Details

CHALLENGE
Tug (Elliott Steam tug
Co. Ltd.)
Went to Dunkirk on the night of 1st/2nd June with
orders to pick up anything. In company were the
tug Sun XI, and 5 other tugs.
Nil
172

Details

GREDO (D.G.924)
French M.F.V.
3rd June
0920
Disembarked at Ramsgate about 53 French
troops. (1)
ARED
and smiling Lork. barges Glenway, Searzeon
Anchored with Total 53
Obtes
1500
Processed to Ramagate and thence to
Dovor, with the barges.
May
0600
Left Dover, towing a lighter loaded
1230
fresh veter story and troops.
Arrived Dunkir's roads.
Anchored, with the lighter, about
Doet off the beach. The lighter
node her way to the beach.
13156a
Dent to the assistance of dr. Impolsive
which bad grounded on DD uncharted
rook, and took her in tow,
31:10
CASE off the tow. Escorted Impulsive
to Bunkink Fier heads, whence she
proceeded so Dover on one engine.
STARTAS Cook proceeded in company.
2000
MAST LOVER.
let June
2000
word to assistance of dr. 96 [1.0.
which bird been 10 collisit
with D/V Moid of Opionnal in Dover
cardoor. After assisting to rescue
Exerge in the soa, took Purcester
in sow, and aboiated by $00 togs
CANADA Cook, Challenge and Sun III,
berthed her,
EL3000
Than proconded towards Donkirk with
orders to pick up or reacue
(### Bun XI).
June
Unable to anything.
Authority
(1) Ramsgate report, which names the ship the "0.924".
214

Details

CRESTED COCK
Tug (Gamecock Steam
Towing Co. Ltd).
T. Hills, Master
29th May
1715
Left Gravesend for Tilbury, towing the
and Lark.
3 sailing barges Glenway, Spurgeon
2215
Anchored with barges at Southend.
30th May
0445
1500
Proceeded to Ramsgate and thence to
Dover, with the barges.
31st May
0400
Left Dover, towing a lighter loaded with
1230
fresh water etc., and troops.
Arrived Dunkirk roads.
Anchored, with the lighter, about 60
feet off the beach. The lighter
made her way to the beach.
1315ca
Went to the assistance of dr. Impulsive
which had grounded on an uncharted
rock, and took her in tow.
1410
Cast off the tow. Escorted Impulsive
to Dunkirk Pier heads, whence she
proceeded to Dover on one engine.
Crested Cock proceeded in company.
2000
Arrived Dover.
1st June
2000
Went to assistance of dr. 96 [i.e.
Worcester which had been in collision
with P/V Maid of Orleans] in Dover
harbour. After assisting to rescue
troops in the sea, took Worcester
in tow, and assisted by the tugs
Ocean Cock, Challenge, and Sun XII, and
Sun VII(1), berthed her.
2130ca
Then proceeded towards Dunkirk with
orders to pick up or rescue anything
(see Sun XI).
2nd June
0345
Unable to contact anything. Proceeded.
0800
Dover.
Authority - W.W.
(1) Sun mention this. The tug Foremost in collision 22 states
at that about she this time. Sun XI also
VII does assisted not two vessels which assisted. were
215

Details

OCEAN COCK
Tug (Gamecock S.T. Co.
Ltd.)
A.V. Mastin, Master.
29th May
Towed 4 sailing(1) barges from Tilbury
ordered to Dover.
to Ramagate. on arrival at Ramagate,
30th May
1430ca
Arrived Dover with barges.
31st May
0500
Left tow. Dover for Dunkirk with 6 M/B's in
1300ca
Arrived Dunkirk beach. Cast off the
M/B's. Proceeded.
1700
Arrived Dover.
1st June(
2000
Saw the dr. Worcester and the P/V
Maid of Orleans in collision in Dover
harbour. Proceeded to assistance of
Worcester and assisted to tow her to
Prince of Wales pier, in company with
the tuge Crested Cock, Challenge,
Sun VII(3) and Sun XII (4)
2130
Proceeded to Dunkirk, with orders to
pick up anything that was damaged.
(see Sun XI). Zero hour 0300/2.
Later, ordered to return.
2nd June
0800
Dover. Awaited completion of minesweep-
ing operations.
0940
Entered harbour.
Nil
Authority - W.W.
(1) Actually there 3 sailing barges, and the A/B Pudge.
(2) According to Capt. were A.V. Mastin's report this should be
31st May - but all other reports indicate that it was
(3) Sun VII not mention this, but the tug Foremost in 22
lst June.
states does that she assisted 2 vessels in collision the
(4) Sun XI also assisted.
outer basin at this time.
356

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
SUN XI
& Co., Ltd.)
J.R. Lukes, Master.
2330
30th May
Left for Tilbury, Ramsgate. towing 3 sailing barges
1300
31st May
1530
Arrived Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dover.
Dover with barges.
Sailed with a lighter, loaded with
1730
Arrived Dunkirk. A M/B took over the
stores and cans of water, in tow.
1800
Proceeded. lighter and beached her.
1900
Air attack. A drifter was sunk; the
1930
tug Contest picked up her crew.
Passed the tugs Sun XV, Sun VIII and
Sun IV going in.
2300
"Sorry for them, glad to get out".
Arrived North Goodwin. Anchored
inside S. Brake at 2400.
1st June
2130
Berthed a destroyer [the Worcester]
which had been in collision inside
Dover harbour.
2155ca
Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and pick
up anything.
2400
Off North Goodwin, there were seven
tugs, in single line ahead, viz. the
Challenge, Ocean Cock, Crested Cock,
Fairplay I, Sun VII, Sun XI, Sun XII.
2nd June
0200
Sighted small lights. Found a large
Govt. lighter Y.C.63 broken down
and full of wounded and troops.
Among them was "Captain (D) of the
19th Flotilla whose destroyer
[ the Keith had blown up".
0230
Took Y.C.63 in tow.
0630
Arrived Dover. Berthed lighter.
1400
Captain Fraser R.N. came on board.
1500ca
Left Dover, towing 4 boats, (1)
followed by tugs Sun X, Fairplay I and
Foremost 87.
[2115ca]
Foremost 87 picked up 6 life boats full
of wounded and survivors [from H/C
Paris] and turned back.
2245
Anchored west of Dunkirk Mole. Sun x
alongside. Embarked troops from M/B's
2330
Ordered inside the harbour to refloat
a grounded transport. Too shallow.
Transferred her troops by M/B's.
3rd June
0245
Went inside harbour again to assist a
sloop. Low water, went aground. Had
to back out.
0330
Daybreak. Full of troops, proceeded,
with a large life boat full of troops
in tow and also one small one
[the M/B Skylark III]
0900
Arrived Dover. Unloaded 188 troops.
Total 188
Authority W.W.
(1) One of which was the M. L/B Michael Stephens [and probably
the Southern Queen, and Jane Holland].
190

