TNA ADM 199 790

Dynams 156 266
NARRATIVE 07 THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S.FRISO 282
OPERATION DYNAMO
H.M.S. OSPRST
PORTLAND.
9th June 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following narrative of
"Dynamo". events whilst in command of the Skoot "FRESO" during Operation
Sunday 26th May. At Portsmouth - ship was being wiped, swung and generally prepared for service.
at 1315.
Monday 27th May. Sailed fr on Portsmouth at 0500. Arrived Newhaven
Tuesday 28th May. Repairs were affected to for'ard Capatan.
2100. Sailed for Dover.
Wednesday 29th May. 0900. Secured alongside Submarine Basin Dover.
Watered and provisioned ship.
1230. Sailed for Dunkirk towing a pulling
Boat. During the passage every endeavour was made for receiving and embarking troops. lty arew worked continuously at improving ladders and guest warps, and preparing the holds.
2330 Entered Dunkirk Roads. I steamed as close to the Beach as possible from about 6 miles to the East of
Dunkirk right up to Dunkirk, but was unable to see any signs of troops. It appeared that FRISO was the first skoot to arrive in the Roads.
0030 Entered Dunkirk and secured alongaide the
Mole. 1 then started ambarking troops until the skoot "SURSOM
CORDA" secured alongaide no when 1 transferred them across. At about 0130 1 decided to commende filling ay ship alternately with
SURSOM CORDA. Between 0130 and 0300 several skoots endeavoured to come alongaide SURSOM CORDA, I instructed the Commanding Officer of SURSOM CORDA to tell them to berth further up the Hole. 1
left the Mole at about 0315 having got onboard about 350 nea and
4 officers. 1 arrived at Dover after an unsventful trip at about
1500 Thursday 30th May.
Having provioned and ambarked water tins
I sailed again for Dunkirk at about 2100. This time 1 proceeded by the Calais Channel. ky crew worked axtraordinarily wall
Although up we were in the Beam of the Calais Searchlights for about clearing the hold and preparing it again for more troops.
2 hours it appeared that we remained undetected.
Friday At about 0245 I observed shat appeared to be a fairly 31st May. derelict two funnalled ship with & alight and list at the to port. large I approached her avoide shoused for Help, to be same time As took up & violent list to port and appeared for the but sinking. 1 well have andangered the Boat and proceeded. arew, both The the ship considered lowering a boat and searching Boats man, as I might for the evacuation 1 regretrully that SURSOM
urgently required after 1 had passed her. I understand boat but was
CORDA who was some Shortly afterwards I observed afterwards ship sunk just way astern of se did lower a a flare on the unable water some 400 yards 250 yards on ay starboard completely to find the nan- ahead of no, almost immediately how. At about 0415
a bomb fell about Harbour but as the Vola was I then proceeded deserted
I entered Dunkirk being shelled I left hurrisdly. the beach and the place was until I saw dense columns such of troops gable on as necessary where along the I anchored coast and ground, than I than lowered veared ay as Boats and started done to to load ships up.
An 80 Air as just Raid not occurred to at about 0630 but no damage was in ay immediate visinity.

7
- 2 -
Slater and took him on board.
The ship was by now, 1745, afloat but bumping and being driven inshore by the on-shore wind. I managed to get the stern clear by putting the troops forward and then the bows by moving them aft. We then went ahead and after grounding heavily twice got into deep water. As the German airdraft were still present we took advantage of a rain squall and sailed immediately.
KAAP-FALGA had by now proceeded on a Westerly course across the Banks.
0700,
Wednesday
29th. Arrived Dover and landed troops, approximately 200 R.A.S.C. and units.
Also about 20 French Staff Officers.
2200, Wednesday 29th.
Sailed for Newhaven to disembark ammunition remaining, about 200 tons.
0800, Thursday 50th.
Arrived Newhaven.
P.M.
Completed to full stowage of amminition.
0300 Friday 31st.
Sailed to Dover for orders.
Noon Friday 31st.
Arrived Dover Roads anchored and reported myself to Examination Vessel. At Midnight the roads were cleared and I proceeded
Westwards as far as Dungeness returning to anchor.
Saturday 1st June at 0500.
Sunday 2nd June.
Entered Submarine basin at 0800 and secured alongside H.M.S. SANDHURST from whom we took in Lubricating 011.
1015.
Proceeded to Newhaven to discharge.
1830.
Arrived Newhaven.
Monday 3rd June.
Discharging at Newhaven.
Tuesday 4th June.
Completed discharging.
Wednesday 5th 0615.
Sailed for Poole.
1800.
Arrived Poole.
Thursday 6th June
Payed off.
Real.
LIEUTENANT.
II.
The Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded. The behaviour of the ALICE would appear to need some explanation.
(Sd.) H. T.C. WALKER
R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth.
-
8th June 1940.
COMMODORE.

10
There were several Killed Army Fred casualities K. and the following Naval Casualties from mohine gunning. Brown A.B.
/ounded Lieut Comdr. Crick R.H. Lieut. Griffiths R.N.V.R. Licut Griffiths
10
ias since died of wounds. All were from Abel Tasman.
The two wounded officers were very efficiently dealt with and taken to the first aid post by W.C. Harding P.O. the Coxswain and E.R.A. Shorthose the E.R.A. of
Abel Tasman At this time I was still ashore with the Colonel of bitte R.A.S.C.
and lieut. Stater. I sew Lieut. Comdr. Crick and took command of the three ships. I appointed myself to Abel Tasman and told Lieut. Slater to appoint his
First Licut. Lieut. Wykeham-Martin as C.O. of Kaap Falga. Lieut. Slater then down to the beach to Bray with the adjutant R.A.S.C. to arrange about mloading Kaap Falga and Alice here.
The embarkation started at 15.30 with tide rising fast. At 17.00 Kaap Falga and Alice floated and got under way. I hailed Alice and passed a Grass for im to tow my stern off. There were no anchors laid out from Abel Tasman and I
ad no hands to lay them out at the time. viz. H.W. 17.45. Alice then broke down and I removed my grass. By this time I was manouverin, the engines and the ship
78.S becoming water borne. The next time I had a moment to spare I saw Alice's crew in her boats rowing over to Kaap Falga who was about eight cables to Seaward
The hove to. We hailed them and tried to signal but no notice was taken. I was then hailed byb Lieut. Slater and took him on board.
The ship was by now (17.45) but bumping and being driven inshore by the shore vind. I managed to get the stern clear by putting troops forward and then the bows y moving them aft. We then went ahead and after grounding heavily twice got took into leep water. As the German Aircraft were still present we took advantgage X2
of a rain squall and sailed immediately. Kaap Falga had by now sailed on a
0700 Wed, 29th. Arrived Dover and landed troops approximately 200 R.A.S.C Units
Vesterley course accross the Banks.
22.00 Wed. Sailed for Newhaven to disembark ammunition remaining about ammunition 200 tons lso about 20 French Staff Officers.
08.00 Thurs. 30th. Arrived Newhaven completed to full stowage of
03.00 12.00 Fri. 31st. Arrived Dover roads anchored and myself to Examination far as
Fri. 31st, Sailed to Dover for orders.
vessel, At midnight the roads were cleared and I proceeded westwards as
Dungeness returning to anchor.
Sat.lst. June June at Entered 05.00 submarine basin at 08.00 and secured alongside to discharge Sandhurst from Sun. whom 2nd. we took in lubricating oil. 10.15. Proceeded to Newhaven
18.30 Arrived Newhaven.
ionday 3rd. June. Discharged at Newhaven
Tues. 4th. June Compketed discharging
Ved. 5th. 0615 Sailed for Poole.
L8.00 wish Arrived to draw Poole. attention to the admirable work done by the
W. C. Harding PO DJX149987
R. Shortose E.R.A. DMX64780
J.J. Iyall O.D. DJX 184099
9
4
II.
To. 1476/07.
'he Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
FLAGICEPPICER-IN-CHARGE.
Portland.
Oth June, 1940.
12JUN 1940
*
R E DO

