TNA ADM 116 4649

Page 9
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GRENADE of Commander Richard C. Boyle, R.N.
Lost as a result of damage from four large bombs during heavy air attack on her second trip to Dunkirk.
Bi
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Mr. Reginald William Clare, Gunner (T) R.N.
Acted with great coolness and courage, taking complete control of after end of ship when burning and sinking. Closed and flooded magazine at correct moment thereby minimising disaster. Example of gallantry under fire.
Recommended for decoration.
Mr. Reginald James Crew B.Sc., Schoolmaster, R.N.
Displayed conspicuous coolness and devotion to duty during and after the disaster.
Saved a number of lives by rescuing ratings in distress in the oil covered water, landing with a party of survivors in Dunkirk. Took charge and eventually navigated an old motor boat back to
England.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS.
Pottv Officer Harold Richard Emery C/JAJh439.
Petty Officer Samuel Bennion. C/JX.102723.
These two Petty Officers ably backed up Mr.Crew, displaying marked initiative and coolness.
Recommended for mention.
Leading Stoker Frederick Staples, C/KX.84191.
Acted as right hand man to Mr. Clare, taking charge of younger stokers, by calm bearing dispelling any tendancy to panic.
Assiduous in his attention to wounded, both in
GRENADE and later in the trawler which rescued survivors.
Recommended for decoration.

Page 10
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GREYHOUND - Commander Walter Roger Marshall-A'Deane.R.N.
GREYHOUND made 3 trips, 2 to the beaches and 1 to
Dunkirk pier, landing about 1,200 men in England, apart
Bi from wounded. On the 3rd trip, whilst embarking troops from La Panne beach, an attack was made by bombers and
2 near misses damaged the engine room and No.3 boiler room, splinters killing 20 and wounding 70.
GREYHOUND withdrew to Dover to land the wounded, leaving her boats to continue ferrying troops from shore to ship, often under fire and bombing.
Recommendations.
OFFICER.
Commander Walter Roger Marshall-A'Deane, R.N.
For efficient handling of his ship when evacuating troops from La Panne beach and Dunkirk.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS.
Leading Seaman A. W. Saunders, P/SSX. 15620 and
Leading Seaman S. H. Setterfield, P/J.102005.
Evacuating troops from La Panne beach in difficult conditions and under fire, displaying ability and great endurance.
Recommended for mention.
Stoker Petty Officer E. Teichert, P/K. 59694.
In charge of No. boiler room, showed initiative in quickly shutting down the boiler and keeping a fan running, thus enabling the extent of damage to be discovered, when the whole ship was shaking from bomb explosions and splinters had caused damage in his boiler room.
Recommended for mention.
in ge

Page 2.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. VANQUISHER. - Lieutenant-Commander Conrad Byron Alers-Hankey,
R.N.
VANQUISHER had been at sea from 22nd to 26th May patrolling off S.W. Ireland, and arrived at Dover early 28th
May - although Officers and men were therefore tired on that date, 7 trips were made to Dunkirk between the 28th May and 4th June, about 4,000 troops being brought home.
Having made one trip on 28th and two on 29th, her
Commanding Officer found his sight and judgment to be so seriously impaired by lack of rest that he did not consider himself fit to retain command and he therefore arranged for temporary reliefs for himself and his Gunner. During the operation a total of 4 officers and 9 ratings had to be landed to obtain rest.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant-Commander Conrad Byron Alers-Hankey. R.N.
For skilful handling of his ship throughout the evacuation of Dunkirk, thereby evacuating about 4,000
troops to England.
Recommended for mention and early promotion.
Lieutenant Reginald Noel Hankey, R.N.
For outstanding devotion to duty and ability in arranging the embarkation of troops and handling the ship's company in very trying circumstances.
Recommended for mention.
Lieutenant Cecil William Clarence Checcucci, R.N.
For outstanding skill and devotion to duty as
Navigating Officer in difficult and trying conditions.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
C.E.R.A. Francis Patrick, C/M.14987.
For outstanding devotion to duty and skill in acting as Engineer Officer, in the absence ashore sick of the Lieutenant (E), in very arduous and difficult times.
Recommended for mention.
Leading Seaman David Anderson, C/J.107567.
Outstanding devotion to duty and for playing an important part in maintaining the morale of the rest ship's company when they were suffering from lack of extending over a long period.
Recommended for mention and advancement.
qhief/

