/LL D | uncertain. |
| [2] Refundo LL D { | Harwich. |
| [3] Sisapon X/LL D | |
| M/S | Tugs. |
| [9] Scythe S D 35 kw. | for |
| [9] Slogan S D 35 kw. } | Barrow. (To be f.o. towing Mark III skid.) |
| [9] Souvenir D 35 kw. | |
| Magnetic | Ships. |
| [2] P Borde I - | Portsmouth. |
| Springdale - I | Tyne. Repairs. Completes |
| Drifters armed | with Lewis guns. |
| [2] Jack Eve X/M - | |
| [2] Mare x/M - - | |
| [2] Rig X/M - - | |
| [2] Sarah Hyde x/M D | |
| [2] Strive x/M D' - | |
| [2] Three Kings X/M D | Harwich. |
| [2] Uberty x/M - | |
| [8] Cloverdale x/M - | |
| [8] Harvest Gleaner x/m D | |
| [8] Nairn Side X/M - | |
| [2] Tunisian - | Felixstowe Dock. |
| [2] Ben Tarbert - | f.o. Hartlepool. |
| [2] George D. Irvin | Felixstowe. |
| [2] Caroline Moller D- | Harwich |
| S/S Muria D | Dover Area. |
| Sethon - - | |
| Moravia - - | Requisitioned at Grimsby. |
| Flandre - - | |
| Vidonia - - | Harwich. |
| [5] Bunting - - |
| [3] Sunflower IV (Fast Motor Boat). | Lowestoft. |
| Blighty x D - | Liverpool. |
| Charles Doran x | f.o. Milford. |
| [44] Clothilde X D - | Yarmouth. |
| Cotsmuir X D - | Harwich. |
| Dorothy Lambert XD | Harwich. |
| Fontenoy x - | f.o. Pembroke. |
| Irvana x - - | f.o. Milford. |
| [44] Madden x D - | Harwich. |
| [44] Princess Mary x - | On passage. |
| Contender X - | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Athenian L/L - | f.o. Yarmouth. |
| [44] Ben Torc L/L - | f.o. N. Woolwich. |
| [8] Conquistador L/L- | f.o. S. Shields. |
| [8] Onetos L/L - | Yarmouth. |
| [3] Saturn L/L D - - | Yarmouth. |
| [5] D Niger X AD (S.O.) | Humber. |
| [5] D Salamander X D | London. Repairs. (3 or 4 weeks from 6 June). |
| [5] D Dundalk X D - | Humber. |
| [5] P Elgin x - - | Immingham. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [5] C Fitzroy X D - | Humber. |
| [5] C Selkirk X D | Hull. Refit. Date uncertain. |
| [5] P Sutton XD - | Humber. |
| [5] C Gossamer X D (S.O.) | Grimsby. |
| [5] D Albury x | Sheerness. Damaged. |
| [5] C Kellet x D | Sheerness. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [5] P Leda E/S T/W x D | Sheerness. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [5] C Lydd x D - [5] D Pangbourne X D | Grimsby. Repairs. Com- pletes 15 June. |
| [5] P Ross X - - | |
| [5] C Saltash x D - | Grimsby. |
| Motor | Boats. |
| Motor Boat. |
| M.L. Training Boat. |
| Motor | A/S Boat. |
| Ferry Belle- - | |
| Ferry Prince - | |
| Laroc- - - | |
| Leprechaun - | |
| Llanthony | Portsmouth. |
| Poinavon - | |
| Princessa | |
| Sandringham | |
| Sir John Baker | |
| Vadne - - | |
| [43] Resolve D | Portsmouth. |
| [43] Stalwart D | Portsmouth. |
| Amsterdam D (Dutch) | At Sea. |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Eileen Emma - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Forecast - | |
| [25] Gervais Rentoul | Dover. |
| [25] Girl Gladys- - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Golden Gift 1 | |
| [25] Torbay II D 1 | |
| [25] Lord Howard | |
| 1 [25] Lord Howe | Dover. |
| 1 [25] Midas - | |
| - [25] Netsukis - | |
| I [25] Reverberation | |
| [25] Shipmates D | |
| [25] The Boys | Dover. |
| [25] Golden Sunbeam | |
| [25] Ut. Prosim | |
| 1 [25] Yorkshire Lass | Grimsby. Completed. |
| [25] Young Mon - | Dover. |
| [X] [45] Sylph (Fast Motor Boat) |
| 2nd Motor | A/S Boat Flotilla. |
| [45] Strathelliot - | ||
| [45] Lichen X/M D - | ||
| [45] Monarda X/M - | ||
| [45] Tilly Duff X/M D | Brightlingsea. | |
| [45] Vernal X/M D - | ||
| [2] Evening Primrose | ||
| [2] John Alfred - | ||
| [2] Renascent - | Ramsgate. | |
| Ben Earn X- - | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Caswell X - | f.o. Milford. | |
| [44] Euclase x D - | Plymouth. | |
| King Emperor X - - | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Marconi x - | f.o. Newport. | |
| Mewslade X- - | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Northward Ho. | f.o. Lowestoft. | |
| L/L [44] Osako x D - | Lowestoft. | |
| [44] Everton | ||
| [44] Moray - I | ||
| [44] Strath Rannoch - | " | |
| [44] Evesham - - | 1 | |
| [44] River Spey - | ||
| [44] Robert Hastie - | ||
| [44] Strathgarry - | Lowestoft. | |
| Strath Maree - | ||
| Semnos - - | ||
| Jennifer - | ||
| Fort Rose - | ||
| Philippe - |
| [3] Alder X - | |
| - [3] Seamist X D | |
| Withernsea | |
| Recono L/L D . | |
| Rodino L/L D | Grimsby. |
| Ronso L/L D- - | |
| Taipo L/L D | |
| [3] War Duke L/L D | |
| Luda Lady LL D |
| Lexa (Capt. M/S) [2] London Pride (Fast Motor Boat) | { Harwich. |
| Motor Boats | ||
| Motor Boats. |
| Gay Crusader. Motor | Boats. |
| Alberic D - | Left Ardrossan 28 July. |
| Ceylonite - - | f.o. Bristol. |
| John Stephen - | f.o. Govan. |
| Swan II - - | f.o. Paisley. |
| Supporter - |
| [52] Norina - | Port Z.A. |
| [52] Nancy Hague 1 | Oban. |
| [19] Dayspring F - | Inverness. Dockingandrepun Date uncertain. |
| [19] Golden Lily F - | Invergordon. |
| [19] Silver Line F - | Buckie. Refit. Date tain. |
30 ORKNEYS AND SHETLANDS COMMANDS-continued. 30A KIRKWALL. KIRKWALL Base Ship.-Pyramus, Armed (Trawlers.) Boarding Vessels. SUMMARY OF MINOR FRENCH VESSELS. Ship. Type. Crew. Proposed Service. Ship. Type. Crew. Proposed [34] D Aquamarine A- Service. 24th A/S Group (Trawlers). [34] D Kingston Beryl D At Portsmouth. At Plymouth-contd. Kirkwall. [34] D Kingston [34] Pentland Firth (S.O.) A D Jacinth D Chevxeuil A - Mine- British Auxiliary Patrol, Pedrant - - Trawler British sweeper Portsmouth. L/L Sweep. [34] Arctic Explorer AD Aberdeen. Gaston Riviere - [34] D Kingston Onyx Trawler British L/L Sweep. La Capricieuse A Mine- British Auxiliary Patrol, [34] Hugh Walpole A D Left Scapa 17 July. A sweeper Portsmouth. Andree et Louis - Trawler British [34] P Kingston Peridot L/L Sweep. - [34] Scalby Wyke A D Aberdeen. Patrol British D Auxiliary Patiol, Arras Pessac - - Boat Portsmouth. Auxiliary British Auxiliary Patrol, [34] P Kingston Portsmouth. [34] Tekoura A D - Aberdeen. Sapphire D - - Patrol British Epinal Auxiliary Patrol, [34] P Kingston Topaz Boat Portsmouth. Sauterne - - Auxiliary British Auxiliary Patrol, Portsmouth. D [34] P Kingston Diligente - Patrol British Auxiliary Patrol, Boat Portsmouth. Turquoise D Lucien Gougy - Auxiliary - Conversion Under Pink.C.NorthernPat W.L/L. See Amiens - Patrol British Auxiliary Patrol, M/S Trawler (Ungrouped). [34] D Northern Chief D Boat Portsmouth. Groeland - Auxiliary British Auxiliary Patrol, [34] Lune X D - Aberdeen. Repairs. Date Lucienne Jean - Trawler French M/S Nore. W.A. uncertain. [34] D Northern Duke (L/L) AD Trawler French M/S Nore. Poulmic - Auxiliary 1 [34] D Northern Foam D Congre - - 1 Mine Watching, (L/L) Plymouth. Beaulne-Verneuil Boom No Asie A - - Trawler British A/S trials, [34] D Northern Gift D Portsmouth. Vessel decision La Frene 1 - Tug Contraband Control Service. [34] D Northern Isles A D Reine des Flots A Trawler British A/S trials, Portsmouth. Peuplier - - Tug (Vessels of C.C. are being considered for reallocation to other services.) [34] P Northern Quentin Roosevelt Trawler French Auxiliary Patrol, No Princess A Portsmouth. Caporal Peugeot Tug decision [34] P Northern Reward Pierre Audre - Trawler British Auxiliary Patrol, No. 4 1 - Tug Portsmouth. [34] P Northern Sky A D No. 5 - Tug La Nantaise A - Trawler British 27 A/S Group. C.C.S. Drifters. [34] P Northern Sun A D Phase - Marie Elena - Drifter British L/L Sweep. At Falmouth. Kirkwall Rose Valley Port Duties. - Lydd II D - - Kirkwall. Commandant Mine- French Nore. At Plymouth. Domine sweeper La Moqueuse - Mine- French Nore. Rescue Tug. Commandant Mine- French Nore. sweeper Duboc Conquerante Patrol British Falmouth. sweeper - Auxiliary Patrol, St. Mellons D - Examination Vessels. Coucy Patrol - No decision. Boat W.A. - mood Boat Belle o' Moray Belfort Patrol - No decision. Jaques Morgan - Trawler British Auxiliary Patrol, - - W.A. - Boat Beryl II - - LERWICK. Pomerol - - Patrol Polish Tyne. Nadine - Trawler British L/L Sweep. Boat Rambler Rose Kirkwall. Drifter. Medoc - - Patrol Polish Tyne. Autioche Trawler British L/L Sweep, - [33] Seabreeze Boat Strenuous Listrac A - Trawler British A/S trials, Dutch - (Flag F.O.I.C Lerwick. Jean Frederick Trawler Holyhead, Plymouth. Lemnos Shetland) L'Atlantique A Trawler British A/S trials, Notre Dame Trawler Dutch Holyhead, - Aberdeen. - - Repairs. uncertain. Date Examination Service. Plymouth. De france Jeanne Antoine Trawler No Fear Not Ambrose Pase A Trawler British A/S trials, decision - Lerwick. Plymouth. La Belle Poule - Schooner No decision Heather Belle - Aiglon - Trawler British L/L Sweep. - L'Etoile - Schooner No decision [34] St. Sunniva Accommodation Ship. Roche Velen - Trawler British L/L Sweep. President T. Survey French Nore. Aberdeen. Tissier Ship SULLOM VOE. Louis et Marie Trawler British L/L Sweep. Notre Dame f Drifter de Lourdes No Base Ship-Fox. Nazareth - Trawler British L/I. Sweep. decision Armed Boarding Vessel. Harbour Defence Patrol Craft. Cambre - Drifter Monique Audrer Trawler British L/L Sweep. [34] P Discovery II Under See Pink V.A.C. List. Northern Patrol. [23] Aliped VF - Sullom Voe. [23] Learig F - - (C38488)
| Group. | Station. | Name of Ship. | Group. | Station. | Name of Ship |
| 10th A/S Striking Force. | Aberdeen | Thirlmere A D Buttermere A D | 17th A/S Striking Force. | Aberdeen | Coventry City AD Cape Portland A |
| Wastwater A D | Cape Warwick A | ||||
| Windermere A D | Le Tiger AD | ||||
| Portland | Ullswater A D Ellesmere AD | 18th A/S Striking Force. | Belfast | King Sol A D (S.O.) St. Elstan A | |
| 11th A/S Striking Force. | Belfast | Cape Comorin AD Ayrshire A D | Portland | Loch Monteith A D St. Cathan A | |
| 12th A/S Striking Force. | Belfast | Northern Spray A D Northern Pride A D | 19th A/S Striking Force. | Aberdeen | Wistaria AD Whitethorn A |
| Northern Gem A D Northern Dawn A D Northern Wave A D | 20th A/S Striking Force. | Elm D Hazel D | |||
| 14th A/S Striking Force. | Aberdeen | Scottish A D (S.O.) Imperialist A Loch Oskaig A D Alouette A D | 21st A/S Strik- ing Force. | Ports- mouth Belfast | Daneman AD (S.O.) Wellard AD Lady Elsa AD Man-o'-War AD |
| 15th Force. A/S Striking | Belfast | St. Kenan A D St. Loman A D | Belfast | St. Apollo St. Zeno | |
| 16th Force. A/S Striking | Belfast | Angle A D Arab AD | Harwich | St. Madeline St. Lilian |
| Ship. | Fitting Out at. |
| [25] Eileen Emma - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Forecast - - | Dover. |
| [25] Gervais Rentoul - | |
| [25] Girl Gladys- - | Whitstable. |
| [25] Golden Gift - | |
| [25] Torbay II D - | |
| [25] Lord Howard - | Dover. |
| [25] Lord Howe - | |
| [25] Midas - - | |
| [25] Netsukis - - | |
| [25] Reverberation - | |
| [25] Shipmates D | |
| [25] The Boys - | Dover. |
| [25] Golden Sunbeam | |
| [25] Ut. Prosim - | Grimsby. Completed. |
| 25] Yorkshire Lass | |
| [25] Young Mon - | Dover. |
| Tugs. | |
| [2] Salvo X/L - - | |
| [2] Servitor X/L - | |
| [2] Shako X/L - - | Sheerness. |
| [2] Solitaire X/L D - | |
| M/S | Drifters. |
| [45] Boy Allen S - | |
| [45] Devon County S 20 kw. | Sheerness. |
| [45] Forerunner S | |
| 20 kw. [45] Go Ahead S 20 kw. | |
| [45] Plumer S 22 kw. | Sheerness. Repairs. Date un- |
| [45] Welcome Home S 20 kw. | certain. Sheerness. |
| Auxiliary | Patrol Vessels. |
| [45] Cervantes - - | |
| [45] Elizabeth Green - | |
| [45] Mary Jane - | Sheerness. |
| [45] Silvery Breeze - | |
| [45] Shunesta - - | |
| [45] Margaret Mary - | Chatham. Repairs. Date un- certain. |
| Special | Service Vessels. |
| [45] Golden Eagle | |
| [45] Royal Eagle D | Sheerness. |
| Magnetic | Aircraft. |
| Three | | Manston |
| [5] Halcyon X D (S.O.) | Left Harwich 20 June. |
| [5] Speedwell XD | Left Plymouth 22 June. |
| [5] Hussar X | Tyne. |
| [5] Harrier X D | Gravesend. |
| *12th | Minesweeping Flotilla. |
| [2] C Queen Empress X D (S.O.) [2] C Oriole X D | |
| [2] P Duchess of Fife | Lowestoft. |
| XD [2] C Marmion X D | |
| Lorna Doone X * To Lowestoft | f.o. Plymouth. temporarily. |
| M/S | Trawlers. |
| Group 4. | |
| [2] Corena X D | |
| [2] Berberis x/s D | Harwich. |
| [2] Stella Leonis X D | |
| [2] Fleming X D - | |
| Group 5. | |
| [2] Stella Rigel X | |
| [2] Waveflower X D | Harwich. |
| [2] Lord Melchett X D | |
| [2] William Wesney X D | |
| Group 6. | |
| [2] River Clyde XD | I Lowestoft. |
| Group 56. | |
| [24] Stour XD | Barry. |
| [24] Tranio X | Harwich. |
| [24] Joseph Button x/s D | |
| [15] Red Gauntlet x/s D | |
| Group 58. | |
| [15] Edward Walmsley XD [15] Tehana X [15] Thomas Leeds X/SD | Harwich. |
| Auxiliary | Patrol Vessels |
| Drifters armed | with Lewis guns. |
| [45] Strathelliot - | |
| [45] Lichen X/M D - | |
| [45] Monarda X/M - | |
| [45] Tilly Duff X/M D | Brightlingsea. |
| [45] Vernal X/M D - | |
| [2] Evening Primrose | |
| [2] John Alfred - | |
| [2] Renascent - | Ramsgate. |
| Trawlers armed | with Lewis guns. |
| Saronta - - | |
| Simpson - - | |
| Staunton - - | Brightlingsea. |
| Vindelicia - | |
| Mitres - - | |
| Drummer - | |
| * To | fit 6-pounders. |
| Trawlers | armed with 12-pdrs. |
| [9] Cobbers D - | |
| [9] Flying Admiral D- | Brightlingsea. |
| Rugby D - - | Hull. |
| [9] Alvis D - - | |
| [9] Pelagos D - | Brightlingsea. |
| [9] Reids - - | |
| Armed | Boarding Vessel. |
| Oystermouth | Holehaven (Temporarily). |
| with 12-pdrs. | |
| [9] Dhoon - - | |
| [9] Evelyn Rose - | Harwich. |
| [9] Jacinta - - | Ramsgate. Damaged. |
| [9] Velia - - | |
| [9] Edwina - - | |
| [9] Gava - - | |
| Cape Finisterre D | |
| St. Nectan - | |
| [3] Lady Shirley - | |
| 3 Loch Inver D - | Harwich. |
| 3 Hekla - - | |
| [3] Kings Grey D - | |
| 3 Franc Tireur D - | |
| [3] Fairway D - - | |
| [3] Stella Cania - | |
| Earn X D - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| Caswell - | f.o. Milford. |
| King Emperor X - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| Marconi X D | f.o. Newport. |
| Mewslade x D - | f.o. Sunderland. |
| Northward Ho. | f.o. Lowestoft. |
| L/L [44] Osako X D - | Lowestoft. |
| [2] Ascona X/S D | |
| 2 Golden View x/s D | } Harwich. |
| 2 Olivae x/s D - | |
| 2 Silver Seas x/s D | Ipswich. |
| 2 Tweenways X/M | Arrived Greenwich 16 June. |
| 2 Unicity X/M D - | Harwich. |
| Auxiliary A/P | Patrol Vessels Depot Ship. |
| Martello A/P | I Lowestoft. |
| (Drifters armed | with Lewis guns). |
| [44] Jenny McIntosh X/M [44] Overfall x/M D - | |
| [8] Cloverdale X/M - | |
| [44] John and Norah x/M D [44] Reed X/M D - | |
| [44] Lord Barham X/MD | |
| [44] Lord Hood X/M D | |
| [44] Jack Eve X/M | |
| - [44] Aurilia X/M | |
| - [44] Mahelah X/M | Lowestoft. |
| [6] Eunice and Nellie X/M D [6] Xmas Rose X/M D | |
| [44] Eager X/M D | - |
| [3] Fairy Knowe X/M | |
| [3] Internos X/M D | - |
| [44] Rowan Tree | |
| [44] True Accord X/M | D |
| [6] Guide On X/M | |
| [6] Young Jacob X/M | D |
| [44] Blighty X D - | Plymouth. | |
| Charles Doran X | f.o. Milford. | |
| [44] Clothilde XD - | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Cotsmuir X D - | ||
| [44] Dorothy Lambert | Yarmouth. | |
| XD Fontenoy X | f.o. Pembroke. | |
| Irvana XD - | f.o. Milford. | |
| [44] Madden XD - | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Princess Mary X D | ||
| [44] Contender x D - | Yarmouth. | |
| - [44] Grampion x D [44] Arkwright XD - | Yarmouth. | |
| - [44] Suma X D - | Lowestoft. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Milford Queen X D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Alcmaria x/m D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Boy Philip x/s D | Yarmouth. | |
| [44] Genius X/M D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Justifier x/s D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Margaret Hyde x/s D | Lowestoft. | |
| [44] Rose Hilda x/s D- | Yarmouth. Generator repairs. Date uncertain. | |
| [44] Silver Crest x/s D | ||
| [44] Feasible X/M D | Yarmouth. | |
| Swift Wing X/M D | ||
| - | Great Yarmouth. | Docking |
| The Brit - Waldemar - | Great Yarmouth. and repairs. certain. | Date un- |
| [25] Conidaw (Fast Motor Boat). | Dover. |
| [50] Arctic Hunter X/LL D | Sheerness. |
| [44] Darogah X/LL D | Chatham. Repairs. Date un- |
| [45] Norse X/LL D | certain. Sheerness. |
| [45] Kennymore X/LL D | Sheerness. |
| [8] Conquistador X/LL | f.o. S. Shields. |
| D [45] Resolvo X/LL D | Sheerness. |
| [25] Sunlight X/LL D Fentonian LL D | Sheerness. |
| *Trawlers | armed with Lewis guns. | |
| [2] Sethon - | - | |
| [2] Moravia - | - Requisitioned at Grimsby. | |
| [2] Flandre - | - | |
| [2] Vidonia - | - | |
| [2] Nordhav I | Harwich. - | |
| * To | fit 6-pounders. | |
| Trawlers | armed with 12-pdrs. | |
| [2] Dhoon - | - | |
| [2] Evelyn Rose | Harwich. - | |
| [9] Jacinta - | - Ramsgate. Damaged. | |
| [2] Velia - | - | |
| [2] Edwina - | - | |
| [2] Gava - | - | |
| [2] Cape Finisterre D | ||
| [2] St. Nectan | - | |
| [2] Lady Shirley | - | |
| [2] Loch Inver D | Harwich. - | |
| [2] Hekla - | - | |
| [2] Kings Grey D - | ||
| [2] Franc Tireur D - | ||
| [2] Fairway - | ||
| [2] Stella Carina - | ||
| Motor Launch. | ||
| C M.L. 100 A - | | Portsmouth. | |
| Boom | Defence Vessel. | |
| [2] Tunisian - | | Felixstowe Dock. | |
| Boom Defence | Gate Trawlers. | |
| [2] Ben Tarbert - | ||
| [2] George D. Irvin | Felixstowe. | |
| Harbour | Defence Patrol Craft. | |
| 2 Aldic - - | ||
| 2 Alisdair - - | } Harwich. | |
| [2] Titan - - | ||
| Rescue Tugs. | ||
| [2] Caroline Moller D- | Harwich | |
| S/S Muria D - | Yarmouth. | |
| [45] | Strathelliot - | |
| [45] | Lichen X/M D - | |
| [45] | Monarda x/M - | |
| [45] | Tilly Duff x/M D - - | Brightlingsea. |
| [45] | Vernal x/M D - | |
| [2] | Evening Primrose | |
| [2] | John Alfred - | |
| [2] | Renascent - | Ramsgate. |
| [9] | Reids - - | Brightlingsea. |
| Ben Earn X D | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Caswell X - | f.o. Milford. | |
| King Emperor | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Marconi X D | f.o. Newport. | |
| Mewslade X D | f.o. Sunderland. | |
| Northward Ho. | f.o. Tyne. | |
| L/L [44] Osako XD - | Lowestoft. | |
| [2] Mare X/M - | ||
| [2] Rig X/M - | Harwich. | |
| [2] Sarah Hyde X/M D [2] Strive X/M D - | Tilbury. Repairs. Completes 4 July. | |
| [2] Three Kings X/M D | ||
| [2] Uberty X/M - | Harwich. | |
| [8] Harvest Gleaner | ||
| X/M D [2] Nairn Side X/M - |
| Charles Doran X | f.o. Milford. |
| Fontenoy X - | f.o. Pembroke. |
| Irvana XD - - | f.o. Milford. |
| [44] Princess Mary XD | Yarmouth. |
| [44] Alcmaria X/M D - [44] Boy Philip x/s D | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. Yarmouth. |
| [44] Genius X/M D - | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Justifier x/s D -, | Yarmouth. Repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Margaret Hyde x/s D | Lowestoft. |
| [44] Rose Hilda x/s D- [44] Silver Crest x/s D | Yarmouth. Generator repairs. Date uncertain. |
| [44] Feasible X/M D | Yarmouth, |
| [44] Swift Wing x/M D | |
| The Brit - | Great Yarmouth. |
| Waldemar | Great Yarmouth. Docking and repairs. Date un- certain. |
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 116 4649. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Page 6. OPERATION "DYNAMO" - RECOMMENDATIONS OF PERSONNEL. H.M.S. "PANGBOURNE" - Acting Commander Francis Douglas-Watson, R.N. The ship left Harwich, and arrived at Dunkirk on the evening of 28th May; she returned t 0 Margate and disembarked 400 troops. On her second trip to Dunkirk she rescued the crew of the "CLAN MACALISTER". She was subjected to air attacks from 1645 to 1715 and from 1000 to 1900 (29th May); the latter was particularly severe and caused some 24 casualties, including Belgian soldiers. On her way back she towed the badly damaged "GRACIE FIELDS", rescuing the latter's crew when she sank. After undergoing temporary repairs to D.G. wiring and for splinter damage, "PANGBOURNE" completed one more round trip to Dunkirk and also brought in a number of soldiers transferred to her by 8. trawler. In all she completed 3 round trips, bringing back 920 men. RECOMMENDATIONS. OFFICERS: Acting Commander Francis Douglas-Watson. R.N. Commander Douglas-Watson displayed courage, resource and professional skill of a high order in dangerous and most DSO difficult conditions. The steadiness of the ship's company in the face of severe air attack and casualties was an eloquent tribute to his leadership and example. Recommended for Decoration. RATINGS: Leading Stoker Ronald Kenneth Robb, O.N. D/KX18359. C.G.M Remained on the forecastle during the first bombing attack in charge of the capstan. When this was put out of DSM action and he was badly wounded in both arms, he stood by in an exposed position ready to slip the cable. Afterwards he continued to assist the repair parties although one arm was out of action. Recommended for Decoration. Leading Seaman Alfred Reid, O.N. D/J13129. As coxswain of the motor boat, Reid was of great assistance to the officer in charge of the boats on the beach. He carried out all orders in prompt and seamanlike manner as well as acting on his own initiative when towing the various boat loads back to the ship. Recommended for Mention.
Page 7 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. EXPRESS (Continued). Acting Leading Seaman John Mountain. P/JX.142948. In charge of the 0.5 armament. Has shown great initiative at his quarters and worked hard in the exposed position to keep his guns firing. Recommended for decoration. Chief Petty Officer Maurice William Crisp, P/J.100655. As Chief Boatswain's Mate was most active in organising work in embarking troops and a most inspiring influence between decks while the ship was engaged. Recommended for decoration. Ordinary Seaman Gerald Arthur Douglas Rooke, R.N.V.R. SD/X.1581. As one of the boat's crew stuck to his job without relief and displayed fortitude and lack of thought for himself in embarking troops from the beach. Recommended for decoration. Able Seaman Edwin Cecil Holloway. P/J.98570. As gunlayer of "B" gun exercised initiative and worked hard to produce a high state of efficiency at his gun of which he was in charge. Recommended for mention. Petty Officer Steward (Pens.) Arthur Victor Read, P/L.1816. Sick Berth Attendant John Yeoman, R.N.A.S.B.R. X.7093. Francis Montague Davis, Canteen Manager. NAAFI. Were most active in assisting the Medical Officer with casualties, and untiring in their efforts in rendering first aid in difficult circumstances. Recommended for mention. Engineroom Artificer 1st Class, James Barton, R.N.R. Portsmouth 32 E.E. A most excellent example to all in the engineroom preserving a cheerful and imperturbable influence in his department. Recommended for decoration.
Page 9 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. GRENADE of Commander Richard C. Boyle, R.N. Lost as a result of damage from four large bombs during heavy air attack on her second trip to Dunkirk. Bi Recommendations. OFFICERS. Mr. Reginald William Clare, Gunner (T) R.N. Acted with great coolness and courage, taking complete control of after end of ship when burning and sinking. Closed and flooded magazine at correct moment thereby minimising disaster. Example of gallantry under fire. Recommended for decoration. Mr. Reginald James Crew B.Sc., Schoolmaster, R.N. Displayed conspicuous coolness and devotion to duty during and after the disaster. Saved a number of lives by rescuing ratings in distress in the oil covered water, landing with a party of survivors in Dunkirk. Took charge and eventually navigated an old motor boat back to England. Recommended for mention. RATINGS. Pottv Officer Harold Richard Emery C/JAJh439. Petty Officer Samuel Bennion. C/JX.102723. These two Petty Officers ably backed up Mr.Crew, displaying marked initiative and coolness. Recommended for mention. Leading Stoker Frederick Staples, C/KX.84191. Acted as right hand man to Mr. Clare, taking charge of younger stokers, by calm bearing dispelling any tendancy to panic. Assiduous in his attention to wounded, both in GRENADE and later in the trawler which rescued survivors. Recommended for decoration.
Page 11 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. HARVESTER - Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N. After only 21/2 days of "working-up" after commissioning, HARVESTER was sent to Dover and completed 3 round trips to the coast. On the last of these she experienced the full weight of the intensive air attack early on the 1st June. Her A.A. gunnery was most effective, and she shared in the destruction of at least 3 enemy aircraft. The ship was well handled throughout. Her inshore boat work was excellent. Recommendations. OFFICERS. Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N. Displayed exceptional initiative and sound judgment. Handled his ship with great coolness under fire. Recommended for mention. Mr. William George Alfred Robinson, Gunner (T). In charge of HARVESTER'S boats working inshore. Was especially noted by the senior officers of the beach parties for cool and gallant work. Set an admirable example. Recommended for mention. This rating showed great initiative and resource in getting wounded men from HAVANT to AEGIR. He took charge well and set a fine example. Recommended for decoration.
Page 27 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. SCIMITAR. - Lieutenant Robert Denys Franks, O.B.E., R.N. SCIMITAR made 4 trips to the beaches and 1 to Dunkirk Pier during the period 28th May and 1st June, rescuing a total of 2,200 troops. On her 6th trip (to Dunkirk) she was recalled but rescued 500 troops from S.S. PRAGUE. The Commanding Officer stresses the skill and determination of the boats parties in trying conditions and under shell fire and aircraft attacks. Recommendations. OFFICERS: Lieutenant Robert Denys Franks, O.B.E., R.N. Handled his ship with skill and gallantry. Recommended for mention. Midshipman Malcolm John Ball, R.N.R. In charge of his ship's boats evacuating troops from Bray beach under air attack while the ship returned to Dover for one day. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS: Able Seaman G. Passmore, P/J.96339. For distinguished conduct in action in charge of 'A' guns crew and bringing down an enemy aircraft in flames. Recommended for decoration. Stoker F. Tyler, P/K.61614. For devotion to duty as driver of the motor boat often under fire and keeping his engine turning almost continuously for 3 days whilst evacuating troops from Bray beach. Recommended for decoration.
Page 35 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. VIVACIOUS (continued). Stoker J. J. Williamson, P/KX.76409. Took charge of a private boat and succeeded in rescuing a large number of military personnel, showing an example of coolness and initiative to all. Recommended for decoration. The following ratings were outstanding throughout the operations for their initiative and zeal whilst under very difficult conditions, due to air attack and are - Recommended for mention. Petty Officer W. Flint, P/JX. 126621, Gunner's Mate. E.R.A. C. E. Strugnell, P/MX.47645. Chief Stoker Charles Tanner, P/K.58508. Sick Berth Attendant J. T. Tomlinson, P/X.6941. Acting Petty Officer Ronald Ford, P/J.106208. Petty Officer Telegraphist A. Bennet, P/JX.126535. Acting Yeoman J. T. Loynes, P/JX. 129983.
Page 38 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. WINCHELSEA - Lieutenant Commander William Alan Frank Hawkins. R.N. Completed 6 trips to the Beaches and Dunkirk, lifting in all a total of over 4,300 troops. Whilst off the beaches embarking troops from her own boats, she was attacked and dive-bombed by enemy aircraft. In addition, bombing attacks were made on her whilst in the Dunkirk Roads and in Dunkirk Harbour. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant Commander William Alan Frank Hawkins, R.N. Throughout the operation displayed great zeal, initiative and great devotion to duty under extremely trying circumstances. By his able seamanship and avoiding actions whilst under way, no real damage was sustained by this ship. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS. Leading Seaman Walter George Harold Last, P/JX.132139. Whilst in a whaler working off the beach, showed great gallantry whilst under fire and in a considerable tideway dived overboard and rescued survivors from the KING ORRY and thereafter continued showing seamanship in preventing capsize of whaler on beach and rescuing survivors. Recommended for decoration. E.R.A. 4th Class, Joseph Edwin Whitenstall, P/MX.57728. Took charge of motor boat after ship had left; showed great gallantry in continuing to carry out embarkation of troops whilst under fire. Recommended for decoration. Chief Petty Officer Rupert Armstrong, P/J.104917. For untiring zeal and devotion to duty in evacuating troops at Dunkirk and also embarking troops from beaches in a cutter. Recommended for mention. Able Seaman Peter Frederick Byford, P/JX.135125. crew For of skiff succeeded in rescuing troops from the untiring zeal and devotion to duty as sole beaches in considerable surf. Recommended for advancement.
Page 43. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. WORCESTER (continued). Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, JX. 129206. Displayed courage and skill in maintaining the fire of 'Y' gun, the crew of which were ultimately all killed or wounded. Recommended for decoration. Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J.8739. The Chief Boatswain's Mate displayed courage throughout - excellent example to all hands. Was conspicuous in the work of embarking troops from pier and by boat. Recommended for decoration. Able Seaman John E. Reynolds, P/JX.147968. For his courage and skill at the Pom-Poms where he was ultimately killed. Recommended for posthumous decoration. Stoker T. Moscrop, P/KX.83677. For his courage and zeal in assisting the ammunition supply at 'A' gun and in relieving the wounded. He was killed performing this duty. Recommended for posthumous decoration. E.R.A. 2nd Class Ronald W. Brenton, P/MX.46507. Petty Officer Lawrence Motteram, P/JX.129270, Gunner's Mate. Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews, J.3593, Coxswain. Petty Officer Horace William Smith, P/J.108414, T.G.N. Leading Seaman John Leonard Brown, JK. 138757. Leading Stoker Charles W. Norris, P/KX.81034. Able Seaman Edward Gair, SSX. 15905. Stoker Ralph Kearvell, P/KX.99946. Ordinary Seaman Bert Marston, P/JX.175182. These ratings were all outstanding in devotion to duty and in gallant conduct under fire. Recommended for mention.
Page 45 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. FITZROY as Lieutenant-Commander Reginald Arthur Forbes, R. N This ship completed 4 trips to the beaches near Dunkirk, and would have completed a. fifth trip but her D.G. gear was shot away, and she was ordered back. Specially good boat work was carried out off the beaches, generally in surf conditions, and the ship was frequently under bombing attacks. Recommendations. OFFICERS: Lieutenant-Commander Reginald Arthur Forbes, R.N. Showed great initiative and judgment in directing the work of his boats, and also in skilfully manoeuvring whilst under air attack. Recommended for mention. Sub.-Lieutenant David Alexander Shaw. Displayed courage and coolness under fire whilst acting as Navigating Officer. On 2nd June, when FITZROY was unable to go to sea, he proceeded as a volunteer in H.M.S. HALCYON to Dunkirk, when he gave great assistance. Recommended for mention. Midshipman Ian Kinloch Bryce, R.N.R. Throughout the operation displayed excellent spirit and courage, directing embarkation from the beaches, frequently totally immersed in the surf. Employed in boats throughout three nights. On 2nd June proceeded in H.M.S. WINCHELSEA to Dunkirk as a volunteer, where he again did very useful work. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS: Signalman D. Minter, C/JX.155114. Signalman Frederick Froggatt, JX. 144084. Landed on the beach near Dunkirk on four occasions assisting embarkation of troops, and maintaining efficient V/S touch with FITZROY during embarkation, thus greatly assisting. On the 2nd June, when FITZROY could not sail, both proceeded to Dunkirk as volunteers in other ships (WINCHELSEA and HALCYON). Displayed great courage and devotion to duty. Recommended for decoration. Ordinary Seaman G. H. Hawkins, A.F.A. Coxswain and driver of H.M.S.FITZROY'S and motor Acted boat as on four nights. His courage
Page 46 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. FITZROY (continued). the excellent seamanship was invaluable in embarking thirty trips to the beach. On the night of the 2nd troops. During the operation he made about he June, when H.M.S. FITZROY was unable to put to sea, volunteer. proceeded to Dunkirk in H.M.S. HALCYON as a Recommended for decoration. Leading Seaman J. Cole, C/B.21535. Leading Seaman L. Aspen, C/D.107. These Leading Seamen were coxswains of FITZROY's whalers and during the operation made eight or nine trips each to the beach near Dunkirk. Their courage, seamanship and complete disregard of fatigue were of great service in embarking troops. Recommended for mention. Stoker 1. W. A. W. Ward, C/KX.97894. Displayed conspicuous devotion, both to his Stokehole duties and when off watch as a member of a gun's crew whilst under fire. When his own ship was out of action, volunteered and manned a gun in H.M.S. WINCHELSEA where he displayed the same cool and courageous spirit. Recommended for decoration. Leading Stoker E. Collison. C/KX.78651. Volunteered and drove rescued mobor boat to hasten embarkation of troops. When the boat overturned he rescued a soldier who was hampered by full kit, and led him to safety on the night of 28th May. After this he volunteered and manned a boat for further transport of troops. Recommended for mention.
Page 47 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. GLENGOWER - Commander Michael Anthony Ormus Biddulph, R.N. This ship did two trips, and on one the ship was put on to the beach, thus facilitating the embarkation of troops. On these two trips, the ship brought back over 1,000 troops. The ship was continually being bombed, and on one occasion a shell burst inside the ship killing five soldiers and wounding seven. Recommendations. OFFICER. Commander Michael Anthony Ormus Biddulph, R.N. Showed great initiative and seamanship, not only in entering Dunkirk under difficult conditions, but also in putting his ship ashore on the beach so as to facilitate the embarkation of troops, without damage to the ship. On the second time over, the ship was continually under fire and by his devotion to duty, large numbers of troops were brought back. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS. Able Seaman J. Fleming. D/JX.140199. Was Coxswain of one of the lifeboats, and made repeated and successful trips to and from the beaches whilst under fire, maintaining order and showing himself fully competent under very difficult circumstances, and further showing gallantry in taking his boat into the shore whilst under fire. Recommended for decoration. Leading Seaman J. Derby, JX. 193835. Was Coxswain of one of the boats, and gave a very fine example of leadership and determination in making repeated trips to the beach. Recommended for mention. Leading Seaman T. Nieve, T.124. In addition to carrying out his ordinary duties at the boilers, took his turn as a member of a boats crew, and when finished with that, although scarcely able to stand with fatigue, volunteered for any job in which he could be of any use. Recommended for mention.
Page 59 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. PORTSDOWN - Sub.Lieutenant Richard Hepworth Church, R.N.R return troops to beaches under heavy gun fire. This from ship Dunkirk spent the night of 1st/2nd June evacuating take Ramsgate on the 2nd, she was not allowed On had not been degaussed. part in any further operations at Dunkirk as she to Recommendations. OFFICER. Sub.Lieutenant Richard Hepworth Church, R.N.R. Displayed great initiative, determination and good seamanship. Recommended for mention. RATINGS. Leading Signalman Percy Alfred Kent, P/JX.137932. Showed consistent attention to duty under heavy gunfire. Displayed exceptional qualities. Recommended for mention. E.R.A. Henry White, P/MX.51366. Carried out engine room duties with exceptional ability without a complete equipment of tools. Recommended for mention. Stoker Petty Officer William Ramel, P/11878. Performed valuable service on the upper deck in addition to his engine room duties. Recommended for mention. Ordinary Seaman Arthur Thomas Burton, P/JX.182142. Was at sea for the first time. Performed excellent boat work under fire. Recommended for advancement.
Page 60 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. PRINCESS ELIZABETH. - Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R. stopping Ship was attacked days, bringing back over 1,600 go without Did for four four trips, being continuously on the the boats when by aircraft on many occasions and troops. also working from the beach. Recommendations. OFFICERS: Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R. By his skill, seamanship and great devotion duty throughout the operation a large body of troops to were brought back to England without any serious damage to his ship. Recommended for decoration. Temporary Sub.-Lieutenant James Tomkin, R.N.V.R. Was in charge of boats during the operation off the beaches. His ingenuity, courage and gallantry under ceaseless shell fire and bombing was outstanding and his tenacity and leadership in getting his boats loaded created a great impression. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS: Petty Officer Henry George Coalbran, P/JX.127274. Showed great initiative and leadership during the operation. His general bearing, conduct and ability, coolness and devotion to duty under fire whilst towing large numbers of boats from the beach was an example to all. Recommended for decoration. Stoker Ernest Baker, T.124. Showed great zeal and initiative apart from his ordinary work in volunteering for boatwork in which he was thereafter employed. Further, he took charge of the loaned motor-boat. Recommended for mention. Signalman Ernest Savidge, R.N.V.R. Did very valuable work as a volunteer in boat's crew. Although crushed and badly bruised between two boats he continued his work with a cheerfulness and total disregard for his own comfort. Recommended for mention. L2
Page 65 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. SPEEDWELL. - Lieutenant Commander Frederick Richard Guy Maunsell, R. N. (Retired). Completed 3 trips to the beaches and Dunkirk. the first trip brought back 1500 troops. On the first On trip ship was machine-gunned and bombed from the air. on the second trip, whilst in Dunkirk, pier was being shelled but ship was only hit by a few splinters. Recommendations. OFFICERS: Lieutenant Commander Frederick Richard Guy Maunsell, R.N. Throughout the operations displayed (Retired). great initiative, tenacity and seamanship whilst off the beaches and in Dunkirk. Recommended for mention. Lieutenant Robert Archibald Vallings, R.N.R. Displayed great initiative and gallantry whilst under fire in embarking troops from the beaches in small boats. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS: Chief Petty Officer William Cobley, C/J.22075. Displayed great coolness and gallantry and constant devotion to duty when in charge of ship's whaler embarking troops from the beaches when under fire and outstanding work in Dunkirk. Recommended for decoration. Leading Seaman Stanley Robert Holden, C/J.106164. Displayed great coolness, gallantry and constant devotion to duty when in charge of a whaler embarking troops from the beach under fire and untiring work when ship was in Dunkirk. Recommended for decoration. Able Seaman Thomas James Kesby, C/J.87250. constant devotion to duty whilst under fire when in Displayed great coolness, gallantry and charge of a boat embarking troops from the beaches. Recommended for decoration. p S
Page 66 Operation "DYNAMO" and Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. SUTTON. - Lieutenant-Commander Grenville Mathias Temple, R.N. beaches. one to Dunkirk Many using times her own boats to take troops from and the This ship did 4 trips, three to the beaches (Retired). also machine guns. she was attacked by aircraft and Recommendations. OFFICERS: Acting Commander Grenville Mathias Temple, R.N. This Officer showed great initiative and seamanship bringing off troops from the beaches, and also in getting into Dunkirk, in view of the many difficulties due to congestion of ships and wrecks. It was entirely due to being able to place his ship so close to the beaches that so many troops were brought off. By his initiative and devotion to duty, he was enabled to bring off a large number of troops from the beaches. Recommended for decoration. Sub. -Lieutenant William Geoffrey Hewitt. R.N.V.R. This Officer was continually in charge of the boat work on the beaches being frequently under machine gun and shell fire and bombing attacks. Due to his coolness and courage in encouraging and organising the troops, and to his seamanship, many troops were brought off. Recommended for promotion. RATINGS: Petty Officer Harold Beasley, C/J.93287. Was in charge of boats, and due to his good seamanship no boats were lost or damaged. His coolness, courage and gallantry under fire were of great encouragement to the troops and seamen under him. Recommended for decoration. Acting Stoker Petty Officer Albert George Dollery, P/KX.80017. During the whole period of the operation, this rating was engineer of the motor boat, and due to the efficient manner in which he ran the engine, often under fire, the number of troops evacuated were far in excess of what might have been expected under the difficult weather conditions. Recommended for mention. Acting
Page 67 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.S. SUTTON (continued). Acting C.E.R.A. Allerton Bywater, PM/39426. Maintained his department in a very high state of efficiency, and in addition was continually organising his department in their off duty hours to a he went himself in the motor boat to assist. assist the embarkation party. On many occasions, 1 Recommended for mention. be DE L2 p I r S
Page 78. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. PORTSMOUTH INNER PATROL YACHTS. Lieutenant Cyril Cornelius Bone, R.N.V.R, Senior Officer. beaches from 0600/31/5 to dawn 1/6, they performed Although the unit of nine yachts only worked off the particularly critical valuable work off La Panne and Bray at British time when La Panne was about to be finally a evacuated, The period also happened to be one of intensive air troops either embarking or withdrawing westward. bombardment, interspersed with sporadic heavy artillery fire on the beaches. Particularly notable was the work of these boats inshore, which included the embarkation of Lord Gort and the G.H.Q. party. 3500 - 4000 troops were lifted. Recommendations. OFFICERS; H.M.Y. LAHLOO: Lieutenant John Vander Ould, R.N.V.R., Commanding Officer. His yacht did particularly well, handling about 500 troops. Emabrked Lord Gort. Did valuable work rounding up drifting boats for further beach work. Recommended for mention. H.M.Y. SERIOLA: STEAM PICKET-BOAT: M.Y. MASAYRU: Sub. -Lieutenant Thomas Ellison Godman, R.N.V.R. This Officer displayed remarkable determination, endurance and devotion to duty. Commencing service in SERIOLA, he skilfully worked open boats through the surf on the beaches during31/5. The next day he was ordered to command a naval steam picket-boat, and by his determination and good judgment succeeded in operating this craft for nearly 24 hours, though its coal capacity only sufficed for 6 hours. Also seized and directed the activities of a number of abandoned boats found drifting off the coast. Finally returned to Ramsgate and joined another vessel for a further day's service at Dunkirk. Specially recommended by Senior Officers for great coolness under heavy fire in dangerous conditions. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS: H.M.Y. AHOLA: Petty Officer H. H. Holland, J.20594. Able Seaman F. H. Finch, SSX.23237. Volunteers for boat work under fire, when boat crew from another unit left their boat. Recommended for mention,
Page 79 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.Y. ANLAH: Yacht Engineer F. Barter, T. 124. Able Seaman W. F. Lunn, P/J.107117. Conspicuous devotion to duty under fire for a prolonged period as crew of the launch, rescuing large numbers of troops. Recommended for decoration. H.M.Y. BOUNTY and Boat-work under Commodore Stephenson. E.R.A. A. Ferris, T.124. This rating was alone in the twin-diesel engine- room and although on du ty day and night and sick with the fumes was, with the greatest difficulty, persuaded finally to leave his post and take a rest and fresh air, when a stoker was found to relieve him for a short time. By his strong sense of duty and cheerful demeanour set an excellent example to those around him. Conspicuous under fire. Recommended for decoration. Signalman H. G. Hayes, C/JX. 140933. Ordinary Signalman W. A. Denny, TP/X.1790. Able Seaman E. Fenton. P/JX.145044. Besides their work in BOUNTY, from p.m. 31st May when the La Panne beach and piers were being heavily shelled, volunteers were called for to take in a whaler to bring off a final contingent of soldiers. These three young men came forward and returned to the beach again and again. They all were invariably to be found where work was difficult and dangerous. Recommended for decoration. H.M.Y.CARYANDA. Acting Petty Officer H. H. Smith, P/JX. 125648. Able Seaman T. W. Schofield, J.26827. Volunteered to man a small boat under fire, continuously ferrying troops. Boat ultimately sank, when these ratings swam for a prolonged period supporting troops in the water, assisting them into boats. Recommended for decoration. H.M.Y. EILA II. Yacht Engineer T. M. Weir, T.124. Petty Officer C. S. Smith, P/J. 14350. Able Seaman C. S. Marriott, P/SSX.237766. Gave good example of coolness under fire and in boat work in the dinghy. Recommended for mention.
Page 80 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. H.M.Y. LAHLOO: Yacht Engineer D. Brewer, T.124. Besides displaying conspicuous devotion to duty, was invaluable in sending and receiving signals under fire, and in assisting his Commanding Officer generally. Recommended for mention. H.M.Y. THELE. Chief Petty Officer A. H. H. Gutsell, P/J,28475. Conspicuous boat work and in effecting contact with G.H.Q. worked the dinghy under heavy fire. Recommended for decoration.
Page 91. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Commodore Alfred riugh Taylor, O.B.E. (Rear-Admiral Retired). as Dynamo Maintenance Officer from the Economic Commodore Taylor was appointed to Sheerness for duty Division, Admiralty. He built up an organisation Warfare Tuesday 28th May, and prepared a multitude of small from water, and time to time such as rafts, ladders, equipment lifebuoys, demanded for service from on the coast, with special items of craft organised the manning, either from volunteers by men from the Chatham Depot. This Sheerness organisation or acted as a clearing house and despatching point for these vessels, the total number sent out from Sheerness being about 125 by Sunday, June 2nd. Commodore Taylor then proceeded to Ramsgate to help the Naval Officer in Charge, and to assist in the co-operation of the motor boats etc., with the larger vessels. On the last 2 nights of the evacuation, at my request, he personally organised and conducted the operation of the motor boat flotilla from Ramsgate to evacuate French from the St. Malo beach and from the inner Harbour Dunkirk, both of which localities were regarded as positions of honour, being at that time under continuous shell fire. These ventures were eminently successful, and a large number of French troops were dealt with by Commodore Taylor's craft. To these craft fell the honour of being 4th. the last units to leave Dunkirk in the early hours of June Recommended for mention.
Page 99 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Yacht BYSTANDER (Echo John Sounding Yacht) - Sub. Lieutenant Henry Beresford Barge, R.N.V.R. V. Recommendations. RATING: Able Seaman (Cook) J. H. Elton, LT/JX.180250 (R.N. Patrol Service) off the Dunkirk, KING this ship proceeded to remove 0200/30/5 the Employed as Cook in this yacht. At when dinghy, with ORRY, then sinking in the fairway. The crew of ft. effect Elton and one other as crew, launched 8 to attempted a weak to swim to the yacht, but they were personnel in a rescue. Most of the KING ORRY's dived was obvious many would drown. Elton done that it state owing to the arduous service they had such of the into the water and assisted and supported thereupon hour swimmers as he could find for more than half as many loads whilst the dinghy, rowed by the other rating, an water Elton put many men on to life-rafts and towed the of men, returned to the BYSTANDER. Whilst in with by on swimming. The last men he brought back to the yacht them a life-raft, were towed by Elton in the water as a tow-rope with one hand on the raft and one hand acting on the dinghy - a remarkable feat of endurance. He was responsible for rescuing about 25 Officers and men. In supplied hot tea and food to all the 97 men on board addition to the above, Elton, in his capacity as Cook, within half an hour of leaving the scene of the wreck, the cooking utensils, etc, normally sufficing for 7. He provided dry clothes and blankets and generally tended the rescued, many of whom were suffering from shock. This rating was unsparing in his efforts and acted with great gallantry without regard to his own safety. Recommended for decoration. Motor Boat CONSTANT NYMPH: - Chargehand B.A. Smith, Little Ship Club, (Owner of Motor Boat). Recommendation. Chargehand B. A. Smith, Little Ship Club. Chargehand Smith proceeded with a crew of 2 Naval Stokers who had never been to sea, in tow p.m. 30th May for the beaches. Took in a whaler and cutter, and during the night ferried off about 800 men to 2 skoots the JUTLAND and LAUDANIA, who were thus filled up. CONSTANT NYMPH then collected a number of odd boats trying to row off to ships filled with soldiers, and collected them and towed them to offshore vessels. During thiss time fairly continuous bombing and shelling were encountered. Chargehand Smith remarks that being deaf and with a lot to do prevented him noticing these annoyances. Continued work until all fuel was exhausted, and the boat was sent to a supply drifter for repair and refuelling, Chargehand Smith being ordered back to Margate This civilian showed great
Page 100. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. CONSTANT NYMPH (continued). performed courage and disregard of danger, and undoubtedly gallant and meritorious service. Recommended for decoration. otor Boat LADY CABLE: - Acting Sub. -Lieutenant G. A., Cadell. R.N. Recommendations. (Retired). FFICERS: Acting Sub. Lieutenant G. A. Cadell, R.N. troops from Dunkirk Inner Harbour off to tugs On the night of June 2nd ferried about 200 French WISHART. 24 Finally, when all ships were leaving, and embarked any British remained. Then encountered a series see of French soldiers, having searched the Quay to if mishaps with his engines, and on the voyage home himself at one time or another falling overboard. attempted to salve W. D. craft HAIG, all his crew and Finally broke down at mid-day on the 3rd, close to the Coast, and was in grave peril of falling into hands Southwest of Dunkirk. LADY CABLE drifted helplessly enemy about the Channel for many hours before being rescued. Sub. Lieutenant Cadell, suffering from a weak heart, underwent considerable physical strain, and there is no coolness and effic) ency. doubt that he and his crew displayed remarkable courage, Recommended for mention. Cadet Rating G. R. Price. Acted as first lieutenant to Sub. -Lieutenant Cadell, whom he ably assisted. He had previously been in command of the Motor Boat SKYLARK. Recommended for early promotion, Motor Yacht MASAYRU: - Skipper G. D. Olivier. Recommendations. OFFICER: Skipper G. D. Olivier. With a civilian crew of 3 and one Leading Seaman, R. N. sailed from Sheerness 0400/31 in convoy. On arriving off the beaches spent more than 48 hours on ferrying work, and in salving craft; and in towing off ships aground. Underwent the common experience of being stormed by French troops and having to repel these boarders in order to save his ship. When isolated, attacked by 4 Messerschmitts with machine-guns for about half an hour, and at other times was under sporadio gun- fire. Ferried off a total of about 400 French troops. This civilian displayed a complete disregard of danger and showed a high order of seamanship. Recommended for decoration.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Page 101. RATING: Engineer C. Coggins. yacht being running fouled the whole time, in spite of motor This civilian kept the engines of this required. frequently and the continuous propeller boats to He also put the engines of several running other assisted rights when they broke down. He the Skipper throughout the operations. ably Recommended for mention. 30 ft. Motor Yacht MAID ERRANT. - Able Seaman S. Palmer, D/JX. 148052. Recommendations. Able Seaman S. Palmer. 148052. Sailed from Sheerness on Friday, 31st May, in convoy for Dunkirk. En route rescued survivors of a French destroyer, then prodeeded to the beaches. There he was swamped by French soldiers swarming over his boat, which drifted ashore. Later the boat refloated and he took one V.C.O. and 8 British soldiers; he had no crew except one Stoker, who had great difficulty with the engine. Off Dunkirk, on the way home, the engine broke down, so he broke up the yacht's wood fittings and made the 8 soldiers paddle the boat. Later, the engine restarted after on 18 hour voyage. Next day, without orders, he sailed with a crew of one other Able Seaman, but was turned back as his craft was too slow to take part in the night evacuation ordered for that evening. Able Seaman Palmer states that he passed for Leading Seaman in May, 1927. He states he possesses the L. S. & G. C. Medal. Recommended for immediate advancement. Drifter OCEAN BREEZE, War Department Launch HAIG and Skoot PASCHOLL. (Lieutenant Victor Alexander Christian Henry George de Mauny, R.N.Retired. Recommendations, Lieutenant Victor Alexander C.H.G. de Mauny. R.N. Between noon on the 30th May and 0815 4th June was continuously engaged under way on evacuation duties without any intermission. Commanded in succession OCEAN BREEZE, HAIG and then as Navigator of a group of skoots in PASCHOLL. Brought back more than 300 troops from Dunkirk beach in surf conditions on two separate occasions. Was notably
Page 102. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. more same successful than other small craft working in the areas. On the 31st May, when he was 8 hours the off Displayed great devotion to duty under fire, and marked coast, subjected to continuous air attack. Senior Officers on more than one occasion. initiative; and was favourably reported upon by the Recommended for mention. Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R. Recommendations. Sub.Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley. R.N.V.R. Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats, escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats had no compass. Half way across the trawler left them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing, machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of two civilians and one Naval rating aged 19÷. Displayed determination and leadership of a high order. Recommended for mention. Motor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R. Recommendation. Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R. Took over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness to Ramsgate to Bray beach in the darkness with no navigating instruments. From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked without help ferrying off troops and co-ordinating the activities of other power boats in the vicinity. His boat acted as flagship of Commodore Stephenson in control of embarkation, who, together with other senior officers, comments most favourably on this officer's conduct. Under almost continuous air bombardment and artillery fire in capsized and swamped boats he was inderatigable in his efforts. Directly responsible for the successful embarkation of hundreds of troops. Set an excellent example of devotion to duty and gallant conduct, and performed a remarkable feat of endurance. Recommended for decoration.
Page 103. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Motor-Boat AURA and Michael H.M. Drifter YORKSHIRE LASS. Sub,Lieutenant Adam Anthony Chodzko, R.N.V.R. - Recommendation. showed capped by extremely unreliable engine of his Handi- he off the the beaches for 12 hours on June let. Sub. -Lieutenant Chodzko performed valuable work craft and great determination in making the best boat, final breakdown of his motor-boat, he was appointed ferrying a large number of troops. use After of his the Skipper of H. M. Drifter YORKSHIRE LASS and under work 2nd. in the Inner Harbour, Dunkirk, on the night of June command of Lieutenant-Commander Prior, R.N., did excellent the Recommended for mention. Motor-Boat SKYLARK and Lowestoft Lifeboat MICHAEL STEPHENS. Sub.- Lieutenant Marwood J. R. Yeatman. Recommendation. in tow for Dunkirk, Tow failed and Sub. -Lieutenant Took charge of motor-boat SKYLARK on the 31st May Yeatman returned to port and did valuable work in over- hauling the engines of motor boats which had broken down. Next day he proceeded in SKYLARK to Dunkirk and resoued survivors of various bombed ships, returning to Dover under own power p.m. Next day commissioned MICHAEL STEPHENS, Lowestoft Lifeboat, with a crew of two stokers and one A.B. Spent the night in Dunkirk harbour ferrying troops. Climbed on to the Mole under shell-fire and by means of forecful language and the rifle-butt induced French troops, who were lying on the Mole, to embark. Reached Dover with a full load of troops after a 6 hour voyage under own power. Displayed considerable determination and initiative. Recommended for mention. Newhaven Lifeboat ROSA WOOD and PHYLLIS LUND. - Able Seaman W.J. Morris, P/JX. 26097, in Command. Recommendations. RATINGS: Able Seaman W. J. Morris, P/JX.26097. With a crew of one stoker and one ordinary seaman, carried out two independent trips to the beach and to Dunkirk harbour. Encountered great difficulty off the beaches due to deep draught of lifeboat, and during the night rescued a number of troops from motor-launch and drifting boats off shore. Was dissatisfied with his efforts and proceeded back to Dunkirk harbour, where during the night 2/6 - 3/6 under artillery fire ferried off about 700 troops to various ships, and assisted in removing troops from the personnel vessel ROUEN aground in the harbour. Finally returned to Dover with a full load. This was Morris's first experience as Coxswain of any boat. He showed great determination and gallantry under fire in his independent command. Recommended for decoration.
Page 104. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. RATINGS (continued). Ordinary Seaman T. E. White, CDX.133. Stoker 1st Class W. Spray, P/KX. 87052. Their Crew conduct of this was Lifeboat exemplary. under Able Seaman Morris. Recommended for mention. Belgian Motor-Boat YSER and Hastings Lifeboat. - Acting Petty Officer Achin. JX. 149919. Recommendation. Acting Petty Officer Achin, J.X. 149919. Petty Officer Achin was in command of these two boats and completed 4 round trips to beaches and Dunkirk. On two occasions the towing craft made a bad landfall and attempted to enter Calais, where they received a rousing reception from German artillery. Ferried about 100 troops alltold. Recommended for mention.
Page 105. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Motor Boat FERVENT Commander (H.M.S. FERVENT, Ramsgate). - Lieutenant- William Ronald Thomas Clements, R.N.R. (Retd) attacks. for gallant work on 31st May during intense noticed The cool performance and of this boat was especially instructions The civilian coxswain, faithfully obeyed all air given him by officers. Recommendation. Coxswain Douglas Kirkaldie. (of 4, Kent Place, Ramsgate). Recommended for mention. Motor Vessel LAROC - Mr. George B. Butler. Master. This civilian manned motor boat, normally is employed as a Boarding Vessel, Western Examination Service, Portsmouth. Master and crew volunteered for service to Dunkirk and for three days did excellent work off the coast, not only with the yacht itself but by directing the activities of many open boats and giving assistance to vessels in distress. Was present during the worst two days of air raids. Recommendations. Master, Mr. George B. Butler. Handled his vessel with conspicuous judgment. Recommended for mention.
Page 106, Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. 85 foot Motor Boats PAULETEER and MARASOLE. - Stoker D. T. Banks, Recommendations. KX/86174. RATINGS: Stoker D. T. Banks, KX/86174. Lewis gun and a compass he did not know how to gun, With crew of two Ordinary Seamen, a Bren a boats. Brought back more than 400 troops to England. completed seven or eight trips in one or other use, of these Was sunk with his crew in MARASOLE, undeterred resumed duty with PAULETEER. Endured frequent machine gunning from the air. During six days' work off the coast his idea of relaxation was to take "a run ashore" in Dunkirk with his crew, this town burning furiously and under bombardment at the time. Displayed remarkable leadership, initiative and courage under fire. Recommended for decoration and early advancement. Shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood P/M.8899. Indefatigable in preparing Portsmouth small craft for the operation. As a volunteer proceeded to Dunkirk beaches to effect repairs to boats there. Served in Yacht ERICA and H. M. Drifter ROBERT CLIFF, exceptional devotion to duty. off the beaches assisting in evacuation work. Displayed Recommended for mention. Ships Boats, Fast Motor Boat VERNON I, W.D. Fast Launch PIGEON. (Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.) Recommendations. OFFICER: Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N. This enterprising and determined officer commanded in succession a number of small craft working from Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four successive days and nights. Brought off almost the last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order. Recommended for decoration.
Page 107. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. ft. Motor Lieutenant Boat BONNIE Charles HEATHER (Chris Kraft Boat 18 knots) Waterland Read, R.N.R.). Recommendations. FFICER: Lieutenant Charles Waterland Read. R.N.R. 420 troops. from On the last night ferried off about trips beaches, carrying to England complete Between to Dunkirk 29/5 and a.m. 4/6 made seven round personnel troops Dunkirk Mole to transports lying about off. 600 the water. vessel SCOTIA sank rescued 40 personnel When and was Was periodically bombed and machine from part in under the gunfire in Dunkirk harbour. Played gunned endurance evacuation and showed great determination a great and under fire. Recommended for decoration. TARIOUS SMALL CRAFT: Recommendation. Sub. Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N. Commanded in succession a motor lighter, a tug and motor boat SWALLOW. Completed five round trips between p.m. 30/5 and a.m. 4/6. On first trip made beach between Gravelines and Calais, landed, encountered two German soldiers, shot both, re-embarked and proceeded to Dunkirk. On all trips did very well using pulling boats as well as his own craft. Finally left Dunkirk harbour on 4/6 when German troops penetrated into the harbour area. Recommended for decoration.
Page 108. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Motor Launch MERMAIDEN: - Petty Sub.Lieutenant Officer F.J. Norton, May 31st R.N. June 3rd - June 4th. Charles Edward Stewart - June Beale, 3rd Recommendations, Petty Officer F. J. Norton, Pensr. 4307. Leading Stoker W. Horn, R.F.R. MERMAIDEN to Dunkirk. They both showed These 2 ratings proceeded with the Motor Launch ties, especially when bombed and machine-gunned, On initiative and devotion to duty under great great difficul- the second trip, Petty Officer Norton took the boat which over himself, and proceeded into Dunkirk Harbour, at that time was being shelled. Petty Officer F. J. Norton, P. N. 4307. Recommended for mention. Leading Stoker W. A. S. Horn, R.F.R. Recommended for decoration. Motor Boat 275. - Chief Petty Officer Leighton. This boat was used off the beaches at Dunkirk during severe bombing from the air. Direct hits were registered on several vessels. Boat proceeded to pick up survivors during the bombing attacks, and, having filled up, proceeded towards Ramsgate. On her way across she was fired at by 3 trawlers at 1,100 yards range, one of whom then tried to ram her. All the crew and survivors jumped overboard except two R.N.V.R. officers and Able Seaman Strand. The R.N.V.R. officers were wounded and Strand took charge of the boat, narrowly preventing the boat being rammed. The boat was eventually towed to Ramsgate. Recommendation. Able Seaman L. F. Strand, C/J.69009. Acted with great coolness and resource under fire in taking charge of boat when his officers had been wounded, and the remainder of the crew and survivors had jumped overboard, and taking such actior as was necessary to prevent boat being rammed and to enable identification of the boat to be effected. Recommended for decoration.
Page 109. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. BOAT RAPIDE - Sub.Lieutenant J. C. Clarke, R.N.V.R. Recommendations sub,Lieutenant J. C. Clarks, R.N.V.R. during some 28 hours continuous beach work with his Displayed commendable initiative and seamanship Kept his motor boat from capsizing in spite of frenzy motor boat, and derelict pulling boats he had salved. of French soldiers on board during bombing. Handled a large number of troops during frequent bombing A cool and gallant officer. attacks. Assisted in rescuing survivors of MOSQUITO. Recommended for mecoration. S. DORIEN ROSE (Store Ship). - W. Thompson, Master. This civilian manned ship, and performed useful and gallant service. Officers and men endured very trying conditions within Dunkirk harbour during seven hours on 30th May, disembarking stores and redeiving troops. She was attacked by M.T.B.'s on the way in. On 28th was twice attacked by aircraft off Dunkirk and rescued 950 troops and the crew of QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, who had been disabled by bombs and was sinking. Everyone remained calm and gave the utmost assistance to the troops. The E.R.M. staff had to effect repairs under fire. All did well. Recommendations. Master W. Thompson. Chief Engineer B. Murphy. Second Engineer J. Steward. Lewis Gunner T. W. Watson. Mate, T. O. Hanlon. Bosn., P. McFadden. Able Seaman J. O'Rawe, Able Seaman J. Upperton, Able Seaman T. Bassett, Ordinary Seaman W. Bassett, Ordinary Seaman C. Bassett, Fireman A. Gilson, Fireman S. Khan, Fireman M. Mohand, The above officers and men formed the crew. Recommended that all should be mentioned, and that the Master, Mate, Chief Engineer and a proportion of the crew should be decorated.
Page 110. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. MES COCKLE BOAT Herbert FLOTILLA Bernard (40 ft, Soloman, boats). R.N.V.R. - Sub. Lieutenant Michael Recommendation, FICER: sub,Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R. In command of Flotilla of 6. Proceeded boats from Southend found to Dunkirk without charts on 31/5. direct offshore unsuitable for beach work, largely Cockle to harbour and on the outside of the harbour breakwaters obstructions, worked Flotilla inside Dunkirk owing from 2130/31 to 0300/1. Flotilla handled about 900 troops, finally returning to Ramsgate fully laden. Cockle boats being no longer serviceable, commandeered tug and boat taking them to Dunkirk harbour. There employed as interpreter controlling French troops on being one of only two survivors. By a remarkable feat shore. Was sunk in R.A.F. motor boat by air attack, of endurance was swimming for four hours finally climbing unaided into deserted boat. Rescued by French fishing vessel. A gallant young officer who displayed courage, initiative and determination of high order. This officer was especially noted for good work by many semior officers encountered in the operation. Recommended for decoration. Mr A. B. Devine. Signed on T.124 agreement and took over motor- boat LITTLE ANN to the beaches at Dunkirk. There he was dive-bombed and machine-gunned, and the boat sank. Notwithstanding this he carried on working at the beaches for four days. DYNAMO being over, he then volunteered for Captain Selby's operation, and after that for CYCLE, when he was severely wounded. Recommended for decoration and Commission in the R.N.V.R.
Page 110 Page 111. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. N.L.B. WALTON & FRINT GN. - Lieutenant Reginald Hounsham Mead, over into Dunkirk there, underwent many air attacks. Boat proceeded towed Was taken over to Dunkirk, and whilst being R.N.V.R. During was killed, operation, Lieutenant R. H. Mead, R.N.V.R., ships. the and ferried troops to the various proceeded from the to the beach where they continued taking troops and the boat carried on with the crew. They shore by night. Recommendations. OFFICER: Lieutenant Reginald Hounsham Mead. R.N.V.R. whilst proceeding over to Dunkirk, in view of the many Showed great determination and devotion to duty air attacks, and also in Dunkirk itself. Recommended for mention (Posthumous). RATINGS: Petty Officer Tel. Cooley. P/J.93203. Able Seaman MacManus, P/SSX. 14756. These 2 ratings showed great devotion to duty and courage in continuing the work of the boat after the death of the officer in charge. Recommended for mention. War Department Fleet: Launches HAIG, KESTREL and SWALLOW. (Colonel G. E. Sadcock, Commanding Officer). Recommendations. Nine craft of the W.D. Fleet took part. All did well but the following civilian personnel volunteered for, and executed, additional trips displaying exceptional determination: R. Walter, 1st Engineman in HAIG. J. H. Spain, T/3/Engineer in KESTREL. H. Hay, Able Seaman in SWALLOW. F. Cherry, Able Seaman, 3rd Engineer in SWALLOW. Recommended for mention.
Page 116 Operation "DYN/MO" - Recommendations of Personnel. M.A./S.B.10 - Liputenant Richard Eyre, R.N. This loat did three trips to Dunkirk. The first time with .ear Admiral Dover, and remained outside the Harbour under way directing ships to their various berths. Again proceeded to Dunkirk on the second day carrying out the same duties: third trip he assisted with the block ships, carrying out screening duties, and also did very useful work inside the Harbour with regard to ferrying of troops, and picking up survivors from the block ship GOURKA. The greater part of the work was carried out during dark hours when the handling of a boat 02 this type required great skill. Recommendation. OFFICER. Lieutenant Richard Eyre, R.N. Showed great initiative and skill throughout the operation whilst over at Dunkirk, assisting materially in directing shipping to their billets and also reseuing the crew of the GOURKA. Recommended for mention. M.T.B. 68 - Lieutenant Ralph Kenneth Livingstone Waller, R.N.V.R. This M.T.B. did four trips to Dunkirk, where she ferried British and French soldiers, and ganerally acted as despatch Doat. Attacked by enemy aircraft, one rating wounded by machine gun bullet. Whilst pstrolling the beaches, she collected and supplied fuel for motor boats, and transferred soldiers to destroyers and also towed motor boats. Due to damage to hull, she returned to Portsmouth on the 1st June. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant Ralph Kenneth Livingstone Waller, R.N.V.R. Showed great skill and judgment in the work which he carried out, in ferrying troops and acting with coolness during bombing attacks. Recommended for mention. RATINGS/
Page 117 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. M.T.B. 68 (Continued). RATINGS The following ratings are recommended for mention for their efficiency and devotion to duty whilst boat was under fire and in connection with the transport of troops whilst off the beaches. Leading Seaman Percy Ward, JX.134801. Able Seaman Sydney Davey, D/JX, 146839. M.T.B. 102 - Lieutenant Christopher William Stuart Dreyer, R.N. This boat completed five trips. On the first, proceeded to the beaches and assisted generally. Attacked by aircraft. On the second day, again proceeded to the beaches with Admiral aircraft. Wake-Walker, being shelled and also attacked by Rescued personnel from H.M.S. KEITH and again attacked by aircraft. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant Christopher William Stuart Dreyer. R.N. In command showed great skill, determination initiative and gallantry in all the operations in which he was engaged off Dunkirk. He was continually under shell fire and attacked from aircraft. Recommended for decoration. RATINGS. Engine Room Artificer 3rd Cl. William Hymas, MX.49826. Maintained and ran his engines continuously under most difficult conditions, and it was entirely due to him that the boat was able to maintain its efficiency throughout the operation. Recommended for decoration. Able Seaman Albert R. C. Stephens, P/JX. 131369. Displayed great coolness throughout the operations, manned his guns permanently. His coolness and cheer--- fulness were of the greatest help in maintaining the morale, whilst his skill with his gun discouraged hostile aircraft when they were encountered. Recommended for decoration. Leading/
Page 118 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. M.T.B.102 (Continued). Leading Seaman Albert Dawkin, P.S./SX.17291. a very fine example to the crew. Throughout the operation by his leadership set Recommended for mention. M.T.B. 107 - Lieutenant John Cameron, R.N.V.R. This M.T.B. did four trips to Dunkirk. She was fired at by shore batteries and subjected to bombing from the air. Patrolled off the beaches, assisting with rescuing people in the water and also going into Dunkirk and assisting generally. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant John Cameron, R.N.V.R. Who commanded this boat, acted with great skill and judgment in avoiding all air attacks, and also attacks by the shore artillery, and did invaluable work in rescuing people off the beaches from ships that had been sunk. Recommended for mention. RATINGS. Chief Petty Officer M. J. Driver, 6134D. At all times cool and unperturbed during a difficult period and as coxswain displayed an excellent example to the remaining members of the crew. Recommended for mention. Leading Stoker C. W. T. Murrin, P/KX. 82587. Under great difficulties, due to recent commissioning of boat and conditions off the beaches and in Dunkirk, kept his engines in an efficient state enabling the boat to be manoeuvred as efficiently as possible. Recommended for mention.
Page 120 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Dutch Skoot H.M.S. BRANDARIS &c. (Continued). In the majority of these voyages was under constant bombing and machine gun attack, as also when in Dunkirk harbour and lying off the beaches. This officer worked unceasingly without rest throughout the 9 days of the operation, with conspicuous success. Recommended for mention. Dutch Skoot H.M.S. DOGGERSBANK - Lieutenant Donald Terry McBarnet, R.N. This vessel remained off the Flanders coast for a greater period than the other skoots, and whilst under incessant attack from the air succeeded in recovering from the beach and from Dunkirk harbour more than 1,500 troops. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant Donald Terry McBarnet, R.N. Displayed exceptional initiative and pertinacity in a variety of difficult circumstances off Bray beach, in Dunkirk harbour and Dunkirk beach. When necessary grounded his ship on the beach and devised many ingenious and seamanlike methods of taking off troops from the beach by means of life rafts, abandoned life-boats and other craft which came to hand, normal boat work being impossible with his small crew. At all times undeterred and undismayed by frequent air attacks to which his vessel and boats were subjected. Recommended for deocration. RATING. Engine Room Artificer, 4th Class, Eric Matthew Horne, MX.62572. In charge of the engine room department of DOGGERSBANK. Took over the engines from Dutch engineer who spoke no English, and succeeded in keeping the engines running perfectly throughout the 10 days of the operations. In addition to engine room duties, generally assisted the Commanding Officer at all times in work outside the department, assisting in the operation. Behaviour under fire was exemplary. Recommended for decoration. Dutch
Page 124 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Dutch Skoot H.M.S. PATRIA) W.D. Fast Launch HAIG Lieutenant-Commander N.L. Pisani R.N. (Ret.). Decorated with the D.S.O. for this operation, London Gazette 7th June, 1940. Recommendation. RATING. Leading Seaman Willie Haggar, P/J.95873. R.F.R. Displayed exceptional initiative, leadership and gallantry under fire as coxswain in working an inexperienced crew of Ordinary Seamen, thereby enabling the PATRIA to embark over 1,000 troops off Bray beach. Subsequently in HAIG further large numbers of men from the Malo beaches, Haggar going ashore in a small boat on several occasions taking charge and marshalling the troops. He also worked the A.A. Lewis gun on board with such skill that Messerschmitt attacks were repulsed. Recommended that this remarkable rating should be decorated for gallantry and noted for early advancement to Petty Officer, for which his qualities of leadership fully qualify him. Dutch Skoot H.M.S. REIGER - Lieutenant Alexander Tyson, R.N. Operated from 26th May to the 3rd June. Steering compass was so unreliable as to be given up as hopeless, and in spite of considerable navigational difficulties of the locality, completed 3 trips to Dunkirk and the beaches, a performance above the average for the 40 skoots employed in the operation. Recommendation. OFFICER. Lieutenant Alexander Tyson, R.N. Displayed marked pertinacity throughout the operation and coolness under fire when in the Dunkirk area. Handled about 800 Allied troops. Recommended for mention. Dutch Skoot H.M.S. TWENTE - Lieutenant-Commander Humphrey Gilbert Boys-Smith, R.N.R. Recommendations. OFFICER. Lieutenant-Commander Humphrey Gilbert Boys-Smith, R.N.R. Displayed exceptional initiative and a high order of pertinacity under fire. During 2 days and 3 nights/
Page 12 Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B' MISCELLANEOUS. CALCUTTA (A.As Vessel). Commanding Officer. Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N. LORMONT. Commanding Officer. Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N. Officers. Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R. Ratings. Marine A. Hobberjam. Marine, H. Ambrose. H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.As Motor Boat Commanding Officer. Sub. Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N. Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE Officer. Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R. Rating. Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192. Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE. Officers. Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R. Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R. A.A. Kite Party. Commanding Officer. Commander John Scott Dove, R.N. Officers. Sub. Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R. Sub. Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R. Motor,
Page 16. Page 13. Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B' MISCELLANEOUS. (Continued). Motor Vessel LAROC. Ratings. Mate, Jack Lynn. Engineer, Raymond Crane. Deck Hand, Leonard Lynn. Steward, H. A. E. Frost. Motor Barge SHEFFIELD. Commanding Officer. Sub.Lieutenant John David Farquharson Kealy, R.N. Hopper Barge LADY SOUTHBOROUGH. Commanding Officer. A. M. Poole - Master. LIGHTER X209. Commanding Officer. Acting Master R. G. Banks. Fleet Fuelling Craft C.9. Ratings. Petty Officer Stanley A. Steward, P/J.111270. Petty Officer Arthur W. Duck, P/J.105768. W.D. Launch MARLBOROUGH) ) Eel Boat JOHANNA. Commanding Officer. Acting Sub. Lieutenant Adrian Carew Hunt, R.N. Tug ST. CLEARS. Commanding Officer. Mr. William Josiah Penny, Master. Rating. Able Beaman Arthur Chawner, O.N. N.K. SMALL BOATS. Officers. Sub. Lieutenant E. S. Foreman, R.N.V.R. Sub/ or/
DSC. Lieutenant Alexander Harper Turner, Skipper George Hattan, W.S.3022, REED. Skipper William Francis L Sub-Lieutenant John Kenneth Barton Miles, R. R.V.R., Sub-Lieutenant Robert Walter Timbrell, R.C.N., H.M.M.M.M. Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R., TRITON. Sub-Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, E.M.B. R.N., Lieutenant Charles Waterland Read, R.N.R., VERNON Motor Boat I, etc. BONNIE HEATHER. Sub-Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N., Motor Boat Sub-Lieutenant John Cambridge Clarke, R.N.V.R., Etc. Motor SWALLOW, Captain Master, W. Thompson, S.S. DORIEN ROSE. Boat RAPIDE. Chief Engineer B. Murphy, S.S. DORIEN ROSE. Ans kvimate, T.O. Hanlon S.S. DORIEN ROSE. Captana Master, J. Freyer Tug FOREMOST Thames 87. Cockle Boat Flotilla. Sub-Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R., & Lieutenant Commander Stratford Hercules Dennis, R.N., Lieutenant Christopher William Stuart Dreyer, Base, R.N., Commanding M.T.B. Dover. Lieutenant Donald Terry McBarnet, R.N., M..T.B. Dutch 102. Skoot Sea Cadet Lieutenant Harry Sidmouth-Willing, H.M.S. DOGGERSBANK. Dutch Skoot Lieutenant Frederick Thomas Renny, H.M.S. R.N.R., HILDA. Dutch Skoot Engineer Mr. J. Crockett, - BIARRITZ. H.M.S. HONDSRUG. Captarize Master, Charles Archibald Hancock, Captain Master, Ernest Leonard Hill, CANTERBURY. Captain Master, Robert Mallum McLean, Hospital Personnel GUERNSEY. Carrier ISLE GEORGE OF Captaus Master, Reginald Richard Pittman, Transport Captained Master, William Oswald Young, H.M. Ship LEVENWOOD. KING Second Second Officer Frank Edward Martin, - St. - ST. Helier. HELIER xv Sub Acting Chief Able hightenant Seaman Engineer Officer Allan Seaman Watterson, Ronald Thirwall, - TYNWALD Medal. C/JX. H.M.S. - ROYAL 139421, HARVESTER DAFFOD (Cook) J.H. Elton, LT/JX.180250, H.M.S. MOSQUITO. R.N. Patro Service, H.M.Y. BYSTANDER
(1977) Wt. 20777/4432 50M 10/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671. DS M Register No. Minute Sheet No. Leading Seaman Murdo Macleod, R.N.R., 5849D, H.M.S. SKIPJACK Chief Petty Officer William Cobley, C/J.22075, H.M.S. SPEEDWELL Leading Seaman Stanley Robert Holden, 106164, H.M.S. SPEEDWELL Able Seaman Thomas James Kesby, C/J.87250, H.M.S. SPEEDWELL Petty Officer Harold Beasley, C/J.93287, H.M.S. SUTTON Acting Stoker Petty Officer Albert George Dollery, P/KX.80017, H.M.S. SUTTON Fireman William Mitchell, T.124, - QUEEN OF THANET Chief Mechanician Arthur Frederick Ford, P/K.21534, H.M.S. WHIPPINGHAM Stoker Petty Officer Charles William Donnelly, D/K.5995, H.M.S. BIDEFORD Acting Cook Albert Victor Hocking, D/MX.58549, H.M.S. BIDEFORD Stoker 1st Class F.F. Beer, C/KX.86684, H.M.S. KINGFISHER Able Seaman Cecil Arthur Leonard Hirschfield, C/J.100099, H.M.S. MOSQUITO Stoker Petty Officer William Edward White, C/K.64353, H.M.S. MOSQUITO Yacht Engineer F. Barter, T.124, H.M.Y. ANLAH LXV Able Seaman W.F. Lunn, 107117, H.M.Y. ANLAH Engine Room Artificer A. Ferris, T.124, H.M.Y. BOUNTY Signalman H.G. Hayes, C/JX.140933, H.M.Y. BOUNTY HXV Ordinary Signalman W.A. Denny, TP/X.1790, H.M.Y. BOUNTY Able Seaman E. Fenton, P/JX.145044, H.M.Y. BOUNTY Acting Petty Officer H.H. Smith, P/JX.125648, H.M.Y. CARYANDA Able Seaman T.W. Schofield, 26827, H.M.Y. CARYANDA Chief Petty Officer A.A.H. Gutsell, P/J.28475, H.M.Y. THELE Chief Engineman Harry S. Sharman, LT/KX.105182, H.M.Drifter Boy Roy Cook Reginald G.A. Remblance, LT/SX.181854, H.M.Drifter GOLDEN GIFT Seaman Joseph Allen Peters, S.G.G.L., H.O., LT/JX.180429, H.M. Drifter GOLDEN SUNBEAM Mate James Bettess, R.N.R. LT/JX.187263, H.M. Drifter MIDAS Seaman William Omar Blowers, R.N.R., LT/JX.181818, H.M. Drifter MID'AS Mate Sidney Rose, 185667, H.M. Drifter PAXTON Mate Herbert Cuthbertson, LT/JX. 1858584, H.M. Drifter SHIPMATES Stoker John J. Collins, LT/KX.105201, H.M. Drifter YORKSHIRE LASS Seaman Samuel William George Bauldry, LT/JX.181750, (Acting Second Enginemen) H.M. Drifter YORKSHIRE LASS Chief Petty Officer Percy S.T. Munn, C/J.10033, Torpedo Coxswain Pensioner, H.M.S. ROYAL EAGLE Able Seaman George Frend, 95190, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Chief Engineman A.A. Storr, X.6082, - FEASIBLE. Stoker R. Whiteley, 100149, - JOHN AND NORAH Second Hand John William Crawford, LT/JX.173174, - SWIFT WING LXV Able Seaman Alan Morrison, X.7814C, - JEANNIE MCINTOSH Seaman John Guyan Mearns, LT/JX.179790, - GULA Engineman W. Kennedy, R.N.R. EX. 369, H.M. Drifter DORIENTA Coxswain Edward S. Woodhead, T. 124, H.M. Danlayer GULZAR Greaser Peter Blake, 124, H.M. Danlayer GULZAR Second Hand Charles Adams, L.H., JX. 173276, H.M.T. JOHN CATTLING Petty Officer George Albert Coussens, P/J.7788, H.M.S. DWARF. Ordinary Seaman Jack Randle, 182172, H.M.S. LLANTHONY. VXV Petty Officer B. Pope, R.N.R., D.5672, H.M.S. MONA'S ISLE. Able Seaman Frederick Henry Herbert Wyatt, R.N.V.R., B.9/1806, H.M.Y. ALOUETTE 11. Chargehand B.A. Smith, Little Ship Club, Motor Boat NYMPH. CONSTANT KXV Skipper G.D. Olivier, Motor Yacht MASAYRU.
(1977) Wt. 20777/4432 50M 10/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671. M D Register No. Minute Sheet No. XV Lieutenant John Vander Ould, R.N.V.R., Commanding Officer, H:M.Y. LAHLOO Petty Officer H.H. Holland, J.20594, H.M.Y. AHOLA Able Seaman F.H. Finch, SSX.23237, H.M.Y. AHOLA Yacht Engineer T.M. Weir, T.124, H.M.Y. EILA II Petty Officer C.S. Smith, P/J.14350, H.M.Y. EILA II Able Seaman C.S. Marriott, P/SSX.237766, H.M.Y. EILA II Yacht Engineer D. Brewer, T.124, H.M.Y. LAHLOO Seaman George F. Mathews, R.N.R., H.O., H.M. Drifter THE BOYS Lieutenant-Commander Edward Frederick Allan Farrow, R.N.R., H.M.S. ROYAL EAGLE Ordinary Seaman Hugh Watson Miller, C/JX.170070, H.M.S. ROYAL EAGLE Lieutenant-Commander Bernard Ralph Booth, R.N.R., H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones, T.124, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Chief Steward John Gooch, T.124, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Able Seaman George Tilleny, C/SS.7050, R.F.R., B.17336, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Able Seaman Frederick JamesSlack, C/J.93546, R.F.R., B.21781, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE X Ordinary Seaman Frank A.V. Patrick, C/JK.171302, H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE Sub-Lieutenant Norman Walter Albert Mann, R.N.V.R., Unit Officer Engineman J. Smith, H.O., H.M. Drifter DORIENTA Stoker J.J. Shone, H.O., H.M. Drifter DORIENTA Stoker J. Pirie, R.N.R., H.M.Drifter DORIENTA Seaman Charles H. Baldry, T.124, H.M. Danlayer GULZAR Cook, George Cliefe, T.124, H.M. Danlayer GULZAR Signalman Arthur L. Shallis, OD.X.4505, H.M. Danlayer GULZAR Lieutenant Charles C.L. Gaussen, R.N.V.R., H.M. SARGASSO Danlayer Commodore Alfred Hugh Taylor, O.B.E., (Rear-Admiral Retired) Commander John Williams Damer Powell, D.S.C. (Bar), R.N.R., (Retired), H.M. Drifter MARE Skipper Henry Arthur Catchpole, R.N.R., H.M. Drifter STRIVE Skipper Sub-Lieutenant Reginald Edward Lee, R.N.V.R., H.M. Yacht Arthur Victor Long, R.M.R., H.M. Drifter THREE KINGS ALOUETTE II Second Hand John W. Fenwick, LT/KX.188753, H.M. Yacht ALOUETTE II Lieutenant Herbert Edward Wigfull, R.N.V.R., H.M.Y. CHRISTOBEL Il Ordinary Seaman John Phillip Charles Mead, LT/JX.193106, II H.M.Y. CHRISTOBEL Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N., M.B. LADY CABLE Lieutenant Engineer C. Victor Coggins, Alexander M.Y. MASAYRU. C.H.G. de Mauny, R.N., OCEAN Drifter BREEZE. Sub-Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R., Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY Sub-Lieutenant Michael Adam Anthony Chodzko, R.N.V.R., M/B. AURA Sub-Lieutenant Marwood W. P/KX.87052, )Newhaven & PHYLLIS Lifeboat LUND ROSA J.R. Yeatman, M/B. SKYLARK Stoker 1st Class Spray, White, CDX.133 ) WOOD Boat Ordinary Acting Petty Seaman Officer T.E. Achin, JX.149919, Belgian Motor YSER XV XV Master, Coxswain Mr. Douglas George B. Butler, Motor Kirkaldie, Motor Boat Vessel FERVENT LAROC
M. 12538 (M. of S.) which made recommendations:- Considered the following by the Honours and Awards Committee Road Hower Primrose Cooper Distinguished Service Medal Ramarat Mr. H. E. Knight, Coxswain of the Ramsgate Life Boat. ancharge Mr. Parker, Coxswain of the Margate Life Boat. Submitted for approval. just Mangale (J.P. DROOP) for HEAD OF 8th COMMISSION AND WARRANT BRANCH. August, 1940. Propose L- appron HRM 10/8 APPROVED BY FIRST LORD. hispit NAVAL SECRETARY TO THE FIRST LORD. A.M. The king has been pleased to approve there awards. Naval Secretary 21.8.40. 21. 8.40. Both these Coxsurine were genzetted 'DSM' - see p5711 of 2nd Sup to Ldn Gog of 26/9/40. Wheelower. for C.W.B. 28/9/1940
C.W. 26612 North Finchley, 4.4.41 1941 The admiralty CW (NTA) Whitehall SW.1 Dear Sir, OENTP 9- AUG 10 :- REGIST May I. Georges Ragaert, kindly drawn your attention to the following matters. Having learned recently that the men who took part in the evacuation of the B.E.F at Dunkerque last year have been rewarded by the admiralty. N. I am a Belgian Subject of Feebruge and deemed it my duty to make it known to you that I also took part in these operations of which feats no acknowledge sh was received. have reported these facts to my own government ome on two occations Whithout the Slightest refulls, and are nt inclined to doubt wether this report ever reached you Ne therefore dear Sir, allow me to make the following are en Halzment In Mai 18th 1940, Tleft Zeebrunge in command of with France as destination. Farrived the next day the fishing motor boat Z.50 named L YDIE ZUZANNA, re Authorities to proceed with my bettel to Ramsgate. On Mai 29th received orders by the French havel at Dieppe and Stayed there for Seoural days. On arriving there I was ordered by the Eughth affist authorities to proceed to Dunkerque and to in the evacuation On Nai 30 th arrived at Ranigate with 100 English foldiers on board, Loon after and landing during these the men I Lailed back to Dunkingue
over, before taking V.Iydie Zusanne. If we send the case to us M. Ragaert, a Belgian, brought his is ing motor-boat Lydie Zuzanne to and depe when his country was over-run. any From there he was sent to Ramsgate, after thence he sailed on May 29th to Dunkirk, there he took on board 100 British soldiers. These mon he landed at Ramsgate, returning at once to Dunkirk for another 110 mon. Having landed them, he made a third passage to Dunkirk Where he took 98 men on board and brought them to Remagate. The next day, June 3rd he went back again to Dunkirk, where the bombardment was BO heavy that only 10 men could be got on board. These too were landed surve at Ramagate. For 30 On June 6th Iydie Zusame went back to Le Havre to ferry troops across the basiene, and here she WELS sunk by a bomb. Your gaert found his way back to England Seaman he now serving as a Leading berrihe Royal Navy.
Treasury Thambers, B.H.A.C. (B) Whitehall, S.U. B.H.A.M. (B) 7th April, 1942. My dear gleadowe The following Belgian seamen have been honoured for services in the evacuation from Dunkirk. M.B.E. (Civil Division) (Admy. number C.W.26235/40 of 17th Sept. 1940). Captain Maurice Coppin, Master, " Trawler S.S. "Julia". "Guido Gazelle", 0.225. Captain Rene Lusyne, If " "Maréchal Foch", 0.274. Captain Pierre Lusyne, B.E.M. (Civil Division) Engineer Albert Rooman, Trawler " "Cor Jesu", 0.87. 0.227. Seaman Prosper Luca, If S.S. "Julia". Seaman Victor Goes, " "Guido Gazelle", 0.225. Seaman Hector Annys, 11 Boats based on Dartmouth Dunkirk. and manned The with "Julia" volunteers, braved every These danger Belgian in transferring Gazelle" 403, troops the from "Cor Jesu" 274. The last named the "Guido boąt embarked made 1007, one trip, the others two. The "Marechal Foch" of the went soldiers alongside to jumping Dover the in on quay another board at grounded Dunkirk trawler Foch" and but her. and set on went a The Master falling and tide his the one weight assistant day, embarked returned 300 men the in vessel the "Marechal was run of down the by troops. a Warship, which back out for again took England. the next Off these the Goodwin two brave Light Belgians and some 150 these on board 1,800 the and men pertinacity of sea." volunteer Troops and are D.S.C. George François Rayaert, Master of a Belgian (Admy. fishing boat. Letter 13 Nov. 1941). "For services at Dunkirk. The R.M.Y. Gleadowe, Esq.. cw26612/41 Phare set
COPY TRANSLATION. D. GESELLE. Belgian Telegraphist, G.1. Mess. R.N. Barracks. Devonport. 19th May 1942. Dear Madam, TRANSLATION. Th. Everaert. address and I sun sending Dutch Naval Base. ps Milford Haven. a to you. a Belge I 10th May 1942. not know, 1 the took c, bu! To the Editor of the "MARINE" it at Newlyn, I am writing you on the subject of Mr. Georges the Ragaert. board the same ship, young and as I am his best friend, I As this man has always sailed with should me on pres very much like to know how he has obtained the D.S.C. lish ths; L. regarding the for a long compensation while I am now now in I have for the loss Royal been of Nethorlands a effects, I was working with in come Ragaert. Netherlands the Z.50, Belgian owner: The Government flag, latter Prosper I should has but, Everaert, often be seeing grateful advised where that to me the you to 2.50 apply if was you to under could the We :hre give me helpful advice. en any for more obtain further details Ragaert about which and myself, or If you wish to let you have them, relevant as papers I about the boat, I can nearly on account are, of managed his as you to doubtless bring away enbolled know, in as will engineer. ent having I been thank you pupil in advance this that of saying you that re give I am me very good pleased advice; with I the take journal 113 Your obedient Servant, (signed) T. Everaert. LYDIESUZANNE 4 on
D. GESELLE. COPY TRANSLATION. Belgian Telegraphist. G.1. Mess. R.N. Barracks. Devonport. 19th May 1942. Dear Madam, address and I am sending you this letter, which will perhaps It is quite by chance that I have learned your be a surprise to you. I am a telegraphist in the Royal Navy, Section Belge I do not know, Madam, if you are conversant with the events which took place during the dark days of Dunkirk, but I would like to have some details on the suject of the decoration bestowed on G. Ragaert. I myself have nothing against this young man, but at Newlyn, Penzance and Brixham, there are nunerous Belgians who remember the fishing-boat 81. It is a scandal that the Belgian Press and its journalists should only learn the truth through the foreign pres I was, with two other Belgians, on board the English aircraft carriers "Furious" and "Illustrious" for seven months; I I was in America for four months on board the latter vessel. the to papers, but I have and now, when I come have had splendid opportunities of having my story appear in England Independant were soldiers at Dunkirk, 600 soldiers at Havre. We With This I see is the just what 81, such always I civilians would "Madeleine a story refused like in and Camille", you them, the 50 to "Belgique know, we Madam: saved 350 - hours the last to leave Le were waiting for thr were for a rear-guard of Havre French , soldiers, where we of which only 50 men able to be rescued. London; Germans for At For half the an entrance hour. to the port to we run were round bombed the by offices the 3 G. Ragaert myself, has I his have no one Ostende; I was father. Royale de Ibis at Navy I at have I the been age a pupil of at 191. sea of the since Oeuvre I was 14 years old, my and affairs, entent you and be that have no relatives here would I look do that not after want my letter to import will in advance, I remain, P.N.L.O. (signed) Désiré Geselle. 27
COPY TRANSLATION. D. GESELLE. Belgian Telegraphist, G.1. Mess. Barracks. Devonport. 19th May 1942. Dear Madam, It is quite by chance that I have learned your P.N.L.O. address and I am sending you this letter, which will perhaps be a to you. 2 surprise telegraphist in the Royal Navy, Section with Belge which I do not took know, place during the dark days of of Dunkirk, the but I am a Madam, if you are conversant Letter the would events like to have some details on the subject decoration bestowed Ragaert. on G. nothing against this young Belgians man, but who at Newlyn, Penzance I myself and have Brixham, H. 81. there are numerous and its remember I aircraft I journalists was in had the America carriers It I splendid should was, fishing-boat is a with "Furious" for only scandal opportunities four two learn months that other and the the "Illustrious" Belgians, truth on of Belgian board having through the on my Press board for latter story the seven foreign the when appear vessel. months; English I pres in come the to have England papers, I but see I just have such always a story refused in 350 We This is what H.81, I Havre. were soldiers the able for last at a to With At Dunkirk, rear-guard be to the the rescued. leave entrance 600 Le of Havre French to the , soldiers, port where we we were of round which bombed the only by offices for the 50 men thre 2 hours were Germans for half an hour. no one to run at London; G. For I Ragaert was myself, been a pupil has at I his sea have of father. since the Oeuvre I was Royale 14 years de after old, l'Ibis my and affaire entent the Ostende; and Navy at I have I the have age no of relatives 191/2. here you. would I do look that not want my letter to importy will be you a With thanks in I (signed) Désiré Geselle. 4 on P.N.L.O.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendatione of Personnel - List "A". RATINGS Victor Goes, Seaman, Belgian S.S. "JULIA". Prosper Luca, Seaman, Belgian Trawler 0.87. These men volunteered immediately to take the Belgian trawler "GEORGES EDOUARD" 0.86 to Dunkirk. They made two trips to Dunkirk and embarked 1007 troops, and had to wait in Dunkirk Harbour from 0800 to 2100 on the first trip. They did everything possible to help in getting their ship away and had previously volunteered their services if required. Recommended for decoration. Hector Annys, Seaman, Belgian Trawler "GUIDO GAZELLE" 0.225. did the Together round to Dover, twice to Dunkirk, and returned only with his Captain, Rene Lusyne, this seaman finally to Dartmouth. trip He and his Skipper were the His crew onboard and brought back 403 troops to Dover. courage and determination were of a high order. Recommended for mention. CIVILIAN PERSONNEL. Mr. P. Gooding, in charge of Motor Mr. C. Boat W. Mott "LADY of CABLE". Torquay) Dunkirk Mr. and F. Gooding did 7 carrying (owned trips and by between two about Naval 560 the CABLE" ratings men, beach after herself. proceeded at Dunkirk which and The 40 to and men were seamanship two transports, carried displayed to Ramsgate by direct Gooding by "LADY bearing was of on a high the success order of his voluntary service had a the operation. Recommended for mention.
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 199 2429. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
(AFC
(AMC
(AUC
(CF)
(CHC
(ELC
(41) -Overseas Commands
) - African Command
) -— American and West Indies Command
) = Australien Commend
- Chine Force
Y - Chine Commend
} <- East indies Command
in column (8)
(P)
(S)
- Presumed lost
- Sunk
(EC) -~ Home Commend:
(MC) ~- Mediterranean Command
(NAMC) - North American Command
(WAC) - North Atlantic Command
(SAC) - South Atlantic Commend
(WAFCY) - West African Command
(T) >
Total loss
Wi, 2
gilverte
ra B ,ivert
ve weuvert
nae {iis Oe
Ae avertc
Kalo (oe
aw Gs
ABBREVIATIONS
in colum (2)- Type or Flag
rok Be) - Belgian MY = Motor yacht
og - Cargo liner (No) = Norwegian
D - Dinghy > > Putter
DB - Dumd darze PC - Mixed passenger ana Saree liner
DR - Drifter PS - Paddle steamer
(Da) - Dutch PTS - Pilot cutter
(Eg) - Esyptian PZ + Prige - now British
F ~ ferry \ $s - Salling barge
(Fi) - Fimish SL + Steam Launch
(Fry) - French SP3 - Self propelled barge
(Gr) ~- Greek ss - Steam ship
(ie) - Italien SY - Steam yacht
L - ,ighter rE ~- Tender
MB - Motor boat TX - Tanker
MEFS - Movcor fishing boat ype - Trawler
Misa -=- gos are (This incluces aux. TR - Tramp
ts, Wherries, Sloops, ¢tc.) Tu - Tug
ML - Motor leunch
MV ‘vate vessel (Tur) - Turkish ;
W - Whaler :
in m column {) — teces of Employment
CA ~ Compulsorily acquires TyC-wN - Time chartered on net %
CixzsS— gt pag under the Liner vasis
Aine Ba Ma oreo ye ote -E90 - Dormant contract
Le a ES £985, 98 C9 BD = Net chaptarberviee!
PUR ST K i bps xi A ~- Gross charterparty
R = Sebesikhs thieok sas 9 ore Vessels of)
ae Be & - Time Cherter yt a ~- Gross charter agreement
in columm (5) <a \
iN - Net tonnege DY - Deadweight - : Pay
as - Cargo capacity 1a? - Indicsted horss power
in colum (6) (1) -Nature of Service
ACS ~ Accommodetion ship BDP - Harbour defence patrol
AP - aur. Petrol IER - immobilisation of harbours and | j
ARM - Armament supply rivers
ARP ~- River emergency service “iS ~ Minesweeper
AS = Snti—subessinc Mas Cs Tl. - - Miscellaneous Naval
SE ~ Belloon berregc Misc. RAF - *{scelianeous RAF.
ED = Boom defence MW ~ Mine watching
ce - Contraband control ac ~ Naval control
C&SS - Cogsting and Short See ® ~ Patrol (ON
cs - Commerciel service 2D - Port auties oA
D - Danieying RD - River defente ”
DEMS - Defensive Zgquisnent of dd ~ Salvage"
Merchant Snips TD ~ Transport duties
DG - Dezaussing Service Ws ~ Waterbdoat
E - Examinetion Wy - War Dept.
FAA - Fleet Air Arm
FS - Fire Service
| ADMIRAL MITCHELL (National Steam Ferry Boat Service) | F | R(T98B) | PD(MC) | (Salved) 5.42 | ||||
| LAUNCH (65:) (Belsize Boatyard) | IHR | 8.40 | 2,42 | |||||
| ADMIRALTY SAILING GALLEY (Belsize Boatyard) | IHR | 8.40 | 2.42 | |||||
| ADMIRALTY STEAM PINNACE (50!) (Belsize Boatyard) | IHR | 8.40 | 2.42 |
| ALEXANDRA (Belsize Boatyard) | Misc. | 1891 | 100 | ACS | 2.41 | 27.5.41 | ||
| ALICE (Port of London Motor Boat Co.) | SPB | 1876 | R(T98B) | 67 | BB | 2.12.39 | 8.12.39 |
| AURORA II (W. A. Lancaster) AUSTIN (ex MOTOR BOAT UNNAMED) | TL MB | R(T98D) | 2 | Misc.N. (MC) TD | 6.40 | 25. 5.41(T) |
| A | BEAR (ex DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT) (M.O.W.T.) | ML | PUR | Misc.N.(MC). | 1.43 | 8.12.43(T) | |||
| BELL (ex LIFEBOAT 24' off | Misc. | ||||||||
| BELLA (ex LIFEBOAT 241 off | Misc. | Misc.N. | 13.10.42 | 13.10.42 |
| BELLE VUE (Newport (Mon.) Pilot Boat Co. Ltd.) | PTC | 1922 | If R(T99) R(T98) | " 100 If | TD E E | 8.40 30.9.39 27.7840 | 26.7.40 | £54 |
| (Pre Col. | BOAT (201) (off FINA) (M.O.W.T.) |
| B) | Boat Co. (Westminster), Ltd.) | CA | TD | 22.6.42 |
| BUCK (ex DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT) (M.O.W.T.) | ML | PUR | Misc.N. (MC) | .1.43 |
| BURTON GARTH (ex MOTOR BOAT) | MB |
| CAMEL (ex DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT) (M.O.W.T.) CAMELLIA (R. F. Money) | ML MB | PUR | Misc.N. (MC) | 1.43 |
| CHIMAERA (Steam Pilot Boat | SL | 1912 | R(T99) | 87 | MS E | 9.41 27.8.39 | 26.7.40 | |
| CHLOE (ex LIFEBOAT 27' off BURNS) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc. | Misc.N. | 1. 4.44 | |||||
| CHRIS (ex LIFEBOAT 20' off | Misc. | Misc.N. | 1.44444 | |||||
| (Belsize Boatyard) | ||||||||
| CHRISCRAFT SPEEDBOAT (261) - | renamed | CHRISTINE | - q.v. | |||||
| CHRISCRAFT SPEEDBOAT (M.O.W.T.)) | R(T98B) | 3 | Misc.N. | 8.40 | 10.10.41 | £10 1st year | ||
| SPEEDBOAT 261) (M.O.W.T.) | CA | CS | 12.1.42 | .10.42 |
| owner A. E. Lemon c/o Taylors Boat yard) | If | Laid up (Never | .11.43 |
| DAMIETTA FISHING-BOAT - | renamed BEAR | q.V. | IHR | 5.7.40 | ||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT | renanted BORAG | q.V. | 18.12.40 | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT | renamed BUCK | - q.v. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT | renamed CAMEL | q.v. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT - | renamed | GAZELLE - | q.v. | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT | renamed | LEOPARD | q.V. | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT - | renamed LION | - q.V. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT - | renamed LYNX | q.v. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT | renamed MOOSE | - q.v. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT - | renamed OTTER | q.V. | ||||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT - | renamed | PANTHER | q.v. | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT I | renamed TIGER | q.v. |
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT (Prev. owners - M.O.W.T.) (Prev. | PUR Sold | Misc.N.(MC) | 20. 4.43 | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT No.261 (M.O.W.T.) | ML | PUR | WD(MC) | 1.43 | ||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOATS (6) (M.O.W.T.) (Prev. owners - | PUR | Misc.N.(MC) | 20. 4.43 | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOATS (12) (M.O.W.T.) | PUR | Misc.N.(MC) | 1.43 | |||||
| DAMIETTA FISHING BOATS (18) (Prev. owners - M.O.W.T.) (Prev. owners - Mohamed Felaya and Mahmoud Marzouk) | PUR Sold | Misc.N.(MC) | 20,4.43 | 15. 2.44 | ||||
| DAPHNE (National Steam Ferry Boat Co.) | F | R(T98B) | Misc.N.(MC) | 20.4.42 |
| DIVETTE (Mgr. - John Cooper) DIVING BOAT (converted lifeboat) | TU | R(ex French) | Misc.N. Misc.N. SV | .10.41 1.11.40 | ||||
| (Falmouth Borough Council) DIVING BOAT (Mohd. Soudan Bey) | Misc.N. (MC) | .3.41 | P.T.27 per | |||||
| DIVING BOAT NO.26 (Mohd. Soudan Bey) DIVING BOAT NO.383 DIVING BOATS (2) (Mohd. Soudan Bey) | R(ex French) | Misc. RAF (IC) Misc.N. Misc.N.(MC) | 3.41 .7.40 .4.41 | day P.T.27 per day P.T.27 per |
| DONALD (ex PILOT BOAT UNNAMED) | Misc.N. | 3.41 | 14. 6.41 |
| Boat Service) EMMA | R(T98B) | PD(MC) | 6.5.42 |
| owners I M.O.W.T.) (Prev. - Lough Erne Boat Co.) | CA | WD | 17.9.41 | . 6.42 |
| F | F.B.1 Pilot Boat | .5.41 |
| FAUNA (National Steam Ferry Boat Service) | F | R(T98B) | PD(MC) | 25.5.42 |
| FERN OWL (ex POWER BOAT 25') | MB | Misc.N. | 17.6.40 | 10.3.42 | ||||
| F. Walker Motor Boats, Ltd.) | R(T98B) CA | " | Misc.N. | .4.40 | 20.7.42 |
| FIELDFARE (ex MOTOR BOAT | MB | R(T98B) | Misc.R.F | 8.40 | 2.5.41 | £8.10.0 |
| F. Pilot Boat Co. Ltd.) | 11 | 11 | Laid up | 1.43 | 7.43 |
| FAUNA (National Steam Ferry Boat Service) | F | R(T98B) | PD(MC) | 25.5.42 |
| FERN OWL (ex POWER BOAT 25') | MB | Misc.N. | 17.6.40 | 10.3.42 | ||||
| Walker Motor Boats, Ltd.) | CA | # | Misc.N. | .4.40 | 20.7.42 |
| FIELDFARE (ex MOTOR BOAT | MB | R(T98B) | Misc.R.F | 8.40 | 2.5.41 | £8.10. 0 |
| Turnchapel Steamboat Co. Ltd) | CA | IHR | .7.40 | 6.41 | |||
| FOLLY (ex MOTOR BOAT) MB | |||||||
| F FOREMOST 43 (Maritime Towing. F & Salvage, Ltd. (Prev. F owners - St. John Tug Boat. F Co. Ltd.) | SS | 1928 | 227 11 | Misc.N. (MC) misc.N. | .10.41 5.43 | 5.43 |
| FROTH BLOWER (Capt. J. Robyns) FUELLING-BOAT (M.O.N.T.) | MY MB | 1927 | 45 18 | HDP AP | 29. 1.40 29. 31.5.40 2. | 1.40 9.40 |
| GOZO BOAT No. (A. Pulis) | SV(MC) | 24.9.42 | 10.11.42 | |||||
| GOZO BOAT No.32 (Joseph Grech) | Misc. | R(T98B) | Misc.N. (MC) | 9. 1.42 | ||||
| GOZO BOAT No. | Misc. | R(T98A) | Misc.N. (MC) | 1.42 |
| J.B.J. (ex MOTOR BOAT UNNAMED | MB | R(T98B) | PD(AFC) | 12.40 | 18.4.41 |
| JOLLY BOAT. (23:) (off ZAZA) |
| (Prev. owners - Chester | Boat | CA | R(T98B) | SV | 26.3.42 | 7.42 | a4 |
| Ltd.) KONDOA ("K" Boat Services) | MB | Misc.N. (EIC) | 9.42 | 9.11.42 |
| Gulf Motor Boat Co. Ltd.) | 1934 R(T621) | 273 | E(AMC) | .12.39 | 7.40(T) |
| L LAMBETH WALK (ex MOTOR BOAT | MB | R(T98B) | FAA | 9.40 | 20. 5.41 | £5 less 15% |
| Boat Co. (Cardiff & Bristol | " | " | Laid up | .1.43 |
| LEOPARD (ex DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT) (M.O.W.T.) | ML | PUR | Misc.N. (MC) | 1.43 |
| LIBERTY BOAT (421) (M.O.W.T.) MB | IHR | .8.10 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (241) (off FORTROL) - now | BABS - | q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (241) (off FORTROL) - now | BAT - | q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (241) (off FORTROL) - now | BELL | q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (24') (off SAN TIRSO) - | now BELLA | q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (24:) (off SAN TIRSO) - | now BETSY | - q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (261) (off BURNS) - now | BETTY - | q.V. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ARAB) - now BRAW | q.v. | ||||||
| LIFEBOAT (248) (off SAN TIRSO) - | now | BRENDA - q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (27:) (off BURNS) - now | CHLOE | q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (201) (off KATANGA). | now CHRIS | - q.v. | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ANGLE) - now GLEE | q.v. | ||||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ORACLE) - now PREY | - q.v. | ||||||
| LIFEBOAT (241) - now SPILSBY | q.v. | ||||||
| LIFEBOAT (281) (Belsize Boatyard) | IHR | 8.40 | 2.42 | ||||
| LIFEBOAT (14') (M.O.W.T.) | |||||||
| LIFEBOAT (141) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | .12.41 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (16:) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | .12.41 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (18i) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | .12.41 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (26:) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | 15.12.42 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (27') (M.O.W.T.) | WD | .7.41 | 16.11.42(T) | ||||
| LIFEBOAT (off BANKOK) (M.O.W.T.) | WD | 2.43 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (25') (off CAPITAINE | PUR | Misc.N. | 22.3.44 | ||||
| LIFEBOAT (off CORFU) (M.O.W.T.) | WD | .10.42 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ENGINEER | Misc.N. | 1.42 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ENGINEER | |||||||
| LIFEBOAT (off IOLANDO) (M.O.W.T.) | MS | 9.42 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off ISABEL) (M.O.W.T.) LIFEBOAT (M.O.N.T.) (141) (off KAIPARA) | Misc.N. Misc.N. | 22.3.44 6.8.42 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (14') (off KING (M.O.W.T.) | EDWIN) | Misc.N. | 12.8.42 | ||||
| LIFEBOAT (off KIRKELLA) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | 22.3.44 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (301) (off LARGS) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | 9.12.43 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (30%) (off LARGS) (M.O.W.T.) | Misc.N. | 9.12.43 | |||||
| LIFEBOAT (off LAURENTIC) (M.O.W.T.) | WD | 12.10.41 | 1.42 |
| LION (ex DAMIETTA FISHING BOAT) (M.O.W.T=) LIONED (Admiral Tug & | ML DB | PUR | Misc.N.(MC) | 1.43 |
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 199 788 A. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Dynaino Duplicate 16 Dynams 22H 13 - H.M.S. Dolphin, 16 Gosport. June 6th.I940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following report of the proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat. 2. The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th. May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem- aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had arrived about 15 minutes previously. 3. 80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S. Peregrine and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73. On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com- bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty, and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice. 4. Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for .M.S.Dolphin's boat to proceed with a similar boat from H.M.S. Excellent to La Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts and the route were supplied to each boat and information was obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe. 5. Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it 10 was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est- imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce speed to about 8 knots. 6. Some 8 miles North West of Bray an enemy floating mine was seen
Dynamo Duplicate 16 17 14 was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire but this was impracticable owing to the unsteadiness of the boat. The approximate position of the mine was later reported. 7. At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being short of petrol, closed H. M.S. Hebe but was unable to obtain any from her. As there were no other ships carrying petrol off La Panne, it was thought desirable to return to Bray in order to have a reasonably safe margin of petrol before conveying troops. On arrival at Bray, "Excellent's" boat signalled that she had struck a submerged object and req- uired assistance. As I had been told by a destroyer that the depth of water in that position was 3 feet and had also been told by the Senior Officer at Bray to be extremely careful not to get into shallow water, it was not considered advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the loss of a second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact try to assist but ran aground. 8. 20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the boat proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, how- ever, all ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore batteries from the town which was shortly afterwards OCC- upied by the enemy. In consequence the motor boat returned to Bray. 9. Enquiries were made at destroyers and other vessels present as to whether "Dolphin's" boat could be of any ass- istance, but again , owing to the shallowness of the water and state of the sea it was not possible to go alongside the improvised pier from which all troops were being embarked (no troops were at this time wading out to boats), nor was there a demand for a boat for towing purposes. 10. as to the usefulness of this boat under the circumstances, After consultation with the senior officer present it was decided to obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel, and there it was hoped that another tow could be obtained back to Dunkirk, where, it was believed , the boat could be more usefully employed. A tow was obtained from H.M.S.Sargossa at 1415
Dynamo 16 18 /5 at 1415 and a return was made to Dover, where ,after fuelling the boat's return was reported to the Operations Room. Instructions were given to stand by for further orders which were to be given at 0400 next morning. These instructions were cancelled and no movement was made on Saturday 1st.June. 11. On 2nd. June "Dolphin's" boat was attached to the officer in charge of small boats for towing and despatch purposes in Dover harbour. She was so employed until noon on June 4th. 12. The crew of the boat were keen to return to Dunkirk if a tow could be obtained, but after several enquiries it appeared that the boat was considered unsuitable for the workand the boat had, unfortunatly, to remain employed in Dover harbour. On 4th. June Able Seaman Stephans was lent as coxswain of the Walmer lifeboat at his request, but shortly afterwards all operations were cancelled. 13. for Littlehampton, arriving there at 2115. The following morn- The motor boat sailed from Dover at 1315 on June 4th. ing 50 gallons of petrol were taken in and at 0915 the boat sailed for Portsmouth. A certain amount of engine trouble was experienced of a minor nature. The boat arrived at Fort Blockhouse at 1245. 14. in charge of the engines and also to Lag. Saunders, both of Considerable credit is due to Ldg. Sto. Morris who was them working tirelessly to keep the motors in the best of con- dition, especially as the outward journey to Dover was made at maximum revolutions and no engine trouble was experienced until the return journey. Credit is also due to Ldg. Sea. Cobley, the coxswain of the boat. I have the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant Captain (st, H.M.S. Dolphin, Gosport. Bowden CAP RAIN IN (S) * VICE ADMIRA sub Leviten and R.N. A5th 8 JUN1940 12 JUN 1940 SUBMARINE 2198/199 FLOTH * DOVER WOD extracted from the Deed
Dynams Firefloat massey Shave Dynamo 302. B14/0/1312 46 45 H.M.S. EXCELLENT, 13th. June 1940. PORTSMOUTH. TEL: 2334 & 2335. Sir, After returning from leave, I have been instructed to submit full report on the Dunkirk perations. May 29ᵗʰ. I was appointed 1/c "Nelson's" 5 It. fast power boat. 2200/29.Left Portsmouth at very short otice with a crew of IL.S., IE.R.A.sth class AB, 10D. 2201/29. Ignition drive of starboand engine fractured, rendering engine useless for remainder of operations. repairs arried to centre engine. Repairs also 0500/30 Arrived Newhaven for fuel and out out on hull and self balers, as during had night. become half full of water Very willing and useful help given duties until the ship I have the honour, SII, Your obedient servant, To be J.C.K. Dow dung Officer. Comdr R.N.R. Commanding
Dynamo 312. 63 COPY. Royal Naval Hospital, 57 Chatham. To: Rear-Admiral Taylor, O.B.E.. 13th June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to forward the narrative of events whilst in command of m.v. "NEW PRINCE OF WALES" Bray. until she was believed sunk at 1415 at the beaches near A.M. Wednesday 29th May I was ordered to proceed to Sheerness to report to the Commodore at H.M.S. "WILDFIRE" Arrived Sheerness about 1700 was ordered to proceed in m.v. "NEW PRINCE OF WALES" leading flotilla of seven light craft. Left camber at H.M.S. "WILDFIRE" proceeded to sea through boom. Two boats appeared to be in difficulties and did not leave the boom. I was met by escort yacht and formed astern of her. Had to slow down to keep boats in company. First three boats astern kept good station, remaining one fell astern but owing to urgency of getting boats to destination flotilla did not decrease speed any further. About 2200 yacht escort was challenged from shore. She informed me an officer was required to go in to Margate for orders, so proceeded myself in fast motor boat "MARSAYRA". Established my identity and was told to push on to Ramsgate. While away one boat "QUEEN BOADACEA" broke down, after some delay she was taken in tow by escort yacht. My port engine broke down, speed. greatly reduced. One boat lost contact in darkness. I went back to look for her off Longrose, search unsuccessful, rejoined escort. Fog came down at dawn and escort anchored with "NEW PRINCE OF WALES", "QUEEN BOADACEA" and "MARSAYRA", off Ramsgate exact position uncertain. After an hour fog cleared enough to show buoy ahead so proceeded with "MARSAYRA" in company escort yacht following with "QUEEN BOADACEA". Engines misfiring badly and stopped just outside Ramsgate, anchored and proceeded into harbour in "MARSAYRU". Reported to Naval Officer-in- Charge Ramsgate received charts and orders to proceed to beaches between Bray and La Panne and to carry on ferrying troops from shore to ships until only enough fuel remained to return. Boats were towed in, repairs started on "NEW PRINCE OF WALES" immediately. Engines ready for use at 1630 so proceeded to sea 30/5 at once by route 'X' for Dunkerque. Arrived off French coast 2230 (Thursday 30th). Port engine failed again shortly after turning parallel to coast. Dunkerque burning fiercely and heavy pall of smoke covered the channel to the borth. Endeavoured to find beach with boat hardly making eny way through the water. Attempts to locate troops were insuccessful and I was lost in smoke, saw green light buoy ДРО established approximate position, immediately fterward voptboard engine failed, had to drop anchor. E.R.A. reported ammount of fuel remaining and I we could not return to Ramsgate even if we did no I. пливет BO determined to carry on until fuel ran out. The & atco LETUS efforts of E.R.A. hite and the stoker assisting commendable and before dawn both engines though firing badly the boat was making three
64 -2- 58 correct lying to four off knots. place a beach and crowded Sighted many with soldiers small craft go and some destroyers was hailed to out and a few came in as I boats. could. Was soldiers waded went as near inshore thought this Some apparently go alongside small coastal rowing of soldiers aground. Went to her and steamer took hour we went while she opened fire. In got way on and I lay when off bombing raid started, destroyer About to go alongside to be transferred to destroyers. off a boatload drift in port then starboard engines broke down Returning her to beach alongside and disembarked soldiers. about half an while there enough in to be reached easily by pulling. go anchor. close close to the shore before letting so let Was could assist in the engine room to volunteer. engines in a bad condition so I asked any soldiers who filled up with military. E.R.A. reported boats; Royal Artillerymen and Royal Engineers came forward Six to help E.R.A. White. Sand was found in the carburettors and the distributors required resetting. One engine was ready in just over one and a half hours, so got under way and proceeded to a destroyer to discharge men aboard. Next attempted to get alongside pier made of army lorries by dropping astern on anchor. Only one side of the pier was approachable, wind setting on shore difficult sea running, parted all my ropes in efforts to get alongside then found pier unusable where my boat could approach. Received and discharged more soldiers, also received signal that refuelling drifters were on their way to assist light craft. E.R.A. reported only enough fuel remaining for ten minutes running, then went alongside destroyer where I received one drum of petrol to carry on for a while. Received signal for all ships to be ready to leave at a moments notice. Both engines failed again as I was proceeding inshore Dropped anchor in shallow water. Large air battle in progress about thirty planes involved. Very shortly after 1700 (time rather uncertain) the enemy opened fire with a gun ashore. After first shell landed in the sea I ordered my crew to get below between the engines. Second shell landed in the water alongside my ship about three yards off and burst. Able Seaman Todd, and Able Seaman Holloway were instantly killed, Chief Petty Officer Dawson received cuts on the face and neck, E.R.A. White was hit in the leg, I was hit in the nose, hip and foot. Blinded by blood I was unable to see the extent of and asked for a report on the ship's condition and the damage. Ordered charts and secret papers to be the burned casualties incurred. Was told she was sinking slowly and my were really dead and he reported there was no doubt, they two A.B's killed. Told coxswain to make sure they had been killed outright. The Stoker burned my papers and charts while the coxswain hailed for assistance, E.R.A. White remained by me and kept me informed as to what was happening. assisted The into her, the remainder of the crew then abandoned motor coxswain shortly lowered the dinghy and I was launch ship (Coxswain, and were taken aboard casting the dinghy E.R.A., Stoker). Pulled over to adrift, a during this period I could not see and did not see
Dynamo 126. 83 8 6 22. June 1st 1940 ROYARD ENDER * 3 JUN1940 X. 208, Sir, GOS GOSPORT EG * At Ramsgate. 9 regret to report that the shif under my command, the lighter X. 209, attached to the Royal clarence yard Portsmouth, was involved in a shght collision early on the morning of June ,st 1940. The circumstances were as follows:- At affroximately 0200 on June 1940, X:208 was some five miles to seaward from the town of Gravelines on that fortion of the French coast which was occupied by the fermans. The sky was totally overast by heavy nimbus cloud and the night was very dark. 9 was proceeding very cantroisly at 2 knots in order to he as silent as possible and to avoid showing my position to the Germans by my how wave. My course was South 20° West, and was as steady as youring would allow. A bow-wave suddenly affeared on my starboard fow, and resolved itself into a small washif, nationality and class unknown due to the darkness, proceeding on a course almost exactly offosite to my own. For no apparent reason he suddenly altered course and now across my how. 9 stopped engines and then went astern, but before 9 could take the way off my shif the warship had swring himself beam on across my bows and I hit him beneath the bridge. After the collision the washit mad offand disappeared. X.208 sustained shght damag to the hows of the shif but was able to carry on her work, minus the ships boat, which was smashed by our screws as we went astem. ( Signed) Williams, sub Lientenant, Royal navy. R.g. Banks. act Masts. H.W. Edmidon (Q.m.) g a Windebank Lg slaker
241 263 From:- Sub/Lt. K. Adderley, R.N.V.R. Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 27th May- Assisted in collection and commissioning of 29th May pulling boats and motor boats for beach work; later assisted Act. C.B.O. (Lt. de Mauny, R.N.). 30th May. 0700 Detailed to act as Lieut. to Lieut. McMullan, R.N.R. in Dutch schoot "Twente". (Lieut. McMullan has reported separately on commissioning and voyage to Dunkirk and back). 1st June. 1100 Arrived back Ramsgate; stood by awaiting orders. 3rd June. 1100 Found 45 ft. river motor launch "Madame Sans Gene" arrived in harbour with crew from River Emergency Patrol - already detailed to proceed Dunkirk p.m. same day. Requested permission assist equipping and victualling and command in operation. Permission granted by Cdr. Duffett, R.N. 1700 Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk being towed in company lifeboat and 3 other boats on tug "Tanga". with warning, "Madame (a) a rope Sans fouling being Gene" streamed our was port disabled propeller, from tug en without route and, through on - being hauled in by tug, either bending or stripping blades or bending shaft. starboard engine becoming waterlogged (b) apparently by suction through exhaust owing to speed of tow could (8 kts). be used for a short while entirely. but Port engine its transmission gave could out still subsequently arrival Dunkirk suggested boat towed by be of Officer in charge of tug evidently On use in transport of troops if approved lifeboat. order to lifeboat, which Remained did and gave and was not seen again. Gene" not understand of tug after evacuating "Madame charge of Sans tug. in to tow tug on orders of officer in
246 From:- Lt. D. Van Gessel, R.N.V.R. Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 1st June. Was told to go to assistance of "Ivanhoe" and "Queen of Thanet". We contacted with tug ? "Java" who had survivors on board from the "Queen of Thanet". We set out and found "Ivanhoe" seriously bombed. The captain asked us to get medical help, etc. etc., which we did. We helped with more serious wounded, but they were in such a condition that removal seemed unwise. In consultation with Captain of "Ivanhoe" we decided to take off the survivors (mostly soldiers) and took them ashore. On next journey we took into Margate an M.T.B. with one survivor out of 8. The boat was badly damaged, but was docked alongside Pier. On these journeys was accompanied by Lt. Dancy. 31st May. Was out in tug "Doria" trying to find lifeboats reported floating near the Goodwins, when off Deal an M.T.B. bound for Convoy duties caught fire. After helping crew we took S.0.7 into Dover submarine basin. Commander of S.0.7 is reporting matter. N.B. Survivors of "Ivanhoe" were landed at Margate. We only left "Ivanhoe" when nothing more could be done and she proceeded in tow to Chatham. (v stancy (ree of Thavel assercause didnov nov Over
249/1 From:- Lt. A.W. McMullan, R.N.R. Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 30th May. Left Ramsgate in schoot "Twente" with Sub. Lt. Adderley, R.N.V.R. as 1st Lieut. 2230 Arrived 11/2 miles E. of Dunkirk roads. Remained anchored off all night but due to Jri shortage of boats was unable to embark any troops until 0500 on 31st May when a motor boat and two cutters were requisitioned with which 400 troops were embarked. These were disembarked at Margate. Returned to Ramsgate and anchored off the harbour for further orders. 1st June. Schoot "Twente" not required so joined power boat "Hague" with Cmdr. Troop R.N., Lieut. de Mauny R.N. and Sub. Lt. Hollingswear R.N.R. and proceeded to the inner harbour at Dunkirk where French soldiers were embarked and ferried across to a waiting transport in the roads 3rd June. 0200 Were struck whilst leaving the harbour (with 39 on board) on the port side successively by a by troops a French motor cutter and then again French trawler. "Westward Ho", being in the vicinity, "Hague" took off all the as no time was allowed the by damage. "Westward soldiers and crew and the the was Ho" abandoned to ascertain the extent of "Westward Ho" landed our troops and survivors of the "Hague" at Margate.
