TNA ADM 199 790

FROM
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
233
DATE
15th June 1940.
25
TO
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT.
Lieutenant R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
I regret who to report the death of Lieutenant
Mead, R.N.V.R. 1940, at 2108, was killed in action at Dunkirk on R.H. Saturday,
1st June or was wounded and died later.
2.
H.M. D/C to the M.B. had been reported out of action
31st May 1940, and Duty Staff Officer, Staff of Flag p.m. Officer commanding Dover, the Commanding Officer and Lieutenant
Mead were ordered to find themselves boats if possible, and to assume command.
3.
Lieutenant Mead had assumed command of R.N.L.B.
WALTON AND FRINTON, and having been towed across to near Dun-
I.B.
kirk with other small boats, had pressed on to Dunkirk, unaccompanied except by one other boat, the remainder of the small boats having turned back. This can be clearly seen from the extracts of the log kept in the boat, a copy of which has already been forwarded to the Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover, through the Officer Commanding Rescue Boats.
an
4.
While in the harbour itself, a shrapnel shell burst on the water nearby, killing Lieutenant Mead. The remainder ope of the life-boat's crew, under a Lieutenant R.N.R. from the
Tug SUN IV continued ferrying soldiers to larger ships until tian
0423, when Tug SUN IV towed the boat back to Ramsgate.
5.
The two members of my crew who accompanied Lieutenant led
Mead, Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley and Able Seaman MacManus, have informed me that the "determination and guts" of Lieutenant
Mead in persisting in his efforts to rally the smaller boats and to push on to Dunkirk, were outstanding. This was reported by me to the Staff Officer of the Rescue boats at Dover, who interviewed the crew, and has a copy of the log of the life-boat.
ced
6.
I understand that the boat underwent many air attacks ops from the time that the tow came within about 20 miles of the it.
coast.
7.
This report is submitted in order to confirm that the ant gallantry of Lieutenant R.H. Mead, (as previously reported by me, pa, ade
P.T.O.
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia being 18 was working with Sport engine only - which, owing to were overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 beach. troops carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

Farm Hotes.
225
237
frue- 8/40. Wolling
!23
25
Olar Captain fashets y amit num how to
Tanh Im lurgh mD tn all the Timber h and tatum is has have or n at cm fort Mulp Dry pm when her m This yamis - th all ners. tystipy lived s killed m June To fet he he w as uprated X his 3ʳᵈ wife "missing id in Draw m the 2nd' suppres wey was to chaotic is was imprive to
.B.
in me know anything B 8r his life Thay
1 1-Ahm had the trum where forms -Weat rud is it pmines A find pm appens in thus recassion - ml? on are they atem. his family are had tryng Doget bas a an from artach as the, have home w follows from a pung - who pe n as opproin humber they unplain clan hearnor yaliful him slip led
Tan y in which writing Mm husban at his Kepper, 1 Incrified without to pm of the wm anful
Hand to tread carried mt in job J ferromed Hind life He that accides their aly caused hight m Where then ced ope men who have noting that haves,
£
dratim m 8h his hm ha is-came duclup was * prosonal merciply ant intentation, mich 2 hmoun m that print although INAS
The and when than the of mr hudied Amin pa, ide
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia being 18. was working with Sport engine only - which, owing to were overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 beach. troops carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 Entered Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
1145) batteries.
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

Dynam 19 237
223 23
FROM
Senior Medical Officer, Dover.
DATE
7th May 1940.
TO
Flag Officer, Commanding.
Report of the death of Lieut Mead. R.N.V.R. H.M.S.Niger.
Submitted,
I.B.
The attached report received from
Medical Officer H.M.S. Niger is forwarded for information.
VIDEADMISTER 1940 *
an
O.
M
ope
DOVER
Surgeon Captain.
ja
Senior Medical Officer.
led
Dover.
ced ops it.
ant ps, side the above operations the Cordella to being was
Note:- During with Sport engine only - which, owing troops were working seized up. Estimated that 300 beach.
overworked, carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

238
S. 546. (Revised-Jannary, 1925).
D. 395.
COMMUNICATION SHEET.
25
221
FROM The Medical Officer, H.M.S.Niger.
DATE 4th. June. 1940.
TO The Senior Medical Officer,
Ref. No
Sick Quarters, Dover.
FORMER
Report of the Death of Lieut. Mead. R.N.V.R.
WALTONG FRINTON L.A
L.B.
This Officer was in Command of a Lifeboat embarking troops of the B.E.F. off Dunkirk on the night of theist-2nd June.
Whilst coming alongside the Niger,a shell from a shore battery exploded near, and he was struck by shrapnel, sustaining chest wounde from which he died within 15 minutes.
an age
2.9. hunt gomeine clan surgeon Lieutenant. R.N.
led ced ope it.
ant
Sta. 186/24.
LJ466
pa,
M.861/8363. 914M. 7/37. C.B.&S.Ltd. 075/71.
1045 Starboard propeler fouled by rope net alongaide destroyer while disembarking troops.
Further operations impossible.
During the above operations the "Cordelia to being # was
Note:- with "port engine only - which, owing troops were working seized up. Estimated that the 300 beach.
overworked, carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Priday/