cargo and landed part of it in Ships boats.
ashore with Lieut. Slater, Commanding H.M.S.A1
the authorities ashore about what they wanted
Lieut. us he was Comdr. evacuating Crick commanding troops and H.M.S.Abel we should Tasma do th were we had attacked discharge by 20 some German of our bombers Cargo. the who At dropped 1400 the
Indendiary bombs machine gunned ships and t beach and were not hit by bombs except one incer fell in the hold of Abel Tasman and luckily did
There were several Army casualties and the follo
Killed
Casualties from machine gunning. Killed Fred K.
Wounded Lieut. Comdr. Crick R.N. Lieut. Griffith
Lieut. Griffiths has since died of wounds. All
Abel Tasman.
The two wounded officers were very eff dealt with and taken to the first aid post by W.
P.O. the Coxswain and E.R.A. Shorthose the E.R.A.
Tasman. At this time I was still ashore with the of the R.A.S.C. and Liejt. Slater. I saw Lieut.
and took command of the three ships. I appointed
Abel Tasman and told Lieut. Slater to appoint his
Wykeham-Martin as C.O. of Kaap Falga. Lieut. Slate down to the beach to Bray with the adjutant R.A.S.
arrange about unloading Kaap Falga and Alice here
The embarkation started at 1530 with ti fast. At 1700 Kaap Falga and Alice floated and got way. I hailed Alice and passed a Grass for him to stern off. There were no anchors laid out from Abc and I had no hands to lay them out at the time. via
1745. Alice then broke down and I removed my grass time I was manouvering the engines and the ship was water borne. Myxxmxxxxxxx The next time I had a spare I saw Alice's crew in her boats rowing over
Falga who was about eight cables to Seaward then h
Lieut. Slater and took him on board.
The ship was by now afloat (1745) but bur being driven inshore by the shore wind. I managed the stern clear by putting troops forward and then by moving them aft. We then went ahead and after 8
heavily twice got into deep water. As the German A
were still present we took advantage of a rain squar sailed immediately. Kaap Falga had by now sailed 00
course across the Banks.
0700 Wed. 29th, Arrived Dover and landed approximately 200 R.A.S.C. Units also about 20 Fren
Arfived ammunition remaining about 200 tons, 0800. Thursday
Officers. 2200. Wednesday. Sailed for Newhaven to myself Friday, Slst. Arrived Dover roads stowage anchored an
1200. Hewhaven completed to full of ammuni to anchot. and I proceeded westwards midnight as far as Dungenes the cleared to Examination vessel. At road
Sandhurst submarine basin at 0800 and 0500. Sunday alongsid
Entered Saturday 1st. June at
2nd
3rd June. to discharge. 1830. oil.
to Newhaven from whom we took lubricating secured 1015.
arrived Poole, Wednesday 5th. 0615 sailed Tuesday for 4th Poole.
discharged. Discharged at Newhaven. Arrived Newhaven. June.
by the following I wish ratings to draw:- attention to the admirable
W.C.Harding. P.O. DJX. 149987.
J.J.Lyall. O.D. DJX.184099.
E.R.A. DMX. 64780, date stamp.
9th. June, 1840.
6)

I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
Adminalty Pier
23
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered prt
H.H.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Doms at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirk from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and sailed for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship broke down again and was successfully towed by H.H.S. Pascholl.
Signed H.R.Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. R.N.V.R. made two successful trips to Dunkirk beach and was able to evacuate 1008 officers and men. Although under continual fire from shore batteries and dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel or crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
B.
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with ships boats only until 04.00
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft of water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ransgate
19.00 30th.
May 31st. June 1st.
Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment with ships boats only until midnight.
Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked ship sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
Ships Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
L.S. A.J.M. Upton P/SSX 13505
A.B. W.H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B. H.B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
"PASCHOLL"
B.
This ship was only taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain having returned to his proper duties at Ramagate. I proceeded to Ramagate arriving there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond flying his flag in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty at
23.00 and embarked ap roximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 Tuesday
June 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions sailed at 05.30
Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having taken
H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday
6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th. June entered Poole Harbour.
Signed Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS"
I have the honour? to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
I
Dynamo in diary form.
25th. May Joined at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 p.m. approx cast off and proceeded to anchor off Portsmouth. 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off Yarmouth.
26th, May. 5.10 a.m. ordered to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship
3.0 p.m. Ordered to proceed Portsmouth.
6.0 p.m. Arrived Portsmo th. Recive fuel water and stores and ordered to broken proceed
Spithead to swing for deviation. Discharged Dutch engineer. Note compass and steering compass damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable deviation card
10.30 Proceed in company for Newhaven.
27th. May Dawn arrived off Newhaven and anchoved. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec. gear stores rope etc. Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship
9.0 approx. Proceeded in company for Dover.
28th. p.m. Dawn arrived off Dover 9.30 approx berthed alongside "Ruja" at West bad Quay,
Enemy render independance p.m. of navigation impossible we follow rest ahead. gunfire
May air raid 1.0 approx. Proceed in company for Dunking. Compass Considerable so as to etc. all night.