Page 50
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. HALCYON. - Commander Eric Percival Hinton, R.N.
This ship completed 6 trips to the beaches and Dunkirk 40)
harbour, embarking and bringing back a large number of troops. Whilst working off the beaches boats were sent ashore. On one occasion two of the whalers embarking were riddled with bullets. Ship was shelled from shore batteries and subjected to many attacks from the air.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Commander Eric Percival Hinton, R.N.
Showed great skill and seamanship in the manoeuvring of his ship whilst lying off the beach and also in entering Dunkirk harbour during dark hours due to the number of wrecks in the vicinity. By his perseverance and devotion to duty over 2300 were brought back to England.
Recommended for decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Francis Worthington, R.N.V.R.
Proceeded ashore in order to control the troops, who at that time were in a disorganised state.
Further, whilst in charge of ship's whaler, remained perfectly cool whilst under fire transporting a large number of troops.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Able Seaman Clarence Edward Jarmill, D/J.95955.
Showed great devotion to duty and determination as coxswain of a whaler whilst bringing off troops from the beaches under fire.
Recommended for decoration.
S.P.O. John Henry Salmon, D/K. 66811.
In addition to his work in the Boiler Room took devotion to duty and an example to the stokers.
charge of a pontoon to bring off troops, showing a great
Recommended for mention.

Page 55
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. MEDWAY QUEEN - Lieutenant Alfred Thomas Cook. R.N.R.
This ship completed 7 trips to Dunkirk and the beaches between the 27th May and the 3rd June. During the time she was off the beaches she used her own boats for evacuating troops. The boats, whilst embarking the troops, were continually under fire, and the ship herself was bombed and machine gunned several times. Two enemy aircraft were shot down and altogether over 3,500 troops were brought back to England.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS,
Lieutenant Alfred Thomas Cook, R.N.R.
By his great skill, pertinacity, devotion to duty and able seamanship, was able to complete 7 trips.
The entries into Dunkirk harbour were made in the dark, and under very difficult conditions, due to wrecks and the congestion in Dunkirk. Although the ship was bombed many times, by his skill he was able to avoid any damage being done to the ship.
Recommended for decoration.
Sub. Lieutenant John David Greaves, R.N.R.
With great gallantry and devotion to duty whilst under fire, evacuated troops from the beaches in the boats belonging to the ship.
Recommended for decoration.
Engineer Sub. Lieutenant James Irvin, R.N.R.
By his devotion to duty and leadership kept the engines in an efficient state, although the 1st and
3rd Engineers had collapsed through exhaustion.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS.
Petty Officer Henry McAllister, C/P.23168.
Was in general charge of the boats, and with great gallantry and devotion to duty evacuated many troops from the beaches whilst under fire.
Recommended for decoration.
Petty Officer Alfred Ernest Crossley, C/J.103237.
With great devotion to duty and gallantry remained ashore during the evacuation, organising the troops and arranging for their embarkation in the small boats.
Recommended for decoration.

Page 60
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. PRINCESS ELIZABETH. - Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R.
stopping Ship was attacked days, bringing back over 1,600 go without
Did for four four trips, being continuously on the the boats when by aircraft on many occasions and troops. also working from the beach.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R.
By his skill, seamanship and great devotion duty throughout the operation a large body of troops to were brought back to England without any serious damage to his ship.
Recommended for decoration.
Temporary Sub.-Lieutenant James Tomkin, R.N.V.R.
Was in charge of boats during the operation off the beaches. His ingenuity, courage and gallantry under ceaseless shell fire and bombing was outstanding and his tenacity and leadership in getting his boats loaded created a great impression.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS:
Petty Officer Henry George Coalbran, P/JX.127274.
Showed great initiative and leadership during the operation. His general bearing, conduct and ability, coolness and devotion to duty under fire whilst towing large numbers of boats from the beach was an example to all.
Recommended for decoration.
Stoker Ernest Baker, T.124.
Showed great zeal and initiative apart from his ordinary work in volunteering for boatwork in which he was thereafter employed. Further, he took charge of the loaned motor-boat.
Recommended for mention.
Signalman Ernest Savidge, R.N.V.R.
Did very valuable work as a volunteer in boat's crew. Although crushed and badly bruised between two boats he continued his work with a cheerfulness and total disregard for his own comfort.
Recommended for mention.
L2

Page 70
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.