250 From:- Lt. Commdr. A.R.W. Sayle, R.N.R. Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 30th May. 0930 Received instructions to take Drifter "Fair Breeze" to beach east of Dunkirk. 1130 Proceeded on board "Fair Breeze" with Sub. Lt. Washbourn R.N. (from Portsmouth) and Mr. Golding, Trinity House Pilot, and proceeded for Dunkirk with two whalers in tow, courses as requisite. 1500 After whaler struck submerged object and appeared to be making water. 1600 Arrived off Dunkirk and proceeded to Bray Beach. 1630 Arrived off Bray Beach, commenced sounding, closed beach and hove to in two fathoms. 1645 After whaler found to be badly holed and filling with water, cut it adrift; sent remaining whaler ashore and requested motor boat from "Canvey Que en" to tow off any other boats he could find. (This boat rendered valuable assistance). 1700 First boat with troops arrived and embarkations commenced. 1800 Filled up with troops and proceeded to westward, hailed by Officer Commanding "Royal Eagle", lying toseaward of "Fair Breeze", and instructed to transfer troops from "Fair Breeze" to "Royal Eagle". Made fast 1815 Finished transferring troops from "Fair Breeze" Beach and to alongside "Royal Eagle". Royal Eagle"; proceeded back to Bray hove to off Sanatorium. 1830 1900 Recommenced Intensive bombing embarking attack troops. on Sanatorium and troops on 2030 Filled Bray up Beach. with troops and proceeded for Ramsgate; courses as requisite. 31st May. 0045 Observed Parachute enemy Flare aircraft; off N. Goodwin. tide. no casualties. 0050 0200 0400 Buoy awaiting Pier and commenced out tallied disembarking. 293. 0500 Troops 0515 Finished
273 251 From:- Sub. Lt. James W. Pratt, R.N.V.R. Date:- 4th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. M/B Singapore 2nd June. 2000 Left Ramsgate with convoy, making good only 5 knots on account of choppy sea. 3rd June. 0200 Off beaches east of Dunkirk. 0300 Swift current; went aground on sands. French naval officer from small motor launch attempted to help, but coult not re-float us. Decided to remain in cabin and wait for tide. Heavy shelling taking place all the time. Took two French captains aboard. 0730 Threw out a small anchor aft. 0800 Re-floated on incoming tide. Rescued two English soldiers from water. Decided to head for home. 0830 Engine stopped. Taken in tow by motor boat commanded by Sub. Lt. X Williams. /D.C. 1100 Saw heavy bombing "over our portbow". Still in tow; making good about 5 - 6 knots. 1200 Sighted floating mine. Attempted to explode it by Lewis gun fire from Sub. Lt. Williams' "Kit- Cat" and our own rifles - scored 12 hits but mine would notexplode. 1300 Hailed by R.A.F. motor craft who gave us our course to Dover. 1900 Arrived Ramsgate with two British soldiers, two French captains and one French Lieutenant.
274 252 From:- J. Travers-Moss, Motor Boat Kit-Cat, Ramsgate. Date:- 4th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. Report that whilst on duty on the 3rd instant at Dunkirk we had decided to take a final look around when we sighted the Singapore, who in turn had been aground all night and, in attempting to get away, had burnt out her clutch, so we took her in tow at 0830. This having reduced our speed considerably, we did not deem it advisable to stay any longer. As we reported verbally to you, in the south of the harbour there lay a Belgian boat with 8,000 gals of petrol aboard, but in view of our handicap V we were unable to destroy same. ? Lena isso information incorrect Liep why the Leua ? She was Watch Three were 6 Belgian boats - Happer, "Sambre" etc
NAVAL OFFICER IN GIVE <60 ad 278 256 From:- Act. Sub. Lieut. J.M. Chappell, R.N. Date:- 7th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 29th May. 30th May. 2200 Left Portsmouth in H.M.S. Nelson's picket boat. a.m. Sighted submarine and warned a French convoy. Port engine bearings ran out. 1730 Arrived Ramsgate on one engine. 2330 Left for Dunkirk, machine-gunned from the air two miles out of Ramsgate. 31st May. Dawn Arrived Dunkirk Roads. Funnel carried away by shell-fire. Making water slightly; loaded with troops and left. 1400 Arrived Ramsgate. 1st June. 0830 Left for Dunkirk. Making water rapidly. Beached the boat; found bottom damaged by enemy fire. Took command M.Y. Santosy and left for Dunkirk. On return journey filled up with petrol; found too late that one can contained water. Proceeded on port engine only; towed by trawler. Trawler ran on to wreck East of N. Goodwin L/V and turned over on top of "Santosy". Cabin smashed; civilian volunteer Barrington severely injured. Arrived Ramsgate on one engine. Discharged Barrington to Deal Hospital; sent crew ashore for rest. 3rd June. 1600 Engines repaired. Left for Dunkirk with civilian volunteer J.W.S. Gilbert as engineer. Towed by tug Sun IV. Tow parted off Dunkirk; proceeded under own power. Starboard engines failed again. Sea rising. Hailed Sun IV and on her commander's orders abandoned Santosy and boarded Sun VI with my crew. REPORT: New gas used by enemy. Shells and bombs bursting near gave off white cloud which hung suspended in air. From burns on bodies in water gathered it to be of acid nature.
289 DIARY OF PERSONAL EXPERIENCES AT DUNKIRK. From. 31.5.40 3.6.40 incl. 31.5.40. 1230. In accordance from Southend, with Commander instead Boles' instructions, decided direct closed up. us to our destination. although we had no charts, other traffic bound keep to France Signalled Decided that to the Bawley boats, and ordered them to at Ramsgate. constantly Dunkirk these instructions of closing the Examination Vessel to proceed would lead 1410. Convoy of was 6 closed still up and passed Margate Roads where passing trawler ximately. us that Dunkirk open. Signalled convoy to steer course of S. 50° E. informed appro- 1820. Passing destroyers, etc.; subjected to severe air attack by approximately 25 avoid bombardment. enemy aircraft. Kept 1/4 mile to starboard of main stream of traffic in attempt to 1840. Attacked by enemy aircraft. Our convoy of 6 and other ships in the neighbour- hood subjected to attack by several Heinkels, bombs falling as near as fifteen yards to the ships - no damage however was sustained. In accordance with instructions they had received, skippers broke convoy formation and "starred". 1850. 3 or 4 Spitfires drove off enemy aircraft, 7 planes crashing into the sea. Identity of crashing aircraft uncertain, though 5 at least were presumably German. 1915. Arrived Dunkirk Roads. Beach and shipping subjected to severe bombardment from shore batteries and aircraft. 1930. Attempted to beach boats, and take off men, but abandoned idea - too much ground swell, and semi-submerged trucks, army wagons and other equipment left, destroyed by the B.E.F. on beach, endangered the safety of ships. 2130. Ordered ships to proceed to outside of jetty, instructing them to fill up with soldiers and to ferry same to any larger ships unable to close harbour or beach. Each ship was instructed to transport approximately 30 to 40 men (approximate total - 200) and they were transferred to H.V. Tilly and other ships cruising empty outside harbour entrance. 2240. Instructed ships to keep permanently closed up and to return to inside of harbour as swell made embarkation of troops from outside of jetty too difficult. Contact between Bawley boats maintained by signal of one short flash every two minutes. Formation preserved. 2310. Mole and harbour severely shelled. Morale of the soldiers on all occasions I was there, was superb, and though exhausted and under constant fire, their only thoughts were for the wounded among them, and of saving any equipment possible. 2350. Embarked approximately 200 men; transferred same to the trawler Sarah Hayes and various other craft returning to England not fully laden. Instructed convoy to continue ferry work but if separated from me to return to Ramsgate laden with soldiers. 1.6.40. 0140. Re-entered harbour; jetty crammed with British soldiers but no ships whatever alongside. Started loading troops, sending back to shore two German prisoners attempting to get to England, leaving them in charge of a Lance Corporal. 0200 - 0250. Jetty shelled, bombed and machine-gunned by enemy - very few casualties. 0300. Proceeded to Ramsgate fully laden with soldiers of 1st Division including the Colonel in Charge of the Worcesters and Officers of the Camerons, accompanied by Bawley boat Resolute. Arrived at Ramsgate 0930 approximately on 1.6.40. CONDITION OF BAWLEY BOATS AT RAMSGATE. DEFENDER. Stem damaged. Returned with approximately 60 men. RELIANCE. Damaged side. Returned with 80 men. LETITIA. Undamaged. Returned towing Renown until latter was blown up. (Troops transferred to trawler who took Bawleys in tow). ENDEAVOUR. Steering gear out of order; towed back by Sarah Hayes. RESOLUTE. Engine trouble. Returned with approximately 40 men. RENOWN. Mined and sunk off Dunkirk - all hands lost. (understand the 30 or 40 soldiers aboard were fortunately transferred to a trawler before mining occurred).
314 290 I have since tropps been to informed drifter that Letitia and Renown, laden, Renown pieces. of tow was a blown to and were themselves towed returning to Ramsgate. fully TOTAL number of of tropps Cockle transported by Bawley boats was 600. Description a Bawley - 40' long, 12' beam, 2'6" over draft, Diesel engines (All the following times are approimate) Arriving at Ramsgate (1.6.40.) I decided that Bawley boats were not fit for further service, and so ordered them to porceed to Southend. Obtained permission to commandeer any craft available in Ramsgate harbour and to return to Dunkirk when ready. 1400. Commandeered tug Contess but crew deliberately put tug aground and made every possible obstruction to impede the sailing of same. 1700. Although tug Contess was afloat, engineer refused to put the ship: to sea, as he claimed his filters would be blocked by sand. Crew of Tug Fossa, with Skipper, volunteered to come instead, Commandeered tug Fossa and Motor boat Therune, which I manned with one Petty Officer, and two Sea Scouts. (Unfortunately I lost track of their names and addresses after I was sunk) 0000. Arrived at Dunkirk and decided that harbour was too congested with larger craft to justify taking tug Fossa inside harbour. Proceeded with Motor-boats with intention of filling up same and transferring soldiers to tug Fossa, whose instruc- tions were to lay off Dunkirk until contacted. Coming alongside the jetty, overheard Naval Officer on Mole cry "Isn't there anyone here who can deal with these Frenchmen?" 2.6.40. 0035. Offered my services as Liaison Officer. Left Therune in charge of Petty Officer with orders to continue loading tug Fossa until at least 300 men had been embarked, and then to return laden to Ramsgate if they could not find me. Understand Fossa later went aground, but may have been re-floated. 0030 Mrs 0310. Due to fair knowledge of the French language Iwas able to render a embarkation of troops on the jetty. The speed of the embarkation was greatly and slowed the certain amount of assistance to Commander Cluston, Officer in Charge of the due to the lack of understanding between the French Officers and men, and up French believed that certain ships had been reserved for them, English. The were on no account to be broken. As a result, serious could congestion not was found round one contacting the various officers in charge of the regiments, and in getting was, that their units gangway, while other ships at the end of the Pier I get however, the men aboard. able to By assist to a certain extent in clearing up the point, 0310. the French Understanding troops on that the move. the destroyer Winchelsea was the last ship to be leaving Dunkirk I returned to Dover with her. 0800. Reported to H.M.S. Lynx and was ordered and submitted to contact chart Commander with Goodenugh (on 2.6.40) at Castle. Reported to Commander Dunkirk, Goodenugh 31.5.40 and 1.6.40, with marked with rough details of state of of wrecks, affairs troops at on dunes, and from times Admiral of bombardments Ramsey to etc, approximate as positions nights. Obtained permission assisting in return noted to during Dunkirk these as Liaison two Officer with the object of again the embarkation of French troops. RAF Motor boats with RAF complement, Dunkirk plus 1500. signalmen As an and advance two French party Officers, in two 3 Naval Officers, returned to under Commander 1855. Attacked Cluston's by 4 command. enemy aircraft, bambed as a and result finally of the sunk, bombing. foundering Enemy immediately. aircraft to No seemed casualties, to be using however, delayed were action sustained bombs with an effect on side ship similar that of charge on a submarine. My right a leg depth slightly in damaged water by by explosion. enemy aircraft (do not boat think to porceed any casualties to Dunkirk were by and enemy not to bombs pick and up machine survivors, gun as fire he if the remaining RAF boat attempted to us up. 1900. sustained) Machine Commander gunned Cluston shouted feared to remaining that we RAF would be detroyed in the pick water
315 291 officer clinging to bows French about 6 miles to try off to reach in the direction wreck of Gravelines. informed us that he saw an empty boat of Cluston shortly same, and he and I decided Asked permission of Commander abandoned the to go off boat, and No.2., only which the shore the may water or occasionally, may was not slightly have but swim rough, at and 2230 returned it I was sighted impossible to a cling together. to to see the Commander remains the open Reached slightly from exhaustion. aboard, as sides were too high, out for. and was destroyer suffering cutter same but was unable to climb been the original I set large empty 2300. other Decided side where to swim I found for German fender shore but fortunately before swam the to remains and attempted of my kit to used row as a a ladder, hanging I was down. able to With get the aboard. aid abondoning of the fender boat and might distance too approximately far, and one hour I abandoned the attempt, imagined as cutter the survivors was too over, be. After cutter with one oar in direction I Lashed helm hard large, it was already dark. 0000. Tide Dunkirk changed and and open boat instead of drifting towards the German remainder overboard, as I did not want to be identified should capture be Dunkirk of kit Destroyed all personal belongings and identifications, and of threw between Channel. Calais, started to drift towards the Green flashing buoys shore, effected by the enemy. 3.6.40. 0130. Destroyers and other ships started passing by, about 25 yards away, but was unable to attract them, as they could not hear my shouts. Decided to shout in French and English, and was finally picked up by a French fishing boat, Stella Mavis. Crew "wined" me and put me in their bunks, dressed in French sailor's uniform, where I passed out for a while, suffering from exhaustion. 0230. Skipper of Stella Mavis informed me that he was unable to make Dunkirk as he had no charts and had lost his convoy whilst picking me up. Imenquired his speed and he replied "6 knots". I estimated by the fires that the distance from Dunkirk was approximately 15 miles. Therefore it would have been 0530 before ship could have reached Dunkirk. Pointed out to Skipper that, in my opinion, it would leading a ship of this type and speed into unnecessary danger if he proceeded to Dynkirk in daylight. As Skipper had no charts I helped in navigating ship back to Dover, and at 0730 approximately, we were run down by Torpedo Boat S. 27, but not badly damaged. Arriving Dover, Stella Mavis closed French Escort Vessel and as I was dressed in a French Matelot uniform, and my story sounded far-fetched, the Commander held me on suspicion as a German spy. "Il pretend detre Anglais, mais moi je crois qu'il est allemand parcequil parle le français trop bien" was the remark passed by the French Commander. Finally however, I persuaded them to let me be out ashore and arrested by British authorities. 1030. Successfully arrested by a Naval Lieutenant Commander and reported to Commander Goodenugh and Admiral Ramsey. 1400. Sent to Chatham Hospital in ambulance for treatment to leg. GENERAL REMARKS. I feel mention should be made of the exemplary conduct of the civilian crews of the cockle boats. bawley manned by volunteers who were rushed through in one day. As far All as of I know, them were none of them had ever been under gun fire before, and certainly none of them under Naval discipline. which These never ships, leave the it Estuary, and only one of their crew had been than had ever been should be remembered, were Thames Estuary Cockle further fishing afield boats, Ramsgate. facts, and although they had neither charts nor equipment, orders carried perfect out formation with great was diligence, even under actual shell fire In spite of these maintained throughout the day and night, and and all aircraft attack. were reports critising the conduct of the French dismissed, on the beach as any and Mole, such opinion and feel was most the strongly result of the slight lack of understanding I have overheard some that such illusions should be quickly between French and British their On all occasions I came If anything, their discipline was too most as authorities. in contact with the French on the jetty good, and elsewhere, they did their conduct best was to embark excellent. as a complete regiment or other Army unit, being isappointed if they were forced to separate.
292 Officers but was before only to the fact that they were waiting for official orders Perhaps the this men may due have refused to take orders from English Naval and Army from their Commander at the end embarking. of English officers trying to persuade them to proceed to ships this the jetty, shouted "Allez" at them, but the French naturally.considered. nothing more than an insult, which maymhave added to the general As for the B.E.F. words cannot praise them too highly. They were under constant bombing and shelling, and unable to do anything active, many, too, having marched as much as 80 miles in 3 or 4 days, yet on no occasion was a single grumble or com- plaint overheard. They all just seemed to want to get back at it. I understand that one R.A.F. mechanic was the only other survivor, besides myself. He was picked up by a destroyer, clinging to remains of the motor boat. According to him, the rest had already died from exposure. Although I realise that it is of no consolation to those bereaved, I feel that the extraordinary courage of all the poor fellows in the water should be recorded. Even though they must have known that the end was near, they never grumbled, nor were they afraid; they even went so far as to ask permission of Conmander Cluston before removing their tin hats. When I left them clinging around the wreck, although already suffering from exposure, they were singing and discussing old times together. Commander Cluston's example must have helped them all as it helped me. Although exhausted himself, he continued to chat, encourage and white-lie to the end. Mata Soloner (M. Solomon) Sub. Lieut, R.N.V.R.
Дуламо 186. 328 301 Admiralty House, Sheerness. June 6th, 1940. REPORT GIVEN VERBALLY TO LIEUT. COMDR. D.E. HOLLAND-MARTIN, R.N. A.B. S. Palmer D/JX 148052. He was put in charge of the "Naid Errant", a 7 ton motor yacht of about 30ft., which started from Sheerness. She sailed for Dunkirk early on Friday, May 31st as one of a convoy of 7 motor boats which included the "White Heather". Before reaching the beaches close to Dunkirk he helped to rescue the survivors of a French Destroyer. He picked up about 20, which he transferred to a French tug, and then proceeded to the beaches. On arrival the French soldiers swarmed over his boat preventing him going astern so that he drifted ashore. He left the "Naid Errant" and swam off with his crew to a Minesweeper, whose name he did not know. Shortly afterwards thellatter went aground, but, as the tide rose, both the Minesweeper and the "Naid Errant" floated off. Palmer asked permission to swim back to his boat, but this being refused, he shouted to some soldiers on the beach to bring her alongside. This they managed to do and Palmer jumped on board, cast off from the Minesweeper, and set course for home. He was the only naval rating, in a small boat without a chart, with one serjeant and 8 other soldiers, who he thinks were from the Middlesex regiment. The sergeant he said was all right - "he had some rum in his bottle!". Palmer admits to know nothing about the engines which had already given the stoker trouble on the way over. Off Dunkirk they broke down, and so he broke up the yacht's cabin door and made the soldiers start to paddle. Luckily one of the engines started up and at about 2200 he left the vicinity of Dunkirk seering W.N.W. For a brief period one of the soldiers relieved him on the wheel. The soldier was willing but/new nothing of steering a course and, as Palmer found him making to the Eastward, he took over again himself and remained on the wheel througout the night. At about 0600 on Saturday, June 1st he picked up the coast somewhere off Dover and followed it up to Ramsgate arriving there about 1100. On Sunday, June 2nd, without orders, he sailed again with a crew of one other A.B., but as the "Naid Errant" was too slow he was ordered back by the captain of the "Usanco" after getting two or three miles out from Ramsgate. A.B. Palmer stated that he passed for Leading Seaman in May 1927, but presumably cannot have been recommended. He says that he has three Good Conduct badges and the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal. He was drafted for operation Dynamo from R.N.B. Devonport, where he has recently been employed on the Plymouth City Patrol. 1025/2
Dynams Dipramo 323. 329 302 Kingmead, Riding Mill, Northumberland. Friday 7th June, 1940. Sir, g I have the honour to submit the following account of my movements from Tuesday 28th May until Wednesday 5th June. On my arrival at Sheerness I found a convoy of sixteen motor boats being prepared to assist in the evacuation of Flanders. I took charge of a small boat "LIEBESTRAUM" and we proceeded for Dover towing whalers, at about 1730 on Tuesday. 285 About six miles outside Sheerness we broke down and were picked up by the Trawler "ASAMA" who towed us to Deal and then back to Ramsgate where we arrived on Wednesday morning. 23/5 At Ramsgate I reported on the state of my boat and was appointed to the Dutch eel boat "JOHANNA" which had a diesel engine and was capable of about 6 knots. The crew consisted of a Leading Hand and four ratings and three Dutchmen, who owned the boat and could not speak English. We set out in convoy that night with a Motor boat under the Command of a Lieutenant Commander and other eel boat commanded by Sub-Lieutenant T.K. Edge-Partington R.N. Finding the second eel boat only capable of 4 knots the motor boat left her behind and soon after left me. I had no charts so after casting around for a bit I secured alongside a ship, the name of which I did not find out, near the North Goodwin and stayed there for the night. Sub. Lt. Edge-Partington in the 'Chanticler' with great determination took his boat across, navigating by an extremely faulty compass and managed to bring troops back to Dover. The next morning, Thursday, I returned to Ramsgate and 30/5 succeeded in joining up with the Dutch Schoot "Jutland" who towed me that evening. We had an uneventful crossing and anchored across about two miles east of Dunkirk at 2330. The Cutter and Whaler went ashore. The Whaler returned to report that the cutter I volunteered to the Captain of the Schoot to go was and see aground. what I could do but before we had got back the Petty Officer had succeeded in floating the boat. this time the beach was swarming wi th shore French because soldiers of I could not get of the water. I summoned heros" my and "Courage mes French By my boats within 100 yards of the limited store of the shallowness and with cries of "En Avant mes water. My efforts were enfants" I I had to go and fetch them for miles and I leap to my aid tried to tempt them into the myself. My first unavailing and took so me into the only deep of patch the hole I waded into the water neck. Struggling out in rush and ashore. I went in up to my to my waist the French came it threateningly. on a This was Seeing me only up revolver and brandish get to the boats only compelled them to draw down my a bit but when crew they and I had to lift them a on few were quietened strong enough to trips get and in so brought my off about 200 in all, each time board. I had to go We did into six the water time and to get go. them. I only At had 0230 ten the Frenchmen Captain on of the Schoot reckoned it was it was a bit choppy and all had to go below. They board all the suffered "JOHANNA" from as sea sickness I on the sent way back. back boat on the our "LIEBESTRAUM" return Sheerness to Ramsgate and in I arrived the was Motor at boat 2230 "THARKS" to on Friday. Sheerness in On in 31/5 my old 1500 I left boats all of which reached charge Saturday of at a convoy of 12 motor Ramsgate. 1/6
-330 303 probable that to as Motor boats would not and On Sunday the small Ramsgate was buzzing with rumours it seemed 2/6 volunteered "Marlborough". go Lewis Gunner in the War department go out so I Speed boat civilian who had only had River "THARK" a man by the name of very highly This coxswain At this of juncture the I would like to recommend the man and back experience succeeded Ambler. go over again saved. on night and it was sunk but I believe that the boat the to Dunkirk Mohday with no ficer in the boat. intaking He took the boa t crew was from the We treasury four Leading Stokers and two Sergeants of the The "MARLBOROUGH" had a crew of four Subs, two solicitors R.A.F. "HAIG" put to sea on Sunday night in company with our sister 2/6 a jetty and off about 40 "poilus". One of our solicitors ship the took and had a quiet voyage acress. We went alongside spoke French which assisted the operation œnsiderably. While we were alongside there was slight enemy air activity and much against the wishes of the rest of the crew who said I was merely attracting attention, I succeeded in firing several hundred rounds into the mishap. air, unfortunately with no success. We returned to Ramsgate without Treasury and so we signed on an army officer who had been invalided The next day, Monday, our solicitors had to return to the 3/6 and a retired colonel who had a reputation for being a crack shot with a Lewis. We went out at 1930 and picked Admiral Taylor up half way across the channel from the Motor Boat "MERMAIDEN". When we got to Dunkirk we went inside the harbour and quite a long way up the canal and secured. The Admiral went ashore accompanied by two of our crew armed to the teeth. The test of us occupied our time looting and trying to start up derelict cars. Sub. Lt. Poole found a very nice motor cycle and rode it round the docks. We went off onceto bring boats to the point of embarkation and then secured again. Shortly afterwards machine gunning started quite near and a shell landed in a warehouse about 150 yards away. Fortunately our job was done so we were able to leave. On our way down the canal we came on a blockage of shipping, and going too near the shore went aground on some rubble knocked into the water by a shell. We had the badluck to lose both our screws and our rudder. Three French tugs refused to tow us off but fortunately a Motor A/S Vessel who took us out to the main harbour where we secured to the Motor Yacht "GULZA" who towed us back to Dover. 4/6 We returned to Ramsgate on Tuesday morning by lorry to find Schoot "PATRIA" which broke down on the way and we were towed in by the operation had been cancelled. I returned to Sheerness inthe a Drifter. The times in the above are only approximate. I have the honour to be, A Sir, 17 JUN 1940 * Your obedient servant at E (SD.) A. CAREW HUNT. Sub. Lieutenant, Royal Navy. Vice-Admiral, Dover. Copy to: Commander-in-Chief, The Nore
333 306 RATINGS. CHARLES HENRY CANNING P.O. PJX 128237 DONALD WOMACK STOKER PJX 80757 BERNARD CHARLES KINGHAM A.B. PJX 152715 The above ratings were part of a Royal Naval Division who were stranded on the beach at Dunkirk when serving as an embarkation party. They found a small motor boat, which they repaired. They then took on board twenty-three soldiers and crossed the channel to Margate without chart or compass. On the way over the boat broke down twice, but the three ratings managed to repair it, and arrived safely in Margate with their load. HARRY GRIFFITH DECKHAND H. M. TUG "JAVA" This man, a merchant seaman, member of crew of H.M. Tug "JAVA" landed on the beach in a small boat. He ferried backwards and forwards continuously to the Tug under heavy bombing attacks, for eight hours, rescuing many soldiers during the day. LDG. SEAMAN DUTCH SCHOOT "PATRIA" J. HAGGAR. For conspicuous whereby the Schoot On subsequent get service and gallantry "PATRIA" in was working able to an inexperienced crew over 1000 troops. beach, he able occasions, to off Braye making beach direct with contact with (W/D the CMB) large bodies was of troops embark through in "PATRIA" In "HAIG" and Haggar "HAIG", went time, to contacted Malon Les with Bains troops, and went and ashore in safety. in a loads small each boat of in 60 day men Haggar and put also them worked on board a machine "TANKERTON gun TOWERS" took to such three and effect other that trawlers. he was able to keep dive bombers at an ineffectual height.
369 343 16. At about 1200 Commander Ken and I motored into 29/5 Dunkirk to report progress as embarkation on our beach was then impossible. On our return our lorry was heavily machine gunned and hit. At this period a heavy bombing attack took place on the Fleet and beaches. 17. On return to our headquarters (a lorry) we decided to make contact with General H.Q. but unfortunately our car broke down and we had to walk back 5 miles. 18. During the night another naval embarkation party arrived on the beach to the eastward which reduced the limits of our beach. 30/5 19. Early on Thursday morning 30th I proceeded to e Brigade H.Q. and offered the suggestion that piers be built by running lorries out to sea. This was quickly done and was successful. 20. I then drove Colonel Whitten and Colonel Mackenzie into Dunkirk to see Captain Tennant and then drove them back to Brigade H.Q. 21. During the afternoon and dogwatches the French poured into our beaches but no boats arrived within 1½ miles of our H.Q. 22. During the last dog the Germans directed mos t accurate artillery fire on our beach. This fire continued throughout the night and our lorry was hit. The beach was completely evacuated by allied soldiers. 23. We had however taken up quarters in a water-boat that was ashore at low water. No boats had now been in for 16 hours on our beach. 24. During the night the weather became bad once more - and a heavy surf was running. At/
372 346 soon as the fighters left, they seemed to know the exact moment in which to approach. (3) Lack of satisfactory communication arrangements was most noticeable. There were no portable wireless sets ashore with the beach parties nor were any field telephones supplied by the naval parties. Wednesday, The only method of communicating messages to ships embarking from the beaches was by a written message sent off in a boat. end BO far The 0.8 that most may direction, Marrative 29th New I action et 2000 from Dover in ESK, who had on boand 12 small beene persies. These were distributed at the beaches into any craft svailable end Consedore Hallott VEHICLES jut E drifter to take ensige off shore at Bray est dissolore Stephanon off In Purpose: 30th May At 0200, 30th which VOIDE off La Parme and heard the general situation from Geptrin Almahie idain Cantro OF few ships, drifters and other orer's ere the Locarding slowly with the few bosts available. alrowd bauches black with troops, a number l beats may t'est bests, principally whalers, and some mater-boat is is visue were, aducation were low and the soa was oalm, but oven S there vas assign must It beneze immediately obvieus to time that any Iurge enharketion from the beached OR more inshore boats and crews. The ozens were the expenting WE E could not spare nen from A/A Guns and Americant and I signaTied to this effect. During the Porenoon I went into Dunkisk in HERE to 000 the S.N.O. Was I Tenant VISA may with the C. in D. are La Panns, but nono the less I W.).8 sole to gir lasto the piature. Pinking that the harbour ovaila be used X Furned No that enharkention States "smkirk was the only practical plan if nombers involved SA substrjuent efforts were directed to the 42. Visa ON 10 expiry signals. 10 At the same Use the benefits Your Se be taxing No the Fulless expecity of N the boats and the problem X Eart to deal to control the available so as to Balance Mass viro Control ind not easy? it ESS selfor in see income the beach, mil touch with bankirk involved a close agreement
Controller 434 461 Small Vessels Pool. 8th June 1940. Dunkirk, work of the I desire In following connection to bring the your with recent notice operations the excellent at capacity in S.V.P. this emergency. found itself forced to act in an operational Hutchins, case was one particular officer taking boats over, outstanding their services to fill the emergency of and civilians who offered an 1. Among the many officers allowed to Department, and asked had a from a certain M.C., Grenadier Guards. This officer Lieut.Col.R.L. day off Ramsgate, where he was given charge of a motor boat. Wharton, On the way proceed with my Deputy, Captain my permission E.F. to be to useless. Continuing under one engine, on arrival off Dunkirk over the boat hit submerged wreckage which rendered one engine he found a steamer ashore with her boats at the davits. He went to a destroyer, asked for the loan of four hands, and with these men he lowered the boats, which he used to evacuate soldiers from the beach to the destroyer. I understand some 700 men were thus evacuated. He returned to London in time to go on duty the following morning. 2. Captain E.F. Wharton, R.N. This officer under Ner S.N.O., Ramsgate acted as Pier Master for four days at Ramsgate. Upon him the detailed organisation of "ferrying" with the smaller boats from Ramsgate devolved. Captain Phillimore, S.N.O., Ramsgate made a special report by telephone on the very valuable services rendered by this officer, and has been asked to report it officially in due course. 3. Paymaster Lieutenant Commander H. Garrett, R.N.V.R. my Secretary. He showed immense capacity for tireless work, and was practically on the telephone for hours, using his own initiative throughout three nights consecutively. He was responsible for obtaining yachtsmen from the clubs in the late evening, putting them in Admiralty cars and sending them down to Ramsgate and Sheerness; arranging special forms, which he signed himself, for petrol from garages to bring down over 100 boats from the Upper Thames - again on his own initiative. In various other ways he displayed a grasp of the urgency of the situation, which is deserving of much praise. His readiness to accept responsibility was most praiseworthy. He has of also been some 2,500 offers of motor boats received in responsible for the large additional organisation here collecting with Statute No. 718 of May 10th 1940. His methodical of accordance of these boats by areas allowed the great majority. in service those indexing boats requisitioned by S.V.P. officers being within a few hours. Lionel Preston Admiral. Director Small Vessels Pool.
Page 2. cutter. I my For the Owing rest of to later the the day borrowed until my a whaler last trip and I 2 carried hands from only IMPULSIVE. British 3A36 troops. were unguarded water than and five below feet, ground the swell hull, and we the fact that SWALLOW's propellors less inshore at some speed, check and it considered it unsafe to go shoot (50 fathoms were in towards turned of grassline the beach, bent and the on to it was nearing allow therefore, the the end cutter to of its run into to tow bows to seaward and the boat 30 fathoms was backed of 3" into rope), shore. the cutter's clambered megaphone how to the water and Crowds over of the rushed into had by been embarked, I went cutter. and when I I instructed them inboard. of subsequently stopping while the hangers-on cutter out were of pulled reach the remainder; ahead so as to take thought enough cases occasion the when were the very weak and very helpless; was easier, for but in all on one With men the British troops the loading were of the loaded, were blown in broadside on and to the the whaler, and which in the fully parted, both the cutter instance, case soldiers cutter, the combined efforts of the four Naval beach, ratings and it was only with great difficulty that we re-established it and hoisted a them, using SWALLOW's dinghy. The tow parted again and the line in to were unable to refloat her, so that I was obliged to send in the dinghy. Each time after loading, I proceeded alongside IMPULSIVE, whicl had a jumping ladder rigged. In order to avoid waste of time in shortening in my eighty-fathom towline, I passed the end of it to IMPULSIVE and requested her to haul the boats alongside, which was done by part of the ship's company doubling along her deck. After the first trip, I borrowed IMPULSIVE's whaler and two more hands, and made a number of trips from shore to ship towing both boats. There were at this time very few boats working between the shore and the ships, but there were some boats full of troops broached to on the beach and unable to get off. One motor boat belonging to a destroyer, one whaler and a small motor yacht were the only boats working on two or three miles of beach, and in view of the target presented to enemy aircraft by destroyers and other ships waiting to embark troops, I requested IMPULSIVE to transmit a signal from me to Admiralty, repeated V.A. Dover, requesting more sutters and power boats to speed up the embarkation. There was some shelling on the beaches, and a good deal of A/A fire from the ships as German aircraft appeared overhead at frequent intervals. At about midday, IMPULSIVE hoisted two black shapes, and when I next came alongside she reported that she had struck some wreckage and damaged her port propellor (this happened, I think, while she was taking avoiding action during an attack by aircraft). As IMPULSIVE had to proceed for docking, I returned her whaler and the borrowed ratings who had manned my cutter, and proceeded to work with WINCHELSEA. Up to this time IMPULSIVE had taken some 400 soldiers, nearly all British. Before she left, I obtained from her 50 gallons of fuel for my boat. I should like to mention here the ready co-operation of the Captain, everything possible was done to assist me both by the handling the the First Lieutenant and many others of H.M.S. IMPULSIVE; of petrol, lending a whaler and hands to help in working my cutter short ship to provide a lee, by hauling the long tow line, and by providing and also by providing food for me and my boat's crew during the periods when we were alongside. I later received much assistance and co-operation from H.M.S. HINCHELSEA who lent me a signalman and ratings for my cutter and gave De all her available petrol.
Page 3. 4374 In the early afternoon, the wind lightened and conditions became Observing that there were boats at the davits of a wreck close I borrowed some hands from WINCHELSEA to lower and man them, and a R.A.F. launch which was lying astern of a neighbouring vessel to over these boats ex- the wreck and embark troops. Soon after this, on the suggestion of the Captain of WINCHELSEA, I making boarded all remaining troops march to Dunkirk for embarkation. KEITH to discuss with Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker the possibility of By 1730 hours, there were few troops waiting to embark at this the this time WINCHELSEA signalled proposing that this beach and the remainder were making their way along the beach trip; I concurred. In the last trip only about 30 in the cutter, and I transferred them to the cabin and engine boat, handing over the cutter to the R.A.F. launch. last half-hour, several dive-bombing attacks were made on which appeared to be straddled by the first salvo. A transport further to the Eastward was hit about this time, and enemy air SWALLOW was hit by a few small splinters, presumabli but was undamaged. After the last trip inshore I proceeded direct to Ramsgate, and arrived there at about 2150 hours. The engines of the boat had and been a since 0315, and when outside Ramsgate first the port, minute running later, the starboard engine failed; the port engine was restarted. The crew of the SWALLOW worked extremely well throughout and I would of the Patrol Service at Lowestoft; this man was working and in was the like to bring to your notice the work of an Able Seaman, Peter Johnson, single-handed for some of the earlïer trips to the beach I cutter in his efforts and showed great initiative and resource; put untiring him on board IMPULSIVE before she left and obtained his name as I wished to draw attention to his very good work. estimate the total number of troops embarked from 800. the beaches and transferred I to H.M. Ships by SWALLOW as between 600 and Robin Hutchins Lieutenant-Colonel, Grenadier Guards. (A.L.O., Admiralty). To be attached to my upat, bleak himel Prescom Dorp 13.6.
1 440 APPENDIX 5. RAMSGATE & MARGATE : DYNAMO OPERATION. R.N.V.R. by arrangement with Rear Admiral A. H. Taylor. Narrative account prepared by Temp. Lieut. A. Dann, l any viling activitien UE IIID OVII particular unit or section, and only with the passing of time will the expert be able to piece together the various reports of all who took part. This is the story of the small motor-boats and the part they played, but even here a connected narrativeis difficult, if not impossible. Each boat with its own tiny crew was thrown more or less upon its own resources; and upon the fortunes of war and the initiative of each boat's captain depends the story each may subsequently tell. From all around the compass they came. From up the river, along the coast, from the yachting harbours, the pleasure beaches, Naval ports and fishing towns - anything that would 'float, move under its own power, and collect a dozen men or so from the beaches where they waited. The first assembly to gather at Sheerness was typical of the whole of this miniature armada. A dozen or so of motor yachts from 20' to 50' in length; nicely equipped and smartly maintained by proud individual owners; a cluster of cheap jobs" mainly the work of amateur craftsmen who had
441 To present a comprehensive view of the whole of the naval operations at Dunkirk between May 27th and June 5th is a task for the historian. No man who took an active part can hope to describe anything beyond the activities of his own particular unit or section, and only with the passing of time will the expert be able to piece together the various reports of all who took part. This is the story of the small motor-boats and the part they played, but even here a connected narrativeis difficult, if not impossible. Each boat with its own tiny crew was thrown more or less upon its own resources; and upon the fortunes of war and the initiative of each boat's captain depends the story each may subsequently tell. From all around the compass they came. From up the river, along the coast, from the yachting harbours, the pleasure beaches, Naval ports and fishing towns - anything that would float, move under its own power, and collect a dozen men or SO from the beaches where they waited. The first assembly to gather at Sheerness was typical of the whole of this miniature armada. A dozen or so of motor yachts from 20' to 50' in length; nicely equipped and smartly maintained by proud individual owners; a cluster of cheap "conversion jobs" mainly the work of amateur craftsmen who had set to work in their spare time to convert a ship's lifeboat or any old half-discarded hull into a cabin cruiser of sorts for week-end trips on the quiet waters of the up-river reaches.
442 Half a dozen Thames river launches resembling nothing so much as the upper decks of elongated motor-buses with their rows of slatted seats, but given a tang of the waterside by rows of white-painted lifebuoys slung around the upper rails. The very names of these latter craft are redolent of the quiet of Richmond, Teddington and Hampton Court; "Skylark", "Elizabeth" and "Queen Boadicea". A strange flotilla indeed to be taking an active part in what has been described as "the greatest naval epic in history". The crews and their officers too were as miscellaneous an assembly as the craft they manned. First arrived a trickle of R.N.V.R. Sub-Lieutenants direct from training school, taken from their class-rooms often in the midst of a lecture on the "practical pilotage" they were soon to put to such good account. Many of these were entering a naval dock-yard for the first time in their lives, yet they clambered over the little ships, bawled for their requirements in food, fuel and water and set to work to prepare for the task in hand, as if to the manner born. Next came another thin trickle - this time junior Royal Navy officers who but a short time before were midshipmen on war vessels of various types; little more than schoolboys, yet each possessed of that indescribable sangfroid and cheerful discipline which is the hall-mark of the British naval officer whatever his age or rank. Lastly - and only a matter of minutes before the time of departure - came the crews; Royal Fleet Reserve men this first batch - tough, stout-hearted and disciplined. No time to pick or choose; stoker ratings first, to man the little engines - one man to each boat; then the seamen - "Swarm over those boats men and wherever you find an officer aboard ask him if he needs a crew! Three men to the larger boats and two each to the smaller". 2
4438 Ten minutes more and the first convoy is ready for the sea - manned, victualled and fuelled - equipped in fact with all but arms. Only later, when the full peril of their task was realised and returning troops had filled the depots with sand- fouled small arms, were weapons available for the crews' protection. The first convoys sailed gaily into the inferno of Dunkirk beaches without so much as a pistol between them. Still the boats arrived and still the officers and men flowed into the port; "T.124's" now for the most part. Sturdy fishermen, lightermen and merchant seamen. Now, too, came in increasing numbers the civilian volunteers who played so fine a part in the operation. In the very first flotilla to leave was one black motor launch, the "Advance", manned entirely by three bearded civilian yachtsmen. This boat and its crew stayed with the writer in convoy through the whole of the first journey across, and after the first murderous machine gun attack from the air three cheerful bearded grinning faces appeared above the fore cabin roof and three pairs of hands were clasped and shaken overhead as a signal that allwas well; only the "Jolly Roger" was lacking to complete that picture. These men wore no uniform, were born on no ship's books but took the graver risks which attend civilians engaged in military operations as undisturbed as they would take a choppy sea on a week-end cruise. The journey across, perhaps, afforded the individual his best opportunity of assessing the magnitude of the operation in which he was playing his part. Beautiful yachting weather (half the small craft could never have made the crossing otherwise), hardly a chop on the water; thewhole vista bathed in summer sunshine; and, across the expanse of sea, an endless stream of laden ships. From horizon ahead to horizon astern, spanning the whole scene from coast to coast, unloading their human freight and hastily returning for more; an endless - 3 -
444 succession of British shipping as motley in its larger form as were the motor-boats themselves. Tramps, cargo ships, barges, drifters, tugs, Dutch schoots, British warships, even river ferry-boats such as carry one's car across the Thames at Woolwich and elsewhere. Of individual acts only a few can be given; every crew, every man almost, experienced some incident or another. some adventure that could fill a whole small volume on its own. And yet what can a writer do when such men report such events in the tersest of language such as "heavily shelled whilst at work"? A few reminiscenses may be given here in the hope that some idea of the work may be gathered by anyone who cares to piece them together. Here are some extracts from a letter written by Sub. Lt. W.R. Williams, R.N. which serve to illustrate that merry sangfroid which has been referred to earlier:- "So I proceeded by compass (error 20°) to the Calais - Gravelines sands and anchored a few hundred yards out. I was pulled ashore in the boat, which waited for me while I walked inland in search of Allied soldiers. After about a quarter of a mile I saw two men silhouetted against the glow of a distant blaze. I approached to within a few yards and hailed them. I heard one of them say "Lieber Gott!" and they turned around and commenced to shoot at me. By this time I had come to the conclusion that I was in enemy territory, so I hid behind a dune and shot back. Fortunately it was a very dark night and the Germans could not see me properly, while I could see their out- lines quite well. I shot the one on the right twice and he fell without a sound. The other one screamed when I fired two bullets at him, and he dropped whatever he was carrying and then fell and lay still. By this time I heard nearby shouts so, deeming discretion to be the better part of valour, I ran at top speed back to the boat and my ship was under way at her full six knots within less than five minutes." - "I proceeded back to Dunkirk as soon as I had landed the soldiers at Ramsgate and arrived just in time to catch the dusk bombing and shelling. There was a lot of shrapnel falling on the beach and I was greatly impressed by the Tommies and Poilus who waded out into the sea and helped the sailors with the boats. Nowhere did Isee any signs of cracking morale or anything but cheerfulness. - "I went back for the last time the same evening. Dunkirk was by now a flamir DIGHT unsulba in the "Swallow" and proceeded todna S kct with a slower motor-bernoon INEM untern to manionother War Department I -Denimm wartlerc vao imar reemonant nortly after- wards sunbSe=b6sih beat 6/PLB oDoor some of the
4457° French with Staff, but I could up the Poilus and a few not find any so I filled shooting was extremely wild and in we German got away unscathed." inner harbour was Tommies. already The furthest hands end but of their He finishes up his letter with this characteristic remark - in "That all." is all I did at Dunkirk (:). I went over five times For brevity and preciseness in describing real achievement in the face of danger, the following from Lieut. C.W. Read, R.N.R. is characteristic:- "Made 7 complete return trips to Dunkirk Beaches; average number soldiers carried 60 = approx. 420 soldiers. Made 10 trips from Mole at Dunkirk to transports lying off, under shrapnel = 600 soldiers. Rescued Chief Steward and 39 soldiers from water ex S/S Scotia and bombed whilst doing SO. On last return journey was caught in parachute flares, bombed and then machine-gunned, but escaped without damage owing to speed and quickness on helm of "Bonnie Heather". Service finished at 5.0 p.m. on 4th June. Estimated number of soldiers handled in launch:- Dunkirk Beaches to Ramsgate 420/450 Dunkirk Mole to Transports lying off 600/650 Rescued from S/S Scotia 40. With compasses of doubtful accuracy and no other navigating instrument but a lead pencil, the difficulties of navigation once a boat lost contact with the main convoy were immense. Some of the small craft had not even a compass; yet all who left the other side in safety managed to reach the English coast to re-fuel and set off again to repeat the adventure. One officer even tells how, after wandering all through the night with a compass he could not trust, he put into Calais! Only after twenty minutes heavy shelling did he escape with his craft intact. The narrowness of such escapes could be repeated again and again. The writer himself, whilst leading a column of six small white painted yachts was subjected to dive machine- gunning from three successive flights of three enemy aircraft. With no arms whatever with which to offer resistance, the column was almost a sitting target and the airplanes could approach till they almost touched the cabin roofs. Yet, - 5 -
44671 unbelievable close though it may seem, of all these six boats in formation not one lost so much as a chip of paint. Amongst the commoner difficulties encountered were submerged lorries in whichtroops had apparently driven right down to the water' S edge at low tide. Another source of much trouble close inshore was the large amount of floating grass rope which various craft had used and lost in their rescue work and numerous articles of military equipment, such as greatcoats. Quite a few small motor boats were put temporarily out of action by the ropes and garments fouling the boats' screws and many times the crews (stripped or not as occasion permitted) were obliged to go over the side and free these obstructions before they could carry on. As those boats which made the earlier crossings returned with their stories of the difficulties to be overcome, other crews profited by their experience, to add to - or in some cases to subtract from - the equipment carried. Arms were principally in demand and the depot was raided time and again by officers and crews in search of anything with which they could hit back. As one manexpressed it "Even a record of the 1812 overture would be better than nothing". By this time too, volunteers of all sorts, military as well as civilians, were besieging those boats which were ordered out, and many were the last minute "pier head jumps" on to already moving craft by those who were determined not to be left out. One story relates how two army cadets disappeared from a machine-gun nest on the harbour wall complete with gun. They were next heard of bringing down an enemy plane off Dunkirk from the deck of a small motor boat! The principal work accomplished by these small craft consisted of what may best be called "ferrying". Theshore off the beaches to the east of Dunkirk shallows very gradually; at times there is no more than two or three feet of water for - 6 -
447 over inshore a hundred yards out to sea. A long rolling surf flows most of the time and even the shallow draught motor- boats could not approach closely with any degree of safety. Open boats of all kinds from naval cutters and whalers to seaside dinghies were towed over from England by the motor- boats themselves and by other craft. Some of these pulling boats were manned by odd naval ratings, others by the soldiers themselves. One of the principal difficulties was to avoid fouling the motor-boats' screws with painters and odd lines attached to these pulling boats. It is amazing how much sea-room a soldier can take up with a couple of fathoms of rope! Carley floats and inflated motor inner tubes also played their part in carrying men from the beach to the motor boats, which in turn took aboard those on these more precarious perches and towed the loaded pulling boats to larger craft lying off in waiting, picking up their own or any other empty boats and towing them back inshore for further loads. As petrol ran short each motor boat would pick up such men as it could carry and set off back to England for more petrol, then out again for further service. During Wednesday, May 29th, the Mole at Dunkirk was apparently rendered temporarily useless so that most, if not all of the troops had to be taken from the beaches. During this day, too, and for at least a part of the following day, air attack continued almost unabatedly from dawn to dusk; dive-bombing for the larger ships and machine-gunning for the smaller. Later in the week, although the R.A.F. were present in greater numbers to relieve the pressure from the air, shelling added to the difficulties and men were being hit in the pulling boats as they carried on their work. By the week-end evacuation from Dunkirk harbour was in full swing again and the beaches were often almost deserted. - 7
| 0800 | Small boat | 6 |
| 0250 | Motor Boat " " | 53 | ||
| Motor Boat | 69 | Dinghy in tow | ||
| 0330 0335 | Launch & Lifeboat | 69 | ||
| 0345 | Lifeboat | 1 |
| 0615 | Motor Boat | Sailors | |
| 0700 | Motor Boat) | ||
| 0910 | 2 Lifeboats | 184 | |
| 1135 | Lifeboat Greater Loridon | 48 48 |
472 H9P Margete SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE, 1940. 0005. "QUEEN OF THANET". 850. 0130. "KINGFISHER". 157. 0400. "ORANJE". 100. 0500. "GOLDEN EAGLE". 1250. 0415. "MOTOR BOAT". 23. 0510. "SALTASH". 400. 0600. "WESTWARD HO". 720. x 900 0610. "ROYAL EAGLE". 1250. 0630. "ROYAL SOVEREIGN". 47. 0830. "LADY SOUTHBORO". 350. 0950. "PRINCESS ELIZABETH". 510. 0950. "GALLEONS REACH" 123. * 1 Alien Postal worker French. J 1045. "QUEENS CHANNEL". 52. 1145. "WHIPPINGHAM". 2500. 1215. "DUNDALK". 280. "FOREMOST". 200. 1345. 1420. "ORIEL". 470. + 1. Pathe Gazette Man. "AEGIR". 130. 1650. 1450. "VINCIA". 108. 1600. "KINGFISHER". 210. + 2 Belgian Airman, supposed to have escaped from Germans. "QUEEN OF THANET". 1500. 1650. "K.G.V." 700. 1740. x 243 1740. "HALCYON". 58. "SALTASH". 350. 1830. "WESTWARD HO". 918. + 1 Alien under arrest 2030. 2100. "ANTJE". 150. "RAPID I". 25. 2100. "HOPPER 24". 580. 2215. TOTAL. 14011.
477 501 Total. Carried Forward. 33107. "DUNDALL". 730. 450. 280. "TWENTE". 350. "ANTJE". 450. 300. 150. "BRIGHTON QUEEN". 160. "LADY SOUTHBORO". 350. "GALLEONS REACH". 123. PLIMIMMON "PHINLIMON". 900. "QUEEN OF THANET". 2500. 850. 1500. 150. 5000 MOTOR BOAT. 23. "SALTASH". 750. "WESTWARD HO". 1686. 720. 918. 48. 3372 "VINCIA". 108. "HALCYON". 58. "QUEENS CHANNEL". 52. "WHIPPINGHAM". 2500. "FOREMOST". 200. "ORIEL". 2020. 470. 750. 750. 50. 4040 "RAPID I". 25. "OFFENIA". 50. "TANGELLE MARIE". 25. "GUILLEMOT". 460. L2 TRAWLER. 85. AD.389 TRAWLER. 60. 46722. TOTAL.
51.8 494 The Royal Engineers had constructed a pier of motor vehicles, and from this I was able to get aboard H.M.S. Lydd, whence I was able to rejoin A.L.C.5. Leading Seaman Harris had been in great pain for some time apparently having ruptured himself, but had pluckily carried on working. I considered that he should receive medical attention, and accordingly placed him on a Destroyer. 8. By this time the sea was running high, but by towing two cutters and two whalers simult- aneously, we were able to make several trips from the improvised pier, carrying a large number of men. Eventually a rope round the starboard propellor stopped the engine, and the craft was beached near low water in order to clear it. Both screws were badly fouled and as the craft sank into the soft mud, little could be done to clear them. Severe air raids were almost continuous in our vicinity AS soon as she could be got afloat 5 took three boat loads of troops
Drafts sent to H.M.S. Fervent during Dynamo Operation. 536 May 29 th. 0. Draft of Pembroke Ratings sent from Dover 63. 00 Draft of Chatham ratings sent from Chatham 180 Dfaft from Portsmouth 125. May 30th. Draft sent from Devonport 61. May 31st. A.M Draft sent from Devonport 87. P.M. Draft sent from Lowestoft 54 P.M Draft sent from Chatham M.B.D.' 70. Draft sent from Chathem Mage 1st. Motor Boat drivers 22. Draft sent from Chatham Tptal 662 There were also several parties of special men sent, such as E.R.A's and Diesel engine drivers from different depots. 5th. All were returned to their depots on Dynamo operation draft who ratings with the exception of the Portsmouth and who were being were retained completed for clearing up the base and harbour returned to depot on June 7th. is Coke arrived
) 2 ( 548 DYNAMO OPERATION - DISTRIBUTION OF LEWIS GUNS JANE HANNAH SUN VIII NARCISSA ROSE ACE BETTY CLACTON LIFE- WINSTON RACIA MATILDA BOAT MERMAID ADMIRALS BARGE LURNILYNE MISS MING MADAME SANGENE HALCYONE ELIZABETH OREEN LETITIA M.B. 1711 PIGEON M.B. 37270 HAIG. M.B. 74 WORF 4. Other smaller craft were also fitted with guns when these became available duo to the vessels proviously fitted being no longer required or unable to continue the operation. In addition magazines were refilled and spare ammunition was supplied as it became necessary. 5. A number of Lewis guns were transferred from ship to ship by the various officers when they changed their commands, and of these we have no record. 6. Four Q.0's for overhauling, and twelve ratings were sent from Chatham and they assisted in the above work. LEWIS GUNNERS. / 7. All the 23 Lewis gunners sent from London were embarked for the operation, together with those from Ramagate, most of them making several crossings, and all showed groat keenness in performing their duties. 8. All have returned to Ramsgate with the exception of Cyril Head ) J.S. Parker ) Tug "SUN IV" (sent to Dover) R. Jewitt ) Tug "SUN XV" (sent to London) Loslie Reed ) C.DRichards. Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. For D.E.M.S. Staff officer, Ramsgate.
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 199 788 B. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
213 ISLE 147 OHeI ,enut NJH of vsM sas ast "ИАМХИАМ". 2.8 HO surprise, MORT 29008T TO MOITAUOAVE nday 2nd June:- See 05.06- vessels arrived of any description at Dunkirk Brigadier Mole. were Massey To present. our of the Approximately R.A. the were -:00ml days emebio bevieveR ni golvel qirls no 200 Naval the troops Mole. amongst These men whom twice moored was sounded us, and the then ship embarked. the S siren head As of to the beliss SW 28.21 JA -Isvoa of beeong on visibility was attention poor I of any more wounded troops at man came, which East of am beviecer ITO bevings 21.50 -:enut Mole. attract A few the taken soldiers on board carrying A which German one fell bomber 200 appeared feet on three the and Hash no 02.5S IOT beliss of beson Isma Jisws bns JB толопв party launched of were the one Mole. aerial This torpedo bomber no was person chased left away on the by Mode down to of the let mottisoq to ;aleasev тейјо coult djiw - our side aircraft. we As there them and was small backed boats out might and proceeded be get coming out. off One with mile avoid owf enj 518 room gniett VIISS 911 visques eause) -guibnuots to 98160 9 AT aensig to welv VIISUJOS , EJISTO no "botdgil" gridmod becker VIIISA East go troops. ropes, channel in case and any I deemed it small prudent boat to containing and five and from Dunkirk None We Mole came proceeded we picked on out visibility up through a the was West only channel 3 mile, by (nwonku gnitiews (Ieasev 110 DEVİTIS 00.20 so birs Artinua eysmsb thereque on - befsolter -:dtes vsá soldiers. escaped to could sea. Luckily not see us the not from to the enter shore. the Port, It transpired missed but as me I later the that enemy all receive craft had any orders message, consider they that had evidently we had a very by lucky two Jeet 000.1 a Company, "ИННЦО - 2'AMOM" of bebeecon ylessmixotqqs OWT JB 901m oitengsm gradt V.d JelidW .NJTS 261 did in the not dark We were and haze. only armed I with Lewis a Bren gun gun manned manned by two of enj .Joqa vIxoiup emse VISV edj ISVO ITO alsod owf Jhes easy Yd bns eaolo au to of actualm THOT ni qu nwold Army escape. our sailors. gunners Dover Nothing and an and improvised further disembarked to report troops, on 23.30- the passage. sailed from bebescord Jaltow ушепе 50s 08 Vd Jel .0E.OI beaasq .eloM viavoivery JB bed eW .900861 bne guidmod bns bedtred -04.8 Dover, arrived for Dunkirk. at .A.A bsd 9W as bIsod no INO Vd of betIgeT asw .219bTo TOI eloM DOVOL off J8 Monday .000,S JB DeVITTS ISVO bsd 9W .eTH 3rd June:- off Dunkirk to and without received board. entering orders Ship Dunkirk. ordered from a .Tevol JB DEVITIS -28.91 of odj NO troqer to OJ gridtoll to be no but troops sailing on orders cancelled зтебто bne enotaed[o] bevieve later. of IOI TUO doot -:dJOE vsba Tuesday 4th June:- 21.05- Sailed for Plymouth. nevith Juodslw DAILY bequese guillede bns BIOW qide brie eW TUO will III gnived execute STAW Jaltdw 001 JB bentied doidw ;eloM bsd 10 -41.20 -SH.OS 9W edd edj aqoorf ) no ушеде JB -:tale trogen awood 005, vd. Wednesday 12.15- 5th June:- Arrived at Plymouth. .8900TJ MOTT belisa JB aleaaev -21.80 Devitie IsvsN .JISTOTIS OS.EL TUO add eysms 990 P.B.Bowley. MASTER. gatttews doldw B HOBIT bebolqxe Todons edd of Tagsewa ni bas B TUO MOTI two befored TOJIB -20. -:eant Jel .arebio vsit ts doneTT "AMOM" edj brte edj mort IBI vievolveng Jon VITTORE enim oftengam hed in JBNJ bevorg .evijosite Vitnebive 28W o separate occasions. on the 1886 Was as given up she as hopeless and other ships made use of instead. produced an engine breakdown as excuse.
153A 737 213 In my S/A. h ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY. on 164 -:enut bas rincipal Sea Transport Officer, H.Y. Mant Maid 148 expuien THO oT .910M te bevitis -20.20 answer VIetsmixotqqA SISW VIB to aleasev IsvsM OVER. STOW .A.H edj to yesasM тейбедіта asw modw Jagnoms aqoott 00S southampton 016 9dj 8A bekinsdme nedt bns ,au beroom ПФМ Thane ,910M edd IIC 1940 of e'qide ent bebauce solws I TOOQ asw With regard to your request for mention of any meritorious edj to bsed edj ts eqoort 910m VIS To пойдлеттв edd JOBIJI conduct, as you will see by the enclosed narrative, nothing Holdw emso ПВТ едо wet A .910k of any particular moment accurred. Бле benesqqs Tedmod A bisod по medst R S. I. I would however, like to bring to your notice, JasH edj по Jest 00S Met doldw obequot Isimes 9110 berionus! for special devotion to duty, the 2nd Engineer, Mr to PRICE vd VBWS beasdo asw Tedmod sidT .eIOM edj to ebis, S.M. Quirk, who was acting Chief Engineer, whilstothe irth Jol of eloM edj no the повтеа on asw eredt 2A .JISTOTIS TUO Chief was on leave, and also the 3rd Engineer, Mr erit проб beheevorg bns two behond bne medt two SW eegor .Ferguson, who was acting 2nd Engineer, both of whose dJiw Ito going ed trigim atsod Ilsme VIS 9289 ni Iemedo Jess conduct was exemplary, having given me every possible elim ело .JUO Jag of trebuiq Jt Бешееб I bns елой .aqoom assistance with the Engines, always remembering that another me, evit guintstnoo tsod Ilsms B qu bexoiq 9W eloM mori bne Iemedo JaeW office two no eW bns ,Alim 5014 Vino asw vilidiaiv edj VILHOUT .898 of bequese your little chance of escape 26th May to June should anything have happened to the ship, they had very by Tetsl JI .erone efft mort au 992 for bluoo ушеле off I as Jud ,JIOY edj Tethe of Jom атебто bsd TISTO IIs JBH corn ection with my ship, to hand The following is 9m beaaim vitnebive bsd vedit VIS eviecer for bib VNOUL VISV B bed 9W JBNJ I .956M ône MISD edj III complete summary to Vd беппвт mug alwel bealvorqui ns bas VIITA owf owf vd bennsm nug B Attw bemie Vino SISW 9W , equas 26" May Anchored Nothey w tro hours notice lly MOTI egssasq edd по JTOGET of ISHTIUT gninton атеппид beliss -08.ES eqoort beHrsdmealb bns ISVOC amolisa ts bevitis 2yr paped bowley Jone g. 285 United Nove J. ordered 6 Dreas at rot to and Received MASTER charts Denkiik, and -:enut bad beтебто guitetne twodt Level of nuter bevings B MOIT атебто Deviser bns Ito -0E.HO orders to stand by bellecnso qirle blsod по eqoort on of revortagi -02.80204 STABIO guilise Jud anilise -Tevoa TOT bedtied VbseT ad of Ylew signal T.K. Examination boat almoside with Yesh Still flying signal -:emit NJH a IOT belief -20.1 -:enut djd vsba water. % reported by Radio Telephone - JB DOVITTA -21.SI were short provisions and ril 7M June Numbers horsted Groceeded off Deal ) adminally Signal Status. Laurah fuland.,P presed at 1/2 have whice Repisted came alvigside with orders to be ready /2. it янтаам still short provisions and at Dadned stand by for Oil she produced an engine breakdown as excuse. Was given up as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.
153A 737 213 SLA ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY. h on 165 my Dynamosyl. 149 811 win , TOOLITO Transmit $98 day Didered ReH.J. Southampton Mant Maid set. avoirctivem VIS to nottnem TOT Jasuper THOY of bisger guiddom ,evitstism besolone ANJ v.d. ess Illw you 28 ,Jowhnoo Entered's voluntare 8ᵗʰ June 1940 9. themom isluciting VIIS to ,eotton TWOV of Build of exti , Ievewod ,bluow I IM TeentynT bnS edd ,VIUD of notjoveb Isioeqa TOT smmodore P.S.T.O. Lady of had whose urth edj Jalidw Teldo guitos asw odw ,HTING.M.E et TM TeenignT 5TC edd 0816 bris ,evsel по 2BW feido sacriw to ritod TeentynT bnS gnijos BBW odw , повизтет. 2 eldleeoq VISVS en nevig gnived vislqmexe asw toubnoo tsnt suitedmemer ayswls ,29nignT 9dj dJiw VIEV bsd vedd ,qide ANJ of benegged evsd gnidtyns bluode events your covering request The of The period 6th instant, 26th May regarding to he fune, manative one, by equae to cirene eltth P connection with my ship, to hand. The following is he, 26th May. anchored McHley on two hours notice complete summary $ illy in. 2yr arrived Dover 02.00 ordered to Drwns Ordered proceed Dove 18. es. 28th at ЯНТЕАМ to anchor. Received charts Dankik, and orders to stand by. Sed 29th Ylew signal T.K. hand. 30 i. 31% / Examination boat almaside with teesh Still flying signal Water. He reported by Radio Telephone we were short provisions and and oil Pay. 1ˢᵗ June. Numbers hirsted:- Rocerded off Deal 2 adminally Signal Station. Launch proceed at 1/2 hand ashice. Reported came alvigside with orders to be ready /2. still short provisions and oil. it Dadered stand by for Oil. au 'R/CRIT she produced an engine breakdown as excuse. Was given up as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 199 790. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
11 Embarkation proceeded at rate of 3 to 4,000 an hour. Troops were now consisting mainly of the Fighting Corps, all the non-combatant troops in the area having been evacuated. The display of this Corps Troops was noticeably superior - - previous detachments had reached the embarkation point in a straggling manner with scarcely any semblance of order. The Corps Troops marched in formation along the beaches, quickly scattering during an air raid, and reforming and continuing afterwards. It was this order which enabled such a high rate of embarkation to be maintained. At 1800 I proceeded with Brigadier Perminter by Motor Boat to La Panne to G.H.Q. to report on the difficult situation vis-a-vis the French over the evacuation. When on board EXPRESS I made a signal to the Admiralty and to V.A. Dover giving an appreciation of the situation as follows :- "Bombing of beaches and Dunkirk pier hasnow commenced without opposition from fighters. If they hit Dunkirk pier embarkation will become very jammed. Beach at La Panne covered with troops congregating in large numbers. Very slow embarkation taking place from Restern Beach. The French Staff at Dunkirk feel strongly that they are defending Dunkirk for us to evacuate, which is largely true. To continue evacuation my appreciation is as follows - The perimeter must be strongly held, food and stores immediately provided, and bombing of Dunkirk pier must be prevented. There is no other Alternative evacuation to take off mone than a tithe of men now on beach before they are bombed continuously." In Dunkirk itself we were left in comparative peace by enemy aircraft until the evening. V.A. Dover's 1906/29 received, reading :- "Evacuation of British troops to continue at maximum speed during the night. If adequate supply or personnel vessels cannot be maintained
17 & 21 "maximum number of French and British may be evacuated. Impossible from here to judge local situation. In close co-operation with Admiral Abrial you must act in this matter on your own judgment. At 2315 I made the following signal:- "Withdrawal now proceeding according to plan. Shall have certain reserves here to-morrow to assist French. Intend to complete evacuation to-morrow by midnight. A motor boat was sent to the mouth of the harbour at dusk and allocated berths to the ships as they entered, the requisite number of the personnel vessels being sent to the embarkation pier in the Western harbour to embark French troops. A good number of ships entered harbour and embarked troops, and the seamanship displayed by destroyers, sloops and transports was most praiseworthy under exceedingly difficult conditions. I gave orders to evacuate a large proportion of naval personnel during the night. the final All those that did remain until, withdrawal had performed their duties magnificently. Suriday 2nd June. 0800/2 - from S1N.0.Dunkirk. "Request again maximum number of transports for British and French. At 2130 June 2nd it is intended that all British shall be evacuated by midnight. Request M.A.S.B. at 2300. At 0405 - from S.N.O.Dumkirk. "Admiral du Nord requests that block ships will arrive at 6300 to-morrow night. He will signal if their placing is to be postponed. At 0730 - from S.N.O. Dunkirk:- "Wounded situation acute. Hospital ships should enter during day. Geneva Convention will be honourably observed. It is felt that the enemy will refrain from attack (This signal was made "en clear") At 0830 - from S.N O. Dunkirk:- "About 5000 British remain. Bofors ammunition short. Sporting chance of embarking to-night. Maximum number of fast motor boats at 2130 at inner end of Long Pier would assist. Early this morning the drifter Lord Cava our dépot ship, was sunk by shell fire.
28 22 16. At about 1200 Commander Ken and I motored into Dunkirk to report progress as embarkation on our beach was then impossible. On our return our lorry was heavily machine gunned and hit. At this period a heavy bombing attack took place on the Fleet and beaches. 17. On return to our headquarters (a lorry) we decided to make contact with General H.Q. but unfortunately our car broke down and we had to walk back 5 miles. 18. During the night another naval embarkation party arrived on the beach to the eastward which reduced the limits of our beach. 19. Early on Thursday morning 30th I proceeded to Brigade H.Q. and offered the suggestion that piers be built by running lorries out to sea. This was quickly done and was successful. 20. I then drove Colonel Whitten and Colonel Mackenzie into Dunkirk to see Captain Tennant and then drove them back to Brigade H.Q. 21. During the afternoon and dogwatches the French poured into our beaches but no boats arrived within 11 miles of our H.Q. 22. During the last dog the Germans directed mos to accurate artillery fire on our beach. This fire continued throughout the night and our lorry was hit. The beach was completely evacuated by allied soldiers. 23. We had however taken up quarters in a water-boat that was ashore at low mter. No boats had now been in for 16 hours on our beach. 84. During the night the weather became bad once more - and a heavy surf was running. At/
is 35 soon as the fighters left, they seemed to know the exact moment in which to approach. (3) Lack of satisfactory communication arrangements was most noticeable. There were no portable wireless sets ashore with the beach parties nor were any field telephones supplied by the naval parties. The only method of communicating messages to ships embarking from the beaches was by & written message sent off in a boat.
4238 43 Embarkation proceeded at rate of 3 to 4,000 an hour. Troops were now consisting mainly of the Fighting Corps, all the non-combatant troops in the area having been svacuated. The display of this Corps Troops was noticeably superior - previous detachments had reached the in embarkation point in a straggling manner with scarcely any semblance of order. The Corps Troops marched in formation along the beaches, quickly scattering during an air raid, and reforming and continuing afterwards, It was this order which snabled such 8 high rate of embarkation to be maintained. At 1200 I proceeded with Brigadier Parminter by Motor Boat to La Panne to G.H.Q. to report on the difficult situation vis-a-vis the French over the evacuation. When on board EXPRESS I made a signal to the Admiralty and to V.A. Dover giving an appreciation of the situation as follows :- the "Bombing of beaches and Dunkirk pier hasnow commenced the without opposition from fighters. If they hit Dunkirk pier embarkation will become very jammed. Beach at La Panne covered with troops congregating in large numbers. Very slow embarkation taking place from Restern Beach. The French Staff at Dunkirk feel strongly that they are defending Dunkirk for us to evacuate, which is largely true. To continue evacuation my appreciation is as follows - The perimeter must be strongly held, food and stores immediately provided, and bombing of Dunkirk pier must be prevented. the There is no other alternative evacuation to take off mone than a tithe of men now on beach before they are bombed continuously." very loss In Dunkirk itself we were left in comparative peace by enemy aircraft until the evening. V.A. Dover's 1906/29 received, reading these bombed the Evacuation of British troops to continue at maximum speed during the night. If adequate supply of personnel vessels cannot be maintained
48 52 "maximum number of French and British may be evacuated. Impossible from here to judge local situation. In close co-operation with Admiral Abrial you must act in this matter on your own judgment. At 2315 I made the following signal:- "Withdrawal now proceeding according to plan. Shall have certain reserves here to-morrow to assist French. Intend to complete evacuation to-morrow by midnight. A motor boat was sent to the mouth of the harbour at dusk and allocated berths to the ships as they entered, the requisite number of the personnel vessels being sent to the embarkation pier in the Western harbour to embark French troops. A good number of ships entered harbour and embarked troops, and the seamanship displayed by destroyers, sloops and transports was most praiseworthy under exceedingly difficult conditions. I gave orders to evacuate a large proportion of naval personnel during the night. the final All those that did remain until, withdrawal had performed their duties magnificently. Suriday 2nd June. 0800/2 - from SIN.O.Dunkirk. "Request again maximum number of transports for British and French. At 2130 June 2nd it is intended that all British shall be evacuated by midnight. Request M.A.S.B. at 2300. At 0405 - from S.N.O.Dunkirk. "Admiral, an Nord requess that block ships will arrive at 6300 to-morrow night. He will signal if their placing is to be postponed. At 0730 - from S.N.O. Dunkirk:- "Wounded situation acute. Hospital ships should enter during day. Geneva Convention will be honourably observed. It is felt that the enemy will refrain from attack (This signal was made "en clear") At 0830 - from S.N O. Dunkirk:- "About 5000 British remain. Bofors ammunition short. Sporting chance of embarking to-night. Maximum number of fast motor boats at 2130 at inner end of Long Pier would assist. Early this morning the drifter Lord Cava our depot ship, was sunk by shell fire.
59 63 3/w May AS about 0300 11 988 impossible to carry out 16. At about 1200 Commander Ken and I motored into embarkation es the bonches. Dunkirk to report progress as embarkation on our beach was 85. vere showing signs of extreme exhaustion and then impossible. On our return our lorry was heavily machine 80 it 989 impossible to communicate with the Senior Navel Officer gunned and hit. At this period a heavy bombing attack took we decided to take over * shaler that the had salved and to go place on the Fleet and beaches. to the bearest to report to the Senior Seval officer 17. On return to our headquarters (a lorry) we decided 25. We wasted vater and 0750 put to 00, to make contact with General H.Q. but unfortunately our car There me very heavy surf running and se had only an uneven set broke down and we had to walk back 5 miles. of sers, voge arutches and only an 062 to by. 18. During the night another naval embarkation party 17. We approached two destroyers but they both 201 underesy. arrived on the beach to the eastward which reduced the Tea other destroyers passed de at but paid no limits of our beach. stiention to us. 19. Early on Thursday morning 30th I proceeded to 28. an hour if appeared the Brigade H.Q. and offered the suggestion that piers be built Margate the the Consumin to take 12 to the by running lorries out to sea. This was quickly done and was nearest destroyer at this time. successful. returning to 80 we case back with him 20. I then drove Colonel Whitten and Colonel Mackenzie 19, US28 and into Dunkirk to see Captain Tennant and then drove them back were salses within five minutes of being inboard the lifeboat. to Brigade H.Q. 1 the or Staff 21. During the afternoon and dogwatches the French poured Daven and into reported our beaches our return. but no boats arrived within 11 miles 1 usa ordered to return to Chather with by party, of our H.Q. 22. During the last dog the Germans directed mon $ accurate artillery fire on our beach. This fire continued throughout the night and our lorry was hit. The beach was completely evacuated by allied soldiers. 23. We had however taken up quarters in a water-boat that was ashore at low mter. No boats had now been in for 16 hours on our beach. 24. During the night the weather became bad once more - and a heavy surf was running. At/
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manding Officer H.M.S. Saltash. Dyram 91. The 4th.1039. Brulohing by M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover " 71 Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the 329 ng Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, the honour to submi t their names so that suitable action taken. Join ieutenant Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S. 0011 the night of Friday, May 31st,he was loaned to H. Hebe was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went other to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors lacking a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach nick ame im Danna WAS hains hombarded the mmander in chief more Dynamo go. 67 in on operations carried out By M.B. Honderung C Dutch schoole). n 26 may and 5 June 1940. anchaed at sheerness waiting for orders Sailed from Sheerness arrived and anchored on Deal. ordered to Junkirk in company with 5 other Schools on Eastern entrance to I unkink roads. ships harsing advised us that Dunkirk had fallen. Senior officers schoote developed engine Grouble ordered Hondsrug to take him in low Readed away drom unkink Sliphed tow as S.O.S engine now working and schools ordered Crack to Deal german seaplane, machine gunned and Comled us no damage, Put rather unpleasant as we had no gans to return fire. anchored GM Dear. ordered to Dunkink have uh and proceeded. on Dunkink harbour made for beaches Saw move teashing from beach and ran verset hand up on sand. Embarked troops
From: Commanding Officer H.M.S. Saltash. Dyram 91. Blulol by Date: June 4th.1039. is 71 11149 To; Sement Space M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, I have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action may be taken. 1. Lieutenant T,E. Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S. On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went in shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors and, pullading a whaler behind them, he made his way along the beach nick Danna was haina hombarded the To: Commander in chief more Dynamo go. 67 Rehart on operations carried out By M.B. Honderung (Dutch schoote). Between 26 may and 5 June 1940. 26 anchaed at sheerness waiting for orders 24" 300 Sailed from Sheerness 000 arrived and anchored on Ifeal. 500 ordered to Junkirk in company with 5 other Schools 300 on Eastern entrance to unkink roads. ships harsing advised us that Dunkink had fallen. Senior 6 Hiers schoote' developed engine trouble ordered Hondsrug to take him in low Readed away drom Dunkink 28 345 Slithed tow as S.O.S engine now working and schools ordered Crack to Deal 430 german seaplane, machine gunned and Comled us no damage, Put rather unpleasant as we had no gans to return fire. 000 anchored GH Dear. 815 ordered to Dunkink have wh and proceeded. 330 on Dunkink harbour made for beaches 29 200 Saw more thashing open beach and nan verset hand up on sand. Emparked troops
Form: Commanding Officer H. Saltash. Dysams 91. Blulol by Date:June 4th.1039. is 71 114g P; Seven M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the ollowing Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, have the honour to submi t their names so that suitable action ay be taken. Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S. On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe Out he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors nd, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach mink ame un Danne was haine hombarded the 2/ 68 another Schoote on shore came in alongside Found moheller had hicked wh nohe and engines would not turn ScRoole Bornrit towed us ON and back to Deal roads. arrived and anchored disembarked troohs. 30" 00 after several attempts to clear screwohom heart asked SNQ Ramsgate it we might be towed in and beached This was approved. 1000 arrived Ramsgate hut vessel on Hand 231 200 Shih dry. cleared screw 730 Proceeded to Dunkink 500 arrived on beaches. heavy bombing. 300 no Goats available to bring men ON, sobeached shin but troops would not wade out so backed on and anchored 300 Embarked about 100 French troobscrom is mata boat. 000 Cruised along beaches. and then made for harbour entrance. 130 Secured alongride Preakwater. embarked hoops, heary Combing going on cleared harbour. we were able to machine gun low deying german heave troops assisting
Prom: Commanding Officer H. Saltash. Depairs 91. Bruloling by Date:June 4th.1039. o; Sement space M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover " 71 Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the ollowing Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, If have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action ay be taken. Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S. On the night of Friday, May 31st,1 he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors nd, pullading a whaler behind them, he made his way along the beach nick ame Danna was haine hombarded the 3/. - 69 with Bren guns arrived Ramsgate and disembarked troops Proceeded Dunkink Combed on several occasions no damage. Entered harbour embarked French trooks harbour being shelled and bombed , cleared harbour 2" 10 arrived Ramsgate disembarked hooks and anchored ON waiting for aders. 3" 10 Hore wh and proceeded Dunkink in company with three other schootes 45 arrived alongside Jetty at Past and embarked French troops '+ 000 serv Dunkink and proceeded. 530 arrived Ramsgate after thick too tor east three hours a hassage, diseimbarked troops. 1630 anchaed ON and rested crew 615 ordered to Fillury home, rh and proceeded 200 arrived Sanding stage es 00 Pilor exanded and vessel proceeded to surrey commercial Dock
Tom: Commanding Officer H. Saltash. Dysams 91. Brulohing by ate:June 4th.1039. 0; Semon spece M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover " 71 Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, ⑉ have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action ay be taken. Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S. On the night of Friday, May 31st,he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe but he was not required. On his way back in & motor boat he went texin shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors and, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach CAR he could nick amv un La Panpe was being bombarded the 41. - 66 70 10 Secured to Quelee Dock - haid off shin returning all stores and crew to chatham. P.O.(T). amb Potts /J.92816 showed great coolness getting men under cover when shih was gunned and Combed on 28' may. and was a tower astrength during the whole operation. THenny 7.- JUN 1940 . * THE NORE Sient. R.N.R. 6 may 1940. Times given in this report are approximate. Total number or men landed about 1500 in town expective hassages drom Dunkink
Dysam 91. From: Commanding Officer H.M.S. Saltash. Bhulo Date:June 4th.1039. To; Seven Spece M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover " 71 1149 Sir, During the operations off Dunkerque the following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage, I have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action may be taken. 1. Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of H.M.S. Saltash. On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went in shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors and, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach to see if he could pick any up.La Panne was being bombarded the whole time he was ashore. He knew that I thought he was aboard 'Hebè and that the C.O.of 'Hebe' thought he was aboard me so that he could not expect any ship to wait for him;both pontcons were destroed while he was ashore. Eveentually he turned to 'Hebe' and when he came, back to me on Sunday night was perfectly ready and fit for more. He franch only dead men & must have been ashise two hours While Saltash was rescuing survivors from S.S. Brighton Queen,and was in a precarious position alongside her bridge and on her deck and might have had to move any time (there was also summarke of small air attack) intermitted sumbing - gunning 2. Brian Sto.1.,C/KX79268. ,stripped and swam with a line to two men a mile away, finding the line a hindrance he discarded it, and, unaided, rescued these two men.After a short rest he continued to swim out lines to men closer to the ship. Bombing and machine gunning Was going on in close proximity to Maughan. 3. Frederick HUTTER, X7183. with the aid of two or three untrained assisstants, succoured ninety (98), repeat(98), casualties, ten of whom required artificial respiration, several of the others were serious casualties. There was no medical Officer on board and only two men of the 98 died. Hutter worked till he collapsed. 4. Receive, Thomas CRANSTONE a.B. ,B22751(R.F. swam out with a line and orders to sh ps skiff which WAS in difficulies rescued this party and a party on a Neither party could have reached the ship unaidad for some time. Distance swum about 200 yards. Y.R.Jah. Liautenant-Commander in Command. VICE ADMIRAL 8-JUN 1940 + DOVER
Dynamo 93 72 SECTION NOD and Juno 1940. sir, I regret to have to report the loss of thereise BRITHER by enemy action at 1013 let June 1940 off the Bolgian coast. The circumstances are as follows. at about 0315 while embarking British troors off DEPARTMENT I TRUE attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKSHS dive bombers. They approached from astern and on eighting 1 went full speed shoul 13 boilors connected, and as the Dombo were released turned hard to port. as far as I could judge such aircraft released a pattern of five bombs one being & large "B" type and four smaller bombs with slight delay action. one of the latter exploded at the after end 02 HOW boilor room on the port side and siereed blew anay the bulkhoad vioroing both main and auxiliary stoam linou and main oil fuol supply. «11 engine room and boilor room personnel were killoi. About six of the "B" type bonds than exploded underneath the ship flooding the after cagazine and shell room and probably the gland conpartments and storo rooms just forward of this position. The uppor dock and sideo of the ship crecked right across in the vioinity of the suimast. This 18 & general line of mouthous in dostroyers. In order to precerve stability the torpedoes and death charges were jottluoned and the ship floated confortably with little increase in drought. I invected ongine room and No.3 doilor room and found that a Joall acount of nuter was making its very through shrapnol holos. Those were plugged and colligion not placed over the norst louks. It WILL found imposible to got steam to the enginos unl the ship thereafter remined imobile. 1. fforts were now made to sond out measages for assistance. is tug who had been attending on Hamada "KEITH" passed no a 013nal telling DD to sink to which I replied that I was out of action und required imediate assistance. I also requested him to inform The Ylag officer Commending, Dover to this effect. Due then dies peared. Signals for assistance were also made by using type & II with battory nover. It is Coubtful whether any of these measuges more received owing to very heavy traffic at the time and comparative woukness of by signals. 5. a Bolgiun fiching smock under French colours was soon in the distunco and the notor boat TRIO dearatched to susson her to our assistance. She WELL is JULIA AMOUNT of Card and after JONE offorts a tow was pussed and corse set to open from the coast. This ha hardly been accomplished before & second attack devollopped at about 0945. This consisted of lovel bumbing from about 0000t. such bomber acting independently. about hulf a squalron of 18 carried out the attack. Considering the ship WAS & stationary targot and there was little wind these attacks were Dourly carried C out and no bumbo hit. This may have been due to pon pon fire is which Hunner 12 new in charge. Unfortunately this gallant officer WAS killed at his post by machine run bullets which were fired continuously us the bombers pussed overhead.
69 73 SECR & PAge 8. 6. second attempt TRU now David to tow the ship clear but little progress had been made before a third attack developped at about noon, carried out by 8 equairon of : dive Dombers. By this time nearly all amunition TRIS expenied and the 4.7 guns were firing in the hope of keeping the enemy at a listance. The Germans however, cade 8 determined diving attack which was well prossed home to about 400 feet. The ship WAS completely smotherou 00 hits and near misses some of which were of the "B" bomb type. The ship immidiately bogan to settle and I gave the order to abanlon ship. Thanks to the adequate preparations cade by if First ideutenant, Lieutonant- Commander Moding there TIBUDS plenty of boats and carley floats ready for survivors. fter collecting all strey swimers the boats and floats pullod out to sea. LE JOLIE picked up 8 officers an: 71 ratings and How.3. WHIT HALL" 20 officers and 52 ratings. One wholer and the notor boat had proceeded to far over the shocls which run parallel to the count for to piok them up. 7. cank in about 4 fathers of wator in approximate youition with hor uppor Cook smash. Although the sodio and V.C.-V.F. gear and all important documents had been destroyed I = anxious to complete the destruction of the vessel. accordingly I requested the Captain of to fire suns and torpeloss. This W&J done and the ship 180 left on fire forward. It 10 not certain whether any of the torredoes hit and I consider further destruction advisable. 1 intimated this in & signal time.: 40 6/1 to the log Community :over despatched DO a secret Sand coosego. 8. the first attach I ordered the destruction of all Signal when the chip TXC rendered imobile after Publications except the Fleet Signal Book bridge machine and current naval Syko card. This was done by Sub- Lieutenant who burnt then in the two galleys. All Confidential Books prefixed 10' more dumped overboard in a weighted sack except those out on loan to officers SS these could not be got at due to damage aft. The Asdic gear in the cabinet and on the bridge was diamentied where possible and thrown overboard and the remainder smashed The oscillator was removed and brought on the upper dock anidships 80 the finel attack developped. It is not known for certain whether the oscillator slid overboard when the ship sant. lenterns wore unshippod and thrown overboard. 9. on the bridge: C.B. _018 - and certain charge documents in the The following books and documents were left Captain's springback and the Meet Signal Book. The bridge was burning fiercely when last seon and it can be confidently stated that these documents and papers more lestroyed. I would like to emphasise that the older 10. doctroyers with pan point using belted ammunition and 4.7° Guns with only 30 degrees elevation are no match for a determined air attack. Cur Lowis guno had also been recently surreniored. when shipo of this type are operating within range of energy air attack losses must be expected unless adequate fighter protection is afforded. In all the enemy launched four big uir attacks at about hourly intervals during the forenoon of the 1st June. The first, secon: and fourth of these were unoppeced apparently unopposed by any British Aircraft
79 Ing N. into the lots Jilisk, 1. Lieut. E. Troweeks. When we were bombed I was taking cover in after lobby, then proceeded to E.R. hatch but could not get below because of steam, was joined by C. Sto. Ricketts and C.E.R.A., Testlake, gave orders to shut off all boiler room emergency valves and then safety valves and shut main steam bulkhead valve on deck. As soon as possible E. Room and after boiler room were entered. Attention first given to casualties but all bar one were dead. First thought possible to get some part of machinory going but not possible. Concentrated on leaks. Bomb dropped port fore side wells bulkhend and stove in boiler room bulkhead. Disabling port fan, engine, oil full pump, number three boiler, port circulator, main and reserve foed tanks and all pipes and leads adjacent were pierced and broken. Leak at after end of 3.R. oil fule tank plugged. Efforts made to run petrol dynamo for W/T but the magneto connection broke, Hands were told off to get hand steering in use. P.O. of fore boiler room reported no damage after first raid although C. Sto. reported oil suction line pierced and shut off. 2. Sub. Lieut. Jeaves. During the first attack I was on the bridge as Officer of the Watch and remained there for some time after- wards while the Captain went off to the engine and boiler rooms. On the Captain's orders I went aft to the after steering compartment to see whether it was possible to steer by hand. This was 30, and leaving a Leading Stoker and two or three hands I returned to the bridge as the ship was being taken in tow. When the second attack took place I was in the fore and aft passage below the wheelhouse for some time and eventually went into the Petty Officers' Mess to try and assist the foremost supply party. After the attack, on the First Lieutenant's orders, I placed charts in the whaler and a small private motor boat and unshipped the steering compass from the wheelhouse, and put it in the whaler. I then went aft to continue connecting up to steer by hand. To do this it was necessary to clear a good deal of gear out of the compartment. This took about half an hour. By this time another attempt was being made to take the ship in tow, so I recovered the charts from the motor boat, and went up on the bridge. When the ship was attacked for the third time I again went down to the fore and aft passage beneath the wheelhouse, where 1 stayed till the order abandon ship was given. Of the two charts containing confidential matter concerning minefields in the Dover area, one was destroyed and the other left in the whaler which has not yet returned. The Fleet notices to Marines were thrown overboard in mid-channel. Fleet charts were left in their folios in the Charthouse.
17 Page 3. 81 Lieut, Cdr, W.G. Boaks. 4. With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went forward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood his orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting boats, Just as we got the beat clear I heard a bomb whistling down and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, bombs dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went through the engine room - this very seriously wounded and burnt one rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full force of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Fom deck overhead and almost knocked out. I then went to the bridge to see what the position was there, but there were no casualties there and 1 then went aft to the after guns to find en route that deck was buckled by mainmast. The after magazine and shell room were flooding and decided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed up about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembark- ing troops previous day - night) as all lights were out and being daylight few were carrying torches on them. 1 found general chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down to resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the buckled part was rather important. I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the midst of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took shelter, some in forecastle locker. I then found all but three of the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in view of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown overboard. After this attack we came out and then started to provide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage bad been done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again went forward to rig дем tow lines and also ordered individual hands to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water as by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not have towed faster than say four knots. I also placed one hand with a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in from point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast off boats' painters should ship sink without warning. Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and also 3/2" wire during course of which the third attack developed and I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite from forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at a passing bomber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit even with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward and noticed that X gun had a round left but was unable to fire as recoil cylinder had been emptied in preparation for firing and tearing gun out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was re- filled but on going forward I discovered that the crack in deck appeared to have widened and gave orders that after guns were on no account to be fired in view of probable breaking off of after end. I then ordered every possible container of water to be filled from only remaining water left in hot water tank in galley and tore up soldiers ground capes to provide covers to prevent loss or contamination of this water. Boats' anchors were then placed in spare boats alongside and ears provided, sailing gear placed in whaler, after steering compase unshipped and placed in spare motor boat, torches distributed to boats, the after life- buoy flare placed in whaler for possible use. After steering party detailed and party to clear the flat of weeckage. I then went forward for third time to take in tow during which the fourth attack developed - dive bombing - and upper deck was cleared.
78 82 4. (contd.). On completion when ship had been struck and water was level with waist the question of scuttling ship came up but Captain decided this was unnecessary and order was given to abandon ship. I reached one of the spare Army boats two hundred yeard away and after collecting survivors to limit of boats capacity went to drifter. After collecting all but two floats we went off to head off & destroyer for the remainder. Particular merit:- A.B. Rawstron - courage, example & cheerfulness. A.Bis Glover and Ord. Sea Mullins - courage de cheerfulness. P.O. Robinson took charge well on forecastle. A.B. Davis. Torp. although badly burned took a lively interest in remaining action taken. Lieut. Sowry AC for tenacity of purpose with French drifter resulting in the recovery of seventy survivors and message passed to destroyer for remaining fifty. 5. Surg. Lieut. A.M. McHaffie. 1st. Attack. In Sick Bay 16 which was reduced to chaos from concussions. Casualties arrived after attack. Soldier complaining of burns of arms. Stocker complaining of burns of face. 2xStwaker Terpedoman complaining of extensive surface burns of face, scalp, neck and both eyes. Another rating complained of splinter wound of left arm. L.S.B.A. reported A.B. Riddle lying under Pon-Pom platform. When I arráved there I found him complaining of fracture of left feaur and very extensive burns of face and shoulders - Dressed him and then went down into engine room where I saw two BRA's dead. Griffeths& Grifftchs& Putt (stoker) was also dead. L.S.B.A. reported four dead in boiler room. 2nd. attack. Ordered to clear upper deck - and I went to port side alley way. Saw Mr. Francis of Pom-Pom platform and one rating. He called for rest of crew and I passed on call to ratings in fore meas deck. No hands came forward. Saw Captain climbing on to platform followed by rest of crew. Was called by Captain to attend to Mr. Francis and I went on to Pom-Pom platform and found Mr. Francis unconscious - splinter through lungs. Gave 1/6th. morphine. 3rd. attack. Was still on Pom-Pom platform until shortly after attack when Mr. Prancis died. During interval between 3rd. and 4th. attacks. Evacuated wounded into water boat lying in water amidships on starboard side. Was helped in this by L.S.B.A and Coxswain. Orders to do so were given by First Lieutenant. 4th. attack. Most of herew of motor, boat boarded ship including all Robertson stretcher a no on forecastle of motor boat - two ratings wounded except A.B. Riddle who was comatose and lying in remained in boat. Bomb hit water 10 yards off motor boat and wave upset and smashed boat against ship's side upsetting all within - Riddle disappeared before I could get to him and I lost sight of other members of boat's crew. Ship by this time WELLS being abandoned.
page 5. 83 Sub Lieut. Galbraith. ship 6. was on fire and took some of gun's crew forward to deal with I was by Y gun for first attack. After hit I though it, ordering & torpedoman to start jettisoning Port forrard depth charges, which appeared to be in danger. Found no fire but hauled on board two burned men who were in water Port side. Went aft where it was reported that shell room was flooding. Had all hatches closed. Assisted Gunner with jettisoning depth charged. Tried to render cabin flat water tight. Went forward to assist with tow forward observed bow to be bulged by close bomb near water line. Took cover in P.O's mess for start of 2nd. attack. Captain ordered me to get Vickers in action. Found torpedoman who knew its action and managed to get only three single rounds off during attack. Complete Jam resulted. Later saw G.M. who declared nothing could be done. Took cover for 3rd. attack. Watched destruction of A/S fannel. Tas ordered by 1st. Lieut. to load.Army boat and supervise its manning. Accompanied Sub. Lt. Ellis to Captain's cabin to get C.B's for destruction. Just reached deck when last attack started. Took cover by Y gun and inside after screen. On order to abandon ship, saw boat manned, threw some C.B's which I saw on U.D. over the side and then jumped for boat. A/S C.B's were not destroyed. Lieut. Sowry. bridge 7. on the G.C.O's phones. Soon after bombers were sighted I At the beginning of the first attack I was on the gave the order "All guns with H.E:T.F - load" and "Rapid Salvos". Planes were sighted astern, angle of sight about 60° and at no time was the Director Layer able to report Director on during this attack due to the A of S being too great. Consequently no executive order to shoot was given. After this attack I was told by the Captain to take the motor boat away and commandere two fishing smacks which were passing 12 miles away. The first of these was abandoned and I returned in the second and stood by to tow. A wire was passed and made fast round a stout bean in the smack, which carried away some 15 minutes later. A second wire was then made fast round the foremast but as the tow was not clear of the deck house, the smack veered round and had to be pulled back into position by the motor boat. An additional rope was passed and made fast on the other quarter and the ship was turned through about 60 degrees., but the smack was again in the wrong position for towing, being alongside the forecastle bowe pointing aft. At this point second bombing attack took place and I slipped tow and stood off to about 1 mile, the smack being machine-gunned by four planes. When attack was over I returned and reconnected tow which later parted due to taking up the slack too vaolently. This was due to the language difficulty of giving orders to the French crew of the smack, the only other man on board the smack being an R.A.P. pilot. A further bombing attack started, the final one, and I again stood off from the ship. When I returned the crew was abandoning ship and I picked up all men in the water, two Carley floats, one RE pontoon and some men from each whaler. At this point, with 70 men aboard, Whitehall appeared in the distance and we made out to intercept her, using the smack's airen and the French ensign half way up the foremast. We met her about 12 miles away and passed information to her and requested her to collect men from remaining boats. I then set out on a course for England and in mid-chainel we transferred everyone to H.M. Trawler Olvina.
so 84 Page 6. Leading Seaman Wohdhouse. Motor hoat. Whilst pushing the towing vessel into position, the bombing formation came over. I let go and sheered off, the first salvo lifting the boat almost out of the water. Messerschmidt fighters attacked us with machine gun and cannon (Bombs were also dropped) for just a few minutes short of an hour. L.S. Hicks watched their flight and gave me helm and engine orders, the boat not being hit though a couple of cartridge cases dropped into us. We found our- selves out of sight of the ship, had a little council of war, and decided, knowing the ship was out of wireless communication to make Dunkirk for help. We headed west, and not far outside the harbour two troopships were bombed and sunk. We picked up what we considered a safe complement, tried to get in touch with a vessel to assist Basilisk. In t.is were not successful and were told to make England. We drew a rough chart and set our course, arraving Ramsgate roughly eight hours later. I then turned over the boat to the Naval authorities. We reported that Basilisk was badly hit and were assured that help had been sent.
86 Dynam 93. 90 SECTION ,VCD and Juno 1940. Sir, BASILISK I regret to have to report the loss of by enemy action at 1033 Lst June 1940 off the Bolgion coast. The circumstances are as follows. at about 0315 while enbarking British troors off I TRUE attacked by B squadron of nine German JUNKINS dive bombers. They approached from estern and on sighting 1 vent full speed ahout 13 boilors connected, and as the bombu were roleased turned hard to port. as far as I could judge each aircraft released a pattern of five bombs one being & large "B" type and four smaller bombs with elight dolay action. one of the latter oxyloded at the ufter ond of 10.00 boilor room on the port side and storess blow away the bulkhoad pioroing both nain and auxiliary steam linos and main oil fuol supply. all engine room and boilor room personnel were killet. about six of the B type bonds then exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and shell room and probably the Fland compartments and storo rooms just forward of this position. who upper lock and sideo of the ship cracked right coross in the vioinity of the minnest. This is is general line of contract in dostroyers. In order to precerve stability the torpedoes and le charges jottluonod und the ohi floated confortably with little incroase in draught. I invested ongine room and No.3 boilor room and found that a mall amount of nuter was making its way through shraphol holos. These were plussed and colligion net placed over the morst looks. It WAS found incosible to got stean to the engines und the unin thoroafter remined imobile. 1. fforts were now made to send out medicares for undistance. A tug who had been attending on Hamada "K"ITH" passed no a signal tolling DD to sink to which I roplied that I was out of action and required imediate assistance. I also requested him to inform The YIng -fficer Commanding, Pover to this effoct. Suc then dion geared. Signals for assistance were also nido by using type 6 4 with battory power. it 18 Coubtful whether any of these sessuges nore received owing to very heavy truffic at the time and comparative noukness of by cignals. 8. Solcion flohing smok under French colours was seen in the distance and the notor boat TRAD desrutched to suston hor to our addistance. she WALL is JUNIA of CAN and after JOLIO offorto a tow WHO pussed and corse set to open from the coast. This he hardly been accomplished before & second attack devolloyped ut about 0945. This consisted if lovel bumbing from about 6, 10000. sach bomber acting independently. about hulf a squalron of 18 curried out the uttuck. Considering the ship was 8 stationary turget and there was little wind these attacks were poorly curried C out and no bumbu hit. This say have been due to pon pom firo if which vunner in Best in charge. Unfortunately this Callant officer WBS killed at his post by machino cun bullets which LOTO fired continuously 40 the bombers passed overhead.
87 91 SECE P6CO 6. second attempt TRU now carlo to tow the ship clear but little progress had been made before & third attach developped at about noon,carrisi out by S squairon of MICHI live bonbers. By this time nourly all scrumition TRIS expenied and the 4.7 gans were firing in the hope of Leopin; the enemy at B intunce. the German, honever, & determined diving attack which was well prosued home to about 400 feet. The ship TRAG completely scotherol By hits and near nisses S000 of which were of the 3 boob type. The ship impediately bogan to settle and I gave the order to abanton ship. Thanks to the aloquato preparations code by if First Lieutonant, Licutenant- Communier there 1800 plenty of boats and carley floats realy for survivors. fter collecting all strey swimers the boats and floats pullod out to sou. LES JONES pickod up C officers an: 71 ratings and SHIP HALL" 2 officers and BC ratings. One shalor and the motor boat had processed to: for over the should which run parallel to the count for to piot: them up. 7. not in about 4 fathers of mator in sperazizate with hor upsor look smosh. the Notto and V.C.-V.P. coar and all important documento had been I = anxious to complete the destruction of the vessel. accordingly I the Captain of to fire guns and torpeloss. This wes done and the ship TOJ left on fire formari. It is not certain whether any of the torredoeu hit and I consider further destruction advisable. 1 intimated this in a airmal time 10 6, to the 110g Community: over doupatchol 30 a secret hert coorago. 8. -hen the chip - 1-obile after the first attack 1 ordere_ the dectruction of all signal Publications except the flect signal Dook bridge COST2-20 mohine and current naval iyko card. This was Lono by STID- Lieutenant who burnt then in the two galloys. All Confidential Books prefixod for more dumped overbourd in a weighted snok except those out on loan to officers SD these could not be COD at due to damage aft. The sale gour in the cabinet end on the bridge was dispential where possible and thrown overbour. and the remainder smoked. The oscillator T80 removed and brought on the uppor dook anidshipu as the final attack developped. It is not known for certain whether the oscillator alid overboard when the this san. lenterns were unshippod and thrown overboard. D. The following books and documento were left on the bridgo: C.D. 2010 WE and cortain charge locuments in the Coptain's springback and the Most Signal Book. The bridge TRAD burning fiercely when last seen and it can be confidently stated that these locumento and purara more lectroyed. 10. I mould 11kc to englusise that the older Soutroyers with DOC 2023 using belted amunition and 4.7° Dana with only 30 degrees elovation are no match for a determinel air attuck. our Lawis guna had also been recently surrenCored. when shipo of this type are operating within range of enecy air attack logues must be expected unless alequate fighter protoction is afforiat. In all the enemy launched four big win attache at about hourly intervals during the forenoon of the 1st June. The first, secon: and fourth of these were unoppeced apparently unopposed by any British Aircraft
93 Page. 97 1. Lieut. E. Treweeks. When we were bombed I was taking cover in after lobby, then proceeded to E.R. hatch but could not get below because of steam, was joined by C. Sto. Ricketts and C.E.R.A., Westlake, gave orders to shut off all boiler room emergency valves and then safety valves and shat main steam bulkhead valve on deck. As soon as possible 3. Room and after boiler room were entered. Attention first given to casualties but all bar one were dead. First thought possible to get some part of machinery going but not possible. Concentrated on leaks. Bomb dropped port foro side G.R. bulkhead and stove in boiler room bulkhend. Disabling port fan, engine, oil full pump, number three boilor, part circulator, main and reserve food tanks and all pipes and leads adjacent were pierced and broken. Leak at after end of B.R. oil fulls tank plugged. Efforts made to run petrol dynamo for W/I but the magneto connection broke. Hands were told off to get hand steering in use. P.O. of fore boiler room reported no damage after first raid although Ch. Sto. reported oil suction line pierced and shut off. 2. Sub. Lieut. Jeaves. During the first attack I was on the bridge as Officer of the Watch and remained there for some time after- wards while the Captain sent off to the engine and boiler rooms. On the Captain's orders I went aft to the after steering compartment to see whether it was possible to steer by hand. This was 30, and leaving a Leading Stoker and two or three hands I returned to the bridge as the ship was being taken in tow. When the second attack took place I was in the foro and aft passage below the wheelhouse for some time and eventually went into the Petty Officers' Meas to try and assist the foremost supply party. After the attack, on the First Lieutenant's orders, I placed charts in the whaler and a small private motor boat and unshipped the steering compase from the wheelhouse, and put it in the whaler. I then went aft to continue connecting up to steer by hand. To do this it was necessary to clear a good deal of gear out of the compartment. This took about half an hour. By this time another attempt was being made to take the ship in tow, so I recovered the charts from the motor boat, and went up on the bridge. When the ship was attacked for the third time I again went down to the fore and aft passage beneath the wheelhouse, where I stayed till the order Shandon ship was given. or the two charts containing confidential matter concerning minefields in the Dover area, one was destroyed and the other left in the whaler which has not yet returned. The Fleat notices to Marines were thrown overboard in mid-channel. Fleet charts were left in their folios in the Charthouse.
95 3. 09 it, Cdr. V.G. Boaks. With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went ward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting is, Just as we got the beat clear I heard & bomb whistling a and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, DS dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went ough the engine room - this very seriously wounded and burnt rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full CO of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Pom : overhead and almost knocked out. I than went to the bridge to see what the position was 0, but there were no casualties there and I than went aft to after guns to find en route that deck was buckled by mainmast. The after magazine and shell room were flooding and ided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembark- troops previous day - night) as all lights were out and go daylight few were carrying torches on them. I found eral chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the cled part was rather important. I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the st of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took Iter, some in forecastle locker. I then found all but three the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in V of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown rboard. After this attack we came out and then started to wide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage had a done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again c forward to rig now tow lines and also ordered individual is to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not a towed faster than say four knota. I also placed one hand a a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in a point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast boats' painters should ship sink without warning. Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and D 35th wire during course of which the third attack developed I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite II forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at at sing homber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit a with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward noticed that X gun had a round left but was unable to fire as oil cylinder had been emptied in preparation for firing and ring gun out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was re- Led but on going forward I discovered that the crack in deck eared to have widened and gave orders that after guns were on account to be fired in view of probable breaking off of after I then ordered every possible container of water to be Led from only remaining water left in hot water tank in galley tore up soldiers ground capes to provide covers to prevent 3 or contamination of this water. Boats' anchors were then ced in spare boats alongaide and cars provided, sailing gear bed in whaler, after steering compase unshipped and placed in re motor boat, torches distributed to boats, the after life- flare placed in whaler for possible use. After steering y detailed and party to clear the flat of weeckage. I then forward for third time to take in tow during which the fourth ok developed - dive bombing - and upper deck was cleared.
95 Page 3. 09 Lieut, Cdr. N.G. Boaks. 4. With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went forward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood his orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting boats, Just as we got the beat clear I heard & bomb whistling down and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, bombs dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went through the engine room - this very seriously wounded and burnt one rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full force of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Pom deek overhead and almost knocked out. I then went to the bridge to see what the position was there, but there were no casualties there and 1 than went aft to the after guns to find on route that deck was buckled by mainmast. The after magazine and shell room were flooding and decided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed up about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembark- ing troops previous day - night) as all lights were out and being daylight fow were carrying torches on them. I found general chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down to resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the buckled part was rather important. I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the midst of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took shelter, some in forecastle locker. I than found all but three of the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in view of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown overboard. After this attack ao came out and then started to provide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage had been done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again went forward to rig now tow Lines and also ordered individual hands to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water as by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not have towed faster than say four knots. 1 also placed one hand with a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in from point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast off boats' painters should ship sink without warning. Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and also 3½ⁿ wire during course of which the third attack developed and I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite from forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at a passing bomber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit even with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward and noticed that X gun had a round left but was unable to fire as recoil cylinder had been emptied in preparation for firing and tearing gun out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was re- filled but on going forward I discovered that the crack in deck appeared to have widened and gave orders that after guns were on no account to be fired in view of probable breaking off of after end. I then ordered every possible container of water to be filled from only remaining water left in hot water tank in galley and tore up soldiers ground capes to provide covers to prevent loss or contamination of this water. Boats' anchors were then placed in spare boats alongside and cars provided, sailing gear placed in whaler, after steering compasa unshipped and placed in spare motor boat, torches distributed to boats, the after life- buoy flare placed in whaler for possible use. After steering varty detailed and party to clear the flat of weeckage. I then went forward for third time to take in tow during which the fourth attack developed - dive bombing - and upper deck was cleared.
100 4. (contd.). On completion when ship had been struck and water was level with waist the question of scuttling ship came up but Captain decided this was unnecessary and order was given to abandon ship. I reached one of the spare Army boats two hundred yeard away and after collecting survivors to limit of boats capacity went to drifter. After collecting all but two floats we went off to head off a destroyer for the remainder. Particular merit:- A.B. Rawstron - courage, example & cheerfulness. A.B!s Glover and Ord. Sea Mullins - courage & cheerfulness. P.O. Robinson took charge well on forecastle. A.B. Davis. Torp. although badly burned took a lively interest in remaining action taken. Lieut. Sowry - for tenacity of purpose with French drifter resulting in the recovery of seventy survivors and message passed to destroyer for remaining fifty. 5, Surg. Lieut. A.M. McHaffie. 1st. Attack. In Sick Bay - which was reduced to chaos from concussions. Casualties arrived after attack. Soldier complaining of burns of ares, Stocker complaining of burns of face. 2x2xwaker Torpedoman complaining of extensive surface burns of face, scalp, neck and both eyes. Another rating complained of splinter wound of left arm. L.S.B.A. reported A.B. Riddle lying under Pom-Pom platform. When I arráved there I found him complaining of fracture of left femur and very extensive burns of face and shoulders - Dressed him and then went down into engine room where I saw two RRA's dead. Griffeths& Griffiths& Putt (atoker) was also dead. L.S.B.A. reported four dead in boiler room. 2nd. attack. Ordered to clear upper deck - and I went to port side alley way, Saw Mr. Francis of Pom-Pom platform and one rating. He called for rest of crew and I passed on call to ratings in fore meas deck. No hands came forward. Saw Captain Captain to attend to Mr. Francis and I went on to Pom-Pom platform climbing on to platform followed by rest of crew. Was called by and found Mr. Francis unconscious - splinter through lungs. Gave 1/6th. morphine. 3rd. attack. Was still on Pom-Pom platform until shortly after attack when Mr. Francis died. Evacuated wounded into Mater boat lying in water amidships on During interval between 3rd. and 4th. attacks. starboard side. Was helped in this by L.S.B.A and Coxawain. Orders to do 80 were given by First boat Lieutenant. wounded Riddle who was comatose and lying boat - in 4th. attack. Most of screw of motor, boarded ship including all Robertson except stretcher A.B. a ma on forecastle of motor two ratings remained in boat. and smashed Bomb against ship's side upsetting all within other - Riddle hit water 10 yards off motor boat and wave upset disappeared boat before I could get to him and I lost eight of menbers of boat's crew. Ship by this time was being abandoned.
page 5. 97 101 Sub Lieut. Galbraith. 6. I was by Y gun for first attack. After hit I though ship was on fire and took some of gun's crew forward to deal with it, ordering a torpedoman to start jettisoning Port forrard depth charges, which appeared to be in danger. Found no fire but hauled on board two burned men who were in water Port side. Went aft where it was reported that shell room was flooding. Had all hatches closed. Assisted Gunner with jettisoning depth charged. Tried to render cabin flat water tight. Went forward to assist with tow forward observed bow to be bulged by close bomb near water line. Took cover in P.O's mess for start of 2nd. attack. Captain ordered me to get Vickers in action. Found torpedoman who knew its action and managed to get only three single rounds off during attack. Complete jam resulted. Later saw G.M. who declared nothing could be done. Took cover for 3rd. attack. Watched destruction of A/S Pannel. Tas ordered by 1st. Lieut. to load.Army boat and supervise its manning. Accompanied Sub. Lt. Ellis to Captain's cabin to get C.B's for destruction. Just reached deck when last attack started. Took cover by Y gun and inside after screen. On order to abandon ship, saw boat manned, threw some C.B's which I saw on U.D. over the side and then jumped for boat. A/S C.B's were not destroyed. Lieut. Sowry. 7. At the beginning of the first attack I was on the bridge on the G.C.O's phones. Soon after bombers were sighted I gave the order "All guns with H.E:T.F - load" and "Rapid Salvos". Planes were sighted astern, angle of sight about 60° and at no time was the Director Layer able to report Director on during this attack due to the A of S being too great. Consequently no executive order to shoot was given. After this attack I was told by the Captain to take the motor boat away and commandere two fishing smacks which were passing 18 miles away. The first of these was abandoned and I returned in the second and stood by to tow. A wire was passed and made fast round a stout beam in the smack, which carried away some 15 minutes later. A second wire was then made fast round the foremast but as the tow was not clear of the deck house, the smack veered round and had to be pulled back into position by the motor boat. An additional rope was passed and made fast on the other quarter and the ship was turned through about 60 degrees., but the smack was again in the wrong position for towing, being alongside the forecastle bows pointing aft. At this point second bombing attack took place and I slipped tow and stood off to about 1 mile, the smack being machine-gunned by four planes. When attack was over I returned and reconnected tow which later parted due to taking up the slack too vaolently. This was due to the language difficulty of giving orders to the French crew of the smack, the only other man on board the smack being an R.A.F. pilot. A further bombing attack started, the final one, and I again stood off from the ship. When I returned the crew was abandoning ship and I picked up all men in the water, two Carley floats, one RE pontoon and some men from each whaler. At this point, with 70 men aboard, Whitehall appeared in the distance and we made out half way the foremast. We met her about 12 miles away and to intercept her, using the smack's siren and the French ensign passed information up to her and requested her to collect men from mid-chai.nel we transferred everyone to H.M. Trawler Olvina. remaining boats. I then set out on a course for England and in
98 Page 6. 102 Leading Seaman Wordhouse. Mator boat. Whilst pushing the towing vessel into position, the bombing formation came over. I let go and sheered off, the first salvo lifting the boat almost out of the water. Messerschmidt fighters attacked us with machine gun and cannon (Bombs were also dropped) for just a few minutes short of an hour. L.S. Hicks watched their flight and gave me helm and engine orders, the boat not being hit though a couple of cartridge cases dropped into us. We found our- selves out of sight of the ship, had & little council of war, and decided, knowing the ship was out of wireless communication to make Dunkirk for help. We headed west, and not far outside the harbour two troopships were bombed and sunk. We picked up what we considered a safe complement, tried to get in touch with a vessel to assist Basilisk. In this were not successful and were told to make England. We drew a rough chart and set our course, arraving Ramsgate roughly eight hours later. I then turned over the boat to the Naval authorities. We reported that Basilisk was badly hit and were assured that help had been sent.
