TNA ADM 199 790

14
i
18
Friday 31st May. The following signals were mades-
0320. "Request more shipsto load Dunkirk."
0445. "Every available ship will be required at Dunkirk during the next two hours to evacuate rest of army.
0605. "Imbarkation proceeding satisfactorily in spite of bonbardment. I would again stress the need for more ships and constant fighter protection
0638. "Am now receiving a number of Frenchmen. I have raised no objection to their embarking in British ships and an allowing then to do 80.
0940. "Request you will inform me whether troops are now being ordered to earch to Dunkirk from the beaches.
0945. "Sun is now coming through and I have a big target of ships in harbour. Request special air protection for next two hours.
0957. "Lord Gort has agreed that 5,000 Frehe troops should be embarked here this evening after dark in British vessels. Request necessary ships may be sent to arrive at dusk.
1044. "We have been continually heavily bonbarded and they are gradually finding the range of our loading berth. I would rather only enter ships as necessary for the flow of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the morning, but the evacuation proceeded fairly speedily. At last ships were arriving in large numbers and strong a 2. protection kept bomeing attack away. The only thing necessary was tostop the shelling. At 1200 B signal was received from the Air Linison
Officer at Dover asking for position of energy battery. This was not known with any certainty as the battery was probably mobile, but it was in the district of Loon Plage Brouge Kerk
Soch. A reply was made to this effect. The bombardment, novertheless, become more intense and a great deal more accurate.
Very heavy attacks were delivered during the evening but were concentrated chiefly upon derelict ships in the roads. Dive bombing attacks were carried out on the ships loading but without success. The embarkation proceeded smoothly.

44
Political pressure was now being brought to bear
Triday
The on the C.in C. that the evacuation must be on a fifty-fifty load basis with the French. My only stipulation was that at all costs we should be allowed free use of the Eastern arm while the French used the port, outer harbour and beaches.
0605.
I made a signal to Commander Maund at Dunkirk to for provide personnel ships for General Laurencie's troops
(some 5,000 in number) at C.in C's. request. I also asked
Admiral Wake-Walker to keep Dunkirk going at 100%..
0940, you
Little progress could be made off the beaches owing to the surf.
0945, "Sun 1s BOV coning through have
G.H.Q. informed 100 that a plan was being worked out for hours for naval co-operation to bombard advancing German tanks in
"Lord Goart the later stages. This, however, was never necessary, as far as / am aware. versels. dusk.
Request necessary ships my
1004. "Wo have been continually heavily boxibarded and they are gradually finding the range of our leading berth, would only enter ships 88
necessary for the flow or treops,
Continuous and beary shelling all the morning, but the evamition proceeded fairly speedily. At Last ships were arriving in Large numbers and strong a * protection kept bonging attack away. The only thing necessary use to scop the shelling. At 1800 a signed was received from the Air Lisison
Officer at Dover asking for position of energy battary, This was not known with any certainty as the lettery vas probably mobile, but it vos in the district of Loon Plage larguage Kark regly use and to this affect, The bechardsent, nevertheless, become more intense and a great deal more securate.
Very heavy attacks 1820 delivered during the ovening but were concentrated shiefly upon develist ships in the reads. Dive hombing attacks here carried out 00 the ships loading but without sussess. The embarkation processed easethly.

45
49
Friday 31st May. The following signals were made:-
0320. "Request more shipsto load Dunkirk."
0445. "Every available ship will be required at Dunkirk during the next two hours to evacuate rest of army.
0605. "Embarkation proceeding satisfactorily in spite of bombardment. 1 would again stress the need for more ships and constant fighter protection
0638. "Am now receiving a number of Frenchmen. I have raised no objection to their embarking in British ships and am allowing them to do so.
0940. "Request you will inform me whether troops are now being ordered to march to Dunkirk from the beaches.
0945. "Sun is now coming through and I have a big target of ships in harbour. Request special air protection for next two hours.
0957. "Lord Gort has agreed that 5,000 Freinh troops should be ambarked here this evening after dark in British vessels. Request necessary ships may be sent to arrive at dusk.
1044. We have been continually heavily bombarded and they are gradually finding the range of our loading berth. I would rather only enter ships as necessary for the flow of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the morning, but the evacuation proceeded fairly speedily. At last ships were arriving in large numbers and strong a r protection kept bomging attack away. The only thing necessary was tostop the shelling. At 1200 a signal was received from the Air Liaison
Officer at Dover asking for position of enemy battery. This was not known with any certainty as the battery was probably mobile, but it was in the district of Loon Plage Brouge Kerk
Soch. A reply was made to this effect. The bombardment, nevertheless, become more intense and a great deal more accurate.
Very heavy attacks were delivered during the evening but were concentrated chiefly upon derelict ships in the roads. Dive bombing attacks were carried out on the ships loading but without success. The embarkation proceeded smoothly.

53
Ratings in the ampinal % 57
draps from Chatham
PENDIX III.
LIST OF FATINGS AT DUNKINK 1350 PERFORMED
VALUARIN SERVICE.
Last to Syacunto.
Yoo. of Sign.
Piper
A.B.
Cox
#
Rose
*
Burrown
#
Funner
#
others morthy of Mention.
Signal staff.
Signalman
Waters
If
Jones
*
Milhoron
#
Binands
Pier Party.
P.O.
Topledgh (Toplay)
A.D.
Hoore
SEX.22139.
L.B.
A/P.O.
B.W. Sydekett
JX.12546
JX.152505
1,3.
A.B.
J.W.Sun.es C.A. Hall (J.43b42)
3.21047
Signature
E.Robincon
ESD.1704
JX.129630
A.D.
R.Lancaster
A.B.
C.L.Fletcher
D.941
1.3.
T.D.D. Bones
JX.145092
Ord.Sea.
F.V. GARROTT
JX.172487
L.Sea.
H.J.Spanton
J.114468
A.B.
John Doig
SSX.20706
R.Fletcher (J.99712)3.25221
A.B.
Benches.
1.3.
C.Fonter
D.112
4
0.3. Mixon
25222
18
R.W
JX.144642
J.L.Francer
88/X.24037
#
S.L.Parker
P.O. 3.84930
P.O.
sto.
9.Coltmnn
KX.88357
Headoughters, Degnatah Riders. etc.
1.B.
Owen
J.L. Turner
Hiller.
Commidors ano; these will possibly be already covered in the
Gosto and surteen rocommendations yet to above list.

78
Page 4.
10.A.B. hitmore and Merryweather lut canvas cover over top and smashed Hels on top, Transmission panel and power supply, enstated with jottisoning torpodoes. unashed table after firing terporios, and depth charges.
Torpolors Galia gave onler to Grash table.
Madala Rogers.
In for 1st. attack. Starped there mt11 finished firing 11.70
In between attacks jettisoning heavy gear accomodation Inddors and everthing heavy TO could got hold of. Potwern was working 1th Donts alongetile sun-lying geen ml dropping bonts estern and heisting out inrloy floats.
12. Street.
1st. attack at the shoe) earrying out help and teletoph orders. tayed up there untill no further use navigationally Inched wheel hard a Fort.
ent round eas deck, everything in darkness down there for 2nd. attack. Cook over supply party from
L/S. and supplied Delaire to guns and FormDom ammition
Helped to put 1.B. Riddle in Feil Robertson and saw 1st. Meut. about putting him in R.B. and R.Davies
Tont aft to obey pipe 13. Volunteero to street from aft lay net in
Cleared tiller flat: l'aveton, Frost )took cover for final attack and theirabandened ship L/S helan exceptionally good with anyly parties. No lights all done with torches.
token Harcer worked very wall with supply parties
A.B. passed up amitition from shall POOR.