Details

Details

TUGS
THE FOLLOWING TUGS TOOK PART
IN OPERATION DYNAMO:
William Watkins Ltd.
Cervia
Kenia
Doria
Persia
Fabia
Racia
Fairplay I(1)
Tanga
Foremost 87(1)
Vincia
Java
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd.
Sun
Sun VIII
Sun III
Sun X
Sun IV
Sun XI
Sun V
Sun XII
Sun VII
Sun XV
The Gamecock Steam Towing Co.
Crested Cock
Ocean Cock.
Gaselee and Son Ltd.
Fossa
Saml. Williams and Sons Ltd.
Duke
[Marquis] (2)
Prince
Princess
Elliot Steam Tug Co. Ltd.
Challenge
Contest
United Towing Co. Ltd.
Empire Henchman
Southern Railway Co. Ltd.
Foremost 22
(1) Managed by W. Watkins Ltd.
(2) Left Ostend at 2200 on 26th May. There is no record of
her having taken part in Dynamo.
244

Details

201
ENCLOSURE III. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. June, 1940.
REPORT BY LEADING SEAMAN H. COOK, COXSWAIN OF MOTOR
BOAT "ANDORRA".
9th. May.
Ordered to proceed to Newhaven, left approx. 1930 in
company with 275, arrived Newhaven 2130 approx. stopped
by examination vessel after about 2 hours of exchange of
signals allowed to enter harbour. Boat running well.
Oth.May.
Officer in charge of boats gave orders to leave Newhaven
at 0600 for Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate about 1630.
Instructed to berth alongside West Wall. Filled boats with
petrol, oil and water wireless and arms taken out of boats.
Officer and T.A.G. making trip returned to Littlehampton.
No further orders. Boat running well.
1st. May.
Boat ready for sea, needed Officer and charts. Noticed and
Officer looking at "Andorra". I asked him if he would take
us to Dunkirk and he replied that he would be pleased to.
At noon took whaler in tow and received provisions and 3
rifles and 100 rounds, left for Dunkirk. Boat running well
at 1800 revs. Arrived at destination at 1630. Ran whaler
alongside telling Papworth and Kettle to proceed inshore
and lead with soldiers. About one minute after this order
a raid started all vessels were under way in view of this
we decided it would not be sensible to ferry as boats would
have been smashed alongside owing to big surf. The whaler
returned with 12 French soldiers. Took them aboard Andorra
and sent whaler inshore again, raid was still on, whaler
returned with II more French soldiers. They were also taken
aboard Andorra making total load of 29 men and whalers in
tow empty, decided whaler was too much for boat to tow so
decided to slip it to another boat in need of a whaler.
Raid had ceased. 1805 left Dunkirk for Ramsgate. Boat
running well at 1800 revs. but load had robbed her of about
4 knots. About 12 miles out second raid started, 3 bombs
dropped close astern badly shook boat, all aboard very cool.
Decided to increase speed owing to the fact that we had
no light for compass and wished to make Ramsgate before dark
as we had no challenge signals. At about 2130 near North
Goodwin Lighthouse, starboard port engine broke down;by this
time it was pitch dark. C.E.R.A. Milford had been working
on engine all this time and managed to get it running again.
We were unable to find entrance owing to a warning in
Ramsgate, no entrance lights were on. Arrived in Ramsgate
harbour 0300 on the 1st. June, discharged 23 French soldiers.
1st. June.
Working on engines, filling up and cleaning boat in general.
Saw 275 leave harbour.
2nd.
June
Working on engines.
3rd. June.
Working on engines A.M. Trial. P.M. engines running well, but
boat not doing the proper speed. C.E.R.A. Milford decided
the damage was outside the boat.
4th.
June.
Boat lifted, discovered port screw badly damaged, this was
put right; boat given another trial and found to be back running at
well. Reported to S.N.O. i/c at 1530 told to report
1700. Officer detailed to take us back to Littlehampton. Sub-
5th. June. 0900 left Ramsgate arrived Littlehampton 1900, boat running
Lieutenant from Portsmouth.
well except for bad petrol.
(SIGNED) H. COOK. L/SEA.

