Details

Details

Details

BROCK
Oropesa trawler
s/Lt. K.H.G. Roberts,
Skipper
R.N.V.R.
Jappy.
29th May
0430
Left Ramsgate in company with 5 other
Oropesa trawlers of the Dover M/S
command, the S.O. being in the tr.
Fyldea.
1330
off Dunkirk harbour.
1420
Entered harbour.
1530-
See under Fyldea.
1800
1800ca
Proceeded to Dover.
1930ca
Engines defective; transferred
passengers and troops to Fyldea.
30th May
-
Dover. Disembarked 6 troops.
31st May
1410
To Dunkirk by Y route with 4 M/B's in
tow, Fyldea in company.
1st June
0810
At "R" buoy A/C to X route. Abandoned
1 M/B, which had become waterlogged.
tape
1020
Air attack in vicinity of W buoy,
+
1230
Off Dunkirk beach. Sent the 3 M/B's in
shore.
1240
Air attack.
Ship "suspected" of making water.
1340
1420
Proceeded. Fired on by shore battery close east of
Gravelines.
1940
Arrived Dover.
Total 6
Authority - R.O.II, p.525.
132

Details

Details

FYLDEA
Oropesa trawler (Dover
M/S Command)
Lieut. R. Bill, R.N.
Asst. to Cdr. M/S Dover.
Lieut. J.K.N. Warde,
R.N.V.R., Unit Officer.
Skipper G. Whamond.
27th May
-
Mine-sinking duties, under orders of
the M/S Skipjack.
29th May
0430
Sailed from Ramsgate, in company the 5
Oropesa trs. Arley, Brock, Calvi,
John Cattling and Polly Johnson.
1330
Off Dunkirk harbour, Fyldea and Arley
were ordered inside to pull the P/V
Lochgarry away from the Western (1.e.
inner) side of the East pier.
1420
The other 4 trawlers entered the harbour
and all six of them (triple-banked)
occupied the Lochgarry's berth.
Ahead of the six trawlers was the dr.
Grenade, and outside the Grenade was
the dr. Jaguar. Astern of the
use
then
trawlers was the P/V Canterbury, and
astern of the Canterbury a French
destroyer.
On the eastern (or outer) side of the
east pier was the P/V Fenella, and
at about 1430, the Sp. S/V Crested
Eagle berthed astern of her.
Two French destroyers were on the
opposite side of the harbour.
1530
First air attack, by 6 or 7 bombers;
20/30 bombs dropped, mostly wide.
Polly Johnson damaged by a near miss.
One bomber shot down by fighters.
The six trawlers commenced embarking
troops.
1550ca
The Jaguar, full of trcops, left
harbour to escort the Lochgarry.
1630
Second air attack; 20/30 bombs dropped.
The Jaguar, off the harbour entrance
severely damaged by a near miss.
Raiders driven off by fighters.
The P/V Canterbury left harbour, and
a destroyer [the Verity] took her
Third berth. air attack, by waves of bombers;
1800
about 100 bombs dropped. The
Grenade and the Calvi hit; the
latter sank immediately, the former
shortly after. The east pier was hit
abreast of the Fenella, which was
so damaged that, after transferring
her troops to the Crested Eagle, she
had to be abandoned. [The Crested
Eagle swung clear and proceeded;
but she was hit almost at once,
caught fire and (she was a wooden
Verity slipped and turned ship in
ship) had to be beached. The
the channel. At this stage there
was the troops who began climbing of
an inclination to panic among out
one [cdr. J.C. Clouston,
ship into another. The R.N.] Piermast-
instructed er Lieut. Bill to draw his
revolver, and order was restored.
349

Details

FYLDEA (continued)
29 th May
1805
(contd.)
The Verity cleared the entrance and
1815ca
proceeded to Bray.
The wreck of the Grenade was now
drifting down on to the five trawlers;
the John Cattling was ordered to
attempt to pull her clear. [This
trawler remained in the harbour until
dark to assist the Piermaster].
The Polly Johnson and the Brock
picked up troops and survivors and
proceeded out of harbour; the Arley
was clear, and Lieut. Bill just
managed to jump aboard the Fyldea
as she was leaving the pier. These
4 trawlers then proceeded to the
beaches, where, however, there were
found to be adequate ships for the
troops available.
-
Near Nieuport Bank buoy, the Arley,
which had been standing by the
Polly Johnson, which was leaking
badly and whose engines were damaged
embarked her crew and troops and sank
her by gunfire.
1900ca
With Brock in company, the Fyldea
proceeded to the Jaguar, off Nieuport
Bank buoy; a destroyer the Express
was alongside her taking off her
troops. The Fyldea was ordered to
escort the Jaguar, which had no boats.
The Brock was ordered to proceed
independently.
1930ca
Fourth air attack; four dive bombers
attacked the Jaguar. A fifth bomber
attacked the Fyldea and dropped 6
bombs. The Fyldea took evasive
action; no damage. Jaguar was now
able to increase speed and was soon
out of sight.
-
Between T and S buoys, Fyldea overtook
Brock, who could only steam at half
speed. Fyldea embarked Brock's
survivors and troops, 3 of whom were
seriously wounded.
30th May
0300
Fyldea arrived at Dover. Disembarked
41 troops. (1) Lieut. Bill disem-
barked. The report of the Fyldea's
second trip is compiled from the
reports of the tr. Brock and the M/B'E
Britannia and Skylark'6].
31st May
1030
The M/B Britannia made fast to the
The Fyldea left Dover towing the M/B's
Fyldea at a buoy.
1355(2)
Britannia and Skylark 6, in company
the tr. Brock, towing 4 M/B's, all
bound for Dunkirk by Y route.
A8 Middel Kerke Bank buoy could not
be located, decided to return to R
buoy and proceed by X route.
logged and was abandoned].
[one of Brock's M/B's became water-
(1) D.R. This appears to be an underestimate.
(2) The Brock says it was 350 1410.

Details

3
FYLDEA (continued)
1st June
0810
Altered course at R buoy and followed
route X.
1340 1200ca(1) Arrived off Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Brock, "suspected" of making water, was
given permission to return to Dover.
She proceeded.
About 70 B.E.F. brought to the Fyldea
by the Skylark 6. The Britannia
also ferried troops to her.
1815
Fyldea aground. Skylark 6 failed to
tow her off.
E
-
At about this time the Skylark 6's
engines broke down. She was abandoned
after transferring her crew to the
dr. Worcester.
1845
Assisted by the Britannia, Fyldea
refloated, and proceeded to Dover
with Britannia in tow.
2nd June
0255
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 139
troops. (2)
Total 180
Authority - R.O.I. p. 153.
R.O.II. pp. 218, 226, 497, 517, 523, 525.
The following awards were made:
D.S.O.
Lieut. R. Bill, R.N.
(1) The Brock says 1230; the Britannia 1155.
(2) D.R.
351

Details

Details

GRENADE
28th May
(H.86) 0500 Destroyer A (Nore Command) Cdr. R.C. Boyle, R.N.
and patrol, established Kwinte between Bank light the N. Goodwin L.V.
Javelin, by buoy, was
0700ca
Survivors and of the S.S. Aboukir(
of a F.A.A. Gladiator 1)
detached transferred to the Grenade, were which
Presumably, the Grenade landed these
from the destroyer flotilla. was
survivors and then proceeded to
1730
The Grenade sailed from Dunkirk with
Dunkirk, where she embarked troops.
over 900 troops on board.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,000
troops. (2)
29th May(3)
0830
Proceeded to Dunkirk by route I, the
drs. Gallant and Jaguar in company.
1155
Dive bomber attack off Snouw bank.
The Gallant was damaged and retired.
1250
The Grenade berthed alongside the
west side of the east pier; the
Jaguar berthed outside her. Grenade
did not embark troops, because S.N.O.
Dunkirk stated that he wanted a
destroyer to remain alongside.
1400
The P/V Lochgarry, which was berthed
ahead of the Grenade, cast off
(assisted by the trs. Fyldea and
Arley) and left the harbour.
1420ca
The Fyldea, and the 5 trawlers Arley,
Polly Johnson (the last 4 having just
Brock, Calvi, John Cattling and
entered the harbour), then occupied
the berth vacated by the Lochgarry.
The Fyldea and Arley secured along- 4
side the pier; the remaining
trawlers secured alongside them,
Air three abreast. commenced. Grenade pier could
1530ca
attacks fire because the the
not on her side.
was on
Jaguar was ordered to provide She
The Jaguar for the Lochgarry. Lochgarry
A/A cover off and closed the harbour
which cast was then off the
Two a the two near also in trawlers S/V were
There damaged;
Crested casualties [See Fyldea] Eagle the and eastern which in was the side Sp. berthed of the
Air alongaide east attack. pier. The Jaguar, off the
1630ca
(1) The Abukir was 220 survivors including were
killed crew, troops fire.
the
(2) (3)
D.R. D.R. records in the a 29th May. This is of evidently an from error.
Lad
Grenade on

Details

2
GRENADE (contd.)
1630ca
29th (contd. May
(contd.)
harbour entrance, was
Fenella, east which was berthed on P/V
damaged by & near miss. severely The
and had to be abandoned; her
side of the east pier was the hit
troops were transferred to the
Crested Eagle.
1700ca
The dr. Verity berthed ahead of the
six trawlers, in a berth which
had just been vacated by the P/V
Canterbury.
1750ca
Attack by dive bombers. A near miss
blew a hole in Grenade's side.
The tr. Calvi, ahead of the
Grenade, was hit and sank.
The Grenade then received two hits
which put the engines out of action
and started a fire.
1800ca
The Verity left the harbour.
The Grenade, now on fire in the
boiler room, the upper mess deck
and the canteen flat, swung round
enabling many of her officers and
men to step on board the tr.
The Grenade was ordered to abandon ship
Polly Johnson.
1815ca
some of her survivors were picked
up board the tr. Fyldea.
by the tr. Brock, others
Boyle The jumped Grenade stepped on was into the now the awash, last water of and the and Cdr. was
Cdr. master,
-
Belgian Cdr. clear hauled and trawlers [the Boyle arranged J.C. John of on then tug the Cattling in Clouston board to fairway. with landed push the the R.N., on the Pier the Crested He the Grenade for harbour then pier, a was
they set to be
board very shortly on fire after (she
hit wooden and had
beached.].
Total 1,000.
Authority - R.O.I. p.68.
R.O.II, p.518.
R.O.VI, p.182.
Date
Lad

