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e/172 H.M.S. Pangbourne" 158 At Sea. 5th.June 1940. Sir, I have the honour to forward the following narrative in accordance with your signal 2049/4/6. At approximately midnight on Sunday 26th. May, H.M.S. with the remainder of the 5th.m.s. 149 3 154 Entire Ship's Company of "Twente" relieved for 24 hours 88 sleep had been unobtainable for 3 nights and 2 days running. "Twente" sailed immediately with relief crew. st. a.m. "Twente" unaccountably not returned. Took cormand of two Army Metor Launchee, "Kestrel" and "Grouse" instead, and seiled for Dunkirk Beaches via U, 1, and * bucys. Embarked a full load of French troops during afternoon. Slow process. Motor Launches' dinghy *** used to begin with but capsized. Slight swell. Troope then boarded a grounded craft whilst Motor Launches were manosuvred alongside seaward and of this. Considerable air activity and bombing throughout operations. Returned immediately to Ramsgate. Whan off Goodwin Sands Launon I HAS In, "Kestrel", began to sink. "Grouse" came alongaide and took off some men. By hard baling and slow speed Ramagate was somehow reached at midnight. Investigation and repairs immediately put in hand. (Patent self-baling device responsible for leak). 1st. Noon. "Kestrel" fit for gea. Left for Dunkirk Baaches via U, V, and * buoys. On approaching Dunkirk at 1530 most intense air activity was observed. Sky filled with German bombers and shall bursts. Beach was reached
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H.M.S. "Pangbourne" 158 At Sea. 5th.June 1940 Sir, I have the honour to forward the following narrative in accordance with your signal 2049/4/6. At approximately midnight on Sunday 26th. May, H.M.S. with the remainder of the 5th.m.8. 150 4 155 at 1600. Dive bombers everywhere and shells falling on beach. Although attack after attack TSS made by bombers on various ships relatively ****** few hits appeared to be secured. Motor Launch having lost dinghy on previous day I went alongside an abandoned wreck. One of the wreck's boats was swung out, lowered, and taken in too by Launch. French troops were ferried to the Launch in this boat by Launch crew. Conditions (other than state of sea which was good) were shocking as German planes were flying low, dropping bombs and using machine-guns. Operation delayed 89 great difficulty was experienced in rersuading some of the Frenchmen to ambark. So far as I could understand, their units were incomplete and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark without thefrest. At one point on the beach there were at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark. The rowing boat bad to be pulled back to the Launch and towed further Rest where 8 fresh start me made. Eventually & full load was obtained and we sailed for Hamagate by the same route. Throughout the first part of the return journey repeated bombing and machine gun attacks were made. On one occasion a salvo of 6 bombs was released so low that they were plainly visible as they left the racks. They all fell close together near the Launch but all failed to explode. Several machine gun bullets
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SECRET Dynamo 135 / 262 FROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELZI". DATE June 2nd 1940. TO TENDED DEFENCES OFFICER SHEERNESS. NARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERHESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amulree", and "Glala" I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing be to take these raghts to the North Goodwin Light Vesselo there to close the Exami: tion Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead outenant Dunning knew the channels ovin nation Vessel I decided to anchor my ordered my engines to be started and 1 Examination Vessel, as it was now ted a defect, I gave orders for INSERTION NO. 6. unination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed rade P-247 10 running and I decided to proceed to M.010946/40. ported to the Examination Vessel, , at 1000 my engineman reported that he inchored off Remagate Pier and NORE LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILIA - Report ship's singhy for my routing instr stion and at *015 were underway for D- ink. Operations off French Coast during proximately 51 degrees 12' No 2 de rees acuation of Dunkirk. cers 87 and W hine gunned, his burst I gave orders to my gun layer not to 311 within range as I did not think he run at his heighto immediately we 61.5 HIS PAPER IS TO BE INSERTED HERE. at Drokirk at 1530, as I saw a lot of I we.it off in the ship's dinghy to see on board, There was too much surf ormed roops that these troops were French and hat are would be swarped, I learnt that D the ship and decided to cruise about ODS would arrive at about 1700 at that as there spoken by a sloop who asked : some description to embaile these men, Minually chelled and bambed, at about get troops off to him, from that part our stern the last bomb falling st across was to aveg our stern down a few 3 this aeroplane which was a heavy ter ad a direct hit with our Lewis guy into flamer arl he creshed into the seal, I cannot 81 this aeroplane : the British troope at Dunkirk I aed. hopeng to find & boat to bring than is a Whaler adrift which we managed to lintely sent these two boats ashore proxin sity 1750 this was very
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SECRET Dynamo 135 262 ROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELEI". DATE June 2nd 1940. TO TENDED DEFENCES OFFICER SHEERNESS. BARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERIESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amilree", and "Glala" I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing ne to take these raghts to the North Goodwin Light Vesselo there to close the Exami: ation Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead led by "Caleta" as Sub. Lieutenant Dunning knew the channels owing to non appearance of Examination Vessel I decided to anchor my ships for the nighto at 0400 I ordered engines to be started and to go and see 11 I could finithe Examination my Vessel, as it was now dawn at 0500 my engineman reported a defect, I gave orders for rema: der of yachts to close Examination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed according to instructions received. Ramsgate for repairs, which I reported to the Examination Vessel, & eventually got one engine running and I decided to proceed to had the Port engine I anchored off Remagate Pier and just before arriving at Ramsgate at 1000 my engineman reported than he immediately proceeded running ashore in ship's dinghy for Rg routing instr stion these I was given without and at *015 were underway for D- irk. 28' E we were attacked Junkers 87 and = hine gunned, his burst When we were in position approximately 51 degrees 12' No 2 de reed of fire feal all round by the a shipo I gave orders to sy gun layer not to would be able to Lewis grun at his heighto imediately we open fire on him until he was well within range as I did not think he opened fire he sh ered ae our off. how I could waiting to be embarked, I weat on boardo There was too such surf troops (°f the Casino off in the ship's dinghy to see I anchored at Drokirk at 1530₂ as I saw a lot of running ( get Home of these troops that these troops were French and would land, I was also informed abo would be swemped, I learnt that a party crown the boat so much, that would arrive at about 1700 at that part to of of the about 50 British troops to the ship and decided to cruise about men, see if beache I returned some description to embable these me I went s I could find a boat and was of there spoken by a sloop who that asked part on to the take his BI as bc. La Panne and try and get troops chelled off to and him, bombed, from at about this time beach, 70 were being continually our stern the last bomb a for fulling 1 in about 30 It a alvo of bombs only effect fell across was to areg our which storn was down a heavy bomber the water. away, We the opened fire on this ad a aeroplane direct hit with our Lewis the guys as and c his her type Starboard ships Dornier were engine also 17 we busit firing register into I cannos flames cat arl he this creshed aeroplane into sea definitaly. steament back 2 had at promised all possible to speed hoping to adrift find which a boat we to managed bring then to As embark the British treope at Dunkirk I Pack off, and ate we up were with our fortunate dingay in I finding immediately at a proxip a Thaler sent sty these 1750 two this boats was very ashore "ed to embark troops
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inst as 10:00 Treath as "ery 11th and there was 3 THE mail rad as soob are (8) their non Untto the Than ONE the growted, tip 01 area with the assistance 02 some of the through and by as any to their managed to get her float in flost with 15 meen 0230 two of my crew as board 1 0100 Do and two of my C. in Hie dinghy, the wheler WAS to a great struggle as therevere only Whree 0022 in 10, as 1021 these wave got on troun I sent the that nd directing smother Train Ith traging arrived back with * Officer and getting Than are the heach, hise capsi mall in She Burf but fortuni she THE DOB tilease nen vere being yot 01. board ve were: Jumber 00 If studi out to suu to well for 30 will we bonber 310 us une fullowed us out bombing us but they fell way vide office work, as soon as I decmed it advisable I steamed Thick for the H les JEI At about 1730, a motor beat hailed us that he broken down, could we do anything about it. Took off) Lieut. Irving R.N.R. and crew n.board, and decided motor boat. The officer had been going backwards and from the beach Since Tuesday without stopping with inexperienced crew, and both he and they had done 15 Job or work and were uttely exhausted. At about 1800 an led an L.O. full of trops aboard 34 troops and one padre. E.L.C. was broken the decidersin chargeynComeender Shoul and her deaboard. They aleashed been on the move since Tuesday Descrest. Ascitimes greatly desired that the 368.00 should fall into enemy hands, it wasstaken in 1845 quite impossible to get more troops abourd, and at all washshaped for (SheePnes; as the hadoto be .CIX DJDOS All this time, there had been several dive boald vision 702 02 sew MI no of the beaches. UAB we weldame came past Dunkirk It was being enemy attoraft and theirishäre artillery still subjected to a dénsiderable air your Hombers were brought down. has телода of 6851095 Whens. HeOp between Dunkirk and B# budy, broke 4a must mind twice and WHE finally secured by fourlatout Dines. based and tide for Horse Channel. off N. Foreland 0300 for Sheerness at approx. 0945. landed in all, 2 Naval Officers, 6 ratings, cot asses among them, Tand one padre. edd instituted 0752 natural d'more B/W 11 DAMAGE TO SHIP. vrew od has 3200 badeawal only in places were scored, and on buoys in the were launch the petrol Two calcium flares amestied up. userg was fractured and glass broken in shteldelong redamaged the propeller shafts. rboard buraterks, shrapnel from shell fire. Shells which suray beam, was damaged by motor boat which ramaed the has in the food Itam at 221v ones SOD. Sub.