I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
Adminalty Pier
23
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered escort
H.M.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Downs at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirl from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship broke down again and was successfully towed by H.M.S. Pascholl.
Signed Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. Ward R.N.V.R. made two Although successful under trips continual to Dunkirk fire beach from and shore was able batteries to evacuate and 1008 dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel officers and men.
or crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Licut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft or water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air ships boats only until 04.00
compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ramsgate
19.00 30th.
May 31st. June 1st.
Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles with to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment
Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked ships boats only until midnight.
sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
Ships ship Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
L.S. A.J.M. Upton SSX 13505
A.B. W. H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B..B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
This "PASCHOLL" ship was only B. taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain having there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor returned to his proper duties at Ramsgate. I proceeded to Ramsgate arriving until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond at flying his in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty flag and embarked approximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 05.30 Tuesday
June 23.00 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions taken sailed at
Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having
H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday June
6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th.
entered Poole Harbour.
Signed J.N.Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS" I have the honour to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
Dynamo 25th. in diary Joined form. at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 Dalla approx cast Yarmouth. off and
26th. proceeded May. to 5.10 anchor a.m. off ordered Portsmouth. to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship
May 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off
3.0 p.m. Ordered Portsmo to proceed th. Portsmouth. Recived fuel water and stores and ordered to proceed broken
6.0 p.m. Arrived deviation. Discharged Dutoh engineer. Note compass deviation
Spithead and steering to swing compass for damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable card
10.30 Proceed Dawn in arrived company off for Newhaven Newhaven. and anchored. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec gear stores
27th. rope etc. May Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship
9.0 28th. p.m. May approx. Dawn arrived Proceeded off Dover in company 9.30 approx for Dover. berthed for alongside "Ruja" Compass at so West bad Quay. as to
Enemy render air independance raid 1.0 p.m. of navigation approx. Proceed impossible in company 49 rest shead. Considerable fofolComt gunfire etc. all night.
so folonsidat ores ost to el gunfire
Duto.

First Lieut. then abandoned Alice and took his crew and Major De Haviland (wounded)
25
and 4. soldiers to Kaap Falga where 1st. Lieut. Alice took command. Major De.
Havilland of G.H.Q came on board with instructions for Kaap Falga to go to sea
25
and try and intercept a destroyer so that he could report by m/t to the War Office the seriousness of the situation. No. Destroyer would stop so Kaap Falga returned to the Downs and reported arrival. Then to Dover where stores were cleared by 09.00
1st. Kaap Falga's engines were badly coked up and in attempting to return to
Dunkirk at 22.00 1st. they overheated to such an extent that the Ship could not make suffient speed to reach Dunkirk by 03.00 2nd. the latest hour that ships had been ordered to stay off Dunkirk.
Due to the possibility of this defect Kaap Falga was not used on the night of June 2nd.
the last night of the evacuation.
Sailed for Poole 14.30/3 arrived 12.00/5
PACIFIC
A
Lieut. Comdr..Skrine R.N. Lieut. Triscott R.N.R.
Sat.25th. May Crews for Dutch Skoots proceeded from ortsmouth to Poole where they arrived about noon and were detached for these vessels.
Pacific proceeded at 14.00 leaving discharged dutch crew at Brownses Island. Was ordered to anchor at Yarmouth for the night.
Sun. 26th. May. Weighed at 0.430 and proceeded for Portsmouth Harbour at 09.3.0
Being Senior officer of the Party I went ashore and arranged for stores and swinging etc. No sailing orders were obtainable until about 19.00 when we were ordered to complete swinging as soon as possible and sail at once for Newhaven. Accordingly sailed at dark with Amazone Atlantic Zeus & Pascholl in company (wega and San Antonio)
has broken down)
Monday 27th. May. Arrived off Newhaven at 04.00 and was ordered to anchor outside
Lay at anchor all day awaiting orders. At dark received orders to sail for downs in company with a party of skoots that had previously arruved Newhaven. Weighed and
Proceeded
Tues. 28th. May Arrived Dover about 08.00 and berthed alongside 09.00. Went ashore and having ascertained the possible nature of the operation made arrangements for sandbags first aid outfits etc., to be supplied to my party of Skoots by noon
However an air raid warning intervened and none of these stores had been received
13.00 received orders to sail forthwith. Sailed about 13.00 and took over a large lifeboat at sea from one of the slower skoots who was dropping behind. Pacific gradually overhauled the other four skoots and I think was the first of this party to reach La Panne.
From No. 6 E Buoy we proceeded at slow speed 180 straight for the beach where in answer to our hail a shout was raised by the soldiers on the beach. The intention waswas to turn to Port and anchor off. However partly due to the fact that the larger ships were closer in than I anticipated but mainly due to my leadsman failing to obtain any sounding at all we grounded on a bank of sand before we had turned
90° This occured at 23.00 We sent the large Lifeboat ashore with 3 of our 5 hands and instructed them to take off men to other ships as with the wind blowing inshore it was not certain that we should get off, With the remaining two hands we laid out a kedge on our Port quarter. By going full astern and heaving on the kedge we got afloat when the tide rose at 02.00
29th. May. The ships lifeboat and skiff was then sent inshore and 1 officer and
7 men were brought off to Pacific before the boats lost touch with her in the dark
They did howver bring several par ies off to other ships. Verbal orders had been received before leaving Dover to leave shore before03.3 being anxious to recover boats and men Pacific remained inshore till daylight finally sailing at 04.30
when it seemed liekly that the boats and crews had been embarked by other ships.
Rerurned to Dover by route Y arriviving about 16.30 and disembarked troops. No orders were immediately available but verbal orders were subsequently received to embark water and provisions and sail about 22.00 Application was made for the balance of complument and I was informed that I should be sent 3 hnds from
Montvera. These did not arrive until 02.40 at which time Pacific sailed for Dunitirk.
30th. May. The morning of 30th May was misty at about 08.20 when crossing Le Dyck bank there was a violent underwater explosion about two cables on the Starboard bow
No aircraft was about and it is supposed that it was a torpedo which had exploded on the Bank. No vessel was in sight Arrived off the beach 09.00 about 1 mile E
of Dunkirk and anchored close in. We had no boat of our own but collected two from a skoot that was just leaving, conditions as regards surf were pretty good but boats very waterlogged and no boat was obtainable all day. By 16.00 my crew were exhausted by pulling those boats in and out from the hore all as I had 30 Officers and 620
men aboard I decided to sail. We might have had many more in half the time if a motor boat had been available. Accordingly sailed at 16.00 When crossing the
Inner Ratel Bank attacked by by two of a flight of three fighters with machine guns. They scored was & few hits on the ship and injured noñody. Had nothing but a pistol with which to reply.

