TNA ADM 199 790

FLAG OFFICER IN N CHARGE
17JUN1940
*
HARWIOH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
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 Ramsgate,
568
V.Goodines
533
From:- Lieut. C.W. Read, R.N.R.
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
a
9
Arrived at Ramsgate from Falmouth ex H.M.S.
Forte II 0330 29.5.40 and took command of Chris
Kraft Motor Launch "Bonnie Heather" - Length 35 ft;
speed 18 knots.
Lled
Made 7 complete return trips to Dunkirk beaches;
MA
1
average number soldiers carried - 60; approximately
R
out
420 soldiers. Made 10 trips from Mole at Dunkirk all a to to Transports lying off (under shrapnel) - 600
soldiers.
Rescued Chief Steward and 39 soldiers from water
Mann, ed ex S/S Scotia and bombed whilst doing SO.
On last return journey was caught in parachute flares, bombed and then machine-gunned but escaped without damage owing to speed and quickness on helm of "Bonnie Heather".
Service finished at 5.0 p.m. on 4th June.
Estimated number of soldiers handled in launch:- 420/450
Dunkirk Dunkirk Mole to transports lying off.
beaches to Ramsgate
600/650
40.
Rescued from S/S Scotia

FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
*
HARWIOH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
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 Ramsgate, good
569
the
533
From:- Sub.Lieut. F.N.Dann R.N.V.R.
Date:- June 5th 1940
To
:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
Ld
*
May 27th Sent from H.M.S. King Alfred to H.M.S. Wildfire.
May 28th
1100
Ordered to fuel and provision about 20 motor yachts in harbour basin and other yachts continuously
1930
Left arriving. Sheerness for Dover in M.Y. Viewfinder, leading a convoy of six yachts all towing whalers. Other convoys followed astern.
lled
May 29th
0130
Arrived Dover. Moored alongside destroyer and
&
requested 0.0.W. to signal shore for orders.
n
The following civilian volunteers refused further on
0400
duty and were sent ashore:-
out
T.Lewis, John Bye, - Bye, J.Palmer all a total of six yachts and refuelled six them a to
0600
Left Collected Dover in Viewfinder leading a column of motor yachts viz.
Viewfinder
(myself) Three civilian volunteers)
Advance
S.L. Minchin R.N.)
Mann,
Hanora
(S.L. Bonham)
red
Bobeli Elizabeth Green (S.L. Snow)
Joined by One Reda other which fell in with us and re-completed which turned back.
0700
the column arrived of six. in convoy off Gravelines. None hit. Repeatedly
1400
All dive six machine gunned Panne from Beach the air. and ferried whalers
1500
1830
Viewfinder All full aboard Put Took two off arrived off of in troops whaler dragged off to La THE with ships aground was two at all in by anchor. ratings whaler excited soldiers to with Belgian abtain from No us soldiers room Viewfinder and help. soldiers. my left for
1900
Hanora's whateremasing and crew my loaded
Hanora who took whalers off my to H.M.S. Lydd

ELAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
57
17JUN1940
*
HARWICH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
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 Ramsgate,
Report by Sub,Lieut. F.N.Dann (Contd)
570
540
1900
Took charge of empty whaler, made up scratch crew of two ratings and one soldier and continued to ferry troops from beach to motor boats.
2030
Many badly wounded men taken aboard H.M.S.Lydd no skilled help available. Went aboard and did what I
could with others until ship reached Margate.
Handed charts to Reda.
1d
May 30th
Early morning landed from H.M.S.Lydd at Margate.
R
Sent on to Chatham.
May 31st
Returned to H.M.S.Wildfire Sheermess.
June 1st
Assisted at Sheerness with supplies and victualling.
1700
Left for Ramsgate in M.Y. Dianthus. Engine giving much trouble. Taken in tow by M.Y.Thark.
2200
Arrived Ramsgate
June 2nd.
Attempted to repair engine of Dianthus.
1600
Ordered to attempt to leave on tide and to contact
Rear Admiral Taylor's convoy.
lled
1930
Left inner basin. Raided stranded yacht for compass of etc.
in
2030
Left Ramsgate.
ien
2045
Helmsman badly cut by flying glass from window.
out
Brought him ashore for attention.
1 all
2115
Left Ramsgate again.
be to
2200
very troublesome. Stopping every mile or till 30.
Only Engine making good 21/2 knots, carried on course daylight.
June 3rd
0300
Between V and W Bouys sighted convoy returning. Decided
Man ved to return with convoy.
0900
June 4th
Arrived Standing Ramsgate. by and attempting to repair engine

FLAG OFFICEN IN N CHARGE
17JUN1940
*
HARWY
THE
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
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 Ramsgate,
Good
571
Yes,
541
From:- Sub. Lt. D.L. Satterford, R.N.
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
1d
28th May.
1800
Left Sheerness in Thames Pleasure Craft "Viscount" for
Ramsgate. Followed M.Y. "Prince of Wales" as ordered. "Viscount's" engine stopped on the way.
After repairs continued on course until 2330; having no compass we anchored till 0400 Wednesday.
29th May.
1000
Arrived Ramsgate. Boiler pump defective; I asked for another boat.
lled
30th May.
g
1030
Took command M.Y. "Rygate II" with crew of 4 civilians.
in
Left for Dunkirk keeping station on the schoot ien
"Horst".
"Rygate II" broke down and was towed by out
"Horst".
Found impossible to effect repairs.
1 all
Anchored "Rygate II" and boarded "Horst" with crew.
to to
1600
Arrived Dunkirk in "Horst" (Lt. Sarjent R.N.R.) *
worked 3 pulling boats with 2 men in each. Operation rendered difficult by bombing and heavy surf. One
A.B. wounded in groin by machine-gun bullet. One
Mar boat capsized but was righted.
2300
Lieut. Sarjent decided to move closer inshore. Found ved anchor fouled by another cable. Donkey broke down.
Cut cable. Chief E.R.A. reported engine failure.
400 troops aboard taken off by another boat.
31st May.
0900
Arrived Ramsgate. Found M.Y. "Quicksilver" with take crew of naval ratings. Obtained permission to
"Quicksilver" across.
2000
Left for Dunkirk at 20 knots.
2400
Arrived Dunkirk; ferried troops to ransports.
1st June.
0600
Fuel running short; left for Ramsgate.
1030
Arrived Ramsgate.
2nd June.
1930
Left Ramsgate; followed schoot "Hilda" out.
3rd June.
0100
Arrived Dunkirk Beach and being searched shelled. for British Sent by troops whalers direct according to hit.
continue to order. search. One whaler blown up

FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
57%
17JUN1940
*
HARWYOH
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 eport from Sub. Ltd. D.L. Satterford, R.N. (contd).
572
542
Searched for survivors, found none. One of crew wounded by shrapnel. Found no British on beach.
Went into the mole and took off about 20 French.
0900 Arrived Ramsgate. Left later with French Naval
Attache aboard. Delayed by choppy sea.
4th June. Arrived Dunkirk early morning; saw transports leaving so returned Ramsgate. Rested.
5th June.
Ordered to proceed to Sheerness.
14
us
>
illed ng on hen hout a all to to
1. Mann,
Eved

PLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
HARWICH
H.M.S. "Watchful"
547
Great Yarmouth.
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 Ramsgate, arreed to good
Yes a
the
544
From:- Commander J. Glendinning, R.N.R.
Date:- 5th June 1940.
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
as
28th May.
1430
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk in the tug JAVA with the following ships in company:-
Drifters. Lord Rodney, Lord Keith, Lord Collingwood and Lord St. Vincent.
Motor Launches. Walker I, Walker II, New Brittanic,
Nayland and Angler II.
29th May.
D
illed
0100
Arrived off Bray dunes and anchored in 3 fthms water and sent Walker I and Walker II in to the beach to ng try to find men; all troops seemed to be hiding in on the sands. Walker I and Walker II then proceeded then hour
As up dawn came I lowered all small boats from the Java to Dunkirk Harbour.
in all its to and the beach filling motor boats and transferring shore. from all drifters and worked with them right into
1000
Ordered motor a destroyer to take all ships to Dunkirk to fill boats to bigger ships lying off pier, On possible and return, leaving Dunkirk. I
by arrival there I received orders Walker i. Mann, ived up as much II as for the use of N.O.I.C. Pier, by H.M.S.
On Calcutta leaving to transfer all troops worked on board all afternoon and Walker Tuydercoot Pass I was ordered herand on return to the beaches. army We collapsible boats off shore. off the beaches the beaches, and filling towing larger more ships ships lying lying off to to fill
1900
At up, this so time filled there all were craft no possible and returned
Ramsgate.
30th May.
0930
Arrived THE
During but were 30th.
arrival the chance in harbour of a at 1100 on May

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

FLAG OFFICER IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
*
HARWICH
H.M.S. "Watchful
54
Great Yarmouth.
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 Remsgate, to proceed to
Dyrama 35%
Biulo
TEAG OFFICER 207 IN CHARGE
17JUN1940
Subject:
Report on Operation "Dynamo".
HARWICH
by ould
From
Naval Officer in Charge, Great Yarmouth.
Date
15th June, 1940.
0.2/1697/40.
To
Flag Officer in Charge, Harwich.
The enclosed report in triplicate from the Group up
Commander of "M" Drifters detailed from Yarmouth for Operation fille ring
"Dynamo" is submitted for your information and any action which chen when ighout you consider necessary.
ien al gate t
Insurall
W. Ma
NAVAL CAPTAIN, OFFICER IN CHARGE.
rived
II.
No. 207/40.
Vice-Admiral,
(Copy The Nore.)
and the Group 9th June, Commander In continuation I beg of to enclose "M" Drifters a of my letters the June for Operation "Dynamo".
REAR ADMIRAL
Harwich.
FLAG OFFICER
18th June,
1940 VICE ADMIRAL
21 JUN 1940
*
HI R

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.

BLS
548
"Lord Barham".
Skipper.
"Overfalls".
C. Masterman.
If
"Jeannie MacIntosh".
D. Miller.
If
"Gula".
J. Nicholson.
If
"Rewga".
A. #, West,
#
"Taransay".
J. Macauley.
#
G. S. Peak.
Lieut. A. H. Turner in "Feasible" - Group Officer.
Sub. Lieut. L. W. Mann in "Genius" Unit Officer.
Casualities and damage received during the Operation 1-
"Lord Hood".
Damaged by "near miss" bomb. Engines disabled.
"Feasible".
Near miss - shell. Engines disabled.
"Genius".
Explosion under stern - unknown. Engines disabled,
All ships received a certain amount of superficial damage due to splinters and concussion which in several instances put the degmasing circuits out of action.
Remarks.
I cannot pay too high a tribute to all the Officers and ships companies concerned. During the course of the operation, the personnal were on continuous duty for more than 36 hours during which time 70 were being exposed to constant attack by enemy bombers, shore batteries, mohine guns and enemy M.T.B's. flying the White Ensign.
Navigation, especially at night, was extremely hazardous is no charts of the locallity were available at such short notice, and 1 consider a splendid example of team work, commonsense and initiative was displayed by the Skippers in bringing all ships back to Ramagate din conclusion.
It is very hard to pick out any individual for special mention where all did so well.
I regret to have to report the undermentioned casualties which occurred in "Lord Hood".
Killed:-
J. P. Reed, Seaman. Official No.JX.173103.
Severely
J. R. Purland, AB/ST.
#
wounded:-
D/J. 32592.
Wounded:-
L. Wills, Sea. cook.
#:
- imoun. H.O.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant, a
LIEUTENANT, R.N.V.R.
The Naval Officer in Charge,
H.M.S. "Watchful",
Great Yarmouth.
a

5
Report
552
1940.
575d.
(Revised-January, 1931.)
Bry,
288a.
580%
81
TELEGRAM.
No.
ONFIDENTIAL
Strike out as
O.H.M.S.
Office Stamp of Date
PHONOGRAM.
it necessary.
POSTAGRAM.
ADMIRALTY.
550
Office of Origin and
Service Instructions.
Indication of
Signature and Rank of Officer authorising and
Priority
Originator's Special Instructions:
E.
" Almout
1
Bintol
11429
3
208
500
Subject:
Report on Operation "Dynamo" - Decorations and Awards.
From
Naval Officer in Charge, Great Tarmouth.
Date
22nd June, 1940.
0.2/1804/40.
To
Vice Admiral Commanding, Dover.
With reference to your signal 1140/21 and further to my report 0.2/1697/40 of the 15th June, I submit for your consideration that Lieut. A. B. Turner, R.N.V.R., the Group
Officer, has reported to me that it is impossible to distinguish between individual officers and ratings and that all behaved magnificently.
In the circumstances, may I submit that a certain number of Awards be allocated to this Group to be balloted for.
Surasell
CAPTAIN,
NICE AUGIRAL
NAVAL OFFICER IN CHARGE.
24 JUN 1940
DOVER