Details

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

Details

Oropesa trawler
POLLY JOHNSON
Skipr. Lieut. L. Lake, R.D.
R.N.R.
0430
Left Ramsgate in company with 5
29th May
Oropesa trawlers of the Dover M/S
command, under Lieut. Bill, R.N. in
the tr. Fyldea (q.v.)
2150
1330ca
Off Dunkirk harbour.
1420ca
Entered the harbour and berthed along-
side the tr. Brock which lay along-
side the Fyldea; the Fyldea was
secured alongside the east pier.
1600
Air attack. Damaged by a near miss.
Six casualties.
1815ca
Polly Johnson got clear of the harbour
vone
with survivors of the dr. Grenade
2nd
and troops on board.
1830ca
Ship making water fast. Water over the
stokehold floors. Signalled tr.
Arley to keep close to Polly Johnson.
Ordered to transfer troopa and crew
to the Arley. The Arley fired 2
rounds at the Polly Johnson. When
last seen Polly Johnson was afloat,
midway between Middel Kerke Bank and
Nieuport Bank buoys.
Nil
Arrived
Total 618
Authority - R.O.IV, R.O.II, p.517. p.166. Portsdown she
you or)
- 20.11, 8.207=
P.O.TII. P.66.
following made:
Kention 1n Despatches
R.H. Ghurch, R.N.K.
CL. E. white.
sta. F.O.
is Rumel,
4/818
P.A. Kent.
Ord, See.
A.T. Burton.
3
(1) First in D.I.
Duan M or Wilson Insurance Lid
minesveeper. shown degaussed, This
WES

Details

SKYLARK 6
M/B
1410
Cadet Rating, G.R. Prince
31st May
Left which Dover was in tow of the tr. Fyldea,
Britannia, the tr. Brock in M/B company.
also towing the
1st June
1200ca(1) Off sent Dunkirk beach. Tows slipped
towed in to the beaches. The and
motor had broken down.
in the Eastbourne Belle Skylark whose
The Eastbourne Belle ran on to a
submerged car.
The tow fouled the Skylark's screw
and was cut.
The Skylark embarked about 71 British
troops from the beach and ferried
them to the Fyldea.
-
On the second trip, picked up the crew
of the M/B Ferry Nymph and about 60
British troops, which were ferried
to the Fyldea.
-
Third trip, embarked about 70 French
troops.
-
Returned to the Fyldea but found her
aground. Unsuccessfully attempted to
tow her off. Air attack.
1630ca
Left the harbour. Outside, transferred
the troops to the dr. Worcester.
The Skylark's motor seized up.
Abandoned ship and transferred the
crew to the Worcester, which was
heavily bombed.
[The Worcester arrived Dover at 2100]
The Skylark 6 ferried about 200 troops.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, II, p.226.
(1) The Britannia says 1150; the Brock, presumably still in
company, says 1230. Skylark 6 says 0700.
155

Details

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Details

Details

Details

Details

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38
INDEX.
39
Page
Page
Blighty
15
Page
13
Avon Water
Page
Bluebell
Cape Baracouta
Page
Page
18
Cape Comorin
17A
Concordia
Arctic Pioneer
Bluebird
29
32
Ayrshire
20
Cape Finisterre
25
Conidaw
A.
Arctic Ranger
29
Boom Carriers
Cape Melville
36A
10
Azara
29
17
Conqueror
Arctic Trapper
25
Borde
9
13
28
Cape Nyemetski
15
19
Azur
Conquistador
28
Boscawen
15
36B
Argosy
9
Botanic
Cape Palliser
29
Consbro
25
37
Argyleshire
8
11
35
Bountiful
Cape Passaro
8
Consolation
8
26
29
24
Cape Portland
25
Arisio
Constant Friend
12
15
Bounty
8
25
22
Arkwright
Bouvet I
Cape Spartel
Constant Hope
12
Arlette II
2
35
8
Bouvet II
Cape Trafalgar
Consul
9
16
11
B.
35
19
Contender
27
Arley
Cape Warwick
15
17A
Bouvet III
35
25
Arnold Bennett
B.3
Capricornus
Controller
23
11
12A
Bouvet IV
35
35
Carbineer II
Convallaria
27
Lawford
29
Aronia
4
Bacchante
9
Bownet
29
7
Cardiff Castle
Conway Castle
29
9
Arsenal
Badger
25
Boy Alex
24
15
Carency
Copious
28
17A
Balmoral
13
Boy Allen
5
12A
Coral
32
5
A/S Groups-
Carina
Bankwood
16
Boy Andrew
19
Coral Bank
21
Carisbrook
18
27
1
25
Boy John
21
Bandolero
18
Corbrae
26
Caroline
17
36A
2
5
7
Banshee
32
Boyne
20
Corcyra
5
Caroline Moller
13
3
13
14
Cordela
Barbara Robb
5
Boy Pat
13
13
4-7
see P.L.
Caryanda
8
Cordelia II
35
Boy Philip
18
Barbarian
29
15
Carraig
18
18
4
Corena
8
Boy Roy
13
Barbican
18
10
Carry On
12
Corfield
10
12A
8
9 and 10
Barcombe
29
Boy Scout
12
Castle Bay
17
Coringa
36A
12
11
13
29
Boyne Water
2
Caswell
Barcroft
14
Cornelian
5,20
3
12
25
29
Boy's Own
17
Caterina
12
Coronet
9
21
Barfair
16
13
20
Brabant
26
Catherine
23
Cortina
16
28
Barfield
16
14
18
Bracendale
26
Caulonia
3
Coruscation
21
15-16
32
Barlow
2
29
Bracon Heath
12A
Cayrian
35
Cotsmuir
15
36
17
3
Barmouth
18
Braemar
19, 28
Cayton Wyke
10
Count
37
10
18
28
Barndale
29
Braemar (Trawler)
19
Cedar
24
Countess Betty
18
Barnehurst
Bramble
29
Cedric
15
19
20
36B
Courtier
25
3
Barnesness
Branch
28
Ceresio
2
29
26
20
Coventry City
25
3
16
21
Barnestone
Brecon Castle
2A
Ceto
2
29
Craig
22
10
Barnwell
Brecon Moor
16
Ceylonite
36
29
Craig Alvah
26
14
22
33
Barra
Breda
20
Chalcedony
17A
Craig Island
22
36A
23
26
18
Brenda
36A
Charde
8
Craig Roy
28
27
24
30
Barrage
9
Barranca
Brigand
29
Charles Doran
15
Cramond Island
22
16
25-26
33
29
Brighton Queen
21
Cherwell
8
Cranefly
22
17
27
8
Basset
25
Brimness
21
Chestnut
24
Crannock
28
19
28
see P.L.
Basuto
37
Brine
29
Chico
11
Creagh Mhor
17
15
29
19
Bay
22
Brinmaric
9
Chiltern
6
Crestflower
15
37
30
26
Beaumaris Castle
27
British
16
Chimaera
3
Cuirass
37
30
31
19
Beaver
16
British Guiana
7
Chorley
37
Curtana
15
14
32-34
33
Bedfordshire
3
British Honduras
7
Christiana T. Purdy
29
Cutty Sark
5
16
35
Beech
16
Britomart
29
Chrysea
36B
Cypress
24
7
24
36
Belle o' Moray
30
Broadland
23
Chrystobel II
12
Cysne II
6
33
2
37
Belle Vue
3
Brock
11
Citron
12
5
25
38
Belvoir Castle
23
Brontes
28
City of Rochester
12A
21
14
39
18
B.T.B.
35A
Clan McKay
21
33
Ben
Clarinet
37
5
40
Benarchie
17
Buckingham
12
9
71
Bunting
29
Claverhouse
20,21
5
Ben Bhrachie
14
D.
28
6
81
Ben Earn
14
Burke
11
Clavis
23
8
12
Burlington
29
Clevella
16
Dahinda II
2
82
19
Ben and Lucy
8
Burnbanks
12A
Clifton
23
Daisy Bank
26
5
83
Ben Dearg
24
Clio
6
Dale Castle
19
10
2
Burnhaven
18
84
Bengali
32
Clorinde
12
Dalmatia
15
19
Bush
5
32
85
Ben Glas
14
Clotilde
15
Damito
3
13
19
22
Bushwood
3
86
28
Dane
22
Benmore
Buttermere
25
Cloud
20
3
87
29
Ben Rossal
Cloughton Wyke
6
Dane Hill
23
36A
Bystander
11
3
21
Daneman
25
88
14
17
Ben Roy
Cloverdale
89
5
13
Daniel Clowden
29
Ben Tarbert
14
Clythness
9
6
Danube III
12
36
15
Cobbers
Ben Torc
19
Danube V
12
29
A/S Striking Forces—
2
C.
Coila
Ben Urie
28
Danube VI
12
4
10-12
13
Cacorina
5
Coldsnap
Berberis
12
Darnaway
26
16
14-17
25
36B
12
Colette
Berenga
Cadella
37
Darnett Ness
3
3
18
25
26
35
Collena
Berkshire
Cadorna
20
Darogah
15
25
19
25
12A
12
Colne
Caleta
12
Darthema
15
8
20
25
Bernard Shaw
14
37
Comely Bank
3
Bervie Braes
Caliban
2
Darwin
35
21
31
32
23
Comet
16
David Ogilvie
23
8
25
Beryl
Calliope
35
Comitatus
Davey
28
Asama
30
Beryl II
Calverton
4
3
4
3
Commander Horton
3
Dayspring
27
Ascona
12A
Beth
Calvinia
13
9
Commiles
Ash
14
27
17A
Dee
20
Betsy Slater
Cambrian
27
3
Commander Evans
15
Defiance
2
Astros
2
30
24
Bilsdean
Cambridgeshire
24
8
Commodator
9
De la Pole
36A
25
Athenian
37
Campeador V
Computator
35
Birch
Atmah
20
4
15
Delphinus
8
15
Bishopsgate
Compina
25
Concertator
27
Auld Reekie
36A
2
Black Arrow
Cape Argona
Aurilia
30
22
10
12A
Ave Maria
Blackburn Rovers
22
25
Avola
Blackfly
28
22
Blackthorn
35
20
Blackwater

