Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

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Details

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

Details

CALETA
Yacht (Harbour
defence patrol
S/Lt. J.F. Dunning,
craft)
R.N.V.R.
31st May
0800
1145
Left Downs by route X for La Panne.
Arrived Dunkirk.
1245
Arrived La Panne. Sent launch in to
beach. It broke down.
1530
Embarked the C.O. and crew of the
yacht Amulree which had grounded.
-
Rammed by the yacht Bounty. (care.
Stephenson).
1700
Disembarked C.O. and rew of Amulree
which had now refloated.
1730ca
Embarked Captain and crew of a
disabled M/B [the Triton].
1800ca
Embarked a padre and 34 troops from the
disabled A.L.C.5, and took it in tow.
Air attacks.
1900
Proceeded A.L.C.5 twice broke away
from tow.
1st June
0945
Arrived Sheerness. Disembarked 35
troops(1) (and 2 N.O's and 6 ratings).
Total 35
Authority - R.O.II, p.176.
(1) D.R. dates this 31st May, and places the Caleta under
"drifters".
154

Details

GLALA
Yacht
S/Lt. J.A. DOW, R.N.V.R.
31st May
0800ca
The yacht Christobel II having broken
down some hours previously, the
Glagla left the Downs by X route
for Dunkirk, with the yachts
1130ca
Amulree and Caleta in company.
Arrived Dunkirk Roads.
1230ca
Towed two whalers full of troops to the
Sp. S/V Golden Eagle.
Off La Panne, towed boats for the drs.
Venomous and Vivacious.
Air attack. Capt. Howson in Yacht
No.1 [1.e. the Ankh ordered the
small ships to make for the open sea,
and all the smaller power craft
followed him out. Air attack; near
miss.
-
The Glagla was ordered to return for
repairs.
2130
Arrived Ramsgate harbour. Returned
to Sheerness for repairs.
2nd June
1430
Proceeded to Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate.
about 1845.
2045
Left Ramsgate by X route.
3rd June
0020
Off W buoy. Port engine out of action;
continued on one engine.
0315
Proceeded to Sheerness.
1030
Arrived Sheerness.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.173.
(a)
das
376

Details

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

Details

Details

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.

Details

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

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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

Details

11A
NORE COMMAND
12
DOVER
RAMSGATE-continted.
LONDON.
NORE COMMAND continued.
Fast Motor Boats.
Base Ship-Pembroke.
(THE NORE AREA.)
THAMES AND MEDWAY.
THAMES AND MEDWAY-continued.
Jano
Ramsgate.
M/S Craft.
Harbour Defence Patrol Craft.
Cirrus
Boom Defence Gate Trawlers.
Portland.
New Prince of
Sea Lord
[45] Aisha
[45] Ristango
Wales I
Sheerness.
Mireille
Ramsgate.
[43] Amalfi
[45] Natal II
Colette
-
-
[45] Caleta
[45] Coronatia
Sheerness.
Buzzard
Girl Pat
-
-
[45] Caterina
Contraband Control Base closed.
[45] Chrystobel II
Sheerness.
Collingwood
(All C.C. vessels are being considered for allocation
to other services.)
[43] Clorinde
Echo Sounding Yacht.
[32] Myris
-
[45] Glala
-
Boom Defence Gate Lighters.
[43] Majesta
f.o. Cowes.
[45] Idyll
I
-
[45] Ma Joie II
Sheerness.
Guardship.
[45] Cecil Margetts
-
Ramsgate.
Auxiliary Patrol Vessels.
Janetha IV
Inverness.
[18] D Holdfast
[45] Song
-
(Motor Boats.)
[45] Lizard
Acushla.
Sheerness.
Bluebird.
[45] Lyric
Armed Boarding Vessel.
Comet II.
[45] Dorothy
-
Chatham. Repairs. Completes
Crescent.
[18] P Monas Isle D
18 July.
Eyaine.
[45] Ode
-
-
Exile.
Drifters.
[45] New World
Falaise.
[45] Constant Friend
Fidalga.
Forrard Away.
Ocean Retriever
Other C.C.B. Vessel.
Goddess.
Ocean Toiler
Mooring Lighter.
New Pride of Essex
Ramsgate.
Grilse.
Sheerness.
Gull.
Peacemaker
Sheerness.
[45] Sparsholt
Ingloo.
Receptive
Ineen Dhu.
Iris.
Phyllis Rose
-
Rescue Tug.
Isis.
Ocean Treasure
Examination Vessels.
Kenia
Ramsgate. Refit. Completes
Ivaly.
[45] Danube III
2 Aug.
Jake II.
Sheerness.
Le Bon.
[45] Danube IV
Miss England.
Mullion.
[45] Danube V
Chatham.
Repairs.
Date
Murghabi.
uncertain.
Musca.
Boom Defence Tenders.
[45] Keverne
Narisa.
Sheerness.
Narwale.
[45] Glitter II
Sheerness.
[45] St. Katherine
Nomad III.
Pengouin.
[45] Queen of South I
f.o. Queenborough.
Safari.
[45] Queen of South II
Balloon Barrage Drifters (Sheerness).
Samaki.
Sarah Munro.
Boy Scout
J.T. Hendry
[45] Crevice
Scorpion.
Carry on
Kiddaw
Shemaun,
[45] Kelpy
Sheerness.
Vivace.
Citron
Lavinia L.
Wanda.
[45] Silver Queen
Comely Bank
Marinus
Wanderbird.
Wanderlust.
Constant Hope
Newspray
Sheerness.
Wanganui.
Elsie and Nellie
Our Kate
Water Gipsy.
Ex Fortis
Rose Emma
Weno (Tug).
West Breeze.
Boom Defence Vessels.
George and Albert Triumph
Westcliffe Belle.
White Ghost II,
[45] Buckingham
Inverugie
Young Alfred
Wima.
[45] Caliban
Sheerness.
Windelf.
Winona.
[45] Sarba
Rescue Tug.
Wittington.
[45] Moorgate
Chatham.
Zwarte Zee D
Falmouth.
[45] Thomas Conolly
Sheerness.
(Dutch)
(C38488)
that

