TNA ADM 199 790

SECRET
Dynam. 261 246
The Officers in Command, H.M.S. GOLDEN EAGLE through
FROM
The Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence Flotilla.
DATE
4th June 1940.
TO
The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness.
SUBJECT Report of Proceedings - Golden Ragle. May 23
June 2nd 1940.
Submitted
On May 29th about 1045 S 10 received orders to proceed to position 9 miles East of Dunkirk position and embark troops.
Ship sailed at 1140 and arrived in 00th of Quint
Bank buoy about 1820 where a number of men were seen swimming remained in the water (some 285) and it was realised that in the water. GOLDEN EAGLE picked up all that destroyer two trawlers was were present but left without taking any part in the also present picking up men. A
French rescue work.
ascertained that these survivors (British soldiers) were It was from H.M.S. WAVERLAY who had been sunk by about hour previously.
Ship then proceeded bombs straight back an to Margate and anchored at C035, Key 30th.
At 14 0445 Margate y route went alongside and disembarked survivors. "Y"
22 when F signal was
SECRET
260
use INS te "X". Ship was route to Hgth buoy, when
= sure of his position
C.O. ROYAL EAGLE's letter of 5thJune'40
finally returned to concerning Report of receedings.
had 2137. previously made a signal
1 was seen by R medical a shore. off and proceeded alongaide
II
d up with oil.
THE SHEERMAIS. EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER
of any orders it was receedings were then as
Dunkirk harbour entrance.
a but failed.
Submitted, I entirely concur with the tion 21 miles N.S. 02
remarks made by Lieut. Commander Farrow.
bearing 224 deg. 2.4 miles.
ut 40 troops from the beach.
The officers and men mentioned ope were further East and also came under my own personal notice acilities in present and I can fully endorse the would be of greater recommendations made.
I would like also to menti n number aceded. of troops waiting by the comswain (leading seaman) of H.INS.
or ships in immediate greyhound's motor boat, which after
H. GREYHOUND had been bombed worked
'athoms in position
02/1
for a time from the ROYAL EAGLE.
57 deg. 3.25 miles.
The name of this rating is not y using ship's ropes known, but I was much struck by his
10's boats and two small coolness and devotion to duty.
proops from beach to ship.
11" and inshore swell yps had to wade into 3 feet by changing the boats troops per hou." here ambing, shelling and sesial
OPFICER, COMMANDER FLOTILLA. THAMES LOCAL DREPERING otion gun's and crews embarking were operations barked about 340 troops,

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

REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 29th OF H.M.S. "LOCUST" DURING OPERATION "DYNAMO" 245 258
May 1940 to 4th June 1940.
29th May. H.M.S. "Locust" and H.M.S. "Mosquito" were ordered to sail for La Panne and Bray Dunes respectively, and proceeded at
1348.
At 1730 "Mosquito" parted company and at 1845 "Locust"
arrived in position off La Panne Beach.
Large numbers of both British and French Troops were seen to be waiting on the beach, and it was decided that a first attempt at embarkation shouldbe made by grounding the fore part of "Locust" and trying to get the soldiers to wade out and climb on board over the bow. Ladders were accordingly rigged forward and the ship steamed in to the beach.
The kedge anchor was let go over the stern and at 1900
the ship took the ground forward. After hailing the beach a few soldiers started to wade off, but gave up the attempt, and as the tide was falling the ship was got off and anchored, and embarkation started by means of the Ship's two whalers.
At 1950 engaged enemy aircraft and continued to do so intermittently until 2130. Enemy aircraft were carrying out bombing attacks on the beaches.
At 2200 "Locust" signalled Commander Cordeaux in "Royal
Eagle" for information, as embarkation was proceeding very slowly, and there appeared to beno Power boats available.
Reply from "Royal Eagle" that Commander Cordeaux was idcapacitated and that "Locust" was S.N.O. La Panne.
As there were no powerboats in sight, and a number of pulling boats could be seen stranded on the beach by the receding tide I decided to land in order to organize the troops into pulling themselves off from the beach.
At 2220 S.N.O. "A" in "Hebe" approached and approved my landing. I accordingly landed at 2230 and found six R.N.
and three Merchant Service (pulling) Life boats
Mut stranded cutters on the beach about 300 yards from the water's be edge.
about 1000 British Troops who appeared to had
Locut
There were of Non-commissioned Officers. The boats half of in charge across the beach and were jambed together, The full swung and in many cases imbedded in the sand. what was they of water took some little time to understand emptied resoldiers of them, but eventually all the boats were then pulled quired down to the water's edge. They were the Soldiers.
and got "Locust" and other ships present by were again
At midnight, enemy aircraft which caused some boats out to 29th/30th the ships and the beach slight delay
30th May.
bombed the embarkation, by but by 0300 all the board. available were in off the beach and I returned on
P.T.O.