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vall inst as 10:00 Threadh is "ery 11th and there vas 3 my crew as soch (LLB (6) from mon got titto the The O2F the growted, sunds a of my C. in the dinghy, the whele the Stay and two WOOD 15 meen and two of my CUSTOM B board PM 2280 N ago in first managed to get her aloat the stery and 30 y to their with the assistance 02 arone of the through and by those great struggle as therevere only three 00.05 in 20g if smother Trank rise Harry urived back with * Officer and 4 SC - impose got on troma I sent the their nd diagin TOWN getting have am the heach hise capsimal in *he Burf but fortunate she THE non Whene men were being yot 201. board we were in Justice are 111 stude our 80 BUT do weet for 3 July DIC boather sidi WE and followed us out bombing us but they fell way vide of a mark, I as soon as I decmed it advisable I steamed Thick for the lox 0.0m the We weighed and proceeded 15 yards seturn and to part Yacht "15" but on our way out a bomb fell directly between The angle of its fall caused the majority of the splinter strike her and she had one man killed and two Injured was severely shaken but undemaged and we carried on out in close contact with hero She reported her casualties No.1 and as I had previourly reported my steering defect ordered by the Captain to return for repairs and accorning as she was unsumed, at 2130, I immediately reported and asked for repaire W The return WAS safetly accomplished and 110 entered the returned to Sheerness and the repairs having been COLOR told that to would not be required again. The followings subited further orders. this time conveying a lifebox At 1430 on Sunday 2nd June we again proceeded to 30% arrived about 1845 and 7 RaNo end to Ouptain Wharton R.N. for orders. I was 1000 British troops on a small portion or the beach small boats which were willing were to make an attempt Just Dunkirk Nole, fast motor borts or over 15 knots and have been ardered the The majority of the creft going orer to this goins the beach No metter what the past tion SUB at 0230 From Remains at 2045 and followed the same course as lost revalution and became I decided to anymy 0020. 3 sheyed a Jone'se for the next mark but - port BB for se "W" Buoy 5 wiles from the const. This - under - engine, broth we were unclose not by three Yachte POTURN WE continuously heavy the from which dive They had been stone so Nao basch they said include Mther lerge gane not book NY - they theought the faster boats there in front had had got that the Groups could right of the WSW They I been to FREE of the - beach mtll become dran - - 91 these racts a considered damaged voa to the ships coming out Ind. boom and needed society goin - would only have tom minutes aye best palicy OUR and bank done. our draught would not allow near - to the approvals share was 1 Company eventual - - VMB Millo evaising 4a this — 4bove the withouts 8 4d B able From expiration car the third information I met to be IS 0315 - both Hairth DDB the as ISSUED dissum I DUE and shipe very country have, my york angine us H
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2. in 18 Three no damage. bombs dropped between Fredanja and Amazone (Amazone 1 target) 30 - -2030 Attacked soldiers by machine-gun. wounded - Replied with Lewis-gun and rifle-fire. Four one seriously. 30 Proceeded in company with Fredanja whose engine-bolts were factured and compass damaged. ay Entered Ramsgate and disembarked troops. Took on board grass-rope, Aldis lamp, and provisions, also a party of officer cadets, under 2nd. Lt. Harman, and three Bren guns. 15 Proceeded. sect 20? Attacked by dive bombers. 40 A German bomber, already damaged by destroyers' fire, flew past low (port side), we engaged her and she fell in sea 200' astern. 50 Parachutists astern, out of range. 30 Anchored inshore, 2' E of Dunkirk harbour, where it appeared grass-rope would be very useful as the only boats were large ones and seemed to be aground. Sent rope in to Lifeboat and hauled off in own winch. All further attempts were spoilt by grass' beingfouled by motorboats, and by City of London which came across rope several times, and finally collided with Amazone before getting clear. 15 S/L Clarabut took dinghy inshore to explain procedure with grass-rope. Returned loaded and reported no hope of further use. He was dead beat after the pull and after struggling with the French preventing them sinking his craft. 45 Shifted berth to 3' E of Dunkirk Pier. I commandeered large motorboat from Hopper 103 and sent it inshore with dinghy to ferry men from beach to motorboat. 2nd.Lieut.Harman and French "Guard" went in M.3. Ordinary Seaman Wakeham (Ports.Div.- Newfoundland Rating) on this and other occasions handled his boat extremely well under trying conditions and showed great persistence and resource. 045 Motorboat returned with load and went back to beach. During this behind the dunes. Shells were landing on the beach and all ships time a high level bombing attack was made on shore, bombs landing were leaving. 200 Attempted to take off French troops from motor-lighter but his engines were worked the wrong way by the crew and my astern clutch were failed, so abandoned the attempt. The motor-boat and dinghy not very overdue. 300. The was heard answering our hails. A dim light was shown The to dinghy it and was promptly answered by a hail of bullets. abandon the motor-boat, dinghy came and also our own dinghy after a shell had guide alongside with our men. They had had to exploded close to them. The motor-boat was aground. 315 Straddled by shell-fire - slipped dinghy and proceeded by 'short-cut' and later by route X. 015 Parachute flare dropped to starboard. 123 " " II " port. 336 Sighted N. Goodwin Lt. 500 On Saturday 1st, secured on Ramsgate Pier and disembarked troops. gn