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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)

Details

Page 10,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendation of Personnel - List 'B'
YACHTS.
H.M.Y. ALOUETTE.
Rating.
Engineman Arthur E. Nessling, H.O., LT/JX.1050.
H.M.Y. AMULREE.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant Graham Phineas Probert, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. ARONIA.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant John Stanley Roe, R.N.V.R.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant John Gwyn Llewellyn, R.N.V.R.
Ratings.
Coxswain F. Thompson, R&N.P.S., LT/JX.190018.
R. Matthews, R.N.A.S., LT/JX.189930.
Engineman H. Tople, R.N.P.S., LT/KX.107573.
H.M.Y. CALETA.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant James Forsyth Dunning, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. CHRISTOBEL II.
Ratings.
Seaman C. G. Dunkey, H.O.P.S.
Engineman J. W. Damerell, H.O.P.S. W/KY.105230
H.M.Y. GLALA.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant John Alexander Don, R.N.V.R.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Dynom 2153 Dute/ 263 "So
279
I
H.H.S. "Brandaris,"
c/o. G.P.O.
London.
6th June, 1940.
The Vice Admiral Commanding Dover,
Dover Castle,
Dover.
Sir
Department A.275 260
-3ECRET-
two/
REPORTS ON "DYNAMO" OPERATION.
my
(copy to:- COMMANDER-IN-CHISP, THE NORE).
are forwarded with reference to Hore General Order 448.
Reports and recommendations on Operation "Aynamo"
Supmary 08 Reports enclosed.
1. From Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness, concerning the
following vessels :-
H.M.S. "ROYAL SAGLE"
H.M.S. "GOLDEN EAGLE"
}
LA with reference also to if
No: N.1.1/14/015 of and June,
1940, to Commander-in-Chief,
The Nore. Copy to Vice-idairal,
Dover.
H.M.Y. "CHRISTABEL II"
H.M.Y. "CALETA"
H.M.Yo "G "GLADA"
H.M.Y. "AMULREE"
in From Captain M/S, Sheerness, concerning the following veasels:-
H.M.D. "MONARDA"
H.M.D. "RENASCENT"
H.M.Y. "ARONIA"
H.M.T. "STRATHELLIOT"
From *ST. Commander of Dockyard, Sheerneas, concerning H.M. the
CLEARS".
.
ary LEX. Q be a "AMULRER"/ matter for (my reference regret P.A.7/02 that to dated this vessel 8th June, was 1940), diverted 10 out from would pontoons the appear
the report of the Commanding Officer,
Tom may valuable which carry she out was a seemingly performing being minor remed in towing administrative and aunk by
a
ritish destroyer in the resulted Downs. in her report forwarded by Commander H.M. of
no Ockyard, with reference to June, the 1940, 10 is observed craft that arew.
'ST. OTLEARS" Sheerness, is manned dated entirely 7th by a civilian Yard
(Sd.) H.R. MARRACK.
5 James A 19-04 A DOV
THE -