Думамо 243.
H.M.S."GUILLENCH."
259
11th,June,1940.
H.M.S. "DYNAMO" "GUILLEMOT" BETWEEN MAY REPORT 29th. OF and PROCEEDINGS JUNE 24th. DURING OPERATIONS
On Wednesday 29th. May "GUILLEMOT" received orders to proceed to SHEERNESS, and arrived there at 0700. On arrival she was ordered to embark fuel and stores and proceed to
MARGATE and act as base ship. She arrived at MARGATE at 2030, and at
2200 H.M. Schoot HORST came alongside for stores and lubricating oil.
She cast off at 2300.
On 30th. May H.M.S. "GOLDEN EAGLE" came alongside for fuel and water at 0625. At 0950 "GUILLEMOT" cast off from
"GOLDEN EAGLE", weighed anchor and proceeded alongside "ROYAL EAGLE"
to supply stores, water, and oil fuel to her. At 1100 we cast off from
"ROYAL EAGLE" and anchored. At 1840 "MEDWEY QUEEN" came alongside for oil fuel and water, and at 1950 H.M. Schoot DELTA came alongside for diesel oil. "MEDWEY QUEEN" cast off at 2000 and "DELTA" at 2115.
At 2345 "GOLDEN EAGLE" came alongside for oil fuel and water and cast off at 0425 the following morning. During the day a supply of victualling stores was landed on MARGATE PIER for supply to ships'
companies of ships going alongside pending the arrival of stores from RAMSGATE. Signalman ALLEN was landed to assist the Signal staff ashore, which duty he performed until the ship sailed for DUNKIRK.
At 1110 on 31st. oil lighter BRENDOR came alongside for orders as it had been arranged with N.O. MARGATE
that GUILLEMOT would take charge of all fuelling. BRENDOR carried about 30 tons of diesel oil and was extremely useful fuelling Schoots and other Diesel engined craft. Hopper W24 came alongside for oil and stores during the forenoon. At 1135 H.M. Schoot HORST secured alongside and Lieutenant SARGENT R.N.R., lst. Lieutenant of GUILLEMOT, took over command of her from Lieutenant Commander FARDELL R.N. Her crew was relieved by a volunteer crew from GUILLEMOT as her Officers and men had been three days and nights without sleep. HORST sailed at 1315.
Lieutenant SARGENT'S narrative is attached.