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CONFIDENTIAL page 98 97 ORANJE'S R.O.D./1 dated 10th June 1940 (cont) commandeered. It was now about an hour after high water and ORANJE proceeded/ as close inshore as possible, anchored, and then beached stern first, drawings of the ship showing that this would not damage the screw or rudder. A line, consisting of two 120 fathom lengths of 2" manila, was then run inshore and hauled as tau a.s possible and ORANJE's dinghy was run along this, as no other boats were then availabbe; the disembarkation of provisions was then started about 5 packages at as time. 10. Two large boats were obtained about noon, and at 1700 the Royal Engineers provided 6 bridge building pontoons. with this number of boats available It was possible to disembark the provisions with reasonable celerity. Intermittent Air Raids took place throughout the day, but although a number of bom bs fell close to the ship, no damage was done nor were there any casuals By midnight when about 150 tons had been disembarked and were still on the beach, it was decided between the embarkation officer and mygelf that it would be better to stop disembark ing provisions and embark troops, sailing as soon as the tide rose sufficiently to float the ship. 11. Thursday May 30th. ORANJE weighed at 0415 with over 500 troops on board and proceeded for the Downs via the Kwinte Bank and West Hinder buoys. On sporoaching the Kwinte Bank buoy 8 wreck was observed about half 8 mile westward of the buoy, which gave the appearance of being the bows of destroyer protruding about 20 feet out of the water. On arrival in The Downes ORANJE was ordered by the examination steamer to proceed to Margate where we went alongside the pier at 1720 and disembarked troops. 1 A.B. was discharged sick. ORANJE completed with fuel, water, and provisions, embarked two Lewis guns and ammunition, took two boats in tow, and sailed for Dunkirk again at 2230. Owing to too short a tow, ORANJE having no more hawsers on board, the boats broke adrift in the vicinity of the Elbow buoy, and as they could not be immediately located they were abandoned. There were no crews on board. 12. Friday 31st Mey. ORANJE arrived off No. West buoy, Dunkirk Channel at dawn and proceeded towards Le Panne. There was considerable air activity along the coast but. ORANJE was unmolested. Off Dunkirk Harbour ORANJE was closed by a destroyer believed to be EXPRESS, and told to close destroyer H 11 (BASILISK) and work under his orders: ORANJE anchored off Le Panne in the same position as the previous day. As ORANJE had no boats, embarkation was very slow until BASILISK pan - slum Skud Who are aripping ashin, and Pacitic benif Kishi than with A Vein are & 1 belowed about the has Proceded at the spend has White & they skoot of this party 0 amin it the ha Pance. hail, are Guild was Ideas straight for the beach were is awouns an Il within was is line is Ret 9 Auch n. Here the Ipen was a
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124 5 (cont). auxiliary dynamo refused to start when required possibly due to shock. auxiliary Compresson technics out of order. Engineer reports encrease in revolutions Thrust block running warm possibly due to displaciment (6) 0115 31/5/40 By vessels stern falling into broken part of Dunkerque Pier. Possible damage from projecting pilework to rudder and screw. not ascertainable but engineer reports envirose in maximum revolutions indicating p damage to serew, (7) Two mooring wires were lost at Dunkergue, there being no one to cost off when leaving. (8) ships ropes, weres and stores in general were used as required. Two long boat looks were lost. Chocks to dinghy were broken in launching and denghy was last but replaced by substitute found at Bamsgate. had loads. RNR. 2.6.40
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3 140 14 131 41 Entire Ship's Company of "Twente" relieved for 24 hours as sleep had been unobtainable for 3 nights and h 2 days running. "Twente" sailed immediately with relief crew. st. a.m. "Twente" unaccountably not returned. Took command of two Army Motor Launches, "Kestrei" and "Grouse" instead, plan and sailed for Dunkirk Beaches via U, V, and W buoys. Embarked a full load of French troops during afternoon. Slow process. Motor Launches' dinghy was used to begin with but capsized. Slight swell. Troops then boarded a grounded craft whilst Motor Launches were manceuvred did alongside seaward end of this. Considerable air 300. activity and bombing throughout operations. Returned immediately to Ramsgate. When off Goodwin Sands Launch I was in, "Kestrel", ans began to sink. "Grouse" came alongside and took off some men. By hard baling and slow speed Ramsgate was 1 somehow reached at midnight. Investigation and repairs Erik immediately put in hand. (Patent self-baling device 00 responsible for leak). 1st. Noon. situme "Kestrel" fit for sea. Left for Dunkirk Beaches via U, V, and W buoys. On approaching Dunkirk at 1530 * ak. most intense air activity was observed. Sky filled leh with German bombers and shell bursts. Beach was reached I 4R ICE ADMIRAL ill day light an air 9- JUN 1940 Vo * the durlsping at DOVER - disamber bed toops, promium stan.
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4 141 135 41 at 1600. Dive bombers everywhere and shells falling on beach. Although attack after attack was made by bombers 2 on various ships relatively ****** few hits appeared to be secured. Motor Launch having lost dinghy on previous day I went alongside an abandoned wreck. One of the wreck's boats was swung out, lowered, and taken in tow plain by Launch. French troops were ferried to the Launch in this boat by Launch crew. Conditions (other than state of sea which was good) were shocking as German planes were flying low, dropping bombs and using machine-guns. Operation delayed as great difficulty was experienced did in persuading some of the Frenchmen to embark. So far 300. as I could understand, their units were incomplete and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark without therest. At one point on the beach there were ans at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark. The rowing boat had to be pulled back to the Launch and towed further East where a fresh start was made. Eventually - a full load was obtained and we sailed for Ramsgate by the Erik same route. Throughout the first part of the return 00 journey repeated bombing and machine gun attacks were without made. On one occasion a salvo of 6 bombs was released ak. so low that they were plainly visible as they left the teh racks. They all fell close together near the Launch but all failed to explode. Several machine gun bullets 20 4R CE ADMIRAL ill day light an air 9- JUN 1940 Vo * the durlsping at DOVER & disaubar ked toops, promium stares.