Details

Details

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Dynamo 185.
182
MOTOR YACHT "MARSAYRO"
170
6th.June 1960
B14/0/1513
II.
Leading Seaman BROWN.
No.R.E.2/014.
Vice Admiral,
Dover.
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief,
that I took over dommand
The Nore.)
esday 29th.May 1940.
rt I tried to sort things
on, regarding any particular
Forwarded.
stremely hasty. I therefore
nga will suffice.
2.
Reports and recommendations
Friday 31st.May 1940 at
concerning the above named vessels
with X217 and 2 other
were forwarded by my Nos. M.I. 1/14/015
utenant POOL,R.N. We
and R.E. 2/014. of 8th and 9th
out 3 p.m. we came in sight
June, 1940.
moke and explosions as far
later we contacted the
3.
Of the vessels mentioned in the French soldiers from the
above reports only the "Royal Eagle", to the beach; it was
"Golden Eagle" and "Crested Eagle"
heen and capsized at once.
are specifically named in Appendix 1, it himself from being more
thdrew my ship to review
4.
In addition to the vessels
", stuff that looked like
named in Minute 1 above, the Yachts
iD devil as I know that
"Christobel II" "Caleta", "Glala"
our propellers in the way
"Amulree" and the tug "St Clears"
happen as soon as I had
were mentioned in my reports, and
each we managed to pick
are presumed to be included in the
captured and used a little
note to Appendix 1.
troops appeared to be a
>-loads for some 5 hours,
Jaba" and so on. On this
ADMIRAL
am Queen" (about 2000 tons
" she had put her nose.
30th JULINE, 1940
*
;ines of "Marsayru" and
1940.
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE,
ghout this day and the
SHEERNESS.
all a complete jumble in
stant fire of various kinds,
affird
the ship was not hit by
most
lune I think - we were
UMum
-done, nearest ship being
Marmay) by 4 brave Messershimi to who dived and
m. compair bell hadwith much vigour but exceedingly poor aim
tant fire 7 we messenour. We had a Bren and 2 rifles but did
the ship . are bus German pilots seemed disinolined to come
lune I thinwaleand 4 net and I had given orders to hold our fire
ar, nearechya pity.. A pity. After half an hour of this 3
rebbmit to worght and sight and we saw no more of the Messerschmits
and exceeding 2 rire bombed day we were bombed by a large formation of
d disinclleast I class up. At least I think it was our little
arders wer was one as. unless it was one on the horison, in
After half anre French soldienw . course of these operations we took off
iven calf an a these opeedirapd by miles.
we saw no more be British, others ads of 400 French soldiers. To our bitter
few hours - she and find no British, others ware luckier.
were bombed by aly a tied up with hingly for a few hours - she was on tow
At least I thinked. The sow rope rifompletely tied up with bits of line and
a it was one we cast about for a noling hard. The sow rope broke and we
iles. 80 of them tay evening having eaflecut day - faithruk thing. No arrived
day - faithruk thing. Hugh we cast about for a time. However
400 1 about
We borught back 2 preday evening having called from Ramagate
- faithruk
tip. We borught back 2 "prises" - a nice
evening h.s.
We borught

Details

_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.

Details

Details

Details

Page 10
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
YACHTS.
H.M.Y. ALQUETTE.
Rating.
Engineman Arthur E. Nessling, H.O., LT/JX.1050.
H.M.Y. AMULREE.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant Graham Phineas Probert, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. ARONIA.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant John Stanley Roe, R.N.V.R.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant John Gwyn Llewellyn, R.N.V.R.
Ratings.
Coxswain F. Thompson, R.N.P.S., LT/JX.190018.
R. Matthews, R.N.A.S., LT/JX.189930.
Engineman H. Tople, R.N.P.S., LT/KX.107573.
H.M.Y. CALETA.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant James Forsyth Dunning, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. CHRISTOBEL II.
Ratings.
Seaman C. G. Dunkey, H.O.P.S.
Engineman J. W. Damerell, H.O.P.S. W/KY.105230
H.M.Y. GLALA.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant John Alexander Don, R.N.V.R.

