TNA ADM 199 790

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with engines greater stopped range when than boats and planes could be detected 443 by sound
at a that far this course might profitably visibility be employed permitted. during patrols. It is submitted
May 31st. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547.
Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and
escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453
approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken
off-load all depth charges as it was considered
inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of
5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small
boats.
The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when
the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable
the convoy to arrive together. At this time a large force of
German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were
inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and a
general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at
this time and the attack became disorganised, - The bombers
eventually disappearing inland.
The convoy arrived off Dunkirk
at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut Nyme-Edwardes
from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as
required. At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith
a collision occurred with what appeared to be a medium-sized yacht.
S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern swinging
round as she altered course to port stove in S.O.6. on the starboard
bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking
above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid
of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane.
On arrival at Keith General Leese was emvbarked and instructions
were given to collect Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England
dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved.
On arrival at Hebe it was discovered that Lord Gort had crossed to
Keith. S.0.6. returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters
of NX an hour later Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked
forthwith and he and General Leese taken direct to Dover.
Considering the fact that it was the first time any of the crew had
been under fire their behaviour left nothing to be desired.
June 2nd. 1940. 1201 to 1922.
Instructions were received to carry out a search for drift "Girl
approximately 30 soldiers in an open boat about 3 miles off Dunkirk to
Gladys" reported broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk and for
reported by aircraft. Course was set from Dover direct
the coast Reutigen. to search for the open boat, subsequently to put out
the outer It was then intended to proceed slowly towardds to sea
clear of land and make another approach to the coast approximately the
10 miles Dunkirk to allow for the set of the tide from and
time the east of was received. Air escort had been promised
causion had report to be exercised as no ships were operating off Dunkrik
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.