Details

264
276
have off a the few boats. At this time I got a signal
I at this part of doing the essential work and that there were
I was beaches were to proceed to Dunkirk but that as
many men and coast to be evacuated I decided to
ignore the signal, proceed with the evacuation. There were at
and/cross arrived. The embarkation arrangements were
first no other channel transports boa on the beach but later a paddle minesweeper
most inadequate the other only about 3 power boats of doubtful efficiency were
present and boats consisted of a few service boats mercantile
between the loto It was only due to the magnificent work of the
boats and Royal Engineers Ferry Boats do with very few seamen ratings
Army units at this part of the beach who were admirably led by their
Officers. that embarkation was able to proceed at any sort of
speed, although the work of the naval officers 10 were present in
few power boats available was beyond praise. These appeared to be
no centralised control either of boats or beach. During the
afternoon and evening there was a certain amount of enemy air
activity but enemy planes always moved away when A/A fire was brought
to bear on them, and there were frequent visitations by British
Fighters which appeared to have an excellent deterrant effect. No
bombs were dropped in my vicinity.
At about 2000 a short but heavy artillery fire was brought to
bear on the part of the beach near to Dunkirk and many men started
to swim out to the ships or come out in very inadequate boats.
I weighed anchor in the "Royal Eagle" - as the tide was approaching
high tide and proceeded as close in shore as possible to pick up these
men. At about 2200 when no further men were coming to the ship
and "Royal Eagle" was packed to nearly full capacity - 1.e. every
covered in part of ship full and men also on the upper deck forward
and aft, I decided to weigh and proceed to Sheerness rather than
Margate on account of the ships requirements in oil and water which
at Margate would have taken too long to complete. I consider now
that on this day I committed a serious error of judgement as in
view of the poor embarkation facilities I should have ordered "Royal
Eagle" to ground herself in shore at low water and fill up my boats
running between the ship and shore on a line and then have floated
off and proceeded as the tide rose, or alternatively I might have
grounded /Royal Eagle" to form a pier to facilitate embarkation
by other ships when they arrived. I consider now on looking back
that the provision of some sort of pier should have been a matter
of primary importance.
In view of the shelling of the beaches from the Westward I
decided to proceed back by route "y" particularly as this was the
only route known by experience. Shortly after leaving a report was
received of M.T.B.'s off Bray but I then considered that it was too
late to turn back. After passing Middelkerke Buoy the ship was
attacked by an aircraft firing machine gun but I gave orders that
no firing was to take place so that thereshould be less chance of
giving away 10 ships position to M.T.B. The ship was not hito
During the night I passed three small dark vessels which I believed
were French Torpedo Boats. I did not challenge but kept guns trained
on them. About 0230 on 31st May there were signs of firing about
10 miles astern and about five minutes later a tremendous column of
flame rose from the water. I consider now that I was to blame in
using route "Y" and that I unduly hazarded the ship by so doing.
On arrival at Sheerness at 0600 I found that in response to my
request possible arrangement had been made for the reception the
of the every and the cleaningofuelling and provisioning of
hours ships working under conditions of high tension and
ship. The troops company had had practically no sleep for about 48
been discomfort was very much appreciated. I cannot speak
extreme and had been and the fact that such excellent arrangements had
ships highly company. of the On both nights the whole of the ships accomodation
too made by Shearness spirit and sense of duty shown by the officers and

Details

Dynam 162.
33 o
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Stella Rigel" 308
7th June, 1940.
Report on patrol of May 29th to June 3rd.
At 1515 on May 29th we cast off and proceeded out of harbour,
icking up H.M.T. "Argyleshire" and "Lord Melchett" outside. We
rrived off the position at 2200 and proceeded to our patrol area east
f S. Buoy. At 0030 on May 30th we observed a vessel stopped which got
nder way as we approached. As she did not answer the challenge we
ave chase and eventually stopped her. She proved to be M.S. "Ricas"
rom Ostend with troops.
At 0750 we picked up "Argyleshire" and returned to area of
Walls Buoy for patrol.
At 2100 on 31st May we received orders from "Argyleshire" to
atrol S. Buoy to West Hinder during night.
At 0230, having lost touch with "Argyleshire", and having
efound her, we were closing when she was struck by a torpedo and sank
mmediately. We lowered the boat and recovered five survivors, the two
fficers, the signalman, wireless operator and one Able Seaman. During
he course of the rescue a plane circled overhead and dropped parachute
lares, but took no action. The Captain reported having seen a
ubmarine crash dive, and while manoeuvring to attack he was struck
midships by a torpedo. We received instructions to land survivors at
earest port and proceeded towards Ramsgate. Artificial respiration
las carried out on A.B. Laycock for 3 hours until we transferred all
urvivors to H.M. Drifter "Gerrars Rontoul" outside Ramsgate to be taken
nto port. Picked up "Lord Melchett" and patrolled area of S. Falls
Buoy during daylight of June lst.
At 2015 received orders from "Lord Melchett" to patrol from
3. Buoy to West Hinden.
At 0430 on June 2nd we picked up a motor boat with 23 soldiers,
aking them aboard and the boat in tow. During this operation the
'Lord Melchett" had closed us, and reported seeing a torpedo passing close
inder our bow.
the soldiers and boat to her, rejoining the "Lord Melchett" on patrol.
At 0745 we were signalled by H.M.S. "Pangbourne" and transferred
enemy plane, which attacked us and dropped a salvo of four bombs close to
At 1100 all ships in neighbourhood were in action against' one
the "Lord Melchett", doing no damage.
daylight, and arrived at Parkeston at 1135.
At 0130 on June 3rd we received orders to proceed to Harwich at
(Signed) J.W. Wykeham.
Sub Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
p.p.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
MESSAGE 0746/3rd June
OUT.
To. V.A. Dover, 438.
Date 3.6.40
Repeated C. in C. Nore. 922.
20
C. in C. Portsmouth. 245,
F.O. 1/c London.
Commodore 1/c Sheerness. 618.
F.O.1/c Portland. 567.
N.O.i/c Ramegate.
N.O.1/c Newhaven.
War Office.
P/L BY T/P
From Admiralty.
IMPORTANT.
Reference Admiralty mesuage 2321/1,
instructions regarding disposal of tugs and lighters
should be amended as follows so far as craft named
are concerned:-
(1) Following London tugs which were requisitioned
specially for Operation should be returned to
CHALLENGE, CONTEST, PERSIA, RACIA, CERVIA, TANGA
Gravesend - -
HIBERNIA, CRESTED COCK, OCEAN COCK, WATERCOCK,
They should be utilised as fully as possible
SUN, SUN X, SUN XI, SUN XII, BETTY.
for towage of craft or boats to be returned to
the Thames or elsewhere en route.
(ii) Under-mentioned tugs which are under orders of
D. of S.T. should proceed as follows:-
(a) EMPIRE HENCHMAN to Portsmonth with barges
SNOWDON and SALADIN for N.S.O. These carges were
left at Ramsgate by tug TANGA on 29th May.
pair of barges from those mentioned in (v) Below
(b) FOREMOST 37 to Weymouth with any convenient
sufficiently seaworthy, for towage as in (1)
(c) FAIRPLAY I to Gravesend being used, if
above. (d) GONDIA to Fishguard with barges SARK and
SHETLAND. These barges ware left at Dover on
20th May by FOREMOST 87.
(iii) Tugs SUN VII and FOREMOST 23 should return to
station at Southend and Newhaven respectively
taking any convenient tow.
(iv) If any of the tuge named above are required to
assist in other more urgent towages arrangementa
should be made by you direct with D. of S.T.
Crews of EMPIRE HENCHMAN, GONDIA and FOREMOST 87
may be given at your discretion up to 24 hours
standeasy before proceeding Westward.
(v) The barges JAPAN, KENYA, EGYPT, APRICA, LONDON
and SCOTLAND which arrived Dover from Tilbury
on 2nd June should not repetition not be
returned/....