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39
Page
Page
Page
40
Bervie Braes
2
Caleta
12
Coila
19
Dane Hill
Page
32
Caliban
12
Coldsnap
28
Daneman
23
Beryl
Eden
Page
30
Calliope
23
Colette
12
Beryl II
Daniel Clowden
8,25
Page
4
Calverton
16
Collena
37
29
27
Calvinia
12
Edward. Palmsley
2
Fawn
Beth
Collingwood
Danube III
29
12
Fazenta
28
21
Betsy Slater
Danube IV
13
Feaco
35
2
Cambridgeshire
3
Colne
20
Bilsdean
Danube V
12
10
Compina
Comely Bank
Edwina
12A
35A
4
12
Fear Not
Birch
Comet
D'Arcy Cooper
12
E. & F.
14
Feasible
30
Bishopsgate
20
Cape Argona
16
2
Cape Baracouta
Comitatus
Darnaway
14
Egeria
5
15
Fedalmo
Black Arrow
2
27
21
Commander Holbrook
Darnett Ness
26
11
Eileen Duncan
17
12
Felicity
Cape Comorin
25
Darogah
3
35
23
Blackfly
16
Fenella
Blackthorn
22
Cape Finisterre
14
Commander Horton
Eileen Emma
4
Darthema
12A
Eilla II
10
36A
Fentonian
20
4
Commiles
12A
Blackwater
Cape Mariato
3
Darwin
8
Elbury
9
Fernmoor
15
15
Commander Evans
29
Cape Melville
14B
David Ogilvie
35
Eldorado
16
Blighty
Ferry Belle
9
18
Cape Nyemetski
29
Commander Nasmith
Bluebell
11
Davey
23
E. Lauland
23
Ferryman
17
8
Commodator
28
17
Bluebird
20
Cape Palliser
21
Dayspring
Electra II
Ferry Prince
9
29
Cape Portland
25
Boom Carriers
Computator
9A
Dee
27
Elena
5
Fertile Vale
22
B. 0. Davies
Cape Spartel
8
Concertator
20
Elgin
35
24
8
Defiance
Fervent
11
Cape Trafalgar
19
Concordia
29
2
Borde
De la Pole
Elizabeth Angela
16
9
Fidget
11
9A
Cape Warwick
25
Conidaw
14B
Boscawen
Elizabeth Green
11
Fidra
10
Delphinus
22
12A
35
Conqueror
35
Filey Bay
Botanic
10
Capricornus
9A
Deo-Na-Mara
Elk
16
Bountiful
29
4
17
2
Capstone
Conquistador
Ellesmere
Fintray
21
12A
Deo Volante
9
Carbineer II
Consbro
28
9A
7
37
Elm
Fir
24
Bounty
Derby County
Consolation
4
25
Elna
Firefly
12A
Bouvet I
35
Cardiff Castle
15
8
Dervish
17
9A
Cardy
9A
Constant Friend
Eloquent
Fisher Boy
11
Bouvet II
35
12
Desiree
19
35
Fisher Lad
Bouvet III
35
Carency
5
12
Else Rykens
28
Constant Hope
Destinn
28
5
Consul
Elsie Carn
Fitzroy
16
Bouvet IV
35
Caribia
9
9A
Devon City
35
Flanders
20
21
29
Contender
Elsie and Nellie
Carina
19
15
Devon County
12
Flandre
12A
14
Bownet
El Tovar
Boy Alex
15
Controller
22
24
Carisbrook
14B
Dewey Rose
Fleming
13
27
Embrace
27
Flixton
17
Boy Allen
12A
Caroline
7
Convallaria
27
Dhoon
14
Emerald Wings
8
Flora
27
Boy Andrew
21
Caroline Moller
14
Conway Castle
29
Diana
9
Emilion
11
Floreat II
22
Boy John
26
Caryanda
9
Copious
28
Discovery II
30
Emperor of India
5610
Floreat III
22
Boyne
20
Carraig
18
Coral
32
Doctor Lee
29
Empress
9A
Florence Brierley
18
Boy Pat
13
Carry On
12
Coral Bank
18
Doggers Bank
9
Endeavour
17
Florio
4
Boy Philip
15
Castle Bay
35A
Corbrae
12A
Dolores
12A
Englishman
19
Flush
20
Boy Scout
12
Caswell
14A
Corcyra
5
Donna Nook
23
Enterprising
20
Flying Admiral
14A
Boyne Water
2
Caterina
12
Cordela
14
Doon
5
Epine
15
Flying Breeze
4
Boy's Own
17
Catherine
23
Cordelia II
18
Doonie Braes
17
Equerry
22
Flying Wing
7
Doorie Brae
36A
Erimo
3
Fontenoy
15
Brabant
21
Caulonia
3
Corena
13
Bracendale
26
Cayrian
35
Corfield
Dorade II
4
Erin
36c
Foray
27
12A
Bracon Heath
12A
Cayton Wyke
10
Cornelian
5
Dorando-Pietri
11
Erith
16
Force
12A
15
12
Dorienta
8
Erna
18,37
Forecast
10
Bracon Moor
Cecil Margetts
Cornelis
36A
Coronatia
12
Dorileen
37
Eroican
17
Forerunner
12A
Braemar
28
Cedar
8
28
Forfeit
27
Dorinda
2
Escalonia
Bramble
29
Cedric
36B
Coronet
9A
12
Esmeralda
9A
Forte
2
Branch
28
Ceresio
26
Cortina
35
Dorothy (B.D.V.)
28
Esperanza
4
Fortitude
19
Brecon Castle
2
Cervantes
12A
Coruscation
21
Dorothy
20
Ceto
2
Cotsmuir
Dorothy Lambert
15
Essex Maid
24
Fort Robert
35
Breda
15
Dragonet
29
Ethel Taylor
23
Fort Rose
14B
Brenda
Ceylonite
9
9A
Fort Ryan
29
21
36
Count
Drangey
13
Ethfra
Brigand
Chalcedony
18
Drummer
Ethiopian
29
Fortuna
23
29
22
Countess Betty
14A
7
Forward
9A
Brimness
21
Charde
8
Courtier
3
Drummer Boy
35
Etruria
35
Foss
29
Brine
29
Charles Doran
15
Coventry City
25
7
Etruscan
Duchess of Down
14A
Fox
30
Brinmaric
9A
Cherwell
8
Craig
22
13
Euclase
Duchess of Fife
14A
Foyle
20
British
16
Chestnut
10
Craig Alvah
26
10
Eunice and Nellie
Duchess of Rothesay
14A
Franc Tireur
14
British Guiana
7
Chico
11
Craig-Bo
26
2
Europa
Duenna
5
Friesland
35
British Honduras
7
Chiltern
2
22
21
Evadne
Craig Island
Dulcibelle
14
Freyer
21
Britomart
29
Chimaera
Craigmiller
36
16
Evelyn Rose
3
Dundalk
Broadland
28
27
Evening Primrose
14A
Friarage
24
23
Chorley
Frons Olivae
22
37
Craig Roy
17
Brock
Dundarg
10
Christine
36A
Craik
27
14
Everton
14B
Fumarole
28
Dunedin
Brontes
28
Christiana T. Purdy
29
Cramond Island
22
14B
Evesham
36A
Fyldea
10
B.T.B.
Dungeness
35A
28
Ewald
Chrysea
36B
22
36A
Cranefly
Dunluce Castle
Buckingham
2
Exchequer
12
Chrystobel II
28
14
12
Crannock
Dunnet
Bunting
Citron
17
27
Exyáhne
22
14
12
Dunraven Castle
E.&T.S.
G.
Burke
Creagh Mhor
10
City of Rochester
8
11
12
12A
Crestflower
Dusky Queen
Ex Fortis
22
21
Gadfly
Burlington
29
Clan McKay
37
17
21
Cuirass
Explorer
Gael
Burnbanks
Clarinet
12
5
12A
37
Curlew
Galatea
Burnhaven
14B
18
Claverhouse
21
Curtana
15
Galvani
Bush
35
5
Clavis
23
Cutty Sark
5
E.
14A
Garola
F.
20
Bushwood
3
Clevella
16
Cypress
8
Eager
5
36B
Garry
14
Buttermere
25
Clifton
Buzzard
23
6
Eaglet II
14
Fairhaven
14
Gava
Cysne II
9
12
Clio
Earl Essex
14
Fairway
28
Gelert
6
17
Bystander
11
Clorinde
Earl Kitchener
27
Fair Weather
14A
Geneva
12
15
Clotilde
D.
Easter Rose
Fairy Knowe
11
Genius
15
27
23
C.
Cloud
2
Ebor Abbey
17
Falconet
24
Geordie
12
Cachelot
28
Dahinda II
George and Albert
12
Cacorina
Cloughton Wyke
2
Daisy Bank
26
Ebor Jewel
29
Fano
14B
37
5
Cloverdale
14A
Dale Castle
19
29
Faraday
27
George Bligh
Cadella
Ebor Wyke
17A
Clythness
11
Dalmatia
Eccleshill
2
Favour
H
8
Cadorna
35
Cobbers
14A
Damito
9A
Caldy
Ecila
35
Cochrane II
20
Dane
22
(C38488)

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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

Details

-2-
497.8
sailed for
On Calais the night Roads:- of 25th/26th May, the following vessels
468
Botanic.
Fyldea.
7
Maretta.
Arley.
Polly Johnson.
Brock.
Calvi.
Grey Mist.
Conidaw.
Chico.
Playmates.
Willing Boys.
of Calais.
The object of the expedition was the possible evacuation
"Grey Mist" in charge of forces employed.
Commander M/S (Commander W.V.H. Harris R.N.) sailed in
The orders to form the expedition were received at 1900,
and vessels sailed at 2130, the first five trawlers to leave,
towing motor boats.
Vessels were ordered to rendezvous at No. 3 Buoy Calais
Roads, and await instructions from Commander M/S. Destroyer
force was in support.
On receipt of signal which had been wrongly decoded, two
motor boats were ordered into Calais Harbour. These boats had
left for the harbour when a further signal was received that
Calais was to be held at all costs, and the signal was ordered to
be sent by hand to the Brigadier Commanding Forces. "Conidaw"
was ordered to proceed immediately and deliver the message.
A further signal was then received recalling all forces
to the Downs. On receipt of this signal "Botanic" and "Maretta"
were ordered to remain until boats and "Conidaw" returned, and
Destroyer escort was asked to be provided. All other vessels
returned to the Downs.
Reports from Lieutenant Commander P.F. Cammiade R.N.V.R.,
Sub. Lieutenant M.R. Mills R.N.V.R., and Skipper R. 9nelgrove,are
attached (la, lb, lc, ld).
There was constant enemy air activity during the night,
and a considerable amount of firing ashore.
26th May. Danlaying Yachts"Gulzar" and "Grey Mist"
to Calais P.M. with Commodore W.P. Gandell, P.S.T.O. France. Report
of Lieutenant C.V. Brammall R.N.R. attached (No. 2).
"Arley" ordered to Dunkirk as W/T link.
She 27th May. shelled off Calais, and returned with engineer
seriously was heavily wounded. Operation was then cancelled.
"Fyldea" sailed, buoy laying, under the orders of "Skipjack"
employed on mine sinking duties.
"Thomas Bartlett", recalled on report of returned to
"Inverforth", & "Our shelling Bairns" of were "Arley". sailed
for Dunkirk, but ordered were to sweep the Admiral war channel, Dover. and
They harbour were p.m. then on orders from Vice
(Continued over).

Details

-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).