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CONFIDENTIAL Dynams 141. FROM EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. 178. DATE 7th June, 1940. 162 167 TO COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. YACHTS "CHRISTOBELLII", "CALETA", "GLALA" AND "AMULREE". "CHRISTOBEL II". (1). Commanding Officer Lieut. H.E. Wigfull R.N.V.R. For his resource and skill in embarking 33 soldiers from the beach with the two boats at his disposal while being heavily bombarded. (2). C.G. Dunley Seaman H.O.P.S. (Qual. S.V.G.L. For the cool manner in which he engaged and apparently brought down in flames a Dornier 17, with the Lewis Gun. (3). J.W. Damerell, Engineman H.O.P.S. L.T./K.X.105230. For not leaving the engineroom from 1000 31st May until 0830 1st June in order to keep the engines (which d were giving much trouble) running. (4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S. d For his unfailing help during the whole period and the cool and efficient way in which he embarked the troops. to "CALETA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.F. he Dunning R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in rescuing the E.L.C. Launch under heavy gun fire, and successfully towing her from the Beach, Dunkirk to Sheerness with her load of soldiers. irk. "GLALA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.A. grees Dow, R.N.V.R. For his valuable services in towing boats from st the beach under heavy bombing attacks. to he "AMULREE" (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. G.P. Probert R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in towing from the beach 11 pontoons (with about 300 soldiers in all) to awaiting and vessels under heavy gun fire, and with only 4 deck hands in his of vessel. see surf Kannake and that hat CAPTAIN. out EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER. men, d art ut GILLS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last 0 0mo railing about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy bomber type Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun and his Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, definitely., as were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I steamed back at all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them off, we were fortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged to pick up with our dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore find and started to embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very imr continued over Cemb
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CONFIDENTIAL FROM EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. Dynamo 141. 7th June, 1940. 178. DATE 162 TO COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS. 167 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. YACHTS "CHRISTOBELLII", "CALETA", "GLALA" AND "AMULREE". R.N.V.R. For his resource and skill in embarking 33 soldiers "CHRISTOBEL II". (1). Commanding Officer Lieut. H.E. Wigfull heavily bombarded. from the beach with the two boats at his disposal while being (2). C.G. Dunley Seaman H.O.P.S. (Qual. S.V.G.L) For the cool manner in which he engaged and apparently brought down in flames a Dornier 17, with the Lewis Gun. (3). J.W. Damerell, Engineman H.O.P.S. L.T./K.X.105230. For not leaving the engineroom from 1000 31st May until 0830 1st June in order to keep the engines (which a were giving much trouble) running. (4). J.P.C. Mead, Ordinary Seaman H.O.P.S. d For his unfailing help during the whole period and the cool and efficient way in which he embarked the troops. to "CALETA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.F. he Dunning R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in rescuing the E.L.C. Launch under heavy gun fire, and successfully towing her from the Beach, Dunkirk to Sheerness with her load of soldiers. irk. "GLALA". (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. J.A. grees Dow, R.N.V.R. For his valuable services in towing boats from st the beach under heavy bombing attacks. to he "AMULREE" (1). The Commanding Officer, Sub. Lieut. G.P. Probert R.N.V.R. For his excellent work in towing from the beach 11 pontoons (with about 300 soldiers in all) to awaiting ? vessels under heavy gun fire, and with only 4 deck hands in his of vessel. see surf Kannake and that hat CAPTAIN. out EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER. men, d art ut GILLS time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last DOMO railing about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet bomber Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy and his type Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, as other ships were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane definitely. steamed possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them to As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I off, we back at fortunate all in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged ashore pick up were dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats and started with to our embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
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CONFIDENTIAL COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "AMULREE" 137. Extended Defences OMMANDING OFFICER, 173 Officer, 2nd June, 1940. GLALA. 164 Sheerhess. Dynamd 138 163 June, 1940. Sir, I have the honour to report that Ereing in all respects ready for sea and to engage the enemy we sailed fróm g received orders, I Sheerness at 1930 30th May, 1940 and in three other Yachts proceeded to the Downs for orders. We anchored off North Goodwin Light Vessel at about 0030 31st May and received vicinity of the North to contact the routeing instructions at about 0530 when we proceeded by "X" route to La the senior ship Panne arriving about 1200. On arrival we began to pick up and to tow out Senior Officer that he pontoons containing soldiers from the ble, so I weighed and beach to various destroyers and merchant om her I delivered them ships. by route "X". At 1500 when making fast two It was sighted and we pontoons in 2 fathoms the enemy began teamed along the coast shelling the beach and one shell burst off the beach 3 miles approximately 50 yards ahead distracting She asked us to tow the attention of the leadsman and longside and when this causing the ship to ground. We reassistance, but she floated at 1700 and again got underway could be of more use under heavy gunfire. In all we towed out 11 pontoons up to 1900. a us up and informed us At this time we received a signal We went close to the from Captain Howson R.N. (S.N.O. ports, and having Beaches) directing operation from No. urned to the destroyer. Yacht attached to Inner Hamble Patrol, Lme took out her whaler. to stand by him as his ship was making H.M.S. "Vivacious" and water through the stern gland. had three boats which close as possible, chored with the intention point our steering ropes 1 as single strand. It was t with ir it without completely new wire and at that shell and shelling which had been going on tense. hie intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the us to stored us to make for the open sea and all the 'ollowed t followed him out. out 1 loated nder he of bombs 8'Q of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb fall 11 the only V, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few he opened fife opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy ier 17 *iy nier 17 we registered a direct hit with OUD Lewis gu engine fird engine buret into flames and he crashed into the ere also refere also firing I cannot claim this seroplane nomise iromised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I opened all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring to 17 we bortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged engine urst isur dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore also embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was ve continued over.
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SECRET Дупашь COMMANDING 137. EXTENDED ADMIRALITY DEFENCES HOUSE, OFFICER OFFICER, 173 H.M.Y. GLALA. 164 178. SHEERNESS 4th June, 1940. 167 sir, I have the honour to report that, having received orders, I from Sheerness in conjunction th three other Yachts Thursday 30th May, 1940. Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable. to contact the Examination to Tug anchor., the Yacht "ChristobelkII", the senior ship ordered us At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer that he was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and e closed the Tug. Having received orders from her I delivered them to "Amulree" and "Caleta" and we proceeded by, route "X". Shortly before eleven the French Coast was sighted and we my d entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast and at about 1230, "Golden Eagle" anchored off the beach 3 miles East of Dunkirk, signalled to us to close. She asked us to tow d. two whalers which were full of soldiers alongside and when this was completed we asked if we could be of assistance, but she replied that she was alright and that we could be of more use to further along. he Off La Panne H.M.S. "Venomous" called us up and informed us her motor boat had broken down inshore. We went close to the pier, which was constructed of Army transports, and having irk. contacted the boat took it in tow and returned to the destroyer. We then went back to the beach and this time took out her whaler. grees As she was now getting underway we closed H.M.S. "Vivacious" and st securing alongside were informed that she had three boats which to were to inshore. We took them as close as possible, he allowed ready them to go drift to the beach and anchored with the intention of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering It was ropes all but and we were left with a single strand. that impossible gave to way repair it without completely new wire and on at of and shelling which had been going see Moment the bombing became intense. À Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 all the of the surf Solent continuously Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and and that smaller power craft followed him out. hat out men, d art ut bombs fell across our stern the stern last down oomo a ralling few feet about in the 30 water. ft away, We the opened only fire on this aeroplane direct hit which with was OUD Lewis this time a salvo of effect was to drag our a heavy gun bomber type Dornier 17 we burst registered into flames a and he this crashed aeroplane into the sea, and as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim definitely. As I had promised to embark speed the hoping British to adrift troops find a which boat at Dunkirk we to magaged bring I them to steamed off, we were back at fortunate all possible in finding immediately a Whaler sent these two boats this ashore was very pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops I at approximately at 1750, continued over