Details

248,
ENCLOSURE III. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. June, 1940.
REPORT BY LEADING SKAMAN H. COOK, COXSWAIN OF MOTOR
BOAT "ANDCRILL"
h. May.
Ordered to proceed to Newhaven, left approx. 1930 in
company with 275, arrived Newhaven 2130 approx. stopped
by examination vessel after about 8 hours of exchange of
signals allowed to enter harbour. Boat running well.
h.May.
Officer in charge of boats gave orders to leave Newhaven
at 0600 for Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate about 1630.
Instructed to berth alongside West Wall. Filled boats with
petrol, oil and water wireless and arms taken out of boats.
Officer and T.A.G. making trip returned to Littlehampton.
No further orders. Boat running well.
E. May.
Boat ready for sea, needed Officer and charts. Noticed and
Officer looking at "Andorra". I asked him if he would take
us to Dunkirk and he replied that he would be pleased to.
At noon took whaler in tow and received provisions and 3
rifles and 100 rounds, left for Dunkirk. Boat running well
at 1800 revs. Arrived at destination at 1630. Ran whaler
alongside telling Papworth and Kettle to proceed inshore
and load with soldiers. About one minute after this order
a raid started all vessels were under way in view of this
we decided it would not be sensible to ferry as boats would
have been smashed alongside owing to big surf. The whaler
returned with 12 French soldiers. Took them aboard Andorra
and sent whaler inshore again, raid was still on, whaler
returned with II more French soldiers. They were also taken
aboard Andorra making total load of 29 men and whalers in
tow decided whaler was too much for boat whaler. to tow so
empty, to slip it to another boat in need of a Boat
Raid well at 1800 revs. but load had robbed S 80009 about
decided had ceased. 1805 left Dunkirk for Ramsgate. her of
4 knots. close astern badly shook boat, fact all that we very had cool.
running About 18 miles out second raid started, aboard
Decided to for compass and wished to make about Ramsgate 8130 near North dark
dropped increase speed owing to the before
no light challenge signals. At broke down;by
Goodwin pitch dark. C.E.R.A. Wilford it running
as we had Lighthouse, no starboard port engine had been working this
time it was all this time and managed to to get & warning in again.
We were unable entrance lights were on. 23 French Ramsgate soldiers.
on engine to find entrance owing Arrived in
harbour Ramsgate, 0300 no on the 1st. June, discharged
st. June. Working on engines, filling up and cleaning boat in general.
Saw 275 leave harbour.
nd. June
Working on engines.
7d.
June.
Working on doing the proper speed.
engines A.M. Trial. P.M. C.E.R.A. engines Milford running decided well, but
the boat damage not was outside the boat.
th.
discovered port screw trial badly and found damaged, to be this running was
June.
put Boat right; lifted, boat to given SmN.O. another 1/0 at 1530 told to Littlehampton. to report back at
well. 1700. Reported Officer detailed to take us back Sub-
th.
June.
Lieutenant left Ramsgate from Portsmouth. arrived Littlehampton 1900, boat running
well 0900 except for bad petrol.
(SIGNED) H. COOK. L/SEA.

Details

RAS
of
-2-
MAY 26TH. A careful sweep of the Harbour and approaches
carried out during the forenoon and the area was declared
and the Harbour open at 1436. Sweeping operations were
later to ensure that delayed action mines should be destrope
The order to withdraw the B.E.F. from Dunkirk was given and
embarkation of the troops started this evening.
JOFF
A staff organisation known as "DYNAMO" was set up to carry
plan for evacuating the beaches at Dunkirk. Dutch Skoots,
Launches, Life-boats and numerous other small craft began
assemble at Dover and were berthed at Prince of Wales Piers
in Submarine Basin. These vessels were at once supplied
fuel, food and water to enable them to sail for Dunkirk at
earliest possible moment.
MAY 27TH. The tugs "Sun V11" and "Sun X" and "Persia" arriv
and reported for duty with K.H.M. They were detailed for
lighters and boats to Dunkirk.
MAY 28TH. At 0300 the Examination Vessel "Ocean Reward" ⑉
and sunk off Dover by the Hospital Ship "Isle of Thanet" with
loss of all hands. Boats were lowered by "Isle of Thenet
serched the position of the accident to gether with the tug
Brassey" but no survivors were found. The night was fine
calm and clear and both vessels were showing lights. Facts
contributory to the accident may have been the high speed
"Isle of Thanet" and possibly a misunderstanding on the pari
"Ocean Reward" that "Isle of Thanet" would stop off Dover
The tug "Foremost 87" arrived and joined the flotilla of
lighters and boats to Dunkirk. At 0830 the requisitioned
Skoots "Ruja", "Sursum Corda", "Jaba Amazone", "San Antonio"
arrived for duty on the Flanders coast. They required water
"Pacific", "Frendja", "Hebe", "Frisco Wega", "Pascholl" and
fuel and provisions and steps were to provide
During these operations the air raid taken warning at once sounded and
precautions in the Dockyard were taken. No attack develop
immediately after the "All Clear" was sounded these vessels
for Dunkirk.
MAY tow. 29th. The tug "Fairplay 1" with the water lighter "Cla "SM
was Lt. with Sub. the Comdr. detached Commodore Lieuts. Military and the R.G. K.A. for tug stores Wardrop Harwood, duty "Persia" sailed at R.N.R. Dunkirk. with E.S. for of Hill the Dunkirk. Commodore lighters and G. Jones "Sark" R.N.V.R. and
MAY connection numerous by motor of enemy the 30TH. boats Examination holes action. with H.M.S. arrived Superintendent's caused operation The Service "Jaguar" by former bombs "DYNAMO". was and had detached and staff, "Greyhound" thirteen aircraft for dead arrived duty on at board both duty Many
Dunkirk order by tugs and drifters. during the day All and whose were
Several Thames sailing barges orene
sailed during afternoon.
available at the Prince arrived and as will
visions same day. and ammunition. of Two Wales tugs Pier sailed they with them to
whom Many more vessels were now available evacuating the
many thousands were landed at Admiralty for Pier.
MAY 31ST. The Fleet in tow
"Locust". She had been Sweeper struck "Bideford" arrived which had
her depth charges and blown by & bomb aft
was taken in hand for temporary repairs H.M.S. Sanahu
800 troops on board at the time thirty and feetmoff suffered her
At the Prince of Wales Pier in the by the
"Ocean Cook" and "Challenge" towed morning the lighters and
"F.23" loaded with Military stores over to Dunkir&,