Details

-4-
- 499 68
470
command are
The submitted:- following casualties to H.M. Vessels under my
7
26th May.
"Botanic" and "Maretta" heavily bombed
on return from Calais. Both ships
damaged. (Maretta 3 weeks refitting).
28th May.
"Thomas Bartlett" mined on own field.
10 survivors.
29th May.
"Comfort" believed rammed.
"Nautilus" damaged by bombs, and
destroyed by fire. All saved (See
report of Lieutenant Gelling No.4).
"Calvi" bombed and sunk - Dunkirk
Harbour.
"Polly Johnson" badly damaged, and
sunk by "Arley" (See report No.5c).
1st June.
"Brock" damaged by several near misses.
VICE A14/0/1407 ADMIRA
6- JUN 1940
*
*
T
DOVER

Details

5th June, 1940.
G.D.
501
-
fonmander W.V.H. Harris
C.M.S.
M/S Forces ashore and afloat.
Command and organisation of 472 all
Lieutenant R. Bill.
Asst. to C.M.S. 2 Andresselles. 1 Dunkirk
(6 ships).
Lieut. G. St. C. Rideal.
Operations Staff. 1 off Boulogne and
Calais W/T Link.
Lieut. C.L. Lambert.
Operations Staff. 1 Dunkerque (Medway Queen)
3ub. Lieut. D.G. Rattle.
Operations Staff. Chico. Off Dunkirk for
Pay. Sub. Lieut. Matthews.
Operations Staff. Conidaw.
Life saving duties
ditto
Lieut. Cmdr. A.A.Martin.
Gp.Cmdr. "LL" 2 Dunkirk Roads "LL".
Continuous "LL" off Dover.
theut. Cmdr. P.F.Cammiade.
Gp.Cmdr "Oropesa". 1 Calais (Botanic &
(Maretta.
}
Lieut. W.E. Gelling.
Gp.Cmdr. "Skids". 1 Dunkirk (Comfort &)
(Nautilus
Lieut. L.J. Wyatt.
D.Y. Officer.
Lieut. H.S. Warren.
Pier Master.P. O.W. 1 Medway Queen - Dunkirk.
Lieut. J.K.M. Warde.
1 Buoy laying operation. / to DUNKERQUE AND
/ To BEACHES.
Lieut. W.R. Hutcheson.
2 Trips - Starlight Rays - Dunkirk.
Lieut. C.B. Sharp.
Sick.
Sub. Lieut. M.R. Mills.
1 trip Calais - Maretta, 2 Dunkirk - Sargasso
Sub. Lieut. J.C. Fegen.
1 trip Gulzar, 1 Conidaw, 1 Conidaw (Life- saving).
Sub. Lieut. K.H.G.Roberts.
1 off Calais 26th - Brock. 1 Dunkirk and
beaches.
Sub. Lieut. F.L. Perkins.
2 Sargasso Dunkirk.
Sub. Lieut. R.L. Hippisley.
1 Sargasso, and also with Captain A/P.
Lieut. M. Eynon.
Gulzar.
Sub. Lieut. W.G. Lloyd.
Dunkirk in John Cattling.
Sub. LieutA Everitt.
1 off Calais, 1 Dunkirk - blown up - wounded.
Sub. Lieut. .Thompson.
1 Calais - Conidaw.
Sub. Lieut. R.E. Weale.
2 off Calais - Grey Mist.
Sub. Lieut. R.E. Evans.
Gulzar then sick.
Lieut. C.V. Brammall.
5 Dunkirk, 1 Andresselles, 2 Calais.
Lieut. C.C.L. Gaussen.
3 Dunkirk.
Sub. Lieut. W.V. Liddall.
1 Bougogne W/T link. 1 off Calais.
Sub. Lieut. J. Mason.
3 Dunkirk.
Skipper R. Snelgrove.
1 Calais, 1 Dunkirk, 1 lifesaving party.
(Contd over).

Details

-3-
idpper Lieut.
Robinson.
Arley.
503
gipper Lieut.
Lake.
thief Skipper.
Mayhew.
Lt.Polly Johnson - sunk - 1 dalais.4
Maretta.
1 Calais - bonbed.
}kipper.
Whammond.
Fyldea.
1 Buoy laying, 1
1 Beaches.
ikipper.
Jappy.
Brock.
1 Dunkirk, 1 Beaches.
skipper.
Tucker.
Burke.
$kipper.
Setterfield.
Adam.
Skipper
S.Bindler.
B.D. spridler
Late Calvi - sunk. 1 off Calads, 1
in Dunkirk.
Skipper.
E. Smith.
Botanic.
Supper.
Aldan.
John Cattling. 1 Calats, 1 Dunitiplt.
Sub. Lieut.
Mason.
Chico.
3 Dunkirk.
Skipper.
Selanius
Clythness.
1 Dunkirk.
Skipper.
Snelgrove.
Conidaw.
1 Calais, 1 Duniciple,
1 Life saving party.
Sub. Lieut.
Liddall
Weale.
}
Grey Mist. 1 Boulogne, 1 off Calate.
Sub. Lieut.
Lieut.
CV
Brammall
Gulzar. See report under name of
Sub. Lieut.
RE
Evans.
individual Officers.
Lieut.
Eynon.
Skipper.
Johnson.
Hosanna.
Skide off Dover.
Skipper.
Self.
Inverforth.
Skipper.
Kaye.
Tiller.
Lord Grey.
Skipper.
Littleproud.
Milford King.
1 off Calais LL.
Skipper.
Miller.
Our Bairns.
1 off Calais LD.
Skipper.
Playmates.
1 off Calata.
Stather.
Skipper.
Restrivo.
LL Dover.
Skipper.
Slater.
Relonzo.
LL Dover.
Skipper.
Buchan.
Starlight Rays. 2 Dunkirk.
Lieut.
Gaussen.
Sargasso. See report under name
Sub. Lieut.
Sub. Lieut.
Mills.
Thompson.
w
of individual Officers.
Skipper.
Thomsons.
Examination.
Drake.
Willing Boys.
1 Flushing, Calais,
Skipper.
Burrows.
Skide off Dover.
Skipper.
Mair (dead).
Comfort - sunk - 1 Beaches Dunkirk
Skipper.
McLean. - late -Nautilus. sunk - 1 Beaches Dunkirk

Details

340/58.
505
Name.
is
Ship.
Anthony Brooke
Rank or Rating.
476
CLYTHNESS
.Heckstall Smith.
300 lin to
Walter Fredk.Salenius.
Skipper. Sub. Lt. R.N.V.R. - Unit Officer.
George S. Day.
what's Yook 150
Smauel B. Sussans
Mate. Chief Engineman. LT/RX 102500.
John A. Cargill.
Seaman.
LT/JX 175090.
For devotion to duty under very trying
circumstances (See report No. 6.
POLLY JOHNSON
Bonter, b
Skipper Lieut. Leonard Lake extricated his ship in a
Sunk.
sinking condition from Dunkirk in a heavy bombard-
ment. Was eventually forced to abandon ship, and
transferred his crew and himself to "Arley".
(See report Nos. 5b and c). 38 49
FYLDEA.
29/5 2/31/5
Liewt. John .K.M. Warde R.N.V.R. - Unit Officer.
has misses.
Thomas Owens,D.S.M.
Chief Engineer. X2573U.
?
Recommended for coolness and devotion to
duty during heavy bombing at Dunkirk.
(See report No. la).
31
BROCK.
Kenneth Henry G.Roberts.Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.
brooks
Behaved with great coolness and devotion
was became he saw no mile
to duty in assisting his Group Officer
suspected hishiplo
his ship from a perilous position).
(Lieutenant Robert Bill R.N.) to extricate
King water'
(See report No. 7).
NAUTILUS
Richard McLean.
Skipper (No.WS 3159).
J
p
For displaying great gallantry in going
strolp tisant
the side to save a seaman whilst
destroyer over and "Nautilus" were being
bombed.
m h hw sunk. each Duly
2nd Engineman.
George Addison.
Cook.
Andrew Strachan.
Worked conditions (See report No.4
hard in small boats all day during by
Lieutenant trying W.E. Gelling R.N.R).
GULZAR
Edward S. Woodhead.
Coxswain.
Seaman.
A
thips(30/5-2/6)
Charles H. Baldry.
Cook.
George Cliefe.
Greaser.
Arthur L. Shallis.
Peter Blake.
Signalman.
to duty been in very nade trying to
the
26th May
to 4th June,

Details

-2-
347/58.
506
Name.
Ship.
Rank or Rating.
508
SARGASSO.
30-1/6
Charles L. Gaussen. Licutenant R.N.V.R. (Cormanding 477 Officer)
For constant devotion to duty under trying
Kip
Dunkirk and beaches, returning on each
conditions whilst operating three trips to/
Trup
occasion with a full load of troops.
LORD GREY
J
John A. Simson.
William Tiller.
Lieutenant R.N.V.R. (Unit Commander).
2nd Skipper R.H.R.
Malcolm McLeod.
2nd hand.
Ivan Lennox.
Chief Engineman.
400thorp
William Palmer.
Ord. Seaman.
For gallantry and devotion to duty under
very trying circumstances experienced whilst
embarking troops at Dunkirk Harbour.
JOHN CATTLING
/
Following extracted from Skipper G. Aldan's report:-
"I have the honour to submit the following ratings
names, as deserving recognition for conspicuous
misli dark when hig, she
gallantry displayed" (See Lieutenant Robert Bill's
report No. 5a).
wnt hulher the for mat
Charles Adams.
2nd hand. LT/JX 173276.
William W.Jefferies.
Chief Engineman. H.O.
Arthur Baul.
Stoker P.O. (Pens.D/K 737 Pen.No.26717
in
Ernest RichardA Emery. Wireman.
BROCK.
William A. Moss.
A.B. (Gunlayer). R.F.R. J86490.
Herbert C. Bidle.
2nd Hand. 46SD.
Francis Greenhill.
Sto. P.O. C/K14122.
Behaved with great gallantry under hazardous
and trying conditions in Dunkirk Harbour.
picuota
$ Bil

Details

347/58.
-2-
506
8
Ship.
Name.
Rank or Rating.
477
SARGASSO
/
Charles L. Gaussen. Licutenant R.N.V.R. (Commanding Officer
3 kip 30-1/6
For constant devotion to duty under trying
conditions whilst operating three trips to/
Trip
Dunkirk and beaches, returning on each
occasion with a full load of troops.
LORD GREY.
J
John A. Simson.
Lieutenant R.N.V.R. (Unit Connander).
William Tiller.
2nd Skipper R.N.R.
Malcolm McLeod.
2nd hand.
hip 20ap
Ivan Lennox.
Chief Engineman.
400 thap
William Palmer.
Ord. Seaman.
For gallantry and devotion to duty under
very trying circumstances experienced whilst
embarking troops at Dunkirk Harbour.
JOHN CATTLING
/
rip imymentian
Following extracted from Skipper G. Aldan's report:-
$
"I have the honour to submit the following ratings
names, as deserving recognition for conspicuous
gallantry displayed" (See Lieutenant Robert Bill's
mate til gark for when maturely mat she
report No. 5a).
Charles Adams.
2nd hand. LT/JX 173276.
wint further the
William W.Jefferies.
Chief Engineman. H.O.
Arthur Baul.
Stoker P.O. (Pens.D/X 737 Pen.No.26717
m
Ernest RichardA Emery. Wireman.
BROCK.
William A. Moss.
A.B. (Gunlayer). R.F.R. J86490.
Herbert C. Bidle.
2nd Hand. 468D.
Francis Greenhill.
Sto. P.O. C/K14122.
Behaved with great gallantry under hazardous
and trying conditions in Dunkirk Harbour.
icuous
ert

Details

-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.