Details

Page 3.
OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
-
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
# KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft )
V. 4 ("Vernon' s" pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S" A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
Ambleve.
Escaut.
transferred
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Meuse.
from
Craft)
Sambre.
Semoise.
page 9.
yser.
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
PASCHOLL
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PATRIA
ALICE
FRISCO
PRINCESS JULIANA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
REIGER
ANTJE
HEBE
RIKA
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RUJA
BART
HONDSRUG
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
SURSUM CORDA
BRANDARIS
JAVA
TILLY
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TINY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TUNG
DEMOK I
LENA
TWENTE
DENEB
ORANJE
VREDE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
ZEUS
(Continued)
# Sunk

Details

Page 10.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendation of Personnel - List 'B'
YACHTS.
H.M.Y. ALQUETTE.
Rating,
Engineman Arthur E. Nessling, H.O., LT/JX.1050.
H.M.Y. AMULREE.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant Graham Phineas Probert, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. ARONIA.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant John Stanley Roe, R.N.V.R.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant John Gwyn Llewellyn, R.N.V.R.
Ratings.
Coxswain F. Thompson, R.N.P.S., LT/JX.190018.
R. Matthews, R.N.A.S., LT/JX,189930.
Engineman H. Tople, R.N.P.S., LT/KX.107573.
H.M.Y. CALETA.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant James Forsyth Dunning, R.N.V.R.
H.M.Y. CHRISTOBEL II.
Ratings.
Seaman C. G. Dunkey, H.O.P.S.
Engineman J. W. Damerell, H.O.P.S. W/KY.105230
H.M.Y. GLALA.
Officer.
Sub,Lieutenant John Alexander Don, R.N.V.R.

Details

519
495
21
had now started to shell the anchorage and beach.
In these circumstances I decided to bring the
craft back to England, - if she could survive the
voyage. I was able to get in touch with H.M.
Yacht Caleta and she succeeded in towing A.L.C.5
into Sheerness, where she arrived a.m. Saturday
1st June,
When passing Clan Macalister in Caleta, it was
seen that Aot.,Co 4 and 18 were still more or
less intact on the after deck, but considerably
charred and burned. It is impossible to estimate
accurately, the number of men A,T,C.S was able
to rescue, 'ut it must have been between the and
three thousand.
Taking everything into con-
10. sideration the engines ran remarkably well. of
reverse gears gave a certain amount to
The the part engine being unable but go
trouble, considerable part of the time,
astern a remembered that all the beaches were etc.,
it must be with everykind of rope, equipment, foul, and
littered propellors were constantly ardueus
the BO that reverse the gears had to work under most
conditions.
The main source of anxiety
was the fore necessitated continuous from water, in
trap door, This leaked pumping contin-
order uously, to and keep the floor beards free

Details

SECRET
Dyram. 148.
552
527
487
39
FROM.....The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness.
DATE.....7th June 1940.
TO
The Commodore in Charge, Sheerness.
SUBJECT..Thames Local Defence Flotilla - operation Dynamo.
Reports and Recommendations.
551
Dynam 148.
526
- -SECRET-
hang
REPORTS ON "DYNAMO" OPERATION.
see VdI, p 395
No.. M.I.1/14/015.
ICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
(Copy to:- COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, THE NORE).
Reports and recommendations on Operation "Dynamo"
re forwarded with reference to Nore General Order 448.
Summary of Reports enclosed.
From Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness, concerning the
following vessels :-
H.M.S. "ROYAL EAGLE"
H.M.S. "GOLDEN EAGLE"
m
N.B. With reference also to Ky
No: M.I.1/14/015 of 2nd June,
1940, to Commander-in-Chief,
The Nore. Copy to Vice-Admiral,
Dover.
H.M.Y. "CHRISTABEL II"
H.M.Y. "CALETA"
H.M.Y. "GLALA"
H.M.Y. "AMULREE"
From Captain M/S, Sheerness, concerning the following ressels:-
H.M.D. "MONARDA"
H.M.D. "RENASCENT"
H.M.Y. "ARONIA"
H.M.T. "STRATHELLIOT"
From Commander of Dockyard, Sheerness, concerning H.M. Tug
"ST. CLEARS".
I.Y. "AMULREE" With reference dated 8th June, 1940), it the
to the report of the Commanding would Officer, appear
y valuable for regret she performing in towing administrative out pontoons
be a matter (my P.A.7/02 that this vessel was diverted from
in the work which was seemingly minor by
y which beaches indirectly to carry resulted out a in her being rammed and sunk at
tish destroyer in the Downs.
the report forwarded by Commander that H.M. of
kyard, With reference 7th to June, 1940, it is observed Yard craft crew.
"ST. CLEARS" Sheerness, is manned dated entirely by a civilian
VICE AD MIRAL 1940
.
Whansch-
June, 1940. OVER
COMMODORE - IN - CHARGE,
SHEERNESS.
officer will not be overlooked. night