Details

-3-
250
sailing barges "Glenway", "Lark" and "Spurgeon" similarly loaded
were towed over by the tugs "Persia" and "Cervia".
Lt. Comdr. R.G. Wardrop and Lieut. F.H. Whalley R.N.R. returned from
Dunkirk and reported back for duty on the Commodore's staff.
JUNE 1st, The C in C of the B.E.F. Lord Gort arrived at Admiralty
Pier at 0605.
The tugs "SunX1", "Sun X11", "Sun V11", 'Océan Cock", "Challenge"
"Crested Cock", and "Fairplay 17 with one sailing barge in tow left
for Dunkirk. The tugs were intended to assist disabled craft and
carried out this duty off the Belgian coast until they were forced
back by heavy air attack.
Numerous motor boats left the Prince of Wales Pier for Dunkirk beaches
in tow of drifters.
H.M.S. "Harvester" and "Salamander" arrived with extensive damage
sustained during the night operations and repairs were at once carried
out by H.M.S. "Sandhurst". At midnight enemy air craft attempted
to lay magnetic mines off the Harbour. Mines were laid outside
before the raiders were driven off by anti-aircraft fire. The
mines were swept up during the morning.
At 2130 the troops transport "Maid of Orleans" was badly damaged
by collision in the Harbour. Several of the troops were thrown into
the water but all were rescued by the tugs who happened to be in the
vicinity.
JUNE 2nd. The tug "Sun X1" towed in the self-propelled lighters
Sherfield" and "YeC. 63" with troops on board. At 1430 the tugs
coastal 87", and five motor-bosts in tow for the Dunkirk beaches.
"Foremost "Sun X", 'Sun X1", and "Fairplay 1" sailed with six
The tug life-boats Brassey" proceeded to the assistance of H.M.S. The "Mona's
Isle" "Lady received severe damage from enemy bombs. tug
X11", and "Ocean 22" Cock" refused to go owing to their lack of protection.
"Foremost which had sailed at 2000 for Dunkirk. The tugs "Sun V11", "Sun
JUNE the day troops were arriving in "Glenway" the Harbour returned in all
from of craft. beaches filled with soldiers, in the got channel.
kinds 3rd. During The sailing barges "H.A.C." and who had them off
and sailed the Dunkirk them until they were picked boats. up by tug
Some No troops came in Belgian to the fishing Dunkirk beaches on account Base made of a the
quantity of brows "Halcyon", "Speedwell", brows were used with
strong easterly wind. and ladders which were put "Vega", "Princess "Venimous",
boats could be sent During the day the Repair aboard H.M.S.
"Vanquisher", "Express", and "Malcolm". The numbers of troops
Elixabeth", splendid effect "Sutton" at Dunkirk Mole and large were
brought off during the night.
JUNE 4TH. Tugs "Sun V11", and "Sun X11" left towing H.M.S. "Bideford"
On completion of the up for the passage and following to days every
to Portsmouth for repairs. operation of disembarking their troops Home from Ports Dunkirk and
destroyers were patched During this day small craft, barges,
endeavour subsequently was sailed. made to return the numerous lighters
and tugs to their Ports.
NOTES.
ASUALTIES.
During the this H.M.S.
10th to Port, June of 4th whom a "Sandhurst" total of
dealt.wistely 6,880 wounded were and over 60 suffering from shock and
50 dead.
EFECTS.
The 26 Repair Base and H.M.S. "Sandhurst" by bomb and holes splinters temporarily rigging. in them and ai a
suffered repaired craft cannon. damage also the

Details

Details

ADAME
Repl
Ho
n), was
Report of the Coxswain, H. Knight.
LETTER SENT
delive
Ext. 2161.
1 OCT1940
POST ROOM
required
a water seas given and position at
skilled Life-boat: at had handling found to naval lay small off the who manned deeper did
1,09144/S.T.N.63
30th September 4 1940. 81 of use
Shee
THE THE THE STATE the the the a was to the in charge outing to and
members of Life-boat boats under boats such wherries conditions: approschraft of not
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were the on the the the of the batches of on
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men of the a party first as you of party have are members of a naval the crew
I Your am, Gentlementservant, obedient
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The Royal Secretary Life-Boat under
after challenge, dark, but Director found Institution, of Sea Transpor secure thaol ONE unc and
USA
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my This left the would
Sheerness.
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ferrying continued from the the Life-boat with
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stoker
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waiting vicinity ships, to and all the but troops the they work in of the
ship,
crew proceeded The whole with ofthese.operations small wherries from by our enemy Life-boat had safely been aboard were destroyed. and the guns.
bus experience to act rend, as of Internal Combustion encin studyin 18011 with rest
number of (2800) troops two carried thousand aircraft by Life-boat
eight
Jon basitt unineve bluow We and belies ban onw
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long
the our the get Planes only purpos S
and contrary so with the a
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she had to when was re-start difficulthout power. as we