Page 106,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
85 foot Motor Boats PAULETEER and MARASOLE. - Stoker D. T. Banks,
Recommendations.
KX/86174.
RATINGS:
Stoker D. T. Banks, KX/86174.
Lewis gun and a compass he did not know how to gun,
With crew of two Ordinary Seamen, a Bren a boats. Brought back more than 400 troops to England.
completed seven or eight trips in one or other use, of these
Was sunk with his crew in MARASOLE, undeterred resumed duty with PAULETEER. Endured frequent machine gunning from the air. During six days' work off the coast his idea of relaxation was to take "a run ashore" in Dunkirk with his crew, this town burning furiously and under bombardment at the time. Displayed remarkable leadership, initiative and courage under fire.
Recommended for decoration and early advancement.
Shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood P/M.8899.
Indefatigable in preparing Portsmouth small craft for the operation. As a volunteer proceeded to
Dunkirk beaches to effect repairs to boats there.
Served in Yacht ERICA and H. M. Drifter ROBERT CLIFF, exceptional devotion to duty.
off the beaches assisting in evacuation work. Displayed
Recommended for mention.
Ships Boats, Fast Motor Boat VERNON I, W.D. Fast Launch PIGEON.
(Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.)
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
This enterprising and determined officer commanded in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four successive days and nights. Brought off almost the last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order.
Recommended for decoration.

Page 107.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
ft.
Motor Lieutenant Boat BONNIE Charles HEATHER (Chris Kraft Boat 18 knots)
Waterland Read, R.N.R.).
Recommendations.
FFICER:
Lieutenant Charles Waterland Read. R.N.R.
420 troops. from On the last night ferried off about trips beaches, carrying to England complete
Between to Dunkirk 29/5 and a.m. 4/6 made seven round personnel troops Dunkirk Mole to transports lying about off. 600
the water. vessel SCOTIA sank rescued 40 personnel When and was Was periodically bombed and machine from part in under the gunfire in Dunkirk harbour. Played gunned endurance evacuation and showed great determination a great and under fire.
Recommended for decoration.
TARIOUS SMALL CRAFT:
Recommendation.
Sub. Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N.
Commanded in succession a motor lighter, a tug and motor boat SWALLOW. Completed five round trips between p.m. 30/5 and a.m. 4/6. On first trip made beach between
Gravelines and Calais, landed, encountered two German soldiers, shot both, re-embarked and proceeded to Dunkirk.
On all trips did very well using pulling boats as well as his own craft. Finally left Dunkirk harbour on 4/6 when
German troops penetrated into the harbour area.
Recommended for decoration.

Page 130
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M. TRANSPORT - LEVENWOOD (Continued).
RATINGS.
Merchant Navy Gunner George Knight.
gun the enemy planes, although being machine
Throughout at the operation he continued firing his bringing down an enemy plane.
gunned and bombed the whole time. He succeeded in
Recommended for decoration.
Fireman Robert Moody.
Whilst attempting to take troops off the beach the soldiers had to wade out to the boats, and this
Fireman, throughout the whole time swam from the beach to the lifeboats with soldiers who were too weak to do this.
Recommended for mention.
MAID OF ORLEANS - Gordon Dyer Walker, Master. (Decorated for this operation in London Gazette 7th June, 1940).
This ship completed four trips to Dunkirk, and in addition, three trips prior to Operation Dynamo to Calais and Boulogne. A very large number of troops were brought back to England. Ship continually being bombed by aircraft. In one trip the crew discharged a large number
Dunkirk. of petrol cans, containing water, on to the jetty at
NEPHRITE - Cyril Gifford West, O.B.E.. Master.
Recommendation.
RATING.
Acting Able Seaman Albert Edward Mellis, C/LDX.5187.
Showed great gallantry whilst under bombing attack, firing his gun all the time. Was observed to have brought down at least one enemy plane.
Recommended for decoration.
PRAGUE/

