TNA ADM 199 790

39
43
to Dunkirk East Pier destroyers will be sent there as well. All other craft
EAT
except Hospital Carriers to embark from beach which is extended from one mile East
Inemyor Dunkirk to one mile Rest of La Panne.
Part 8 follows."
Scobing being
It intended
Part 8 received as follows -
"Whole length is divided into 3 equal ports referred to as La Panne, Bray, Malo, from daly East to West with a mile gap between each port. La Panne and Bray have troop concentration points each end and in middle;
Malo at each end. These points should be tended by inshore craft.
Pass this nessage by V/S to ships not equipped
I/C, as opportunity offers. or Destroyer at
Dunkirk pass to S.N.O. Dunkirk."
referred so the by a dive-bomber
This was exactly what was required.
In the evening a series of fierce air attacks ere made on the Enstern Arm. These resulted in H.R.S. GRENADE
eing bombed while embarking troops. at It looked for the oment as though she night sink and block the entrance to the
If arbour but 8 trawler and drifter were sent to assist her nd managed to guide her into a pocket to the Westward of information as to the blooking he main channel. She burned fiercely for some hours and by Commader
If ventually blew up with a loud explosion.
1a reduced the
A travler was also bombed and sank in the channel the simimum. in bout 50 yards from the East Pier about two cables/from the astern Lighthouse.
The transport FENELLA was aunk while loading at he outside extremity of the Reatern Arm. She was practically ully loaded but the troops were transferred to another ship
1th very little loss
A troop transport CRESTED EAGLE was bombed and endered unusable. She drifted down towards Bray where she an aground. A "J" Class destroyer was bombed off the eaches but was taken in tow by another destroyer.

135
140
was noticed that ships at anchor had heavy boabs directed at them, whereas Lydd who was under weigh was only treated to light stuff. During the embarkation H.M.S. Crested Eagle, which had bombed aft and caught fire, beached herself 01088 by and the troops on board began to jump into the water. Lydd's bosts immediately went to their assistance, picking up a large number, including twenty five very badly burnt and injured non.
Albury arrived shortly after this and her assistance was called for, which was at once rendered.
AS there was no doctor on board it was deemed essential to get the wounded home as quickly as possible, and I laft the scene at 2100, with three hundred troops enboard.
When off the Middelkirke Buoy at 2200 11 was reported to ne that the D.G. cabled had caught fire and had had to be switched off. IT was discovered that They had been pairced by bomb splint
-ters, the steering compase was now so sluggish that the ship had to be steared by a star When visible. Temporary repairs to
D.G. cable were carried out next day.
At 2205 and so 3 was reserved from the Travler TOR BAY 2.
ON closing her it was discovered that all she had wrong was &
foul propeller. I explained about the necessity of getting ay
Wounded home quickly, told her that there were other ships following, continued on ay way, and reported the matter on arrival at Margate.
I arrived at Margate at 0515 30th May, but could not get alongside to disembark until 0855, owing to the large number of ships already there.
I then proceeded to Sheerness to coal and ammunition,

316
- 322
Processings by H.H.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June.
After the first raid "SABRE" left the Dier and on arrival outside found some men struggling in the water. Having no Doats left it was necess ry to place the ship alongside each Ran and hoist his
In with a bowling. The survivors XIXX included the Second Enginee of the "Crested Eagle" and a stoker from "Granade", both badly burned; also some Frenchmen from a raft. During this time "SABRE"
Was repeatedly attacked by dive bombers but sustained no damage.
Then proceeded off BRAY to land portable wireless set, loudspenkers, etc, with the talegraphists LA charge of then.
Some time was spent in searching for & boat (SABRE having none), and 8 small otor launch vis eventually headed off and pressed into service. The live Dombing attacks were continuous and a number of ships were seen to be hit including "Bideford" and
"Shladin", three transports and & trawler. "SABRE" kept ing at high speed and thus escaped, though she was severaly shaken by near alsses, and every B a on look was blackened with
011 fuel splashes. to 2010 (by which time all assunition was expenied) destroyers were ordered to withdraw. Returned in company with "Verity" and "Saladin" who could only do 15 knots.
it 0515/30 securet alongside at Dover and landed troops. Then procested to eastern, un, embarked ammunition and borrowed a whaler from "Saudhurst". Processed it 0830 and return-
91 to Dunkirk. Secured to last Pier at 1145 and embarked troops.
On shoving off it MAS found that the ship MAS aground, but by moving troops formard she vis got off without dalay. Some damage
W 8 sustained by the propellers and as LLC tome. At 1530 secured at Dover. it 1615 proceeded sgain route "2" on account of low visibility. A irictine nine MAS signted and/ras sunk by M.G.
fire. The 108 gradually disporsed; "SABRE" was shadowed by a reconnaissance aircraft, and just before reaching No. 6 calais
/Ducy