Details

SECRET
Dyram 148.
5537
487
39
FROM.
The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness.
DATE
7th June 1940.
TO
The Commodore in Charge, Sheerness.
SUBJECT. Thames Local Defence Flotilla operation Dynamo.
Reports and Recommendations,
The undermentioned reports are forwarded :-
SCHEDULE.
Defence of report dated 1st June covering the period 27th - 31st May)
Flotilla, May 31st - - 3rd June 1940 (in continuation
Report of Proceedings of A/A ships of Thames Local
Report of Proceedings H.M.S. ROYAL EAGLE.
ditto.
H.M.S. GOLDEN EAGLE
(The 1940 has been submitted by
Report of Proceedings and Loss of H.M.S.CRESTED the
EAGLE Commanding dated Officer 31st May direct to Commodore, R.N.Barracks, Chatham.)
Narative of Events H.M.S. CHRISTOBEL II
Report of Proceedings H.M.S. CALETA
H.M.S. GLALA
ditto.
H.M.S. AMULREE
ditto.
RECOMMENDATIONS. Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence Flotilla
For H.M.Ships ROYAL RAGLE, GOLDEN RAGLE,
CRESTED EAGLE.
For H.M.Yachts CHRISTOBEL KRinake II, CALETA, GLALA
and AMULREE.
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
CAPTAIN,
he
nen
1th June 1940 COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE,
SHEERNESS.
for
that
me
son
have happened. I do sincerely hist,
hope when names under in for your fot is
officer consideration Command will are not that sent be this overlooked. said night at