Dyram 75. A14/0/14
om Lieutenant Commander Laurence Phillips, Royal Navy.
5th June, 1940
-
28
the Vice Admiral Commanding, Dover.
Submitted:- (1) Summary of proceedings H.M. S.Amazone 25.5.40 - 1.6.40
and French S.s. "Newhaven" 2.6.40 - 4.6.40.
(2) Recommendations.
(3) Detailed letter of proceedings.
1) Saturday 25th. p.m. sailed Amazone Poole to Portsmouth.
Sunday 26th.
wiped' ship, stored, and swung for compass.
sailed at dark for Newhaven. Sighted S/M surfaced
1/2 mile E of Owers 0005. Reported on arrival at
Newhaven.
sailed at dark for Dover in company with Foxglove and other skuyts.
Monday 27th. p.m. sailed from Dover in companym Embarked about 100
men from beach 3/4 mile West of Bray and returned to
Dover.
Wednesday 29th. sailed 0230 for Dunkirk, embarking about 400 troops at Bray and leaving 1930. Divebombed off Middlekirke on return journey to Ramsgate.
Friday 31st. 1215 sailed for Dunkirk and embarked troops from positions 2 and 3 miles E of jetty, using grass-rope as far as possible. Brought down one bomber by Bren gun fire on nearing Dunkirk, Straddled by shells on leaving.
Saturday 1st. 0500 disembarked troops and secured in harbour with gurnt-out clutch.
The reason for such a small number of troops being disembarked by Amazone was that I went to beaches where boats were not provided, on purpose.
Sunday 2nd.
I proceeded with S/L Clarabut to Dover and embarked with one and eight ratings in French steamship
"Newhaven". Took off French troops from east jetty
(B berth) and sailed for Dover 0245 (Monday).
Monday 3rd.
Proceeded in"Newhaven," Embarked Admiral Abrial, a
General, and about 1000 troops, returning to Folkestone about 0630.
(2)
I wish to mention especially:-
340691 L.A/C Harker, who took boats inshore again and again after coming off himself (Thursday 30th near Bray). He took when the ship was being dive-bombed, he took charge of a body charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently. Later, of men on deck and directed rifle-fire very coolly during each attack.
Rating) whose conduct in working our own small boats, at
Also Ord. Sea. Wakeham (Portsmouth Division - Newfoundland and the wheel, was exceptional.
set Also a most Sub. excellent Lieutenant example and whose assistance was a very gual
Clarabut R.N. (lent from Montrose) who help to me.
ADMIT
7-JUN.19.- 7-
2.1.

3. (astailed account).
29
5/40 Sailed Amazone, Poole to Portsmouth D.Y.
5/40 a.m. 'wiped' ship in Block; stored with 14 days provisions and various instruments and navigational books.
p.m. Swung ship for compass adjustment and anchored near outer
Spit Buby. Sailed at dark in company to Newhaven.
5/40 0005 sighted submarine, surfaced, 1'm E of Owers Lt.V.. Reported to Examination Vessel on arrival with instructions to pass on message. Anchored outside harbour on orders received, having no opportunity to provide sand-bags, Lewis gun, etc.
Salled at dark for Dover in company, led by Foxglove.
5/40
Arrived at Dover a.m.
Sailed p.m., for Operation Dynamo, in company, and proceeded by long route.
Amazone led the skyts, but the compass was found to be reading about 70 low, due to Gerricks' being topped ready for the exercise, and her position was lost by the time this was rectified. I beached the ship about m/a mile west of Bray, bows in, and with a kedge astern.
Lieut. Audley, R.N.V.R. landed in our two small boats and led down troops from the sand-dunes. By 0300 the boats' crews were exhausted and the boats were being capsized by the sea which had increased with the westerly wind. It was obvious that no more could be taken off in our own boats from the beach. I approached a sloop which was not anxious to take our troops. A large steamer at anchor outside informed me that she was on her way in, and there was too much sea for putting Amazone alongside her. I decided not to go in to the eastern jetty at such a late hour with troops on board and returned, without incident, by the long route to Dover.
Disembarked about 100 officers and men (British) at Admiralty Pier.
Lieut. Audley's leg had been injured when hoisting in our boats4
and he was placed on the sick list.. Sub. Lieut. Clarabut, R.N. was detailed from Montrose as First Lieutenant. I embarked essential stores and large quantities of water, also a Lewis gun and as few sand-bags.
Nei ther the Naval Shore Signal Station nor the Pier Master was urs.
able to inform Mr. Clarabut of the ship's whereabouts and it was
0th.
not possible to leave until 0230 after I had found him myself. This wasted five hours.
0230 Sailed in company with Pacific but lost touch soon afterwards. Made landfall to Eastwards of Dunkirk about 0930. Having been informed that there was no danger from mines I had taken a short out in shallow water. This, and the fact that the compass was still 'low', caused us to mistake Gravilines for Dunkirk! I steamed up and down the coast and examined the harbour from about 1 mile out and found no sign of life. Having no W/T, and having had no orders since 2100 the day before, I steamed W.N.W to seek information. Picked up drifter and
Anchored about 300ˣ from shore in 10 ft. water and embarked about proceeded to Bray Beach.
400 officers and other ranks, sending in water drums by empty boats.
340691 L.A. C. Harker returned inshore several times, until exhausted, with a large collapsible boat, taking water drums each time. He took charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently and set a very fine example. Later, while the ship was being dive-bombed, he took charge of the troops on deck and directed rifle-fire very cooly during each attack in spite of fairly accurate machine-gun fire.
.915
Proceeded. Fredanja informed me he was taking route Y so, presuming there were special orders, sailed/company. in
2010
Attacked by German bomber off Middlekirke. Three bombs dropped close to Fredanja - avoided delay-action effect.
013
3 more bombs dropped close to Fredanja.
Lef.