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

Dynama 10, Alulo
FROM.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
1st June, 1940.
263 274
DATE
TO
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, THE NORE.
(through and EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERINES).
PROCEEDINGS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - A/A SHIPS. PERIOD
Submi Submitted.
27/31st May, 1940.
were proceed full speed to a position 9 miles East of anchored to the at outer estuary a signal was received that/ships
During in the night of 27th-28th May when all ships were
Dunkirk and embark troops. All ships were underweigh within a few minutes of the signal being decoded and proceeded towards the North Goodwin. The passage through the Edinburgh Channels under dark night conditions was not easy and I consider credit is due to the Commanding Officers of the ships for the way in which they were handled. The signal was cancelled before ships reached North Goodwin and they returned to normal duties. Early on 28th May ships were ordered to return to Sheerness forthwith and land surplas crew not required for embarking troops.
I had previously issued a memorandum on the steps to be taken if ships were used as troop carriers so that ships were ready with the necessary organisation and special arrangements.
Later only two ships were stated to be required and I
detailed "Royal Eagle" and "Crested Eagle" and myself decided to go to the "Royal Eagle".
Ships sailed from Sheerness at 1400 and were ordered to proceed to the Downs. On arrival at the Downs I reported the arrival of both ships to the Vice Admiral, Dover and also endeavoured to find out from every ship visible in the Downs if there were any orders for me. There were a number of troopers and hospital ships present so I put ships to short notice for steam and anchored for the night. There was considerable activity amongst the transports during the early morning so that I again asked for instructions and was then told to proceed to Dunkirk by route "y"
(Goodwin to West Hinder). I stationed "Crested Eagle" astern and proceeded at 1030 high speed. On approaching the Belgian Coast
I noticed a few rounds from Shore Batteries falling round ships ahead of me but the firing was not at all intense. On approaching
Dunkirk I saw a large number of men on the-beaches as far as La
Panne so not being able to get any instructions from anyone proceeded to the spot where British Troops appeared thickest and anchored at about 1530 close inshore to embark them. I sent
"Crested Eagle" to Dunkirk as I felt that on account of my original re-appeared and anchored about 2 miles East of me and contenced instructions ships might have been wanted there - however she soon embarking troops. At about 1630 German planes were sighted and bombing attack on ships and beaches. The "Royal Eagle" was only
"Royal Eagle" opened a heavy fire - the plane carried out a high hit but a Drifter near was set on fire and HaMaSa proceeded her own steam. A number of casualties occurred
"Greyhound" by splinters appeared to receive severe damage - although she later the crews Lieutenant of H.M.S. "Sandown" who hours WEB a to boats under and soldiers and were taken in board - amongst in them volunteer Paymaster and I regret to say died some noticed later.
Although boats crew explosive bomba were used on ships the I line of a beach. of what appeared proceeded slowly chiefly ow!ng to the for the line only high to be incendiary bombs along lack of the power Embarkation and the fact that few seamen were available boats which boats were left with an insufficient Military crew.

gLT
One able to keep one of the men from during actually the sinking I I
Wholer capsized along side "Royal Segle" and although that I the unable to revive line hims. round her one to in the water I endoavoured Second to Engineer 100 Officer after a time as only two motor boats got e clear and propeller and of who Joined no it WAS conc. Unfortunately as & result 02 each efficient help of the of the "Royel with hand over command to Licutenant Forrow anding had immersion for over on hour I had Commander G temporary collapse and the of H.M.S. "Royal Bagle" who carried on in a \ my cool and Off manuer for about four hours until I wes fit to take over able
During this time two more air reids Cook place and fr. again nollected 1 believe that "Royal Eagle" accounted for One evidence plano
Bagle" 1703 hit by a bomb and set on fire. I understand that posponso I very much regret to state that H.M.S. "Crested
Commanding Officer WOO able to beach her but she was completely gutted. I very much regret the loss of this ship and part of complemento H.M.S. "Crested Engle" had on excellent record and from. several weeks from personal contact with her officers and company, complete confidence in the ship in whatever dutyes the called upon to performo I have not yet had a detailed report her casualties but an afraid that a number of valuable lives lost on board hero
On cosuming command at about 8.30 I signalled to the V1ce
Admiral, Dover that I propoded remaining at anchor for the nigh and continuing the embarkation at down - I reported also the of power boats and the necessity for fighter aircraft defence dawn. Just before dark however a minesweeper passed me and me to return, with the men I had evacuated, to Dover - I asked the authority and was told that it was from Captain Ao I order
May
"Royal Engle" to proceed to Margate as considered that from on point of view this was the best point for disembarkation arriving there at about 0500 on Wednesday 29th I found "Golden dution who had apparently also been sent out for disembarkation and
"Golden Regle" proceeded alongside Margate Pier before everythin me
3.
had been most efficiently organisedo the 02d
"Royal Eagle" followed shortly before 0600. I found troops discobarked hurriedly but and the casualties evacuated by first Lieute emoothly carried including a Gener
General Officer and (when staff. I I made was strong Chief of Staff to the the number partied. About 700 troops had been representations to Commender the
Chief) power boats that every and that means adequate should air protection should be gathered be taken to increase provide with provisions and water H.M.3. from who Pierothen as she was rather short 012 and was in view
"Royal Bagle" was supplied of 011 enchored by esigaged sailed urgent need ofor ships the "Royal beaches Segle" sufficient of safety you oiling "Golden Bagle". About 1000 I "Golden Nagle" time to had been sent to Margate to provide considered that should
May
5 tons and I only allowed to give her B. Engin 1100 by the a When second trip to the const. I proceeded I received a signal "X" and which WB Just enough at about saying were near the West Hinder Buoy but to proceed by informed
Bagle" not who to WAS proceed shond by of "y" me told were me that she had been At the Ban him the routs account of shell fireo tolling
1n
30
however was dangerous on to on unknown unit adbarked proceed I decided there Panno from men field were batteries was not Englon
I to intercepted La where a signal iting to be likely dangerous firing full H.M.S. "Royal from parm On subjected DO to proceeded a prolonged at but not speed. very accurate ship fire off Serous La to shore I considered gun which that did the, not coase would until be definitely the merchant ship. On arrival fire at 40 Panne there within of Bri on Dunkirk the beach and anchored at all BO at I proceeded about 1530 further