Details

519
-3-
-
490
As instructed the wreck "John of the "Grenade" was drifting down on the I
follow and ships out. "Polly Johnson" and "Brock" and to
the other Cattling" to attempt to pull her clear trawlers,
7
up troops survivors, got clear, and proceeded out of harbour picked
at full speed. "Arley" was clear and "Fyldea" under way.
and several the more troops and survivors jumped on board. I was
The Skipper of "Fyldea" kept his ship close to the wall
further up but pier trying to find the Piermaster again for further
instructions, I failed to find him and just managed to jump
on board as she was leaving. This was at about 1815.
Lieutenant Peake the First Lieutenant of the "Granade"
then told me that the Piermaster had also instructed him to get the
ships clear of it and to go round to the beaches. I therefore took
the four remaining ships towards the beaches and signalled to the
ships there asking if there were any troops available for me. After
three unsuccessful attempts to obtain further troops to fill up to
capacity - all ships replying that they were themselves having
difficulty in completing I received signals from "Polly Johnson"
and "Brock" stating that they were damaged. I ordered "Arley" to
stand by "Polly Johnson" and to remove her crew and sink her if
necessary.
With "Brock" in company I then proceeded towards the "Jaguar"
who was anchored in the vicinity of the Nieuport Bank Buoy with her
troops on board and another destroyer alongside her, and asked if I
should take some from her. I was told to escort her as she had to Express
boats and I therefore told "Brock", whose damage was slight, to
proceed independently. I proceeded with "Brock for about two miles
to exchange the necessary signals and satisfy myself that she was
capable of making the journey and then returned to "Jaguar".
By this time she had weighed, and I followed astern of
her and signalled my maximum speed.
At about 1930, five German Dive Bombers passed on our port
side at about 2500 feet, in the direction of the "Jaguar" and started
to make an attack. We opened fire with the 12 pounder and one plane
detached itself from the formation and made an attack on us. As
the plane straightened up to attack I gave the order"hard-a-stareoard"
Six bombs were dropped which fell about 40/50 yards on our port beam.
We then straightened up and proceeded on our course.
The other planes attacked the "Jaguar" who replied with
her multiple pom-poms and zig-zagged, and no hits were registered,
although all attacks appeared to be very close to her.
After this attack she increased speed and she was soon
out of sight.
Having been left by "Jaguar" - who was taking a different
route I set a course for the Dyck Buoy and followed "y" route.
Between "T" and "S" buoys I overtook "Brock" and she
signalled that she could only steam at half speed and that she had
three serious cases on board. I signalled her to heave to and
went "Fyldea". alongside her and transferred her survivors and troops to
I then proceeded at full speed and arrived back at Dover
at 0300.
During the bombing raids and the periods between, the
situation was so tense that it would have been almost impossible to
realize any passage of time, so that the times in this report may
be in error to a considerable extent.

Details

Details

Details

continued.
-2-
495+
H.M.T. cleared "Fyldea" harbour leading. of H.M.T. "Polly Johnson", "Brock" and with
I then astern passed ahead inside of H.M.S. "Grenade"
who faster informed owing to trouble megaphone that she was unable to proceed
When me clear by of harbour I closed on H.M.T. "Polly Johnson"
reduced she to slow charts had been shattered. We were by as then
to reported all her up position about m/d of a mile ahead of keep her
her. I took in the engineroom. and would I close any
faster. "Polly Johnson" I received was in difficulties and could not proceed any
speed, and I informed H.M.T. "Fyldea" that
Johnson", I did, keeping about me of a mile ahead of her.
which orders from "Fyldea" to stand by "Polly
Although I was only proceeding at slow speed, the "Polly Johnson"
still dropped astern.
I then received a message from H.M.T. "Fyldea" that if
"Polly Johnson" could not proceed I was to take her crew and
scuttle her clear of the channel and act independently. I
ordered this message to be sent to "Polly Johnson" as relayed from
"Fyldea". By this time we had reached a position half way between
Nieuport Buoy, and Middlekerke Buoy, and I stopped engines until
"Polly Johnson" came within hail. During this period several
more raids were carried out by German Aircraft on the Destroyers
and other craft close to us.
When "Polly Johnson" closed on me, the Skipper informed
me he was already to abandon ship; his confidential books etc.
were packed ready to pass to me. I then closed on her and lashed
alongside until the two stretcher cases and all the other members
of her crew and passengers were safely on board. I then cast off
and moved away from her.
The Skipper of "Polly Johnson" - Skipper Lieutenant
Lake R.N.R. (ret) informed me that the water in engineroom had
gained up to the platforms, and in the stokehold the water was
about to put her fires out.
After leaving "Polly Johnson" I requested one of our
Destroyers to sink her as she had been abandoned, but as I received
no satisfactory reply, I returned to her and fired two shots of
common shell into her at waterline.
As I had by now about 90 men on board, including several
wounded, I decided to make all speed for Dover. The tide was
setting to East North East, and assuming the "Polly Johnson" would
drive away from the channel, I left her, the Skipper agreeing that
she would sink in about two hours.
Soon after leaving "Polly Johnson" I received an 8.0.8.
from a Paddle Steamer who had been badly bombed whilst I had been
taking off from "Polly Johnson". I decided I could not take all
her men, so I steamed and intercepted one of the scouts, and two
French trawlers, and directed them to go to the paddler, which
they did. There was also one drifter standing by her and one of
our destroyers heading for her, so I decided nothing further could
be done, and returned to harbour forthwith.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Skipper Lieutenant R.D.,R.N.R.
ske Lieut G Kobinson RD RNR
HMT. "arley"

Details

Injurn 51.
3rd June, 1940.
N°: 7. 525
To: Commander M/S,
496
Dover.
REPORT FROM H.M.T. "BROCK".
Sir,
H.M.T. 1410 "Brock" left Dover Harbour with four
in tow proceeded at to on 31st May, 1940., in company with H.M.T. motor "Fyldes" boats
and Dunkirk by route "Y".
decided to return to "R" Buoy and go by "X" route.
As Middlekerke Bank Buoy could not be located "FyIdea"
abandoned.
One of our four boats having become water logged, was
(1/6/20)- 0810. Altered course at "R" Buoy and followed route "X".
1020. In vicinity of "W" Buoy ship was attacked by enemy
aircraft; several bombs were dropped but no damage was sustained.
1230. Off beach East of Dunkirk, sent the three motor
boats in shore.
1240. Again attacked, this time by a large number of
Junkers Dive Bombers. A great number of bombs were dropped
around both ships. One plane was seen to come down, probably
disabled by our "A.A" fire. No bombs registered hits but many
fell exceedingly close to the ship.
As first loaded small boats had closed "FyIdea" and there
appeared to be no more coming off at the time, also suspecting ship
to be making water, a signal was made to "Fyldea", whereupon per-
mission was given for "Brock" to return to Dover. At 1340 she
proceeded.
1420, when approximately 5 miles North of No. 5 V. Buoy
a shore battery fired three rounds at ship all dropping about 200
yards astern. It was difficult to ascertain exactly where the
battery was, but it appeared to be close East of Gravelines.
1940. Entered Dover Harbour.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Sub. GRoberts Lieutenant R.N.V.R.

Details

APPENDIX I.
160
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
Narrative of Events.
162
-
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
A.A. CRUISER:
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS:
ANTHONY
HARVESTER
MALCOLM
VIVACIOUS
BASILISK
HAVANT
MONTROSE
WAKEFUL
BLYSKAWICA
ICARUS
SABRE
WHITEHALL
CODRINGTON
IMPULSIVE
SALADIN
WHITSHED
ESK
INTREPID
SCIMITAR
WINCHELSEA
EXPRESS
IVANHOE
SHIKARI
WINDSOR
GALLANT
JAGUAR
VENOMOUS
WOLFHOUND
GRAFTON
JAVELIN
VANQUISHER
WOLSEY
GRENADE
KEITH
VERITY
WORCESTER
GREYHOUND
MACKAY
VIMY
(40)
SLOOPS:
BIDEFORD
GUNBOATS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
UNESWEEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
EL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGO
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH WESTWARD HO
A/S VESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SANGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
re
SPECIAL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
ROYAL EAGLE
ESSELS:
"LL" TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
it
A/S TRAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
ore
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WESTELLA
an
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
ue
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
all
INE RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
SILVER DAWN
RIFTERS:
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

Details

Details

APPENDIX I.
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
RUISER:
CALCUTTA
YERS:
ANTHONY
HARVESTER
MALCOLM
VIVACIOUS
BASILISK
HAVANT
MONTROSE
WAKEFUL
BLYSKAWICA
ICARUS
SABRE
WHITEHALL
CODRINGTON
IMPULSIVE
SALADIN
WHITSHED
ESK
INTREPID
SCIMITAR
WINCHELSEA
EXPRESS
IVANHOE
SHIKARI
WINDSOR
GALLANT
JAGUAR
VENOMOUS
WOLFHOUND
GRAFTON
JAVELIN
VANQUISHER
WOLSEY
GRENADE
KEITH
VERITY
WORCESTER
GREYHOUND
MACKAY
VILY
BIDEFORD
TS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
EEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
EL
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGOWER
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WESTWARD HO
ESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SARGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
AL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
LS:
ROYAL EAGLE
TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
RAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WISTELLA
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
ERS:
SILVER DAWN
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

Details

Details

.op.a.s. TO SECTION 70
04.0.08 YTXVITA
-2-
233
.И.Я .A.8.2.1 .H.6
Before the first trip, the stores were supplemented by Anti-Gas
angrene, serum,from R.N. Sick Quarters, Dover.
313/11
*УПОТ 10.9.82
.20mg ,A&2
Before the second, the R.A.M.C. replenished the Morphia and
invested VIIA)
ressings, and supplied some Anti-Tetanus Serum.
23.60 DIA JATAT
The Army"shell dressings" were much better than the First Field
.eantive I brts studiol
ressings, being similar but larger.
assic JONORY new 10 sizl S elal a'smoll
It seemed at the time that the R.A.M.C. "Shell Dressings might
Jalit VISV JOH епозтерци .2.M.B
well replace the First Field dressing in H.M. Ships.
IO ot 889906 USE Hold 26 beau .JI OS Vitneses X
.Jasris Tedmum OSISI antiga NJJW alswd .J1
the trip in "Mona's Isle", the stretcher cases overflowed were
8'01ns mt OVJ brts SI
all During decks. Fortunately stretchers in large Dunidrk. quantities
.0.9 telm Viggue lurgled DNS Justitite VIST
forthcoming, to from Casualty Clearing station,
that Hyurogen Peroxide or Dettol, would be a useful
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'S) .novis riose 000,8
2d of