3.
31
nday
8
nd.
There was no hope of repairing the clutch which was practically burned out, for two days. I went round to Dover with two commanders and a lieutenant.-commander. S/L Clarabut volunteered to accompany me. I was sent, with one and eight ratings from
Hotspur and Ajax to ginger up the French cross-channel steamer
Newhaven. It was some four hours before we could discover from the Naval Signal station where she was. She had actually entered harbour about 1030 but they informed us she was not in. We were unable, therefore, to leave until about 2130 instead of 1830
as ordered. The master of the shop handled his vessel extremely well, in spite of her small high-speed propellors, and got alongside
East Jetty in B berth, ahead of wreck, about 0045 (,). Tynwald rammed us on entering causing slight damage. There were no troops on the jetty so I went to the inner end where I found a French colonel with about 3000 men waiting to be told where to go. I had to stand at the end telling them that their colonel was in my ship before they would follow. A paddle steamer in berth c delayed proceedings by insisting on filling up. The Franch would not pass by any spot where embarking was going on! Nor would the narrowness of the jetty actually allow them to pass. The French would not send word to the rear and I had to request the colonel to send two officers to the rear of his men to hurry them up. This rd. ay was at 0215. At 0245 we were ordered to proceed (from the M.T.B)
On return I reported to Captain Bisset that a loudspeaker on the jetty would be most useful. I was able to obtain one by
Captain Dawson's efforts. This was a great help the next night, both for talking to ships when entering and leaving Dunkirk harbour, and for talking to the French troops and directing the securing of ropes and passing embarkation orders.
We left harbour after oiling (very slowly owing to wrong connections)
about 1915 and reached Dunkirk entrance at 2430 (?). The strong easterly current and wind made securing very difficult but the master did very well and we were secured by about 2300. Embarking went on satisfactorily until an order was passed to stop. We were by no means full and I got them going again. I suspect this order came from one of the officers who accompanied Admiral Abrial and a General who had just embarked. One of the General's staff officers was most solicitous for the safety of his superiors and insisted on life-belts' being provided for them the instant they came on board!
We left on Commander Buchanahiss arrival on the jetty, and I had no opportunity of turning the loudspeaker set over to him.
We anchored off the North Goodwin at about 0300 in fog and weight at
0500, proceeding to Folkestone where we disembarked.
heart. Commandis

Dynamo 296.
Blu/c/
Bos
38
Royal Naval Barracks,
Chatham.
12th JUNE, 1940.
To The Vice-Admiral Commanding, Dover.
Copies to: Commander,in-Chief, The Nore.
Commodore, Sheerness.
Sir,
DUNKERQUE EVACUATION FORCE
I have the honour to report that the Dutch Schoot "BART"
under my Command, was taken over by a Naval Crew on Sunday, 26th
May, 1940 at the Reserve Supply Wharf, Deptford.
2. The ship carried 12,436 packages of food supplies and a deek of 300 cases of Diesel oil
S at Tilbury p.m. Sunday having to mday 27.4 May 0530 Towed into Harbour 6 N°2 Busy.
mpasses.
h May, 1940.
Engines being repaired and taking m Thomes
100 gallons
1 a spar.
300 Received orders 6 proceed Newhaven on complehon
S and sailed
9wo Proceeded esday 28" May
1 to enter ere placed
0530 off husbaven and anchored in Cramination andamge
0730 Proceeded into thatom Repushd b N.O. I/Chage ce-Admiral
Tuesday hoaded 300 life bells fresh thom.
9 South nchored off
1/20 Ordered to proceed Dow sailed refuelling.
heerness for
045 off Door ordered to anchor onkide ading; and was
940.
hurday 22/hay
03.30 Weighed and proceeded to submanni Basin
Fueled Wahared and provisioned all
0600 Received orders 6 froceed ha Panne Beach using y Roshe 0850 Completed provisioning
0900 Sailed
1200 shopped by examination versel off N goodwing HV
with segual origin 0623 to proced to Margale.
as I did not pass Dower B'waler until 0900
a had received ho can cellahor of previous orders

52
OPERATION "DYNAMO"
H.M.D.B. "DESPATCH II"
51
1940
MAY
24th p.m. Commissioned at Poole. 1600 sailed from Poole for
Portsmouth. 2100 Berthed at Portsmouth Dockyard.
Ship "Wipped" during the night.
25th 0430 Left Dockyard for Spithead, Adjusted Compasses. Returned to Dockyard 1700 with defects.
26th 0400 Engines failed to start. 0420 Sailed from Portsmouth for
Newhaven. 1400 Berthed at Newhaven.
27th 1130 Engines failed to start. Air Compressor broken down;
Temporary repairs executed by Southern Rly by 21.45.
28th 0600 Engines failed to start. 0630 Sailed from Newhaven for Dover. 1740 Arrived off Dover. 2115 Anchored
29th 0410 Started to weigh Anchor; anchor foul of Sub. Cable;
0620 Weighed Anchor, proceeded to Downs for Route Orders.
0930 Left Downs for La Panne by Route "Y".
Ship was not attacked by any of the large number of enemy aircraft seen being engaged by Naval Patrol vessels hear
W.Hinder and Kwinte Bk Buoys, or by Aircraft seen engaged by Fighters off La Panne; none of the bad shots aimed?
by Nieuport Battery at 2 Destroyers North of Nieuport Bk Buoy fell neared than a cable to this vessel.
2000 Anchored 2 miles west of La Panne, and commenced embarking French troops.
30th 0400 Weighed and Proceeded 0405 Engines broke down, reanchore
Contact was made by Semaphore with a Destroyer close, who promissed a tow when he had filled-up with troops, but temporary repairs were eff/ected by 1030, and ship proceeded under own power. Course was set to return by Route "Y", but Paschol close ahead being heavily shelled by Nieuport
Battery, in company with Paschol, course was altered NW, across the banks, to Buoy "Y". About 6 miles S of "Y" Buoy a low flying aircraft attacked with 2 bombs which went well over. About 1 mile further on Lewis Gun fire was opened on another low flying enemy aircraft, who did not attack.
1915 Berthed at Ramsgate.
31st 0915091 Left Ramsgate; set course by Route "X" for Dunkirke.
1640 Dunkirke abeam; air raid in progress, nearest bombs, aimed at Destroyer,4 to for cable from this vessel.
1725 Anchored 31 East of Dunkirke off Battery de Dunes;
commenced embarking Middlesex Regiment. Constant High bombing Air Raids till dark; after dark low bombing and machine gun raids. 23.00 All available Middlesex Regiment embarked.
June 1st 0001 Weighed, and set course by Route "X" for Ramsgate.
0100 Dunkirke abeam.
0900 Berthed at Ramsgate;
Reported ship unable to proceed to sea without repairs.
June 4th p.m. Operation "Dynamo" cancelled. 22.00 Proceed from
Inner Basin to anchor in Roads.
5th 0400 Sailed from Ramsgate for Newhaven. 2000 Berhhed Newhaven.
6th 0705 Sailed from Newhaven for Poole. 1807 Amchored off Poole.
7th a.m. Proceeded into Poole Harbour.
p.m. Paid Off: Crew returned to R.N.B Portsmouth by train.
HWilmot-Sitwelk
Lieutenant Commander.