Details

TO 9144/STN
MADAME
POMPADOUR
Reply 11/11/20 H.
I, with another man (Morley Lawson), was asked to collect
to
a Motor Cruiser lying at Maidstone and deliver her to
82
-nu
Sheerness, and thence to Ramsgate if required. Our ship
turned out to be a small Diesel engined Motor Yacht named
"Madame Pompadour" which was lying out of use in the river
DOCU
just below Maidstone. By the time we got on board it was
too late to unlock, and it was not until darkness set in that
we were able to proceed, and in consequence had a somewhat
difficult time navigating down as far as Rochester without
charts, all aids to navigation being removed, and neither of
Io
us having had previous knowledge of that part of the river.
Despite the fact that navigation in the Medway was prohibited
after dark, we were able to pass Chatham Dockyard without
challenge, but found it impossible to continue on the tide,
and returned to Gillingham where we secured, unknowingly,
alongside an ammunition vessel, still unchallenged.
At
day-break we got under way once more, and duly arrived at
to 10
Sheerness.
After signing on the books of H.M.S. Wildflower, the
bne
depot ship, we were joined by 8. Skipper R.N.R., a volunteer
deck hand, and an active service stoker, without previous
experience of Internal Combustion engines, who had been sent
1
to act as Engineer and run our Diesel engines.
We set sail for Ramsgate with a convoy of other craft,
was preparing to keep ship going all night, when we heard many planes
overhead, so we stopped the Motor and relied on our Sails, while wj
still favoured us. But many times that night planes came in quit
close range. As daylight broke we could see where we were and
occasionally gunfire was heard, and planes above us. So we contr
with Sails to near Dover, and to get quickly by there seemed to b
motive, when it seemed just for the purpose the wind failed us, SU
lowered Sails. The Motor was our only chance now in this strong
and contrary wind.
So with the assistance of the Seamen, I tried starting, but fou
she was cold, and that the cold paraffin had given me a wet plug.
had to re-start on petrol and change a plug. I had taken some time
to localise our difficulty and to remedy it, that I felt very relieved
when she started, as without power, we might very well have been blown
P.T.O

Details

20
:
36
Telegrams: "DICK, LONDON," & CHALLENGE, GRAVESEND."
THE ELLIOTT STEAM TUG 00. LIMITED.
Telephones :
London, Royal 2908 (2 lines)
Gravesend, 54 Gravesend
x
60, Fenchurch Street,
London, 21st June
19 1940
E.C.3.
And at TERRACE PIER, GRAVESEND.
The Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House, W 1.
Dear Sir,
We beg to acknowledge receipt of your
letter of 19th instant enclosing two letters addressed to
the Officers in command of our tugs "CHALLENGE" and
"CONTEST" in the recent evacuation from Dunkirk.
We are forwarding the letters to Capt
Parker and Capt Bates respectively.
We remain, Dear Sir,
Yours faithfully,
For The Elliott Steam
Mo Tug Co P Limited.
Joint Manager.
ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN BY US IS SUBJECT TO THE UNITED KINGDOM STANDARD TOWAGE CONDITIONS.
apt R.

Details

ING
PART
VF ELS TAKING PART IN THE DUNKIR
QUA
Master
Owners.
Tug
SUN"
H. Cole
x
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd
1019128
"SUN III"
F. Russell
X
do
"SUN IV"
C. ALexander
X
do
"SUN V
W. Mastin
X
do
"SUN VII"
G. Cawsey
do
"SUN VIII"
S. Smith
do
"SUX X"
W. Fothergill
Latter is. Gamern
do
Stm Tommis Co.
SUN XI"
J. Lukes
x
do
X.
"SUN XII"
(Mee) B. Mastin X Litter to Was washin, na)
do
Actician
"SUN XV"
mate,
J. Belton
X
do
XX08SAXX
XXXXXXXX
Elliot Steam Tug Co., Ltd
"CONTEST"
H. Bates
x
/
"CHALLENGE"
C. Parker
x
do
or
"FOSSA"
G. Finch
x
Gaselee & Son, Ltd.
"BETTY"
G. Leeks
X
do
nsit
rk's
ials
"CRESTED COCK"
T. Hills
X
The Gamecock Steam Tow
"OCEAN COCK"
A.V. Mastin
x
do
my
WATERCOCK
W. Fothergill (This Tug went to do Dover only
FOREMOST 87"
J. Fryer
Managed by W. Watkins, Lt.
"FAIRPLAY ONE"
S. Wright & G. Finch
do
(1084
"CERVIA"
W. Simmonds
William Watkins, td.
992,000
Gpt
"DORIA"
(REG
A. Mastin
do
"FABIA"
F. Smith
do
"GONDIA"
C. Pratt
do
"HIBERNIA"
B. Youseman
X
do
"JAVA"
W. Jones
X
do
For
(Continued)

Details

you
REPORT OF PART PLAYED BY H.M.H.C. "ISIE OF GUERNSEY"
in the evacuation of Dunkirk.
26th May 1940
Having received orders from Dover at noon, we proceeded towards Dunkirk in company
with the Hospital Carrier "Worthing" and Transport "Monas Queen", following the route
given by the Naval Authorities. At approximately 4.0 p.m. as we approached Calais, which
lay in ruins under a heavy pall of smoke, two British destroyers crossed our bows, hove to
and commenced shelling the shore Batteries who promptly returned the challenge. To avoid
this No Mans land we were forced to Deviate, as our proper course would have taken us
between the combatants. Whilst carrying out this manouvre, enemy planes appeared and
commenced bombing the convoy but none of the three vessels were struck, although bombs
fell very close.
Arriving off Dunkirk, which was under an even heavier pall of thick black smoke than
id
Calais, we manouvred our way inside through the various wrecks of vessels which had been
struck by bombs and the "Worthing" having been made fast to the Quay we moored alongside
her. A few moments after our arrival streams of motor ambulances arrived threading their on
way through the columns of troops who were not so seriously wounded and were able to walk. ne
Loading was commenced immediately and every member of the ships Crew assisted in stretcher t
bearing so as to facilitate the loading. By 9.55 p.m. both Hospital Carriers were loaded is
with as many as they could take, the "Isle of Guernsey" having 346 cases on board, and as ond
her number of cots is only 203, many of these cases were accommodated in between the cots r,
on the deck along corridors, in fact wherever it was possible to put a stretcher. The
ck
voyage back to Newhaven, via Dover passed without incident and was completed by 4.53 a.m.
on the 27th May. At 11.47 a.m. on the same day, unloading having been completed, Water,
provisions and Oil fuel taken aboard we proceeded to Dover for orders.
X
May 29th 1940.
At 5-16 p.m., having received orders, we proceeded towards Dunkirk, following a
course which took us well clear of Calais. At 7-12 p.m. we stood off for a while because
of an engagement between aircraft and a British destroyer immediately in our track. At
7.30 p.m. an airman was observed descending by parachute close ahead of us and the vessel
was stopped to savePhim. One of the seamen went down a rope ladder to assist the ariman,
but before he reached the bottom, 10 enemy planes attacked the Ship with bombs cannon and
machine guns. By a miracle none of the bombs struck the ship, although considerable
damage was done by the concussion, shrapnel, cannon shells and machine gun bullets.
British fighter planes drove off the enemy and we proceeded towards Dunkirk with a
terrific air battle taking place overhead. Arrived off the port at 8-20 P.m. we found it
was being bombed and shelled, and we had orders from the shore to keep clear. Returning
along the channel in company with two destroyers, we later received orders to wait until
darkness had fallen and then return to Dunkirk, At 11-30 p.m. we entered between the
breakwaters, the whole place being brilliantly lit up by the glare of fires, burning oil
tanks etc., and managed to moor up alongside what was left of the quay at 12-30 a.m.
Loading commenced at once and by 2-15 a.m. we had taken on board as many as we could
numbering 490. All the crew and R.A.M.C. personnel behaved lendidly throughout,
carrying on with their duties and doing their utmost to load the ship as quickly and as
fully as possible, although the ship was shaken every few minutes by the explosion of
bombs falling on the quay and in the water. Leaving the quay at 2-15 a.m. we proceeded
out of the harbour and just outside we found the sea full of men swimming and shouting for
help, presumably a transport had just been sunk. As two destroyers were standing by
picking these men up, we threaded our way carefully through them and proceeded towards
Dover. It would have been fatal for us to attempt to stop and try to save any of these
men, as we made such a wonderful target for the aircraft hovering ahead, with the flames
of the burning port showing all our white paintwork up. Everything was comparatively
quiet on the way across, except that just before we got to Dover, a patrol boat headed us
off as we were heading straight for a recently laid minefield. Arriving off Dover at
7.0 a.m. we received orders to proceed to Newhaven and arrived at that port at 11-15 a.m.
No further trips were made to Dunkirk, because by the time our damage had been
repaired, the evacuation was completed.
(Signed) E. Hill
(Signed) R.F. Pembury
Master
Chief Officer.