Dynamo 185.
182
MOTOR YACHT "MARSAYRO"
170
6th.June 1960
B14/0/1513
II.
Leading Seaman BROWN.
No.R.E.2/014.
Vice Admiral,
Dover.
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, that I took over dommand
The Nore.)
esday 29th.May 1940.
rt I tried to sort things on, regarding any particular
Forwarded.
stremely hasty. I therefore nga will suffice.
2.
Reports and recommendations
Friday 31st.May 1940 at concerning the above named vessels with X217 and 2 other were forwarded by my Nos. M.I. 1/14/015
utenant POOL,R.N. We and R.E. 2/014. of 8th and 9th out 3 p.m. we came in sight
June, 1940.
moke and explosions as far later we contacted the
3.
Of the vessels mentioned in the French soldiers from the above reports only the "Royal Eagle", to the beach; it was
"Golden Eagle" and "Crested Eagle"
heen and capsized at once.
are specifically named in Appendix 1, it himself from being more thdrew my ship to review
4.
In addition to the vessels
", stuff that looked like named in Minute 1 above, the Yachts iD devil as I know that
"Christobel II" "Caleta", "Glala"
our propellers in the way
"Amulree" and the tug "St Clears"
happen as soon as I had were mentioned in my reports, and each we managed to pick are presumed to be included in the captured and used a little note to Appendix 1.
troops appeared to be a
>-loads for some 5 hours,
Jaba" and so on. On this
ADMIRAL
am Queen" (about 2000 tons
" she had put her nose.
30th JULINE, 1940
*
;ines of "Marsayru" and
1940.
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE, ghout this day and the
SHEERNESS.
all a complete jumble in stant fire of various kinds, affird the ship was not hit by most lune I think - we were
UMum
-done, nearest ship being
Marmay) by 4 brave Messershimi to who dived and m. compair bell hadwith much vigour but exceedingly poor aim tant fire 7 we messenour. We had a Bren and 2 rifles but did the ship. are bus German pilots seemed disinolined to come lune I thinwaleand 4 net and I had given orders to hold our fire ar, nearechya pity.. A pity. After half an hour of this 3
rebbmit to worght and sight and we saw no more of the Messerschmits and exceeding 2 rire bombed day we were bombed by a large formation of d disinclleast I class up. At least I think it was our little arders wer was one as. unless it was one on the horison, in
After half anre French soldienw. course of these operations we took off iven calf an a these opeedirapd by miles.
we saw no more be British, others ads of 400 French soldiers. To our bitter few hours - she and find no British, others ware luckier.
were bombed by aly a tied up with hingly for a few hours - she was on tow
At least I thinked. The sow rope rifompletely tied up with bits of line and a it was one we cast about for a noling hard. The sow rope broke and we iles. 80 of them tay evening having eaflecut day - faithruk thing. No arrived day - faithruk thing. Hugh we cast about for a time. However
400 1 about
We borught back 2 preday evening having called from Ramagate
- faithruk tip. We borught back 2 "prises" - a nice evening h.s.
We borught

CONFIDENTIAL.
252
From
The Commanding Officer. H.M.S. Sheldrake.
Date
3rd. June. 1940. Reference RDA/C/38.
TO
The Commander in Chief. The Nore.
Through The Commodore in Charge. Sheerness.
boby to Senior Officer. Conettes.
1.
The following renort of operations carried out in accordance with C-in-C. Nore's 1121/2 is submitted.
2.
Sheldrake sailed from Sheerness at 1615 with an additional demolition party of 12, with orders to destroy the asdic gear in
Basilisk ashore off La Panne. On passage zig zagging was employed where submarine attack could (be) reasonable expected.
3.
Routed via T Buoy (2005), Oostdyck (2053), Middlekerke (2128),
Nieuport Bk. (2024) Buoys I closed the shore in stages as the light failed, and was able to identify Basilisk by 2131 andthen waited till 2230 for darkness before closing in. She was awash up to her
FX deck in position Latitude 51degs. 08mins. 20secs. North. Longitude 2degs. 34mins. 50secs. East., 2 miles off shore.
4.
The demolition party was immediately placed abcard, while
Sheldrake lay off about a cable from the wreck. A Lew minutes after midnight the fuzes were lit, and the whaler hoisted at 0017. The officer in charge of demolitions has submitted a separate report as to the location of charges, which were lowered as far below water level as possible. The ship apperas to have already been pretty well gutted by fire forward, and her bridge wrecked. He was unable to make his way aft, but reports that her back had apparently been broke en by an explosion in the vicinity of the engine room. one empty
C.B. chest was found.
5. a few enemy aircraft were seen. Sever fighting was taking place
Throughout the operation I was apparently not located though up till midnight, the right 01 the enery be on the beach abreast the ship, with their gun batteries on the left and
Dunkirk illuminated by firexas usual) to my right. This fighting died down as the repeated bombing of gun positions by the R.A.F. took effect. I regret it was not possible to close the reported position have of Crested Eagle on the beach as Sheldrake would undoubtedly been illuminated by our own parachute flares. I had also hoped by placing been done depth to Wakeful, in addition to the internal demolitions, the charges to complete the destruction of the ship, as but had this possible: nor would a Mk. VII. charge fired from throwers was have not operated in the shallow water in which she was lying.
6.
Apart from tide, there were no navigational difficulties, as the buoys were lit.
continued overleaf