582
552
Benant of Anonotion Crom 30th law to 5t.h lune 1940.
575d.
(Revised-January, 1931.)
Biu
288a.
580% &
2"
CONFIDENTIAL
Strike out
TELEGRAM.
No.
it as
O.H.M.S.
Office Stamp or Date necessary.
PHONOGRAM
POSTAGRAM.
ADMIRALTY.
550
51
Office of Origin and
Service Instructions.
Indication of
Priority
Signature and Rank of Officer authorising and
Originator's Special Instructions
E.
tap
Code
No. of Groups or
Secretary,
Words in Text
BY ORDER, NAVAL OFFICER IN CHARGE.
e a
TO
FROM
Vice Admiral, Dover.
pose
Naval Officer in
Charge, Great
C
Tarmouth,
10
In accordance with you 1140/21 and 1221/24, the following names are submitted for awards engaged on Operation "Dynamo" $
pas.
Rank or
Name.
Official No.
H.M.D.
-
Rating where available
Skipper.
G. Hattan.
"Reed".
Chief
A. A. Storr.
X.6082 E.S.
"Feastble", may
Engineman.
Stoker.
R. Whiteley.
K.X. 100149.
"John & Norah".
ed
2nd Hand.
John William
"Swift Wing*.
Crawford.
Seaman
Alan Morrison.
X.7814 C.
"Jeannie arly
McIntoah".
115
Seaman
G.G.Mearns.
"Gula"
ning me.
STUCK
1
ton
TOE ADMIRAL
g
26 JUN 1940
a
*
OVER
ne
Time of Origin,
Lenamo
1134/25.
NO
Time of Recript/Despateh
BIG
OPERATORS' NAMES (PHONOGRAMS ONLY).
a parted
Reader
Sender
Ower
I
We $1080/D. 6167 15am pads 11/88 W.&S.Ld. (51,3643)

582
552
Report of Operation "DYNAMO" from 30th lay to 5th Tune 1940.
Subject:
Dynama 374 581
it
EVACUATION OF B.E.F. - NARRATIVE OF EVENTS.
551
From
THE COMMANDING WEYMOUTH. OFFICER, CONTRABAND CONTROL BASE, ser
Date
17th June, 1940.
No. 40/23.
a
To
THE FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE, PORTLAND.
poss
G
following reports in connection with the evacuation of
With reference to your No.2912 of 6th instant, the troops from Dunkirk are submitted:-
Temp. Lieutenant R.Nimmo, R.N.R.
Petty officer F.J.Norton, Pensioner.
Petty officer G. Senior, Pensioner.
pes.
Petty officer G.B. Thomas, R.N.R.
$
Leading Stoker W.A.S.Horne, R.F.R.
2. - Other officers who took part in Operation
Dynamo, have been reappointed and instructed to hand in reports to their Commanding Officers.
CER-IN-CHARGE 310 4
may
JUN 1940
ed
2
*
CAPTAIN.
RTLAND
/II.
early on the 1st June and the engine was overhauled that day and made 115
Ior rurther service. ne left again for Dunkirk in the early evening and on arrival OIT Dunkirk troops were again ferried for some time.
unfortunately in manoeuvering close to the anor the crait either stuck a submerged object or grounded and in the subsequent movements of engines and nelm the rudder W.S.S. lost. 1 eventually managed to retch up alongside of tus, transferred the troops 1 had on Doard and unen proceeded to 118 a jury rudder; consisting or at ladder Asshed so &
rail stantion art and with & locker door lashed at une oottom; the flag start acting 8.8 a tiller. This proved rairly effective and as earried on Terrying troops until the tue nad surficient and 40 left in tow or the EUG. when about 15 miles off Hamagate the GOW rope parted and we completed this latter part of the voyage under our own power

II.
No. 3104.
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
2.
Petty Officer Thomas, R.N.R., and Petty
Officer Norton appear to have done especially and to deserve credit.
Portland.
VICE ADMIRAL.
24th June, 1940.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
VICE ADMIRAL
26 JUN 1940
*
*
DOVER
remess
.anzeM.D.D
OA 30
caer
*
S E V
(YJKO гилябойонч) алили school
ST.84.W

582
552
Report of Operation "DYNAMO" from 30th May to 5th Tune 1940.
30.5.1940. 2pm. Left Sheerness in charge of Motor Boat "Forty TWO"
and a convoy of nine craft bound for Ramsgate for orders. After about
2* nours steaming the leader of the second convoy, Lt.ges] on Dogra
"white Heather" requested me to take charge or nis convoy or nine craft as White Heather" had broken down and was under GOW. Thereafter proceeded with the full convoy of 18 craft and arrived OIL Hamsgate about midnight. Proceeded ashore for orders and received same, which were to carry on as soon as possible to Dunkirk beaches for the purpose of ferrying troops to the larger ships at anohor. At Itam on the 51st
May left Ramsgate escorted by H.M. Trawler towing those craft wnion were unable to proceed under their own power. After about 2 nours steaming the trawler requested me to carry on with the convoy as the craft ne nad in tow were causing him some trouble with their tow ropes.
I earried on with 14 crait and arrived or the Dunkirk beach as about
9am. Throughout the day British and French troops were ferried to the various large vessels at anchor. Sometime during the night the engines on "Forty Two" were giving trouble and as 1 had the opportunity of a tow back to Ramsgate where 1 might expect repairs to be executed and as few ships seemed to be left in our immediate vicinty for the transferrence or troops 1 decided to return. Arrived off namagate early on the 1st June and the engine Was overhauled that day and made 115
IOr further service. ne left again for Dunkirk in the early evening and on arrival orr Dunkirk troops were again Ferried for some time.
unfortunately in manoeuvering close to the anor the craft either stuck a submerged object or grounded and in the subsequent movements 01
engines and nelm the rudder was lost. 1 eventually managed to reach up alongside a tug, transferred the troops 1 had on DOBIQ and onen proceeded to 115 a jury rudder; consisting or at ladder issued to &
rail stantion art and with at locker door lashed at une oottom; the flag stari acting 8.8 a tiller. This proved rairly effective and we carried on ferrying troops until the tug nad surficient and we left in tow or the tug. when about 15 miles off kamagate the GOW rope parted and we completed this latter part or the voyage under our own power

582
552
Report of Operation "DYNAMO" from 30th May to 5th June 1940.
30.5.1940. 2pm. Left Sheerness in charge of Motor Hoat "Forty Two"
and a convoy of nine craft bound for Ramsgate for orders. After about
2* nours steaming the leader of the second convoy, Lt.3eal on Dogra
"white Heather" requested me to take charge or nis convoy or nine craft as White Heather" had broken down and was under GOW. Thereafter proceeded with the full convoy of 18 craft and arrived OIL Mamagate about midnight. Proceeded ashore for orders and received same, which were to carry on as soon as possible to Dunkirk beaches for the purpose of ferrying troops to the larger ships at anchor. At 2am on the jlst
May left Ramsgate escorted by H.M.Trawler towing those craft wnion were unable to proceed under their own power. After about 2 nours steaming the trawler requested me to carry on with the convoy as the
E.
craft ne nau in tow were causing him some trouble with their tow ropes.
I carried on with 14 crait and arrived or the Dunkirk beach at about
9am. Throughout the day British and French troops were ferrisa to the various large vessels at anchor. Sometime during the night the engines on "Forty Two" were giving trouble and as 1 nad the opportunity of a tow back to Ramsgate where 1 might expect repairs 60 De executed and as few ships seemed to be left in our immediate vicinty for the transferrence or troops I decided to return. Arrived off Ramagate early on the 1st June and the engine was overhauled that day and made 115
IOr further service. ne left again for Dunktrk in the early evening and on arrival off Dunkirk troops were again ferried for some time.
unfortunately in manoeuvering close to the anor the crait either stuck a submerged object or grounded and in the subsequent movements 01
engines and nelm the rudder was lost. 1 eventually managed to reach up alongside at tug, transferred the troops 1 had on Doard and onen proceeded to 118 a jury rudder; consisting or a ladder Aasned to &
rail stantion art and with of locker door lashed at une Dottom; the flag start acting as a tiller. This proved rairly effective and we carried on ferrying troops until the tug had sufficient and 40 left in tow or the tug. when about 15 miles off Ramagate the GOW rope parted and we completed this latter part or the voyage under our own power