239
225
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 15.
SHIP: "GORDELIA". MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. C.A. THOMPSON, R.N.V.R.
ROUGH LOG (ALL TIMINGS ARE APPROXIMATE).
CREW: S.A. WADE
A.J. WHALE
in
Ratings
J. JARVIE
civilian
Wednesday 29.5.40.
1100 Took over from civilian who brought the above M.B.
round from Sheerness.
1400) Stand by. Fuelling and
1700)
provision.
1705 Proceeded to submarine base to collect three
Belgian vessels (Yser, Sambre and another).
1745 Returned to Prince of Wales Pier.
1800 Proceeded out of Dover in rear of above 3 Belgian boats which were being towed by the drifter
G.R.1740, one whaler in tow.
1815 Propellers of one Belgian boat fouled by tow roge
(this vessel returned to Dover).
1830 Proceeded in company with G.R.1740 and two Belgian boats.
2000 Destroyer takes one Belgian boat in tow.
2010 Tied up astern of remaining pontoon and proceeded towed by G.R.1740.
2330 Machine gun fire in proximity.
Thursday 30.5.40.
0530 Nearing the beach to the west of la Fanne.
0545 Commodore Fergusson came on board and commenced directing operations for the evacuation of troops from beach to waiting destroyers etc.
0800 Commodore Fergusson transferred to another craft.
0800- Occupied in ferrying boats containing troopa
1030 between the beach and waiting vessels. Attendant whaler manned by two stokers and civilian was occupied in going inshore to load up with troops, then taking them out to waiting vessels.
1045 Starboard propeler fouled by rope net alongaide destroyer while disembarking troops.
Further operations impossible.
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia # was working with "port engine only - which, owing to being overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 troops were carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the beach.
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 Entered Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
1145) batteries.
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

OPERATION
230
NO. 19
SHIP:- BONNY BELLE NOTOR BOAT.
STATEMENT BY 0
Name
Service
0
G.H. Rose, Sto. 1st C1.
Went away in Bonny Selle with 2 0.S. they didn't know much about steering the boat
Two ord. Sea.
so he had to drive and stoor it at the same time. 2nd June, then they arrived
Dunkirk a shell burst on the pier and sank a drifter alongside & jetty. Sto.
went astern to avoid shapnel and can on to submerged wreckage. & Sub.Lieutenant,
R.N.V.R. came on board at Dignitire and Sub.
dived over the side and took & rope to the pior. The Sub.Lieutenant got some soldiers to give him & pull off the wreak.
Enemy opened fires like daylight due to the blaze. Soldiers lot go of the rope and tookdover. The Sub-Lieutenant who vas on the plar with the soldiers told the boats crew to abandon ship and got out of 10 18
soon as possible. The two C.S. got on the side of the boat to get out and nearly turned the boat over. Sto. had to get out after and leave kit and steaming dt and everything. Sto. lose walked on the wreckage, which man't deep, only up to waist then he was taken off wrockage by a lifeboat thenos in a trawler thence to
Dover.

,
OPERATION
231
NO. 20
SHIP:- LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne).
STATEMENT BY $
Name
Service
Sunday 2nd
Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II.
Lifeboat "JANS HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). Cast
$
Sto. J. Strangeways off outside and told to go to a landing right
PKX 95036.
up the other and of the harbour. Found they
0
Sto. A.H. Shaw were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck
PKX 94553. E.R.PONSON@Y
the tug or drifter they were going alongside
One Sub.Lieut, R.N.V.R.
so they wont on up harbour. 31g enough hote
One A.B.
in the lifeboat bows to crawl through. Drenohed
One O.S.
with spray caused by shrapnel. Às proceeding also there.
up harbour sear a destroyer out & small rowing
All came back.
boat down with two Fyench sailors in 11. They took these to the first destroyer. Tent right up harbour: saw Fyench troops but they refused to be taken off. So they came back out of the harbour to tug anchored outside. Then they were told to collect troops from anywhere.
Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour.
Nearly every boat had gone by then. So they got up sail and tried to get out of harbour.
Several destroyers passed, they waved and destroyers waved back: one hour after dawn when they were just about giving up hopes &
M.T.B. came. Towed them out, engine started, then they were alipped and after about 4 miles the engine began to smoke and she caught fire.
No one in sight and two M.T.B's came along to resque. Took them aboard. Lifeboat in l'lames, returned a.m. 31at.