Details

THE WEEK BEFORE OPERATION "DYNAMO"
CHAP. II
the whole day, might at any time become impossible to close; were this to
happen, my last hope of reaching the coast would be gone".'
In order to secure the British northern flank Lord Gort decided to issue
orders for the occupation, as quickly as troops could be made available, of the
line of the Ypres - Comines canal and the positions covering Ypres. In the
absence of General Blanchard, who was visiting the Belgian G.Q.G. at Bruges,
Lord Gort communicated this decision that evening to the Headquarters of
the French First Group of Armies.¹
The necessity of evacuation was becoming a matter of paramount immediacy.
British destroyers bombard suburb of Calais
Meanwhile, on the 25th May, the trawler Lord Howe sailed to Calais with a
cargo of ammunition². She entered the port and discharged part of her cargo
in the face of heavy enemy fire from the dunes to the southward. In view of
the risk involved, Commodore W. P. Gandell, R.N. (P.S.T.O., French Ports),
who was on the quay, then ordered the Lord Howe to sail.
Outside Calais the destroyer Greyhound closed the Lord Howe, which was
carrying a request for bombardment support of the town. At the same time,
the Greyhound received a signal from the Vice-Admiral, Dover, ordering the
bombardment of the Calais suburb of St. Pierre. The Greyhound opened fire,
and at 2000, an H.A. battery east of Sangatte registered a hit on her, killing
2 and wounding 3. About this time the destroyer Grafton arrived and also
opened fire. The 2 destroyers returned to Dover as darkness set in.³
Evacuation of Calais countermanded
At 2130 a force of seven trawlers⁴, three yachts⁵ and two drifters⁶, sailed for
Calais road, ready to evacuate troops from Calais, the moment an order was
received to do so. Five of the trawlers towed motor boats. Commander
W. V. H. Harris, R.N. (Commander M/S, Dover), in the Grey Mist, was in
command. The destroyers Windsor and Verity left Dover at 2300, to cover
the withdrawal of this force.
On arrival off Calais, two of the motor boats were ordered into Calais harbour.
At about 0300/26, a signal was received that Calais was to be held at all costs;
furthermore, it was ordered that this signal was to be sent by hand to the
Brigadier commanding on shore. The Conidaw went in to deliver the signal.
All ships were then ordered back to the Downs, but the Botanic and Maretta
remained behind until the two motor boats and the Conidaw returned.⁷
The Botanic and Maretta were damaged by gunfire when returning on the
26th May, and were unable to take part in Operation "Dynamo".
I Lord Gort's Second Despatch, para. 43.
2 Lieut. L. C. Whittle, R.N.R., in the Lord Howe, says it was the 24th May.
3 Vice-Admiral, Dover's 1907/25/5.
4 The Botanic, Fyldea, Maretta, Arley, Polly Johnson, Brock and Calvi.
6 The Grey Mist, Conidaw and Chico.
5 The Playmates and Willing Boys.
7 Report by Commander M/S, Dover (R.O. II, p. 497).
13

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Gallant put out of action
The destroyers Jaguar, Gallant and Grenade, en route for Dunkirk by the new
middle Route x with instructions to test it for opposition by shore batteries,
were attacked at 1155 off. Snouw Bank by about 17 dive bombers. The attack
was concentrated on the Gallant which was damaged by a near miss and had to
retire; she was unable to take any further part in Operation "Dynamo".
"One dive-bomber, was seen to be hit by pom-pom, and while losing height
observes the Jaguar, was despatched by a fighter". This attack appears to
have taken place just when one of our main [fighter] patrols had turned for
home."¹
On arrival at Dunkirk, the Grenade reported that there had been no inter-
ference from shore batteries. Shipping was thus able to make use of the route
directly it had been swept. The minesweepers completed this work late on
the same afternoon, and the route was taken into use within a few hours of both
the other routes, Y and Z, being rendered unsafe for use by day owing to
the German shore gunfire.
Bombing of Dunkirk and beaches commences
At 1358 the S.N.O., Dunkirk reported to V.A. Dover that the bombing of
the beaches and of Dunkirk pier had commenced without fighter opposition.
This attack occurred while Hurricanes were sweeping inland to Cassel.¹
At 1250 the Grenade berthed alongside the east pier in Dunkirk outer har-
bour (the Nouvel Avant-Port), the Jaguar securing alongside her. The
Grenade was ordered by S.N.O., Dunkirk, to remain at his disposal and not to
embark troops. Between 1400 and 1525, the Jaguar embarked about 1,000;
level bombers were being held off by fighters and A/A fire during this period,
and two patterns of heavy bombs which were dropped close to the pier did no
damage to ships.²
Fourteen ships lying at Dunkirk
In the meantime, at 1330, six Oropesa trawlers of the Dover M/S Command,
viz. : the Fyldea (Lieut. R. Bill, R.N., S.O.), the Arley, Brock, Calvi, John
Cattling and Polly Johnson, arrived off Dunkirk harbour and the Fyldea and
Arley were ordered inside to pull the personnel vessel Lochgarry, which had
embarked over 1,000 troops, away from the east pier³. By 1420 when they had
done this, the six trawlers, triple-banked, occupied the Lochgarry's berth.
Ahead of the six trawlers were the Grenade and Jaguar; astern of the trawlers
was the personnel vessel Canterbury, and astern of her, at the Quai Félix Faure
in Dunkirk inner harbour (the Avant-Port), was the French destroyer Cyclone.
On the opposite side of the outer harbour, at the west Quay, lay the French
destroyers Mistral and Siroco. Outside the harbour, on the seaward side of
the east pier opposite the Grenade, was the P/V Fenella, and at 1430 the Special
Service Vessel Crested Eagle berthed astern of her (see Diagram p.40). Off Malo,
Bray and La Panne beaches were numbers of destroyers, minesweepers, skoots,
personnel vessels, trawlers, tugs and small craft.
I R.A.F. Narrative, p.326.
2 Jaguar's report.
3 See Fyldea's report.
39

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VI
West Pier
Grenade
Fenella
Jaguar
000
Crested Eagle
DOC
Canterbury
ASEA
Guiding
Inner
Jetty.
West
GH
Pier
Key
A: Polly Johnson
B: Brock
C: Fyldea
D Calvi
E:John Cattling
F : Arley
G: Mistral
H: Siroco
Ships Berthed
at Dunkirk,
Cyclone
1530,29ᵗʰMay,1940
The Tenb
TSD/HS(545)
This was the first occasion on which a massed target of ships had been pre-
sented in Dunkirk harbour, and the scene was thus set for one of the most
that disastrous air onslaughts of the operation ; indeed, it was only by good fortune
this early date. The air onslaught, which took place between 1530 and 2000,
the vital Dunkirk harbour channel was not blocked by sinking ships at
appears follows : to - have comprised 4 separate air attacks; the manner of it was as
Air onslaught begins
bombers¹. The first air attack over Dunkirk commenced at and made by 12
wide, but The 20 or 30 bombs which were 1530, harbour was fell mostly
One bomber the Polly Johnson was severely damaged dropped by on a the near miss (see p.44).
was shot down by fighters².
2 I See Mistral's report.
Fyldea's report.
40

Details

Details

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

Details

Page 2.
IST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
MINESWEEPING CRAFT.
ALCHARIA
JEANNIE MACINTOSH
REARD
ARLEY
JOHN AND NORA
RELONZO
BOTANIC
JOHN CATTLING
RENASCENT
BROCK
LORD BARHAM
RESTRIVO
CALVI
LORD CAVAN
REWGA
CLYTHNESS
LORD COLLINGWOOD
RIG
CHICO (E.S.)
LORD GREY
SARAH HYDE
COMFORT
LORD HOOD
SARGASSO
CONIDAW
LORD INCHCAPE
SATURN
DORIENTA
LORD KEITH
SILVER DAWN
FEASIBLE
LORD MELCHETT
STARLIGHT RAYS
FIDGET
LORD RODNEY
STELLA RIGEL
FISHER BOY
LORD ST. VINCENT
STRATHELLIOTT
FYLDEA
MARE
STRIVE
GENIUS
MARETTA
SWIFT WING
GULA
NAUTILUS
TARANSAY
GULZAR
OLIVAE
THOMAS BARTLETT
INVERFORTH
OUR BAIRNS
THOMSONS
JACKETA
OVERFALLS
THREE KINGS
JACKEVE
POLLY JOHNSON
TWEENWAYS
UNICITY
A/S TRAWLERS.
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE
SPURS
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
STELLA DORADO
CAPE ARGONA
LADY PHILOMENA
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
OLVINA
TOPAZE
GRIMSBY TOWN
ST. ACHILLEUS
WESTELLA
KINGSTON ALALITE
SAON
WOLVES
THAMES SPECIAL SERVICE SHIPS.
#
CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
ROYAL EAGLE
M.A/S.B's. M.T.B's. ETC.
D.C. MOTOR-BOAT
M. A/S. B. 10
M.T.B. 68
( ex "EXCELLENT")
M.T.B. 16
M.L. 100
M.A/S.B.6
M.T.B. 22
M.T.B. 102
M.A/S.B. 7
M.T.B. 67
M.T.B. 107
DOVER FLARE-BURNING DRIFTERS
BOY ROY
GOLDEN GIFT
PAXTON
EILEEN EMMA
GOLDEN SUNBEAM
SHIPMATES
FORECAST
LORD HOWARD
THE BOYS
GERVAIS RENTOUL
LORD HOWE
TORBAY II
GIRL GLADYS
MIDAS
UT PROSIM
GIRL PAMELA
NETSUKIS
YORKSHIRE LASS
YOUNG MUN
Sunk.
(Continued)

Details

Page 2.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
MINESWEEPING CRAFT.
ALCMARIA
JEANNIE MACINTOSH
RECERD
ARLEY
JOHN AND NORA
RELONZO
BOTANIC
JOHN CATTLING
RENASCENT
BROCK
LORD BARHAM
RESTRIVO
#
CALVI
LORD CAVAN
REWGA
CLYTHNESS
LORD COLLINGWOOD
RIG
CHICO (E.S.)
LORD GREY
SARAH HYDE
/
COMFORT
LORD HOOD
SARGASSO
CONIDAW
LORD INCHCAPE
SATURN
DORIENTA
LORD KEITH
SILVER DAWN
FEASIBLE
LORD MELCHETT
STARLIGHT RAYS
FIDGET
LORD RODNEY
STELLA RIGEL
FISHER BOY
LORD ST. VINCENT
STRATHELLIOTT
FYLDEA
MARE
STRIVE
GENIUS
MARETTA
SWIFT WING
GULA
#
NAUTILUS
TARANSAY
GULZAR
OLIVAE
THOMAS BARTLETT
INVERFORTH
OUR BAIRNS
THOMSONS
JACKETA
OVERFALLS
THREE KINGS
JACKEVE
POLLY JOHNSON
TWEENWAYS
UNICITY
A/S TRAWLERS.
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE
SPURS
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
STELLA DORADO
CAPE ARGONA
LADY PHILOMENA
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
OLVINA
TOPAZE
GRIMSBY TOWN
ST. ACHILLEUS
WESTELLA
KINGSTON ALALITE
SAON
WOLVES
THAMES SPECIAL SERVICE SHIPS.
CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
ROYAL EAGLE
M.A/S.B's. M.T.B's. ETC.
D.C. MOTOR-BOAT
M. A/S. B. 10
M.T.B. 68
( ex "EXCELLENT")
M.T.B. 16
M.L. 100
M. A/S. B.6
M.T.B. 22
M.T.B. 102
M.A/S. B. 7
M.T.B. 67
M.T.B. 107
DOVER FLARD-BURNING DRIFTERS
BOY ROY
GOLDEN GIFT
PAXTON
EILEEN EMMA
GOLDEN SUNBEAM
SHIPMATES
FORECAST
LORD HOWARD
THE BOYS
GERVAIS RENTOUL
LORD HOWE
TORBAY II
GIRL GLADYS
MIDAS
UT PROSIM
GIRL PAMELA
NETSUKIS
YORKSHIRE LASS
YOUNG MUN
Sunk.