Dyusum 93 106 110 SECTION DEVONUES, and Juno 1940. Sir, I regret to have to report the loss of Hellows by enemy action at 103 lat June 1940 off the Belgian coast, The circumstances are 68 follows. at about 0815 while embarking British troors off EASURES I TRIC attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKARS dive bombers. They approached from astern and on sighting I went full speed shoul 13 boilors connected and as the bombu were released turned hard to port. 43 far as I could judge such aircraft released & pattern of five Dombs one boing a large "B" type and four smaller bombs with alight delay action. une of the latter exploded at the ufter end of 40.3 boilor room on the port side and storeed blew away the bulkhoad pieroing both main and suxiliery steam linou and main oil fuel supply. +11 engine room and boilor room personnel were killed. About six of the "B" type bomba then exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and shell room and probably the gland compartments and store rooms Just forward of this position. The uppor deck and older of the ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the minnest. This is a gonoral line of neukness in dostroyers. In order to precerve stability the torpedoes and depth charges were jottluoned and the ohio floated confortably with little increase in drought. 1 increated ongine room and Ro.3 boiler room and found that a small amount of nuter was making its way through shrapnel holos. These were plugged and collision eat placed over the norst lonks. It WELL found impossible to got steam to the enginee and the ship thereafter remined imobile. 4. fforts were now made to send out messages for assistance. a tug who had boon attending on Hahada "K-ITH" passed me a signal triling DO to sink to which I replied that I was out of action and required immediate addistance. 1 aluo requested him to inform The Ylag officer Commanding, Nover to this effect. Tue then dion peared. Jignals for assistance were also mudo by using type 4 4 with battory power. It is doubtful whether any of these seauages were received owing to very heavy traffic at the time and comparative meukness of by cignals. 5. a Belgiun fishing smook under French colours was seen in the distunce and the notor boat TRIO desputched to her to our assistance. she WAS 43 JULI- of Could and after DOBB efforts a tow WELD passed and corse not to open from the coast. This ha: hardly been accomplished before & second attack devellopped ut about 0945. This consisted of lovel bumbing from about S, 10000. each bomber acting independently. about hulf 5 squairon of 18 curried out the attack. Considering the ship was a stationary target and there was little wind these attacks were pourly curried C out and no bumba hit. This may have been due to pon pom fire if which Hunner (2) 183 in charge. Unfortunately this gallant officer WBG killed at his post by machino [un bulleta which wore fired continuously as the bonbers pussed overhead.
117 Ing. EX into the loss G.: Jilist 1. Lieut. E. Treweeks. When we were bombed I was taking cover in after lobby, then proceeded to E.R. hatch but could not get below because of steam, was joined by C. Sto. Ricketts and C.E.R.A., Westlake, gave orders to shut off all boiler room emergency valves and then safety valves and shut main steam bulkhead valve on deck. As soon as possible 3. Room and after boiler room were entered. Attention first given to casualties but all bar one were dead. First thought possible to get some part of machinory going but not possible. Concentrated on leaks. Bomb dropped port fore side Z.R. bulkhead and stove in boiler room bulkhend. Disabling port fan, engine, oil fule pump, number three boilor, port circulator, main and reserve feed tanks and all pipes and leads adjacent were pierced and broken. Leak at after end of S.R. oil fule tank plugged. Efforts made to run petrol dynamo for W/T but the magneto connection broke. Hands were told off to get hand steering in use, P.O. of fore boiler room reported no damage after first raid although C. Sto. reported oil suction line piereed and shut off. 2. Sub. Lieut. Jeaves. During the first attack I was on the bridge as Officer of the Watch and remained there for some time after- wards while the Captain went off to the engine and boiler rooms. On the Captain's orders I went aft to the after steering compartment to are whether it was possible to steer by hand. This was so, and leaving a Leading Stoker and two or three hands I returned to the bridge as the ship was being taken in tow. When the second attack took place I was in the fore and aft passage below the wheelhouse for some time and eventually went into the Petty Officers' Meas to try and assist the foremost supply party. After the attack, on the First Lieutenant's orders, I placed charts in the whaler and a small private motor boat and unshipped the stearing compass from the wheelhouse, and put it in the whaler. I then went aft to continue connecting up deal of out of the compartment. This took about half an to steer by hand. To do this it was necessary to clear a good hour. By gear this time another attempt was being made to take the ship in tow, so I recovered the charts from the motor boat, and went up on the bridge. went down the fore and aft passage beneath the wheelhouse, When the ship was attacked for the third time I again where I to till the order Shandon ship was given. or the two charts stayed containing confidential matter concerning other left minefields in the in the Dover area, one was destroyed and the whaler which has not yet returned. in mid-channel. The Fleet charts were left in the Fleet notices to Marines were their thrown folios overboard in Charthouse.
119 Page 3. Lieut. Cdr. W.G. Boaks. 4. With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went forward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood his orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting boats, Just as we got the beat clear I heard & bomb whistling bombs dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went down and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, through the engine room - this very seriously wounded and burnt one rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full force of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Pom deck overhead and almost knocked out. I then went to the bridge to see what the position was there, but there were no casualties there and I then went aft to the after guns to find en route that deck was buckled by mainmast. The after magazine and shell room were flooding and decided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed up about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembark- ing troops previous day - night) as all lights were out and being daylight few were carrying torches on them. I found general chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down to resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the buckled part was rather important. I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the midst of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took shelter, some in forecastle locker. I then found all but three of the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in view of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown overboard. After this attack we came out and then started to probide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage had been done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again went forward to rig new tow lines and also ordered individual hands to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water as by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not have towed faster than say four knots. I also placed one hand with a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in from point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast off boats' painters should ship sink without warning. Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and also 32 wire during course of which the third attack developed and I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite from forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at a passing bomber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit and noticed that X had a round left but was unable to fire as even with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward recoil cylinder had gun been emptied in preparation for firing and tearing out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was re- filled but gun forward I discovered that the crack in deck no have in view of probable beeaking of after appeared to on going widened and gave orders that after guns off were on filled then remaining water left in hot water to galley end. account I to ordered be fired every possible container of water tank to in be and tore from only ground capes to provide anchors covers were prevent then placed or contamination alongside and cars provided, and gear loss up soldiers of this water. Boats' sailing spare in whaler, torches distributed to boats, After steering placed in spare boats after steering compass unshipped the after placed life- in buoy motor boat, whaler for possible use. of weeckage. I party flare placed in to clear the flat during which the then went detailed and party time to take in tow deck was cleared. fourth attack forward developed for - third dive bombing - and upper
116 120 4. (contd.). On completion when ship had been struck and water was level with waist the question of scuttling ship came up but Captain decided this was unnecessary and order was given to abandon ship. I reached one of the spare Army boats two hundred yeard away and after collecting survivors to limit of boats capacity went to drifter. After collecting all but two floats we went off to head off a destroyer for the remainder. Particular merit:- A.B. Rawstron courage, example & cheerfulness. A.B!s Glover and Ord. Sea Mullins courage & cheerfulness. P.O. Robinson took charge well on forecastle, A.B. Davis. Torp, although badly burned took a lively interest in remaining action taken. Lieut. Sowry - for tenacity of purpose with Franch drifter resulting in the recovery of seventy survivors and message passed to destroyer for remaining fifty. 5. Surg. Lieut. A.W. McHaffie, 1st. Attack. In Sick Bay - which was reduced to chaos from concussions. Casualties arrived after attack. Soldier complaining of burns of arms. Stocker complaining of burns of face. Torpedoman complaining of extensive surface burns of face, scalp, neck and both eyes. Another rating complained of splinter wound of left arm. L.S.B.A. reported A.B. Riddle lying under Pom-Pom platform. When I arråved there I found him complaining of fracture of left feaur and very extensive burns of face and shoulders - Dressed him and then went down into engine room where I saw two BRA's dead. Griffiths& Griffeth& Putt (stoker) was also dead. L.S.B.A. reported four dead in boiler room. port side Saw Mr. Francis of Pom-Pom platform call and 2nd. attack. Ordered to clear upper deck - and I went to one alley He way. called for rest of crew and I passed on to Captain on to platform to Mr. Francis and I went on to platform Gave climbing in fore mess followed by rest of crew. Pom-Pom Was called by ratings rating. deck. No hands came forward. Saw Captain and found to Mr. attend Francis unconscious - splinter through lungs. 1/6th. morphine, 3rd. attack. Was still on Pom-Pom platform until shortly after attack Mr. Francis died. Evacuated During into water boat lying in and amidships Coxswain. on when interval between 3rd. and water 4th. attacks. Orders to do side. so were given by First bow starboard wounded Was helped in this Lieutenant. by L.S.B.A 4th. attack. Most of Norew of motor, boarded ship lying including in all Robertson wounded except stretcher A.B. a Riddle me on boat - two ratings remained in and Bomb hit water ship's side upsetting lost sight of other Riddle boat. 10 yards off motor boat all and within wave upset - disappeared smashed before boat against I could get to him and I menbers of boat's crew. Ship by this time was being abandoned.
page 5. 121 Sub Lieut. Galbraith. 6. I was by Y gun for first attack. After hit I though ship was on fire and took some of gun's crew forward to deal with it, ordering a torpedoman to start jettisoning Port forrard depth charges, which appeared to be in danger. Found no fire but hauled on board two burned men who were in water Port side. Went aft where it was reported that shell room was flooding. Had all hatches closed. Assisted Gunner with jettisoning depth charged. Tried to render cabin flat water tight. Went forward to assist with tow forward observed bow to be bulged by close bomb near water line. Took cover in P.O's mess for start of 2nd. attack. Captain ordered me to get Vickers in action. Found torpedoman who knew its action and managed to get only three single rounds off during attack. Complete Jam resulted. Later saw G.M. who declared nothing could be done. Took cover for 3rd. attack. Watched destruction of A/S Pannel. Tas ordered by 1st. Lieut. to load.Army boat and supervise its manning. Accompanied Sub. Lt. Ellis to Captain's cabin to get C.B's for destruction. Just reached deck when last attack started. Took cover by Y gun and inside after screen. On order to abandon ship, saw boat manned, threw some C.B's which I saw on U.D. over the side and then jumped for boat. A/S C.B's were not destroyed. Lieut. Sowry. 7. At the beginning of the first attack I was on the bridge on the G.C.O's phones. Soon after bombers were sighted I gave the order "All guns with H.E:T.F . load" and "Rapid Salvos". Planes were sighted astern, angle of sight about 60 and at no time was the Director Layer able to report Director on during this attack due to the A of S being too great. Consequently no executive order to shoot was given. After this attack I was told by the Captain to take the motor boat away and commandere two fishing smacks which were passing 18 miles away. The first of these was abandoned and I returned in the second and stood by to tow. À wire was passed and made fast round a stout beam in the smack, which carried away some 15 minutes later. A second wire was then made fast round the foremast but as the tow was not clear of the deck house, the smack veered round and had to be pulled back into position by the motor boat. An additional rope was passed and made fast on the other quarter and the ship was turned through about 60 degrees., but the smack was again in the wrong position for towing, being alongaide the forecastle bows pointing aft. At this point second bombing attack took place and I slipped tow and stood off to about 1 mile, the smack being machine-gunned by four planes. When attack was over I returned and reconnected tow which later parted due to taking up the slack too vaolently. This was due to the language difficulty of giving orders to the French crew of the smack, the only other board the smack being an R.A.P. pilot. A further man on attack started, the final one, and I again stood off from bombing the ship. When I returned the crew was abandoning ship and I picked all men in the water, two Carley floats, one RE pontoon and up men from each whaler. At this point, with 70 men Whitehall some appeared in the distance and we made out half the foremast. We met her about 12 collect away and to intercept aboard, her, using the smack's siren and the miles French ensign remaining boats. I then set out on a course Trawler England Olvina. and in passed way information up to her and requested her to for men from mid-cha.nel we transferred everyone to H.M.
118 Page 6. 122 Leading Seaman Wordhouse. Mator boat. Whilst pushing the towing vessel into position, the bombing formation came over. I let go and sheered off, the first salvo lifting the boat almost out of the water. Messerschmidt fighters attacked us with machine gun and cannon (Bombs were also dropped) for just a few minutes short of an hour. L.S. Hicks watched their flight and gave me helm and engine orders, the boat not being hit though a couple of cartridge cases dropped into us. We found our- selves out of sight of the ship, had a little council of war, and decided, knowing the ship was out of wireless communication to make Dunkirk for help. To headed west, and not far outside the harbour two troopships were bombed and sunk. We picked up what we considered a safe complement, tried to get in touch with a vessel to assist Basilisk. In this were not successful and were told to make England. We drew a rough chart and set our course, arraving Ramsgate roughly eight hours later. I then turned over the boat to the Naval authorities. We reported that Basilisk was badly hit and were assured that help had been sent.
126 CONFIDENTIAL. 130 To: The Admiralty. via: V.A. Dover. H.M.S. "SALANDER". Copies to: F.O., London. 5th June, 1940. M.S.4. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following narrative of events which took place on Friday, 31st May, and Saturday, 1st June, 1940. At 1800/31/5 I left Dover in company with HALCYON and SKIPJACK to rendezvous with the remainder of the minesweepers at YY buay by 2200 in accordance with V.A. Dover's 0357/31/5. Here I took FITZROY under my command and followed astern of the other two groups through Dunkirk Roads, past Dunicirie, to a position off Bray, I was then ordered by NIGER to anchor one mile to his Eastward, to avoid magnetic mines laid near No.8 Buoy. This was accomplished by 0015/1/6. The beach at Bray was under shrapnel fire from inland energy batteries, and as no boats closed no I lowered a shaler with a Volunteer crew to land for soldiers (See appendix No.1). The boat returned in about half an hour with one hand and a message from General Nontgomery to inform all ships that he intended moving Weatward to Dunkirk at once as the beach was becoming untenable. This message I passed to all ships in V/S to ch. The pontoon pier had been hit by shell fire and no troops seemed to be embarking at all, so I weighed and kept under way closing the beach as much as I could. When a little light appeared, however, boats began to above off from the beach and dame to no. RA Dover now ordered all ships to embark men in boats and move Westwards to Dunkirk at dawn. A continual stream of boats came off with military personnel, and by 0600/1/6 I had embarked about 450 men, including 29 wounded of whom 11 were stretcher cases, Attacks by aircraft took place on all ships and salvoes of bombs were dropped, no ships being hit. We were then attacked by front machine gun fire from Messerschmitt 109's, and one casualty was sustained. L.S.A. Gullett was hit in the hand by a bullet. I then noved Westeard astern of KNITH and SKIPJACK. At 0820/1/6 an air attack took place on all three ships, and SKIPJACK was sunk, and KSITH hit and set on fire. KSITH abandoned ship, and I closed her and sent away both whalers as lifeboats. (See appendix No.2). Whilst resouing survivors I was again attacked by Junkers 87 dive bombers, and a salvo of four bombs fall about 50 feet ahead of the ship. They exploded under water when two bomba were approximately abreast the bridge. The ship lifted bodily and heeled to starboard, and then settled down with a list to part. She then sank about a foot, suddenly. I feared she was in danger of sinking, so I ordered the S.P's on board to be jettisoned. This was done in a weighted bag. (See appendix No.3) I stopped engines and waited reports from the Singineer Officer and Recutive Officer. The Engineer Officer and First Lieutenant ascertained that the forward, was and had flooded compartments amidahips In comprising about the cold and ship still seaworthy, although she had gained about 1 foot of draught hour rooms, steam WILLS gunners got on main engines again. (See Engineer Officer's 0001 stores and canteen store. attached a quarter of an report).
136 141 ammunition sailing again in company with Sutton and Ross at 0230, may 31st arriving off Bray by I route at 0915. As there were no enemy aircraft in the visinity, I anchored. Troops were embarked and at 1130 Sutton and Ross transfered their troops to ae and all proceeded to Margate where I dis- -embarked five hundred. At 1915 I proceeded towards the rendesvous off 1 buoy, being ordered at 2145 to assist Tug St.ABBS, one of whose tow of three Thanes barges had broken adrift. I picked up this barge and towed her to Dunkirk, arriving at 0330, tat June. At about this time a vessel which was unidentified was seen to blow up, presumeably on a magnetic mine, in the neighbourhooh of the whistle buoy off Bray. About two hundred and fifty troops had been embarked when at message was brought off from the Brigadier to say that he had stopped embarkation from the beaches, which were being shelled, and was retiring on Dunkirk. I passed this message so Kwith. During the embarkation low flying aircraft sachinegunned boats and ships. Several hits were registered on one machine, which was afterwards seen to creat on the sand dunes, by & Bren sug in Lydd fired by one of the troops embarked. Another machine was also thought to have been his by the starboard pair or Lowis guns fired by ord.Sea. N.F.R. Duxbury, O.N.O/JX 173054. At 0625 I proceeded by route X to Dover= arriving at 11299. On the way enemy bombors appeared but after a few SALYOB were driven off by our fighters who were seen to bring down two. a At 1920 I again proceeded by route X to Dukirk, anchoring in the roads about half a mile east of the harbour entrance at 2350. The beach and roads wro being should, and there and ns appear to be much boat traffic. I sent the motor boat inshore
139 144 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE. (continued). (3) Sto.1. Joseph FoodSwiss ROADLEY, O.N. C/SX 94432. For ably assisting Lieut.Hear in his case of the wounded in addition to his boiler room watchkeeping duties; continuing to Nort until overcome by sheer exhaustion and nervous strein. (4) P.O. Prodrick Harold KING, O.H. G/J 100181., for keeping the anti-sireraft spearms in an efficient state do that no delays or jamba occured. (5) Ldg.Sto. Raymond Persival John JRMETT, O.N. 0/3% 85935. for keeping the twenty year old angine of Aydd's motor boat in efficient running order, Bo that no breakforms of any sors occured as any time daring ambarkation. MAIN IN CONSTAND. E.H.S. LYDD. 7ah June 1940.
Dynam 103 814/0/1152 B14/0 1156 ...Vice Admiral Dover. 148 From. Commanding Officer H.M.S.Shikari. Date.7th June 1940. REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS; The following is submitted in accordence with Signal 2001/4/40. Tuesday 28th May. Returned from night Convoy to Cherbourg at 1400. Landed S.P's and fuelled. 1430 Sailed independently for Dover at 28 knots. 1930 Arrived off Dover. Instructed to join Malcolm. 2000 Sailed under Captain D.16's Ordersto carry out evacuation. Wednesday 29th May. 0100 Arrived off Beach at La Panne. Commenced work, using Motorboat and Whaler. Heavy Surf running. Whaler capsized owing to military rushing boat in the Surf. With daylight evacuation speeded up and this Y88 greatly assisted by Naval Landing Graft. As in subsequent work, drifting boats were being towed in by the Motor- boat with Boatkeepers from Shikari. Kedge anchors were used when Surf was heavy and boats veered to the shore. During all operations, hands not required at the Guns were in boats or assisting to embark the military. Supply Parties only closing up when the Guns fired. 1215. Ship full. Returned to Dover. Disembarked troops, fuelled. 1745. Left Dover for La Panne. Many bombing attacks on Ships in vicinity, when near Dost Dyok buoy. Closed Paddle Steamed "Gracie Fields* who had been hit, but as sufficient craft were available to take off her troops, proceeded. Zig-Zagging at high Speeda was employed when- ever bombing attacks took place or were threatened. Thursday 30th May. Ran aground on approaching the Coast but got off on the rising tide, three hours later, at Dawn. Contin -ued embarking troops. 0800 Full. Returned to Dover. On passing Nieuport Bucy came under fire from a battery behind Nieuport for seven minuted. It is thought that the fire was controlled by an observation Baloon over Nieuport. This fact was reported by signal but the Baloon was up for the next few days. No hita were registered. Smoke screen and Zig-Zagging was commenced after the first Salvo. 1300. Arrived Dover. Disembarked. Many of these troops from the Beaches had only Half Kits and were wet through. The Ship's Company did all they cuold for the Soldiers and now in consequence have deplated Kits, The Coxswain, his Staff and the Cooks and Stewards did Great work in supplying the Soldiers with food and drink, under most trying circum- keep the Galley fire going when steaming at high speeds. stances; especially as in Shikari it is impossible to A burst steam pipe to one of the oil fuel pumps necessitated proceeding to & buoy while Sandhurst made repairs. This was rapidly done. 1930. Ready for sea again. Sailed for La Panne. Gyro Compass failed when approaching Dunkirk by "X" Route for the first time. 2230 Darkness slowed down evacuation considerably, close and our boats took Soldiers to light draught Ships This inshore when uncertain of Shikari's position. added considerably to the time spent off the Beaches.
H.M.S. "Pangbourne" 158 At Sea. 5th.June 1940 Sir, I have the honour to forward the following narrative in accordance with your signal 2049/4/6. At approximately midnight on Sunday 26th. May, H.M.S. with the remainder of the 5th.m.8. 150 4 155 at 1600. Dive bombers everywhere and shells falling on beach. Although attack after attack TSS made by bombers on various ships relatively ****** few hits appeared to be secured. Motor Launch having lost dinghy on previous day I went alongside an abandoned wreck. One of the wreck's boats was swung out, lowered, and taken in too by Launch. French troops were ferried to the Launch in this boat by Launch crew. Conditions (other than state of sea which was good) were shocking as German planes were flying low, dropping bombs and using machine-guns. Operation delayed 89 great difficulty was experienced in rersuading some of the Frenchmen to ambark. So far as I could understand, their units were incomplete and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark without thefrest. At one point on the beach there were at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark. The rowing boat bad to be pulled back to the Launch and towed further Rest where 8 fresh start me made. Eventually & full load was obtained and we sailed for Hamagate by the same route. Throughout the first part of the return journey repeated bombing and machine gun attacks were made. On one occasion a salvo of 6 bombs was released so low that they were plainly visible as they left the racks. They all fell close together near the Launch but all failed to explode. Several machine gun bullets
154 Sheet 2. 159 At 0030 on Wednesday 29th. May I slipped and proceeded down harbour. After rounding No.6E whistle and bell buoy I found myself in among two or three French destroyers, stopped in the channel, and as a result missed No.13 bouy and went aground on sandbank north of Zuydcoote Pass Engines were put to full astern and the ship slid off into about ten fathoms. In order to ascertain my exact position and wait until unlit bouys could be seen I anchored and very shortly picked up the Nieuport buoy While waiting the ship was roughly fixed and found to be in position51 degrees 7 minutes 30 seconds North, 2 degrees 28 minutes 48 seconds East, and clear of the channel. I proceeded without further incident to Margate. Just before dawn gunfire was observed shead and shortly afterwards several destroyers passed ae proceeding towards the French coast. Later passing the Kwiente buoy one sunken destroyer and another badly down by the stern were passed. At I000 ship secured alongside Margate pier and disembarked troops. Although no exact counting of troops was possible, about 450 in all were landed, including approximately 50 stretcher cases and 100 walking cases. The arrangements for disembarkation of troops at Margate were most efficient. At 1107 Wednesday 29th. may slipped and proceeded back to Dunkirk, being joined by Lydd at North Goodwin light vessel. At 1315 Lydd reported & submarine to starboard, although not observed by Pangbourne a warning was broadcast at 1321 Between 1645 and 1715 just off Nieuport bank several air attacks were directed against Pangbourne and all ships in the vicinity. Immediately after this two British soldiers were picked up in an exhausted condition, apparently having been blown from the deck of some small ship. At approximately 1730 several enemy bombers appeared to be about to attack Pangbourne but passed overhead, and were distinctly observed to attack & hospital ship about a mile on the Starboard beam for & considerable period without registering any direct hits. Just before passing the Nieuport Bank buoy a large lifeboat containing some thirty Belgian soldiers was picked up and the boat taken in tow for use on the beach. On closing the beach 1 was ordered to proceed Alanasise the Clan MacAlister lying at anchor and embark the crew. This ship was on fire aft, and the ammunition round the after gun was continually exploding. The Master reported to ae that there was no chance of saving the shipas all hoses were out and the steering gear out of action. The crew, including some 30 Lascars, and several Naval ratings, - crews of motor boats - were all embarked. I then proceeded and anchored about half a mile off the beach opposite the Sanatorium. All available boats were lowered and sent inshore in charge of Lieut. Tadman R.N.R. and Rabbitts, Boatswain R.N.. Between 1860 and 1900 the ship was subjected to numerous low diving bombing attacks, although no direct hits were made there were several near misses. The hull was holed on both sidesabove and below the water line and the D.U. coil cut in several places. It was during this period that all casualties occurred, resultang in the death of of seven the ratings and six Belgian soldiers, and wounding seven
2
163
into tugs there (I did not know that ships were going
to embark troops and return to Margate, discharge them
alongside the Pier - according to the chart there is not
ERQUE
enough water) and return to position W. by 2200. I
turned West again, but there seemed there would be a waste
S.
of time so, I decided to turn East again and eport myself
Panne) and assist in embarking troops aboard other ships.
to "HEBE" (who had informe me me was Senior Office, La
Circumstances made it necessary to embark 100 troops
aboard myself, no opportunity arising to put them aboard
any ot er ships.
6.
Later I was ordered to proceed in execution of previous
orders (I left one boat with "HEBE"). Just Test of Bray
I passed the Admiral and reported to him that I had 100
KERQUE
troops on board. He told me to join him and I followed
DS.
him back to La Panne. While lying off there a further
raid commenced and he ordered ne to 80 West at full speed.
It was during this raid that one aeroplane ms brought
down by the 12 pdr. gun at maximum range. The raid was
nearly over and the Admiral out of sight by the time I was
West of Dunkerque, SQ I returned to look for him and was
told to return to La Panne, and embark troops after dark.
7.
At La Panne an B.N.V.R.Signalman reported to no that
"HEBE" wanted an officer badly, the wording of the signal
sounded as if the Commanding Officer wanted someone
capable of relieving him for a period. This appears to
have been wrong, and may have originated in at verbal
KERQUE
message from the C.O. or the Commodore of the motor boat
alongside. At any rate, I sent over my 1st. Lieutenant,
ADS.
he found he was not required in "HEBE", SO took the motor
boat ashore to look for more troops. Finding none, he,
with the aid of to sailors, walked along the beach pulling
the whaler with them to see if they could find any. The
whole time the place was being bombarded. ("HEBE" was
signalling at times with a bright light) He eventually
returned to "HEBE". I consider his actions worthy of
reward, as he could eatly have rned to no at once.
8.
In the meantime I had taken a further 300 or SO troops
on board and was nearly full and, as the difficers amongst
IKERQUE
them told me there were no further troops on 8 org, I
ADS.
reported this to "HEBE" and was told to return to Marcate;
not knowing my 1st. Lieutenant was assore, but thinking
him in "HEBE", I did SO.
9.
I had now been between Dunkerque and La Panne for about
steamer when she was being shelled and during frequent air
13 hours, several times passing the burning Clan Line
raids. Ships company had been continuously at action
they had been courously employed almost continuously
stations, or takins on troops, without proper food; also
since leaving the Tyne 60 hours before but, as yet, showed
only officers were myself, Lieutenant R.N.V.R., Sobey R.N.R., and
no signs of strain. I was short of two H. seamen and the
Temporary is surficiently experienced to be left as 0.0.7,,
Lieutenant A.R.Patton, who, as yet,
except not under the most favourable conditions, and the
160 165 4 probably towards the where she might have bean salved by the enemy 11 she sank in shoul water, I asked the Commanding Officer 11 I should ink ser where she was. He agreed and I cut my sweep wires and sunk er. 12. Five minutes after this the "SCOTIA" and RIGHTON QUEEN" were sunk. I made a report and proceeded to rescue survivors. My whaler had been damaged and I only had a skiff left. One bunch of survivors were picked U. and I then put the ship alongside bridge and must of the "BRIGHTON QUEEN" and artially on er deck, and took off men clincin to her. These nen were mostly French HTON Colonial troops and must reluctant to let 80 of what N. support they had, it was sometimes necessary to make a line fast to them and pull then off. A carley float and skiff were used to assist in resoue work, no other boats were available. Thile "SALTASH" YRS alongable and on board "BRIGHTON QUEEN" she burped & little on the bilge, but it is not believed that my damage was done. German aircraft bombed and machine gunned men in the water. my shift was machine gunned. 13. The work of S.B. 1.Hutter at this time is worthy of mention. He, with the uld of untrained assistants, including Ldg. Sto. Crowley, dealt with 98 casualties, CUE. including 10 recussitation cases and only 3 died. He worked most successfully until 10 collepsed. Also worthy of mention is B. Gaughan, Sto. 1. who sma about I mile from the ship, when the ship might easily have had to leave him. 14. I had picked up 350 to 400 survivors by now, many of them serious casualties, there were no more survivors in SCUE. the water SQ I returned to Margate. On the return journey I closed three trawlers and took on board the Commanding Officer and crew of M.T.B. 175, these included three serious casualties and one dead rating. I took the M.T.B in tow and arrived at Margate at 1855. 15. About 2000 I left the Pier and about 2200 sailed again for Duskerque with boats in tow, one motor boat and the small skiffs. I bad SOMO difficulty with the tow which VD MARGATE light buoy I ran into thick smoke (from Dunkerque) my delayed no about half an hour. Before getting to the greeen UNKERQUE being very unreliable, I had to rely very much on compass hand lead (all the tubes for the machine slow had and been I used the in Knock Deep) which made y progress got 1 far Sast. 16. Orders for this ni that all sweepers had to be lear at 0400. About 0200 I heard The buoy other and by 0500 and the destroyer evacuation the whistle would UNKERQUE commence was off the Breakwater at Dunkerque. I followed them at 0245 passed no on the may out, the 30 orders about being as I did not 0300, even 11 I had an empty having seen sweepers feel Justified in breaking ship. Daring the clear by journey a small craft reported found an object a which mine, return back along ner course and investigation, proved I turned for a mine, but on closer handles. These broken I mistook kitchen utensil with broken small craft as horns. to handles be a may have appeared to the end. June. 16. I anchored at Margate about 0800 and was toldito wait instructions. I understood that this was the final
CONFIDENTIAL Dynams 108 B14/0/ 1173 167 H.M.S.SCIMITAR 8th June 1940 H.M.S.SCIMITAR...REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS Sir, Ihave the honour to report on the proceedings of H.M. ship under my command between 26th May and 4th June as follows. 2. I received orders to sail for Dover at noon/28th and I arrived at Dover at about 2000 28th May. At about 2100 I was ordered to leave under the orders of Captain (D) 16 in "Malcolm". On arrival at Bray at about 0130 I was ordered to proceed a mile to the eastward and send in boats. My motor boat with whaler in tow proceeded inshore under Lieutenant J.R.G Trechman and embarked troops. After about two hours my whaler was swamped inshore due to being rushed by troops. My motor boat continued to assist in towing and I embarked troops from various other boats. Later I secured another whaler and embarkation proceeded more rapidly. 3. At about 1230/29 I considered the ship was full (about 350 troops) and I was ordered to return to Dover. I sailed by route Y in company WIth "Shikari". I arrived at Dover at about 1630/29 and disembarked troops and then proceeded to oil. 4. I sailed for Dunkirk again at about 2000/29, starting via route Y, joining "Worcester" and then proceeding via route X to the beaches East of Bray. Good progress was made during the night embarking troops using our own motor boat and captured whaler and various other boats. In the morning I had 350 troops on board and proceeded via route X leaving my motor boat and whaler inshore under the command of Hidshipman Ball R.N.R. Fog patches were encountered on the way back and I arrived at Dover at about 1000/30. 5. After disembarking troops I sailed again at about 1130 and was ordered to go to Dunkirk harbour via route 8. I arrived and went alongside at about 1330/30 and embarked about 500 troops very quickly. I returned via route $ being shelled and bombed off Calais. The shelling was of small calibre but fairly accurate; no damage was sustained. I arrived at Dover at about 1630/30 and disembarked troops. 6. I sailed again about 1830/30 for La Panne via route X. Near Dunkirk 1 sighted my motor boat and recalled it. After waiting sometime at La Panne, where there were several other ships, I was ordered by "Worcester" to go to Bray. I collected a string of derelict boats and sent them in my motor boat under Sub Lieutenant Coldwell. Good progress was made in embarking troops and at about 0600/31 I had 500 on board and sailed after transferring my motor boat and string of other boats to the trawler "Olvina". I proceeded via route X to Dover in company with "Harvester". 7. I arrived at Dover at about 0930/31 and after disembarking troops sailed again about 1030. Whilst proceeding possible to the starboard hand buoys and just reached the through the Downs at 25 knots, I was navigating had as close as N.W. Goodwin buoy when I was overtaken by Icarus, who out across close, and although I altered towards to starboard him. I as soon both and buoy went hard a starboard when he was with abreast me as the very would allow, I was drawn in about stopped but I sucked over and hit his stern line my stem. I found that was bows were crumpled in on the water collision with bulkhead. & definite However of after the operation, I thought 10. I go on speed, rent allowing securing & collision mat, could at slow extreme my water pressure on to the in view of the urgenoy and proceeded at 8 knots, later at The reasons
163 SCIMITAR REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 168 PAGE 2 * The reasons for this collision and as report on the damage sustained have been more fully reported to Capatin (D) 16. 8. I arrived at Dunkirk at about 1300/31 and was ordered to go to Bray beaches. I spent this afternoon and evening in company with "Vivacious" and "Shikari" off Bray under inter- mittent bombardment and bombing during which no damage was sustained. During one bombing attack at sbout 1700(?) an aircraft was shot down; it is thought that this was from "Scimitar's" A gun. I myself was watching A gun bursts, which appeared close to the target and at the moment the aircraft caught fire a burst from A gun appeared nearly in line. The aircraft fell in the sea and was obviously a total loss. During this period no troops were embarked as I had no boats and no other boats come near. There seemed to be trouble in embarking due to choppy water. 9. At nightfall/31 the weather improved and troops were very quickly embarked, principally from the "skoot" "Hilda" which was doing excellent work. I sailed at about 2300 with 500 troops, proceeding at 8 knots. During the passage numerous aircraft were heard but no attacks were made. A slight collision occurred with an unknown trawler, in which my port propellor guard was damaged. I arrived at Dover at about 0600/1 and after disembarking troops proceeded to oil. A further examination of the damage was made. 100 At 1000/1 I was ready and was orderedato proceer to Dunkirk again, but when near the North Goodwin L.V. I was ordered to return. At this time I had just sighted Prague in difficulties 80 I went to his assistance. Re asked me to take some of his troops 80 I went alongside while under way and embarked 500. I then stood by while he proceede through the Downs and at about 1530/1 I arrived at Dover and disembarked troops subsequently proceeding to a buoy. 11. At 0600/2 I proceeded to Sheerneas to disembark ammunition, thence to London for repairs by Messrs Harland and Wolff. Repairs are expected to take 14 days. 12. "Soimitar" being short handed compared to other destroyers, all ratings had to work very hard and it was noteworthy that Engine room ratings not only steamed the ship with full also assisted on deak in embarkation etc. Nearly all seamen took efficiency and took their place at ammunition supply parties, but part as boat's crews at one time or another, using skill and determintion inxtrying conditions. The following are considered Midshipman M.J.BALL R.N.R.,.for taking adminate charge with of the boats particularly worthy of mention or award. in bombing etc. for & day ship absent. A.B. P/J 96339. for taking charge of his gun's crew G.PASMORE well, and skill in shooting down an enemy P/K 61614 aircraft For long and untiring it work as driver Stoker in TYLER the motor and keeping running nearly continuously for 3 days. I have the honour to be Sir The Vice Admiral your obedient servent DOVER Two copies to Strants The Captain (D) 16th D.F. Lieutenant in Command ADMIRAL 9-JUN 1940 DOVER
Dynams 109. -tbs 66. * 170 71 164 cer H.M.S. Sutton. FOR INFORMATION 169 1. No. 5/19. AND 18 Admiralty. ANY ACTION NECESSARY. or of Minesweeping. M.S. ets on .D.M.S. /s 1 Magnetic Material /s S 2 and Moored Material /s 3 Operational Magnetic dng /s 4 Operational Moored n is forwarded herewith /s 5 Personnel 40. P. 10y. S 6 Intelligence Department. A copy of 10 S 7 Charts and Searched Channels ecretary Bab th. ffice (Tomphy P.miembe. I.ve iew be. acks. ler in Command. ALL Talbert C.S. Gower, O.N. C/JX 139945, as this ratings department, communications, some sental on equipe continually maintained. ra*ley. Dalla C/JR 93287. 20 12 last für Antinually in char a of the boat work. Due to THIS avoids. none alosasm cuare lost or damaged, and his coolness and and LORIES encouragement to the troopa and season ubsed S is enjur sends at have boat during the whole period. Due 0.050 USE De MEAA 002, 0.8. FAX 80017. INSTITUTE ed the engine, often under fire, the thes is does goat Beaches were far in excess of what IN filed different ODNE difficult weather conditions.
Libb! Dynams 109. -tbs 170 71 From :- Commanding Officer H.M.S. Sutton. Date :- June 19th. 1940. No. 5/19. To :- Secretary to the Admiralty. Copy to Director of minesweeping. ints Ion M sand raing The Narrative of Dunkirk Operation is forwarded herewith rip, in accordance with C.A.F.O. 1045/40. eney. the This may be of interest to D.M.S. Department. A copy of in the narrative is forwarded herewith. COMMANDING OFFICER re/ampy 19 JUN 1940 10 * H.M.S. "SUTTON" I.ve iew be. stacks. the Commander in Command. V.A. Dare 18 15" in the efficiency of this ratings department, comunications, come relegraphist Albert Cash Gower, O.N. C/JX 139945, unt vital importance were continually maintained. Actty This Officer Harold Beasley, continually Dalla C/JA in char 93287. 0 of the boat work. Due to his good rating was almost boats were lost or damaged, and his coolness and courage under seamanship Tige were no of great encouragement to the troops and season under him. This Petty Officer Albert of the motor boat during often under period. fire, Due Acting Fet George Dollery, Valla FAX the 80017. whole to the rating was engineer which he ran the engine, of shat the number efficient manner evacuated in from the beaches were far conditions. in excess might have of troops been expected under the difficult weather
166 171 H.W.S. "Sutton" 6th June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to forward herewith my narrative of the events for the period May 26th to June 5th inclusive, covering the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk and the neighbouring beaches. I have pleasure in informing you that Hallo hip under by command sustained superficial damages only, and no casualties. I would especially like to bring before your notice the following officers and men. (mail) Lieut (3) Richard llegarty, Royal NAVYA As engineer officer of the ship, he maintained his department in an exceedingly high state of efficiency. On several occasions when high speed was required, he produced revolutions in excess of the full speed revolutions on trials, when the ship was built, twenty four years ago, The noral of, his department could not have been higher, and the whole ingine Room department, when not below, were continually assisting in embarking and diambarking troops. This officer is over So years of age. Sub Lieutenant William Cooffrey Hewett, Royal Kaval Volunteer Reserve(Tim) This officer was almost pntimally in charge of the boat work on the beaches, frequently under machine gun and shell firs, and bombing attachs. No showed great coolness and courage in encouraging and organising the troops, and it was entirely due to his fine seasonship, no boats were lost. In addition to any recognition you may are at to seard him, 1 would strongly recommend him to be promoted to Temporary L'eutenant for which rank I understand he 1a eligible. Sub-Lieutenant John Valcoln Hay, Royal Navy. This officer an Navigator was of the greatest nacistance to be on the bridge, and coolness in carrying out Daily his duties under fire, Due showing to him courage the difficulties of navi_ation, in - lighted and charted, shoul waters ,were overcome. for one period he 188 36 hours on the bridge without a break. Leading Albert C.S. Cower, O.N. C/JX 139945, Due to the Telegraphist efficiency of this ratinga department, communications, come of vital importance were continually maintained. Petty This Officer Harold Beasley, continually Date C/JH in charge 93287 of the boat work. Due to his good rating was almost boats were lost 0.7 damaged, and his coolness and seamen and courage under seamanship Time were no of great encouragement to the troopa under him. This to rating Petty was Officer engineer Albert of which George the motor he Dollery, ran boat the during Walls ongine, FAX the often 80017. whole under pariod. of fire, what Due the might have of troops been expected under the difficult weather number the efficient manner evacuated in from the heaches sere far in conditions. excess
| P.O. Tuesday Vednesday | 28th Eay) 29th May) | 103 including 4 officers |
| Wednesday Thursday | 29th may) 10th stay) | 217 including 10 officers |
| Friday | 31st lay | thout 120 including 5 officers |
| Saturday | 1st June | thout 507 including 1 officers |
| Sunday | 2nd June | 725 including 25 officers |
| 1672 troops excluding 31 officers. |
(1). 168 NARRATIVE OF EVENTS 26th. MAY TO 5th. JUNE 1940, EVACUATION 173 OF BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FROM DUNKIRK AND BEACHES TO THE EASTWARD BY H.M.S.SUTTON. FOURTH MINESWEEPING FLOTILLA. Sunday 26th. May. Raised steam and unlocked from Royal Dook, Grimsby. Sailed at 1900, Salemander and Fitaroy in Company+ sea. Sutton as Senior Officer. Fresh S.W.Wind, slight Oh passage several Aircraft seen and heard, mostly friendly. Passed by Galates and destroyers. Monday 27th. May Light breeze, calm sea, naximm visibility. Anchored in Downs by orders of V.A.Dover at 1600. Skipjack and Halcyon anchored near by. Destroyers full of Troops continually passing at high speed. Tuesday 28th. May. Calm, some rain, visibility one mile. 1545, Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F. in company with Salam Skipjack, later joined by Haloyon. 1730, steering jemmed, reduced speed and proceeded under hand steering+ 1750, 5th. M.S.F. coming up eatern, steering repaired, proceeded at 15 knots. 1825, Kwinte Bank Buoy aboam. Ship sinking in visinity, rejoined 4th. M.S.F. Hurricanes passing overhead. 2030, more Hurricanes, sighted Dunkirk fires 10 miles, weather clearing, Fiteroy detached to investigate boat. 2050, turned towards beaches and proceeded East, parallel. Observed large numbers of troops at intervals along beach near Dunkirk, with more scattered and decreasing groups towards la Panne+ Desultory gânfire. No aircraft in sight. 2125, anohored off beach about four miles East of Dunkirk, in four fathoms. No troops visible, owing to moke and approaching darkness. Motor boat and whaler sent schore to contact troops. Troops appeared from send dunes in disorganised parties, mostly ReA.S.C. and R.B's who had lately been engaged on demolition of bridges, ammunition dumps and railheads. Troops were rather shaken by constant air attacks, with machine guns. They had been waiting on the beaches for 30 hours before contacting ships. Tery oritical of lack of Allied air support during whole of retreat, but were cheerful and disciplined. Rather exhausted after forced marches of 20 to 30 miles. 0.0. reported no embarkation organisation or control ashore. The clean shaven and comparatively fresh appearance of the troops and the condition of their aquipment, contrasted increasingly as the evacuation progressed, with the evidences of strain shown by Ships companies of H.M.Ships. 10stroops embarked batween 2130 and 0200, in batches of 25, mostly with rifles and equipment. Beach good for embarimtion, shelving sand and oalm weather. Wednesday 29th. May* 0300, Moved to another position further East and after dragging anchor into shallow water where line by now commenced bringing off troops but motor boat broke down, a considerable surf was running, managed to Embarked get a into a Dutch scoot, of Leicestershire and was towad back Regiment. to ship. COMMANDING OFFICER miles 0730, off shore, and disembarked all troops, detachment proceeded alongaide Calcutta, who was anchored Salamander 19 JUN 1940 following. H.M.S. "SUTTON"
170 . 175 (3) Motor boat towing vhaler and too essy pontecns. lines provious day plar had boon constructed by driving art Lorries at obb tido in line and securing plants on top, considerably oxpediting loading of bonto, though embaritation ruto was closed considerably by Lock of control at shoro and of plar to novo troops along and by natural reluctance of troops to venture along pier without being relieved of part of their heavy equipment. Somo difficulty experienced in loading too of 4 boato without smaching up ageinst plane in swall, and in hendling pontome in for in provailing conditions which tended to reduce emborketion rate. Bonto available quito inadequato, largo open notor beach borto required, together with vencol. enchored or our whord of pier to give a 100 if necessary with oil slide provided. During enbortation Sutton collected coldiers from overtumed pontoon. Allowed to bronch in swell. Three believed dramed mainly the to lack of foresight of shore authorities in allowing troops to emback with full equipment and overcoats in detoriorating weather conditions. 120 tecago omberked montly 3,S,, ReAdy RAIS.C. with a for infortaynen ml guards, moralo very good but very critical of Lock of R.M.P. support and Solgium treathory bohind lines. Country code to be filled with adoo, night poultions during retreat soon to be signatted by flamlight to plened, banbed within half on hour of being ontablished. Surgelning apood of advance of Commo against positions being propared and against (ive boolding also Important factors. 1137. Walghed enchor and discharged tedogo alonguide lydi, 1SA8 and DOB Ancreasing alightly, rather low cloud. 1190. Proceedod North Goodsin 60, Voccal to and the for nomb readeavous. tydd and Room procession to Mergabo to Mocharge treaps. 1530. Anchored où North Goodidn St. Voncol. 1055. Weighod and proceeded to Dunkiris in company with Riger. Passed great number of mall creft, 00 will 00 Controyors and paddlors. 2115. Pessod Dunitize Herbour docume 1 cable. Heavy genfire from boach about 2 milos word of Herboury apparently enemy chelling tom. Pires in Dunident more expensive. 2147. Anchored off bonch between La Pomo end No algn 2235. Boat from shore reported troops further to content, only or bonto an expected. boat available nun aground. Moved 1 allo customerd. Security 194 June 0200: No troops yet contrated, to bonto except Subton's available. Several minolaying aircraft overhood, observed parechuto minos deconding about 3 cables should and 1 cable astern. Mines reported dropped all over folrway. 0190. Commenced loading broops with our oun notor bont and wholer Troops ship's Refe and infentryment Including guards, 3. Yorks., after and lifeboat found off booth. Lator contated by motor yacht. and mohine montly detechment. No. RedePe before or One dram. Opened gun occapional aircraft at drum. whilet lovel bombing fire on at about 9000 foot followed by mechino gunding in omborizing boing halped over the aldo. This heavy gun attack wounded from postecns alongaide, 000 commity mechino receiving wounds attack undoubtodly but would ted Lowis gun and Bron toxido manned Bron the back whilet have boon prossed home country the Bin ships defence 4.0. for the largo chip's lifebook breings 1940 for concernte Dotachment of low flying. M.M.S. "SUTTON"
Depress 109 B14/0 1176 - 179 IlelleS. "Sutton" 6th June 1940. ir, I have the honour to forward herewith ay narrative of the events Is the period lay 26th to June 5th inclusive, covering the evacuation aches. the British Expeditionar Force from Dunkirk and the neighbouring I have pleasure in informing you that Hello Ship under by command stained superficial damages only, and no casualties. I would especially like to bring before your notice the following Ticers and men. (ince) ent (3) Richard Hegarty. Royal Navy engine officer of the ship, maintained his department in an exesedingly high state of efficiency. n several occasions when high speed was required, he produced evolutions in excess of the full speed revolutions on trials, when the hip was built, twenty four years ago. The noral 05 his department ould not have been higher, and the whole ingine Room department, when ot below, were continually assisting in embarking and disembarking roops. This officer is over of age. ub-Lieutenant William Cooffrey liewett, Royal Haval Volunteer do officer ms almont continually in charge of the boat work on the eaches, frequently under machine gun and shell firs, and bombing attacks. D showed great coolness and courage in encouraging and organising the roops, and it was entirely due to his Nno seasonship, no boats were est. In addition to any recognition you say see fit to award him, 1 ould strongly recommend him to be pronoted to l'emporary Moutenant for which rank I understand he 10 eligible. ub-lieutenant John Nalcolm Hav. Royal Navy, his officer as Navigator wan of the greatest assistance to be on the ridge, showing and 00010000 in carrying out his duties under ire. Due to him courage the difficulties of navi_ntion, in lighted and charted, shoal waters ,were overcome. for one period he was 36 hours on the bridge without a break. Leading Telegraphist Albort C.S. Cower, O.B. C/JX 139945. are to the efficiency of this ratings department, communications, some of vital importance were continually maintained. Fetty This Officer Harold Beasley, O.N. C/JR in charge 93287, of the hoat work. Due to his Good rating was almost boats continually were lost or damaged, and his coolness and courage under seamanship Tige were no of great encouragement to the troops and season under him. Acting Fet Albort Seorge Dollery, Valla 1/18 80017. This Fetty Officer of the notor bont during the often shole under period. fire, Due the number the efficient nannor in from the beaches were far conditions. in excess of to rating ma engineer which he ran the engine, what night have of troops been expected ovacuated under the difficult weather Yuanco
(1) 177 NARRATIVE OF EVENTS 26th. MAY TO 5th. JUNE 1940. EVACUATION 182 OF BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FROM DUNKIRK AND BEACHES TO THE EASTWARD BY H.M.S. SUTTON, FOURTH MINESWESSPING FLOTILLA. Sunday 26th. May. Raised steam and unlocked from Royal Dock, Grimsby. Sailed at 1900, Salamander and Fitzroy in Company. sea. Sutton as Senior Officer. Fresh N.W.Wind, slight On passage several Aircraft seen and heard, mostly friendly. Passed by Galatea and destroyers. Monday 27th, May. Light breeze, calm sea, maximum visibility. Anchored in Downs by orders of V.A.Diver at 1600. Skipjack and Halcyon anchored near by. Destroyers full of Troops continually passing at high speed. Tuesday 28th. May. Calm, some rain, visibility one mile. 1545, Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F. in company with Salam Skipjack, later joined by Halcyon. 1730, steering jammed, reduced speed and proceeded under hand steering. 1750, 5th. M.S.F. coming up astern, steering repaired, proceeded at 15 knots. 1825, Kwinte Bank Buoy abeam, Ship sinking in vicinity, rejoined 4th. M.S.F. Hurricanes passing overhead. 2030, more Hurricanes, sighted Dunkirk fires 10 miles, weather clearing, Fitzroy detached to investigate boat. 2050, turned towards beaches and proceeded East, parallel. Observed large numbers of troops at intervals along beach near Dunkirk, with more scattered and decreasing groups, towards la Panne. Desultory gunfire. No aircraft in sight. 2125, anchored off beach about four miles East of Dunkirk, in four fathoms. No troops visible, owing to smoke and approaching darkness. Motor boat and whaler sent ashore to contact troops. Troops appeared from sand dunes in disorganised parties, mostly R.A.S.C. and R.B's who had lately been engaged on demolition of bridges, amunition dumps and railheads. Troops were rather shaken by constant air attacks, with machine guns. They had been waiting on the beaches for 30 hours before contacting ships. Very critical of lack of Allied air support during whole of retreat, but were cheerful and disdiplined. Rather exhausted after forced marches of 20 to 30 milsa. 0.0. reported no embarkation organisation or control ashore. The alean shaven and comparatively fresh appearance of the troops and the condition of their equipment, contrasted increasingly as the evacuation progressed, with the evidences of strain shown by Ships companies of H.M.Ships. 10 troops embarked batween 2130 and 0200, in batches of 25, mostly with rifles and equipment. Beach good for embarkation, shelving sand and calm weather. Wednesday 29th. May. 0300. Moved to another position further East and after dragging anchor into shallow water where line by now commenced bringing off troops but motor boat broke down, considerable surf was running, managed to get Embarked a small into a a Dutch scoot, and was towed back to ship. detachment of Leicestershire Regiment. 0730, miles off shore, and disembarked all troops, proceeded alongside Calcutta, who was anchored Salamander some following.
179 - 183 (3) Motor boat towing whaler and two army pontoons. Since previous day pier had been constructed by driving out lorries at ehb tide in of line and securing planks on top, considerably expediting loading boats, though embarkation rate was slowed considerably by lack of control at shore end of pier to move troops along and by natural reluctance of troops to venture along pier without beding relieved of part tow of their heavy equipment. Some difficulty experienced in loading pontoons in tow in prevailing conditions which tended to reduce embarkation of 4 boats without smashing up against pier in swell, and in handling rate. Boats available quite inadequate, large open motor beach boats required, together with vessel anchored hocadside or sunk athead of pier Sutton collected soldiers from overturned pontoon. Allowed to broach in to give a lee if necessary with oil &td provided. During embarkation awell. Three believed drowned mainly due to lack of foresight of shore authorities in allowing troops to embark with full equipment and overcoats in deteriorating weather conditions. 120 troops embarked mostly R.B., R.A., R.A.S.C. with a few infantrymen and guards, morale very good but very critical of lack of R.A.F. support and Belgium treachery behind lines. Country said to be filled with spies, night positions during retreat seen to be scignalled by flashlight to planes, bombed within half an hour of being established. Surprising speed of advance of Germans against positions being prepared and defencelessness against dive bombing also important factors. 1137. Weighed anchor and discharged troops alongside Lydd. Widd and sea increasing slightly, rather low cloud. 1150. Proceeded North Goodwin Lt. Vessel to await time for next rendezvous. Lydd and Ross proceeded to Margate to discharge troops. 1538. Anchored at North Goodwin Lt. Vessel. 1855. Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk in company with Niger. Passed great number of small craft, as well as destroyers and paddlers. 2115. Passed Dunkirk Harbour distant 1 cable. Heavy gunfire from beach about 2 miles west of Harbour, apparently enemy shalling town. Fires in Dunkirk more expensive. 2147. Anchored off beach between La Panne and Dunkirk. No sdgn of boats as expected. 2235. Boat from shore reported troops further to eastward, only boat available run aground. Moved 1 mile eastward. Saturday 1st June 0100: No troops yet contacted, No boats except Sutton's available. Several minelaying aircraft overhead, observed parachute mines decending about 3 cables ahead and 1 cable astern. Mines reported dropped all over fairway. 0130. Commenced loading broops with our own motor boat and whaler and ship's lifeboat found off beach. Later assisted by motor yacht. Troops mostly R.A. and infantrymen including guards, 3. Yorks., and machine gun detachment. No. R.A.F. assistance before or after dawn. Opened fire on occasional reconnaisance aircraft at dawn. One level bombing attack at about 5000 feet followed by machine gunning whilst in the back whilst being helped over the side. This machine gun attack embarking wounded from pontoons alongaide, one casualty receiving wounds undoubtedly would have been pressed home causing very heavy casualties but for concentrated Lewis gun and Bren gun fire from troops, who manned ships M.G. armament. Detachment of Guards also offered to provide Bren gun defence for the large ship's lifeboat against occasional low flying.
181 83 185 9L11/6 PACTURE OBSTRICTIONS THE EVACUATION, subarkation rate off Seaches at The less than 30 hear 17 by lack of control ashore for first for days) sait FACTORS ASSISTING THE EVACUATION. beach communication to expediate Londing, resulting L. Discipline and coolness of troops under fire on beach and in unfamiliar conditions in boats throughout evacuation. Officers at beginning for attending menalties. 2. Life saving nets rigged along ship' sides. time beating end particularly, dive boxinding and nachine guaraing, arought for last and 5. for short periods previously. This its 3. Assistance of Army Bren Guns and gunners against low- in flying air attack. pier, duilt from lorries end to only at fire, 4. Calm weather and poor visibility. beaches proventing alose approach, seasing thougs to and orces relatively deep water with full to 5. Presence of HA Light Cruiser "dalcutta". ing 6. Excellent physical condition of majority of troops. or to Low P, 7. Normal state in which all piers at Dunkirk were allowed ay. to remain, which was invaluable in assisting embarkation of Troops into ships. e En allowing troops to embark equipment and rifles, (not hald, but on insecure pier, and difficulty in embarking bode boats at all times, and too fee estate bones beate (Tompy portoons. stope use by the to Low flying acks. Bron COMMANDING OFFICER Greurille. M. 6 JUN 1940 Act. Cand Rozal Navy. H.M.S. "SUTTON" Lugo to the 01/101ency of this ratings department, communications, DOMO of vital importance were continually maintained. Potty Officer Harold Beasley, DaNa C/JX 93287. his good rating was almost boats were lost 0.0 damaged, and his coolness and This continually in char a of the hoat work. Due to courage under seamanship five were no of great encouragement to the troops and seamen under him. Acting Fetty Albert George Dollery, 0.11. I/X 80017. This officer of the motor boat during the whole period. Due to the rating was engineer which he ran the ongine, often under fire, the night have of troops been expected under the difficult wenther conditions. number efficient manner evacuated in from the beaches were far in excess of what
$3 182 FACTORS OBSTRUCTING THE EVACUATION. 186 1176 Low caused embarkation lack rate off beaches - at times less than 30 37 of suitable boats. by of control ashore for first few days; and per absence hour ni No casualties ship to beach communication to expediate loading, resulting in caused by ships lying off beaches for hours in daylight. 3. No Medical Officers at beginning for attending casualties. 4. Apparently no R.A.F. protection whatever against level bombing and more particularly, dive bombing and machine gunning, except for last morale considerably. two days and a few short periods previously. This lowered troops' nts on 5. to enemy shell fire. Only one pier, built from lorries end to end, at position most open 6. Sandbar off beaches preventing close approach, causing troops to and hesitate to cross relatively deep water with full squipment to reach larger boats. wing 7. HA armament consisting of 12 pdr. and Lewis guns quite inadequate to produce barrage fire, or to discourage high or low flying attack. 8. ip, No initiative shown by Army Staff in bringing into use local boats noy. on beach. 9. he Lack of foresight showsh in allowing troops to embark with overcoats, packs, full equipment and rifles, (not held, but worn) causing n hesitation on insecure pier, and difficulty in embarking into boats off beaches. 10. Insufficient boats at all times, and too few motor beach boats and (Tompy di shallow draft pontoons. 11. tacks. No apparent steps taken by Army to prevent low flying machine gunning he off beaches by mounting Bren guns which were available. Eneuville. M. Hcb Comer. Rozal Nan, COMMANDING H.M.B. SUTTONS 1940 OFFICER # 1 USED department, communications, of vital importance were continually maintained. Potty Officer Beasley, Calla C/JR 93287. his good was almost boats were lost 02 dissaged, and his coolness and This rating Harold continually in char 8 of the heat work. Due to under him. courage under seamanship Tipe were no of great encouragement to the troops and season This Acting Pet Petty Officer Albert of the Deorge motor Dollery, boat during Walls 1/11 the whole 80017. period. Due to the rating was engineer which he ran the engine, often under fire, the number efficient manner in from the beaches were far in excess of what might have of troops been expected evacuated under the difficult weather conditions.
Dyram. 109 B14/0/176 183 187 H.H.S. "Sutton" 6th June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to forward herewith ay narrative of the events or the period May 26th to June 5th inclusive, covering the evacuation $ the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk and the neighbouring eaches. I have pleasure in informing you that Hollo Ship under by command ustained superficial damages only, and no casualties. I would especially like to bring before your notice the following fficers and men. (Rac) deut (3) Richard Hegarty. Royal Navy NAVY A engineer officer of the ship, 10 maintained his department in an exceedingly high state of efficiency. in several occasions when high speed was required, he produced evolutions in excess of the full speed revolutions on trials, when the ship was built, twenty four years ago. The noral 05, his department could not have been higher, and the whole Engine Room department, when ot below, were continually assisting in embarking and disembarking croops. This officer is over 50 years of age. Sub-lieutenant William Cooffrey Hewett, Royal Naval Volunteer This officer WAS almost continually in charge of the boat work on the eaches, frequently under machine gun and shell fire, and bombing attacks. to showed great coolness and courage in encouraging and organising the troops, and it was entirely due to his fine meananship, no boats were lost. In addition to any recognition you say coo fit to award him, 1 would strongly recommend him to be promoted to Temperary Seutenant .N.V.R. for which rank I understand he is eligible. Sub-Lieutenant John Malcolm Hay, Royal Navy. bridge, as Navigator and 00010000 in carrying out Daily his duties under This officer Navi wan of the greatest assistance to ne on the fire. Due showing to courage difficulties of in lighted and charted, shoal him waters the were overcome. For one period he was 36 hours on the bridge without a break. Leading Albert C.S. Gower, C.N. C/JX 139945, Jue to the Telegraphist efficiency of this ratings department, communications, some of vital importance were continually maintained. Potty Beasley, Dalla C/JR 93287 his rating was almont boats were 10st 02 dissaged, and and This Officer Harold continually in char 0 of the and hoat his work. coolness Due to courage good under seamanship five were no of great encouragement to the troops seasen under him. Acting,Fetty Stokes officer Albert the George notor Dollery, bont during 0.8. I/IX the whole 80017, period. Due the Thin to rating was engineer of he ran the engine, often under fire, what number the efficient manner in which from the beaches were far conditions. in excess of might have of troops been expected evacuated under the difficult weather
| .. Tuesday Vermonday | 28th say) 29th May) | 103 including 4 officers |
| wednesday Thursday | 29th may) 10th stay) | 217 including 10 officers |
| Friday | 31st Eay | About 120 including 5 officers |
| Saturday | Int June | About 507 including 1 officers |
| Sunday | 2nd June | 725 including 25 officers |
(I). NARRATIVE OF EVENTS 26th. MAY TO 5th. JUNE I940, EVACUATION 190 OF BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FROM DUNKIRK AND BEACHES TO THE EASTWARD BY H.M.S.SUTTON. FOURTH MINESWEEPING FLOTILLA. Sunday 26th. May. Raised steam and unlocked from Royal Dock, Grimsby. Sailed at 1900, Salamander and Fitzroy in Company. sea. Sutton as Senior Officer. Fresh W.Wind, slight On passage several Aircraft seen and heard, mostly friendly. Passed by Galatea and destroyers. Monday 27th. May. Light breeze, calm sea, maximum visibility. Anchored in Downs by orders of Dover at 1600. Skipjack and Halcyon anchored near by. Destroyers full of Troops continually passing at high speed. Tuesday 28th. May. Calm, some rain, visibility one mile. I545, Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F. in company with Salam Skipjack, later joined by Halcyon. 1730, steering jammed, reduced speed and proceeded under hand steering. I750, 6th. M.S.F. coming up astern, steering repaired, proceeded at I5 knots, I825, Kwinte Bank Buoy abeam, Ship sinking in vicinity, rejoined 4th. M.S.F. Hurricanes passing overhead. 2030, more Hurricanes, sighted Dunkirk fires IO miles, weather clearing, Fitzroy detatched to investigate boat. 2050, turnedtowards beaches and proceeded East, parallel. Observed large numbers of troops at intervals along beach near Dunkirk, with more scattered and decreasing groups towards la Panne. Desultory gunfire. No aircraft in sight. 2125, anchored off beach about four miles East of Dunkirk, in four fathoms. No troops visible, owing to smoke and approaching darkness. Motor boat and whaler sent ashore to contact troops. Troops appeared from sand dunes in disorganised parties, mostly R.A.S.C. and R.E's who had lately been engaged on demolition of bridges, ammunition dumps and railheads. Troops were rather shaken by constant air attacks, with machine guns. They had been waiting on the beaches for 30 hours before contacting ships. Very critical of lack of Allied air support during whole of retreat, but were cheerful and disciplined. Rather exhausted after forced marches of 20 to 30 miles. Reported no embarkation organisation or control ashore. The clean shaven and comparatively fresh appearance of the troops and the condition of their equipment, contrasted increasingly as the evacuation progressed, with the evidences of strain shown by Ships companies of H.M.Ships. 103 troops embarked between 2130 and 0200, in batches of 25, mostly with rifles and eqipment. Beach good for embarkation, shelving sand and calm weather. Wednesday 29th. 0300. Moved to anothe position further East commenced May. bringing off troops but motor boat broke down, and after dragging anchor into shallow water where by now a considerable surf was running, managed to get a line into a Dutch scoot, and was towed back to ship. Embarked small detatchment of Leicestershire Regiment. 0730, proceeded alongside Calcutta, who was anchored Salamander some miles off shore, and disembarked all troops, following.
-188 102 (3) Motor boat towing whaler and two army pontoons. Since previous day pier had been constructed by driving out lorries at ebb tide in line and securing planks on top, considerably expediting loading of boats, though embarkation rate was slowed considerably by lack of control at shore end of pier to move troops along and by natural reluctance of troops to venture along pier without being relieved of part of their heavy equipment. Some difficulty experienced in loading tow of 4 boats without smashing up against pier in swell, and in handling pontoons in tow in prevailing conditions which tended to reduce embarkation rate. Boats available quite inadequate, large open motor beach boats required, together with vessel anchored broadside or sunk at head of pier to give a lee if necessary with oil slick provided. During embarkation, Sutton collected soldiers from overturned pontoon. allowed to broach in swell. Three believed drowned mainly due to lack of foresight of shore authorities in allowing troops to embark with full equipment and overcoats in deteriorating weather conditions. I20 troops embarked mostly R.E. , R.A. R.A.S.C. with a few infantrymen and guards, morale very good but very critical of lack of R.A.F support and Belgium treachery behind lines. Country said to be filled with spies, night positions during retreat seen to be signalled by flashlight to planes, bombed within half an hour of being established. Surprising speed of advance of Germans against positions being prepared and defencelessness against dive bombing also important factors. II37. Weighed anchor and discharged troops alonside Lydd. Wind and sea increasing slightly, rather low cloud. II50. Proceeded North Goodwin Lt Vessel to await time for next rendezv ous. Lydd and Ross proceeded to Margate to discharge troops. 1538. Anchored at North Goodwin Lt Vessel. I855. Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk in company with Niger. Passed great number of small craft, as well as destroyers and paddlers. 2115. Passed Dunkirk Harbour distantI I cable. Heavy gunfire from beach about 2 miles west of harbour, apparently enemy shelling town. Fires in Dunkirk more extensive. 2147. Anchored off beach between La Panne and Dunkirk. No sign of boats as expected. 2235. Boat from shore reported troops further to eastward, only Saturday Iss Junable roo. Saturday Isavailable.com No troops yet contacted. No boats except aground. Moved 1 mile eastward. Sutton's available. Several minelaying aircraft overhead, observed parashute mines descending about 3 cables ahead and I cable astern. Mines reported dropped all over fairway. 0130. Commenced loading troops with own motor boat and whaler and ship's lifeboat found off beach. Later assisted by motoryacht. Troops mostly R.A. and infantrymen including guards, E. Yorks. and machine gun detachment. No R.A.F assistance before or after dawn. Opened fire on occasional reconnaisance aircraft at dawn. One level bombing attack at about 5000 feet followed by machine gunning whilst embarking wounded from pontoons alongside, one casualty receiving wounds in back whilst being helped over the side. This machine gun attack undoubtably would have been pressed gun and causing Bren fire from troops, who manned ships L.G. armament. home very heavy casualties but for concentrated Lewis Detachment of gun Guards also offered to provide Bren gun defence for the large ship's lifeboat against occasional low flyiing
199 HolloS. "Sutton" MO . 198 From :- Commanding Officer H.M.S. Sutton. Date :- June 19th. I940. No. 5/19. To :- Secretary to the Admiralty. MILITARY BRANCH 1 21 JUN 1940 ADMIRALTY * The Narrative of Dunkirk Operation is forwarded herewith in accordance with C.A.F.O. 1045/40. COMMANDING OFFICER 19 JUN 194L H.M.S. "SUTTON" Commander in Command. number of troops manner evacuated in from the bedohes were far in excess of what to efficient - originer or which the motor he ran boat the during ongine, the often whole under period. fire, Due the might have been expected under the difficult weather conditions.
199 H.N.S. "Sutton" 6th June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to forward herewith my narrative of the events or the period May 26th to June 5th inclusive, covering the evacuation 1 the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk and the neighbouring eaches. I have pleasure in informing you that Hollo hip under by command ustained superficial damages only, and no casualties. I would especially like to bring before your notice the following fficers and men. (AM) Lieut (3) Richard llegarty. Royal Havy As engineer officer of the ship, e maintained his department in an exceedingly high state of efficiency. on several occasions when high speed was required, he produced revolutions in excess of the full speed revolutions on trials, when the ship was built, twenty four years ago. The noral of, his department could not have been higher, and the whole Engine Room department, when not below, were continually assisting in embarking and disembarking troops. This officer is over 50 years of age. Lieutenant William Cooffrey Hewett, Royal Naval Volunteer This officer was almost continually in charge of the boat work on the beaches, frequently under machine gun and shell firs, and bombing attacks. He showed great coolness and courage in encouraging and organising the troops, and it was entirely due to his fine neamanship, no boats were lost. In addition to any recognition you say see fit to sward him, 1 would strongly recommend him to be promoted to Temporary Moutenant H.N.V.R. for which rank I understand he is eligible. This John vas X the greatest assistance to De on the Nalcolm HAVE Royal Navy. bridge, officer an Navigator and 00010000 in carrying out his duties under fire. Due showing courage difficulties of navi, ation, in - lighted and charted, shoal to him waters the were overcome. for one period he was 36 hours on the bridge without a break. Leading Albert Cade Cower, O.N. C/JX 139945, Due to the Telegraphist efficiency of this ratings department, communications, some of vital importance were continually maintained. This letty Officer Harold Beasley, continually DaNa C/JA in charge 93287. of the heat work. Due to his rating was almost boats were lost or danaged, to the and troopa his coolness and and courage good under seamanship five were no of great encouragement seamen under him. Acting States Albert Deorge Dollery, during Dalla 1/18 the 80017, whole This Petty Officer the motor boat period. fire, Due to the rating was engineer in of which he ran the engine, far often in excess under of what the number efficient nannor from the beaches were weather conditions. might have of troops been expected evacuated under the difficult
| P.M. Tuesday Mednesday | 28th Hay) 29th May) | 103 including 4 officers |
| Wednesday Thursday | 29th May) 30th May) | 217 including 10 officers |
| Friday | 31st May | About 120 including 5 officers |
| Saturday | Int June | About 507 including 7 officers |
| Sunday | 2nd June | 725 including 25 officers |
(1). NARRATIVE OF EVENTS 26th. MAY 20 5th. JUNE 1940, EVACUATION 201 OF BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE FROM DUNKIRK AND BEACHES TO THE EASTWARD BY H.M.S.SUTTON, FOURTH MINESWEEPING FLOTILLA. Sunday 26th. May. Raised steam and unlocked from Royal Dook, Grimsby. Sailed at 1900, Salamander and Fitzroy in Company. Sutton as Senior Officer. Fresh N.W.Wind, slight sea. On passage several Aircraft seen and heard, mostly friendly. Passed by Galatea and destroyers. Monday 27th. May. Light breese, calm sea, maximum visibility. Anchored in Downs by orders of V.A.Diver at 1600. Skipjack and Halcyon anchored near by. Destroyers full of Troops continually passing at high speed. Tuesday 28th. May. Calm, some rain, visibility one mile. 1545, Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F. in company with Salam Skipjack, later joined by Haloyon. 1730, steering jammed, reduced speed and proceeded under hand steering. 1750, 5th. M.S.F. coming up astern, steering repaired, proceeded at 15 lmots. 1825, Kwinte Bank Buoy abeam, Ship sinking in vicinity, rejoined 4th. M.S.F. Hurricanes passing overhead. 2030, more Hurricanes, sighted Dunkirk fires 10 niles, weather clearing, Fitaroy detached to investigate boat. 2050, turned towards beaches and proceeded East, parallel. Observed large numbers of troops at intervals along beach near Dunkirk, with more scattered and decreasing groups towards la Panne. Desultory gunfire. No aircraft in sight. 2125, anchored off beach about four miles East of Dunkirk, in four fathoms. No troops visible, owing to moke and approaching darkness. Motor boat and whaler sent ashore to contact troops. Troops appeared from sand dunes in disorganised parties, mostly R.A.S.C. and R.E's who had dumps and railheads. Troops were rather shaken by constant lately been engaged on demolition of bridges, ammunition air attacks, with machine guns. They had been waiting on the beaches for 30 hours before contacting ships. Very oritical of lack of Allied air support during whole of retreat, but were cheerful and disciplined. Rather exhausted after forced marches of 20 to 30 miles. 0.0. reported clean no embarkation organisation or control ashore. The the shaven condition of their aquipment, contrasted increasingly of strain and comparatively fresh appearance of troops as and the the evacuation progressed, with the evidences shown by Ships companies of H.M.Ships. , of 25, mostly with rifles and aquipment. weather. good 10 troops embarked between 3130 and Beach 0200, in batches for embarkation, shelving send and calm Wednesday 29th. May* 0300. Moved to another position boat broke further down, East commenced dragging anchor into shallow water to a line now bringing off troops but motor where by and after surf was running, managed get Embarked small into a of Leicestershire Regiment. a Dutch considerable scoot, and was towed back to ship. miles following. 0730, off proceeded shore, and disembarked all troops, COMMARDING OFFICER detachment alongside Caloutta, who was anchored Salamanter some 19 JUN 1940 H.M.S. "SUTTON"
203 (3) Motor boat towing whaler and two army pontoons. Since previous day pier had been constructed by driving out lorries at abb tido in line and securing planks on top, considerably expediting loading of boats, though embarkation rate was slowed considerablyby lack of control at shore end of pior to move troops along and by natural reluctance of troops to venture along pier without being relieved of part of their heavy equipment. Some defficulty experienced in loading tow of 4 boats without smashing up against pier in swell and in handling pontoons in tow in provailing conditions which tended to reduce embarkation rate. Boats available quite inadequate, large open motor beach boats required, together with vessel anchordd broadside or sunk at Hoad of pior to give a lee if necessary with oil slick provided. During embarkation, Sutton collected soldiers from overturned pontoon. Allowed to broach in swell. Three believed drowned mainly due to lack of foresight of shore authorities in allowing troops to embark with full equipment and overcoats in deteriorating weather conditions. 120 trags embarked mostly R.E., R.A., R.A.S.C. with a for infantrymen and guards, morale very good but very critical of lack of R.A.F. support and Bolgium treachery behind lines. Country said to be filled with updes, night positions during retreat seen to be signalled by flashlight to planos, bombed within half nn hour of being established. Surprising speed of advance of Germans against positions being propared and defencelossness against dive bombing also important factors. 1137. Weighed anchor and discharged troops alongside Lydd. Wind and sea increasing alightly, rather Low cloud. 1150. Proceeded North Goodwin Lt. Vessel to await time for next reddezvous. Lydd and Ross proceeded to Margate to discharge troops. 1538. Anchored at North Goodwin Lt. Vessel. 1855. Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk in company ml. th Higer. Passed great number of small craft, as well as destroyers and paddlors. 2115. Passed Dunkirk Harbour distant 1 cable. Heavy gunfire from beach about 2 miles west of Harbour, apparently enemy shelling tom. Fires in Dunkirk more extensive. 2147. Anchored off beach between La Fanne and Dunkirk. No sign of boats as expected. 2235. Boat from shore reported troopa further to eastward, only boat available run aground. Moved 1 mile eastward. Saturday 1st June 0100. No troops yet contacted. No boats except Sutton's available. Several minelaying airoraft overhead, observed parachute mines descending about 3 cables ahead and 1 cable astern. lines 0130. Commenced loading troops with own notor boats and whalar reported dropped all over fairway. Troops mostly R.A. and infantrymen including guards, X Yorks., and machine and ship's lifeboat found off beach. Lator assisted by motor yacht. gun detachmont. No R.A.F. assistance before or after. dawn. Opened fire occasional reconnaisence aircraft at dawn. One level bombing wounded from pontoons alongaide, one casualty receiving attack wounds in attack on of about 5000 feet followed by machine gunning whilst embarking back whilst helped over the side. This machine gun but undoubtedly for would being been pressed home causing very heavy casualties manned L.G. concentrated Detachment of Guards also offered to provide low gun have Lowis gun and Bron gun fire from troops, who Bron ships defence armsment. for the large ship's lifeboat against occasional flying COMMANDING OFFICER 19 JUN 1940 H.M.S. "SUTTON" to
193 2089 2. at Bover envianged for mre men being emboxited from the beaches than was in practice possible when the moment arrived, and I had therefore to modify then on the spot to make greater use of Dunicire, and continually adjust the plan and the means to a changing stituation. 13. During the day of 30th May embortation proceeded slowly there were not enough ships off the benches and at one mement HER was there alone. Hon were coming off in pontoons but there me often no one to take these creft ashore again. During the day lorries voro driven into the BSN to form pders. 14. There were many wounded on board HKHR, and at 4 Della I decided to sond her home. Captain Bush went in her to strees the vital necessity for boats and crews if any mmbers were to come off from the beaches. 15. Accordingly I transferred to WINDSOR off Bray at 1600, and at 1630 landed at La Parme to visit the 0.-in-0. It was necessary to vale the last for yards. Captain Tennext was with the C.-in-C. and the situation was discussed. I stressed my views as to the difficulties of embaritation by boat and the necessity for moving tomoda Dunicirit, but I could not but be more of a relustance on the part of the Army to do 80 and a feeling that the Havy ought to be able to embark large mmbers by boat from the beaches. Arrengments to take off the C.-in-C. at 1600 on Friday were made, and he informed 30 of the effort of which he had heard from the 1st Sea Lord by telephone, and which was to be made on Friday night. The details of this 1 received next day at 1000. when Captain Bush returned in HERE. 16. At my first attampt to return to KANSER in a pontoon peddled by soldiers the boat swamped in shallow water, but the second attempt with a smaller arew was successful and I got OR board at 2200. 31st May 17. At 0230 on Friday, 31st May, IS WORDSTER we full to with troops I transferred to EXPRESS and in her proceeded to Dunicizione at daylight to direct ahiys to where they were most needed. 18. On this day the breese freshened and being onshore made boat work very difficult. Many boats were broached to and strended at high under so that embarkation from the beaches cuse about to a standatill. I continued to urge movement of troops to Dunkirk and considered the value of basching abive but was tide. very doubtrul that it would be of any use except for a small period of the 19. thereafter BO that my movements should not be haspered by consideration of At 0645 I transferred to H.M.S. KEITH and kept her free from troops embarkation or wounded more 20. The At these was the provision of larger numbers of small bonts to and 1000 HERE arrived with the plans for the avacuation for Friday night. crows essence to bring of off the rearguard at 0130 to minasweepers which ware be there about that time. made 21. During for IDD to get Destroyers, Paddlers, and would have been sent these the day the time of ambarkation WAS advanced other to 2030 cruft and off this Dunicisk at that time. they could have Boaded quicker. in it but was, the sent every mmber ship of beaches it necessary Buf for this many of these ships I into which itself where be taken from the beaches into Duricist than I liked. large places could from possibly which boats were working locked up more abive moved 22. About noon At 1430 X proceeded in KKISH to La balloon. Permo try KNITH locate HERE off LA Pume ome under fire from a shore to battery to and the battery further but West. 10 was beding directed by an observation was fired on and I withdrow. /23. À
198 213 7. Finally when the helm jambed he continued to loong her under control. avoiding action at high speed in very confined inters full of shipping. Commodore Did most valuable work off the beaches in a motor boat at La Parme and Bray, organizing and controlling small craft and the embarkation of Lord Gart. When La Farme because unternable ording to shell fire he moved to Bray and only left the coast when driven off by the air attack of 1st June. Ideutenant R.C.H.G.Evre - K.A/S.B. 10 Handled his boat with the greatest coolness and skill inside Dunicize in crowled waters, darkness, and under shell fire. His good work greatly facilitated my task of control. Lieutenant Commander + This officer assisted no throughout the operations and was invaluable. Unspering of himself be net any call on In with the greatest efficiency. On two occasions he carried out difficult tasks with complete success, controlling small cruft and directing Herchant ships to beach themselves so that they could be boarded at low tide. Lieutement Viscount Kalburn Acted as my Signal Officer and carried out Ida dirties with the greatest efficiency under most trying conditions. I have the honour to be, Story Your obstitum servent, W.R. WAKE-WALKER. VIO ADMIRAL 9-JUN 1940 Bear Admiral. DOVER The Vice Admiral Commiting Dover.
200 215 2. over envisaged for more men being embarked from the beaches than was in tice possible when the moment arrived, and I had therefore to modify them the spot to make greater use of Dunkirk, and continually adjust the plan and means to a changing situation. During the day of 30th May embarkation proceeded slowly - there were not gh ships off the beaches and at one moment HEBE was there alone. Men were ng off in pontoons but there was often no one to take these craft shore in, During the day lorries were driven into the sea to form piers. There were many wounded on board HEBE, and at 4 Della I decided to a her home. Captain Bush went in her to stress the vital necessity for ts and crews if any mmbers were to come off from the beaches. Accordingly I transferred to WINDSOR off Bray at 1600, and at 1630 ded at La Parme to visit the C.-in-0. It was necessary to wade the last few ds. Captain Tennant was with the C.-in-C. and the situation was discussed. tressed my views as to the difficulties of embarkation by boat and the essity for moving towards Dunkiric, but I could not but be aware of a relustance the part of the Army to do so and a feeling that the Havy ought to be able to ark large numbers by boat from the beaches. Arrangements to take off the in-C. at 1600 on Friday were made, and he informed = of the affort of which had heard from the 1st Sea Lord by telephone, and which was to be made on day night. The details of this I received next day at 1000. when Captain sh returned in HEBE. At my first attempt to return to WORCESTER in a pontoon peddled by ldiers the boat swamped in shallow water, but the second attempt with a aller crew was successful and I got on board at 2200. 31st May At 0130 on Friday, 31st May, as WORCESTER was full up with troops I ansferred to EXPRESS and in her proceeded to Dunkirk at daylight to direct ships where they were most needed. On this day the breese freshened and being onshore made boat work very ffficult. Many boats were breached to and stranded at high water so that barkation from the beaches case almost to a standstill. I continued to urge ovement of troops to Dunkirk and considered the value of beaching shipe but dde. as very doubtful that it would be of any use except for a small period of the 9. At 0645 I transferred to H.M.S. XETTH and kept her free from troops mbarkation or wounded men. hereafter that my movements should not be haspered by consideration of O. At 1000 HEBE arrived with the plans for the evacuation for Friday night. The essence the provision of larger numbers of small boats and crews to bring of off these the was rearguard at 0430 to minsswespers which were to be there about that time. made 21. it During the day to get Destroyers, Paddlers, and other creft these the time of embarkation was advanced to 2030 and off this Dunicisk at that time. could have Boaded quicker. As it was, I sent every mmber ship of beaches necessary for no Buf for this many of these ships would have been sent into which could itself where be they taken from the beaches into Dunkirk but I the liked. large places from which possibly boats were working looked up more ships than moved 22. About noon At 1430 I proceeded in KNITH to La Parme to try to locate HOLD off La Panne came under fire from a shore battery and the battury on I withdrow. further but West. it was being directed by an observation balloon. KEITH was /23. A
220 7. Finally when the helm jambed he continued to keep her under centrol. avoiding action at high speed in very confined waters full of shipping. C Commodore G. 0.Stephenson Did most valuable work off the beaches in a noter boat at La Panne and Bray, organising and controlling small craft and the embarkation of Lord Gort. When La Parme because untenable owing to shell fire he moved to Bray and only left the coast when driven off by the air attack of 1st June. Ideutenant - IL.A/S.B. 10 Handled his boat with the greatest coolness and skill inside Dunicirk in crowded waters, darkness, and under shell fire. His good work greatly facilitated my task of control. Lieutenant Commander C.J.Vynna-Edwarts This officer assisted no throughout the operations and vas invaluable. Unsparing of himself he not any call on him with the greatest efficiency. On two occasions he carried out difficult tasks with complete success, controlling small craft and directing Merchant ships to beach themselves so that they could be boarded at low tide. Lieutenant Viscount Kelburn Acted as my Signal Officer and carried out Ida duties with the greatest efficiency under most trying conditions. I have the honour to be, Stiry Your obsident servent, W.F. WAKE-WALKER. VICE AD MIRAL Bear Admiral. * DOVER The Vice Admiral Commanding, Dover.
208 223 On return X channel was taken at dead low water and owing to rounding No.5 Buoy Dunkirk roads too close, grounded on a shoal 337° 2.5 cables from that buoy. Then the ship was refloated it was discovered that 18 - 20 knots was the maximum safe speed. Occasional firing was carried out on enemy aircraft in the vicinity during the evening of the 30th May. Journey 5. As soon as ship had refuelled and had the propellers examined by divers a passage was made at 18 knots to the beaches which were reached at dusk on the 31st May. East pier was full at this time and it was evident that difficulty was being experienced in getting men to the minesweepers already at the beaches. I visited all the beaches in turn finally anchoring at LAPANNE. The minesweepers further inshore were getting small loads but none came the greater distance to WORCESTER. At dawn WORCESTER came under shell fire from shore batteries and I decided to slip the cable and proceed to East pier where a full load of troops was embarked. Journey 6. June 1st. On approaching X xhannel about 1500 in the vicinity of No.5 buoy, two recent wrecks of transports were sighted; small craft and destroyers were picking up survivors. A few survivors were picked up. At this time a signal was received from V.A.Dover to return to harbour forthwith. It seemed however not worth while to return so close from Dunkirk and so I continued my course through the roads where some French soldiers were picked up from an open boat and the crew of a small service motor launch which had broken down. - 2 -
213 228 H.M.S. WORCESTER. Medical Organisation during the Evacuation of Dunkirk. During the first six visits all casualties were those injured on shore except for a few minor shrapnel wounds. After the second visit the R.A.M.C. provided a Doctor and two orderlies to augment the medical staff of the ship. They brough some additional supplies. Owing to the number of casualties it was impossible to keep details of the wounded or their wounds. We have records of about 10%. The following were treated on board: W.H.Phillips. 6087364. P.S.Lyde. 2nd.Lieut.R.Velch. R. Carmichael. 2077487. R. Boxall. 1424735. 2074895. C.Freeman. 371842. G. Mortimer. 2003511. B.Hazeltine. 1072589. 4105218. A.Webber. 6139645. N. Calvert. J.Banfield. A.Jones. Odgers. Martin. Newton. Green. Salt. J.Lynch. 5723342. F. Coyle. 6977118. H. 1918104. G. Fulton. 4455342. 4979392. W.Mc.Kergon. 1953338. K. 1523249. D.Ford. 124856. J. 2058319. L.Dorrington. 2072290. D. Roberts. 4127489. S. Archer. 2578464. J. Melcourt. 1848902. L.Ne.Greggor. 796184. - 5049974. J. Watt. 803512. M. Kraschau. 22nd,Tirailleurs Algerians. - East Yorks. - Perch. Royal Warwicks. C. Coombs. 2061143. - Mann. 2616074. H. Drage. 76208. - Sears. 2616014. H. Beersford. 3240696. - Jackson. 797213. - Johnson. 4452964. - Keather. 4748446. - Neson. 3593644. - Bentley. 859715. - Curtis. 736 276. - Morton. 5947916. Ord.Seaman Clitharty. We Oloman. 2032511. All these casualties were handed over to the R.A.M.C. at Dover and most of them were taken to hospital by hospital train. JUNE 1st. Sai led from Dover to Dunkirk. Near the French Coast picked wounded Frenchman from an open boat, Gerard Henri Dehehonte up born 24.7.14. Compound fractured legs, one arm off, buttock shot off, given a grain of morphia, died in half an hour. His effects sent to the War Office, and he was buried at Dover. At 1630 ship was bombed by 27 aircraft until Ship Ship proceeded to Dunkirk where troops were 1715. embarked. was also machine gunned by the aircraft.
Dynam. 123. 215 230g 5th. June May 1940 Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Kingfisher". No. 0/1/40. Commander in Chief, Nore. Copies to 7.4. Dover, Captain A/S,Portland. bject:- Report of proceedings. Submitted. th K.R.and A.I. 1132. The following report of proceedings is forwarded in accordance inesday 29th May P.M. Received orders to land Experimental gear and remove Experimental Dome, and be ready to sail for Dover by 0600 Thursday 30th. This operation took less time than was anticipated due to the good work of the Scientific Staff and my Ship's Company. Reported ready to proceed at Midnight. irsday 30th May 0001 Proceeded. 0900 Arrived at Dover and secured to No. 19 Bucy. 1317 Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk by Route*X* with large Motor Boat *Sanbra* in tow. Speed 12 Knots. Magnetic Mine exploded by Sweeper 1 mile ahead of Kingfisher in swept channel 3 miles & of Dover. 1930 Arrived at Malo Beach, Dunkirk and embarked troops using Motor Boat and Whaler and *Sanbra*. 2300 Proceeded with 180 British troops on board. lay 31st May 0510 Alongside Ramsgate Pier. Troops disembarked. Had to wait for the tide before going alongside. 0533 Proceeded back to Dunkirk. 0800 Arrived Malo Beach and embarked troops with Motor boat and Whaler. No other boats were available. 1100 Had 80 troops on board One seriously wounded, and It was nearing low water and a small ship which 20 French. had been beached and which the boats had been using as a jetty was of no further use. There was sufficient surf on the beach to make embarkation extremely difficult and produce considerable off probably due to the fact that the Germans there were no more British troops ready to come risk of losing By only means of transport, also had started to shall the beach and the troops had tal I decided to proceed with what I had and return taken cover. as soon as possible by which time the state of Alongside Margate Pier, disembarked troops. the tide would be more favourable. 1440 Proceeded back to Dunkirk. 1835 1518 Arrived Malo Beach. Where there appeared and to small be very boats few waiting off. Decided to try the Harbour but troops and a large number of Tugs 1900 High bombing raid commenced, engaged enemy had to wait for & berth Aircraft and considered Kingfisher shot one down
| Leading Seaman Signalman. | P.J. Ball S Thompson | Off. No. SSX.15444 ) # 1 C/JX.133505) | Motor Boat Cox'ns |
| Lewis)Stoker. Ist. ner) | F.F. Beer | # a C/KI.86684 | M/Boat |
(copy) Inprove 124 100. 220 - 235 H.M.S. "VERNON". portsmouth. 6th June, 1940. From: ACTING LTRIFT. Galls P.U.V.R. Dynam. 12th 3234 1185 $15 VERRON. PORTSHOUTH 8th June, 1940. mit the following as "BEN & LUCY" and Report of Movements of "DORIENTA" and Tuesday, June 4th. "BEN LUCY". IS received from Id from "VERION" To: 136/49. tay aboard "BST & LUCY", DOVER, HE VICE ADMIRAL, its. rul, the visibility very (Copy to:- The Commander-in-Chief, we passed Dover Portsmouth). at 1645. I reported I to stand by for orders, us day. reference to General Order 1700. by, I received orders lag boats in tow, L1 craft). We proceeded 1 to the remainder of the Magerton Low. At 2000 # were to Dunkirk channel when 1 us from the East flying our fighters and driven aff, CAPTAIN. had been dropped among the lerve that two vessels were . vessel was towed back) med was sunk. During this our two machine cune, the VICE ADMIRAL ed by one of our fighters. we proceeded into the channel 1940 kirk harbour at 2100, 00 fathers. I ordered both $ the boats in shore with ships if possible. on the boats were inshore and the bay, I therefore INSTA" to return independently as soon as she was loaded. R.N. V.R. who requested a tow as his engines had been I disabled I was then hailed by H.M.D. "FEASABLE", Lt. Turner by a shell, I replied that I would do so as soon as had filled with troops. As my four boats were returning I observed that one was destroyed by a shell. boat control officers who ordered my boats to boat return which While embarking the troops I vas hailed by a power to name beach closes also with troops, to tow these "DORIENTA" boats to the containing to the harbour. I instructed a motor the position and I prosumed indicated. that she had proceeded as previously alongside me, At this stage contact with directed. was broken
(copy) Dynam 124 100. 220 - 235 H.M.S. "VERNON". PORTSMOUTH. h 6th June, 1940. ACTING LIEUT. Gollo nas, R.N.V.R. CAPTAIN, H.M.S. "VERNON". I have the honour to submit the following rt of the movements of Hello Drifters "BEN & LUCY" and IDENTA" from Wednesday May 29th to Tuesday, June 4th. In accordance with orders received from hander-in-Chief, Portsmouth, I sailed from "VERITON" th Pier at 2400 on Wednesday, 29th May aboard "BRIT & LUCY", INTA" in company, bound for Ramsgate. The passage was uneventful, the visibility very At 1405 on Thursday, 30th May, we passed Dover iving at anchor off Ramsgate Harbour at 1645. I reported Naval Officer in Charge and was told to stand by for orders, ch were not given until the following day. At 1350 on Friday 3kst May, I received orders proceed to Dunkirk taking four pulling boats in tow, ORIENTA" in company also towing small craft). We proceeded route 15 We Our speed was adjusted to the remainder of the ege 'Armada' which was necessarily slow. At 2000 # were st to the North of the West entrance to Dunkirk channel when large force of enemy bombers attacked us from the Hast flying high altitude; they were engaged by our fighters and driven are, t not before a large mumber of bombs had been dropped among the a H.M.D. "FAIRBRESZ" which Iwas informed was sunk. During this ruck, namely, H.M.D. "LORD HOOD" (this vessel was towed back) sembled shipping. I was able to observe that two vessels were tack I engaged one dive bomber with our two machine guns, the ither of two units was damaged and we proceeded into the channel struction of this machine was completed by one of our fighters. preaching the shore to a depth of three fathoms. I ordered with both riving are my the bay to the East of Dunkirk harbour at 2100, structions to return to their parent ships if possible. V vessels to slip their boats and sent the boats in shore ept enemy my ship moving and instructed "DORISITTA" he commenced shelling the beach and the bay, to return I It was now dark, and when the boats were therefore inshore ndependently as soon as she was loaded. then hailed by HaM.D. "FEASABLE", disabled Lt. Turner J N.V.R. a shell, who I requested replied that I would do so as soon as filled I was a tow as his engines had been I had with troops. As my four boats were returning I observed that one was destroyed by a shell. While officers who ordered my boats a motor to boat which embarking the troops I vas hailed by return a power to boat the containing control the harbour. I instructed boats to the name alongaide me, At this stage contact directed. was broken beach closes to also with troops, to tow with these "DORISMTA" position and I presumed indicated. that she had proceeded as previously
Page 2. 236 My boats having departed I made contact with H.M.D. "FEASABLE" taking her in tow and proceeded to Westward in search boat loads of troops and took then aboard, as there were no boat of further troops. When off the harbour entrance I contacted three crews I put them in tow astern of H.M.D. "FRASAHLE". "BSN & LUCY" was now loaded to capacity and was preparing to proceed homewards when I was hailed by a naval rating alone in a waterlogged whaler. I took him aboard abandoning the whaler. I was then hailed by a fishing smack (9) "LETITIA" of Southend who requested a tow as he was short of fuel, I told him 0100 June 1st. to tail on, and continued my passage, the time being approximately The channel was negotiated without event, two destroyers being passed bound in. At approximately 0200 we turned to the North having rounded the Whistle bucy and, when about six miles to the North of the channel aircraft was heard overhead, while Asha gunfire and searchlights had been active for the last half hour. At approximately 0330 a very heavy explosion occurred close to the port quarter of "FEASABLE", The skipper and I were thrown across the bridge with great violence. On looking art I saw a large column of smoke and water close astern of "FEASABLE". Owing to the abnormal phosphorescence of the water I judged this to be an aerial attack on what was thought to be a largevessel, and as "FEASABLE" was still in tow and made no signal for assistance I continued. (I was subsequently informed by "LETTTIA" that another smack named "ROWAN" which had attached herself to the tow unknown to me had been sunk by this explosion). "BBH & LUCY" was now making water at about one foot per hour. About 0700 I was overtaken and hailed by "VERNON" Pinnace Va4 who requested a course for the North Goodwin Light Vessel and then proceeded ahead or US. At approximately 0745 we sighted North Goodwin to part and headed for Ramagate. When approximately 3 miles to the N.E. of Ramagate "LETITIA" slipped her tow and under her own power began to make off. I hailed her and when he informed me about the loss of "ROWAN" I ordered him to report to Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. I repeated my previous instructions which I do not think he obeyed. He replied that he was returning whene he came. while my to do this the tow rope was picked up by a length "FEASABLE" intention a to two her in Iashed alongside & LUCY". When mile to the Northward of the harbour "BSN I signalled of attempting which apparently had been foul of our propeller fouled since we Portsmouth. to anchor. I signalled disabled. A had leaving sweep wire Our propeller became hopelessly Pierhead that I 80 100 were troops, both including obliged two wounded and that We remained I was at anchor until launch by Monday came into "RENASCENT" in contacting acetylene harbour off morning and At outter. and to took the having 1000 clear at skipper the low on While made the troops Monday, tide of screw. unsuccesful this succeeded "DORIENTA". ashore. June the operation explosion 3rd, attempts in He we clearing was were reported of on to a hand towed our obtain shell to screw I in but me succeeded a by that tow that drifter he broken his had managed engines the joints has to return been in damaged several at reduced blooked by steam speed pipes up the (the causing bilge boiler pumps flooding had with moved in ashes). the and to engine I room, which in turn R.N. who instructed "DORIENTA" no to return was Portsmouth reported to and crew with me as "wrecked"
Dynamoirt. 223 SECRET Subject.. H.M.S. BIDEFORD.J Report of Proceedings for the . 238 period May 29th - May 30th. 1940. From The Commanding Officer. H.M.S. Bideford. Date June 6th. 1940. No. 6.0.1. To The Vice Admiral Commanding Dover. Sir, I have the honour to forward a narrative of the proceedings of H.M.S. Bideford, under my commabd, on May 29t 30th, and 31st. 1940. B. H.M.S. Bideffrd was ordered to sail at noon on May 29th, to proceed via The Downs and the South Rutyngen Buoy to Dunkirk Roads, and to bring off from Bray Beaches as ma ny as possible of the soldiers there; and to report on the situation. 3. H.M.S. Bideford entered the Rade de Dunkeerke at No.6W buoy at 1645 and zig-zagged up the channel at thirteen knots. 4. At about 1700 fire was opened on a squadron of ene enemy bombers who passed overhead at a height of about 6000 feet. One hit was observed and a bomber fell into the sea about two miles distant. During the next three hours fire was opened at fre frequent intervals as enemy aircraft came over, but no furth hite were observed. The tendency of all fire appeared to be low and behind. 5. At about 1710 "Bideford" was attacked with bombs for the first time. The attack was carried out by one of a squadron of bombers flying at about 8000 feet. The pattern of four bombs fell in a line along the port side at a range of about fifty yards. The ship was sprayed with splinters and there was one casualty at No.2 Gun. 6. Immediately after this the ship was machine gunned by a single low flying ircraft, which passed down close one side and a few minutes later turned and repassed. The order was given to "take cover" and there were no casualties. ( No.1 Gun's crew lay flat on deck only, which gives some indication of how low the aircraft was flying). and hove to. The ship remained have to, except for manoeuver- 7. H.M.S. Bideford arrived off Bray at about 1730 ing as requisite on the approach of enemy aircraft, for the next three hours. majority 8. whom were French, came alongside. Confuston and several was At 1750 the first boat loads of troops, the swamped The off from shore. On arrivalalongside drift off evident. of boats were dangerously overcrowded the men on the way onboard and let their boats the boats on useless. tide. "Bideford's" Paddles motor boat was lowered whaler and was to the would all jump were lost overboard rendering ordered collect and tow inshore any empty boats. The was lowered.
22 SECRET9 Page 2. was lowered and two officers and a signalman were sent in to endeavour to take charge on the beach. It was reported to me after- wards that this was next to impossible. The nen rushed the bee boats and capsized them in shallow water, and then left the boat without making any attempt to right it and use it again. had one engine out of action; the other was blown up There were only two motor landing craft in the vicinity; one subsequently when lying alongside the ship. 9. At about 1915 a dive bombing attack was made on the ship. The nearest of the pattern of four bombs fell about eighty yards on the port quarter, and the ship recieved no damage from this attack. 10. At about 2000 the ship was machine gunned again by alow flying aircraft. This attack caused several casualties both at No.2 Gun and on the signal bridge. 11. At 2007 (clock stopped!) the third bombing attack arrived. This was also a dive bombing a tack, and the pattern of four bombs landed on a line at an angle of about twenty degrees to the keel. The first bomb was observed by an officerto land about thirty yards from the ship. The fourth bomb hit the quarterdeck the starboard side forward, From this it is calculated that the third bombstruck either right on the stern, or was avery close miss. It is considered that one of the fifty depth charges was detonated; a portion of the internal wall (where primer is inserted) found afterwards supports this theory. (All primers and pistols had been removed previously). 12. The damage caused was very severe. About forty feet of the stern was blown away completely. A further forty feet was reduced to a tangled mass of metal; No.2 Gun was put out of action; the main mast fell in three pieces on the search- light and 0.5" machine gun platforms, wrecking both; upper deck fittings on the boat deck were bent and battered by slinters; the bridge superstructure was severely shaken, a bulkhead dished and several frames cracked; the compass platform was loosened from the bridge screens; all woodwork such as doors and furniture throughout the ship was shattered, (including the sick bay door on the fore messdeck). 13. Thie attack was followed about ten minutes Jater by athird machine gun attack from an aeroplane with an half inch machine gun. (One bullet has been recovered from a hazel rod fender, and part of another is embeddedin a davit). There were no casualties from this attack. 14. At about 2020 it was reported that fire had broken out in the cabin flat. Orders were given toflood the after magazine and burn the signal books. Both orders were carried out, but the fire was quickly under control and the magazine was then pumped out. The ammunition was transferred to the forward magazine. 15. At about 2030 the fourth and final bombing attack was carried out. This was another dive bombing attack, but the bombs fell wide on the starboard quarter. 16. H.M.S. Bideford anchored and H.M.S. Kellett came alongside and took off about three hundred soldiers who had embarked.
225 240 SECRET Page 3. embarked. ship in tow, but it was found that the vessel was held 17. At about 2130 H.M.Tug St.Clears endeavoured to tak endoned the attempt. aground aft, and at about 2215 the tow parted, and the tu & 18. At about 2300 H.M.S. Havavt endeavoured to take us tow but without success. 19. During the night a further 350 French and 50 glish troops were embarked, and these were brought to England. 20. At 0300 on the 30th. H.M.S.Locust was ordered to ke Locust. us in tow, and by 9400 the ship was waterborne and in tow 21. Between 9400 and 0700 the tow parted three times, we had progressed only three miles. But after 0700 the tow satisfactory and H.M.S. Locust towed us across to the glish coast, arriving at the North Goodwin Light Vessel at 00. Speed made good since 0700 2.4 knots. 22. A single Junker bomber appeared for a moment above fog near the North Goodwin, but made off eastwards. 23. Shaped course to pass eastward of the Goodwins. 2245 a French soldier, fully equipped, was seen to jump over e sideby two of Bidefords shipscompany. The tow was stopped. though a buoy was dropped and a boat lowered to search, it 1 regretted the nan was not recovered. The sea was calm and ae visibility at that time was good. The nan's name is not nown. 24. At 2315 we proceeded. The tow parted again at 330/31st, but after that no further trouble was experienced a nd we arrived at Dover at 1130 on th31st May. 25. The casualties to personnel were :- (a) H.M.S.Bideford's ships company (i) Killed. Three officers and nine men. (11) Missing, believed killed. Four nen. (111) Dangerously wounded. Two nen. (1v) Seriously wounded. Ten men. (v) Slightly wounded. One officer & six nen. Total ship's company casualties. Four officers and thirty one men. (b) Passengers. (11) Nounded. Two officers (one dangerously). (1) Killed. Two officers & ten other ranks. Total passenger casualties. Four officers and ten men. I have the honour to be, Your obedient Sir, servant, TOE ADMIRA 10JUN 1940 Lieutenant Commander in Command.
225 240 SECRET Page 3. had embarked. 17. At about 2130 H.M.Tug St. Clears endeavoured to tak the ship in tow, but it was found that the vessel was held fast aground aft, and at about 2215 the tow parted, and the tu 5 abandoned the attempt. 18. At about 2300 H.M.S. Havavt endeavoured to take us in tow but without success. 19. During the night a further 350 French and 50 English troops were embarked, and these were brought to England. 20. At 0300 on the 30th. S.Locust was ordered to take us in tow, and by 9400 the ship was waterborne and in tow of Locust. 21. Between 9400 and 0700 the tow parted three times, and we had progressed only three miles. But after 0700 the tow was satisfactory and H.M.S. Locust towed as across to the English coast, arriving at the North Goodwin Light Vessel at 2100. Speed made good since 0700 2.4 knots. 22. A single Junker bomber appeared for a moment above the fog near the North Goodwin, but made off eastwards. 23. Shaped course to pass eastward of the Goodwins. At 2245 a French soldier, fully equipped, was seen to jump over the sideby two of Bidefords shipscompany. The tow was stopped. Although a bucy was dropped and a boat lowered to search, it 1 is regretted the nan was not recovered. The sea was calm and the visibility at that time was good. The man's name is not known. 24. At 2315 we proceeded. The tow parted again at 0330/31st, but after that no further trouble was experienced a and we arrived at Dover at 1130 on th31st May. 25. The casualties to personnel were :- (a) H.M.S.Bideford's ships company (i) Killed. Three officers and nine nen. (11) Missing, believed killed. Four nen. (111) Dangerously wounded. Two men. Total ship's company casualties. Four officers (v) Slightly wounded. One officer & six men. (1v) Seriously wounded. Ten men. and thirty one men. (b) Passengers. (1) Killed. Bwo officers & ten other ranks. Total passenger casualties. Four officers and (11) Wounded. Two officers (one dangerously). ten men. I have the honour to be, Your obedient Sir, servant, VICE ADMIRA 10JUN 1940 Lieutemant Commander in Command.
CONFIDENTIAL. Dynam. 131 232 S 247 BUBJECT: PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE. FROM: THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. ALICE. DAGE: 7th June 1940. TO: THE RESIDENT NAVAL OFFICER, POOLE. (Copy to :- The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth) Letter of Proceedings. Submitted. in accordance with your verbal instructions. The following letter of proceedings of H.N.S. ALICE 2. H.M.S. ALICE sailed from Southampton for Dover at 2000 Sunday 26th Hay, loaded with stores, approximately 500 tons, and proceeded in company with H.N.S. KAAD-FALGA and H.N.B. ABRL TASHAN. On arrival at Dover 1600, 97th May, orders were received to proceed imadiately to La Panne and discharge. When four miles out from La Panne, we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of a llurricane fighter who had been shot down by the Anti-eircraft ship. On arrival at the beach, TO found the ABRL TASMAN close in shore unloading and the KAAP FALGAR enchored close to. I closed the ABEL TASHAN and grounded. Lieutenant Commander Crick had discobarked and proceeded to local Headquarters for orders. On his return he informed me that we were to proceed to Bray Dunes and discharge there. This WAS not possible until 1700 when we would float again at High Water. In consequence I decided ryself to go ashore and go to British Headquarters for definite instructions and to arrange hands for unloading. whilet sahore we were subjected to various forms of aerial attach and we had to take cover with the result that some time had elapsed before I could be driven to Headquarters with the KAAP-PALGA to Bray Dunes to arrive at 8100 28th May, at Bray. I was then given orders to proceed in company back to La Panne and went down to the Peach to enbark in my - the shipe to be beached and unloaded, I was then driven Lieutenant of the ABRE TASMAN hell been wounded which necessit- ship. Earlier in the afternoon the Ceptain and First command a of H.N.B. ALICE, my Fist Lieutenant - and Lieutenant ated redistribution of officers. 1 una to remain in Beale the senior officer took command of TASMAN. Wykeham-Martin was to command the KAAP-PALGA the ABRL Lieutenant On 1 could just 800 moving off to the westward arrival at the beach I found only two ships - about the KAAP-PALGA miles away which was then the visibility onboard distance. the There TASMAN WAS endeavouring to the two appeared to be no signs of life refloat. After ALICE the about ABEL twenty TASMAN which sent a waterlogged and the ABEL minutes 1 managed to attract boat attention in for me. of
CONFIDENTIAL. Digrams 131. Biw340 SUBJECT: PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE. FROM: THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. ALICE. DAGE: 7th June 1940. TO: THE RESIDENT NAVAL OFFICER, POOLE. (Copy to :- The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth) Letter of Proceedings. Submitted. in accordance with your verbal instructions. The following letter of proceedings of H.M.S. ALICE 2. H.M.S. ALICE sailed from Southampton for Dover at 2000 Sunday 26th May, loaded with stores, approximately 300 tons, and proceeded in company with H.M.S. KAAP-PALGA and H.N.S. ABHL TASMAN. On arrival at Dover 1600, 97th May, orders were received to proceed immediately to La Panne and discharge. When four miles out from La Panne, we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of a Hurricane fighter who had been shot down by the Anti-aircraft ship. On arrival at the beach, we found the ABSL TASHAN close in shore unloading and the KAAP FALGAR anchored close to. I closed the ABEL TASMAN and grounded. Lieutenant Commander Crick had disembarked and proceeded to local Headquarters for orders. On his return he informed me that we were to proceed to Bray Dunes and discharge there. This was not possible until 1700 when we would float again at High Water. In consequence 1 decided syself to go ashore and go to British Headquarters for definite instructions and to arrange hands for unloading. Whilst ashore we were subjected to various forms of aerial attach and we had to take cover with the result that some time had elapsed before I could be driven to Headquarters at Bray. I was then given orders to proceed in company with the KAAP+PALGA to Bray Dunes to arrive at 8100 28th May, - the ships to be beached and unloaded, I was then driven back to La Panne and sent down to the Peach to enbark in my ship. Earlier in the afternoon the Captain and First Lieutenant of the ABEL TASMAN had been wounded which necessit- ated a redistribution of officers. I was to remain in command of H.N.S. ALION, my Fist Licutenant - Licutenant Wykeham-Martin was to command the KAAP-PALGA and Lieutenant Beale the senior officer took command of the ABRL TASMAN. the KAAP-FALGA On I could just see moving off to the weatward arrival at the beach 1 found only two ships - about two miles away which was then the visibility onboard distance. and There TASMAN was endeavouring to appeared to be no signs of life refloat. After the ALICS about the ABEL minutes I managed to attract boat the in attention for of the ABRL twenty TASMAN which sent a waterlogged me.
SECRET Dynam . 261 246 The Officers in Command, H.M.S. GOLDEN EAGLE through FROM The Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence Flotilla. DATE 4th June 1940. TO The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness. SUBJECT Report of Proceedings - Golden Ragle. May 23 June 2nd 1940. Submitted On May 29th about 1045 S 10 received orders to proceed to position 9 miles East of Dunkirk position and embark troops. Ship sailed at 1140 and arrived in 00th of Quint Bank buoy about 1820 where a number of men were seen swimming remained in the water (some 285) and it was realised that in the water. GOLDEN EAGLE picked up all that destroyer two trawlers was were present but left without taking any part in the also present picking up men. A French rescue work. ascertained that these survivors (British soldiers) were It was from H.M.S. WAVERLAY who had been sunk by about hour previously. Ship then proceeded bombs straight back an to Margate and anchored at C035, Key 30th. At 14 0445 Margate y route went alongside and disembarked survivors. "Y" 22 when F signal was SECRET 260 use INS te "X". Ship was route to Hgth buoy, when = sure of his position C.O. ROYAL EAGLE's letter of 5thJune'40 finally returned to concerning Report of receedings. had 2137. previously made a signal 1 was seen by R medical a shore. off and proceeded alongaide II d up with oil. THE SHEERMAIS. EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER of any orders it was receedings were then as Dunkirk harbour entrance. a but failed. Submitted, I entirely concur with the tion 21 miles N.S. 02 remarks made by Lieut. Commander Farrow. bearing 224 deg. 2.4 miles. ut 40 troops from the beach. The officers and men mentioned ope were further East and also came under my own personal notice acilities in present and I can fully endorse the would be of greater recommendations made. I would like also to menti n number aceded. of troops waiting by the comswain (leading seaman) of H.INS. or ships in immediate greyhound's motor boat, which after H. GREYHOUND had been bombed worked 'athoms in position 02/1 for a time from the ROYAL EAGLE. 57 deg. 3.25 miles. The name of this rating is not y using ship's ropes known, but I was much struck by his 10's boats and two small coolness and devotion to duty. proops from beach to ship. 11" and inshore swell yps had to wade into 3 feet by changing the boats troops per hou." here ambing, shelling and sesial OPFICER, COMMANDER FLOTILLA. THAMES LOCAL DREPERING otion gun's and crews embarking were operations barked about 340 troops,
SECRET Dynamo 135 / 262 FROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELZI". DATE June 2nd 1940. TO TENDED DEFENCES OFFICER SHEERNESS. NARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERHESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amulree", and "Glala" I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing be to take these raghts to the North Goodwin Light Vesselo there to close the Exami: tion Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead outenant Dunning knew the channels ovin nation Vessel I decided to anchor my ordered my engines to be started and 1 Examination Vessel, as it was now ted a defect, I gave orders for INSERTION NO. 6. unination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed rade P-247 10 running and I decided to proceed to M.010946/40. ported to the Examination Vessel, , at 1000 my engineman reported that he inchored off Remagate Pier and NORE LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILIA - Report ship's singhy for my routing instr stion and at *015 were underway for D- ink. Operations off French Coast during proximately 51 degrees 12' No 2 de rees acuation of Dunkirk. cers 87 and W hine gunned, his burst I gave orders to my gun layer not to 311 within range as I did not think he run at his heighto immediately we 61.5 HIS PAPER IS TO BE INSERTED HERE. at Drokirk at 1530, as I saw a lot of I we.it off in the ship's dinghy to see on board, There was too much surf ormed roops that these troops were French and hat are would be swarped, I learnt that D the ship and decided to cruise about ODS would arrive at about 1700 at that as there spoken by a sloop who asked : some description to embaile these men, Minually chelled and bambed, at about get troops off to him, from that part our stern the last bomb falling st across was to aveg our stern down a few 3 this aeroplane which was a heavy ter ad a direct hit with our Lewis guy into flamer arl he creshed into the seal, I cannot 81 this aeroplane : the British troope at Dunkirk I aed. hopeng to find & boat to bring than is a Whaler adrift which we managed to lintely sent these two boats ashore proxin sity 1750 this was very
SECRET Dynamo 135 262 ROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELEI". DATE June 2nd 1940. TO TENDED DEFENCES OFFICER SHEERNESS. BARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERIESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amilree", and "Glala" I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing ne to take these raghts to the North Goodwin Light Vesselo there to close the Exami: ation Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead led by "Caleta" as Sub. Lieutenant Dunning knew the channels owing to non appearance of Examination Vessel I decided to anchor my ships for the nighto at 0400 I ordered engines to be started and to go and see 11 I could finithe Examination my Vessel, as it was now dawn at 0500 my engineman reported a defect, I gave orders for rema: der of yachts to close Examination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed according to instructions received. Ramsgate for repairs, which I reported to the Examination Vessel, & eventually got one engine running and I decided to proceed to had the Port engine I anchored off Remagate Pier and just before arriving at Ramsgate at 1000 my engineman reported than he immediately proceeded running ashore in ship's dinghy for Rg routing instr stion these I was given without and at *015 were underway for D- irk. 28' E we were attacked Junkers 87 and = hine gunned, his burst When we were in position approximately 51 degrees 12' No 2 de reed of fire feal all round by the a shipo I gave orders to sy gun layer not to would be able to Lewis grun at his heighto imediately we open fire on him until he was well within range as I did not think he opened fire he sh ered ae our off. how I could waiting to be embarked, I weat on boardo There was too such surf troops (°f the Casino off in the ship's dinghy to see I anchored at Drokirk at 1530₂ as I saw a lot of running ( get Home of these troops that these troops were French and would land, I was also informed abo would be swemped, I learnt that a party crown the boat so much, that would arrive at about 1700 at that part to of of the about 50 British troops to the ship and decided to cruise about men, see if beache I returned some description to embable these me I went s I could find a boat and was of there spoken by a sloop who that asked part on to the take his BI as bc. La Panne and try and get troops chelled off to and him, bombed, from at about this time beach, 70 were being continually our stern the last bomb a for fulling 1 in about 30 It a alvo of bombs only effect fell across was to areg our which storn was down a heavy bomber the water. away, We the opened fire on this ad a aeroplane direct hit with our Lewis the guys as and c his her type Starboard ships Dornier were engine also 17 we busit firing register into I cannos flames cat arl he this creshed aeroplane into sea definitaly. steament back 2 had at promised all possible to speed hoping to adrift find which a boat we to managed bring then to As embark the British treope at Dunkirk I Pack off, and ate we up were with our fortunate dingay in I finding immediately at a proxip a Thaler sent sty these 1750 two this boats was very ashore "ed to embark troops
CONFIDENTIAL Dynamo 1140. 25356 269 2 6th June, 1940. 252 CONFIDENTIAL 26) comminiting officer The Extended Sheernes. Defences Officer, Hresting ids ship unique These 7th June 1940. WAS For coolares Increasive energy and SECRET Dyrams 136. 2514 COMMANDING OFFICER, Helle Ba /GALETAN Must ATE. 3rd June, 1940. has Dev. EXTENDED DEFENGES OFFICER, SHEERNESS a had REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS. Say 30th, 0830. Underway in company with 'Ihristobel 11", Channel, South Sdinburgh Channel and Foreland Buoy. Anchored Amulree 9 and Glala" for North Goodwin by Case Deep, Knob are B. Goodwin, 0100 May 3tate 0645. Ins ructions from Examination Vessel to proceed to La working and was proceeding to Sanagate for repair. anne by route X15. "Christobel" signalled one engine not 0715 Underways Had a defect in steering which delayed start, finally La go: underway at 0800s Arrived Dunkirk 1145, cent on to off, and decided to anchor and send in Launche Lovered Launch Hanne, reached at 1245. Very fee small boats to bring troops which broke down almost at beach. Conditions on beach very difficult flat nature and 9 fresh on shore breeze. This combined owing to its voter considerably namered embarkati Be Launch towed with low VAB holsted in hourd to effect airs. in between followed shot the Shortly down, way Nurvicanes back the back after pilots was to and this. attacked ship landing a considerable by by destroyers low parachute. riging tvd dog round of Measerschmitt. fight Fighters our use took lanes not were place being under- way, by bombers who boubed of channel, shere the vater 188 back towards be Topy shallow. launched boat again, and 11 again found made to towards seamined aide By this time 11 was about 1500. broke went down. Hauled the in shore board so resume attempt at repairs. The Avidad Officer and drew of "Amilree" aftervards which 16 had sare gone on nambed Commodore Officer shore, "Amilree", on Comiending our were Stephens starboard brought at 1700 on board) abourd, EXPOXA side in small aft stempting and vas of boot shortly the Mosting. beam which to code fire and took 10rge with Commanding them agaide. mitor considerable off. boat y Shortly afterwards. and oree shelle returned Common buret under Batteries our counter opened on both sides, and under the port and bow.
inst as 10:00 Treath as "ery 11th and there was 3 THE mail rad as soob are (8) their non Untto the Than ONE the growted, tip 01 area with the assistance 02 some of the through and by as any to their managed to get her float in flost with 15 meen 0230 two of my crew as board 1 0100 Do and two of my C. in Hie dinghy, the wheler WAS to a great struggle as therevere only Whree 0022 in 10, as 1021 these wave got on troun I sent the that nd directing smother Train Ith traging arrived back with * Officer and getting Than are the heach, hise capsi mall in She Burf but fortuni she THE DOB tilease nen vere being yot 01. board ve were : Jumber 00 If studi out to suu to well for 30 will we bonber 310 us une fullowed us out bombing us but they fell way vide office work, as soon as I decmed it advisable I steamed Thick for the H les JEI At about 1730, a motor beat hailed us that he broken down, could we do anything about it. Took off) Lieut. Irving R.N.R. and crew n.board, and decided motor boat. The officer had been going backwards and from the beach Since Tuesday without stopping with inexperienced crew, and both he and they had done 15 Job or work and were uttely exhausted. At about 1800 an led an L.O. full of trops aboard 34 troops and one padre. E.L.C. was broken the decidersin chargeynComeender Shoul and her deaboard. They aleashed been on the move since Tuesday Descrest. Ascitimes greatly desired that the 368.00 should fall into enemy hands, it wasstaken in 1845 quite impossible to get more troops abourd, and at all washshaped for (SheePnes; as the hadoto be .CIX DJDOS All this time, there had been several dive boald vision 702 02 sew MI no of the beaches. UAB we weldame came past Dunkirk It was being enemy attoraft and theirishäre artillery still subjected to a dénsiderable air your Hombers were brought down. has телода of 6851095 Whens. HeOp between Dunkirk and B# budy, broke 4a must mind twice and WHE finally secured by fourlatout Dines. based and tide for Horse Channel. off N. Foreland 0300 for Sheerness at approx. 0945. landed in all, 2 Naval Officers, 6 ratings, cot asses among them, Tand one padre. edd instituted 0752 natural d'more B/W 11 DAMAGE TO SHIP. vrew od has 3200 badeawal only in places were scored, and on buoys in the were launch the petrol Two calcium flares amestied up. userg was fractured and glass broken in shteldelong redamaged the propeller shafts. rboard buraterks, shrapnel from shell fire. Shells which suray beam, was damaged by motor boat which ramaed the has in the food Itam at 221v ones SOD. Sub.