Page 138
Operation "DYNAMO"
ted
Recommendations of Personnel.
Ramsgate and Margate Base Organisation (Continued).
Since the outbreak of hostilities he has borne the brunt of all the difficult problems of organising Contraband Control and Naval Officer's in Charge Offices, during which time he never spared himself working long hours and proving an invaluable adviser on all Merchant Shipping and Mercantile problems as well as an able Secretary.
Lieutenant Commander St. John George Hanson Pitt, R.N. (Retd.)
(Maintenance Lieut. Cdr. MERRIE ENGLAND).
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty as
Maintenance Officer in MERRIE ENGLAND Barracks.
Throughout the operation he met successfully all the many demands made upon his department. He accommodated and detailed all ratings lent, turned part of the building into a casualty clearing station, ran snack bars and clothing depots with the aid of local residents, returned Naval casualties and survivors in large numbers without hitch to their depots and successfully competed with each new aspect of the situation.
Recommended for decoration.
Temporary Paymaster Sub. Lieutenant Maxwell Kerr Hamilton, R.N.V.R
(Assistant Secry)
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty. This young officer, normally Assistant Secretary in my office, was sent to Margate to prepare and take charge of a temporary office instituted for the officer sent to take charge there. Throughout the whole time he remained on duty with only odd hours snatched for sleep and meals, maintaining his office with a complete record of Naval personnel landed there, arranging burials, accommodation, transport, casualties, stores and provisions, all of which he successfully coped with despite his limited experience.
Recommended for decoration.
Temporary Lieutenant George Christopher Newman, R.N.V.R.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty while acting as Pier Officer at Margate throughout the operation. He received and despatched all vessels ut sent there, arranged re-servicing for coal, fuel and provisions, and acted as liaison with the
Military.
Recommended for mention.
Paymaster Lieutenant Normal William Collop, R.N.V.R. (Assistant to Base Accountant Officer).
This officer was sent to Margate to represent the
Base Accountant Officer there. He took charge of all accountant duties, provisions, stores and cash and most/

Page 139
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recomm endations of Personnel.
Ramsgate and Margate Base Organisation (Continued).
most ably performed the multifarious duties required of him throughout the operation.
Recommended for mention.
Temporary Surgeon Lieutenant Basil Henry Palmer, R.N.V.R. (Base
Medical Officer).
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty in his attention to casualties and survivors both personally and through his Sick Berth Staff. This officer worked continuously on the Pier at Ramsgate and many times went out into the anchorages to vessels waiting to come alongside. He got away all casualties with utmost promptitude and worked in conjunction most successfully with the Military Medical Officers.
Recommended for mention.
Engineer Captain John Lewis Deacon. R.N. (Retd.) M.V.O. (Base
Engineer Officer).
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty in his attention to the fuelling and re-servicing all craft, through his department, at both Margate and Ramsgate.
A very large number of mechanically propelled craft were used and all had to be re-fuelled after their various trips, at all hours of the day and night.
That there was no hitch in these arrangements throughout, is testimony to the effectiveness of his organisation. 170 vessels were actually repaired during the operation.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS.
Sick Berth Petty Officer Wilfred Harry Groves, C/MX.48183.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty as the senior member of the Medical Officer's Staff throughout the operation. He remained on duty long hours untiringly, and assisted at the temporary casualty clearing station in MERRIE ENGLAND as well as going afloat to ships waiting to come alongside.
Recommended for decoration.
Chief Yeoman of Signals Lawrence Hamer Hanson, P.229251.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty while in charge of the signal bridge at the end of the
East Pier, Ramsgate, during the entire operation.
The signal bridge had to deal with a bewildering complexity of signal work - by day and by night -
and/

Page 140
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Ramsgate and Margate Base Organisation (Continued).
hours and this throughout. Chief Petty Officer remained on duty branch The success of the communications long throughout the operation is, in measure, and efficiency. due to this Chief Petty Officer's no small keenness
Recommended for decoration.
Stoker Petty Officer Frederick George Charman, KX. 75070.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty while receiving and despatching craft as they came on East Pier, Ramsgate, throughout the operation, alongside with troops. He remained on duty consistently sleep. long hours with only odd hours for meals and
Recommended for decoration.
Petty Officer Alexander Hood Bruce Ireland, J.6530.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty fulfilling the function of Gunner's Mate in MERRIE
ENGLAND throughout the operation. He kept up a running supply of all necessary ammunition and arms throughout, remaining on duty very long hours.
Recommended for decoration.
Chief Petty Officer Cook James McGilray, P/M. 364250.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty as
Chief Cook in MERRIE ENGLAND mess. He cheerfully and successfully coped with a large number of meals and produced them at any hour day or night - for numbers very much in excess of those to which he is accustomed.
Recommended for mention.
Leading Signalman James William Bown, C/J.102529.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty as signalman in charge at Margate Pier. He remained on duty throughout very long hours maintaining communication with all craft arriving at Margate to unload.
Recommended for mention.
Signalman Wilfred Tracy Burton, P/J. 35971.
For outstanding zeal and devotion to duty as
Signalman assisting the above at Margate Pier. He remained on duty throughout very long hours maintaining communications with all craft arriving at
Margate to unload, in very difficult circumstances.
Recommended for mention.
Chief/