60
59
rear-gunner was hit as his tail gun was not in action on the last attack.
H.M.S. "Amazone" was asked to stand by me during the night as there appeared to be every possibility of the Engines breaking down.
The crew behaved excellently under the and I especially wish to mention Thomas A. willing,
Petty officer, P/J 100988, who did showed great coolness and efficiency in Keeping the soldiers calm during the attacks and in rendering fistaid afterwards.
Also Jack. S. Ambrose, a/E.R.A. 4th. class (number not Known), who did excellent work in the
Engine Room during and after the attacks in Keeping the engines going and in repairing the gearbox, especially
QO this is his first ship.
we disembared at Ramogate at about 0830
on May 30ᵗʰ; after which we anchored outside the harbour to have temporary repairs made.
on completion of operation Dynamo we to Poole to pay off but the engines into were ordered down off Newhaven we were towed 14th the bloke to be repaired and at 2000 on June we harbour Sailed for Saint Malo under orders from Commander-wichief
Porkmouth.
I have the honour to be, su, tlag officer in charge your obedient servant
Dover VICE ADMIRAL
28 JUN 1940
*
DOV EL R
Lieutenant-Commander Lieutenant commander
Royal Navy.

Dynam 156.
NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S.FRISO DURING
60
OPERATION DYNAMO
H.M.S. OSPREY
PORTLAND.
9th June 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following narrative of events whilst in command of the Skoot "FRTSO" during Operation
"Dynamo".
Sunday 26th May. At Portsmouth - ship was being wiped, swung and generally prepared for service.
Monday 27th May. Sailed fr om Portsmouth at 0500. Arrived Newhaven at 1315.
Tuesday 28th May. Repairs were effected to for'ard Capstan.
2100. Sailed for Dover.
Wednesday 29th May. 0900. Secured alongside Submarine Basin Dover.
Watered and provisioned ship.
1230. Sailed for Dunkirk towing a pulling
Boat. During the passage every endeavour was made for receiving and embarking troops. My crew worked continuously at improving ladders and guest warps, and preparing the holds.
2330 Entered Dunkirk Roads. I steamed as close to the Beach as possible from about 6 miles to the East of
Dunkirk right up to Dunkirk, but was unable to see any signs of troops. It appeared that FRISO was the first skoot to arrive in the Roads.
0030 Entered Dunkirk and secured alongside the
Mole. I then started embarking troops until the skoot "SURSOM
CORDA" secured alongside me when I transferred them across. At about 0130 I decided to commence filling my ship alternately with
SURSOM CORDA. Between 0130 and 0300 several skoots endeavoured to come alongside SURSOM CORDA, I instructed the Commanding Officer of SURSOM CORDA to tell them to berth further up the Mole. I
left the Mole at about 0315 having got onboard about 350 men and
4 officers. I arrived at Dover after an uneventful trip at about
1500 Thursday 30th May.
Having provioned and embarked water tins
I sailed again for Dunkirk at about 2100. This time I proceeded by the Calais Channel. My crew worked extraordinarily well
Although we were in the Beam of the Calais Searchlights for about clearing up the hold and preparing it again for more troops.
Friday 31st May. At about 0245 I observed what appeared to be to a
2 hours it appeared that we remained undetected.
fairly large derelict two funnelled ship with a slight list the port. As I approached her avoice shouted for Help, and at to be same time the ship took up a violent list to port and appeared the but sinking. I might well have endangered the Boat and Boats crew, both The
I considered lowering a boat and searching for man, urgently sunk after I had passed her. I understand as required for the evacuation I regretfully proceeded. that SURSOM
ship who just some way astern of me did lower a boat but was the unable
CORDA the was Shortly afterwards I observed a flare afterwards on water some about 250 yards on my starboard bow. At to find 400 man. yards ahead of me, almost immediately about 0415
I entered being shelled I left hurriedly. I the beach a bomb fell Dunkirk Harbour but as the Mole was completely then proceeded deserted and the the place coast was until I saw dense columns of troops cable on as necessary where I not to ground, I lowered my Boats and started to ships up.
along anchored and then then veered as much to load
An so Air as just Raid occurred at about 0630 but no damage was done in my immediate vicinity.

ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
198
REPORT BY STOKER A. BENHAM, STOKER OF
MOTOR BOAT, NO.275
P.M. 29th.
Left Littlehampton and arrived Newhaven same evening, had a spot of bother before we were allowed to enter harbour and stay the night.
A.M. 30th.
Left Newhaven for Ramsgate arriving P.M. same day.
Port Stern Gland was leaking badly had to be repacked on arrival, Refuelled and ready to sail.
A.M. 31st.
Was ordered to leave Ramsgate independently for Dunkirk.
C.P.O. Leighton, Cox., A.B. Strand and Stoker Benham, crew. Left harbour and picked up convoy already leaving for Dunkirk. After about 2/2 to 3 hours out we had trouble again with Port Stern Gland and returned to harbour and repacked and tightened up both Stern Glands.
A.M. lst.
Was called again about 4.30 and ordered to sail and proceed to Dunkirk. Two Sub-Lientenants R.H.V.R.
volunteered to come with us as their boat was unfit for the trip, and an extra Able Seaman came aboard with them for the trip. On the way to Dunkirk was kept busy,
Able Seaman Strand watching for aircraft and myself tending engines, had no more trouble with Stern Glands,
There was quite a considerable amount of aircraft about and our destroyers were continually repelling their attacks. Struck something below water starboard side which made the boat jump but no damage seemed to be done as the engine was running smoothly and we were not making water, so we carried oh. On sighting Dunkirk we saw two large ships loaded with soldiers steamin down the coast and all small craft following, so we decided to follow as there was nothing we could do there. After about 10 minutes steaming we saw a crowd of German áircraft in the air flying at a great height. About six detached themselves, and dived down at the two big ships. They did not release their bombs until they were almost on the ships, registered hits which sunk both ships quite close to each other. We were travelling at full speed and picked up 10 of the survivors which made the boat full. As the bombers were still very active in the vicinity, we decided it was best to leave with all possible speed for home.
After about half to three-quarters of an hour we were mistaken for German Torpedo Boat by our own trawlers, who opened fire on us at close range. I saw C.P.O.
Leighton leave the boat after a shell had wrecked the wheel house and Able Seaman Strand dashed forward to grab the wheel, I got on to the side and saw one of the trawlers bearing down on us as though it was going to ram us, she was just about a boat's length away when I
jumped into the water, for it seemed impossible that she would miss us. But Strand must have swung boat around enough to clear. I was picked up by one of the boats after swimming around for a while. I dont know how long.
I did not see any one else of the boat's crew until we arrived at Margate, when Able Seaman Strand came aboard the trawler I was on and spoke to me about the affair.
The only....