159
3
164
Engineer left. Officer. There was very little H.A. ammunition t.June. 10. Immediately were dischar ed at Margate I
sailed again for Dunkerque. On the way there I passed
H.M.S.HAVANT, in distress behind Dyke Shoal. "HAVANT"
was on fire for'd SO I jettisoned my depth charges, placed
ARGATE
my stern under her bows and took er in to: on my sweep wires. Only very slow speed could be made as her helm
UNKERQUE.
WAS over and she paravaned over to the side and pulled my stern over. During this time the ship was subject to frequent and savy bombing and machine gun attacks -
at one time there very 40 aircraft OV rhead. Many salvoes of bombs fell near to the shipp mostly on the starboard quarter and port bom, some were within 30 feet of the
M.S.
ship. Most of the bombs were small but some were large.
AVANT.
Splinters from the bonbs and sprayfrom their splach fell on board fret uently. It Was very nociteable that nearly all the splinters were very small and far too light to do damage, although the force of the explosion burst open the wheelhouse doors and shattered the windows which are protected by splinter mats. I believe most of the larger splint THE passed ever the ship, there trajectory presumeably being nearly vertical on bursting, them fanning out and coins further than the light ones. This
Dombing completely upsat ay compass. Machine run attacks
Mere also experienced, also from the starboard quarter and port bow. These were attempts to rake the ship fore and aft, but were all aimed too hi h; very faw bullets were found on board fterwards, all being ni ses over.
The enemy made three mistakes during each attack.
1. He estimated the course Oil & line through "HAVANT"
and "SALTASH". Actually "HAVAME" was abo 10°
on the quarter.
2. its over estimated the speed.
3. He over estimated the hight of our decks above water.
Had he been correct in 1. he would a Ve scored nany hits with bombs, and if correct in 8. would have caused many casualties on deck. No casualties were xperienced and no major damage was done. During this time I believe the "HAVANT" was also subjected to attack. I had now only two round of H.A. high explosive left, a few shrapnel and six pans of lewin gun ammunition. 4 in. L.A. sun was used against low flying aircraft, but without any noticeable affect. 12 pdr. and levis gun seemed to disturb the enemy.
11.
Later the Commanding Officer of H.M.S.HAVANT decided to abandon ship, as sue appeared to be codus to turn over at any moment. In my judgment, also, she was bound to had several large holes in her side near the deak level.
capsize shortly and then would inevitably sink, as she channel and sink in a dangerous position, or, more
As, after capsimin and micht possibly drift towards the

SECRET
231
246
3.
Report on operations in correction with the evacuation of the B.B.F. from the Dunletive aron. (Continued)
1312
2015
Weighed. Anchored off Horo Light Vessel.
2140
Anchored off East Margato Duoy, "Mallard" and
"shaerwater" in company.
Sunday 2nd June 1040.
0245
0430
Weighed and proceeded with "Mallard" and "shecruntor".
Commenced patrolling in vicinity of.II buoy.
French destroyers "Egervier" and "Leopard" at U and
V bucys respectively.
0710
Last homeward bound ship passed If buoy.
1035
Attacked by 3 J U 88 diving from out of the sun.
4 bombs very close on part bean.
4 bombles vary close on port bow.
4 bombs missed well ahoad.
French destroyers loft patrol.
1050
Attacked by 1 Hednkel dive bombing. 4 bombs missed woll out on starboard board
1140
Attacked by 1 Heinkel with machine gun from 4,000 ft.
1155
Attacked by 1 J U 88 who would not doos through
"Caloutta's" barrage and dropped 4 bombe woll astern.
1350
Orders received to return to Sheerness.
1450
"Mallard" detached to stand by Hospital ship
"Northing" who had been bombed and damaged.
1044
Anohored off Horo Might vessel to malto good confensor trouble and alight damage from near misses.
Monday 3rd June
0510
0550
Weighod. Secured to buoy at shoorness. Discovered further condenser trouble and serious cloud In all reserve food tanks.
All defects made good by 1400 on Tuesday 4th June.
3. During the period at LA Parmo, "Culcutta" had to lie too far from the beach to be of any use for direct embarisation of troops so the principle adopted was to order any smll into "Caloutta" and roturn close inshore for another load, ships alongaide when they ware full, disembark their troops de In the two salvoes each of 4 bombs which foll very close to Calcutta" on Sunday 2nd June it appeared and that one bonb in each salvo had a dolay action three buret buret somo way under the unter whereas the other on impact.
and of the military forces ovnounted has exemplary
5. The conduct and behaviour of my been ship's company throughout.
VICE ADMIRAL
(sgnd.) D. M. LEES.
1940
#
CAPTAIN
DOVER

Hello TUG "ST. CLEARS"
Dynams 147. 258
SHEERNESS.
- 274
10s KING'S HARBOUR MASTER
7th June, 1940
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of H.H.
Tug "ST. CLEARS" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The tug "ST. CLEARS" under my command left Sheerness, in company with "SUN V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70 naval ratings under Commander Hayward,R.N.R. on board at 1805 on 98th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by -
instian the in South Danna and both turn proceeded and at 0015
25/273
- 2 -
2. 2nd Hand James Cowie X.57 SoCo
: 8 HoMaDa the Renascent who showed great bravery in survivors
Ordo Sea.Ronald Labbo HoOo
Dede 30a Ernest Mc.Xay HoCo eavy smoke. yecht Grieve under difficult conditions of resouring darkness and hip 3. Leonard So Brown the safely throughout H.O. the of operation H.M.D. during Renascent onessy for attacks, steering
140 or Sub, Lieutenant Strathelliot aking off soldiers devotion from Dunkorque. to duty his courage and Waltor Edward Nereer in face R.B.V.R of attack of whilat for 5.
thin. under Percy fire Smith and for Chaplin his careful of R.M.P. handling Strathellist of his
'O' the 6. 7. Ordinary crowdravery Joaman under Ernest fire and Lloyd cheerful Houre example HaO. of 102573 R.M.T. to the of rest Strathelliot S.M.T. of
William James No.leod M/KX his engines in his devotion to during duty the in keeping whole operation, on Uuba Lt. efficiency in E.N.Y. Alonatte II
his courego Reginald and devotion Edward to Lee duty Unit in officer the face of heavy may fire.
9a 3. of S.H.Y. Alomatic II for his efficient and hard work. or He the was shipe care Nessling Enginemen HaOe greatly responsible for the g
to was running 188753 who kept continous vatch
2nd in Hand the oxecution of da duties under extremely
5
conditions.
to.
CAPTAIN.
Rells

H.llo TUG "ST. CLEARS"
Dynams 147. 258
SHEERNESS.
- 274
KING'S HARBOUR MASTER
7th June, 1940
I submit the following report and the movements of Hello
8 "ST. CLEARS" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The tug "ST. CLEARS" under my command left Sheerness, in company th "SUN V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70 naval ratings der Commander Hayward, on board at 1805 on 28th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by -
nation tug in South Downs and both tugs proceeded and at 0015
a 29th May, "SUN V" was involved in collision with H.N.S.
MONTROSE". I scarched the vioinity for two hours but failed to ocate name. I then proceeded as instructed by "MONTROSE". then assing Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery n a position bearing 022 degrees from Dunkerque Calla buoy. de ontinued on our course for a short time until the firing become ntensified shells falling very close to our stem some of which coled and mank two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmssan to lter course to bring the battery astern of us, finally steering a course of 080 degrees till out of range of guns. The wireless operator was maintaining continuous eatch 80 1 we able to make in
THE the attack which I considered urgent in view of
THE whole of this time the conduct of my officers and small craft following the same route, This imediately re-broadcast by North Foreland men was admirable. that of Able Seeman Arthur Chawner who was at the whell, particularly he steared the ship with great precision and
Trawler "BLACKBURN ROVERS" was stationed. After some delay 1 proon the course 020 degrees until se arrived at Position 2 shere 11.11.
altered course efficiently when ordered to do 80. De then proceeded ceeded Northern route instructed by travler. then passing Sesport, battery was again opened Destroyers, but two outters sere lost shore batteries as firs, shells falling very close, this up I by H.M.S. "CRESTED and a third out and adrift, towed so my position off La Fanne.
in this action silenced by French this outter was later picked
Commander with six remaining cutters to the bench of La Panno proceeded EAGLE" cutters and anchored off La Panne.
Hayward disputched the immediately. During the shole of and his La embarking Panne acrial troops attacks courage were continuous. and endurance Communder in working outters, continually men showed transporting great troops.
one of
WELB carried I Our anchor. not gun that 8 orew I were came muchine proceeded ammunition the when of manned, within crew outters, ordered gunning behaved to by range the unknown by navel the foremost attack. no. particularly excellently after ratings. destroyer to During assist Lewis by Under a - taking naval at No gun H.M.S. which these bombing one fired by shelter rating machine very had myself, "BIDEFORD" both to been raid exceptional assist. gune in being which hit 1 alleyways have ashore, at but any
During At signalled "HERE" transferred 8200 this required. Engineer to period "BIDEFORD" outters reported I I picked was to who signalled "GOLDEN defect a sked up 70 to EAGLE no French main to STATE PART and proceeded small local boats.
back to I Sheerness closed "HEEN" at slow and speed made due to defect.
(Sgd) W.J. Penney
MASTER
H.M. Tug "ST. CLEARS"