er contd.
and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate naroo morning that with be repaired,8,8 soon
I again left in the evening a War Dept Motor Boat arri
Dunkirk late evening and troops were again transfe the larger ships. When this operation was completed at sb
2am a return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th Jun ordered to return to sheerness, out a few minutes before the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was nel having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymout myseli to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told we left at 8pm that night and arrived and pertned at wey the next day wednesday 5th June 1940.
Lee

588
556
H.A.S. HORNE LDG. Six
R.F.R. B.16726,
JUNE 13TH 1940.
M.L. MERMAIDEN, c/o HOTER EDNARD
Dury PERFORMED By M.A. MERMAIDEN WEYMOUTH DORSET
AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
eft Heyminth of 6.30PM.St procusses to.) met May
& 2 D.10
ymouts
Wed 29/5/40, went to There 80/5/40, of was put
555 advist resuain of a small open motor boat named Two Revers:
RX, of fto known) (Christian to drive name the & motor, off be and not Sea known) forris and RNR of howshoff 90%
itly Ldg sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name to allowal ach, 2008 b Dunkish to help evacuak she Goldiers molored from the in sharted arriving to at Dunkirk early hours of Frid morning bring of Proofes HMS.W.ell
Lighter Y 12
553
offree in charge dent Mortimore RNR
We Left Sheenen about 1.20PM on the 30/5
&
arrive at Ramsale X ancher about 8PM weath food
We left arain about 10PM for Dundur, but the weather became jerry we ancher about IAM
About JAM, the per lifted of we proceed an our every to Dunkuk were we non Saf arrived East End of Dunkuk about # ats
+ anchored, the weather was a With chaffer.
about 5PM Sat the solders started comin in the sheff to get about & when we left then wouldn't be a salder -1 be thout seen for about 50 yds when side of us, so got out and Dunkin, we brake took 2 Boats ss - we Your
7.15PM sat. we got up ankson of just as we about JAM. 1.6.40 we down, and or + of waited for & lug I come about from
Ramsgele + tow us we arrive theerness 0.6.60 8AM
We left Ramigabe in your for took when we got, to theemess we
Considery the the young ye crew they were very good
Yc a chalhan

or
83
contd.
morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate hardour left that evening with be repaired 8.B soon as
I Dunkirk again late in the evening and a War Dept Motor Boat arrivi
When this troops were again transfer the larger ships. operation was completed at sho
2am a return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th June ordered to return to Sheerness, out a few minutes before 0
the Petty Officer on the" Mermaiden" advised me he was neld having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymouth, myself to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told 1
we left at 8pm that night and arrived and berthed at weym the next day wednesday 5th June 1940.
LeaR

588
556
W.A.S. HORNE LDG. SFO
R.F.R. B.16726,
JUNE 13th 1940.
M.L. MERHAIDEN, c/o HOTER EDNARD
WEYMOUTH
DUTY PERFORMED 34 M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET.
AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
Yesp Heyminth of 6.30 procuses to.) met Maria
& 1 Maid RNR
n Wed 29/5/40, went to Sharmes, There 80/5/40, of was put
555 advical reswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers:
with Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name to allowal
R.H. of the known) Christian to drive name the & mober, off be and not Sea known) forris and RNR of howshoff roby b Dunkish to help evacuak she goldiers molored from she
1
in ach, i sharted arriving to at Dunkirk early hours of Frid morning l bring of Prooper b Winchelsea
Dauting
Lighter Y 72
offree in charge Lent Mortimore RNR
We Left Sheeness about 1.20PM on the 30/5 4a
&
arrive at Ramsgale X anoher about 2PM weath good
We left asain about 10PM for Dundur, but the weather became jerry we ancher about 14M
About JAM, the per lifted a we proceed an our every to Dunkuk were we non Saf arrived East End of Dunkuk about # or / civel
+ anchored, the weather was a lettle chapper.
about 5PM Sat the solders started comin in the sheff to get about of when we left then wouldn't be a salder 1 be seen for about 50 yds when side of us, so thout
7.15PM. sat. we got up ankon of just as we got + about out and 3AM. Dunkin, 1.6.40 we we brake took down, 2 Boate ss - we Your and or of waited for a bug In come from
Ramsgele + tow us we are ine theerness about 0.6.40 8AM
We left Ramiyabe in Tow for took when we got, to theerness we
Considery the the young crew they were very good
Yc 72 k chalhan

or contd.
and steering and was with told jury the rmudder. craft Berthed in Ramsgate har morning left that would be repaired.8.8 8001
I again evening with a War Dept Motor Boat ar
Dunkirk late in the when evening and troops were again trans the larger ships. this operation was completed at
2am 8. return was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th J
ordered to return to Sheerness, out a few minutes befor the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was n having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymou myseli to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was tol we left at 8pm that night and arrived and perthed at we the next day wednesday 5th June 1940.
Lic

588
556
W.A.S. HORNE LDG.S
R.F.R. B.16726,
M.L. MERHAIDEN,
JUNE 13th 1940.
c/o HOTER EDNARD
WEYMOUTH
DUTY PERFORMED 34 M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET
AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
eft Heyminth of 6.30PM.A procusses to.) met May to
& l 2 Maid RNR
A Wed 29/5/40, went to There 80/5/40, of was put
550 ERE advical reswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers:
of known) to drive the motor, and Sea forris RNRof howsboff with Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB, Christian name off to allowal
R.H.
pho (Christian name & off be not known) and molored notes b Dunkish to help evacuate she Goldiers from she in ach,. sharted arriving to at Dunhirk early hours of Frid morning
Send Sell bring Q of Proofs Lish hiers b HMS.Winchelsea a itsamphia I See decided eng on Revisions
Lighter YC 72
585
officer in change Least Mostimore AND
554
Left Weymouts 29.5.40
ctrive Sheerness - "
Left
-
30
-
Amer Ramgets 30-5-40
Left 30.5.40
Avenue Dunkerk EAST 31.5
Left with Soldins 7.30.31.5.40
Arme Bamogote 1.6.40
Left for shenness 6.6.40
of chalhan
Liftchathan for Weynoult job complete
7.6.40
h Amer P.O
the crew played there Pack very well endeed considery they were yours.