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SECRET I - 165'75 178. useless no sign and as of any the other ship Yachts had proceeded at 0230 and was We arrived needing assistance I decided to proceed there to Sheerness. there at 1030. 167 I of regret real value that in neither in of my trips did we carry out work both comparison with what was being done, and any that in cases defects should have hindered our efficiency. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, SGD. J.A. Dow, Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. d e my d d to to he S uction irk. grees st to he of see surf and that hat out men, d art ut one 18RT DOMO railing our stern feet bomber about in THIS and as definitely. steamed off, the other his time As 30 water. type Starboard I back ft ships a had Dornier salvo away, at fortunate promised We were all opened OI the engine 17 also possible bombs only we in to burst fire firing registered embark finding effect rell speed on into across I this the was cannot as hoping flames Whaler a British aeroplane to direct sent drag claim to and adrift these troops find our hit he this which with stern crashed a which two aeroplane boat at was boats our Dunkirk down we to a into Lewis magaged heavy bring ashore as few the I gun them sea, to pick and started we up were with to our embark dinghy, troops I immediately at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
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SECRET FROM: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "CALETA". Dyram 176 DATE 3rd June, 1940. 178 166 TO. EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. 167 REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS. in May 30th, 0830. Underway in company with "Christobel II", "Amulree", and "Glala" for North Goodwin by Oaze Deep, Knob Channel, South Edinburgh Channel and Foreland Buoy. Anchored off N. Goodwin, 0100 May 31st. 0645. Instructions from Examination Vessel to proceed to La Panne by route X15. "Christobel" signalled one engine not working and was proceeding to Ramsgate for repair. 0715. Underway. Had a defect in steering which delayed start, finally got underway at 0800. Arrived Dunkirk 1145, went on to La Panne, reached at 1245. Very few small boats to bring troops off, and decided to anchor and send in Launch. Lowered launch my which broke down almost at beach. Conditions on beach very id difficult owing to its flat nature and a fresh on shore breeze. This combined with low water considerably hampered embarkation. Launch towed back to ship was hoisted in board to effect repairs. On the way back was attacked by low flying Messerschmitt. Shortly after this, a considerable dog fight took place 1 to between Hurricanes and Messerschmitts, two of our planes being shot down, the pilots, landing by parachute. Fighters were he followed by bombers who bombed destroyers round us. Got underway, made towards seaward side of channel, where the water was cuction found to be very shallow. By this time it was about 1500. Went drk. back towards the shore launched boat again, and it again broke down. Hauled in board to resume attempt at repairs. agrees est The Commanding Officer and crew of "Amulree" which had gone is to on shore, were brought aboard, and shortly afterwards we were C he rammed on our starboard side aft of the beam by large motor boat (Commodore Stephens on board) attempting to come alongside. "Amulree", at 1700 approx. was floating, and Commanding of see Officer and crew returned in small boat which took them off. surf Shortly afterwards, German Batteries opened fire with considerable 2 and accuracy, and shells, burst under our counter on both sides, and that under the port bow. that bout men, ed gart out fell across our stern the last 0 0mo ralling few feet about GILLS time a salvo of the bombs only effect was to drag our stern down a heavy a bomber the water. We opened registered a direct hit with our into the gun in 30 ft away, fire on this aeroplane which was Lewis and type Dornier 17 we burst into flames and he crashed aeroplane sea, as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim this definitely. steamed back at all possible in finding a Whaler adrift two boats ashore As I had promised to speed hoping to find a which boat we to magaged bring them to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I off, we were fortunate I immediately sent these this was pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops at approximately at 1750, very continued over
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SECRET Dynams 135. FROM COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.Y. "CHRISTOBELLI". 178 DATE June 2nd 1940. 167 TO EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS. NARRATIVE OF EVENTS FROM FIRST SIGNAL TO ARRIVING AT SHEERNESS. Sir, I beg to submit the following report:- On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Caleta" I proceeded to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Caleta", "Amulree", and "Glala", I was handed your letter by "Glala" instructing me to take these yachts to the North Goodwin Light Vessel, there to close the Examination Vessel for further instructions, we proceeded in line ahead led by "Caleta" as Sub. Lieutenant Dunning knew the channel, owing to non appearance of Examination Vessel I decided to anchor my ships for the night, at 0400 I ordered my engines to be started and to go and see if I could findthe Examination Vessel, as it was now dawn, at 0500 my engineman reported a defect, I gave orders for remainder of yachts to close Examination Vesselsat 0600 and proceed according to instructions received. We eventually got one engine running and I decided to proceed to Ramsgate for repairs, which I reported to the Examination Vessel, just before arriving at Ramsgate at 1000 my engineman reported that he had the Port engine running, I anchored off Ramsgate Pier and immediately proceeded ashore in ship's dinghy for my routing instruction: these I was given without delay and at 1015 were underway for Dunkirk. When we were in position approximately 51 degrees 12' N. 2 degrees 28' E we were attacked by a Junkers 87 and machine gunned, his burst of fire fell all. round the ship, I gave orders to my gun layer not to open fire on him until he was well within range as I did not think he would be able to see our Lewis gun at his height, immediately we opened fire he sheered off. I anchored off the Casino at Dunkirk at 1530, as I saw a lot of troops waiting to be embarked, I went off in the ship's dinghy to see how Iscould get some of these troops on board, there was too much surf running tolland, I was also informed that these troops were French and would crowd the boat so much, that she would be swamped, I learnt that a party of about 50 British troops would arrive at about 1700 at that part of the beach, I returned to the ship and decided to cruise about to see I could find a boat of some description to embabk these men, I went as far as La Panne and was there spoken by a sloop who asked me to take his boat and try and get troops off to him, from that part of the beach, we were being continually shelled and bombed, at about this time a salvo of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb falling about 30 ft away, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few feet in the water. We opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy bomber type Dornier 17 we registered a direct hit with our Lewis gun and his Starboard engine burst into flames and he crashed into the sea, as definitely. other ships were also firing I cannot claim this aeroplane As I had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I steamed back at all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them off, we were fortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged to pick up with our dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore and started to embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was very continued over
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179 difficult as the beach is very into flat the and there was a my crew with managed to get her afloat troops two and as soon as the a few assistance men got of some of Whaler the she surf up to their armpits and two of my crew board in H to and float two of with my 15 crew men in the dinghy, the whaler on was got a great struggle as there board were I sent only the three whaler oars in it, alongside these men were got dinghy on arrived back with soon another load, the the beach she capsized in 1 and ding and ashore getting her off these men were being the surf but she was righted, as to sea to wait for got on board wortunate! bombed so I stood out out bombing us but a lull, one us and followed us deemed it advisable they fell very wide mark, as soon as I out to us-they I steamed back for of I saw the whaler heading nine had had great the getting off and could had only restarted bring I men off, as 2115 and the bombing thought it underway; I had been afraid to stop engines all day as SI knew to would be almost impossible to re-start as our air compressor had given out; one engine actually stopped but was got going after a short while,- I had the whaler cast adrift as I knew it drfft ashore and some more men would be able to get off to the that were waiting to take them off, my only regret was being to embark the remaining 14 men from this party. I got underway at 2145 with my own dinghy in tow as I did want to waste time getting her hoisted, as soon as we were clear of the bombing outside Dunkirk roads I stopped the ship and the dinghy which was by now almost full of water. When in position approximately 51 degrees 15' N. 1 degreep at 2300 a bomber flew very low over us I did not open fire as not want to give away our position, soón after this I reduced so asto close the North Goodwin Light Vessel much before dawn, not wish to anchor as my windlass would not work, also I had to engines running, at 0430 I got away from the North Goodwin Light Vessel and proceeded to the Nore and closed B.V. 10 to report to Sheerness, just about this time my engineman reported that he have to stop the Starboard engine as it had water in the oil and was afraid it would seize up, also that the Port engine was running too well. We tied up in Sheerness at 0825. The whole of my crew behaved in an exemplary manner, they continually on duty during the whole period, gave over their accommodation to the soldiers and fitted them out in dry clothe did what they could for them. I should like to mention O.S. John Philip Chable the Mead, for his unfailing help during specially the whole period and and efficient way in which he embarked the troops. S.V.G.L. Cyril George Dunley for the cool manner in which engaged the German aeroplanes which attacked us. from and the time we left the North am Damerell, Goodwin for Light not Vessel back Engineman James Willi the to in managing to keep the engines running. I should like to for Promoti Commissioned and rank, he recommend has a lot O.S. Charles Mead member Ocean navigated his own 18 ton of Yachting experience, and has Racing Club, has had cutter to Gibra Somerset. had a public school several education trips at King's in School, TWO I am sure he would make splendid leader of of men.