Dynama 10, Alulo
FROM.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
1st June, 1940.
263 274
DATE
TO
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, THE NORE.
(through and EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERINES).
PROCEEDINGS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - A/A SHIPS. PERIOD
Submi Submitted.
27/31st May, 1940.
were proceed full speed to a position 9 miles East of anchored to the at outer estuary a signal was received that/ships
During in the night of 27th-28th May when all ships were
Dunkirk and embark troops. All ships were underweigh within a few minutes of the signal being decoded and proceeded towards the North Goodwin. The passage through the Edinburgh Channels under dark night conditions was not easy and I consider credit is due to the Commanding Officers of the ships for the way in which they were handled. The signal was cancelled before ships reached North Goodwin and they returned to normal duties. Early on 28th May ships were ordered to return to Sheerness forthwith and land surplas crew not required for embarking troops.
I had previously issued a memorandum on the steps to be taken if ships were used as troop carriers so that ships were ready with the necessary organisation and special arrangements.
Later only two ships were stated to be required and I
detailed "Royal Eagle" and "Crested Eagle" and myself decided to go to the "Royal Eagle".
Ships sailed from Sheerness at 1400 and were ordered to proceed to the Downs. On arrival at the Downs I reported the arrival of both ships to the Vice Admiral, Dover and also endeavoured to find out from every ship visible in the Downs if there were any orders for me. There were a number of troopers and hospital ships present so I put ships to short notice for steam and anchored for the night. There was considerable activity amongst the transports during the early morning so that I again asked for instructions and was then told to proceed to Dunkirk by route "y"
(Goodwin to West Hinder). I stationed "Crested Eagle" astern and proceeded at 1030 high speed. On approaching the Belgian Coast
I noticed a few rounds from Shore Batteries falling round ships ahead of me but the firing was not at all intense. On approaching
Dunkirk I saw a large number of men on the-beaches as far as La
Panne so not being able to get any instructions from anyone proceeded to the spot where British Troops appeared thickest and anchored at about 1530 close inshore to embark them. I sent
"Crested Eagle" to Dunkirk as I felt that on account of my original re-appeared and anchored about 2 miles East of me and contenced instructions ships might have been wanted there - however she soon embarking troops. At about 1630 German planes were sighted and bombing attack on ships and beaches. The "Royal Eagle" was only
"Royal Eagle" opened a heavy fire - the plane carried out a high hit but a Drifter near was set on fire and HaMaSa proceeded her own steam. A number of casualties occurred
"Greyhound" by splinters appeared to receive severe damage - although she later the crews Lieutenant of H.M.S. "Sandown" who hours WEB a to boats under and soldiers and were taken in board - amongst in them volunteer Paymaster and I regret to say died some noticed later.
Although boats crew explosive bomba were used on ships the I line of a beach. of what appeared proceeded slowly chiefly ow!ng to the for the line only high to be incendiary bombs along lack of the power Embarkation and the fact that few seamen were available boats which boats were left with an insufficient Military crew.

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.-
Dynams 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF A/A SHIPS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
MAY 31st - JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwi th to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle"
and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the
North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route
"X" at full speed.
When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 11/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
that "Royal Eagle" was meant to btaining this I signalled that
CONFIDENTIAL
281
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR "ROYAL = "GOLDEN"
to arrive off the beaches
AND "CRESTED EAGLE".
Officer to anchor a full 1½
(s.o. T.D.D.F. Letter of 6th June, 1940
ve room for the ships coming ench drifter with some French arked them but by 2320 I had
II.
then some six or more al to V.A. Dover to this
COMMODORE IN CHARGE,
SHEERNESS.
weepers were to be underway resumed that this was on rly continuous, though in the
Forwarded, concurring with the recommendations of the Senior Officer,
Thames Local Defence Flotilla.
gistered on a wreck & few as most of the shells fell r just around the wreck.
Karnahi
1 splinters and I kept the
S much as possible.
CAPTAIN.
all commenced to weigh but
7/6/40.
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
0 ship near them and they were as well as two seriously h was manned by naval ratings.
ches about 0330 being the last absence of boats only some 120
h had been embarked.
ess and owing to a boiler n steam for half speed only.
to 1320 and I at once
Commanding Officer was in a in leave and assumed command received for "Golden Eagle"
00/3 and take off troops from crossing by route "X" near"FG"
hich, after passing at some