273
F 262
THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE.
FLOTILLA
ROYAL EAGLE
GOLDENT EAGLE.
CRESTED EAGLE.

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.
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 naddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed
CONFIDENTIAL
Deproms. 140.
279
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
DATE
6th June, 1940.
266
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHE RNESS.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. SHIPS "ROYAL" "GOLDEN" AND CRESTED EAGLE".
"ROYAL EAGLE". (1). Lieut. Comdr. Farrow R.N.R. Commanding Officer for coolness and ability in handling and directing his ship under difficult conditions.
(2). Lieutenant Dunkerley R.N.R. For coolness and ability in handling the ship and for inexhaustive energy and skill in organising the ship and personally assisting in the evacuation of Military Units under fire.
(3). Lieutenant (E) Helyer R.N.R. Chief Engineer.
For exceptional work outside his normal duties in organising the ship for the reception of casualties and troops and for the personal example of coolness and ability in embarkation and rescue work under. fire.
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional qualities of leadership
(4). C.P.O. Percy S.T. Munn C/J10033 Torpedo and devotion to duty. The excellent morale of the ship's company and the smooth and efficient working of the whole organisation was due to a very great extent to the personal influence of this elderly Chief Petty Officer.
(5). C.P.O. William J. Jones C/J2950 leadership D.S.M.
(Pensioner). For coolness and good qualities of during the evacuation of troops.
(6). Ordinary Seaman Miller C/JX170070. For
120
untiring care and devotion to the wounded.
"GOLDEN EAGLE". (1). Lieutenant Newman O.B.E. Lieut. R.N.V.R. Newman (though On the not indisposition in and the through Senior his of a remaining personal large his Commanding number example Officer) of Officer, troops and assumed leadership of under age command heavy and was has of bombing successful the little ship and shell evacuating officer is 54 years initiative was real undoubtedly sea experience, fire. the This but reason his that personal "Golden example Eagle" and was able to take an
FG"
active part in the evacuation.

- - S E C R E T -
had been put at full the disposal and all officers of the troops cabine - all and bunks were Captain's abin was occupied 1+11
as an example the naked men who had swam on by dozen completely carried 1700 board.
Eagle" this
1pl ne in was
Engineers ratings Officers Second It Lieutena who is assisted who almost were was t outstanding most Wilson indefatigablein impossible ably. 201 Company, when to I would mention his all were any excellent officers or extent to her Commanding Officer whose cool and balanced consider that the efficiency of the ship is due to a but grea to whom T was able
280
"GOLDEN EAGLE" continued.
(2). Lieutenant Lucas R.N.R. This officer supported Lieutenant Newman and by his handling of the shi personal efforts in berthing and securing carried out inva work under dangerous and very difficult conditions.
(3). C.P.O. James S. Seaman C/J3192 Torped
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional work in organising leading the ship's company in difficult and dangerous work elderly Chief Petty Officer led every form of work and act and his untiring efforts resulted in the rescue of a very number of men.
(4). Seaman E.C. Utton R.N.R. X19617a. Thi seaman went ashore from H.M.S. "Golden Eagle" with a line organised a ferry service between the ship and shore. He exceptional coolness and ability under fire and his indiv work throughout the whole proceedings was exceptional.
R.N.V.R. C/WRX84. For exceptionally good work and devoti
(5). F.J. Shirley, Acting Leading Telegrap duty.
(6). Able Seaman Scott S.T. T.D./X1406. fire.
coolness and ability whilst at the helm under his ship and after presence she had of been mind set on fire by severe of coolness in the manner in which bombing
"CRESTED EAGLE". (1). Lieutenant Commander B.R. Booth he R
continuously IO keeping (2). the Sub. guns Lieut. of the R.M. maintaining ship Roberts in VIOV action R.N.R. For his guns si series although of the severe ship bombing was on attacks fire and and out of control (until finally to be abandoned.
F
G. Friend C/J95190.
(3). Able Seaman from the ship aban excellent face of severe work in air assisting attacks until to fire she had last to be orid no Cooch J.F. (T.124). CO.
air extreme attack care and and with devotion the ship to the finally wounded disabled whilstand
(4). Chief Steward on
BBW
eviteitink of elds asw odg
Cordeau
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL

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 - -
had been put at the disposal officers of the troops to all and bunks were full Captain's and all abin was cabins 1411
as an example the who had occupied by dozen second completely NIGHt"Royal naked Eagle" men carried swama 1700 on board.
Officers of whom some50 assisted were most casualties ably and 201 dis I lpline 0 would this THE TXTX
Engineers who was indefatigablein
Second Lieutena to Wilson Company, his
It is almost impossible to mention any officers ratings who were outstanding when all were excellent but or consider that the efficiency Officer of the whose ship is due to a grea extent to her Commanding 10 cool whom and T balanced was shle
18%
"GOLDEN EAGLE" continued.
supported Lieutenant Newman and by his handling of the
(2). Lieutenant Lucas R.N.R. This offic work under dangerous and very difficult conditions.
personal efforts in berthing and securing carried out. i
(3). C.P.O. James S. Seaman C/J3192 Tor
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional work in organisi leading the ship's com elderly Chief Petty and his untiring eff number of men.
"ИНСТО" " JAYOR" HOT ВИОТТЛСИИ
(4).,enot Atd "EIDAS to Tettel
COA
bris seaman went ashore organised a ferry ser exceptional coolness
.II
work throughout the 1
(5). I
ПОЯАНО ИI,88 8
R.N.V.R. C/WRX84. Fc duty.
(6).
rith bebiew coolness and ability ent office to [BOO
"CRESTED EAGLE". (1).
coolness and presence
Birth IO
his ship after she ha
(2).
continuously keeping series of severe bomb
MIATTRO смайатха although the ship was finally to be abandon
TOT 05005/27/0 (3).
excellent work in ass orig face of severe air at riguoris) двятей.Jus (4).
extreme care and devo
[u] air attack and with t]
Date gntdmod
[se] a3d Das 928 to
BBW oviteitint Drus of me extst of elds asw "eIn
OR
SENIOR
GLE". (1).
a presenee

SECRET
mánoeuvring one rating near was the slightly wall fairly heavy shelling was in progress58 k.
284
and the harbour wounded by a splinter.
hemp at the entrance soon as I was just clear outside round the bearing I found - so as the port paddle had many On fathoms arriving of wreck with knives to the port, I stopped and got of the of hands on and I was able to clear it. The bearing was a number cleared light to proceed though only at half practically speed. In the increasing of the ship was shelled from a gun position coast I picked up a Service motor launch and also a lifeboat and to the west Dunkirk, but was not hit. Soon after leaving the towed them back to the North Goodwin.
H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE"
I have not yet seen the report from the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. "Crested Eagle" but from the evidence of a survivor it appears that, after I had ordered her to Dunkirk on May 29th, she proceeded alongside the eastern side of the East Mole at Dunkirk and embarked troops and casualties including many from H.M.S. "Grafton" and a transport which had both been sunk alongside by bombs. Heavy bombing and shell fire was experienced but "Crested Eagle" was unhit until the evening when she had just left the Mole to proceed home with her load of troops and casualties and was hit by a bomb in the engine room. A fire was started and it appeared that as the engines were still working slowly the Commanding Officer decided to beach the ship. Before or after she was beached it is believed she was hit again by two bombs. It is thought that only a small proportion of the ship's company were casualties but that many of the stretcher cases who were accommodated in the wardroom and after part of the ship were lost in the fire.
H.M.S. "GOLDEN" EAGLE". I would like to add the following remarks in respect of th report of proceedings forwarded by Lieutenants
Newman and Lucas. Although technically Lieut. Lucas is second in command of the ship (as an R.N.R. Officer - Lieut Newman being an
R.N.V.R. Officer), Lieut. Newman has carried out the duties of
First Lieutenant and there is no doubt that the initiative and good work done by the ship during the absence of her Commanding
Officer was due almost entirely to Lieutenant Newman who took upon himself the command and was loyally supported by the two
R.N.R. Officers-Lieutenants Lucas and Dent, who did excellent work once Lieutenant Newman had decided what was to be done. Lieut. J.
C. Newman is 54 years of age and quite inexperienced in Naval matters - but I consider that the part he played in these operations is worthy of the highest commendation and I am convinced that had it not been for his leadership and initiative "Golden Eagle" would not have taken any active part in the proceedings.
I would like also to mention the goods work done by Lieut.
Lucas R.N.R. who handled the ship with great skill, and on the occasion on which the ship was in Dunkirk harbour at night. I
consider that the fact that she got out safetly was in a great measure due to his personal efforts on the springs, etc, as well as his handling of the ship.
To the list of men recommended I would like to add Fredk.
J. Shirley, Acting Leading Telegraphist R.N.V.R. C/WRX84, whose efficiency and extreme devotion to duty has been of the utmost assistance to me as Senior Officer of the flotilla and also that rely upon to take with degree of competency during of Able Seaman Scott S.T. TD/X1406, who was the only man I could the night visit to the Dunkirk. wheel I thoroughly any endorse the recommendations given to C.P.O. Seaman and Utton, Seaman R.N.R.