CONFIDENTIAL Dyramo 140. 2535 269 2 6th June, 1040. 252 CONFIDENTIAL Dynama, FROM shalls Comminding Officer The Extended Defences Officer, Hreating his ship unice Sheerness. DATE 7th June 1940. MAIN For coolness Insurancive energy and SECRET Drynams 13% 965 COMMANDING OFFICER, DEFENCES OFFICER, H.M.Y. GLALA. ADMIRALTY SHEERNESS. HOUSE, 4th June, 1940. Siro I have the honour to report that having received orders, I proceeded from Sheerness in conjunction with three other Yeahte: at 1930 on Thursday 30th May, 1940. Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable to contact the Examination Tug the Yacht "ChristobellII", the senior ship ordered us to anchor. , At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer I weighed that and he was closed to and entered Amulree" unable at Shortly the Dunkirk Tugo to before and proceed 'Roads' Having "Caleta" eleven owing received about and the to 11300 we French engine proceeded orders anchored No Coast trouble, from steamed by off was her route so the eighted along I beach delivered "X", the and 3 coast miles we tow then East of about 1230, "Golden Bagle" to us to close She asked when us to this WBC halers which were full 02 could be of assistance, but wo Dunkirk, signalled soldiers alongaide and she replied completed that she we was asked alright if we and that we could be of more use further alongo Off "Venomous" called us up and alose informed to the us her motor La boat Panne had H.M.S. broken down inshore. transports, No went and having 49 piero We contacted As securing were allowed all 01 then she towing but ready which was went them alongside the now to nam was back way to boat go getting back constructed drift inshore. and to were took when we the to underway were informed it beach the filled. in we of beach left tow took Агщу and we completely that with At and and closed them this this returned abe anchored a as time single point had H.M.S. new close took three wird to with strand. our as "Vivacious" out the boats possible, steering and the on her destroyer. at intention It whaler. which that was and ropes ly moment impossible to Sclent continuously the bombing became repair and intense. it shelling without make A which Captain for the had RaNa open been in sea going Yacht and No.1 all the 05 the smaller Patrol power ordered lowed craft him outo
CONFIDENTIAL Dyramo 140. 2535 4 269 2 6th June, 1040. 08/10/8, 252 CONFIDENTIAL UNIVERSITY FROM SEA comminiting 08:100 The Extended Defences Officer, resting is ship unique Sheerness. DATE 7th June 1940. THE For coolness extensive energy and TO..... The Commodore in Charge unisting in the Sheerness. SUBJECT. Senior Officer, Themes Local Rellefle Chief ingineers Defence Flotills. Hom in organizing the roops and car the emberition and I wish to recomend the THE R.N. 0/210035 20 Hedo Belon as leadership L.R.C.F. for his great D of the ship's company and also for a whole organizati shown during the mal incluses of this operation Dynamo. overboard when the wholer capsined Ris gallant action in going 0/32950 Dailably 100 OF Insurance inthe the water for over an hour remaining to clear alongoide ROYAL BAGLE end I propeller or the motor boat RIS, G/J3170070. for praise. consider, worthy of the greatest We on the Lettle Name (though commond of the chip (Sd) W. E. CORNABE orando VBB successful doe honry boolding and CAPTAIN, age ml has Little real EXTENDED DISTRIBUTE OFFICER. and Initiative van ⑈ use able to take an for aevosion mannay enrough ПДО CTIOPES, steam VISA always ready, TO and auty. when off watch he was to be found looking to the welfare of the troops. 10. Seaman LR/JX 173534. 14332 of H.S.D. be Monarda John Henry Williams is Gunner he was always to Ze remarkable Vigourously found at for his coolness to devotion whenever post see whenever that under opportunity to all duty. energy danger arms hombins were presented threatened ready, attacks itself. and the and 10 ship. to He replied be also especially showed took praised for his pride in his work. 11. Hannaford in of which H.M.D. he directed Renascent his for ship the and courageous manner the B.S.F. from Bunkerque and for which his prompt brought action off in members receiving of the crew of steam yacht Grieve was mined.
Dynam 142 2568 From 272 CAPTAIN H/S SHEERIESS. Date 7th.June 1940 To. COMPODERE IN CHARGE, SHEERMESS, Subject Recommendations oz officers and men engaged in operation Dynumo! Submitted: 1. Lieutenant John Stanley Roo R.N.V.R. commanding officer of H.M.Y. Aronia for devotion to duty, courage in face of attack and for his excellent anvigation and preservation of his ship. 2, Sub. Lieutenant John Gwyn Llewelyn. 1st Lieutenant 02 HoMeYa Aronia for his coolness under fire and davotion to duty in B.E.F. taking charge of the ship's boat and bringing off members of the 3. Ordinary Signalman John In Vells R.N.V.R. LD9/X.4930 of H.M.Y. Aronia for quick and efficient signalling during the whole operation. 40 Coxswain Francis Richard Overdon Thompson R.F.P.S. I/T. No., of E.M.I. Aronia for his leadership of the crew and for his fine example. 5. Lewis Gunner Rodney Matthews for well controlled and accurate fire, with most economical use of amunition. 6. Robert Herbert Soanea R.N.R. 7.3, 2984, Skipper of H.N.D4 onards, for the cool and aktiful handling of his ship under enemy artillery fire and during heavy bombing attacks, and for his men. untiring work in embarking troops. Re set a fine example to the H.M.D. Monarda Pearce zeal and conrage in taking xember off members 7. Lieutenant Trewhella Lovelock R.N.V.R. Unit officer in of throughout. the B.B.F. under for heavy fire and for the fine spirit he showed Monarde Hand William energy and cheerfulness at all times for under 8, 2nd Joseph Fingston 1152 O.B./N.K. of extremelfare of & troops on board, end the his the men. for his untiring cárcumstances. He did everything coolness, possible even during heavy bombing the attacks was an inspiration to 9. Ralph Helps D.R.5211 of H.H.D. steam Honardd, was for Stoker P.O. Hurbert Mainly through his efforts, found looking always devotion ready, to and duty. when off watch he was to be to the welfare of the troops. 10. Seaman John Henry Williams LT/JX Gunner 173534. he was 14312 always of H.M.D. to be 11. Monarda vigourously found great remarkable praised at care for for his coolness to devotion his whenever post see pride whenever that under opportunity to in all duty. his enery arms danger work. is hombing were presented threatened of ready, H.M.D. attacks itself. and directed the Renaacent and 18 ship. to He replied his be also Be for especially ship showed the took seemanlike Skipper and courageous Hannaford manner D.S.P. in which from he Dunkerque and for which his prompt and brought action off in members receiving 05 the the crew of steam yacht Grieve was mined.
Dynams 156 266 NARRATIVE 07 THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S.FRISO 282 OPERATION DYNAMO H.M.S. OSPRST PORTLAND. 9th June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following narrative of "Dynamo". events whilst in command of the Skoot "FRESO" during Operation Sunday 26th May. At Portsmouth - ship was being wiped, swung and generally prepared for service. at 1315. Monday 27th May. Sailed fr on Portsmouth at 0500. Arrived Newhaven Tuesday 28th May. Repairs were affected to for'ard Capatan. 2100. Sailed for Dover. Wednesday 29th May. 0900. Secured alongside Submarine Basin Dover. Watered and provisioned ship. 1230. Sailed for Dunkirk towing a pulling Boat. During the passage every endeavour was made for receiving and embarking troops. lty arew worked continuously at improving ladders and guest warps, and preparing the holds. 2330 Entered Dunkirk Roads. I steamed as close to the Beach as possible from about 6 miles to the East of Dunkirk right up to Dunkirk, but was unable to see any signs of troops. It appeared that FRISO was the first skoot to arrive in the Roads. 0030 Entered Dunkirk and secured alongaide the Mole. 1 then started ambarking troops until the skoot "SURSOM CORDA" secured alongaide no when 1 transferred them across. At about 0130 1 decided to commende filling ay ship alternately with SURSOM CORDA. Between 0130 and 0300 several skoots endeavoured to come alongaide SURSOM CORDA, I instructed the Commanding Officer of SURSOM CORDA to tell them to berth further up the Hole. 1 left the Mole at about 0315 having got onboard about 350 nea and 4 officers. 1 arrived at Dover after an unsventful trip at about 1500 Thursday 30th May. Having provioned and ambarked water tins I sailed again for Dunkirk at about 2100. This time 1 proceeded by the Calais Channel. ky crew worked axtraordinarily wall Although up we were in the Beam of the Calais Searchlights for about clearing the hold and preparing it again for more troops. 2 hours it appeared that we remained undetected. Friday At about 0245 I observed shat appeared to be a fairly 31st May. derelict two funnalled ship with & alight and list at the to port. large I approached her avoide shoused for Help, to be same time As took up & violent list to port and appeared for the but sinking. 1 well have andangered the Boat and proceeded. arew, both The the ship considered lowering a boat and searching Boats man, as I might for the evacuation 1 regretrully that SURSOM urgently required after 1 had passed her. I understand boat but was CORDA who was some Shortly afterwards I observed afterwards ship sunk just way astern of se did lower a a flare on the unable water some 400 yards 250 yards on ay starboard completely to find the nan- ahead of no, almost immediately how. At about 0415 a bomb fell about Harbour but as the Vola was I then proceeded deserted I entered Dunkirk being shelled I left hurrisdly. the beach and the place was until I saw dense columns such of troops gable on as necessary where along the I anchored coast and ground, than I than lowered veared ay as Boats and started done to to load ships up. An 80 Air as just Raid not occurred to at about 0630 but no damage was in ay immediate visinity.
II. 26y (NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S. FRISO DURING 283 OPERATION DYNAMO) Friday 31st May (contd) During the mornang one of the Beachmasters came off to me and endeavoured to persuade ae to beach the ship (HEBE & SURSOM CORDA) were doing so very successfully. As it was so as to lead quicker, pointing out that two other smaller skoots now a falling tide with an onshore wind I refused. For this I was later very glad as both other skoots shor tly afterwards became stuck on the beach and were unable to get off. (HKBE came off at the next high water. During the forenoon I hailed a large motor driven pleasure boat, got him alongside no and transferred 256 men to him. By about 1230 I had onboard 648 men and space was extremely cramped. I had delayed my departure hoping that a destryer or other fast craft would appear and take my load from me so that I could fill up again. However as another skoot appeared I slipped my anchor (the capstan being again defective) and sailed. Just as I was about to leave Dunkirk Roads I was hailed by a Fleet Minesweeper and ordered to tow a Drifter full of troops to Dover. By 1330 the Drifter was in tow and we were proceeding at about 5 knots. At approximately 1400 a Heinkel appeared out of the low cloud and at a height of 350 feet released a large bomb, probably 500 lbs, and as he passed over he opened fire with machine guns. The bomb fell on my Port quarter batween ate and the Drifter. Luckily the Bomb exploded below the surface and beyond violently shaking both ships no ajur major damage was done. The force of the explosion caused my compans to jump out of its gimbals. Certain damage was done to Auxiliary Machinery in the Engine Room. After we had been proceeding for about half an hour we were shelled by the Nieuport Battery. As the third salvo straddled us I decided to risck the navigational dangers and cut across the snadbanks 80 as to present the minimum target and to open the range as fast as possible. Luckily the Enemy never found the range again. Thick fog was encountered at about 1830. On making the North Goodwin Light Vessel I discovered that the Shaking up had caused a 30 dgree error in the compass. During the cassage through the Downs the tow parted on several occasions due to the wash of fast moving vessels. At about 0100 on Saturday lat June I was about 1 cable from the entrance to Dover Harbour when I was bombed again. This time it was only a very small bomb, which although a very near miss only wetted the troops on the port aide aft. There were no casualties from machine gun fire. At 0130 I secured alongside Admiralty Pier Dover. At 0230 we shifted billet and secured for the night for which I was very grateful an we had been running continuously for over three days and I had had no sleep for 90 hours. On Saturday temporary repairs were At effected 1700 to the and provisions and water ware embarked. where as I could not anchor I secured in the Inner I proceeded Engine to Ramsgate with HEBE in company arriving Harbour. at 2000, Sunday and Monday 2nd & 3rd June respectively permanent On were effected to the Engine in and Capatan. they were When all repairs brought to immediate notice case required skoots were it was decided that FRISO Harbour. was not sufficiently reliable again and so was left in the Inner I and on Friday were in the Boats at the time cannot speak too highly of ay crew for 7/4 who hours worked continuously, The 0 nly men being onboard and myself. were without my First & Lieutenant break. one seamen and the B.R.A. I have the honour to be, Sir, VICE ADMIRAL Your obedient servant, JUN1940 DOVER Lieutenant. Royal Navy.
DUPLICATE -270 - 286 0° 29" May. At0030 the Belgian motor boat was swamped in the surf though all eighteen occupants were saved . At 0350 all ships boats (one motor skiff and two whalers) were hoisted and H.M.S. Fitzroy proceeded to Dover via the Western route * During the embarration large fires were observed ashore and heavy distant explosions occured. Hostile aircraft were about but the ship was not attacked. At 1115 the ship proceeded alongside Admiralty pier and disembarked 109 British officers and soldier's , the eight Belgian officers two French soldier's and two Jewish refugee*s At 2235 ship proceeded to Dunkirk via W. Goodwin and anchored off the beach in 300 May. three fathoma at a point 8 miles east of Dunkirk Leiutenant Davies in charge of motor skiff landed and reported on the situation; he was assisted by Midahipman I.K. Bryce R.N.R. and Signalman Minter When he had made his rport I observed two ex Dutch motor XXXXXXXX coasters approaching ship . I ordered them to close me and disembark the troops to Fitaroy and return to for more. As the ship appeared to be full to capacity 1 veighed anchor and returned to Dover via the Western route. 678 British officers and men were disembarked at Admiralty pier at 1935 /30
275 1 291 TRIPLICATE Regist of proceeding of H.M.S. Pitaroy between 26th.May and lat. June 1940s 8 May At 0001 on 26th. May 11, N.S. Pitaroy van in the Royal Dook, Crimaby, in all respects res: realy for sea. In accordance with - Button's 1925/26 she proceeded to 108 in company with H.N.S. Sutton and H.N.S. Salamanier.At 1818 the anchored off Humber because of thick fog which cleared at 2945 when we proceeded to the Downe, reached at 1805 27th. May and anchored. 8.4 May. At 1830 28th. May H.N.S. Fitaroy proceeded via North Goodwin towards Dunkirk in Company with The 4thamd $ Minesweeping Holillas at 2:10 about four miles off Dunicipic H.W.S. Fit.roy was ordered to investigate a fishing smack and small motor boat flying the Belgian Colour Right Belgian officers two French soldier's and two Jewish refuges*s were embarked and disarmed. The notor boat van hoisted on board and an attempt vas made to too the fishing smack, but the stem of the latter vas pulled out and she had to be cast adrift. AS 9130 the ship anohoredin 33 fathoms seven miles east of Dunkirk harbour. All boate were 1 wared and sent towards the beach in charge Lieutenant J.P. Davies H.N.V.R. on ambarited troops. Difficulty - experiences due to surf and the strong tide vind moderate to fresh.
276 202 TRIPLICATE of 29th May. Atcoso the Belgian motor boat F88 swamped in the surf though all eighteen occupants were saved At 0350 all ships boats (one motor skiff and two whalers) were hoisted and H.M.S. Fitaroy proceeded to Dover via the Western route During the embar ation large fires were observed ashore and heavy distant explosions occured. Hostile aircraft were about but the ship was not attacked. At 1115 the ship proceeded alongside Admiralty pier and disembarked 109 British officers and soldier's the eight Belgian officers two French soldier's and two Jewish refugee's. A$ 9235 ship proceeded to Dunkirk via #. Goodwin and snohored off the beach in three fathoms at a point 1 miles east of Dunkirk Leiutenant Davies in charge or 30.May. motor skiff landed and reported on the situation; he was assisted by Midahipman I.E. Bryce R.N.R. and Signalman linter When he had made his mort 1 observed two ex Butch motor ******** consters approaching ship * 1 ordered them to close me and disembark the troops to Fitaroy and return 19. for more. AB the ship is be full to 1 eighed Western appeared and returned to Dover via the vare anchor 678 British officers and men /30 disembarked route. at Admiralty pier at 1935
| 1045. | Sailed for Dover not S was left behind. He moor Signal No.3 was made to pier of lorries and orga later informed that his embarkation of troops ap when boats were capsizir the risk of drowning sol | |
| 2240 | Anchored off Bray Dune At first no boats were also understood that fa: | |
| 2315 | boat under oars cam Byggott, A R.N. This boat but that all others had severely damaged his th boat were at once lower | |
| 2350 | and -iers.: that he had got À reported that his IN SubgLieutenant R.N. waiting. "Niger's" boat could find no troops. off and also fill up. he reached the beach al | |
| June 0100 | large shore boat a 40 e A soldiers instruding 188 to a were brought off regul very 1 | |
| 2225 with one whaler an 1 No boats having been lost |
Page 1. NARRATIVE. 290 SIGNALS. Scorth Goodwin Light in company with "Dundalk", signal to "Niger" be used to was carry given. out ferry service between Sheerness Informed V.A.D. and R.A.D. Time of arrival La Panne 0700. ered both whalers and motor-bost and sent them inshore. Teach. 1 considerable surf was running. There was no one soon as the boats arrived in they were seized by soldiers. overleaded and capsized. R.A.D. from "Niger" regarding the final evacuation wa s received giving the 1. V.A. D's 0357 intend to dezvous and time. As "Niger" then scareely any troops fill up with troops now to R.A.D. in "Keith" with the Idea of saving time. and If unable to make 20 but R.A.D. instructed yachts to fill up "Niger" first. -ndervous in time tonight 1045 "Niger" had over 200 troops on board when it was will ask him to supply spare ship. Sheerness in order to save Before sailing 1. "Niger" from R.A.D. R.A.I In consequence Lieutenant Hichens R.N.V.R. You should leave in time two yachts as pantoons, secured grass lines to the to make rendezvous tonigh Manised the boats pulley-haldy on these lines. I was work made the most tremendous difference to the rate of -$ whether full or not. Spart from making it comparatively safe and avoiding the /3. R.A.D. from "Higer" aldiers which was extremely high in the early morning, I have one officer who frequently. has volunteered to stay at Admiralty pier. ashore and assist on the beach. He is confident 4 Sailed immediately. that with a grass line and a yacht suchored in in 38 fathoms. "Niger" and group 3 were to westward. close he will get all lowered as the evacuation was timed for 0030 and it was soldiers off quickly. I last shore motor boats would be used. have great confidence in him and intend to leave Time off with some 30 soldiers under the commend of Sub.-Lieut.him behind. had been towed by tug Tanya. Sub.Lieut. Byggott who had 4. Nost immediate. Shumb reported that there were 150 soldiers abreast the ship F.0.Dover.S.N.0.Dunkirk moved to the westward to Bray. two whalers and the motor from V.L.D. gred and sent in. A fairly heavy surf was still running. tray wishes to commence evacuation 2030. Instruct .v.r. (Name anknown) from THE San nill. anda off from beach A B if 100 1 motor-boat in and another a shipse boat boat and were that aground there were with about some 50 60 more sold beaches at this time. off returned 30 empty about this time orders and reported to that they The They Cox'n reported later that the left. boats had got off before were at once sent in with tow the other boats Sand that there were no soldiers of came alongside with hander Brigadiers the orders Robb and that to move all the further other to Balso eastward seen from the shore and from troops the troops of were me. Shortly afterwards this our boats time onwards returned with off Bray. I larly but slowly. large took a numbers were seen to be floats. on the These beach and ers transport, but towed were also sent in and was on nearly and swam low off. water, "Niger" was about three cables from the continously u from Nieuport throughout the night. ried out machine-gun attacks on the ships and beaches. Several N.O.1/c Ramage let 330 troops on board "Niger" weighed and proceeded, from Major "Sutton" General @th,5th,6th Nore, Speedy M.S.F.C.IN N.O.1/c Shee C Salamander* troops that the troops had been ordered to remained and a message was received proceed to -rness from V.A.D. All available ships operating under V.A.Dove: ceeded "Sutton" in company, in accordance with' shore. signal In No.45 acc- and M.S.F.s' addressed are required to evacuate tonight Saturday. Ships t from chor 1 instructions 1 mile east from of Dunkirk, Admirel's 3.5 motor cables boat, "Sutton" proceeded -0 sail to arrive off beaches between Dunkirk and a point It miles Eas abark troops. -t at 2200/lst June.Ship worked a ship's from boat the borrowed beach, the from motor S.S. boat Vren was in Dover, lowered the together other whhler-s sail.Ships equipment which have are report not not D.G. to forth ded in the ashore morning. Lieutenant Hichens, R.P., and R.N.V.R. no other in boats charge. being Licutensnt worked. heto with comply.A be whether shown dimmed shoreward they lightis can occeded no troops along on the the beach beach towards waiting Dunkirk. About 5 He cables endeavoured westward to gewhen in 1510/1/6. position. chments start emberkation of French troops but had drawn considerable up on the difficulty. beach. Finally he found
Dynoma 198. 314 Bin/o/ 1216 320 FROM....THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. SABRE. DATE 8th June 1940. TO CAPTAIN (D) 16th Destroyer Flotilla. (copy 10:- Vior-Amiral, Dover). PROCEEDINGS BY H.H.S. SABRE FOR THE PERIOD 27th MAY TO 5th JUNE. Submitted herewith is & report of processings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period of 27th May to 5th June 1940. On arrival off Dover at 8300 on 27th N.J. WAS ordered by signal to procest to banches as of Dunkirs, embark troops, in our own boats and Leave not later than 0330. Proceded at 27 knots, stopped it 0180 two attes tast of Donkirs hurbour entrance and brought off six boat-loails (two trips for three boats) about 100 troops. While waiting "SABRE" N/A mehine connect by an aircraft and sustained one siight insualty. hrves opened on the aircraft. INO drifters case alongable and transferred their troops. It MIS townt that Chirt No. 1872 MLS not hold. The return passige VIS therefore mile Lirget Via "I" route. Secured Admiralty plan at 0580 and procestal sgain it 0618. At 0830 took station astern *NONTROSS* and followed her through the "Zuidcoote Pass". it 1050 went alcagaide & wreek can mile Bust of Dunkirk and took off bout X 10 proces. While value off the harbour entrance observed & *Coroad Hurricane aircraft on the banch West of Dunkirs. The notor boat NAS sent in to was off the crew. In so doing are grounded on a CALLUR use and 80% sant in the engine. is 1100 *MONTROSS* berthed at the aust Dirr and *SABRE* borthed on nor. Abouts 00 troops ware embarkel(the propeiler draught being 20 (not) and at 1850 both ships shoved off and returned via the pass*. is 1410 the ships ware thated by a squadron
316 - 322 Processings by H.H.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June. After the first raid "SABRE" left the Dier and on arrival outside found some men struggling in the water. Having no Doats left it was necess ry to place the ship alongside each Ran and hoist his In with a bowling. The survivors XIXX included the Second Enginee of the "Crested Eagle" and a stoker from "Granade", both badly burned; also some Frenchmen from a raft. During this time "SABRE" Was repeatedly attacked by dive bombers but sustained no damage. Then proceeded off BRAY to land portable wireless set, loudspenkers, etc, with the talegraphists LA charge of then. Some time was spent in searching for & boat (SABRE having none), and 8 small otor launch vis eventually headed off and pressed into service. The live Dombing attacks were continuous and a number of ships were seen to be hit including "Bideford" and "Shladin", three transports and & trawler. "SABRE" kept ing at high speed and thus escaped, though she was severaly shaken by near alsses, and every B a on look was blackened with 011 fuel splashes. to 2010 (by which time all assunition was ex- penied) destroyers were ordered to withdraw. Returned in company with "Verity" and "Saladin" who could only do 15 knots. it 0515/30 securet alongside at Dover and landed troops. Then procested to eastern , un, embarked ammunition and borrowed a whaler from "Saudhurst". Processed it 0830 and return- 91 to Dunkirk. Secured to last Pier at 1145 and embarked troops. On shoving off it MAS found that the ship MAS aground, but by moving troops formard she vis got off without dalay. Some damage W 8 sustained by the propellers and as LLC tome. At 1530 secured at Dover. it 1615 proceeded sgain route "2" on account of low visibility. A irictine nine MAS signted and/ras sunk by M.G. fire. The 108 gradually disporsed; "SABRE" was shadowed by a re- connaissance aircraft, and just before reaching No. 6 calais /Ducy
317 - 323 - 4 Proceedings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June. buoy, came under fire from shore batteries. Speed was increased to "Full" and the wheel put over it each sungflash, keeping them book between 20 and 70 degrees abaft the boar. The range was quickly found, however, and several hits stistained on the bridge and upperworks. Course was therefore altered to the northward, smoke was made, and the ship continued to status AS such as possible without showing herself clear of the smoke. Just before turning away however, 3 shell passed through the Petty Officer's messdeck. It did not exploite, but it passed through the Master Gyn conpass, and a splinter from it penetrated the deck and SO admitted water to No.2 O.LL Fuel tank.With this tank out of action there was insufficient all fuel remaining for the round trip to be completed. The D.C. cable had been pierced in four places and the magnetic compass vis therefore practically useless. The ship's was therefore teered by the sun(fortunpately visible) will traffic on route "X" was Liscerned. Thereafter it was possible to 80 from buoy to bucy. Sandhurst's lar vis severely riddled with shell splinters but the damage to the ship (except for the cyΓo compass and oil fuel tank) was only superficial and not a pan was touched. Arrive: it Dover it 2030. Defects vare taken in hand forthwith, and at noon on the 31st "SABRE" proceeded alongaide eastern are to facilitate the work. Nothing could be done about the gyro compass in the time available, but the D.C. cable MLS repaired and a great deal of other repair work WAS done by Sundhurst, of whose services I should Like to express My apprediation. A 16 it motor skiff was borrowed in lieu of the damaged whaler, and Sabre's own motor boat was recovered having been repaired. ALL hands had been utterly exhausted and the day and night in harbour give them a may lasse of life. At 2180/31, having completed with oil, "SABRE"
318 - 324 - Proceedings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June. "SABRE" again sailed for Dunkirk, and at 0115/1 both boats were & again sent in to the - eastern beach. No troops were found there, 86 proceeded to search further east. Hearing "S.O.S" being sounded C a syren, steamed towards 16 and Count a drifter stranded on a sub- merged wrack. Went alongside and took off the crew and troops. Jus before dawn some more instroyers were Count off Bray, and Sabre's Doats were sent in to bring off troops which could now be seen in large numbers. On "Shikari" CLILING up a cutter was taken over from her. The towage of this, full of trocps, proved too much for the motor boat and the troops had to pull off to the ship. INO trips were made in this way. Hourwhile on orders from R.A.Dover (in Heith) "SABRE" went alongside a tus, took off her troops and sent him to tow "Speedwell" off. During this time a single aircraft (apparently ch a Messersmidt 100) approached and made some rather half hearted machine gun attacks. Intense 1.4 thre provented these from boing X pressed home. There vas also VI unsuccassful dive bonbing attack by a Junkers 87. Numerous British fighters ware seen, and our freedom from serious interference was prosumably due to them. At 0700 having about 500 troops aboard, *SABRE* returned to Dover, arriving at 1000. At 2030/1 procested to Dunkirk in company with "Codrington" at 28 knots. It 8315 secured so the east pier and C111- ad up with troops. Shoved off at midnicht and returned, fortunbately coming no with "Icarus" who YAS followed as or as the DONILS (Sabre compass still Daine unreliabe). Arrived at 0400/3 and landed troops. 18 1845/8 proceeded to Dunkirk in company with 7 "Shikari" who was sent about at the North Goodsin be T. until arrival in Dunkirk Channel, then passing new Ruytingen bank bucy H.M.H.S. "parts" was seen to be sinking and to have boats away. A crossichannel steamer which had just been overtaken was sent to has assistance
- 325 - 6 - Processings by H.H.S. SADRE for the period 37th May to 5th June. her assistance, and a report sent by W/I. It is not known whether "Páris" was bombed, or minetyl; but a drifting nine was signted not DE away. Shortly afterwards, the ship came under fire ( which was returned ) in the Vicinity of No. 5W buoy: smoke was nade and no damage was suffered. At 2110 secured instite the wrecked trawler at East Pier and embarked troops. These were all part of the rearguard of the B.E.F. and included men or the Green Howards. Only 15 case on board in stretchers, but a further 50 001 were carried by thair conrades and the seamen: nost of these collapsed on arrival, an. over 50 had to be hoisted out on stretchers at Dover. Their courage was mynificent and I never heard a complaint and hardly ever a groan. On leaving the harbour, Clashing signals ware observed from the wreck of the "Nosquito:"the bow was placed alongaide har, and three men taken off. They turned out to be Royal Artillery Officers who had evaded capture by paddling off in a small boat. The boat had evidently been made fast with a "Soldiers hitch and had drifted away leaving them stranded: they were fortunate in finiting a signal lantern and so being able to attract attention. Proceeded with *Shikari* at 2200 and arrived at Dover at 0120/3. Left Dover at 8020/3 for the [un] trip. "Yenemous" who was in company, had been delayed, but caught to with "SABRE" near Ruytinguen bank buoy. Entered Dunkirk harbour at 2250 and lay off while the transports berthed: /"SABRE" then berthed between two transports where there would not have been room for & larger destroyer. "Whitshed" had arrived ear lier but had not yet barthed: her starn was Placed alongside "SABRE's" DOW and troops ware passed over to her until there was room for her to barth at the pier. By this time "SABRES" was full up, having embarked nearly 600 French troops and T
321 327 - 8 Procestings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June. leadership or my Engineer officer, Mr. Jones Commissioned Engineer, and I would submit that he is deserving of special recognition. Next to him I would recommend:- C/M 18445 C.B.R.A. McOwan who, under the E.O., was mainly responsible for the effloient working of the engines in nost difficult conditions; c/K 61056 - C/K 52210 S.P.O. Aitchison and Stc. Powling, who, when off watch, ably assisted in rigging gang-planks and scaling-ladiers, assisting the wounded on board, and controlling the traffic of troops - all seamen ratings being closed to at guns; Lieuten IIt Parker, who proved a thoroughly reliable right-hand man in all emergencies. He also as wall in charge of the boats, getting the naximum of troops on board in the minimum time. He was always one of the first to sight aircraft, and the quick to get the guns on to them and SO keep then at a respectful illstance; c/J 104364 C.P.O. Deway Torpedo Coxsenain ) who, whenever he could be spared from the wheel, remiared first aid to the wounded, provided the naked survivors with clothes, and us all he could for them in the absence of a Medical Officer or S.B.A.; c/x 141390 A.B. May, who did very wall both as cozsimin of the motor-boat and in charge at at the 0:5 M.GIS, probably bringing down at least one enemy aircraft; C/LX 21538 Lds. Steward Gilchrist, who was indefatigable in his care and attention to the wounded; Midshipman Archdale, who MAS of great assistance in identifying aircraft and in keeping a record of the ship's movaments. This narrative is compiled almost entirely from his notes, often taken when under Cire; and no was invariably cool and unrufitate / All the
(5) the 334 On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank Buoy, we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, the other with sixteen bombs. There was no indication that either had been hit, but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside. This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to steam round in a circle. we took off troops, & number 324 330 CONFIDENTIAL VICE-ADMIRAL COMMANDING DOVER, Sir, OPERATIONS *DYNAMO* Having been in command of the dynamo ship JUTLAND. I have the honour to submit the following narrative report of operations May 26th - June 3rd. On May 26th, JUTLAND was at Sheerness awaiting orders. In the early hours of May 27th, acting on orders received, We proceeded to the Downs where at 1500 the same day. orders were received to go to Dunkirk by & certain route. This route was via the Test Hinder Light and Kwinte Bank Buoy. While on the South-Westerly course from this buoy at about 2200 a hospital ship steeming away from Dunkirk signalled us Dunkirk fallen. message and added 12. I an returning" to which I replied Shortly afterwards. another ship signalled a similar # # Later, in the proximity of the I was signalled to close another ship. Here I had hopes of receiving more detailed orders. her that PATRIA was contacted an R. A. F. motor boat which had also closing this ship and I learnt from gone for she had While waiting there, I sought orders from a destroyer orders. that nessed and was advised to wait there. street roadal understarhead. A. rature. hours and after consultation withdraw WAY authorizes 2 Date Be INTERNATED da good Alternative but to
(5) be 334 On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank Buoy, we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, the other with sixteen bombs. There was no indication that either had been hit, but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside. This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to steam round in a circle, we took off troops, & number 324 * 330 CONFIDENTIAL VICE-ADMIRAL COMMANDING DOVER, Sir, OPERATIONS 'DYNAMO' Having been in command of the dynamo ship JUTLAND, I have the honour to submit the following narrative report of operations May 26th - June 3rd. On May 26th, JUTLAND was at Sheerness awaiting orders. In the early hours of May 27th, acting on orders received, We proceeded to the Downs where at 1500 the same day. orders were received to go to Dunkirk by a certain route. This route was via the West Hinder Light and Kwinte Bank Buoy. While the South-Westerly course from this buoy at about 2200 on hospital ship stegming away from Dunkirk signalled us Dunkirk fallen. message and added 18 I am returning" to which I replied Shortly afterwards. another ship signalled a similar I # Later, in the proximity of the Nieuport am proceeding. I was signalled to * close another ship. Here Bank I had Buoy, hopes of receiving more detailed orders. her PATRIA was contacted an R. A. F. motor boat from also closing this ship and I learnt which from had gone that she had While waiting there, I sought orders there. a destroyer for orders. that passed and was advised to wait Planes were heard overhead. some three hours and after consultation withdraw with PATRIA, After we waiting felt we had no alternative but to
(5) be 334 On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank Buoy, we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, the other with sixteen bombs. There was no indication that either had been hit, but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside. This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to steam round in a circle, we took off troops, & number 3315 (2) before daybreak and arrived back in the Downs by 1000 May 28th. At 1730 we again received orders to proceed to Dunkirk, this time by the shorter route 15X and this time with the knowledge that we were engaged in the evacuation of the B. E. F. from the eight miles of beaches from Dunkirk to La Panne. Of the dynamo ships that left the Downs at the same time, we were the first to arrive off Dunkirk and seeing that the harbour was being used by bigger ships, I decided that we might only obstruct the bigger ships by going in and that our proper function was to contact the beaches where bigger ships could not go. I therefore proceeded past Dunkirk in an Easterly direction. The light of burning Dunkirk was now nearly astern of us and the heavy smoke cloud over the beaches intensified the darkness. Thinking here to contact other ships or boats I proceeded at half speed. Presently another dynamo ship passed us in the opposite direction and informed us that she had come all the way from La Panne and had seen nothing. I therefore steered in more closely to the beaches. between a destroyer and another dynamo ship. I asked the At a point about 4 miles last of Dunkirk. I came dynamo at anchor and she replied that she ship if she was appeared to be two others aground also. boats There visible, but as I use preparing to lower my boat, received information test enclisur came out from the I that should also ofed three my abe former or troops that shore. there. thand twoo selo of & is taxré into the hills were preparatorya theses towro use, I noticed also DA. licen She storesh 1 the each 8A #: leave and this seemed if lenn today shoul BOAR course for as returning to Registe Guad as die # 10.1 steator stamas use 8 morning of May 29th and 1 are tomaré BAL toy reque Total the
(5) 24 334 Buoy, the we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank other with sixteen bombs. but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in There was no indication that either had been hit, difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside. This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to steam round in 8 circle. we took off troops, & number 3326 (3) By 1000 I had received fresh orders and was proceeding out again on the 15Ya route. Te had passed the Course. Middlekerke Bank Buoy and were on & South Westerly I had just remarked the number of ships with which we were in company at that moment, which was about 1715, when we were subject to attack by hostile aircraft, bombs and machine gun bullets falling between us and & hospital ship on our port hand, the hospital ship being obviously the target. While opening the distance between ourselves and the hospital ship, the attack was repeated twice more. I observed no hits, although later I noticed one destroyer apparently assisting another. About three aircraft appeared to be engaged in the attack. Shortly after passing Nieuport Bank Buoy I steered in towards La Panne. with troops and 00 there were no transport ships immediately The beach just to the West of La Panne was most dense near. an R. to operate F. launch which informed no that they could bring off could to the maximum degree, especially as I contacted I therefore decided that this was the point at which I forty at time. The coxswain of the launch also informed me that his a orders were to bring off British troops and I think that may accout for the fact that I never saw the launch again. in all manner In the of boats to my ship and clambering aboard. meantime, troops were paddling themselves out They were French troops. of There was floating no about adrift. As the troops came left aboard to scarcity of boats but the greater number no-one them remained were in the boat to row it back and it was go adrift. Two of the French officers who came off were the
(5) the 334 Buoy, the other we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, Bank On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport with sixteen bombs. but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one in There was no indication that either had been hit, This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to difficulties, and in reply to 8 signal we went alongside. was steam round in a circle. we took off troops. & number -327 to 333 (4) exceptions to that procedure and they each rowed their boat back to the beach single-handed. I saw little hope of achieving with these men what their own officers could not do, so I had the boats made fast until a few had collected and then, manning the largest with by own crew, sent them to POW ashore towing the others, with orders to let go the others on reaching the shore for the troops to man themselves and to row back the large boat with troops. On reaching the shore. 30 many troops crowded into this boat, and none would get out. that there seemed little likelihood of the boat ever being able shove off the beach. It was about an hour later when a French officer took charge and threatened to shoot anyone who did not get out of shore. the boat when ordered to, that the boat managed to leave the In the meantime. troops had been coming out to us in other boats made avaliable to them by the fact that the wind was gradually blowing the empty boats in to the shore. I had taken JUTLAND in to about sixty yards from the shore where we were lying in eight feet of water. After while an enemy air attack developed. In our vicinity a bombs were dropped immediately in rear of the beaches but four the attack seemed to be directed chiefly at the westward one bomb set on fire. One plane dived to masthead height hit. receiving lying off; in the after magazine, another ship farther ships the next ship to the westward of us or lower being over a nearby ship but, I think, failed to score a about fifty JUTLAND French rifles - whom I had stationed on deck, replied with her only and newly found armament the - remainder of the troops being in the hold. partly off to the gradually ceased. I estimated we that I Partly due boat problem again. the supply of troops had some coming to the presence of hostile aircraft and 275 to the ship board and it was at this juncture returning. decided to make troops sure on of what we had got and set course for
332 338 7. mostly suffering from severe burns; the Commanding Fifty seven cot-cases alone were brought off, Officer and other survivors from His Majesty's Dest- cleared the steamer out as far as was known, I pro- royer Grenade were amongst those embarked, After having ceeded down the coast towards Bray, and picked up troops from several boats, which they had found on the beach. A Captain Churchill, from the Headquarters Staff, off and told me that he had to get over to England to see his uncle, the Prime Minister,by 0600. 8. I proceeded to Margate, arriving at 0550 on May 30th, disembarked troops,survivors and Cartain Churchill, then sailed for Sheerness for coal and Ammunition. 9. I left Sheerness at 0300 on the 31st and arr- ived without incident off the beach just to the Bast of Dunkirk, at 0930. The rate of embarkation was slow ording to considerable surf on the beach, but valuable assist- ance was given by a large power boat, It was necessary for me to leave at 1230 in order to unload and be at By render-vous by 8300 on May 31st for the evening oper- ations. 10. I sailed from liargate to comply with previous instructions and proceeded, under the orders of the Senior Officer 11 the Fifth Minesweeping Flotila, to By appointed station off the beach; navigation at this period was difficult,a the absence of wind allowed the smoke from Dunkirk to settle over the channel, that visibility The poor. On enchoriz at 2345 a shell from 8 shore battery landed about a cable to securd; this ma repeated spasmodically. Reports were then received of magnetic nines being dropped in the channel. on 11, embarkation, using ships' boats, Short y after a About 0832 the Flotil a ms ordered to carry bombing attack took place,and from then on these attacks were practically continuous. Several Heinkel III type aircraft were observed, but the majority of the attackers were identified as Junkers 87 Dive-bombers. Embarkation was carried out, though the rate ha slow, this operation the ship case under machine-gun fire aground; 12. a vire was passed and I towed her off. During His Majesty's Ship Speedwell ma seal to be tenant for the speed and coolness with which be carried from the air, end great credit is due to ay First Lieu- out the ution. afloat 15. to proceed alongaide in Dunkirk harbour, and to I then received orders from the 7108 Officer comp. ete with troops there. As troops vere being and a machine-gun embarked, attack me delivered, but no casualties were bombs were dropped in the harbour incurred. 14. board, His Majesty's Dostroyer Ivanhoe to was her hit Just before I al ipped, with a full load of by troops a bomb on outside the herbour. Two ships went assistance, 80 I proceeded at full speed,
| 0441 | from Dover cutters and one Sailed from Thames Estuary. Took in tow six whaler Dover. Handed tow over to motor boat to found drifting. | |
| 0901 | Dover with south coast. Left boats arriving from out all small Fueled. Carried engine repairs. | |
| 1335 | Dover. with small boat Secured Ramsgate to rendeavous convoy. | |
| 1453 | Sailed from Wynne-Edward all towing open Bank. boats. General bombing Lt-Comdr. attack on shipping. | |
| 2100 | Arrived open boats where to Hole operate. Instructed collision with large yacht. broken. in starboard bow |
CONFIDENTIAL 320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised 356 October, 1935.) ite SS 10 ECRE 1 55 An Dynam 349 Alel Tasman. 60 355 65 3 TER OF PROCEEDINGS EVACUATION. RN a 70 A 23c 344 a I I st. 0030. Crossed to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival 1 ound (approx) he had just gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith. 0304 Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese. 0547 Arrived Dover. Fueled and carried out rep-airs to starboard bow. 3nd. 1201 Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys" reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by aircraft. 1330 Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk. (approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately 240 soldiers to Dover. 1530 Picked up 18 soldiers in open boat. Carried out (approx) unsuccessful search for drifter "Girl Gladys". 1700 Abandoned search. Set course to intercept Thames barge. 1720 Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes. 1730 Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board. 1922 Arrived Dover. rd. Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes and engines. Fuel tanks and hull seems leaking. th. 1255 Sailed for Portland. 2057 Arrived Portland for dooking.
CONFIDENTIAL 320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised Dynams 805. 356 October, 1935.) te $$ 100 ECRE SS 1 An 60 Dynam 355 65 TER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION. DN a 70 Decreases 20H. 010 3160 -3- with engines stopped when boats and planes could be detected by sound at a far greater range than visibility permitted. It is submitted that this course might profitably be employed during patrols. May 31st 1940. 1140 to June 1st 1940. 0547. Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453 approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken at Ramsgate to off-load all depth charges as it was considered inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of 5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small boats. The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable the convoy to arrive together. At this time & large force of German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and & general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at this time and the attack became disorganised, - the bombers eventually disappearing inland. The convoy arrived off Dunkirk from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut. Comdr. Wynne-Edwards required. approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith a collision At occurred with what appeared to be as medium-sized yacht. S.0.6. astern but the yacht's stern swinging round was put into to port stove in S.0.6. on the starboard bow as she altered course ribs and making & large out in the planking the aid above fracturing several the damage was being inspected by On shaded torch fire General Leese was embarked and instructions of a waterline. While was opened on 9.0.6. from at German aeroplane. were arrival given at Keith Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England Keith. at Hebe it as Keith and approximately three-quarters embarked dropping arrival General Leese discovered that Lord Gort crossed to to collect in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved. had of an 9.0.6. returned Gort to also arrived there. He to Dover. was forthwith and the and that it was the first time be any desired. the crew had hour later Lord General Leese taken direct of fire fact their behaviour left nothing to June 2nd 1940. 1201 to 1982 Gladys" Instructions were received down 7 miles east about 3 miles off to carry out a of search Dunkirk for drifter and for "Girl approximately reported 30 broken soldiers in an was open set boat from Dover direct to Dunkirk towards reported tho by aircraft. Course than intended to proceed to slowly put out to clear of land and make allow for the set promised and the coast to search for another the approach to the of coast the tide fro BI the outer Reutigen. It was open boat, subsequently approximately sea 10 miles east of Dunkirk to escort had been time caution the had report to be was exercised received. as Air no ships were operating off Dunkirk
CONFIDENTIAL 320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised Dynamso ds. 356 October, 1935.) te ECRE $5 10 55 1 An Dynam 349 lasman 60 355 65 TER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION. DNI n 70 7010 3347 4 during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the boat for which we were searching. To make sure we proceeded to Dunkirk where two open boats and a Thames barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spaniards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 320 soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below. Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails. They had no charts on board. The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed. I then left 1st Lieut., Leiut. Dehammel with instructions opened the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys". to sail the my barge to Dover; and proceeded along the coast having About two up miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18 soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to within of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thames barge. by approximately eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 were the dropped At 1720 when out of sight of land bombs we were attacked The fell at to attack in pairs out dive of the sun and eight six distances or varying from 10 to 50 yards of and ship. having bombers appeared their bombs continued their endeavour firing to machine- miss guns. the Course was appeared to explode after entering water, released altered frequently in an the some bombs. Some the surface and & certain number appeared ahead and not the to explode at all. the splash. A certain amount who were exposed was on striking One exploded under the bow right of discomfort ship passed through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to experienced the by eyes for the next twelve manning Able-Seaman Power of the soldiers in the fore to peak. return to Dover now had splash in the was wounded in the leg when As I the port wounded on board ask for assistance for barge sailing turret also one I considered it advisable the barge. A tug was forthwith and approximately to 2100 and found the Deut. Dehammel well sent out at from Dover. I consider Sub. bombing to performed a very subjected had caused leaks for that night's the about 10 miles creditable operation. The to the hull which and petrol the ship tank had and been the ship was not used again operation.
| 0442 | Sailed from Dover to turn that Took in bow six outters from Themes Satuary. Handed boar over to motor boat to and case whaler found drifting* | |
| 0901 | Left Dover with all Fueled. Carried out engine repairs. small boats arriving from south coast. | |
| ilst. | 1335 | Secured Dover- small boat to rendeavous with convoy. |
| 1455 | Sailed from Ramagate all towing open boats. General boobing attack on shipping. | |
| 2100 | Arrived open boats where to operate. Hole in off (from Keith) Instructed with large yacht. starboard bow |
CONFIDENTIAL 1320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised Dynamo 203. 356 October, 1935.) rite ECRE oss 100 55 1 " Dynam 355 349 lasman 60 65 ETTER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION. DN a 70 - 2 - 350 : 0030 Crossed to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival found (approx) he had just gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith. 0304 Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese. 0547 Arrived Dover. Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow. d. 1201 Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys" reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by aircraft. 1330 Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk. (approx) Left 1st .Lieut. to sail Thanes barge with approximately 240 soldiers to Dover. 1530 Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out (approx) unsuccessful search for drifter "Girl Gladys". 1700 Abandoned search. Set Sealth COULESE to intercept Thanes barge. 1720 Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes. 1730 Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board. 1922 Arrived Dover. rd. Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes dndengines Fuel tanks and mll seams leaking. th. 1255 Sailed for Portland. 2057 Arrived Portland for docking.
CONFIDENTIAL 320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised 356 October, 1935.) te ECRE ss 10 55 1 PA Alel Tasman. 60 Dynam 355 65 THER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION. a 70 352 346 with engines stopped when boats and planes could be detected by sound at a far greater range than visibility permitted. It is submitted that this course might profitably be employed during patrols. May Slst. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547. Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendenvous and escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453 approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken at Ramsgate to off-load all depth charges as It was considered inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of 5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small boats. The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased dom to enable the convoy to arrive together. At this the a large force of German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were Anumorable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and a general bombing raid was commenced. British Mighters arrived at this time and the attack because disorganised, The bombers eventually disappearang inland. The convoy arrived off Dunkirk at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut.Comdr.@ynne-Edwardes from Keith who directed the canvoy to the various beaches as required. At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith a collision occurred with what appeared to be at medium-sized yacht. S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern subcking swinging round as she altered course to part stove in S.O.6. on the starboard bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane. were given at to collect Lord Corb from Hebe, and to return to England On arrival Keith General Leese was eurbarked and instructions dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved. Keith. arrival at Hebe returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters On it was discovered that Lord Cort had crossed to of Inc. S.0.6. Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked forthwith an hour later and General Leese taken direct to Dover. Considering fire the their behaviour laft nothing to desired. and he fact that it was the first time be any of the crew had June 2nd. 1940. 1801 to 1922. Gladys" were broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk 3 miles and off for Instructions received to carry out a search for drift."Girl approximately reported 30 soldiers in Course an open was boat set about from Dover direct Dunkirk to reported the by aircraft. It was then intended subsequently to proceed to slowly put out towardds to the outer Reutigen. for the open boat, approximately sea clear coast to search make another approach to the coast the tide from the 10 of land and Dunkirk to allow for the set of been promised and time miles east of received. Air escort had off Dunkrik causion the had report to be was exercised as no ships were operating
CONFIDENTIAL 320c. (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL MESSAGE. (Revised Dyrams. & S. 356 October, 1935.) te ECRE $5 100 55 1 An Dynam 355 349 Ahel Tasman. 60 65 TTER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION. a 70 353 during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the boat for 14 ich we were searching. To make sure we proceeded to Dunkirk where - two open boats and & Thames barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. No then went alongside the Thanes barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 220 soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, ⑉ note below. Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new platon to the air compressor motor while the let.Lieut. and myself trimed the sails. They had no charge on board. The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed. I then left my 1st,Lieut., SublLient. Delhamel with instructions to sail the barge to Dover, and proceeded along the coast having opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys". About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18 soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing approximately three miles of the coast alightly to the eastward of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thanes barge. by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bomba were dropped At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attached The bombers at appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and and fell distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship. having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine- to guns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour miss the bombs. Some appeared to explode after entering the water, at on striking exploded under the box right discomfort a ome the surface and a certain,appeared ahead and not the to ship explode passed all. One the splash* A certain amount who of were exposed was the experienced by the x eyes for the next twelve manning the through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to splash in wounded in the leg when part Able-Seaman Power of was the soldiers in the fore to peak. return As to Dover I now had wounded on board ask for assistance for the the barge. barge sailing well was turrets also one I considered it advisable A tug sent forthwith out and to 8100 and I consider found Sub.Lieut, Delfammel about performed 10 a very creditable subjected had operation. caused leaks The for to bombing the that bull night's to which and the the petrol ship tank had and been the ship was not used again operation.
354 (For use with S. 1320b). NAVAL-MESSAGE. (Revised October, 93360 The Next time I had a moment to $5 share 1 faw Alice's new in her 60 boat 2 ming over to Kaap. Yulga 65 who tas about eight cables f 70 seaward of me have to We hailed him 75 t tried to Signal ht no nitree was 80 taken 1 was Per handed by ment. 85 Slater t took him n found 90 The ship was by air now 1745 100 95 afloat but tumpany + being inver in the m she Name ,W. I 105 managed to get the stem clear by putting 110 113 the troops formal + Der 14 has ty 120 moving Her aft. De Pen went 125 alead / after growding harily twice 130 got into deeparater. 135 As the Gennan ameraft were still 140 present we took advantage of A mm 145 Squall t sarted immunitely 150 Kamp-Jalga had (655) by - new 11.30 A THIS disabiou was very close to a wreck. "Express" of her troops went Troops on board and her clear - towed datern STATE view "Jaguar" of the member to anchor, leaving of non transferred a Trawle the to wounded. continued in the visinity. and At about 1830 the condition while remaining of the wounded troops, I and proceeded to Dover
-359 365 PAGE III ARKS. Traffic on the route at night was somewhat exciting,and the constant meeting of all sorts and conditions of raft similarly engaged, and to the number of wrecks that were encountered, It was fortunate that the wind remained from the North East towards the end, thereby shielding the approach from the fire from Gravelines Batteries. During the bombing attack on Dunkirk p.m. Wednesday 29th May, the ships A.A. fire was most effective. An H.E. from "X" Gun and a burst from the starboard 0.5" Machine Gun were seen to envelop enemy aircraft and it is considered that these two were either destroyed or hit. This was confirmed by the soldiers who were subsequently embarked and who stated that they were much impressed by the whole performance. I have reason to believe therefore that "Express's" fire met with the above measure of success. The performance of all Officers and Men under my command was of the highest order, and to my complete satisfaction during the whole of this operation. Under severe strain all hands remained alert ,boats crews while very weary made incessant boat trips, and the constant manning of the armament and its effective employment on all suitable occasions was extremely creditable. The large numbers of troops onboard constantly expressed their appreciation of what was done for in providing such comforts as food drink,and clothing as them by the sailors, who I know did their utmost for them was possible. The Hospital party rendered particularly, constant and valuable assistance to the wounded on board. I have much oride in submitting the attached list of personnel whom I consider worthy of special mention. I have the Honour to be, Sir, Your Obedient Servant, VICE ADMIRAL CAPTAIN. Royal Navy. 11 JUN 1940
Dynamo 214. Commanding Officer H.M. Shikari B14/0/ Gg June 8th 1940. 1232 375 Sir, I have the honour, with reference to Flag Officer Commanding Dover's Memo: B 14/0/1101/40, to forward the following Command. report on recommendation of personnel under my While it is very difficult to single out Officers or Ratings who were all performing the same duties to the best of their abilities; the names are forwarded of the boats crews who did excellent work during the final day evacuation at Bray a.m. Saturday June 1st under continual Shell fire and bombing until ordered to withdraw to Dunkirk. A). Recommended for decorations. 1. Lieutenant John Rees Wilson R.N. In charge of all shore operations, throughout operation Dynamo. His leadership and the manner he stuck to his job was inspiring. 2. Leading Stoker Alfred Browne. D/KI 81441. 3. Ordinary Seaman Dominie Kenny D/SSX 30221. 4. Ordinary Seaman George Park. D/JI 170122. 5. Ordinary Seaman William Lyons D/SSI 30211. 6. Signalman William Hicks D/JX 144358. (1-6 formed the motor boats crew ) The motor boat was sent in to help other small craft during the final hour, after the cutter had been turned over to "Sabre". B). Recommended for mention in despatches. 1. Signalman Scott Mac Kibbin JX D/139851, boat relief to signalman John in motor boat. Was in the motor for last and most unpleasant trip. 2. Acting Leading Seaman George Edward Cross D/JI 125679. 3. Able Seaman Arthur Bower D/SSX 21463 (2-5 Batkeepers 4. Able Seaman Jeremiah Fords D/SSX 19539. in Culter a Inne 1.") 5. Able Seaman William Murphy D/SSX 22784. C). Recommended for mention in despatches. For devotion Lieutenant to (E) Leonard THE craft duty, carrying setting and initiative and for I have the honour to be ADMIRAL Your Sir, obedient servant 1 JUN 1940 1940 Mag Officer Commanding Dover. C.O. H.M.S. Shikari 10Cal
Dysmiss ZINK Commanding Officer H.M.S.Shikari June 8th 1940. - 375 Sir, I have the honour, with reference to Flag Officer Commanding Dover's Memo: B 14/0/1101/40, to forward the following report on recommendation of personnel under my Command. While it is very difficult to single out Officers or Ratings who were all performing the same duties to the best of their abilities; the names are forwarded of the boats crews who did excellent work during the final day evacuation at Bray a.m. Saturday June 1st under continual Shell fire and bombing until ordered to withdraw to Dunkirk. A). Recommended for decorations. 1. Lieutenant John Rees Wilson R.N. In charge of all shore operations, throughout operation Dynamo. His leadership and the manner he stuck to his job was inspiring. 2. Leading Stoker Alfred Browne. D/KX 81441. 3. Ordinary Seaman Dominie Kenny D/SSX 30221. 4. Ordinary Seaman George Park. D/JX 170122. 5. Ordinary Seaman William Lyons D/SSX 30211. 6. Signalman William Hicks D/JX 144358. (1-6 formed the motor boats crew ) The motor boat was sent in to help other small craft during the final hour, after the cutter had been turned over to "Sabre". B). Recommended for mention in despatches. 1. Signalman John Scott Mac Kibbin JX D/139851, relief to signalman in motor boat. Was in the motor boat for last and most unpleasant trip. 2. Acting Leading Seaman George Edward Cross D/JX 125679. 3. Able Seaman Arthur Bower D/SSX 21463 (2-5 Batkeepers 4. Able Seaman Jeremiah Forde D/SSX 19539. in Culter on 5. Able Seaman William Murphy D/SSX 22784. C). Recommended for mention in despatches. Lieutenant Leonard Douglas May.R.N. For devotion landing craft and carrying for setting an example of resuorcefulness to duty, (E) out rapid repairs to beach and initiative throughout the operation. I have the honour to be OMIRAL Your Sir, obedient servant JN 1940 Plag Officer Commanding Dover. V H R 0.0. H.M.S. Shikari 1 Cat
Dynamo 212 383 Report of Proceedings of M.T.B. 67. Monday, 27th May. p.m. Arrived Dover with 10th Flotilla in company. Fuelled. Detached from flotilla and sailed for Nieu- port taking Belgian personages. M.A/S. Boat No.8 in company. Tuesday, 28th May. a.m. 0300 Landed Belgian personages at Nieuport. Sailed for Felixstowe escorting M.T.B. 22 with Admiral Keyes on board. Tuesday - Friday Employed in screening patrols for evacuation of B.E.F. Based on Felixstowe. Friday, 31st May. 0600 Sailed for Dover with M.T.B. 107 in company. Fuelled on arrival and sailed for Dunkirk with orders to report to V.A. Dover in "KEITH" and, acting under his orders, to evacuate Lord Gort. Ordered by Admiral to bring off naval ratings from beaches two miles west of La Panne. Continued evacuating soldiers till M.T.B. 67 went aground. Shelled whilst aground, necessitating use of main engine to refloat. This caused considerable damage to main engine. Remained in vicinity till petrol gave out and then returned home, arriving Dover 0010/1. Saturday, 1st June. Proceeded to Portsmouth for slipping with M.T.B. 68 in company.
396 -2- Note of proceedings of M.T.B. 107 (continued). 3/VI. Left Dover 1815 after ferrying blockship Captains to and from "SHIKARI"taken in tow by "SHIKARI" and proceeded at 2030 to Dunkirk. Slipped tow off Dunkirk. Waited for transport to clear - block- ships proceeding inside - attending on leading block-ship when she blew up - probably by mine - near wreck of "KING ORRY". Secured alongside to render assistance at about 0250. M.A.S.B. also came and took off part of crew. Ship sank rapidly breaking heaving line by which 107 was secured. Thereffter remained in vicinity to rescue persons in water - picked up 8 including Captain (3 seriously 4 less seriously injured). "SHIKARI" and M.A.S.B. not being visible and as no other survivors could be seen and it was now (0345 - 0400) daylight decided to proceed to Dover. On returning ran into thick fog and grounded on Goodwins - anchored and when weather cleared proceeded to Dover arriving 0700 (approx.) Sailed for Portsmouth 1000 5th June. Comment. Great difficulty was experienced in handling 107 in confined waters and Dunkirk harbour owing to absence of any reverse gear, and very poor turning circle. Navigational facilities are almost entirely absent, and crew get very wet under almost all conditions at sea. These boats do not seem useful for anything beyond purely local defence purposes. During the time alongside Dunkirk Pier boat was severely crushed by French fishing boats and ther was also great difficulty experienced in picking up survivors of block-ships owing to boats' unhandiness and presence of large amount of wreckage. (Signed) J. Comeron Lieutenant R.N.V.R.
Report of proceedings -2- of M.A.S.B. 10. (continued). - 388 Resume of 0215 Block-ship "Glourko" blew up. all Picked up/survivors and transferred them to "Shikari". Commission Demois and 0345 Embarked last of block-ships crews and proceeded to Dover. by birthting 0600 arrived Dover. picked Struck aubmerged dirthled (Signed) RICHARD EYRS. 9a best. is by E.M.S. "Vigilam" aud after Lieutenant. sporary repairs returned to Cover st Note, Interaday, Farried 63 Officer So Dovos vita seiling inders for Codego, Friday, Blat Kay, Returned to Dover as 5400, D/C W.S. being completely out of subtled commidered Lifebons and 10 C. betur bost, Saturday, Int Took Admiral thatlet La Doing to to 15, netor boat giving orders to Coursy, Supday, and June, Liftbest trued back to human NETS body of Lieutement would do vsa killed by shruped. while washing troops from bascare. Proceeded In 40 11. sotur has nacurating idaired Superville to SALE to but loss contact, Picked 0 survivors of "Parta". 0600 arrived Lover. Voldays 0000 belated E/O one of retur. streeting Augustry repairs as are 1000 sailed for in expiry with M.T.F.
- 389 Resume of work done at Dover - D/C M.B. Wednesday, 29th May, Arrived Dover and proceeded to Dunkirk with Lieutenant Commander Dennis and Commander Casalet. S.S. "King Orry" was sunk by bombing attack, 14 survivors being picked up. Struck submerged wreckage which disabled the boat. Taken in tow by H.M.S. "Vigilant" and after effecting temporary repairs returned to Dover at 8 knots. Thursday, 30th May. Ferried an Officer to Downs with sailing orders for Convoy. Friday, 31st May. Returned to Dover at 0400. D/C M.B. being completely out of action commandeered Lifeboat and 40 ft. motor boat. 12" Saturday, 1st June. Took Admiral Hallet to Downs in 40 ft. motor boat giving orders to Convoy. Sunday, 2nd June. Lifeboat towed back to Dunkirk with body of Lieutenant Mead R.N.V.R. who was killed by shrapnel while evacuating troops from beaches. Proceeded in 40 ft. motor boat escorting Admiral Somerville in M.A.S.B. 10 but ) lost contact. Picked up survivors of Hospital Ship "Paris". 1 Monday, 3rd June. 0500 arrived Dover. Tuesday, 4th June. 0900 hoisted D/C M.B. out of water. 2 Effecting temporary repairs on D/C M.B. Wednesday, 5th June, 1000 sailed for Portsmouth in company with M.T.B.'s 102 and 107.
388 390 H.M.M.T.B. No. 67 - 392 CONFIDENTIAL Lazy at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. TS OF PROCEEDINGS 0F M.T.B's NOS: 67, 68, 102 and 107 loat No. 67 between 26th May THE CAPTAIN, H.M.S. "HORNET", GOSPORT. 8th June, 1940. No. 890/8/2/9. dissioned as leader of 10th THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. B. Flotilla in company. Boat No.8 in company The enclosed reports of proceedings: and their gear. T.B's Nos. 67, 68, 108 and 107 are voused with T.B.22. tted. barked passengers and gear. y with M.T.B. 22. (Admiral M.T.B. 107 under the command of enant J. Cameron, R.N.V.R. was never ided as an "Operating M.T.B" and great t is due to this officer for the ssful work that the boat did, observing she has no astern gear and very poor towe. uvrability. This boat was only ved from the builders by road on the May, 1940. 7 in company. VICE ADMIRA to report to Admiral lake-Walker , to evacuate General Lord * CAPTAIN. est of Dunkirk. Took necessary DOVER 3. "KEITH" for instructions. two miles west of La Panne. evacuation. Sporadic La Panne. Continuous air ings and took them to H.M.S. Your obedient Servant, ding M.T.B. 107 back to H.M.S. = orders if any. Charles Chanderon H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" drew away from Lieutenant in Command. Felixstowe, copy to Vice t this point a small yacht, the ffered a direct hit and sank. in view of the number of The Vice Admiral, as considered desirable to get Dover. ibility of straining the engine. Copies to :- Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth. MOSQUITO" and returned to beach The Captain, H.M.S."HORNET" of an unknown soldier who, head and on the point of ing M.T.B. 67 draw away because nt him. This man was, or German aircraft shot down by parachute. Proceeded to jackets. These had apparently Vincrou uw return to Dover. 2130. 2100. Hombed by @suan airerart. June 1st..... 2315. Arrived Dover.
388 H.M.M.T.B. No. 67 - 392 at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. rt of Proceedings of H.M. MOTOR Torpedo Boat No. 67 between 26th May and 4th June, 1940. ay, 26th May. Reported as ready for service and commissioned as leader of 10th B. Flotilla. ay, 27th May. 0800. Sailed for Dover with 10th M.T.B. Flotilla in company. 1320. Arrived Dover. Buelled. 1930. Sailed for Neiuport, with M.A/S.Boat No.8 in company taking three Belgian personages and their gear. 2330. Arrived off Nieuport and rendezvoused with T.B.S2. 0200. Proceeded to Nieuport and disembarked passengers and gear. y with M.T.B. 22. (Admiral 3391 H.M.M.T.B. No 67. at Portsmouth. towe. 7th June, 1940. 7 in company. Sir, to report to Admiral lake-Walker I have the honour to submit the , to evacuate General Lord following letter of proceedings of Motor Torpedo Boat No 67, under est of Dunkirk. Took necessary my command, between 26th May, 1940, and 1st June, 1940. S. "KEITH" for instructions. I have the honour to be, two miles west of La Panne. evacuation. Sporadio Sir, La Panne. Continuous air ings and took them to H.M.S. Your obedient Servant, ding M.T.B. 107 back to H.M.S. Charles Clauderon = orders if any. H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" drew away from Lieutenant in Command. Felixstowe, copy to Vice to this point a small yacht, the ffered a direct hit and sank. The Vice Admiral, in view of the number of Dover. as considered desirable to get ibility of straining the engine. Copies to :- Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth. MOSQUITO" and returned to beach The Captain, H.M.S. "HORNET" of an unknown soldier who, head and on the point of ing M.T.B. 67 draw away because nt him. This man was, or ". German aircraft shot down by parachute. Proceeded to jackets. These had apparently 2100. Fuel running short. 4W return to Dover. 2130. Bombed by German aircraft. 2315. Arrived Dover. June 1st.....
388 H.M.M.T.B. No. 67 392 at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. rt of Proceedings of H.M. MOTOR Torpedo Boat No. 67 between 26th May and 4th June, 1940. ay, 26th May. Reported as ready for service and commissioned as leader of 10th B. Flotilla. ay, 27th May. 0800. Sailed for Dover with 10th M.T.B. Flotilla in company. 1320. Arrived Dover. Fuelled. 1930. Sailed for Neiuport, with M.A/S.Boat No.8 in company taking three Belgian personages and their gear. 2330. Arrived off Nieuport and rendezvoused with .T.B.22. 0200. Proceeded to Nieuport and disembarked passengers and gear. 0310. Sailed for Felixstowe in company with M.T.B. 22. (Admiral Keyes on board). 0630. Arrived Felixstowe. day, 28th May to Thursday, 30th May. Employed as requisite, based on Felixstowe. ay, 31st May. 0600. Sailed for Dover with M.T.B. 107 in company. 1030. Arrived Dover. Fuelled. 1600. Sailed for Dunkirk with orders to report to Admiral lake-Walker M.S. "KEITH" and, acting under his orders, to evacuate General Lord V.C. from La Panne. 1720. Shelled by shore batteries to west of Dunkirk. Took necessary ding action. 1730. Attacked by aircraft. 1745. Arrived Dunkirk and closed H.M.S. "KETTH" for instructions. ered to evacuate Naval ratings from beach two miles west of La Panne. 1800. Arrived off beach and commenced evacuation. Sporadic ling from a shore battery in direction of La Panne. Continuous air S on beach and town. Picked up naval ratings and took them to H.M.S. QUITO", continued embarking soldiers, sending M.T.B. 107 back to H.M.S. TH" to report situation and obtain further orders if any. Shell fire increased in intensity and H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" drew away from hbourhood, being the apparant target. 1900. Grounded (Letter to R.N. Depot, Felixstowe, copy to Vice ral Dover, numbered 01/2 of 1st June). At this point a small yacht, the other boat in the immediate vicinity, suffered a direct hit and sank. fire was then directed at M.T.B. 67 and, in view of the number of ded and exhausted soldiers on board, it was considered desirable to get r way as soon as possible, accepting possibility of straining the engine. is was accordingly done. 1915. Disembarked soldiers to H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" and returned to beach ontinue embarkation. It is desired to express ap rediation of an unknown soldier who, ough severely wounded about the face and head and on the point of apse, remained quietly in the water watching M.T.B. 67 draw away because hought we looked full up and might not want him. This man was, or se, taken on board. 2000. Proceeded to close H.M.S. "KEITH". German aircraft shot down t a mile to starboard. Pilots descended by parachute. Proceeded to them up but found nothing but empty life jackets. These had apparently taken off deli erately. 2100. Fuel running short. Ordered to return to Dover. 2130. Bombed by German aircraft. 2315. Arrived Dover. June 1st
391 H.M.M.T.B. No. 68 at Portsmouth. - 304 10th June, 1940. eport of Proceedings of H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No. 68 between 27th May, and 1st June, 1940 port of Proceedings of M.T.B. 67 Page 3 1/Eba turday, 1st June 1430. Sailed for Portsmouth to be slipped. M.T.B. 68 in company. 2200. Arrived Portsmouth. 000o0o0 393 officers to inspect beaches H.M.M.T.B. No. 68 ast Piers. at Portsmouth. in Bush and Lieutenant Commander 10th June, 1940. )fdinary Telegraphist Kirkwood trcraft made off as soon as we I have the honour to submit the : Kirkwood to H.M.S. "SANDHURST". ;or Torpedo Boat No. 68 under my command, )res. ansmitting set and two tele- lowing letter of proceedings of H.M. :ween 27th May and 1st June, 1940. lo demolition party. caused by W/T set, reached I have the honour to be, hore batteries. Took necessary Sir, lition party. Intense dive tivities in the neighbourhood your obedient servant. dr raid instructed crew to 3E" and act under orders of Lieutenant R.N.V.R. (ht reporting on activities of in Command. or motor boats; transferred BE" to attendant destroyer; Vice Admiral, Dover. 3. "HEBE" to H.M.S. "LOTUS" and pies to;- "HORNET". Portsmouth, L instructions to hand personally Commander-in-chief, The organise beaching parties. ver. engine. n H.M.S. "KEITH". Took officer on board
397 H.M.M.T.B. No. 107. - 400 at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. etter of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107 between 27th May and 5th June, 1940 27th May. M.T.B. 107 proceeded from Portsmouth at 0800 on 27th May in company M.T.B's 67, 68, 104 and 106 for Felixstowe, arriving at Dover 1345, ining there overnight and proceeding the following morning to Felixstowe, ving 1200. day, 28th May. Left Felixstowe 1830 in company with other M.T.B's for patrol between ted position of Wandelaar Light Vessel and Thornton Ridge Bucy. ved on patrol line 2135. Stopped and remained on patrol until 0400 uneventful. May. Thereafter returning to Felixstowe arriving 0810 29th May. Patrol esday, 29th May. At Felixstowe. 396 H.M.M.T.B. No 607309 . 67 at 0600 for Dover, at Portsmouth. ny with M.T.B. 67 for Dunkirk y shore batteries between 7th June, 1940. "KEITH" with Vice Admiral, Dover oximately 1745. M.T.B. 67 proceeded to La Panne for Considerably shell fire at La Sir, ned to H.M.S. "KEITH" on orders ratings were said to be safely I have the honour to submit the After rejoining recovered 3 following letter of proceedings of ion. As M.T.B. 107 has only H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No 107 under ered inadvisable to run her on my command between 27th May 1940 go up these ratings closed a and 5th June 1940. for purpose of transfering them B. 107, or any provisions of any I have the honour to be, side was ordered to cast off. shell burst at the spot where Sir, ed in company with M.T.B. 67 B. 67. During this period Your obedient Servant, 0 be under fairly constant sing in company with M.T.B. 67 john Cameron ea. Stood by M.T.B. 67 on her of the crew who had come down in Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in Command On the return passage to Dover, een Calais Grevelines. Shooting The Vice Admiral, Dover 2315. Copies Doaver. to:- The Commander-in-Chief. Portsmouth. on board proceeding by way of The Captain, H.M.S. "HORNET". e X where a patrol was maintained Thereafter returned to Dover vent of any importance except which dropped one bomb at X omb missed by a large margin and where embarked Captains of blockships
rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107 - Page 3 401 kships and transferred to H:M. 2020 proceeded in two tow .M. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N. H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress, icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring B., 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go rnand her large turning circle. ay, 2nd June Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships, sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S. KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk bed tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without ct. H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S. rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107 ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being busly and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B. When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and of accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S. KARI" any M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover ship had or already been observed, and it was now practically broad day- pendently to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved no at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered in and, the vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having the sands faith 7 The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June. he compass. North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, lay, 4th June. At Dover. esday, 5th June. Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and B. 102. eeded ined B. 107 was ing a were engaged 11 and P busly sep clear. After S"SHI rieno received crew frooz compa vrem outside, thereafter takin We bloor of the second ttendeafter A/S. IVACIOUS" and Averir Dover in oor V wasriencedilty was experiesuvring awckag, hech heavy wrecksility to June.
419 - Recommended for Special Hention. 2) Sub/Lieut. Neville Lyon Humphwaya Royal Havy. For his bravery in constantly firing 8 BREN gun kills from the compase platform. While doing this on June 1st he received fatal injuries. 2) Surgeon Lieut. Frank Whitwell Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. For his constant attention to Army wounded and his Macreasing labours on behalf of Naval and Military dying and wounded on June 1st and the morning of June 2nd. 3) Chief Engine Room Artificar Sydney Arthur Milling P/M 18465. For his skill and initiative in maintaining efficiency of the engine zoons and boiler rooms despite the death of the Engineer Officer and damage sustained in action on June Int. 4) Engine Room Artificer 2nd Class Ronald T. Brenton P/MX 46507. For maintaining a watch in the engine room without fail during the action on June 1st. 5) Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington J 8739. Chief Bos'ung Mate. For his great efforts through- out the operation in enbarking treeps both by Pier and boat. 6) Petty Officer Ronald Lawrence Notteran P/JX 129:70 Junners nate. For his dncyeasing labours to improve the gunnery ermanent and his outstanding example to Ship's Company. 7) Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews J 3593 Coxemain. For performing his duties, in particular that of steering the ship, with coolness and skill through- out the operation. 8) Petty Officer Horace William Smith P/J 108414. Torpedo Cunnere Mate. For his outstanding example to the Ship's Company and for his valuable work with Beach parties.
420 - 3 - 9) Leading Seaman John Leonard Brown JX 138757. For his courage and skill with the motor boat while taking off parties from the beach. 20). Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Coddon JX 129206. For his courage, example and skill in maintaining the fire of "I" gun. The 02 017 of which 7070 ultimately all killed or wounded. 11) Leading Stoker Charles 11. Norris P/KX 81034- For his coolness and courage in the engine room on June 1st. 12) Able Seaman Edward Gair SSX 15905. For his example and skill at "B" gun throughout the operation. 13) Able Seaman John E.Reynolds P/JX 147968. For his Killed courage and skill at the pempons, where he was ultimately killed. 14) Stoker T.Noscrop P/KX 83677. For his courage and Killer real in assisting the amunition supply at "A" gun to relieve the wounded. He was killed performing this duty. 15) Stoker Ralph Kearvell P/KX 99946. For his courage and skill in the boiler room. 16) Ordinary Seaman Bert Maraton Number N.K. for his example and skill at "X" gun throughout the operation.
SECRET 4 2. ......and as there were only 4 Officers for the three ships only two of the ships sailed. I consider that this was a proper decision having regard to the circumstances. The inexperience of the crew and the strangeness of the ships and also the locality made a passage an extremely arduous affair. The close proximity of the German army made it imperative to return to England as soon as possible. Accordingly I was put on board H.M.S. "Calcutta" early to-day en route for Chatham Hospital. 4. During the time ashore at La Panne I was beseiged with requests for a passage to England or France from French and Belgian Officers. These Officers all stated that their desire was to reform and fight again. I informed them all sympathetically that I could not give them a passage without the approval of General Adam. As this was not forthcoming in the majority of cases, about 20 of them got & Diesel engined boat from the beach and requested that they might come across to England in company with me. I readily acceded to this request and was prepared to tow them if necessary. 5. I understand that the Admiralty were informed by the Military that my 1st Lieutenant and myself had become casualties. 6. I regret that I am unable to inform you of the present whereabouts of the three ships. from 7. Dover I considered it proper that this report should As routeing and instructions were received be submitted to you. If this is not correct it is requested that this report may be forwarded to the proper authority. VIOE ADMI ADMIR 7.5.8.a. A Lieutenant-Commander, R.N. DOV
From! Resident Naval Officer, Poole. Dynom 239. A14/0/ 9 1352 To:-' Flag Officer in Charge, Portland. 9 Copy to Staff Officer Operations, Portsmouth. REPORTS RECEIVED FROM COMMANDING OFFICERS OF REQUISITIONED DUTCH COASTERS, WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION DYNAMO. "ALICE". H. II. S. Alice sailed from Southampton for Dover at 20.00 Sunday 26th. May loaded with stores approximately 300 tons and proceeded in Company with H.M.S. Kaap Falga and H.M.S. Abel Tasman. On arrival at Dover orders there received to proceed immediately to Le Panne and discharge. When 4 miles from La Panne we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of a Hurricane fighter who had been shot down by an A.A. Ship On arrival at the beach 0830 May 28th. we joined the Abel Tasman close in shore unloading and the Kaap Falga anchored close to. I closed the Abel Tasman and grounded. Lt. Condr. Crick had disembarked and proceeded to Local H.Q. for orders, and on his return he informed me that we were to proceed to Bray Dunes and discharge there. This was not possible until 17.00 when we would float again at H.W. In consequence I decided myself to go ashore to British H.Q for definite instructions and to arrange hands for unloading. Whilst ashore we were subjected to various forms of areial attack and we had to take cover with the result that some time had elapsed before I could be driven to H.Q. at Bray. I was then given orders to roceed in Company with the Haap Falga to Bray Dunes to arrive at 21.00 28th. May, the shins to be beached and unloaded. I was driven back to La Panne and went down to the beach to embark on my ship. Later in the afternoon the Captain and 1st. Lieut. of the Abel Tasman had been wounded which neccessitated a redistribution of Officers. I was to remain in Command of H.M.S. Alice and Lieut. Beale the Senior X Officer took command of Abel Tasman. On arrival at the beach I found only two ships. The Kaap Falga, I could just see moving off to the Westward about two miles away which was then the visibility distance. There appeared to be no signs of life aboard the Alice and the Abel Tasman was endeavouring to refloat. After about 20 minutes I managed to attract the attention of the Abel Tasman which sent a waterlogged boat in for me. Before leaving the beach I explained the situation to the Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who had accompanied me during the afternoon. On arrival on board the Abel Tasman Lieut. Beale informed me that in my absence he had refloated the Alice and anchored her. He then received a message from the Alice informing him that the engines of the Alice had completely broken down. He also informed me that the crew etc. had gone over to Kaap Falga which weighed and prodeeded without orders from Lieut. Beale or informing him of his intentions The situation was then appreciated by the C.O. LaPanne Lieut Beale and myself and beale decided that XX first Lieut. Martin and first first Lieut. were capable of dealing with the situation which had arison. 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 Downs was considered. Owing to the absence of personnel and boats and gear this project was considered unwarrentable to delay departure. I consulted Lieut. Beale and the Colonel R.A.S.C. unit who was Senior Officer La Panne and it was decided that I should take over the duties of 1st. Lieut. (Licut. Beale being was considered that I should serve no useful purpose otherwise. The situation single handed, and assist him in taking the Abel Basman back to Dover, as it was reported to C. in C. Dover on arrival and he approved of my appointment I remained second in Command. The movements of Abel Tasman have been reported by the Commanding Officer. Signed H.M. Slater Lieut. KAAP FALGA and ABEL TASMAN. Kaap Falga. ailed Sunday 26th. May 16.00 from Southampton for Dover ordered for orders. Monday 27th. May 16.00 arrived Dover Roads At 19.00 was at to Downs for a route to La. Panne. 08.00 Tuesday 28th. Arrived unloading La proceed and to anchored near Abel Tasman who was beached broadside on and of it in Panne started unloading our Deck Cargo and landed part H.M.S. ammunition. Ce 13. I went ashore with Lieut. Slater, Commanding met Lieut. Condr Alice Ships boats. authorities At ashore about what they wanted done. We troops and Crick to see the Abel Tasman who told us he was evacuating 14.00 the commanding H.M.S. when we had discharged some of our Cargo. Incendiary At bombs three we should do attacked the same by 20 German bombers who dropped H.E. not and hit by bombs ships were troops on the beach and were not ignite. except machine one incendiary gunned which the ships fell and in the hold of Abel Tasman and luckily did
Dynams Alu/o/ Resident Naval Officer, Poole. 1352 Flag Officer-in-Charge, Portland. 11 copy to Staff Officer Operations, Portsmouth. REPORTS RECEIVED FROM COMMANDING OFFICERS OF REQUISITIONED DUTCH COASTERS, WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION DYNAMO. ALICE". H.M.S. Alice sailed from Southampton for Dover at 20.00 Sunday 26th ay loaded with stores approximately 300 tons and proceeded in company 1th H.M.S.Kaap Falga and H.M.S. Abel Tasman. On arrival at Dover rders there received to proceed immediately to La Panne and discharge. hen 4 miles from La Panne we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of Hurricane fighter who had been shot down by an A.A. Ship. On arrival t the beach 0830 May 28th we joined the Abel Tasman close in shore nloading and the Kaap Falga anchored close to. I closed the Abbl Tasman nd grounded. Lt. Comdr. Crick had disembarked and proceeded to Local R for orders, and on his return he informed me that we were to proceed o Bray Dunes and discharge there. This was not possible until 17.00 hen we would float again at H.W. In consequence I decided myself to o ashore to British H.Q. for definite instructions and to arrange ands for unloading. Whilst ashore we were subjected to various orms of aerial attack and we had to take cover with the result that ome time had alapsed before I could be driven to H.Q. at Bray. was then given orders to proceed in Company with the Kaap Falga to ray Dunes to arrive at 2100 28th May, the ships to be beached and nloaded. I was driven back to La Panne and went down to the beach embark on my ship. Later in therafternoon the Captain and 1st ieut. of the Abel Tasman which necessitated a redistribution of Officers was to remain in Command of H.M.S. Alice and Lieut. Beale the Senior fficer. took command of Abel Tasman. On arrival at the beach I found nly two ships. The Kaap Falga, I could just see moving off to the estward about two miles to the Westward about two miles away which as then the visibility distance. There appeared to be no signs of ife aboard the Alice and the Abel Tasman was endeavouring to refloat. fter about 20 minutes I managed to attact the attention of the Abel 'asman which sent a waterlogged boat in for me. Before leaving the each I explained the situation to the Adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who had accompanied me during the afternoon. On arrival on board the Abel Tasman ieut. Beale informed me that in my absence he had refloated the Alice nd anchored her. He then received a message from the Alice informing im that the engines of the Alice had completely broken down. He also informed that the crew etc. had gone over to Kaap Falga which weighed and proceeded without orders from Lieut. Beale or informing him of his intentions. The situation was then appreciated by the C.O. La Panne Lieut. Beale and myself and Beale decided that first Lieut. Martin and 'irst Lieut. were capable of dealing with the situation which had arisen. The adjutant of the R.A.S.C. who was remaining ashore knew the orders hat had been issued. The possibility of towing the Alice to Bray Downs as considered. Owing to the absence of personnel and boats and gear ;his project was considered unwarrantable to delay departure. I consulted Lieut. Beale and the Colonel R.A.S.C. unit who was Senior ficer La Panne and it was decided that I should take over the duties of 1st Lieut. (Lieut. Beale being single handed, and assist him in taking EXEX the Abel Tasman back to Dover, as it was considered that I iould serve no useful purpose otherwise. The situation was reported to :., in C. Dover on arrival and he approved of my appointment I remained second in command. The movements of Abel Tasman have been reported y the Commanding Officer. Signed H.M. Slater Lieut. KAAP FALGA and ABEL TASMAN. Kaap Falga sailed Sunday 26th May 1600 from Southampton for Dover for orders. Monday 27th May 1600 arrived Dover Roads at 1900 was ordered Co proseed to Downs for à route to La Panne. 0800 Tuesday 28th. proadside on and unloading ammunition. We started unloading our Deck Arrived at La Panne and anchored near Abal Tasman who was beached /cargo
CONFIDENTIAL. Dynamo 131. Copy BIN/O 13 1 à 13 SUBJECT: PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE. FROM: THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. ALICE. DAGE: 7th June 1940. TO: THE RESIDENT NAVAL OFFICER, POOLE. (Copy to :- The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth) Letter of Proceedings. Submitted. The following letter of proceedings of H.M.S. ALICE in accordance with your verbal instructions. 2. H.M.S. ALICE sailed from Southampton for Dover at 2000 Sunday 26th May, loaded with stores, approximately 300 tons, and proceeded in company with H.M.S. KAAP-PALGA and H.M.S. ABEL TASMAN. On arrival at Dover 1600, 27th May, orders were received to proceed immediately to La Panne and discharge. When four miles out from La Panne, we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of a Hurricane fighter who had been shot down by the Anti-aircraft ship. On arrival at the beach, we found the ABEL TASMAN close in shore unloading and the KAAP FALGAR anchored close to. I closed the ABEL TASMAN and grounded. Lieutenant Commander Crick had disemberked and d II. 1 à 12 1476/07. Vice Admiral, Dover. Forwarded. (SD,) E. R. DRUMMOND land. VICE ADMIRAL. June, 1940. VICE FLAG OFFICER-IN+CHARGE. 12 JUN 1940 DOVER about the two miles away which was then the visibility distance. the ALICE KAAP-FALGA I could just see moving off to the westward and the ABEL TASMAN was endeavouring to refloat. There appeared to be no signs of life onboard After about twenty minutes I managed to attract the attention for me. of the ABEL TASMAN which sent a waterlogged boat in
CONFIDENTIAL. Dynamo 131. Binlo Copy 13 13 SUBJECT: PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. ALICE. FROM: THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. ALICE. DAGE: 7th June 1940. TO: THE RESIDENT NAVAL OFFICER, POOLE. (Copy to :- The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth) Letter of Proceedings. Submitted. The following letter of proceedings of H.N.S. ALICE in accordance with your verbal instructions. 2. H.M.S. ALICE sailed from Southampton for Dover at 2000 Sunday 26th May, loaded with stores, approximately 300 tons, and proceeded in company with H.M.S. KAAP-PALGA and H.M.S. ABEL TASMAN. On arrival at Dover 1600, 27th May, orders were received to proceed immediately to La Panne and discharge. When four miles out from La Panne, we stopped to pick up a sergeant pilot of a Hurricane fighter who had been shot down by the Anti-aircraft ship. On arrival at the beach, we found the ABEL TASMAN close in shore unloading and the KAAP FALGAR anchored close to. I closed the ABEL TASMAN and grounded. Lieutenant Commander Crick had disembarked and proceeded to local Headquarters for orders. On his return he informed me that we were to proceed to Bray Dunes and discharge there. This was not possible until 1700 when we would float again at High Water. In consequence I decided myself to go ashore and go to British Headquarters for definite instructions and to arrange hands for unloading. Whilst ashore we were subjected to various forms of aerial attack and we had to take cover with the result that some time had elapsed before I could be driven to Headquarters with the KAAP-FALGA to Bray Dunes to arrive at 2100 28th May, at Bray. I was then given orders to proceed in company back to La Panne and went down to the Peach to embark in my - the ships to be beached and unloaded. I was then driven Lieutenant of the ABEL TASMAN had been wounded which necessit- ship. Earlier in the afternoon the Captain and First ated redistribution of officers. I was to remain in Wykeham-Martin was to command the KAAP-FALGA and Lieutenant command a of H.M.S. ALICE, my Fist Lieutenant - Lieutenant Beale the senior officer tools command of the ABEL TASMAN. On I could just see moving off to the westward arrival at the beach I found only two ships - about the KAAP-FALGA two miles away which was then the visibility distance. the ALICE There appeared to be no signs of life onboard After and the twenty minutes I managed to attract the attention in for me. of ABEL TASMAN was endeavouring to refloat. the about ABEL TASMAN which sent a waterlogged boat
From:- Resident Naval Officer, Poole, Dynam 241. To:- F.O.I.C. Portland. 22 Copy to Staff Officer Operations, Portmouth. REPORTS RECEIVED FROM COMMANDING OFFICERS OF REQUISTITIONED DUTCH COASTERS, WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" "SAN ANTONIO" B people. On first trip 270 people were taken off Dunkirk Breakwater and on Second trip 330 On second trip a dive bombing attack was made on the vossel from ahead by & Junkers 89 plane and two bombs just missed astern. The first of these was a delay action bomb. The ship experienced heavy bombardment by 5.9 inch shells whilst embarking the second time. A "HEBE" ( Report as written by commanding Officer) The Dútch Coastal vessel "Hebe" was takon over by a Naval Crew on Friday 24th. May 1940 H.M.S. Hebe was commissioned on Saturday 25th. May 1940, Commanding Officer, Lieut. A. H. Rowlandson R.N., First Licut. Lieut P.A.B.Powell R.N., and a crew of LP.O. 1 E.R.A. 2 Stokers 1 A.B. and 4. Ordinary Seaman. The first O eration carried out was on Monday 27th. May when TO sailed in Company with the rest of the group with orders to evacuate troops from the Beach be- tween Dunkirk and La Panne or from Dunicirk. Hebe arrived off Dunicirk at about 0030 and I approached the beach twice but found no troops and no opposition. I turned West along the beach towards Dunkirk, entered and went alongside the east fetty in shore, I loaded with troops all that remained there, and returned to Dover on completion with about 150 on board. No opposition was encountered. The only casuality was a slight wound in the foot of the commanding officer H.M.S. Hebe from a bullet accidentally fired by a British Soldier on board. The second operation began on Tednesday 29th. leaving Dover at 20.00. I went to Dunkirk by the Calais route and although constantly searched by searchlights no batteries opened fire on the Calais coast. Off Dunkirk I came up to H.N.S. Sursun Corda lowering a boat near the wreckage of a vessel apparently mined. One voice was heard and a mineaveeper arrived and sent over a boat I continued my course. I passed close to the entrance to Dunkirk, the jetties and piers were deserted so I continued eastward and went ashore near & large body of British troops I lowered the only boat and carly left and began embarking these troops. This proved to be very slow so I approached the beach and bows to the shore enabled men to wade out and climb on board. About 300 were taken on board and forried out to a destroyer. I repeated this operation and took operation and took over another 300 to 350 men to the minesweeper Fitaroy. The Captain let me have two large type life saving nets to put over the bows which assisted embarking troops after I returned to shore. No other large ships were lying off Dunkirk. H.M.S. Friso was embarizing troops and H.M.S. Sursum Corda was aground close in shore. I attempted to tow her Yoff but failed and was driven onto a small Bank close to her and remained aground until 18.30 At 18.00 Geramn Artillery began shelling the sand dunes and beach, although shapnel fell over us and wounded men aboard Sursum Corda we got afloat without difficulty and oaded about 250 troops and went down towards La Panne to ass them to a destroyer there. I remaine a there resouing men from the water embarking men from boats and pontoons the majority of these were passed to & destroyer and were suffering from exposure. At 23. I found no more men to embark and returned to Dover without further incident with about 250 people on board. The ship was without ater and fuel and I arrived at Dover at about 11.00 on Friday 31st. May. Wa or and provisions were embarked and I was sent to Remsgate In company with H.M.S. Fiso whose compass WILB useless owing to banbing attack. On Sunday June 2nd. 1940 while under way to the fuellingJetty In Ransgate Harbour I was ordered alongside the Pior to enbark 249 Cerman prisoners to take them to The Dover. hold filled and about a dosen wounded were left lying on deck. the The "uard consiste of 36 was frenc security Police and 6 cadets of the O.T.C. under Command of a 2nd. Licut,
I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside Adminalty Pier 23 After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered prt H.H.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Doms at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940 23 "RUJA" B H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirk from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and sailed for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship broke down again and was successfully towed by H.H.S. Pascholl. Signed H.R.Webber (Lieut R.N.) "FRISO" A This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under Sun. Lieut. R.N.V.R. made two successful trips to Dunkirk beach and was able to evacuate 1008 officers and men. Although under continual fire from shore batteries and dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel or crew. Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.) "DESPATCH II" B. May 29th & 30th. To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with ships boats only until 04.00 At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft of water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ransgate 19.00 30th. May 31st. June 1st. Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment with ships boats only until midnight. Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked ship sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1. Ships Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention L.S. A.J.M. Upton P/SSX 13505 A.B. W.H. Dibben P/JX 148504 A.B. H.B.Ketchley PJ109346 O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093 Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr. "PASCHOLL" B. This ship was only taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain having returned to his proper duties at Ramagate. I proceeded to Ramagate arriving there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond flying his flag in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty at 23.00 and embarked ap roximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 Tuesday June 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions sailed at 05.30 Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having taken H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday 6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th. June entered Poole Harbour. Signed Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R. "ZEUS" I have the honour ? to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation I Dynamo in diary form. 25th. May Joined at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 p.m. approx cast off and proceeded to anchor off Portsmouth. 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off Yarmouth. 26th, May. 5.10 a.m. ordered to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship 3.0 p.m. Ordered to proceed Portsmouth. 6.0 p.m. Arrived Portsmo th. Recive fuel water and stores and ordered to broken proceed Spithead to swing for deviation. Discharged Dutch engineer. Note compass and steering compass damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable deviation card 10.30 Proceed in company for Newhaven. 27th. May Dawn arrived off Newhaven and anchoved. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec. gear stores rope etc. Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship 9.0 approx. Proceeded in company for Dover. 28th. p.m. Dawn arrived off Dover 9.30 approx berthed alongside "Ruja" at West bad Quay, Enemy render independance p.m. of navigation impossible we follow rest ahead. gunfire May air raid 1.0 approx. Proceed in company for Dunking. Compass Considerable so as to etc. all night.
I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside Adminalty Pier 23 After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered escort H.M.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Downs at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940 23 "RUJA" B H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirl from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship broke down again and was successfully towed by H.M.S. Pascholl. Signed Webber (Lieut R.N.) "FRISO" A This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under Sun. Lieut. Ward R.N.V.R. made two Although successful under trips continual to Dunkirk fire beach from and shore was able batteries to evacuate and 1008 dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel officers and men. or crew. Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Licut. R.N.V.R.) "DESPATCH II" May 29th & 30th. To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft or water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air ships boats only until 04.00 compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ramsgate 19.00 30th. May 31st. June 1st. Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles with to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked ships boats only until midnight. sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1. Ships ship Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention L.S. A.J.M. Upton SSX 13505 A.B. W. H. Dibben P/JX 148504 A.B. .B.Ketchley PJ109346 O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093 Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr. This "PASCHOLL" ship was only B. taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain having there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor returned to his proper duties at Ramsgate. I proceeded to Ramsgate arriving until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond at flying his in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty flag and embarked approximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 05.30 Tuesday June 23.00 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions taken sailed at Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday June 6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th. entered Poole Harbour. Signed J.N.Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R. "ZEUS" I have the honour to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation Dynamo 25th. in diary Joined form. at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 Dalla approx cast Yarmouth. off and 26th. proceeded May. to 5.10 anchor a.m. off ordered Portsmouth. to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship May 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off 3.0 p.m. Ordered Portsmo to proceed th. Portsmouth. Recived fuel water and stores and ordered to proceed broken 6.0 p.m. Arrived deviation. Discharged Dutoh engineer. Note compass deviation Spithead and steering to swing compass for damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable card 10.30 Proceed Dawn in arrived company off for Newhaven Newhaven. and anchored. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec gear stores 27th. rope etc. May Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship 9.0 28th. p.m. May approx. Dawn arrived Proceeded off Dover in company 9.30 approx for Dover. berthed for alongside "Ruja" Compass at so West bad Quay. as to Enemy render air independance raid 1.0 p.m. of navigation approx. Proceed impossible in company 49 rest shead. Considerable fofolComt gunfire etc. all night. so folonsidat ores ost to el gunfire Duto.
B. 24 29th. May. 00.00 off Dunkirk have great difficulty in finding out where to P 00.15.- touched bottom 1.0 a.m. approx. entered Dunkirk and secured alongside Pier. Shore arrangements very bad only one shore ladder available. Troops commence to board. 24 1.30 "San Antonio" came alongside. Troops cross our deck to feed San Antonio. 3.0 approx. San Antonio cast off. I endeavour to speed up loading. Note as much as 15 minutes go by at times without any troops boarding at other times the single ladder is quite inadequate to deal with the numbers. No effort was made by the Military to use the outside of the Pier 4.0 0 a.m. Wind freshening we have received approx 220 troops cast off and proceeded in Company for Downs. Near by ships open fire at enemy aircraft During passage three hunting destroyers drop at least five depth charges Our troops have rifles ready to engage aircraft. Run ha been issued to those troops who are very fatigued and wet also to ships crew. 2.0 Arrive off Downs ordered to proceed Ramsgate.2. Pilot boarded took us to Margate discharged troops, received stores fresh water and two ladders. I rece ve 50 feet rope from another ships 8.0 p.m. Proceed in company with Carabia for Braye. Hands employed in rigging TS and cleaning ship 30th. May 5. a.m. anchored off Braye (falling tide) and enced receiving troops shifted ship 5 times as tide fell. Under continuous enemy gunfire from the shore. 9.0 a.m. we have received approx 430 troops and all available space is full (the shore arrangements fo loading is under naval charge and most efficient. Also ;adders were most useful. Weighed anchor and proceeded for Downs altering course as required to aviod enemy gunfire until out of range. Issued run to fatigued troops and all crew. Troops stand by to engage enemy aircraft 5.0 P.m. entered Ramsgate discharged troops received stores and fresh water. I wrote a note to.C in C Dover drawing his attention to the mutinous conduct of Borrowed two naval ratings from shore as night watchmen. Proceeded outside Harbour to anchor. Hands clean ship All hands to sleep Watchmen keep look out. 31st. May 5.0 p.m. ordered to proceed Portsmouth 1st. June, Secured Kings stairs 2nd. June 12.00 ordered to proceed Poole 5.0 P.m. stopped off Yarmouth. 4th. June 6.30 p.m. Secured alongside at Poole. This ships engines are fairly good but all other appointments are very bad Signed S.Hoggan, Lt. Comdr. R.N.R. "ATLANTIC" I beg to submit the following report on this ships activities during the evacuation from Dunkirk Friday 29th. left Dover 9.30 a.m. 12. to waiting off N. Goodwin L. Vessel for orders 3.30 proceeded 3.0 a.m. 30th. arrived La. Panne commence embarking troops in ships lifeboat. Anchored as near shore as possible. Ship aground at Low water embarkation slow at first in ships boats very hard work for the small crew later expedited by Naval Commander S.N.O. who detailed motor launch and whaler to ship embarked approx. 300 men. Sailed about 11. a.m. Beach and Channel being shelled by Shore Batteries. Arrived Ramsgate 23.00 30th. May arrived Dunkirk 05.00 31st. June about 1 mile east of Dunkirk close in shore passed ashore to haul out boats, sea choppy and boats getting swamped lost ships boats 10.00 was to out to deeper water, engines fail to start. Embarked approx. 100 troops. Waited off beach for 24 hours but unable to embark troops owing to being unable to obtain a motor launch to attend on ship and no boats being available. Beaches and Channel being jected to shelling and air bombardment all day and night. Two or three bombs fell close alongside. 05.00 1st rescued crew and passengers of Drifter which had struck sunken wreck [o?] during operation, boat full close alongside striking at ketch which completely dissappeared. 13.00 Ist. Arrived Ramsgate. Note. The small amount of troops embarked on 2nd. trip was due to scarcity of motor launche ato attend various ships, when I did eventually get one and sent it in shore the soldiers would not wade out to the boat during dark hours. L.E. Fordham It. Condr. R.N.R. "KAAP FALGA" B. Kaap Falga (Lieut. G.E.B. ST.G Beale) in Command) loaded 300 tons Army Provisions left Southampton 21.00 26/5/40 and beached off La Panne according to orders 0800 26/5/40 in Company with "Alice" and Able Tasman. At 12.00 Kaap Falga and Alice were ordered to refloat as soon as possible and proceed to Bray beaches, 4 miles away. 8 hours later Kaap Falga floated of with the tide. In the meantime Lieut. Beale had been wounded ashore (during air attacks on Ships) whilst contacting the Military, Lieut. Slater (Captain of Alice) who was with him was killed. Lieut. Beale was reported to have been taken to the Military Hospital with a. paralised leg. Alice was put out of action and ballast tanks flooded to make her rest on bottom (Max, Depth H.W. about 14. feet).
First Lieut. then abandoned Alice and took his crew and Major De Haviland (wounded) 25 and 4. soldiers to Kaap Falga where 1st. Lieut. Alice took command. Major De. Havilland of G.H.Q came on board with instructions for Kaap Falga to go to sea 25 and try and intercept a destroyer so that he could report by m/t to the War Office the seriousness of the situation. No. Destroyer would stop so Kaap Falga returned to the Downs and reported arrival. Then to Dover where stores were cleared by 09.00 1st. Kaap Falga's engines were badly coked up and in attempting to return to Dunkirk at 22.00 1st. they overheated to such an extent that the Ship could not make suffient speed to reach Dunkirk by 03.00 2nd. the latest hour that ships had been ordered to stay off Dunkirk. Due to the possibility of this defect Kaap Falga was not used on the night of June 2nd. the last night of the evacuation. Sailed for Poole 14.30/3 arrived 12.00/5 PACIFIC A Lieut. Comdr. .Skrine R.N. Lieut. Triscott R.N.R. Sat.25th. May Crews for Dutch Skoots proceeded from ortsmouth to Poole where they arrived about noon and were detached for these vessels. Pacific proceeded at 14.00 leaving discharged dutch crew at Brownses Island. Was ordered to anchor at Yarmouth for the night. Sun. 26th. May. Weighed at 0.430 and proceeded for Portsmouth Harbour at 09.3.0 Being Senior officer of the Party I went ashore and arranged for stores and swinging etc. No sailing orders were obtainable until about 19.00 when we were ordered to complete swinging as soon as possible and sail at once for Newhaven. Accordingly sailed at dark with Amazone Atlantic Zeus & Pascholl in company (wega and San Antonio) has broken down) Monday 27th. May. Arrived off Newhaven at 04.00 and was ordered to anchor outside Lay at anchor all day awaiting orders. At dark received orders to sail for downs in company with a party of skoots that had previously arruved Newhaven. Weighed and Proceeded Tues. 28th. May Arrived Dover about 08.00 and berthed alongside 09.00. Went ashore and having ascertained the possible nature of the operation made arrangements for sandbags first aid outfits etc., to be supplied to my party of Skoots by noon However an air raid warning intervened and none of these stores had been received 13.00 received orders to sail forthwith. Sailed about 13.00 and took over a large lifeboat at sea from one of the slower skoots who was dropping behind. Pacific gradually overhauled the other four skoots and I think was the first of this party to reach La Panne. From No. 6 E Buoy we proceeded at slow speed 180 straight for the beach where in answer to our hail a shout was raised by the soldiers on the beach. The intention waswas to turn to Port and anchor off. However partly due to the fact that the larger ships were closer in than I anticipated but mainly due to my leadsman failing to obtain any sounding at all we grounded on a bank of sand before we had turned 90° This occured at 23.00 We sent the large Lifeboat ashore with 3 of our 5 hands and instructed them to take off men to other ships as with the wind blowing inshore it was not certain that we should get off, With the remaining two hands we laid out a kedge on our Port quarter. By going full astern and heaving on the kedge we got afloat when the tide rose at 02.00 29th. May. The ships lifeboat and skiff was then sent inshore and 1 officer and 7 men were brought off to Pacific before the boats lost touch with her in the dark They did howver bring several par ies off to other ships. Verbal orders had been received before leaving Dover to leave shore before03.3 being anxious to recover boats and men Pacific remained inshore till daylight finally sailing at 04.30 when it seemed liekly that the boats and crews had been embarked by other ships. Rerurned to Dover by route Y arriviving about 16.30 and disembarked troops. No orders were immediately available but verbal orders were subsequently received to embark water and provisions and sail about 22.00 Application was made for the balance of complument and I was informed that I should be sent 3 hnds from Montvera. These did not arrive until 02.40 at which time Pacific sailed for Dunitirk. 30th. May. The morning of 30th May was misty at about 08.20 when crossing Le Dyck bank there was a violent underwater explosion about two cables on the Starboard bow No aircraft was about and it is supposed that it was a torpedo which had exploded on the Bank. No vessel was in sight Arrived off the beach 09.00 about 1 mile E of Dunkirk and anchored close in. We had no boat of our own but collected two from a skoot that was just leaving, conditions as regards surf were pretty good but boats very waterlogged and no boat was obtainable all day. By 16.00 my crew were exhausted by pulling those boats in and out from the hore all as I had 30 Officers and 620 men aboard I decided to sail. We might have had many more in half the time if a motor boat had been available. Accordingly sailed at 16.00 When crossing the Inner Ratel Bank attacked by by two of a flight of three fighters with machine guns. They scored was & few hits on the ship and injured noñody. Had nothing but a pistol with which to reply.
26 Arrived Ramsgate 22.00 and disembarked troops was ordered to return to Dunkirk 26 as soon as possible. Got a relief cre for my to to men who were worn out also two Lewis Guns. Anchored for three hours to rest myself as I had had no sleep since the night of the 25th. 31st. May 02.30 Weighed and proceeded to Dunkirk Anchored of the beach east of Breakwater at 08.00. A heavy swell VAB breaking on the beach which made embarkation very/difficult Got & small boat loa on board who proved to be French troops. Moved further East and enlisted services of a fine motor boat in charge of sub. lieut. Bowie R.N.R we provided him with a grass hawser and obtained an anchor by casting adrift a deserted motor boat that was anchored off. We contacte Britis troops mile further East and with the assist nce of anchor and warp and good scamanship of Sub. Lieut. Bowie we got off a good many. However it was a slow business and early in the afternoon we proceeded to the Pier for troops were arriving there then and as the ships inside us were taking them and could not be full up for some time. we returned to the beach. Bombing by Heinkels was particularly heavy one salvo of three bombs very narrowly missed the ship. By 21.00 we had aboard 408 Soldiers and as the Motor boat had lost her anchor and the crew exhausted, I decided to return, and weighed at 21.00 1st. June Arrived and disembarked troops at Ramsgate at 04.00 Was told I should proceed again to Dunkirk if we could be off by 05.30 but Commanding Of icer was too exhausted to be ready by then and Pacific was not called upon for further service. Signed Skrine REGIDENT NAVAL OFFICER Cosmo Haskings. BJUN 1940 Comd" R.N. POOLE 1476/07 W.D. 9 cos PORTL
Dynam. 311. 27 I FROM Commander in Command Mine Recovery Flotilla, 27 DATE 10th June, 1940 North Shields. TO Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate copy r. Cape Hultern REPORT OF OPERATION ON NIGHT OF 3/4 June, 1940 Sir, I have the honour to report the operation of the 5 scoots under my command on the night of 3/4 June. 2. On being refused permission to take the drifters of the 2nd M.R. Flotilla, I was offered command of the 5 Dutch Scoots, "PASCHOLL", "HORNSRUG", "REIGER", "LENA" and "BORNRIF". 3. There was little time to make any arrangements and comminication was difficult. I made some rough orders on a signal pad and sent them round by the motor boat which took me on board "PASCHOLL". 4. Under way about 1600 for RV at N. G odwin. "REIGER" had meanwhile run aground on the Quern on a falling tide and was out of it. 5. Proceeded in company without incident, timing my speed to reachlio. 12, buoy Dunkerque at 2230. 6. My orders were to use Western pier Nouvean avant Port and on rounding Western mole I headed into the avant Port. I was unable to find enough water anywhere in this area so I came astern and headed for West pier of the main harbour, which I could seeagainst the burning town. 7. go alongside West side of West Pier. They got their Meanwhile 2 of my ships passed me and tried to bows up to pier but had a job getting their stern to and "LENA" which was the outside ship of the two grounded just off the pier. I got alongside east side and "HORNSRUG" came alongside me. 8. very glad to find Commander H.R. TroMp, who said he had The Pier was full of French troops and I was appointed himself Piermaster. He and I were unable to get a tug to pluck "LENA" off and finally had to take the men off and leave her. Lieut. Wise, R.N.V.R., and his Sub Lieut. were meanwhile 9. loading the ship with men and "HORNSRUG" destroyer was also loading vessel alongside each side astern of us. Cormander of across my decks. There was a escort complete control of the situation in spite and Tromp had almost lost his voice, and without his help have been having judgment the loading of 5 ships at once would difficult.
Dyram 75. A14/0/14 om Lieutenant Commander Laurence Phillips, Royal Navy. 5th June, 1940 - 28 the Vice Admiral Commanding, Dover. Submitted:- (1) Summary of proceedings H.M. S.Amazone 25.5.40 - 1.6.40 and French S.s. "Newhaven" 2.6.40 - 4.6.40. (2) Recommendations. (3) Detailed letter of proceedings. 1) Saturday 25th. p.m. sailed Amazone Poole to Portsmouth. Sunday 26th. wiped' ship, stored, and swung for compass. sailed at dark for Newhaven. Sighted S/M surfaced 1/2 mile E of Owers 0005. Reported on arrival at Newhaven. sailed at dark for Dover in company with Foxglove and other skuyts. Monday 27th. p.m. sailed from Dover in companym Embarked about 100 men from beach 3/4 mile West of Bray and returned to Dover. Wednesday 29th. sailed 0230 for Dunkirk, embarking about 400 troops at Bray and leaving 1930. Divebombed off Middlekirke on return journey to Ramsgate. Friday 31st. 1215 sailed for Dunkirk and embarked troops from positions 2 and 3 miles E of jetty, using grass-rope as far as possible. Brought down one bomber by Bren gun fire on nearing Dunkirk, Straddled by shells on leaving. Saturday 1st. 0500 disembarked troops and secured in harbour with gurnt-out clutch. The reason for such a small number of troops being disembarked by Amazone was that I went to beaches where boats were not provided, on purpose. Sunday 2nd. I proceeded with S/L Clarabut to Dover and embarked with one and eight ratings in French steamship "Newhaven". Took off French troops from east jetty (B berth) and sailed for Dover 0245 (Monday). Monday 3rd. Proceeded in"Newhaven," Embarked Admiral Abrial, a General, and about 1000 troops, returning to Folkestone about 0630. (2) I wish to mention especially:- 340691 L.A/C Harker, who took boats inshore again and again after coming off himself (Thursday 30th near Bray). He took when the ship was being dive-bombed, he took charge of a body charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently. Later, of men on deck and directed rifle-fire very coolly during each attack. Rating) whose conduct in working our own small boats, at Also Ord. Sea. Wakeham (Portsmouth Division - Newfoundland and the wheel, was exceptional. set Also a most Sub. excellent Lieutenant example and whose assistance was a very gual Clarabut R.N. (lent from Montrose) who help to me. ADMIT 7-JUN.19.- 7- 2.1.
3. (astailed account). 29 5/40 Sailed Amazone, Poole to Portsmouth D.Y. 5/40 a.m. 'wiped' ship in Block; stored with 14 days provisions and various instruments and navigational books. p.m. Swung ship for compass adjustment and anchored near outer Spit Buby. Sailed at dark in company to Newhaven. 5/40 0005 sighted submarine, surfaced, 1'm E of Owers Lt.V.. Reported to Examination Vessel on arrival with instructions to pass on message. Anchored outside harbour on orders received, having no opportunity to provide sand-bags, Lewis gun, etc. Salled at dark for Dover in company, led by Foxglove. 5/40 Arrived at Dover a.m. Sailed p.m., for Operation Dynamo, in company, and proceeded by long route. Amazone led the skyts, but the compass was found to be reading about 70 low, due to Gerricks' being topped ready for the exercise, and her position was lost by the time this was rectified. I beached the ship about m/a mile west of Bray, bows in, and with a kedge astern. Lieut. Audley, R.N.V.R. landed in our two small boats and led down troops from the sand-dunes. By 0300 the boats' crews were exhausted and the boats were being capsized by the sea which had increased with the westerly wind. It was obvious that no more could be taken off in our own boats from the beach. I approached a sloop which was not anxious to take our troops. A large steamer at anchor outside informed me that she was on her way in, and there was too much sea for putting Amazone alongside her. I decided not to go in to the eastern jetty at such a late hour with troops on board and returned, without incident, by the long route to Dover. Disembarked about 100 officers and men (British) at Admiralty Pier. Lieut. Audley's leg had been injured when hoisting in our boats4 and he was placed on the sick list.. Sub. Lieut. Clarabut, R.N. was detailed from Montrose as First Lieutenant. I embarked essential stores and large quantities of water, also a Lewis gun and as few sand-bags. Nei ther the Naval Shore Signal Station nor the Pier Master was urs. able to inform Mr. Clarabut of the ship's whereabouts and it was 0th. not possible to leave until 0230 after I had found him myself. This wasted five hours. 0230 Sailed in company with Pacific but lost touch soon afterwards. Made landfall to Eastwards of Dunkirk about 0930. Having been informed that there was no danger from mines I had taken a short out in shallow water. This, and the fact that the compass was still 'low', caused us to mistake Gravilines for Dunkirk! I steamed up and down the coast and examined the harbour from about 1 mile out and found no sign of life. Having no W/T, and having had no orders since 2100 the day before, I steamed W.N.W to seek information. Picked up drifter and Anchored about 300ˣ from shore in 10 ft. water and embarked about proceeded to Bray Beach. 400 officers and other ranks, sending in water drums by empty boats. 340691 L.A. C. Harker returned inshore several times, until exhausted, with a large collapsible boat, taking water drums each time. He took charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently and set a very fine example. Later, while the ship was being dive-bombed, he took charge of the troops on deck and directed rifle-fire very cooly during each attack in spite of fairly accurate machine-gun fire. .915 Proceeded. Fredanja informed me he was taking route Y so, presuming there were special orders, sailed/company. in 2010 Attacked by German bomber off Middlekirke. Three bombs dropped close to Fredanja - avoided delay-action effect. 013 3 more bombs dropped close to Fredanja. Lef.