Wt. 20906/9711 40M 8/39 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671
Register No.
Min 1)
Minute Sheet No.
Captain Eric Fitzgerald Wharton, R.N. (Retd.) (Lent from
Admiralty S.V.P.)
Paymaster Lieutenant-Commander John Wissett Edelsten, R.N.R.
(Secretary to N.O. in C.)
Lieutenant-CommanderSt. John George Hanson Pitt, R.N., (Retd.)
(Maintenance Lieutenant-Commander MERRIE ENGLAND)
Temporary Paymaster Sub-Lieutenant Maxwell Kerr Hamilton, R.N.V.R.
(Assistant Secretary)
Engineer Captain John Lewis Deacon, R.N., (Retd.), M.V.O.,
(Base Engineer Officer)
Sick Berth Petty Officer Wilfred Harry Groves, C/MX.48183,
Chief Yeoman of Signals Lawrence Hamer Hanson, P.229251
Stoker Petty Officer Frederick George Charman, KX.75070
Petty Officer Alexander Hood Bruce Ireland, J.6530
Surgeon-CommanderWilliam Gordon Fitzpatrick, R.N.
Sick Berth Petty Officer Harry Munro Hawkins, C/M.37726,
Sick Berth Petty Officer (R) Rupert Arthur Lockwood, C/MX.49872
Sick Berth Petty Officer (R) George Robert Wright, X.6227
Sick Berth Attendant (R) Alfred Bassford, X.8080
Captain John George Lawrence Dundas, R.N.
Commander Frederick John Walker, R.N.
Commander Lewès George Gardner, R.N., (Retired)
Mr. William Pearce, Commissioned Signal Boatswain, R.N.,
(Retired)
VAV
Chief Yeoman of Signals John William Baker, P.29166,
Chief Yeoman of Signals Francis George Ward, C/J.31094
Captain Lionel George Dawson, R.N., (Retd.)
Lieutenant-Commander William Canning Eykyn, R.N., (Reted.)
Paymaster Commander Cecil John Leary, R.D., R.N.R.
Commander Desmond Adair Stride, R.N., (Retd.)
N
Captain William Vesey Hamilton Harris, M.V.O., D.S.C., R.N.,
(Retd.)
Commodore John Stewart Gordon Fraser, D.S.O., R.N., (Retd.)
Commander Francis John Lambert, D.S.C., R.N., (Retd.)
Lieutenant-Commander (E) Weston Smith, R.N.
Surgeon Captain Arthur Rowland risher, R.N., (Retd.)
Surgeon Lieutenant Godfrey Fraser Carey, R.N.V.R., M.B., CH.B
M.R.C.S., M.R.C.P.
Surgeon Lieutenant George Atherton Hart, R.N.V.R., M.B., B.S.,
M.R.C.S., M.R.C.P.
Captain John Fawcett, R.N., (Retired)
Lieutenant-CommanderRobert Glen Wardrop, R.N.R., (Retired)
Regulating Petty Officer F.J. Phillips, C/X.39981
Acting Engine Room Artificer 4th Class Hugh Duffie, X.2957, E.A.
Regulating Petty OfficerG. Stapley, C/M.39658
Chief Electrical Artificer Edgar James Lovell (Pensioner),
P.N.11998, P/M.27540
Leading Sick Berth Attendant Norman Clyde Martin, C/MX.49373
Mr. William Ferguson, Naval Store Officer
Mr. R.W.W. Corbitt, Assistant Naval Store Officer
Mr. Bakewell, Victualling Store Officer
Mr. D.J. Woods, Armament Supply Officer
Lieutenant A.A. Raymond MacKewn, R.N.RSea Transport Officer
Major Lieutenant-Commander Steele Wilkinson, R.M. Sea Transport Officer
Allan Ralph William Soper, R.N.R.
Signalman James Walter, R.N.V.R., C/LDT.4178
Lionel S. Duffy, R.N.V.R., C/TDX.1412
Lieutenant Signalman Ronald Charles H. Edward Stoker, R.N.R. Sea Transport Officer
Petty office Edward Bastable, PIJX. 127305.
X
Chief office John William Ailwyn Jones. Hospital Camer DINARD.
Stewardess has A. Goodrich.
Chief Enjures Norman Smith
5r