$ 16
5
contd.
morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft would Berthed in Ramsgate
I again left that evening with be repaired 8.8 harbour soon
Dunkirk late in the evening a War Dept Motor Boat 3.8 %
the larger ships. When and troops were again transferre arrivina
2am 8. return was made this operation was completed at ordered to to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th June shortly the return to Sheerness, out a few minutes before
Petty Officer on the" 'Mermaiden" advised me he was held due having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymouth. up myself to Commander ----- R.N. for this Job and was told to we left at 8pm that night and arrived and berthed at weymouth the next day wednesday 5th June 1940.
LuR.

W.A.S. HORNE LDG. Si
R.F.R. B.1672
M.L. MERMAIDE
JUNE 13th 1940.
c/o HOTER E.)
WEYNOU
DUTY PERFORMED By M.L. "MERMAIDEN" Doks
AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
Lept Heyminth of 6.30P.M.St procession to.) we
& / & Maid RNR
555
am
Wed 29/5/40, went to Sharmes, There 30/5/40, of was put kswain of a small open moha boat named Two Revers:
ith Ldg Sho Williams of Devenport RNB. Christian name 998 to as to (Christian name & off be not known) and molored known) to drive the molor, and Sea horris RNRof Lowshoff
Lobs % Dunkish to help evacuate she Goldiers from the ch, arriving at Dunkish early hows of Frid morning beach East of Dunkirk piers a Heamship of decided mg sharted to bring of Proops b HMS.Winchelsea. See on prom am work amships the under surf falls the which which be was were of presty her hanging as heavy 4 from gave of some logh her davits shelter one of is the heligged as a boat rope made fast lo the S/s sterm ach has get our boat out clear of he Gurf, bout
6
/
chelsea in she morning when going in from the we out which If think was owing to the shock of for load of Folders our engine k
code around, we carried on in is the beach of explosion of the bombs which were dropping a
raded up with goldiers hauled out our boat be other
4 boat cope regged to the Oftern of the steamship who gnabed to motor lannch which gave us her sofe who d howed us to the Winchelsea and continued lo low going alonglide of Winchelsea with the last load to and fro, all the daywill lake in the evening
6
eart ordered us she Crew of the: Two Rivers abound m
Gless and could only drift about we Pharmeses were brought and with the molor broke down and baking we were ach h Dover and then went on to ready ady to sahe another boat across if needed

$ 10
r
83
contd.
morning and steering and was with tola jury the rmudder. craft Berthed in Ramsgate naro
I again left that evening with would be repaired,8,B soon
Dunkirk late in the a War Dept Motor Boat the larger ships. evening and troops were again transf arr
2am 8. return When this operation was completed at 8
ordered was made to Ramsgate. On Tuesday the 4th JU
to return to sheemess, out a few minutes before the Petty Officer on the Mermaiden" advised me he was ne having an officer to navigate the vessel back to weymout myself we lei
587
the ne
The crew behaved extrement well in d duty carry ing on all she while under continual air bombardment T machine fire from shore bathery firing across H
to she finish and being web through the noh stopping or having anything to eat f all she croldiers had to be dragged a had to wodde out in the surf up for at himes to get to our boar. and with their equipment on were helpless in she was
G.B Thomass Sea P.O.R.N.R

588
556
W.A.S. HORNE LDG. Sto.
Prints
R.F.R. B.16726, sferred
JUNE 13th 1940.
M.L. MERHAIDEN, shortly c/o HOTER E)NARD
Tune
WEYMOUTH
e due
DUTY PERFORMED By M.A. MERMAIDEN DORSET.
held
AT EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
up uth.
$ to to
+ expr Heymin of 6.30PM.T procussess to.) met May under command of Junt. Maitin R.N.R.
doing followed 1) wech Rilot boots to Joves a advist er of Doves of 3.0 P.M. May 3th u Jun the
Finst Hastin was released from as on allowal we from of Dover to go do and this the who
Pensioner Petty Coffices Norton was then in board command of The boat.
to their
We completed with spel 9 works & provisions overca
& loft Joves for Sunkish 31ˢᵗʰ May.
her.
an unwertful ship to Dunkish, snop) for
R
off fouring difficulties with Tage dowing small crafer, we were under one own faver.
We saw Ting ship sto book in spow, & permit we were heal Smkirk.
The Tag made any & we and not know while we were, so me had to hang alound until class broke.
as alown was bleaking we got under way
& steamed for a awl red glow which we could see in She custance, & which we sook for Dunkisk.
asked then if May were going to Sunkish,
We sighted two Belgian fishing boats, &
They smell so we followed
Jast apperwards we hade contact with

589
THREE
We Heared a course for the English of were bombed for about an have flases, hr close without airect hits, although wades fell so they hopsed is and of the hull, which I stook to be
& felt something Sciafe the of both loob fragnests.
St
Eventually They left is alone & we into A hair Sea Soute % Dovel.
I Aen found that we well making slowly but could not stell where, & that full fife was fractured.
I managed to keep the woder Clour the bilge hunt, & bound the fuel with rag.
He made for Ransgare as it was net
& were losing fuel.
We diserbarked the troofs in Ranegor
Harbour, & were laid of for sepairs.
The reset Any across was made with hjo a just an air Junnes a a civilian, the of as I and not want to leave
The Pub first asked he if 2 could in And although they were voluntiels.
the to leave repails at done 4 P.M. to the 3rd June, thef of I
I could.
9
We were Aved ovel this spins by a "
We & then at to get troofs After from alliver which Harbol along fiel inside proceeance the harless q state ha the transport LOCUST outside In

590
Two
557
an seart vessel & asked Then for The conse to Sunkish, & are found we were on the sight Arack.
We eventually arrived or the beach which was noth of Dembrik, & which 2 Thank was LA DANN.
Iv was The Glorions,et of June when we assined at The beach in The thisk of an vial bombarant.
I Aprgov to hertin that on he way to The beach we were strafer by Nazi Planes but without loss of life a very while method damage, hit one of the Belgion looks was far and of action.
an the beach we procuded sto filly traspe to Ae waiting austrayers under bonbaidness
& machine gun fir, although and waships were keeping of a stopy bareage.
a big flight of Nazis cane over, a
The & other waships all got started overfung loabs.
under way, of proceded sto Sea, which They
We Spotted a boat load of back were forced % do mow She Tommies cricumstances. well for them, of mall machine gm fire we got and from the beach so we Animal
There then safely about warships heal so we had to by Ao well sea, no as with The washifs hd. gone, 94
The will Soldies had given of hope well until
Huns making it was for they Ann back, a they risk greatly law relieved, no & said They world
The tril back with as.