Details

25a
241
ST. CLEARS 428
LADY BRASSEY
130
DANLAYERS.
FOREMOST 87
ST. OLAF
X3+30
GULZAR
GREY MIST
M.T.B's, M.A.S.B's.
SARGASSO
D.C.M.B. & W.D.M.I.
+39
COMFORT
NAUTILUS
STARLIGHT RAYS
M.T.B. 107. 447
THOMSONS
M.T.B. 68 405
M.T.B. 67, 443
M.T.B. 16 ,
ECHO SOUNDING YACHTS.
M.T.B. 1020 459
CONIDAW
M.A.S.B. 10/474
CHICO
D.C.M.B., 484
M.A.S.B. 61468
RAMSGATE
M.L.
100 476
M.A.S.M. No.7x479
MOTOR BOATS.
W.D.M.L's 8.V487
SMALL CRAFT UNDER CONTROL OF
DOVER M/S COMMAND.
493
CONTRABAND CONTROL BASE
WEYMOUTH.
LL. TRAWLERS.
M.B. FORTY TWO
THOMAS BARTLETT
LIGHTER Y.C.72
INVERFORTH
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
TARANSAY

Details

-8-
497.8
sailed for
On Calais the night Roads:- of 25th/26th May, the following vessels
468
Botanic.
Fyldea.
Maretta.
Arley.
Polly Johnson.
Brock.
Calvi.
Grey Mist.
Conidaw.
Y
Chico.
Playmates.
Willing Boys.
of Calais.
The object of the expedition was the possible evacuation
Commander M/S (Commander W.V.H. Harris R.N.) sailed in
"Grey Mist" in charge of forces employed.
The orders to form the expedition were received at 1900,
and vessels sailed at 2130, the first five trawlers to leave,
towing motor boats.
Vessels were ordered to rendezvous at No. 3 Buoy Calais
Roads, and await instructions from Commander M/S. Destroyer
force was in support.
On receipt of signal which had been wrongly decoded, two
motor boats were ordered into Calais Harbour. These boats had
left for the harbour when a further signal was received that
Calais was to be held at all costs, and the signal was ordered to
be sent by hand to the Brigadier Commanding Forces. "Conidaw"
was ordered to proceed immediately and deliver the message.
A further signal was then received recalling all forces
to the Downs. On receipt of this signal "Botanic" and "Maretta"
were ordered to remain until boats and "Conidaw" returned, and
Destroyer escort was asked to be provided. All other vessels
returned to the Downs.
Reports from Lieutenant Commander P.F. Cammiade R.N.V.R.,
Sub. Lieutenant M.R. Mills R.N.V.R., and Skipper R. Smelgrove,are
attached (la, lb, lc, ld).
There was constant enemy air activity during the night,
and a considerable amount of firing ashore.
P.M. 26th May. Danlaying Yachts"Gulzar" and "Grey Mist"
to Calais with Commodore W.P. Gandell, P.S.T.O. France. Report
of Lieutenant C.V. Brammall R.N.R. attached (No. 2).
27th May.
"Arley" ordered to Dunkirk as W/T link.
She was heavily shelled off Calais, and returned with engineer
seriously wounded. Operation was then cancelled.
"Fyldea" sailed, buoy laying, under the orders of "Skipjack"
employed on mine sinking duties.
for "Thomas but were recalled on report of shelling and returned of to
Bartlett", "Inverforth",& "Our Bairns" were "Arley". sailed
They Dunkirk, then ordered to sweep the war channel, Dover.
harbour were p.m. on orders from Vice Admiral
(Continued over).

Details

-3-
498
88
28th Inverforth May. Instructions were issued to these
46g
previous misunderstanding, the sweeping war channel - but with to
(Our Bairns, programme - i.e. and Thomas Bartlett) to carry on vessels
a the M/S Group Commander, who had only owing
joined Roads. command, proceeded to carry out the just
7
Dunkirk whilst Vessels were shelled off Calais, and' sweep Thomas in
Bartlett", shallow endeavouring to get out of range, apparently
ran on our mine and minefields, in vicinity of Dunkirk A.W. Buoy,
struck a sank. Report of Lieutenant Commander A.A.
Martin R.N.R. 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). pages 517, 523
29th May. "Lord Grey" and "Clythness" to Dunkirk.
Report of Lieutenant J. Simson R.N.V.R. attached (No.
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.
lageors
"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 Dunkirk 2nd for June. troops. "Conidaw" and "Chico" standing by for
life saving duties on route "X". All returned safely.
3rd June. "Starlight Rays", and "Gulzar" to Dunkirk
for troops. Both returned safely.
this period constant sweeping with "LL" without and skids
was During + and 13 magnetic mines were detonated, vicinity of
carried out,* ship. One mine detonated in and "LL" a
hospital ship, probably, 3/4 cables away. Report (No. C.L. 7).
the loss of a single by combined fields of herself of Lieutenant
Lambert Trawlers, R.N.V.R. which were who visited the hospital ship attached ?
+ in many DOWNS and Entrance of Dover Harbour.
(Continued over).

Details

-4-
499
- 470
command are
The submitted:- following casualties to H.M. Vessels under my
26th May.
"Botanic" and "Maretta" heavily bombed
on return from Calais. Both ships
damaged. (Maretta 3 weeks refitting).
28th May.
"Thomas Bartlett" mined on own field.
10 survivors.
29th May.
"Comfort" believed rammed.
"Nautilus" damaged by bombs, and
destroyed by fire. All saved (See
report of Lieutenant Gelling No.4).
"Calvi" bombed and sunk - Dunkirk
Harbour.
"Polly Johnson" badly damaged, and
sunk by "Arley" (See report No.5c).
1st June.
"Brock" damaged by several near misses.
VICE A14/0/1407 ADMIRAL
6-JUN 1940
*
T
R DO E

Details

5th June, 1940.
G.D.
501
-
formander W.V.H. Harris
C.M.S.
Command and organisation of 472 all
M/S Forces ashore and afloat.
;ieutenant R. Bill.
Asst. to C.M.S. 2 Andresselles. 1 Dunkirk
(6 ships).
Lieut. G. St. C. Rideal.
Operations Staff. 1 off Boulogne and
Calais W/T Link.
Lieut. C.L. Lambert.
Operations Staff. 1 Dunkerque (Medway Queen)
3ub. Lieut. D.G. Rattle. /
Operations Staff. Chico. Off Dunkirk for
Life saving duties
Pay. Sub. Lieut. Matthews.
Operations Staff. Conidaw.
ditto
Lieut. Cmdr. A.A.Martin.
Gp.Cmdr. "LL" 2 Dunkirk Roads "LL".
Continuous "LL" off Dover.
tieut. Cmdr. P.F.Cammiade.
Gp.Cmdr "Oropesa". 1 Calais (Botanic &
(Maretta.
}
Lieut. W.E. Gelling.
Gp.Cmdr. "Skids". 1 Dunkirk (Comfort &)
(Nautilus )
Lieut. L.J. Wyatt.
D.Y. Officer.
Lieut. H.S. Warren.
Pier Master.P. O.W. 1 Medway Queen - - Dunkirk.
Lieut. J.K.M. Warde.
1 Buoy laying operation. / to DUNKERQUE AND
/ To BEACHES.
Lieut. W.R. Hutcheson.
2 Trips - Starlight Rays - Dunkirk.
Lieut. C.B. Sharp.
Sick.
Sub. Lieut. M.R. Mills.
1 trip Calais - Maretta, 2 Dunkirk - Sargasso
Sub. Lieut. J.C. Fegen.
1 trip Gulzar, 1 Conidaw, 1 Conidaw (Life-
saving).
Sub. Lieut. K.H.G.Roberts.
1 off Calais 26th - Brock. 1 Dunkirk and
beaches.
Sub. Lieut. F.L. Perkins.
2 Sargasso Dunkirk.
Sub. Lieut. R.L. Hippisley.
1 Sargasso, and also with Captain A/P.
Lieut. M. Eynon.
Gulzar.
Sub. Lieut. W.G. Lloyd.
Dunkirk in John Cattling.
Sub. Lieut.AEveritt.
1 off Calais, 1 Dunkirk - blown up - wounded.
Sub. Lieut. M.Thompson.
1 Calais - Conidaw.
Sub. Lieut. R.E. Weale.
2 off Calais = Grey Mist.
Sub. Lieut. R.E. Evans.
Gulzar then sick.
Lieut. C.V. Brammall.
5 Dunkirk, 1 Andresselles, 2 Calais.
Lieut. C.C.L. Gaussen.
3 Dunkirk.
Sub. Lieut. W.V. Liddall.
1 Boukogne W/T link. 1 off Calais.
Sub, Lieut. J. Mason.
3 Dunkirk.
Skipper R. Snelgrove.
1 Calais, 1 Dunkirk, 1 lifesaving party.
(Contd over).

Details

340/58.
505
Name.
50
ship.
Anthony Brooke
Rank or Rating.
476
CLYTHNESS
Heckstall Smith.
300 lins to
Walter Fredk.Salenius.
Skipper. Sub. Lt. R.N.V.R. - Unit Officer.
George S. Day.
shalls Yook 150
Smauel B. Sussans
Mate. Chief Engineman. LT/RX 102500.
John A. Cargill.
Seaman.
LT/JX 175090.
For devotion to duty under very trying
circumstances (See report No. 6.
POLLY JOHNSON.
Bonter, b
Skipper Lieut. Leonard Lake extricated his ship in a
Sunk.
sinking condition from Dunkirk in a heavy bombard-
ment. Was eventually forced to abandon ship, and
transferred his crew and himself to "Arley".
(See report Nos. 5b and c). 38 mg
FYLDEA.
29/5 2/31/5
Liewt. John .K.M. Warde R.N.V.R. - Unit Officer.
has misses.
Thomas Owens,D.S.M.
Chief Engineer. X257EU.
Recommended for coolness and devotion to
duty during heavy bombing at Dunkirk.
(See report No. la).
38 of
BROCK.
Kenneth Henry G.Roberts.Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.
no brooks
Behaved with great coolness and devotion
became he saw no mole
to duty in assisting his Group Officer
suspected his shipto
(Lieutenant Robert Bill R.N.) to extricate
Keng water.
his ship from a perilous position).
(See report No. 7).
NAUTILUS J
Richard McLean.
Skipper (No.WS 3159).
b
For displaying great gallantry in going
strop "Grey tisunt
over the side to save a seaman whilst
destroyer and "Nautilus" were being
bombed.
mb sunk. each Deslige
George Addison.
2nd Engineman.
Andrew Strachan.
Cook.
Worked hard in small boats all day during
Lieutenant V.E. Gelling R.N.R).
trying conditions (See report No.4 by
GULZAR
Edward S. Woodhead.
Coxswain.
Charles H. Baldry.
Seaman.
trips (30/5
Cook.
George Cliefe.
Greaser.
Peter Blake.
Arthur L. Shallis.
Signalman.
to duty in very made trying to
THE to 4th June,
THE been 26th May

