TNA ADM 116 4649

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Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. BIDEFORD - Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
being bombed and machine-gunned on the way across. While May,
This vessel proceeded to Bray beach on the 29th
bombing attack took place. The ship was struck on the
off the beach embarking troops in the evening, the third
blown away, No.2 gun put out of action and the 0.5 machir
quarter deck, about 40 feet of stern being completely
gun platforms wrecked, in addition to much other damage.
In spite of the damage done, of the fact that the ship
was grounded aft and of the casualties suffered (3 office
and 13 men killed, 1 officer and 18 men wounded), BIDEFOR
continued to embark troops during the night, and when
eventually towed off and home, carried 400 troops to
England on the 31st May.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS,
Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
In spite of the severe damage to his ship by
bombs and the fact that his ship was aground, he
continued to rescue troops from Bray beach, and
eventually carried 400 to England.
Recommended for mention.
Surgeon Lieutenant John Jordan. M.B.. B.Ch., R.N.
Displayed zeal and unswerving devotion to duty
throughout the period 29th-31st May, when he was an
outstanding example to all. His sick berth
attendant seriously wounded, he dealt with some 50
casualties, many horribly mutilated or dangerously
wounded, and performed several major operations,
having organised his limited resources to their
utmost. Throughout the period tended his patients
continuously and at all times displayed great
ability, patience and understanding. No effort was
too much for him - no call was left unanswered.
He was completely selfless and upheld the traditions
of the Royal Navy and of his profession in a most
worthy manner.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS.
Private George William Crowther, 6th Field Ambulance
B. Company, No. 7354480.
This man had been embarked from Bray beach. After
the ship was struck by bombs he immediately volunteer
to assist the Surgeon. An hour later, when the troop
board had been transferred to another ship,
Crowther on said he would remain in BIDEFORD and continu was
his work there, knowing full well that BIDEFORD time
very it was considered highly improbable that the to
severely damaged and aground; and at that ship
would reach England, but he gave up his chance
Carried get away out his voluntary duties for all but 48 hours
in order to tend his wounded comrades.
continuously in a most efficient manner.