FOUR.
We 591 confleted feeling Hoops from the harbone, his hailow thing back new boots dines into the who had for small alm erens Im gar engine Aronble.
out We loft Sunkish his about 2.30 30
our power, had to get A.M.
by of the thing after about an home hay a
The harbars was being shelled while eventually allived at Ramigore were there, 89 astroyed astern of us and the harbons was his.
yours Obeauntly
W.a.s. Hohe Leady
R.F.R.B.to

upe 12th 1940
C.C.S. Base 59%
Wermonth 558
bhronicle of Events of Imerniades may 29th Proceeded so Dower under
Doner. 30th Comfleted with oil and water
Com mand of Lieut. martin R.H.R. arriving and provision, Luest martin while to so to another ship took charge of Income nd proceeded the 31st may in Curver under run Power with two trainlers towing small motor boats, at between 11 and 12 on after great difficultres in keeping Confact with
Hawler the tiansler slifid their Tow. in he darkness we missid the Convoy, so decided to wait ontill dazlight, when sighting two
Belguim drifters the Joinsa with them asking if ther were procerding to Dunkins, not quite lear. signted Transport and asked by Signal
Coresfonded with the coam we were the coarse for Dunkirk, the Coarse received steering so proceeded the in Company Just before
Dunkirk we were attacked G 4 as arring aircraft but doing at with us machine little damage, action, fun fire the arring taking Drifts at astern being put out of from the books to the destroyers, tombs our destination, proceeded to Embark hoots which there puff rather close, Sing how was rowing up a Leavy barrage, several us a hard droffed the one Destroyer was was AFTER fathy one Loading, underweigh boat on contain Leaving 24 the British Destroyer. / French sighted officer and shaking, Except the one that I
so in and took them off, weigh as proceeded the Denti open was getty under

593 proceded on my way to D
being no more boats not or men over having ho Chart and the
I steered a Course I thought this I have mick up some of our ships end oh while faming hombs we draffed the convoy. and this taking place on June return times and airing with markid Sen by this time we found she was Zna found ships 80mg west. and followed chan water and the Starbond Engine to Ramog ate. arrin there on one Eng sing trouble, so decided to frocud ur disambarked troops and tied up alon of the wase, on June 3rd a Volunties Cre with 7m Leading Sto. took over and by after damage to Stra Engine Rad been Zef the release Crew composid of young hand to our base under Lient Inino left Ram officers. June 4th Received orders to Proc arriving at theymouth 5th your Very Gfedianly
J.J. roton P.O.
Pension
4309
Qt my crew consisted of I ordinary Seamen Rh VR.
1 Leading sh R.F.R.
/ feading Signalman

595
Submitted Report of Dunkisk Operations
561
The Night of fune 3.4.
after being releved from H.T. School Tilly managed to faid a large casin cruiser as Mermanden, in which to you au last crosing. She had at the
Dynam. Office of 370 the Commander-in-Chief, B14/894 1435 pipe, due, due 6 a
TELEGRAMS:-
Admiral, Chatham.
The Nore, ey were boa meuded
TELEPHONE:-
Admiralty House,
Che am No. 3221.
Chatham.
(Extensions 210 and 519).
inder unfortunately a
560 x of machine. quing
22nd June, 1940.
1 rather chary of going
No:4770C/40.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER.
Issued 6 stay & hoard as claw U444 aft
REPORT OF DUNKIRK OPERATIONS.
sted of as stole am
This belated report is forwarded, since Sub. Lieut. Beale's an eldesly sicname is worth noting as a capable and energetic young officer.
anthy appointed 5 HMS
The Quai Felix Faure was by no means easy to find, even in dayuf during a greater light, and he did very well to get there in the dark also am board in inflam. in
2
'w' 3 bury a admiral for ADMIRAL,
Doat and as on boats by time were cast of
DOV R
will steam. Between w sating mines were enin sweepers for a considerable aux 9 exprome Draw with Lewis quifie-
Flear reached Dunkisk without mishap

she
Submitted Report of Dunkisk Operations.
561
The Night of fune 3.4.
after being relived from HM School Tilly'
managed to faid a large cabin cruiser, as Mermander, in which to you au last crosing. She had at the time a broken fuel and extaust pipe but, due 6 as efforts of leading Stoker younger, They were boa meuded in time to start with as remainder unfortunately as crew had received their full share of machine quaring in a previous tip and any were rather chary of going again, so, while an stoker voluntersed 6 stay on board the remaining four members of as clew wall left ashone. The crew eventually consisted of as stoke an air gummer on leave, Michael game, an elderly while -
haved gentleman M: MacPherson ecently appointed 5 HMS
Victory as a Lientement, and myself. During a greater part of as trip across we had also am board in adminal, Ramsqate - Commodore Taylor.
fuse after passing 'w' 3 bury a admiral traus fessed 19 a Was Department boat. and as an boats shick zill aen, had been Towed by tips, were cast of and told 6 follow under Casin our steam - Between w buoy and are channel. Chree floating mines were enline, Shile hey and 6 explode Deam with Lewis you fiecountried, which occupied as insesweepers for a ensidence
The Flest teached Dunkisk without mishap.

596
and admisal we proceeded straight up To Quai Felix Fame.
Boar was the directing are swaller boats. The who there was was a only other one alongside when we was Dep difficulty in filling the boat. animal au officer bows controlling the French troops, they archough powed are and stem antil are was noc au inch in unfilled. the Meanwhile stumbling along be 'quai', tripping debin G report G the admisal, 1 ended of a large shell hole, which 1 promptly cursed up fluently at
Draw one language.
with two hundred troops on board forward of the cobine was so crowded that are believe not we one ot all, consequently the boat bad 6
by slouting diections louder Than due incessant Freuch
The passage out passed without any untoward incident.
De barbow however. a slight well difficulty arose, lousi to which the troops should have been transfe not be found, due to its not flashing the preatrava
5 make matters worse are was a swell outside
Oue boat roll reiker precariously.
The troops were eventually put aboug lying near are entrance much a are consternated
Sub- Lientenant who kept bleating hopelessly. Passer cli an order which are French promptly obeyed by sero the focile. Luckey the only damage the boar a goterquely twisted guardrail and chipped paint by are swell.
but on assioring at the quai' found it deserte s
We proceeded once wore up a troops had been evacuated in a emarkably.
acting on his instructions I went ashore again left certain that are admiral had not been be had not.
On our return down are harb admisal in an HTB. which had apparently 6
are her propersion and relders were ordered