:- CAPTAIN M/S HARWICH.
E:-
7th June, 1940.
:-
FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE, HARWICH.
BJECT:-
REPORT No. OF OF OF OTIONS, II Officer, May Trawler 31st "GAVA",June, 1940, from
Fleetwood also Fishing Section,
"EDWINA", "VELIA", EVELYN ROSE", "DHOON", "JACINTA".
his by Lieutenant return I have to pleasure Harwich. F.J. Jordan, in forwarding R.N.R., of the the attached Trawler reports "GAVA", given since me on follows Monday, The:- above 27th May, ships and were the apparently work accomplished requisitioned by them at Fleetwood is as
D.
(i) Eight enemy airplanes destroyed.
(ii) Damaged Belgian trawler No. 26 towed into Dover.
(iii) 137 French Naval Officers and men rescued.
.
(iv) A total of 855 French troops brought to England.
Casualties sustained:
Two ratings wounded in the "EDWINA".
The "JACINTA" holed but successfully beached in Pegwell
Bay (England).
RESUME.
"GAVA"
-
Report of doings attached.
"VELIA"
-
Skipper J. Clarkson (F.124 Agreement.)
One plane hit and set on fire by a 12 pdr.
shell. No troops embarked, ship being detailed to assist damaged Belgian Trawler
No. 26 which she successfully towed into
Dover.
"EDWINA"
-
Skipper G. Bedsford (F.124 Agreement).
Ship heavily machine gunned by 'planes
31"
using 1" Cannon. Two of crew and twelve 120
of evacuated French troops wounded.
French Moorish Troops landed.
"DHOON"
-
(Fleetwood have Skipper's name).
Ship No casualties. 130 French Troops heavily machine unned Moorish and bombed -
landed.
"EVELYN ROSE" -
(Fleetwood have Skipper's name).
Ship heavily machine gunner one Tropeller landed and bombed.
on
Only lost damage on wreck. sustained 130 French -

landed them Lovely at Painsgate on Mai 31ˢᵗ immesmight I took another 100 English Loldiers on board, I
diately If Lailed back to Dunkenque and managed to take another 110 English foldiers on board which
I lauded Lovely eat Romsgate on June 14.
the evening. In spite of the fierce bardments which
On your 2nd y returned back to Dinkergue during we had to fustain during the whole night, y was able to take once more 98 bughish Loldiers mboard and handed them at Paintgate.
On June 3rd If returned once again to Dunkerque but owing to the remorklett and heavy to bombardments take which we experienced I was only able a
10 furthermore English Loldiers on board, which bere lavely landud cat Ranulgate
On June 4th I was ordered not to sail back to Tukergue the harbour was object to intende bombardments the by the "luftroaffe" and the every leas near point of taking fottetion of Dunkerque on this fort I was ordered by the Freuch Seine to
On June 6th y failed to be House, authorities arriving at to ferry troops and refugeed across the river Service till
Cronoille. of have done this forrying June 10ᵗʰ
During aireal the bombard following ment night eec which we fultained my thip received a heavy or direct hit and was Lunk with the loss of all my On June property I was fortunate to get the on Bhaunel board another ship which took me across to further theated as a Beligian refuges. in
England. On your 13th I handed at Phoreham and was
Later on I joined my father London who