Dyrams 37. 291
Copy.
Commodore's Office,
273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430:. Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship Finella.
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
CONFIDENTIAL Dynama 269 286
nmenced in which some ne harbour and ships in
"Grenade" washit, and so intense that my
FROM.
The Extended Defences Officer,
Sheerness.
pening in the immediate
DATE... 7th June 1940.
ng between raids and nder Clouston, R.N., who
To.
The Commodore in Charge
Sheerness.
ed her survivors came on
SUBJECT. Senior Officer, Thames Local ges were passed by this
Defence Flotilla.
when a bomb dropped down n. from "Finella" to "Crested
I wish to recommend the
'S from the damaged ships
Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence
Flotilla, Commander E.C. Cordeaux R.N.
proceed by Commander
M.B. M.R.C.S. L.R.C.P. for his great judgment and initiative, and also for y and steering an Easterly iously until, as I learnt his unflagging energy shown during the ther, four of which hit the whole period of operation Dynamo.
idles) were still functioning
His gallant action in going ile, but I soon discovered overboard when the whaler capsized y from amidships right aft.
alongside ROYAL EAGLE and remaining and the sides were in.
inthe water for over an hour to clear
;enant Jones, reported on the propellor of the motor boat are15, adly burnt) to say that
I consider, worthy of the greatest ur, so decided to beach the praise.
.P's and C.B's. were ie P.O. Telegraphist.
to the beach where she
CAPTAIN,-
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
ed ground and with the wind

Dyrams 37. 291
Copy.
Commodore's Office,
273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000
Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were
Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 berth but one, which was occupied by troopship "Finella.
Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
SECRET
COPY.
270
enced in which some
Dynamo
133
57 Greville Hall, harbour and ships in
Greville Place.
Grenade" was hit, and
N.W.6.
30 intense that my ning in the immediate
Extended Defences Officer,
Sheerness.
between raids and
5th. June der Clouston, R.N., who
1940.
(t) at Istoeqa
1 her survivors came on to
Sir, es were passed by this
"Forward Report of Proceedings and list
With reference to your signal when a bomb dropped down of any recommendations" received after rom "Finella" to "Crested my arrival home at noon to day, I regret that without reference to the deck and from the damaged ships signal logs I am unable to give a report roceed by Commander of the proceedings. This, I understand has already been given by the S.O., and steering an Easterly
T.L.D.F. and I submit that if my report isly until, as I learnt forthwith. 10 urgent, that I return to the base er, four of which hit the
Les) were still functioning out individuals for special
I find it difficult to single e, but I soon discovered from amidships right aft.
recommendation, for the entire ship's the sides were in.
company behaved magnificently ant Jones, reported on throughout the 5 days evacuation.
lly burnt) to say that so decided to beach the
The following members are deserving of praise for the reasons p's and C.B's. were stated.
P.O. Telegraphist.
Lieut. Dunkerley (N) RNR for the very the beach where she excellent navigational duties performed under very difficult circumstances, and ground and with the wind for valuable rescue work in taking drifting boats, taking them to the charge of a motor launch and collecting