AID a go is to a tramp steams proceeding 4
French fishing assistance smask that Each had collected a few troops- 552 running full speed in an endeavour eitile to avoid us, an straight into one bows. Fortunately ic did damage, due 5 an decks you but air was not known while doeslight.
Once alongside are fishing boat / enquired civilly of the coxswain Whether or not he required towing, and was promptly told 13 hop 's' in a most ungentle manner while one of an Crew proceeded is but ML with an oar. In are conversation Oat ensued is appeared Diat
I
was Drying to turu are boat back while the latter was determined G save itself comme tous le auties! & Chey still seemed adamant in their refusal 19 & Towed, and appeared 13 be quite sappy in aim ignorance we eft Gen
19 make arein our way 4 the larbou entrance.
Further down au harbour we were hailed by a moterboat which appeared 4 have gone aground off one of the when pies. We had hoped G Tow has our, are au idea was eventually abandoned as she had a ope round her SCHEWS and a large beam of wood, G which as ope was attached under her, forward of au propellers. 7 -
were then Taken on board, and twned not 6
be Vice- admissals, doven Garge we were leaving. The proceedings were held up by be coxswain a Scotomian, insisting on returning for his boots.
a hundred yards fund on we were you bailed by a small open motorboat which had broken dan.
Taking her in Tow we eventually reached as intrance, located where are Tow decided G part. after rescuring her again, we ae motorboat was aen cast adaift the tugs and the two chews were transferred is Crem -
The time was now after one. City so we well ordered to stay by as tup, giving up our former intention of visiting schools are were Nouveau working. awar lust Part, above as this quai time an at German which are articlery opened fine on the Larbour shelling

596
and we proceeded straight up to Quai Felix Fame. where admisal was directing are smaller boats. The was Department
Boat was the only other one alongside when we arrived there was 2 difficulty in filling the boat. archough are au officer controlling are French troops, they powed in are bows and stem antil are was not an inch of over cpace unfilled. Meanwhile stumbling along the 'quai', tripping over of a large shell hole, which 1 promptly cursed fluently in the debin G report G the admissal, 1 ended up at Due
Draw one language.
with two hundred troops on board. the forward of the cabine was so crowded that are behnoman not au one ot all, consequently the boat bad 6 be way by slociting diections louder Than the incessant Freuch chatter
The passage one passed without any untoward incident. Once as harbour however. a slight well difficulty arose, when lousi to which the troops should have been transferred, not be found, due to 't's not flashing the preatranged 8g
5 make matters worse are was a swell outside which
Ou boat roll precariously.
The troops were eventually put aboard a lying near au entrance much a an consternation: of la an order which are French promptly obeyed by sustained chestering
Sub- Lientenant who kept bleating hopelessly. Passer the foirle. Leckey are only damage the boar a goterquely twisted guardrail and chipped paintwork, by are swell.
up the har all but troops on had assising his been instructions We at evacuated the proceeded quai I in went once found a ashore a wore cc again deserted short believe to acting certain on that the admiral had not been left be had not.
atura down the harbour lost in On our MTB. which had apparently to Take are her admisal propersion and an relders. we were ordered

AD a go is to assistance a tramp steams proceeding 4
French fishing smask that Euch had collected a few troops. 552 Turning full speed in au endeavour eitile to avoid us, an straight into one bows. Fortunately ic did damage, due G an decks iron strengseening but this was not known whil doeslight.
Once alongside are fishing boat / enquired civilly of the coxswain wheller or not he required towing, and was promptly told 13 hop 's' in a most ungentle manner while one of an crew proceeded 19 but 3 with an oar. in are conversation Oat ensued is appeared that
I was Drying to turu are boat back while the latter was determined G save itself, comme tous le auties! & Chey still seemed adamant in their refusal 19 & Towed and appeared 13 be quite happy in air ignorance we eft Gen
19 make arein our way 4 the harbou entrance.
Further down au harbour we were hailed by a motorboat which appeared to have gone aground off one of the winer pies. We had hoped G Tow his one, auc
Cu idea was eventually abandoned as she had a ope round her SCHOOL and a large beam of wood, G which as ope was attached under her, forward of au propellers. The -
were then Taken on board, and twned one 6
be Vice- admissals, dover's barge we were leaving. The proceedings were held up by the coxswain a Scotoman, insisting on returning for his boots.
a hundred yards funcess on we were apain hailed by a small open motorboat which had broken dan
Taking her in Tow we eventually reached as intrance, where are Tow decided G part. after rescuing her again, we located ae motorboat was Cheu cast adift be tugs and the two chews were transferred is Chem -
The time was now after one. City so we well ordered to stay by are tup. giving up our former intention at of visiting schools are were Noweau working. awar lust Part, above as this quan time an German which Due articlery opened fine on the Larbour shelling

598
with unering accuracy Our quai' at which an aircraft appeared dropping parachute Hares.
had seen working. During the whole operation however, smoker only ac two. thirty the tugs rounded all small boats remaining and proceeded down the channel, up a transler bearning down on us. rau into the week be clear of au visinity by daybreak. fust before leaving and later proceeded on her way.
outside Ou entrance but she appeared to be undawaged just as we were being left behind and extent of One damage forward was uncertain. one of tugs waited for us to catch up and took us in Tow, was by this time daybreak and wost chips were clear
Due channel; we remained in Tow whil we arrived
Ramogate. very surprisingly we were unne olested by air on are way back.
It should be mentioned less the any vigore with which Due volunteer crew played their seen par without acm are 'Mermaiden' would not have again-
CiBeale.
S/L.
9 Vi 40.

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynams 375
Subject.
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
583
68
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth.
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The attached reports on the evacuation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. FAGAN, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper
"Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confidential Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
you ADMIRAL *
DOVER 26JUN 1940
RT
CAPTAIN.
wy.
just clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it we managed to recover one who revived after some was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While this our screws became foul In of spite doing obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong surf of and ebbing tide soon drove us aground.

598
with aircraft small had be clear unering seen boats appeared working. of accuracy remaining an ac dropping suring two. Ou and thirty an quai' parachute proceeded whole the at tugs operation Hares. which down rounded however, an qualier up only only all outside a transer Ou bearning visinity down on by daybrak. the the before channel.
and later entrance proceeded on bue her she us. way. appeared rau into to the be undaw wheck leaving put extent this waited of au damage as we forward were being was left behind and was for us to catch up and uncertain. took one of
Due by this time daybreak and wort us were in Tow channel; we remained in Tow until chips clear on Ramogate. very surprisingly we were unne olested we arrived by air are way back.
It should be mentioned less the vigore with which Due volunteer crew played their pay without new One 'Mermaiden' would not have seen again-
CiBeale.
S/L.
40

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynam 375 Bw/
Subject.
500
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
563
}
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The attached reports on the evacuation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. PAGAN, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper
"Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confidenne tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
OF ADMIRAL *
DOVER 26JUN 1940 RT
CAPTAIN.
DO
&
WAS a line to the pulling boats the is unustes is to the ships. One boat, heavily be acquipment capsised just as it the weat incompled medicare was made A Names a were the who men revived sank like after stones treatment. but in Lan, care 4. and I news became foul of some usba endered useless. In spite
Cani inho futae Herto by other boats, the strong
Business Exhand drove us aground.