North Finchley, 7.7.41
The Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
y I, Georges Ragaert, kindly drawn your attention to the following matters.
earned recently that the men who took part in the evacuation of the B.E.F.
erque last have been rewarded by the Admiralty. I am a Belgian of Zeebruge, year and deemed it my duty to make it known to you that I also took
1 these operations of which feats no acknowledge was received.
I have these facts to my own Government on two occasions without the test results, reported and are inclined to doubt wether this report ever reached you.
il fore Dear Sir, allow me to make the following statement.
On Mai 18th Zeebruge in command of the fishing motorboat at 2.50
ppe d and ZUZANNA, with France several as days. On Mai 29th I received orders arriving the
LYDIE 1940, I left destination. I arrived the next day by
10
ere I was ordered Authorities by the to English Authorities to proceed to Dunkerque noh Naval stayed there for proceed with my vessel to Ramsgate On and to sist in the evacuation.
p.
li with 100 English Soldiers on night board, I soon took th nother fter On landing Mai 30th these arrived men I at sailed Ramsgate back to I Dunkerque landed them and savely during at the Ramsgate another 110 on Mai ii
Soldiers on board, Dunkerque and managed to take 1st.
c sailed back which to I landed savely at Ramsgate on In June spite of a
2nd I returned on board, back to Dunkerque during during the the evening. whole night, Ramsgate. I was able the fierce to take bombardments once more 98 which English we had Soldiers to sustain on board but and landed owing to them the at remorseless and
On June 3rd I returned once again to Dunkerque only able to take a 10 furthermore
16
which board, we landed at Ramsgate.
On June 4th on I was ordered by not the to "luftwaffe" sail back to and Dunkerque the enemy the was harbour near the was point object of to taking intense possession bombardments of Dunkerque.
I
was ordered by the On June 6th I sailed to to ferry Le Havre, troops service on and arriving refugees till June at across this in 10th. which port the During my river ship Seine the received to
Brouville. following French night I Authorities done this ferrying heavy the loss aireal of all bombardment my property. ship which took me hit 12th I was England. fortunate to get on board another threated as & Belgian across On the Channel to refugee. On June Later 13th on his I I landed joined poor savings at my Shoreham father he had in and London to was fit in further who me this out was struggle with staying a new forfreedom, there suit as of a clothes. I
refugee. Out 1940, Royal anxious Navy, Sheldon. and to do are my proud share to be serving at the present and time in H.M.S.
as taking the father's adress: Jules Ragaert, 42 Woodside Park Road, a 1 truet Dear Sirion you the will Services give these rendered, matters I will your expect kind attention, a favorable reply which Finchley you N.12.
I am, Sir,
Y
Your obedient Servant,
(Sgd.) Ragaert Georges

over, before taking
V.Iydie Zusanne.
If we send the case to us
M. Ragaert, a Belgian, brought his is ing motor-boat Lydie Zuzanne to and depe when his country was over-run. any
From there he was sent to Ramsgate, after thence he sailed on May 29th to Dunkirk, there he took on board 100 British soldiers. These mon he landed at
Ramsgate, returning at once to Dunkirk for another 110 mon. Having landed them, he made a third passage to Dunkirk
Where he took 98 men on board and brought them to Remagate. The next day, June
3rd he went back again to Dunkirk, where the bombardment was BO heavy that only
10 men could be got on board. These too were landed surve at Ramagate.
For
30
On June 6th Iydie Zusame went back to Le Havre to ferry troops across the basiene, and here she WELS sunk by a bomb.
Your gaert found his way back to England Seaman he now serving as a Leading berrihe Royal Navy.

Treasury Thambers,
B.H.A.C. (B)
Whitehall, S.U.
B.H.A.M. (B)
7th April, 1942.
My dear gleadowe
The following Belgian seamen have been honoured for services in the evacuation from Dunkirk.
M.B.E. (Civil Division) (Admy. number C.W.26235/40 of 17th Sept. 1940).
Captain Maurice Coppin, Master, " Trawler S.S. "Julia". "Guido Gazelle", 0.225.
Captain Rene Lusyne,
If
"
"Maréchal Foch", 0.274.
Captain Pierre Lusyne,
B.E.M. (Civil Division)
Engineer Albert Rooman, Trawler " "Cor Jesu", 0.87. 0.227.
Seaman Prosper Luca,
If
S.S. "Julia".
Seaman Victor Goes,
"
"Guido Gazelle", 0.225.
Seaman Hector Annys,
11 Boats based on Dartmouth Dunkirk. and manned The with "Julia" volunteers, braved every These danger Belgian in transferring Gazelle" 403, troops the from "Cor Jesu" 274. The last named the
"Guido boąt embarked made 1007, one trip, the others two.
The "Marechal Foch" of the went soldiers alongside to jumping Dover the in on quay another board at grounded Dunkirk trawler Foch" and but her. and set on went a The
Master falling and tide his the one weight assistant day, embarked returned 300 men the in vessel the "Marechal was run of down the by troops. a Warship, which back out for again took England. the next Off these the Goodwin two brave Light Belgians and some 150 these on board 1,800 the and men pertinacity of sea."
volunteer Troops and are
D.S.C.
George François Rayaert, Master of a Belgian (Admy. fishing boat.
Letter 13 Nov. 1941).
"For services at Dunkirk.
The
R.M.Y. Gleadowe, Esq..
cw26612/41 Phare set