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183 1. 171 Report of Motor Yacht "Marsayru" (contd) We brought back 2 prizes - a nice 18ft.outter and a small 10ft.dinghy, both in good repair. As regards my crew I cannot speak too highly of the splendid work done by Mr.FORBES ( a fine old "shell-back") who was certainly a father to me. Also by our rating BROWN, My Engineer,.COGGINS, is a wisard, he put the engines of literally dozens of other boats to rights, he should have a SHORE Job. As regards Mr.HUMPHRIES I cannot recommend his continuance in the Service, he is physically unfit. Finally I would like to say how proud we all are to have been given this opportunity of paaying a very small part in these splendid operations. It is a thing I for one will never forget. (sd) G.D.OLIVIER.
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Dynams 61. DOVER. 06 - 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". 188 . 176 H.M.S. King Alfred Hove Sussex Admiral Taylor Dynamo 318. 8/4/0/1338 GRAMS:- Office of the Commander-in-Chief, Idmiral, Chatham. The Nore, EPHONE:- Chatham No. 3221. Admiralty House Extensions 210 and 519). Chatham, No. 477.c.c./40. 15th June, 1940. Wildfire at 1800 on Wednesday ng Alfred. I was appointed FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER. :roft 36' twin screw motor cruiser OPERATIONS OFF DUNKIRK. g morning and put to sea in Herewith is forwarded a report Ramsgate by H.M.T. Strathelliot of the Commanding Officer, of ere we received our instructions at about 0930 Friday. Dunkirk. M.Y. "Jong", on the operations off 0 a spot about 3 miles northeast d let her drift as close to the ated a life line ashore by ately an English soldier experienced dozen Belgians. I men aboard as there was these of "Jong". However, we got to rn a Scoot. I then returned falls of one of the dinghy davits me for and when the men came out of to FADMIRAL. wer block on to the back ed them aboard quite easily. ration during the day and also VICE ADMIRA steam hopper who wanted the I off another ship. 17 JUN 1940 JUN I took my boat alongside a 0 * DOVER ed ashore. There were off. a these men I took posite d and side of the lighter and I went on to the aboard it. Mano
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Dyrams 61. DOVER. 5 - 179 4th June, 1940 TO: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S."LYNX". 188 . 176 H.M.S. King Alfred Hove Sussex Admiral Taylor Room F. 7 Admiralty House H.M.S. Wildfire Sheerness Kent Dear Sir, I arrived at H.M.S. Wildfire at 1800 on Wednesday the 29th May direct from H.M.S. King Alfred. I was appointed to M.Y. "Jong" (a standard Thornycroft 36' twin screw motor cruiser central cockpit type) the following morning and put to sea in company at 1400. We were escorted to Ramsgate by H.M.T. Strathelliot where we arrived at 2200. There we received our instructions and proceeded to Dunkirk arriving at about 0930 Friday. I immediately went to at spot about 3 miles northeast of the harbour anchored my boat and let her drift as close to the shore as possible. I then floated a life line ashore by means of a life buoy. Immediately an English soldier came out to me followed by about a dozen Belgians. I experienced considerable difficulty in getting these men aboard as there was about 3 ft of freeboard at the stern of "Jong". However, we got every man aboard and took them to a Scoot. I then returned to the beach and this time rigged the falls of one of the dinghy davits Again I sent the life line ashore and when the men came out to me I went overboard and hooked the lower block on to the back of their waist belts and my crew hauled them aboard quite easily. I continued this operation during the day and also ran messages for the Captain of a steam hopper who wanted the services of an experienced engineer off another ship. During the afternoon I took my boat alongside a supply lighter.that had been drifted ashore. There were a number of British soldiers on board and these men I took off. Others were still coming to the opposite side of the lighter and experienced difficulty in getting aboard it. I went on to the
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217 205 OPERATION DYNAMO ENCLOSURE NO. 3 B SHIP:- M.D. AURA OFFICER:- SUB. LIEUT. M.A. CHODZKO, R.N.V.R. REPORT I. Sr On Saturday, June 3rd, I received instructions to take charge of the Motor Launch AURA and proceed to a beach East of Dunkirk Harbour. Left Dover Harbour towed by drifter GIRL GLADYS at 15.30. Before leaving it had been reported to me that the AURA'S engine was not operating successfully, in as much that she would not come astern. As the weather appeared to be favourable there seemed no reason why the operation could not be carried out. X We shipped from GIRL GLADYS in the proximity of 5W Buoy and proceeded Eastwards. I was able to tow cutters from one of the Paddle Steamers to the beach on this first trip inwards. The time was 0100 - About 100 British troops were transferred from the shore to various vessels. The engine was giving considerable trouble so that shortly after 0215, June 4th, it failed completely. The launch was then manoeuvred towards some Thames Sailing Barges, and we endeavoured to repair the engine. On examination we found that a defective dynamo was causing the trouble, and as operations were ordered to cease at 0300, I decided to abandon AURA at 0245. I transferred the crew to a dinghy which we found, and then managed to get aboard a "paddle steamer" which was getting under way. All members of my crew behaved excellently throughout the twelve hours. REPORT II. 2nd On Sunday, June 4th, I repaired aboard the drifter YORKSHIRE LASS in the capacity of Skipper. I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk Harbour. Leaving Dover at about 1515, we arrived off Dunkirk at 0000. Off the S. Foreland Ljeutenant Commander Prior, Royal Navy, was transferred from the drifter.UTPROSIM aboard the YORKSHIRE LASS. There was little delay in arriving alongside and we started embarking French troops before 0030. Another drifter arrived alongside our vessel so we transferred our troops and carried on loading. By 00115 we seemed to be practically full. There appeared to be no more troops on our portion of the jetty and I dispatched a soldier to see if we could collect another 50 men. Other ships were arriving alongside, so by 0130 we were steaming out of the Harbour. During the whole operation, and during the passage, the troops behaved in an orderly manner. During the homeward passage the vessel developed a hot bearing, and as it was just daybreak, I signalled SUN XI of to take us in tow until repairs were effected. Within three quarters an hour we proceeded under our own power and arrived in Harbour at 0830 Monday, June 5th. The whole ships company were highly efficient in their duty, and on investigation 100 French troops and 3 British Tommies had been transported. The British Tommies reported as having lost their division, and had only arrived in Dunkirk on Saturday. Report ends.
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227 OPERATION DYNAMO. ENCLOSURE NO. 16. SHIP: H.M.S.PELLAG II. Armed Motor Yacht. 6th June, 1940. OFFICER REPORTING: F.R. MARTINO, Lieutenant, R.N.V.R. On the 30th May, 1940, H.M.S. PELLAG II, in company with Trawlers F.Y. and B.K., left Dover at 1400 for Dunkirk. We took the long route and made the coast about 0200 31st May. I was unable to find the beach and returned to the trawlers. 2. We then proceeded to Dunkirk and arrived about 1000 on 31st May. We were bombed going in but no damage. 3. I left the trawlers off shore and proceeded in to about 3 cables off beach. We were then attacked by two enemy planes, who bombed us for about 20 minutes. I went full speed and zig-zagged about and fired on them with our rifles (our 3 pounder gun would not elevate high enough to be of any use). 4. I again closed the beach, lowered my only dinghy and embarked five loads of men - about 30 men and 3 officers. On leaving the beach I found F.Y. stuck on the mud and I tried to tow her, in doing so burnt out the clutches on my engines and broke the steering. Steered ship with engines and makeshift rudder and closed H.M.S. WORCESTER about 1½ miles off shore. 5. I asked for a tow to Dover, but Commander Alliston of H.M.S. WORCESTER ordered me to abandon ship. Transferred all my men safely aboard destroyer and C.Bs. 6. WORCESTER took on more men off jetty and was bombed and machine gunned, also after getting under weigh. 7. The following were my crew - Petty Officer Elgar (Engineman) P. Eton, Seaman A. Leece, Seaman. F. Macrea, Leading Seaman J. Green, Seaman. P. Eton was wounded in the knee aboard the destroyer, and P.O. Elgar lost his memory. Both were sent to hospital on arrival in Dover. I cannot speak too highly of these men under fire. 8. C.Bs. and charts are in H.M.S. WORCESTER.