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwith to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle"
and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the
North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route
"X" at full speed.
When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 1 1/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
endeavoured to obtain confirmation that "Royal Eagle" was meant to be included in the signal - but not obtaining this I signalled that
I intended to proceed and left at 1530.
"Royal Eagle" was the first ship to arrive off the beaches at 2200 and I directed the Commanding Officer to anchor a full 1½
miles from the breakwater so as to leave room for the ships coming on to anchor astern. On arrival a French drifter with some French soldiers arrived alongside and disembarked them but by 2320 I had seen no sign of any boats although by then some six or more sweepers had arrived and I made a signal to V.A. Dover to this effect.
A signal was received that all sweepers were to be underway and clear of Dunkirk by 0300, and I presumed that this was on account of the shelling which was fairly continuous, though in the dark not very accurate.
It seemed as if the enemy had registered on a wreck a few hundred yards away from "Royal Eagle" as most of the shells fell between "Royal Eagle" and the wreck or just around the wreck.
"Royal Eagle" was spattered with shell splinters and I kept the ship's company below the upper deck as much as possible.
A little before 0300 "Royal Eagle" commenced to weigh but two boats sighted inshore with no ship near them and they were injured and their lighter which was manned by naval the ratings. last closed were occupants picked up as well as two seriously but Eagle" to clear. Owing to the absence of boats embarked. only some
"Royal men from eventually a power left the beaches about 0330 being 120
French one troops ship and half a dozen British had been defect "Royal was put Eagle" at immediate notice for steam for half only.
returned to Sheerness and owing to a speed boiler
DH. M. S. "Golden Eagle" arrived that her at Commanding 1320 and Officer I assumed at once was command in a rather transferred overwraught her and state finding I sent him soon on received leave and for "Golden Eagle"
of to proceed the ship to myself. Dunkirk Orders to arrive were at 0100/3 crossing and by take route off "X" troops near"FG" from buoy the Mole. I sighted I sailed a motor at torpedo 1725. Whilst boat which, after passing at some

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:

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.

-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".......")

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

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.

382
Unit Officer, H.M.Y. "ALOURTTE"
-
From:
361
Date:
8th June, 1940.
To:
Captain M/S, Sheerness.
Subject: Report of evacuation of troops by H.H.S. ALOURTTIE II,
Sheerness.
31st May, 1940.
Receive route orders from N.O.C.I., Ramsgate and loave for Dunicivit.
Enter Dunkirk Roads. Anchor amongst other craft opposite 3.3.2.
and French troops on beach. Small craft running in are overloaded and capsize in surf. Launch motor boats and fix to iling lifelines - the idea being to run in and drag troops out, keeping clear of surf. Coxswain J.M. Fenwick runs in, and after making several trips rescues 3 Naval Officers 4 Ratings and 30
French soldiers. The Germans are shelling the town and several air raids take place. Four bombs drop alongside at 1 distance of 20 feet, but cause no damage to us. Small craft alongoide hit and disappears completely.
Leave for Ramsgate under shell-fire and air raids.
Observe small craft making signs of distress. Run alongside mid embark occupants: 1 B.E.F. Staff Officer, 4 B.E.F. soldiers and
Naval Crew, leaving Helmshian aboard as we are taking him to tow.
Arrive Ramsgate, disembark rescued, and receive Orders to tie up for night. Make request for fuel and water.
1st June, 1940.
0 Have taken in fuel and water and leave for Dunkirk.
0 Drifter ahead strikes mine and is observed being taken in tow.
5
Alter course for wreckage; all survivors have already been
Observe transport and paddle steamer sunk on the Port hand.
picked up.
0 Observe Germans are shelling Dunkirk Channel. Many boats waiting to miss most of shelling. range. We get through and run alongaide Serman outside out of Alter course for No. 3 N. Buoy 00 as the
Dunkirk next to D. 15 - an English destroyer. multiple
Pom aircraft Pom on drop the end of the Mole keep them up and we our
E. Mole, salvo after salvo. D.15 and the French also have double Lewis gun going.
to capacity with 140 mens of the B.B.F. stern To high cast
We are loaded up dropping 10 feet astern lifts our ship levels out of the water. of the harbour. Engine Channel. grinding D,15
off and one bomb We think we may founder, is but the natern, up and we sail her out and signas down Dunkirk attacked but we keep aut and going when she is abeam we are bombs again fall and 70 by follows us German bombers. Many is handed several squadrons raiders of crash into the sea. Amunition the Lewis;
observe two deck and A.B. Γ.H. Wyatt is at formation out to B.E.F. are on reloading pans, One bomber leaves to dive, and as and soon circles as he is on on to our our Fore and Aft line, our helm spare hands Stern line. He starts is put hard