2. in 18 Three no damage. bombs dropped between Fredanja and Amazone (Amazone 1 target) 30 - -2030 Attacked soldiers by machine-gun. wounded - Replied with Lewis-gun and rifle-fire. Four one seriously. 30 Proceeded in company with Fredanja whose engine-bolts were factured and compass damaged. ay Entered Ramsgate and disembarked troops. Took on board grass-rope, Aldis lamp, and provisions, also a party of officer cadets, under 2nd. Lt. Harman, and three Bren guns. 15 Proceeded. sect 20 ? Attacked by dive bombers. 40 A German bomber, already damaged by destroyers' fire, flew past low (port side), we engaged her and she fell in sea 200' astern. 50 Parachutists astern, out of range. 30 Anchored inshore, 2' E of Dunkirk harbour, where it appeared grass-rope would be very useful as the only boats were large ones and seemed to be aground. Sent rope in to Lifeboat and hauled off in own winch. All further attempts were spoilt by grass' beingfouled by motorboats, and by City of London which came across rope several times, and finally collided with Amazone before getting clear. 15 S/L Clarabut took dinghy inshore to explain procedure with grass-rope. Returned loaded and reported no hope of further use. He was dead beat after the pull and after struggling with the French preventing them sinking his craft. 45 Shifted berth to 3' E of Dunkirk Pier. I commandeered large motorboat from Hopper 103 and sent it inshore with dinghy to ferry men from beach to motorboat. 2nd.Lieut.Harman and French "Guard" went in M.3. Ordinary Seaman Wakeham (Ports.Div.- Newfoundland Rating) on this and other occasions handled his boat extremely well under trying conditions and showed great persistence and resource. 045 Motorboat returned with load and went back to beach. During this behind the dunes. Shells were landing on the beach and all ships time a high level bombing attack was made on shore, bombs landing were leaving. 200 Attempted to take off French troops from motor-lighter but his engines were worked the wrong way by the crew and my astern clutch were failed, so abandoned the attempt. The motor-boat and dinghy not very overdue. 300. The was heard answering our hails. A dim light was shown The to dinghy it and was promptly answered by a hail of bullets. abandon the motor-boat, dinghy came and also our own dinghy after a shell had guide alongside with our men. They had had to exploded close to them. The motor-boat was aground. 315 Straddled by shell-fire - slipped dinghy and proceeded by 'short-cut' and later by route X. 015 Parachute flare dropped to starboard. 123 " " II " port. 336 Sighted N. Goodwin Lt. 500 On Saturday 1st, secured on Ramsgate Pier and disembarked troops. gn
Dyramnerz H.M.S. "Despatch II". 7th June 1940.- 50 Sir, I have the honour to submit the following Report of Proceedings of this vessel, during Operation "Dynamo". A "Log" is enclosed. 2. Due to engine, and other, defects, vessel did not reach Dover till 1740/28. 3. Two trips were made: First on 29th-30th May to West of La Panne, and Second on 31st May-lst June to East of Dunkirke. On each occassion no assistance could be obtained from small boats in embarking troops, and all the 267 French on the First Trip, and the 160-170, mostly Middlesex Regiment, on the Second Trip, were umbarked by Ship's Company in Ship's Boats. On 1st Trip Ship's Coy. were able to work 8 hours on this boat work, but on 2nd Trip they were exhausted after 6 hours, and I decided to sail with the "half loaf" we had, and not risk waiting while the crew rested before further boat work. The unreliability of the engines was a further reason for sailing On 1st Trip, when I tried to sail from La Panne, engines broke down, with 3 ft of water in E.R., E.R Bilge Pump not working, no air in the Air Bottles, and belt connection from Aux. Diesel to Air Compressor broken: temporary repairs took 6 hours: On 2nd Trip Air Compressor had broken down, and engines had to be kept running, as they could not be restarted without repairs to the Air Compressor. 4. "Despatch II" was one of the smallest and slowest of the Dutch Coasters, being under 200 tons gross, and about 6g knots. Due to a lot of luck, and a little "low cunning" of always trying to be in sight of some larger and more important ship, no hits or casualities were suffered on board. 5. All the Ships Company behaved well. In addition to my 1st Lieutenant, Lieut. R.M.Miller, who carried out his duties exceptionaly well, I wish to recommend to your notice :- Archibald J.M.Upton L.Sea. S.T. P/SSX 13505 who showed exceptional determination and stamina during the boat work embarking troobs, Walter H.Dibden A.B. L.R.3 P/JX 148504 who appeared to enjoy bombing and machine-guning, while manning his Lewis Gun against low flying Aircraft. These two ratings' work was only just more noticable than that of: Herman B.Ketchley A.B. L.R.2(P) P/J 109346 Sam L.Greenwood Ord.Sea. P/JX 130095 Kenneth A.Clark Sto.1 P/KX 90924 VICE ADMIRAL William J.Allen Sto.1 P/K 61172 JUN 1940 I have the honour to be, * * Sir, DOVER NJ Your obedient servant, Kwilmot- siture Lieutenant Commander. Vice Admiral Commanding, Dover. (Copy to Co in C., portsmouth) Mamo
CONFIDENTIAL. Dynam. 97. H.M.S. Tynedale. 52 c/o Alex. GOvan Stephen & Sons Ltd. Glasgow. 7th. June 1940 Sir, In accordance with verbal instructions received from the Commodore's secretary R.N. Barracks, Chatham, I have the honour to make the following report of proceedings of H.M.S. Doggers- bank for the period Sunday 26th. May to Wednesday 5th. June, in connection with the evacuation of military personnel from Dunkirk beaches. 2. I took over the Dutch Scoot "Doggersbank" from her owner captain at Gravesend and commissioned her with a crew of one other Lieutenant R.N. and 9 ratings. We sailed P.M. for Sheerness where we secured alongside at about 2000. Stores adequate in quantity and description were all ready to be loaded into the ship on arrival, the whole organisation being extremely good. Ship was swung at 0930 next mOrning and we sailed at I600 for Dunkirk, anchoring in the Thames estuary during the hours of tark darkness. 3. We arrived at Dunkirk about noon on Tuesday 27th. and were told to proceed to Brai Beach where I grounded the ship with a kedge anchor payed out from astern. Our draught (6ft.) proved however to be too great to enable the soldiers to wade out to us so the life-boat and life saving raft were hoisted out and used to ferry the men from beach to ship. The boats were inx immediately mobbed on arrival inshore and swamped. They were righted and bailed out but considerable difficulty was experienced in preventing too many men trying to embark each trip. Later in the day the Army officers ashore organised their men and military police prevented the men rushing the boats and shot anybody who attempted to do so. This very much expediated the embarkation By about 2000 Ihad embarked some 450 men most of whom had been on the beach 3 days without food or water though a great many had water bottles full of Whisky. Our stores and fresh water were consequently finished within an hour. 5. At this time there was a great lack of boats on the beach so I considered that I would be most usefully employed going as close inshore as I was able, colecting a full load X and then transferring them to bigger craft further out which I accordingly did, collecting water and biscuits when alongside Destroyers. 6. About this time Imanaged to pick up some abandoned boase but had not got the hands to work them so Ijoined all my lines to-gether, sent one end to the beach where I had it hauled up beyond high water mark, the other end I secured to my life- saving raft which I anchored as far out as my length of lines would allow me. We then proceeded as close inshore as we could, picked up the grass and used it as a ward between ship and shore. The soldiers were very reluctant to wade out to the boats after dark so embarkation became slow despite the guest warp. I had however collected another load by the morning and as there were no Destroyers or other larger craft near the beach I was on I had to take my load up to La Pan. As far as I.... The Vice-Admiral Dover. (Copy to the Commander-in-Chief, The Nore.)
54 53 As far as I could see the beach I had left (opposite the Sanatorium) was the only one which was properly organised and where the troops could consequently beembarked much quicker than elsewhere, so I boarded H.M.S. Codrington and explained the situation asking if a Destroyer could be sent down with me. The Codrington came down herself and ordered another Destroyer to join her. After this the Sanatorium beach was well attended by larger craft. 7. Whilst I was reporting to Codrington I sent my boats inshore to bring off some of the Frenchmen who were assembled there. They immediately mobbed and capsized the boats, threatening my sailors with revolvers when they tried to evict some. I sent in another boat with an armed party and rescued three of my four seamen the other being taken off by a lixe: Destroyer's motor boat. Later in the day I saw the French soldiers still crowded in my boat which was then high and dry. 8 I transferred another load of soldiers to Destroyers during the day and was much assisted by Codrington leaving à her boats behind with me. During the night at IS hours before low water I ran the ship aground as by this time my crew who had all worked continuously since our arrival wer almost on the point of collapse and could no longer work the boats. The soldiers were able to walk out to the ship for about 1/21 an hour either side of low water and during this time I collected a full load of between 300 & 350 men. About 2 hours after low water I managed to float offf and as by this time there were plenty of pulling boats and motor boats to tow them I decided to take my load to Margate where they were disembarked at about noon on Thursday 30th. On arrival all gear left behind by the evacuees was cleared out of the ship and quantities of stores placed onboard. I was very much impressed by the efficient organisation of the Pier staff. 9. After refuelling and filling my fresh water tank I sailed for Dunkirk where I arrived that night and embarke another load with which I sailed next morning. On arrival at 31° Margate P.M. on Friday I was told to remain there till further orders. At about noon on Sunday the second Iwas told 2th to tow & four motor boats to Dunkirk. On the way across we were waved back by some ship whose name I could not see but decided to go on in fulfillment of my orders. I found a number of Frenchmen on the beach but very few would embark as they said we would be bombed, this was probably due to the fact that we were the only ship working on the beach and thereforethe only target for aircraft who came our way, most of them however dropped their bombs on a French gunboat which had been grounded opposite the harbour. I tried two or three places along the beach but without much success, I did however manage to collect some British soldiers from boats which they had salvaged. I then proceeded towards Dunkirk but when I saw there was a paddle steamer secured 3 alongside and only a few men coming down to her at considerble intervals I decided to return with what men I had. There was were no other ships moving in the channel on the way back so we received the undivided attention of I8 german aircraft who carried out high level bombing attacks on us in groups of 3 for fourty minutes without getting any salvos very close. They were driven off by 7 British fighters. I can only surmise that the Germans were amusing themselves at our expense as they were dive-bombers and did not once carry ouT a dive-bombing attack despite the absence of A.A. fire.
Dynam 156. NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S.FRISO DURING 60 OPERATION DYNAMO H.M.S. OSPREY PORTLAND. 9th June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following narrative of events whilst in command of the Skoot "FRTSO" during Operation "Dynamo". Sunday 26th May. At Portsmouth - ship was being wiped, swung and generally prepared for service. Monday 27th May. Sailed fr om Portsmouth at 0500. Arrived Newhaven at 1315. Tuesday 28th May. Repairs were effected to for'ard Capstan. 2100. Sailed for Dover. Wednesday 29th May. 0900. Secured alongside Submarine Basin Dover. Watered and provisioned ship. 1230. Sailed for Dunkirk towing a pulling Boat. During the passage every endeavour was made for receiving and embarking troops. My crew worked continuously at improving ladders and guest warps, and preparing the holds. 2330 Entered Dunkirk Roads. I steamed as close to the Beach as possible from about 6 miles to the East of Dunkirk right up to Dunkirk, but was unable to see any signs of troops. It appeared that FRISO was the first skoot to arrive in the Roads. 0030 Entered Dunkirk and secured alongside the Mole. I then started embarking troops until the skoot "SURSOM CORDA" secured alongside me when I transferred them across. At about 0130 I decided to commence filling my ship alternately with SURSOM CORDA. Between 0130 and 0300 several skoots endeavoured to come alongside SURSOM CORDA, I instructed the Commanding Officer of SURSOM CORDA to tell them to berth further up the Mole. I left the Mole at about 0315 having got onboard about 350 men and 4 officers. I arrived at Dover after an uneventful trip at about 1500 Thursday 30th May. Having provioned and embarked water tins I sailed again for Dunkirk at about 2100. This time I proceeded by the Calais Channel. My crew worked extraordinarily well Although we were in the Beam of the Calais Searchlights for about clearing up the hold and preparing it again for more troops. Friday 31st May. At about 0245 I observed what appeared to be to a 2 hours it appeared that we remained undetected. fairly large derelict two funnelled ship with a slight list the port. As I approached her avoice shouted for Help, and at to be same time the ship took up a violent list to port and appeared the but sinking. I might well have endangered the Boat and Boats crew, both The I considered lowering a boat and searching for man, urgently sunk after I had passed her. I understand as required for the evacuation I regretfully proceeded. that SURSOM ship who just some way astern of me did lower a boat but was the unable CORDA the was Shortly afterwards I observed a flare afterwards on water some about 250 yards on my starboard bow. At to find 400 man. yards ahead of me, almost immediately about 0415 I entered being shelled I left hurriedly. I the beach a bomb fell Dunkirk Harbour but as the Mole was completely then proceeded deserted and the the place coast was until I saw dense columns of troops cable on as necessary where I not to ground, I lowered my Boats and started to ships up. along anchored and then then veered as much to load An so Air as just Raid occurred at about 0630 but no damage was done in my immediate vicinity.
II. 62 (NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S. FRISO DURING 61 OPERATION DYNAMO) Friday 31st May (contd) During the moráing one of the Beachmasters came off to me and endeavoured to persuade me to beach the ship so as to lead quicker, pointing out that two other smaller skoots (HEBE & SURSOM CORDA) were doing so very successfully. As it was now a falling tide with an onshore wind I refused. For this I was later very glad as both other skoots shor tly afterwards became stuck on the beach and were unable to get off. (HEBE came off at the next high water. During the forenoon I hailed a large motor driven pleasure boat, got him alongside me and transferred 250 men to him. By about 1230 I had onboard 648 men and space was extremely cramped. I had delayed my departure hoping that a destryyer or other fast craft would appear and take my load from me so that I could fill up again. However as another skoot appeared I slipped my anchor (the capstan being again defective) and sailed. Just as I was about to leave Dunkirk Roads I was hailed by a Fleet Minesweeper and ordered to tow a Drifter full of troops to Dover. By 1330 the Drifter was in tow and we were proceeding at about 5 knots. At approximately 1400 a Heinkel appeared out of the low cloud and at a height of 350 feet released a large bomb, probably 500 lbs, and as he passed over he opened fire with machine guns. The bomb fell on my Port quarter between me and the Drifser. Luckily the Bomb exploded below the surface and beyond violently shaking both ships no xjer major damage was done. The force of the explosion caused my compass to jump out of its gimbals. Certain damage was dome to Auxiliary Machinery in the Engine Room. After we had been proceeding for about half an hour we were shelled by the Nieuport Battery. As the third salvo straddled us I decided to risck the navigational dangers and cut across the snadbanks so as to present the minimum target and to open the range as fast as possible. Luckily the Enemy never found the range again. Thick fog was encountered at about 1830. On making the North Goodwin Light Vessel I discovered that the Shaking up had caused a 30 dgree error in the compass. During the oassage through the Downs the tow parted on several occasions due to the wash of fast moving vessels. At about 0100 on Saturday 1st June I was about 1 cable from the entrance to Dover Harbour when I was bombed again. This time it was only a very small bomb, which although a very near miss only wetted the troops on the port side aft. There were no casualties from machine gun fire. At 0130 I secured alongside Admiralty Pier Dover. At 0230 we shifted billet and secured for the night for which I was very grateful as we had been running continuously for over three days and I had had no to the Engine and provisions and water were embarked. At 1700 sleep for 90 hours. On Saturday temporary repairs were effected where as I could not anchor I secured in the Inner Harbour. I proceeded to Ramsgate with HEBE in company arriving at 2000, On Sunday and Monday 2nd & 3rd June respectively permanent repairs were effected to the Engine and Capatan. were When all skoots were brought to immediate notice in case they required again it was decided that FRISO was not sufficiently reliable and so was left in the Inner Harbour. I cannot speak too highly of my crew who worked without a break. The o nly men being onboard at the were continuously, and on Friday were in the Boats for 7½ time hours my First Lieutenant one seamen and the E.R.A. and myself. I have the honour to be, VICE ADMIRAL Sir, Your obedient servant, * * DOVER Gene Lymmus. Lieutenant. To the Vice Adminal Royal Navy. Dorn.
74 73 -2- 6. I approached a number of trawlers and other small vessels which seemed to be getting under way for Great Britain and asked them to remain until I could fill them up with troops. It seemed to me that the orders which they said they had received to return to Great Britain were not bona fide. 7. I proceeded ashore and interviewed various military officers at as many of the beaches as possible. At the request of a senior military officer I agreed to assume the duties of Beach Master and arranged to continue the organisation until all the troops on the beaches were on board. I told them that if anything went wrong during the night we would return at dawn. I learned that some of the men had been in the dunes for two or three days awaiting embarkation, and they were obviously much cheered up to learn that they would get out that night. The flat-bottomed boats which the military had been using themselves were extremely dangerous in the surf which, although not very great, was sufficient to capsize these boats. 8. I found from experience that it was much quicker to run a load of troops in a single motor boat rather than to fill up one or more lifeboats and tow the greater number. The dangers of controlling boats in tow when they were crowded both near the shore and alongside H.M. ships were considerable. During the night I acquired in one way or another five additional lifeboats, and in many cases the military themselves acted as crews. 9. The pontoon bridges which had been built by the military the previous day were extremely useful, and were largely res- ponsible for the rapid evacuation of troops. It is interesting to note that a few moments after the last men had been taken off one of these bridges it was hit by enemy artillery. 10. All the troops that I could find were embarked by midnight and placed in ships which sailed for England. Just before midnight I went along certain of the beaches to look for stragglers. A Staff Officer informed me that no more troops would embark from these beaches but that they would march to Dunkirk, as it was anticipated these beaches would be shelled and would probably be in German hands the following day. This, as it turned out, was a correct forecast. 11. I estimate that from pontoon bridges and beaches approxi- mately 5,000 troops were probably embarked. 12. The soldiers, though obviously extremely tired, made no complaints of the delay or of the wettings which they got in wading out in the surf to get into the motor boats, and were more than thankful for the kindnesses which were shown them in the various ships. One could not but be impressed by the amount of friendly cheering which occurred when H.M. ships passed the troop ships at sea. The great majority of the troops were carrying their rifles and side-arms, and I insisted that in no case must they be thrown away. I was impressed to notice that the military padres were always amongst the last to leave the beach in their respective parties. 13./
Admiral, Chatham SECRET (Samepaca 314/0/1183 BI4/0/ 1148 Dynams 90 TELEGRAMS :- Dyrams 30D. OFFICE OF THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, THE NORE, 27 79 TELEPHONE:- :- ADMIRALTY HOUSE, Chatham No. 3221. (Extensions 210 and 519). 78 CHATHAM. SECRET. 13th June, 1940. No. 477.C.C./40. FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER. "HILDA" (Late Dutch Schoot) REPORT ON OPERATION "DYNAMO". rotes With reference to the report dated 6th June from Lieutenant A.Gray, H.M.S. "Hilda", Lieutenant Syddons-Willing and his boat's crew were picked up at about 0430/3rd June by Rear- Admiral Taylor who reports to me as follows:- "He, Lieutenant Syddons-Willing, had been al along the beach at St. Malo les Bains and had ascertained that there were no longer & any troops at that point. He also went to the assistance of the m.y. "Singapore", which had gone aground, but subsequently got off." Rear-Admiral Taylor fully supports the Commanding Officer's recommendation of Lieutenant Syddons-Willing. ADMIRAL. VICE ADMIRAL DOVER JUN 1940 # wann Pm otto anom TTOTTA VICE 5, 1 We 2nd June. Here repairs sday, 4th June I was towed 11 JUN 1940 following day by "Bornrif" * ing to Surrey Commercial Docks DOVER Гунашь Davie ft. RNV.R. DOVER 14 JUN 1973
289. - 83 NARRATIVE OF DUTCH BOAT "JAVA" 26th May - 4th June, 1940. 0645, 27th May, the crew of D.B.22 under the command of Lieut-Commander Drake, BUE left Chatham Barracks and travelled via Portsmouth to Southampton, joining "Java" that evening. The vessel was then under repair, with orders on completion to load ammunition in the River. On the afternoon of 29th May those orders were cancelled and we were instructed to fuel and proceed light to Dover. Accordingly about 1700 with Main and Auxilliary machinery persuaded to function by Diesel experts from the shore "Java" left ible. SECRET ,914/0 irted. Our final air ?? 22/1148 left with the handicap of IS the belt driving our ally our Auxilliary LIEUT.F.T.RENNY.R.N.R. - REPORT 83 Lght and air with the ON OPERATIONS OFF FRENCH COAST. er our E.R.A. collapsed (Letter dated June, 1940.) as already out of action è morning of 31st May By this time our II. in No:477.cc/40. egards the other and FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER. it was pointed out that Lete and we were under h starting on them. -Commander Drake was Forwarded. = proceed to Dunkirk to 2. The full names of the 945, steaming 10 knots Officer and rating concerned are:- working. My confidence as being too slack it Lieut. Frederick Thomas ack of air and consequent Renny, R.N.R. ahead or astern, might Petty Officer James Potts, , 16 miles off Dunkirk, D/J.92816. , shedding bolts from eventually held in place 5 knots making an 0200 at to put about, but a Engine cooling, some rpoceeded another 5 miles The Nore. ADMIRAL ngine failed and it was 9th June, 1940. hat it could be kept ogress unwise I cruised VICE ADMIRAL then made the best of my 2nd June. Here repairs 11 JUN 1940 y,4th June I was towed lowing day by "Bornrif" * to Surrey Commercial Docks DOVER ΓyHaTo Davie It. P.N.V.R. 14 Ju. DOVER
289. - 83 NARRATIVE OF DUTCH BOAT "JAVA" 26th May - 4th June, 1940. 0645, 27th May, the crew of D.B.22 under the command of Lieut-Commander Drake, RND left Chatham Barracks and travelled via Portsmouth to Southampton, joining "Java" that evening. The vessel was then under repair, with orders on completion to load ammunition in the River. On the afternoon of 29th May those orders were cancelled and we were instructed to fuel and proceed light to Dover. Accordingly about 1700 with Main and Auxilliary machinery persuaded to function by Diesel experts from the shore "Java" left dock and proceeded down the Solent to Hamble. At 0400 on 30th May our troubles started. Our final air pressure started the Main Engine and we left with the handicap of being able neither to stop or go astern as the belt driving our Auxilliarys parted immediately. Eventually our Auxilliary Diesel was started and ran all day for light and air with the result that shortly before arrival at Dover our E.R.A. collapsed owing to fumes. As our Windlass gear was already out of action the ship was allowed alongside and on the morning of 31st May "Sandhurst" was notified of our defects. By this time our Auxilliary engine also had ceased running. The Main belt was renewed, but as regards the other and major defects, notably our Ballast Pump, it was pointed out that as they would take several hours to complete and we were under 1 hours' notice for sea, it was not worth starting on them. On Saturday morning, 1st June Lieut-Commander Drake was taken ill and detained sick in "Sandhurst". I received orders that afternoon to proceed to Dunkirk to arrive at 0200 on 2nd June and left at 1945, steaming 10 knots with neither Auxilliary nor Anchor gear working. My confidence in our new belt was apparently misplaced as being too slack it failed to drive the Compressor. This lack of air and consequent inability, if stopped, to restart, either ahead or astern, might have led to complications if, at midnight, 16 miles off Dunkirk, No.3 Cylinder had not commenced to seize, shedding bolts from the Crankcase which my Engineroom staff eventually held in place with wedges. But our speed was down to 5 knots making an 0200 arrival impossible and I had no choice but to put about, but a for minuteslater however presumably with the Engine cooling, some higher revolutions were obtained, and I rmoceeded another 5 miles towards the shore. Again however the Engine failed and it was only at slow speed and with great care that it could be kept moving at all. Considering further progress unwise I cruised in the neighbourhood until daylight and then made the best of my way home, berthing in Dover about 1015, 2nd June. Here repairs were considered impossible and on Tuesday, 4th June I was towed by "Gorecht" to Sheerness and on the following day by "Bornrif" to Tilbury, thence the following morning to Surrey Commercial Docks ADNIRAL Raviei DOVER 14JUN 1940 ft. R.N.V.R. R
89 88 CONFIDENTIAL VICE-ADMIRAL COMMANDING DOVER, Sir, OPERATIONS 'DYNAMO' Having been in command of the dynamo ship JUTLAND. I have the honour to submit the following narrative report of operations May 26th - June 3rd. On May 26th, JUTLAND was at Sheerness awaiting orders. In the early hours of May 27th, acting on orders received, we proceeded to the Downs where at 1500 the same day. orders were received to go to Dunkirk by a certain route. This route was via the West Hinder Light and Kwinte Bank Buoy. While on the South-Westerly course from this buoy at about 2200 a hospital ship steaming away from Dunkirk signalled us Dunkirk fallen. Shortly afterwards, another ship signalled a similar message and added " I am returning " to which I replied " I am proceeding. " Later, in the proximity of the Nieuport Bank Buoy, I was signalled to " close If another ship. Here I had hopes of receiving more detailed orders. PATRIA was also closing this ship and I learnt from her that she had contacted an R. A. F. motor boat which had gone for orders. While waiting there, I sought orders from a destroyer that passed and was advised to wait there. Planes were heard overhead. After waiting some three hours and after consultation with PATRIA, we felt we had no alternative but to withdraw from - Hum Skurt Who are dripping ashin, and Pacific they Kashi them luid of their was y 1 believed, about the for stert of this party 0 are it he Renue. Proceded at How spend has the Whisle truy diract for the beach Were as awouns & our hail are Guld has Ideas Ill citaition are Is him is Ret 9 auchor. Here the Then was a Perius
90 (2) 89 before daybreak and arrived back in the Downs by 1000 May 28th. At 1730 we again received orders to proceed to Dunkirk, this time by the shorter route 15X and this time 28/5 with the knowledge that we were engaged in the evacuation of the B. E. F. from the eight miles of beaches from Dunkirk to La Panne. Of the dynamo ships that left the Downs at the same time, we were the first to arrive off Dunkirk and seeing that the harbour was being used by bigger ships, I decided that me might only obstruct the bigger ships by going in and that our proper function was to contact the beaches where bigger ships could not go. I therefore proceeded past Dunkirk in an Easterly direction. The light of burning Dunkirk was now nearly astern of us and the heavy smoke cloud over the beaches intensified the darkness. Thinking here to contact other ships or boats I proceeded at half speed. Presently another dynamo ship passed us in the opposite direction and informed us that she had come all the way from La Panne and had seen nothing. I therefore steered in more closely to the beaches. At a point about 4 miles East of Dunkirk, I came between a destroyer and another dynamo ship. I asked the dynamo ship if she was at anchor and she replied that she was aground. There appeared to be two others aground also. There were no boats visible, but as I was preparing to lower my boat, I received information from a motor boat which came out from the shore. that she had brought off the last of the troops that were there. the remainder having started back into the hills preparatory for dawn. I noticed also that the destroyer was preparing to leave and as this seemed the only thing left to do I set course for returning to Ramsgate. That was at 0250 on the morning of May 29th and I arrived at Ramsgate Road at 0830. from - Hum SRot Who we dropping ashin, and Pacific beary Kishi than luch of Vein was & : belowed, about the had Proceded at How spend has the White t trey of this party 5 anin 4 ha Pause. . hail are Guld has Ideas dircust for the beach Were is anouns an Ill aituition are is line is Rrt 9 Here Me Form was a Perius
91 (3) 90 By 1000 I had received fresh orders and was 29/5 proceeding out again on the 15Ya route. We had passed the Middlekerke Bank Buoy and were on a South Westerly Course. I had just remarked the number of ships with which we were in company at that moment, which was about 1715, when we were subject to attack by hostile aircraft, bombs and machine gun bullets falling between us and a hospital ship on our port hand, the hospital ship being obviously the target. While opening the distance between ourselves and the hospital ship, the attack was repeated twice more. I observed no hits, although later I noticed one destroyer apparently assisting another. About three aircraft appeared to be engaged in the attack. Shortly after passing Nieuport Bank Buoy I steered in towards La Panne. The beach just to the West of La Panne was most dense with troops and 80 there were no transport ships immediately near. I therefore decided that this was the point at which I could operate to the maximum degree, especially as I contacted an R. A. F. launch which informed me that they could bring off forty at a time. The coxswain of the launch also informed me that his orders were to bring off British troops and I think that may accout for the fact that I never saw the launch again. In the meantime, troops were paddling themselves out in all manner of boats to my ship and clambering aboard. They were French troops. There was no scarcity of boats but the greater number of them were floating about adrift. As the troops came aboard no-one remained in the boat to row it back and it was left to go adrift. Two of the French officers who came off were the pan - slum SRud was are arbbing askin, and Pacific have Kidi them with of Vein was in & belowed, about the from steat of this pirty 0 anim at he Pause. Preceded at How shud have the White heary straight for the beach Were is awouns a an hail, are Guld has Ideas Thanking. Il citaition are $ him is Ret 9 auch or. Here the was a Perius
92 (4) 91 exceptions to that procedure and they each rowed their boat back to the beach single-handed. I saw little hope of achieving with these men what their own officers could not do, so I had the boats made fast until a few had collected and then, manning the largest with my own crew, sent them to row ashore towing the others, with orders to let go the others on reaching the shore for the troops to man themselves and to row back the large boat with troops. On reaching the shore. so many troops crowded into this boat, and none would get out, that there seemed little likelihood of the boat ever being able shove off the beach. It was about an hour later when a French officer took charge and threatened to shoot anyone who did not get out of the boat when ordered to, that the boat managed to leave the shore. In the meantime, troops had been coming out to us in other boats made avaliable to them by the fact that the wind was gradually blowing the empty boats in to the shore. I had taken JUTLAND in to about sixty yards from the shore where we were lying in eight feet of water. After a while an enemy air attack developed. In our vicinity four bombs were dropped immediately in rear of the beaches but the attack seemed to be directed chiefly at the ships lying off; the next ship to the westward of us receiving one bomb in the after magazine, another ship farther westward being set on fire. One plane dived to masthead height or lower over a nearby ship but, I think, failed to score a hit. JUTLAND replied with her only and newly found armament - about fifty French rifles - whom I had stationed on deck, the remainder of the troops being in the hold. Partly due to the presence of hostile aircraft and partly to the boat problem again. the supply of troops coming off to the ship gradually ceased. I estimated We had some 275 troops on board and it was at this juncture that I decided to make sure of what we had got and set course for returning. pan - Hum SRd Who we dripping ashin, and Pacific beary Kishi than with of Vein was & : belowed. about the how Proceded at How spend have the White heary Heat of this party 0 anin at La Pame. direct for the beach Were is auouns a our hail are Guild has Ideas Ik nituition was is him is Pat & Auch or. Here the Guamanding Then was a Perius
CON FIDENTIAL Dynams 245. 014/0/1264 04 From: - The Commending Officer, H.M.S. "ORANJE" Date:- 10th. Ju ne 1940 To:- The Vice-Admirel, Commending; Dover (Copy to:- The Commender-in-Chief, The Nore.) Report on Operation Dynamo. The followin report is submitted in accordance with N. G. 448/40. 2. On Sunday May 26th "ORANJE" completed with Navel stores at Sheerness and proceeded to a buoy to await orders, remaining there all night at de hour's notice. About 200 tons of Army provisions had been Loaded at Deptford, but no instructions had been issued re their disembarkation. 3. Monday May 27th. 1400 a letter was received containing orders to proceed to Dover with all despatch, the Commanding Officer reporting to the Vice- Admiral, Commanding; Dover, on arrival. ORANJE had just slipped from the buoy when a lighter secured alongside with fu rther stores: these were embarked by 1430 and ORANJE proceeded down river. Before reaching Garrison Point, a Confidential Hand Message was received by motor boat with orders to proceed to Southend for Route Instructions, and sail for Dunkirk. As there was doubt as to which orders were the most recent, ORANJE proceeded alongside North Wall, and confirmation was obtained from the Commodore in Charge that the instructions contained in the Hand Message were to be obeyed. ORANJE sailed at 1500 an was met off the Nore Light Vessel by a tug which had been specially sent out from Southend, and, after Route Instructions had been obtained, proceeded for Dunkirk by way of the West Hinder and Kwinte Bank buoys. No instruction S had yet been received regarding the object of the passage nor orders received about unloading the provisions. 4. Tuesday May 28th. About 0100 when approximately two miles South of the West Hinder buoy, ORANJE sighted a merchant vessel approaching ahead and course was altered to starboard, the ships passing about two cabled apart. When abou t 10 degrees abaft the beam, this vessel opened fire on ORANJE from - slown Skut Who we arpping ashin, Pacific baily fashi than lush of Vein and was I : belowed about the from skoot of this party 0 anin it the he White Pance. Proceded at How spend have & trey hail, are Guld has Ideas Thanking. straight for the beach were in awouns our The citaltion are is him is Ret 9 Hue the them was a Perius
CONFIDENTIAL 9/ 95 ORANJE'S R.O.D./1 dated 10th June 1940 (cont) this vessel opened fire on ORANJE with rifles, 12 rounds being fired, 2being heard to hit the ship's side and ricochet off. ORANJE, being completely unarmed began to Zig-Zag, keeping as near as possible end on to the rising moom. When this ship was well clear, a full examination of the surrounding water was made through binoculars: 8 torpedo boat was observed lying stopped sbout 2 cables to starboard, with 2 others approaching about half a mile on the cort quarter. It was not possible at the time to identify these to definitely, (they have since been identified from the Illustrated London NewsX as German) but they were not British, and were assumed to be hostile when the one starboard side crossed ORANJE'S bows laying a smoke screen, and took station astern of the other two. No attack was made, nor were the boats seen again. These incidents were reported the following day at Ramsgate. 5. At 0400 when in company with two other scoots and one merchant ship in the vicibity of Mittelkirke Bank buoy, the troopship QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL was observed approaching on opposite courses. When about è of a mile away she was attacked by a Heinkel dive-bomber which dropped 4 bomos, (estimated 100 lbs.) roun her stern. She was observed to stop and settle by the stern, so ORANJE proceeded alongside to see if any immediate assistance could be given. Then just comin alongside, they shouted from the bridge to keep off as the bomber was diving again. One large bomb (estimated 500 lbs.) was dropped about 50 yards on ORANJE'S starboard bow as she was leaving the QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, and 8 small amount of damage was don inside the ship due to shock. The attack was accompanied by a small amount of machine-gun fire. As the larger merchant ship then went alongside, ORANJE proceeded on her way to Dunkirk. Two destroyers full of troops were met in the Zuydecoot Pass. This, and the previous meeting with the Queen of the Channel was the first intimation of the evacuation of troops, end even then 1 was not to confirm it. 6. It was anticipated that on the Eastern 1 end of Dunkirk Channel, ORANJE would be met or given instruc- tion re berthing. As no vessel was met, ORANJE proceaded alongdide a barrage vessel anchored off BRAY, which had been attempting to communicate. At this time, pown - slum skut Who we aripping lud ashin, A Pacific have Kshi than Vein and was is :- belowed, about the Pause. from st this party 5 anin a the ha White of at How speed has in amount a heary an Preceded for the beach were Mustery. straight are Guld has Ideas hail, The as is him is Rt & luch or. Here the Then was a Primo
2 10s HIS. Pacific. mistake. Party wished through the laque nexts being luan is the them than anticilutes and partly through the failure of the leadsman to get a sauding he did not line in this - the ship m a sand bank at 2300. The large uploat was but adim with 3 net of an 5 AB's to jury tripo If. with craws to like them to The ships, as it was shill are have before know water and with an ashms Grage it was fraud the Thip wight not be a Hrater in them. In the meantrine a leadge was laid ant M the weaker quartie with the skiff + berthing wins which are Groupht to the aft. hand capitan and the time was by gring asim and heaving in It in and the Redse the ship was gt off. and 29. I 0200 y the ships brate as hands fut r in to the them with the unaming time with the ship in the darking. Untal brought off 8 Shares before lows rdus had been nurse before learning Jane is has Dunkirk before 0330, and but boat we remained lill daylosat, being auxines to frie an am when it are Curcluded that they and been taken off by June Steer Ship This Jubsequelly hund concer) and we saited at 0500 and amired Doner about g 1600. Discharph the Islino has not Here elear whicher the Spection was beeng cultured but about 2100 Jail after as low as possible. There depricte mind onlus are wand b hands are now result $ an and them and at AVE arain till 0240 Pacific sailed for Druckink street 0300 by the short rule,
3 --103 HMS. Pacific. 102 ns. 30 "May. passing me the Sandbanks the Got 10 which was purther Number by mins should pm Dunkisk. This was made pusible by the fact that Hine in 4 H. alon daten at have Wala. About 0820 ther day where crossing the Shallers water there was & violent understand explain about 2 tables an the S. bnow as have who 40 aircraft about it is thought to have bene a torpido exploding as a Sandbank. This morning was writes and to Surface craft are in fight. At 0900 Ship was auchord class in to the beach about / Hile East of the breakwatin where there are many British Sddins. Two brats are collected power a Skot just leaving and the Ships Empany unked hand all day purying hisps If and by 1700 they were Euiti exhausted By this the we had 30 officers r 620 This reules abrand A motor boat would have been nitaluable this day but are was um figated We left Amkirk at 1700 and anited Ramsgati at about 2300. Two Indian fighties attacked like machcie grus Sim after clearing Dawkink Only a few hollets hit the ship and wour was nojured. They aid not persid in this attack. Two Lewis Suns are brained new animal at Raws gali r also have sandbaps. Also relerfs for Lane of / Meh relitings who were tired and we saited again for hunkirk at 0230 and avrived and auchored off the beach at the Same place at 0800. This day Have were pluty of but
4 1 104 103 HMS. 'Pacitic' 31 May. hit unfortunatily Here was a heavy hurt when made it difficult to set new will the boats. he stand the hurres of Sub. at. Bower R.N.R. with a price motor bral. We hui who a Prass howser and an auchor Atained by Cashing advit a desirted healin boat Which was auchored hearby. By auchoring his boat well and - dropping within on the grass his he hought us off many im. The time rumming thing parralled to the beach made it a aspicult and show buswess, and in was and 5 find Scamanship me the part of tub. Like Burr that be hought us off as many him as be lid. The shulling and bounting being in the aicrease we thought we wopt his up quicker at the pre & processed abupide it Earlige hi the aftirman. Howan few troops are animy there Tene and as the write ships would not be full for Jane there we Whimed is the beach and antimed to take By 2100 the histortoat had lot what horp we Guld from there. her original auchor and also the frid. be had 408 himps only pubstitute for at that we ubraud could and so the Gusting as my heavy it fusund purdent & Ulum with What we had. Accorden Sly form after 2100 we veryed and proced is Ramsqati where we anind
Dynam 196. 108 107 June 7th, 1940. Supplementary to a brief report given to the Resident N.O. at Poole - From the 0.0. H.H.S. "Pascholl". The above ship returned from La Panne to Sheerness on Sunday 2nd June. Her Captain immediately left her to return to his duties in Naval Control, Ramagate. At 1830, on instructions from the Commodore's Office, I reported to Admiral Taylor and without further notice, was told by him to take command of the above ship, and take her to Dunkirk. There being no routing orders available I was told instead to await the departure of H.N.S. "Reiger" and sail in company to Ramsgate. "Reiger" was unable to sail until 1630 and Ramsgate was reached at 2300. To anchored and went ashore for instructions which were to our intense disappointment; we were to be off for the night and await further instructions. With the exception of two of the ship's company, all on board complained that they were reliefs for the original crew and asked to be relieved, having done one or maybe two trips across already. It proved impossible to do this for them until Tuesday morning, but after they had been allocated definite jobs and posts during the operations and had been given a little verbal encouragement they settled down, gave of their best and did their duty in traditional manner. 2. At 1430 Monday, 3rd June, I was advised that the "Pascholl" would be salling as flagship with four other Schults. At 1500 Commander Hammond, R.N. cnme on board with his navigator, Lieutenant de Mornay, H.M. With great tact and understanding they assured me that they were largely passengers and in no way intended to interfere with, or supercede the Captain. by somewhat natural disappointment at the apparent loss, in spite of these assurances, of the opportunity of conducting the operations on my own initiative, was more than offset by company, guidance and encouragement they afforded to the two Officers of the ship. 5. We sailed at 1600 and promptly loat one of the five ships - "Reiger" which,, to Commander Hamond's lurid disgust, went on the putty (Quern Sand). Overtaking a convoy of wierd, but gallant little French fishermen, we arrived in Dunkirk harbour at 3500 after a most tame passage. The town was blasing furiously and presented a trult memorable spectacle. The harbour Was congested, sonté of the ships there being wrecked, and in cases already ablase. Difficult navigation was intensified by our not being able to find the Nouveau Avant Port (no proper plan of the harbour being available ), our perigrinations nearly putting us on the putty twice. In desperation we went alongaide the Packet boat quay of. the inner harbour, secured and got ladders aboard. Commander Troup, waiting on the quay immediately asked our capacity, and I foolishly but optimistically replied "Oh, between 500 and 1,000% Poilus in reasonable order commeneed to invade the ship and were embarked in an orderly fashion, each mon being disarmed before being allowed to descend into the hold. The work of embarkation was su ervised by the First Licutenant (Sub Lieut. St. Aubin, R.N.V.R.) in & most creditable manner
116 I proceeded indepen dealy for Dunkish after embarbation of hemis at about 2300. I proceded towards Br Beach where twooks were vesible from flow for ship on fine on the beach East. another Schuyt ( name untion was in the vicinity but ho tmall I stood off in 3 two water tell a best both 3 Soldier aboard & told me the Amen were lined up but no boat a I then decided to from ship, which I did fore 1 aft, being be to the beach & almost low water a body Amen waded Iff a I then decided parties. Low water occurred 45 menute synal ashore asking them to organis with one 2'6' - 3'0" water anids hips Simultanement, I humps lanhs /6 in No) which I had preveously f let fo star t un der foot whold her be & then laid and Kedge I 00 starboard The first time it came home but the was well struly laid I have freat fram this Calw of ordenary Reamon, then for to Rea, who, th oyh Sinti eshauded from shep vrest, yet responded so well to the efforts, rearried ml thus open ation so w hands, waded not meanwhile, the enboar hooks ladders phalances who ends. aclambered The of two in the freen, deliveated Jyhe shop be poshims, mem water, soable. stead They I were abrancing pached by to the has show the most exhausted in being the service
117 113 Ingine worn - falley. Br this means, over 1000 new were embarked in just ares two homes, including 20 stutches cases some 30 wounded. Stretches Cases were accomodaled m the W.R, cabins, sliverous above dech alley way. some naval Talangs from "Grafton" "Jenella. will Mere cared for bg RAMC ratings These include lever brew. The officers brenk being wide, took 2-3 shelches Cases each the ust being accomidale on the deck. I Rent a boat over to both "Schungt" in the vicenty asking them to fallow my example to sped up loading. one, being apround was uninking to wish loading till the dup was "alive" the other stood off till daylyt when l list Syht ofher. as we were loading Suched than water was 'hn aking alimpide, I reluciantly stopped embark atim, at about 0400, I have in starbd I, hows swinging to the beach F la to the wind my kedge I. as 0430, I went astim hear inj in on my kedge b, means of my stirm Capstan (hand) then anchored be in he 3 two. "Codring In "? Them anchored was me was able to embark about another 150- 200 men. I sailed with new accupying ever available much of the ship on dich rhelow for Ramsfati. cating manuel my machine funo but I was not molested I arrived off Rainspate at 1015/30 Mas ordered proced to marfale. the hoofs were were shut f walin hit I ceaned a hot 3 water um raturn the must exhausled
CONFIDENTIAL Bruldness Binlq 1255 FROM. THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M. SCHOOT "REIGER". 116 DATE. 10th JUNE,1940. TO. THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. Copy to. The Commander-in-Chief, The Nore. Narrative of Events During the Period 26th,May - 4th June 1940. Submitted. Following narrative events during the period 26th May- 4th June 1940. It is regretted that as no log was kept during this period times quoted are approximate. 26th May. Commissioned at Tibbury landing stage. P.M. Wiped and proceeded to Southend. 2200 Anchored off Southend pier. I regret to report that while awaiting pilot of Gravesend Pier I under-estimated the strength of the tide and drifted over a small rowing boat moored off the pier. 27th May. 0600 Proceeded to Sheerness. A.M. stored and swung for compases. This was unsatisfactory and a further swing was carried out at P.M. The steering compass was given up as hopeless, but the standard compass deviations were brought down to 10 East and 10 West. These deviations however did not remain constant and I frequently had deviations of 30 West and 25 East. Throughout the operations I could not rely on the compass, my method of setting the course being to con the ship on the next ahead or a passing ship at sea, and in pilotage waters from buoy to buoy. 2000 Sailed from Sheerness, routed at Southend for Dunkirk 2300 Anchored off Nore Lt. Ves. 28th May. 0330 Weighed and proceeded 1100 Off North Goodwin Lt. Ves. passed four schoots returning empty, one of which hailed me and informed me that Bunkirk was in German hands, and that they had been sent to the Downs for orders. I turned and followed to the Downs. (Several schoots were). Dynami
127 121 NARRATIVE OF M.V. "RIKA" DURING THE PERIOD 27TH MAY TO 5TH JUNE, 1940, ENGAGED IN EVACUATION OF B.E.F. (Page 2 of Commanding Officer, M.V. "Rika"s" letter No.1/12 dated 6th June, 1940.) 30th May, 1940. That 0830 Arrived at Dover and secured to Admiralty Wharf and disembarked survivors. Reported to Captain Halifax- at Lord Warden Hotel and was instructed to await further orders. 31st May, 1940. 1430. Instructed by Captain Fraser to proceed outside Dover Harbour to tow M.V. "Vrede" who had developed engine trouble. 1700. Embarked two Lewis guns and ammunition and 6 Lewis Gunners. 1st June, 1940. 0630. Transferred 7 days stores and petrol for four launches from M.V. "Vrede" and received instructions to proceed to Dunkirk and report to Captain Pim, R.N.V.R. in M.V. "Hilda". 0700. Left Dover with launches in tow. 1300. Contacted M.V. "Hilda" on approaching Dunkirk Roads and received instructions from Captain Pim to return to the Downs and make Dunkirk again at nightfall. 1340. Intercepted by French destroyer T.113, and was requested to embark 80 French and 9 British survivors, several of whom were badly wounded. 1400. Proceeded to Ramagate, having instructed launches to return to Dover under their own power. 1800. Disembarked survivors at Ramagate and received instructions from Captain Wharton R.N., to anchor in the Roads. 2nd June, 1940. 2000. Under orders from Captain Wharton, proceeded with launch and one boat in tow, under command of Lieutenant Commander Miller, R.N.R., to rendezvous with Admiral Taylor off Dunkirk Pier. 3rd June, 1940. 0115. Arrived off Dunkirk Entrance and, as M.V. "Rika" was unable to approach the beach, launch and boat were sent inshore to bring off B.E.F. Owing to the heavy bombardment of the beach by the enemy from the eastwards, the launch was unable to contact the B.E.F. and returned at 0200. Launch was then sent to the Pier to endeavour to contact the B.E.F. there. 0215
124 5 (cont). auxiliary dynamo refused to start when required possibly due to shock. auxiliary Compresson technics out of order. Engineer reports encrease in revolutions Thrust block running warm possibly due to displaciment (6) 0115 31/5/40 By vessels stern falling into broken part of Dunkerque Pier. Possible damage from projecting pilework to rudder and screw. not ascertainable but engineer reports envirose in maximum revolutions indicating p damage to serew, (7) Two mooring wires were lost at Dunkergue, there being no one to cost off when leaving. (8) ships ropes, weres and stores in general were used as required. Two long boat looks were lost. Chocks to dinghy were broken in launching and denghy was last but replaced by substitute found at Bamsgate. had loads. RNR. 2.6.40
Dynamic 376 8/4/0/139 126 J .6633, c/o Messrs. J.S. White & Co. Cowes, Isle of White, 20th June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following report of proceedings during operation "DYNAMO" in accordance with P. G. 0. 1700/6/6/40. In accordance with orders from Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth, I assumed command of His Majesty's Ship "SURSUM_ CORDA", (Ex Dutch Skoot) at Poole, P.M. Friday 24th May, 1940, sailing for Portsmouth at 1600, arriving at 2130. "SURSUM-CORDA" remained in company with other Skoots under the ordera of Lieutenant Commander Stuart in H.M.S "FREDANJA" until P.M. 28th May, 1940, when ship was sailed for Dunkirk from Dover at 1400 by order of Vice Admiral Dover, for islbe the evacuation of troops via North Goodwin and Middle Kirke. On arrival off beaches at Dunkirk at approximately 2230, decided to enter harbour straight away having sighted large number of soldiers on mole, but apparently no other ships in the harbour, though a transport and other skoots were lying off, and two ships just leaving. The western side of the harbour was ablaze. Having evacuated British troops, approximate number three hundred and seventy, ship sailed for Dover at 0330; & hospital ship and six or seven other skoots having entered and secured to the mole were also embarking troops by this time. Ship arrived off Dover 1130/29, no incidents of 30/5? importance occurring on passage. "SURSUM-CORDA" remained at Dover, storing and provision- ing until orders were received to sail again for Dunkirk at 2100. Short routevia Calais was taken; ship proceeding independently as visibility was decreasing and all skoots were not ready. On arrival off Western beaches of Dunkirk, a wreck was sighted approximately half a mile to West of Harbour 31/5 entrance in the approach channel, and cries of & man in the water were heard, a boat was lowered, but the rescue work was Priso) left finally to a Sloop's whaler the Sloop itself being on her return passage to England. "SURSUM-CORDA" proceeded and arrived off beaches Eastern side of Dunkirk at 0430/30. Many men were sighted waiting on the beach approximately two or three miles east of the mole, and on closing H.M.S. "FITZROY" lying approximately three quarters of a mile off the beach, was asked to assist in ferrying troops from small craft to ITZROY" and "VANQUISHER", three to four cables to Westward. For approximately half an hour my Ship remained stopped three cables from the beach embarking as many troops as possible. This process I considered far tooslow as the number of small boats employed in that area amounted only to four or five and these appeared to be in danger of being swamped by excessive loads, so decided to close the beach while the tide was flooding and endeavour to embark troops over my bows.
4 141 135 41 at 1600. Dive bombers everywhere and shells falling on beach. Although attack after attack was made by bombers 2 on various ships relatively ****** few hits appeared to be secured. Motor Launch having lost dinghy on previous day I went alongside an abandoned wreck. One of the wreck's boats was swung out, lowered, and taken in tow plain by Launch. French troops were ferried to the Launch in this boat by Launch crew. Conditions (other than state of sea which was good) were shocking as German planes were flying low, dropping bombs and using machine-guns. Operation delayed as great difficulty was experienced did in persuading some of the Frenchmen to embark. So far 300. as I could understand, their units were incomplete and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark without therest. At one point on the beach there were ans at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark. The rowing boat had to be pulled back to the Launch and towed further East where a fresh start was made. Eventually - a full load was obtained and we sailed for Ramsgate by the Erik same route. Throughout the first part of the return 00 journey repeated bombing and machine gun attacks were without made. On one occasion a salvo of 6 bombs was released ak. so low that they were plainly visible as they left the teh racks. They all fell close together near the Launch but all failed to explode. Several machine gun bullets 20 4R CE ADMIRAL ill day light an air 9- JUN 1940 Vo * the durlsping at DOVER & disaubar ked toops, promium stares.
159 154 beach thank her outside the harbow and I therefore left and proceeded to take on board my ship 72 soldiers Dunkirk for transporting to england I left Dumkirk hasbour at 0130, 30sh ellay 1940 and ountered "King Qry smiking in the fairway. The ship turned S and pundered in about fifteen minutes, but I was le to approach her and launch the 8 ft boat with a w of two - seaman cook Elton and seaman R. Scott. These men found that the crew of King Only were impting to swim to my ship but that they were in a ak state owing to the effects of the bombing vaids they had enienced and toof the very cold water. Elton thereupon ed into the water and supported as many of the survivors he could find while Scott rowed boatboads of men back "Bystander: In my estimation Elton remained in the water a half-hour at first supporting swimmers and then swimming and endeavouring to recover chose who could be heard roning. On the last trip back to "Bystander, eight 02 ten were recoured as Elton was able to put survivors on -rafts and tow them across. I regret there was not more time at my disposal to over more men and I was aware of at least two presons
163 recovery Sifter as these were now proceeding towards the and repeated to them a signal to return to the Harbour number of troops were then on their way to the pier. & On returning to "King Orry the Commanding officer informa me that he was not abandoning her. I took off this ship an Assormy officer who was wounded and a French soldier had arrived on board alone ( This man I finally handed to the highish police at Ramsgate). Upon leaving King Only ", I moored to the pier and embarked 72 soldiers about thirty of whom were French During this time "King Only had left her beath and well proceeding from the harbour. I was fortunate to be clossing astern of her when she foundered about a cable distay from me. I launched my 8 foot boat and manned it with my seaman-cook I. Elton and seaman L. Scott. These two did excellent work but Elton deserves special mention. when the boat was filled, Elton dived over the side and swam around supporting other survivors until the boat returned more. This he continued to do until no more men con he be found. The last men he brought back to the ship placed upon life-rafts and towed them by hanging to his stem of the boat and holding on to the rafts with
I -164 8. 158 her hand. In this way we were able to reserve about twenty. 7 Officers and men. Only five more could he heard calling nd no more could be heard in the water. A motor boat ad arrived by this time and I left the scene of the week. Elton busied himself on board and in about half an our had dry clothes issued to the survivors and hot tea a all men on board. The crew of this ship is normally six. I moored in Ramsgate harbour at 0830, 30th allay, isembarked troops and suminous and proceeded to clean lown ship and prepare for a second voyage. S I left harbour at 1715 and proceeded towards Dunkirk in company with the olline-recously Flotilla At 1840, a section of the water-cisculating systim of the starboard engine failed with the result that no water could reach the engine. I signalled the defect to Lt. Amitage and proceeded back to Ramsgate. A replacement could not be obtained however, until after the operation had terminated The number of troops mansported by Bystander was 72 and about 25 survivors from HMS "King Only." VICE AUMIRAL 11 JUN 1940 * DOVER yours obediently. H. I. Barge ( Lub- beit. RMVR.). harlessnessely I recommend I. Elton for an award in recognition of his and resource in the reserve of 25 Officers and men.
CONFIDENTIAL Dynams 141. FROM EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. 178. DATE 7th June, 1940. 162 167 TO COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. YACHTS "CHRISTOBELLII", "CALETA", "GLALA" AND "AMULREE". "CHRISTOBEL II". (1). Commanding Officer Lieut. H.E. Wigfull R.N.V.R. For his resource and skill in embarking 33 soldiers from the beach with the two boats at his disposal while being heavily bombarded. (2). C.G. Dunley Seaman H.O.P.S. (Qual. S.V.G.L. For the cool manner in which he engaged and apparently brought down in flames a Dornier 17, with the Lewis Gun. (3). J.W. Damerell, Engineman H.O.P.S. L.T./K.X.105230. For not leaving the engineroom from 1000 31st May until 0830 1st June in order to keep the engines (which d were giving much trouble) running. (4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S. d For his unfailing help during the whole period and the cool and efficient way in which he embarked the troops. to "CALETA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.F. he Dunning R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in rescuing the E.L.C. Launch under heavy gun fire, and successfully towing her from the Beach, Dunkirk to Sheerness with her load of soldiers. irk. "GLALA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.A. grees Dow, R.N.V.R. For his valuable services in towing boats from st the beach under heavy bombing attacks. to he "AMULREE" (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. G.P. Probert R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in towing from the beach 11 pontoons (with about 300 soldiers in all) to awaiting and vessels under heavy gun fire, and with only 4 deck hands in his of vessel. see surf Kannake and that hat CAPTAIN. out EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER. men, d art ut GILLS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last 0 0mo railing about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy bomber type Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun and his Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, definitely., as were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I steamed back at all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them off, we were fortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged to pick up with our dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore find and started to embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very imr continued over Cemb
CONFIDENTIAL FROM EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. Dynamo 141. 7th June, 1940. 178. DATE 162 TO COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS. 167 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. YACHTS "CHRISTOBELLII", "CALETA", "GLALA" AND "AMULREE". R.N.V.R. For his resource and skill in embarking 33 soldiers "CHRISTOBEL II". (1). Commanding Officer Lieut. H.E. Wigfull heavily bombarded. from the beach with the two boats at his disposal while being (2). C.G. Dunley Seaman H.O.P.S. (Qual. S.V.G.L) For the cool manner in which he engaged and apparently brought down in flames a Dornier 17, with the Lewis Gun. (3). J.W. Damerell, Engineman H.O.P.S. L.T./K.X.105230. For not leaving the engineroom from 1000 31st May until 0830 1st June in order to keep the engines (which a were giving much trouble) running. (4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S. d For his unfailing help during the whole period and the cool and efficient way in which he embarked the troops. to "CALETA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.F. he Dunning R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in rescuing the E.L.C. Launch under heavy gun fire, and successfully towing her from the Beach, Dunkirk to Sheerness with her load of soldiers. irk. "GLALA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.A. grees Dow, R.N.V.R. For his valuable services in towing boats from st the beach under heavy bombing attacks. to he "AMULREE" (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. G.P. Probert R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in towing from the beach 11 pontoons (with about 300 soldiers in all) to awaiting ? vessels under heavy gun fire, and with only 4 deck hands in his of vessel. see surf Kannake and that hat CAPTAIN. out EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER. men, d art ut GILLS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last DOMO railing about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet bomber Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy and his type Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, as other ships were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane definitely. steamed possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them to As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I off, we back at fortunate all in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged ashore pick up were dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats and started with to our embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
CONFIDENTIAL COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "AMULREE" 137. Extended Defences OMMANDING OFFICER, 173 Officer, 2nd June, 1940. GLALA. 164 Sheerhess. Dynamd 138 163 June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to report that Ereing in all respects ready for sea and to engage the enemy we sailed fróm g received orders, I Sheerness at 1930 30th May, 1940 and in three other Yachts proceeded to the Downs for orders. We anchored off North Goodwin Light Vessel at about 0030 31st May and received vicinity of the North to contact the routeing instructions at about 0530 when we proceeded by "X" route to La the senior ship Panne arriving about 1200. On arrival we began to pick up and to tow out Senior Officer that he pontoons containing soldiers from the ble, so I weighed and beach to various destroyers and merchant om her I delivered them ships. by route "X". At 1500 when making fast two It was sighted and we pontoons in 2 fathoms the enemy began teamed along the coast shelling the beach and one shell burst off the beach 3 miles approximately 50 yards ahead distracting She asked us to tow the attention of the leadsman and longside and when this causing the ship to ground. We re- assistance, but she floated at 1700 and again got underway could be of more use under heavy gunfire. In all we towed out 11 pontoons up to 1900. a us up and informed us At this time we received a signal We went close to the from Captain Howson R.N. (S.N.O. ports, and having Beaches) directing operation from No. urned to the destroyer. Yacht attached to Inner Hamble Patrol, Lme took out her whaler. to stand by him as his ship was making H.M.S. "Vivacious" and water through the stern gland. had three boats which close as possible, chored with the intention point our steering ropes 1 as single strand. It was t with ir it without completely new wire and at that shell and shelling which had been going on tense. hie intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the us to stored us to make for the open sea and all the 'ollowed t followed him out. out 1 loated nder he of bombs 8'Q of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb fall 11 the only V, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few he opened fife opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy ier 17 *iy nier 17 we registered a direct hit with OUD Lewis gu engine fird engine buret into flames and he crashed into the ere also refere also firing I cannot claim this seroplane nomise iromised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I opened all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring to 17 we bortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged engine urst isur dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore also embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was ve continued over.
SECRET Дупашь COMMANDING 137. EXTENDED ADMIRALITY DEFENCES HOUSE, OFFICER OFFICER, 173 H.M.Y. GLALA. 164 178. SHEERNESS 4th June, 1940. 167 sir, I have the honour to report that, having received orders, I from Sheerness in conjunction th three other Yachts Thursday 30th May, 1940. Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable. to contact the Examination to Tug anchor. , the Yacht "ChristobelkII", the senior ship ordered us At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer that he was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and e closed the Tug. Having received orders from her I delivered them to "Amulree" and "Caleta" and we proceeded by, route "X". Shortly before eleven the French Coast was sighted and we my d entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast and at about 1230, "Golden Eagle" anchored off the beach 3 miles East of Dunkirk, signalled to us to close. She asked us to tow d. two whalers which were full of soldiers alongside and when this was completed we asked if we could be of assistance, but she replied that she was alright and that we could be of more use to further along. he Off La Panne H.M.S. "Venomous" called us up and informed us her motor boat had broken down inshore. We went close to the pier, which was constructed of Army transports, and having irk. contacted the boat took it in tow and returned to the destroyer. We then went back to the beach and this time took out her whaler. grees As she was now getting underway we closed H.M.S. "Vivacious" and st securing alongside were informed that she had three boats which to were to inshore. We took them as close as possible, he allowed ready them to go drift to the beach and anchored with the intention of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering It was ropes all but and we were left with a single strand. that impossible gave to way repair it without completely new wire and on at of and shelling which had been going see Moment the bombing became intense. À Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 all the of the surf Solent continuously Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and and that smaller power craft followed him out. hat out men, d art ut bombs fell across our stern the stern last down oomo a ralling few feet about in the 30 water. ft away, We the opened only fire on this aeroplane direct hit which with was OUD Lewis this time a salvo of effect was to drag our a heavy gun bomber type Dornier 17 we burst registered into flames a and he this crashed aeroplane into the sea, and as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim definitely. As I had promised to embark speed the hoping British to adrift troops find a which boat at Dunkirk we to magaged bring I them to steamed off, we were back at fortunate all possible in finding immediately a Whaler sent these two boats this ashore was very pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops I at approximately at 1750, continued over
SECRET I - 165'75 178. useless no sign and as of any the other ship Yachts had proceeded at 0230 and was We arrived needing assistance I decided to proceed there to Sheerness. there at 1030. 167 I of regret real value that in neither in of my trips did we carry out work both comparison with what was being done, and any that in cases defects should have hindered our efficiency. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, SGD. J.A. Dow, Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. d e my d d to to he S uction irk. grees st to he of see surf and that hat out men, d art ut one 18RT DOMO railing our stern feet bomber about in THIS and as definitely. steamed off, the other his time As 30 water. type Starboard I back ft ships a had Dornier salvo away, at fortunate promised We were all opened OI the engine 17 also possible bombs only we in to burst fire firing registered embark finding effect rell speed on into across I this the was cannot as hoping flames Whaler a British aeroplane to direct sent drag claim to and adrift these troops find our hit he this which with stern crashed a which two aeroplane boat at was boats our Dunkirk down we to a into Lewis magaged heavy bring ashore as few the I gun them sea, to pick and started we up were with to our embark dinghy, troops I immediately at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
SECRET FROM: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "CALETA". Dyram 176 DATE 3rd June, 1940. 178 166 TO. EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. 167 REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS. in May 30th, 0830. Underway in company with "Christobel II", "Amulree", and "Glala" for North Goodwin by Oaze Deep, Knob Channel, South Edinburgh Channel and Foreland Buoy. Anchored off N. Goodwin, 0100 May 31st. 0645. Instructions from Examination Vessel to proceed to La Panne by route X15. "Christobel" signalled one engine not working and was proceeding to Ramsgate for repair. 0715. Underway. Had a defect in steering which delayed start, finally got underway at 0800. Arrived Dunkirk 1145, went on to La Panne, reached at 1245. Very few small boats to bring troops off, and decided to anchor and send in Launch. Lowered launch my which broke down almost at beach. Conditions on beach very id difficult owing to its flat nature and a fresh on shore breeze. This combined with low water considerably hampered embarkation. Launch towed back to ship was hoisted in board to effect repairs. On the way back was attacked by low flying Messerschmitt. Shortly after this, a considerable dog fight took place 1 to between Hurricanes and Messerschmitts, two of our planes being shot down, the pilots, landing by parachute. Fighters were he followed by bombers who bombed destroyers round us. Got under- way, made towards seaward side of channel, where the water was cuction found to be very shallow. By this time it was about 1500. Went drk. back towards the shore launched boat again, and it again broke down. Hauled in board to resume attempt at repairs. agrees est The Commanding Officer and crew of "Amulree" which had gone is to on shore, were brought aboard, and shortly afterwards we were C he rammed on our starboard side aft of the beam by large motor boat (Commodore Stephens on board) attempting to come alongside. "Amulree", at 1700 approx. was floating, and Commanding of see Officer and crew returned in small boat which took them off. surf Shortly afterwards, German Batteries opened fire with considerable 2 and accuracy, and shells, burst under our counter on both sides, and that under the port bow. that bout men, ed gart out fell across our stern the last 0 0mo ralling few feet about GILLS time a salvo of the bombs only effect was to drag our stern down a heavy a bomber the water. We opened registered a direct hit with our into the gun in 30 ft away, fire on this aeroplane which was Lewis and type Dornier 17 we burst into flames and he crashed aeroplane sea, as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim this definitely. steamed back at all possible in finding a Whaler adrift two boats ashore As I had promised to speed hoping to find a which boat we to magaged bring them to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I off, we were fortunate I immediately sent these this was pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops at approximately at 1750, very continued over
177 021 broken down, could we and crew about it. he At about 1730, a motor do anything boat hailed us that. Lieut. Irving R.N.R. officer had officer motor boat. The Tuesday the from the beach since and both job of work and werere inexperfenced crew, uttely exhausted. a a.very magnis 'Very' aboard 34 troops and Commander E.L.C. was At about 1800 we one hailed padre. an E.L.C. full the officer in charge, had been on the Shoul R.N. and down, and aboard. They also desired rest. As it was greatly fall quite into impossible enemy hands, to get it more was as troops the taken aboard, in tow. and At 1845 at should was shaped for Sheerness, E.L.C. had brought 1900, a Naval base. All this time, there had been several by of enemy the beaches. aircraft As and we their came past shore Dunkirk artillery it was bombers subjected were to a brought considerable down. air bombardment. Four being enemy twice and was finally secured by four stout lines. The E.L.C. between Dunkirk and No. 8W buoy, broke away Anchored off N. Foreland at 0300 to wait for daylight and tide for Horse Channel. Underway at 0530, arrived at Sheerness at approx. 0945. Came alongside "Wildfire" and landed in all, 2 Naval Officers, 6 ratings, 34 troops, 3 m cot cases among them, and one padre. DAMAGE TO SHIP. Two calcium flares on buoys were smashed up. Decks in places were scored, and in the launch the petrol pipe was fractured and glass broken in spray shields All by shrapnel from shell fire. Shells which burst alongside damaged the propeller shafts. Starboard bulwarks, aft of beam, was damaged by motor boat which rammed the ship. SGD. Sub. Lieutenant R. R.V.E. SURBITON. HOOK, '109' 12 TELEPHONE SUBINWO THE VICARAGE, STATION I SURRITONS.
SECRET Dynams 135. FROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELLI". 178 DATE June 2nd 1940. 167 TO EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. NARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERNESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amulree", and "Glala", I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing me to take these yachts to the North Goodwin Light Vessel, there to close the Examination Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead led by "Caleta" as Sub. Lieutenant Dunning knew the channel, owing to non appearance of Examination Vessel I decided to anchor my ships for the night, at 0400 I ordered my engines to be started and to go and see if I could findthe Examination Vessel, as it was now dawn, at 0500 my engineman reported a defect, I gave orders for remainder of yachts to close Examination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed according to instructions received. We eventually got one engine running and I decided to proceed to Ramsgate for repairs, which I reported to the Examination Vessel, just before arriving at Ramsgate at 1000 my engineman reported that he had the Port engine running, I anchored off Ramsgate Pier and immediately proceeded ashore in ship's dinghy for my routing instruction: these I was given without delay and at 1015 were underway for Dunkirk. When we were in position approximately 51 degrees 12' N. 2 degrees 28' E we were attacked by a Junkers 87 and machine gunned, his burst of fire fell all. round the ship, I gave orders to my gun layer not to open fire on him until he was well within range as I did not think he would be able to see our Lewis gun at his height, immediately we opened fire he sheered off. I anchored off the Casino at Dunkirk at 1530, as I saw a lot of troops waiting to be embarked, I went off in the ship's dinghy to see how Iscould get some of these troops on board, there was too much surf running tolland, I was also informed that these troops were French and would crowd the boat so much, that she would be swamped, I learnt that a party of about 50 British troops would arrive at about 1700 at that part of the beach, I returned to the ship and decided to cruise about to see I could find a boat of some description to embabk these men, I went as far as La Panne and was there spoken by a sloop who asked me to take his boat and try and get troops off to him, from that part of the beach, we were being continually shelled and bombed, at about this time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb falling about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy bomber type Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun and his Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, as definitely. other ships were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I steamed back at all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them off, we were fortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged to pick up with our dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore and started to embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
Dynamo 18.5 182 MOTOR YACHT "MARSAYRU" 170 6th.June 1960 SKIPPER. G.D.OLIVIER. SIGINEER C.COGGINS. CREW Messrs.FORBES, HUMPHRIES and Leading Seaman BROWN. I have the honour to report that I took over dommand of the Motor Yacht "Marsayru" on Wednesday 29th.May 1940. Before commencing this report I tried to sort things out a bit but find that my recollection, regarding any particular date on which incidents occurred, is extremely hazy. I therefore hope that a general report on our doings will suffice. We sailed from Sheerness on Friday 31st.May 1940 at 4 A.M., bound for Dunkirk, in company with X217 and 2 other drifters under the comand of .Lieutenant POOL,R.N. We steamed at 5 knots approximately. About 3 p.m. we came in sight of the coast, a long line of fires, smoke and explosions as far as the eye could see. About one hour later we contacted the Naval forces engaged in evacuating the French soldiers from the beaches. I had a whaler and sent it to the beach; it was immediately stormed by about 50 Frenchmen and capsised at once. My rating, Brown, had a job to prevent himself from being more or less forcibly drowned. I then withdrew my ship to review the position. Warps were everywhere, stuff that looked like 42", also smaller ropes which were the devil as I knew that sooner or later we were bound to get our propellers in the way of one of them. However this did not happen as soon as I had feared. In our retreat p from the beach we managed to pick up a very nice naval cutter which we captured and used a little futther down channel where the French troops appeared to be a little calmer. life took off many boat-loads for some 5 hours, loading X217, S.S. "Foam Queen", S.S. "Jaba" and so on. On this first day we also managed to pull "Foam Queen" (about 2000 tons I should say) off the mud, into which she had put her nose. I thought this spoke well for the engines of "Marsayru" and Mr. Coggins who attended them. Throughout this day and the days and nights that followed (it's all a complete jumble in my mind) we were of course under constant fire of various kinds, but I have the honour to report that the ship was not hit by anything. On one day - Sunday 2nd.June I think - we were singled out for attention (we were alone, nearest ship being about 2½ miles away) by 4 brave Messershimits who dived and machine-gunned us with much vigour but exceedingly poor aim for about half an hour. We had a Bren and 2 rifles but did not use them as the German pilots seemed disinolined to come nearer than 2000 feet and I had given orders to hold our fire Hurricanes have in sight and we saw no more of the Messerschmits to 1000 feet range. A pity. After half an hour of this 3 after that. Another day we were bombed by a large formation of Heinkels flying miles up. At least I think it was our little in ship they were after, unless it was one on the horison, which case they missed by miles. the course of these operations we took off from the beaches During upwards of 400 French soldiers. To our luckier. bitter disappointment we could find no British, others were tow - He also mislaid out ship for a few hours - she was on having propeller completely tied up with bits broke of and line we and could not find engine her though we cast about for a time. arrived However the other one knocking hard. The tow rope back turned Sheerness up yesterday evening having called from Ramsgate - nice she again next day - faithful thing. we at 1200. at An eventful trip. We borught back 2 "prises" a 18ft
" LAROC " 186 à Report on Dunkirk Evacuation. 174 Subject. saturday, 1st June. bout. 1040 Received signal from her to close. # 1055 Went along side, but as a larger ship came up which told to was get capable clear. of taking off all the crew we were This Pos. approx. 3 miles N.NE from 5. Buoy. "., 1115. Proceeded to Dunkirk. but on the way sighted small Destroyer was later sunk by gunfire from a Sloop. boat tow. with eight men. picked them up and took boat in Later picked up another boat with four men, and as we were informed that many boats were leaving empty returned to Ramsgate. 1700 2 miles SW. from N. Goodwin L. V. saw plane drop in the sea. went to render assistance. but this was not required as other ships were there first. 1800 Landed 12 men from the boats. at Ramsgate. 1815 Went to and from larger ships out side the harbour to the Pier landing troops owing to the fact that they could not get inside. landedabout 310. men 2130 Tied up for night in South side of Harbour, Sunday. Waited for orders. were not allowed to go out. Monday. " " " Changed Oil in main Engines. Tuesday. 1700 Orders to sail for Yarmouth. Wednesday. Left Ramsgate 0410 hrs. arriving Yarmouth 1810 hrs. Average Speed. 10 knts. Ships Crew George. B. Butler. ( master ) Jack Lynn mate ) Raymond Crane engineer ) Lenoard Lynn. - B deck hand ) H.A.E. Frost. steward ). George. B. Butter
Dynams 61. DOVER. 06 - 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". 188 . 176 H.M.S. King Alfred Hove Sussex Admiral Taylor Dynamo 318. 8/4/0/1338 GRAMS :- Office of the Commander-in-Chief, Idmiral, Chatham. The Nore, EPHONE :- Chatham No. 3221. Admiralty House Extensions 210 and 519). Chatham, No. 477.c.c./40. 15th June, 1940. Wildfire at 1800 on Wednesday ng Alfred. I was appointed FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER. :roft 36' twin screw motor cruiser OPERATIONS OFF DUNKIRK. g morning and put to sea in Herewith is forwarded a report Ramsgate by H.M.T. Strathelliot of the Commanding Officer, of ere we received our instructions at about 0930 Friday. Dunkirk. M.Y. "Jong", on the operations off 0 a spot about 3 miles northeast d let her drift as close to the ated a life line ashore by ately an English soldier experienced dozen Belgians. I men aboard as there was these of "Jong". However, we got to rn a Scoot. I then returned falls of one of the dinghy davits me for and when the men came out of to FADMIRAL. wer block on to the back ed them aboard quite easily. ration during the day and also VICE ADMIRA steam hopper who wanted the I off another ship. 17 JUN 1940 JUN I took my boat alongside a 0 * DOVER ed ashore. There were off. a these men I took posite d and side of the lighter and I went on to the aboard it. Mano
Dyrams 61. DOVER. 5 - 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". 188 . 176 H.M.S. King Alfred Hove Sussex Admiral Taylor Room F. 7 Admiralty House H.M.S. Wildfire Sheerness Kent Dear Sir, I arrived at H.M.S. Wildfire at 1800 on Wednesday the 29th May direct from H.M.S. King Alfred. I was appointed to M.Y. "Jong" (a standard Thornycroft 36' twin screw motor cruiser central cockpit type) the following morning and put to sea in company at 1400. We were escorted to Ramsgate by H.M.T. Strathelliot where we arrived at 2200. There we received our instructions and proceeded to Dunkirk arriving at about 0930 Friday. I immediately went to at spot about 3 miles northeast of the harbour anchored my boat and let her drift as close to the shore as possible. I then floated a life line ashore by means of a life buoy. Immediately an English soldier came out to me followed by about a dozen Belgians. I experienced considerable difficulty in getting these men aboard as there was about 3 ft of freeboard at the stern of "Jong". However, we got every man aboard and took them to a Scoot. I then returned to the beach and this time rigged the falls of one of the dinghy davits Again I sent the life line ashore and when the men came out to me I went overboard and hooked the lower block on to the back of their waist belts and my crew hauled them aboard quite easily. I continued this operation during the day and also ran messages for the Captain of a steam hopper who wanted the services of an experienced engineer off another ship. During the afternoon I took my boat alongside a supply lighter .that had been drifted ashore. There were a number of British soldiers on board and these men I took off. Others were still coming to the opposite side of the lighter and experienced difficulty in getting aboard it. I went on to the
Dyrams 61. DOVER. à 179 5 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". 189 . -2- 177 lighter to see if I could help them and found a young Tommy (K. Alfred) in the water vigorously assisting the others to get aboard. Just as I arrived he said he was exhausted and so we got him on to the lighter and I went overboard to take his place. We continued to get men on to my boat until no more were coming down the beach. During this operation three bombs fell quite close to the lighter but no one was hurt. I took this boat load of about thirty five out to the hopper. I spent some time during the afternoon trying to pull other motor boats which had gone ashore without dropping an anchor off the beach which was a lee shore. I also towed various whalers and ships boats out to the transports. Towards evening the big ships started sending their own boats ashore on long lines and as this occurred about every 50 yds the manoeuvring of motor boats became difficult. I was hailed by a tug which had a supply lighter in tow outside the line of big ships. Saying that he could come no nearer the beach he asked me to take this lighter as close in as I could. The lighter was almost unmanageable. While towing it the water circulation of one engine gave out but I had to continue using the engine which got very overheated until I could safely drop the lighter after taking it through the line of big ships to the shore. This caused the engine to seise up. Shortly afterwards the other engine began to give trouble and could only be used at slow speeds. I later discovered that this was due to a choked jet in the carburettor. Just as dark came I passed a rope to a drifter and asked permission to hang on until morning when I could see to try to repair my engines. This drifter had not got its complement of men on board and during the night he moved about slowly from one spot to another trying to get a load. During this period a bomb fell very close to us. The fourth time he moved he headed to a point south of the harbour and then very slowly made his way down channel. About a mile from the harbour I realised he was heading for home and being then too far from the seat of operations Ramsgate. and being practically engineless I let him tow me right back to We entered the harbour at noon (Saturday). I reported for duty again at 0800 on Sunday morning and though I was given command of another boat and got her all ready I was not again ordered to sea. I brought both my boats back to H.M.S. Wildfire on Thursday p.m. the 6th June. yours obediently Ian F. Smith SubL RNVR
Dynams 61. DOVER. - 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". Sir, I have the honour to submit the following report in regard to the passage of R.A.F.Motor Boats No. 243 and 270, in which the former boat was sunk. 2. The two boats left Dover under the command of Commander Clouston R.N. in R.A.F.Motor Boat No. 243. The complements of the two boats consisted of the R.A.F. personnel and the Naval embarkation party on passage to ers and two French 5491 Binld ason to the British Dyuamo 178 S off Grave Lines, These attacked us FROM: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "LYNX". My boat avoided the I saw that Commander DATE: 5th June, 1940 om a bomb, and was TO : FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER. S, I was fully oid the attacking ok round for the other SINKING OF R.A.F.MOTOR BOAT NO. 243 id the whole crew were on, and slowed down to ouston ordered me to at full speed to Dunkirk. Sub.Lieutenant R.Wake's report on the above incident is forwarded 3 shortly afterwards tack, my boat was herewith. e-gun bullets, and my ion. The speed of the set a mean course for out half an hour after Love Dawson he enemy aircraft left rriving there at 2100, r Boat No.243 to Rear- CAPTAIN, R.N. ers alongside were ICE ADMIRAL ommander Clouston and at only Sub. Lieutenant 6- JUN 1940 armaham are the only * up. Aircraftsman DOVER nder Clouston dead in picked up. had remained to pick boat, which would have e top of the canopy, as out of action and the L have made our arrival continued.
Dynam 61. DOVER. 179 5 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "LYNX". Sir, 270, in which the former boat was sunk. in regard to the passage of Motor Boats No. 243 and I have the honour to submit the following report 2. The two boats left Dover under the command of Commander Clouston R.N. in Motor Boat No.243. The complements of the two boats consisted of the R.A.F. personnel and the Naval embarkation party on passage to Dunkirk, with two Naval French Officers and two French Petty Officers who were acting as liason to the British Party. 3. At 1900, when about 6 miles off Grave Lines, eight Junkers 87 planes were sighted. These attacked us with machine-gunsand small bombs. My boat avoided the first attack, but, on looking round, I saw that Commander Clouston's boat had a "near miss" from a bomb, and was heeling heavily to starboard. 4. During the next ten minutes, I was fully occupied in navigating my boat to avoid the attacking planes. When I next had time to look round for the other boat, only her bows were visible, and the whole crew were in the water. I closed the position, and slowed down to pick up survivors, but Commander Clouston ordered me to leave them immediately and proceed at full speed to Dunkirk. 5. I increased speed, and was shortly afterwards attacked again, and, during this attack, my boat was repeatedly hit by incendiary mandine-gun bullets, and my starboard engine was put out of action. The speed of the boat was reduced to six knots. I set a mean course for Dunkirk, and shortly afterwards, about half an hour after the commencement of the attacks, the enemy aircraft left us. 6. I proceeded to Dunkirk, arriving there at 2100, and reported the loss of Motor Boat No.243 to Rear- Admiral Wake Walker. Two Destpoyers alongside were warned to keep a good lookout for Commander Clouston and his crew, but I regret to report that only b.Lieutenant Solomon R.N.V.R. and Aircraftsman Carmaham are the only survivors known to have been picked up. Aircraftsman Carmaham reported that he saw Commander Clouston dead in the water some hours before he was picked up. up 7. survivors, the extra load in the boat, which would have In my opinion, if my boat had remained to pick necessitated men being seated on the top of the canopy, added to the fact that one engine was out of action and the boat was making water slowly, would have made our arrival at Dunkirk most unlikely. continued
Dyrams 61. DOVER. à 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "LYNX". Sir, I have the honour to submit the following report in regard to the passage of Motor Boats No. 243 and 270, in which the former boat was sunk. 2. The two boats left Dover under the command of Commander Clouston R.N. in Motor Boat No.243. The complements of the two boats consisted of the R.A.F. personnel and the Naval embarkation party on passage to Dunkirk, with two Naval French Officers and two French Petty Officers who were acting as liason to the British Party. 3. At 1900, when about 6 miles off Grave Lines, eight Junkers 87 planes were sighted. These attacked us with machine-gunsand small bombs. My boat avoided the first attack, but, on looking round, I saw that Commander Clouston's boat had a "near miss" from a bomb, and was heeling heavily to starboard. 4. During the next ten minutes, I was fully occupied in navigating my boat to avoid the attacking planes. When I next had time to look round for the other boat, only her bows were visible, and the whole crew were in the water. I closed the position, and slowed down to pick up survivors, but Commander Clouston ordered me to leave them immediately and proceed at full speed to Dunkirk. 5. I increased speed, and was shortly afterwards attacked again, and, during this attack, my boat was repeatedly hit by incendiary mandine-gun bullets, and my starboard engine was put out of action. The speed of the boat was reduced to six knots. I set a mean course for Dunkirk, and shortly afterwards, about half an hour after the commencement of the attacks, the enemy aircraft left us. 6. and reported the loss of F. Motor Boat No.243 to Rear- I proceeded to Dunkirk, arriving there at 2100, Admiral Wake Walker. Two Destpoyers alongside were warned to keep a good lookout for Commander Clouston and his crew, but I regret to report that only Sub.Lieutenant Solomon R.N.V.R. and Aircraftsman Carmaham are the only survivors known to have been picked up. Aircraftsman Carmaham reported that he saw Commander Clouston dead in the water some hours before he was picked up. up 7. survivors, the extra load in the boat, which would have In my opinion, if my boat had remained to pick necessitated men being seated on the top of the canopy, added to the fact that one engine was out of action arrival and the boat was making water slowly, would have made our at Dunkirk most unlikely. continued.
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MOTOR CONVOY. 6/6/40. Dynamo 188. Motor Barge Sherfield # 18 Ex-idghter Y.O. 63. Ex-Lighter X.95. Sub It. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N. Motor Launch Nanette II. On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 9. we were under way heading out to sea. Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.9 although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success. At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps was Just as well. brought us to a buny round which was painted -"Ostend". This Dyroms 188 - 181 REPORT. SUB LIEUT. P. SNOW. R,N. Motor Boat "REDA" - 12 ton - speed 8 knots. Left Sheerness at approx. 1900 on Tuesday 28th. Made first crossing to Dunkirk on Wednesday 29th leaving Ramsgate at 1000. Arrived in company with five other small boats at 1700. Whilst proceeding up Dunkirk roads towards the beaches we were machine-gunned by low flying aircraft. Bullet stuck in deck-head having failed to penetrate. Embarked soldiers on destroyers and sloops for 3 hours under continual bombardment from the air. Headed for Ramsgate at 2200 with a party of 21 English soldiers on board. Whilst leaving were deliberately bombed one salvo falling within 30 yards of the boat. Loosened several planks but no material damage sustained. Arrived Ramsgate approx. 0600 Thursday. Left on second trip at 1100 on Friday 31st, arriving at Dunkirk at 1730. Took off about 50 Frenchmen to waiting ships and left for Ramsgate with 23 Frenchmen on board. Heavy bombers were bombing the beaches when we left at 2015. Anchored off N. Goodwin for the night and proceeded into harbour at 0530. Crew for 1st trip :- R.W. Rawlings (P.O Motorman) 1 Civilian Volunteer Crew for 2nd trip :- R.W. Rawlings 1. Leading Seaman 1. A.B. All times are approximate. (Signed) P.Snow Sub. Lieut, R,N.
MOTOR CONVOY. 6/6/40. Dynamo 188. Notor Barge Sherfield 1 # 185 Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63. Ex-Lighter X.95. Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N. Motor Launch Nanette II. On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, 31st May, 1940, we received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m. we were under way heading out to sea. Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95 although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success. At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, paniol Where were we? The one and decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps was tust as well. brought us to a buoy round which was painted -"Ostend". This * 182 19t. REPORT OF "SKYLARK" - S/Lee MARES R.N.V.R. Abandoned in Mid Channel and crew taken on board 1ty "Strathelliott". S/L Mares was left behind at Dunkirk. 2 (Crew came back on Trawler).
MOTOR CONVOY. 6/6/40. Dynamo 188. Motor Barge Sherfield 1 - 185 Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63. Ex-Lighter X.95. Motor Launch Nanette II. Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N. On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops we were under way heading out to sea. from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m. Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95 although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success. At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniol Where were we? The one and decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never know, which perhaps was just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted - -"Ostend". This Dynam 193 " 183 196 REPORT OF "MARY ROSE" - S/I H. Mc.Clelland R.N.V.B. Ity Engines failed on way over. Ship taken in cow, began 2 making water fast and became unmanageable and was abandoned in Mid Channel where she sank. Crew taken on board the Trawler "Strathelliott" where they helped to take off troops from the beach at Dunkirk. Journey back made in trawler. No injuries to anyone. 8 on dng 18 #
MOTOR CONVOY. 6/6/40. Dynams 188. Notor Barge Sherfield 1 # Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63. 185 Ex-Lighter X.95. Motor Launch Nanette II. Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N. On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops we were under way heading out to sea. from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m. Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95 although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success. At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps was just as well, brought us to a busy round which was painted - -"Ostend". This Dynamotique 197 184 * s 7 REPORT OF "SINGAPORE" R.N.V.R. Ity No personal injury to self or crew. Engine failed in North Sea and return had to take tow, Owing to heavy swell sudden strain WAB put on to tow and the winch was torn taking with it part of the fore deck, the anchor, cable and all ropes. Managed to repair ngine temporarily and returned to Ramagate. too
OR CONVOY. 6/6/40. Dynamo 188. or Barge Sherfield # 185 Lighter Y.O. 63. Lighter X.95. Sub Dr. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N. or Launch Nanette II. On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, 31st May, 1940, we ceived. command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops om the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m. were under way heading out to sea. Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95 though we spent some time in trying to locate her without success. At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and cidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps B just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted -"Ostend". This a a most salutary effect on us and putting the wheel to starboard we headed for e battle. The succession of sunken ships with the oil saturated water covered. th junk and garbage of all sorts began to have a dampening effect on everybody. wever, we fortified ourselves with large helpings of Mr. Machonicie's Irish Stew. Continuing on passed Nieuport we found ourselves between two destroyers and shore battery in action;during this one of the destroyers was hit and the super- tructure burst into flames. On closing in it was obvious that there was no one board and we drew away a magazine explosion. Shells then began to drop round us rom the remaining destroyer and to further our consternation at this moment at orpedo passed under the "Sherfield", disappearing up the beach; whether fired by submarine or the other destroyer is not known. Next thing on the programs was the finding of a whole lot of chaps who had een in the oil-covered water for a considerable time and we experienced difficulty n getting them aboard as there were several wounded amongst them. These - were ostly off destroyers sunk during the day. During this interlule soldiers were een gathering on the foreshore, and owing to ebbing tide it was impossible to each the lighters and the motor boat. commenced to collect the soldiers and take chem to the lighters at twenty at a time. One young Army officer to whom great redit is due came along with a motor boat full of wounded, and after putting them aboard helped with the embarkation. In the meantime one lighter continued to fish people out of the water and the ther went alongside the wrecked "Clan MacAlister" and took off 15 wounded survivors of the "Keith" and other ships. All was going well when a number of enemy planes started to machine gun the beach and bombard the vicinity. It would be as well to mention that there were no other British ships or planes in sight, and being completely unarmed except for one Boer War rifle, we couldn't do much against them. As the last load was being gathered it appeared that the enemy were using Trench Mortars and machine guns from begind the Dunes. During a lull the second lighter and motor boat made for the open sea; while the motor barge was receiving her last load of wounded enemy planes started paying further attention to her. She stopped all movement and drifted about for the next three quarters of an hour, hoping to be taken for a derelect, which thank God she wast At length the planes eased off and she made a dash (at 6 knots) for the open the familiar whine of a power bomber was heard, followed by a pattern of bombe sea, large quantities of tea being consumed. Peace reigned, but not for long; exploding round the barge and a nice little machine gun attack followed. The remainder of the trip was quite uneventful, entering Dover at 7 a.m. on Sunday morning. volunteers and the youngest being 17. A fine example was set by the fortitude Too much praise cannot be given to the Civilian members of the crews, all being of the Troops waiting on the shore and in the water. All Naval members of the orews acted as expected. missed On during the first night, had managed to get to Dunkirk and had had her full returning to Sheerness we found the third member of our convoy, whan - had share of excitement.
Dynoms 182. 186 From ... Lieutenant R.H. Irving R.N.R. Motor Boat "TRITON". Date ... 3rd June, 1940. To ... Commodore Taylor, Sheerness. Submitted, with reference to the short report handed in on my arrival at Sheerness, Saturday, 1st June, 1940, I shall now endeavour to fill in details left out at that time, due to inability to recollect everything and put it on record before being refreshed and rested, after so many hours of exertion. On Wednesday, the 29th May, 1940, while supervising the cleaning and scrubbing of the Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA" of which vessel I was 1st Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander Gwinnir, R.N., who was C.O., instructed me, to report immediately to Commander Troupe for orders. I reported as instructed, and was ordered to take command of thirteen launches and get them to Ramsgate. I got clear of Sheerness with the launches about 1200 29/5/40, and arrived Ramsgate about 1930. I reported to Commander Davies there, and explained to him what had been said tome by Commodore L. Taylor regarding the launch "SILVER QUEHON and "BEVERLEY". "BEVERLEY", however, failed to turn up at Ramsgate although I had sent back my fastest boat from Margate to look for her, and waited for one hour to allow him to catch up. Commander Davies consulted the N.O.I.C. and it was decided that in the "TRITON" I should endeavour to get "SILVER QUESION and seven more launches to La Panne. The other launches for various reasons could not proceed until the morning. Commander Davies said he believed East of La Panne was devoid of Allied troops, and as far as he knew no troops on beaches West of Braye Duns. This meant I had to make the Belgian coast within a three-mile limit, rather difficult without navigating instruments or current charts. Nevertheless, I thought I could do it, so at 2200 on Wednesday I left the harbour with eight launches. I waited outside and shouted to them to keep close up and follow me. I steered for N. Goodwin Light Vessel, and stopped there to count my fleet, though it was very dark. I counted five and was informed the other three had put back to Ramsgate with engine trouble. I then order "SILVER QUEIN® to render every assistance in keeping boats together (Sub.Lt. in command) in order that the five of us might carry out a successful crossing. Only the Seaman Cox.J. Keith could steer on my boat; this meant I had to relieve him myself. Two of the crew were already seasick, but kept their feet and showed spirit. From N. Goodwin I proceeded. It was very dark, and on and off I passed ships heading N.W. or S.E. About 0300 30/5/40 visibility was very poor, with heavy rain, no ships in however, to get into a position 15 miles north of La Panne, and then sight, and I was a little doubtful of my position. I decided, steer South (mag) to make the coast. At 0400 turned south, strong wind and following sea, boat steering wildly. Still no ships in sight or land. About 0420 saw a cruiser loaded with troops, recognised her as British, and closed her. She had received heavy punishment aft from shellfire. I made signs as to whether I should hold on my course, and she answered in the affirmative. At this time one of my boats very foolishly crossed my bow and received a blow which damaged her. I instructed one of the others to watch her, and
& I 187 made for the coast. All five of us had so far crossed safely. At 0500 arrived at beach near La Panne, and recognised it as Cupola, hundreds upon hundreds of troops waiting to be taken off. I proceeded, stopped just out off the surf and commenced towing boatloads of soldiers to Destroyers and Trawlers. I continued without stopping for any reason until about 1200 30/5/40, when alongside a Destroyer, a voice hailed me, saying, "Well done, motor boat, wait for me". An Officer wearing a lambskin coat came on board. He was wet through, however, he said he wanted me to carry on as I was doing and that then he would have one or two other jobs for me. So I carried on taking off troops to ships. In the late afternoon the Officer above mentioned, whose name I then leanred was Commodore Stephens or Stevens, asked me to run him down to a certain position on the beach, and he instructed me not to do anything until he returned as he was going ashore to look for Lord Gort, and, if he got him, I was to take him straight to England. Enemy shore batteries were now on and off dropping heavy shells quite close. Commodore Stephens waded ashore through the surf, up to the neck in water. In an hour's time he returned, waded out again, but did not mention Lord Gort's name, and I did not ask him why he had not come. I made a good guess. The Commodore then ordered me to close a destroyer, and I had the honour of receiving my Admiral on board with C.O.S. ( I can't remember his name). I closed the surf to land him by his whaler which I was towing. However, he ddd not land and I returned him aboard his ship. shells stillfalling around. Commodore Stephens and I then carried on taking troops to ships. Long before this I had spoken to "SILVER QUEEN" and made sure she had distributed her petrol supplies. She disappeared about this time and I did most of the rescue work myself, (with one or two boats from destroyers) from now on until the following afternoon. At 0100, rescued 7 soldiers from drowning. Continued rescue work until 0200 (approx.) 31/5/40 when, being in very close inshore, I went aground; I knew the tide was rising so didn't worry, but put out my anchor astern and tried to heave her off. Succeeded in floating her at 0400 and carried on as before. Now I was feeling the strain somewhat, but worse lay ahead. At about 0800 strong North wind and very heavy swell, boat rolling and pitching at every turn and going alongside ships was very difficult. Commodore Stephens now asked me to take him out to an M.T.B. which had come in, and he asked me to continue the good work alone. He said I had done good work, but could not allow me to rest, too much remained to be done. I might say that the Commodore said I was "A good fellow", and on other occasions said I was "a bloody fool". It is not my place to pass remarks about Senior Officers, but this Officer, without cap, soaked through, without food, was a great example to me. He helped me to steer, to pass lines, to haul drowning soldiers aboard, and very often would say, "Come on the Army". "Where have I seen you before, you are so good looking, I'm sure I know you". Other times he cursed the lot as stupid. I carried on after he left me and so I come to 1330 on 31/5/40. sight, and heavy shelling was taking place, suddenly the shelling I was heading close inshore at this time, no boats in became terrific, and my Cox. called out "For God's sake get off, Sir, look, all the destroyers have left". It was as he said, but a small Merchant ship remained. I closed her and saw she too was heaving up. so I proceeded after the destroyers towards Dunkerque. the last Naval Boat. The troops had all disappeared from the I was the last Naval Officer to leave La Panne, and beach. to the most Easterly position from Dunkerque in which our ships I proceeded along the beach close inshore, until I came lay. I got a very heavy boat load of troops in tow.
-3- to 188 At this time a terrific aerial battle was on, shells from shore batteries were falling around and bombs dropping all over the place in close proximity. As I was towing this boat I saw a bomb hit the pleasure steamer "PRINCE OF WALES". I closed her and took aboard two badly wounded Officers and two ratings. I offered to go aboard as she was sinking slowly, but was told only two dead remained on board. Just before this, ordinary seaman Purbrick fell overboard from exhaustion and I picked him up somehow. My Cox. was sleeping on his feet on and off and the two others lay down and stood up as strength permitted. The C.O. of the "PRINCE OF WALES", although covered in blood, offered to try and steer the boat. I then saw a man swimming naked in the water. Stopped and got him. Next a heavily loaded boat of soldiers turned right over close inshore, and left the men struggling in the water. I got down to them and rescued the lot personally hauling them aboard with my crews feeble assistance. While doing this, I got a rope round my Starboard screw and fouled the rudder. I now had a full load of soldiers on board (six wounded) a full boat load towing and soldiers clinging to the stern. With what I thought was the last of my strength, I got my launch alongside a lifeboat and from there hauled her hand over hand, by means of a grass rope, up to the sloop "MOSQUITO". I then discovered the lifeboat's propeller was also fouled. Neither I nor my crew could clear the propeller, so I boarded "MOSQUITO" and asked the 1st Lieutenant to send someone to do so. Meanwhile, I went below for a cup of tea. I came on deck in fifteen minutes, but the rope could not be cleared I was told. Air battle still in progress with bombs dropping all around. I then with difficulty closed the yacht "GALETA" and asked her to take me in tow. The C.O.'s ship was in a very bad position with regard to German shore batteries, nevertheless, he wanted another boat load of troops before leaving and asked me to try and close the beach and get one. I said I would, but asked him to watch out for me in case I got ashore. I proceeded towards the beach just then coincident with an explosion of some kind. The launch seemed to rise from the water, fall back, rise again and fall back. I could only move slowly now and I saw the yacht was drawing the fire from shore. One of the crew called out that the yacht was signalling me. I looked round and saw she was signalling me. With great difficulty I got alongside and made her fast for towing, then slumped on the yacht's deck, stupified with exhaustion, want of sleep and food, I suppose. Unfortunately the tow rope parted a few minutes later. The C.O. of yacht objected and rightly so to going back to the shealed area with his ships and troops on board. So the "TRITON" was left afloat with a rope round her screw and a badly damaged stem and stern. I regret exceedingly that I did not get her home again for various reasons. It was about 1840 31st May, 1940, when my activities ceased. I had been on my feet from 0700 29th May, to 1840 31st May, 1940, in a small craft, without sleep and the only food eaten from 2000 29th May to that time was one tin of herrings, ont tin of bully beef and between five and two slices of bread each also four cups of tea without sugar. We simply had not time to eat. A few more remarks and I finish. I was the only Commissioned Officer (excluding Commodore Skippers) who was constantly in the boats at La Panne. I took off more troops than I can remember there - scores and scores of boat loads and I venture to say if my boat had not remained there to the last, hundreds would never have got away.
4- MP 189 I was not instructed to proceed from La Panne to Dunkirk by anyone. saw three planes crash in the sea close to me near Dunkirk, and seven I I did so on my own initiative to save troops. Airmen descend by parachute. Sunday, I noticed slight bruises on my left leg from blows probably. On Although not wounded, splinters fell around me. My arms feel as if they had been pulled from their sockets and my back is sore. I lost my voice through hailing boats at La Panne - it is now returning. I am quôte rested and ready for action if required. The crew sent with me knew nothing of making fast ropes or steering, but under fire, in spite of great exhaustion, were A.I. and exhibited on and off, great interest in all that was happening. I respectfully subihit they are worthy of some recognition. I have the honour to be, Sirs, Your obedient servant, (Sgd) R.H. Irving lieutenant, R.N.R. Crew of Motor Boat "TRITON". S. KEITH Sea. Cox. J. STEVENS Ord. Sea. D. SIMPSON E.R.A. C. GLYN Ord. Sea. F.G. PURBRICK Ord. Sea. -II- OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OPERATION "DYNAMO" SHEERNESS. Forwarded. COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE, 4th June, 1940. SHEERNESS
_203 LAUNCH "TRITON" for 190 Lieutenant R.H. INVING, R.N.R. 3, KNITH. Sea. Cox. J.STEPHENS. Ord.Sea. D. SIMPSON. B.R.A. (utterly useless) 0. GLYNN. Ord.Sea. F.G. PURBRICK. Ord.Sea. (fell overboard and had to put him on "MOSQUITO" suffering from cold and shook). I was at Sheerness as No.1 of Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA" Wednesday 20th May 1940, was instructed to proceed from Sheernoss to Ramsgate in charge of 13 Launches, various kinds and speeds - handed over 12. Left Sheerness about noon Wednesday, 29th May. Arrived Ramagate about 1930 Left Remagate about 2150 for Cuploa near La Penne with 9 launches. Very vague instructions about La Panne and was not definitely informed whether British troops were actually there. Had bad visibility and did not know exact position but made Cuploa 0500, Thursday morning - only 5 launches arrived in company, others broke down and returned to Ransgate. Launch "SILVER QUEEN" was of great assistance. From 0500, Thursday, 30th May to about 1700 Friday, 31st May I towed or picked up hundreds of troops and transferred them to destroyers, scoots etc. Launches not equipped with proper towing topes and crew very unsemanlike. Had to steer and make fast myself. Commodore Stephens used my launch and participated in taking off troops, no one at Cuploa to give to instructions. I worked all Thursday night and carried on until 1330 when ship was shelled heavily and all ships proceeded towards Dunquarque and I was last to leave Cuploa under heavy shell fire. I proceeded towards Dunquerque along the beach and on arriving at extreme west end of Dunquerque beach a heavy air attack and fire from shore batteries was falling all round. I took the most westerly boat in tow and when looking round to find a near ship, saw the large launch "PRINCE OF WALES" struck by a bomb, I proceeded with the boat I had in tow towards her and found 4 survivors very bedly wounded ready to take off. Two others were dead on board. On the way to the sloop "MOSQUITO" with survivors I resoued soldiers from drowing whose boat had sunic close ashore. While doing this my starbcard propeller get fouled and I had a terrible job to get to the sloop "MOSQUITO" with troops and wounded from "PRINCE OF MALZES". All this time bombing and shelling was going on. I landed all on the "HOSQUITO" and then asked the "MOSQUITO" to tay and clear ay propeller, they tried but could not do so. I them consulted the First Lieutement and he suggested that I get a tow home. I spproached the yacht "CALSTA", the C.O. immediately asked me to get him troops but I told him I would attempt it with one engine although I could not handle her. I got near the west beach and immediately came under shore fire and no boats being ready to come off "GALETA" signelled me to return as he was being shelled and had to get out of it. I got back and made the launch fast for towing- under fire, but the tow rope broke and the Launch being in the hotly peppered area and close to the surf the C.O. of "CALETA" and myself thought it would endanger his vessel to remain there to try and pick up again so chose inshore. Neither I or the arew had any sleep or proper food from Wednesday morning until the launch was abandoned at 1640 Friday. All of us were stupid with exhaustion. I took off more troops at Cuploa than anyone else. I have lost my voice meantime through constant hailing of boats and giving orders. The "TRITON" was damaged badly in the stern and bow through going alongaide ships so frequently in a very heavy swell. I have lost my uniform cap and raincoat, rasor and other items. My information on sailing from Ramsgate was - "No troops east of La Panne or west of Braye Duns", the first item was correct byrb the second quite wrong.
Dynoms 190. 204 191 REPORT ON WORK DONE ON DUNKIRK BEACH BY "CONSTANT NYMPH" 30/31 MAY, 1940. CHARGE HAND. - B.A. Smith., Little Ship Club (Owner of motor boat). CREW. - STOKERS ALLEN AND MIXIKUE from Sheerness. We left Ramsgate about 3.30 Pollo on 30th May, 1940, in tow of H.M.S. "Jutland" (A Dutch boat taken over by Navy) after lying outside the Harbour from 9.30 a.m., during which time we had done a little ferrying work between ships. We were towed with a whaler and cutter on same tow. Arrived at our station some miles east of Dunkirk Harbour about 9.30 p.m. and towed whaler and cutter to beach as soon as "JUTLAND" had 30/5 anchored slight mist. At first we could only find Frenchmen on the beach and took off several boat loads, then a British officer waded and swam to "CONSTANT NYMPH" while running slowly up and down the beach line in about 3 feet 5 inches waiting for the boats to be filled and keeping a look out for British troops, In spite of darkness and slight mist, the fires on shore and fine night made bodies of men show up against the sand. On hearing from British officer that thousands of our men. were a little nearer Dunkirk, we worked further up and got mainly British for some time; not many wounded. One nice fire which was a leading mark was blown out by another bomb later on in the night, but we were fairly well at home by then and it caused no delay. Having filled "JUTLAND", the motor-boat with whaler and outter turned over to "LAUDANIA",a similar ship, and filled that. "JUTLAND" left 31/5 about 3 a.m. I am informed by Captain of "LAUDANIA" that these ships hold about 450 men each, making a total of 900 men taken off. About 8 a.m. "LAUDANIA" was full and the cutter was aground under a stranded lighter and her crew could not get her off, Captain of "LAUDANIA" told me to get the crew if I could not get the outter, and this was done. Certain odd boats were found on the beach by troops of both nations, any found trying to row to ships in our area were collected and towed to ship, mk and efforts made to use them again if serviceable. These efforts were usually hampered by Frenchmen not tying up to the ship when boarding and letting the boat drift. Bombing in the district seemed fairly continuous, some explosions shook the boat a good bit, but nothing seemed very near. Anti-aircraft fire seemed to come from the beach in many cases, tracer bullets from that line were often to be seen. There was some heavy shelling, apparently directed by planes dropping Very lights over the ships, one crump was either very near or very big as the boat trembled as if she had grounded. Being deaf and having a lot to de prevented my noticing the bombing much but my crew seemed to think it was increasing with daylights About 8 a.m. on Friday, 31st May, 1940, having used all fuel and got rope in the propeller, I was ordered to turn over the motor boat and whaler to a Drifter believed to have fuel and mechanics, and go aboard "LAUDANIA" which left at once with all orews and arrived Margate about 5 p.m. Both Allen and Medkle, the two young Stoker ratings who were my crew, worked steadily and efficiently throughout the ten hours or so of working on the beach and were always on the look-out for swimmers or odd craft to be picked up. These lads had hover been to sea and were only enlisted in January 1940, they informed me. (sa) B.A. Smith. 6th June, 1940,
Dynam 232 205 192 LOG of H.M. Motor Boat LADY CABLE of Torquay during operations carried out June 2md and 3rd, 1940. In command: Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N. Cadet Rating G.R. Price Stoke Worsall Able Seaman or Ordinary Seaman Smith from Newfoundland, Sunday, June 2nd, 1940. Took over boat during forenoon from Mr. Gooding who operates boat for owner at Torquay. She had done one trip to the beaches near Dunkirk. Took on provisions, water, petrol, etc. Mr. Gooding showed Stoker Worsall the working of the engines Cylinder Atlantic - running on petrol. At about 1500 went over to Prince of Wales Pier and was then taken in tow by SUN VI, together with two life-boats and one other craft. Started for Dunkirk at approximately 1530, having been handed previously copy of Sailing Instructions to Drifters, together with rough sketch map of course to follow. After uneventful trip arrived off Dunkirk harbour at about 2230 and received orders to proceed in harbour and go a long way up the Mole to embark soldiers - fill up and return to tug, then go in for further loads. At times had difficulty in persuading French troops to embark in LADY CABLE, the reason apparently being reluctance to break their units or to act without definite orders from their officer who was probably still in the town of Dunkirk. However, we took four boat loads off - each load containing between 40 and 50 soldiers. Three loads I took to tugs and one to H.M.S. WISHART when tug was not in usual position. Spoke to tug after fourth trip and was informed that it would soon be light and that she could'nt wait much longer. In reply to a question if any British officers were still left on the Mole, I replied that on earlier trips I had seen one who had asked me not to leave him behind. This officer was engaged in helping the embarkation of the troops. I had not seen him on my last trip but told tug I would make another trip to see if he was there. Informed tug would be as quick as possible and if tug could not wait, would return to England under own power. Tug said she could only wait a short while. On going in for fifth time engines began to go badly and stopped altogether before reaching point of embarkation. Engines got going again and we went alongside and collected about 24 more French soldiers. There was no sign of British officer and Price reported to me that French on the Mole told him he had gone. I sent Price up on to the Mole to make enquiries. Owing to the improbability of tug waiting for us, I only took 24 soldiers as a greater number would have made trip back to England under own power too hazardous. Just after passing lighthouse at end of harbour, engines stopped again. Noticed we were close to W.D. craft (later found to be HAIG) who I imagined from her position was watching us and would/
206 123 would be able to assist us if necessary and realised that we were the last English boat leaving harbour. Could not get engine of LADY CABLE to start but after a short while W.D. boat came nearly alongside her engines were running and making considerable noise. Their action then appeared light. to me suspicious - she appeared to be undamaged in the half By now dawn was nearly breaking. When W.D. boat came close to us I ordered one of my crew - Cadet Rating Price - to board her. He managed to jump aboard but the two boats drifted apart. Price shouted that there was nobody aboard. Yet her engines were going - in neutral of course. Displaying great initiative and resourcefulness, Price was able to make HAIG go slow ahead and was able to steer her close enough to LADY CABLE for me to jump aboard. Our first efforts to get a line between the two boats were unsuccessful. The operation was made difficult by the LADY CABLE being full of French soldiers who did not of course appreciate what was happening and were therefore unable to be of much assistance however willing they might be. After some time the two boats were secured but in order to pass a line it had been necessary for Price to swim from the HAIG to the LADY CABLE with it. Price did this on his own initiative and displayed great courage and efficiency. By the time the two boats were secure it was almost broad daylight and we were still very close to Dunkirk Harbour and appeared to have drifted inshore to the S.W. and were very close to the pall of smoke which shrouded the coast to the West of Dunkirk. On inspecting condition of HAIG found that she had a fair amount of water forward and was damaged extensively on the port bow. However, I got French poilus to work the pump in relays and towing LADY CABLE and going very slow ahead were able to make progress and prevent the water forward from rising. For some time we did not discover that each engine had a separate control lever and had been going ahead on one engine only. For several hours we made slow progress. Worsall was trying to get LADY CABLE's engine to start again and Smith was steering her. I left most of the French in LADY CABLE. I saw a submarine half surface about half a mile ahead on one occasion and also a number of German aircraft passed close ahead of us. Luckily we were either not seen or not deemed of sufficient importance to attack. A French destroyer came and had a look at us but I did not signal to her as we were making fair progress. A flight of 3 Hurricanes flew low over us and later we saw Spitfires and Defiants, but luckily no German planes approached us. The starboard engine of HAIG packed up I think about 0730. I had not time to keep a detailed log of events. By this time Stoker Worsall had got engine of LADY CABLE to go again and I secured her alongside HAIG as towing her astern with only our port engine going was too difficult. For a considerable time we made very slow progress using engines of both boats. LADY CABLE's engine kept stopping, which made our progress very slow and steering difficult. At last/ French 4-funnelled light cruiser or large destroyer X 440 (I think) with bow wave painted on her, saw us and came up to help. I had/
INFIDENTIAL Dynam 346. 3/4/0/1384 197 From ... THE COMMANDING OFFICER, R.N. AIR STATION, FORD, NR. ARUNDEL, SUSSEX. Date ... 17th. June, 1940. No. 541. To ... THE VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER. (Copy to:- The Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth.) REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F. The attached reports made by ratings serving in the Motor Boats "Andora" and 275 during operation "Dynamo" are forwarded in accordance with C.P.G.O. No.1700. Paragraph I. 2. With reference to paragraph 2 of C.P.G.O. No. 1700, I have interrogated the crews of the motor boats concerned and consider that Able Seaman Strand acted with coolness and resource under fire in that he took charge of the boat when his officers and coxswain had been wounded and took action to enable identification of the boat to be effected. Rathanton VICE AUMIRAL CAPTAIN (A)+ 19 JUN 1940 DOVER Lynamo
ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940. 198 REPORT BY STOKER A. BENHAM, STOKER OF MOTOR BOAT, NO.275 P.M. 29th. Left Littlehampton and arrived Newhaven same evening, had a spot of bother before we were allowed to enter harbour and stay the night. A.M. 30th. Left Newhaven for Ramsgate arriving P.M. same day. Port Stern Gland was leaking badly had to be repacked on arrival, Refuelled and ready to sail. A.M. 31st. Was ordered to leave Ramsgate independently for Dunkirk. C.P.O. Leighton, Cox., A.B. Strand and Stoker Benham, crew. Left harbour and picked up convoy already leaving for Dunkirk. After about 2/2 to 3 hours out we had trouble again with Port Stern Gland and returned to harbour and repacked and tightened up both Stern Glands. A.M. lst. Was called again about 4.30 and ordered to sail and proceed to Dunkirk. Two Sub-Lientenants R.H.V.R. volunteered to come with us as their boat was unfit for the trip, and an extra Able Seaman came aboard with them for the trip. On the way to Dunkirk was kept busy, Able Seaman Strand watching for aircraft and myself tending engines, had no more trouble with Stern Glands, There was quite a considerable amount of aircraft about and our destroyers were continually repelling their attacks. Struck something below water starboard side which made the boat jump but no damage seemed to be done as the engine was running smoothly and we were not making water, so we carried oh. On sighting Dunkirk we saw two large ships loaded with soldiers steamin down the coast and all small craft following, so we decided to follow as there was nothing we could do there. After about 10 minutes steaming we saw a crowd of German áircraft in the air flying at a great height. About six detached themselves, and dived down at the two big ships. They did not release their bombs until they were almost on the ships, registered hits which sunk both ships quite close to each other. We were travelling at full speed and picked up 10 of the survivors which made the boat full. As the bombers were still very active in the vicinity, we decided it was best to leave with all possible speed for home. After about half to three-quarters of an hour we were mistaken for German Torpedo Boat by our own trawlers, who opened fire on us at close range. I saw C.P.O. Leighton leave the boat after a shell had wrecked the wheel house and Able Seaman Strand dashed forward to grab the wheel, I got on to the side and saw one of the trawlers bearing down on us as though it was going to ram us, she was just about a boat's length away when I jumped into the water, for it seemed impossible that she would miss us. But Strand must have swung boat around enough to clear. I was picked up by one of the boats after swimming around for a while. I dont know how long. I did not see any one else of the boat's crew until we arrived at Margate, when Able Seaman Strand came aboard the trawler I was on and spoke to me about the affair. The only....
212 199 Page 2 TO ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940. The only other person that I saw who was aboard the boat when we were fired on was a Frenchman and he was not interested as he had passed over the border. Able Seaman Strand reported himself and me by phone on arrival at Margate. 2nd. Reported to the Officer i/c and was given warrants for transfer to Littlehampton. Left A.M. and arrived at Littlehampton P.M. reported to Camp on arrival. (SIGNED) A. BENHAM , STOKER. shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order. On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared. Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours, naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer i/c decided to make back to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was being bombed but kept raiders off. After steaming back for approx. 4 hour saw three trawlers, 2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or was disregarded. Shot fired across bows, but still steaming fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about 1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and myself went over the side. Firing eased a little so I grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly see they were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O. Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2) belonging to crew of sunk transport. Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate. I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports, if any, had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did, Sun. 2nd. Stoker Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to Commander personally. (SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.
212A ENCLOSURE II. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.4 200 REPORT BY ABLE SEAMAN NO.275. L.F. STRAND - CREW OF MOTOR BOAT P.M. 29th. Left Littlehampton. Got permission, after much trouble to enter and stay night in Newhaven. A.M. 30th. Left Newhaven for Ramsgate and arrived P.M. - refuelled and awaited orders. A.M. 31st. At 4.30 A.M. ordered to leave Ramsgate independently, for Dunkirk. C.P.O. Leighton i/c, Stoker Benham and Able Seaman Strand. Outside harbour picked up convoy of small boats. 3 hours out approx. developed leak in Port Stern Gland. C.P.O. Lighton ordered me (Strand) to turn ship and return to Ramsgate. Arrived back in Ramsgate P.M. and had Gland repacked. A.M. 1st. 4.30 again ordered to Dunkirk. Before leaving & Sub- Lieutenants (R.N.V.R. volunteered to join boat as their engine had given them trouble. Got charts etc., and got under way. No convoy. Near Dunkirk, boat struck obstacle or shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order. On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared. Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours, naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer 1/c decided to make back to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was being bombed but kept raiders off. After steaming back for approx. $ hour saw three trawlers, 2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or was disregarded. Shot fired across bowa, but still steaming fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about 1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and myself went over the side. Firing eased a little ao I grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly are they were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O. Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2) Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred belonging to crew of sunk transport. us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate. I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports, if had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did, Sun. 2nd. Stoker any, Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to Commander personally. (SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.
201 ENCLOSURE III. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. June, 1940. REPORT BY LEADING SEAMAN H. COOK, COXSWAIN OF MOTOR BOAT "ANDORRA". 9th. May. Ordered to proceed to Newhaven, left approx. 1930 in company with 275, arrived Newhaven 2130 approx. stopped by examination vessel after about 2 hours of exchange of signals allowed to enter harbour. Boat running well. Oth.May. Officer in charge of boats gave orders to leave Newhaven at 0600 for Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate about 1630. Instructed to berth alongside West Wall. Filled boats with petrol, oil and water wireless and arms taken out of boats. Officer and T.A.G. making trip returned to Littlehampton. No further orders. Boat running well. 1st. May. Boat ready for sea, needed Officer and charts. Noticed and Officer looking at "Andorra". I asked him if he would take us to Dunkirk and he replied that he would be pleased to. At noon took whaler in tow and received provisions and 3 rifles and 100 rounds, left for Dunkirk. Boat running well at 1800 revs. Arrived at destination at 1630. Ran whaler alongside telling Papworth and Kettle to proceed inshore and lead with soldiers. About one minute after this order a raid started all vessels were under way in view of this we decided it would not be sensible to ferry as boats would have been smashed alongside owing to big surf. The whaler returned with 12 French soldiers. Took them aboard Andorra and sent whaler inshore again, raid was still on, whaler returned with II more French soldiers. They were also taken aboard Andorra making total load of 29 men and whalers in tow empty, decided whaler was too much for boat to tow so decided to slip it to another boat in need of a whaler. Raid had ceased. 1805 left Dunkirk for Ramsgate. Boat running well at 1800 revs. but load had robbed her of about 4 knots. About 12 miles out second raid started, 3 bombs dropped close astern badly shook boat, all aboard very cool. Decided to increase speed owing to the fact that we had no light for compass and wished to make Ramsgate before dark as we had no challenge signals. At about 2130 near North Goodwin Lighthouse, starboard port engine broke down;by this time it was pitch dark. C.E.R.A. Milford had been working on engine all this time and managed to get it running again. We were unable to find entrance owing to a warning in Ramsgate, no entrance lights were on. Arrived in Ramsgate harbour 0300 on the 1st. June, discharged 23 French soldiers. 1st. June. Working on engines, filling up and cleaning boat in general. Saw 275 leave harbour. 2nd. June Working on engines. 3rd. June. Working on engines A.M. Trial. P.M. engines running well, but boat not doing the proper speed. C.E.R.A. Milford decided the damage was outside the boat. 4th. June. Boat lifted, discovered port screw badly damaged, this was put right; boat given another trial and found to be back running at well. Reported to S.N.O. i/c at 1530 told to report 1700. Officer detailed to take us back to Littlehampton. Sub- 5th. June. 0900 left Ramsgate arrived Littlehampton 1900, boat running Lieutenant from Portsmouth. well except for bad petrol. (SIGNED) H. COOK. L/SEA.
