TNA ADM 199 790

SPORT OF SUB.LIEUT.T.E.GODMAN. R.N.V.R. (Contd).
-- 320
4. 209
this time on the report is covered by that of the C.O.
Seriola for the actions taken during the rest of the time
12
Ramsgate and the return journey to Hamble.
Sub.Lieut. R.N.V.R.

REPORT OF "NONETA" [SubeLdeuteled.PotterImin R.N.V.R.) ON
321
EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK
A
300
All times approximate.
12
May 31. 0400 and Upon arrival at Bray the beaches were thronged with men a number of floats and boats which had been brought off to the waiting ships and not taken inshore again. We collected as many of these as possible and took them close to the shore, letting them drift in on the tide.
The shallow water made approach to the shore difficult, and so we got under way and went to Destroyer
H.42. The Commander of this ship had by then got four of his ship's boats down and we found that our best method of getting the men off was to tow the boats in to the shore, all tied together, stand off until they were full and then take them in tow back to the destroyer.
We carried out this operation, repeatedly, from day-break until after mid-day when the destroyer was full and recalled her boats. I estimate that in this way we got
700 men off. From mid-day onwards we picked up boats or troops and took them to bigger ships.
At 1620 a large wave of enemy bombers attacked.
We were then just embarking troops from a float which was sinking---it was impossible to get under way until they were embarked and by that time a full scale air-raid was in progress. As we moved away from the shore one bomb fell very near to us on the starboard quarter. In consequence of this one man was killed and four wounded.
Damage and casualties summarised:-
One soldier killed.
Petty Officer Lock wounded in the thigh in two places.
Four soldiers wounded.
The damage to the ship was not extensive.
Upon consideration and in view of the fact that there was a heavy sea running I decided it was out of the question to move the wounded men. Owing to the fact that my Petty Officer was incapacitated, leaving me
Lieut. Dawson, in "Seriola", to request that Sub.Lieut.
single-handed, I signalled the C.O. of my Division,
Godman should join me, and that I had decided to leave for Ramsgate.

REPORT OF "NONETA" (Contd).
322
sub. Lieut. reported Godman that joined me about 1640 and the engineer N. 301
having I got we were leaking and making water very slightly, under way at once.
12
We left Bray at 1650. Arrived at Ramsgate at about 2200, when I reported to N.O.i/C. and arrangements were made to remove the wounded.
June 1. At 0500 Sub.Lieut.Godmen took over a naval pinnace and sailed for Dunkirk.
At 1500 "Seriola", "Bounty", and "Lahloo" arrived at Ramsgate. I reported to my C.O. Lieut. Dawson and sailed, in company, to Hamble.
I would like to recommend very highly,
E.C. Hallet, Engineer T.124
B.P. Whitehouse, A.B. S.T.
C.Wilyman, A.B. S.T., for all their calm and brilliant work.
Under very difficult circumstances they set about their task cheerfully and without a thought for themselves.
I consider myself particularly fortunate to have had these men with me.
Petty Officer Lock was with me in the wheel-house until he was wounded and although in great pain cheered and encouraged the others and kept up the morale of the ship.
(Sgd) a I Potter Irain
Sub.Lieut. R.N.V.R.

323
- 302
HARWICH
FORCE
see LETTER ATTACHED.

16v
329
307
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
Set course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
324
Dynams NT. F
303
me
FROM:- The Flag Officer in Charge, Harwich.
TO:-
The Commander-in-Chief, The Nore.
DATE:- 5th June, 1940.
No. 199/40.
Harwich M/S Force engaged on the Evacuation of Dunkirk.
The following particulars of the M/S Force engaged on the evacuation of Dunkirk are submitted for information:-
Name of Ship.
Name of Commanding
Name of Group or
Officer.
Unit Officer.
Paddle M/S.
"WAVERLEY"
Lieut. S.F. Harmer-
Elliott, R.N.V.R.
ORIOLE"
Lieut. E.L. Davies,
R.N.V.R.
DUCHESS OF FIFE"
Lieut. J.N. Anderson,
R.N.V.R.
MARMION"
Lieut. H.O. Gaffney,
R.N.V.R.
M/S Trawlers
S
Skipper R.C.Taylor, R.N.R.
Lieut. W.H. Ward,
"LORD MELCHETT
R.N.V.R.
Skipper L.P.Keable R.N.R.
Sub.Lieut. J.N.
STELLA RIGEL"
Vykeham, R.N.V.R.
Drifters
Commander J.W.D.Powell 10
"MARE"
Skipper A.H.W.
Pendle R.N.R.
D.S.O., R.N.R.
SARAH HIDE"
Skipper H.A. Meen,
Lieut..I.Cruickshanic,
R.N.V.R.
R.N.R.
"NERRWAYS"
Skipper E. R.N.R. Fawcett,
P.T.O.

32.
(2)
Name of Ship.
Name of Commanding
Name of Group
Officer.
or Unit
Drifters (Cont.)
"UNICITY"
Skipper W.A. George,
R.N.R.
"JACKEVE"
Skipper C.E.F.
Reynolds, R.N.R.
"THREE KINGS"
Skipper G.A. Smith,
R.N.R.
"RIG"
Skipper E. Beckham,
R.N.R.
"STRIVE"
Skipper H.A.
Catchpole, R.N.R.
COMMANDER-N-CHIEF
REAR ADMIRAL
THE
II.
No:477CC/40.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER.
IRAL
1940
*
DOV V 75 R.

Dryrans 16v
32
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
307
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Set Left Parkeston N. Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
course Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
326
Dyram 158-.
304
er
FROM:- The Flag Officer in Charge; Harwich.
TO:-
The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, The Nore.)
DATE:- 9th June, 1940.
No. 207/40.
Reports of Proceedings, Operation "Dynamo"
In continuation of my No. 207/40 of the
7th June, I beg to enclose Reports of Proceedings as shown in the attached Schedule, from M/S vessels attached to Harwich which took part in Operation
"Dynamo".
2.
Full Christian names and Official Numbers of Officers and men mentioned in these Reports are being collected and will be reported as soon as possible.
NICE ADMIRAL
000N1940
Hwloocem
REAR ADMIRAL
*
DOVER
98

321
(2)
Name of Ship.
Name of Commanding Name of Group
Officer.
or Unit Offi
Drifters (Cont.)
"UNICITY"
Skipper W.A. George,
R.N.R.
"JACKEVE"
Skipper C.E.F.
Reynolds, R.N.R.
"THREE KINGS"
Skipper G.A. Smith,
R.N.R.
"RIG"
Skipper E. Beckham,
R.N.R.
"STRIVE"
Skipper H.A.
Catchpole, R.N.R.
COMMANDER-IN-CHIER
REAR ADMIRAL
THE
II.
No:477CC/40.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER.
DOVER

Dryroms 16v
32
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
307
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
Set course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
326
Dyram N/- a
304
era
FROM:- The Flag Officer in Charge; Harwich.
TO:-
The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, The Nore.)
DATE:- 9th June, 1940.
No. 207/40.
Reports of Proceedings, Operation "Dynamo"
In continuation of my No. 207/40 of the
7th June, I beg to enclose Reports of Proceedings as shown in the attached Schedule, from M/S vessels attached to Harwich which took part in Operation
"Dynamo".
2.
Full Christian names and Official Numbers of Officers and men mentioned in these Reports are being collected and will be reported as soon as possible.
4168 ADMIRAL
000N1940
REAR ADMIRAL
* V
98

16v
329
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
307
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
Set course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
305
me
REPORTS ON OPERATION "DYNAMO"
Schedule of Enclosures to letter No. 207/40 dated
9th June, 1940, from Flag Officer in Charge, Harwich,
No.
Ship
Remarks
1.
"WAVERLEY"
Enclosed in letter from Captain M/S,
(S.O. 12th M/S
Harwich.
Flotilla)
2.
"ORIOLE"
Enclosed in letter from Captain M/S,
Harwich.
Attached:- Separate letter of recommendations.
Letter from C.O. "Oriole"
requesting transfer from R.N.V.R. to R.N.R.
Letter in support from
Captain M/S, Harwich.
3.
"DUCHESS OF FIFE"
Attached:-
Separate letter of recommendations.
4.
"LORD MELCHETT"
"STELLA RIGEL"
}
Enclosed in letter from Captain M/S,
Harwich.
5.
"MARE"
"SARAH HIDE"
Letter written by Commander J.D.W.
"STRIVE"
Powell, R.N.R., H.M.S. "BADGER"
"THREE KINGS"
(Group Officer in Command)
"TWEENWAYS"
Attached:- List of recommendations,
"UNICITY"
"RIG"
)
"JACKEVE"
)