Dynams 147. 259
H.M. Tug "St, Clears",
275
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk of Hollo area.
I submit the Ang report and the movements naval in company with "Sun Via, towing eleven naval outters and
The Tug "St. clears" under my command left Sheerness,
28th May.
ratings under Cormander Hayward, R.N.R.Ro on board at with 1205 70 on
0015 examination tug in Sauth Downs and both tugs proceeded and
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by locate same. I then proceeded as instructed by "Montrose". to
"Montrose". I searched the vicinity for two hours but failed on 29th May, "Sun V" was involved in collision with H.M.S. at passing in Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery Then on our course for a short time until the firing because intensified a position bearing 0220 from Dunkerque C.W. buoy. We continued shells falling very close to our stern some of which holed and sank two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmsman to alter course to bring the battery astern of finally stearing a course of 020°
till out of range of guns. The us, wireless operator was maintaining continuous watch so I was able to make an immediate report of the attack which I considered urgent in view of the possibility of a and by North Foreland Redio. During the the same route. This sarning was received conduct of my officers and men THE admirable, that of Able Sesman Artime Chawner who was at the wheel,
0200 efficiently when ordered to do SO₂ No then proceeded on the course ship with great precision and altered course
Rovers" Was some delay I proceeded Northern route we arrived at position 3 where H.M. Trawler "Blackburn by Destroyers, very close, were lost in this action and a a this battery was silenced passing Newport, shore batteries again
Eagle" adrift, this cutter was proceeded with a third cut but two cutters later picked up by H.M.S. "Crested and towed cutters cutters to my and position to anchored the beach off off of La La La Parme. Panne Panne. I and Commander commenced time Hayward at embarking troops During the whole of the and immediately. continuous. Commander Hayward his the courage troops.
attacks were and endurance in working the cutters, the guns were manned, after Lewis gun by myself, guns at
Our the foremost by/navel a rating being one of supplier with crew ammunition of outters, by naval the ratings. We fired machine both which any and and and and and and a Garried out that a came machine within gunning range attack. particularly Under taking at these one shelter very exceptional in I alleyways 1050
in anchor decks when ordered by me. destroyer which had "Bideford" been ashore, the crew behaved excellently During one bombing raid his but to signalled unknown to assist proceeded H.M.S. to assist.
was to "Golden 70 Eagle" French and troops from The small defect local was boats.
up to main engines. situation to H.M.S.
back "Hebe". a to Sheerness I closed at "Hebe" slow and speed saked made due me necessary to to defect. report (Sgd) report W.J. then Permey. proceeded
H.M. Master. Tug "St. Cleara".

317
- 323
- 4
Proceedings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June.
buoy, came under fire from shore batteries. Speed was increased to "Full" and the wheel put over it each sungflash, keeping them book between 20 and 70 degrees abaft the boar. The range was quickly found, however, and several hits stistained on the bridge and upperworks. Course was therefore altered to the northward, smoke was made, and the ship continued to status AS such as possible without showing herself clear of the smoke. Just before turning away however, 3 shell passed through the Petty Officer's messdeck. It did not exploite, but it passed through the Master Gyn conpass, and a splinter from it penetrated the deck and SO
admitted water to No.2 O.LL Fuel tank.With this tank out of action there was insufficient all fuel remaining for the round trip to be completed. The D.C. cable had been pierced in four places and the magnetic compass vis therefore practically useless. The ship's was therefore teered by the sun(fortunpately visible) will traffic on route "X" was Liscerned. Thereafter it was possible to 80 from buoy to bucy. Sandhurst's lar vis severely riddled with shell splinters but the damage to the ship (except for the cyΓo compass and oil fuel tank) was only superficial and not a pan was touched.
Arrive: it Dover it 2030.
Defects vare taken in hand forthwith, and at noon on the 31st "SABRE" proceeded alongaide eastern are to facilitate the work. Nothing could be done about the gyro compass in the time available, but the D.C. cable MLS repaired and a great deal of other repair work WAS done by Sundhurst, of whose services I
should Like to express My apprediation. A 16 it motor skiff was borrowed in lieu of the damaged whaler, and Sabre's own motor boat was recovered having been repaired.
ALL hands had been utterly exhausted and the day and night in harbour give them a may lasse of life.
At 2180/31, having completed with oil, "SABRE"

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dynamso ds. 356
October, 1935.)
te
ECRE
$5
10
55
1
An
Dynam
349
lasman
60
355
65
TER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
DNI
n
70
7010
3347
4
during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the boat for which we were searching. To make sure we proceeded to Dunkirk where two open boats and a Thames barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spaniards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and
English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 320
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charts on board. The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left 1st Lieut., Leiut. Dehammel with instructions opened the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
to sail the my barge to Dover; and proceeded along the coast having
About two up miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to within of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thames barge.
by approximately eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 were the dropped
At 1720 when out of sight of land bombs we were attacked
The fell at to attack in pairs out dive of the sun and eight six distances or varying from 10 to 50 yards of and ship.
having bombers appeared their bombs continued their endeavour firing to machine- miss guns. the Course was appeared to explode after entering water, released altered frequently in an the some bombs. Some the surface and & certain number appeared ahead and not the to explode at all. the splash. A certain amount who were exposed was on striking One exploded under the bow right of discomfort ship passed through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to experienced the by eyes for the next twelve manning
Able-Seaman Power of the soldiers in the fore to peak. return to Dover now had splash in the was wounded in the leg when As I the port wounded on board ask for assistance for barge sailing turret also one I considered it advisable the barge. A tug was forthwith and approximately to 2100 and found the Deut. Dehammel well sent out at from Dover. I consider Sub. bombing to performed a very subjected had caused leaks for that night's the about 10 miles creditable operation. The to the hull which and petrol the ship tank had and been the ship was not used again operation.

that.A.V.N.E ean M.D.T Important gotto
-enut did
132
in & most steadfast manner and without any protection for five hours under heavy bombardments both from th land.
(.8.M.N entedges riguords)
I have the honour to be, rear.O.D.T.O 20 S rigargated Sir, by consideros (II
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CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dyrams. & S. 356
October, 1935.)
te
ECRE
$5
100
55
1
An
Dynam
355
349
Ahel Tasman. 60
65
TTER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
a
70
353
during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the boat for 14 ich we were searching. To make sure we proceeded to Dunkirk where - two open boats and & Thames barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. No then went alongside the Thanes barge at approximately 1330.
This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, ⑉ note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new platon to the air compressor motor while the let.Lieut. and myself trimed the sails.
They had no charge on board. The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my 1st,Lieut., SublLient. Delhamel with instructions to sail the barge to Dover, and proceeded along the coast having opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing approximately three miles of the coast alightly to the eastward of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thanes barge.
by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bomba were dropped
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attached
The bombers at appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and and fell distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine- to guns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour miss the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water, at on striking exploded under the box right discomfort a ome the surface and a certain,appeared ahead and not the to ship explode passed all. One the splash* A certain amount who of were exposed was the experienced by the x eyes for the next twelve manning the through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to splash in wounded in the leg when part
Able-Seaman Power of was the soldiers in the fore to peak. return As to Dover I now had wounded on board ask for assistance for the the barge. barge sailing well was turrets also one I considered it advisable A tug sent forthwith out and to 8100 and I consider found Sub.Lieut, Delfammel about performed 10 a very creditable subjected had operation. caused leaks The for to bombing the that bull night's to which and the the petrol ship tank had and been the ship was not used again operation.