COPY!/3 2024 OPERATION DYNAMO NARRATIVES BY PERSONNEL OF SMALL CRAFT. INDEX NAME OF VESSEL WRITTEN BY 1. TUG 87 Sub.Lieut. H.M. Davis, R.N.R. 2. M.B. BLUE BIRD If G.B. Eyre, R.N.V.R. 3. M.B. AURA # M.A. Chodzko, R.N.V.R. 4. M.B. BRITANNIA If S.D. Ward 5. M.B.'s CAVERSHAM and QUISISIANA If A.V. Weaver 6. M.B. LADY CABLE Lieut. B.S. Fidler, R.N.R. 7. M.B. EMPRESS Sub.Lieut. T.W. Betts, R.N.V.R. 8. M.B. SKYLARK If M.J.R. Yeatman, R.N.V.R. 9. M.B. SOUTHERN QUEEN # Demattos 0. M.B. PRINCESS LILLY # K.E.A. Bayley 1. M.B. SKYLARK VI Ct. Rating G.R. Price 2. H.M.M.B. WHITE BEAR Cd. Gunner E. Deacon, R.N. 3. H.M.S. DOLPHIN's Motor Boat Sub.Lieut. E.F. Cornish-Bowden, R.N. 4. WALTON and FRINTON Life Boat P.O. Tel. Cooley. 5. M.B. CORDELIA Sub.Lieut. C.A. Thompson 6. M.B. PELLAG II Lieut. Martino, R.N.V.R. STATEMENT BY 7. M.B. SKYLARK (Southend) Pensioner P.O. R.A. Smith 8. BOURNEMOUTH Life Boat L. Sea. H. Huntington 9. M.B. BONNY BELLE Sto. I. G.H. Rose O. EASTBOURNE Life Boat (Sto. J. Strangeways P/KX.95036 and (Sto. A.H. Shaw P/KX.94553 1. M.B. (Unknown) A.B. M.J. Stallard P/JX.154107 2. M.B. SEA FALCON L.Sea. A. Westbrook P/JX.131401 3. M.B. SKYLARK Sto. G. Bramhall P/KX.88343 4. M.B. COMMODORE Sto. Beech P/KX.90016 5. NEWHAVEN Life Boat (A.B. W.J. Morris P/JX.126097 (Sto.I W. Spray P/KX.87052 (0.S. T.E. White CDX.133 6, M.B. YSER Act. P.O. W.H. Achin JX.149919
216 204 OPERATION DYNAMO. 22 ENCLOSURE NO. 17. SHIP: BLUE BIRD - Motor Boat. OFFICER REPORTING: G.B. EYRE, SUB-LINUTENANT, R.N.V.R. On Saturday 1st June I received orders to proceed with Motor Boat BLUE BIRD to the M/S SANDOWN to be towed to Dunkirk. M/S SANDOWN was relieved by M/S EMPEROR OF INDIA and accordingly I changed to her. 2. On reaching Dunkirk it was found impossible to start engines of BLUE BIRD so she was not used and came back to Dover in tow. 3. The Lifeboat MARY SCOTT was working in conjunction with BLUE BIRD, but remained behind in Dunkirk to pick up EMPEROR OF INDIA's 1st Lieutenant who was on the pier, organising the troops to be embarked. Note: This officer was previously in command of A.L.C. No. 15, and had been employed ferrying troops off from Dunkirk beach for one day. When 8.9. CLAN MACALISTER (A.L.C. parent ship) was bombed and set on fire he returned to Dover in company with A.L.Cs. 3 and 8 to refuel and proceeded to the beaches on completion. A.L.C. No. 15 was driven on to the beach by the wash of a passing destroyer and as there was no hope of getting off, Sub-Lieutenant Eyre set fire to her and returned to Dover in due course in See ROIII, 12509 A.L.C. No. 3 and was then given Motor Boat BLUE BIRD.
218 206 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 4. SHIP: Motor Boat "Britannia". Officer/ Rating Reporting: S/L S.D. WARD. 1030 31 May 1940. Proceeded from Submarine Basin and made fast to H.M.T. "Fyldea" at buoy. 1355 31 May. Left in tow. 1150 1 June 1940. Arrive off Dunkirk. (Delay on passage due to Samson posts, cleats, etc. carrying away.) Cast off and proceed to Beach 1 mile East of harbour under heavy enemy bombing. Attempted to warp off 2 Launches aground by making fast line to sunken French destroyer "L'Adroit". 1300 Existing conditions of shoal water and falling tide made it impossible to load the launch directly from the beach three without going aground so "acquired" their dinghies and made launch fast to two sailing barges which were used throughout as a landing stage, the dinghies bringing men to the barges and the launch taking them out to "Fyldea" and other vessels. (Approximately 200 men were carried in the dinghies.) 1815 Returned to "Fyldea" now aground. Ran out kite wires to anchored barge and laid out trawlers X edge. 1845 "Fyldea" floated and proceeded in tow towards Dover. 0255 2nd June. Secured alongside Admiralty Pier to disembark troops. 0415 Secured alongside Prince of Wales Pier. Drew Savage Hillier Tester
219 207 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 5. SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "CAVERSHAM". MOTOR BOAT "QUISISTANA". TUG "SUN X". OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. A.V. WEAVER. Left H.M.S. KING ALFRED 29th May for Sheerness, whence took Motor Boat "Caversham" to Ramsgate. (Faulty engine caught fire during night.) 2. 31st May. "Caversham" acted as tender to Schuyts, then set off for Dunkirk, but sprang serious leak, and, pumps not working, returned to Ramsgate following morning. 3. 1st June. Took Motor Boat "Quisisiana" to Dunicirk loaded her with 1 Army Officer and 17 other ranks from beach. Fifteen miles from Dunkirk accepted tow from tug "Young Mun", and, being unable to restart engines off Brake buoy, was towed into Dover. 4. 3.30 p.m. was sent to tug "Sun X" (Ideut. Philpotts) which towed three boats to Dunkirk. (At destination Lieut. Philpotts left tug to act as beach master, and did not return to tug.) Boats loaded tug to capacity with French troops, and tug entered Dover at 8.30 a.m. 5. Please note that Motor Boat's crew worked admirably in very trying circumstances. Their names are - J. Clarke L. Seaman DJ.87012 W.C. Morgan Sto. I KX.88644 D. Soully 0/Seaman JX.175384 J. Curran 0/Seaman JX.176599 J. Hill 0/Seaman No number They are part of a special DRAKE party. Morgan is now in Deal Hospital with swollen ankles, the others went to Dover Transit Camp.
220 208 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 6 SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "LADY CABLE". OFFICER REPORTING: LIEUTENANT B.S. FIDLER, R.N.V.R. June 1st/2nd 1940. Left Dover 1705 towed by drifter "Golden Sunbeam". Arrived Dunkirk and cast off from "Golden Sunbeam" 0005 (about) arrived beach 0030 (about). Took two full loads to transports, left Dunkirk 0305 with troops for Ramsgate arriving 0815, disembarked troops and returned to Dover at 1130.
223 OPERATION DYNAMO * ENCLOSURE NO.8 211 SHIP:- M.B. SKYLARK MICHAEL STEVENS 4B. OFFICER:- SUB.LIEUTENANT M.J.R. YEATMAN, R.N.V.R. Friday, 31st May. Took charge of M/B. SKYLARK, overhauled engine, proceeded under tow of VRDEDA. Tow broke down - returned to port. Overhauled engines of one or two other M/B's. Saturday, 1st June.M/B. SKYLARK. Towed by RIGA to near Dunkirk. Transferred survivors to RIGA from French Destroyer, who had picked them up from torpedoed ship. RIGA returned to Dover, and I returned under own power by Kellet cut to Dover by about 10.0 p.m. Reported at CAMBER and returned to Granville Steps. Sunday, 2nd June. Transferred in charge of MICHAEL STEPHINS Lowestoft Lifeboat - 2 Stokers and 1 A.B. from Transit Camp for crew. Overhauled engines, fuelled and provisioned - proceeded under tow of Tug SUN XI. Arrived Dunkirk, after dark about 2230 hours. Entered harbour and went toward Eastern Mole. Rammed by M.T.B. without much damage. Went alongside Eastern Mole. With difficulty got 12 French soldiers aboard. Proceeded out to find tug which had disappeared, landed troops on trawler. Returned to harbour, being rammed by another M.T.B. on the way. Found Sloop (identification letters S.G. or s.c.). Owing to swish of tide she could not come alongside, so with the big engines of the lifeboat I pushed her alongside and went aboard to help make fast. Climbed on to Mole, which was being shelled, and by means of some forceful language and a rifle butt, Induced the French troops who were lying on the Mole to start down on to the Sloop. Once a few had started they all began to go down. Got 52 into the lifeboat and cast off to try and find tug. After searching for some time, and being hit again by a fishing boat, I decided at 0100 to return under my own power to Dover. Reported a floating mine by morse to a destroyer about 6 miles E.S.E. of N. Goodwin Light Vessel. Reached Dover and landed French troops at 0710. Returned lifeboat and reported at Submarine Camber at 0730. Shrapnel on Eastern Mole was mostly at first confined to outer end of Mole until the Sloop drew alongside. Then the range shortened, I got the definite impression that someone had been spotting for the guns, as the direction of fire shortened very rapidly and accurately. Suffered no casualties though among my contingent. In fact, I found considerably greater risk from the movements of allied craft then from Nazi shelling. There seemed to be no attempt to keep any rule of the road. Outside the Harbour had one attack from a Nazi plane. No hits, but she may just have been having a blind shot at four of us who were altogether. (Sgd) MARWOOD J. B. YEATMAN. Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. H.M.S. KING ALFRED.
224 OPERATION DYNAMO 212 ENCLOSURE No.9. SHIP: Motor Boat SOUTHERN QUEEN. Officer Reporting: SUB.-LIEUT. DEMATTOS. Went with Sun XI. Picked up about 200. All French and women and children. 2 Loads from East Mole, 2 from small West Mole. Back 10 miles under own power, then tow by Sun X. Suggest Officers speaking French to send Frenchmen into boats, as they refuse to go in small boats. First trip towed by VREDE, broke down and we towed her clear of shipping and returned. Second trip towed by RIKA, sent back under own power from 2 miles off Dunkirk.
225 OPERATION DYNAMO. ENCLOSURE NO. 10213 SHIP: PRINCESS LILLY. OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT K.R.A. BAYLEY, R.N.V.R. On 30th May I left Sheerness in PRINCESS LILLY, a river pleasure boat. I started with 19 other small boats escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the ships had no compass. During the early hours of 31st the trawler left us. We managed to continue on our way by following other vessels and H.M. Ships presumably bound for Dunkirk. We gave assistance and several tows to motor boats during the passage. Arrived Dunkirk on Friday morning and proceeded to embark a small number of English troops and 4 naval ratings and many Frenchmen from the beach 1½ miles East of Dunkirk. I took these to merchant vessels lying nearby. 2. I was told more British troops were at La Panne - so I proceeded there. The falling tide and lee shore made rescue difficult, so I picked up a derelict ship's boat to which I made fast some 90 fathoms of warp and rowed her to the beach paying out the warp. Took British troops aboard and overhauled on line back to ship. The strain eventually proved too great for the anchor cable which broke and the ship drifted ashore fouling her properllor with the warp. Had great difficulty in clearing properllor and only succeeded in getting her to work "Astern". 3. Refloated boat and took troops on board and ferried them by going "backwards" to H.M.S. MOSQUITO. Engine was losing compression after about 40 hours running and propellor was fouled. 4. Shore batteries got our range so abandoned ship when we got aboard MOSQUITO as she was moving off. 5. MOSQUITO brought us back, arriving Saturday morning, 1st June, 1940. 6. We had repeated bombings, machine gunning and shrapnel. My 2 civilian crew and one naval rating, age 192, who had only been 2 days in the Navy, behaved perfectly under very difficult conditions.
226 214 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 11 SHIP: "SKYLARK" 6. RATING REPORTING: CADET RATING G.R. PRICE Crew: Cadet Rating A.I. Foster and Stoker Roberts. The "Skylark" was towed over by H.M.D. "FYLDEA" and eventually arrived at Dunkirk at about 0700 on Saturday June 1st. The boats were sent to the beaches. "Skylark" towed in the "Eastbourne Belle" whose motor had broken down. The "Eastbourne Belle" ran onto a submerged car and the towing Line became entangled around the screw of the "Skylark". C.R.Foster went over the side and cut this rope free. We then proceeded to the beach and picked up about 70 British Tommies and one officer. These were taken aboard the "Fyldea". 2. Second trip we picked up the crew of the Ferry "Nymph" (motor boat) and about 60 British Tommies. These were taken aboard the "Fyldea". 3. Third trip, picked up about 70 French troops. We returned to the "Fyldea" but found she was aground. After an unsuccessful attempt to tow the "Fyldea" off I decided to try and get the French I had away - we were being bombed. 4. I left the harbour and met H.M.S. WORCESTER outside. I put the troops aboard her and started to return to the "Fyldea" for the others but the "Skylark's" motor stezedup. We therefore abandoned the "Skylark" which was slightly on fike and embarked on the WORCESTER. The WORCESTER was seriously bombed and Cadet Rating Foster slightly injured by a machine gun bullet - he was the only casualty.
2186 OPERATION DYNAMO. NCLOSURE NO. 13. SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN's MOTOR BOAT. OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT B.F. CORNISH-BOWDEN, R.N. In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT's Power Boat, this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday, 31st May. 2. Soon after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel, EXCELLENT's boat signalled to the effect that she was very doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a following sea. 3. The two boats were routed to leave the usual course for Dunkirk some 20 miles from that place and proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and Bray. About 15 miles N.W. of Bray an enemy floating mine was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire. This, however, failed, and the position of the mine was later reported. 4. Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely by an inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at 1100 and after enquiring as to our whereabouts proceeded to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol from H.M.S. HEBE. 5. Owing to the shortage of petrol I returned to Bray and to try and fill my tank. However, this again proved impossible and so I decided to use what petrol I had and ask for a tow home when the tank was dry. 6. EXCELLENT's boat had damaged herself on a submerged object and was close inshore. I was about to go to her aid when I was informed that the depth of the water was only 3 feet and I was ordered not to go in tooclose. I therefore was unable to be of any assistance in embarking troops from the improvised pier. I therefore asked ships present if I could be of any assistance to them, but unfortunately they were already getting all that they needed. 7. I then proceeded back to La Panne but when almost there the enemy started shelling the ships which immediately weighed and proceeded to Bray. On return to Bray, I consulted the Senior Officer present as to my usefulness and it was decided that I should obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel when I hoped to obtain a tow back to Dunkirk with a full tank and where I believed I could be more usefully employed. 8. I left Bray at 1415 in tow of the dan-laying yacht SARGOSSA, arriving at Dover Harbour at about 1930, since when I have been employed towing and carrying despatches in Dover harbour. (Signed) E.F. Cornish-Bowden Sub-Lieutenant, R.N. [OVER
217 The following crew from H.M.S. DOLPHIN were manning the motor boat:- Leading Seaman A.R. Cobley, P/JX 130128 Leading Stoker H.A. Saunders, K 22903. Leading Stoker A.J. Morris, XX 84267 Able Seaman R.W. Rowlands, P/JX 146949 Able Seaman P.B. Stephans, SSX 90361
OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 14 2100 Ship: R.N.L.B. "WALTON AND FRINTON" E.M.E.D. Written up by Petty Officer Tel.Cooley Officer Reporting: Commanding Officer Lt.R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R. Sat. June 1st. 0400 Manned Walton Life Boat RNLB - EMID. 0500 To sea. 0536 Made to signal Station "where are drifters that are going to tow lifeboats". From signal station "go alongside". 0550 Lay off drifters. Proceeding to make enqui- ries as regards intentions. 0600 Small boats informed what we are doing. 0614 Secure alongside P.O. steps; Captain ashore for enquiries. 0630 Left P.O. steps. 0645 Lay off drifters. 0715 Taken in tow by drifter "Thrifty". Ships in our tow Southend-on-Sea Lifeboat "Abdybeauclark" lifeboat Walton E.N.E.D. Lifeboat P.E.42 "Summer" Maid" Motor Boat "White Bear". 0725 Left Dover. 0729 Tow slipped second from end. 0733 Tow O.K. Under way - sighted South Goodwin Light Vessel at 0730. 0900 To passing sloop "are there many more to take off". 0901 Reply "Yes". 0910 Destroyers wash parted tow. 0928 Tow O.K. Under way. 1027 Passed E. Goodwins. 1256 Captain H-M passed. 1404 Destroyer H-15 passing broke tow on last boat in line. 1407 Tow O.K. Under way. 1502 Tow broken on last boat in line. 1516 Tow O.K. Under way. 1517 3 planes attacked around. Sloop bombed. 1522 Mine sighted floating. Mine fired at. Result uncertain. 1537 Ybonne et Moabe of Gravelin French Flag with one English soldier with Brenn Gun onboard heading England. Turned on communica- ting with us and headed towards Dunkirk. (Boat just mentioned was sunk about 1615 by bombs direct hit.) 1550 Searching around among very large wreckage. 1605 Turned back for few miles while drifter reports and await results of message by W/T regarding ship in distress further up main 1615 Bombed channel. by (about 30) many planes - 1 trawler sunk (not in our company). Bomb dropped by our trawler and broke tow throwing men in water. Men picked up. Our planes arrived. 1624 Proceeding to investigate Trawler. 1635 Air attack still on. 1652 Bombs heard dropping Drifters heading home 1640 Departed planes. without leaving orders. Tried to communicate with drifters to ask their intentions with Aldis but could get no reply. Tried to collect small boats and motioned life-boat to stop (scored out in log "Comd. Gunner onboard") Lifeboat went on but stopped by Aldis. 1710/
1710 Only one boat in company (Abdy Beau Clark Aldeburgh lifeboat). 1718 Life-boat "Rosa Wood" Shoreham joined company. One drifter ahead. 1726 To drifter "what are your intentions". 1730 To drifter "Stop". "Rosa Wood" and "Phyllis Lunn" informs us he intends returning Dover. 1736 Three British planes over. 1740 Closed drifter. Hang on in position until last, most other boats and one drifter out of sight. Speed boat informs us soldiers still ashore but refuses to come aboard. 1821 Planes attacking with bombs. 1837 To trawler "Have you had any reply". From trawler "No". 1838 Planes still bombing. 1 ship damaged not our fleet. Captain decided to try on his own to reach Dunkirk. The two life-boats in company turned back. Bombs still dropping. Being machine-gunned 1849. last and stays hit. 1854 Captain carrying on to Dunkirk single-handed. 1859 24 fighters overhead. 1908 I have been deserted please stand by no. To Motor Boat with Liteut.Commander on board. Put us on our course. 1926 Covered white conspicuous parts of ship with oilskins. From Cairmoorn I.B. "Steer S.558 for Dunkirk". S.S. "Sun 4" Duniciric 2012. 2023 One friendly plane overhead. 2044 Proceeding to Dunkirk beach. Arrived Duniciple with "Sun 4". Message from M.B. "Inadvisable to go in". Captain boarded "Sun 4" 2100. 2108 Proceeding to Dunkirk. Arrived Dunicive harbour 2135. No one on piers. Picked up "Sun 4" one rowing boat to go to beach. Lieut. Mead billed. Boats in beach taking ratings from shore all night (run aground). 0423 2nd June Sunday left Dunkirk. (Scored out in log 'believed to be last boat in Life-boat in tow of "Sun 4% 0450 "Sun 4" ran aground. 0456 Under way. Rope round starboard propellor of life-boat. 0923 Passed S. Goodwins. 1010 Arrived Ramagate - "Sun 4ª anchored, Life- boat secured astern. 1030 (approx.) Soldiers landed. 1310 Left anchorage for Ramagate Harbour S.B. and secured alongside "Princess London" at 1325. 1412 1424 Arrived and secured to "Sun 4" off Ramagate. Left P.L. Steamboat. 2023 Left anchorage Ramsgate Harbour and secured Collected all spare ammunition laying. alongside H.M.S. DWARF 2035. Monday 3rd June 0930 Reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate for permission Told sail to Dover. Permission granted. to Commander by Cook, Piermaster prior to sailing. inform to Naval Officer-in-Charge to report Dover. Sailed from Ramsgate 1026 an Informed Condr. Cook and asked him to route 1112 Dover. Passed Occ. fog bell. 1157 1354 To examination steamer off Dover. "Walton Passed South break. 1355 Told to proceed. Arrived Dover and secured Life-boat. May I enter". alongside.
CONFIDENTIAL Binlohage 232 Subject. REPORT ON DEATH OF LIEUT. R.H.MEAD, R.N.V.R. 220 25 From The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth. Date **** 20th June 1940. No. 554/07026. To .... THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. (COPY TO:- COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, PORTSMOUTH). Unit, on behaviour of Lieutenant R.H.Mead, R.N.V.R., Meikle, R.N. the the Commanding Officer of the D/C Motor Boat The attached report by Lieutenant E.F. Hamilton- during Operation Dynamo, is forwarded in accordance with Confidential Portsmouth General SyPBrind Order, 1700. L.B. VICE ADMIRA CAPTAIN. an 24 JUN 1940 * ope DOVER tian led - ced ope it. ant pa, Lynami ide Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia # was working with Sport engine only - which, owing to being overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 troops were carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the beach. 1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover. 1130) Shelled by shore 2030 Entered Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of 1145) batteries. Wales Pier (Inner Harbour). 2100 Reported to LYNX office. Friday/
FROM The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit. 233 DATE 15th June 1940. 25 TO The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Lieutenant R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R. I regret who to report the death of Lieutenant Mead, R.N.V.R. 1940, at 2108, was killed in action at Dunkirk on R.H. Saturday, 1st June or was wounded and died later. 2. H.M. D/C to the M.B. had been reported out of action 31st May 1940, and Duty Staff Officer, Staff of Flag p.m. Officer commanding Dover, the Commanding Officer and Lieutenant Mead were ordered to find themselves boats if possible, and to assume command. 3. Lieutenant Mead had assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON AND FRINTON, and having been towed across to near Dun- I.B. kirk with other small boats, had pressed on to Dunkirk, unaccom- panied except by one other boat, the remainder of the small boats having turned back. This can be clearly seen from the extracts of the log kept in the boat, a copy of which has already been forwarded to the Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover, through the Officer Commanding Rescue Boats. an 4. While in the harbour itself, a shrapnel shell burst on the water nearby, killing Lieutenant Mead. The remainder ope of the life-boat's crew, under a Lieutenant R.N.R. from the Tug SUN IV continued ferrying soldiers to larger ships until tian 0423, when Tug SUN IV towed the boat back to Ramsgate. 5. The two members of my crew who accompanied Lieutenant led Mead, Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley and Able Seaman MacManus, have informed me that the "determination and guts" of Lieutenant Mead in persisting in his efforts to rally the smaller boats and to push on to Dunkirk, were outstanding. This was reported by me to the Staff Officer of the Rescue boats at Dover, who interviewed the crew, and has a copy of the log of the life-boat. ced 6. I understand that the boat underwent many air attacks ops from the time that the tow came within about 20 miles of the it. coast. 7. This report is submitted in order to confirm that the ant gallantry of Lieutenant R.H. Mead, (as previously reported by me, pa, ade P.T.O. Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia being 18 was working with Sport engine only - which, owing to were overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 beach. troops carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the 1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover. 1130) Shelled by shore 2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of Wales Pier (Inner Harbour). 2100 Reported to LYNX office. Friday/
verbally, Commander-in-Charge together with of Rescue a well copy Boats of the at boat's Dover) log, to officially decisions of recognised, the life-boat's as crew. as the loyalty may to his be to the the ETATE LLENTH 17 JUN1940 Vere 07026 ISLAND LIEUTENANT. R.N.
239 225 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 15. SHIP: "GORDELIA". MOTOR BOAT. OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. C.A. THOMPSON, R.N.V.R. ROUGH LOG (ALL TIMINGS ARE APPROXIMATE). CREW: S.A. WADE A.J. WHALE in Ratings J. JARVIE civilian Wednesday 29.5.40. 1100 Took over from civilian who brought the above M.B. round from Sheerness. 1400) Stand by. Fuelling and 1700) provision. 1705 Proceeded to submarine base to collect three Belgian vessels (Yser, Sambre and another). 1745 Returned to Prince of Wales Pier. 1800 Proceeded out of Dover in rear of above 3 Belgian boats which were being towed by the drifter G.R.1740, one whaler in tow. 1815 Propellers of one Belgian boat fouled by tow roge (this vessel returned to Dover). 1830 Proceeded in company with G.R.1740 and two Belgian boats. 2000 Destroyer takes one Belgian boat in tow. 2010 Tied up astern of remaining pontoon and proceeded towed by G.R.1740. 2330 Machine gun fire in proximity. Thursday 30.5.40. 0530 Nearing the beach to the west of la Fanne. 0545 Commodore Fergusson came on board and commenced directing operations for the evacuation of troops from beach to waiting destroyers etc. 0800 Commodore Fergusson transferred to another craft. 0800- Occupied in ferrying boats containing troopa 1030 between the beach and waiting vessels. Attendant whaler manned by two stokers and civilian was occupied in going inshore to load up with troops, then taking them out to waiting vessels. 1045 Starboard propeler fouled by rope net alongaide destroyer while disembarking troops. Further operations impossible. Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia # was working with "port engine only - which, owing to being overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 troops were carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the beach. 1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover. 1130) Shelled by shore 2030 Entered Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of 1145) batteries. Wales Pier (Inner Harbour). 2100 Reported to LYNX office. Friday/
242 OPERATION 22? NO.17 SHIP:- SKYLARK, SOUTHEND. STATEMENT BY & Date of Date of Name arrival Service leaving at Dover Boats. ø P.O. R.A.Smith Pensiorer Two trips to East of Dunkirk. On the last occasion were A.B. J.T.Wheatley subjected to fire from coastal batteries, bombing and machine A.B. H.T.Morgan gun fire, during which the French Destroyer T.41 was sunk. E.R.A. N.Grother 23.V. Picked up 50 survivors. 4.VI.40 Returned to Dover 31/5 with A.B. S.Fleming boat unseawcr thy and took over Folkestone Belle. The A.B. F.Thackrey crew were splendid.
243 221 OPERATION NO.16 SHIP:- THOMAS KIRKWRIGHT LIFEBOAT. BOURNEMOUTH. REPORTING:- L.S. HUNTINGTON IN COMMAND Date of Date of Name arrival Service leaving at Dover Boats L.S. H.Huntington. 26th. A.B. E.H.Bletchford. 25.V. First trip to Dunkirk bombed Sto. R.Gibbs. and machine gunned by air- craft and kept off shore by gunfiro from shore latteries. 27th. Second time over, just the same, but got troops off the beach East of Dunkirk. Tried to save survivors from 2 or 3 trawlers blown up. One French other English. 2nd. Third trip towed over by & tug which alipped them 15 miles from Dunkirk. Made their own way to Dunkirk forrying troops from harbour (on own initiative as there were no troops on the beach), between 2315 and 0430. Found a Lieutenant Commander Higham,R.N. on board a ship in Dunkirk Harbour the ROUEN and brought him to Pyince of Vales Pier. While taking him off were fired at by German soldiers at 25-40 yards, no casualties. French sailors on board. Germans had automatic guns on stands and rifles. When trying to get out found one engine completely burnt out and boat making water. Returned to Dover on one engine.
OPERATION 230 NO. 19 SHIP:- BONNY BELLE NOTOR BOAT. STATEMENT BY 0 Name Service 0 G.H. Rose, Sto. 1st C1. Went away in Bonny Selle with 2 0.S. they didn't know much about steering the boat Two ord. Sea. so he had to drive and stoor it at the same time. 2nd June, then they arrived Dunkirk a shell burst on the pier and sank a drifter alongside & jetty. Sto. went astern to avoid shapnel and can on to submerged wreckage. & Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. came on board at Dignitire and Sub. dived over the side and took & rope to the pior. The Sub.Lieutenant got some soldiers to give him & pull off the wreak. Enemy opened fires like daylight due to the blaze. Soldiers lot go of the rope and tookdover. The Sub-Lieutenant who vas on the plar with the soldiers told the boats crew to abandon ship and got out of 10 18 soon as possible. The two C.S. got on the side of the boat to get out and nearly turned the boat over. Sto. had to get out after and leave kit and steaming dt and everything. Sto. lose walked on the wreckage, which man't deep, only up to waist then he was taken off wrockage by a lifeboat thenos in a trawler thence to Dover.
, OPERATION 231 NO. 20 SHIP:- LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). STATEMENT BY $ Name Service Sunday 2nd Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II. Lifeboat "JANS HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). Cast $ Sto. J. Strangeways off outside and told to go to a landing right PKX 95036. up the other and of the harbour. Found they 0 Sto. A.H. Shaw were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck PKX 94553. E.R.PONSON@Y the tug or drifter they were going alongside One Sub.Lieut, R.N.V.R. so they wont on up harbour. 31g enough hote One A.B. in the lifeboat bows to crawl through. Drenohed One O.S. with spray caused by shrapnel. Às proceeding also there. up harbour sear a destroyer out & small rowing All came back. boat down with two Fyench sailors in 11. They took these to the first destroyer. Tent right up harbour: saw Fyench troops but they refused to be taken off. So they came back out of the harbour to tug anchored outside. Then they were told to collect troops from anywhere. Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour. Nearly every boat had gone by then. So they got up sail and tried to get out of harbour. Several destroyers passed, they waved and destroyers waved back: one hour after dawn when they were just about giving up hopes & M.T.B. came. Towed them out, engine started, then they were alipped and after about 4 miles the engine began to smoke and she caught fire. No one in sight and two M.T.B's came along to resque. Took them aboard. Lifeboat in l'lames, returned a.m. 31at.
2?? OPERATION SHIP:- MOTOR BOAT - TENDER TO SKOOT "HILDA". STATEMENT BY $ Crew Service & A.B. M.J.Stallard Detailed for small motor boats and went on board PJX 154107. the HILDA, a Dutch Skoot: taken round to Dgal 31/5 1100ca 19 years of age.and took two ships lifeboats and six motor boats A Sub.Lieut. R.N.V.R. inntow. Stallard was transferred into & small Motor Boat and towed across to La Panne. Passing An Q.S. Dunkerque were mixed up with an de raid. Then 1600 The old man from Deal he arrived at La Panne there was heavy firing mentioned in a Sunday and shells were dropping in the sea all around, paper. firing at the destroyers. They were told to go inshore, when it was found that the propeller was foul with rope. They were towed inshore by another motor boat and were able to clear the propeller. Picked up a pontoon full of soldiers and returned to HILDA with them. Pontoon was so badly damaged that it had to be left. Found a naval cutter. Took outter in tow. Tyansforred from motor boat to cutter to help soldiers into boat. Went into beach and a passing destroyer beached them. By then motor boat and cutter were full of soldiers. Breakers soon had motor boat and cutter swamped and outter full of water. Stallard had to tell the soldiers and push and pull them out of the boat, as their equipment was caught up. Ordered them to push the boat off, doing his best with an oar, After they got the cutter off, all the soldiers got back in and Stallard told them to get the cars. There were only 4 oars. The Officer and 0.3. abandoned the motor boat and came aboard the outter. The old man stayed in his motor boat. The cutter was 1815 ca rowed by Stallard and aix soldiers out to HILDA. He stayed in the outter. This was after 6.0 Dalla and shelling was going on. One shell landed 2200 200 yards ahead of them inshore and wiped out a group of 6 soldiers waiting. By about 10.0 Dalla one part of the beach had been cleared by Stallard's party. They then moved to a jetty made of Army lorries. Took a boatload of soldiers to "MOSQUITO". They were told by an afficer in MOSQUITO that on the next trip they would get a bottle of bear each. This was the first drink Saturday morning they had since leaving Deal. Could hardly see the sky for aeroplanes. One Spitfire attacked 37 German aeroplanes, brough down one and came down himself into the sea. Started bombing 0800ce: 12/gune immediately. Hit Keith; Captain Pin than ordered boat to pick up survivors. After picking these up: SKIPJACK was hit. Went down in two seconds. 0849ca: Went over to pick up SKIRJACK'S survivors. There were some soldiers but very few of crew. Returned to HILDA. Ordered to take up tow astern. HILDA was full of survivors in bad state, one died. HILDA tried to get away from the heavy bombing. Tried to get clear. One salvo of bombs fall each side of motor boat. Finally /14000 escaped about
OPERATION NO.21 (Conta) SHIP:- MOTOR BOAT - TENDER TO SKOOT "HILDA". Crew Service 31 1400 after seeing two more ships go down. Stallard had a very lucky escape. Had his fingers opened out and a bit of shrapnel went between. Scotia As they got past Dunkerque & sloop and troopship and a minesweeper steamed past and were later bombed and sunk. Captain of HILDA out the two motor boats adrift - Stallard in one - to pick up survivors. M.B. out of action: propeller fouled. Got under way in tow of the other M.B. this also broke down. Were then picked up by HILDA and brought to Ramsgate and proceeded to Dover after disembarking troops at Remsgate: arriving at Dover, anchored off Dover. A German minelaying plane came over gadgime 03 00 Ca and dropped mines, one landing 20 yards astern of them. It went off next norning when swept. 0800 Then he went to Deal, Ramsgate and returned to Dover.
248 OPERATION 231 NO.22 SHIP:- NAME NOT KNOWN. SEA FALCON (?). About 40 ft. open M/B, grey. (Similar to FAIRY NYMPH) STATEMENT BY $ Crew Service $ L.S. A.Westbrook 30th. Left Dover after dark with L.S. in charge. PJX 131401. Towed in company with about 5 others by tug - two O.S. Smith. tows. Foremost boat of opposite four broke Sto. Hardwick. adrift, swung back, hit stern sheets and broke main feed pipe. Proceeded on reserve tank, repeatedly filling from main tank. Arrived. off beach near Gravelines and ran gauntlet of fire from beach as far as Dunkirk and on to Bray. Filled boat by grounding and pulling in soldiers - - continued from dawn Friday to dusk Friday. Stores being swamped had nothing to eat. Only water was in few bottles filled at pier. On last trip rising tide and wind swamped boat, carried it broadside on. Crew abandoned boat and swam ashore. Other boats could not get near enough to get a line across. About 60 carried each trip. Continual bombing all day. Smith found a cance, floated it, paddled with piece of driftwood to Walmer Lifeboat. Others walked along beach to pier and boarded destroyer. Beach littered with guns and equipment and fairly crowded with soldiers, mostly French. On pier shrapnel was bursting over, marching troops several casualties. Saw ship hit by bomb in distance in La Pame direction. Saw 5 or 6 dive bombers brought down by destroyers. A number of boats working off beach all day.
250 OPERATION 23] NO.24 SHIP:- M/B. COMMODORE STATEMENT BY $ Crew Service Sub. Lt. Thompson, R.N.R. Left Dover in COMMODORES - open N/B. A.B. 31st at dawn. Towed in two tows of two. Sto. Beech Went to beach near Dunkirk harbour cast off PKX 90016. tow, collected troops from beach and forried Ord.Sea. them to WORCESTER. Soldiers climbed about themselves. Took about 20 a trip. About one hour for the round trip. Here machine gunned - boat was holed and made so much water 18 had to be beached and abandoned. Joined the EASTBOURNE QUEEN by using & rowing boat found on the beach. Troops boarded EASTBOURNE QUICKN by wading out up to their shoulders. EASTBOURNE Quest took about 40 to the WORCESTER which then (about 1600/1st) went alongside pier. WORCESTER was continually bombed, fragemts from near misses killed 3 and wounded several nearby. Left Dunicier in WORCESTER about 1700/1800. Beach littered with equipment. Pier bombed, beach shelled, sheltered under dereliot boat.
251 237 OPERATION NO.25 SHIP:- NEWHAVEN LIFEBOAT. STATEMENTS BY Ø Crew Service Coxswain 0 A.B. W.J.MOrris Left Dover 0500/31/V started work on the beach. P/JX 126097. Tried twelve places, but draught too great. At & Sto.1 W.Spray one place two and a half hours on beach. Tried PKX.87052. various ways of getting off, shifting weight &c. After getting off saw 3 British and 4 French O.S. T.E.White soldiers washed out of a boat being towed: saved CDX 133. 2 British and 3 French. A rough pier had been p This was all the crew. made with lorries and tins and they used this for troops. It was now very dark. They saw all little boats moving off in tow. They, however, took a load of troops off a barge aground and put them on board a trawler. Then saw more boats moving and decided it was time to move away. Tried to get a tow. Started on & Northerly course (compass) for 2½ hrs. Aprived at some light and decided to wait till dawn as German planes were dropping flares all round them. Something like a fast M.B. passed them. At daylight they saw ships to Southward and went over to see where they were. They picked up a tow as starboard engine broke down. Came back. Prepared boat for next trip. Left Dover 2/7: towed over. Told to go into Dunkirk harbour. Went alongside jetty. Shelled heavily all the time, about 2230. Took one boatload off. Told by a Lt.Car. to go to a troopship run aground in the harbour. Made about 6 trips to troopship, one to harbour. Shrapnel and tracer bullets firing at German machines. On the 6th trip they were told to take up tow astern with troops on board. Saved about 600 to 800 troops, all told. what he couldn't do before. This was Morris Went 2nd time with intention of making up for first experience as Coxswain of any boat, but had been Acting Q.M. of a destroyer.
252 233 OPERATION NO.26 SHIP:- M/BOAT YSER STATEMENT BY 0 Date of Date of Name arrival Service leaving at Dover Boats. Boat Yser Ø Act. P.O. W.H.Achin, C/JX 149919 Belgian Canal Boat. Joined S.P.O. A.V.Mullans boat at Gravesend. A.B. W.Goodier A.B. K.Baily 1st Trip. to Calais was A.B.* R.A.Stuart fired on and trawler ordered out to join trawler that towed them in. (All boats * joined for only got 160 or so that time) 3rd trp. 2nd Trip to beach by "Nieuport" bucy ferrying troops. On the 28 Tomay way back to Dover rescued troops from Brighton Belle 3rd Trip to beach North of Dunkirk. Ferried troops off till all ships had left. Occasional bombing and shelling off shore. Told to follow boat ahead by Officer in a motor boat for they were loaded with about 160 troops. Boat ahead in error of navigation (boat like Silver Queen with a Sub.Lieutenant in charge) led them to Calais where they were shelled from beach, but managed to make Ramsgate. Used a pocket compass from one of the R.E.s Boat's compass all steel round was just "locked". 4th Trip crew was split up, S.P.O. & 1 A.B., Goodier went to Blue Bell for Dunkirk and ferried troops. Rest of crew manned Hastings Lifeboat and went to Dunkirk. Occasional bombing and shelling.
25a 241 ST. CLEARS 428 LADY BRASSEY 130 DANLAYERS. FOREMOST 87 ST. OLAF GULZAR GREY MIST M.T.B's, M.A.S.B's. SARGASSO D.C.M.B. & W.D.M.I. +39 COMFORT NAUTILUS M.T.B. 107 447 STARLIGHT RAYS M.T.B. 68 405 THOMSONS M.T.B. 67, M.T.B. 16 , ECHO SOUNDING YACHTS. M.T.B. 1020 459 CONIDAW M.A.S.B. 10/474 D.C.M.B., 484 CHICO M.A.S.B. 61468 RAMSGATE M.L. 100 x476 M.A.S.M. No. 7x479 MOTOR BOATS. W.D.M.L's 8V487 8 491 SMALL CRAFT UNDER CONTROL OF DOVER M/S COMMAND. 193 CONTRABAND CONTROL BASE VEYMOUTH. LL. TRAWLERS. M.B. FORTY TWO THOMAS BARTLETT LIGHTER Y.C.72 INVERFORTH X M.B. TWO RIVERS LORD INCHCAPE M.L. MERMAIDEN OUR BAIRNS LORD GREY REPORTS OF SMALL CRAFT RECEIVED CLYTHNESS FROM, CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, RELONZO PORTSMOUTH. RESTRIVO H.M.S. ST. FAGAN OROPESA TRAWLERS. D/C MOTOR BOATS. H.M.S.EXCELLENT'S A.A. MOTOR BOAT BOTANIC HOPPER GALLION'S REACH FYLDEA MARETTA VESSELS OWNED BY LONDON & ARLEY ROCHESTER TRADING CO. LTD. POLLY JOHNSON 1493. BROCK THYRA CALVI PUDGE JOHN CATTLING CABBY SEINE "M" DRIFTERS DETAILED FROM YARMOUTH. FEASIBLE SWIFT WING REED JOHN AND NORAH GENIUS ALCMARIA LORD HOOD LORD BARHAM OVERFALLS JEANNIE MACINTOSH GULA REWGA x TARANSAY
260 650 Troops. June. ntd) At 2000 received orders (F.O.C. Dover Most Secret Memorandum No. 246 A.14/0/40.) to proceed to vicinity of Bray to lend support and covering fire. Owing to low visibility and necessity for oiling before starting "Locust" was one hour late in position. Took ship close inshore but coast was very misty and no targets could be seen. Heavy small arm firing was heard in Bray, which was also being shelled from apparently the village of Furnes. After some waiting "Locust" was fired at by machine guns from a position approximately half way between the foreshore and Adinkerke. This was replied to by 0.5 machine gun fire from "Locust". Further fire was directed at the ship from the direction of La Panne, and this was answered with 4" H.E. I then attempted to silence shore batteries which were shelling Bray from Furnes, and 30 rounds of 4" H.E were fired. This ap- parently achieved some result as the firing died down, and several explosions causing fires were observed. d June. 0300. Ceased firing and proceeded. 0350. Tug "Fossa" signalled she was ashore and required assist- ance. In attempting to close, "Locust" took the ground but same off again, and I decided it was impracticable to close "Fossa". A Motor Landing craft was therefore hailed and brought alongside and her troops, 51 in mumber were transferred to "Locust", and the M.L.C was sent to rescue the crew of the Tug, and any troops she may had on board. 0450. Proceeded, and at 0545 overtook a small armed yacht in the charge of a Major R.A, who had 28 mén with him. Party was trans- ferred to "Locust", and Major gave information that covering fire of "Locust" had been effective. 1005. Arrived Dover, and disembarked 79 Troops. 1820. Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk Harbour. 2223. Went alongside East Mole, Dunkirk and commenced embarkation of British Troops. 2302. Sailed with 650 British and 70 French Troops. June. 0408. Arrived Dover. 1845. Slipped and proceeded. 2300. Anchored off Dunkirk Mole and commenced embarking troops from Motor boats. June. 0015. Demolition party consisting of Lieutenant Holdsworth and 6 men left by Motor boat for wreck of "Mosquito". On arrival it was found that the wreck was submerged to the level of the battery deck, and despite repeated efforts of Lieut. Holdsworth who attempted to enter the Captain's Quarters, the forward charge had to be placed in the wheelhouse. The after charge was placed in the after magazine. The demolition party were working under great difficulties due to the movement of the wreck in the swell, and to the darkness, and great initiativewas displayed by P.T.O. Lieut.
CONFIDENTIAL. Dyram 95. 263 From. The Commanding Officer. Sheldrake. 248 Date 2nd June. 1940. Reference. RDA/0/37. To The Flag Officer in Charge. Harwich. Subject Meritorious Service Awards. 1. Operations in which Sheldrake has been involved during the evacuation from Dunkirk has enabled certain officers and men to distinguish themselves in H.M. Ship under my command. The circumstances are outlined below so that the necessary action may be taken by you should you concur. 2. Sheldrake was ordered by C-in-C. Nore. to proceed to the KWINTE BUOY and destroy the Asdic Apparatus of one of our destroyers wrecked in the vicinity 3. On arrival 'Wakeful' was found to be lying completely capsized with her stern resting on the bottom and only the forefoot visible, which appeared from oil marks on the waterline to be semi buoyant. A Boat under the command of my First Lieutènant, Lieutenant HUGH WILLIAM MACKENZIE ROSE, R.N. was sent over and placed a berthing wire running from the bull ring round the keel, to the bull ring the other side. It was intended to hang depth charges on this 'necklace' and countèrmine them with other depth charges, using Bickfords fuze. 4. For the second trip with two depth charges, it was necessary to tow the whaler to the wreck on the end of a grass and to pump out oil fuel from Sheldrake to counteract the effects of ground swell and strong tide, which made operations difficult, particularly on the weather side. Good seamanship and stout hearts succeeded in placing one charge on either bow in the required spot without damage to the boat. Throughout the operation all were acutely aware that we were only 10 miles from Dunkirk with aircraft of both sides passing the ship at intervals, and that at bomb in the vicinity of a boat would have countermined the depth charges that they were placing. 5. On the whalers return to the ship for the demolition charges, C-in-C. Nore's signal "Cancel my 1044 area now mined" was received. It confirmed our own fears that we had been working in a mined area. It seemed a pity to leave the job half done and it was decided to sink the wreck by gunfire using D.A. fuze asnear the required area as possible, and if the ship sunk before the charges placed had been exploded, to fire them with a countermining pattern of depth charges. She sank inside ten mintes, and using the escaping bubbles from the punctured stem as an aiming mark, a pattern was dropped, of which the centre charge produced a plune that told us that the desired effect had been achieved. The only damage to Sheldrake was a few light fittings on the Stokers Messdeck caused by the capstan engine 'whipping' on the light deck above. 6. Acting Petty Officer Albert Edward Jackson, Official No. 0/JX/125587 In addition to Lieutenant Rose I wish particularly to mention my Chief Boatswains Mate, whose energy din the whaler was largely responsible that the depth charges were placed. 7. for those concerned was the resoue of the survivors of H.M.Trawler The second incident which I submit should receive. recognition ST. ACHTLLEUS, which had been mined. After a night spent dodging M.T.B. torpedoes with H.M.S. Widgeon, aircraft closed and informed me stress that survivors the in the waters bearing 340 degrees I wish particularly to the were efficiency of this flight of three aircraft in leadin me to continued scene. to After passing the signal most expeditiously, two aircraft the ship circle over the area while one of their number flew past indicating
corvettes. 2. An In interesting view account of attack by E. Boats, on of the as considered 3. an Anti Further E that Boat they escort as the should best proposed for be East fitted Coast employment with of placed to turn in bows such on a to position the enemy that the the ahead. is for D.O.D. (H) 8.6.40. Noted with interest. 2. With reference to para. 11 of the report, ships have been informed that E. Boats operate in conjunction with aircraft. (C.-in-C., Nore's signal 1754/31/5 and R.A.D. Home Fleet's 1815/31/5). It should be obvious that the tactics of the E. Boat are largely governed by those of her quarry. 3. With reference to para. 12, an alternative explanation of the flares sighted by SHELDRAKE on 2nd June is that they were flares towed by aircraft on a course giving little change of bearing. 4. The provision of a 20 inch searchlight in the KITTIWAKE class was recommended by D.T.S.D. in M.F. 7511/39. D.T.S.D. is trying to obtain this paper and will raise this question separately. The use of a S/L may, however, assist the attack of other E boats and it is difficult to site it so that it will bear ahead without dazzling bridge personnel. While DIRECTOR OF TRAINING & STAFF DUTIES DIVISION. 13.6.40. 13. a paper all , outi bont Exprimu Nolind with interest DAISW is to orring to dati. 2. Concern win Don (Hj: pma 3.5 some form of Saminique in is only Dur with Mai shall may be name on our coin. Chan anough. 13.6.40
2. continued 7. inshore between Nieuport intention of waiting Trapegeer GP.OCC. remained Having re-embarked Bk. the GP.OCC. demolition and party at 0017 I until 0230 with the or with a faint hope until that R either left patrol, by appearing from on their return be journey able to engage. None were the half light to been established before met, and the dawn suffly of aircraft had not I was clear of the path 8. experience nith M.T.B. during few days, in the hope own In submitting the above report the last I would like to add my methods of operating may be up. from such scraps of unexplained built evidence a complete picture of that the 9. During the night of Thursday 30th. May. I was stationed on bow of Vega and Blyskawica, with Widgeon on the other bow, patroll between S Buoy and the West Hinder. At 2330 I was examined closel a Seaplane (floats) fitted with a radial engine. NO attack was made at 0120 the French destroyer Siroco" was torpedoed by BS. with mile of us. Four pairs of red flares had been observed at 0119 and rocket at 0147. 10. During the night of Friday 31st. May. I was patrolling under the orders of Widgeon, stationed on her quarter, between R and SB At 2335 an M.T.B. was observed keeping station at 15 knots on the quarter of Sheldrake, distant about 3 cables. Before fire could be opened I heard the 'plop' of the torpedo at 2336, and realising too close to turn and ram and would expose my beam dangerously I away to comb the track. The torpedo passed a ship's length under stern and up the starboard side. Widgeon had seen the attack, and ma was increased to 20 knots. Corvettes have no searchlight cannot be which point to attacks night and with of aircraft Widgeon the range, turned the glasses guns on turned 10" returned, at these to in before 2000ft. ram from the to small an investigate. the beam course doing innocent burning targets bridge. of her N.E. the navigation any small difficult, light, At I At followed. harm. 2340 0040 boat and I flares torpedoes At lights, орепей which as are At 0030 they only 0041 were I an course fire managed were visible aircraft seen a with heard torpedo west. astern to small throug illum passe to At not tra an passed down my port side, and two more alarm by siren, but I saw 03 At 0055 and 0100 Widgeon sounded an course S, at na ation following lights. the There continuous were no zig-zags further of widgeon till daylight. one aircraft passed overhead, course attacks, but I spent At 0135 one aircraft passed overhead, 130degs. 2000ft. a hecti 11. Points that emerge from the above are :- (a) made by lying in wait ahead 01 attacks of the target are not and always stopped. be used at the moment g (b) (c) attack. small flares may sometimes been wate aircraft co-operate and phosephorosconce of llary assisted which gives by the ships marked away speeds. continued
SECRET Dyroms 123. 10/19/01 B14/0/ Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Kingfisher". 5th. May 1940 254 265 No. 0/1/40. Commander in Chief, Nore. Copies to V.A. Dover, Captain A/S,Portland. bject:- Report of proceedings. Submi tted. th K.R.and 1132. The A.I. following report of proceedings is forwarded in accordance dnesday 29th May P.M.Received orders to land Experimental gear and remove Experimental Dome, and be ready to sail for Dover by 0600 Thursday 30th. This operation took less time than was anticipated due to the good work of the Scientific Staff and my Midnight. Ship's Company. Reported ready to proceed at nursday 30th May 0001 Proceeded. 0900 Arrived at Dover and secured to No. 19 Buoy. 1317 Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk by Route"X" with large Motor Boat "Sambra" in tow. Speed 12 Knots. Magnetic Mine exploded by Sweeper 1 mile ahead of Kingfisher in swept channel 3 miles E. of Dover. 1930 Arrived at Malo Beach, Dunkirk and embarked troops using Motor Boat and Whaler and "Sambra". 2300 Proceeded with 180 British troops on board. iday 31st May 0510 Alongside Ramsgate Pier. Troops disembarked. Had to wait for the tide before going alongside. 0533 Proceeded back to Dunkirk. 0800 Arrived Malo Beach and embarked troops with Motor A boat and Whaler. No other boats were available. 1100 Had 80 troops on board One seriously wounded, and 20 French. It was nearing low water and a small ship which had been beached and which the boats had been using as a jetty was of no further use. There was sufficient surf on the beach to make embarkation extremely difficult and produce considerable risk of losing my only means of transport, also there were no more British troops ready to come had started to shell the beach and the troops had ta off probably due to the fact that the Germans I decided to proceed with what I had and return taken cover. as soon as possible by which time the state of 1440 Alongside the Margate Pier, disembarked troops. tide would be more favourable. 1835 1518 Proceeded Malo back Beach. to Dunkirk. Where there appeared to small be very Arrived and a large number of Tugs and boats few troops waiting off. Decided to try the Harbour but 1900 High bombing raid commenced, engaged enemy had to wait for a berth Aircraft and considered Kingfisher shot one down
| Signalman. | S Thompson | # If C/JX.133505) ) | Motor Boat Cox'ns |
| unner) | M/Boat |
SECRET FROM SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA. Dynamo 132. 282 DATE 5th June, 1940. 267 TO EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA. 31st JUNE 3rd. On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed. On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwith to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle" and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route "X" at full speed. When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 1 1/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I endeavoured to obtain confirmation that "Royal Eagle" was meant to be included in the signal - but not obtaining this I signalled that I intended to proceed and left at 1530. "Royal Eagle" was the first ship to arrive off the beaches at 2200 and I directed the Commanding Officer to anchor a full 1½ miles from the breakwater so as to leave room for the ships coming on to anchor astern. On arrival a French drifter with some French soldiers arrived alongside and disembarked them but by 2320 I had seen no sign of any boats although by then some six or more sweepers had arrived and I made a signal to V.A. Dover to this effect. A signal was received that all sweepers were to be underway and clear of Dunkirk by 0300, and I presumed that this was on account of the shelling which was fairly continuous, though in the dark not very accurate. It seemed as if the enemy had registered on a wreck a few hundred yards away from "Royal Eagle" as most of the shells fell between "Royal Eagle" and the wreck or just around the wreck. "Royal Eagle" was spattered with shell splinters and I kept the ship's company below the upper deck as much as possible. A little before 0300 "Royal Eagle" commenced to weigh but two boats sighted inshore with no ship near them and they were injured and their lighter which was manned by naval the ratings. last closed were occupants picked up as well as two seriously but Eagle" to clear. Owing to the absence of boats embarked. only some "Royal men from eventually a power left the beaches about 0330 being 120 French one troops ship and half a dozen British had been defect "Royal was put Eagle" at immediate notice for steam for half only. returned to Sheerness and owing to a speed boiler DH. M. S. "Golden Eagle" arrived that her at Commanding 1320 and Officer I assumed at once was command in a rather transferred overwraught her and state finding I sent him soon on received leave and for "Golden Eagle" of to proceed the ship to myself. Dunkirk Orders to arrive were at 0100/3 crossing and by take route off "X" troops near"FG" from buoy the Mole. I sighted I sailed a motor at torpedo 1725. Whilst boat which, after passing at some
Dyrams 37. 291 Copy. Commodore's Office, 273 Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks, 31st May, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May, 1940. The times are approximate only. 1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N. 1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time. 1430 :. Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship Finella. On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several CONFIDENTIAL Dynama 269 286 nmenced in which some ne harbour and ships in "Grenade" washit, and so intense that my FROM. The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness. pening in the immediate DATE... 7th June 1940. ng between raids and nder Clouston, R.N., who To. The Commodore in Charge Sheerness. ed her survivors came on SUBJECT. Senior Officer, Thames Local ges were passed by this Defence Flotilla. when a bomb dropped down n. from "Finella" to "Crested I wish to recommend the 'S from the damaged ships Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence Flotilla, Commander E.C. Cordeaux R.N. proceed by Commander M.B. M.R.C.S. L.R.C.P. for his great judgment and initiative, and also for y and steering an Easterly iously until, as I learnt his unflagging energy shown during the ther, four of which hit the whole period of operation Dynamo. idles) were still functioning His gallant action in going ile, but I soon discovered overboard when the whaler capsized y from amidships right aft. alongside ROYAL EAGLE and remaining and the sides were in. inthe water for over an hour to clear ;enant Jones, reported on the propellor of the motor boat are15, adly burnt) to say that I consider, worthy of the greatest ur, so decided to beach the praise. .P's and C.B's. were ie P.O. Telegraphist. to the beach where she CAPTAIN,- EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER. ed ground and with the wind
Dyroms 37. 291 Copy. Commodore's Office, 273 Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks, 31st May, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May, 1940. The times are approximate only. 1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N. 1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time. 1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship inella On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several SECRET Думашо 271 289 menced in which some C.O. ROYAL EAGLE's letter of 5thJune '40 concerning Report of Proceedings. e harbour and ships in "Grenade" was hit, and so intense that my ening in the immediate II THE EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER g between raids and SHEERNESS. der Clouston, R.N., who ed her survivors came on Submitted, ges were passed by this I entirely concur with the remarks made by Lieut. Commander Farrow. when a bomb dropped down The officers and men mentioned from l. "Finella" to "Crested also came under my own personal notice and I can fully endorse the recommendations made. B from the damaged ships proceed by Commander I would like also to mention the coxswain (leading seaman) of H.M.S. / and steering an Easterly GREYHOUND'S motor boat, which after busly until, as I learnt H.M.S. GREYHOUND had been bombed worked ther, four of which hit the for a time from the ROYAL EAGLE. iles) were still functioning The name of this rating is not known, but I was much struck by his ile, but I soon discovered / from amidships right aft. coolness and devotion to duty. ad the sides were in. Deall vill enant Jones, reported on adly burnt) to say that e, so decided to beach the P's and C.B's. were COMMANDER R.N. e P.O. Telegraphist. SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE to the beach where she FLOTILLA. a ground and with the wind aft
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of, Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 280 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE". C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R. May 29. 1800. Left Hamble. May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100. Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area. 2130. Left Dover in company. May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach. 0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did this, collected her boats, took them in to beach and brought soldiers to her. The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH" and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat. As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small boat, transferred to us and took over the ship. Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and 1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While transmitting Commodore's orders. on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy air all ships to move half a mile attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off to signal "HEBE" to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to bombers, so was in action, but close enough for him on while she was her if necessary. Later, put proceed pass orders and to received orders from him Was to given to board "HEBE" off G.H.Q. personnel. La Panne and take Orders to hand and to Lord lay Gort. off pier. Proceeded Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with Gutsell, C.P.O. and hand and 1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact G.H.Q. took on G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting soldiers.
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). F I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to O.Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the sir and shelling from the land. 280 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE". C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R. May 29. 1800. Left Hamble. May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100. Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area. 2130. Left Dover in company. May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach. 0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did this, collected her boats, took them in to beach and brought soldiers to her. The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH" and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat. As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small boat, transferred to us and took over the ship. Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and 1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While transmitting Commodore's orders. on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy air ships to move half a mile attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off to signal "HEBE" all to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to while she if necessary. Later, put proceed bombers, so was was in action, but close enough for him on pass orders "HEBE" and to her received orders from him Was to given to board La Panne and take Orders off G.H.Q. to hand personnel. to Lord Gort. off pier. Proceeded Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with and lay Gutsell, G.H.Q. C.P.O. and hand and 1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact took on G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting soldiers.
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). I should Officer like to T.Jones draw special attention to the magnificent work 295 of Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to S.N.O.Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 282 Report of Inner Patrol Yacht "CARYANDA". C.O,Lt. D.A.L.Kings,R.N.V.R. May 29. 1743. Left Hamble. May 30. 0840. Arrived Dover. May 31. 0600. Arrived at Bray beach and ordered to proceed to La Panne beach and take soldiers off beach to larger craft lying farther out. Then ordered by Commodore on board "BOUNTY" to return to La Panne and try to get small boats to transport troops from the shore to us. Returned to Bray with three small boats and proceeded to embark troops. 1100. Ordered by destroyer "KEITH" to proceed to Outer Ruytingen Buoy and meet tow of small craft coming over and take them to the beaches. 1830. Arrived at the beaches with small craft. Embarked troops again until 2045. Was then ordered to stand off shore. 2100. Ordered to return to Dover. June 1. Arrived Dover 0614. Estimated number of soldiers taken from beaches, 250. June 2 & 3. Lying Dover. June 4. 1200. Left Dover. June 5. 1200. Arrived Hamble. Sgd. D.A.L.Kings, Lieut. R.N.V.R. Commanding Officer, 6th. June 1940. T.W. A.B. J.26827, and H.H.Smith, Acting P.O., in P/JX the 125648 collect troops off there. They and did sank. Schofield, volunteered to take a small rowing boat so under to fire beach and boat hit a submerged object until their about for some time and supporting returned some to troops their that ship. were They in afterwards the volunteered to take After swimming water, they were picked up another and boat, but there were none available. Sgd. D.A.L.Kings, Lieut. R.N.V.R.
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). I should Officer like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of, Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Remsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. I 283 Report of Inner Patrol Yacht "AHOLA". C.O. Lt. J.F.Alexander, RNVR. May 29th. 1740. Left Hamble. May 30th. 0840. Arrived Dover. 2150. Left Dover. May 31st. 0600. Arrived off beach at Bray. Hailed by destroyer and told to proceed 5 miles to Eastward and assist embarkation from beach. As we were leaving, hailed by somebody else and todid to stay where we were and assist embarkation from beach by towing boats off to destroyers. Until 1700 approx., stood by beach taking whalers, army pontoons and various craft in tow to destroyers and other larger craft. During this period was able to rescue several men flung into the water from a capsized pontoon. About 1700 ordered by sloop lying off La Panne to collect whaler if possible and return. Obtained whaler from destroyer off Bray. Hailed by Commodore avoid "BOUNTY" and told to get off as many men as possible between 2100 &0400. Returned to sloop off La Panne. Ordered to take whaler inshore and bring off G.H.Q.Staff. Towed whaler close inshore and slipped. Subsequently whaler returned with C.in C's kit and valet. Closed "BOUNTY" for orders and told to take whaler to "THELE". Handed over whaler to "THELE". 1900 to 2200. Meeting boats rowing off from pontoon at La Panne, taking their troops aboard and transhipping one occasion when no soldiers would take a boat back, two to sloop. These boats were rowed back by soldiers. On members of my crew, H.H. Hollands, Petty Officer, J.20594 and F.H.Finch, Able Seaman, SSX.23237 volunteered to take this boat back. This they accomplished and subsequently returned safely. During this period I took off After approx- imately 300 men, mostly between 2100 and 2200. dark, no more troops came off. I estimate that I took off about 00 soldiers, in all, from the beaches. June 1st. Closed beach and found troops lining the and shore, with 0300. some wading into the water. Five swam off were pulled 0400. Closed "BOUNTY" and was ordered to return. aboard. 1150. Arrived Dover. June 2nd. & 3rd. Lying Dover. June 4th. Left Dover for Hamble 1200 June 5th. Arrived Hamble 1200. Sgd. J.F. Alexander, Lt., R.N.VR 5th. June 1940.
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). of, I should Petty Officer like to T.Jones draw special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin ships accompanied and me and reported to .O.Ramsgate, volunteering services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to S.N.O.Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 306 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "EILA II". - 285 Commanding Officer, Lieut. E.H.Batt, R.N.V.R. y 29. 1750. Left Hamble. y 30. 0600. Arrived Dover. 2130. Left Dover. LV 31. 0545. Arrived alongside destroyer "KEITH" off Bray and embarked officer to assist in organisation. Ordered to La Panne beach to assist in transporting troops to destroyers "KEITH" & "EMERALD" and sloop "HEBE". Several trips were made between La Panne & Bray;when shelling and bombing became too severe, I was ordered to proceed to sea- ward. I afterwards returned to La Panne and embarked more troops. 1100 Observed Dover Patrol Vessel "BLUE BIRD" well aground and in a precarious position with both her propellom foul; I lowered my dinghy and ran a tow to her, and succeeded in getting her off. I was under frequent shellfire during the whole operation. I estimate that the amount of troops taken off did not exceed 200, as it was some time after arrival before I disembarked the Naval Officer and wass able to start embarking troops. Although I anchored close in at both places I found that the troops seemed unable to man the boats. The wind was blowing onshore which made it extremly difficult to get off to us. I called for volunteers to man the motor launch and Engr, T.M.Weir and A.B. Tozer responded but were unable to make the beach owing to the heavy sea and the launch was eventually lost. Special mention may be made of Engr. Weir who rowed in a small dinghy and rescued three soldiers under fire. Later on in the day the Engr. XXX reported a serious leak in the "EILA II" and at one time the water was level with the engine room floor. I reported the matter to a destroyer who ordered me to proceed to seaward and 2130. The Naval Officer in charge of operations on to the locate the damage. continue but from my Engr's report of the leak doubtful and as my "ANKH" asked if my vessel was in a fit condition port was out of commission, I was then if she reverse would gear survive further operations. I was ordered to proceed to Dover and arrived the 1 0700. From theis time until 5th. June lying in Dover Harbour. me 5 Folkestone Yachts, Gate observed a small ship's boat 1130. Being left Dover for Hamble and while passing about through 2 unable to locate the other Inner Patrol (continued)
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). of, Petty throughout operations. I should Officer like to T.Jones draw special attention to the magnificent work 295 2 The following Potter-Irwin officers, Lieut. Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and ships accompanied and me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. Good 290 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "LAHLOO". C.O., Lieut.J.V.Ould, R.N.V.R. y 29. 1740. Slipped and proceeded to sea from Hamble. Took station with yachts of Inner Patrol on course for Dover. y 30 Made fast on arrival in Dover Harbour. Depth Charges removed, 1050 hours. 1940. Cast off and, proceeding from Harbour, took station with yachts. Crossed Channel in station with yachts. 81 0610. Arrived off Zuydcoote. Destroyer signalled to lay off close to beach and tow boat loads of soldiers as they pulled out from beach to destroyers. Carried on with this work for some hours taking many boat loads in tow. In the course of this operation was told that a boat had overturned in seas which had now got up somewhat considerably. Hurried round stern of a destroyer and found quantities of men struggling in the water. Managed to save seven of them and put them aboard a destroyer. (In point of fact I believe only one of the boat load was lost.) Carried on towing as before while being bombed at frequent intervals, by enemy aircraft. During the afternoon, Commodore Stephenson in "BOUNTY" ordered me to proceed to La Panne and close destroyers off Went shore. alongside H.M.S.HEBE who gave me a boat with three ratings and told me to lay off La Panne and put this boat 1700. Lay off La panne as ordered and, while waiting for Lord ashore to take off General Lord Gort. Gort, took several boat loads of soldiers who had rowed 1830. Boat brought out General Lord Gort and his Aide and de out from shore and put them aboard destroyers. put him aboard me. H.M.S.HEBE. It appeared to me that bombed enemy Camp out to He came aboard and I took him over the knew of his departureas they shelled the beach and over it as he left and a very large enemy formation flew and him aboard the HEBE. Continued to lay nightfall, off by which time they were Had had no coming bombed as I put La Panne as instructed, taking only off out further had La him soldiers away Panne at told from intervals orders me until in him the to in lay except early with consequence With alongside morning about that first the two him daylight of and flaet men which told the per were me destroyer I I if lost found boat. he to going had lay touch myself further KEITH had to with shell any near who I.P. instructions. Yacht in the "SERIOLA" dark. Found and he had closed not to so see told him we would remain around there until further orders. (Continued).
REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). of I should Petty Officer like to T.Jones draw special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295 2 The Potter-Irwin following officers, Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and ships accompanied and me and reported to Ramsgate, Our names accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. volunteering were services on the following day if required. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air. and shelling from the land. - REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "LAHLOO" (Contd). 201 ne 1 0400 (about). Destroyer signalled us to collect various empty boats which were drifting about and tow them inshore While doing this we were bombed and continually shot at by enemy fighter aircraft. It occurred to me as poetic justice that I who had been on night bombing duty at Dunkirk in the last war should now be well bombed myself in this war. It should here be mentioned that my crew behaved splendidly throughout. None of them had been properly under fire before and they took the almost continuous bombing, shelling and shooting up without a trace of nerves. My Engr., D.Brewer was invaluable in sending and receiving signals under these circumstances. Collected several boats as ordered and also picked up several boat loads of soldiers from shore again, putting them aboard a sloop. While putting the last of these aboard a bomb fell right alongside and a splinter broke the fore sky- light and hit one of my crew on his steel helmet. This ship seemed to bear a charmed life and though we had several bombs alongside I can only think that they were so close as to be ineffective. While carrying on the work I have mentioned, we were closed by BOUNTY with the Commodore aboard who was good enough to express pleasure at finding that we were still carrying on. He told SERIOLA to take BOUNTY in tow and ordered me to slip the boats I was towing and to lead him back to Ramagate. 0815. Set course over Route X for Ramsgate. On the way back we were again attacked, being bombed, and shot up by fighter aircraft. Off the North Goodwin Light a launch I had the alongside Commodore's orders to precede him to Ramsgate for and, we came and bold me to return to Dunkirk, but had point of for my five nights, as before we left which in fact, crew and I were almost all in Hamble we had had been no sleep on patrol under special circumstances had made us do without sleep for two nights. 1500. Made fast at Ramsgate. ine 2 We were told that our aboard boats my were not Refuelled at Ramsgate. further duty. I stayed told was fast enough for so swollen with what I am of SERIOLA, boat shock, as that my but the my 00.'s name down with theirs BOUNTY to take AND a fast a the but none was available. une 3 & 4. In Ramsgate awaiting orders. (Continued).
BORT FROM SUB.LIEUT.T.E.GODMAN, R.N.V.R. ON EVACUATION OF -317 NKIRK ON FRIDAY, MAY 31st. AND SATURDAY, JUNE 1st. N 1 times approximate. 296 12 29. Transferred to "SERIOLA" as assistant officer to Lieut. D.A. Dawson, R.N.V.R. A report on the actions taken by "SERIOLA" is being submitted by the C.O., Lieut, Dawson, up to 1600 31st. May, when I was transferred to "NONETA" at the request of Sub. Lieut. Potter Irwin, R.N.V.R., C.0.of "NONETA". The latter boat had been damaged by a bomb, one soldier being killed and the Petty Officer of "NONETA" badly wounded. A report on "NONETA's" return journey to Ramsgate is being submitted by the C.O. 31 2200. Arrived Ramsgate, landed soldiers and wounded Petty Officer for medical attention and berthed ship. e 1 0530. Reported to naval authorities on East Pier and received orders to take command of steam naval pinnace and carry out similar operations at La Panne and Bray to those undertaken on "SERIOLA" the previous day. The crew consisted of P.O. Morrison, one engineer, one stoker and two The pinnace was provosioned, fuelled for six hours' steaming at six knots and one chart provided with the route to be followed plotted on it. 0600. Cast off. 0830. The firebox fan broke down and it was no longer possible to keep a sufficient head of steam to maintain full speed. The engineer of a passing trawler effected a temporary repair, gave us three further sacks of coal to replenish our supply and took the boat in tow. 1030. The tow rope having parted for the third time, the trawler signalled us to request to be taken in tow by another trawler a short distance behind. This was done and consequently our fuel reserves were maintained for the work to be carried out at Dunkirk. 1200. Slipped the tow line outside the harbour which the trawler entered, and proceeded towards La Panne in the wake of a trawler which had several small craft in tow and which started embarkation operations from the beach near the harbour. Bombers had been active from about 1100 but no direct hits had been observed. Now, many enemy dive bombers appeared and attacked a sloop off the harbour entrance which had opened rapid A.A. fire but, after three or four salvos of bombs had been dropped, the sloop half submerged and ceased fire. Owing to the number of available craft already on that vicinity to take off survivors, we proceeded on our course. (Continued).
EPORT OF SUB. LIEUT. T.E. GODMAN, R.N.V.R. (Contd). 2. 318 297 objectives were to have bombed been and sunk. a trawler a few miles astern 12 ntinued S their operations Panne Dutch coaster throughout the the White day. her also thought at intervals Enemy bombers and artillery st West of La was in a attendance flying soldiers from Ensign three motor boats embarking th beach. As previous experience had already shown, the to craft llect e the troops owing to the shallowness of the water boats and had the e craft in use were unable to get closeenough in shore with the result that two of the motor and On the other hand, the coaster's to do so and soon were left high two life dry oats ship. Enquiries were made if any assistance further had been and were successfully ferrying could the be troops to endered he but, under the above conditions, nothing a could few done. There were a number of deserted Thames the Barges, beach. A of hich from one of these was taken and rowed ashore French e were afloat but the rest of which were on while the innace on the beach since yesterday and at on e a inghy lay off in deep water. A great number of point soldiers were inloading rider a rode up and enquired for what information purpose all on this the barges had ad arrived barge which had a cargo of foodstuffs. Here, "rench despatch brought. He was told that we had no had been been After several trips in the dinghy the pinnace at point. with about 15 men, all the British soldiers who made were if filled on that part of the beach. Enquiries were be obtained the that time to be evacuated but no information could left to French whether were this was to be done or if they were circumstances, to be as to evacuation of the B.E.F. Under these at the cover the soldiers were taken on board. The trawler the view of no French of the beach was then closed with but it Eastern end the soldiers and of collecting more, did not wish was found that she had The gone pinnace took a kedge anchor out assistance to transferring aground and therefore seawards to help her could A take if transfer motor any over, any the be auxiliary boat, more. rendered, the ship but soldiers. pull it "MARSAYRU", engine appeared herself it was A had floating endeavoured was that off was been then and, they closed, installed, Thames sighted as were to no found find all Barge further drifting with sailing to another was be a view in with closed barges working ship of the crew, taking to to only. see tide and unoccupied. This One A.B. and soldier were taken of as the order the and started up. and the P.O. left in charge pinnace dinghy with taken orders in tow to lay off until the (Continued). motor boat returned.
EPORT OF SUB.LIEUT.T.E.GODMAN, R.N.V.R. (Contd). 3.4 298 he information had been fre information had beend wh received that there were more British "MARSAYRU" was then anchored off the Western end of the beach 12 the coaster was already at anchor. t that this latter ship had also gone aground and ufficient troops to fill the ship had already been taken on oard. Approximately 24 men were then ferried to the motor oat and there was insufficient room to take any more. Remaining oldiers ashore were told to make for Dunkirk Harbour where ;roop carriers were still coming in, although few of the troops ppeared to know of this. No assistance could be rendered to the Paster which was waiting for the tide to float her and at 1700 e weighed anchor, cast the dinghy adrift and proceeded eastwards to pick up the pinnace. This was found to be anchored near the harbour, but had been deserted, together with the chart and several items of gear. It was decidied to leave the pinnace there in case it might be of use for further evacuation parties and we started for Ramsgate. A merchant vessel came out of the harbour astern of us and was bombed but no hits were made on either of us. A deserted motor boat was passed but as we were being bombed at the time it was decided not to investigate. At 19.00 we closed the 'Dogger Bank' a Dutch coaster flying the white ensign who gave us some fuel and the courses required to reach Ramsgate. It was also observed that the pinnace's crew were on board and the C.O. was requested to detained the P.O. for questionong on arrival but as he was making for Margate he did not consider it advisable to do this and the matter was consequently dropped. We then proceeded on our course but by 23.00 had not picked up the N. Goodwin light vessel. A Belgian fishing fleet was closed to enquire our position but they could not understand English, also a passing vessel was called up by flashing the deckhouse light but he evidently did not observe us as he did not stop. A course was then set for a red, conical flashing bouy (R) S.E. of us and at 23.30 we made fast to it and watches were detailed till the morning. June 2 04.00. A sloop sighted us and informed a trawler close by of our position. 04.30. The trawler closed us and took us in tow to Ramsgate. 08.00. The soldiers were landed at the Town steps and the boat was berthed. Later the previous crew took the boat over again on instructions from N.O.i/C., the A.B. returned to his former ship which was in the harbour and I reported back to H.M.Y.Seriola. (Continued).
Dryrans 162 329 H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett", 307 7th June, 1940. 29th May, 1940. 1525 Set Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel". course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy. 30th May, 1940. Patrol from S. Falls Buoy to W. Hinden. 0615 sighted wreck 2 miles west of T. Buoy. Sent boat away to and 3 soldiers' kitbags. No survivors. investigate. Picked up some of H.M.S. "Gracie Fields" papers Resumed patrol. 31st May, 1940. Patrol between S. Falls and West Hinden. 1st June, 1940. Patrol S. Buoy to W. Hinden. 0245 "Argyleshire" sunk by torpedo 1/2 mile East of S. Buoy. "Stella Rigel" picked up 5 survivors. Joined by "Cape Argona" resumed patrol. 2nd June, 1940. Patrol to W. Hinden. 1055 Aircraft attack, heavily bombed and machine gunned. 1130 Again attacked. No damage. "Cape Argona" damaged. 1530 "Blackburn Rovers" and "Westella" sunk by torpedo. Resumed patrol. 3rd June, 1940. Patrol to N. Goodwin. 0320 Received message return to Base with "Stella Rigel". Berthed 1210. I should like to record that the general behaviour of Skipper Taylor and the whole of the ships company was at all times magnificent under most trying conditions. W.H.Ward LERNOR LIEUTENANT, R.N.V.R.
Dynam 162. 33 o H.M.S. HARWICH. "Stella Rigel" 308 7th June, 1940. Report on patrol of May 29th to June 3rd. At 1515 on May 29th we cast off and proceeded out of harbour, icking up H.M.T. "Argyleshire" and "Lord Melchett" outside. We rrived off the position at 2200 and proceeded to our patrol area east f S. Buoy. At 0030 on May 30th we observed a vessel stopped which got nder way as we approached. As she did not answer the challenge we ave chase and eventually stopped her. She proved to be M.S. "Ricas" rom Ostend with troops. At 0750 we picked up "Argyleshire" and returned to area of Walls Buoy for patrol. At 2100 on 31st May we received orders from "Argyleshire" to atrol S. Buoy to West Hinder during night. At 0230, having lost touch with "Argyleshire", and having efound her, we were closing when she was struck by a torpedo and sank mmediately. We lowered the boat and recovered five survivors, the two fficers, the signalman, wireless operator and one Able Seaman. During he course of the rescue a plane circled overhead and dropped parachute lares, but took no action. The Captain reported having seen a ubmarine crash dive, and while manoeuvring to attack he was struck midships by a torpedo. We received instructions to land survivors at earest port and proceeded towards Ramsgate. Artificial respiration las carried out on A.B. Laycock for 3 hours until we transferred all urvivors to H.M. Drifter "Gerrars Rontoul" outside Ramsgate to be taken nto port. Picked up "Lord Melchett" and patrolled area of S. Falls Buoy during daylight of June lst. At 2015 received orders from "Lord Melchett" to patrol from 3. Buoy to West Hinden. At 0430 on June 2nd we picked up a motor boat with 23 soldiers, aking them aboard and the boat in tow. During this operation the 'Lord Melchett" had closed us, and reported seeing a torpedo passing close inder our bow. the soldiers and boat to her, rejoining the "Lord Melchett" on patrol. At 0745 we were signalled by H.M.S. "Pangbourne" and transferred enemy plane, which attacked us and dropped a salvo of four bombs close to At 1100 all ships in neighbourhood were in action against' one the "Lord Melchett", doing no damage. daylight, and arrived at Parkeston at 1135. At 0130 on June 3rd we received orders to proceed to Harwich at (Signed) J.W. Wykeham. Sub Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. p.p.
Lynama 163. H.M.S. "MARE", HARWICH. 309 5th June, 1940. Captain G.W.H. Heaton, D.S.O., R.N., HARWICH. LAG OFFICER IN ORANGE 7 JUN 1940 * HA 207 Sir, I have the honour to report that the "MARE", "SARAH HIDE" (Lieut. J.I. Cruickshank, R.N.V.R.), "STRIVE" (Skipper H.A. Catchpole, R.N.R.), "THREE KINGS" (Skipper G.A. Smith, R.N.R.), "TWEENWAYS" (Skipper E. Fawcett, R.N.R.), "UNICITY" (Skipper W.A. George, R.N.R.), "RIG" (Skipper E.F. Beckham, R.N.R.) and "JACKEVE" (Skipper C.E.F. Reynolds, R.N.R.), sailed from the Cork Light Vessel at midnight on Thursday, 30th May, and arrived at Ramsgate 0930 the following morning. The "SARAH HIDE", "STRIVE", "JACKEVE", "THREE KINGS" and "RIG" were sent to Dunkirk by Captain E.L. Wharton, R.N., on Friday, 31st May, and separate reports from their Commanding Officers are appended. On Saturday, 1st June, I sailed for Dunkirk in "MARE" with "THREE KINGS", "TWEENWAYS" and "UNICITY" in company. At 1248 when rounding the S.E. Guter Ruytingen Buoy, observed three patrol trawlers being bombed by enemy aircraft. The splashes made by these bombs, which must have been of large size, were yellowish green in colour and quite as high as the funnels. At 1300 saw the troop ship "SCOTIA" lying on her starboard side having been bombed and set on fire by enemy aircraft. A British destroyer was lying alongside taking troops on board and the mast of a two-funnelled paddler could be seen about half a mile away. Altered course, and seeing several men in the water, sent away a ship's lifeboat which had been borrowed at Ramagate. This brought back nine French soldiers and six more were hauled on board the "MARE", one of whom was restored by artificial respiration. These men were transferred (together with two picked up by the "THREE KINGS" and one by the "TWEENWAYS"), to the Ramsgate bound drifters "JACKETA" and "FIDGET". When coming round full speed for Dunkirk a man was seen to wave a white handkerchief on the poop of the burning troop ship, so proceeded alongside and took him off with the boat. He was wounded in the face, and as there were no more "homeward bounders", he was put below and made as comfortable as possible. saw bomb trawler of which nothing could be seen when the smoke While engaged in picking up these men the Skipper, Mr. A.H.W. Pendle, had cleared a away. strike Another a trawler close by was also struck by a bomb but kept afloat for some time. soon afterwards passing a blazing motor doing launch, came and at 1450 rounded No. shore battery and a heavy bomb was concussion shook Proceeded on course, 5 Buoy in channel leading to Dunkirk. While dropped ahead, so probably under intended fire from for a a German troop ship in company with us. The the engines but did no damage. off Dunkirk Piers at low water and seeing but a before large number of British troops on the by East Captain of British destroyer steam lying hopper with proceed drifter 1540 arrived Pier, proceeded to go alongside, there to making fast was ordered French and Belgian troops. A this pier. "JEANNIE to West Pier MacINTOSH" and embark lying alongside here were already at iron ladder astern of them, ordered "JEANNIE "TWEENWAYS" MACINTOSH". to As another, the and "MARE" "THREE had went three KINGS" to long and ladders "UNICITY" these to four and go outside vessels "UNICITY" were having soon about filled 200 with in French hopper troops and sailed, the "THREE paddler KINGS" were the next to leave and followed "MARE" them and "TWEENWAYS" each at 1645. ship. The having The "MARE" destroyer taken also on put and board a 14 men about in 230 lifeboat French towed and Belgians, astern. continued:
332 -2- 310 During German the aircraft, embarkation an aerial battle was in progress between were being in the basin near the paddler's stern British and dropped on Dunkirk anti-aircraft (one guns were in action, heavy bombs when she was and going burnt out), out wreck and a of large fire was seen to break out in the Docks. The split well sunken a British destroyer was lying alongside the East Pier as as A a sunken trawler with her White Engsign still flying just above the water. paddler and a troop ship with two large leaks in her side were lying off the entrance. On the return passage soon after rounding No. 5 Buoy, three enemy planes were seen which dropped some bombs round the "MARE". These must have been of small size as they made very little splash. After passing the Dyck Bank Buoy four or five heavy bombs were seen to fall round ships on the same course about two miles ahead, which included "THREE KINGS" and "UNICITY". A salvo of seven bombs in line was dropped, and soon afterwards a pair of enemy planes appeared over the "MARE" and "TWEENWAYS" which were chased off by a British fighter. 2100. The tow rope of the "TWEENWAYS" boat, which was being towed astern of a ship's lifeboat carried away, and as it was getting dark with fog setting in, thought it advisable not to waste time in recovering it and told the Skipper to carry on. June 2200. Went alongside at Ramsgate and discharged troops. Lieutenant J.I. Cruickshank, R.N.V.R. of "SARAH HIDE" reports that he sailed at 1330, 31st May, in company with the "STRIVE" and other vessels for Dunkirk. "At 1920, when in the Dunkirk channel, a force of about 25 enemy bombers with screen of fighters was sean approaching from the East at a height of at least 1200 feet. When almost overhead they were attacked by a squadron of British fighters and during the fight that followed four planes crashed in the sea, of which three were identified as German. would estimate that 80 bombs were dropped and the only casualty observed in I the large number of small craft about was that one drifter was "LORD 50 yards. had a Four bombs were seen to give off a yellowish green vapour gas and HOOD" fractured steam pipe. The nearest bomb to "SARAH HIDE" must have been of light weight as there was very little spray. sent away to the Malo Les Bains Beach at of about 2135. Salvos 10 of heavy shells 2300 the range was increased and shells West. the The boats were were bursting on the beach at intervals fell amongat shipping minutes. waiting At off the beach. "SARAH HIDE" moved 300 yards in tow came alongside any one soldiers smack At and Four was 0015, on the taken fishing the civilian 1st beach. in June, smacks tow as in no a The put charge her motor other boats 5 rudder Officers boat stated tugs, were was with then that drifters, and smashed. two made he 95 lifeboats men had fast or been on A other thorough astern. board unable small at search 0145 to craft locate and was made could in be the found vicinity, it was but decided as to return to Ramagate. of three bombs each were dropped astern channel. and close to "SARAH HIDE's" Three port salvos quarter as we proceeded down Dunkirk 19 Jun The troops were landed at Ramsgate at 0850. Continued:
-3- 333 * 311 whole operation. in a cool and efficient manner during I should like out to their conclude duties by saying that Skipper H.A. Meen, R.N.R. Skipper H.A. Catchpole, R.N.R. of the "STRIVE" reports that he ed in company with the "SARAH HIDE" on the 31st May but proceeded nd Malo Les Bains to La Panne where he took 287 British soldiers off beach and left there at 0430 on the following morning. The beach was led continuously all night. Skipper G.A. Smith, R.N.R. of "THREE KINGS" reports that he ved at Dunkirk on Friday, 31st May, at 1800 and left at 2030 with 150 ish troops taken off the beach. He anchored off Ramsgate at 0215 on June and landed the troops at 0500. He sailed again with "MARE" as re related. Skipper C.E.F. Reynolds, R.N.R. of "JACKEVE" reports that on 31st he made his first trip and took 60 soldiers off the beach, landing them 0700 on 1st June. On his second trip on same day he picked up 70 men of the water belonging to H.MS. "MOSQUITO", and landed them at Ramsgate 1st June at 1800. Skipper E.F. Beckham, R.N.R. of "RIG" reports that he left Ramsgate 1100 on 31st May towing a lifeboat and arrived at Dunkirk 1700. "Dropped hor near beach and commenced taking off troops by means of lifeboats under vy aerial bombardment. After getting two boat loads a measage was sent us via our boat to pull a motor launch off the beach. We hove it up and ceeded in getting the launch off and commenced filling it with troops by ns of our lifeboat, taking them three loads. After that we got one e boat load ourselves and left Dunkirk at 2100. About 60 troops brought r all French. The following is a summary of numbers brought back:- P. C.O. British Fr. or Bel. Seamen. Rescued "SCOTIA". from RE" Cdr.J.W.D. Powell,RNR Skpr.A.H.W. 16 Pendle RNR. 220 ARAH HIDE" Lt.J.I. Cruickshank RNVR. Skpr.H.A. Meen RNR 100 TRIVE" Skpr. Catchpole RNR 287 IREE KINGS" Skpr. A.V. 2 150 200 Long RNR WEENWAYS" Skpr. E. 1 220 Fawcett RNR NICITY" Skpr. W.A. 220 George RNR
RECOMMENDATIONS. 313 "MARE" Mr. of A.H.W. the ship Pendle, which Skipper R.N.R. is recommended for air men loss of time in the troopship basin "Scotia", and to getting recovery of handling picked up from the contributed greatly to the quick his efficient without He is also keen at Boulogne where there alongaide passage West Swins to the Mouse Light Vessel. room. through the East on and navigation and was of good help was in the not night much "SARAH HIDE" out his duties a cool and efficient manner during the whole operations. carried Lieutenant in Cruickshank, R.N.V.R. states that Skipper Meen "STRIVE" R.N.R. who "after all other ships in the section, including the ship of Lieutenant Cruickshank, R.N.V.R.recommends Skipper H.A. Catchpole, the Commander acting as Beachmaster, had retired owing to bombing and shelling, stayed off the beach at La Panne all night. At dawn he made fast all warps and wires which were on board "Strive" to the large lifeboat which had been towed across and a destroyer's pinnace towed it ashore. When fully loaded the boat was hauled back by means of the "Strive's" winch. "THREE KINGS" Mr. J.A. Smith, R.N.R. did good work as he made two trips across and is handicapped by being short of his Second Hand and two men. D.T. Bowen, First Engineman and his Second Engineman, S. Lawson, were able to effect temporary repairs when the SThree Kings" engines were badly shaken by a bomb explosion. The Skipper specially recommends S.G. Burroughs, Acting Leading Seaman, without whose work and encouragement the boat work on the beaches would not have been effective, and who took the place of Second Hand throughout the two trips in place of Second Hand, left behind on sailing. "RIG" The Skipper, Mr. E. Beckham, states that his whole crew worked well and that there is/one that he specially wishes to recommend, no "JACKEVE" All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others. TWEENWAYS" All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others. "UNICITY" All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others, Sheet 2 attached.
340 318 Page 2, one was destroyed by a shell. power boat to containing control officers who ordered While embarking the troops I was hailed by a boats return to the beach closer to the harbour. my troops, to tow these boats to the position indicated.. At instructed & motor boat which came alongside me, also with I this stage contact with "DORIENTA" was broken and I presumed that she had proceeded as previously directed. My boats having departed I made contact with H.M.D. "FEASABLE" taking her in tow and proceeded to Westward in search of further troops. When off the harbour entrance I contacted three boat loads of troops and took them aboard, as there were no boats crews I put them in tow astern of H.M.D. "FEASABLE". "BEN & LUCY" was now loaded to capacity and was preparing to proceed homewards when I was hailed by a naval rating alone in a waterlogged whaler, I took him aboard abandoning the whaler, I was then hailed by a fishing smack (?) "LETITIA" of Southend who requested a tow as he was short of fuel, I told him to tail on, and continued my passage, the time being approximately 0100 June 1st. The channel was negotiated without event, two destroyers being passed bound in. At approximately 0200 we turned to the North having rounded the Whistle bucy and, when about six miles to the North of the channel aircraft was heard overhead, while A.A. gunfire and searchlights had been active for the last half hour. At approximately 0330 & very heavy explosion occured close to the port quarter of "FEASABLE". The skipper and I were thrown across the bridge with great violence. On looking aft I saw a large column of smoke and water close astern of "FEASABLE". Owing to the abnormal phosphorescence of the water I judged this to be an aerial attack on what was thought to be a large vessel, and as "FEASABLE" was still in tow and made no signal for assistance I continued. (I was subsequently informed by "LETITIA" that another smack named "ROWAN" which had attached herself to the tow unknown to me had been sunk by this explosion.) at "BEN & LUCY" was now making water & about one foot per hour. About 0700 I was overtaken and hailed by "VERNON" Pinnace V.4. who requested & course for the North Goodwin Light Vessel and then proceeded ahead of us. At approximately 0745 we sighted North Goodwin to port and headed for Ramsgate. When approximately 3 miles to the N.E. of Ramsgate "LETITIA" slipped her tow and under her own power began to make off. I hailed her and when he informed me about the loss of the "ROWAN" I ordered him to report to Naval Officer whence he came. I repeated my previous instructions which in Charge, Ramsgate. He replied that he was returned I do not think he obeyed. When a mile to the Northward of the harbour I signalled
"KINDRED 29th "THRIFTY" during DUNKIRK OPERATIONS DRIFTERS REPORT STAR" & FROM OFFICER IN CHARGE OF 321 May to 5th June 1940. May 29th. Having all received orders to proceed to Dover on and duty, M/S gear was landed, the ships were coaled special provisioned and left Portland Harbour at 1900 ay 30th. Arrived off Dover at 1730. Reported arrival to off examination vessel and was told to anchor about 10/4 mile breakwater and await instructions. May 31st. Having waited outside Dover Harbour all night We finally received instructions to enter harbour and berth alongside Prince of Wales Pier at 1400. I reported in person to Vice Admiral Dover and was instructed to stand by for sailing orders. June 1st. At 0430 orders were received to report to H.M.S. "Lynx" for final instructions. We were then given orders to take in tow 6 Lifeboats or similar craft with each ship and to proceed to the beach 1 mile east of Dunkirk by route "Y". We left Dover Harbour with boats in tow at 07 00 for Dunkirk via North Goodwin Light Vessel. 113 O. Passed "W" Buoy Saw floating Mine destroyed by gun fire from another vessel. 1330. Passed several vessels returning from direction of Dunkirk - some with a few troops on deck, others apparently empty. 1400. Passed """ Buoy. Speed made good approximately 4 knots. 1430g Saw large Ship on her side on fire and boat blazing in the water. Shells falling very near from shore batteries. 1530. Attacked by dive hombers. Sent out message # attacked by aircraft" on R/T. Our lewis guns in action. Several vessels were seen trying 10 enter Dunkirk Roads but all were driven back by action of enemy aircraft and shore batteries. We altered course to bring us outside range of shore guns. 1610. Again attacked by dive bombers. R/Teall sent and Lewis Guns were again inaction. One salvo of 4 bombs struck the water just ahead of the "Kindred Star" scorching the paint and scattering small There was another salvo of 6 bombs dripped - 3 each side fragments on the deck but doing no aparent damage. of the "Thrifty". These bonbs burst under water throwing Two hands were washed overboard ut these were picked up up and decks to a depth of several feet. great columns of water and flooding the top bridge by lifeboats. The was seen to be badly it by & bomb to pieces. - afterwards tows were slipped for greatel safety. One Trawler Another unknown vessel as blown to We sinking. did not stop as there were oth- ships nearer these 1620. vessels. "Kindred Star"reportedhat the and boiler feed pipes was Engineer losing water on rapidly also the mainiteam 1730. were cracked. to collect tow which indepenintly. had attered, all except 3 Returned lifeboats signal having to Dover returned asking received. for nstructions re these 1800. Sent R/T reply was request. aircra, attheir dive bombing near "V" buoy. 1830. Lewis Guns aircraft, but sustained. "Kindred Again attacked again in action, no also further two her amage attacks was by Star" Entered in order to effect high bombing Ramsgate Harbour and repairs. blew dowboiler on
-2- --352 - 329 Malo-les-Bains, towing three Liege lake boats. Drifters of "Girl which had been sunk by an escort vessel at the "Netsukis", Pamela" and "Lord Howard" returned from Dunkirk with the crew entrance to the harbour. A/S Trawler "Kingston Olivine" towed Dover Wednesday morning, landing 1600 men. damaged transport to the Downs from "S" Buoy. Drifters returned a to 8. On Wednesday night Drifters "Yorkshire Lass", "Ut Prosim", "Golden Sunbeam" and "Girl Gladys" sailed for Dunkirk, three vessels towing motor-boats. Thursday, 30th May. 9. 800 troops were landed at Dover during the forenoon from Drifters returning from Dunkirk. A/S Trawler "Kingston Andalusite" reported what was considered a successful attack on a submarine off "T" Buoy. Drifters "Yorkshire Lass", "Golden Sunbeam", and "Girl Gladys" filled up with troops alongside Eastern Arm, Dunkirk, and sailed for Dover. Drifter "Ut Prosim" rescued 250 men from a French Destroyer "Barasque" sunk by shell fire. The three other Drifters landed 700 men at Dover. Friday, 31st May. 10. A/S Trawler "Stella Dorado" reached Margate with survivors from French Destroyer "Sirocco", torpedoed off "I" Buoy. Lieutenant T.P. Graham, R.N.R., on return in Drifter "Forecast" reported difficult conditions, owing to swell and weather for boat- work on the Dunkirk beaches, a large number of boats being wrecked and broken down. Saturday, 1st June. 11. A/S Trawler "Stella Dorado" was torpedoed off "I" Buoy, survivors being brought in by "Kingston Galena", as reported in my submission No.DL/250/11/AP dated 1st June 1940. All available Drifters were ordered to sail for Dunkirk. "Netsukis", "Lord Howard", "Lord Howe", "Golden Sunbeam", "Midas", "Golden Gift", "Girl Gladys", "Forecast", "Yorkshire Lass", sailed. A/S Trawlers "Lady Philomena" and "Olvina" arrived with survivors from S.S. "Prague" and H.M.S. "Basilisk". Two Drifters, "Gervais Rentoul" and "Eileen Emma" returned damaged and unseaworthy after collisions with other craft. Sunday, 2nd June. 12. Drifters returned to Dover landing 1800 men. They were all brought to immediate notice for a further trip to Dunkirk. "Shipmates", "Lord Howard", "Lord Howe", "Golden Sunbeam", "Midas", "Golden Gift", "Girl Gladys", "Forecast", "Yorkshire Lass", sailed. Drifters went alongside Eastern quay, filled up with troops and returned to Dover. Practically all the troops evacuated were French. A/S Trawlers "Blackburn Rovers" and "Westella" were sunk by enemy action between "S" and "T" Buoys, as reported in my submission No. DL/259/33/AP dated 5th June 1940. "Blackburn Rovers" had obtained a contact which was subsequently attacked by A/S Trawler "Saon", it is considered successfully. A/S Trawler "Grimsby Town" screened and stood by a damaged transport off North Goodwin Light Vessel. Monday, 3rd June. 13. Drifters returned with French troops from Dunkirk, landing at Dover roughly 1600 men. Drifters "Lord Howe", "Shipmates", "Girl Gladys", "Midas", "Golden Gift", "Golden Sunbeam", "Forecast", "Ut Prosim", 'Lord Howard", sailed for Dunkirk. A/S Trawler (Par.13. "Cayton Wyke".......")
2. 364 342 Greatly to the Master's disappointment, X 213's machinery was not in a good enough condition for her to be used. 78. Owing to a misunderstending, not here, which I have been unable to trace, the motor boats which should have hours later. Suspecting that the fifth column was at work reached Sheerness from the Thames Adid not arrive until 24 Lou 30ᵗʰ hi I informed your Chief of Staff, D.S.V.P., V.A. Dover, N.O.I.C.s Ramsgate and Margate of the circumstances, and of my intention to ignore any such messages. No possible harm could have been done by sending boats on, at any rate as far as Ramsgate. Had these boats not been delayed, they would have been available on the last day on which evacuation from the beaches was still going on. Some of them were employed on the last two days in the vicinity of Dunkirk. 8. The type of machinery fitted in many of the boats and its defective state, presented F.E.O. and Sheerness Dockyard with some difficult problems and a great deal of hard work, which was tackled, night and day, with great zeal and energy. Some of the boats broke down later on, much to the disappointment of their crews, who had done their best. Most of them, I think succeeded in joining other boats and msking at least one trip to the French coast. 9. The total number of craft prepared for service and sent out from Sheerness was as follows :- 100 Motor Boats 10 Lighters 7 Schuits 1 Oil tanker 6 Paddle Steamers 10. On Sunday June 2nd, having got away all the personnel and everything afloat that was sufficiently in good condition to do useful service, I went to Ramsgate with Commander Troup, arriving about 1600, in order to help N.O.I.C. and to endeavour to assist in the cooperation of motor boats with larger vessels. I went in with a group of Schuits and slow motor boats to the beach at St. Malo les Bains, where a British Officer who had just got back reported that there were British troops who had been unable to get into Dunkirk. None were found. I have no doubt however from later enquiries that they had got into the town. A volunteer whose name I have not yet been able to get, landed from one of the Schuits and walked along the beach to make sure there were none left. We brought him off and his boat's crew, and a number of French soldiers who were pulling for England in a small boat. Commander Troup took the fast Army motor boats into Dunkirk alongside the centre pier and brought off 79 French troops when his boat was rammed by a French tug and had to be abandoned. 11. On Monday night I took a group of slow motor boats up to the Quay Felix Faure, at the top of Dunkirk harbour. I went on ahead in the fast boat "Marlborough" to identify the quay. The motor boats were led in by the "Mermaiden", Sub Lieut who did very well to find the place in the dark, 300 French Marines were embarked in the motor boats and a French Trawler. Their bearing was excellent. As the quay was now clear, and machine gun fire was getting a little near, I decided not to get the motor boats back on the chance of another load of troops. At this period through no fault of the Officer at the wheel, we had the misfortune to scrape over some masonry that had fallen from the quay, losing our propellers and rudder. Sidmonth- willing (Sea cadel Great
3. 365 Dover. Eventually a motor yacht got us in tow and took us to Commander Troup went with the fast boats to the outer - 343 port. He made himself piermaster on the western mole and conducted the embarkation of about 10,000 French troops. He also had some anxious moments, as the boat which was to fetch him broke down. Another turned up in which he embarked with a French General Lucas and many StafffOfficers and men; and thus had the honour of being the last man to leave Dunkirk. 12. As Officers and Coxswains pass through Sheerness, endeavour is being made to extract full accounts of their adventures. N.O.I.C. Ramsgate is doing the same. These reports are being forwarded to Vice Admiral, Dover, but copies of those obtained here are attached. Even so it will be impossible to do justice to the services of these young Officers, ratings and volunteers, most of whom were acting independently, without anyone to see how they conducted themselves. A list of those who came under my personal observation is attached. 13. Until all reports have been compared and lists of Officers, men, and volunteers going out and returning have been checked, the number of casualties remains unscertain. Many boats have had to be abandoned owing to grounding, collision or fouled propellers, but in most cases the crews transferred to other craft, One craft is known to have been sunk by bomb. "New Prince of Wales". Large motor craft. Officer in command, Sub Lieut. .L.H. Bennett, R.N., now in R.N. S.P.H.E. Hospital, Chatham. Two ratings are believed to have been killed, but I have not been able to get this confirmed. Several motor boats sailed direct from Southend for the beaches with volunteer crews who had not signed on. There may be others, of which there will be no record. Considering the heavy bombing, shelling and machine gun fire experienced by many of the boats, the casualties seem to be lighter than might well have been expected. 14. It would be impossible to speak too highly of the spirit which has animated all those who have been concerned in "Dynamo". Everyone tried to do their best for the Armies at Dunkirk, and those whose fortunes it was to get across and bring some of them off, will always look back on it with deep satisfaction. Some of the crews got their boats as far as Ramsgate, only to find that owing to the shortcomings of their vessels, they could get no further, but many of them succeeded in finding another boat with room for them. A young Able Seaman, whose boat sank after bringing off 1,000 men, did much, by his sheerful talk and bearing, to bring about this happy result. His name is Here at Sheerness the Commodore and his staff, H.M.S. "Wildfire", and the dockyard did all that man could do to hasten the preparation and sailing of the varied fleet of craft which arrived here, some of them needing much attention. With the exception of the Thames steamers, which could not run in salt water, though they had a good try at it, very few craft failed to achieve at least one trip to the French coast. Many men from the "Wildfire" offered their would services, have done so had it been possible to spare their services. though only a few could be allowed to go, and more
Dynams 121. 367 I St. Malo Les Bains. June 2nd - 3rd. - 345 on the 2nd. from operations were to be for fast craft only, I reached The Ramsgate with Commander Troup about 4 p.m. but hearing a Colonel, who had just come ashore, that 2/6 he thought there were some British troops and others near St. Malo who had not been able to get into Dunkirk, I got permission from V.A. Dover to go there with a group of Schuits, motor boats and life boats. Commander Troup was to take the fast boats into the Avant Port and Commendant Anduse - Faru arranged for the French motor fishing boats to go *mto St. Malo and ferry troops to a French ship and a paddle steamer. The larger ships, however did not sail, and the fishing boats went to Avant Port instead of St. Malo. 3 Schuits and 12 motor boats were available. They sailed between 1800 and 1900. I was expecting a M.A.S.B from Harwich and waited as long as I could for her, as I thought her armament might be useful during our withdrawal. As she did not come I went in the 12 know motor boat "White Wings", Sub Lieut. Mullins. We left about 2045 and owing 2/6 to a head sea and some trauble with the starboard engine, did not overtake the slow convoy. 2. I found the three Schuits in the appointed place between E.12 buoy and the shore and went in to close the motor boats. They had already been in and found the beach deserted. After giving one boat which had broken down to a Schuit to tow, I ordered them all to return to Ramsgate and went back to the beach to make sure no one was left behind. 6 3. The battery of four/inch guns near Nieuport, which had been shelling a point somewhere near La Panne, where I supposed some Allied troops to be holding out, and had been dropping an occasional shell in our neigh- bourhood, now started to register on the Eastern Mole. They got the range with about four rounds, and then landed a salvo on the mole itself, these direct hits wore just short of me! Though evidently fired at entreme range, the salvo fell well together. Another round struck and sank a transport which was entering. It was now time to leave, but as it got lighter we made out S ship's lifeboat pulling off with very tired men in her. This was a party from the Schuit "Hilda", in charge of a volunteer from one of the yachting associations. I Ashou hope it will be possible to get his name. He had been and along the beach to make sure therewas no one there. 4. There were hundreds of troops lined up on the Mole, but it was clearly impossible for us to do anything but report. We also discovered a motor boat ashore (The "Singapore") at the foot of the mole. The lifeboat went ashore and our volunteer waded along the beach to help her off. The boats's crew decided to wait till the tide lifted them, keeping under cover so that aircraft should think the boat deserted. As my boat drew too much to get any- where near her, I decided to withdraw. The "Singapore" got away and returned to Ramagate in company with the motor boat "Kitcat", which had been into Dunkirk. who 4. were pulling for England in a small fishing boat. I Off Dunkirk we picked up 6 French soldiers saw in the distance another of my boats towing a life boat full of troops, but I do not know her name. 8 German bombers flew out of the smoke cloud, but turned off to the westward, ignoring us. Many British aircraft were seen on the return voyage.
2. 368 / Quai Felix Faure, June 3rd - 4th. - 346 For the final evacuation, 12 of the best slow motor boats were to proceed on tow to Dunkirk and thence to the Quai Felix Faure some way up the main harbour. I started in the leading motor boat but transferred to the Army fast boat "Marlborough", in order that I might if possible get into contact with the French Naval Authorities and make sure we had got to the right places, and also to give us a boat to get away in, leaving the motor boats free for ferrying. 2. Our quay was not easy to identiy, even in the light that remained, and I was very glad that I had gone ahead of the tow. The quay was deserted, but after a time some troops passed along the road in rear, on their way to the Avant Port. Sub Lieutenant Karminsky who came ashore with me as interpreter, tried to find someone to tell me whether we had got to the right place but received the reply # sorry I'm a stranger" Eventually we found we were correct. About 2300, 300 French Marines arrived and explained that they were all we had to take off. Then followed a good bad. half hour of waiting for the motor boats, which had been delayed on passage. I sent the "Marlborough" to look for them, and soon after 2330 was relieved to see them coming. The leading boat "Mermaiden" Sub Lieutenant Beale had done very well to find the place in the dark. Some of the boats had missed their way and no doubt went into the Avant Port where I expect they did good work. My anxieties were entirely relieved by the arrival of a large French trawler, who took all that the motor boats could not and had room for more. Sub Lieut. Karminsky tried to induce the Officer of some troops returning along the road to embark, but they said they had their orders and could not vary them. 3. By about 0200 the quay was clear and as machine-gun fire was getting a little near I decided not to get the motor boats alongside this part of the harbour on the chance of another load and so re-embarked in the "Marlborough" and started to move down harbour. In avoiding two French vessels, we had the misfortune to strike a heap of fallen masonry which removed our propellers and rudder. After some adventures fully described in the attached narrative by Sub Lieut. Edge-Partington, we got a tow and returned to Dover. 4. The three Officers in the boat with me were Sub Lieuts. Don, Edge-Partington, and Pool. All did well, and showed coolness and resource in the somewhat interesting situation in which we found ourselves. 5. The report from "Mermaiden" has not yet been received. The Sub Lieut. in command did well, and his name also deserves mention. Rear Admiral. D.M.O. Sheerness. 8th June, 1940.
Dynam 195. 369 Car. HR Troup's report 347 I left Ramsgate on the night 2nd - 3rd June in War Ministry fast motor boat "Haig" with three other fast W.M.M.B's. I took with me the French Naval Attache Captain de Revoir who came over to see how the embarkation was going on on the pier. I gave instructions to the Offi ers in charge of boats to act independently and ferry troops to ships taking a final boat load back to Ramsgate. I entered Dunkirk harbour and proceeded alongside the centre pier and with great fifficulty persuaded 40 French soldiers to come aboard. These I took to a big ship outside and returned for more. After loading 39 I again proceeded out and just in the entrance was rammed by a French tu on the prto beam; as the hole was a good foot above the water line I went on. I had not gone more than 200 yards when another French tug altered course and rammed me in the forecastle, cutting halfway through the upper deck and right up to the keel. I managed to get clear quickly and took the boat alongside the "Westward ho" and got the soldiers out, one of whom got his shoulder smashed in the collision. A destroyer coming across the bow of the "Westward ho" caused her to go astern and the wash from her paddle filled the boat up with water and washed her away from the ship. Asx soon as the ship stopped I again got alongside and as it was now three oclock and the Captain had been ordered to clear out everyone else having gone, I decided to abandon the boat and get on board the ship with my crew and return to Margate. On the way over Captain de Revoir told me there was some difficulty on the pier and suggested he should go there the following night and help. I therefore arranged to take him. On night on 3rd- 4th I left gsate in the W.M.M.B. "Swallow" at 2000, but I left without Captain de Revoir who missed the boat, arriving at Dunkirk at 2230 going straight alongside the centre pier where I landed and sent the boat off ferrying, with orders to come back at 0330 for me. I found I could be useful as was suggested by Captain de Revoir in making ships fast, finding out the number of men they could take and then getting the French Officers to help me embark the troops quickly, So I decided to make myself Piermaster and everything else combined. The French soldiers were very loath to be separated from each other, their companies or their Officers but by promising them they would only be separated for two hours and would meet again in England The French Officer Captain le Comte leChartier de Sedouy they moved quicker. I embarked at least 10,000 troops. on the staff of General Lucas of the 32nd Division was and a staff off with me not later than 0330, I had some very helpful and I arranged with him to take the general somewhat I instructed the Officer in the boat if order qualms about the boat returning for me as her engines were he was in groggy doubt to close one of the other boats and him to any in by 0300 at the latest. It so happened that he come broke down altogether and told no one and it was into harbour about 0305 just at the time I was beginning Just by luck that the motor boat which took me off came to wonder. I would like to put on record the wonderful discipline of the French troops when the last ship left about 0300.
Dynamo 143 372 H.M.D. "RENASCENT" - 349 6th June, 1940. Sirs, I have the honour to put before you a report of our action in getting troops off in the Evacuation of Dunkirk. We sailed on orders on Thursday evening May 30th at 8.45 p.m. and proceeded to Ramsgate. Arrived at Ramsgate in the early morning 5.0 a.m. and received orders to go to Dunkirk and take off soldiers. We arrived at Dunkirk and hailed a destroyer, asking him where they were getting the troops from. He asked us what and T replied about 11 feet. He then told 348 2. About 1,000 men stood to attention 4 deep about half way along the pier, the General and his staff about 30 feet away and after having faced the troops; whose faces were indescernable in the dawn light, the flames behind them showing up their steel helmets, the Officers clicked their heels, saluted and then turned about and came down to the boat with me and we left at 0320. "Go stranger, tell the Spartans that here we lie, having been obedient to their commands!". Commander, R.N.
Dynams 143 372 * H.M.D. "RENASCENT" 349 6th June, 1940. Sirs, I have the honour to put before you a report of our action in getting troops off in the Evacuation of Dunkirk. We sailed on orders on Thursday evening May 30th at 8.45 p.m. and proceeded to Remsgate. Arrived at Ramsgate in the early morning 5.0 a.m. and received orders to go to Dunkirk and take off soldiers. We arrived at Dunkirk and hailed a destroyer, asking him where they were getting the troops from. He asked us what water we were drawing and I replied about 11 feet. He then told us to proceed 8 miles to the Eastward and get troops off the beach. We proceeded on our way and as soon as we got there, hailed some small boats and told them to bring us some men. raid. Dynamo 143. bombs 348A 'S from to the From: Captain M/S, Sheerness. roraft During all Date: 6th June, 1940. Eagle To: Commodore in Charge, Sheerness. When we to smother did. We so I ran he boat In forwarding the attached, I have hen we $ at nothing but praise for the Skipper and Crew of "Renascent". Theis officer carried out his very coming in unusual duties in a prompt and seamanlike and them courageous manner. hing to He had no Unit Officer on board to assist ring a and the him. 1 Della and The hanging put the PBHartford CAPTAIN M/S a 51t to kirk harbour SHEERNESS. UNMODORE-IN-CHARGE would day June ashore -7 JUN 1940 return * CHEERNESS
Dyuams 143 372 H.M.D. "RENASCENT" 6th June, 1940. 349 Sirs, action in getting troops off in the Evacuation of Dunkirk. I have the honour to put before you a report of our We sailed on orders on Thursday evening May 30th at 8.45 p.m. and proceeded to Ramsgate. Arrived at Ramsgate in the early morning 5.0 a.m. and received orders to go to Dunkirk and take off soldiers. We arrived at Dunkirk and hailed a destroyer, asking him where they were getting the troops from. He asked us what water we were drawing and I replied about 11 feet. He then told us to proceed 8 miles to the Eastward and get troops off the beach. We proceeded on our way and as soon as we got there, hailed some small boats and told them to bring us some men. We were waiting for them when we had an air raid. There were about 80 planes over and they were dropping bombs for about three quarters of an hour. We then had orders from a destroyer to go back to the Westward. We then went to the Westward as ordered, with wave after wave of enemy aircraft continually coming over and trying to get some of us. During all this they started shelling from ashore. While on our way back, we were hailed by an Eagle paddle steamer and told to put our troops on board him. When we did that, we were told to take the Commodore from him to another paddle boat - about a mile back to the East - which we did. We then came to the West again and it was a rising tide, so I ran my ship up on the beach and started to get troops in the boat by any means I could. We had one hundred and eighty when we were floating again, so I came away with them - leaving at approximately 8. 30. We were subjected to one more air raid while coming out. It lasted for about twenty minutes. We arrived in Ramsgate 8 A.M. Saturday 1st June with first load, put them ashore and laid off at anchor. Set sail for Dunkirk 5.40 Saturday p.m. Nothing to report until we got into Dunkirk Roads. We were following a large steam yacht when there was a terrible explosion and the yacht disappeared - he had been mined. The time Was 11 Della and I ordered full speed and the boat's crew to stand by. The visibility was very poor and the smoke from ashore was hanging on the water, but we got as near as we could. I could hear men shouting in the water, 30 70 put the boat away and picked up four survivors. I waited for a bit to see if we could get any more of them, but we could not. I then proceeded on my way and went into Dunkirk would harbour where took on board eighty British. The French men not we I started back for Ramsgate at 2 a.m. them Sunday ashore June 2nd. come, arrived so in Ramsgate about 7 a.m. I put to return and went We off and laid at anchor until we had orders back to Sheerness. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) R.E. HANNAPORD Skipper R.N.R.
| towarded the | C boat |
Dynam. INS. 375 H.M.Y. "ARONIA". 6th June, 1940. 352 Sir, I have the honour to submit the following. At 1910 30th May Got received orders to proceed to Ramsgate for routeing to Dunkirk. under weigh and cleared harbour at 1919. 2210 anchored off the Foreland due to darkness and poor visibility. 0400 31st May commenced to weigh, windlass broken down. 0500 windlass repaired, weighed and proceeded to Ramsgate. 0800 received route orders from N.C.S.O. and proceeded to Dunkirk. 1205 Off Dunkirk harbour, fine and clear weather strong N.E. wind and heavy swell. 1220, ordered alongside H.H.S. "KEITH" instructed by her to intercept arrivals of small Launches at S.W. Ruytingen Buoy and direct them to the various beaches. This work was carried out under frequent air raids until 1755 when no more launches arrived. I asked inward-bound ship if they had sighted any more launches; reply was negative, so at 1800 I decided to return to Dunkirk for further orders. 1820, severe air raid commenced, several bombs falling very close to ship. Observed two raiders shot down by A.A. fire from H.M. Ships. 1930, raiders driven off, I endeavoured to locate "KEITH", but could not so proceeded to Bray Beach and anchored close in shore in company with other small craft. The number of launches at this beach had become insufficient to embark troops with reasonable despatch, so I lowered the ship's small motor boat and lifeboat - sending her ashore in charge of Sub Lieut. J.G. Llewellyn R.N.R. When inshore heavy surf partially swamped boat and wreckage fouled propeller. Motor boat was towed back to ship by lifeboat; the crew working magnificently against a strong tide. Report was received from shore that a large detachment of British troops were on the beach Eastward of La Panke. 2200 weighed anchor and proceeded there in the gathering darkness - going dead slow. 2240 closed British escort vessel, who advised me to go further West as present position was extremely dangerous. I therefore turned and proceeded slowly back towards Dunkirk. The night was calm and very dark with slight haze. A few minutes after turning, aircraft were heard approaching from the Eastward. Ship was at once attacked by machine-gun fire, bullets falling in the water on either side but none striking the ship. On opening fire with the Lewis gun, the first raider passed off. These attacks occurred at short intervals for about an hour; in every case the enemy attacked from astern. One appeared to release a large object like a torpedo which struck the water astern and did not explode. Bombs of varying calibre were dropped all round the ship; one falling approximately 100 feet away, shaking the ship severely and which breaking electric lights. The Port side was struck by splinters bent a frame and loosened several rivets. During these attacks, our fire was witheld until burst. aircraft Our tracer bullets appeared to bounce off the underside the came within good range one of which was hit by a good of
Dynams 146. 355 H.M.S. "WILDFIRE", Sheerness. June 5th, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the following report of certain proceedings affecting H.M.T. "Strathelliot" on May 30th and 31st, June 1st and 2nd 1940. Acting on orders received from P.M.S.O., Sheerness, I repaired on board H.M.T. "Strathelliot" at 10.30 May 30th with instructions to escort a convoy of motor cruisers to Ramsgate. The executive signal was received at 1410, anchor was immediately weighed and the convoy was picked up at 1430. The route ordered was via 33 QZS, but as certain boats had proceeded into the Princes Channel, I ordered course to be laid through that channel so that we should not lose touch with them. At 1550 we hove to and took in tow two disabled boats the "Skylark" and Court Belle II" - proceeding at 1635. At 1800, we again hove to to await boats astern, and they coming up, we took in tow the "Mary Rose", proceeding at 1840. At 1845 we were again compelled to stop, as certain other vessels were in trouble, but these being taken in tow by others, we got under way again at 1910. Our orders were to close the Examination Vessel off the N. Goodwin L.V. for instructions, but, as we approached we received orders by R/T to prodeed to Ramsgate and to report to the N.O.I.C. there. We arrived off Ramsgate about 2200 and came to anchor - ordering all motor boats to make fast to the trawler. I then went aboard motor boat "Forty Two", whose officer was a Lieutenant R.N.R. in aommand of the boats and put off to search for three boats lost in the darkness. These we fortunately picked up near the Gull Buoy and escorted to the "Strathelliot". I then went ashore in "Forty Two" and reported to the N.O.I.C. at 2305. I was then ordered ny him to escort the convoy to Dunkerque, but having received orders from Sheerness to return, I requested permission to telephone Sheerness for confirmation. This being given, I collected orders, route orders and charts, being ordered to sail immediately. I then returned to the "Strathelliot" and asked the Lieutenant R.N.R. to call all the officers in command of motor boats to the trawler. They were then given orders and charts so that in the event of their losing touch with the escort, they would be able to proceed alone. I arranged to hoist a red lantern of low visibility in the trawler, so that boats could keep in touch with us in the dark and slao arranged certain signala which were to be made on our siren to cause the convoy to heave to, to proceed or to ease down. I gave orders to be prepared to move off at 0200 and the officer returned to their boats. There were eight defective boats to be towed and arrangments were made as to which hoats were to do the towing. In the darkness however, it was impossible to hold to these arrangements, but all the defective boats were taken in tow by others. Anchor was weighed at 0205 and the convoy proceeded to sea. the North Goodwins L.V., the convoy was hove to and all ships accounted At for; course then being set vis U.V. and W. buoys due for Dunkerque breeze and the boat's crews were suffering great although speed roads. The seas had by this time become very heavy, discomfort. to a The strong N.W. causing considerable damage to the boats, bollard was tore reduced and to she was taken in tow stern first - there being no other towing was two knots and at 0640 the "Skylark's" towing point away forward at which the towing wire could be secured.