Details

TTOA TO THE
222
-2-
a Naval Officer came off with orders for Captain Cassidie and my-
self from the Admiralty. I was to proceed at once as near Dun-
OF
kirk as possible, there discharge the A.L.C., and their crews, and
then it was suggested that I might make a rendezvous with Captain
CANADA
Cassidie where the boats, if damaged, could come and be repaired.
These were verbal orders. I was given a route through the
Downs to Dunkirk also the position of some dangrous wrecks. I
did not like proceeding in the dark through the Downs among those
wrecks and so many ships at anchor without lights, and I told
Captain Cassidie that I should have had a pilot. The Naval Officer
had departed by this time. I laid down on the Chart all the
route and the wrecks and I told Captain Cassidie again that I did
not like the job in the dark. He then said "If you don't like to
go, Captain, give me a course to steer and put the boats in the
water and I'll take them across". I felt that was a challenge to
our ability, so started to heave up right away and was underweigh
by l.a.m. on the 29th. I picked our way through the Downs,
narrowly missing one of the wrecks to the westward of the Goodwin
Sands. At 3.30 a.m. we heard an S.O.S. -"Unknown steamer tor-
pedoed at Kaempfe Bouy" and, as our route was to pass south of
that buoy, I wanted to avoid the area and asked permission from a
Patrol Vessel to steer direct for Dunkirk across a "Forbidden to
Anchor" area, but he said "No". I spoke to Captain Cassidie and
he/
All the Engineers dia excellent work at
and we understand the 4th Engineer (A.M. Rivett) manned a Bren
Gun, by permission of the Chief Engineer, with effect on enemy
planes.
The Chief Steward E.u.Onions, 2nd Steward J.F.Brown and
Purser D.D. McMahon we understand aid heroic work in tending to
the woundea, there being no Doctor on board.
ALL the medical Supplies and other consumable stores
of our Catering Department were used to give Medical Comfort to
the rescued.

Details

201
ENCLOSURE III. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. June, 1940.
REPORT BY LEADING SEAMAN H. COOK, COXSWAIN OF MOTOR
BOAT "ANDORRA".
9th. May.
Ordered to proceed to Newhaven, left approx. 1930 in
company with 275, arrived Newhaven 2130 approx. stopped
by examination vessel after about 2 hours of exchange of
signals allowed to enter harbour. Boat running well.
Oth.May.
Officer in charge of boats gave orders to leave Newhaven
at 0600 for Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate about 1630.
Instructed to berth alongside West Wall. Filled boats with
petrol, oil and water wireless and arms taken out of boats.
Officer and T.A.G. making trip returned to Littlehampton.
No further orders. Boat running well.
1st. May.
Boat ready for sea, needed Officer and charts. Noticed and
Officer looking at "Andorra". I asked him if he would take
us to Dunkirk and he replied that he would be pleased to.
At noon took whaler in tow and received provisions and 3
rifles and 100 rounds, left for Dunkirk. Boat running well
at 1800 revs. Arrived at destination at 1630. Ran whaler
alongside telling Papworth and Kettle to proceed inshore
and lead with soldiers. About one minute after this order
a raid started all vessels were under way in view of this
we decided it would not be sensible to ferry as boats would
have been smashed alongside owing to big surf. The whaler
returned with 12 French soldiers. Took them aboard Andorra
and sent whaler inshore again, raid was still on, whaler
returned with II more French soldiers. They were also taken
aboard Andorra making total load of 29 men and whalers in
tow empty, decided whaler was too much for boat to tow so
decided to slip it to another boat in need of a whaler.
Raid had ceased. 1805 left Dunkirk for Ramsgate. Boat
running well at 1800 revs. but load had robbed her of about
4 knots. About 12 miles out second raid started, 3 bombs
dropped close astern badly shook boat, all aboard very cool.
Decided to increase speed owing to the fact that we had
no light for compass and wished to make Ramsgate before dark
as we had no challenge signals. At about 2130 near North
Goodwin Lighthouse, starboard port engine broke down;by this
time it was pitch dark. C.E.R.A. Milford had been working
on engine all this time and managed to get it running again.
We were unable to find entrance owing to a warning in
Ramsgate, no entrance lights were on. Arrived in Ramagate
harbour 0300 on the 1st. June, discharged 23 French soldiers.
1st.
June.
Working on engines, filling up and cleaning boat in general.
Saw 275 leave harbour.
2nd. June
Working on engines.
3rd. June.
Working on engines A.M. Trial. P.M. engines running well, but
boat not doing the proper speed. C.E.R.A. Milford decided
the damage was outside the boat.
4th.
June.
Boat lifted, discovered port screw badly damaged, this was
put right; boat given another trial and found to be back running at
well. Reported to S.N.O. i/c at 1530 told to report
1700. Officer detailed to take us back to Littlehampton. Sub-
5th.
June. 0900 left Ramsgate arrived Littlehampton 1900, boat running
Lieutenant from Portsmouth.
well except for bad petrol.
(SIGNED) H. COOK. L/SEA.