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

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.

(5)
35
I
92
On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank
Buoy, we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs, the other with sixteen bombs.
There was no indication that either had been hit, but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside.
This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to steam round in a circle, we took off troops, a number seriously wounded.
After about 45 minutes when this was almost completed ( another dynamo ship was taking off troops on her starboard side ) a destroyer indicated that she wanted to come alongside and at 2130 we proceeded, passing through the Downs
29/-
in an early morning fog, up the Ramsgate Channel and into harbour.
30/4
As soon as the troops were disembarked, preparation was made for the next trip. Army provisions were put aboard and two Lewis guns mounted.
For the next trip, officers and men ( not engine room men who could work in three watches ) were relieved to get some sleep.
I understand that on that trip of the 30th/31st,
JUTLAND brought off troops from the beaches to the East of
Dunkirk Pier.
On her return it was reported that she required fuel and that fact and the state of the tide kept her in harbour that day.
With the original crew, I took over again from the relief crew, and on the 1st June was at anchor in the
Ramsgate Road, standing by for further orders; but I
understand that the ship's speed was not considered suitable for taking part in the final operations, and after standing by for a further period. JUTLAND was ordered to return to
London where, after reporting to F. O. 1. C., I handed over the ship to the Chief Dock Master, Surrey Commercial Dock, obtaining a detailed receipt.
from - Mum SRA Who we aribbing ashin, and Pacific being Kair then luch of
View was is: believed about the have skast of this party 0 sun at he Pause.
Proceded at How spend have the White they dirict for the beach Were is auouns 4 our hail are Guld has Ideas Thenking.
I/c nituition see is line as Rrt 9 auchor.
Here the Then was a think

129
-4-
Having reported to H.M.S. "LYNX" was ordered to remain ready at short notice, but received no further instructions until the evening of Sunday June 2nd, when under the orders of Captain G. Fraser returned in the tug
Sun X' to assist disembarking French troops. I was discharged to Admiralty P.M. Tuesday, 4th June.
A verbal report was given to H.M.S. "LYNX" of proceedings during the operations "Dynamo" and delay in forwarding this report is regretted but had no immediate access to P.G.O's.
I have the honour, to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant,
LIEUTENANT, R.N.,
Vice Admiral Dover.
VICE ADMIRAL
25 JUN 1940
A

Dynam 232
205
192
LOG of H.M. Motor Boat LADY CABLE of Torquay during operations carried out June 2md and 3rd, 1940.
In command: Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N.
Cadet Rating G.R. Price
Stoke Worsall
Able Seaman or Ordinary Seaman Smith from Newfoundland,
Sunday, June 2nd, 1940.
Took over boat during forenoon from Mr. Gooding who operates boat for owner at Torquay. She had done one trip to the beaches near Dunkirk. Took on provisions, water, petrol, etc. Mr. Gooding showed Stoker Worsall the working of the engines Cylinder Atlantic - running on petrol.
At about 1500 went over to Prince of Wales Pier and was then taken in tow by SUN VI, together with two life-boats and one other craft. Started for Dunkirk at approximately
1530, having been handed previously copy of Sailing
Instructions to Drifters, together with rough sketch map of course to follow. After uneventful trip arrived off
Dunkirk harbour at about 2230 and received orders to proceed in harbour and go a long way up the Mole to embark soldiers - fill up and return to tug, then go in for further loads. At times had difficulty in persuading
French troops to embark in LADY CABLE, the reason apparently being reluctance to break their units or to act without definite orders from their officer who was probably still in the town of Dunkirk. However, we took four boat loads off - each load containing between 40 and 50 soldiers.
Three loads I took to tugs and one to H.M.S. WISHART when tug was not in usual position. Spoke to tug after fourth trip and was informed that it would soon be light and that she could'nt wait much longer. In reply to a question if any British officers were still left on the Mole, I replied that on earlier trips I had seen one who had asked me not to leave him behind. This officer was engaged in helping the embarkation of the troops. I had not seen him on my last trip but told tug I would make another trip to see if he was there. Informed tug would be as quick as possible and if tug could not wait, would return to England under own power. Tug said she could only wait a short while.
On going in for fifth time engines began to go badly and stopped altogether before reaching point of embarkation.
Engines got going again and we went alongside and collected about 24 more French soldiers. There was no sign of British officer and Price reported to me that French on the Mole told him he had gone. I sent Price up on to the Mole to make enquiries. Owing to the improbability of tug waiting for us, I only took 24 soldiers as a greater number would have made trip back to England under own power too hazardous. Just after passing lighthouse at end of harbour, engines stopped again. Noticed we were close to W.D. craft (later found to be HAIG) who I imagined from her position was watching us and would/

212
199
Page 2
TO ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
The only other person that I saw who was aboard the boat when we were fired on was a Frenchman and he was not interested as he had passed over the border.
Able Seaman Strand reported himself and me by phone on arrival at Margate.
2nd. Reported to the Officer i/c and was given warrants for transfer to Littlehampton. Left A.M. and arrived at
Littlehampton P.M. reported to Camp on arrival.
(SIGNED)
A. BENHAM, STOKER.
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 i/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. 4 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 bows, 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 so I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly see 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)
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports, if any, had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Sun. 2nd.
Stoker 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.

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.

217
205
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 3
B
SHIP:-
M.D.
AURA
OFFICER:- SUB. LIEUT. M.A. CHODZKO, R.N.V.R.
REPORT I.
Sr
On Saturday, June 3rd, I received instructions to take charge of the Motor Launch AURA and proceed to a beach East of Dunkirk Harbour.
Left Dover Harbour towed by drifter GIRL GLADYS at 15.30.
Before leaving it had been reported to me that the AURA'S engine was not operating successfully, in as much that she would not come astern. As the weather appeared to be favourable there seemed no reason why the operation could not be carried out.
X
We shipped from GIRL GLADYS in the proximity of 5W Buoy and proceeded Eastwards. I was able to tow cutters from one of the Paddle
Steamers to the beach on this first trip inwards. The time was 0100 -
About 100 British troops were transferred from the shore to various vessels. The engine was giving considerable trouble so that shortly after 0215, June 4th, it failed completely.
The launch was then manoeuvred towards some Thames Sailing
Barges, and we endeavoured to repair the engine. On examination we found that a defective dynamo was causing the trouble, and as operations were ordered to cease at 0300, I decided to abandon AURA at 0245. I
transferred the crew to a dinghy which we found, and then managed to get aboard a "paddle steamer" which was getting under way. All members of my crew behaved excellently throughout the twelve hours.
REPORT II.
2nd
On Sunday, June 4th, I repaired aboard the drifter YORKSHIRE
LASS in the capacity of Skipper. I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk
Harbour. Leaving Dover at about 1515, we arrived off Dunkirk at 0000.
Off the S. Foreland Ljeutenant Commander Prior, Royal Navy, was transferred from the drifter.UTPROSIM aboard the YORKSHIRE LASS.
There was little delay in arriving alongside and we started embarking French troops before 0030. Another drifter arrived alongside our vessel so we transferred our troops and carried on loading. By 00115
we seemed to be practically full. There appeared to be no more troops on our portion of the jetty and I dispatched a soldier to see if we could collect another 50 men. Other ships were arriving alongside, so by 0130
we were steaming out of the Harbour.
During the whole operation, and during the passage, the troops behaved in an orderly manner. During the homeward passage the vessel developed a hot bearing, and as it was just daybreak, I signalled SUN XI of to take us in tow until repairs were effected. Within three quarters an hour we proceeded under our own power and arrived in Harbour at 0830
Monday, June 5th.
The whole ships company were highly efficient in their duty, and on investigation 100 French troops and 3 British Tommies had been transported.
The British Tommies reported as having lost their division, and had only arrived in Dunkirk on Saturday.
Report ends.