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of, Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 280 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE". C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R. May 29. 1800. Left Hamble. May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100. Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area. 2130. Left Dover in company. May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach. 0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did this, collected her boats, took them in to beach and brought soldiers to her. The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH" and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat. As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small boat, transferred to us and took over the ship. Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and 1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While transmitting Commodore's orders. on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy air all ships to move half a mile attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off to signal "HEBE" to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to bombers, so was in action, but close enough for him on while she was her if necessary. Later, put proceed pass orders and to received orders from him Was to given to board "HEBE" off G.H.Q. personnel. La Panne and take Orders to hand and to Lord lay Gort. off pier. Proceeded Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with Gutsell, C.P.O. and hand and 1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact G.H.Q. took on G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting soldiers.
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). F I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to O.Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the sir and shelling from the land. 280 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE". C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R. May 29. 1800. Left Hamble. May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100. Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area. 2130. Left Dover in company. May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach. 0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did this, collected her boats, took them in to beach and brought soldiers to her. The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH" and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat. As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small boat, transferred to us and took over the ship. Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and 1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While transmitting Commodore's orders. on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy air ships to move half a mile attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off to signal "HEBE" all to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to while she if necessary. Later, put proceed bombers, so was was in action, but close enough for him on pass orders "HEBE" and to her received orders from him Was to given to board La Panne and take Orders off G.H.Q. to hand personnel. to Lord Gort. off pier. Proceeded Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with and lay Gutsell, G.H.Q. C.P.O. and hand and 1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact took on G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting soldiers.
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). M I should Officer like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295 of Petty throughout operations. 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson,.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, volunteering ships and services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the ain and shelling from the land. 2. it 281 REPORT.OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE" (cotnd). 1830. (May 31). Dinghy returned with Lt. Crosswell, R.N., N.L.O. to Lord Gort. Lord Gort was taken off by a destroyer's launch. Went to Bray to try and contact "HEBE", but on the way was ordered by Admiral to go in to beach with whale r and take off a General. At beach "AHOLA" arrived and transferred to me Lord Gort's baggage, valet and driver. Requested "AHOLA" to attend to General and went off again to find "HEBE" Ordered by Admiral to proceed to sea and collect boats drifting about. Went about 2 miles out and collected three boats and brought these back to Bray. Closed "HEBE" and put Lord Gort's gear and servants aboard. Lt. Crosswell remained with me. le Lay off La Panne ferrying soldiers to destroyers until 0200, when no more troops could be found. Proceeded in direction of Dray and was ordered by M.T.B.102 to lay off H.M.S. "KEITH" as we might be wanted. Didithis until 0300 when shelling of water started. "KEITH" weighed and went off without giving me any orders. Informed by Lt. Crosswell that everything had to be gone by 0400 and, as no ships could be seen at 0325, left beaches and proceeded to Ramsgate, arriving off Ramsgate 0900, June 1st. Proceeded to Dover and arrived 1100. It is estimated that about 250 soldiers were taken off in course of the day. C.P.O,A.H.H.Gutsell, P/J 28475, remained starre dinghy, in spite of heavy shelling of the Pier, until G.H.Q./arrived. Sgd. H.M.Glassborow, Lieut, R.N.V.R. Commanding Officer. 6th. June 1940 VICE ADMIRAL * DOVER
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). of, I should Petty Officer like to T.Jones draw special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295 2 The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin ships accompanied and me and reported to.O.Ramsgate, volunteering services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to S.N.O.Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 306 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "EILA II". - 285 Commanding Officer, Lieut. E.H.Batt, R.N.V.R. y 29. 1750. Left Hamble. y 30. 0600. Arrived Dover. 2130. Left Dover. LV 31. 0545. Arrived alongside destroyer "KEITH" off Bray and embarked officer to assist in organisation. Ordered to La Panne beach to assist in transporting troops to destroyers "KEITH" & "EMERALD" and sloop "HEBE". Several trips were made between La Panne & Bray;when shelling and bombing became too severe, I was ordered to proceed to seaward. I afterwards returned to La Panne and embarked more troops. 1100 Observed Dover Patrol Vessel "BLUE BIRD" well aground and in a precarious position with both her propellom foul; I lowered my dinghy and ran a tow to her, and succeeded in getting her off. I was under frequent shellfire during the whole operation. I estimate that the amount of troops taken off did not exceed 200, as it was some time after arrival before I disembarked the Naval Officer and wass able to start embarking troops. Although I anchored close in at both places I found that the troops seemed unable to man the boats. The wind was blowing onshore which made it extremly difficult to get off to us. I called for volunteers to man the motor launch and Engr, T.M.Weir and A.B. Tozer responded but were unable to make the beach owing to the heavy sea and the launch was eventually lost. Special mention may be made of Engr. Weir who rowed in a small dinghy and rescued three soldiers under fire. Later on in the day the Engr. XXX reported a serious leak in the "EILA II" and at one time the water was level with the engine room floor. I reported the matter to a destroyer who ordered me to proceed to seaward and 2130. The Naval Officer in charge of operations on to the locate the damage. continue but from my Engr's report of the leak doubtful and as my "ANKH" asked if my vessel was in a fit condition port was out of commission, I was then if she reverse would gear survive further operations. I was ordered to proceed to Dover and arrived the 1 0700. From theis time until 5th. June lying in Dover Harbour. me 5 Folkestone Yachts, Gate observed a small ship's boat 1130. Being left Dover for Hamble and while passing about through 2 unable to locate the other Inner Patrol (continued)
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). F of I should Petty Officer like to draw T.Jones special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295 2 The following officers, Lieut. D.A. Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and Potter-Irwin ships accompanied and me and reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, volunteering services on the following day if required. Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. June 2. Having reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. i 2. 286 307 EPORT OF "EILA II" (contd). miles to the south east, and on coming up with it, I found three French soldiers whom I took on board. I disembarked them at Newhaven, and after obtaining new Routing Orders 6.I proceeded to Hamble, leaving Newhaven 0955 and arriving Hamble 1845. I wish to mention P.O. C.S.Smith, P/J 14350 for extreme roolness under fire and A.B. K.F. Marriott, P/SSX 237766 for volunteering to man the dinghy. Sgd. E.H.Batt, Lieut. R.N.V.R. Commanding Officer. 6th. May 1940.