3.
370
22.
Skipper beaches A. Gardner, at 2200 R.N.R. - Went in Tug "Tanga" arrived bombed machine-gunned throughout the night, while at the and on Friday, May 31st. They were lying off an life inprovised boat jetty. He helped to ferry troops life boat.
down and he returned on Saturday in "Leda", leaving the in a power which "Tanga" had towed. This broke
23.
Sub Lieut. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. - Went to Le Panne in
"Elizabeth Green" and ferried for larger craft. He sighted "Viewfinder" on the beach. He got back to
Ramsgate on Thursday May 30th, transferred to the R.F.A.
launch "Andora II" and returned to beaches where he ferried for a bit and then brought back 23 French. Arrived
Ramsgate on Friday. On Monday night he was towed over in the "Elizabeth Green" by a tug, which he could not afterwards find and so he brought his load home.
24. Sub Lieut. R. Shrimpton, R.N.V.R. - In an Admiralty, open
36 ft. launch he was towed over by a drifter and pent
Saturday night at the beaches. On a later night he went into Dunkirk.
25. Sub Lieut. S.C. Allen, R.N.V.R. - Went over to Le Panne in the "Frightened Lady" which was beached after fouling the screw. He reported to an Admiral with side whiskers who was escorting Gort. He was told to help some soldiers getting abandoned pinnaces away. He also assisted to build a jetty with trailers etc. Left the beaches in the
"Horst".
26. Sub Lieut. A.V. Weaver, R.N.V.R. - Went over in "Quijijana"
and brought back a party of 18 troops mostly Coldstream
Guards. He went over again in "Sun X".
27.
Sub Lieut. W.G.H. Bonham, R.N. went over in "BOBELI"
in the first batch and ferried until about midnight on
Wednesday night. His boat was broken up by a destroyer which went full ahead while he was alongside. He went on ferrying for a bit but had to abandon the "Bobeli" and returned to Margate in the "Albury". He then went over in the "Horst" which had to be abandoned owing to engine trouble and a near miss.
28.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Culham, R.N. - in "Smolt" which broke down on way over and was towed back by "Midas"?. Went over in "Glitter II" to the beaches about 6m East of
Dunkirk arrived at 1600 on Wed. 29th. Stayed ferrying until 0200 on Thursday when she lost her rudder on some wreckage and was towed back to Dover by a drifter. The
"Black Arrow" was seen aground at Dunkirk.
29. Sub Lieut. R.A.W. Pool, R.N. - Took lighter X.817 to
Dunkirk and then back to Ramsgate. He went over again on last night to Dunkirk in the M.T.B. "Marlborough".
Mares
30.
Sub Lieut. E.G.B. Enxnish, R.N.V.R. - in "Skylark" but she sank on the way over. He also saw "Mary Rose" sink in mid ocean and the "Ellen Mary" run down by a life boat and abandoned.
31,
Sub Lieut. E.A.E. Cornish, R.N.V.R. - was in the
"Lansdowne" which slipped her tow outside Dunkirk.

noz
434
409
hrapnel shells were eseptoding pieces flying er the bridge of the tug. Nodamage done.
remained close to the entrance of the per ads after getting the towrope on board vessels that come close to us hailed us for rections toget into v alongside of the East his instructed them how toget in r the Foremost
Jone of them into the berth. We there dropped ongside of a small vissel alongside of the st frier at 11.55. Rm waiting further orders.
bout 12.15. am of the 31 the Salvage Officer formed me that a Wereless message was coming rough. 12.30.am we received message to turn Dover. Both Tuys then left the Rier roceeding to Dover. When off the South Foreband we received a message telling us to return to are north Joodwin v report on Drifters Golden ft r Shipmates that were ashore. We returned thing 7 oremost to proced on to Dover.
in approaching the North Joodwin we could see.
drifter coming along write other vessels closed eral about 8.10 am. Lr was the golden Gift whose aster reported that he had been ashore rgot off in V he had not seen the Shipmater. We could hare, sent a message to V.A.D about the Golden the gift across the Goodwin sands Y no sign of any thing returned to Dover arriving alongside of
W Per as 10.15.am.
did not see or hear anything of the Ing
IV abbs.
yours faithfully
K. H. M.
7. g Hopgood Master
Dover.
Segned chesday 11" June1940

- 2 -
sbq
1st.
0030
(approx)
he Crossed had just to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival - 441 found
0304
Sailed for gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith.
0547
Arrived Dover.
Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese.
2nd.
1201
Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow.
Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys"
reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and aircraft. soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by
1330
Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk.
(approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately
240 soldiers to Dover.
1530
Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out
(approx) unsuccessful search for course drifter "Girl Gladys".
1700
Abandoned search. Set search to intercept Thames barge.
1720
Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes.
1730
Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board.
1922
Arrived Dover.
3rd.
Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes andengines.
Fuel tanks and hull seams leaking.
4th. 1255
Sailed for Portland.
2057
Arrived Portland for docking.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
0200 returned to block-ships.