Dryran 16v
329
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
307
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
Set course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
LAG ** OFFICER * Deprams -7JUN1940 207 3 IN 16v CHARGE * 306
pers
FROM
Captain M/S, HARWICH.
HARWICH
DATE
7th June, 1940.
TO
Flag Officer-in-Charge, HARWICH.
SUBJECT
Report Covering Patrol from the South Falls Buoy to the West Hinder - May 29th to June 3rd inclusive.
H.M. Trawlers "STELLA RIGEL" and "LORD MELCHETT".
Both ships did extraordinarily well, there being practically no sleep for anybody on board for over four days.
I have pleasure in bringing to your notice bearing and general behaviour of:-
Skipper R.C. Taylor, R.N.R., "LORD MELCHETT"
Skipper L.P. Keable, R.N.R., "STELLA RIGEL", upon whose conduct throughout, their Unit Officers informed me, they were unable to give them sufficient praise.
Sub. -Lieutenant J.W. Wykeham, R.N.V.R. had previously back seen as
Neither Lieutenant W.H. Ward, R.N.V.R. nor anything of war, and Sub.-Lieutenant Wykeham came if he had been to a football match.
VICE ADMIRAL
100UN1940
*
CAPTAIN, M/S.
*
DOVER
mes
VA.

Dryrans 162
329
H.M.S. HARWICH. "Lord Melchett",
307
7th June, 1940.
29th May, 1940.
1525 Set Left Parkeston Quay with "Argyleshire" and "Stella Rigel".
course N. Goodwin Patrol to West Hinden Buoy.
30th May, 1940.
Patrol from S. Falls Buoy to W. Hinden.
0615 sighted wreck 2 miles west of T. Buoy. Sent boat away to and 3 soldiers' kitbags. No survivors.
investigate. Picked up some of H.M.S. "Gracie Fields" papers
Resumed patrol.
31st May, 1940.
Patrol between S. Falls and West Hinden.
1st June, 1940.
Patrol S. Buoy to W. Hinden.
0245 "Argyleshire" sunk by torpedo 1/2 mile East of S. Buoy.
"Stella Rigel" picked up 5 survivors.
Joined by "Cape Argona" resumed patrol.
2nd June, 1940.
Patrol to W. Hinden.
1055 Aircraft attack, heavily bombed and machine gunned.
1130 Again attacked. No damage. "Cape Argona" damaged.
1530 "Blackburn Rovers" and "Westella" sunk by torpedo.
Resumed patrol.
3rd June, 1940.
Patrol to N. Goodwin.
0320 Received message return to Base with "Stella Rigel".
Berthed 1210.
I should like to record that the general behaviour of
Skipper Taylor and the whole of the ships company was at all times magnificent under most trying conditions.
W.H.Ward LERNOR
LIEUTENANT, R.N.V.R.

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.

Lynama 163.
H.M.S. "MARE",
HARWICH.
309
5th June, 1940.
Captain G.W.H. Heaton, D.S.O., R.N.,
HARWICH.
LAG OFFICER IN ORANGE
7 JUN 1940
*
HA
207
Sir,
I have the honour to report that the "MARE", "SARAH HIDE" (Lieut. J.I.
Cruickshank, R.N.V.R.), "STRIVE" (Skipper H.A. Catchpole, R.N.R.), "THREE KINGS"
(Skipper G.A. Smith, R.N.R.), "TWEENWAYS" (Skipper E. Fawcett, R.N.R.), "UNICITY"
(Skipper W.A. George, R.N.R.), "RIG" (Skipper E.F. Beckham, R.N.R.) and
"JACKEVE" (Skipper C.E.F. Reynolds, R.N.R.), sailed from the Cork Light Vessel at midnight on Thursday, 30th May, and arrived at Ramsgate 0930 the following morning.
The "SARAH HIDE", "STRIVE", "JACKEVE", "THREE KINGS" and "RIG" were sent to Dunkirk by Captain E.L. Wharton, R.N., on Friday, 31st May, and separate reports from their Commanding Officers are appended.
On Saturday, 1st June, I sailed for Dunkirk in "MARE" with "THREE
KINGS", "TWEENWAYS" and "UNICITY" in company. At 1248 when rounding the
S.E. Guter Ruytingen Buoy, observed three patrol trawlers being bombed by enemy aircraft. The splashes made by these bombs, which must have been of large size, were yellowish green in colour and quite as high as the funnels.
At 1300 saw the troop ship "SCOTIA" lying on her starboard side having been bombed and set on fire by enemy aircraft. A British destroyer was lying alongside taking troops on board and the mast of a two-funnelled paddler could be seen about half a mile away. Altered course, and seeing several men in the water, sent away a ship's lifeboat which had been borrowed at Ramagate. This brought back nine French soldiers and six more were hauled on board the "MARE", one of whom was restored by artificial respiration. These men were transferred
(together with two picked up by the "THREE KINGS" and one by the "TWEENWAYS"), to the Ramsgate bound drifters "JACKETA" and "FIDGET".
When coming round full speed for Dunkirk a man was seen to wave a white handkerchief on the poop of the burning troop ship, so proceeded alongside and took him off with the boat. He was wounded in the face, and as there were no more "homeward bounders", he was put below and made as comfortable as possible.
saw bomb trawler of which nothing could be seen when the smoke
While engaged in picking up these men the Skipper, Mr. A.H.W. Pendle, had cleared a away. strike Another a trawler close by was also struck by a bomb but kept afloat for some time.
soon afterwards passing a blazing motor doing launch, came and at 1450 rounded No. shore battery and a heavy bomb was concussion shook
Proceeded on course, 5 Buoy in channel leading to Dunkirk. While dropped ahead, so probably under intended fire from for a a German troop ship in company with us. The the engines but did no damage.
off Dunkirk Piers at low water and seeing but a before large number of British troops on the by East Captain of British destroyer steam lying hopper with proceed drifter
1540 arrived Pier, proceeded to go alongside, there to making fast was ordered French and Belgian troops. A this pier.
"JEANNIE to West Pier MacINTOSH" and embark lying alongside here were already at iron ladder astern of them, ordered "JEANNIE "TWEENWAYS" MACINTOSH". to
As another, the and "MARE" "THREE had went three KINGS" to long and ladders "UNICITY" these to four and go outside vessels "UNICITY" were having soon about filled 200 with in
French hopper troops and sailed, the "THREE paddler KINGS" were the next to leave and followed "MARE" them and
"TWEENWAYS" each at 1645. ship. The having The "MARE" destroyer taken also on put and board a 14 men about in 230 lifeboat French towed and Belgians, astern.
continued:

332
-2-
310
During German the aircraft, embarkation an aerial battle was in progress between were being in the basin near the paddler's stern
British and dropped on Dunkirk anti-aircraft (one guns were in action, heavy bombs when she was and going burnt out), out wreck and a of large fire was seen to break out in the Docks.
The split well sunken a British destroyer was lying alongside the
East Pier as as A a sunken trawler with her White Engsign still flying just above the water. paddler and a troop ship with two large leaks in her side were lying off the entrance.
On the return passage soon after rounding No. 5 Buoy, three enemy planes were seen which dropped some bombs round the "MARE". These must have been of small size as they made very little splash.
After passing the Dyck Bank Buoy four or five heavy bombs were seen to fall round ships on the same course about two miles ahead, which included
"THREE KINGS" and "UNICITY". A salvo of seven bombs in line was dropped, and soon afterwards a pair of enemy planes appeared over the "MARE" and "TWEENWAYS"
which were chased off by a British fighter.
2100. The tow rope of the "TWEENWAYS" boat, which was being towed astern of a ship's lifeboat carried away, and as it was getting dark with fog setting in, thought it advisable not to waste time in recovering it and told the
Skipper to carry on.
June 2200. Went alongside at Ramsgate and discharged troops.
Lieutenant J.I. Cruickshank, R.N.V.R. of "SARAH HIDE" reports that he sailed at 1330, 31st May, in company with the "STRIVE" and other vessels for
Dunkirk.
"At 1920, when in the Dunkirk channel, a force of about 25 enemy bombers with screen of fighters was sean approaching from the East at a height of at least 1200 feet. When almost overhead they were attacked by a squadron of British fighters and during the fight that followed four planes crashed in the sea, of which three were identified as German.
would estimate that 80 bombs were dropped and the only casualty observed in I the large number of small craft about was that one drifter was "LORD
50 yards. had a Four bombs were seen to give off a yellowish green vapour gas and
HOOD" fractured steam pipe. The nearest bomb to "SARAH HIDE"
must have been of light weight as there was very little spray.
sent away to the Malo Les Bains Beach at of about 2135.
Salvos 10 of heavy shells 2300 the range was increased and shells West. the
The boats were were bursting on the beach at intervals fell amongat shipping minutes. waiting At off the beach. "SARAH HIDE" moved 300 yards in tow came alongside any one soldiers smack At and Four was 0015, on the taken fishing the civilian 1st beach. in June, smacks tow as in no a The put charge her motor other boats 5 rudder Officers boat stated tugs, were was with then that drifters, and smashed. two made he 95 lifeboats men had fast or been on A other thorough astern. board unable small at search 0145 to craft locate and was made could in be the found vicinity, it was but decided as to return to Ramagate.
of three bombs each were dropped astern channel. and close to
"SARAH HIDE's" Three port salvos quarter as we proceeded down Dunkirk 19 Jun
The troops were landed at Ramsgate at 0850.
Continued:

-3-
333
*
311
whole operation. in a cool and efficient manner during
I should like out to their conclude duties by saying that Skipper H.A. Meen, R.N.R.
Skipper H.A. Catchpole, R.N.R. of the "STRIVE" reports that he ed in company with the "SARAH HIDE" on the 31st May but proceeded nd Malo Les Bains to La Panne where he took 287 British soldiers off beach and left there at 0430 on the following morning. The beach was led continuously all night.
Skipper G.A. Smith, R.N.R. of "THREE KINGS" reports that he ved at Dunkirk on Friday, 31st May, at 1800 and left at 2030 with 150
ish troops taken off the beach. He anchored off Ramsgate at 0215 on
June and landed the troops at 0500. He sailed again with "MARE" as re related.
Skipper C.E.F. Reynolds, R.N.R. of "JACKEVE" reports that on 31st he made his first trip and took 60 soldiers off the beach, landing them
0700 on 1st June. On his second trip on same day he picked up 70 men of the water belonging to H.MS. "MOSQUITO", and landed them at Ramsgate
1st June at 1800.
Skipper E.F. Beckham, R.N.R. of "RIG" reports that he left Ramsgate
1100 on 31st May towing a lifeboat and arrived at Dunkirk 1700. "Dropped hor near beach and commenced taking off troops by means of lifeboats under vy aerial bombardment. After getting two boat loads a measage was sent us via our boat to pull a motor launch off the beach. We hove it up and ceeded in getting the launch off and commenced filling it with troops by ns of our lifeboat, taking them three loads. After that we got one e boat load ourselves and left Dunkirk at 2100. About 60 troops brought r all French.
The following is a summary of numbers brought back:-
P.
C.O.
British Fr. or Bel. Seamen. Rescued "SCOTIA". from
RE"
Cdr.J.W.D.
Powell,RNR
Skpr.A.H.W.
16
Pendle RNR.
220
ARAH HIDE"
Lt.J.I.
Cruickshank
RNVR.
Skpr.H.A.
Meen RNR
100
TRIVE"
Skpr.
Catchpole RNR 287
IREE KINGS"
Skpr. A.V.
2
150
200
Long RNR
WEENWAYS"
Skpr. E.
1
220
Fawcett RNR
NICITY"
Skpr. W.A.
220
George RNR

&
334
.
312
C.O.
British
Fr. or Bel.
Seamen
Rescued from
Skpr. C.E.F.
"SCOTIA"
EVE"
Reynolds RNR
60
70
Skpr. E.F.
Beckham RNR
60
537
980
70
19
TOTAL
1606.
A separate list of recommendations is attached.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
J.S.W. Paurell J.S.W. Pawell hb own
COMMANDER, R.N.
To Flag Officer-in-Charge, Harwich.
Forwarded - as an example of the very best that there is in our race. These fishermen one and all went through Hades coolly and methodically as if they were just catching fish, and each skipper on his return gave the whole credit for the enterprise to their leader, Commander J.W.D. Powell, D.S.C.,
R.D., R.N.R.
A 3
CAPTAIN M/S.
VICE ADMIRAL
0461N001
DOVER

RECOMMENDATIONS.
313
"MARE"
Mr. of A.H.W. the ship Pendle, which Skipper R.N.R. is recommended for air men loss of time in the troopship basin "Scotia", and to getting recovery of handling picked up from the contributed greatly to the quick his efficient without He is also keen at Boulogne where there alongaide passage West Swins to the Mouse Light Vessel.
room. through the East on and navigation and was of good help was in the not night much
"SARAH HIDE"
out his duties a cool and efficient manner during the whole operations. carried
Lieutenant in Cruickshank, R.N.V.R. states that Skipper Meen
"STRIVE"
R.N.R. who "after all other ships in the section, including the ship of
Lieutenant Cruickshank, R.N.V.R.recommends Skipper H.A. Catchpole, the Commander acting as Beachmaster, had retired owing to bombing and shelling, stayed off the beach at La Panne all night. At dawn he made fast all warps and wires which were on board "Strive" to the large lifeboat which had been towed across and a destroyer's pinnace towed it ashore. When fully loaded the boat was hauled back by means of the
"Strive's" winch.
"THREE KINGS"
Mr. J.A. Smith, R.N.R. did good work as he made two trips across and is handicapped by being short of his Second Hand and two men.
D.T. Bowen, First Engineman and his Second Engineman, S. Lawson, were able to effect temporary repairs when the SThree Kings" engines were badly shaken by a bomb explosion.
The Skipper specially recommends S.G. Burroughs, Acting Leading
Seaman, without whose work and encouragement the boat work on the beaches would not have been effective, and who took the place of Second Hand throughout the two trips in place of Second Hand, left behind on sailing.
"RIG"
The Skipper, Mr. E. Beckham, states that his whole crew worked well and that there is/one that he specially wishes to recommend, no
"JACKEVE"
All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others.
TWEENWAYS"
All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others.
"UNICITY"
All did their duty and no one can be recommended more than the others,
Sheet 2 attached.

--336
.
314
-2-
To Flag Officer-in-Charge, Harwich.
Forwarded with a strong recommendation for the addition of the name of Commander J.W.D. Powell, D.S.C., R.D., R.N.R. to the attached list.
ls.
Healon
CAPTAIN M/S.

int
- 315
HM DRIFTERS
DORIENTA.
BEN They
KINDRED STAR
THRIFTY.

Dyram 100
339
From Actual A. 317
RNVR.
To. Captain H.M.S. Veriou
H.M.S. "VERNON",
Binfel uss
Portsmouth.
5th June 1940.
H.M.S. "VERNON,"
311
PORTSMOUTH.
8th June, 1940.
Report of Movements of "DORIENTA" and
"BEN LUCY".
unit the following ifters *HEN & LUCY" and
136/49.
a to Tuesday, June 4th.
VICE ADMIRAL,
OVER.
rs received from
(Copy to:- The Commander-in-Chief, sailed from "VERNON"
Portsmouth).
29th May aboard *300 &
nd for Remogate.
ful, the visibility Tory
Submitted with reference to
May we passed Dover onfidential Portsmouth General Order 1700
arbour at 1645. I
ge and was told to stand en until the following è
Maelon
May I received orders pulling boats in tow,
: small craft). No
CAPTAIN.
peed was adjusted to the
Loh was necessarily slow.
1 of the West entrance to
VICE AD MIRAL 1940
10 of enemy bombers at high altitude; they driven off, but not
*
ad been dropped mong the
DOVER
to observe that two
.D. "LORD HOOD" (this
"FAIRBREEZE" which I
this attack I angaged one guns, the destruction one of our fighters, ged and No proceeded into to the East of Dunkirk harbour at 2100, approaching the shore to a depth of three fathoms. I ordered both my vessels to ship their boats nshiment the boats in shore with instructions to return
S
sparent ships if possible.
11 when eat was now dark, and when the heats were inshore the beach emmenced shelling the beach and the bay, I
08 and instruant my ship moving and instructed "DORTENTA"
soon SA she allependently as soon SA she N&S loaded.
14 by H.M.D. wytons then bailed by H.M.D. "PEASABLE", It. Turner
& sow B.S. his anginwequested & sow as his angines had been replied
.D. shell, I replied that I would do so as soon troops.
4. "Pited with troops.
four returning 10JUN
recev four boats were returning I observed that une was