219
207
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 5.
SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "CAVERSHAM".
MOTOR BOAT "QUISISTANA".
TUG "SUN X".
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. A.V. WEAVER.
Left H.M.S. KING ALFRED 29th May for Sheerness, whence took Motor Boat "Caversham" to Ramsgate. (Faulty engine caught fire during night.)
2.
31st May. "Caversham" acted as tender to Schuyts, then set off for Dunkirk, but sprang serious leak, and, pumps not working, returned to Ramsgate following morning.
3.
1st June. Took Motor Boat "Quisisiana" to Dunicirk loaded her with 1 Army Officer and 17 other ranks from beach.
Fifteen miles from Dunkirk accepted tow from tug "Young Mun", and, being unable to restart engines off Brake buoy, was towed into Dover.
4.
3.30 p.m. was sent to tug "Sun X" (Ideut. Philpotts)
which towed three boats to Dunkirk. (At destination Lieut.
Philpotts left tug to act as beach master, and did not return to tug.) Boats loaded tug to capacity with French troops, and tug entered Dover at 8.30 a.m.
5.
Please note that Motor Boat's crew worked admirably in very trying circumstances. Their names are -
J. Clarke
L. Seaman
DJ.87012
W.C. Morgan
Sto. I
KX.88644
D. Soully
0/Seaman
JX.175384
J. Curran
0/Seaman
JX.176599
J. Hill
0/Seaman
No number
They are part of a special DRAKE party. Morgan is now in Deal
Hospital with swollen ankles, the others went to Dover Transit
Camp.

223
OPERATION DYNAMO
*
ENCLOSURE NO.8
211
SHIP:- M.B. SKYLARK
MICHAEL STEVENS 4B.
OFFICER:- SUB.LIEUTENANT M.J.R. YEATMAN, R.N.V.R.
Friday, 31st May. Took charge of M/B. SKYLARK, overhauled engine, proceeded under tow of VRDEDA. Tow broke down - returned to port.
Overhauled engines of one or two other M/B's.
Saturday, 1st June.M/B. SKYLARK. Towed by RIGA to near Dunkirk.
Transferred survivors to RIGA from French Destroyer, who had picked them up from torpedoed ship.
RIGA returned to Dover, and I returned under own power by Kellet cut to Dover by about 10.0 p.m. Reported at CAMBER
and returned to Granville Steps.
Sunday, 2nd June. Transferred in charge of MICHAEL STEPHINS
Lowestoft Lifeboat - 2 Stokers and 1 A.B. from Transit Camp for crew.
Overhauled engines, fuelled and provisioned - proceeded under tow of
Tug SUN XI. Arrived Dunkirk, after dark about 2230 hours. Entered harbour and went toward Eastern Mole. Rammed by M.T.B. without much damage. Went alongside Eastern Mole. With difficulty got 12 French soldiers aboard. Proceeded out to find tug which had disappeared, landed troops on trawler. Returned to harbour, being rammed by another M.T.B. on the way. Found Sloop (identification letters S.G.
or s.c.). Owing to swish of tide she could not come alongside, so with the big engines of the lifeboat I pushed her alongside and went aboard to help make fast. Climbed on to Mole, which was being shelled, and by means of some forceful language and a rifle butt, Induced the
French troops who were lying on the Mole to start down on to the
Sloop. Once a few had started they all began to go down. Got 52
into the lifeboat and cast off to try and find tug. After searching for some time, and being hit again by a fishing boat, I decided at
0100 to return under my own power to Dover.
Reported a floating mine by morse to a destroyer about
6 miles E.S.E. of N. Goodwin Light Vessel.
Reached Dover and landed French troops at 0710.
Returned lifeboat and reported at Submarine Camber at 0730.
Shrapnel on Eastern Mole was mostly at first confined to outer end of Mole until the Sloop drew alongside. Then the range shortened, I got the definite impression that someone had been spotting for the guns, as the direction of fire shortened very rapidly and accurately. Suffered no casualties though among my contingent. In fact, I found considerably greater risk from the movements of allied craft then from Nazi shelling. There seemed to be no attempt to keep any rule of the road. Outside the Harbour had one attack from a Nazi plane. No hits, but she may just have been having a blind shot at four of us who were altogether.
(Sgd)
MARWOOD J. B. YEATMAN.
Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
H.M.S. KING ALFRED.

224
OPERATION DYNAMO
212
ENCLOSURE No.9.
SHIP: Motor Boat SOUTHERN QUEEN.
Officer Reporting: SUB.-LIEUT. DEMATTOS.
Went with Sun XI. Picked up about 200. All
French and women and children. 2 Loads from East Mole,
2 from small West Mole. Back 10 miles under own power, then tow by Sun X.
Suggest Officers speaking French to send Frenchmen into boats, as they refuse to go in small boats.
First trip towed by VREDE, broke down and we towed her clear of shipping and returned.
Second trip towed by RIKA, sent back under own power from 2 miles off Dunkirk.

1710 Only one boat in company (Abdy Beau Clark
Aldeburgh lifeboat).
1718 Life-boat "Rosa Wood" Shoreham joined company. One drifter ahead.
1726 To drifter "what are your intentions".
1730 To drifter "Stop". "Rosa Wood" and "Phyllis
Lunn" informs us he intends returning Dover.
1736 Three British planes over.
1740 Closed drifter. Hang on in position until last, most other boats and one drifter out of sight. Speed boat informs us soldiers still ashore but refuses to come aboard.
1821 Planes attacking with bombs.
1837 To trawler "Have you had any reply". From trawler "No".
1838 Planes still bombing. 1 ship damaged not our fleet. Captain decided to try on his own to reach Dunkirk. The two life-boats in company turned back. Bombs still dropping.
Being machine-gunned 1849. last and stays hit.
1854 Captain carrying on to Dunkirk single-handed.
1859 24 fighters overhead.
1908 I have been deserted please stand by no.
To Motor Boat with Liteut.Commander on board.
Put us on our course.
1926 Covered white conspicuous parts of ship with oilskins. From Cairmoorn I.B. "Steer S.558
for Dunkirk". S.S. "Sun 4" Duniciric 2012.
2023 One friendly plane overhead.
2044 Proceeding to Dunkirk beach. Arrived Duniciple with "Sun 4". Message from M.B. "Inadvisable to go in". Captain boarded "Sun 4" 2100.
2108 Proceeding to Dunkirk. Arrived Dunicive harbour 2135. No one on piers. Picked up
"Sun 4" one rowing boat to go to beach.
Lieut. Mead billed. Boats in beach taking ratings from shore all night (run aground).
0423 2nd June Sunday left Dunkirk. (Scored out in log 'believed to be last boat in
Life-boat in tow of "Sun 4%
0450 "Sun 4" ran aground.
0456 Under way. Rope round starboard propellor of life-boat.
0923 Passed S. Goodwins.
1010 Arrived Ramagate - "Sun 4ª anchored, Lifeboat secured astern.
1030 (approx.) Soldiers landed.
1310 Left anchorage for Ramagate Harbour S.B. and secured alongside "Princess London"
at 1325.
1412 1424 Arrived and secured to "Sun 4" off Ramagate.
Left P.L. Steamboat.
2023 Left anchorage Ramsgate Harbour and secured
Collected all spare ammunition laying.
alongside H.M.S. DWARF 2035.
Monday 3rd June
0930
Reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate for permission Told sail to Dover. Permission granted. to
Commander by Cook, Piermaster prior to sailing. inform to Naval Officer-in-Charge to report
Dover. Sailed from Ramsgate 1026 an
Informed Condr. Cook and asked him to route
1112 Dover. Passed Occ. fog bell.
1157 1354 To examination steamer off Dover. "Walton
Passed South break.
1355 Told to proceed. Arrived Dover and secured
Life-boat. May I enter".
alongside.