- 2 - 379 356 bringing was entering faster trawler's counter, her stem was damaged At her 0730, up against the "Mary the Rose" reported that, due to a following sea and water decided that than it could be pumped and bailed out. Dunkerque-even presuming we could get her there-she should be I therefore as she was unlikely to be of any use at abandoned and sunk.I therefore ordered the rest of the convoy to proceed under the Lieutenant R.N.R.. We then took off the crew of the "Mary Rose" and fired one tray of Lewis gun ammunition into her water line, finally breaking her up by ramming her to prevent her becoming a danger to navigation. We then proceeded after the convoy and picked up another boat which was being towed. At 0820, the "Skylark" sustained further damage to her stern due to the strain on the tow caused by the heavy seas, and, as she was in danger of foundering, her crew were taken off and a cargo of ladders and petrol and all serviceable stores aboard transferred to the "Strathelliot" the boat being them cut adrift. We then closed a trawler "KO" and semaphored her to sink this boat which she did. At 0845, we took in tow the "Malden Annie IV", nut at 0855 her Port mooring bollard tore away and the towing hawser was then secured to the Starboard. This was showing signs of parting, and finally tore away at 0940. The hawser was then secured to a small hook. At 1000 we closed the trawler "Grimsby Town" and sent a message ashore by her reporting our position. A mechanic was put aboard the "Malden Annie IV" to try to effect repairs to her magneto, but this was found to be impossible. A hawser was then passed right round underneath her and was secured on deck, the towing hawser being bent to this. This hawser parted at 1215, when "Malden Annie IV" reported that water was entering due to damage received forward. A new hawser was passed and the vessel towed stern first. A great deal of damage. had been caused to her superstructure by heavy seas crashing her into the trawler, but having lost two ships, I was loth to lose a third. The tow parted twice more in the course of the afternoon, but the vessel was eventually taken to Dunkerque. I would like to mention the conduct of the officer in command of the "Malden Annie IV" who worked extremely hard under very trying conditions to bring his ship to port. At 1530 we were proceeding down the channel into Dunkerque when a destroyer came out firing on and being fired on by batteries ashore. It was impossible for us to steer out of her line of fire, due to our tow, but fortunately, although shells were falling close to us and planes were trying to bomb the destroyer, we sustained no damage the mearest shell being about 70 yards on our starboard beam. On two other occasions between 1530 and our arrival off Dunkerque but sustained hits. We came to anchor off Dunkerque beaches ( as beaches at 1620, we received salvoes of bombs intended for destroyers close in no draft would allow) and eventually attracted the attention of a motor as launch our manned by Sea Scouts. They came alongside and we asked them to bring us some troops from the beach. We put our this ship's and boat over the side and she was towed ashore to assist. From another motor launch we eventually received a total of fifty-four French soldiers. unable further boatloads of soldiers, and at Although we waited for a total of two and a half 1920 hours we we were deceded to get not any knowing the state of the tide and being in danger Had of settling there on the possibility of getting any more men, we would there. waited that, sand, we would weigh and proceed to Sheerness. have but there been were any insufficient small boats to supply the ships
From CAPTAIN M/S SHEERNESS. Deprome 142. 387 Date 7th.June 1940 - 364 To COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS. Subject Recommendations of officers and men engaged in operation 'Dynamo! Submitted: 1. Lieutenant John Stanley Roe R.N.V.R. commanding officer off H.M.Y. Aronia for devotion to duty, courage in face of attack and for his excellent mavigation and preservation of his ship. 2. Sub. Lieutenant John Gwyn Llewelyn. 1st Lieutenant of H.M.Y. Aronia for his coolness under fire and devotion to duty in taking charge of the ship's boat and bringing off members of the B.E.F. 3. Ordinary Signalman John L. Wells R.N.V.R. LD9/X.4930 of H.M.Y. Aronia for quick and efficient signalling during the whole operation. 4. Coxswain Francis Richard Overdon Thompson R.N.P.S. LT. N.K. of H.M.T. Aronia for his leadership of the crew and for his fine example. 5. Lewis Gunner Rodney Matthews O.N./N.K. for well controlled and accurate fire, with most economical use of ammunition. 6. Robert Herbert Soanes R.N.R. W.S. 2984, Skipper of H.M.D. Monarda, fire and during heavy bombing attacks, and to for the cool and skilful handling of his ship for under his enemy artillery untiring work in embarking troops. He set a fine example the men. Pearce Trewhella Lovelock R.N.V.R. Unit off officer members in 7. Lieutenant zeal and courage in taking ихиитная he showed H.M.D. of the Monarda B.E.F. under for heavy fire and for the fine spirit 8. throughout. 2nd Hand William untiring Joseph energy Kingston and cheerfulness 1152 O.N./N.K. at possible of all H.M.D. times for under Monarda for his circumstances. He did everything coolness, even extremely trying troops on board, and fax his the men. during the welfare heavy of bombing the attacks was an inspiration to P.O. Herbert Ralph Helps D.K.5111 his efforts, of H.M.D. steam Monarda, was to 9. for always Stoker devotion ready, to and duty. when Mainly off watch through he was to be found looking the welfare 10. Seaman of John the troops. Henry Williams LT/JX As Gunner 173534. he was the 14112 always ship. of H.M.D. to He be showed Monarda found vigourously remarkable praised great 11. seamanlike Skipper brought at care for for his coolness and to RichardHannaford. whenever devotion his off post see courageous members pride receiving whenever that under opportunity to in all duty. his enemy danger arms the the work. crew were bombing 2940f presented in threatened of ready, H.M.D. attacks itself. and Renascent and is to He replied be his also for especially for ship which took the his and action in prompt was mined.
Dynama 173. 389 366 Admiralty House, C-in-C Nore. Sheerness. with "Dynamo". List of Officers deserving special mention in connection 1 H.M.S. "wildfire". The work of providing the stores of all kinds required by the boats sent from Sheerness and accommodating a constant flow of Officers, men and volunteers placed a heavy strain on the establishment resources. In addition I observed the admirable work done in receiving the British and French troops landed at Sheerness. From Captain Coleridge downwards all did their best, but Commander V.P. Freeman and Paymester Captain E.C.Annaheim deserve special mention. 2. Sheerness Dockyard. The tug Clears" towed 20 cutters with half crews over to the beaches for 22 hours under considerable bombing. The Master Penny and the helmsman Arthur Chawnce A.B. deserve special mention. All departments of the yard put out their best efforts; the heavier work fell on the Naval Store Department. Mr.A.Paterson. The Chief Constructor, Mr.S.R.Tickner, designed and built a large number of rafts, not too big to he manhandled. 3. Stoker Petty Officer T. Test, Off.No.C/HX 87588. This Petty Officer sent as boat's crew, was taken out to assist in getting boats ready for sea. lie showed great energy, driving power and resource in dealing with many difficulties that arose. He accompanied one to Ramsgate on Sunday 2nd.June in hopes of a trip to the beaches, but took on a boat whose engines were giving trouble and was unable to get there. 4. Officers in charge of boats. The following Officers showed particular energy in getting the boats away. Their work on the beaches did not come under my personal observation, but I draw attention to their names in case they have not been mentioned by Officers on the spot :- Sub. Lieut. Dann, R.N.V.R., took the lead in getting away the first group 01 boats on Vednesday 29th. May and conducted them to Dover. Having had his first boat swamped, returned to Sheerness and got away another group. Lieut. Irving. R.N.R., got away the second group of boats and led them to the beaches in M.V. "Triton". This Officer WAS a volunteer from the Schuit "Princess Juliana which was broken down. He is believed to have done very good work on the beaches. initiative The and resource in getting their boats away, Acting Sub. Lieutenants R.N., as a whole showed but it would be difficult to discriminate. yacht "Constant Nymph" which he finally lost after bringing Smith, a volunteer who brought his own off some 900 troops. eficers came under my observation during 5. The following the noght 2nd.-3rd, and of Motor 3rd.-4th. 1 sailed on to R.N.B., in charge 2nd.-3rd. I Yacht struck by the he had taken acqueint of was much navigational details, the instruction volunteer himself with and his boat. He had a 1 should with him, like to have with me again on a similar job. his Bren Mr.Devine, Gunners, and they were a fine couple who
390 - (-2-) 367 Sub.Lieuts.Don, Edge-Partington and Pool, Coptain, good and remained cool and resourceful in the in which officers sailed on 3rd.-4th. All these showed themselves Navigator I and Coxswain of the Army fast boat "Marlborough" somewhat interesting situation in which we found ourselves. Sub. Lieut. Pool, while I was ashore looking for the French Marines, took a rench motor Bicycle, started it with the help of the Stoker and rode round to see what was happeming. I would not have allowed him to go but B I am delighted to find we have young Officers of his spirit. Sub.Lieut. on 3rd.took the motor yacht "Mermaiden", leading the rest, up to the Quai Felix Faure under very difficult conditions. He took off one load of Marines and came back again in wait time to tow out an Admiral's barge that had broken down. I have not yet received the report which will be forwarded when it comes. 26. landed from the Schuit on 2nd.-3rd, walked along the beach at St. Malo les Bains to make sure no troops were there. Subsequently went to help the motor launch "Singapore" which was aground, although it was daylight, and finally came away with me. This gentleman was a member of one of the yachting accociations and I hope it may be possible to trace him. 6. Although the following Officers did not come under my personal observation, I was in close touch with them at Sheerness, and draw attention to their names in case their names have not been brought forward elsewhere. CommanderE.C.Cordeaux, Senior Officer. "Eagle" minesweepers. He was of much assistance to me personally in promulgating the instructions given to the motor boats. from his full knowledge of the situation on the beaches. Lieutenant A. Tyson, in command of Schuit "Neiger". He did at least five trips between Sheerne and the beaches, he missed the operation on 2nd-3rd and I did "A, not therefore meet him in action, but I formed a very favourable impression of him. 7. A list of all R.N.,R.N.R.,R.N.V.R. taking part and civilians who signed on for the operation is attached. (Sgd) Taylor. *Sea Cadeb Sidmoult Willing
Dyrom 391 il 368 June 5th, 1940. 1. Lieut. A.J. Davies, R.N.V.R. -"Java" never got over the other side and was finally towed to Sheerness by "Gorecht" 2. Lieut. A.N. Blundell, R.N.R. - "Bornrif" did three. trips between Ramsgate and beaches at Dunkirk. "King Orry" was sighted sunk off Dunkirk. 3. Sub Lieut. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.R. - "Iote" was beached and abandoned after she had damaged her rudder while rescuing two of her crew, who had fallen overboard on the morning of Saturday June 1st. On night of Monday, June 3rd, Sub Lieut Amos, R.N.V.R. and Sub Lieut. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. were in a new but unnamed power life boat which was towed over to SUN Dunkirk by Tug XV "About ..... (A). On the 30th May D.S. "Horst" was known to have been abandoned. 4. Sub Lieut. D.C. Williams, R.N.V.R. - left Ramsgate on the night of Su day, June 2nd in the "Kiteat". On the way over he became separated from the rest of the convoy. After doing some work the other side he towed the "Singapore" back to Dover and then on to Ramsgate on Monday, June 3rd. 5. Lieut. R.W. Thomson, R.N.V.R. - After being discharged from the "AEGer", where he had proved lacking in experience, did 4 trips in the "DABB II", two of which were unsuccessful. 6. Sub Lieut. C. Minchin, R.N. - Went to the beached in the "LYDD" where he ferried until the boat broke down. She was abandoned and Minchin returned to Ramsgate in the "Lydd". On Monday, against orders he tried to go over in the "Hel- frinore" but she broke down. 7. Sub Lieut. E.S. Foreman, R.N.V.R. - In the"Princess Freda" he ferried from the beaches for a destroyer. He then worked for the Dutch "Besta" --?, who finally towed him back to Ramsgate. 8. Sub Lieut. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. - Started in the "Minikoi" but she was rammed and sunk by "MASB 6" off the downs at 0250 on Wed, May 29th. He next went over in the "Ambleve", which with the "Sambre" was towed over by the "Skipjack", for whom he ferried from the beaches. A crew from the Skipjack releived his crew for 'stand-easy' and ran the "Ambleve" aground. He and his crew returned in the Skipjack. On Saturday, June 1st, he went over in a power life boat. She was damaged by near bombs but the engines continued to run. 9. Sub Lieut. J.W. Pratt, R.N.V.R. - Ran aground in the "Singapore" on beach at 0130 on Sunday June 2nd. She rfloated at 0800 and he left with three French Officers. On the way he picked up two British soldiers who were French Officers' water bottles. He passed the "Mosquito" floating around'. These were revived with wine from the which was still afloat but had been deserted. In mid channel he found three life boats which he took in tow until his engines gave out and he was taken in tow by the "Kitkat". 10. Sub Lieut. I.F. Smith, R.N.V.R. - In "Jong" helped to ferry home he sighted the "Iote" drifting round empty and troops from the beaches on Friday, May 31st. On way the "White Heather" empty but at anchor.
2. corted Lieut. by J.C. "Stathelliot" Clark,R.N.V.R. - Went over in "Rapid 1" 369 / from and ferried troops, who were French, the beaches on Friday, May 31. turday at about 0400 he was towing the "Skipjacks On scued sailors from the wreck of a sunken destroyer. aler with 3 Sub Lieut. Ruck in charge, when they a was following her when she was hit by a bomb. he transferred the ratings and troops to the "Mosquito" lped rescue the survivors including Sub Lieut. Flint, o had been wounded and finally left at 1330 being wed part of the way to Margate by the "Anje b Lieut. T.R. Rumbold, R.N.V.R. - in the motor barge iking" from Burnham on Crouch he went to le Panne on e 30th and ferried all the forenoon. He returned to msgate and sailed again at noon on the 1st for Bray, riving just after dark. He burnt out his clutches and ached the "Viking" but managed to kedge off and was wed to Dover. b Lieut. P. Snow, R.N. - In the "Reda" he reached the aches on Wednesday, May 29th and ferried B.E.F. till 30. He went again on the Friday and ferried Frenchmen. Sunday, June 2nd, he went over in the "Advance" to nkirk, when he sighted the "Biboli" on the beach. b Lieut. R.A. Forbes - Reached the beaches on Friday y 31st in "Mary Spearing II" after rrying he turned to Ramsgate. He sighted the "Gavine"ashore. t. W.G.M. Christian, R.N.V.R. - was in "Mary Spearing I" t she was beached although she was sighted later being wed by a tug. He sighted "Margerita" floating but serted. ipper G.W. Halladay, R.N.R. - Went over to Dunkirk 1 Sunday June 2nd, in "Meander". 1b Lieut. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. - Towed over to the eaches in an "Orient" line motor life boat on Sunday ine 2nd. The engine failed and the boat was beached and bandoned. He saw hardly any soldiers. He started alling in a pulling life boat but was taken in tow by rawler "Alcmaria", to which he now transferred. The OW parted during the night and life boat was left rifting. ab Lieut. J.K. Blackmore, R.N.V.R. - In the "Lurlyne", hich had a bad engine and so he never got over. ab Lieut. C.E.S. Beale - In K.A. Dover's barge which as finally left in Dunkirk. r. S. beaches Burns at 0130 on Monday June 3rd. He picked (From Southend) - Tokk over "Kayell" arriving n the of the "Block Arrow" which was ashore. and fishing He erried P the crew French troops to a French destroyer mack. "Kayell" in now beached at Ramsgate. ub Lieut. over by "Oranje Vreeswijk" with They boats were T.H. Rodgers, R.N.V.R. - In "Gay Crusader" other e was towed "Silvery Breeze" and "Silver Foam". reached beaches ombed ut was and towed tow back was in company with O.I.C. and neluding cut off. He never "Pioneer" Barl"
3. 370 22. Skipper beaches A. Gardner, at 2200 R.N.R. - Went in Tug "Tanga" arrived bombed machine-gunned throughout the night, while at the and on Friday, May 31st. They were lying off an life inprovised boat jetty. He helped to ferry troops life boat. down and he returned on Saturday in "Leda", leaving the in a power which "Tanga" had towed. This broke 23. Sub Lieut. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. - Went to Le Panne in "Elizabeth Green" and ferried for larger craft. He sighted "Viewfinder" on the beach. He got back to Ramsgate on Thursday May 30th, transferred to the R.F.A. launch "Andora II" and returned to beaches where he ferried for a bit and then brought back 23 French. Arrived Ramsgate on Friday. On Monday night he was towed over in the "Elizabeth Green" by a tug, which he could not after- wards find and so he brought his load home. 24. Sub Lieut. R. Shrimpton, R.N.V.R. - In an Admiralty, open 36 ft. launch he was towed over by a drifter and pent Saturday night at the beaches. On a later night he went into Dunkirk. 25. Sub Lieut. S.C. Allen, R.N.V.R. - Went over to Le Panne in the "Frightened Lady" which was beached after fouling the screw. He reported to an Admiral with side whiskers who was escorting Gort. He was told to help some soldiers getting abandoned pinnaces away. He also assisted to build a jetty with trailers etc. Left the beaches in the "Horst". 26. Sub Lieut. A.V. Weaver, R.N.V.R. - Went over in "Quijijana" and brought back a party of 18 troops mostly Coldstream Guards. He went over again in "Sun X". 27. Sub Lieut. W.G.H. Bonham, R.N. went over in "BOBELI" in the first batch and ferried until about midnight on Wednesday night. His boat was broken up by a destroyer which went full ahead while he was alongside. He went on ferrying for a bit but had to abandon the "Bobeli" and returned to Margate in the "Albury". He then went over in the "Horst" which had to be abandoned owing to engine trouble and a near miss. 28. Sub Lieut. J.W. Culham, R.N. - in "Smolt" which broke down on way over and was towed back by "Midas" ?. Went over in "Glitter II" to the beaches about 6m East of Dunkirk arrived at 1600 on Wed. 29th. Stayed ferrying until 0200 on Thursday when she lost her rudder on some wreckage and was towed back to Dover by a drifter. The "Black Arrow" was seen aground at Dunkirk. 29. Sub Lieut. R.A.W. Pool, R.N. - Took lighter X.817 to Dunkirk and then back to Ramsgate. He went over again on last night to Dunkirk in the M.T.B. "Marlborough". Mares 30. Sub Lieut. E.G.B. Enxnish, R.N.V.R. - in "Skylark" but she sank on the way over. He also saw "Mary Rose" sink in mid ocean and the "Ellen Mary" run down by a life boat and abandoned. 31, Sub Lieut. E.A.E. Cornish, R.N.V.R. - was in the "Lansdowne" which slipped her tow outside Dunkirk.
4. . 37194 33. Lieut. "Mermaiden Nimmo, back R.N.R. to Weymouth. - Took "Filleul" yacht /. 34. Lieut. J.S. Seal, R.N.R. - in "Queen Boadicea picked up three seamen survivors from' Janis"? II" Dunkirk Pier. The latter's Captain Sub Lieut. off Bell by a bomb on Friday may 31. The survivors were R.N.V.R.? and a stoker had been killed outright landed at Ramsgate. 35, Mr. C.V. Cogger - signed in "Seine" at Rochester. Left her on Wednesday full of water for the aches ( Lieut. Cdr Filluel in command). Brought hack 350 British and French troops to Ramsgate. Sailed again for Dunkirk and brought back 300 troops. 36. Sub Lieut. W.E. Mercer, R.N.V.R. of "Strathelliot" - saw the"Mary Rose" and "Skylark" sink in mid ocean, crew all brought back. Following were seen abandoned as Dunkirk :- "Malden" "Annie IV" and "Empress". The former was used as a pier. 37. "Scene Shifter" was swamped by French troops on Wed. June 29th. "Triton" was cast off while in tow with foul screw. 38. Lieut. W.B. Whitworth, R.N. did 6 trips in "Aeger". 39. Mr. R. Brown - went over in "Madame Sansgene" on night of Monday June 3rd. Elgar H. Jefferey and his brother were also in the boat. Towed over by "Tanjar" (Tug) with another Motor boat. On way back boats fouled a rope, which had been veered by the "Tanjar" to stutch it as it was new, and the boats had to be abandoned. The "Madame Sansgene" claimed to have shot down a bomber. 40, P.O. E. Wells, R.N.R. - went over in "Nanette II", who had a Lieut. R.N.V.R. in charge. They went to Ostende an then to Dunkirk and brought back mostly French troops, some of whom had been in the water for 12 hours. "Nanette" was finally returned to 41. Dover. Sub Lieut. Church, R.N.R. - In "Portsdown" see separate report. 42 Coxn. George Senior, O.N. 239990 - In YC 78 Wed, May 29th for Ramsgate. Sailed from Ramsgate at at (Lieut. Mortimer R.N.R. 1/c). Left Sheerness on 2245 Thursday night and arrived at Dunkirk 1100 on Friday. The only soldiers on the beaches vessels there, They left Dunkirk about 1830 towing on 45 of them, were ferried off in the YC 71 and a about midnight and anchored. H wever, and skiff. Thornycroft motor boat. The YC 72 broke down the herself boat managed to start up again about must Thornycroft informed Ramsgate for a tug came out 0700 have and towed YO 78 and YC 71 back to Ramsgate.
1594/07 FROM: Unit Officer, 40th A.S. Group, H.M.S. "Olvina". DATE: 17th June, 1940. TO: Flag Officer 1/c Portland. Dupram 353 -397 371 narrative. 6th June, 1940, the honour to submit the following of In I have accordance with your Memo No. 2912 proceeded she became to Dover in company with "Topaze". During the On Wednesday, 29th May, at 1700, "Olvina" night detached and reached Dover independently at 1045/30 May. The Examination Vessel was hailed for instructions, and at 1230 orders were received to proceed to the Downs, where the Examination Vessel would have our a steamer off the Goodwins, directed us to the Examination sailing orders. This ship, which was engaged in towing Tug at the North Goodwin Light Vessel, where we anchored at 1545 to await instructions from the shore, since the Tug had no orders for us. At 1810 orders were received pick up troops. to proceed to Bray beaches, 6 miles east of Dunkirk, to At 2210 the anchor was dropped 1 mile to east of Dunkirk, when visibility was very low owing to smoke clouds. Orders were then received from a destroyer to investigate a reported enemy M.T.B. 2 miles to eastward. Anchor was weighed at 2221, and we steamed to Bray beaches without encountering the M.T.B. Pilotage was somewhat hazardous in the intense darkness, owing to wrecks obstruct- ing the channel, and at 2345 the anchor was dropped as close inshore as possible. The ship's boat was taken away soon after midnight, and brought off two loads of troops totalling 32, including one stretcher case, which was put aboard a destroyer. Owing to deterioration of conditions, no more troops were embarked until daylight, when the boat was pulled ashore on two more occasions. At about 0500/31 May, "Sabre" was full of troops and ready to proceed to England, so it was arranged that "Olvina" should provide a crew for "Sabre"s" motorboat and use it for embarking troops. Accordingly, after re- filling with petrol from "Icarus", the motorboat was manned and proceeded to tow off ships' boats and Royal Engineer's pontoon floats from the pier to vessels anchored off. The pier consisted of motor lorries driven into the sea at low water, having planks lashed to the roofs. Owing to a northwesterly breeze, which freshened to force 3/4 at 1100, only the eastern side of the pier could be used, and some difficulty was experienced in handling the boats. Probably about 300 to 350 troops were removed in this manner, of which 240 were put aboard "Olvina". No interference by enemy action was experienced during the embarkation, although enemy aircraft were sand being dunes. fired at, and shrapnel was observed to burst on the
- 2 - 39375 and troops owing owing to to the fact that the weather ship was conditions almost full, for small and boats, to 31/5 At the 1100, adverse I decided to discontinue embarking proceed to Dover. and at 1120, "Olvina" was under way. "Sabre's" motorboat was handed over to "Vivacious" Vessel, the "Viking", a diesel engined Thames barge, with 70 When between Dunkirk and North Goodwin Light troops aboard, was taken in tow from "Dwarf" and brought into Dover. Owing to delay outside the harbour, the troops were not disembarked until 2200. "Olvina" was revictualled and berthed alongside Prince of Wales Pier by 0100/1 June. On proceeding to the office of Captain Auxiliary Patrol, I was informed that "Olvina" should not have gone to Dunkirk, but should have been on A/S patrol. Accordingly, at 0820/1 June, "Olvina" proceeded to a patrol station 17 miles NNW of Dunkirk, which was reached at 1125. At 1500, 70 survivors from "Basilisk" came alongside in a French fishing boat, and at 1917 we went alongside "Whitehall" in Dover harbour and disembarked them. "Olvina" was in harbour during 2nd and 3rd June, and on 4th June escorted "Bideford" to Portsmouth thout incident. I have the honour to be Sir, Your obedient servant Sub Lt. R.N.V.R. -II- No. 1594/07. Vice Admiral, Dover. Forwarded. P.R.T.S. VICE ADMIRAL. Portland. FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE. 18th June, 1940 VICE ADMIRAL 20 JUN 1940 * DOVER
(2) above aircraft, us at working one moment in conjunction but by with M.T.B's two right 3:22 we actually evidently observed. escaped torpedoing. twisting No surface and turning rapidly was Daylight was welcomed by craft all. 400. was Keep rather calling worried "St. Achilleus" by R/T and "W/T no event of about her as we had arranged answer at S. Buoy. losing each other during the night to rendezvous in the .000. Came to to conclusion "Arctic that "St. Achilleus" had gone, been group mainly all because of W/T watches, our operator had already gone Pioneer" and asked permission to join reported her on night and couldn't carry on indefinitely. 315. Whilst heading from T.Buoy towards Dunkirk in answer to S.S. "Pragg's" S.O.S., received signal from Arctic Pioneer that M.T.B. was approaching, we cleared for action challenged her five times, no distinguishing mark or ensign was shown, also she approached us zig-zagging. Fire was opened with four inch, Pom Pom and Lewis guns, all three ships heading straight for her firing; one four inch from "Arctic Pioneer" struck her superstructure and she then stopped and layto. On approach a white ensign was observed being waved. Fire ceased and boats were lowered. We went alongside M.T.B. took survivors and casualties off. Report of action has been given to F.O.I.C. Harwich also with report for Commanding Officer of M.T.B. Casualties 1 killed and five wounded. Transferred all to H.M.S. "Saltash" who also took charge of M.T.B. 175 2100. Received instructions to take charge of Group consisting of "Sphene" and"Lord Melchett" and patrol between S.Buoy and West Hinder. e 2. 0509. Contacted "Lord Melchett" she joined us, proceeded Eastward. 0711. Stopped and Picked up 12 Refugees from small boat, boat not worth keeping so cast it adrift and proceeded. 0729. Signalled by aircraft (Hudson) piloted by Pilot Officer Elworthy of Detling and asked to follow him. He repeatedly circled around us and eventually said carry on as you are going and you'll meet and open boat full of people. 0740. Met small boat, took refugees onboard, made boat fast astern and proceeded on patrol. 0955. Attacked by enemy dive bombers first one dived and machine gunned us, the second one dropped bombs, not both rame out on us. They dived to within a hundred exhausted, feet, of sun, could be heard distinctly but seen until almost fire was maintained until ammunition dropped continual continuously. 15 bombs were Bombs ship zig-zagged during the course of three attacks. thought altogether 20 feet of ship both sides and setting one fire fell within fell in bulwarks forward, also blew base to be incendiary unprimed D/Cs and deck and bulwarks and to two spare bar one arm supported, port by explosion but D.G. of mast away Engines were stopped done to gear dismantled. believed considerable numerous damage minor carried on ship again, badly strained, deck besides hose. engine defects. and Fire was put out by
SECRET Dyram 35,4 406 Jug Sun IV H.M.S. Pelican, 384 C/o G.P.O. 18th June, 1940. Sir, and to submit I have the the following honour narrative to refer to of Nore events General :- Order 448/40 (Master Mr. Alexander, 12 Manager of the firm), slipped from Tilbury IV At 0200 Friday, 31st May, 1940, the London tug Sun Docks with lifeboats in tow. A London Pilot was embarked and lifeboats were manned by half naval and half volunteer crews. remained in the tug until the evacuation was completed. Ships" anchored. Provisions were embarked for boats" crews and the 2. Southend pier was hailed at 0415/31 May, 1940, and the tug opportunity was taken to allow boats" crews a hot cup of tea in the tug. 3. At 0445 anchow was weighed and the tug proceeded to Ramsgate arriving at 1115, where she was armed with two pairs of Lewis guns mounted either side of the wheel house. 4. The tugs were sailed for Dunkirk at 1330. Commander Tyler came onboard as his tug had run out of coal and water. Lieutenant Wilkinson and a further party of seamen were also embarked. 5. At 1915 a high level bombing attack took place, but bombs all fell a long way from the tug. 6. A boat was capsized when the tug met a destroyer's wake and it is regretted that one Stoker was drowned. This casualty was reported on arrival in harbour by Commander Tyler. of Dunkirk 7. by verbal orders from a motor mile torpedo from boat. the shore By 2300 and At 2230 the tug was ordered to a position one mile east the boats dropped the and R.N.R., French tug one 8. were and was bomb in about At sent British, charge. anchored 0315/1 from 100 in an yards with June, the From three aircraft, Lieutenant from tug 2300 1940, quarters weighed the which to having tug. but 0300 Wilkinson of anchor. was the embarked a there engaged remainder was and Only 88 by periodic Lieutenant soldiers three Lewis of the boats shelling guns, boats" both Fletcher, Ramsgate. had was been able to get back onboard to our or were tug, towed back by drifters to with water; crews were either adrift as it was filling rapidly and was while At 0445 this one was boat being was done set a German fighter flew towards us engaged with Lewis guns. 9. 0830/1 June, 1940, arrived at Ramsgate. Commander Tyler went inshore for orders. in tow. 10. A Anchor small was trawler weighed was at seen 1615 to and hit tug a mine proceeded south with of the two North boats Goodwin Light vessel at 1645. 11. Three German bombers
SECRET - 2 - 407 1830 11. from Three about astern. German 8000 British feet. bombers Ten carried bombs out were a dropped level bombing falling attack 385 at hour 250 yards later as three transports fighters passed. appeared about a quarter about of an 12. the At way 2030 into the Dunkirk. motor lifeboat E.M.M.D. hailed us and be shown of the night. The This boat remained with us for asked the to remainder killed Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in command by Commander arrival at Ramsgate. unfortunately Tyler on by shrapnel during the night. This was was reported 13. At 2100 a small motor boat informed us that there were troops left in Dunkirk. Commander Tyler disregarded this and went no into the harbour in the motor lifeboat with Lieutenant Fletcher. 14. At 2130 the tug was hailed by a motor torpedo boat and orders were received to use the boats to fill up minesweepers which were to arrive later. 15. At 2145 the motor lifeboat and one boat were sent in shore. The tug then towed the remaining boat as near in shore as possible. This boat then pulled shore. The tug was then anchored about three quarters of a mile from the Eastern breakwater. 16. The pulling boat returned with the news that there were no soldiers ashore at 2230, and said that she had not seen the other boats. 17. 2300 - 0100/2 June, 1940, fairly heavy firing over and short, chiefly shrapnel, All hands kept under cover, until the motor lifeboat returned at 0130. The tug then weighed and proceeded to Ramsgate. 18. At 0140 an M.T.B. again hailed us and weewere sent back to fill up with soldiers, and anchored in position again at 0215. further in shore to pick them up, but ran aground about a quarter of After waiting till 0330 for the boats the tug weighed and went a mile off shore. The flooding tide and the use of engines astern meanwhile had been secured. We then proceeded to Ramsgate together with physical jerks by the soldiers refloated her. with Boats 142 soldiers on board and in the motor lifeboat, which we towed. of the 19. At 0415 we but ran managed to get off after ten minutes. at 07451 A slight aground for the second time one mile west haze gave breakwater, us a peaceful passage home arriving at Ramsgate left us A.M. and we were told the tug ordered would 20. Commander Tyler night, but at 2000/2 June, 1940, we to were salvage not the to weigh be Hospital required and proceeded Ship that Paris. to a At position 0100 we onboard, near eventually position attempted located to her tow and her. the We tug lay Sun off XV with until a she Commander had got R.N.R., secured, later but a German unfortunately machine dived her first down wire both ordered had and Both in about machine asked parted. the the by ratings Tugmaster five us the gunned what fathoms Commander About on we us. and the two thought of I guns an minutes We water considered R.N.R., escort. engaged of getting and the in the that in It bursts. aircraft would tug if Sun we be XV with very she We to down to were hospital was Lewis leave slow get by already then her work after guns; the ship back stern. to he was tow her safely as we she would was a require twin screw ship. tell. I The think tug that arrived back at Ramsgate aground. but it was hard to 0645/3 June, 1940. 21. At 1130 we
SECRET - 3 - 1 Binlo/2 408 and get 21. around provisions. At 1130/3 the wheelhouse. June, The opportunity 1940, Dure we were was ordered taken to alongside fit sandbags to water 38671 only of motor and 22 remain boats Commander were alongside motor secured Le for Measurer astern. about came an At hour onboard to 1700 either the four tugs at side tugs 1600 large of weighed and draft high four water. and we large on could top broceeded. Two British boats were slipped at 1830 and came on under evening. At position two German floating mines were sighted. their own power. "W" fighter patrols were observed during the They were destroyed by minesweepers. boat (Santday) parted, as its engines were broken down. It was, unfortunately, a 23. At 2130 one motor was abandoned after the tow ropes had 3/6 boat only three days old. 24 By 2330 we were approaching the breakwater when a small boat filled with French soldiers hailed us. These soldiers were embarked. They told us that the Germans were in the town, but that the French held the coast for about one and a half miles to the westward of the breakwater. The tug was stopped to the eastward of the breakwater and we remained in this position until 0200/4 June, 1940, when we went inside the harbour to try and pick up more soldiers from the pier. H.M.S. Malcolm hailed and asked us to hold her stem up to the jetty. This we did. Between 0200 and 0230 there was periodic shelling outside the breakwater. 25. At 0230 the tugs had, been ordered to leave and we proceeded with our one remaining motor steaming under its own power. One aircraft was engaged with Lewis guns at 0310, it did not retaliate. The motor boat was taken in tow about half an hour later. The tug was anchored in Ramsgate at 0730 after an extraordinarily peaceful passage home. 26. Lieutenant Fletcher and myself together with nine naval ratings left the tug A.M. on 5th June, 1940. Lewis guns and two Able Seamen were left onboard until the tug arrived back at Gravesend. 27. Both the naval ratings, the civilian tug's crew, and the volunteers behaved splendidly. I have the honour to be, Commanding Officer, Sir, H.M.S.Pelican. Your obedient Servant, JEL hartin LIEUTENANT, R.N. II. No. 195D. VICE ADMIRAL JUN 1940 VICE ABMIRAL, * DOVER (Copy to :- Commander-in-Chief, The Nore). no Submitted in accordance with Nore General Order 448/40. LIEUTENANT Jenhnaitin FOR PELICAN., COMMANDER (on leavel 1940.
418 412 1 bopy of ships Sog 390 June 1ˢᵗ 1940 Tug Bg 2630 Orders received on board to sail from Ramagate to Junkirk 645 Weigh anchor 650 from Ramsgali to Dunkirk 430 horth goodwing light ship abeam bourse SGOE 130 Clin attack Aslim 3 Bomber dropping Bornbs you 1050 Ordered by Officer of in molor Boat to (Wsist in towing Damaged Destroyei which was being towed by a mg 11.10 Ordered by same officer to low a second Destroyer believed to have been HMS. Keilth which had been bornbed on arriving found crew was being laken off 1 sloop proceeded to sink destroye by by HM Sloop bombing live ships HMS Brighton of while give waiting Fire orders, Enemy an attach Luen again and HMS Scobia after leaving Dunkirk full 00 Ticops, Orders received by Officer in motor Boat said to ships whilst researing Survivor Onemy go to the reserve of Survivors, of bombers (appiers) 18m number diopping Esk. bombs b9 and HMS declioyer. between also French destroyer which was 50 survivors Esk to proced rescuency another Ordered with what lin be, swowors baptain attack, Baptain Having of y HMS a had 30 Survices varing to of including b the ommander Brighton the I Incen. was able and to proceed with (Line)
CONFIDENTIAL. 394 The Formidable 9 12/6/40. Carm H.M.S.J "Formidable", 030/48/40. Comherston C/o G.P.O. Noh Sir, Le mesures I have the honour to submit the following report of certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the June 3rd./4th. 1940. British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the most suitable pulling boats in tow. 2. I took with me Lieutenants JJVJ WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.) who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA" under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same le difficulty in obtaining 393A CIA was quite evidently is left behing, The tug LER, R.N. sailed earlier 1. 18 boats were swamped - 3 in a hurry to get over to red at Dunkirk at about Forwarded in continuation of my 3172/212 of 11.6.40 Naval Officer in Charge. ge; the tug "TANGA" with her anchored at a point about akirk, and sent in the little further to the East. CAPTAIN R.N., take off troops from the nole joined; on the first to the tug. While these on an officer ina fast proceed alongside the mole fore they went in again, r ships and that I would eet them again. I then about 50 French soldiers, ii. en and 4 English naval then returned to the origin- way. The boats returned monstrance from the French r about an hour. During Flag Officer Commanding Dover. I (having done one or two ad East by lighter guns. The from the West by what nearer G down the mole, At and a be the mole, and towards No. 3207/212. to appendix 3. e Ramsgate. 15.6.40.
CONFIDENTIAL. 394 The Formideble D 12/6/40. Graft H.M.S.J "Formidable", 030/48/40. Comherston C/o GIP.O.) Noh Dunknik Sir, Le mesures I have the honour to submit the following report of certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the June 3rd./4th. 1940. British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the most suitable pulling boats in tow. 2. I took with me Lieutenants J.V. WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.) who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA" under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same time with two pulling boats. I had had some difficulty in obtaining another tug, and the master of the tug "RACIA" was quite evidently most unwilling to sail, and this vessel was left behing. The tug "SUN IV" under the command of Commander TYLER, R.N.: sailed earlier independently with either one or two boats. 3. On the way to Dunkirk, three of the pulling boats were swamped probably through towing too fast, as I was in a hurry to get over to Dunkirk - and had to be abandoned. I arrived at Dunkirk at about 2330, after an otherwise uneventful passage; the tug "TANGA" with her boats arrived a little earlier. Both tugs anchored at a point about 1/2 % mile East of the Eastern Mole at Dunkirk, and sent in the boats; the tug "SUN IV" was, I believe, a little further to the East. 4. The boats from my tug "SUN" proceeded to take off troops from the East mole at a point where the beach and mole joined; on the first trip they brought about 45 British troops to the tug. While these were being embarked, I received orders from an officer ina fast motor boat (possibly Commander MAVND) to proceed alongside the mole and embark troops, so I told my boats, before they went in again, to carry on taking troops off to the other ships and that I would return to the position I was then in to meet them again. I then proceeded alongside the mole and embarked about 50 French soldiers, subsequently embarking another 28 Frenchmen and 4 English naval ratings from a broken down motor boat. I then returned to the origin- al anchorage, and waited for the boats for about an hour. During this time there was a slight amount of remonstrance from the French troops on board who were anxious to get away. The boats returned about 0300 with another 50 British troops (having done one or two trips in the meantime to other ships.) 5. During the night Dunkirk was being shelled from the West by what seemed to be a heavy battery, and from the East by lighter guns. The lighter shells appeared to be directed at the mole, and towards 0300 the shelling was coming nearer and nearer down the mole, and a fire was started either on the mole or just to the Westward. At about 0300 there was an outburst of rifle fire apparently just on the mole where the boats had been embarking troops, and Lieutenant
2. 419 boats alongside neighbourhood mole of on the last trip. One or two shells the WILKINSON informed the me that shells had burst very close to 395 mis-directed. in the the tugs, but I think these were probably burst I had decided and round to leave at 0300 2nd. June in order to be clear of the time before 0300, I heard a good deal of shouting from the direct- been shelling channel from the shore on the day before. A short channel the No.7 W buoy before daylight, since the enemy had ion of the harbour entrance; the tug TANGA left about 0245 and I understand from later conversation with other officers that all ships were ordered to clear off then. I left at about 0315 having secured the boats, and having then some 175 English and French troops on board, besides 28 naval officers and ratings and the tug's crew. The Tug was very full. (a) The return passage was uneventful; I posted an English soldier with a Bren gun, as anti-aircraft armament, the tug having no protection otherwise. One pulling boat was swamped on the return passage. (b) I understand that some orders were issued for this operation, but these did not reach me before sailing. Fortunately the tugs un- der my orders went to the right place in the event. On arrival at Ramsgate about 0815 (2nd. June), the troops were dis- embarked, and I went ashore for further orders. Finding that no decision had yet been made, I made contact with various officers who had been working on the beaches on the night of 1st./2nd. June, and prepared a short appreciation which I was about to telephone to Captain DENNY at Dover, when orders were received thatbeach parties were not required that Sunday night. This tallied with the informat- ion that I had been able to glean, so I decided not to telephone to Captain DENNY. The following is a summary of the information gleaned from various officers named as to events on the nights of 1st./2nd. June. (a) Lieut. Commander Miller. DSOJ R.N.ARA Had been working on the beaches about 1 mile East of Dunkirk, just to the Westward of a wrecked French destroyer. Left at about 1900 on Saturday 1st. June. At this time, the 2nd. line of defence was about 1 mile further to the East of this position and the 1st. line of defence 1 mile still further to the East i.e. about 3 miles East of Dunkirk. Troops would not come off from this position at this time. (b) Lieut. Commander Sherwood. R.N.IRJ In tug TANGA. Left at about 0245 (2nd. June), at this time sniping was going on on the Eastern mole, and also on the beaches to the Eastward of the barges by the wrecked French destroyer 1 mile East of Dunkirk. TANGA'S motor boat was left stranded on the beach at about 0215. (c) Commander Le Mesurier. Lieutenants Wilkinson and Lloyd. Soldiers at the sea end of the East mole, and some further up. Proceedings reported above. At 0315 there were still a few Lieutenant LLOYD said that there appeared to be a few people on the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk at 0230. (a) Lieutenant Walker R.N.V.R.) float This LADY MASSEY (?). He had been working from two barges by the Officer was in charge of the London Fire Brigade fire wrecked Frency destroyer 1 mile East of Dunkirk and had done good
3. 396 work getting a line ashore from the barges to the beach by the pulling the boats hauled off to the barges, the troops then which being ferried by fire-float to the waiting ships. Lieutenant WALKER left at 0335 (2nd. June), the fire-float being then just aground (low water 0400 approx). He had to leave the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk. At 0345 there were no about 150 men on the barges, but there were no troops visible on troops visible on the mole, and a paddle minesweeper was just leaving. An anonymous Brigadier who boarded WALKER's craft, said that at about 0200 there would be 1000 - 1500 British (2) troops still to come. At this stage, it was the unamizous opinion of all the officers named above that small slow motior boats and pulling boats would be of no further use on the beaches. It might have been worth while trying to reach the barges 1 mile East of Dunkirk with fast shallow draught craft at about 2200 (2nd. June). It is worthy of remark that these wrecked barges made excellent piers for motor boats to use, pulling boats working between them and the beach with a line to haul themselves off. Three barges were afloat at any state of the tide and two others were aground about an hour before low water. M.T.B.S could go alongside the barges 3 hours either side of H.W.I and shallow draught boats for longer. Beach parties, eventually, were not required on the night of Sunday 2nd. June, and everybody was able to get some much needed rest and food. Monday 3rd. June - Tuesday 4th. June. A further operation for these nights was organised from RAMSGATE, a copy of the orders being attached herewith. I organis- ed the following tugs to tow:- SUN IV - Commander Le MESURIER, Lieut. MARTIN R.N.J Lieut. FLETCHER, R.N.R. TANGA - Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R. SUN XV Two R.N.R. Officers. RACIA : Lieut. Commander MILLER, D.S.O. RINdRd, Lieut. WALKER, R.N.V.R. Each tug was to take 4 motor boats in tow, with orders to work from the Nouveau Avant Port and from any point of the East mole which they could reach, and to ferry troops down to the ships along- side or to the transport LOCUST. The tugs had no specific orders, and I instructed the Officers in the tugs that they should wait just outside the entrance to Dunkirk, keeping clear of ships going in and out (of which I understood there were to be a good many) and to be ready to go alongside to pick up troops as opportunity offered or to assist as required. The convoy left a little after 1700 with 14 motor boats in all, two having failed (one with engine trouble, one was aground in RAMSGATE). The passage across was uneventful, save for a certain amount of trouble with the tows, and the encountering of two mines in the neighbourhood of W. buoy which were dealt with by mine- sweepers. Commodore H.) TAYLOR, R.N.R. took passage with me, but about halfway Dunkirk. across was picked up by a Motor Torpedo Boat and went on to
4. 397 The for the following reasons boats given were below:- abandoned either on passage or at Dunkirk, (a) THARK. Rope foul of propeller and rudder. Abandoned half way. (b) SANTOSY. point arose Petrol here. failure. Abandoned near W. buoy. An interesting had been The Sub-Lieutenant in command said that he officer told him which cans to take was dressed as a Lieut. certain who cans which were subsequently found to contain water. The instructed to fill up with petrol at RAMSGATE from Commander (E) RINI When this was discussed, the Sub- Lieutenant reported this to the Engineer Captain (or Commander) at RAMSGATE, who said that there was no Lieut. Commander (E) at RAMSGATE, at any rate on the staff. I do not know if this offic- er could be, or ever was, traced and identified. (c) DIANA MARY. Engine trouble and damage to propeller. Abandoned at Dunkirk. (d) ADMIRAL SUPERINTENDENT&S BARGE (Portsmouth). Ran on a pile of submerged masonry in Dunkirk and abandoned. The officer in this boat (Sub-Lieutenant BIGGS, R.N.,VeR.) left his charts on board. I should have sent him back for them, but did not do so as it was near the time ordered for laeving, and I thought he only had charts from RAMSGATE which gave no useful information to the enemy. Subsequently reflections made ne think he might have had a chart from Portsmouth, SO I went in to S.O.(1) office at Portsmouth on 6th. June and reported the circumstances, leaving S.0.(1) to pursue the matter further. to The convoy arrived at Dunkirk between 2300 and 2345, having beende- layed by trouble with the tows. Most of the boats had been slipped in the neighbourhood of the S.W. RUYTINGEN buoy and sent on. The other three tugs proceeded to the East of the entrance: SUN IV at first stayed just to the West of the wreck outside the entrance, and in this position picked up an open boat with a dozen French soldiers and an officer, who had been isolated and escaped. From the officer it was learnt that the Germans had possession of MARDYCK fort about 3 miles West of Dunkirk. 5. The motor boats carried on with their work, and SUN IV proceeded just to the Eastward of the entrance, having a look to see if there was any work to be done while passing. All appeared to be going well, all berths at the East mole were occupied and there were one or two ships lying off ready to berth. 6. At about 0115 (4th. June) one of my motor boats returned, and told me that there were no more French troops at the QUAI FELIX FUARE, and that Commander TAYLOR had left the QUAL. This boat was slightly damaged and so I left her in company. 7. At about 0200 the two end berths on the East mole were clear. H.M.S. "MALCOLM" went alongside and I fallowed in SUN IV, as also did the tug RACIA, to see if there were any more French troops. There were only a few, who embarked in "MALCOIM", this ship asked me to push her stern in to the jetty, which I did. sailed RAMSGATE; the return passage was uneventful. I was passed I left at 0230, approximately, picked up the waiting motor boat, and by two or for three destroyers and a minesweeper. Tug SUN XV towed home another vessel one picked up halfway. 8. Out 14 boats which started for Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be abandoned of the for one reason or another, but the crews were recovered safely. The remainder found their own way back to RAMSGATE, with the
Dyram. 147 428 H.M. Tug "St. Clears", 404 Sheerness. TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER. 7th June, 1940. Sir, I Clears" submit the following report and the movements Tug "St. during the evacuation of troons from of H.M. area. COPY. ZIA a 40% S.S."RYE" at Jersey, 5th June 1940. ssociated Humber Lines, arine Dept., ULL. Bir, 1940. I beg to report that at 8.45 pm. on Tuesday, 4th, when passing Dover I observed a motor boat about two miles outside my track, flying a white flag and trying to attract attention. I proceeded to boat and found it packed with soldiers who said they were French from Dunkirk and had no more petrol. After careful examination I allowed them to come on board unarmed, and towed the boat towards Dover Harbour, distance about five miles. After speaking the examination vessel I anchored and a tug was sent out to me. The men, 24 and four Officers, 28 in all, were sent on ral the tug and the tug towed the boat into the Harbour. I then proceeded at 11.10 pm. to my destination. The boat was the "Diana Mary" a British boat about 30 feet long. I sent a man down to make boat well fast and steer it. This man noticed a licence on dashboard "Thames Conservancy". One of the French Officers told how, at 7 am. on Tuesday morning, his party selected this boat out of a number abandoned on the beach. She was well provisioned with food and a note in the boat in English read good luck to those who get her." These soliders waited for tide to float it and then pushed out to sea. When I picked them up at 8.45 pm. they had not the least idea where they were. Fog had been general all day. Yours faithfully, Sgd. A. Hiley.
Dynam 212. 443 Report of Proceedings of M.T.B. 67. - Monday, 27th May. 417 p.m. Arrived Dover with 10th Flotilla in company. Fuelled. Detached from flotilla and sailed for Nieu- port taking Belgian personages. M.A/S. Boat No.8 in company. Tuesday, 28th May. a.m. 0300 Landed Belgian personages at Nieuport. Sailed for Felixstowe escorting M.T.B. 22 with Admiral Keyes on board. Tuesday - Friday Employed in screening patrols for evacuation of B.E.F. Based on Felixstowe. Friday, 31st May. 0600 Sailed for Dover with M.T.B. 107 in company. Fuelled on arrival and sailed for Dunkirk with orders to report to V.A. Dover in "KEITH" and, acting under his orders, to evacuate Lord Gort. Ordered by Admiral to bring off naval ratings from beaches two miles west or La Panne. Continued evacuating soldiers till M.T.B. 67 went aground. Shelled whilst aground, necessitating use of main engine to refloat. This caused considerable damage to main engine. Remained in vicinity till petrol gave out and then returned home, arriving Dover 0010/1. Saturday, 1st June. Proceeded to Portsmouth for slipping with M.T.B. 68 in company.
Dynam 33 444 DAMAGE TO M.T.B. 67 PHONE 112: From THE COMMANDING OFFICER, 10th M.T.B. FLOTILLA, 418 at Dover. Date 1st June, 1940. No. 01/2. To ... THE COMMANDING OFFICER, R.N. DEPOT, FELIXSTOWE. (Copies to:- The Vice Admiral, Dover, The Captain, H.M.S. H RNET".) signal timed 0947 of 1st June, 1940. The following report is submitted with reference to my 2.- At approximately 1900 on Friday, May 31st, 1940, H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No. 67, under my command, was employed in evacuating the British Expeditionary Force from the beach two miles west of La Panne. Heavy surf was running at the time. 3.- I approached the shallow water at dead slow speed, keeping my port auxiliary and starboard main engines running in order to give me immediate astern power when required. On my port bow was a jetty at the end of which I had been informed was deep water, but which I had been instructed not to use. Ahead of me were various small craft of about my own draught. These were not aground. 4.- Soundings from the forecastle showed ample depth of water and the port engines were going astern when a wave caught the boat and carried it ahead causing the propellers and rudders to ground. The bow was afloadt 5.- All around in the water were wounded and exhausted soldiers and as the tide was rising the worst of these were taken aboard. 6.- AS embarkation of these men was taking place however, a therefore considered advis ble to get T.B. 67 under way as soon shore battery opened fire on the neighbourhood. It has as possible. This was done by manual pushing, lightening starboard the stern 7.- of the bow, and going astern on the action is main at the engine. expense It is considered that this latter responsible for most of the damage. Charles LIEUTENANT, Royal Navy. VICE ADMIRA JUN 1940
Dignoms 9rt. 450 H.M.M.T.B. No. 16. 421 First London. 30th May, 1940. Sir, of proceedings of H.M.MT.B. under my command during the period I have the honour to submit the following report 27th May - 29th May, 1940. M.T.B. 16 left Felixstowe for Dover at 1460, 27th although the boat was travelling at low speed. Both torpedo May. Heavy head seas were encountered, causing violent pounding rails sustained damage, and both after bellyjacks parted. There was some further minor damage. M.T.B. 16 arrived at Dover at 1950. Both torgedoes were hoisted out and left in H.M.S. "Sandhurst", the M.I.B. then completed with fuel, and went to immediate notice at 2200. Dover, to proceed to Dunkirk and to place myself under the orders At 0635, 28th May, I was ordered by the Vice-Atatral, of the Senior Naval Officer there. M.T.B. 18 left Dover at 0840. M.T.B. 68 left shortly afterwards and formed astern. When about two miles off Les Nemes De March the M.T.B's were fired on by guns of 3" - 4" calibre siguated between Gravelines and Calais. The M.T.B's impetiately seattered at made out to sea. Firing was accurate and M.T.B. 16 Yes stradiled. No damage was sustained. The two M.T.B's reached Dunkirk at 0830. I took M.T.B. 68 under my orders and reported to the Senior Naval Officer. Destroyers were embarking British troops at the East Pier. A large part of Dunkirk was burning, including the oil tanks, The town was being bombed, and there was also sporadic shelling. It appeared that the enemy was endeavouring to avoid damaging the port. At 1130 the Senior Naval Officer ordered as to send an M.T.B. to Dover with a hand message. I sent M.T.B. 68. I then embarked Commander Maund, Royal Mavy, and proceeded close to Bray Dines, where there was a Large body of troops awaiting evacua- -tion. Having acquired the information required by Commader Maund, I returned to Dunkirk, where I found two small vessels of the Schuyt type. Having given then orders from the Senior Naval Officer, I returned to Bray Dunes. BRAV DUNGS 1600/28 Several destroyers were now anchored off the beach, and whalers were embarking troops and taking them to the ships. The two Schuyts were aground close inshore. The troops appeared in a demoralized state. They were hampering the work of the whalers, and some were attempting to swim off to the Schuyts, I proceeded close inshore, anonored in one fathes, and succeeded in embarking many troops. This was Ione under considerable
452 - Page Two. 425 (The Commanding Officer, May, H.M.M.T.B. 1940). No. 16's report dated 30th M.T.B. tow at to 1640. Felixstowe. M.T.B. 16 arrived at Felixstowe Dock in I have the honourto be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Lieutenant, Royal Navy. The Commanding Officer, First M.T.B. Flotilla, c/o G.P.O., London. II. No. 498/8. FLAG - 5 JUN 1940 2199 CHARGE OFFICER IN THE FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE, HARWICH. * * (Copy to: The Captain, H.M.S. "Hornet"). HARWICH Submitted, This report of proceedings is forwarded for your information. It appears that M.T.B. 16 succeeded in doing some very useful work which is to the credit of Lieutenant P.F.S. Gould, R.N. The work done by Able Seaman Schofield in swimming voluntarily several hundred yards to save the lives of exhausted men is particularly pleasing and the successful anti-aircraft fire put up by Able Seaman Clark and Telegraphist McCatcheon is very encouraging. It also brings out the value of using a proportion of incendiary bullets. M.T.B. which 2. has six feet of freeboard, was very much eased boat's by The work of lifting exhausted men onboard an transom. the presence For purposes of ferrying men over a short but for an the of torpedo discharge doors low down in the distance open M.T.B. sea passage it is doubtful whether a figure of twenty sometimes carried as many as fifty persons, about could reasonably have been exceeded. Although M.T.B. 16 must have contributed valuable of service on 3. this occasion it seems important not to lose signt the heavy price
454 .M.M.T.B. No. 107. at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. 428 CONFIDENTIAL 426 an 27th May and 5th June, 1940 EPORTS OF PROCEEDINGS OF M.T.B's NOS: 67, 68, 102 and 107 rom THE CAPTAIN, H.M.S. "HORNET", at 0800 on 27th May in company GOSPORT. owe, arriving at Dover 1345, following morning to Felixstowe, te 8th June, 1940. No. 890/8/2/9. 0 THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. other M.T.B's for patrol between nd Thornton Ridge Buoy. mained on patrol until 0400 e arriving 0810 29th May. Patrol The enclosed reports of proceedings M.T.B's Nos. 67, 68, 108 and 107 are ubmitted. 2.- M.T.B. 107 under the command of ieutenant J. Cameron, R.N.V.R. was never ntended as an "Operating M.T.B" and great redit is due to this officer for the uccessful work that the boat did, observing hat she has no astern gear and very poor anoeuvrability. This boat was only is 67 at 0600 for Dover, eceived from the builders by road on the ny with M.T.B. 67 for Dunkirk 3rd May, 1940. y shore batteries between "KEITH" with Vice Admiral,Dover oximately 1745. M.T.B. 67 proceeded to La Panne for VICE AUN 1940 F.H.P. MAURICE Considerably shell fire at La med to H.M.S. "KEITH" on orders * CAPTAIN. ratings were said to be safely * DOVER R After rejoining recovered 3 ion. AS M.T.B. 107 has only lered inadvisable to run her on 18 up these ratings closed a 1 for purpose of transfering them B. 107, or any provisions of any side was ordered to cast off. shell burst at the spot where Your obedient Servant, ied in company with M.T.B. 67 B. 67. During this period John Cameron :0 be under fairly constant ising in company with M.T.B. 67 Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in Command lea. Stood by M.T.B. 67 on her of the crew who had come down in The Vice Admiral, on the return passage to Dover, reen Calais Grovelines. Shooting Copies Doaver. to:- The Portsmouth. L Dover 2315. The Captain, H.M.S. "HORNET". :0 on X where a patrol was maintaine board proceeding by way of event of any importance except X Thereafter returned to Dover omb missed by a large margin and which dropped one bomb at where embarked Captains of blockships .......
H.M.M.T.B. No. 107. at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. 428 Letter of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107 between 27th May and 5th June, 1940 nday, 27th May. th M.T.B's and 106 for Felixstowe, arriving at Dover 1345, M.T.B. 67, 107 68, proceeded 104 from Portsmouth at 0800 on 27th May in company riving 1200. maining there overnight and proceeding the following morning to Felixstowe, esday, 28th May. Left Felixstowe 1830 in company with other M.T.B's for patrol between arted position of Wandelaar Light Vessel and Thornton Ridge Buoy. rived on patrol line 2135. Stopped and remained on patrol until 0400 th May. Thereafter returning to Felixstowe arriving 0810 29th May. Patrol uneventful. ednesday, 29th May. 1 455 H.M.M.T.B. No 107. 427 at Portsmouth. 3. 67 at 0600 for Dover, 7th June, 1940. ny with M.T.B. 67 for Dunitirk y shore batteries between "KEITH" with Vice Admiral,Dover oximately 1745. M.T.B. 67 Sir, proceeded to La Fanne for Considerably shell fire at La I have the honour to submit the med to H.M.S. "KEITH" on orders following letter of proceedings of ratings were said to be safely H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No 107 under After rejoining recovered 3 my command between 27th May 1940 :ion. AS M.T.B. 107 has only and 5th June 1940. lered inadvisable to run her on us up these ratings closed a I have the honour to be, 1 for purpose of transfering them B. 107, or any provisions of any Sir, (side was ordered to cast off. shell burst at the spot where Your obedient Servant, ied in company with M.T.B. 67 B. 67. During this period Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in Command John Cameron sing in company with M.T.B. 67 .0 be under fairly constant lea. Stood by M.T.B. 67 on her of the crew who had come down in The Vice Admiral, on the return passage to Dover, reen Calais Grevelines. Shooting Copies Doaver. to:- The Commander-in-chieff I Dover 2315. Portsmouth. The Captain, H.M.S. "HORNET". :0 on X where a patrol was maintaine board proceeding by way of went of any importance except $ Thereafter returned to Dover lomb which missed by a large margin and dropped one bomb at where embarked Captains of blockships .......
ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107 457 Page 2 429 ckships "VIVACIOUS". and transferred 2230 to "VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru om H. M. S. difficult by proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation H. S. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N. tow rendered which had spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on compass and never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured entered harbour cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress, land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. fter closing the block ships llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover 30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go Cornand her large turning circle. nday, 2nd June Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships, ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S. SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk lipped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship S.S. Gourko to follow her n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without ffect. H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S. Gourko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance nd secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and mbarked part of her ship's company. NXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107 reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being was eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty of xperienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence M.T.B. or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and 07. wreck of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search he "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of ack H.M.S. "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover SHIKARI" of any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad day- ight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and, ndependently wing at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the oodwins. a my I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June. to regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands rthe compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, uesday, 4th June. At Dover. ednesday, 5th June. Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and .T.B. 102.
H.M.M.T.B. No. 102. 431 at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. ter of Proceedings between 30th May, 1940 and 5th June, 1940 Thursday, 30th May. 0530. Secured in Submarine Basin, Dover. Having received orders om the Chief of Staff, Dover, I sailed at 1300 for Dunkirk in accordance th those orders. on approaching No. Mm. buoy in the Dunkirk approach annel, I noticed some shell splashes between me and the land, and, therefor tered course and steered along the North side outside the channel. At 1430 I came alongside the East quay in Dunkirk harbour. I sembarked, and my First Lieutenant, Midshipman J.P. Wilford, R.N.V.R. took e boat outside to await my return. I reported to Captain Dennant R.N. received his orders to take Commander Henderson and Commander Blwood orig to the beaches to La Panne to review the dituation. on passage to La Panne we were attacked by $ M.E.110's in ose formation from ahead. No dama e was caused - own speed 2 knots. At 2000 on completion of our tour of the beaches we returned Dunkirk, disembared Commander Henderson and Commander Elwood and embarked British soldiers and sailed for Dover. At 2115 about 10 miles S.E. of Dover I was stopped by umander Le.Mesurier in the D.C. Motor Boat and took him back towards inkirk to pass messages to three tugs on their way to Dunkirk. At 0030 secured in S/M basin. (31) Friday, 31st May. At 0130 I received my orders for Friday, 31st May. At 1100 I proceeded in accordance with those orders, arriving off La mne at 1240. I went alongside H.M.S. "KEITH" and reported to Rear miral Wake-Walker. He embarked and we took him along the beaches, being ielled off La Panne, and then back to H.M.S. "KEITH". At 1445 went to pick up pilot of crashed Hurricane. Pilot is dead bus parachute was recovered, leading to subsequent identification the officer. At 1500, returned to H.M.S. "KEITH" and reported short of fuel. 1530. Towing boatloads of soldiers to various transports. 1640. Sailed for Dover, securing 1800. Saturday, 1st June. 0600. Proceeded in accordance with signalled instructions from ce Admiral, Dover. 0750. Arrived Dunkirk. Passed H.M.S. "IVANHOE" being lecessfully bombed. 0755. Approahced H.M.S. "KEITH" who appeared to be not under mtrol, she had just been bombed. id Staff and one 0800. wounded torpedo-man. Approached two tugs to order them vent alongside and took off Rear Admiral lake-walker assist H.M.S. "KEITH". J.U.87 dive attacking, many bombs bombs falling in lose astern, nearest 0805. Thirty-five 10 yards, observed delay action of smaller le water. 0810. H.M.S. "KEITH" again bombed - considerable damage pparent. 6830. Alongside Dunkirk - intermittent shelling in harbour id western arm 0915. of inner Sailed harbour. for Dover with Rear Admiral Wake-Walker and taff on board. 1100. Secured alongside H.M.S. "SANDHURST". Sunday, 2nd June. Having been given 24 hours for Engine Room maintenance, I reported ready
462 H.M.M.T.B. No. 67 - 434 at Portamouth. 433 7th June, 1940. H.M.M.T.B. No 67. lont No. 67 between 26th May at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. desioned as leader of 10th "sir, I have the honour to submit the following letter of proceedings of H.M.Motor Torpedo Boat No 67, under B. Flotilla in company. my command, between 26th May, 1940, and 1st June, 1940. .Boat No.8 in company I and their gear. ivoused with M.T.B.22. I have the honour to be, barked passengers and gear. V with M.T.B. 22. (Admiral Sir, Your obedient Servant, Charles Canderson towe. Licutenant in Command. The Vice Admiral, 7 in company. Dover. to report to Admiral ake-Walker Copies to :- Cormander-in-Chicf, , to evacuate General Lord Portsmouth. The Captain, H.M.S. est of Dunkirk. Took necessary S. "KNITH" for instructions. two miles west of La Panne. evacuation. Sporadic La Panne. Continuous air ings and took them to H.M.S. ding M.T.B. 107 back to H.M.S. P orders if any. Shell fire increased in intensity and H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" drew away from miral ighbourhood 4g 1900. Dover, being Grounded numbered the (Lotter apparant 01/2 of to 1st target. vicinity, R.N. June). Depot, suffered At Felixstowe, this point a direct copy a number small hit to and Vice yacht, of sank. the unded der e fire other and was boat exhausted then in directed the soldiers immediate at M.T.B. on accopting board, 67 and, possibility it was in view considered of of straining the desirable the to engine. get This the way 1915. as accordingly soon Disembarked as possible, done. soldiers to H.M.B. "MOSQUITO" and returned to beach contimue embarkation. express rediation of an and unknown on the soldier point who, of though It severely is desired wounded to about the face watching and head T.B. 67 draw man away was, because or llapse, thought remained quietly full up in and the might water not want him. This urse, taken we looked on board. close shot down out ok them a 2000. mile to Proceeded starboard. nothing to Pilots but with THE STATE on taken 2100. up off but found to return to Dover. 2150. Bombed by June 1st....* 2315. Arrived Dover.
462 & H.M.M.T.B. No. 67 434 at Portsmouth. 7th June, 1940. rt of Proceedings and of H.M. 4th June, MOTOR 1940. Torpedo Bont No. 67 between 26th May day, 26th May. * Reported Flotilla. as ready for service and commissioned an leader of 10th day, 27th May. 1320. Arrived Dover. Fuelled. 0800. Sailed for Dover with 10th M.T.B. Flotilla in company. 1930. Sailed for Neiuport, with M.A/S.Boat No.8 in company taking three Belgian personages and their gear. 2330. Arrived off Nieuport and rendezvoused with N.T.B.22. 0200. Proceeded to Nieuport and disembarked passengers and gear. 0310. Sailed for Felixstowe in company with M.T.B. 22. (Admiral Keyes on board). 0630. Arrived Felixstowe. esday, 28th May to Thursday, 30th May. Employed as requisite, based on Felixstowe. day, 31st May. 0600. Sailed for Dover with M.T.B. 107 in company. 1030. Arrived Dover. Fuelled. 1600. Sailed for Dunkirk with orders to report to Admiral ake-falker H.M.S. "KEITH" and, acting under his orders, to evacuate General Lord rt V.C. from La Panne. 1720. Shelled by shore batteries to west of Dunkirk. Took necessary oiding action. 1730. Attacked by aircraft. 1745. Arrived Dunkirk and closed H.M.S. "KNITH" for instructions. rdered to evacuate Naval ratings from beach two miles west of La Panne. 1800. Arrived off beach and commenced evacuation. Sporadic elling from a shore battery in direction of La Panne. Continuous air 1ds. on beach and town. Picked up naval ratings and took them to H.M.S. OSQUITO", continued embarking soldiers, sending M.T.B. 107 back to H.M.S. EITH" to report situation and obtain further orders if any. Shell fire increased in intensity and H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" drew away from ighbourhood being the apparant target. miral Dover, numbered 01/2 of 1st June). At this point a small yacht, the 1900. Grounded (Lotter to R.N. Depot, Felixstowe, copy to Vice 4y other boat in the immediate vicinity, suffered a direct hit and sank. unded and exhausted soldiers on board, it was considered desirable to got e fire was then directed at M.T.B. 67 and, in view of the number of der way an soon as possible, accopting possibility of straining the engine. This 1915. the accordingly Disembarked done. soldiers to H.M.S. "MOSQUITO" and returned to beach continue thought llapse, severely wounded express about the face and head M.T.B. and on 67 the draw point away because is embaritation. desired to appreciation of an unknown soldier who, of urse, out ok thought them a 2000. taken mile remained we to Proceeded on looked starboard. board. quietly full nothing to up close in Pilots and the but H.M.S. might water descended empty not "KEITH". watching life want by jackets. parachute. him. Corman This These aircraft man Proceeded had was, shot apparently or down to on taken 2100. up off but Fuel deliveratoly. found running short. Ordered to return to Dover. 2150. Bombed by German aircraft. 2315. Arrived Dover. June 1st....*
436 H.M.M.T.B. No. 681 465 at Portemouth. . 437 H.M.M.T.D. No. 68 10th June, 1940. at Portemouth. , Boat No. 68 between 27th May, 10th June, 1940. I have the honour to submit the ring letter of proceedings of H.M. Terpedo Boat No. 68 under my command, 3. Flotilla. n 27th May and 1st Juno, 1940. Fuelled. I have the honour to be, Bir, 1th M.T.B. 16. , Gravelines. Took necessary your obedient servent. S.N.O. Instructed to stand by. Richard iers from West to East piers. or Vice Admiral Dover. red. Licutonant R.N.V.R. in Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N in Command. C Vice Admiral, Dover. pies to:- Commander-in-Chief, Portenouth, The Captain, H.H.S. "HORNET". officers to inspect beaches ast Piers. in Bush and Lieutenant Commander )Fdinary Telegraphist Kirkwood ircruft made off as soon as 10 à Kirkwood to H.N.S."SANDOURST". )res. rensmitting set and two tele- to demolition party. caused by W/T net, reached bereverines and YEARS rircu on by shore batteries. Took necessary Julon. and landed demolition party. Intense neighbourhood dive Manus carerree $ that soning into occured a the standstill. Dunkirk afternoon brought After second all activities air raid instructed in the crew to Drund-in Suinenft, ansthereu cestrol Bavre dbat. or Patrolled Ordered in collected dugout to beaches proceed on and East supplied throughout to Pier. H.M.S. H.M.S. fuel "HEBS" night "HERE" for motor and reporting to set attendant boats; under H.M.S. on activities transferred orders destroyer; "LOTUS" of and of Add curunded and merchant airmen and seamen soldiers from from H.M.S. "HEBE" instructions to to hand personally 4 Lord targed Gort; W/T set took Admiral with to organise beaching parties. Enureday, 30th May. 0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover. 0710. Considerable Secured Dover. repair necessary to engine. 2101. Repair completed and fuelled. Friday, 31st May. 1110. Sailed for Dunkird Dover in H.M.S. "KEITH". Tools 1230. Reported to Vice Admiral officer on board .....
H.M.M.T.B. No. 681 465 at Portemouth. . 437 10th June, 1940. sport of Proceedings of and H.M. 1st Motor June, Torpedo 1940 Boat No. 68 between 27th May, onday. 27th May. 0805. Sailed for Dover with 10th N.T.B. Flotilla. 1305. Secured Submarine Basin Dover. Fuelled. uesday, 28th May. 0655, Sailed for Dunkirk in company with M.T.B. 16. 0750. Fired on by shore batteries near Gravelines. Took necessary avoiding action. 0825. Secured Dunkirk and reported to S.N.O. Instructed to stand by. Ferried British and French soldiers from West to Sant piers. 1130. Sailed for Dover with message for Vice Admiral Dover. 1310. Secured Dover. Fuelled and stored. 2137. Sailed for Dunkirk taking Captain Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N and Lieutenant Commander Dennis, R.N. 2350. Secured Dunkirk East Pier. Wednesday, 29th May. 0400. Took Captain Bush and party of officers to inspect beaches between Dunkirk and La Panne. 0600. Returned to Dunkirk. Ferried soldiers from West to East Piers. 0910. Returned to Dover, taking Captain Bush and Lieutenant Commander Dennis. 0940. Engaged two hostile aircraft. Ordinary Telegraphist Kirkwood wounded in wrist by machine gun bullet. Aircraft made off as soon as 18 opened fire. 1035. 1040. Secured Discharged Dover. Ordinary Telegraphist Kiriwood to H.N.S. "SAMMURST". graphists Marchall Lord Gort. Aldo demolition party. 1540. Fuelled Sailed for Dunkirk taking W/T transmitting set and two tele- and replaced damaged stores. coast 1635. near Gravelines Owing and was fired on by shore batteries. necessary for Field to considerable degiation caused by W/T cet, Took reached avoiding bombing of Dunkirk during to a the standstill. After second air raid 1710. Secured Dunkirk afternoon brought all activities instructed in the neighbourhood crew to action. and landed demolition party. Intense dive take shelter on East Pier. Ordered in dugout to proceed to H.M.S. "HEBE" and act under orders of S.N.O. afloat. Patrolled beaches throughout night motor reporting boats; on activities transferred of Omall craft, collected and supplied from H.M.S. fuel "HERE" for to attendant to H.M.S. destroyer; "LOTUS" and soldiers took wounded and merchant airmen and seamen soldiers from H.M.S. "HREE" instructions to hand personally discharged to Lord Gort; W/T set took Admiral with to organise beaching parties. Thursday, 30th May. 0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover. 0710. Considerable Secured Dover. repair necessary to engine. 2101. Repair completed and fuelled. Friday, 31st May. 1230. 1110. Reported Sailed for to Dunkir Vice Admiral Dover in H.M.S. "KEITH". board Took officer on .....
CONFIDENTIAL abject. Depresse 339 10/7 Pom...THE CAPTAIN A/S, H.M.S. "OSPREY", H.M. DOCKYARD, EVACUATION OF B.E.F. - NARRATIVE OF EVENTS. 13/44/01 468 PORTLAND, DORSET. 1214 17th June, 1940. No. 0601/44/3.1170. 439 440 The Vice Admiral, Dover, (Copies to:- The Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth. The Flag Officer-in-Charge, Portland.) With reference to C.P.G.O. 1700, reports from Motor Boats 6|and 7 and M.L.100 are submitted herewith. already survid Reports from "KINGFISHER" and Motor A/S Boat 10 were Forwarded direct to you. 438 oport on Prioceedings of M.T.B. 68 Page 2 officer on board and patrolled beaches between Dunitipk and La Parme vrgunising the beaching of drifters, trawlers etc., at Braye and the distribution of small craft as they arrived. Considerable shelling from direction of La Panne at times. Searched for pilot of "Hurricane" brought down about 2 miles off beach, but unable to find any remains. Continuous air raids on town and beaches but not 80 intense as previous day. Little dive bombing. 2035.. Fuel running low. Returned to Dover. 2050. Overtook M.T.B's 67 and 107 and proceeded in company. 2205. Secured Dover. Two feet of water in after compartment and main engines causing considerable trouble. Saturday, 1st June. 0740. Took officers into Downs to board merchant ship. 0900. 1430. Sailed Secured for Dover. Portsmouth to be slipped with N.T.B. 67. 2040. Secured Portsmouth, 0000000 VITVING 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour. 0200 returned to block-ships.
CONFIDENTIAL Duprome 339 467 abject. EVACUATION OF B.E.F. - NARRATIVE OF EVENTS. 468 rom...THE CAPTAIN A/S, H.M.S. "OSPREY", H.M. DOCKYARD PORTLAND, DORSET. ate. 17th June, 1940. No. 0601/44/3.1170. 439 440 The Vice Admiral, Dover, (Copies to:- The Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth. The Flag Officer-in-Charge, Portland.) SADMIRAL ADMIRAL With reference to C.P.G.O. 1700, reports from Motor 18JUN475 Boats 6 and 7 and M.L.100 are submitted herewith. Reports from "KINGFISHER" and Motor A/S Boat 10 were already survived 18 Forwarded direct to you. Lieutenant Comman Dynama for Captain A/S. the Downs 2300 Found "Clan Macalister". Embarked two stretcher cases (approx) on deck. 29th. 0015 Collided with and sank small motor launch "Mino MINEKOI Key" with whaler in tow. Saved crew of three. 0255 Secured Dover. 0441 Sailed from Dover to turn back to Ramsgate all small craft from Thames Estuary. Rixx Took in tow six cutters and one whaler found drifting. 0630 Recalled to Dover. Handed tow over to motor boat to (approx) take to Ramsgate. Fueled. 1921 Left Dover for anix anti M.T.B. patrol. 30th. 0710 Secured Dover. 0901 Left Dover with Lt-Comdr. (?) to marshal and instruct all small boats arriving from south coast. 1335 Secured Dover. Fueled. Carried out engine repairs. 31st. 1140 Sailed for Ramsgate to rendezvous with small boat convoy. 1220 Arrived Ramsgate. Off-loaded depth charges. 1453 Sailed from Ramsgate escorting five tugs and five drifters all towing open boats. 1930 Off Reutigen Bank. General bombing attack on shipping. 2100 Arrived off Dunkirk. Took on board Lt-Comdr Wynne- Edwards Instructed open boats where to operate. (from Keith) 2315 In collision with large yacht. Hole in starboard bow above water line. Some ribs broken. 2400 Returned to Keith off La Panne. Took on board General (approx) Leese. Imamo 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour. 0200 returned to block-ships.
H.M. M. A/S. B.6. 468 Period May 23rd. to June 4th. 1940. Bin/o/ 1214 Time 440 3rd 1329 Sailed from Portland for Harwich. 2152 Arrived Dover - fuelled. 4th. 0857 Sailed from Dover. 1316 Arrived Harwich. Fuelled. 5th. 6th. Fitted quadrupia Lewis gun in place of port double 7th. 1307 Sailed for Dover in company with 3.0.7. 1753 Arrived Dover. Reported to M.A.Dover. 8th. 1100 Sailed with S.0.7. to search for Hurricane reported in the sea SeW. of Goodwins. Following air battle off Dover earlier. 1400 Returned to Dover. Search unsuccessful. (approx) 2117 Sailed from Dover to find S.S. Clan Maclister in the Downs to give her instructions. 2300 Found "Clan Macalister". Embarked two stretcher cases (approx) on deck. MINEKOI 29th. 0015 Collided with and sank small motor launch "Mino Key" with whaler in tow. Saved crew of three. 0255 Secured Dover. 0441 Sailed from Dover to turn back to Ramsgate all small craft from Thames Estuary. **** Took in tow six cutters and one whaler found drifting. 0630 Recalle to Dover. Handed tow over to motor boat to (approx) take to Ramsgate. Fueled. 1921 Left Dover for anix anti M.T.B. patrol. 30th. 0710 Secured Dover. 0901 Left Dover with Lt-Comdr. (?) to marshal and instruct all small boats arriving from south coast. 1335 Secured Dover. Fueled. Carried out engine repairs. 31st. 1140 Sailed for Ramsgate to rendezvous with small boat convoy. 1220 Arrived Ramsgate. Off-loaded depth charges. 1453 Sailed from Ramsgate escorting five tugs and five drifters all towing open boats. 1930 Off Reutigen Bank. General bombing attack on shipping. 2100 Arrived off Dunkirk. Took on board Lt-Comdr.Mynne- Edwards Instructed open boats where to operate. (from Keith) 2315 In collision with large yacht. Hole in starboard bow above water line. Some ribs broken. 2400 Returned to Keith off La Panne. Took on board General (approx) Leese. ynamo On passage GO DUNKITK. 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour. 0200 returned to block-ships.
- 2 - sbq 1st. 0030 (approx) he Crossed had just to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival - 441 found 0304 Sailed for gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith. 0547 Arrived Dover. Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese. 2nd. 1201 Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow. Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys" reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and aircraft. soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by 1330 Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk. (approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately 240 soldiers to Dover. 1530 Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out (approx) unsuccessful search for course drifter "Girl Gladys". 1700 Abandoned search. Set search to intercept Thames barge. 1720 Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes. 1730 Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board. 1922 Arrived Dover. 3rd. Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes andengines. Fuel tanks and hull seams leaking. 4th. 1255 Sailed for Portland. 2057 Arrived Portland for docking. on passage to Dunkirk. 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour. 0200 returned to block-ships.
- 3 - - 471 with engines greater stopped range when than boats and planes could be detected 443 by sound at a that far this course might profitably visibility be employed permitted. during patrols. It is submitted May 31st. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547. Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453 approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken off-load all depth charges as it was considered inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of 5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small boats. The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable the convoy to arrive together. At this time a large force of German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and a general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at this time and the attack became disorganised, - The bombers eventually disappearing inland. The convoy arrived off Dunkirk at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut Nyme-Edwardes from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as required. At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith a collision occurred with what appeared to be a medium-sized yacht. S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern swinging round as she altered course to port stove in S.O.6. on the starboard bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane. On arrival at Keith General Leese was emvbarked and instructions were given to collect Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved. On arrival at Hebe it was discovered that Lord Gort had crossed to Keith. S.0.6. returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters of NX an hour later Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked forthwith and he and General Leese taken direct to Dover. Considering the fact that it was the first time any of the crew had been under fire their behaviour left nothing to be desired. June 2nd. 1940. 1201 to 1922. Instructions were received to carry out a search for drift "Girl approximately 30 soldiers in an open boat about 3 miles off Dunkirk to Gladys" reported broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk and for reported by aircraft. Course was set from Dover direct the coast Reutigen. to search for the open boat, subsequently to put out the outer It was then intended to proceed slowly towardds to sea clear of land and make another approach to the coast approximately the 10 miles Dunkirk to allow for the set of the tide from and time the east of was received. Air escort had been promised causion had report to be exercised as no ships were operating off Dunkrik on passage to Dunkirk. 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour. 0200 returned to block-ships.
- 4 472 an open with soldiers off hailed. He reported having picked with the during daylight. boat in tow was About half-way across a French trawler boat up boat for in ich Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the we were searching. To make sure we barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from proceeded to Dunkirk where хихаря two open boats and a Thames the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 220 soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below. Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails. They had no charys on board. The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed. I then left my lst.Lieut., SublLieut. Dehammel with instructions to sail the barge to Dover,and proceeded along the coast having opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys". About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18 soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thames barge. At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attacked by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bombs were dropped and fell at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship. The bombers appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine- guns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour to miss the bombs. Some appeared to explode after entering the water, some on striking the surface and a certain appeared not to explode at all. One exploded under the bow right ahead and the ship passed through the splash. A certain amount of discomfort was experienced by myself and members of the crew who were exposed. to the splash in the M eyes for the next twelve hours or 30. Able-Seaman Power was wounded in the leg when manning the port turrett also one of the soldiers in the fore peak. As I now had wounded on board I considered it advisable to return to Dover forthwith and to ask for assistance for the barge. A tug was sent out at approximately 2100 and found the barge sailing well about 10 miles from Dover. I consider Sub ,Lieut, Dehammel performed a very creditable operation. The bombing to which the ship had been subjected had caused leaks to the hull and the petrol tank and the ship was not used again for that night's operation. on passage to Dunkirk. 0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield. Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
SECRET 479 450 5. The Captain A/S. H.M.S." Ospocy" Portland 10Ml The Comm anding Officer H.M.MA/SB No.7. ITE 8th June 1940 BJECT Report on the movements of M.M.M.A/SBNO.Y from 23rd may to 4 June inclusive The following teport on the movemento of H .M.MA/S B Noy between 23rd may and the 4th June, is terpectively x submitted for your consideration. may 23ʳᵈ, 940. 1800 H.M motor A/S Boat No.7 left Porttand for Portamorth 2045. Boat arrived in Portamouth may 24th 1030 Boat left Pottsm outh for Feliorlowe 2030 Boat arrived at Felivatore may 27th +300 H.M. motor A/S Boat No.7 Left Flixatore for Dover in Company with motor A/S. Boat No.6. 1700 Boats arrived in Dover. 1952. The following Belgian minusters embashed in motor A/S Boat No. 7- Chef de cabinet de Roi iespold III Ancien ministate Secritaire de I.m. Le Roi de Balgie 1955. Boat left Dover for hienpott in company with H.M.M.T.B. No. 107 0030 Boat arrived off hemp ott, and anchored off shake Commander Coles, in HM.M.T.B B 22, The Comm anding awaiting tide. acting on the instructions from disutenant officer of Mater A/S Boal No. 7 accompanied by one taling towed in shore to ascertain the position of the entrance to Thienport. 0245. motor A/S. Bual No.7. entered canada and proceeding to
SECRET 450 451 ray 27th 27 (cont). 0300 Belgian ministry desembarhed on Jetty 0315. Boat left getty in company with M.T.B's 104 and 22, 0330. cleared Camal. M.T.B's set course for Harvich, and mator A/S Boat set course for Dover in accordance with previous instructions. 0525 Boat arrived in Dover. 1250 Boat left Dovet in Company with motor A/S Boat No.6. to seatch for Birtish aircraft reported to have crashed in the sea south of the South Goodiam Light bessel. 1500. Completed search negative Boato returned to lover. ay 30th 0005. Twelve affress of the army General staff (Four officers of the Scotto Guards, Four officers of the Coldation Guardo, and four officies of the Grenadier guards under the command of Colonel E. machenzie Scots guands) embashed in motor A/S Boat No.7. awaiting delivery of Secret Hand messages. 0020 Left Dover for Dunhish 0240 arrived off Dunhish Boat was taken dose to Beach one to land your officies but shallow water made this impractistable The officers were put aboard Ca a Destroyet off Beach 1. and landed in Boats. this procedure was carried out at each of the other beaches landing your officers at each beach. motor A/S Boat No.7. then entered Durtish Harbous to deliver a Secret Hand massage to The Senior havel Officer Dunhuih Items. Dunhish was abound Such Land message was as delivered Prene, teench soldies embashed 0725. the accordance with previous
SECRET 481 452 1430 (Cont.). 1035. Boat arrived at Dovet. 1100 Disembathed french soldiets 1135 mator A/S. Boat No.7 left Doves to tendeyous off Ramogate with motor A/S Boat No. 6 to escolt convay of small craft. 1147. off Deal. Developed a five on the port Engine 1203. Five Extingurshed. Boat tahen in tow by Jug Dora 1514 arrived Dover and commenced repairs. 1730 Repairs completed and Boat placed at half an hours notice June. 1345 motor A/S. Boat No.y left Dover a proceeding to Bloch Ships anchorage, with havegating officer of the Bloch ships abound. 1410 to 1531 Boat going alongside black ships; havigating officer obtaining particulars of block ships and issuing details of movements to bloch ships. 1610. Returned to Dover Harbour : 1900. Left Dover to rendegoous with Destroyer and Bloch ships. 1945 Cammanding Officer boarded the Deatroyer to obtain final instructions from Captain Dangerfield. 1950. Bil leahn discovered in Engine Room. Emotat A/S Boal Noy returned to Dovet to obtain mate oil. 2040. arrived Dover - embashing oil. 2114 goined Blockships Convoy off South Grodunin L/N. 2100 Left Dover. 115. approaching Dunhish. Two of the Bloch ships appeared to have lost Convoy. motor A/S boat sent bach to lead block ships into Channel, about 0200, last
482 June. 453 loch ship Dunhith was tammed and sunh by a tropship eaving Indor A/s Boat No.y glos alongside roch ship to take off Commanding officer and ACCO. Two of crew were found to be unjured the Comm anding officer and Ctew of the block ship were transferted to the Destroyes and motor A/s Boat No 7. proceeded into the Hatbow to pich up crews of the first two bloch ships. One crew in lefeboat were piched up by MA/S. B. Noy and transferted to the Destroyer the other etew we brought off by M.T.B 107. about 0400 M A/S B No.4 left Dunhish for Dover and piched up the ctwo of a life boat seven miles west of Dunhiith The Engine of the lifeboat was bromen down and on fire. Life boat w was left. 0625. arrived at Dover. O. Left Doved for Dunhish edcotting P.A.F. Boat. 2250 Boats arrived of Dunhith 2255 Entered Dunhishi in accord ance with previous orders to embarh admital Nord, 2305 arrived at tendezvous to embath Hench went ashare but was unable to find the Hench admital, who was not present. The First Lieutenant admital Dovet motor A/S. Boat waited outside admital. acting under the Instructions of Read the entrance to Dunhish Harbow, entering again at about 0020 to make another attempt to find the French admisal. 0040. Jowed disabled was Dep artment Boat, under the command admisel Jaylot away from the Western getty of where she was lying with disabled Boat propelless. Tow line pasted and war Dept.
483 June (cont). 454 was taken in tow by a sloop. motor A/S Boat returned to ants ance to Harbour 0300. Operations complete. liders received to televen. Left Dunhish for Dover. 0645 arrived Dover. 930 June Left Dover in Company with motor A/S Boat No. 10. for Pottland 530 arrived Portland CAPTAIN A/S H.M.S. 1/1 "OSPREY" * 10 JUN1940 2 ORTLAND N. 3330 Sub Commanding officer H.M.M. 9/56/167
484 Resume of work done at Dover - D/C M.B. 455 Wednesday, 29th May. Arrived Dover and proceeded to Dunkirk with Lieutenant Commander Dennis and Commander Cazalet. S.S. "King Orry" was sunk by bombing attack, 14 survivors being picked up. Struck submerged wreckage which disabled the boat. Taken in tow by H.M.S. vivacions/ "Vigilant" and after effecting temporary repairs returned to Dover at 8 knots. Thursday, 30th May. Ferried an Officer to Downs with sailing orders for Convoy. Friday, 31st May. Returned to Dover at 0400. D/C M.B. being completely out 01 action commandeered Lifeboat and 40 ft. motor boat. Saturday, 1st June. Took Admiral Hallet to Downs in 40 ft. motor boat giving orders to Convoy. Sunday, 2nd June. Lifeboat towed back to Dunkirk with body of Lieutenant Mead R.N.V.R. who was killed by shrapnel while evacuating troops from beaches. Proceeded in 40 ft. motor boat escorting Admiral Somerville in M.A.S.B. 10 but lost contact. Picked up survivors of Hospital Ship "Faris". Monday, 3rd June. 0500 arrived Dover. Tuesday, 4th June. 0900 hoisted D/C M.B. out of water. Effecting temporary repairs on D/C M.B. Wednesday, 5th June. 1000 sailed for Portsmouth in company with M.T.B.'s 102 and 107.
487 SPECIAL FLEET ORDER No. 1. 458 8th June, 1940 ** DEDITIONARY FORCE from DUNKIRK TB 107 this "Houch" 485 17. 40 456 for dear (unt Command Demins Dreya has furi are your herefe. It is difficult 6 differentiate beliveen the varim menture 1 my very small creed. int havey seyand the fact this the Goat has my just and has absolutely us working up I would part the Name to the coxswain and leading stoken. the Coxdwar C.P.O. my. Driver ON. 6134 .D. and at all times cure and imperting and and always readhed are every in particular in such pilvtage and chart conk is carew or one in air Micult cricemslances prevailing. the leasing stoher 4510. C.W.T. murrin on. Pk.x.82587 kept his enymi efficient more quest defficulties and am + great help in memoring the boat in enform spaces 5. Dukish haban. the who always change and worked hard at all times E and his cupies running and as efficient as prible. Inc engine am unfamilian their and at all times he am crusparing 1- his timians every. The site him afpears mu what anions I unquire the we thall all be busy and for some time. I am afair the I have am 6 the conclusion their 107 fuile useless as an open shirl venel, any then has sleed, Mainly 1. And seep, and very quick lack 1. Narifalisial facilities d Wink you swher apre! I hope you are floring hing and the an ways will som am 7 om very riang AS That are a freat week John Camera and much who due G you. le Hodgkinson, D. worry of wenter Engr. their name , of i/c Bell, L.C. B. Parry, A.J. Engr. Bygrave, F.
numbers as CD Percy load. Leadly ИАН J.X. 134 Syrney Davey. are D.J.X. 146 Sar can I Lews he ar up my boat 5. trube with my. in organs 7 In lang else where his can dri meet as air. al best. W Some Circusly Rubalum
-3- 498 8 28th Inverforth May. Instructions were issued to these 46g previous (Our misunderstanding, Bairns, programme - i.e. and sweeping Thomas war Bartlett) channel to - carry on vessels with to a the M/S the Group Commander, who had but owing joined Roads. command, Vessels proceeded to carry out the only just 7 Dunkirk Bartlett", whilst were shelled off Calais, sweep in on our shallow endeavouring to get out of range, and"Thomas ran a mine and sank. minefields, in vicinity of Dunkirk apparently A.W. Buoy, struck R.N.R. Report of Lieutenant Commander A.A. Martin attached (No. 3). page 122 "Nautilus" and "Comfort" sailed for Dunkirk Beach under the direction of Lieutenant W.E. Gelling R.N.R. Report of Lieutenant Gelling R.N.R. attached (No. 4). "Nautilus" was damaged by bombs, and as far as is known "Comfort" was rammed and sunk. No report has been received. 29th May - 0100. Six M/S Trawlers under the command of Lieutenant R. Bill R.N. sailed for Dunkirk - embarking ladders at Ramsgate en route. Reports of Lieutenant R. Bill R.N., Skipper Lieutenant G.W. Robinson R.N.R., and Skipper Lieutenant L. Lake R.N.R. are attached (Nos. 5a, 5b, and 5c). lages 517, 523 29th May. "Lord Grey" and "Clythness" to Dunkirk. Report of Lieutenant J. Simson R.N.V.R. attached (No. 6) pagrosh 30th May. "Sargasso", "Gulzar", "Conidaw", "Chico", and "Starlight Rays" sailed for Dunkirk, embarked troops, and returned. "Chico" did especially good work in bringing back 217 troops. This vessel is only 70' long. All ships returned safely with troops. 31st May. "Sargasso", "Gulzar", and "Chico" to Dunkirk. "Chico" employed ferrying, and was responsible for nearly a 1,000 troops being embarked. All returned safely with troops. "Fyldea" and "Brock" to beaches with motor boat. "Brock" damaged by bombs, and ordered to return. Report of Sub. Lieutenant K.H.G. Roberts R.N.V,R. attached (No. 7). "Fyldea" returned with troops. page 025 "Lord Inchcape" and "Our Bairns" ordered to Dunkirk. Sweeping proved impossible due to shell fire and bombing. Ordered to return. 1st June. "Sargasso", "Gulzar" and "Starlight Rays" to Dunkirk for troops. All returned safely. "Starlight Rays", "Gulzar", and "Sargasso" to 2nd June. troops. "Conidaw" and "Chico" standing safely. by for life Dunkirk saving for duties on route "X". All returned 3rd June. "Starlight Rays", and "Gulzar" to Dunkirk for troops. Both returned safely. was carried During out,+ + this and 13 magnetic mines mine detonated were in vicinity "LL" of period constant sweeping detonated, with "LL" without and skide a the loss of a single probably, ship. by combired One fields Report of herself of Lieutenant and C.L. Trawlers, hospital Lambert R.N.V.R. ship, which were who visited 3/4 cables the away. hospital ship attached (No. 7). ? + in DOWNS and Entrance of Dover Harbour. (Continued over).
-2- 518 Skipper considered not to embark made the return journey and instructed damaged I 489 I she inspected could "Polly Johnson" and although more them to "Brock". serious to transfer more than fifty men, and if damage became the 7 "Fynella" I was "Canterbury" then and a few other troops wandered in the During and this lull more wounded troops were embarked and I all Officers abreast each ship and instructed my ships them jetty. stationed told that I could try and fill up up unwilling in what they considered "fishing boats" at order unwounded to embark men down into the trawlers. They were mostly to first and made various excuses to try and get to the larger ships. As the rate of filling up was so slow I asked the Pier- master if I could send the four outside ships to sea to wait their turns and decrease the target, but I was told that there would be a large number of men ready as soon as the wounded had been embarked and that the ships were to remain alongside. I was then asked by the Piermaster if I would place a trawler alongside the Western Jetty and light some smoke floats, and he suggested that I might like to volunteer for the job. I said that I was quite prepared to do the job by boat, but that I did not consider it possible to place a ship alongside the jetty as the foundations of the pier were shewing when I entered harbour, and that my trawlers were all drawing over 15 feet while the rise and fall on that day was only 11 feet. "Jaguar" completed and left harbour during this period, and a large paddle steamer (I think Crested Eagle) berthed shead of "Fynella". At about 1630 the second raid was carried out, but this was a rather half-hearted affair. All ships opened fire as before, and no damage was done to the ships alongside. About 20/30 bombs were dropped as before but they were divided between three targets "Jaguar" leaving the harbour - the ships alongside, and two French destroyers on the opposite side of the harbour. The "Jaguar" was damaged. Fighters again appeared and the raiders were driven off. The Canterbury completed and left harbour, and a destroyer came in to take her place. After this raid more troops started to come down the pier and although traffic was still hampered by the wounded and stretcher cases quite a large number were embarked in the trawlers. At about 1800 the third raid started. This was a very much more determined attack, and the bombers came over in waves at a few minute intervals - fire was opened but fighters appeared and it was impossible to tell if they were enemy or not and it hanpered the firing to a great extent. About 100 bombs were dropped, and the attack appeared to be directed entirely on the pier and the ships alongside. The "Calvi" and "Grenade" received direct hits and sank ensign remained flying from the foremast. There was a Mrect hit immediately. "Calvi's" masts and funnel were above water and her amount of panic ensued and men started climbing out of one shore. ship on the pier close to the end and "Fynella" was damaged. A cortain into another, and some attempted to run back towards the At this time I was with the Piermaster and he instructed with me to draw revolver to quell the panto and to load up survivors and my troops and to get the ships out as quickly as possible.
Dynamo NE 523 H.M.T. "ARLEY". N°. 494 2nd June, 1940. To: Commander M/S, Dover. Sir, May 29th at harbour received orders from H.M.T. "Fyldea" to On 1430, arrival I at the entrance of Dunkirk on Wednesday head steamer to seaward Garry" in tow out of harbour. After proceed up "Loch and turn, whilst he took the transport then gained the most favourable position for the manoeuvre. I was ordered to tow transport out, as turning I had I took the stern rope from "Loch Garry", and while the steamer came astern with engines. towing her stern clear of destroyers, commenced pushing after ahead harbour all clear stern first, but for some reason, which I This operation would have taken the vessel out of cannot explain, she reversed engines and went ahead, causing the towing hawser to be slacked away to prevent parting. On resuming pushing operation on "Loch Garry's" her, causing it to take fire. This was caused by the lengthened starboard quarter, my boat deck pressed on to D.G. wiring of towing hawser allowing my ship to go too far ahead, a position which I had no time to adjust, as the tide was carrying us both very close to Western Pier head, and I was compelled to go full speed ahead to clear us both. and took up position astern of H.M.T. "Fyldea" and moored to Having completed this manoeuvre I e-entered harbour, Eastern arm, with H.M.T. "John Cattling" and "Calvi" berthed outside of me; H.M.T. "Calvi" being the outside ship. Soon after mooring, heavy bombing commenced by German Aircraft, and although every ship in harbour put up full anti- aircraft barrage, the bombs were dropped either side of the Eastern arm. Several raids were carried out at short intervals, and during one of these a bomb dropped very close to "Polly Johnson", wounding several of her guns crew. During a later raid the Destroyer "Grenade" was hit, also H.M.T. "Calvi". The "Calvi" was hit by a bomb on the port quarter, and soon commenced to settle down, taking a very heavy list to port - at the same time H.M.S. "Grenade" commenced settling down. The next raid was directed more on the harbour, and shore end of the Eastern arm causing a delay on the troopa coming along the pier. At this period the position became serious, and it was decided all trawlers should clear harbour. Owing to the serious position of "John Cattling" being fouled by "Calvi" sinking alongside of her, I kept "John Cattling" moored to me, whilst I towed her astern clear of "Calvi", I then hove ahead, again close to pier, and embarked as many soldiers as possible; the remainder of the troops going to the paddle steamer berthed on the eastern side of the pier. (Continued over).
H.M.S. "KING ALFRED" 533 12th June, 1940 Report: DUNKIRK EVACUATION. By: Proby. Temp. Sub. Lieut. T. Laurie, R.N.V.R. 7 beaches. the next five days was briefly as follows:- May, to take My time table for river craft to Dunkirk to embark troops from 29th the I was light sent draught to Sheerness with about 12 others on Wednesday, Thursday, 30th May. Left Sheerness on "Maldon Annie* bound for Ramsgate and Dunkirk. Friday, 31st May. Reached Dunkirk in tow with engine broken down cutter. and vessel derelict. Embarked men from the beach in & naval 12 Saturday, 1st June. In Ramsgate on harbour duties. Sunday, 2nd June. To Dunicirk in motor boat "Wind of the Morning". Monday, 3rd June. To Dunkirk in charge of tug "Dromodary". I regret to report that "Maldon Annie", the small Thames pleasure boat of which I was in charge had to be abandoned.at Dunkirk. The magneto of her engine broke down before we reached Ramsgate and she vas then towed by the convoying trawler "Strathelliott". "Mation Annie" was only built for river work and she was not strong enough for the sea. The tow rope pulled all the bollards and cleats out of her, one after another, (the fastenings wro & bit nailsicktoo), and eventually it was only possible to tow with & strop right round the boat. At the same time the pumps choked and could bot be freed, as her bilge was full of rubbish, and she made water faster than - could sail. By the time we reached Dunkirk after a slow crossing, she was derelict and had to be left on the beach. I transferred to a large diesel-engined barge and carried about 120 French troops to her in a Naval cutter. We left for Ranagate with & full load about midnight. I reported the next morning, (Saturday) to the Port Captain. That day the only work available was landing troops from transports and carrying orders to ships, but on Sunday I was able to get another motor boat, called "Wind of the Morning". We left in the late afternoon with a number of other notor boats; enemy aircraft were about all the way across, and when we were 10 miles from Dunkirk their fighters circled over us for some time in the dark. To vent. dead slow so that the phosphorescence in our wake should not show us up and after a time the enemy attacked the next boat ahead which replied with machine gun fire. After two unsuccessful attacks the enemy went off and we went on our way. Before reaching Dunkirk however, we were stopped by & British The Captain's Secretary. H.M.S. FERVENT. RAMSGATE.
536 506 9.6.40. The Admiralty, Whitehall, S.W.1. To. N.O. i/c Ramsgate. From. Captn. Wharton. S.V.P. Vinsin Operation "DYNAMO". Report on Officers. evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk, the work of the Whilst working under your command during the following officer. was SO outstanding, that I wish to draw their names to your special attention. Though I had do 512 opportunity boats of seeing their work at Dunkirk itself, my duties in turning round, and all which that involved, gave me a clear indication of the storling merits of these officers. Lt. Cmdr. J. I. Miller, D.S.O., R.N.B.,, This officer was indefatigable in his efforts to get his boats ready to return to operations. The minimum of time was required by him for rest, the maximum time humanly possible being spent at Dunkirk, his first consideration being to get ready to return. His cheerful bearing and keenness infused all with whom he came in contact and 1 consider his example is worthy of consideration. I have no doubt that his conduct on the Dunkirk side was in keeping with that of the Base end. Lt. Van Hemel. Royal Dutch Navy. This remarkable officer He appeared to flourish on hard work with little 02" no sleep. had his own motor boat which he brought from fortsmouth and remained at Dunkirk four days working off the beaches, and on Thursday 30th May. He left Ramsgate at dawn on 31st May, at Dunkirk ferrying troops. de found fuel and food On over there and so avoided delay in returning to the Base. and his return he got his boat ready, had five hours sleep, minimum his duration thereafter. I was greatly impressed were by returned to Dunkirk. His stays in Ramsgate of the inspiring and the work done by him of very great value. manner and bearing and consider that his example was Contd., suo.Lleutenant noyal savy. The Captain's Secretary. H.M.S. FERVENT. RAMSGATE.
REPORT 539 522 ON THE OPPERATIONS OF THE MOTOR LAUNCHES "YSER" AND "MALBOROUGH DURING THE EVAQUATION OF THE BRITISH & 509 7 FRENCH FORCES. Yug Vincia The Hopper no.95, which I had been ordered to take h round to Ramsgate, anchored early last Wednesday evening, and Commander Duffet gave me the Belgian ferry boat "Yser". We started in 8 convoy of eighteen other small motor craft at about 0100 on Thursday. Shortly after daylight 512 the escorting drifter had to turn back with two of the small 512 boats, and with our much greater speed we soon left the remainder of the launches well astern. VI940 Owing to the fact that the "Yser" was not fitted with a compass we deviated from our course, making a landfall 8 few miles to the westward of the town. We arrived off the beaches at about 0900, and ran aground in our attempts to approach close enough to the sands for the men to wade out to us. There was no anchor in the boat, but we salvaged two of the plowshare type from other abandoned boats, and laid them out at low tide in order to kedge her off. During the afternoon and dog-watches we were able to be of some use by acting as a liason link between the boats and the officers of the embarking troops. The Frenchmen were very reluctant to wade in deeper than their waists, and Petty Officer Clarke (Chatham Division) spent approximately five hours, with water up to his neck, helping the soldiers ief into the small boats. agret I should like to take this oppotunity to recommend Petty Officer Clarke for his cheerfulness, vigour, and valuable advice offered on this occasion and later in the WD boat "Malborough". I understand that Captain Lord Louis Mount- batten mentioned Petty Officer Clarke in his despatches following the torpedoing and bombing of HMS "Kelly". Our efforts to refloat the "yser" were without success, and having waited for high tide we took passage home G. Gabbett- Mulhallen. Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy. The Captain's Secretary. H.M.S. FERVENT. RAMSGATE.
Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish 522 C. B.O. Sir, 7 6x Imday the 31" M May. we the S.Jug Vincia left Ramagate in taw of three skiffs for Duskinh at 2.45pm. 544 2 514 This operation of holding the bifeboats end on to the beach, combined with the continuous bombing from the air, proved too difficult a task for the crews. After doing it twice I had only one lifeboat remaining, the others having broached to and swamped themselves. Also, there was continuous shelling from the batteries from the Western side. So the only alternative left to me was to ferry troops from the piers to the trawler. Atlantic With the trawler filled we set out for home but we had not been under way long before the trawler struck a wreck. I sent out an S-0-S on the siren. It was quickly answered by a Dutch 'scoot which came to our rescue, took off our troops and leaving the trawler "FAIRBREEZE" to sink, landed us back at Ramsgate at about 7.30am. That night I comandeered a fast motorboat "VERNON 1" and set out again for Dunkirk to ferry troops off the piers out to the Destroyers and waiting transports. I continued this operation until dawn when the starboard engine of the launch fell to peices and I had to be towed home to Ramsgate rull of troops. The next boat I got was the "PIGEON" one of the War Dept. boats which continued to run magnificently for the remainder of the operations. From now on I did not try the beaches any more but ferried troops from the piers to the waiting transports outside Dunkirk. This seemed my best
Statement from S.Y. Vincen: (Re, Dankish 522 C. B.O. Sir, 7 Gn Imday the 31° M May. are the S.Jay Vincia left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkinh at 2.45pm. at 7pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohn I Yes. From:- Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. See 1 Date:- 5th June, 1940. $ To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. that 30th May. 1245 Proceeded from Ramsgate in drifter Ocean Breeze" (Skipper Bailley) with 2 whalers in tow. 14.00 Passed N. Goodwin L/V and proceeded by Route X to Dunkirk Roads. 1915 Arrived off Dunkirk East Pier. Proceeded forthwith to position 1½ miles east of Pier and commenced embarking troops. Whalers were used for taking troops off beach - naval crew in 1 whalerand and drifter's crew in other. Found motor boat with civilian crew and coxswain continued to tow our boats to and from shore to "Ocean Breeze" until dark having embarked 170 (approx) British troops. Contacted Lieut. McMullan in Schoot "Twente", turned whalers over to officer in charge of a tug as I realised that, without small boats, tugs and drifters etc. could not operate. 2300 Left Dunkirk Roads by Route X and arrived Ramagate 0400 on 31st May and discharged troops. 31st May. 0830 Proceeded in "Ocean Breeze" by Route X to Dunkirk 1330 Arrived Roads. off Dunkirk East Pier: proceeded to point 1½ miles east of Dunkirk Pier and owing to absence of small boats and inability to contact any power driven craft of shallow draft I was not able to embark any troops until 1500 When I succeeded in borrowing a whaler from tug to which I had turned mine over on previous day. Effected one trip ashore with whaler under oars but owing to surf and tide this operation took over half an hour. Then was fortunate in contacting Sub. Lt. Cornish R.N.V.R. in motor boat. This officer assisted me greatly by towing my whaler as far in shore as possible and hauling her off again by means of a warp for which we utilised the Dan mooring which happened to be in "Ocean Breeze". Without this officer's assistance I should not have been able to embark any troops that day.
Statement from S.J. Vincea: (Re, Dankish 522 C.B.O. Sir, 6x Imday the 31" M May. are the J.Juy Vincia left Ramagah in taw of three skelfs for Durkish at 2.45pm. at 4pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohen 548 eport by Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (contd) - 518 1500 From 1500 onwards we were subject to almost continuous attack by enemy aircraft and had the satisfaction of seeing 7 bombers brought down by destroyers' and shore batteries' anti-sireraft fire. Two enemy pilots escaped by parachute. Majority of troops embarked at this point were French. 1700 On hearing that there were a number of British troops on the beach near La Panne proceeded there with Sub. Lt. Cornish and his motor boat and succeeded in embarking a number of British. Total number embarked was not recorded by ne but was approximately 150 altogether. 2030 Having valuable cargo aboard and observing that there were a number of schoots and other craft who, owing to the absence of small power driven craft, were unable to get any troops. I decided to return to Base with my load and turned over my whaler to Sub. Lt. Cornish and asked him to report to the Schoot "Atlantic", the Commanding Officer of which told me that he had been there all day without being able to get a single man on board for reasons explained above. Proceeded by route X in company with other drifters, troop ships, tugs, etc. and were attacked by enemy aircraft until past No 6 W Buoy, when they were driven off by anti-aircraft fire from British destroyers. 1st June. 1430 Arrived N. Goodwin L/V and anchored owing to insufficient water in Ramagate. 1600 Weighed and proceeded in to Ramagate and discharged That troops. evening was ordered to return to Dunkirk in "Ocean Breeze" but order was cancelled as we could not reach destination by 2130. 2nd June. Ordered to proceed in Power Boat "Haig" with Lt. in McMullan R.N.R. and Sub. Lt. Hollingshead company with Marlborough, Kestrel and Swallow. Cmdr. 2100 Proceeded with Marlborough in company with with one Troop R.N. in command of "Haig" and lifeboat in tow. 3rd June. 0030 Approached Dunkirk; obliged to out lifeboat adrift she became full of water and was hampering bollard. Entered Dunkirk Harbour and proceeded alongside speed as of "Haig" and damaging towing
Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish 522 C. B.O. Sir, 6x Imday the 31" M May. we the s. Jug Vincia left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Duskinh at 2.45pm. at 7pm see were off the Sandethe Bany, who 551 Report by Act. Sub. Lieut. MacIntyre. (contd) - 521 4th June. 0045 Proceeded alongside H.M.S. Mosquito. 0145 Fixed charges; returned to gunboat and left demolition party. 0210 Left gun boat; one engine running badly. 0230 Given tow by paddle steamer. 0245 Paddle steamer altered course to avoid buoy. Other boat in tow lost two men overboard. 0300 Picked up one man (Dutch fishing smack rescued other). 0330 Starboard engine giving trouble. Speed 4½ knots. 0345 Asked tug for tow. Ordered to abandon ship. 0700 Arrived Ramsgate in tug. 1700 Given command of Amazone. 2300 Proceeded out of harbour and anchored. B.R.A. reported engine clutch red hot - must be sand in it. ad 5th June. 0900 Reported to Cmdr. Davies and Engineer Captain. Ordered to proceed inside inner harbour by fish market. 1045 Weighed and proceeded inside.
564 I 4 534 tension correct. I then hegan firing as rapidly as posible at 5 Heinkels Several small puffs of black smoke hits were observed day. by where tracer bullets had coming from the fuselage struck. the Heinkels then hombing climbed higher but continued extremely had difficult because it Firing the Lewis gun was to no imounting and I had the fire from shoulder falling by splash immense in the volumes boat increased of water difficulty was my salvas and explasions from the 8 to of bombs. There of the Each 10 bonds in each were whithing It salvo noise. made a salvo. weind out 5 Heinkels seems picked strange why the THE for their target the when Fervent so CODE inner harbour. staff but could find none; and French troops. Purtheat end of harbour now in German hands. Returned Ramsgate. Completed 5 journeys in all.
PLAGE OFFICER IN CHARGE 17JUN1940 * HARWIOH H.M.S. "Vatchful" 547 Great Termouth. 8th June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the report of proceedings of the "M" Drifters attached to Tarmouth Base (H.M.S. "Watchful") whilst employed on Operation "Dynamo", 30.5.40. 2345. Flotilla sailed Tarmouth for Ramagate, Good 46 567 From:- Sub. Lt. W.R. Williams, R.N. Mm 537 Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramagate. 30th May. Arrived Ramsgate from Portsmouth with lighter. X.209 Ordered to sands between Gravelines and Calais. Compass error 20°. Fixed green Bight buoy appeared to be missing. Anchored off sands; landed in boat and searched inland. Encountered enemy, engaged two and believe I shot both; returned to my ship. 31st May. Followed tug to East beach at dawn. Took aboard 500 men from my boats. One boat destroyed by bomb, two struck submerged lorries. Left for Ramagate. 1715 Landed soldiers at Ramagate and returned Dunicipe. led 2150 Arrived Dunkirk at dusk, heavy bombing and shelling. Soldiers very steady and cheerful. 1st June. Landed soldiers at Ramagate at noon. Ship had been n in collision off Dunkirk; left her in Ramagate us inner harbour. Took command of a tug whose Master refused to go to Dunkirk again and left of for Dunkirk. Arrived evening: very few soldiers on beaches. Went alongside small pier at back or harbour. Went ashore to look for troops; found no English so loaded up with French. 2nd June. Arrived Ramsgate 0730. Obtained Captain Duka's Mann, permission to arm and command Power Boat "Swallow". xi Arrived Dunkirk in "Swallow" at dusk. Entered inner harbour; took off 15 men and towed & full cutter in addition. 3rd June. Arrived Ramsgate in morning with loaded cutter in tow. Left for Dunkink in afternoon; entered inner harbour. Ordered to embark some French staff but could find none; loaded with English and French troops. Purthest end of harbour now in German hands. Returned Ramsgate. Completed 5 journeys in all.
FLAG OFFICEN IN N CHARGE 17JUN1940 * HARWY THE H.M.S. "Watchful" 547 Great Yarmouth. 8th June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the report of proceedings of the "M" Drifters attached to Yarmouth Base (H.M.S. "Watchful") whilst employed on Operation "Dynamo". 30.5.40. 2345. Flotilla sailed Yarmouth for Ramsgate, Good 571 Yes, 541 From:- Sub. Lt. D.L. Satterford, R.N. Date:- 5th June, 1940. To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. 1d 28th May. 1800 Left Sheerness in Thames Pleasure Craft "Viscount" for Ramsgate. Followed M.Y. "Prince of Wales" as ordered. "Viscount's" engine stopped on the way. After repairs continued on course until 2330; having no compass we anchored till 0400 Wednesday. 29th May. 1000 Arrived Ramsgate. Boiler pump defective; I asked for another boat. lled 30th May. g 1030 Took command M.Y. "Rygate II" with crew of 4 civilians. in Left for Dunkirk keeping station on the schoot ien "Horst". "Rygate II" broke down and was towed by out "Horst". Found impossible to effect repairs. 1 all Anchored "Rygate II" and boarded "Horst" with crew. to to 1600 Arrived Dunkirk in "Horst" (Lt. Sarjent R.N.R.) * worked 3 pulling boats with 2 men in each. Operation rendered difficult by bombing and heavy surf. One A.B. wounded in groin by machine-gun bullet. One Mar boat capsized but was righted. 2300 Lieut. Sarjent decided to move closer inshore. Found ved anchor fouled by another cable. Donkey broke down. Cut cable. Chief E.R.A. reported engine failure. 400 troops aboard taken off by another boat. 31st May. 0900 Arrived Ramsgate. Found M.Y. "Quicksilver" with take crew of naval ratings. Obtained permission to "Quicksilver" across. 2000 Left for Dunkirk at 20 knots. 2400 Arrived Dunkirk; ferried troops to ransports. 1st June. 0600 Fuel running short; left for Ramsgate. 1030 Arrived Ramsgate. 2nd June. 1930 Left Ramsgate; followed schoot "Hilda" out. 3rd June. 0100 Arrived Dunkirk Beach and being searched shelled. for British Sent by troops whalers direct according to hit. continue to order. search. One whaler blown up
FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE 17JUN1940 HARWICH H.M.S. "Watchful" 547 Great Termouth. 8th June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to submit the report of proceedings of the "M" Drifters attached to Yarmouth Base (H.M.S. "Watchful") whilst employed on Operation "Dynamo". 30.5.40. 2345. Flotilla sailed Yarmouth for Ramagate, to Report by Commander J. Glendinning, R.N.R. (contd). 575 545 The following men worked particularly well for no: Robert Durrant, Master, Drifter Lord Rodney, helping me to keep the convoy together during the two night passages and during the day he manned 8 boat himself working into the beach. Walker I. Walker II. New Brittanic. A. Cadman (cox) Percy King (cox) William Matthews (cox) de G. Stavely Edward Parker Walter Reid T. Davies John Ellard Norman Reid (aged 15). Java. Victor Smith (mate) Harry Griffiths (deck hand). Arthur Westcott Act. A.B. No. LDX/5046 - H.M.S. Pervent. Lord Collingwood. Lord Keith. 9 Lord Rodney. illed Edmund Marr (mate). Robert Eye (master) William Gladwell Jg (deck hand) Thomas Durrant (deck hand) an Charles Fisk then Fred Goddard ( deck hand) your = all These worked particularly well in the boats on the and beach ate to and also men in boats picking up survivors from aeroplane H.M.S. Waverly, which was bombed close to us. #. Mann, ived
582 552 Report of Operation "DYNAMO" from 30th May to 5th Tune 1940. 30.5.1940. 2pm. Left Sheerness in charge of Motor Boat "Forty TWO" and a convoy of nine craft bound for Ramsgate for orders. After about 2* nours steaming the leader of the second convoy, Lt.ges] on Dogra "white Heather" requested me to take charge or nis convoy or nine craft as White Heather" had broken down and was under GOW. Thereafter proceeded with the full convoy of 18 craft and arrived OIL Hamsgate about midnight. Proceeded ashore for orders and received same, which were to carry on as soon as possible to Dunkirk beaches for the purpose of ferrying troops to the larger ships at anohor. At Itam on the 51st May left Ramsgate escorted by H.M. Trawler towing those craft wnion were unable to proceed under their own power. After about 2 nours steaming the trawler requested me to carry on with the convoy as the craft ne nad in tow were causing him some trouble with their tow ropes. I earried on with 14 crait and arrived or the Dunkirk beach as about 9am. Throughout the day British and French troops were ferried to the various large vessels at anchor. Sometime during the night the engines on "Forty Two" were giving trouble and as 1 had the opportunity of a tow back to Ramsgate where 1 might expect repairs to be executed and as few ships seemed to be left in our immediate vicinty for the transferrence or troops 1 decided to return. Arrived off namagate early on the 1st June and the engine Was overhauled that day and made 115 IOr further service. ne left again for Dunkirk in the early evening and on arrival orr Dunkirk troops were again Ferried for some time. unfortunately in manoeuvering close to the anor the craft either stuck a submerged object or grounded and in the subsequent movements 01 engines and nelm the rudder was lost. 1 eventually managed to reach up alongside a tug, transferred the troops 1 had on DOBIQ and onen proceeded to 115 a jury rudder; consisting or at ladder issued to & rail stantion art and with at locker door lashed at une oottom; the flag stari acting 8.8 a tiller. This proved rairly effective and we carried on ferrying troops until the tug nad surficient and we left in tow or the tug. when about 15 miles off kamagate the GOW rope parted and we completed this latter part or the voyage under our own power
er contd. and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate naroo morning that with be repaired ,8,8 soon I again left in the evening a War Dept Motor Boat arri Dunkirk late evening and troops were again transfe the larger ships. When this operation was completed at sb 2am a return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th Jun ordered to return to sheerness, out a few minutes before the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was nel having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymout myseli to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told we left at 8pm that night and arrived and pertned at wey the next day wednesday 5th June 1940. Lee
588 556 H.A.S. HORNE LDG. Six R.F.R. B.16726, JUNE 13TH 1940. M.L. MERMAIDEN, c/o HOTER EDNARD Dury PERFORMED By M.A. MERMAIDEN WEYMOUTH DORSET AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK. eft Heyminth of 6.30PM.St procusses to .) met May & 2 D.10 ymouts Wed 29/5/40, went to There 80/5/40, of was put 555 advist resuain of a small open motor boat named Two Revers: RX, of fto known) (Christian to drive name the & motor, off be and not Sea known) forris and RNR of howshoff 90% itly Ldg sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name to allowal ach, 2008 b Dunkish to help evacuak she Goldiers molored from the in sharted arriving to at Dunkirk early hours of Frid morning bring of Proofes HMS.W.ell Lighter Y 12 553 offree in charge dent Mortimore RNR We Left Sheenen about 1.20PM on the 30/5 & arrive at Ramsale X ancher about 8PM weath food We left arain about 10PM for Dundur, but the weather became jerry we ancher about IAM About JAM, the per lifted of we proceed an our every to Dunkuk were we non Saf arrived East End of Dunkuk about # ats + anchored, the weather was a With chaffer. about 5PM Sat the solders started comin in the sheff to get about & when we left then wouldn't be a salder -1 be thout seen for about 50 yds when side of us, so got out and Dunkin, we brake took 2 Boats ss - we Your 7.15PM sat. we got up ankson of just as we about JAM. 1.6.40 we down, and or + of waited for & lug I come about from Ramsgele + tow us we arrive theerness 0.6.60 8AM We left Ramigabe in your for took when we got, to theemess we Considery the the young ye crew they were very good Yc a chalhan
or 83 contd. morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate hardour left that evening with be repaired 8.B soon as I Dunkirk again late in the evening and a War Dept Motor Boat arrivi When this troops were again transfer the larger ships. operation was completed at sho 2am a return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th June ordered to return to Sheerness, out a few minutes before 0 the Petty Officer on the" Mermaiden" advised me he was neld having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymouth, myself to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told 1 we left at 8pm that night and arrived and berthed at weym the next day wednesday 5th June 1940. LeaR
588 556 W.A.S. HORNE LDG. SFO R.F.R. B.16726, JUNE 13th 1940. M.L. MERHAIDEN, c/o HOTER EDNARD WEYMOUTH DUTY PERFORMED 34 M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET. AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK. Yesp Heyminth of 6.30 procuses to .) met Maria & 1 Maid RNR n Wed 29/5/40, went to Sharmes, There 80/5/40, of was put 555 advical reswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers: with Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name to allowal R.H. of the known) Christian to drive name the & mober, off be and not Sea known) forris and RNR of howshoff roby b Dunkish to help evacuak she goldiers molored from she 1 in ach, i sharted arriving to at Dunkirk early hours of Frid morning l bring of Prooper b Winchelsea Dauting Lighter Y 72 offree in charge Lent Mortimore RNR We Left Sheeness about 1.20PM on the 30/5 4a & arrive at Ramsgale X anoher about 2PM weath good We left asain about 10PM for Dundur, but the weather became jerry we ancher about 14M About JAM, the per lifted a we proceed an our every to Dunkuk were we non Saf arrived East End of Dunkuk about # or / civel + anchored, the weather was a lettle chapper. about 5PM Sat the solders started comin in the sheff to get about of when we left then wouldn't be a salder 1 be seen for about 50 yds when side of us, so thout 7.15PM. sat. we got up ankon of just as we got + about out and 3AM. Dunkin, 1.6.40 we we brake took down, 2 Boate ss - we Your and or of waited for a bug In come from Ramsgele + tow us we are ine theerness about 0.6.40 8AM We left Ramiyabe in Tow for took when we got, to theerness we Considery the the young crew they were very good Yc 72 k chalhan
or contd. and steering and was with told jury the rmudder. craft Berthed in Ramsgate har morning left that would be repaired .8.8 8001 I again evening with a War Dept Motor Boat ar Dunkirk late in the when evening and troops were again trans the larger ships. this operation was completed at 2am 8. return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th J ordered to return to Sheerness, out a few minutes befor the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was n having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymou myseli to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was tol we left at 8pm that night and arrived and perthed at we the next day wednesday 5th June 1940. Lic
588 556 W.A.S. HORNE LDG.S R.F.R. B.16726, M.L. MERHAIDEN, JUNE 13th 1940. c/o HOTER EDNARD WEYMOUTH DUTY PERFORMED 34 M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK. eft Heyminth of 6.30PM.A procusses to .) met May to & l 2 Maid RNR A Wed 29/5/40, went to There 80/5/40, of was put 550 ERE advical reswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers: of known) to drive the motor, and Sea forris RNRof howsboff with Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB, Christian name off to allowal R.H. pho (Christian name & off be not known) and molored notes b Dunkish to help evacuate she Goldiers from she in ach, . sharted arriving to at Dunhirk early hours of Frid morning Send Sell bring Q of Proofs Lish hiers b HMS.Winchelsea a itsamphia I See decided eng on Revisions Lighter YC 72 585 officer in change Least Mostimore AND 554 Left Weymouts 29.5.40 ctrive Sheerness - " Left - 30 - Amer Ramgets 30-5-40 Left 30.5.40 Avenue Dunkerk EAST 31.5 Left with Soldins 7.30.31.5.40 Arme Bamogote 1.6.40 Left for shenness 6.6.40 of chalhan Liftchathan for Weynoult job complete 7.6.40 h Amer P.O the crew played there Pack very well endeed considery they were yours.