212A
ENCLOSURE II. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.4
200
REPORT BY ABLE SEAMAN NO.275. L.F. STRAND - CREW OF MOTOR BOAT
P.M. 29th. Left Littlehampton. Got permission, after much trouble to enter and stay night in Newhaven.
A.M. 30th. Left Newhaven for Ramsgate and arrived P.M. - refuelled and awaited orders.
A.M. 31st. At 4.30 A.M. ordered to leave Ramsgate independently, for
Dunkirk. C.P.O. Leighton i/c, Stoker Benham and Able
Seaman Strand. Outside harbour picked up convoy of small boats. 3 hours out approx. developed leak in Port
Stern Gland. C.P.O. Lighton ordered me (Strand) to turn ship and return to Ramsgate. Arrived back in Ramsgate P.M.
and had Gland repacked.
A.M. 1st. 4.30 again ordered to Dunkirk. Before leaving & Sub-
Lieutenants (R.N.V.R. volunteered to join boat as their engine had given them trouble. Got charts etc., and got under way. No convoy. Near Dunkirk, boat struck obstacle or shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours, naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer 1/c decided to make back to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. $ hour saw three trawlers,
2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or was disregarded. Shot fired across bowa, but still steaming fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and myself went over the side. Firing eased a little ao I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly are they were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O.
Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2)
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred belonging to crew of sunk transport.
us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports, if had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Sun. 2nd.
Stoker any, Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

201
ENCLOSURE III. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. June, 1940.
REPORT BY LEADING SEAMAN H. COOK, COXSWAIN OF MOTOR
BOAT "ANDORRA".
9th. May.
Ordered to proceed to Newhaven, left approx. 1930 in company with 275, arrived Newhaven 2130 approx. stopped by examination vessel after about 2 hours of exchange of signals allowed to enter harbour. Boat running well.
Oth.May.
Officer in charge of boats gave orders to leave Newhaven at 0600 for Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate about 1630.
Instructed to berth alongside West Wall. Filled boats with petrol, oil and water wireless and arms taken out of boats.
Officer and T.A.G. making trip returned to Littlehampton.
No further orders. Boat running well.
1st. May.
Boat ready for sea, needed Officer and charts. Noticed and
Officer looking at "Andorra". I asked him if he would take us to Dunkirk and he replied that he would be pleased to.
At noon took whaler in tow and received provisions and 3
rifles and 100 rounds, left for Dunkirk. Boat running well at 1800 revs. Arrived at destination at 1630. Ran whaler alongside telling Papworth and Kettle to proceed inshore and lead with soldiers. About one minute after this order a raid started all vessels were under way in view of this we decided it would not be sensible to ferry as boats would have been smashed alongside owing to big surf. The whaler returned with 12 French soldiers. Took them aboard Andorra and sent whaler inshore again, raid was still on, whaler returned with II more French soldiers. They were also taken aboard Andorra making total load of 29 men and whalers in tow empty, decided whaler was too much for boat to tow so decided to slip it to another boat in need of a whaler.
Raid had ceased. 1805 left Dunkirk for Ramsgate. Boat running well at 1800 revs. but load had robbed her of about
4 knots. About 12 miles out second raid started, 3 bombs dropped close astern badly shook boat, all aboard very cool.
Decided to increase speed owing to the fact that we had no light for compass and wished to make Ramsgate before dark as we had no challenge signals. At about 2130 near North
Goodwin Lighthouse, starboard port engine broke down;by this time it was pitch dark. C.E.R.A. Milford had been working on engine all this time and managed to get it running again.
We were unable to find entrance owing to a warning in
Ramsgate, no entrance lights were on. Arrived in Ramsgate harbour 0300 on the 1st. June, discharged 23 French soldiers.
1st. June.
Working on engines, filling up and cleaning boat in general.
Saw 275 leave harbour.
2nd.
June
Working on engines.
3rd. June.
Working on engines A.M. Trial. P.M. engines running well, but boat not doing the proper speed. C.E.R.A. Milford decided the damage was outside the boat.
4th.
June.
Boat lifted, discovered port screw badly damaged, this was put right; boat given another trial and found to be back running at well. Reported to S.N.O. i/c at 1530 told to report
1700. Officer detailed to take us back to Littlehampton. Sub-
5th. June. 0900 left Ramsgate arrived Littlehampton 1900, boat running
Lieutenant from Portsmouth.
well except for bad petrol.
(SIGNED) H. COOK. L/SEA.