264
276
have off a the few boats. At this time I got a signal
I at this part of doing the essential work and that there were
I was beaches were to proceed to Dunkirk but that as many men and coast to be evacuated I decided to ignore the signal, proceed with the evacuation. There were at and/cross arrived. The embarkation arrangements were first no other channel transports boa on the beach but later a paddle minesweeper most inadequate the other only about 3 power boats of doubtful efficiency were present and boats consisted of a few service boats mercantile between the loto It was only due to the magnificent work of the boats and Royal Engineers Ferry Boats do with very few seamen ratings
Army units at this part of the beach who were admirably led by their
Officers. that embarkation was able to proceed at any sort of speed, although the work of the naval officers 10 were present in few power boats available was beyond praise. These appeared to be no centralised control either of boats or beach. During the afternoon and evening there was a certain amount of enemy air activity but enemy planes always moved away when A/A fire was brought to bear on them, and there were frequent visitations by British
Fighters which appeared to have an excellent deterrant effect. No bombs were dropped in my vicinity.
At about 2000 a short but heavy artillery fire was brought to bear on the part of the beach near to Dunkirk and many men started to swim out to the ships or come out in very inadequate boats.
I weighed anchor in the "Royal Eagle" - as the tide was approaching high tide and proceeded as close in shore as possible to pick up these men. At about 2200 when no further men were coming to the ship and "Royal Eagle" was packed to nearly full capacity - 1.e. every covered in part of ship full and men also on the upper deck forward and aft, I decided to weigh and proceed to Sheerness rather than
Margate on account of the ships requirements in oil and water which at Margate would have taken too long to complete. I consider now that on this day I committed a serious error of judgement as in view of the poor embarkation facilities I should have ordered "Royal
Eagle" to ground herself in shore at low water and fill up my boats running between the ship and shore on a line and then have floated off and proceeded as the tide rose, or alternatively I might have grounded /Royal Eagle" to form a pier to facilitate embarkation by other ships when they arrived. I consider now on looking back that the provision of some sort of pier should have been a matter of primary importance.
In view of the shelling of the beaches from the Westward I
decided to proceed back by route "y" particularly as this was the only route known by experience. Shortly after leaving a report was received of M.T.B.'s off Bray but I then considered that it was too late to turn back. After passing Middelkerke Buoy the ship was attacked by an aircraft firing machine gun but I gave orders that no firing was to take place so that thereshould be less chance of giving away 10 ships position to M.T.B. The ship was not hito
During the night I passed three small dark vessels which I believed were French Torpedo Boats. I did not challenge but kept guns trained on them. About 0230 on 31st May there were signs of firing about
10 miles astern and about five minutes later a tremendous column of flame rose from the water. I consider now that I was to blame in using route "Y" and that I unduly hazarded the ship by so doing.
On arrival at Sheerness at 0600 I found that in response to my request possible arrangement had been made for the reception the of the every and the cleaningofuelling and provisioning of hours ships working under conditions of high tension and ship. The troops company had had practically no sleep for about 48
been discomfort was very much appreciated. I cannot speak extreme and had been and the fact that such excellent arrangements had ships highly company. of the On both nights the whole of the ships accomodation too made by Shearness spirit and sense of duty shown by the officers and