Details

-2-
347/58.
506
Name.
Ship.
Rank or Rating.
508
SARGASSO.
30-1/6
Charles L. Gaussen. Licutenant R.N.V.R. (Commanding 477 Officer)
For constant devotion to duty under
1011
Dunkirk and beaches, returning on each
conditions whilst operating three trips trying to/
Trup
occasion with a full load of troops.
LORD GREY.
J
John A. Simson.
William Tiller.
Lieutenant R.N.V.R. (Unit Commander).
2nd Skipper R.H.R.
Malcolm McLeod.
2nd hand.
20ap
Ivan Lennox.
Chief Engineman.
northisp
William Palmer.
Ord. Seaman.
For gallantry and devotion to duty under
very trying circumstances experienced whilst
embarking troops at Dunkirk Harbour.
JOHN CATTLING
/
Following extracted from Skipper G. Aldan's report:-
"I have the honour to submit the following ratings
names, as deserving recognition for conspicuous
misli dark when she
gallantry displayed" (See Lieutenant Robert Bill's
report No. 5a).
wnt huther for the mat
Charles Adams.
2nd hand. LT/JX 173276.
William W.Jefferies. Chief Engineman. H.O.
Arthur Baul.
Stoker P.O. (Pens.D/K 737 Pen.No.26717
in
Ernest RichardA Emery. Wireman.
BROCK.
William A. Moss.
A.B. (Gunlayer). R.F.R. J86490.
Herbert C. Bidle.
2nd Hand. 46SD.
Francis Greenhill.
Sto. P.O. C/K14122.
Behaved with great gallantry under hazardous
and trying conditions in Dunkirk Harbour.
30-1/6

Details

347/58.
-2-
506
Ship.
Name.
Rank or Rating.
477
SARGASSO.
/
Charles L. Gaussen. Licutenant R.N.V.R. (Commanding Officer
3 Kip 30-1/6
For constant devotion to duty under trying
conditions whilst operating three trips to/
Dunkirk and beaches, returning on each
occasion with a full load of troops.
LORD GREY.
J
John A. Simson.
Lieutenant R.N.V.R. (Unit Connander).
William Tiller.
2nd Skipper R.N.R.
Malcolm McLeod.
2nd hand.
hip 20ap
Ivan Lennox.
Chief Engineman.
400 hap
William Palmer.
Ord. Seanan.
For gallantry and devotion to duty under
very trying circumstances experienced whilst
embarking troops at Dunkirk Harbour.
JOHN CATTLING
/
mate gark when Dumarks she there
rip - mymenterin
Following extracted from Skipper G. Aldan's report:-
"I have the honour to submit the following ratings
names, as deserving recognition for conspicuous
gallantry displayed" (See Lieutenant Robert Bill's
report No. 5a).
what further til the for mat hig, /
Charles Adams.
2nd hand. LT/JX 173276.
William W.Jefferies.
Chief Engineman. H.O.
Arthur Baul.
Stoker P.O. (Pens.D/X 737 Pen.No.26717
m
Ernest RichardA Emery. Wireman.
William A. Moss.
A.B. (Gunlayer). R.F.R. J86490.
BROCK.
Herbert C. Bidle.
2nd Hand. 46SD.
Francis Greenhill.
Sto. P.O. C/K14122.
Behaved with great gallantry under hazardous
and trying conditions in Dunkirk Harbour.
Ship.
hip 28ap
400 thorp 400

Details

-2-
518
Skipper more than fifty men, and if damage became the
considered not to could embark made the return journey and instructed I
I she inspected "Polly Johnson" and although damaged
489
more serious to transfer them to "Brock".
7
During this lull more wounded troops were embarked in
"Fynella" and "Canterbury" and a few other troops wandered up the
jetty. I was then told that I could try and fill up my ships
and I stationed Officers abreast each ship and instructed them to
order all unwounded men down into the trawlers. They were mostly
unwilling to embark in what they considered "fishing boats" at
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 hampered
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
immediately. "Calvi's" masts and funnel were above water and her
ensign remained flying from the foremast. There was a Mrect hit
on the pier close to the end and "Fynella" was damaged, A cortain
amount of panic ensued and men started climbing out of one ship
into another, and some attempted to run back towards the shore.
At this time I was with the Piermaster and he instructed
me to draw my revolver to quell the panic and to load up with
survivors and troops and to get the ships out as quickly as possible.

Details

-3-
519
*
490
As
the
wreck
of
the
"Grenade"
instructed follow the "John other Cattling" ships to was attempt drifting to pull down her on clear the trawlers,
I
7
up troops and survivors, out. "Polly Johnson" and "Brock" and to
at full speed. got clear, and proceeded out of harbour picked
"Arley" was clear and "Fyldea" under way.
further and several up the pier troops and survivors jumped on board. the I
The more Skipper of "Fyldea" kept his ship close to wall
instructions, but I trying to find the Piermaster again for was further
on board as she failed to find him and just managed to jump
was leaving. This was at about 1815.
then told clear me of the Piermaster had also instructed him to "Granade"
Lieutenant that Peake - the First Lieutenant of the
ships the four it and to go round to the beaches. I therefore get took the
ships three there asking if there were any troops available for me. to the After
remaining ships towards the beaches and signalled
capacity ships replying that they were themselves up
unsuccessful - all attempts to obtain further troops to fill to
and difficulty in completing I received signals from "Polly having Johnson"
necessary. by "Polly Johnson" and to remove her crew and sink her if
stand "Brock" stating that they were damaged. I ordered "Arley" to
who was anchored in the vicinity of the Nieuport Bank Buoy with her
With "Brock" in company I then proceeded towards the "Jaguar"
should take some from her. I was told to escort her as she had to I Express
troops on board and another destroyer alongside her, and asked if
boats and I therefore told "Brock", whose damage was slight, to
proceed to independently. I proceeded with "Brock for about two miles
exchange the necessary signals and satisfy myself that she was
capable of making the journey and then returned to "Jaguar".
her and signalled my maximum speed.
By this time she had weighed, and I followed astern of
side to at about 2500 feet, in the direction of the "Jaguar" and started port
At about 1930, five German Dive Bombers passed on our
detached itself from the formation and made an attack on us.
make an attack. We opened fire with the 12 pounder and one plane
We Six bombs were dropped which fell about 40/50 yards on our port beam.
the plane straightened up to attack I gave the order"hard-a-starboard" As
then straightened up and proceeded on our course.
her multiple pom-poms and zig-zagged, and no hits were registered,
The other planes attacked the "Jaguar" who replied with
although all attacks appeared to be very close to her.
out of sight.
After this attack she increased speed and she was soon
route I set a course for the Dyck Buoy and followed "y" route.
Having been left by "Jaguar" - who was taking a different
Between "m" and "S" buoys I overtook "Brock" and she
signalled that she could only steam at half speed and that she had
three serious cases on board. I signalled her to heave to and
went aea ongside her and transferred her survivors and troops to
at 0300.
I then proceeded at full speed and arrived back at Dover
situation was so tense that it would have been almost impossible to
During the bombing raids and the periods between, the
realize any passage of time, so that the times in this report may
be in error to a considerable extent.

Details

Details

Details

continued.
-2-
405+
H.M.T. cleared "Fyldea" harbour leading. of H.M.T. "Polly Johnson", "Brock" and with
I then astern passed ahead inside of H.M.S. "Grenade"
who faster informed owing to trouble megaphone that she was unable to proceed
When me clear by of harbour I closed on H.M.T. "Polly Johnson"
she to slow charts had been shattered. We were by as then
to reported all her up position about mld of a mile ahead of keep her
her. I took in the engineroom. and would I close any
reduced speed, and I informed H.M.T. "Fyldea" that
faster. orders from "Fyldea" to stand by "Polly
"Polly Johnson" I received was in difficulties and could not proceed any
Johnson", which I did, keeping about me of a mile ahead of her.
Although I was only proceeding at slow speed, the "Polly Johnson"
still dropped astern.
I then received a message from H.M.T. "Fyldea" that if
"Polly Johnson" could not proceed I was to take her crew and
scuttle her clear of the channel and act independently. I
ordered this message to be sent to "Polly Johnson" as relayed from
"Fyldea". By this time we had reached a position half way between
Nieuport Buoy, and Middlekerke Buoy, and I stopped engines until
"Polly Johnson" came within hail. During this period several
more raids were carried out by German Aircraft on the Destroyers
and other craft close to us.
When "Polly Johnson" closed on me, the Skipper informed
me he was already to abandon ship; his confidential books etc.
were packed ready to pass to me. I then closed on her and lashed
alongside until the two stretcher cases and all the other members
of her crew and passengers were safely on board. I then cast off
and moved away from her.
The Skipper of "Polly Johnson" - Skipper Lieutenant
Lake R.N.R. (ret) informed me that the water in engineroom had
gained up to the platforms, and in the stokehold the water was
about to put her fires out.
After leaving "Polly Johnson" I requested one of our
Destroyers to sink her as she had been abandoned, but as I received
no satisfactory reply, I returned to her and fired two shota of
common shell into her at waterline.
As I had by now about 90 men on board, including several
wounded, I decided to make all speed for Dover. The tide was
setting to East North East, and assuming the "Polly Johnson" would
drive away from the channel, I left her, the Skipper agreeing that
she would sink in about two hours.
Soon after leaving "Polly Johnson" I received an S.O.S.
from a Paddle Steamer who had been badly bombed whilst I had been
taking off from "Polly Johnson". I decided I could not take all
her men, so I steamed and intercepted one of the scouts, and two
French trawlers, and directed them to go to the paddler, which
they did. There was also one drifter standing by her and one of
our destroyers heading for her, so I decided nothing further could
be done, and returned to harbour forthwith.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Skipper Lieutenant R.D.,R.N.R.
ske Lieut G Robinson RD RNR
HMT. "arley"

Details

Injurn 51.
3rd June, 1940.
N°: 7. 525
To: Commander M/S,
- 496
Dover.
REPORT FROM H.M.T. "BROCK".
Sir,
in tow at to on 31st May, 1940., in company with H.M.T. "Fyldes" boats
H.M.T. 1410 "Brock" left Dover Harbour with four motor
and proceeded Dunkirk by route "Y".
decided to return to "R" Buoy and go by "X" route.
As Middlekerke Bank Buoy could not be located "FyIdea"
abandoned.
One of our four boats having become water logged, was
(1/6/20)- 0810. Altered course at "R" Buoy and followed route "X".
1020. In vicinity of "W" Buoy ship was attacked by onemy
aircraft; several bombs were dropped but no damage was sustained.
1230. Off beach East of Dunkirk, sent the three motor
boats in shore.
1240. Again attacked, this time by a large number of
Junkers Dive Bombers. A great number of bombs were dropped
around both ships. One plane was seen to come down, probably
disabled by our "A.A" fire. No bombs registered hits but many
fell exceedingly close to the ship.
As first loaded small boats had closed "Fyldea" and there
appeared to be no more coming off at the time, also suspecting ship
to be making water, a signal was made to "Fyldea", whereupon per-
mission was given for "Brock" to return to Dover. At 1340 she
proceeded.
1420, when approximately 5 miles North of No. 5 V. Buoy
a shore battery fired three rounds at ship all dropping about 200
yards astern. It was difficult to ascertain exactly where the
battery was, but it appeared to be close East of Gravelines.
1940. Entered Dover Harbour.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Sub. GRoberts Lieutenant R.N.V.R.