D. GESELLE.
COPY TRANSLATION.
Belgian Telegraphist.
G.1. Mess.
R.N. Barracks.
Devonport.
19th May 1942.
Dear Madam, address and I am sending you this letter, which will perhaps
It is quite by chance that I have learned your be a surprise to you.
I am a telegraphist in the Royal Navy, Section Belge
I do not know, Madam, if you are conversant with the events which took place during the dark days of Dunkirk, but
I would like to have some details on the suject of the decoration bestowed on G. Ragaert.
I myself have nothing against this young man, but at
Newlyn, Penzance and Brixham, there are nunerous Belgians who remember the fishing-boat 81.
It is a scandal that the Belgian Press and its journalists should only learn the truth through the foreign pres
I was, with two other Belgians, on board the English aircraft carriers "Furious" and "Illustrious" for seven months;
I I was in America for four months on board the latter vessel.
the to papers, but I have and now, when I come have had splendid opportunities of having my story appear in
England Independant were soldiers at Dunkirk, 600 soldiers at Havre. We
With This I see is the just what 81, such always I civilians would "Madeleine a story refused like in and Camille", you them, the 50 to "Belgique know, we Madam: saved 350 -
hours the last to leave Le were waiting for thr were for a rear-guard of Havre French, soldiers, where we of which only 50 men able to be rescued.
London; Germans for At For half the an entrance hour. to the port to we run were round bombed the by offices the
3
G. Ragaert myself, has I his have no one
Ostende; I was father. Royale de Ibis at
Navy I at have I the been age a pupil of at 191. sea of the since Oeuvre I was 14 years old, my and affairs, entent you and be that have no relatives here would I look do that not after want my letter to import will in advance,
I remain,
P.N.L.O.
(signed) Désiré Geselle.
27

COPY TRANSLATION.
D. GESELLE.
Belgian Telegraphist,
G.1. Mess.
Barracks.
Devonport.
19th May 1942.
Dear Madam,
It is quite by chance that I have learned your
P.N.L.O. address and I am sending you this letter, which will perhaps be a to you.
2
surprise telegraphist in the Royal Navy, Section with Belge which I do not took know, place during the dark days of of Dunkirk, the but
I am a Madam, if you are conversant
Letter the would events like to have some details on the subject decoration bestowed Ragaert.
on G. nothing against this young Belgians man, but who at
Newlyn, Penzance I myself and have Brixham, H. 81. there are numerous and its remember I aircraft I journalists was in had the America carriers It I splendid should was, fishing-boat is a with "Furious" for only scandal opportunities four two learn months that other and the the "Illustrious" Belgians, truth on of Belgian board having through the on my Press board for latter story the seven foreign the when appear vessel. months; English I pres in come the to have England papers, I but see I just have such always a story refused in 350 We
This is what H.81, I Havre.
were soldiers the able for last at a to With At Dunkirk, rear-guard be to the the rescued. leave entrance 600 Le of Havre French to the, soldiers, port where we we were of round which bombed the only by offices for the 50 men thre 2
hours were Germans for half an hour. no one to run at
London; G. For I Ragaert was myself, been a pupil has at I his sea have of father. since the Oeuvre I was Royale 14 years de after old, l'Ibis my and affaire entent the Ostende; and Navy at I have I the have age no of relatives 191/2. here you. would I do look that not want my letter to importy will be you a
With thanks in
I
(signed) Désiré Geselle.
4
on
P.N.L.O.