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
in the Bray and Malo sectors were being thinned out by movements westward
towards Dunkirk iteslf. This change of plan involved concentrating the special
tows and the minesweepers to which they were to transfer the troops, into the
stretch opposite the beach between Zuydcoote Sanatorium and one mile east
of La Panne¹, and also advancing the commencement of the operation by one
hour².
A risk was involved in this change of plan as the boat tows were not in com-
munication with the Vice-Admiral, and it would therefore be necessary for
minesweepers to see that the escorting M.A./S.B.'s shepherded the tows to the
new positions It had been explained to the Naval officers in each tow that
the minesweepers would be anchored so as to serve as guiding marks³.
" It was always impossible for me to do more than deal with the situation of
the moment", says Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker. "I did not know what ships
were coming or when-except for the pre-arranged plan of the sloops. Nor
was it possible for Dover to give me much information. Ships got back there,
unloaded, and were off again, the stream was constant but irregular and it was
not possible to see any way ahead. My policy was always to keep only sufficient
ships off the beaches and send all the others into Dunkirk, but the situation
changed continually."4
Small craft arrive in hundreds
It was in such circumstances that, at about 1900, Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker had proceeded to Dunkirk in the Keith to see how the boat situation
was getting on. There he saw for the first time that strange procession of
craft of all kinds the story of which was to become famous-tugs, towing
dinghies, life-boats and all manner of pulling boats5-small motor yachts,
motor launches, drifters, Dutch skoots, Thames barges, fishing boats, pleasure
steamers⁶. This was indeed the first time that the small craft had come over
in hundreds⁷. Since noon Lt. Cdr. C. J. Wynne-Edwards, R.N. (of R.-A.
Dunkirk's staff), embarked in M.T.B.68, had been directing the tows to the
various beaches.
I See Appendix Q.18, observing that D.R. p.20, para. 61 says the beach between Bray
and 1 mile east of La Panne."
2 Appendix Q.19.
3 D.R. p.20, para. 61.
4 M.017978/41, p.17.
5 The following 14 tugs (their tows are shown in brackets) reached Dunkirk that evening:
The Racia (12 life-boats), Sun VIII (12 life-boats), Sun XV (6 life-boats), Vincia (3 life-
boats), Sun IV (9 boats), Tanga (6 boats), Ocean Cock (6 M/B's), Sun VII (seaplane tenders
243, 254, 276, 291 and A.M.C.3), Foremost 87 (two sailing barges), Fairplay I (sailing barge
Barbara Jean), Empire Henchman (sailing barge Aidie), Crested Cock (a lighter), Sun XI (a
lighter), and the Sun XII (sailing barges Tollesbury and Ethel Everard).
In the early hours of 1st June 4 other tugs arrived. The St. Fagan (auxiliary barges
Pudge and Lady Rosebery, and the sailing barge Doris), St. Abbs (auxiliary barge Thyra
and sailing barges H.A.C. and Duchess), Cervia (sailing barge Royalty), and the Persia
(sailing barge Glenway and Lark).
6 M.017978/41, p.19.
7 New arrivals off Dunkirk and the beaches on 31st May included the following The
yachts Amulree, Aronia, Glagla, Caleta, Christobel II and Llanthony, the nine yachts of the
Portsmouth Inner Patrol, viz the Ahola, Ankh, Bounty, Caryandra, Eilla II, Lahloo,
Noneta, Seriola and Thele and from the R.N. Air Station, Ford, the yacht Andora.
The drifters Ben and Lucy (towing 4 boats), Dorienta (towing boats), Monarda, Renas-
cent and the 13 drifters of the Yarmouth Base, viz Alcmaria, Feasible, Genius, Gula,
Jeannie MacIntosh, John and Norah, Lord Barham, Lord Hood, Overfalls, Reed, Rewga,
Swift Wing and Taransay. The drifters Fair Breeze and Ocean Breeze were again over,
the former towing a motor life-boat and 3 life-boats.
The steam hopper barges Foremost 102 (towing the Excellent's 35 ft. fast motor boat and
71

Details

Details

INDEX
cut off, 8; to be held, by 13; E-boat), falls, 17.
27 (attacked 32, 46, 47, 54, 88 (shoots down Heinkel), 99'
104, 126.
71n.
Caleta, Calvi, 13n, 39, 43 (sunk), 44.
Canterbury, 16, 22n, 24, 29, 39, 42-3 (damaged), 48n, 54, 114n.
Cameron, Lieut., 79.
Canvey Queen, lost, 53.
Cap d' Antifer, 102.
Carama, 60.
Caribia, 29n.
Cassidi, Cdr. R. A., 51.
Caryandra, 71n, 74.
Casualties: Embarkation, 17, 32, 36, 64, 87 (final), 115.
Cecil and Lilian Philpot, 107n.
Cayton Wyke, 34n, 107n.
Cervia, 71n.
Chamois, 72n.
Chantecler, 54.
Chasse-Marée, 62n, 73n, 102.
Chico, 13n, 60n.
Christabel II, 71n.
Civilians, crews feel strain, 29, 48; supplemented by R.N., 48, 99.
Clan Macalister, sunk 41.
Claude, 59.
Clouston, Cdr., J. C., 44, 105, 110 (drowned).
Coastal Command, XIIIn, 38, 64, 83, 88-9, 93, 99-100, 115.
Coats, Lt. Cdr. E. C., 112.
Cockburn, Lt. Cdr., 49.
Cockle Bawley boats, 73.
Codrington, 28, 54n, 55, 61, 64n, 75, 77, 97, 101, 107n, 108-9 (sent back empty), 112n.
Coggins, Mr. C., 73.
Comfort, 36, 37 (sunk).
Commandant Delage, 35n.
Communications. Difficulties and delays, 57, 60, 122 ; on beaches, 67; established
between Dunkirk and Dover, 67-8; closed down, 76-7.
Commodore, abandoned, 74.
Conidaw, 13, 60n.
Constant Nymph, 60n.
Corap, General 1.
Cordelia, 60n.
Côte d'Argent, 54n, 94, 102, 107n, 109, 112n, 114n, 118.
Coulthard, J. W., 110.
Coxyde. See Beaches.
Crested Cock, 71n.
Crested Eagle, 32n, 39, 43, 44 (beached), 46, 58 (burnt out),
Croswell, S/Lt., E. C., 36, 47 (lands at La Panne), 76n, 77.
Cyclone, 39, 42, 68-9 (damaged).
Dangerfield, Capt., 111, 119-20.
Daylight evacuation abandoned, 97-8; French Admiralty wish resumption, 105.
Decoster, F., 116.
Defender, 73n.
Dench, Mr. A. J., 73.
Denis Papin, sunk, 93.
Denny, Capt. M. M., 94.
Destroyers bombard Calais, 13; brought from W. A. and Portsmouth Commands, 20,
61, and from patrol and escort, 28, 34 not to stop to aid ships, 38; brought off most
troops 55; H, 1, J classes withdrawn, 55, and ordered back, 61; G class all out of action,
55; not sent to Dunkirk harbour, 61 ; exhaustion of crews, 64, 113; heavy losses, 94
sent back empty, 108.
Devonia, beached to form pier, 83.
Diana Mary, 117.
Diligente, 73.
Dill, General Sir John, 10, 12 (becomes C.I.G.S.).
Dinard, 64.
197