Dynam. 124
339
From Acting Ar.
To. Captain H.M.S. Veriou
RNSR.
H.M.S. "VERNON",
Portsmouth.
6th June 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the movements of H.M.Drifters "BIDIV & LUCY" and
"DORIENTA" from Wednesday, May 29th to Tuesday, June 4th.
In accordance with orders received from
Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth, I sailed from "VERNON"
North Pier at 2400 on Wednesday, 29th May aboard "EIGN &
LUCY", "DORIENTA" in company, bound for Ramsgate.
The passage was uneventful, the visibility very bad. At 1405 on Thursday, 30th May we passed Dover arriving at anchor off Ramsgate Harbour at 1645. I
reported to Naval Officer in Charge and was told to stand by day. for orders, which were not given until the following
Friday, 3180.
At 1350 on May I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk taking four pulling boats in tow,
("DORIENTA" in company also towing small craft). We proceeded by route 15 W. Our speed was adjusted to the remainder of the large Armada' which was necessarily slow.
At 2000 we were just to the North of the West entrance to
Dunkirk channel when a large force of enemy bombers attacked us from the East flying at high altitude; they were engaged by our fighters and driven off, but not before a large number of bombs had been dropped among the assembled shipping. I was able to observe that two vessels were struck, namely, H.M.D. "LORD HOOD" (this vessel was towed back) and H.M.D. "FAIRBREEZE" which I
was informed was sunk. During this attack I engaged one dive bomber with our two machine gune, the destruction of this machine was completed by one of our fighters.
Neither of my two units was damaged and we proceeded into the channel arriving off the bay to the East of Dunkirk harbour at 2100, approaching the shore to a depth of three fathoms. I ordered both my vessels to sRip their boats and sent the boats in shore with instructions to return to their parent ships if possible.
It was now dark, and when the boats were inshore the enemy commenced shelling the beach and the bay, 1
therefore kept my ship moving and instructed "DORIENTA"
to return independently as soon as she was loaded.
I was then hailed by H.M.D. "FEASABLE", It.Turner
R.N.V.R. who requested & tow as his engines had been disabled by & shell, I replied that I would do so as soon as I had filled with troops.
As my four boats were returning I observed that one was

340
318
Page 2, one was destroyed by a shell.
power boat to containing control officers who ordered
While embarking the troops I was hailed by a boats return to the beach closer to the harbour. my troops, to tow these boats to the position indicated.. At instructed & motor boat which came alongside me, also with I
this stage contact with "DORIENTA" was broken and I
presumed that she had proceeded as previously directed.
My boats having departed I made contact with
H.M.D. "FEASABLE" taking her in tow and proceeded to
Westward in search of further troops. When off the harbour entrance I contacted three boat loads of troops and took them aboard, as there were no boats crews I put them in tow astern of H.M.D. "FEASABLE".
"BEN & LUCY" was now loaded to capacity and was preparing to proceed homewards when I was hailed by a naval rating alone in a waterlogged whaler, I took him aboard abandoning the whaler, I was then hailed by a fishing smack (?) "LETITIA" of Southend who requested a tow as he was short of fuel, I told him to tail on, and continued my passage, the time being approximately 0100
June 1st.
The channel was negotiated without event, two destroyers being passed bound in. At approximately 0200
we turned to the North having rounded the Whistle bucy and, when about six miles to the North of the channel aircraft was heard overhead, while A.A. gunfire and searchlights had been active for the last half hour. At approximately 0330
& very heavy explosion occured close to the port quarter of "FEASABLE". The skipper and I were thrown across the bridge with great violence. On looking aft I saw a large column of smoke and water close astern of "FEASABLE".
Owing to the abnormal phosphorescence of the water I judged this to be an aerial attack on what was thought to be a large vessel, and as "FEASABLE" was still in tow and made no signal for assistance I continued. (I was subsequently informed by "LETITIA" that another smack named "ROWAN" which had attached herself to the tow unknown to me had been sunk by this explosion.)
at
"BEN & LUCY" was now making water & about one foot per hour.
About 0700 I was overtaken and hailed by "VERNON"
Pinnace V.4. who requested & course for the North Goodwin
Light Vessel and then proceeded ahead of us.
At approximately 0745 we sighted North Goodwin to port and headed for Ramsgate.
When approximately 3 miles to the N.E. of Ramsgate
"LETITIA" slipped her tow and under her own power began to make off. I hailed her and when he informed me about the loss of the "ROWAN" I ordered him to report to Naval Officer whence he came. I repeated my previous instructions which in Charge, Ramsgate. He replied that he was returned
I do not think he obeyed.
When a mile to the Northward of the harbour I
signalled

341
319
Page 3.
signalled "FEASABLE" my intention to tow her in lashed alongside "BEN & LUCY". While attempting to do this the tow rope was picked up by a length of sweep wire which apparently had been foul of our propeller since leaving Portsmouth. Our propeller became hopelessly fouled so we were both obliged to anchor. I signalled
Pierhead that I had 100 troops, including two wounded and that I was disabled. A launch came off and took the troops made unsuccessful attempts to obtain a tow into harbour to ashore. We remained at anchor until Monday morning having clear the screw.
At 1000 on Monday, June 3rd we were towed in by drifter "RENASCENT" and at low tide succeeded in clearing our screw by acetylene cutter. While this operation was on hand I succeeded in contacting the skipper of "DORIENTA". He reported to me that his engines had been damaged by the explosion of a shell but that he had managed to return at reduced speed (the boiler had moved and broken the joints in several steam pipes causing flooding in the engine room which in turn blocked up the bilge pumps with ashes). I reported to Captain Wharton R.N.
who instructed me to return to Portsmouth and take "DORIENTA's"
crew with me as "DORIENTA" was'wrecked", but on the assurance of her skipper that he was confident he could bring her back to Portsmouth I returned to Captain Wharton and sought permission to bring "DORIENTA" back, as, if it proved necessary, I could have taken her in tow. This permission was granted and at 0600 on Tuesday, June 4th we weighed anchor and made passage to Portsmouth, arriving at 2100.
I wish to place on record and draw attention to, the perfect discipline and devotion to duty of all members of both crews, with particular mention of Skipper
W.A. Whatling R.N.R., Skipper W.F. Reynolds R.N.R, and the engine room staff of H.M.D. "DORIENTA" whose coolness in maintaining way on the ship in most arduous conditions undoubtedly prevented the abandonment of this ship.
I have the honour to be,
CAPT H.M.S. -7 1940 2
Sir,
Your Obedient Servant,
"VERNON"
LM.Shs
Acting Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
Unit Officer.

Lynamo 203.
342
320
From Acting Lieutenant F.G.M. Iles, R.N.V.R. Unit Officer.
Date... 7th June 1940.
COPY
To
VICE ADMIR AL, DOVER,
To
Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth.
Thro. Captain, Hrs.
Sir
In accordance with paragraph 2 of C.P.0.1691,
I have the honour to submit the names of the following officers and men who I consider greatly distinguished themselves during the evacuation of the B.S.F. from
Dunkirk.
H.M. Drifter "BEN & LUCY".
Skipper W.A. Watling, R.N.R.
His 0001 bearing and demeanour throughout the operation and especially during the time H.M. Drifter "FEASABLE" was taken in tow under heavy fire contributed most materially to the saving of both ships.
A. Frampton. A.B. H.O. Official Number not known.
T.W. Turner.
A.B. H.O. LT/JX/167136.
E.C.Winney. д.в. H.O. LT/JX/167132.
Ayers.
A.B. H.O. LT/JX/167128.
The above four seamen manned the two Lewis guns continually in a most steadfast manner and without any protection whatsoever for five hours under heavy bombard ments both from the air and land.
H.M. Drifter "dorienta".
Skipper W.F.Reynolds.
This officer and great initiative when ordered to extreme showed great coolness throughout the proceed whole operation He navigated his ship with chart skill and his in the engines nerrow partially disabled, thus, undoubtedly independently. channel off Dunkirk without any saving his ship and the troops on board.
A."mention
W.Kennedy. Engineman R.N.R. X/369.
H.O. LT/KX/101797.
J.Smith.
Engineman Stoker H.O. Official Number not
J.J. Shone.
Stoker R.N.R. x/104158.
J.Pirie. the ship was damaged by & shell by the bursting explosion close to sundry the When stern, steam the pipe boiler joints was steam were so and rocked blown hot and water the 00 feed fly cheked in all with directions, pump that ashes. damaged the so The bilges 9.9 initiative, to cause became flooded skill and and energy the pumps shown by these
P.T.O.