FROM
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
233
DATE
15th June 1940.
25
TO
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT.
Lieutenant R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
I regret who to report the death of Lieutenant
Mead, R.N.V.R. 1940, at 2108, was killed in action at Dunkirk on R.H. Saturday,
1st June or was wounded and died later.
2.
H.M. D/C to the M.B. had been reported out of action
31st May 1940, and Duty Staff Officer, Staff of Flag p.m. Officer commanding Dover, the Commanding Officer and Lieutenant
Mead were ordered to find themselves boats if possible, and to assume command.
3.
Lieutenant Mead had assumed command of R.N.L.B.
WALTON AND FRINTON, and having been towed across to near Dun-
I.B.
kirk with other small boats, had pressed on to Dunkirk, unaccompanied except by one other boat, the remainder of the small boats having turned back. This can be clearly seen from the extracts of the log kept in the boat, a copy of which has already been forwarded to the Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover, through the Officer Commanding Rescue Boats.
an
4.
While in the harbour itself, a shrapnel shell burst on the water nearby, killing Lieutenant Mead. The remainder ope of the life-boat's crew, under a Lieutenant R.N.R. from the
Tug SUN IV continued ferrying soldiers to larger ships until tian
0423, when Tug SUN IV towed the boat back to Ramsgate.
5.
The two members of my crew who accompanied Lieutenant led
Mead, Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley and Able Seaman MacManus, have informed me that the "determination and guts" of Lieutenant
Mead in persisting in his efforts to rally the smaller boats and to push on to Dunkirk, were outstanding. This was reported by me to the Staff Officer of the Rescue boats at Dover, who interviewed the crew, and has a copy of the log of the life-boat.
ced
6.
I understand that the boat underwent many air attacks ops from the time that the tow came within about 20 miles of the it.
coast.
7.
This report is submitted in order to confirm that the ant gallantry of Lieutenant R.H. Mead, (as previously reported by me, pa, ade
P.T.O.
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia being 18 was working with Sport engine only - which, owing to were overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 beach. troops carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

,
OPERATION
231
NO. 20
SHIP:- LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne).
STATEMENT BY $
Name
Service
Sunday 2nd
Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II.
Lifeboat "JANS HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). Cast
$
Sto. J. Strangeways off outside and told to go to a landing right
PKX 95036.
up the other and of the harbour. Found they
0
Sto. A.H. Shaw were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck
PKX 94553. E.R.PONSON@Y
the tug or drifter they were going alongside
One Sub.Lieut, R.N.V.R.
so they wont on up harbour. 31g enough hote
One A.B.
in the lifeboat bows to crawl through. Drenohed
One O.S.
with spray caused by shrapnel. Às proceeding also there.
up harbour sear a destroyer out & small rowing
All came back.
boat down with two Fyench sailors in 11. They took these to the first destroyer. Tent right up harbour: saw Fyench troops but they refused to be taken off. So they came back out of the harbour to tug anchored outside. Then they were told to collect troops from anywhere.
Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour.
Nearly every boat had gone by then. So they got up sail and tried to get out of harbour.
Several destroyers passed, they waved and destroyers waved back: one hour after dawn when they were just about giving up hopes &
M.T.B. came. Towed them out, engine started, then they were alipped and after about 4 miles the engine began to smoke and she caught fire.
No one in sight and two M.T.B's came along to resque. Took them aboard. Lifeboat in l'lames, returned a.m. 31at.

249
235
OPERATION
NO.23
SHIP:- M/B. SKYLARK
STATEMENT BY $
Crew
Service
0
Sto.
G.Bramhall 2nd Time. Left Dover about 14.30 with an 0.5. in
PKX 88343
SKYLARK - a small open M/B. Towed across by SUN I
Ord. Sea.
with two other boats (? TCM DISDIN). Slipped low
2ndgime 1530ca just outside harbour and went into pier. Shipped
French soldiers from pier ladders and took them to the SUN I, which was lying off. Some big ships alongside. 20/25 soldiers sach trip. left under tow from SUN # about laylight. & little shrapnel, bombing over the town. Started shipping water and transferred boatload to tuge

Dynom. 120,
363
Admiralty House,
341
Sheerness.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that on Monday 27th May, after getting final instructions from the Vice Admiral,
Dover, I proceeded to Sheerness and commenced duty as
"Dynamo" Maintenance Officer; my staff consisted of
Commander H.R. Troup, R.N,, who accompanied me from
Economic Warfare Division, and Lieutenant Commander D.E.
Holland-Martin, R.N. We had the invaluable assistance of the Fleet Engineer Officer, Captain T.E. Docksey. Lieutenant
Commander Guinner, R.N. in command of the Schuit "Princess
Juliana" which had broken down, helped for the first day, he then left to join N.O.I.C. Ramsgate whose need was greater. Lieutenant Commander Filleul, R.N., from Weymouth
Contraband Base, also joined but was sent away in charge of a lighter with petrol cans of water and subsequently joined
N.O.I.C. Margate. Lieutenant R.S. Hellby R.N.R. who came from
Weymouth Contraband Base, but was not fit enough to go to sea, took his place.
2. Officers, ratings, volunteers and boats commenced to arrive on Tuesday, and the work of preparing boats for service occupied the whole of daylight hours for the remainder of the week.
3. The first group consisting of 20 cutters with half crews sailed for Dover on Tuesday in tow of the"st. Clears" and
"Sun V". The first group of motor boats sailed for Dover on
Wednesday. Subsequent groups were sent either to Ramsgate or direct to the beaches, as directed by the Vice Admiral, Dover.
When there were insufficient Officers available, boats were sailed in groups with at least one Officer trained in navigation in each. Lighters were as far as possible given motor boats to attend them.
4. Officers and Coxswains were given broad instructions that failing orders and guidance from Officers on the spot they were to find the places where troops were waiting, ferry them off to the ships off shore, and continue the work as long as possible, retaining enough fuel in reserve to get back to
Ramsgate. As far as I have been able to judge, good use was made of the wide discretion given.
5. Requests were made from time to time for rafts, ladders, lifebuoys and water. These and all the other demands were met wholeheartedly by the Dockyard and H.M.S. "Wildfire".
6. Most of the owners and crews who brought boats volunteered to serve in them; more would have done so had what they were wanted to do. Many volunteers who had it been possible to tell them before sailing for Sheerness commitments went away to clear themselves and came back to who lost their boats joined others at Dover and Ramsgate, join, although their own boats had already sailed. Crews or back to Sheerness to find another. There were I
am came glad to be able to say, very few exceptions to the general at In Dardanelles, did all he could to get away and induce enthusiasm. X213 the Master, a man of 60 years who had served his the to take her. They went away to Chatham. S,N.S.O on me and I suggest that the Dockyard would be well sent drivers them back. They made a most unfavourable impression advised to get rid of them. I feel sure that they could not be relied on in any emergency and would have a bad effect on others.
One I regret to add, is an ex-service man.