$ 16 5 contd. morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate I again left that evening with be repaired 8.8 harbour soon Dunkirk late in the evening a War Dept Motor Boat 3.8 % the larger ships. When and troops were again transferre arrivina 2am 8. return was made this operation was completed at ordered to to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th June shortly the return to Sheerness, out a few minutes before Petty Officer on the" 'Mermaiden" advised me he was held due having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymouth. up myself to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told to we left at 8pm that night and arrived and berthed at weymouth the next day wednesday 5th June 1940. LuR.
W.A.S. HORNE LDG. Si R.F.R. B.1672 M.L. MERMAIDE JUNE 13th 1940. c/o HOTER E.) WEYNOU DUTY PERFORMED By M.L. "MERMAIDEN" Doks AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK. Lept Heyminth of 6.30P.M.St procession to .) we & / & Maid RNR 555 am Wed 29/5/40, went to Sharmes, There 30/5/40, of was put kswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers: ith Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name 998 to as to (Christian name & off be not known) and molored known) to drive the molor, and Sea horris RNRof Lowshoff Lobs % Dunkish to help evacuate she Goldiers from the ch, arriving at Dunkish early hows of Frid morning beach East of Dunkirk piers a Heamship of decided mg sharted to bring of Proops b HMS.Winchelsea. See on prom am work amships the under surf falls the which which be was were of presty her hanging as heavy 4 from gave of some logh her davits shelter one of is the heligged as a boat rope made fast lo the S/s sterm ach has get our boat out clear of he Gurf, bout 6 / chelsea in she morning when going in from the we out which If think was owing to the shock of for load of Folders our engine k code around, we carried on in is the beach of explosion of the bombs which were dropping a raded up with goldiers hauled out our boat be other 4 boat cope regged to the Oftern of the steamship who gnabed to motor lannch which gave us her sofe who d howed us to the Winchelsea and continued lo low going alonglide of Winchelsea with the last load to and fro, all the daywill lake in the evening 6 eart ordered us she Crew of the: Two Rivers abound m Gless and could only drift about we Pharmeses were brought and with the molor broke down and baking we were ach h Dover and then went on to ready ady to sahe another boat across if needed
$ 10 r 83 contd. morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft Berthed in Ramsgate naro I again left that evening with would be repaired ,8,B soon Dunkirk late in the a War Dept Motor Boat the larger ships. evening and troops were again transf arr 2am 8. return When this operation was completed at 8 ordered was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th JU to return to sheemess, out a few minutes before the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was ne having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymout myself we lei 587 the ne The crew behaved extrement well in d duty carry ing on all she while under continual air bombardment T machine fire from shore bathery firing across H to she finish and being web through the noh stopping or having anything to eat f all she croldiers had to be dragged a had to wodde out in the surf up for at himes to get to our boar. and with their equipment on were helpless in she was G.B Thomass Sea P.O.R.N.R
588 556 W.A.S. HORNE LDG. Sto. Prints R.F.R. B.16726, sferred JUNE 13th 1940. M.L. MERHAIDEN, shortly c/o HOTER E)NARD Tune WEYMOUTH e due DUTY PERFORMED By M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET. held AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK. up uth. $ to to + expr Heymin of 6.30PM.T procussess to .) met May under command of Junt. Maitin R.N.R. doing followed 1) wech Rilot boots to Joves a advist er of Doves of 3.0 P.M. May 3th u Jun the Finst Hastin was released from as on allowal we from of Dover to go do and this the who Pensioner Petty Coffices Norton was then in board command of The boat. to their We completed with spel 9 works & provisions overca & loft Joves for Sunkish 31ˢᵗʰ May. her. an unwertful ship to Dunkish, snop) for R off fouring difficulties with Tage dowing small crafer, we were under one own faver. We saw Ting ship sto book in spow, & permit we were heal Smkirk. The Tag made any & we and not know while we were, so me had to hang alound until class broke. as alown was bleaking we got under way & steamed for a awl red glow which we could see in She custance, & which we sook for Dunkisk. asked then if May were going to Sunkish, We sighted two Belgian fishing boats, & They smell so we followed Jast apperwards we hade contact with
590 Two 557 an seart vessel & asked Then for The conse to Sunkish, & are found we were on the sight Arack. We eventually arrived or the beach which was noth of Dembrik, & which 2 Thank was LA DANN. Iv was The Glorions ,et of June when we assined at The beach in The thisk of an vial bombarant. I Aprgov to hertin that on he way to The beach we were strafer by Nazi Planes but without loss of life a very while method damage, hit one of the Belgion looks was far and of action. an the beach we procuded sto filly traspe to Ae waiting austrayers under bonbaidness & machine gun fir, although and waships were keeping of a stopy bareage. a big flight of Nazis cane over, a The & other waships all got started overfung loabs. under way, of proceded sto Sea, which They We Spotted a boat load of back were forced % do mow She Tommies cricumstances. well for them, of mall machine gm fire we got and from the beach so we Animal There then safely about warships heal so we had to by Ao well sea, no as with The washifs hd. gone, 94 The will Soldies had given of hope well until Huns making it was for they Ann back, a they risk greatly law relieved, no & said They world The tril back with as.
upe 12th 1940 C.C.S. Base 59% Wermonth 558 bhronicle of Events of Imerniades may 29th Proceeded so Dower under Doner. 30th Comfleted with oil and water Com mand of Lieut. martin R.H.R. arriving and provision, Luest martin while to so to another ship took charge of Income nd proceeded the 31st may in Curver under run Power with two trainlers towing small motor boats, at between 11 and 12 on after great difficultres in keeping Confact with Hawler the tiansler slifid their Tow. in he darkness we missid the Convoy, so decided to wait ontill dazlight, when sighting two Belguim drifters the Joinsa with them asking if ther were procerding to Dunkins, not quite lear. signted Transport and asked by Signal Coresfonded with the coam we were the coarse for Dunkirk, the Coarse received steering so proceeded the in Company Just before Dunkirk we were attacked G 4 as arring aircraft but doing at with us machine little damage, action, fun fire the arring taking Drifts at astern being put out of from the books to the destroyers, tombs our destination, proceeded to Embark hoots which there puff rather close, Sing how was rowing up a Leavy barrage, several us a hard droffed the one Destroyer was was AFTER fathy one Loading, underweigh boat on contain Leaving 24 the British Destroyer. / French sighted officer and shaking, Except the one that I so in and took them off, weigh as proceeded the Denti open was getty under
she Submitted Report of Dunkisk Operations. 561 The Night of fune 3.4. after being relived from HM School Tilly' managed to faid a large cabin cruiser, as Mermander, in which to you au last crosing. She had at the time a broken fuel and extaust pipe but, due 6 as efforts of leading Stoker younger, They were boa meuded in time to start with as remainder unfortunately as crew had received their full share of machine quaring in a previous tip and any were rather chary of going again, so, while an stoker voluntersed 6 stay on board the remaining four members of as clew wall left ashone. The crew eventually consisted of as stoke an air gummer on leave, Michael game, an elderly while - haved gentleman M: MacPherson ecently appointed 5 HMS Victory as a Lientement, and myself. During a greater part of as trip across we had also am board in adminal, Ramsqate - Commodore Taylor. fuse after passing 'w' 3 bury a admiral traus fessed 19 a Was Department boat. and as an boats shick zill aen, had been Towed by tips, were cast of and told 6 follow under Casin our steam - Between w buoy and are channel. Chree floating mines were en- line, Shile hey and 6 explode Deam with Lewis you fie- countried, which occupied as insesweepers for a ensidence The Flest teached Dunkisk without mishap.
596 and admisal we proceeded straight up To Quai Felix Fame. Boar was the directing are swaller boats. The who there was was a only other one alongside when we was Dep difficulty in filling the boat. animal au officer bows controlling the French troops, they archough powed are and stem antil are was noc au inch in unfilled. the Meanwhile stumbling along be 'quai', tripping debin G report G the admisal, 1 ended of a large shell hole, which 1 promptly cursed up fluently at Draw one language. with two hundred troops on board forward of the cobine was so crowded that are believe not we one ot all, consequently the boat bad 6 by slouting diections louder Than due incessant Freuch The passage out passed without any untoward incident. De barbow however. a slight well difficulty arose, lousi to which the troops should have been transfe not be found, due to its not flashing the preatrava 5 make matters worse are was a swell outside Oue boat roll reiker precariously. The troops were eventually put aboug lying near are entrance much a are consternated Sub- Lientenant who kept bleating hopelessly. Passer cli an order which are French promptly obeyed by sero the focile. Luckey the only damage the boar a goterquely twisted guardrail and chipped paint by are swell. but on assioring at the quai' found it deserte s We proceeded once wore up a troops had been evacuated in a emarkably. acting on his instructions I went ashore again left certain that are admiral had not been be had not. On our return down are harb admisal in an HTB. which had apparently 6 are her propersion and relders were ordered
AID a go is to a tramp steams proceeding 4 French fishing assistance smask that Each had collected a few troops- 552 running full speed in an endeavour eitile to avoid us, an straight into one bows. Fortunately ic did damage, due 5 an decks you but air was not known while doeslight. Once alongside are fishing boat / enquired civilly of the coxswain Whether or not he required towing, and was promptly told 13 hop 's' in a most ungentle manner while one of an Crew proceeded is but ML with an oar. In are conversation Oat ensued is appeared Diat I was Drying to turu are boat back while the latter was determined G save itself comme tous le auties! & Chey still seemed adamant in their refusal 19 & Towed , and appeared 13 be quite sappy in aim ignorance we eft Gen 19 make arein our way 4 the larbou entrance. Further down au harbour we were hailed by a moterboat which appeared 4 have gone aground off one of the when pies. We had hoped G Tow has our, are au idea was eventually abandoned as she had a ope round her SCHEWS and a large beam of wood, G which as ope was attached under her , forward of au propellers. 7 - were then Taken on board, and twned not 6 be Vice- admissals, doven Garge we were leaving. The proceedings were held up by be coxswain a Scotomian, insisting on returning for his boots. a hundred yards fund on we were you bailed by a small open motorboat which had broken dan. Taking her in Tow we eventually reached as intrance, located where are Tow decided G part. after rescuring her again, we ae motorboat was aen cast adaift the tugs and the two chews were transferred is Crem - The time was now after one. City so we well ordered to stay by as tup , giving up our former intention of visiting schools are were Nouveau working. awar lust Part, above as this quai time an at German which are articlery opened fine on the Larbour shelling
596 and we proceeded straight up to Quai Felix Fame. where admisal was directing are smaller boats. The was Department Boat was the only other one alongside when we arrived there was 2 difficulty in filling the boat. archough are au officer controlling are French troops, they powed in are bows and stem antil are was not an inch of over cpace unfilled. Meanwhile stumbling along the 'quai', tripping over of a large shell hole, which 1 promptly cursed fluently in the debin G report G the admissal, 1 ended up at Due Draw one language. with two hundred troops on board. the forward of the cabine was so crowded that are behnoman not au one ot all, consequently the boat bad 6 be way by slociting diections louder Than the incessant Freuch chatter The passage one passed without any untoward incident. Once as harbour however. a slight well difficulty arose, when lousi to which the troops should have been transferred, not be found, due to 't's not flashing the preatranged 8g 5 make matters worse are was a swell outside which Ou boat roll precariously. The troops were eventually put aboard a lying near au entrance much a an consternation : of la an order which are French promptly obeyed by sustained chestering Sub- Lientenant who kept bleating hopelessly. Passer the foirle. Leckey are only damage the boar a goterquely twisted guardrail and chipped paintwork, by are swell. up the har all but troops on had assising his been instructions We at evacuated the proceeded quai I in went once found a ashore a wore cc again deserted short believe to acting certain on that the admiral had not been left be had not. atura down the harbour lost in On our MTB. which had apparently to Take are her admisal propersion and an relders. we were ordered
AD a go is to assistance a tramp steams proceeding 4 French fishing smask that Euch had collected a few troops. 552 Turning full speed in au endeavour eitile to avoid us, an straight into one bows. Fortunately ic did damage, due G an decks iron strengseening but this was not known whil doeslight. Once alongside are fishing boat / enquired civilly of the coxswain wheller or not he required towing, and was promptly told 13 hop 's' in a most ungentle manner while one of an crew proceeded 19 but 3 with an oar. in are conversation Oat ensued is appeared that I was Drying to turu are boat back while the latter was determined G save itself, comme tous le auties! & Chey still seemed adamant in their refusal 19 & Towed and appeared 13 be quite happy in air ignorance we eft Gen 19 make arein our way 4 the harbou entrance. Further down au harbour we were hailed by a motorboat which appeared to have gone aground off one of the winer pies. We had hoped G Tow his one, auc Cu idea was eventually abandoned as she had a ope round her SCHOOL and a large beam of wood, G which as ope was attached under her , forward of au propellers. The - were then Taken on board, and twned one 6 be Vice- admissals, dover's barge we were leaving. The proceedings were held up by the coxswain a Scotoman, insisting on returning for his boots. a hundred yards funcess on we were apain hailed by a small open motorboat which had broken dan Taking her in Tow we eventually reached as intrance, where are Tow decided G part. after rescuing her again, we located ae motorboat was Cheu cast adift be tugs and the two chews were transferred is Chem - The time was now after one. City so we well ordered to stay by are tup. giving up our former intention at of visiting schools are were Noweau working. awar lust Part, above as this quan time an German which Due articlery opened fine on the Larbour shelling
CONFIDENTIAL Drynams 375 Subject. REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F. 583 68 From The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth. Date 24th JUNE 1940. No. 781/4. To THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. The attached reports on the evacuation of the B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. FAGAN, D/C Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper "Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden- tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40. you ADMIRAL * DOVER 26JUN 1940 RT CAPTAIN. wy. just clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it we managed to recover one who revived after some was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but While this our screws became foul In of spite doing obstacle and rendered useless. sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong surf of and ebbing tide soon drove us aground.
CONFIDENTIAL Drynam 375 Bw/ Subject. 500 REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F. 563 } From The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth. Date 24th JUNE 1940. No. 781/4. To THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. The attached reports on the evacuation of the B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. PAGAN, D/C Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper "Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden- ne tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40. OF ADMIRAL * DOVER 26JUN 1940 RT CAPTAIN. DO & WAS a line to the pulling boats the is unustes is to the ships. One boat, heavily be acquipment capsised just as it the weat incompled medicare was made A Names a were the who men revived sank like after stones treatment. but in Lan , care 4. and I news became foul of some usba endered useless. In spite Cani inho futae Herto by other boats, the strong Business Exhand drove us aground.
| From | The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. |
| Date | 24th JUNE 1940. |
| To | THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. |
| 7 how events after | E.J.P. BRIND |
| per gallions Reach In accessance | GAPTAIN. |
| the Commander Partsmarth at |
600 2 565 18 H.M.S. Excellent, Portsmanth time 10 the 1940 x. The Vice adminal, Hoves the thave the honour to submit the follow toppes gallions Reach on hray 29 leard of events after being appointed to the 1 the Portsmonth Commander in. chief Postomouth tsailed from In accerdance with instructions received from my Command the Hoppers Queen's Channel Laty at 0320 on may 30ᵗʰ taking under wg. South borough" ho 101" & No usit and arrived at Ramsgate at 2015 on the same day. 2 wing to slow speed and apparent engine trouble Hopper "No. 67 was mable & seep company, & on my Departure from Ramigate assised there. an the following mothing she had us. 3 In accordance with orders teceived at Ramogate m just yenesa throw a line to the pulling boat, boats heavily and then tow men in full equipment capsised like just stones as but clear of the suit, them out to the ships. One it laden with us. most of the men revived sank after treatment. we managed to this our screws became useless. In spite was reaching recover one who foul of some we 3 our obstacle and vain efferts by other aground. strong doing and rendered boats, the blund we ele de wher ebbing tide soon drove as
601 566 led for Hun kish at 0 300 on heay 31ˢᵗ 8 th borough", their T slower process independently "Laty to me pany with Q "No. meen's 101" Channel to & ordered Hoppers anse of specds. jallions Reach and Queenischamel assured at the each 31ˢᵗ. to the East of Hem kisk Newbour at about osio may Twin to the effing like we could only take an board gallions Reach eventually managed to get about few tooops moring the forenoon and early efternoon. official attached to the army. one Belgian soldies and me French potal 123 French and British troops, including at The Hoppers sailed independently from Huntrith discretion various times rusing the evening at the Hun of the Skippers tsailed from wy time kirk 3,st in и fallion's Reach at 2230 m twas set considerably H my coutse in takin Owing to enemy air attack during the night Ramsjalie until about 0700 on time 11 in avoiding action and tid not assure at whence twas ordered to margate to disembark troops. MUSLINE - m just clear general the suit, throw a proper line to the pulling boats of then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily it and laden in full equipment capsised just as with men us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but we was reaching to recover one who reviewed after some sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, strong While doing obstacle and rendered useless. the managed this our screws became foul In of spite suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.
602 2 5. stake this opportunity to mention the splentid art played by the 'Lady South borough the Ad not have a neval officer onboard, and because dependently the brought It more troops than her speed was forced to operate largely od. any of the other Hoppets and the itialive and skill displayed by her SR ipper and Chew in ind The in thusidsm Reeness of all about her to ambasking troops from the beach was outstan rug return to Hunkith was repeatedly in evidence at 0300 on time 5ᵗʰ in in accordance with order under received at margate tsailed for Portsmouth, taking Lady South borough" "Fotemost (Sub Lientenant K.H. my command the Happers "Queen's Channel mathin R.N ) and No. W. 24" the Chamiel had been twept We were delayed until 0700 in the Howns until In a position approximately 10 miles south of 28 the Royde sovereign Light House (in numbed allion's Reach) took in tow a Ftench fishing vessel in by personnel of the French havy, bound from Hun havel kith to Hower touly handed her over to the auth orities in hewhaven. 2 & line 000 30 W after 1700, and thoth fee Owing to the weather, restriction on passing of feed water in several ships, tanchoted at henhave about C 0a 1 power Noals TO run m just at 2 June 58 J - 11 5 K. 00-4 you 950 of TVr frow a line to the pulling boats Address a to the ships. One boat, heavily it this is fare old at use equipment capsised just as when Kg beha chass expanse take R the men sank like stones but that Palaxe HE nick's who revived after treatment. mede CANN nooder became foul of some & Mas "Pda cast with produced useless. In spite he Hereby whenels - manes accents by other boats, the strong We What drove us aground.
603 568 hewhave On time 6ᵗʰ in accordance with in stare china received at Ports mouth. Heft the Happets and proceeded personally to while engaged in ferrying troops from funkish beach, one of gallion's Reach's boats was lost and the rema in in boat twamped with the subs ment loss of some bottom boards, and crutches. in those the honour to be, Sir, your obedient servant, 7.h I tohnston, WHALE IBLAND Sub. Lienten ant Roy al havy. idea was for the power boats to nun in boats just clear of tow them out to the ships. One heavily it general the suit. throw a line to the pulling boat, and then in full equipment capsised just stones as but laden with men most of the men sank like after treatment. we was reaching to us. recover one who revived of some managed this our screws became foul In spite sunken and vain efferts by other aground. strong While doing obstacle and rendered useless. boats, the suit of the and anchor ebbing tide soon drove us
604 2 569 H.M.B Excellent. 12 June. Sir, He I have the honour to submit the following narrative of events covering the period 2200 Wednesday 29th May until the morning of saturday June 1st In accordance with verbal orders, 9 sailed from Portomouth in H.M.S' EXCELLENT'S A/A motor Boat about 2200 May 29th. The following afternoon it became necessary to put in to Dover owing to insufficient fuel to proceed to Ramsqate. While refuelling I received orders to remain at Dover. about michight I got sailing orders to proceed at once to BRAY DUNES to assist with the terrying operations between the beach and waiting ships. and went straight inshore. There was heavy sust Early on Friday morning we arrived off BRAY and many of the pulling boats which the soldiers were manning from a jethy of abandoned army transports appeared to be in difficulties. The general idea was for the power boats to nun in just clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it we managed to recover one who revived after some was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but While doing this our screws became foul In of spite obstacle and rendered useless. sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.
605 Once ashore, and 9 got in touch with a party Engineers made arrangements for the of Ro stern to be raised in an attempt to clear boat whatever had become foul of them. while this away being done I took the crew and a party of we some way along the beach to where am abando sole cabin-cruiser lay. she appeared to be in good condition; after considerable effort and mus hampered by bompandment and machine attacks from berman aircraft she was ever refloated. I left her in charge of my consway the rest of the crew, .1 with orders to carry on previously. When I returned with the soldiers original place it was obvious that my A/A boat was of no further use. The most import articles were removed to safety: Secret chai the Captain of the minesweeper PRINCESS ELIZA and Aldis hamp to the Royal Curps of Signa had only a motorbicycles lamp. With the aid of more soldiers we got a ships trip back took became over into badly another the sea motor-boat holed one. and so By made I had this abandoned several been time force my he and in in life-boat the as private almost the and engine redhot. appeared did They a pulling rejoined rather too Jerry me 70 for the remainder we of the time. There being five oars the work was exhausting and ob slow. with darkness, the submerged private cans, buses etc) and the suit the difficulty of operating from the sing con transports run out into the sea and
606 570 ch other by single planks. shorthy before midnight we ade our last trip. The Princess Elizabeth was full up nd the object of much shell-fire; our We-boat was lowly breaking up and the cnew were exhausted fter a day of fairly continuous fire from land nd bombing and machine gun attacks from the air. They could not have carried on any longer. We were iken onboard the Princess Eligabeth and arrived it mangate next morning. I reported with my cnew it Dover and on being informed that we would not enle required any further, returned to H.M.S. Excellent. I have the honome to be Sir, w Your absectent servant. 13 JUN 1940 WHALE ISLAND Q.W. m. Matthew. (sub heat. R.N) 2A he Captain life H.M.S. Excellent. own
CONFIDENTIAL 612 Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m. OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkirs approximately by shortest Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Candr. Dennis Canalet. staff of Cleared ORRY. Fouled perews on submerged up 11 from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked S.O.N.T.B's, survisors 0300. from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine Thursday, towed in 30th, and started. accepted screws. tow Engines wouldwetart. 0200, wreekage. reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. 0100. Completed bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunision Engines most unsatisfactory Tel. Hii. 3211 306 Broan Rill Road 7 Calford, 571 X 12-6-40 London S.E.G. Dear Sity Herewite a rough report of part them by "ot Fagur in evacuating time of Dunkish not much I'm afraid but you will note that had did bring back the Company 1- think this is what in callul for by C.P.G.O. 1700 Could you please have + typet and made to look presentable EXCELLENT your JUN 1940 NHALE IRLAND It. Ch.
CONFIDENTIAL 612 Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. 6 OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m. 0100, least depth over over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. (Commander Low water Dunkirk approximately by shortest Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff of Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage. Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started. 0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing Engines most ungeti H. M.S. EXCELLENT 608 PORTSMOUTH 12-6-40572 REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F. have the know to render the following report, in accurdance with Confidential Portsmouth General Order ho.1700, of first taken by H.h. Tug "SiFagan" in evacuation of BEF. 0708 (APPROX) FRIDAY "MAY - Orders received from P.A. Donn to take from Dunkish. three Thomes Saiting Barges in togo and proceed a to Duratish stretch of heach east of Sunkirk where Barges were to he beached to act as embarRation Pontouns for BEF. Two suffied these Darges undere filted with ausectling engines. taking they in low. instructed to proceed actside Harbuur to facilitate I them them with necessary towing Rawson and this 0830 (APPROX.) the 1 Procuded outside hurhum and took Banges in third tow length of tow from how of stragan" to stery to the Bange being approve 200 fathous, 1 Rausess of Rad 1000 Sands. an Processed speed with tow vip channel through Gooduria not (APRROX) strong secured enough to for masts towing of Banges as other fittings were 1115 channel opprose. by as (APPROX.) tar Destroyers at Rad average arrived to. and to 12 be W then at Bary nursed "w" vissels of Bury as 5 constantly Kurts instructed passing and mg Course at through a Could high was 4 speed. the set made wash to good enter caused the some the essential, marks mumeries mish Hrikension after High that dark, sandbanks faccepted Water sheed draught was Junkiok an felt north it of of was en ship of not this being date affreace. was distance and that at the 14feet, 2105 on of luck 7₫ one and meles but of of 300 directive owing (APPROX) to turnerds - amind Dumkish in was Channel reduced / could and recognised, on proceeded nearing proced in the an at stad Easterly was defficulty of avoiding the memoran only whichs slow with sheed the
CONFIDENCIAL 612 Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. $ H.M. D/C motor OPERATIONAL boat under DYNAMO. Wednesday, possible route 29th over May, shallow 1940. At 2100 my sailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m. 0100, least depth over mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkir's approximately by shortest Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Commar. Casalet. staff of from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked Dennis 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors Cleared screws. ORRY. Fouled porews on submerged up accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, weekage. 30th, 0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed In and started. reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots the to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat of Flag Officer, Dover for Engines most 609 lay withs tow were and fould the in numerous the 2 darkness Jush on having three in occasions, the Channel, and 573 the must of third lighter was camisdaway. 30 Saturday "June- Harbour alroam, further Cantine Rad to be exercised as no chart uses mailable for Channel East of Dunkink, direction being obtained by haiting following passing Vessels. (affrom) Received 0230 (approse.) 1 my Coeswain Petty officer BASTABLE- volunteered to take the shiff ashare, taking ABLE SEAMAN NEALE, to this I shiff was lumored and sent in. investigate suitable hosition for hearting the Banges, and 0300 Capture.) - Received signal from Beach requesting boat to take off British Soldiers, and decided to heart the & Barger using one with awaithing enginer to fatch of the to Lightermen and as many troops as we Could camey and small engines- - the Lighterman to return in own on finally its own beach third tighter Barge by sending it in was Thingly my estimated position at this time 3 mids East of Dunkish. Banges to the were Lightermen. hanled claim to shih and instructions given 0340 without (apparme) - Barger slipped, and am with took the are bow engain in - heard tow and went a head engines to hass rund 1355 (approse.) sunk I with Aircraft in a By very ese plasion short and hund, occurred / found and the myself ship callupsed in the water and mg one of which my and Telegraph near the two P.H& was and suring the sinday slowly, Barge 1 these out were reached Barges with contacted my Criswain in the skiff Rad adrift landed officer sent a party two of British Trans whose and Corporals with him Quanding to organing
CONFIDENTIAL 612 Page 1 of Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. 8 OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived Dunkirk at Dover Deme possible least depth over shallow minefield. Low water by shortest Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Commdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's, 0100, over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, approximately staff of Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled porews on suimerged wreokage. Cleared screws. Engines Wouldwetart. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towad In and started. 0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. ohoo. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing 574610 610 Engines most thin disposition and 3 to me guide that the he Banges. had amroal occumed, appose. also of Operamin later informed the ship when the explosion and that that bout eschlosion affeared to 8° drawn the Funnel of shih. venty yards from was Caused by a bouth from aircraft, He then of woulded the twenty. officir and Ships Company, two officis and to pick up survivors, the ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown Boats: and an stoker were wounded. In addition to the seventeen maral ratings lat them was one initian who had Come on board from one of the Barges. a complete list of survivors and ratings lost, including this when together with the two Antorals, were later friked hh Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste by I & passing hig filled with troops and landed at Ramsgutes Bastable Consider the murked zeal and initiating of Patty officer worthy of special commundation I have the hunnur * h your Obedint Servant il Coptain H.m.S Emallent Luit. Canth Portsmonth
CONFIDENTIAL 612 Page 1 of Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. H.M. D/C motor boat under OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. 8 Wednesday, possible route 29th May, 1940. At 2100 my sailed command arrived at Dover p.m. 0100, least depth over over shallow minefield. Low for Dunkirk by shortest Flag Officer-in-Charge, mines 6 feet. (Commander water approximately Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dover and Dunkirk. Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff or from Cleared H.M.S. screws. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged Picked up 11 survisors accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage. 0300. to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. in Completed and started. Proceeded H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed 30th, reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low bombing casualties. attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, level defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunsire Engines most unsatisfactory. LD 574 610 thin disposition and 3 to guide the Banges. of Occarin later informed me that he had amount approve. venty yards from the ship when the exchlosion occurred. also that escplosion was Caused by a bouth from aircraft and that the brub affeared to 80 down the Funnel of shih. He then worlded to pick up survivors, of the twenty-f officis and Ships Company, two offices and bese ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown and are stoker were wounded. In initian addition to the seventeen maral ratings last them was one a who had Come on board from one of the Banges. whom, together with the two Cartorals, were later fried hh Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste complete list of surverois and ratings lost, including this by & passing tig filled with troops and landed at Ramsynts Bastable worthy of special commundation I Consider the musked zeal and initiation of Patty officer I have the honour * & your Obedint Servant The Captain Luit. Cand ces H.m.S Emallent Portsmouth
CONFIDENTIAL. 612 Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. Page 1 of OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. H.M. D/C motor boat under my command arrived at Dover p.m. Wednesday, 29th May, 1940. At 2100 sailed for Dunkirk by shortest over shallow minefield. Low water approximately over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, staff of Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's, Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage. Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started. 0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk. Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to harbour 0400/31. Friday, 31st. D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for duty. Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON. CONFIDENTIAL. 575 Subject. OPERATIONS OFF THE BELGIAN COAST. From. The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit. Date. 14th June, 1940. as To The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth. a In accordance with C.P.G.O. 1700, the report on operation DYNAMO is forwarded. ) lle) Lieutenant in Command. ted utes ans ficer from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 lifeboats survivors spoke tow. (hospital ship). Picked up wounded and took men in from wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow. 2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to (Continued. ) psh.
CONFIDENTIAL. 612 Page 1 of Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940. OPERATIONAL DYNAMO. Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m. possible 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 Low water Dunkirk by shortest Flag Officer-in-Charge, feet. (Commander approximately Cleared screws. Fouled screws on submerged from Dover H.M.S. KING ORRY. Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors on board). 2300 Dover and Lieut. Crundr. Dennis Casalet, staff of accepted Proceeded to H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in 30th, and started. tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage. 0300. reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk. Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to harbour 0400/31. Friday, 31st. D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for duty. Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON. Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle assumed command of 40 ft. ships fast motor boat and manned it with:- Petty Officer John Luckins. P/J 103170, coxswain of the D/C motor boat (as coxswain). A.B. Alfred J. Cole P/JX 129800 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT) (as Lewis Gunner). and Stoker W.M. Wells R.F.R. P/85.125744 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT). These men all volunteered to accompany Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle, and it was with difficulty that he could persuade them that orders were necessary before proceeding immediately to Dunkirk. The boat was capable of 20 knots and one stripped Lewis gun was transferred to her from H.M. D/C(boat, MORE the other gun being in Lieutenant Mead's lifeboat. Saturday, 1st June. 40 ft. motor boat assisted M.T.B. 107 (Commodore Hallet) in regulating rescue traffic to and from Dunkirk. Sunday, 2nd June. motor boat escorted M.A.S.B. Continued 10 (Admiral towards Somerville) but 40 ft. due to discrepancy in speed. 1900. Dunkirk to see aircraft attacking hospital approximately 12 lost touch if boat was required for any purpose. ship. Proceeded Sighted formation of enemy 1910 Air attack. Duration All petrol minutes. cans 87215 to assistance. dive-bombing and machine günning. Between spare 30-40 M/G pierced and near 1930. Took offices JU 97's and miss bomb strained boat. off Captain and some from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 survivors tow. bullet holes, no (hospital casualties. ship). Picked lifeboats up wounded and took men in from wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow. spoke 2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to (Continued
6.6 LOG of the m.v., "SEINE" Official No.160693 of Roohester. 580 Crow Master - G.V. Cogger. Mate - H.L. Stafford. Engineer L. Godden, Deck Hands J. Lawson and J. Kirby. Tednesday May 22nd 1940 Sailed from Rochester at 7. 0 a.m. for S.R.D. Jetty, Deptford, for stores for North France; arrived 579 614 Disnom 399 578 FROM CAPTAIN OF DOCKYARD, CHATHAM. DATE 17th June, 1940. TO ADMIRAL UPERINTENDENT, CHATHAM. CONFIDENTIAL. 577 Page 2 of Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 1940. 2115. Transferred all survivors to a SUN class tug. 40 ft. motor boat making water and liable to sink. SUN tug took motor boat in tow hoping that self-bales would keep boat afloat. 2130. Abandoned 40 ft. motor boat in tow. Monday, 3rd. 0415. Arrived Dover in tow. Secured. 0700 motor boat awash, due to leaks. 0800. Hoisted motor boat out. Crew returned to D/C motor boat. should like to bring to notice the coolness calm and of Patty Officer J. during the extremely difficult 2nd period June, Glso at boat I Luckins in obeying my helm orders with when the was Dunkirk being on heavily 29th/30th May his coolness was also promptitude attacked. on Sunday, noticeable. The enemy aircraft with the stripped Sunday, 2nd June. gun, was accurate shooting and calamess of A.B. Lewis Cole who hit very at praiseworthy least one during the air attack on 15.6 D/C.
three miles to the Eastward of Dunyirk and there were thousands 621 of men on the shore shouting and after consulting with a Destroyer the Captain of the tug ordered me up on a short tow rope (despite 585 6 my warning them my stem might be knooked in); instructed "LADY ROSEBERRY" to start up his engine; piok up the "DORIS" and get ashore ready to pick up the troops. Whilst they were doing this, I was getting my engine going and within a very few minutes by the time the "LADY ROSEBERRY" and "DORIS" had navigated up round the head of the tug and I had slacked astern of the boat, there was a tremendous explosion and the tug had apparently been blown up by a mine. It was only half light at the time and I immediately lowered my small boat to look for any survivors. I picked up one Stoker who subsequently proved to have a broken leg and whilst we were pulling him into the boat, another man who proved to be the Mate, climbed over the dinghy side. Just at this moment I saw another small boat pproaching and hailed them, to find that they were the crews of the two barges which had sunk in the explosion. They had scrambled aboard their boat before their barges sunk. Everything happened so quickly that it is difficult to remember everything but my barge seemed to be lifted bodily out of the water by the explosion and I was relieved when I found she was still afloat although making water badly. By this time my barge was the only remaining vessel of the flotilla and I had the injured man aboard and there appeared to be no other survivors.
622 I applied to the Destroyer for instructions who told me to 586 proceed back with the injured man. After we had proceeded about 5 miles, another large tug (I believe one of Watkins) picked us up and towed us back to Ramsgate where we arrived at about 11.30 on Saturday morning. When we arrived at Ramsgate, a launch took the injured man ashore and 8 second boat landed the other members and I was sent to Pebble Bay, to await further instructions. It is interesting to note that the Stoker with the broken leg was on watch in the boiler room at the time of the explosion and was blown out of the stokehold before he found himself in the water. My crew consisted of twomen only as under :- Captain - W. Watson. 10 Victoria Street, Strood. Kent. Mate - A. Hall. lives aboard the barge.
Source: The National Archives, Kew, ADM 199 792. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
3. / the Dutoh and Belgian authorities that arrangements 11 a for sending the larger ships - the long journey will be essential. If the Datch and Belgian authorities S know this beforehand, they will have B chance to make dam arrengements for provisioning the ships and warning he the captains not to allow on board more passengers than can be conveyed on so lengthy a journey. If no such warning is given beforehend the gravest difficulties may arise. In an emergency large numbers of persons may crowd on to an ill-provided boat 75 and the captain, who has been contemplating a short en journey, will then be told by the Admiralty representative 3 that he has to make a three days' journey. I imagine the difficulties of consultation with the authorities of these countries are serious. on n the Ly other hand, if no such consultation takes place the gravest troubles may arise and the British Government may be accused of lack of humanity in foreing an 111- including children aga mifim persons provided ship crowded with distressed people to take 80 long a journey. us The Admiralty representative told se that their officers in the Dutch and Belgian ports are at present being nad for their sarety and health during a 3 to 4 days winter voyage. This estimate is offered with the greatest reserve, and should be subject to improvement in the light of fuller information. 4./
Report on Operation "DYNAMO". CONFIDENTIAL 115 Page 4. 8 (d) Shore Artillery. At the the southern batteries Route Z was found commencement to be under of the operation, from only be used by near night. Calais, The and consequently gunfire could only by night fire to when later the northern batteries Route near Y was usable brought too narrow to permit bear on the Zuydecoote Pass, Nieuport which was running Route X was gauntlet of fire. By this time, however, the a reasonable chance of ships batteries available, and was free of gunfire German Dunkirk near Gravelines brought its exit until into the Roads under gunfire. This occurred in with the of enemy air attack, led to the the afternoon result on Saturday, 1st June, and in conjunction suspension of daylight traffic altogether. (e) Submarines. U-boats do not appear to have caused any casualties. It is unlikely that the one thought to be present penetrated further than the northern Route Y. It may well be that this U-boat laid moored mines, which are thought to have caused the loss of two A/S trawlers. 8. AIR CO-OPERATION. The system of co-operation between the Naval and R.A.F. Commands does not permit of direct contact with the R.A.F. operational units allocated for duty with the Naval Command. For this reason much time appears to be lost and the needs of the ever-changing situation may not be provided for. Delays and lag occur, resulting often in the R.A.F. effort being brought to bear either in the wrong place or at the wrong time, or with inadequate force to meet the current situation. The requirement is for the Naval Commander in charge of an operation to be able to convey his requirements direct to the R.A.F. Commander of the R.A.F. Operational Units, and for this latter officer to communicate direct to the Naval Commander the steps that he is taking to meet the stated requirement. It is unnecessary to stress the vital necessity for effective air co-operation in an operation of this nature. Not only did unopposed German air effort interrupt and reduce seaborne traffic, but it also prevented embarkation by suspending troop movement. To both Naval and Military observers on the coast, the situation at times was extremely disheartening. Rightly or wrongly, full air protection was expected, but instead, for hours on end the ships offshore were subjected to a murderous hail of bombs and machine gun bullets. Required by their duty to remain offshore waiting for the troops, who themselves were unable to move down to the water for the same reason, it required the greatest determination and sense of duty, amounting in fact to heroism, on the part of the ships' and boats' crews, to enable them to complete their mission. In their reports, the Commanding Officers of many ships, while giving credit to the R.A.F. personnel for gallantry in such combats as were observed from the ships, at the same time express their sense of disappointment and surprise at the seemingly puny efforts made to provide air protection during the height of this operation. In this connection, as one Commanding Officer remarks, the formations of our own fighters when operating machines surprise down than were enemy, and feelings was no area were to so the observer to note that more of over the outnumbered by enemy aircraft British that it disgust were were engendered shot on listening in to the B.B.C. of report
CONFIDENTIAL 118 Report on Oneration "DYNAMO". Page 7. 116 CONFIDENTIAL 115 Report on Operation "DYNAMO". Page 6. re 117 fighting formations were encountered. French troops handl ist were either demoralised and had to be controlled by force or n by the use of fire-arms, or were so rigidly bound by disciplin and tradition that they would not embark except by complete formation under their own unit officers. In either case, the rate of embarkation was much slower than with British troops. 12. INITIATIVE SHOWN BY COMMANDING OFFICERS AND last SUBORDINATE PERSONNEL. A most satisfactory feature of the operation was the high degree of initiative shown by Commanding and Subordinate Officers of units operating off the coast, ranging from H.M. Destroyers to comandeered motor boats. The majority of officers and ratings in command were in situations requiring independent action in extrenely difficult S conditions. Often the easiest course was to be satisfied with work already achieved' and to return to the United Kingdom with a final load of troops. The reverse action was invariably executed, namely, continued operation off the 1 coast as long as there were both troops ashore to be n. evacuated and vessels off shore to receive them. If the craft in use was damaged or sunk the crew invariably seized some other boat to continue their efforts. gh Unaware of the military situation ashore and ofter forced to move westward by bombardment from German artillery or even by rifle fire from advancing German forces, the majority of these boats, commanded often by stokers or ure hostility only seamen, had only one object in view, to lif from the beach any, and all troops, British or Allied, with sight of the water's edge. e On their return to the United Kingdom when asked report their proceedings it was only in answer to direct enquiry that it would transpire that these young men had subjected, in many cases, to an unparalleled bombardment an the air. They appeared to consider that this was part of day's work requiring no comment. ork 13. LOSSES OF TROOPS AFTER EMBARKATION. It is a distressing fact that many ships were or damaged on the return voyage when laden with troops. is fortunate that in most of such cases the majority of troops were saved owing to the large volume of traffic t) was coming and going between Dunkirk and the United King Exceptions to this were due to the rapidity with which ce cer ships sank after having been bombed or torpedoed, Such cases" are as follows:- loat WAKEFUL torpedoed. Ship broke in half and only those on hore, the upper deck were saved. About 600 troops were belostaff CRESTED EAGLE. Was bombed and then beached in a burning ven condition. Only about 300 saved out of 600 on board ence to SKIPJACK. 250 - 300 troops on board, most of whom, Chi unfor tunately, went down with the ship when sh sank. aff, Bombed
123 121 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 2. Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. Monday, 27th May, 1940. (continued) embarkation from beaches in the La Panne-Dunkirk area, as such matters as crews, fuel and general organisation were taken in hand. Five Personnel Vessels routed to start in day- light completed the round trip during the 27th and lifted a total of 3952. In addition 17 drifters of the Dover Command sailed from Dover for the Malc beach, and during the night X lifted 2000 troops from the beach by ships' dinghies. During the day destroyer patrols had been established to the North- ward to cover the passage of merchant ships between Dunkirk and the Downs, and the Admiralty asked Western Approaches to reinforce the Dover destroyers. 6. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, sailed 6 small skoots for the South Downs to co-operate in Dunkirk, and sailed 4 skoots loaded with Army stores direct to Dunkirk. In the evening Naval Officer-in-Charge, Ramsgate, was asked to take over the fuelling and despatching of all small power boats with the attendant pulling boats forming the inshore flotilla. Some unnecessary delays occurred at this stage as the majority of the Naval Authorities and the Admiralty were directing the small craft for Dunkirk to be routed to Dover, although the Vice Admiral, Dover, had asked for the Downs to be their destination. Once despatched by the Authorities no communication with these vessels was possible until they arrived at their destination, and so the requirements of assembling these craft at the Downs or Ramsgate was in many cases delayed by as much as 24 hours or more since during the night misfortune befell many tows that came adrift due to moderate weather or collisions and the business of rounding them up could not be effected until daylight. 7. The Vice Admiral had intended to maintain a destroyer at Dunkirk as a W/T link, but the S.N.O., on arrival, decided that conditions at Dunkirk made this impossible, 8. At 2025 the Vice Admiral, Dover, received a Most Immediate message from the S.N.O., Dunkirk, who had just reached his station, as follows: "Port consistently bombed all day, and on fire. Embarkation possible only from beaches East of harbour A.B.C.D. Send all ships and passenger ships there to anchor. Am ordering WOLFHOUND to load there and sail T.O.O. 2005/37". Meanwhile Vice Admiral, Lover, had asked the Commender-in Chief, Nore, to send every available shallow draught power boat, capable of ferrying from beaches to ships lying off the beaches Eastward of Dunkirk, stocked with fuel and provisions for two days; this move being made with a view to saving time by cutting out the passage to, and subsequent reorganisation, at Ramsgate, prior to proceeding to the French Coast. It should be noted at this time X (2000/27) there were no pulling boats, cutters or whalers immediately available for attendance on Power Boats. A further signal: "Please send every available craft to beache East of Dunkirk immediately. Evacuation tomorrow night is ir problematicalTo01958/27 was received from S.N.O., Dunkirk. Later that evening a roport WAS received from
127 126 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 6. Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 125 127 Tuesday, 28th May. (continued) beach with the object of embarking that force as soon as possible. 19. As regards enemy activity, this day the Germans contented themselves with bombing the town and port of Dunkirk, but on a small scale compared with that to be experienced later, probably because of increasing R.A.F. air cover and also due to the fact that a heavy pall of smoke from the burning town covered the operation most of the day. 20. Losses to H.M. Ships - 28th May. A/S Trawler THURINGIA sunk by mine in position 51° 20' N, 2° 03' E. Four survivors. Flare-burning Drifters PAXTON and BOY ROY damaged by enemy aircraft and beached. No casualties. Destroyer WINDSOR. Bombed about 1100. Damage to hull and aerials. Various casualties. Minesweeper BRIGHTON BELLE. Sunk in collision. struck LL Trawler THOMAS BARTLETT sunk by mine in shallow water whilst trying to avoid gunfire in position 51 2 12 N, 54 E. Personnel Vessel QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL sunk by bombing attack. Wednesday, 29th May. 21. The Northern Route Y having been swept, it was arranged to sail personnel ships to Dunkirk at daylight and to continue to sail throughout the day; this route would take ships clear of the artillery fire on shore. Personnel ships accordingly started at 0230. 22. Much consideration had been given to the practicability of building piers on the beaches using lines of berges. Reports from ships that worked off the beaches showed, however, that owing to the very gradual shoaling of the water at all states of the tide such a barge pier, to be effective, would have to be of very great length, beyond the resources available. 23. Information was received that the Personnel Vessels with their Mercantile Marine crews were having difficulty in making the entrance to Dunkirk harbour in the face of the navigational difficulties caused by a heavy smoke pall over the entrance and in face of bombing and shelling encountered en route and whilst alongside. [In certain vessels the crews were unwilling to sail when ordered, consequently application was made to the Commander-in-Chief, Nore, for Naval Officers and ratings for duty in the Personnel Ships.) Nevertheless, it subsequently transpired that at Dunkirk there had been a good number of ships throughout the night, at times exceeding the influx of troops. 24. S.N.O., Dunkirk, and other Senior Officers on the Coast reported during the early hours that surf on the beaches was retarding boat work. S.N.O., Dunkirk, at 0709, asked for all ships to go to Dunkirk. The Vice Admiral could not accept this as it was essential to maintain lifts off the beaches as well/
131 1?9 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 9, 130 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 128 7/5 Wednesday, 29th May (continued). route provided the passage between Calais Bell Buoy and Dunkirk be made in darkness. Route X passed some 26 miles to the South-westward of the extreme N.E. point of the Northern Route Y, the locality in which enemy M.T.B. attack threatened, and was shielded by the French minefields in the Ruytingen and Dyck channels. It appears that the enemy M.T.B. command failed to appreciate the withdrawal of traffic to the S.W. and did not follow up. In the evening it was reported that there was no congestion anywhere on the coast, except at La Panne. The force at La Panne was accordingly reinforced as ships became available. 30. An additional beach party of 7 officers and a number of ratings under Captain J. Howson was sailed in SABRE at 1600 for Dunkirk, and Captain E. Bush, who had already visited Dunkirk and was aware of the general conditions, was sent to HEBE as S.N.O. afloat off the beaches. An M.T.B. was placed at the disposal of the S.N.O. on the coast. 31. At about 1600 a heavy air attack commenced on the East Mole Pier, Dunkirk harbour, mainly by dive bombing, which lasted continuously for more than 2 hours. At the same time, other air attacks took place on ships lying off Bray. Attacks were renewed from time to time up till after 2000, not only on Dunkirk, but on ships off Bray, in the Zuydecoote Pass and those in the Southern end of x Route. These attacks were to have a disastrous result on the evacuation arrangements at Dunkirk. There were present alongside the inner side of the Eastern Arm 2 destroyers GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 Trawlers ahead of the GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 more trawlers ahead of them with the CANTERBURY in the next berth, and a French destroyer ahead of the CANTERBURY. Outside the harbour on the outside of the Eastern Arm the Transport FENELLA was berthed opposite the GRENADE and JAGUAR and the CRESTED EAGLE opposite the 6 trawlers. In addition, the MALCOLM and VERITY were also in the harbour but further inside. This presented a very good target and the ships were soon hit and embarkation of troops ceased for the time being. CANTERBURY, accompanied by JAGUAR, succeeded in leaving harbour, but both were hit by bombs and damaged. Both succeeded in reaching Dover, though JAGUAR had to be towed part of the way and was subjected to many attacks on passage. CANTERBURY reached harbour at 2115 and disembarked 1950 troops but was sufficiently damaged to prevent her being used again in these operations. To return to Dunkirk - FENELLA was lying alongside on the outside of the pier, and was hit and sunk. GRENADE and one of the trawlers on the East side were hit and the trawler sank in the fairway. GRENADE sinking and on fire had to be abandoned and appeared to be about to sink in the fairway. A trawler was detailed to tow her clear. VERITY, who witnessed this occurrence was continuously straddled by bombs for 35 minutes. Passage all along the pier having ceased, she cast off, and skirting the burning GRENADE and trawler, proceeded out of harbour, grounding slightly on a sunk drifter in the entrance. At about 1800 KING ORRY arrived to find the harbour occupied only by burning and sinking ships, was with no sign of any one on the pier nor any boat moving in thantly harbour uld little 36
134 13 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 13. 132 Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events. 30/5 Thursday, 30th May. 40. As an example of the difficulty of any one man appreciating the situation at Dunkirk and the beaches during the night, at 0030/30 the S.N.O. on the French Coast reported that he had no destroyers. In fact, at that time, all available destroyers, namely 10, in the Dover Command, were either on, or on passage to or from, the coast, and the remaining 5 were at Dover discharging troops, embarking ammunitition, fuelling, etc. and were to sail within the next 4 hours. Simultaneously the V.C.I.G.S. reported that the beaches were well organised, the troops in good heart, and there had been no bombing since dark, but that there was still a great shortage of small craft - urgently required. This last fact was well known to the Vice Admiral, Dover. 41. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was requested to send as much grass hawser as possible to Ramsgate, as quickly as possible, for supplying the skoots, to haul boats off the beaches, thus speeding up the boat work to compensate for the shortage of boats, which would continue for at least another 24 hours. 42. At 0500 the 7 modern destroyers remaining with Vice Admiral, Dover - ICARUS, IMPULSIVE, INTREPID, IVANHOE, HAR- VESTER, HAVANT and JAVELIN - sailed to Sheerness in accordance with Admiralty instructions. The MONTROSE and MACKAY sailed for repairs. 43. Meantime the Vice Admiral, Dover, had been much exercised regarding the possibility of the continued use of Dunkirk harbour for personnel vessels and was anxiously awaiting the report from VANQUISHER, who had been sent to investigate the reported obstruction. VANQUISHER'S report was received at 0610 stating entrance was practicable but that obstruction exists towards outer inside end of the EASTERN ARM. Pending amplifying reports, the sailing of personnel vessels to Dunkirk was resumed, although at this time there were still 4 personnel vessels presumed to be in the vicinity of Dunkirk Harbour, whose movements and whereabouts throughout the night still remained obscure. The Vice Admiral asked R.A. Dover, who was in HEBE, whether personnel ships could, in fact, still use Dunkirk. In the meantime a series of signals from Rear Admiral Dover, and destroyers off the coast, were received, stating that the beaches were filling up rapidly and more ships and boats were urgently required there. Although it was known that the destroyers could use Dunkirk, it appeared at this time that the best division of transport was to send the great majority of destroyers to the beaches, where urgent demands could not be ignored, and the personnel vessels to Dunkirk Harbour, only an occasional destroyer being sent to Dunkirk from the reduced number now available for the operation. 44/
135 14 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 14. 133 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 30/5 Thursday, 30th May. (Continued). 44. At Dunkirk there were no air attacks in the early morning and all was quiet. Later, when ships began to arrive in quantity, in view of the massive target presented by a number of ships alongside the East pier at a time, the S.N.O., Dunkirk ordered destroyers alongside only one at a time. At about 0800 a store ship arrived at Dunkirk with provisions but no water. This caused so much congestion on the pier that unloading was abandoned when half complete, and the store ship filled with troops. A certain amount of water was obtained from destroyers. 45. During the forenoon the Military constructed a long pier of lorries with deck planking, into the sea off Bray. This was an excellent piece of work, but was insufficiently stable for use by such craft as paddle steamers, nor even smaller power craft in a lop. It was invaluable later for embarking troops into small boats. As regards general embarkation off the beaches, it was later learnt that it was 0 common occurrence for processions of small boats loaded with troops to be cast adrift when empty and allowed to float away to seaward, owing to the lack of sufficient naval ratings as boat-keepers. For the same reason many of the smaller pulling boats were swamped and sunk due to overloading by uncontrolled "rush" of soldiers. Both these faults were remedied later. 46. Matters proceeded smoothly throughout the day owing to the mist and there being a big smoke cloud over Dunkirk which prevented the enemy bombers attacking the ships in large numbers. In order to increase the rate of embarkation through the bottle-neck of the East Pier gangway, the troops were urged to quicken their pace and eventually thousands of troops, tired and without food and water for days, broke into the double and kept it up the whole length of the pier for more than two hours. 47. The attempt to maintain an adequate rate of lift using only the older destroyers was by now shown to be impracticable. The destroyers were lifting about 17,000, personnel vessels about 9500 in the 24 hours. Remaining vessels were estimated to be worth about 15,000 per day. This gave a total lift of about 43,000 per day. The situation called for E lift of at least 55,000 per day. Verbal representations being made to C.M.S., authority was received for the return to the Dover Command of the modern destroyers released the night before. Accordingly Commander-in-Chief, Nore, at 1531 gave orders to HARVESTER, HAVANT, IVANHOE, IMPULSIVE, ICARUS and INTREPID to proceed at once to Dunkirk. Subsequently some of these destroyers were diverted to the beaches. 48/
139 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 18. 137 Operation "DYNAMO". Narrative of Events. 31/5 Friday, 31st May (Continued). Goodwins and commenced to hunt. 55. The arrivals at the home ports indicated that in spite of the frequent requests for more ships and more boats received from the various authorities on the French coast, the rate of evacuation was steadily increasing and would permit, all being well, of implementing the final evacuation plan during the night 31/5 - 1/6, Accordingly, instructions were issued for the special tows to leave Ramsgate at 1300/31 for Dunkirk via Route X, and Commander-in-Chief, Nore, and Flag Officer-in-Charge, Harwich, were requested to provide all available M.T.B.'s to escort this convoy for as much of the outward passage as possible, which was timed to commence from Ramsgate at 1300/31. Speed of advance - 5 knots. A party of Naval officers had been assembled at Dover to embark in these tows and had been given detailed instructions on the plan. Two M.A./S boats and 2 M.T.B,'s in the Dover Command were ordered to accompany the boat convoy and subsequently embark the Commander-in-Chief, B.E.F. and Staff off the beaches. 31MAY 56. Shortly after sunrise an on-shore wind arose and boat work became difficult, many whalers capsizing, and the prospects of completing the evacuation to plan began to be less favourable. The following extract from the report of Captain Howson, S.N.O., on the beaches illustrates conditions at Bray at this time: "At 0400 there was a very considerable number of destroyers, paddlers, trawlers, skoots, etc, off Bray, and embarkation was proceeding satisfactorily, but a lop had already started. There were about 10 motor yachts which had arrived from England, These craft drew 6-7 feet and were unable to get close in to any of the beaches. During the forenoon, considerable towing of empty craft towards the beach was carried out, and only about 2 boats were allowed to get adrift and ultimately ground. With the falling tide, however, a number of boats were seen to ground and romain ashore until the tide rose in the afternoon. These included an A.L.C., New motor boat and a lifeboat. Other power boats broke down. Nevertheless, the embarkation, much hindered by the lop, proceeded satisfactorily. As further destroy- ers and sloops arrived, they were directed to lower their motor boats and whalers as this had not already been done, these boats were quite invaluable. About noon, the lop began to subside and with the rising tide conditions for embarkation very greatly improved, more boats were sent in and more boats floated off and matters were proceeding very well, when the gun at La Panne started to shell the beaches and foreshore with great accuracy. A certain number of light craft were sunk. The A.L.C. broke down and was towed away by a steamer, MOSQUITO, destroyers and sloops proceeded westward clear of the firing. 57/
141 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 20. 139 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 31/5 Friday, 31st May (continued). effective quantities direct from the beaches, and to use the special tows, ships lifeboats, power lifeboats and tugs, which were on passage from Ramsgate, and which had been ear-marked for lifting the final covering force. In the afternoon, however, it was learned that the Military plan had been changed, and that it was no longer possible for the original covering position, as planned, to be held by 4,000 troops who were then to withdraw to the beaches for embarkation by boat. Instead, it was learned that the Eastern-most Division was to be withdrawn Westward from the La Panne area, and that the special flight of boats was to be used to lift this force from the beaches. At the same time, the troops in the Bray and Malo sectors were being thinned out by movements Westward towards Dunkirk itself. This change of plan involved concentrating the special tows and the mine- sweepers - to which they were to transfer the troops - into the stretch opposite the beach between Bray and one mile East of La Panne, and also advancing the commencement of the operation by one hour. The risk of this change of plan was obvious as the boat tows were not in communication with the Vice Admiral, and reliance had to be placed on the Minesweepers to inform and see that the escorting M.A.S.B. would shepherd the tows to the new positions. The minesweepers had anchored so as to serve as guiding marks, as had been explained to the Naval Officers in each tow. Apart from the special tow, a very large number of small power boats despatched, in most cases direct, from the South East Ports, Newhaven to Sheerness, were arriving off the beaches, and compensated in a large measure for the heavy losses that had occurred amongst the original towing boats, whalers, cutters, lifeboats and ships' boats, which had 31MM occurred on the beaches during the preceding 3 days. On the La Panne beaches after 1600 very good progress was made. The piers of pontoons built by the Military the previous day were extremely useful, and were largely respons- ible for the rapid evacuation of troops. All the troops that could be found were embarked by midnight and ferried off to the ships. The local Beach-master (Captain R. Pim, R.N.V.R) searched the adjacent beaches for stragglers at midnight, and was informed by a Staff Officer that no more troops would embark from the La Panne beaches, but would march to Dunkirk, as it was anticipated that these beaches would be shelled and probably be in German hands the following day. This, as it turned out, was a correct forecast. The Beach-master estimates that 5,000 men were lifted from the La Panne beaches during the evening and up to midnight. 62. At 1920 all ships in the fleets were informed by the Vice Admiral that the final evacuation of the B.E.F. was expedted on the night lst/2nd June, and that the evacuation of the French from Dunkirk and Malo beach would continue from 1st June by both British and French ships. 63/
146 CONFIDENTIAL. 144 Page 25 Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events. 1/5 Saturday, 1st June (continued). proportion 50 per cent. British and 50 per cent. French. The plan was set in motion without incident until 2200, when it was reported that a number of towing craft and small boats were returning empty from the coast. All ships were warned to look out for these, and to force them back to their duty on the coast. Subsequent investigation gives reason to believe that this defection was due to false information being passed between ships on the coast and believed to originate from a non-identified skoot. 77. Commander Maund proceeded to the mouth of the harbour in a motor boat commanded by a Dutch Naval Officer with a Dutch naval crew and led all ships into harbour to their berths. The Rear Admiral, Dover, was also afloat in a M.T.B. supervis- ing traffic control. By 2300 the night was very dark, sometimes as many as 6 or 7 vessels were entering the port of Dunkirk at once whilst yet others were leaving. All were without lights and displayed the highest degree of seamanship in these difficult and fateful circumstances. 78. At 2315 the S.N.O., Dunkirk, signalled: "Withdrawal now proceeding according to plan. Shall have certain reserves here tomorrow to assist French. Intend to complete evacuation. tomorrow by midnight." Remarks. 78A. The outstanding feature of the day was the series of events leading to the abandonment of daylight evacuation. Increasing enemy air attack, which the R.A.F. were unable to smother with the means at their disposal, caused serious loss of ships, and continual interruption of embarkation on the beaches and in Dunkirk. Further, the sole remaining cross channel route was now under fairly heavy and accurate shore artillery fire. In these circumstances it was apparent that continua- tion of the operation by day must cause losses of ships and personnel out of all proportion to the number of troops evacuated, and if persisted in, the momentum of evacuation would automatically and rapidly decrease. 79. Casualties to H.M. Ships on 1st June. Trawler ARGYLLSHIRE sunk by torpedo from M.T.B. near S. Buoy. Survivors taken off by MALABAR. Trawler STELLA DORADO sunk by torpedo from M.T.B. Survivors picked up by KINGSTON GALENA. Minesweeper SALAMANDER attacked by enemy aircraft and hit at about 0850. Ship disabled but was able to return to Dover under her own steam. Personnel/
149 147 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 28 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 2/6 Sunday, 2nd June (continued). daylight hours enabled all transport resources to accumulate during the day and to be held available for a massed descent upon Dunkirk Harbour during the night. By making provision for increased pier and berthing parties and traffic controlled by motor boat in the harbour channels, it was hoped to berth all craft that were available between the hours of 2100/ 2 and 0300/3. The times of sailing of all vessels were adjusted so as to space them out over the evacuation period at Dunkirk, and allowance was made for a proportion failing to make the passage. The French agreed to make their own arrangements for embarkation from the Dunkirk East Beach and the West Pier on the new outer harbour. At. 1530 two R.A.F. Motor Boats, 243 and 270, left in company for Dunkirk carrying Commander J.C. Clouston and an augmented pier party. When off Gravelines attacks were made on the boats by eight Junkers 87 with machine guns and small bombs. No. 243 had a near miss which damaged her. For ten minutes No.270 carried on trying to avoid attacks. She then returned to No.243 but Commander Clouston who was in the water instructed 270 to proceed. Destroyers were instructed to look for survivors. Two were picked up only. One stated that he saw Commander Clouston dead in the water. 84. At 1030 an urgent request transmitted "en clair" was received from Dunkirk for Hospital Ships as follows:- "Wounded situation acute and Hospital Ships should enter during day. Geneva Convention will be honourably observed it is felt and that the enemy will refrain from attacking." As this appeared to be the only way of evacuating the wounded, observing that the whole facilities of the port during the night evacuation hours would be required for fighting troops, it was decided to send two Hospital Ships. The WORTHING sailed at 1300 and the PARIS at 1700. At 1440, the A/S Patrol was overheard on R/T reporting that the WORTHING was being bombed at a point about two-thirds of the way across the Channel. She returned to United Kingdom reporting that she had been attacked by 12 Junkers. The attack caused no casual- ties, but plates were started and there was some superficial damage. She had to return to harbour to refuel before commencing another trip to Dunkirk. At 1915 PARIS reported that she was bombed and badly damaged with engines useless, at the point where the WORTHING had been attacked, and at 1947 she sent out an S.O.S. Tugs were sent to her assistance. Thus the last attempt to evacuate the wounded by Hospital Carrier from Dunkirk was brought to nought. The PARIS subsequently sank shortly after midnight at W. buoy 10 miles off the French coast. 85./
CONFIDENTIAL. 153 Page 32. 151 152 4/6 150 its CONFIDENTIAL. Page 31 it of Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. he 3/6 at S ed 33 h Monday, 3rd June (continued). d 93. In the evening the Vice Admiral was informed by the B.N.L.O. Marceau that it was estimated 30,000 French remained and that the French Admiralty agree that evacuation should be terminated that night if possible. Force used was to consist of 9 Personnel Vessels with one in reserve, 9 Destroyers (maximum number available), 4 Paddle Minesweepers, 7 Fleet Minesweepers, 9 Drifters, LOCUST, 2 Corvettes, 4 French Destroyers and a number of organised motor boat flotillas including lifeboats from Ramsgate and Dover, together with a large number of French and Belgian fishing vessels. The lifting capacity of this force, if used to the full, was more than 30,000, but it was certain that the facilities within Dunkirk could not permit more than about 25,000 to be embarked in the time available, and this number only if the French troops moved with the greatest rapidity at all points of embarkation. This point was impressed upon the French Liaison Officers and a number of French officers and ratings added to the augmented pier parties which were despatched to Dunkirk at 2200 in advance of the evacuation force. toots 94. The movements commenced according to plan. The weather conditions at Dunkirk, although favourable as regards ere tide were adverse with a north easterly wind tending to blow the Personnel Vessels and Destroyers off the vital East Pier makin berthing difficult. The MANXMAN, the seventh Personnel Ship king to due to sail refused to sail, and her place was taken by the theless, ROYAL SOVEREIGN. power 4/6 or Tuesday, 4th June. tretch 00/2/6. 95. At midnight when the earlier vessels had commenced thin the return voyage fog was reported in mid-channel and off the cipally Thanet coast and a number of ships had to anchor before entering harbour. The EXPRESS and SHIKARI were the last ships llery the to leave Dunkirk at 0318 and 0340 and carried approximately 1,000 troops and the British pier parties. Except for an air attack on SHIKARI this final passage was made without inter- e ruption by the enemy and though the fog made navigation r to extremely difficult it undoubtedly served to shield the Armada ne gun, from enemy aircraft. German ceasing 96. When the count was taken later in the day it was ements ascertained that 27,000 troops had been evacuated as a result d as of the night's operation and Admiral Nord agreed that the operation should be considered as completed, observing that all anmunition at Dunkirk had been expended and that the olunteer numbers left behind were small consisting principally of non- combatant troops. This decision was agreed to by the French 1 Admiralty at 1100, and the operation Dynamo terminated by Admiralty Message 1423/4. 97. It was realised that in all probability there might be a number of open boats, barges, etc. tsmouth, bout in the channel with troops on board. It was accr scided to inary/ have
153 CONFIDENTIAL, Page 34. Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. 155 Inshore Flotillas and Naval Shore Parties (continued). boats which never left the estuary and only one of their crews had been further afield than Ramsgate before. In spite of this fact perfect formation was maintained throughout the day and night under the control of a Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. in command of the Unit and all orders were carried out with great diligence even under actual shell fire and aircraft attack. 103. The difficulties of passage from the United Kingdom to the Flanders coast were great. With compasses of doubtful accuracy and no navigational instruments other than a lead pencil, once a boat lost contact with a main convoy the chances of making a correct landfall in the strong currents of the straits were slight. Many of the small craft had not even a compass, yet all who left the Flanders coast in safety managed to reach the English coast to refuel and the majority set off again to repeat the adventure. Cases occurred, however, of boats attempting to enter Calais instead of Dunkirk, where they received a rousing reception from the Boche, and yet another case where the landfall was made between Gravelines and Calais and the Sub-Lieutenant in command landed, finding it necessary to shoot 2 German soldiers before leaving for his proper destination of Dunkirk. Open boats of all kinds, from the naval cutters and whalers to seaside dinghies, were towed over from England by the motor boats themselves or in special tows by tugs. Some of these pulling boats were manned by odd naval ratings as boat keepers, and others by soldiers off the beach. One of the principal difficulties was to avoid fouling the motor boats' screws with painters and lines attached to all these pulling boats. Carley floats and infl: 1 motor inner tubes also played their part in carrying men from the beach to the motor boats. 104, Having reached the coast the business of ferrying from the water line to the offshore craft was by no means easy. Apart from the surf, which was usually experienced for some hours every day, derelict lorries, which had been abandoned below the high tide mark, proved a serious danger to boats. Another source of much trouble close inshore was the large amount of floating grass rope which various craft had used and lost in their rescue work, and numerous articles of military equipment such as great coass jettisoned during the evacuation. A great number of small power boats were put temporarily out of action by such ropes and garments fouling the screws, usually resulting in broaching to and being swamped while they were thus unmanageable. The number of' soldiers taken off the beaches by motor boats cannot be estimated, One 35 ft. motor launch, however, ferried off 600 men to transports and carried 420 direct to England. 105. Of the pulling boats used, the main difficulty was insufficient provision made for Naval boat keepers to take charge of the outgoing boats and bring them back to the disembarkation points. As a result, the soldiers detailed to act as boat keepers for an outward trip, failed to return the boat on the inward trip and it was necessary for the Naval boat keepers to swim or to wade out to the drifting boats/
CONFIDENTIAL. 154 Page 35. 156 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. Inshore Flotillæsand Naval Shore Parties (continued) boats which had been cast away by the soldiers on disembarkation. 106. By the night of the 30th/31st a considerable number of collapsible boats and pontoons had been received from the Royal Engineers of the B.E.F. These were of great assistance and paddled off about 10 men in each trip, but again, in spite of all efforts, in the vast majority of cases, the soldiers left these craft when they arrived at the offshore ship. 107. Much of the most meritorious work of lifting off the beaches was done by the offshore warships' own boats, who were tireless in their efforts. All small pulling boats and small power boats were lowered and were lent from ship to ship when their own parent ship left the coast to unload at a United Kingdom port. In addition, H.M. ships seized drifting and abandoned boats as opportunity offered and manned them up with boat keepers. Owing to the physical exhaustion of these boats' crews after hours of work, relief crews of stokers were frequently provided from amongst the many volunteers that came forth. 108. A typical example of dogged work by a ship's boat was afforded by the action of JAVELIN's and JAGUAR's boats off Bray beach in the afternoon of 28/5. When their two motor cutters and two whalers first grounded offshore they were rushed and swamped by soldiers. Order being restored the boats had to be baled out and the wet engines restarted, following which) 700 troops were embarked by these few boats in a short time during continuous bombing attacks. 109. Of the power boats available by far the most useful and suitable were the A.L.Cs., M.L.Cs. and the small type of R.N.L.I. life-boat. The high speed service motor boats such as DOLPHIN's and EXCELLENT's boats and the R.A.F. Seaplane tenders proved unsuitable for work in shallow waters on a lee shore owing to the vulnerability of their propellers and rudders and their poor manoeuvring powers at low speeds. 110. Of the civilian manned craft one of the best performances was that of the London Fire Brigade fire float MASSEY SHAW. All the volunteer crew were members of the London Fire Brigade or Auxiliary Fire Service and succeeded in doing 4 round trips to the beaches in their well-found craft. In contrast to this performance and that also of the R.N.L.I. crews of the Ramsgate and Margate life-boats, who took their boats over to Dunkirk, no volunteers, except for the coxswain and engineer of the Dover life-boat, were forthcoming from the R.N.L.I. crews of the other life-boats, which were accordingly manned by R.N. crews. Also it must be noted that civilian craft of such flotillas as the Rye fishing fleet did not relish the idea of carrying out ferry- ing work off the Flanders coast. Fishing boats and pleasure boats from as far along the south coast as Brixham and Dartmouth arrived at various times up to p.m. 30/5, but again the civilian crews were not prepared to proceed to Dunkirk. Accordingly, the most suitable of such boats as could be manned by the Naval personnel available were taken up, but the remainder took no part in the operations. 111./
160 CONFIDENTIAL. Page 39. 158 Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events. Inshore Flotillas and Naval Shore Parties (continued). A.L.C. 5 Report. East end of Bray beach 29th May. "A slight surf, thrown up by the onshore wind, made beaching awkward, and the use of an anchor was essential Owing to bad seamanship, A.L.C. 5 lost her anchor and warp at the first attempt at beaching, with the result that the craft rode on much farther than was intended or desirable. She was immediately rushed on all sides by a wild, undiscip- lined mob of French soldiers, so many of whom got aboard that the boat was grounded; and it was only by the use of considerable amount of force that a sufficient number could be got overboard, so that the craft could be got off the beach. Two very good anchors, one complete with a good long warp, were found in a derelict motor boat and these were used to replace the lost anchors before making a further trip. The second attempt to embark French troops shewed that their undisciplined behaviour was likely to imperil the safety of the craft, and it was decided to proceed farther up the coast to La Panne where British troops were found. These troops were ferried from the beach to one or other of the craft anchored offshore, at the rate of approximately 3 trips per hour." A.L.C. 16. Report. 29th May. "A.L.C. 16 was the first boat to be hoisted out, and proceeded straight inshore to the beach near Old Dunkir where she e vacuated British troops. After making some sever trips successfully, she was boarded by a mob of French soldiers, who overwhelmed the boat to such an extent that she became partially swamped, the starboard battery was flooded and both engines failed. Eventually sufficient French were evicted to enabl A.L.C. 16 to be floated off, and the port engine started. A.L.C. 17. Report. 29th May. "A.L.C. 17 was the fourth boat to be hoisted out, and followed A.L.C. 5 up the coast towards Bray. On approaching the beach she was promptly boarded by a crowd of French soldiers, who so overloaded the boat that she grounded. On the falling tide she was soon left high and dry, and remained stranded for some three hours. In the meantime the Coxswain of A.L.C.17 procured the assistance of some British troops, who with fixed bayonets, drove off the French when these again attempted to rush the boat as the tide rose." Wednesday, 29th May. "Sono difficulty experienced through persistent attempts of large masses of French troops to intercept boa and demand passage. Assisted by British troops succeeded holding off French by means of rifle fire 50 yards further along the beach."
| DESTROYERS | PERSONNEL SHIPS | MINESWEEPERS | PADDLE MINESWEEPERS | SKOOTS | FRENCH DESTROYERS |
| CODRINGTON 878 | ST. HELIER 1334 | NIGER 300 | MARMION 225 | LENA 400 | |
| ICARUS 677 | MANXMAN 177 | PANGBOURNE 27 | EMPEROR OF | HONDSRUG 500 | |
| WHITSHED 512 | ROYAL DAFFODIL 1500 | ALBURY 200 | INDIA 213 | ||
| VENOMOUS 632 | NEWHAVEN 716 | LYDD 200 | ORIOLE 750 | 900 | |
| WINDSOR 624 | COTE D'ARGENT 1250 | DUCHESS OF FIEE 390 | MEDWAY QUEEN 426 | ||
| SABRE 756 | SUTTON 725 | SNAEFELL 461 | |||
| SHIKARI 470 | |||||
| WINCHELSEA 1100 | 7877 |
| DESTROYERS | PERSONNEL SHIPS | MINESWEEPERS | PADDLE MINESWEEPERS | SKOOTS | FRENCH DESTROYERS |
| EXPRESS 611 | Auto Carrier 712 | SPEEDWELL 396 | PRINCESS ELIZABETH 329 | PASCHOLL 300 | BOUCLIER 318 |
| VENOMOUS 1200 | TYNWALD 1950 | HALCYON 522 | PI INLIMMON 150 | TUNG 400 | T.112 117 |
| SABRE 592 | LADY OF MANN 1244 | KELLETT 52 | ORIOLE 50 | HONDSRUG 500 | T:113 275 |
| SHIKARI 383 | CANTI RBURY 659 | ALBURY 470 | QUEEN OF THANET 150 | T.143 406 | |
| MALCOLM 736 | ROYAI SOVEREIGN 1350 | LEDA 500 | MEDWAY QUEEN 400 | ||
| VANQUISHER 414 | PRINCESS MAUD 1270 | 1940 | |||
| WHITSHED 444 | NEWH/VEN 729 | ||||
| VIVACIOUS 463 | COTE D'ARGENT 1349 | ||||
| GALLANT 460 | KING GEORGE V 750 |
185 SECRET. 187 R.N. BARRACKS, DEVONPORT, 2nd June 1940. BASILISK Sir, I regret to have to report the loss ofcH.M.S. "BASILISK" by enemy action at 1213 1st June 1940 off the Belgian coast. The circumstances are as follows. 2. At about 0815 while embarking British troops off A/C LAPANNE I was attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKERS dive bombers. They=approached from astern and on sighting I went full speed ahead (3 boilers connected) and as the bombs were released turned hard to port. As far as I could judge each aircraft released a pattern of five bombs one being a large "B" type and four smaller bombs with slight delay action. One of the latter exploded at the after end of No.3 boiler room on the port side and piereed blew away the bulkhead, piercing both main and auxiliary steam lines and main oil fuel supply. All engine room and boiler room personnel were killed. About six of the "B" type bombs then exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and shell room and probably the gland compartments and store rooms just forward of this position. The upper deck and sides of the ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the mainmast. This is a general line. of weakness in destroyers. JUNEI 3. In order to preserve stability the torpedoes and depth charges were jettisoned and the ship floated comfortably with little increase in draught. I inspected engine room and No.3 boiler room and found that a small amount of water was making its way through shrapnel holes. These were plugged and collision mat placed over the worst leaks. It was found impossible to get steam to the engines and the ship thereafter remained immobile. 4. Efforts were now made to send out messages for assistance. A tug who had been attending on H.M.S. "KEITH" passed me a signal telling me to sink KEITH to which I replied that I was out of action and required immediate assistance. I also requested him to inform The Flag Officer Commanding, Dover to this effect. Tug then disappeared. Signals for assistance were also made by W/T using type 4 H with battery power. It is doubtful whether any of these messages were received owing to very heavy traffic at the time and comparative weakness of my signals. 5. A Belgian fishing smack under French colours was seen in the distance and the motor boat was despatched to summon her to our assistance. She was LE JOLIE MASCOTTE of CAEN and after some efforts a tow was passed and corse set to open from the coast This had hardly been accomplished before a second attack devellopp at about 0945. This consisted of level bombing from about 000ft each bomber acting independently. About half a squadron of 18 carried out the attack. Considering the ship was & stationary target and there was little wind these attacks were poorly carri out and no bombs hit. This may have been due to pom pom fire of which Mr FRANCIS Gunner (T) was in charge. Unfortunately this gallant officer was killed at his post by machine gun bullets whic were fired continuously as the bombers passed overhead.
SECRET. Bage 2. 186 188 June 6. A second attempt was now made to tow the ship clear but little progress had been made before a third attack noon developped at about noon, carried out by a squadron of HENSCHEL ? dive bombers. By this time nearly all ammunition was expended and the 4.7" guns were firing S.A.P. in the hope of keeping the enemy at a distance. The Germans, however, made a determined diving attack which was well pressed home to about 400 feet. The ship was completely smothered by hits and near misses some of which were of the "B" bomb type. The ship immediately began to settle and I gave the order to abandon ship. Thanks to the adequate preparations made by my First Lieutenant, Lieutenant- Commander W.G.BOAKS, R.N., there were plenty of boats and carley floats ready for survivors. After collecting all stray swimmers the boats and floats pulled out to sea. LE JOLIE MASCOTTE picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings and H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" 2 officers and 52 ratings. One whaler and the motor boat had proceeded too far over the shoals which run parallel to the coast for H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" to pick them up. noon Sunk 7. H.M.S. 'BASILISK" sank in about 4 fathoms of water in approximate position with her upper deck awash. Although the Asdic and V.C.-V.F. gear and all important documents had been destroyed I was anxious to complete the destruction of the vessel. Accordingly I requested the Captain of H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" to fire guns and torpedoes. This was done and the ship was left on fire forward. It is not certain whether any of the torpedoes hit and I consider further destruction advisable. I intimated this in a signal timed 2036/1 to the Flag Officer Commanding Dover despatched as a secret hand message. 8. When the ship was rendered immobile after the first attack I ordered the destruction of all Signal Publications except the Fleet Signal Book bridge copy, Syko machine and current naval Syko card. This was done by Sub- Lieutenant W.H.ELLIS, R.N. who burnt them in the two galleys. All Confidential Books prefixed '0' were dumped overboard in a weighted sack except those out on loan to officers as these could not be got at due to damage aft. The Asdic gear in the cabinet and on the bridge was dismantled where possible and thrown overboard and the remainder smashed. The oscillator was removed and brought on the upper deck amidships as the final attack developped. It is not known for certain whether the oscillator slid overboard when the ship sank. V.C.-V.F. lanterns were unshipped and thrown overboard. 9. The following books and documents were left on the bridge: C.B. 1618 Q and certain charge documents in the Captain's springback and the Fleet Signal Book. The bridge was burning fiercely when last seen and it can be confidently stated that these documents and papers were destroyed. 10. I would like to emphasise that the older destroyers with pom poms using belted ammunition and 4.7" guns with only 30 degrees elevation are no match for a determined air attack. OurcLewis guns had also been recently surrendered. When ships of this type are operating within range of enemy air attack losses must be expected unless adequate fighter protection is afforded. In all the enemy launched four big air attacks at about hourly intervals during the forenoon of the 1st June. The first, second and fourth of these were unopposed apparently unopposed by any British Aircraft
Ed into the long allisk 1. Lieut. E. Treweeks. 192 When we were bombed I was taking cover in after 194 lobby, then proceeded to E.R. hatch but could not get below because of steam, was joined by C. Sto. Ricketts and C.E.R.A., Westlake, gave orders to shut off all boiler room emergency valves and then safety valves and shut main steam bulkhead valve on deck. As soon as possible E. Room and after boiler room were entered. Attention first given to casualties but all bar one were dead. First thought possible to get some part of machinery going but not possible. Concentrated on leaks. Bomb dropped port fore side E.R. bulkhead and stove in boiler room bulkhead. Disabling port fan, engine, oil full pump, number three boiler, port circulator, main and reserve feed tanks and all pipes and leads adjacent were pierced and broken. Leak at after end of E.R. oil fulo tank plugged. Efforts made to run petrol dynamo for WD/T but the magneto connection broke. Hands were told off to get hand steering in use. P.O. of fore boiler room reported no damage after first. raid although C. Sto. reported oil suction line pierced and shut off. 2. Sub. Lieut. Jeaves. During the first attack I was on the bridge as Officer of the Watch and remained there for some time after- wards while the Captain went off to the engine and boiler rooms. On the Captain's orders I went aft to the after steering compartment to see whether it was possible to steer by hand. This was so, and leaving a Leading Stoker and two or three hands I returned to the bridge as the ship was being taken in tow. When the second attack took place I WAS in the fore and aft passage below the wheelhouse-for some time and eventually went into the Petty Officers' Mess to try and assist the foremost supply party. After the attack, on the First Lieutenant's orders, I placed charts in the whaler and a small private motor boat and unshipped the steering compass from the wheelhouse, end put it in the whaler. I then went aft to continue connecting up to steer by hand. To do this it was necessary to clear a good deal of gear out of the compartment. This took about half an hour. By this time another attempt was being made to take the ship in tow, so 1 recovered the charts from the motor boat, and went up on the bridge. When the ship was attacked for the third time I again went down to the fore and aft passage beneath the wheelhouse, where I stayed till the order Bandon ship was given. of the two charts containing confidential matter concerning minefields in the Dover area, one was destroyed and the other left in the whaler which has not yet returned. The Fleet notices to Marines were thrown overboard in mid-channel. Fleet charts were left in their folios in the Charthouse.
Page 3. 194 Teut. car. W.G. Boaks. BASILISK 196 4. With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went forward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood his orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting boats, Just as we got the baat clear I heard a bomb whistling down and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, bombs dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went through the engine room -- this very seriously wounded and burnt one rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full force of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Pom deck overhead and almost knocked out. I then went to the bridge to see what the position was there, but there were no casualties there and I then went aft to the after guns to find en route that deck was buckled by mainmast. The after magazine and shell room were flooding and decided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed up about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembark- ing troops previous day are night) as all lights were out and being daylight few were carrying torches on them. I found general chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down to resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the buckled part was rather important. I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the midst of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took shelter, some in forecastle locker. I then found all but three of the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in view of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown overboard. After this attack we came out and then started to provide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage had been done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again went forward to rig new tow lines and also ordered individual hands to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water as by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not have towed faster than say four knots, I also placed one hand with a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in from point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast off boats' painters should ship sink without warning. Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and also 3-3-11 wire during course of which the third attack developed and I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite from forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at a passing bomber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit even with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward and noticed that X gun had a round left but was unable to fire as recoil cylinder had been emptied in preparation for firing and tearing gun out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was re- filled but on going forward I discovered that the crack in deck appeared to have widened and gave orders that after guns were on no account to be fired in view of probable breaking off of after end. I then ordered every possible container of water to be filled from only remaining water left in hot water tank in galley and tore up soldiers ground capes to provide covers to prevent loss or contamination of this water. Boats' anchors were then placed in spare boats alongside and oars provided, sailing gear hi placed in whaler, after steering compass unshipped and placed in spare motor boat, torches distributed to boats, the after life- buoy flare placed in whaler for possible use. After steering an party detailed and party to clear the flat of weeckage. I then que went forward for third time to take in tow during which the fourth attack developed - dive bombing - and upper deck was cleared.
105 4. (contd.). 197 On completion when ship had been struck and water was level with waist the question of scuttling ship came up but Captain decided this was unnecessary and order was given to abandon ship. I reached one of the spare Army boats two hundred yeard away and after collecting survivors to limit of boats capacity went to drifter. After collecting all but two floats we went off to head off a destroyer for the remainder. Particular merit:- A.B. Rawstron - courage, example & cheerfulness. A.B:s Glover and Ord. Sea Mullins - courage & cheerfulness. P.O. Robinson took charge well on forecastle, A.B. Davis. Torp. although badly burned took a lively interest in remaining action taken. Lieut. Sowry - for tenacity of purpose with French drifter resulting in the recovery of seventy survivors and message passed to destroyer for remaining fifty, 5. Surg. Lieut. A.W. McHaffie. 1st. Attack, In Sick Bay - which was reduced to chaos from concussions. Casualties arrived after attack. Soldier compaining of burns of arms. Stocker complaining of burns of face. 2xStanker Terpedoman complaining of extensive surface burns of face, scalp, neck and both eyes. Another rating complained of splinter wound of left arm. L.S.B.A. reported A.B. Riddle lying under Pom-Pom platform. When I arráved there I found him complaining of fracture of left femur and very extensive burns of face and shoulders - Dressed him and then went down into engine room where I saw two ERA's dead. Griffeths & Griffeths& Putt (stoker) was also dead. L.S.B.A. reported four dead in boiler room, 2nd. attack. Ordered to clear upper deck - and I went to port side alley way. Saw Mr. Francis of Pom-Pom platform and one rating. He called for rest of crew and I passed on call to ratings in fore mess deck. No hands came forward. Saw Captain climbing on to platform followed by rest of crew. Was called by Captain to attend to Mr. Francis and I went on to Pom-Pom platform and found Mr. Francis unconscious - splinter through lungs. Gave 1/6th. morphine. 3rd. attack. Was still on Pom-Pom platform until shortly after attack when Mr. Francis died. During interval between 3rd. and 4th. attacks. Evacuated wounded into water boat lying in water amidships on starboard side. Was helped in this by L.S.B.A and Coxswain. Orders to do so were given by First Lieutenant. boat 4th. attack. Most of #crew of motor, boarded ship including all wounded except A.B. Riddle who was comatose and lying in Robertson stretcher c. me on forecastle of motor boat - two ratings remained in boat. Bomb hit water 10 yards off motor boat and wave upset and smashed boat against ship's side upsetting all within - Riddle disappeared before I could get to him and I lost sight of other menbers of boat's crew. Ship by this time was being abandoned.
page 5. 198 Sub Lieut. Galbraith. 196 6. I was by Y gun for first attack. After hit I though ship was on fire and took some of gun's crew forward to deal with it, ordering a torpedoman to start jettisoning Port forrard depth charges, which appeared to be in danger. Found no fire but hauled on board two burned men who were in water Port side. Went aft where it was reported that shell room was flooding. Had all hatches closed. Assisted Gunner with jettisoning depth charged. Tried to render cabin flat water tight. Went forward to assist with tow forward observed bow to be bulged by close bomb near water line. Took cover in P.O's mess for start of 2nd. attack. Captain ordered me to get Vickers in action. Found torpedoman who knew its action and managed to get only three single rounds off during attack. Complete jam resulted. Later saw G.M. who declared nothing could be done. Took cover for 3rd. attack. Watched destruction of A/S Pannel. Was ordered by 1st. Lieut. to load.Army boat and supervise its manning. Accompanied Sub. Lt. Ellis to Captain's cabin to get C.B's for destruction. Just reached deck when last attack started. Took cover by Y gun and inside after screen. On order to abandon ship, saw boat manned, threw some C.B's which I saw on U.D. over the side and then jumped for boat. A/S C.B's were not destroyed. Lieut. Sowry. 7. At the beginning of the first attack I was on the bridge on the G.C.O's phones. Soon after bombers were sighted I gave the order "All guns with H.E:T.F - load" and "Rapid Salvos". Planes were sighted astern, angle of sight about 60° and at no time was the Director Layer able to report Director on during this attack due to the A of S being too great. Consequently no executive order to shoot was given. After this attack I was told by the Captain to take the motor boat away and commandere two fishing smacks which were passing 1/2 miles away. The first of these was abandoned and I returned in the second and stood by to tow. A wire was passed and made fast round a stout beam in the smack, which carried away some 15 minutes later. A second wire was then made fast round the foremast but as the tow was not clear of the deck house, the smack veered round and had to be pulled back into position by the motor boat. An additional rope was passed and made fast on the other quarter and the ship was turned through about 60 degrees., but the smack was again in the wrong position for towing, being alongside the forecastle bows pointing aft. At this point second bombing attack took place and I slipped tow and stood off to about 1 mile, the smack being machine-gunned by four planes. When attack was over I returned and reconnected tow which later parted due to taking up the slack too väolently. This was due to the language difficulty of giving orders to the French crew of the smack, the only other man on board the smack being an R.A.F. pilot. A further bombing attack started, the final one, and I again stood off from the ship. When I returned the crew was abandoning ship and I picked up all men in the water, two Carley floats, one RE pontoon and some men from each whaler. At this point, with 70 men aboard, Whitehall appeared in the distance and we made out to intercept her, using the smack's siren and the French ensign half way up the foremast. We met her about 12 miles away and passed information to her and requested her to collect men from remaining boats. I then set out on a course for England and in mid-chai.nel we transferred everyone to H.M. Trawler Olvina.
Page 6. 197 Leading Seaman Wordhouse. Motor hoat. 199 Whilst pushing the towing vessel into position, the bombing formation came over. I let go and sheered off, the first salvo lifting the boat almost out of the water. Messerschmidt fighters attacked us with machine gun and cannon (Bombs were also dropped) for just a few minutes short of an hour. L.S. Hicks watched their flight and gave me helm and engine orders, the boat not being hit though a couple of cartridge cases dropped into us. We found our- selves out of sight of the ship, had a little council of war, and decided, knowing the ship was out of wireless communication to make Dunkirk for help. We headed west, and not far outside the harbour two troopships were bombed and sunk. We picked up what we considered a safe complement, tried to get in touch with a vessel to assist Basilisk. In this were not successful and were told to make England. We drew a rough chart and set our course, arraving Ramsgate roughly eight hours later. I then turned over the boat to the Naval authorities. We reported that Basilisk was badly hit and were assured that help had been sent.
219 217 SECRET. Appendix II. to report of sinking of H.M.S. GRENADE. After the explosion aft I observed a large number of ratings blown into the oily water, several of whom were badly injured. With the aid of the Gunner T. I cut away the lashing of the after Carley float and launched it. I swam after the drifting float and with the mutual help of one or two ratings we hauled each other on board. I then collected the seriously injured and one or two uninjured men. The First Lieutenant was heard to order men to to remain in the ship and I took the float back to the ship collecting a steward en route. The ship lurched heavily to port as I reached the side and since the forecastle was blazing I ordered the raft to stand off. At this juncture another rating was observed in a patch of oil fuel about 40 yards from the ship. I rescued this man with the float and took in tow a T.S.D.S. float which was supporting two P.Os who had since abandoned ship. Two destroyers and two trawler passed without stopping and a French tug landed our party on the west side of the docks amid the blazing ruins. An ambulance picked up our party and proceeded towards the heart of the town. When the ambulance stopped for more casmalties the party disembarked, and were forced to leave one seriously injured seaman (Coates) who WELE then taken to the base military hospital. At this point a lost Bren gun crew joined forces and the idea of escaping to England in a small boat was formulated. I took the whole party, eight sailors and eight soldiers, and proceeded on the carrier to the docks. A gendarme prevented our embarkation in a drifter, the captain of which had signified his willingness to take us. We then proceeded on the carrier towards the eastern jetty, but our progress was halted by a blazing ammunition lorry. The commencement of intense aerial bombardment forced us to seek shelter in the vaults where Army officers and men provided us with dry clothing etc. I then reported the Naval party to the S.N.O. Dunkirque and after suggesting we remained in the town he gave the party full permission to seek a boat and sail to England. We made our way towards the pier and P.O. Emery and myself became detached from the main party. In the course of a talk with a French soldier I discovered he possessed a motor boat with which he was desirous of escaping to England. P.O. Emery sought out and brought along the remainder of the party, including the Bren gun crew and with P.O. Bennion managed to embark the whole party, with equipment, and against the wishes of the Frenchman. Then after considerable tactful persuasion and adjustment of top weight, plus the encouragement of casting off the painter, the engine was started and the bows pointed towards England at 21.00/29. P.O. Bennion took the wheel and I shaped a course for the harbour mouth and channel buoys. After darkness fell I checked my compass on the stars and found it had a variation of about 10° W. I.was then able to set a course for the S.E. coast of England. All lights were extinguished outside the small cabin and most of the party fell asleep after having eaten a little food. The boat was well equipped with fuel and stores and the small engine gave us an estimated speed of five knots.
-2- was stopped to other engined The trip allow across a German was diesel uneventful. The Several passed one destroyers floating At 03.30 and mine the which engine craft I decided stopped passed to us, leave while we time two drifters hove in sight. I decided to hail th untouched. and about the drifter because I was uncertain of my position, having chart or maps. The drifter altered course towards us took us aboard and the boat in tow. I found my positi to be about 15 miles S.E. of Ramsgate and I estimate the my course made good would have brought us to a point S. Ramsgate (Deal?) at about 0800 on Thursday, May 30th. P.O. Bennion remained at the wheel continuousl from 2100 to 0200 and with P.O. Emery brought the wounde seamen safely to the Naval base in spite of attempts by the Army to claim him as a casualty. The two P.O's mentioned carried out all duties with precision and showe great initiative in the handling of the situation. The behavious of the naval party was exemplary and their unflagging energy and support enabled us to escape and at the same time bring eight English and two French soldiers safely to England. (Sgd) Reginald J. Crews. 5.6.40.
222 220 Page 3. OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINAT REPORT OF PROCENDINGS FOR PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940. (Commanding Officer, I.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June 1940) 29. At 1703 the ship was attached by enemy dive bombing 31/5 X aircraft, which were engaged by the 3" П.А. and pom poms. One aircraft was shot down by the port pom pom and two other enemy machines were seen to crash, probably due to our fighters. 30. At 1716 a bomb dropped close on the port quarter and the aircraft was engaged by H.A. armament. 31. At 1730 six enemy Messerschmitt aircraft were observed attacking three friendly Hudson reconnaissance aircraft. The attack dispersed after "Keith" opened fire with 3" H.A. sun. 32. At 1815 "Keith" arrived off La Panne to find that the anchorage was under fire from a gun or guns situated near Nieuport. Its location could not be seen but an enemy observation balloon was observed. 33. At 1835 "Keith" proceeded Westwards again until at 1845, when between La Panne and Braye, signalling was seen from the beach informing us that the General Headquartero were there awaiting embarkation. The motor boat and starboard whaler were lowered and proceeded inshore. At 1908 the first boat load were aboard. Lord Gort, the Commander-in-Chief, went to H.M.S. 31 "Hebe" in a yacht. Our boats returned inshore for other officer 34. At 1910 about 80 enemy aircraft were sighted coming over and "Keith" circled in the constricted space at high speed engaging the enemy with 3" H.A. The enemy however proceeded in the direction of Dunkirk. At 1927 large numbers of enemy aircraft again appeared overhead on their way back to enemy territory. 35. At 1937 an enemy high level bomber attacked "Keith" dropping four bombs without result. This aireraft was engaged by 3" H.A. and pom pom: the ship was again circling. 36. At 1942 the boats returned from the beach with their second load of Staff officers and was sent back for the remain- ing men. 37. At 2005 a further large number of enemy bombers and fighters were seen overhead and the ship engaged them with H.A. armament. On this occasion, a few bombs were dropped near the ship and one aircraft attacked the boats inshore, narrowly missing them. At 2016 the boats returned to the ships and were hoisted. At 2018 "Keith" proceeded towards Dunkirk. The dunes and beaches near La Panne were at this time under steady artillery fire. May 38. At 2120 "Keith" was off Dunkirk passing orders to boats tugs and yachts as to their duties. 39. At 2125 she proceeded Bastwards again and at 2140 was off Braye where she remained for some time marshalling small craft. 40. At 2310 "Keith" proceeded to La Panne where at 0015/1 after laying off, she anchored.
223 221 OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS FOR Page 4. PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940. (Commandi ng Officer, H.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40 41. During the hours between 2200 and midnight, several enemy aircraft passed overhead and, as reported later, dropped magnetic mines to the West of La Panne and off Braye. La Panne anchorage was under shell fire from Nieuport of La Caxide and this became more accurate as time passed. "Vivacious" vas hit twice and proceeded to the Westward. 42. At 0030/1 June, "Kei th" weighed anchor and proceeded 1/6 at slow speed towards Braye, which the enemy artillery were now reaching. At 0206, the ship was off Braye. 43. At 0510 ten enemy fighters fired on the shore beaches and on "Keith" and other ships with bursts of machine gun fire, which was inaccurate. 44. At 0520 shells from shore batteries again fell close to the ship off Braye. June 45. At 0555 onemy bomber aircraft were engaged with 4.7" X barrage and pom pom fire. Only two rounds of H.A. ammunition now remained and about 100 rounds of pom pom. 46. At 0630 "Keith" was standing off between Braye and La Panne superintending the departure of ships with men collected from the beaches during the night. 47. At 0737, a very large number of enemy dive bombing, heavy bombing and fighter aircraft were sighted approaching. "Keith", circling rapidly round a wreck, was attacked by Junker 87 dive bombers which carried out extremely vertical dives and released five bombs each. The ship however was not hit but a near miss, probably of a delayed action bomb, jammed the steering gear. The enemy were engaged with pom pom and lewis guns. The ship manoeuvred by engines until shortly afterwards she was under control in hand steering aft. "Keith" continued to circle at speed as enemy aircraf were continually in sight. 1/6, 0805 NOTE: Times from now forward cannot be vouched for. 48. At about 0805, further numerous dive bombing attacks took place on "Keith", a salvo of which straddled the ship. One bomb set No.2 boiler room on fire and caused severe flooding there. Lieutenant (E) Kenward, Royal Navy, and the boiler room's crew perished in this fire. The ship began to list heavily to port until eventually her upper deck was touch: ing the water. The torpedoes were fired with no range on and depth charges were set to safe and thrown or fired overboard due to the danger from further aircraft attacks. The ship now had no steam and had anchored. 49. An M.T.B. came alongside and took off Rear Admiral Dover and his Staff. undamaged 50. The Port whaler, the only/boat remaining, was lowered and all carley floats secured to it. A considerable quantity of timber was collected and thrown overboard.
SECRET PAGE 3. 225 H.M.S. "KEITH" - FINAL REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 30th MAY - 227 1st JUNE, 1940, WITH HER EVENTUAL DESTRUCTION. (Captain Berthon's No.31 of 1st July to Vice-Admiral,1 Dover) 22. Six enemy Messerschmidt aircraft were observed at 1730 attacking three British Hudson reconnaissance aircraft. The attack dispersed after "Keith" opened fire with 3" H.A. gun. 23. At 1815 "Keith" arrived off La Panne to find that the anchorage was under shell fire from a gun or guns situated near Nieuport. The location of the battery could not be established but an enemy observation balloon observed to the eastward was immediately hauled down by the enemy on the approach of our fighter aircraft. 24. "Keith" resumed course to the westward at 1835 until at 1845, when between La Panne and Braye, signalling was observed from the beach informing us that the Army G.H.Q.Staff was there awaiting embarkation. The motor boat and starboard whaler were lowered and proceeded inshore. 25. At 1908 the first boat load of the staff was onboard. Lord Gort, the Commander-in-Chief, went to H.M.S. "Hebe" in a yacht. Our boats returned inshore for other officers. 26. At 1910 about 80 enemy bombing aircraft were sighted coming over and "Keith" circled in the constricted space at high speed, engaging the enemy with 3" H.A. The enemy however carried on to Dunkirk. 31/5 27. A large number of enemy aircraft again appeared overhead at 1927 on their way back to enemy territory. At 31/5 1937 an enemy high level bomber attacked "Keith", dropping four bombs without result. This aircraft was engaged by 3" H.A. and pom-pom, the ship again circling. 28. "Keith's" boats returned from the beach at 1942 with their second load of staff officers and were sent back for the remaining men. 29. At 2005 a further large number of enemy bombing aircraft were sighted overhead and the ship engaged them with the H.A. armament. On this occasion a few bombs were dropped near the ship and one aircraft attacked the boats inshore narrowly missing them. 30. At 2016 the boats returned to the ship with the last load of the Army staff and were hoisted. "Keith" then proceeded towards Dunkirk. The dunes and beaches near La Panne were at this time under steady shell fire. 31. "Keith" was off Dunkirk at 2120 passing orders to boats, tugs and yachts as to their duties. At 2125 she continued to the eastwards and at 2140 was off Braye where she remained for some time marshalling boats and small craft. 32. At 2310 "Keith" proceeded to La Panne where she anchored at 0015 after lying off for a short period. Between 2200 and midnight several enemy aircraft passed overhead and, as was reported later dropped magnetic mines to the west of La Panne and off Braye. reduced 33. to 2 rounds of 3" H.A. ammunition and 150 rounds of After the air attacks of the day the ship was now X pom-pom per gun. This shortage was represented to the Admiral in view of the certainty of further attacks on the following day. ...34. La Panne anchorage
226 SECRET PAGE 5. H.M.S. "KEITH" FINAL REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 30th MAY - 228 1st JUNE, 1940, WITH HER EVENTUAL DESTRUCTION. (Captain Berthon's No.31 of 1st July, 1940 to V.A. Dover.) 44. At about 0750 on 1st June a further heavy dive- / June bombing attack was launched on "Keith" by the same type of aircraft. A salvo of bombs from one ai rcraft straddled the ship. A near miss or hit on the starboard side made a large hole in the ship's side at the forward end of the Engine Room below the waterline and the same, or another, bomb burst the bulkhead between the Engine Room and the after Boiler Room on the same side. The Engine Room was instantly flooded and the controls wrecked and the after Boiler Room flooded very shortly afterwards; a bomb may have gone down the funnel as the after Boiler Room caught fire. Steam was gradually lost and the ship came slowly to rest. 45. Lieutenant (E) William Henry Kenward R.N. was knocked off the control platform of the Engine Room by the explosion and killed, as were several other men in the Engine Room and after Boiler Room. 46. It is thought that there must also have been serious damage to the hull on the port side as the ship at once took up a heavy list to port and this gradually increased until the upper deck was within a few inches of the water. Spectators in ships nearby reported at least two direct hits in this attack on "Keith". 47. Torpedoes were fired with no range on and all depth charges jettisoned, set to safe, due to the danger from further aircraft attacks. 48. Signal and wireless books were then jettisoned in safes and all secret charts were jettisoned in a weighted chart container. Confidential folios were locked in a drawer with the exception of folio H for which there was no space. This was thrown overboard with Fleet Notices to Mariners in weighted Guard Boards. Telegraph charts ware in the locked drawer with the current Z chart. 49. During this time an M.T.B. came alongside and took off Rear Admiral Dover and his staff, who returned to Dover. 50. Main W/T aerials were blown down in this attack and efforts were made to repair them. All boats on the starboard side were holed by near misses. The port whaler was lowered and all carley floats were got out and secured to it. A considerable quantity of timber was collected and thrown overboard. 51. As the ship was settling the order to abandon ship was given and the majority of the men, who were able to find timber to hold on to or a place in the boat and floats, left the ship. series 52. At this moment the enemy launched a further ****** of dive bombing attacks without hitting the ship but several near misses again shook her. Some of these bombs landed amongst the men in the water. 53. The enemy was
231 22) - 2 - dark, butphosphorescence was very pronounced. 28/5 12. Twelve knots was maintained while in the narrow channels and every time the sound of aircraft engines was heard speed was reduced to slow to reduce wake. 13. I felt that it was very probable that some form of attack would be made near the Kwinte Whistle Buoy and five miles before reaching it speed was increased to 20 knots and a zig-zag of 40 degrees every four minutes was started. All guns crews and bridge personnel were lookout. warned and were keyed up and were keeping a specially good 14. At 0045 (Wednesday, 29th May) when the ship was two cables 29/0045 rest of the Kwinte Whistle Buoy, two parallel torpedo tracks about 30 yards apart one slightly ahead of the other were seen approaching 150 yards away on the starboard bow. They appeared to be running practically on the surface and the tracks were very bright with phosphorescence. No survivor can say what fired them, but it is evident from subsequent events that they were fired by a motor torpedo boat which was probably lying stopped close to the buoy. 15. The wheel was put hard a port and the ship swung sufficiently to cause one to miss ahead. The other hit in the forward boiler room. The ship broke in half and the two portions sank within about 15 seconds, each remaining standing with its midship end on the bottom and the bow and stern standing about 60 feet above the water. 16. All Signal Publications were in the W/T Office and must have gone down with the ship. The following secret documents were on the chart table and may possibly have floated to the surface:- Chart in use on which Dover Strait minefields were lightly marked, Current table of lettered positions. ficer remained on the stern portion. All the troops were asleep 17. Most of the guns' crows floated clear and thirty men and an Delow and went down with the ship except one, and all H.M.S. "wakeful's" engine room department except one or two were lost. I floated clear fhe bridge. "Comfort" came on the scene and started to pick up those still swimming. 18. After about half an hour the motor drifters "Nautilus" and Nautilus" picked up six and "Comfort" 16 including myself. bout fifteen. M.S. "Gossamer" arrived soon after and lowered boats which picked up re way with the tide after cruising around for about half an hour 19. The swimmers and rescue ships had drifted some distance the houting clinging "Comfort" to go back to the wreck to take off the stern while "Nautilus" carried on to Dunkirk. n we got there the stern had fallen over and many men were shouting hit reck and I went alongside the former's starboard quarter to warn her the water. H.M. Ships "Grafton" and "Lydd" were close to the ore at she was in danger of being torpedoed. At that moment (0250) a an orpedomentarily swamped and as she bobbed to the surface again I was in the wardroom and the "Comfort" was lifted in the air, que al the full speed ahoad with no-one on deck I soon had to I was able to grab a rope's end, but as the O S1 th H.M.S. "Lydd" and H.M.S. "Grafton" opened a heavy fire on her with 20. The "Comfort" then came round to a wide circle and suddenly
232 230 - 3 - Lewis guns and, I think, four inch. I realised that they very naturally thought she was enemy and kept under water as much as possible when the bullets were coming near me. 21. I understand that all the "Comfort's" crew except one and all H.M.S. "Wakeful's" survivors onboard her except four were killed during this affray. of these four, two were later found wounded in the "Comfort's" skiff and picked up. Sub-Lieutenant Percival-Jones is known to have been amongst those killed. 22. The firing ceased and I awam to the "Comfort" which had stopped engines and was drifting towards me slowly. As I reached her bow and was feeling for a rope's end, H.M.S. "Lydd" bore down on her at full speed and rammed her amidships on the opposite side, outting her in half. 23. I was submerged but came to the surface after an interval and swam about till about 0515 when I was picked up by a boat from the Norwegian ship "Hird" carrying 3000 troops from Dunkirk. 24. I very much hope that some expression of Their Lordships' appreciation can be sent to the widow of Mr Tucker, Warrant Engineer, on whose high zeal, efficiency and sense of duty I have previously reported to the Commander-in-Chief, Western Approaches, and who dealt personally with a burst auxiliary steam pipe at the time of the bomb damage on May 29th. He was unhappily killed with practically the whole of his staff when the ship was torpedoed. Royal Naval Barracks, Chatham. 25. The list of casualties has been reported by the Commodore, I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, VICE ADMIR 1- JUN 1940 Richer re DOVER COMMANDER, ROYAL NAVY. r The Vice Admiral, Dover hi (Copies to:- The Commander-in-Chief, The Nore. The Commodore, R.N. Barracks, Chatham. The Admiral Commanding Western Approaches. an Captain (D) Plymouth.) al O si
234 222 REPORT ON THE LOSS OF H.M.S. SKIPJACK, 1st JUNE 1940. 0845 (1). Skipjack anchored at 0030 on June 1st, 1940 off La Panne. She had only one serviceable small boat and that had no rudder. the ghinle boats having been left behind off Dunkirk B22/ B22/112 233 221 16, Staunton Road, Headington, Oxford. 51 4th June 1940. Sir, I beg to submit the following report on the loss of H.M.S. Skipjack under my command on the 1st June last. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Lieutenant Commander, (retired) Royal Navy. The Vice Admiral Commanding VICE ADMIRAL 5- JUN 1940 * Dover. DOVER
234 REPORT ON THE LOSS OF H.M.S. SKIPJACK, 1st JUNE 1940. 0845 222 (1). Skipjack anchored at 0030 on June 1st, 1940 off La Panne. She had only one serviceable small boat and that had no rudder, the ship's boats having been left behind off Dunkirk on a previous trip. Puler 52 (2). It was understood that embarkation of troops would commence at once in boats believed to be organised by the Army and beach parties ashore. No boats, however, arrived. (3). During the time Skipjack was anchored off La Panne there was considerable enemy air activity, one parashutemine being dropped about one cable inshore from the ship. There was some shelling. (4). At break of dawn about 0330 it was decided to weigh and 1/6 endeavour to pick up and man any derelict boats that could be found. Skipjack, therefore, set a course to the west- ward and managed to secure three boats; some troops were also picked up. As several of H.M. ships were in the vicinity, course was continued to opposite a point on the beach about one mile to the eastward of Dunkirk, where there was only one small skoot operating. The boats were then sent inshore and the embarkation of troops commenced. The ship was kept under weigh owing to considerable enemy air activity. (5). From this time onwards, thought to be about 0530, there were continued enemy bombing attacks. Several W/T messages were transmitted asking for fighter assistance. Except for one period of about 5 minutes no fighters were seen. (6). At about 0600 a derelict motor launch was got in working order and embarkation of troops continued apace. P.T.O.
-2- 252 254 The Skipper went over the side between "Nautilus" and "Greyhound" to rescue seaman who had fallen into the ditch. The "Greyhound" had to be taken in tow by a Polish Destroyer and we arrived back in Dover at 0430 on Thursday the 30th May, 1940. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, Drfelling Lieutenant R.N.R. my.ked hilitary :- 4 then killed / Office a nt men mounded. tamage to the ship was rus tained as foll /. 55. coils severed 2. wo life loats badly holed 3- Boat back hiered Partside 4. are quetilator holed and Duady minor defects a wining etc
822/ 1110 13"2 253 255 No. 3102/212. FROM:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate. DATE:- 4th June 1940. TO:- Flag Officer Commanding Dover. 73 LOSS OF H.M.S. "KING ORRY" In forwarding the attached report by Commander a J. Elliott RD., R.N.R., Commanding Officer of H.M.S. "KING ORRY", I desire to bring to your notice that Commander Elliott landed here on 30th May, after his vessel had been sunk at Dunkirk. 2. He then expressed a desire to assist at this Base. After 24 hours stand-off he turned to on Pier duty on the East Pier, assisting in the handling of craft as they came alongside with troops. 3. When the hospital ship "PARIS" was damaged, he proceeded out in charge of the two tugs "SUN IV" and "SUN XV to render assistance. "PARIS" was found without crew and a line was put on board. Both tugs were subjected to machine gun fire. At about 0200 on 3rd June, the tow was abandoned and both tugs returned to this Base at 0600. 4. Commander Elliott has now been sent on leave p.m. 4th June - to his home address. VICE ADMIRAL 5- JUN T 1940 # CAPTAIN. DOVER R NAVAL OFFICER IN CHARGE RAMSGATE. my kings my :- one V.U and + seamen wounded history :- 4 here killed / Officer and nt men wounded. tomage of was rus tained as follows /. 55. coils severed 2. Two life loats badly holed 3- Boat back meried Parside 4. are questilator holed and Auady minor depects to wining etc
254 1342 FROM:- Commander J. Elliott, R.N.R. 256 DATE:- 4th June 1940. TO:- V.A. Dover. KING ORRY Sir, I beg to report as follows on the loss of H.M.S. "KING ORRY". Proceeding in accordance with your orders on the afternoon of the 29th May, I arrived in Dunkirk Roads at 730. The voyage was without incident. On rounding No. 6 Buoy and approaching Dunkirk it was evident that considerable aerial activity was in progress, and one of H.M. Destroyers appeared to be making a smoke screen. 29/5 I proceeded along the channel and was subjected to a direct attack from a dive bomber when about half a mile West of the West Breakwater end. Six bombs straddled the bow - two to Port and four to Starboard. My thought at that moment was that we were fortunate to be missed, especially as two bombs bounced off the water on Port side - but as it happened, all the bombs exploded under water at the time the ship had passed into their zone. This shook the ship convulsively, but as no damage was reported or seemed evident at the time, I proceeded towards the harbour. There was a continuous attack on the harbour and vicinity in progress. Two ships were in sight sunk at the East Pier on the inner and outer sides and one of H.M. Destroyers was burning furiously in the Western Basin. A Drifter was alongside about half way down the East Pier. There was no sign of anyone on the pier, nor was any boat moving in the harbour. I now The "my :- one V.U and 4 seamen wounded hilitary :- 4 here killed / Officer and nt men nounded. tomage the Ship was rus tained as follows /. 55. coils severed 2. Two life loats badly holed 3. Boot back hiered Patside 4. are rentilator boled and Duady minor depects to wining etc
- 2 - king 01r257 257 I now endeavoured to get alongside the East Pier on inner side but failed to turn ship head out at first attempt owing to strong set away from the Pier, so I drew off to try again. Unfortunately at this time we again came under heavy bombing attacks, which appeared at the time to be continuous. The ship was violently 29/5 shaken and the steering gear was put out of action. All instruments, woodwork, etc. were shattered. It seemed essential to get the ship alongside the 75 quay and this I proceeded to do, but in closing the pier damaged same considerably. I do not think the structure could have been very strong as no damage was done to the ship, and my impression was that the ship merely pushed hard - there was no shock or rebound whatever. We were now attacked again but no direct hits were made - bombs falling so close, however, as to give the impression of direct hits, especially as various debris flew up at every explosion. I now resolved to secure the ship and shelter the crew ashore till we could examine the damage under cover of darkness. An immediate withdrawal from the harbour did not seem practicable without steering gear. Even although the engine room was intact it would take some little time to discover all damage, and I was not at all confident from previous experience that the ship with her small propellers would manoeuvre with engines alone in a tideway in the narrow waters, and might become a serious obstruction if she grounded. Having secured the ship by the bow I made along the quay towards the drifter and placing the wounded in her, stood by for a short while, noting developments. But as the attack had ceased I returned to the ship and prepared to repair the steering gear, etc. A Naval Commander from Headquarters ashore now came along and I consulted with him as to general position and as to steps to be taken if it were found necessary to leave the ship. An examination of the ship showed that she was holed below the water line forward in two or three places and aft in the starboard Firemen's sleeping quarters. But Ph this damage thes:- my kingdomy one V.U and 4 seamen wounded hilditary :- 4 knew killed / Officer and nt men wounded. samage ship was rus tained as follow /. 55. coils severed 2. Two life loats badly holed 3- Boat buck hiered Patside 4. are genetilator holed and Away minor defects to wining etc
Movements recorded for Boat during the evacuation period, as plotted on the Operation Dynamo map.
No reviewed movement log is currently published for this vessel.
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