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.-
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and Sheerness reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover,
ECRET
CONFIDENTIAL
Alule/
1391
ite
NORE LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - REPORT ON
OPERATIONS OFF FRENCH COAST.
265
(Commodore-in-Charge, Sheerness' No. M.I.1/14
/015 of 2nd June, 1940).
IV.
a
No. 3021/477.c.c/40.
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
so
(Copy to:- Flag Officer Commanding, Dover.)
at
Farrow
Forwarded for the information of Their
Lordships. The full names of the Officers mentioned in the last two paragraphs of Minute I are as follows:- Commanding Officer, Temporary Lieutenant
Commander Edward Frederick Allen Farrow, R.N.R. - Chief ch
Engineer Temporary Lieutenant (E) Rodney Helyer,
1
R.N.R. (T. 124 agreement). I recommend them for recognition.
in-Charge, 2. Sheerness, in Minute III and I strongly
I fully endorse the remarks of the Commodorerecommend that the services of Commander Cordeaux should be recognised by the immediate award of a high he honour. Apart from his courage, energy and high powers of leadership I have no doubt he made full use of his qualifications as a Doctor.
other papers (Nore No. 2033/199B/40
of 30th made an Acting Captain whilst
May, On 1940) I have asked that Commander holding Cordeaux his should present be appointment and I hope date. Their Lordships will approve of this also at an early ere
R.P.E.E.Drax, gs.
of ast
DHIRAL.
120
The Nore,
5th June, 1940.
VICE ADMIRA
(1). Officer,
6- JUN 1940
officer) assumed personal number of troops example leaderahip
E
is years of age and
"
officer personal example and to om but reason evacuation. his that "Golden Wagles shie
FG"

277
-SECRET-
had been put at the disposal and all officers of the troops cabins © 1411 all and bunks were full Captain's abin was occupied as an example completely the naked men who had swam on board. by dozen second NIGHt"Royal Eagle" carried this 1700
Officers assisted Wilson 201 Company,
I would lpline 0 in was THE
Engineers who was indefatigablein
Second Lieutena to his
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and to whom I was able when
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SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st - JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all naddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed
CONFIDENTIAL
Deproms. 140.
279
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
DATE
6th June, 1940.
266
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHE RNESS.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. SHIPS "ROYAL" "GOLDEN" AND CRESTED EAGLE".
"ROYAL EAGLE". (1). Lieut. Comdr. Farrow R.N.R. Commanding Officer for coolness and ability in handling and directing his ship under difficult conditions.
(2). Lieutenant Dunkerley R.N.R. For coolness and ability in handling the ship and for inexhaustive energy and skill in organising the ship and personally assisting in the evacuation of Military Units under fire.
(3). Lieutenant (E) Helyer R.N.R. Chief Engineer.
For exceptional work outside his normal duties in organising the ship for the reception of casualties and troops and for the personal example of coolness and ability in embarkation and rescue work under. fire.
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional qualities of leadership
(4). C.P.O. Percy S.T. Munn C/J10033 Torpedo and devotion to duty. The excellent morale of the ship's company and the smooth and efficient working of the whole organisation was due to a very great extent to the personal influence of this elderly Chief Petty Officer.
(5). C.P.O. William J. Jones C/J2950 leadership D.S.M.
(Pensioner). For coolness and good qualities of during the evacuation of troops.
(6). Ordinary Seaman Miller C/JX170070. For
120
untiring care and devotion to the wounded.
"GOLDEN EAGLE". (1). Lieutenant Newman O.B.E. Lieut. R.N.V.R. Newman (though On the not indisposition in and the through Senior his of a remaining personal large his Commanding number example Officer) of Officer, troops and assumed leadership of under age command heavy and was has of bombing successful the little ship and shell evacuating officer is 54 years initiative was real undoubtedly sea experience, fire. the This but reason his that personal "Golden example Eagle" and was able to take an
FG"
active part in the evacuation.

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.-
Dynams 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF A/A SHIPS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
MAY 31st - JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwi th to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle"
and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the
North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route
"X" at full speed.
When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 11/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
that "Royal Eagle" was meant to btaining this I signalled that
CONFIDENTIAL
281
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR "ROYAL = "GOLDEN"
to arrive off the beaches
AND "CRESTED EAGLE".
Officer to anchor a full 1½
(s.o. T.D.D.F. Letter of 6th June, 1940
ve room for the ships coming ench drifter with some French arked them but by 2320 I had
II.
then some six or more al to V.A. Dover to this
COMMODORE IN CHARGE,
SHEERNESS.
weepers were to be underway resumed that this was on rly continuous, though in the
Forwarded, concurring with the recommendations of the Senior Officer,
Thames Local Defence Flotilla.
gistered on a wreck & few as most of the shells fell r just around the wreck.
Karnahi
1 splinters and I kept the
S much as possible.
CAPTAIN.
all commenced to weigh but
7/6/40.
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
0 ship near them and they were as well as two seriously h was manned by naval ratings.
ches about 0330 being the last absence of boats only some 120
h had been embarked.
ess and owing to a boiler n steam for half speed only.
to 1320 and I at once
Commanding Officer was in a in leave and assumed command received for "Golden Eagle"
00/3 and take off troops from crossing by route "X" near"FG"
hich, after passing at some