COPY!/3
2024
OPERATION DYNAMO
NARRATIVES BY PERSONNEL OF SMALL CRAFT.
INDEX
NAME OF VESSEL
WRITTEN BY
1. TUG 87
Sub.Lieut. H.M. Davis, R.N.R.
2. M.B. BLUE BIRD
If
G.B. Eyre, R.N.V.R.
3. M.B. AURA
#
M.A. Chodzko, R.N.V.R.
4. M.B. BRITANNIA
If
S.D. Ward
5. M.B.'s CAVERSHAM and QUISISIANA
If
A.V. Weaver
6. M.B. LADY CABLE
Lieut. B.S. Fidler, R.N.R.
7. M.B. EMPRESS
Sub.Lieut. T.W. Betts, R.N.V.R.
8. M.B. SKYLARK
If
M.J.R. Yeatman, R.N.V.R.
9. M.B. SOUTHERN QUEEN
#
Demattos
0. M.B. PRINCESS LILLY
#
K.E.A. Bayley
1. M.B. SKYLARK VI
Ct. Rating G.R. Price
2. H.M.M.B. WHITE BEAR
Cd. Gunner E. Deacon, R.N.
3. H.M.S. DOLPHIN's Motor Boat
Sub.Lieut. E.F. Cornish-Bowden, R.N.
4. WALTON and FRINTON Life Boat
P.O. Tel. Cooley.
5. M.B. CORDELIA
Sub.Lieut. C.A. Thompson
6. M.B. PELLAG II
Lieut.
Martino, R.N.V.R.
STATEMENT BY
7. M.B. SKYLARK (Southend)
Pensioner P.O. R.A. Smith
8. BOURNEMOUTH Life Boat
L. Sea. H. Huntington
9. M.B. BONNY BELLE
Sto. I. G.H. Rose
O. EASTBOURNE Life Boat
(Sto. J. Strangeways P/KX.95036 and
(Sto. A.H. Shaw P/KX.94553
1. M.B. (Unknown)
A.B. M.J. Stallard P/JX.154107
2. M.B. SEA FALCON
L.Sea. A. Westbrook P/JX.131401
3. M.B. SKYLARK
Sto. G. Bramhall P/KX.88343
4. M.B. COMMODORE
Sto. Beech P/KX.90016
5. NEWHAVEN Life Boat
(A.B. W.J. Morris P/JX.126097
(Sto.I W. Spray P/KX.87052
(0.S. T.E. White CDX.133
6, M.B. YSER
Act. P.O. W.H. Achin JX.149919

251
237
OPERATION
NO.25
SHIP:- NEWHAVEN LIFEBOAT.
STATEMENTS BY Ø
Crew
Service
Coxswain
0
A.B.
W.J.MOrris
Left Dover 0500/31/V started work on the beach.
P/JX 126097.
Tried twelve places, but draught too great. At
&
Sto.1 W.Spray one place two and a half hours on beach. Tried
PKX.87052.
various ways of getting off, shifting weight
&c. After getting off saw 3 British and 4 French
O.S. T.E.White soldiers washed out of a boat being towed: saved
CDX 133.
2 British and 3 French. A rough pier had been p
This was all the crew.
made with lorries and tins and they used this for troops. It was now very dark. They saw all little boats moving off in tow. They, however, took a load of troops off a barge aground and put them on board a trawler. Then saw more boats moving and decided it was time to move away. Tried to get a tow. Started on & Northerly course (compass) for 2½ hrs. Aprived at some light and decided to wait till dawn as German planes were dropping flares all round them.
Something like a fast M.B. passed them. At daylight they saw ships to Southward and went over to see where they were. They picked up a tow as starboard engine broke down. Came back.
Prepared boat for next trip. Left Dover 2/7:
towed over. Told to go into Dunkirk harbour.
Went alongside jetty. Shelled heavily all the time, about 2230. Took one boatload off.
Told by a Lt.Car. to go to a troopship run aground in the harbour. Made about 6 trips to troopship, one to harbour. Shrapnel and tracer bullets firing at German machines.
On the 6th trip they were told to take up tow astern with troops on board.
Saved about 600 to 800 troops, all told.
what he couldn't do before. This was Morris
Went 2nd time with intention of making up for first experience as Coxswain of any boat, but had been Acting Q.M. of a destroyer.

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.

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
I should like Officer to T.Jones draw special attention to the magnificent work 295
of, Petty throughout operations.
2
officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, 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.
-
309
REPORT OF "SERIOLA" (contd).
288
ne 1 0700. Signal from destroyer to collect all boats lying in the channel between La Panne and Dunkirk and to take them in tow to the latter place so that they could then drift ashore. This had been carried out by 0830. We then collected several boathloads of troops who boarded us and we took them to a destroyer lying off Dunkirk. The Captain of this destroyer asked me if I could tow the "BOUNTY" back to
Ramsgate as her port engine had been put out of action.
This I agreed to.
0845. Closed "BOUNTY" which was lying on the other side of the destroyer and took off Commodore Stephenson and Lt.
Lundy, R.N.V.R. (C.O. of "BOUNTY"). We then took "BOUNTY"
in tow. the Commodore gave me orders to leave the vicinity immediately and set course for Ramsgate. "LAHLOO" was in company with is. We were attacked by aircraft machine gunning us but the damage done was slight.
1430. Arrived Ramsgate. Reported to S.N.O., Ramsgate,
S.O.I.P. at Hamble and to Flag Lieut. to C. in C., Portsmouth.
The following officers reported with me to S.N.O., Ramsgate:-
Lieut. Lundy of "BOUNTY",
Sub.Lt. Godman (with me on "SERIOLA")
We offered services for anything that might be required
Sub.Lt. Potter Irwin, C.O. of "NONETA".
and the our 0.qccordingly put our names down on the volunteerM did.
list, and asked us to report next day to him, which we ne 2. When reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed use, that no craft with a search of a suitable craft. We found ourselves M.T.B.101
we speed of less than 15 knots was of any not so we went in suggested that we manned her and being took her used, accross. so This unfortunately was not permitted as it belonged to the R.A.F.
ne 4 Received orders from S.N.O. to sail at 0800 on the 5th. and to collect charts and routes.
ne 5 with "BOUNTY" in tow, followed the by rate "LAHLOO" we were &
0830. "SERIOLA", I realised that minefields at off the
Nab going "NONETA" during we would left the Ramsgate. hours be in of the darkness, vicinity of so thought the it would be advisable to make Examination for Newhaven. anchorage, to Newhaven. Shoreham. Exam Ship refused 1800. Arrived us entry, at to shorehamporteported go to S.N.O.,
2030. Shoreham, Tied SOIP up at at and at 1030.
As we ne
6.
With ordering cancelled. sailed us to return at once were as all were (Continued).

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
*
I should like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty Officer throughout operations.
2
officers, Lieut. D.A. Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
Volunteering ships services on the following day if required.
accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate, 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.
June 4. Received orders from Ramsgate to collect to charts and route for home base; ordered to sail following morning.
June 5. 0830 Sailed from Ramsgate.
1800 Off Newhaven. Examination Vessel refused us entry and sent us to Shoreham.
2030 Berthed Southwick Canal, Shoreham Harbour.
June 7. 0400 Left Shoreham for Hamble.
1030 Berthed Hamble.
It is estimated that the approximate number of troops taken from the shore to destroyers was 1,000.
Lieut. R.N.V.R.