3.13
ratings, especially W.Kennedy enabled the ship to reach Ramsgate under her own steam and eventually to
Navy considered her a wreck in the Engine Room.
proceed to Portsmouth although Captain Wharton, Royal
F.Russell. X/18714. Seaman R.N.R.
L.Murfield. x/7963.
Seaman R.N.R.
R.Reekie. Official Official Number Number not known. H.O. Seaman.
F.C.West. not known. H.O. Ord.
Seaman,
The above four seaman manned the two Lewis guns continually in a most steadfast menner and without any protection whatsoever for five hours under heavy bombard.
ments both from the air and land.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your Obedient Servant.
LM. Les
Acting Lieutenant R.N.V.R.
Unit Officer.
II.
No: 211/23. VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER, copy to:-TIE
II.II. SHIPS & VESSINS,
PORTSNOUTH.
conduct 2. and hondling Licutenant of his ILES unit says seems nothing to have about been ni but hit
Forwarded, concurring with the report.
H.M.S. "MERITON",
PORTSNOUTH.
8th June, 1940.
CAPTAIN
VICE ADMIRA
11 JUN 1940
*
DOVER

"KINDRED 29th "THRIFTY" during DUNKIRK OPERATIONS DRIFTERS
REPORT STAR" & FROM OFFICER IN CHARGE OF
321
May to 5th June 1940.
May
29th.
Having all received orders to proceed to Dover on and duty, M/S gear was landed, the ships were coaled special provisioned and left Portland Harbour at 1900
ay
30th.
Arrived off Dover at 1730. Reported arrival to off examination vessel and was told to anchor about 10/4 mile breakwater and await instructions.
May 31st.
Having waited outside Dover Harbour all night We finally received instructions to enter harbour and berth alongside Prince of Wales Pier at 1400.
I reported in person to Vice Admiral Dover and was instructed to stand by for sailing orders.
June 1st. At 0430 orders were received to report to H.M.S. "Lynx"
for final instructions. We were then given orders to take in tow 6 Lifeboats or similar craft with each ship and to proceed to the beach 1 mile east of Dunkirk by route "Y".
We left Dover Harbour with boats in tow at 07 00 for
Dunkirk via North Goodwin Light Vessel.
113 O.
Passed "W" Buoy Saw floating Mine destroyed by gun fire from another vessel.
1330.
Passed several vessels returning from direction of
Dunkirk - some with a few troops on deck, others apparently empty.
1400.
Passed """ Buoy. Speed made good approximately 4 knots.
1430g
Saw large Ship on her side on fire and boat blazing in the water. Shells falling very near from shore batteries.
1530.
Attacked by dive hombers. Sent out message # attacked by aircraft" on R/T. Our lewis guns in action.
Several vessels were seen trying 10 enter Dunkirk Roads but all were driven back by action of enemy aircraft and shore batteries. We altered course to bring us outside range of shore guns.
1610.
Again attacked by dive bombers. R/Teall sent and Lewis
Guns were again inaction.
One salvo of 4 bombs struck the water just ahead of the
"Kindred Star" scorching the paint and scattering small
There was another salvo of 6 bombs dripped - 3 each side fragments on the deck but doing no aparent damage.
of the "Thrifty". These bonbs burst under water throwing
Two hands were washed overboard ut these were picked up up and decks to a depth of several feet.
great columns of water and flooding the top bridge by lifeboats.
The was seen to be badly it by & bomb to pieces. - afterwards tows were slipped for greatel safety.
One Trawler Another unknown vessel as blown to
We sinking. did not stop as there were oth- ships nearer these
1620.
vessels. "Kindred Star"reportedhat the and boiler feed pipes was
Engineer losing water on rapidly also the mainiteam
1730.
were cracked. to collect tow which indepenintly. had attered, all except
3 Returned lifeboats signal having to Dover returned asking received. for nstructions re these
1800.
Sent R/T reply was request. aircra, attheir dive bombing near
"V"
buoy.
1830.
Lewis Guns aircraft, but sustained. "Kindred
Again attacked again in action, no also further two her amage attacks was by
Star" Entered in order to effect high bombing Ramsgate Harbour and repairs. blew dowboiler on

345
be 322
June 2nd. In Ramsgate Harbour doing temporary repairs to boilor of "Kindred Star".
shaken up and galley stove destroyed.
"Thrifty" reported to be leaking badly, engines
June 3rd. Orders were received from N.O.I.C. Ramsgate to return to Portland in company as soon as the tide permitted. Owing to the repairs not being completed until late, we were not in time for that evening's tide.
The Chief Engineer of "Thrifty" got intoxicated and struck the Skipper of the "Kindred Star" and also his own Skipper. He was placed under arrest by orders of the N.O.I.C. and handed over to the
Ramsgate Police.
June
4th.
Left Ramsgate 0925.
June 5th. Arrived Portland 1100.
June 12th 1940
Lieutenant. R.N.V.R.
ded hereto

34
316
323
25
FROM... THE FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE, PORTLAND.
DATE... 6th June, 1940.
No.2912/
TO
...
Captain A/S, H.M.S. "OSPREY".
Commending Officer, C.C. Baso,
Commanding Officer, Trawler Base.
Port Minesweeping Officer,
Resident Naval Officer, Poole,
Assistant King's Harbour Master.
All ships under your administration which took part in the evacuation of the B.E.F. are to be instructed to forward forthwith a nerrative of
OFFICER-TROCHARGE 1543/0
covering the period 26th May to 4th June, 1940.
15 JUN 1940
*
II
a
I
PORTH Report from H. Dunbar VICE ADMIRAL.
attached hereto,
/III over...
P.M.S.a
Forwarded.
(SD,) E. R. DRUMMOND
CE ADMIRA
Portland.
VICE ADMIRAL.
19 JUN 1940
16th June, 1940.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
DOVER D R

SS
III.
No. 1543/07.
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
SMA
Portland.
VICE ADMIRAL.
16th June, 1940. FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
VICE ADMIRAL
19 JUN 1940
*
*
DOVER
Lyunino

Subject:
Dyram 3HH.
347
3
324 32
From
THE FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE, PORTLAND.
Date
6th June, 1940.
No.
2912.
To
Captain A/S, H.M.S. "OSPREY".
Commanding Officer, C.C. Base,
Commanding Officer, Trawler Base.
Port Minesweepiig Officer.
Resident Naval Officer, Poole.
Assistant King's Harbour Master.
All ships under your administration which took part in the evacuation of the B.E.F. are to be instructed to forward forthwith a narrative of events covering the period 26th May to 4th June, 1940.
(sd.) E. R. DRUMMOND.
VICE ADMIRAL.
II.
Report from Lt. Dunbar attached hereto.
(sd.) W. R. WHITE.
P.M.S.O.
Portland No. 1543/07.
15th June, 1940.
III.
No. 1543/07.
Vice Admiral,Dover,
Forwarded.
(SD,) E. R. DRUMMOND
ADMIRA
VICE ADMIRAL.
Portland.
19 JUN 1940
16th June, 1940.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
DOVER
D
A

348
- 325
Flare Burning Drifters under command of Captain Cusiliary Patrol Dover.
Eileen Emma
Forecast
Gervais Rental
Girl Gladys.
Girl Pamela
Golden Gift golden Sumbean
Lord Howard
Lord Howe
Midas
Netsukis
Paxton
Roy Day Roy Boy.
/ to
Shirmates lit Presime
The Boys.
Tosbay II
yorkshire Lass.
young Mun.