600
2
565 18
H.M.S. Excellent,
Portsmanth time 10 the 1940
x.
The Vice adminal, Hoves the thave the honour to submit the follow toppes gallions Reach on hray 29
leard of events after being appointed to the
1
the Portsmonth Commander in. chief Postomouth tsailed from
In accerdance with instructions received from my Command the Hoppers Queen's Channel Laty at 0320 on may 30ᵗʰ taking under wg.
South borough" ho 101" & No usit and arrived at Ramsgate at 2015 on the same day.
2
wing to slow speed and apparent engine trouble Hopper "No. 67 was mable & seep company, & on my Departure from Ramigate assised there. an the following mothing she had us.
3
In accordance with orders teceived at Ramogate m just yenesa throw a line to the pulling boat, boats heavily and then tow men in full equipment capsised like just stones as but clear of the suit, them out to the ships. One it laden with us. most of the men revived sank after treatment.
we managed to this our screws became useless. In spite was reaching recover one who foul of some we 3 our obstacle and vain efferts by other aground. strong doing and rendered boats, the blund we ele de wher ebbing tide soon drove as

601
566
led for Hun kish at 0 300 on heay 31ˢᵗ
8
th borough", their T slower process independently "Laty to me pany with Q "No. meen's 101" Channel to & ordered Hoppers anse of specds.
jallions Reach and Queenischamel assured at the each 31ˢᵗ. to the East of Hem kisk Newbour at about osio may
Twin to the effing like we could only take an board gallions Reach eventually managed to get about few tooops moring the forenoon and early efternoon.
official attached to the army.
one Belgian soldies and me French potal
123 French and British troops, including at The Hoppers sailed independently from Huntrith discretion various times rusing the evening at the
Hun of the Skippers tsailed from wy time kirk 3,st in и fallion's Reach at 2230 m twas set considerably H my coutse in takin
Owing to enemy air attack during the night
Ramsjalie until about 0700 on time 11 in avoiding action and tid not assure at whence twas ordered to margate to disembark troops.
MUSLINE - m just clear general the suit, throw a proper line to the pulling boats of then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily it and laden in full equipment capsised just as with men us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but we was reaching to recover one who reviewed after some sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, strong
While doing obstacle and rendered useless. the managed this our screws became foul In of spite suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.

602
2
5.
stake this opportunity to mention the splentid art played by the 'Lady South borough the Ad not have a neval officer onboard, and because dependently the brought It more troops than her speed was forced to operate largely od.
any of the other Hoppets and the itialive and skill displayed by her SR ipper and Chew in ind
The in thusidsm Reeness of all about her to ambasking troops from the beach was outstan rug return to Hunkith was repeatedly in evidence at 0300 on time 5ᵗʰ in in accordance with order under received at margate tsailed for Portsmouth, taking
Lady South borough" "Fotemost (Sub Lientenant K.H.
my command the Happers "Queen's Channel mathin R.N ) and No. W. 24"
the Chamiel had been twept
We were delayed until 0700 in the Howns until
In a position approximately 10 miles south of
28
the Royde sovereign Light House (in numbed allion's Reach)
took in tow a Ftench fishing vessel in by personnel of the French havy, bound from Hun havel kith to Hower touly handed her over to the auth orities in hewhaven.
2
&
line 000 30 W after 1700, and thoth fee
Owing to the weather, restriction on passing of feed water in several ships, tanchoted at henhave about C 0a 1 power Noals TO run m just at 2 June 58
J
- 11 5 K. 00-4 you 950 of TVr frow a line to the pulling boats
Address a to the ships. One boat, heavily it this is fare old at use equipment capsised just as when Kg beha chass expanse take R the men sank like stones but that Palaxe HE nick's who revived after treatment.
mede CANN nooder became foul of some
& Mas "Pda cast with produced useless. In spite he Hereby whenels - manes accents by other boats, the strong
We What drove us aground.

603
568
hewhave On time 6ᵗʰ in accordance with in stare china received at
Ports mouth.
Heft the Happets and proceeded personally to while engaged in ferrying troops from funkish beach, one of gallion's Reach's boats was lost and the rema in in boat twamped with the subs ment loss of some bottom boards, and crutches.
in those the honour to be,
Sir, your obedient servant,
7.h I tohnston,
WHALE IBLAND
Sub. Lienten ant Roy al havy.
idea was for the power boats to nun in boats just clear of tow them out to the ships. One heavily it general the suit. throw a line to the pulling boat, and then in full equipment capsised just stones as but laden with men most of the men sank like after treatment.
we was reaching to us. recover one who revived of some managed this our screws became foul In spite sunken and vain efferts by other aground. strong
While doing obstacle and rendered useless. boats, the suit of the and anchor ebbing tide soon drove us

604
2
569
H.M.B Excellent.
12 June.
Sir,
He
I have the honour to submit the following narrative of events covering the period 2200 Wednesday 29th May until the morning of saturday June 1st
In accordance with verbal orders, 9 sailed from
Portomouth in H.M.S' EXCELLENT'S A/A motor Boat about 2200 May 29th. The following afternoon it became necessary to put in to Dover owing to insufficient fuel to proceed to Ramsqate. While refuelling I received orders to remain at Dover.
about michight I got sailing orders to proceed at once to BRAY DUNES to assist with the terrying operations between the beach and waiting ships.
and went straight inshore. There was heavy sust
Early on Friday morning we arrived off BRAY
and many of the pulling boats which the soldiers were manning from a jethy of abandoned army transports appeared to be in difficulties. The general idea was for the power boats to nun in just clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it we managed to recover one who revived after some was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While doing this our screws became foul In of spite obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.

605
Once ashore, and 9 got in touch with a party
Engineers made arrangements for the of Ro stern to be raised in an attempt to clear boat whatever had become foul of them. while this away being done I took the crew and a party of we some way along the beach to where am abando sole cabin-cruiser lay. she appeared to be in good condition; after considerable effort and mus hampered by bompandment and machine attacks from berman aircraft she was ever refloated. I left her in charge of my consway the rest of the crew,.1 with orders to carry on previously. When I returned with the soldiers original place it was obvious that my A/A
boat was of no further use. The most import articles were removed to safety: Secret chai the Captain of the minesweeper PRINCESS ELIZA
and Aldis hamp to the Royal Curps of Signa had only a motorbicycles lamp.
With the aid of more soldiers we got a ships trip back took became over into badly another the sea motor-boat holed one. and so By made I had this abandoned several been time force my he and in in life-boat the as private almost the and engine redhot. appeared did They a pulling rejoined rather too Jerry me 70
for the remainder we of the time. There being five oars the work was exhausting and ob slow. with darkness, the submerged private cans, buses etc) and the suit the difficulty of operating from the sing con transports run out into the sea and