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwith to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle"
and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the
North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route
"X" at full speed.
When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 1 1/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
endeavoured to obtain confirmation that "Royal Eagle" was meant to be included in the signal - but not obtaining this I signalled that
I intended to proceed and left at 1530.
"Royal Eagle" was the first ship to arrive off the beaches at 2200 and I directed the Commanding Officer to anchor a full 1½
miles from the breakwater so as to leave room for the ships coming on to anchor astern. On arrival a French drifter with some French soldiers arrived alongside and disembarked them but by 2320 I had seen no sign of any boats although by then some six or more sweepers had arrived and I made a signal to V.A. Dover to this effect.
A signal was received that all sweepers were to be underway and clear of Dunkirk by 0300, and I presumed that this was on account of the shelling which was fairly continuous, though in the dark not very accurate.
It seemed as if the enemy had registered on a wreck a few hundred yards away from "Royal Eagle" as most of the shells fell between "Royal Eagle" and the wreck or just around the wreck.
"Royal Eagle" was spattered with shell splinters and I kept the ship's company below the upper deck as much as possible.
A little before 0300 "Royal Eagle" commenced to weigh but two boats sighted inshore with no ship near them and they were injured and their lighter which was manned by naval the ratings. last closed were occupants picked up as well as two seriously but Eagle" to clear. Owing to the absence of boats embarked. only some
"Royal men from eventually a power left the beaches about 0330 being 120
French one troops ship and half a dozen British had been defect "Royal was put Eagle" at immediate notice for steam for half only.
returned to Sheerness and owing to a speed boiler
DH. M. S. "Golden Eagle" arrived that her at Commanding 1320 and Officer I assumed at once was command in a rather transferred overwraught her and state finding I sent him soon on received leave and for "Golden Eagle"
of to proceed the ship to myself. Dunkirk Orders to arrive were at 0100/3 crossing and by take route off "X" troops near"FG" from buoy the Mole. I sighted I sailed a motor at torpedo 1725. Whilst boat which, after passing at some

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

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

285
who proceedings is on leave. from H.M.S. "Royal Report Eaglen
H.M.S. "ROYAL EAGLE". the Commanding I have not Officer yet received the
GENERAL.
In concluding work done my by report officers I should and like to emphasise three excellent paddle A/A Vessels. None of ships' the companies of the had had any previous Service experience Officers of these all were a mixture, of a few pensioners and and the
Only' ordinary seamen, T.124 engineroom reserve men ships comment searchlight detachment. and steward staff 'Hosti and 8
particular role and were the first to who appeared to resent having in
Although the everyone T. 124 stewards played their part well, I noticed
James S. Seaman C/J3192 of and finally the requiring volunteer parties, assist with boats' crews and a P
C,P.O. William J. Jones the "Golden and contributed inexperienced officers, but by their cheerful t their rather Eagle", who, not only proved towers of strength C/J10
of the "Royal C/J2950 and C.P.O S.T. Munn individuals energy towards in my opinion more than any other single lead the excellent work performed by the ships.
288
[ [sH
beach for evacuating troops, and b means keeping the ship fed.
Lieut. Helyer (E) RNR for valuable help and assistance in th of rescue.
Special praise is due to an throughout organisation troops coxswain excellent (2) of his the the steading for coolness whole ship the proceedings reception for effect and (1) orderli on the of th h young H.O. ratings. (3) th Admireble duties he performed assisted care and Ordinary the thoroughness. Coxswain seaman in Miller e t anding wh wounded with untiring care
I am, Sir,
Yours obediently, elgnte of Farrow.
Isloega E.
Lieut.
a ore впозвет tooc 20
VIST end add tusticon bms,ees,ee:
a gaifeel on
W

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

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

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