Confidential.
rx" 3/3/949
113
From:- Captain Auxiliary Patrol, Dover.
- 326
Date:- 4th. June, 1940.
To:-
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Submitted:-
Tabulated list of F/B Drifters employed between 36th. May and 4th. June 1940.
Paxton,
Roy Boy,
/ Trs
Netsukis
Eileen Emma
Gervais Rentoul
Lord Howe
Golden Sunbeam
UtProsim
Yorkshire Lass
Forecast
Girl Gladys
Torbay II
Young Mun
Lord Howard
Shipmates
Golden Gift
Midas
The Boys
Girl Pamela (sunk.)
Damaged by bombing (near misses) sinking and beached:-
Paxton,
Roy Boy.
kis Burh
VICE ADMIRAL
Captain Auxiliary Patrol.
5- JUN 1940
*
DO > E

-2-
--352
- 329
Malo-les-Bains, towing three Liege lake boats. Drifters of "Girl which had been sunk by an escort vessel at the
"Netsukis", Pamela" and "Lord Howard" returned from Dunkirk with the crew entrance to the harbour. A/S Trawler "Kingston Olivine" towed
Dover Wednesday morning, landing 1600 men.
damaged transport to the Downs from "S" Buoy. Drifters returned a to
8. On Wednesday night Drifters "Yorkshire Lass", "Ut Prosim",
"Golden Sunbeam" and "Girl Gladys" sailed for Dunkirk, three vessels towing motor-boats.
Thursday, 30th May.
9. 800 troops were landed at Dover during the forenoon from
Drifters returning from Dunkirk. A/S Trawler "Kingston Andalusite"
reported what was considered a successful attack on a submarine off
"T" Buoy. Drifters "Yorkshire Lass", "Golden Sunbeam", and "Girl
Gladys" filled up with troops alongside Eastern Arm, Dunkirk, and sailed for Dover. Drifter "Ut Prosim" rescued 250 men from a French
Destroyer "Barasque" sunk by shell fire. The three other Drifters landed 700 men at Dover.
Friday, 31st May.
10. A/S Trawler "Stella Dorado" reached Margate with survivors from French Destroyer "Sirocco", torpedoed off "I" Buoy.
Lieutenant T.P. Graham, R.N.R., on return in Drifter "Forecast"
reported difficult conditions, owing to swell and weather for boatwork on the Dunkirk beaches, a large number of boats being wrecked and broken down.
Saturday, 1st June.
11. A/S Trawler "Stella Dorado" was torpedoed off "I" Buoy, survivors being brought in by "Kingston Galena", as reported in my submission No.DL/250/11/AP dated 1st June 1940. All available
Drifters were ordered to sail for Dunkirk. "Netsukis", "Lord Howard",
"Lord Howe", "Golden Sunbeam", "Midas", "Golden Gift", "Girl Gladys",
"Forecast", "Yorkshire Lass", sailed. A/S Trawlers "Lady Philomena"
and "Olvina" arrived with survivors from S.S. "Prague" and H.M.S.
"Basilisk". Two Drifters, "Gervais Rentoul" and "Eileen Emma"
returned damaged and unseaworthy after collisions with other craft.
Sunday, 2nd June.
12. Drifters returned to Dover landing 1800 men. They were all brought to immediate notice for a further trip to Dunkirk.
"Shipmates", "Lord Howard", "Lord Howe", "Golden Sunbeam", "Midas",
"Golden Gift", "Girl Gladys", "Forecast", "Yorkshire Lass", sailed.
Drifters went alongside Eastern quay, filled up with troops and returned to Dover. Practically all the troops evacuated were French.
A/S Trawlers "Blackburn Rovers" and "Westella" were sunk by enemy action between "S" and "T" Buoys, as reported in my submission
No. DL/259/33/AP dated 5th June 1940. "Blackburn Rovers" had obtained a contact which was subsequently attacked by A/S Trawler
"Saon", it is considered successfully. A/S Trawler "Grimsby Town"
screened and stood by a damaged transport off North Goodwin Light
Vessel.
Monday, 3rd June.
13. Drifters returned with French troops from Dunkirk, landing at Dover roughly 1600 men. Drifters "Lord Howe", "Shipmates",
"Girl Gladys", "Midas", "Golden Gift", "Golden Sunbeam", "Forecast",
"Ut Prosim", 'Lord Howard", sailed for Dunkirk. A/S Trawler
(Par.13. "Cayton Wyke".......")

353
-4-
330
"Cayton Wyke" picked up a Thames barge containing 300 French officers and men off No. 4 Buoy. Towed barge to Dover and landed men.
Tuesday, 4th June.
14. All Drifters returned from Dunkirk. Drifters landed
1900 men at Dover, nearly all of whom were French.

DUPLICATE
355
332
Principal c/o Sea Transport Office, (Fronsh Ports),
Ministry of Shipping, (Room 8009),
Borkeley Square House, Borkeley Square,
LONDON, Wele
24th June, 1940.
The Director of Soa Transport.
the
(coyy to
I have the honour to bring to your notice the names of the following officers and mon serving under the command of
Vice-Admiral, Dovor.
In the first category I would place -
Skipper William Honry Pollock
Second Hand Thomas H. Christian, R.H.R. LI/HO.
Soaman William Bullen, R.N.R. LT/HO.
all of H.M. Drifter "LORD HONE". and subuit that their gallantry may be suitably rewarded.
In the second category I would place Licutenant
X C.V. Brannell, R.N.R., of H.M.S. "GUIZAR", and submit that the enclosed despatch on his services may be officially recorded.
SIGNED W.R. GANDELL
COMMODORE, Relle
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
FRENCHE PORTS.
X
already disorated (Dynama)
Recommended for

QGC
see docume) 1001290 Project not
(C000 rmoti). 20 %
vorings volustrati parroF except
HAW PROGREST
voger ANDS
Whogament zible to Date
- atta soldti TWOY, 02 glabal of one time 1
to add griving has emerito only 20
account
-: cosig bEnow I then adit at ухной mattin D
WE assect Self bemboa
.CH\RT valid mattly member promiting storts daild tindus has GRAI" volting to In vidation od Yas could blrow X program wild nl off stad Date WORK 30 4V.0
od you applysis and to baselom am
TROTEMANT AND
HOMELY
(mmmple) parks internal it

PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICE,
356 5
FRENCH PORTS.
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING,
333
ROOM 8009.
BERKELEY SQUARE HOUSE,
BERKELEY SQUARE,
LONDON. W.1.
20th June, 1940.
FP/YX1/2.
The Director of Sea Transport.
(Copy to Captain, Auxiliary Patrols, Dover).
Submitted.
Forwarded, with a strong recommendation that
Skipper William Henry Pollock of H.M.S. "LORD HOWE", may be suitably rewarded.
2. I was present while the "LORD HOWE" was alongside and can confirm that part of Lieutenant Whittle's report.
3. I have already written to the Captain, Auxiliary
Patrols, Dover, asking him if he will enquire of the skipper of the "LORD HOWE" whether he wishes to bring to my notice the names of any of his crew. The reply has not yet been received.
SIGNED V. R.GANDELL
COMMODORE, R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
FRENCH PORTS.
Sir,
Bilth Justo, 10406
Your obedient Servant,
LIEUTSMANT, R.H.R.

357
Principal Sea Transport Office,
French Ports,
Principal % Motory Sex B. By Class Re, 2009), Portge 334 335
0/0 A.P.O. Se6,
DUPLICATE
Heriodary LONDON, 20th June, Tele 1940.
Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports.
Sir, proceeded in H.M. Tra wlor "LORD HOWE" (Slapper William Honry
I have the honour to report that on 24th May, 1040, I
Pollock), which was ordered to Calais with a cargo of ammittion.
On approaching the Fort sho WES heavily sholled by a battory concealed among the sand dunos to the South of the Port.
2.
Finding it almost impossible to force an entrance, the trawler drow off and reported to Vice-Admiral, Dover. On receiving the order: "Procced to Calais immodiately," It was decided to approach the entrance to the Port from the North.
Under a hoavy barrage of high explosive and shraphol fire, the skipper of the travler succeeded in entering the port and taking up position alongside the Quai Maritime Southern ond. As there WELS no labour or assistance to be obtained from the quay, the crew of the trawler started to discharge the cargo of ammunition. This entailed hauling the boxes of amamition by hand from the deck of the trawler to the top of the quay - &
distance of somo 22-ft. and dragging them across the quay to a place of safety - the whole proceeding under a devastating fire from the enemy. There was no protection of any sort, and none of the crow was equipped with steel holmets. The discharge continued orderly and efficiently until ordered to stop by
Commodore Gandell, R.N., who decided that, as all the.305
ammunition had boon discharged, the danger was too great, and he ordered the trawler to sea. Again, the tra wler came under a heavy direct fire from the enemy, but, with great skill, and zigzagging, the skipper succeeded in bringing his ship safely out of danger.
Forts.
S.
I cannot too highly commend Skipper W.H. Pollock, who, in addition to his duty with rogard to his cargo, gave no every possible assistance, onabling no to report to Commodore
Gandell, R.N. He also enabled no, on the way home, to deliver a plan of Calais to H.M.S. "GREYHOUND", patrolling off the port. This plan showed the approximate positions of the enemy and his batterios, which were imediately shelled by the
"GREYHOUND" to relieve the pressure on our defenses.
(signed)
Dush.
I have the honour to bo,
-
Sir,
Sign June, 1040.
Your obedient Servant,
LIEUTENANT, R.N.R.