Details

Page 3.
r OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
#
KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft )
v. 4 ("Vernon's pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE (Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S" A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Craft)
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PASCHOLL
ALICE
FRISCO
PATRIA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
PRINCESS JULIANA
ANTJE
HEBE
REIGER
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RIKA
BART
HONDSRUG
RUJA
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
BRANDARIS
JAVA
SURSUM CORDA
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TILLY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TINY
DEMOK I
LENA
TUNG
DENEB
ORANJE
TWENTE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
VREDE
ZEUS
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

Page 3.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
#
KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft)
V. 4 ("Vernon's" pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE (Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S' A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Craft)
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PASCHOLL
ALICE
FRISCO
PATRIA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
PRINCESS JULIANA
ANTJE
HEBE
REIGER
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RIKA
BART
HONDSRUG
RUJA
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
BRANDARIS
JAVA
SURSUM CORDA
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TILLY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TINY
DEMOK I
LENA
TUNG
DENEB
ORANJE
TWENTE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
VREDE
ZEUS
#
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

Details

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
di
were giving much trouble) running.
d
(4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S.
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.
Dow, R.N.V.R. For his valuable services in towing boats from
grees
st
the beach under heavy bombing attacks.
to
"AMULREE"
he
(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
vessel.
of
see
surf
Kannake
and
that
hat
CAPTAIN.
out
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
men,
d
art
ut
GILIS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last 00m0 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,
derinitely., as were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane
steamed back at all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them
As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
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
was to
continued over

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
Dynamo 141.
FROM
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
a
were giving much trouble) running.
d
(4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S.
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, 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
and
that
hat
CAPTAIN.
out
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
men,
d
art
ut
GILLS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last oomo 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,
derinitelyships 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
and started to embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very
continued over

Details

SECRET Dynams 137.
EXTENDED
DEFENCES
OFFICER
H.M.Y. COMMANDING OFFICER,
173
ADMIRALITY
HOUSE,
GLALA.
164
178
SHEERNESS
June, 1940.
167
sir,
I have from the Sheerness honour to report that, having received orders, I
proceeded in conjunction with 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
d
was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and
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
entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast
d
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
S
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 ready to go inshore. We took them as close as possible,
he
allowed them to drift to the beach and anchored with the intention
of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering ropes
all but gave way and we were left with a single strand. It was
impossible to repair it without completely new wire and at that
of
Homent the bombing and shelling which had been going on
see
continuously became intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the
surf
Solent Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and all the
and
smaller power craft followed him out.
that
hat
out
men,
d
art
ut
fell across our stern the last DOMO railing few feet
about this time 30 ft a salvo of the bombs only effect was to drag our stern down a heavy a
bomber the water. We opened we registered a direct hit with OUD into the gun
in away, fire on this aeroplane which was Lewis
and his type Dornier 17 burst into flames and he crashed aeroplane sea,
as other 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 speed hoping to find a which boat we to magaged bring them to
to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
off, pick we were fortunate I immediately sent these this was
and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops at approximately at 1750, very
continued over

