TNA ADM 199 788 A

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Subject.. Personnel. Recommendations for Services in Action.
From
The Commanding Officer. H.M.S. BIDEFORD.
Date
June 6th. 1940. No
To
The Vice Admiral Commanding. Dover.
Sir,
I have the honour to forward the following report on
the conduct of my officers and ships company during the
period May 29th - May 31st. 1940.
2. The general behaviour of the personnel was
excellent. There was a feeling of great satisfaction throughout
the ship when the orders td proceed to Dunkirk were recieved,
3. The behaviour of the men under fire was exemplary.
There were no signs of panic or fear; orders were
passed and recieved clearly, and were executed rapidly and
correctly. All did their duty calmly and efficiently.
4. Great credit for the general organisation of the
ship to meet emergencies is due to the late Lieutenant PAUL
ALISTAIR STEWART R.N., the Executive officer and Gunnery
officer of the ship.
5. No acts of exceptional gallantry were observed,
but I wish to bring to your special notice the two following
cases of very great devotion to duty :-
I. Surgeon Lieutenant JOHN JORDAN. MB. B.Ch. R.N.
This officer by his conduct, zeal and unswerving
devotion to duty throughout the period May 29th - May 31st.
was an outstanding example to us all. His Sick Berth Attendant
seriously wounded; with limited resources, he competed with some
fifty casualties, many horribly mutilated or dangerously
wounded. He performed several major operations; he organised
his limited resources to their utmost,; throughout the period
$
he attended his patients continuously, and at all times display-
ed great ability, patience and understanding. No effort was
too much for him, no call was left unanswered; he was completely
selfless. He upheld the traditions of the Royal Navy and of his
profession in a most worthy manner. It is considered that he WO
would be the very worthy recipient of a decoration in recognition
of his services.
GEORGE
II. No.7354480. Private/WILLIAM CROWDER.
6th. Field Ambulance. 'B' Company.
This man wasembarked from Bray Beach for passage to
England. After the ship was struck by bombs he volunteered
immediately to assist the Surgeon in tending the wounded, About
an hour later H.M. Kellett came alongside to take off all troops
embarked, because this was considered most advisable. Crowder
promptly said he would remain in H.M.S. Bidefoed and continue
tending the wounded. He did this knowing full well thatH. M.S.
Bideford was very severly damaged and aground; that at that time
it was considered highly improbable the ship would reach
England