Dyroms 37.
291
Copy.
Commodore's Office,
273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship inella
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
SECRET Думашо 271
289
menced in which some
C.O. ROYAL EAGLE's letter of 5thJune '40
concerning Report of Proceedings.
e harbour and ships in
"Grenade" was hit, and so intense that my ening in the immediate
II
THE EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER
g between raids and
SHEERNESS.
der Clouston, R.N., who ed her survivors came on
Submitted, ges were passed by this
I entirely concur with the remarks made by Lieut. Commander Farrow.
when a bomb dropped down
The officers and men mentioned from l. "Finella" to "Crested also came under my own personal notice and I can fully endorse the recommendations made.
B from the damaged ships proceed by Commander
I would like also to mention the coxswain (leading seaman) of H.M.S.
/ and steering an Easterly
GREYHOUND'S motor boat, which after busly until, as I learnt
H.M.S. GREYHOUND had been bombed worked ther, four of which hit the for a time from the ROYAL EAGLE.
iles) were still functioning
The name of this rating is not known, but I was much struck by his ile, but I soon discovered
/ from amidships right aft.
coolness and devotion to duty.
ad the sides were in.
Deall vill enant Jones, reported on adly burnt) to say that e, so decided to beach the
P's and C.B's. were
COMMANDER R.N.
e P.O. Telegraphist.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE
to the beach where she
FLOTILLA.
a ground and with the wind aft

Dyrouns 37. 291
Copy.
Commodore's Office, 273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss 1940. of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship "Finella.
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
Думашо
Camepacs 214/0/1115
mmenced in which some
GRAMS
3320
Idmiral, Chatham.
Office of the Commander-in-Chieft.
The Nore,
PHONE:-
9
Admiralty House, he harbour and ships in
Chatnam No. 3221.
(Extensions 210 and 519).
Chatham.
"Grenade" was hit, and
13th June, 1940.
so intense that my pening in the immediate
No.187.P/40.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER.
ng between raids and nder Clouston, R.N., who
LOSS OF H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE".
ed her survivors came on ges were passed by this
With reference to Nore 3019/
187.P/40 of 5th June, 1940 paragraph when a bomb dropped down full names etc. are as follows:-
n.
from "Finella" to "Crested
Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones. (T.124)
George Frend. C/J95190.
from the damaged ships
John Gooch. Chief Steward. T.124.
proceed by Commander
George Tilbury. A.B. C/S.S.7050.
sy and steering an Easterly
R.F.R. B.17336.
Frederick James Slack. A.B. C/J.93546.
iously until, as I learnt ther, four of which hit the
R.F.R. B.21781.
Frank A.V. Patrick. Ordinary Seaman.
idles) were still functioning
ON/NK.
ile, but I soon discovered
VA
Ly from amidships right aft.
and the sides were in.
tenant Jones, reported on a.Gndor. Hune badly burnt) to say that ar, so decided to beach the for ADMIRAL.
3.P's and C.B's. were ne P.O. Telegraphist.
VICE ADMIRA
to the beach where she
15 JUN 1940
ed ground and with the wind
R
aft

Dyroms 37.
291
Copy.
Commodore's Office, 273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on loss 1940. of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May, the
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship "Finella".
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several trawlers.
1500 First raid after arrival commenced in which some trawlers were damaged.
1530 onwards Bombing raids on the harbour and ships in the vicinity almost continuous now, "Grenade" was hit, and more trawlers damaged. Attack was so intense that my attention was given to what was happening in the immediate vicinity.
Troops were trickling along between raids and boarding s/s HI inella
I was in touch with Commander Clouston, R.N., who was incharge on the Jetty.
After "Grenade" was damaged her survivors came on board "Crested Eagle" and W/T messages were passed by this ship to Dover, VA.
1700 inella was about to sail when a bomb dropped down her funnel putting her out of action.
Commenced to embark troops from "Finella" to "Crested
Eagle".
1700 to 1800. Troops and survivors from the damaged ships were embarked and I was ordered to proceed by Commander
Clouston who remained on the Jetty.
Swung clear of Jetty and steering an Easterly course, the ship was raided continuously until, as I learnt afterwards, five bombs dropped together, four of which hit the ship.
As the engines (paddles) were still functioning
I held on course for a little while, but I soon discovered that the ship my was on fire, certainly from amidships right in. aft.
The deck was up four or five feet and the sides were
The Engineer, Lieutenant Jones, reported on we should not be able to proceed far, so decided to beach the the bridge at this time (although badly burnt) to say that ship.
At this point all S.P's and C.B's. were jettisoned in the steel chest by the P.O. Telegraphist.
Ship's head turned to the beach where she brought up sometime Fire later. steadily gained ground and with the wind aft