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REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd). of I should Petty Officer like to draw T.Jones special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295 2 The Potter-Irwin following officers, Sub.Lieuts. Godman and ships accompanied and me and reported to Ramsgate, Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List. volunteering services on the following day if required. June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property and we were unable to obtain permission to use her. Received instructions to stand by and later to return to own Base. Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the air and shelling from the land. 308 REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "SERIOLA" COmmanding Officer, Lieut. D.A.Dawson, R.N.V.R. - 287 29. 1800. Left Hamble in formation for Dover, my division consisting of "SERIOLA", "EILA II", "AHOLA" & "NONETA". 30. 0930. Arrived Dover, and seet into submarine basin, S.O.I.P and myself went to report to S.N.O. Dover and received final orders for our departure. 2200. Left Dover. 31 0500. Arrived off Bray, leading my division, when we received signal to commence embarking troops from beach to destroyers lying farther out. This lasted until about 1000, when I received a signal from a destroyer to proceed to La Panne and carry on with the same routine there. 1200. Suggestion made to run a grass rope from "SERIOLA" to the shore, which would enable the troops to pull themselves out by the aid of this warp in boats etc. Sub.Lt.Godman, r.n.v.r left "SERIOLA" in a whaler with a Lt., R.N.V.R. off H.M.S. "Hebe2 to operate the shore end. Unfortunately, a lorry was driven into the sea and turned over, fouling the line, so this idea had to be abandoned. With great difficulty we were able to get Sub. Lt. Godman aboard again as the whaler which took him off, left the shore without him, with a full load of troops. A severe bombardment was going on at the time and, consequently, most small craft had withdrawn to seawards but in spite of a big sea running at the time, we managed to lower our dinghy and got him aboard in an exhausted condition. We then prodeeded to continue disembarking 1500. troops. Received signals from H.M.S.Keith to go and collect two whalers and crews foroperations off La Panne during the 1530. evening. Received signal from C.O. "NONETA" to say that she had a dead man on board and her P.O. badly wounded. Closed her and the C.O. suggested that he should take Sub.Lt. Godman to with him. This I agreed to and advised him to return Ramsgate "NONETA" was holed above the water line. 1630. Collected as the two whalers and crews and set off for La Panne. the whalers and their respective crews. 1800. Received Beached signal from "BOUNTY" which was flying the The of Commodore me and my crew that the hours 2100 on the that flag Stephenson WMMXXXXX ordering us to close. day Commodore to the told following morning were to be considered to get as many Hour" and possible. We then returned to night. La "Zero 0400 eh hoped we would do our utmost Panne and continued men off transporting as troops throughout the (Continued).
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EPORT OF SUB. LIEUT. T.E. GODMAN, R.N.V.R. (Contd). 2. 318 297 objectives were to have bombed been and sunk. a trawler a few miles astern 12 ntinued S their operations Panne Dutch coaster throughout the the White day. her also thought at intervals Enemy bombers and artillery st West of La was in a attendance flying soldiers from Ensign three motor boats embarking th beach. As previous experience had already shown, the to craft llect e the troops owing to the shallowness of the water boats and had the e craft in use were unable to get closeenough in shore with the result that two of the motor and On the other hand, the coaster's to do so and soon were left high two life dry oats ship. Enquiries were made if any assistance further had been and were successfully ferrying could the be troops to endered he but, under the above conditions, nothing a could few done. There were a number of deserted Thames the Barges, beach. A of hich from one of these was taken and rowed ashore French e were afloat but the rest of which were on while the innace on the beach since yesterday and at on e a inghy lay off in deep water. A great number of point soldiers were inloading rider a rode up and enquired for what information purpose all on this the barges had ad arrived barge which had a cargo of foodstuffs. Here, "rench despatch brought. He was told that we had no had been been After several trips in the dinghy the pinnace at point. with about 15 men, all the British soldiers who made were if filled on that part of the beach. Enquiries were be obtained the that time to be evacuated but no information could left to French whether were this was to be done or if they were circumstances, to be as to evacuation of the B.E.F. Under these at the cover the soldiers were taken on board. The trawler the view of no French of the beach was then closed with but it Eastern end the soldiers and of collecting more, did not wish was found that she had The gone pinnace took a kedge anchor out assistance to transferring aground and therefore seawards to help her could A take if transfer motor any over, any the be auxiliary boat, more. rendered, the ship but soldiers. pull it "MARSAYRU", engine appeared herself it was A had floating endeavoured was that off was been then and, they closed, installed, Thames sighted as were to no found find all Barge further drifting with sailing to another was be a view in with closed barges working ship of the crew, taking to to only. see tide and unoccupied. This One A.B. and soldier were taken of as the order the and started up. and the P.O. left in charge pinnace dinghy with taken orders in tow to lay off until the (Continued). motor boat returned.
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EPORT OF SUB.LIEUT.T.E.GODMAN, R.N.V.R. (Contd). 3.4 298 he information had been fre information had beend wh received that there were more British "MARSAYRU" was then anchored off the Western end of the beach 12 the coaster was already at anchor. t that this latter ship had also gone aground and ufficient troops to fill the ship had already been taken on oard. Approximately 24 men were then ferried to the motor oat and there was insufficient room to take any more. Remaining oldiers ashore were told to make for Dunkirk Harbour where ;roop carriers were still coming in, although few of the troops ppeared to know of this. No assistance could be rendered to the Paster which was waiting for the tide to float her and at 1700 e weighed anchor, cast the dinghy adrift and proceeded eastwards to pick up the pinnace. This was found to be anchored near the harbour, but had been deserted, together with the chart and several items of gear. It was decidied to leave the pinnace there in case it might be of use for further evacuation parties and we started for Ramsgate. A merchant vessel came out of the harbour astern of us and was bombed but no hits were made on either of us. A deserted motor boat was passed but as we were being bombed at the time it was decided not to investigate. At 19.00 we closed the 'Dogger Bank' a Dutch coaster flying the white ensign who gave us some fuel and the courses required to reach Ramsgate. It was also observed that the pinnace's crew were on board and the C.O. was requested to detained the P.O. for questionong on arrival but as he was making for Margate he did not consider it advisable to do this and the matter was consequently dropped. We then proceeded on our course but by 23.00 had not picked up the N. Goodwin light vessel. A Belgian fishing fleet was closed to enquire our position but they could not understand English, also a passing vessel was called up by flashing the deckhouse light but he evidently did not observe us as he did not stop. A course was then set for a red, conical flashing bouy (R) S.E. of us and at 23.30 we made fast to it and watches were detailed till the morning. June 2 04.00. A sloop sighted us and informed a trawler close by of our position. 04.30. The trawler closed us and took us in tow to Ramsgate. 08.00. The soldiers were landed at the Town steps and the boat was berthed. Later the previous crew took the boat over again on instructions from N.O.i/C., the A.B. returned to his former ship which was in the harbour and I reported back to H.M.Y.Seriola. (Continued).
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three miles to the Eastward of Dunyirk and there were thousands 621 of men on the shore shouting and after consulting with a Destroyer the Captain of the tug ordered me up on a short tow rope (despite 585 6 my warning them my stem might be knooked in); instructed "LADY ROSEBERRY" to start up his engine; piok up the "DORIS" and get ashore ready to pick up the troops. Whilst they were doing this, I was getting my engine going and within a very few minutes by the time the "LADY ROSEBERRY" and "DORIS" had navigated up round the head of the tug and I had slacked astern of the boat, there was a tremendous explosion and the tug had apparently been blown up by a mine. It was only half light at the time and I immediately lowered my small boat to look for any survivors. I picked up one Stoker who subsequently proved to have a broken leg and whilst we were pulling him into the boat, another man who proved to be the Mate, climbed over the dinghy side. Just at this moment I saw another small boat pproaching and hailed them, to find that they were the crews of the two barges which had sunk in the explosion. They had scrambled aboard their boat before their barges sunk. Everything happened so quickly that it is difficult to remember everything but my barge seemed to be lifted bodily out of the water by the explosion and I was relieved when I found she was still afloat although making water badly. By this time my barge was the only remaining vessel of the flotilla and I had the injured man aboard and there appeared to be no other survivors.
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