Details

SECRET
FROM.
COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "CALETA". 136 176 178
DATE.
3rd June, 1940.
166
TO.
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
167
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS.
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.
id
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. ed
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
at 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
Officer and crew returned in small boat which took them off.
see
Shortly afterwards, German Batteries opened fire with considerable
surf
accuracy, and shells burst under our counter on both sides, and
2 and
under the port bow.
that
that
bout
men,
ed
gart
out
GILLS time a salvo or bombs fell across our stern the last DOMO ralling
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

Details

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,
asriniter 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

Details

Dynamo 185.
182
MOTOR YACHT "MARSAYRO"
170
6th.June 1960
B14/0/1513
II.
Leading Seaman BROWN.
No.R.E.2/014.
Vice Admiral,
Dover.
169
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief,
that I took over dommand
The Nore.)
esday 29th.May 1940.
rt I tried to sort things
on, regarding any particular
Forwarded.
stremely hasty. I therefore
nga will suffice.
2. Reports and recommendations
Friday 31st.May 1940 at
concerning the above named vessels
with X217 and 2 other
were forwarded by my Nos. I.1/14/015 utenant
POOL,R.N.
We
and R.E. 2/014. of 8th and 9th
out 3 p.m. we name in sight
June, 1940.
moke and explosions as far
later we contacted the
3.
Of the vessels mentioned in the French soldiers from the
above reports only the "Royal Eagle", to the beach; it was
"Golden Eagle" and "Crested Eagle"
imen and capsised at once.
are specifically named in Appendix 1, it himself from being more
thdrew my ship to review
4.
In addition to the vessels
" stuff that looked like
named in Minute 1 above, the Yachts
ID devil as I know that
"Christobel II" "Caleta"; "Glala"
our propellers in the way
"Amulree" and the tug "St Clears"
happen as soon as I had
were mentioned in my reports, and
each we managed to pick
are presumed to be included in the
captured and used a little
note to Appendix 1.
troops appeared to be a
>-loads for some 5 hours,
'Jaba" and so on. On this
ADMIRAL 1940
am Queen" (about 2000 tons
- she had put her nose.
*
30th JULINE,
;ines of "Marsayru" and
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE,
ce
ghout this day and the
Dover
HEERNESS.
all a complete jumble in
tant fire of various kinds,
the ship was not hit by
more
lune I think - we were
tion to -done, nearest ship being
te 1 above, by 4 brave Messershimits who dived and
"
"Caleta th much vigour but exceedingly poor aim
the tug our. No had a Bren and 2 rifles but did
in my German pilots seemed disinolined to come
reports 0 and I had given orders to hold our fire
on Eagle" casA pity. After half an hour of this 3
above arcifically aght and we saw no more of the Messerschmits
2/014. of my 8th in addition of we were bombed by a large formation of
arded by Nos.
40.
in Minute 1 all. At least I think it was our little
stobel II" "saless it was one on the horison, in
eports only the me mentioned solddimurse of these operations we took off
the vessels ree" and opamony miles.
Eagle" and "C presumed tax, ocumnof 400 French soldiers. To our bitter
cifically named to Appell
ad tind no British, others ware luckier.
Christrisor a few hours - she was on tow -
"Amulre" stely tied up with bits of line and
n addition to vive MI
were men tisard. The tow rope broke and we
n Minute 1 a had a
are presfroit cast about for a time. However
obel II" "( pilots Be
e" and the I had give
note to rises - faithruk thing. No arrived
ntioned in ty. After
ts, evening having called from Ramsgate
sumed to be and we saw
Appendix 1.
ICEADM in We borught back 2 "prises" - a nice
IRA

Details

_203
LAUNCH "TRITON"
à
190
Lieutenant R.H. INVING, R.N.R.
3, KNITH. Sea. Cox.
J.STEPHENS. Ord.Sea.
D. STMPSON. B.R.A. (uttorly 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 Sheamess to
Ramsgate in charge of 13 Launches, various kinds and speeds - handed over
12. Left Sheerness about noon Wednesday, 29th May.
Arrived Remagate about 1930
Left Remagate about 2150
for Cuploa near La Panne 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 norning
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 Cuplos 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 "MOSQUXTO" 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 Piret Lieutenant and
he suggested that I get a tow home. I spproached the yacht "CALNTA",
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 "CALETA" 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 still 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.