Dyrom 391
il
368
June 5th, 1940.
1.
Lieut. A.J. Davies, R.N.V.R. -"Java" never got over the other side and was finally towed to Sheerness by "Gorecht"
2.
Lieut. A.N. Blundell, R.N.R. - "Bornrif" did three. trips between Ramsgate and beaches at Dunkirk. "King Orry" was sighted sunk off Dunkirk.
3.
Sub Lieut. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.R. - "Iote" was beached and abandoned after she had damaged her rudder while rescuing two of her crew, who had fallen overboard on the morning of Saturday June 1st. On night of Monday, June 3rd, Sub Lieut
Amos, R.N.V.R. and Sub Lieut. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. were in a new but unnamed power life boat which was towed over to
SUN
Dunkirk by Tug XV "About..... (A).
On the 30th May D.S. "Horst" was known to have been abandoned.
4.
Sub Lieut. D.C. Williams, R.N.V.R. - left Ramsgate on the night of Su day, June 2nd in the "Kiteat". On the way over he became separated from the rest of the convoy. After doing some work the other side he towed the "Singapore" back to Dover and then on to Ramsgate on Monday, June 3rd.
5.
Lieut. R.W. Thomson, R.N.V.R. - After being discharged from the "AEGer", where he had proved lacking in experience, did
4 trips in the "DABB II", two of which were unsuccessful.
6.
Sub Lieut. C. Minchin, R.N. - Went to the beached in the
"LYDD" where he ferried until the boat broke down. She was abandoned and Minchin returned to Ramsgate in the "Lydd".
On Monday, against orders he tried to go over in the "Helfrinore" but she broke down.
7.
Sub Lieut. E.S. Foreman, R.N.V.R. - In the"Princess Freda"
he ferried from the beaches for a destroyer. He then worked for the Dutch "Besta" --?, who finally towed him back to Ramsgate.
8.
Sub Lieut. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. - Started in the "Minikoi"
but she was rammed and sunk by "MASB 6" off the downs at
0250 on Wed, May 29th. He next went over in the "Ambleve", which with the "Sambre" was towed over by the "Skipjack", for whom he ferried from the beaches. A crew from the
Skipjack releived his crew for 'stand-easy' and ran the
"Ambleve" aground. He and his crew returned in the
Skipjack. On Saturday, June 1st, he went over in a power life boat. She was damaged by near bombs but the engines continued to run.
9.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Pratt, R.N.V.R. - Ran aground in the
"Singapore" on beach at 0130 on Sunday June 2nd. She rfloated at 0800 and he left with three French Officers.
On the way he picked up two British soldiers who were
French Officers' water bottles. He passed the "Mosquito"
floating around'. These were revived with wine from the which was still afloat but had been deserted. In mid channel he found three life boats which he took in tow until his engines gave out and he was taken in tow by the "Kitkat".
10.
Sub Lieut. I.F. Smith, R.N.V.R. - In "Jong" helped to ferry home he sighted the "Iote" drifting round empty and troops from the beaches on Friday, May 31st. On way the "White Heather" empty but at anchor.

3.
370
22.
Skipper beaches A. Gardner, at 2200 R.N.R. - Went in Tug "Tanga" arrived bombed machine-gunned throughout the night, while at the and on Friday, May 31st. They were lying off an life inprovised boat jetty. He helped to ferry troops life boat.
down and he returned on Saturday in "Leda", leaving the in a power which "Tanga" had towed. This broke
23.
Sub Lieut. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. - Went to Le Panne in
"Elizabeth Green" and ferried for larger craft. He sighted "Viewfinder" on the beach. He got back to
Ramsgate on Thursday May 30th, transferred to the R.F.A.
launch "Andora II" and returned to beaches where he ferried for a bit and then brought back 23 French. Arrived
Ramsgate on Friday. On Monday night he was towed over in the "Elizabeth Green" by a tug, which he could not afterwards find and so he brought his load home.
24. Sub Lieut. R. Shrimpton, R.N.V.R. - In an Admiralty, open
36 ft. launch he was towed over by a drifter and pent
Saturday night at the beaches. On a later night he went into Dunkirk.
25. Sub Lieut. S.C. Allen, R.N.V.R. - Went over to Le Panne in the "Frightened Lady" which was beached after fouling the screw. He reported to an Admiral with side whiskers who was escorting Gort. He was told to help some soldiers getting abandoned pinnaces away. He also assisted to build a jetty with trailers etc. Left the beaches in the
"Horst".
26. Sub Lieut. A.V. Weaver, R.N.V.R. - Went over in "Quijijana"
and brought back a party of 18 troops mostly Coldstream
Guards. He went over again in "Sun X".
27.
Sub Lieut. W.G.H. Bonham, R.N. went over in "BOBELI"
in the first batch and ferried until about midnight on
Wednesday night. His boat was broken up by a destroyer which went full ahead while he was alongside. He went on ferrying for a bit but had to abandon the "Bobeli" and returned to Margate in the "Albury". He then went over in the "Horst" which had to be abandoned owing to engine trouble and a near miss.
28.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Culham, R.N. - in "Smolt" which broke down on way over and was towed back by "Midas"?. Went over in "Glitter II" to the beaches about 6m East of
Dunkirk arrived at 1600 on Wed. 29th. Stayed ferrying until 0200 on Thursday when she lost her rudder on some wreckage and was towed back to Dover by a drifter. The
"Black Arrow" was seen aground at Dunkirk.
29. Sub Lieut. R.A.W. Pool, R.N. - Took lighter X.817 to
Dunkirk and then back to Ramsgate. He went over again on last night to Dunkirk in the M.T.B. "Marlborough".
Mares
30.
Sub Lieut. E.G.B. Enxnish, R.N.V.R. - in "Skylark" but she sank on the way over. He also saw "Mary Rose" sink in mid ocean and the "Ellen Mary" run down by a life boat and abandoned.
31,
Sub Lieut. E.A.E. Cornish, R.N.V.R. - was in the
"Lansdowne" which slipped her tow outside Dunkirk.

(2)
above aircraft, us at working one moment in conjunction but by with M.T.B's two right
3:22
we actually evidently observed. escaped torpedoing. twisting No surface and turning rapidly was
Daylight was welcomed by craft all.
400.
was Keep rather calling worried "St. Achilleus" by R/T and "W/T no event of about her as we had arranged answer at S. Buoy. losing each other during the night to rendezvous in the
.000.
Came to to conclusion "Arctic that "St. Achilleus" had gone, been group mainly all because of W/T watches, our operator had already gone Pioneer" and asked permission to join reported her on night and couldn't carry on indefinitely.
315.
Whilst heading from T.Buoy towards Dunkirk in answer to S.S. "Pragg's" S.O.S., received signal from Arctic
Pioneer that M.T.B. was approaching, we cleared for action challenged her five times, no distinguishing mark or ensign was shown, also she approached us zig-zagging. Fire was opened with four inch, Pom Pom and Lewis guns, all three ships heading straight for her firing; one four inch from "Arctic Pioneer" struck her superstructure and she then stopped and layto. On approach a white ensign was observed being waved. Fire ceased and boats were lowered.
We went alongside M.T.B. took survivors and casualties off.
Report of action has been given to F.O.I.C. Harwich also with report for Commanding Officer of M.T.B. Casualties
1 killed and five wounded. Transferred all to H.M.S.
"Saltash" who also took charge of M.T.B.
175
2100.
Received instructions to take charge of Group consisting of "Sphene" and"Lord Melchett" and patrol between S.Buoy and West Hinder.
e 2. 0509. Contacted "Lord Melchett" she joined us, proceeded
Eastward.
0711.
Stopped and Picked up 12 Refugees from small boat, boat not worth keeping so cast it adrift and proceeded.
0729.
Signalled by aircraft (Hudson) piloted by Pilot Officer
Elworthy of Detling and asked to follow him. He repeatedly circled around us and eventually said carry on as you are going and you'll meet and open boat full of people.
0740.
Met small boat, took refugees onboard, made boat fast astern and proceeded on patrol.
0955.
Attacked by enemy dive bombers first one dived and machine gunned us, the second one dropped bombs, not both rame out on us. They dived to within a hundred exhausted, feet, of sun, could be heard distinctly but seen until almost fire was maintained until ammunition dropped continual continuously. 15 bombs were Bombs ship zig-zagged during the course of three attacks. thought altogether 20 feet of ship both sides and setting one fire fell within fell in bulwarks forward, also blew base to be incendiary unprimed D/Cs and deck and bulwarks and to two spare bar one arm supported, port by explosion but D.G.
of mast away Engines were stopped done to gear dismantled. believed considerable numerous damage minor carried on ship again, badly strained, deck besides hose.
engine defects. and Fire was put out by