COPY.
359
- 226
0771061, VREBOR PORTN.
Principal Sea Transport Office, French Ports.
358
c/o Ministry of Shipping, (Room 8009),
Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square,
335
DUPLICATE
LONDON, Wele
24th June, 1940.
the Widelle,
The Director of Sea Transport. Inlais in Definer
I
RM bringing the of the Skipper to the
Submitted: Director of to his buting
Forwarded with a request that the gallant action
Order you please and Sty of these two mon may be suitably rewarded.
vas 033 the guay the SIGNED: W.P. GANDELL
which does quest.
COMMODORE, R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER, address up to 085 Aund FRENCH PORTS.
Hotols for for Transport Officer,
Printi locks,
(Commetore Senstall, MA)
(63gma)
Secretary,
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signal)
It is requested that the names of the following ratings may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

COPY.
359
FROM
-
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER, FRENCH PORTS.
336
TO
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER. (Copy to MA/DST).
31st May, 1940.
R.N.R., of my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter
I enclose a. copy of a report from Moutenant Whittle,
"Lord Howe".
10
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members of his crow should also be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse all parts of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done alongside the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of PaSaTeO.,
South-Western Hotel, Southampton, Facture, howy for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P. Gandell, R.N.)
I
carrot too
(signed)
Secretary.
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signed) bells
It is requested that the names of the following ratings may be brought to the notice of the Director of See Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

360
COPY.
337
H.M. Trawler "LORD HOWE".
Skipper William Henry Pollook.
This Trawler was ordered to Calais with a cargo of ammunition. On approaching the Port she was heavily shelled by B. battery concealed among the sand dunes to the South of the
Port. Finding it almost impossible to force an entrance, the trawler drew off and reported to Val. Dovor. On receiving the order "Proceed to Calais immediately", it was decided to approach the entrance to the Port from the North.
Under a heavy barrage of H.E. and shrapnel fire the
Skipper of the trawler succeeded in entering the port and taking up position alongside the Quai Maritime Eastern end. As there was no labour or assistance to be obtained from the Quai, the crow of the trawler started to discharge the cargo of ammition. This entailed hauling the boxes of ammunition by hand from the deek of the trawler to the top of the Quai, a distance of some 22 feet, and dragging them across the Quai to a place of safety - the whole proceeding under a devastating fire from the onemy. There was no protection of any sort and none of the crow were equipped with steel helmets. The discharge continued orderly and efficiently until ordered to stop by Commodore Gandell, R.N., who decided that the danger was too great, and sent the trawler to SCD. Again the trawler came under a heavy direct fire from the onemy, but with great skill the Skipper succeeded in bringing his ship safely out of danger.
I cannot too highly commend Skipper W.H. Pollock, who in addition to his duty with regard to his cargo, gave me every possible assistance, enabling me to report to Commodore Gandell, R.N., also contacting H.M.S. "GREYHOUND" who with the aid of a plan given to me by the Commodore was able to shell the Port and so relieve the pressure on our Troops.
Dover, 29th May, 1940.
(signed) L.C. WHITTLE.
Lieutenant, R.N.R.

36,
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICE
FRENCH PORTS,
2
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING,
338
ROOM 8009
BERKELEY SQUARE HOUSE,
FP/YX/4.
SHEERNESS
BERKELEY SQUARE,
LONDON. W.1.
20th June, 1940.
The Director of Sea Transport.
Sir,
I have the honour to bring to your notice Lieutenant
C.V. Brammell R.N.R. of H.M.S. "GULZAR".
2. On the evening of. 26/27th May, 1940, I was informed by
Vice Admiral, Dover, that H.M.S. "GULZAR" was placed at my disposal to go to Calais to take water and stretchers, and to bring back wounded.
3. Lieutenant Brammell brought his ship into Calais, it being a very dark night, turned round, and secured with slip lines alongside the steps of the Gare Maritime. All this was done without noise, which enabled the officers landing to get ashore unnoticed. On entering the channel, the complete absence of any firing raised suspicions that the enemy might already have taken the town, suspicions which were confirmed when the landing party got ashore and had to return hurriedly to the yacht.
4. Lieutenant Brammell slipped his lines very quickly and got away just in time, as a heavy fire from rifles and machine guns was opened on the yacht from the neighbourhood of the steps as she proceeded down the entrance.
5. It was due to the quiet discipline in his ship that the landing party got ashore unnoticed, and due to his seamanship and smartness that we got quickly away; any delay might have entailed severe casualties.
/6.

JAHIDHINE
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COOD MOOR
BROOH a oner, arth LIJOS
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6. At the extreme head of the breakwater, the "GULZAR"
hailed in English. She stopped, returned, going alongside and 48 soldiers, who were landed at Dover. Etc guineve ONJ
extreme end of the breakwater and brought off three office
VSII 3a booking B.SW India ToyoC
of Drin Drin I have the honour to be, 0 of Inn
Sir, zond
Your obedient Servant,
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BB7 strit ICA.emitizall 0100 office 20 ageda edd obtaynola
Jog of executio and Deldane Holdw $ 58.00 duodal orit SIGNED W. P. GANDELL
sved trigim office and Costs antill golbual ent netw Dematimes 9'19" Notslw amotoluave sit
Adopt orit of COMMODORE, R.N. JOB
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
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339
SHEERNESS
REPORTS
RENASCENT
MONARDA.
ARONIA,
STRATHELLIOT
ALOUETTE 2
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OFFICERS SMEN
LIST or OFFICERS DESIERVING SPECIAL MENTION
movements OF OFFICERS.

Dynom. 120,
363
-
Admiralty House,
341
Sheerness.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that on Monday 27th May, after getting final instructions from the Vice Admiral,
Dover, I proceeded to Sheerness and commenced duty as
"Dynamo" Maintenance Officer; my staff consisted of
Commander H.R. Troup, R.N,, who accompanied me from
Economic Warfare Division, and Lieutenant Commander D.B.
Holland-Martin, R.N. We had the invaluable assistance of the Fleet Engineer Officer, Captain T.E. Docksey. Lieutenant
Commander Guinner, R.N. in command of the Schuit "Princess
Juliana" which had broken down, helped for the first day, he then left to join N.O.I.C. Ramsgate whose need was greater. Lieutenant Commander Filleul, R.N., from Weymouth
Contraband Base, also joined but was sent away in charge of a lighter with petrol cans of water and subsequently joined
N.O.I.C. Margate. Lieutenant R.S. Hellby R.N.R. who came from
Weymouth Contraband Base, but was not fit enough to go to
362
Dynam. 120.
:0
347
mainder crews and
FROM: "Dynamo" Maintenance Officer, Sheerness.
rer on
(ate or
Dover.
DATE: 8th June, 1940.
to were given
TO
:
Vice Admiral, Dover.
18 that they
"y them mg as to
10 was
Submitted: A copy of my original report forwarded to Commander in Chief, Nore together with original reports of Officers whose adders, statements have so far been received are forwarded were
3".
herewith.
had ness
If to aws to,
I
Rear Admiral.
general
VICE ADMIRAL
rved nduce
10 JUN 1940
S,N.S.O
*
ion on
DOVER
ed to elied ors.