Details

-3-
264
276
have off a the few boats. At this time I got a signal
I at this part of doing essential work and that there were
I was beaches were to proceed to Dunkirk but that as
many men signal, and the coast to be evacuated I decided to
ignore the other transports proceed with the evacuation. There were at
most inadequate and the other only about 3 power boats of doubtful efficiency were
and/cross arrived. The embarkation arrangements were
first no channel boa on the beach but later a paddle minesweeper
boats and Royal Engineers Ferry Boats do with very few seamen ratings
present boats consisted of a few service boats mercantile
between the loto It was only due to the magnificent work of the
Army units at this part of the beach who were admirably led by their
Officers. that embarkation was able to proceed at any sort of
speed, although the work of the naval officers 10 were present in
few power boats available was beyond praise. There appeared to be
no centralised control either of boats or beach. During the
afternoon and evening there was a certain amount of enemy air
activity but enemy planes always moved away when A/A fire was brought
to bear on them, and there were frequent visitations by British
Fighters which appeared to have an excellent deterrant effect. No
bombs were dropped in my vicinity.
At about 2000 a short but heavy artillery fire was brought to
bear on the part of the beach near to Dunkirk and many men started
to swim out to the ships or come out in very inadequate boats.
I weighed anchor in the "Royal Eagle" - as the tide was approaching
high tide and proceeded as close in shore as possible to pick up these
men. At about 2200 when no further men were coming to the ship
and "Royal Eagle" was packed to nearly full capacity - i.e. every
covered in part of ship full and men also on the upper deck forward
and aft, I decided to weigh and proceed to Sheerness rather than
Margate on account of the ships requirements in oil and water which
at Margate would have taken too long to complete. I consider now
that on this day I committed a serious error or judgement as in
view of the poor embarkation facilities I should have ordered "Royal
Eagle" to ground herself in shore at low water and fill up my boats
running between the ship and shore on a line and then have floated
off and proceeded as the tide rose, or alternatively I might have
grounded /Royal Eagle" to form a pier to facilitate embarkation
by other ships when they arrived. I consider now on looking back
that the provision of some sort of pier should have been a matter
of primary importance.
In view of the shelling of the beaches from the Westward I
decided to proceed back by route "y" particularly as this was the
only route known by experience. Shortly after leaving a report was
received of M.T.B.'s off Bray but I then considered that it was too
late to turn back. After passing Middelkerke Buoy the ship was
attacked by an aircraft firing machine gun but I gave orders that
no firing was to take place so that thereshould be less chance of
giving away to ships position to M.T.B. The ship was not hito
During the night I passed three small dark vessels which I believed
were French Torpedo Boats. I did not challenge but kept guns trained
on them. About 0230 on 31st May there were signs of firing about
10 miles astern and about five minutes later a tremendous column of
flame rose from the water. I consider now that I was to blame in
using route "Y" and that I unduly hazarded the ship by 80 doing.
On arrival at Sheerness at 0600 I found that in response to my
request every possible arrangement had been made for the reception
of the troops and the cleaningofuelling, and provisioning of the
ship. The ships company had had practically no sleep for about 48
hours and had been working under conditions of high tension and
extreme discomfort and the fact that such excellent arrangements had
been made by Sheprness was very much appreciated. I cannot speak
too highly of the spirit and sense of duty shown by the officers and
ships company. On both nights the whole of the ships ...commodation

Details

Dynam 162.
-_330
330
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Stella Rigel" 308
7th June, 1940.
Report on patrol of May 29th to June 3rd.
At 1515 on May 29th we cast off and proceeded out of harbour,
icking up H.M.T. "Argyleshire" and "Lord Melchett" outside. We
rrived off the position at 2200 and proceeded to our patrol area east
f S. Buoy. At 0030 on May 30th we observed a vessel stopped which got
nder way as we approached. As she did not answer the challenge we
ave chase and eventually stopped her. She proved to be M.S. "Ricas"
rom Ostend with troops.
At 0750 we picked up "Argyleshire" and returned to area of
Walls Buoy for patrol.
At 2100 on 31st May we received orders from "Argyleshire" to
atrol S. Buoy to West Hinder during night.
At 0230, having lost touch with "Argyleshire", and having
efound her, we were closing when she was struck by a torpedo and sank
mmediately. We lowered the boat and recovered five survivors, the two
fficers, the signalman, wireless operator and one Able Seaman. During
he course of the rescue a plane circled overhead and dropped parachute
lares, but took no action. The Captain reported having seen a
ubmarine crash dive, and while manoeuvring to attack he was struck
midships by a torpedo. We received instructions to land survivors at
earest port and proceeded towards Ramsgate. Artificial respiration
las carried out on A.B. Laycock for 3 hours until we transferred all
urvivors to H.M. Drifter "Gerrars Rontoul" outside Ramsgate to be taken
.nto port. Picked up "Lord Melchett" and patrolled area of S. Falls
Buoy during daylight of June 1st.
3. Buoy to West Hinden.
At 2015 received orders from "Lord Melchett" to patrol from
At 0430 on June 2nd we picked up a motor boat with 23 soldiers,
aking them aboard and the boat in tow. During this operation the
'Lord Melchett" had closed us, and reported seeing a torpedo passing close
inder our bow.
the soldiers and boat to her, rejoining the "Lord Melchett" on patrol.
At 0745 we were signalled by H.M.S. "Pangbourne" and transferred
enemy plane, which attacked us and dropped a salvo of four bombs close to
At 1100 all ships in neighbourhood were in action against' one
the "Lord Melchett", doing no damage.
daylight, and arrived at Parkeston at 1135.
At 0130 on June 3rd we received orders to proceed to Harwich at
(Signed) J.W. Wykeham.
Sub Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
p.p.