- 4
472
an open with soldiers off hailed. He reported having picked with the during daylight. boat in tow was About half-way across a French trawler boat up boat for in ich Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the we were searching. To make sure we barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from proceeded to Dunkirk where хихаря two open boats and a Thames the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charys on board.
The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my lst.Lieut., SublLieut. Dehammel with instructions to sail the barge to Dover,and proceeded along the coast having opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thames barge.
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attacked by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bombs were dropped and fell at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
The bombers appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and having released their bombs continued their dive firing machineguns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour to miss the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water, some on striking the surface and a certain appeared not to explode at all. One exploded under the bow right ahead and the ship passed through the splash. A certain amount of discomfort was experienced by myself and members of the crew who were exposed. to the splash in the M eyes for the next twelve hours or 30.
Able-Seaman Power was wounded in the leg when manning the port turrett also one of the soldiers in the fore peak. As I now had wounded on board I considered it advisable to return to Dover forthwith and to ask for assistance for the barge. A tug was sent out at approximately 2100 and found the barge sailing well about 10 miles from Dover.
I consider Sub,Lieut, Dehammel performed a very creditable operation. The bombing to which the ship had been subjected had caused leaks to the hull and the petrol tank and the ship was not used again for that night's operation.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.

. 479568 479
Principal c/o Sea Transport Office, (French Ports),
Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square,
Ministry of Shipping, (Room 8009),
LONDON, Wele
7
24th June, 1940.
The Director of Sea Transport.
I have the honour to bring to your notice the names of the following officers and men serving under the command of
Vice-Admiral, Dover.
In the first category I would place:-
Skipper William Henry Pollock
Second Hand Thomas H. Christian, R.N.R. LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R. LT/HO.
all of H.M. Drifter "LORD HOWE", and submit that their gallantry may be suitably rewarded.
In the second category I would place Lieutenant
C.V. Branmall, R.N.R., of H.M.S. "GULZAR", and submit that the enclosed despatch on his services may be officially recorded.
COMMODORE, R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
FRENCH PORTS.
X alroady discounted. (syname).
0
Recommended for broaking in fusting X 2,

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
COPY.
INITIALS
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
EDC.
TO.
CAPTAIN
A/P,
DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
OPS.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter 'Lord Howe".
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 crew 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 P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton, for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
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.
tric Bush.
Dover.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
2 JUIN 1940
COPY.
INITIALS
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA TRANSPORT
OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
EDC.
TO.
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
OPS.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter 'Lord Howe".
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 crew 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 P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton, for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
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.
tric Bush.
Dover.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.

continued.
-2-
495+
H.M.T. cleared "Fyldea" harbour leading. of H.M.T. "Polly Johnson", "Brock" and with
I then astern passed ahead inside of H.M.S. "Grenade"
who faster informed owing to trouble megaphone that she was unable to proceed
When me clear by of harbour I closed on H.M.T. "Polly Johnson"
reduced she to slow charts had been shattered. We were by as then to reported all her up position about m/d of a mile ahead of keep her her. I took in the engineroom. and would I close any faster. "Polly Johnson" I received was in difficulties and could not proceed any speed, and I informed H.M.T. "Fyldea" that
Johnson", I did, keeping about me of a mile ahead of her.
which orders from "Fyldea" to stand by "Polly
Although I was only proceeding at slow speed, the "Polly Johnson"
still dropped astern.
I then received a message from H.M.T. "Fyldea" that if
"Polly Johnson" could not proceed I was to take her crew and scuttle her clear of the channel and act independently. I
ordered this message to be sent to "Polly Johnson" as relayed from
"Fyldea". By this time we had reached a position half way between
Nieuport Buoy, and Middlekerke Buoy, and I stopped engines until
"Polly Johnson" came within hail. During this period several more raids were carried out by German Aircraft on the Destroyers and other craft close to us.
When "Polly Johnson" closed on me, the Skipper informed me he was already to abandon ship; his confidential books etc.
were packed ready to pass to me. I then closed on her and lashed alongside until the two stretcher cases and all the other members of her crew and passengers were safely on board. I then cast off and moved away from her.
The Skipper of "Polly Johnson" - Skipper Lieutenant
Lake R.N.R. (ret) informed me that the water in engineroom had gained up to the platforms, and in the stokehold the water was about to put her fires out.
After leaving "Polly Johnson" I requested one of our
Destroyers to sink her as she had been abandoned, but as I received no satisfactory reply, I returned to her and fired two shots of common shell into her at waterline.
As I had by now about 90 men on board, including several wounded, I decided to make all speed for Dover. The tide was setting to East North East, and assuming the "Polly Johnson" would drive away from the channel, I left her, the Skipper agreeing that she would sink in about two hours.
Soon after leaving "Polly Johnson" I received an 8.0.8.
from a Paddle Steamer who had been badly bombed whilst I had been taking off from "Polly Johnson". I decided I could not take all her men, so I steamed and intercepted one of the scouts, and two
French trawlers, and directed them to go to the paddler, which they did. There was also one drifter standing by her and one of our destroyers heading for her, so I decided nothing further could be done, and returned to harbour forthwith.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Skipper Lieutenant R.D.,R.N.R.
ske Lieut G Kobinson RD RNR
HMT. "arley"