Dynom. 120,
363
Admiralty House,
341
Sheerness.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that on Monday 27th May, after getting final instructions from the Vice Admiral,
Dover, I proceeded to Sheerness and commenced duty as
"Dynamo" Maintenance Officer; my staff consisted of
Commander H.R. Troup, R.N,, who accompanied me from
Economic Warfare Division, and Lieutenant Commander D.E.
Holland-Martin, R.N. We had the invaluable assistance of the Fleet Engineer Officer, Captain T.E. Docksey. Lieutenant
Commander Guinner, R.N. in command of the Schuit "Princess
Juliana" which had broken down, helped for the first day, he then left to join N.O.I.C. Ramsgate whose need was greater. Lieutenant Commander Filleul, R.N., from Weymouth
Contraband Base, also joined but was sent away in charge of a lighter with petrol cans of water and subsequently joined
N.O.I.C. Margate. Lieutenant R.S. Hellby R.N.R. who came from
Weymouth Contraband Base, but was not fit enough to go to sea, took his place.
2. Officers, ratings, volunteers and boats commenced to arrive on Tuesday, and the work of preparing boats for service occupied the whole of daylight hours for the remainder of the week.
3. The first group consisting of 20 cutters with half crews sailed for Dover on Tuesday in tow of the"st. Clears" and
"Sun V". The first group of motor boats sailed for Dover on
Wednesday. Subsequent groups were sent either to Ramsgate or direct to the beaches, as directed by the Vice Admiral, Dover.
When there were insufficient Officers available, boats were sailed in groups with at least one Officer trained in navigation in each. Lighters were as far as possible given motor boats to attend them.
4. Officers and Coxswains were given broad instructions that failing orders and guidance from Officers on the spot they were to find the places where troops were waiting, ferry them off to the ships off shore, and continue the work as long as possible, retaining enough fuel in reserve to get back to
Ramsgate. As far as I have been able to judge, good use was made of the wide discretion given.
5. Requests were made from time to time for rafts, ladders, lifebuoys and water. These and all the other demands were met wholeheartedly by the Dockyard and H.M.S. "Wildfire".
6. Most of the owners and crews who brought boats volunteered to serve in them; more would have done so had what they were wanted to do. Many volunteers who had it been possible to tell them before sailing for Sheerness commitments went away to clear themselves and came back to who lost their boats joined others at Dover and Ramsgate, join, although their own boats had already sailed. Crews or back to Sheerness to find another. There were I
am came glad to be able to say, very few exceptions to the general at In Dardanelles, did all he could to get away and induce enthusiasm. X213 the Master, a man of 60 years who had served his the to take her. They went away to Chatham. S,N.S.O on me and I suggest that the Dockyard would be well sent drivers them back. They made a most unfavourable impression advised to get rid of them. I feel sure that they could not be relied on in any emergency and would have a bad effect on others.
One I regret to add, is an ex-service man.

2.
364
342
Greatly to the Master's disappointment, X 213's machinery was not in a good enough condition for her to be used.
78. Owing to a misunderstending, not here, which I have been unable to trace, the motor boats which should have hours later. Suspecting that the fifth column was at work reached Sheerness from the Thames Adid not arrive until 24 Lou 30ᵗʰ hi
I informed your Chief of Staff, D.S.V.P., V.A. Dover,
N.O.I.C.s Ramsgate and Margate of the circumstances, and of my intention to ignore any such messages. No possible harm could have been done by sending boats on, at any rate as far as Ramsgate. Had these boats not been delayed, they would have been available on the last day on which evacuation from the beaches was still going on. Some of them were employed on the last two days in the vicinity of Dunkirk.
8. The type of machinery fitted in many of the boats and its defective state, presented F.E.O. and Sheerness Dockyard with some difficult problems and a great deal of hard work, which was tackled, night and day, with great zeal and energy.
Some of the boats broke down later on, much to the disappointment of their crews, who had done their best. Most of them, I think succeeded in joining other boats and msking at least one trip to the French coast.
9. The total number of craft prepared for service and sent out from Sheerness was as follows:-
100 Motor Boats
10 Lighters
7 Schuits
1 Oil tanker
6 Paddle Steamers
10. On Sunday June 2nd, having got away all the personnel and everything afloat that was sufficiently in good condition to do useful service, I went to Ramsgate with Commander Troup, arriving about 1600, in order to help N.O.I.C. and to endeavour to assist in the cooperation of motor boats with larger vessels.
I went in with a group of Schuits and slow motor boats to the beach at St. Malo les Bains, where a British Officer who had just got back reported that there were British troops who had been unable to get into Dunkirk. None were found. I
have no doubt however from later enquiries that they had got into the town. A volunteer whose name I have not yet been able to get, landed from one of the Schuits and walked along the beach to make sure there were none left. We brought him off and his boat's crew, and a number of French soldiers who were pulling for England in a small boat.
Commander Troup took the fast Army motor boats into
Dunkirk alongside the centre pier and brought off 79 French troops when his boat was rammed by a French tug and had to be abandoned.
11.
On Monday night I took a group of slow motor boats up to the Quay Felix Faure, at the top of Dunkirk harbour.
I went on ahead in the fast boat "Marlborough" to identify the quay. The motor boats were led in by the "Mermaiden",
Sub Lieut who did very well to find the place in the dark, 300 French Marines were embarked in the motor boats and a French Trawler. Their bearing was excellent.
As the quay was now clear, and machine gun fire was getting a little near, I decided not to get the motor boats back on the chance of another load of troops. At this period through no fault of the Officer at the wheel, we had the misfortune to scrape over some masonry that had fallen from the quay, losing our propellers and rudder.
Sidmonth- willing (Sea cadel Great

3.
365
Dover. Eventually a motor yacht got us in tow and took us to
Commander Troup went with the fast boats to the outer
- 343
port. He made himself piermaster on the western mole and conducted the embarkation of about 10,000 French troops. He also had some anxious moments, as the boat which was to fetch him broke down. Another turned up in which he embarked with a French General Lucas and many StafffOfficers and men; and thus had the honour of being the last man to leave Dunkirk.
12. As Officers and Coxswains pass through Sheerness, endeavour is being made to extract full accounts of their adventures. N.O.I.C. Ramsgate is doing the same. These reports are being forwarded to Vice Admiral, Dover, but copies of those obtained here are attached. Even so it will be impossible to do justice to the services of these young Officers, ratings and volunteers, most of whom were acting independently, without anyone to see how they conducted themselves. A list of those who came under my personal observation is attached.
13. Until all reports have been compared and lists of
Officers, men, and volunteers going out and returning have been checked, the number of casualties remains unscertain. Many boats have had to be abandoned owing to grounding, collision or fouled propellers, but in most cases the crews transferred to other craft,
One craft is known to have been sunk by bomb.
"New Prince of Wales". Large motor craft. Officer in command, Sub Lieut..L.H. Bennett, R.N., now in R.N.
S.P.H.E.
Hospital, Chatham. Two ratings are believed to have been killed, but I have not been able to get this confirmed.
Several motor boats sailed direct from Southend for the beaches with volunteer crews who had not signed on.
There may be others, of which there will be no record.
Considering the heavy bombing, shelling and machine gun fire experienced by many of the boats, the casualties seem to be lighter than might well have been expected.
14. It would be impossible to speak too highly of the spirit which has animated all those who have been concerned in "Dynamo". Everyone tried to do their best for the Armies at Dunkirk, and those whose fortunes it was to get across and bring some of them off, will always look back on it with deep satisfaction. Some of the crews got their boats as far as Ramsgate, only to find that owing to the shortcomings of their vessels, they could get no further, but many of them succeeded in finding another boat with room for them.
A young Able Seaman, whose boat sank after bringing off 1,000 men, did much, by his sheerful talk and bearing, to bring about this happy result. His name is
Here at Sheerness the Commodore and his staff, H.M.S.
"Wildfire", and the dockyard did all that man could do to hasten the preparation and sailing of the varied fleet of craft which arrived here, some of them needing much attention.
With the exception of the Thames steamers, which could not run in salt water, though they had a good try at it, very few craft failed to achieve at least one trip to the French coast. Many men from the "Wildfire" offered their would services, have done so had it been possible to spare their services.
though only a few could be allowed to go, and more

Dynams 121.
367
St. Malo Les Bains. June 2nd - 3rd.
-
345
on the hearing 2nd. from operations were to be for fast craft only,
I reached The Ramsgate with Commander Troup about 4 p.m.
but a Colonel, who had just come ashore, that
2/6
he thought there were some British troops and others near
St. Malo who had not been able to get into Dunkirk, I got permission from V.A. Dover to go there with a group of
Schuits, motor boats and life boats. Commander Troup was to take the fast boats into the Avant Port and Commandant
Anduse - Faru arranged for the French motor fishing boats to go *mto St. Malo and ferry troops to a French ship and a paddle steamer. The larger ships, however did not sail, and the fishing boats went to Avant Port instead of St.
Malo. 3 Schuits and 12 motor boats were available. They sailed between 1800 and 1900. I was expecting a M.A.S.B
from Hermich and weited 00 long 00 T could for has as T
366
4.
16
Of the Officers, ratings and volunteers who
344
formed the crews I need say little. The services they have done and the narratives which have, with no little difficulty, been extracted from them, speak for themselves. No one can say again that the young men of this country, or the older ones amongst them, lack initiative, common sense, and resorcefulness. One young Acting
Sub Lieutenant who took his lighters in to the beaches, where they were exposed to bombing, shell and machine-gun fire, after praising the steadiness of the civilian volnuteers, adds "The Naval members of the crew acted as expected".
an echo it is good to hear.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant.
REAR ADMIRAL.
D.M.O.
Sheerness.