293
Copy.
274
R.N. Chatham. Barracks,
The Commanding Officer,
H.M.S. "Crested Eagle".
Sir,
I have the honour to report that during the intense beaching, and burning of the vessel, all men under my conaerial bombardment of the pier, and the subsequent bombing, trol remained steady at their posts and carried out their duties with great coolness. I should like especially to report on the following men:
Tilbury A.B.
1e
Frend. A.B.
Plack, A.B.
Patrick.
for their work in keeping the vessel alongside the quay and for assisting the wounded men to board the vessel. I have to report that an unknown A.B. or O.S. a survivor from the
"Grenade" suffering from severe facial injuries, requested that he should assist to men the A.A. guns. Being shorthanded I posted him as gunlayer and Captain of the Gun at
No.2 Pom pom. This Gun he kept in action for 20 minutes after the bombing of the vessel.
Four German Prisoners on board were of great al assistance in rescuing wounded from the damaged compartments, these men were handed over to a French N.C.O. on reaching shore.
side
Engineer Lieut. Turnbull, R.N.R. was placed in hospital in a large hotel about 2 miles East of Dunkirk.
He was badly burnt about the hands and face and suffering slightly from shock. Owing to the congested state of the beaches it was impossible to collect all survivors. All men seen were instructed to return to England by the earliest availableboat.
in.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
R.M. Roberts,
Sub.Lieut. R.N.R.
1035. Observed large number of troops waiting by
Zuidcoote Sanatarium'and no boats or ships in immediate vicinity.
1040 Anchored in 2½ fathoms in position
Dunkirk High lighthouse bearing 237 deg. 3.25 miles.
Established communication ashore by using ship's ropes secured ashore and by using two ship's boats and two small boats salved from beach, ferried troops from beach to ship.
Owing to falling tide, shallow water and inshore swell operations were difficult and troops had to wade into 3 feet of water to keep boats afloat but by changing the boats creews for every trip - about 60 troops per hour were embarked.
During this time bombing, shelling and aerial and machine gunning took place, and gun's crews were continually on the alert and in action and embarking operations continued without a break.
Embarked about 340 troops.

CONFIDENTIAL
Diulo/
1392
FROM. EXTENDED SHEERNESS. DEFENCES OFFICER,
295
DATE..18th June, 1940.
24dim/8
Local Defence Flotills.
7
TO...COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS.
y 10/14/8
er, Sheerness.
"CRESTED EAGLE" ACTION OFF DUNKIRK.
DUNKIRK.
The attached letter from
Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence
Flotilla, is forwarded for information with a copy of "Crested Eagle's" report utenant Commander of proceedings.
H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE, in he loss of the ship
I should like to endorse Commander
Cordeaux's views of the behaviour of the
Commanding Officers, Lieut. Comdr B.R.
al account Lieutenant
Booth R.N.R. and Sub.Lieut. R.M. Roberts tice to the splended
R.N.R.
fficers and ship's ed on her way into g and machine gun fire
CAPTAIN.
1 also later whilst
/lers
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
being made to rescue at
-II-
MODORE-IN-CHARGE
No.. D.Y.1/01.
VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
ssed by his account of
Roberts RNR who
(Copy to:-
18 JUNE
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, up to their guns
THE NORE).
ombing attacks - the ely unprotected -
Forwarded.
ed fire until ition was exhausted.
th considers that the
DOMO COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE, ily the reason that the
PHASHEERNESS.
appears to me also that the behaviour of and Learnt rdommander Booth himself, in his general handling
BRUTE oth. TV=Dar NO, baannd situation is deserving of great praise.
le
Mr.
COMMANDER R.N.
S.O. T.L.D.F.
is racipo 185120'E Wedgingte P.O. Telegraphist.
bb B 18,0 Iferwed turned to the beach where she brought up sometime unges gained ground and with the wind aft in very few
MORE Brarme. Stifire fore and aft.
W Ourbman tmgas m.e. Summot to estimate the number of men on board, under coanna ges they were embarked, I should say round about 600.
about amnesilly the congriss were filled first, casualties from the bomb
HAVE fee Pall eltag.us мизовоге been severe. After beaching I advised all
Totino nizort BIL i/ue water as their only chance, and probably 200
is ad at one time in the water. I regret to say that abr 1 anahine gunned.
the Negri Ie inter navadia of the hull, she was blazing furiously fore and agnanz nor half an hour owing to the ship being all wood,
BEB TABLE brenvot as potat I can safetly say that any gear or instruments