REPORT
539
522
ON THE OPPERATIONS OF THE MOTOR LAUNCHES "YSER" AND
"MALBOROUGH DURING THE EVAQUATION OF THE BRITISH &
509
7
FRENCH FORCES.
Yug Vincia
The Hopper no.95, which I had been ordered to take h
round to Ramsgate, anchored early last Wednesday evening, and Commander Duffet gave me the Belgian ferry boat "Yser".
We started in 8 convoy of eighteen other small motor craft at about 0100 on Thursday. Shortly after daylight
512
the escorting drifter had to turn back with two of the small
512
boats, and with our much greater speed we soon left the remainder of the launches well astern.
VI940
Owing to the fact that the "Yser" was not fitted with a compass we deviated from our course, making a landfall
8 few miles to the westward of the town. We arrived off the beaches at about 0900, and ran aground in our attempts to approach close enough to the sands for the men to wade out to us. There was no anchor in the boat, but we salvaged two of the plowshare type from other abandoned boats, and laid them out at low tide in order to kedge her off.
During the afternoon and dog-watches we were able to be of some use by acting as a liason link between the boats and the officers of the embarking troops. The Frenchmen were very reluctant to wade in deeper than their waists, and
Petty Officer Clarke (Chatham Division) spent approximately five hours, with water up to his neck, helping the soldiers ief into the small boats.
agret
I should like to take this oppotunity to recommend
Petty Officer Clarke for his cheerfulness, vigour, and valuable advice offered on this occasion and later in the WD boat
"Malborough". I understand that Captain Lord Louis Mountbatten mentioned Petty Officer Clarke in his despatches following the torpedoing and bombing of HMS "Kelly".
Our efforts to refloat the "yser" were without success, and having waited for high tide we took passage home
G. Gabbett- Mulhallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Statement from S.Y. Vincen: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
Gn Imday the 31° M May. are the S.Jay Vincia left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkinh at
2.45pm.
at 7pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohn
I
Yes.
From:- Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N.
See
1
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
$
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
that
30th May.
1245
Proceeded from Ramsgate in drifter Ocean Breeze"
(Skipper Bailley) with 2 whalers in tow.
14.00
Passed N. Goodwin L/V and proceeded by Route X
to Dunkirk Roads.
1915
Arrived off Dunkirk East Pier. Proceeded forthwith to position 1½ miles east of Pier and commenced embarking troops. Whalers were used for taking troops off beach - naval crew in 1 whalerand and drifter's crew in other.
Found motor boat with civilian crew and coxswain continued to tow our boats to and from shore to
"Ocean Breeze" until dark having embarked 170
(approx) British troops. Contacted Lieut.
McMullan in Schoot "Twente", turned whalers over to officer in charge of a tug as I realised that, without small boats, tugs and drifters etc.
could not operate.
2300
Left Dunkirk Roads by Route X and arrived Ramagate
0400 on 31st May and discharged troops.
31st May.
0830
Proceeded in "Ocean Breeze" by Route X to Dunkirk
1330
Arrived Roads. off Dunkirk East Pier: proceeded to point
1½ miles east of Dunkirk Pier and owing to absence of small boats and inability to contact any power driven craft of shallow draft I was not able to embark any troops until
1500
When I succeeded in borrowing a whaler from tug to which I had turned mine over on previous day.
Effected one trip ashore with whaler under oars but owing to surf and tide this operation took over half an hour. Then was fortunate in contacting Sub. Lt. Cornish R.N.V.R. in motor boat. This officer assisted me greatly by towing my whaler as far in shore as possible and hauling her off again by means of a warp for which we utilised the Dan mooring which happened to be in "Ocean Breeze". Without this officer's assistance I should not have been able to embark any troops that day.

left Ramagah in taw of three skelfs for Duskinh at
2.45pm.
as 4pm her were off the Sandethe Bany, other
550
good Yes o
-
520
From:- Act. Sub. Lieut. MacIntyre.
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
28th May.
2000
Reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate.
2200
Left in Silver Moon for beaches three miles to eastward of Dunkirk.
29th May.
0800
Arrived at beaches - bombed.
Ferried soldiers to ships at anchor.
1400
No ships left. Departed for England. No charts or compass.
1800
Off Calais; shelled for twenty minutes.
2230
Arrived Ramsgate.
30th May.
?312r
0900
Took over Balaquain.
0930
Proceeded for beaches.
1300
Arrived off beaches; ferried soldiers during continued shelling.
1700
Rope round port screw.
1710
Given tow by drifter.
1730
Arrived Dunkirk; loaded up with soldiers.
1740
Left for Ramsgate.
2230
Arrived Ramsgate.
31st May.
0900
Reported to Lt. Cdr. Wilson.
1600
Left in "Encore" with him for Dunkirk.
2000
Picked up soldiers in lifeboat.
2200
Arrived Dunkirk. Filled up with soldiers.
2215
Proceeded for Ramsgate.
1st June.
0545 Arrived Ramsgate.
2nd June.
1900
Took out "Santosy"; broke down; returned 2000.
3rd June.
0945
Took over "Letitia".
1630
2300
Arrived Left off Dunkirk; proceeded inside harbour and 9 took in tow with tugs.
off troops under the orders of Commodore ---
2400
Arrived alongside gunboat and embarked demolition party.
(presumably Rear-Admiral Taylor).

FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
HARWICH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Termouth.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the report of proceedings of the
"M" Drifters attached to Yarmouth Base (H.M.S. "Watchful") whilst employed on Operation "Dynamo".
30.5.40. 2345.
Flotilla sailed Yarmouth for Ramagate, to
Report by Commander J. Glendinning, R.N.R. (contd).
575
545
The following men worked particularly well for no:
Robert Durrant, Master, Drifter Lord Rodney, helping me to keep the convoy together during the two night passages and during the day he manned 8 boat himself working into the beach.
Walker I.
Walker II.
New Brittanic.
A. Cadman (cox)
Percy King (cox)
William Matthews (cox)
de
G. Stavely
Edward Parker
Walter Reid
T. Davies
John Ellard
Norman Reid (aged 15).
Java.
Victor Smith (mate)
Harry Griffiths (deck hand).
Arthur Westcott Act. A.B. No. LDX/5046 - H.M.S. Pervent.
Lord Collingwood.
Lord Keith.
9
Lord Rodney.
illed
Edmund Marr (mate).
Robert Eye (master)
William Gladwell
Jg
(deck hand)
Thomas Durrant
(deck hand)
an
Charles Fisk then
Fred Goddard
( deck hand)
your
= all
These worked particularly well in the boats on the and beach ate to and also men in boats picking up survivors from aeroplane
H.M.S. Waverly, which was bombed close to us.
#. Mann, ived

PLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
HARWYOH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the report of proceedings of the employed on Operation "Dynamo".
"M" Drifters attached to Yarmouth Base (H.M.S. "Watchful") whilst
30.5.40. 2345.
Flotilla sailed Yarmouth for Ramsgate,
31.5.40. 1500.
Arrived Ramsgate and received orders to proceed to
Dunkirk forthwith to assist in evacuation of troops.
31.5.40. 1515.
Flotilla sailed for Dunkirk.
1900.
On approaching Dunkirk Roads, Flotilla vas subjected to intense bombing attack by about sixty onemy bombers.
Consequently, I gave the order to "scatter".
Drifter "Lord Hood" was severaly damaged by & "near riss*,
Three casualties, one seaman being killed outright, and two wounded. I took "Feasible" alongside "Lord Hood* and removed the C.Bs, the Ship's Company having been picked up by
"Alcmaria".
After ascertaining that nothing further could be done and nobody left on board, I ordered flotilla to take up formation again and proceeded into Dunicirk. bombers had in the meantime been driven off by British Pighters Sub ships coming under heavy gunfire from shore batteries.
2000.
Secured alongside North Pier, Dunkirk with twelve ships and proceeded to embark troops.
2030.
Orders were received from a Commander R.N. ashore to discontinue embarkation and proceed out of harbour to piok up troops from North Beaches.
Five ships, being already filled with troops, were ordered back to Ramagate,
The remaining ships followed me out of harbour to the Beaches,
From then onwards, ships worked independently, returning to Ramagate then full and back to Beaches for more, This continued throughout the night and the bllowing day and night of lat/2nd June when all drifters were ordered by the Naval Officer in Charge, Ramagate to leave Dunkirk by 0300, 2nd June, empty or full. Plotilla anchored in Ramsgate Roads awaiting further instructions.
4.6.40.
0600.
"Alcmaria" with "Genius" in tow and "Swift Wing* with
"Feasible" in tow, under the command of Sub. Ideutenant 5. N. Mann,
R.N.V.R., were ordered to proceed to Yarmouth.
They arrived
Yarmouth, 5th June.
5.6.40.
1300.
I received orders to proceed with remaining ships to
Yarmouth, arriving Yarmouth, 6th June,
The following ships took part in the Operation:
M/S Drifter Motilla.
Skipper.
J. Finlay.
"Feasible".
G. Prosdick.
"Swift Wing".
#
G. Hatton.
"Reed".
"John and Norah".
#
J. Sims.
J. Green.
"Genius".
A. Offord.
"Alcmaria".
J. W. Lawn.
"Lord Hood".
1.