FROM
The Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence 10/14/19 Flotills. 276
7
DATE
16th June 1940.
Y
TO
The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness.
SUBJECT..CRESTED EAGLE - ACTION OFF DUNKIRK.
Submitted-
I have now interviewed Lieutenant Commander
B. Booth the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE, in and have had a personal account of the loss of the ship at Dunkirk.
I feel that in his original account Lieutenant
Commander Booth has hardly done justice to the splended work accomplished by himself, his officers and ship's company.
The ship was machine gunned on her way into
Dunkirk and under continuous bombing and machine gun fire for many hours before being hit and also later whilst
/lers on fire and whilst endeavours were being made to rescue iat the wounded.
I was particularly impressed by his account of the behaviour of Sub. Lieutenant M.Roberts RNR who
2.
encouraged his gun's crews to keep up to their guns under continuous machine gun and bombing attacks - the guns and gun positions being entirely unprotected -
and continued careful and controlled fire until practically the whole of the ammunition was exhausted.
Lieutenant Commander Booth considers that the accurate pom-pom fire was undoubtedly the reason that the ship remained unhit for so long.
It appears to me also that the behaviour of
Lieutenant Commander Booth himself, in his general handling of the ship and situation is deserving of great praise.
COMMANDER R.N.
S.O. T.L.D.F.
da steel chest by the P.O. Telegraphist.
Ship's head turned to the beach where she brought up sometime later.
Fire steadily gained ground and with the wind aft in very few minutes on fire fore and aft.
the conditions It is difficult that they were embarked, I should say round 600.
she was to estimate the number of men on board, about under decks were filled first, casualties advised from the all bomb explosions must the water as their only chance, and probably to 200
As the lower have been severe. After beaching I
men hands could to take be sighted to at one time in the water. I regret say that they were badly machine gunned.
In less than of the hull, she was blazing furiously or instruments and half an hour owing to the ship being all fore wood, with aft and the I exception feel that I can safetly say that any gear

-2-
518
Skipper considered not to embark made the return journey and instructed damaged I 489
I she inspected could "Polly Johnson" and although more them to "Brock".
serious to transfer more than fifty men, and if damage became the
7
"Fynella" I was "Canterbury" then and a few other troops wandered in the
During and this lull more wounded troops were embarked and I all Officers abreast each ship and instructed my ships them jetty. stationed told that I could try and fill up up unwilling in what they considered "fishing boats" at order unwounded to embark men down into the trawlers. They were mostly to first and made various excuses to try and get to the larger ships.
As the rate of filling up was so slow I asked the Piermaster if I could send the four outside ships to sea to wait their turns and decrease the target, but I was told that there would be a large number of men ready as soon as the wounded had been embarked and that the ships were to remain alongside.
I was then asked by the Piermaster if I would place a trawler alongside the Western Jetty and light some smoke floats, and he suggested that I might like to volunteer for the job. I
said that I was quite prepared to do the job by boat, but that I
did not consider it possible to place a ship alongside the jetty as the foundations of the pier were shewing when I entered harbour, and that my trawlers were all drawing over 15 feet while the rise and fall on that day was only 11 feet.
"Jaguar" completed and left harbour during this period, and a large paddle steamer (I think Crested Eagle) berthed shead of "Fynella".
At about 1630 the second raid was carried out, but this was a rather half-hearted affair. All ships opened fire as before, and no damage was done to the ships alongside. About 20/30 bombs were dropped as before but they were divided between three targets
"Jaguar" leaving the harbour - the ships alongside, and two French destroyers on the opposite side of the harbour. The "Jaguar" was damaged.
Fighters again appeared and the raiders were driven off.
The Canterbury completed and left harbour, and a destroyer came in to take her place.
After this raid more troops started to come down the pier and although traffic was still hampered by the wounded and stretcher cases quite a large number were embarked in the trawlers.
At about 1800 the third raid started. This was a very much more determined attack, and the bombers came over in waves at a few minute intervals - fire was opened but fighters appeared and it was impossible to tell if they were enemy or not and it hanpered the firing to a great extent.
About 100 bombs were dropped, and the attack appeared to be directed entirely on the pier and the ships alongside.
The "Calvi" and "Grenade" received direct hits and sank ensign remained flying from the foremast. There was a Mrect hit immediately. "Calvi's" masts and funnel were above water and her amount of panic ensued and men started climbing out of one shore. ship on the pier close to the end and "Fynella" was damaged. A cortain into another, and some attempted to run back towards the
At this time I was with the Piermaster and he instructed with me to draw revolver to quell the panto and to load up survivors and my troops and to get the ships out as quickly as possible.