404
(
382
TUGS
and
SUN N
C.11.
c.q.
FORMIDABLE.
Sr, CHEARS.
LADY GRASSEY
FOREMOST By
Sr. OLAP
T

SECRET
Dyram 35,4
406
Jug Sun IV
H.M.S. Pelican,
384
C/o G.P.O.
18th June, 1940.
Sir, and to submit I have the the following honour narrative to refer to of Nore events General:- Order 448/40
(Master Mr. Alexander, 12 Manager of the firm), slipped from Tilbury IV
At 0200 Friday, 31st May, 1940, the London tug Sun
Docks with lifeboats in tow. A London Pilot was embarked and lifeboats were manned by half naval and half volunteer crews.
remained in the tug until the evacuation was completed. Ships"
anchored. Provisions were embarked for boats" crews and the
2. Southend pier was hailed at 0415/31 May, 1940, and the tug opportunity was taken to allow boats" crews a hot cup of tea in the tug.
3. At 0445 anchow was weighed and the tug proceeded to
Ramsgate arriving at 1115, where she was armed with two pairs of
Lewis guns mounted either side of the wheel house.
4.
The tugs were sailed for Dunkirk at 1330. Commander
Tyler came onboard as his tug had run out of coal and water.
Lieutenant Wilkinson and a further party of seamen were also embarked.
5. At 1915 a high level bombing attack took place, but bombs all fell a long way from the tug.
6. A boat was capsized when the tug met a destroyer's wake and it is regretted that one Stoker was drowned. This casualty was reported on arrival in harbour by Commander Tyler.
of Dunkirk 7. by verbal orders from a motor mile torpedo from boat. the shore By 2300 and
At 2230 the tug was ordered to a position one mile east the boats dropped the and R.N.R., French tug one 8. were and was bomb in about At sent British, charge. anchored 0315/1 from 100 in an yards with June, the From three aircraft, Lieutenant from tug 2300 1940, quarters weighed the which to having tug. but 0300 Wilkinson of anchor. was the embarked a there engaged remainder was and Only 88 by periodic Lieutenant soldiers three Lewis of the boats shelling guns, boats" both Fletcher, Ramsgate. had was been able to get back onboard to our or were tug, towed back by drifters to with water;
crews were either adrift as it was filling rapidly and was while At 0445 this one was boat being was done set a German fighter flew towards us engaged with Lewis guns.
9. 0830/1 June, 1940, arrived at Ramsgate. Commander Tyler went inshore for orders.
in tow. 10. A Anchor small was trawler weighed was at seen 1615 to and hit tug a mine proceeded south with of the two North boats
Goodwin Light vessel at 1645.
11. Three German bombers

SECRET
- 2 -
407
1830 11. from Three about astern. German 8000 British feet. bombers Ten carried bombs out were a dropped level bombing falling attack 385 at hour 250 yards later as three transports fighters passed. appeared about a quarter about of an
12. the At way 2030 into the Dunkirk. motor lifeboat E.M.M.D. hailed us and be shown of the night. The This boat remained with us for asked the to remainder killed Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in command by Commander arrival at Ramsgate.
unfortunately Tyler on by shrapnel during the night. This was was reported
13.
At 2100 a small motor boat informed us that there were troops left in Dunkirk. Commander Tyler disregarded this and went no into the harbour in the motor lifeboat with Lieutenant Fletcher.
14. At 2130 the tug was hailed by a motor torpedo boat and orders were received to use the boats to fill up minesweepers which were to arrive later.
15. At 2145 the motor lifeboat and one boat were sent in shore.
The tug then towed the remaining boat as near in shore as possible.
This boat then pulled shore. The tug was then anchored about three quarters of a mile from the Eastern breakwater.
16. The pulling boat returned with the news that there were no soldiers ashore at 2230, and said that she had not seen the other boats.
17. 2300 - 0100/2 June, 1940, fairly heavy firing over and short, chiefly shrapnel, All hands kept under cover, until the motor lifeboat returned at 0130. The tug then weighed and proceeded to
Ramsgate.
18. At 0140 an M.T.B. again hailed us and weewere sent back to fill up with soldiers, and anchored in position again at 0215.
further in shore to pick them up, but ran aground about a quarter of
After waiting till 0330 for the boats the tug weighed and went a mile off shore. The flooding tide and the use of engines astern meanwhile had been secured. We then proceeded to Ramsgate together with physical jerks by the soldiers refloated her. with Boats
142 soldiers on board and in the motor lifeboat, which we towed.
of the 19. At 0415 we but ran managed to get off after ten minutes. at 07451 A slight aground for the second time one mile west haze gave breakwater, us a peaceful passage home arriving at Ramsgate left us A.M. and we were told the tug ordered would
20. Commander Tyler night, but at 2000/2 June, 1940, we to were salvage not the to weigh be Hospital required and proceeded Ship that Paris. to a At position 0100 we onboard, near eventually position attempted located to her tow and her. the
We tug lay Sun off XV with until a she Commander had got R.N.R., secured, later but a German unfortunately machine dived her first down wire both ordered had and Both in about machine asked parted. the the by ratings Tugmaster five us the gunned what fathoms Commander About on we us. and the two thought of I guns an minutes We water considered R.N.R., escort. engaged of getting and the in the that in It bursts. aircraft would tug if Sun we be XV with very she We to down to were hospital was Lewis leave slow get by already then her work after guns; the ship back stern. to he was tow her safely as we she would was a require twin screw ship. tell.
I The think tug that arrived back at Ramsgate aground. but it was hard to
0645/3 June, 1940.
21. At 1130 we

418
CONFIDENTIAL
394
The Formideble
, 12/6/40.
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
Carrer
030/48/40.
C/o G.P.O.)
Noh Dunknik
Sir,
Le mesures Jug SPOUL
I have the honour to submit the following report of certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders to organise 2 convoy of motor and nulling boats. tn he towed over
CONFIDENTIAL.
Jug a
393
ats
F
mesurer Tui Sun
From...The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Formidable", C/o G.P.O.J
Date...12th. June, 1940.
Ref. No.030/48/40.
(d)
To.....The Naval Officer-in-Charge, Ramsgate, Kent.
as
J
Subject...Report of Minor Operations Carried Out Off Dunkirk.
r
VAL OFFICER 3207 IN CHARGE
to
15JUN1940
*
1 her
212
Submitted.
AMSGAT
Herewith are forwarded two copies of my nt report on Minor operations carried out off Dunkirk on 1st./2nd. last.
)
and 3rd. June, 1940.
ts
I understand that such reports are required and à
2.
this is forwarded for transmission to the appropriate authority. ble 1
khurumia rs, iginach
Commander.
2
The ia a
at

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formidable
9 12/6/40.
Carm
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
030/48/40.
Comherston
C/o G.P.O.
Noh
Sir,
Le mesures
I have the honour to submit the following report of certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants JJVJ WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same le difficulty in obtaining
393A
CIA was quite evidently is left behing, The tug
LER, R.N. sailed earlier
1.
18 boats were swamped -
3 in a hurry to get over to red at Dunkirk at about
Forwarded in continuation of my 3172/212 of 11.6.40
Naval Officer in Charge.
ge; the tug "TANGA" with her anchored at a point about akirk, and sent in the little further to the East.
CAPTAIN R.N., take off troops from the nole joined; on the first to the tug. While these on an officer ina fast proceed alongside the mole fore they went in again, r ships and that I would eet them again. I then about 50 French soldiers, ii.
en and 4 English naval then returned to the originway. The boats returned monstrance from the French r about an hour. During
Flag Officer Commanding Dover.
I (having done one or two ad East by lighter guns. The from the West by what nearer G down the mole, At and a be the mole, and towards
No. 3207/212.
to appendix 3.
e
Ramsgate.
15.6.40.

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formideble
D 12/6/40.
Graft
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
030/48/40.
Comherston
C/o GIP.O.)
Noh Dunknik
Sir,
Le mesures
I have the honour to submit the following report of certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants J.V. WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same time with two pulling boats. I had had some difficulty in obtaining another tug, and the master of the tug "RACIA" was quite evidently most unwilling to sail, and this vessel was left behing. The tug
"SUN IV" under the command of Commander TYLER, R.N.: sailed earlier independently with either one or two boats.
3. On the way to Dunkirk, three of the pulling boats were swamped probably through towing too fast, as I was in a hurry to get over to
Dunkirk - and had to be abandoned. I arrived at Dunkirk at about
2330, after an otherwise uneventful passage; the tug "TANGA" with her boats arrived a little earlier. Both tugs anchored at a point about
1/2 % mile East of the Eastern Mole at Dunkirk, and sent in the boats; the tug "SUN IV" was, I believe, a little further to the East.
4.
The boats from my tug "SUN" proceeded to take off troops from the
East mole at a point where the beach and mole joined; on the first trip they brought about 45 British troops to the tug. While these were being embarked, I received orders from an officer ina fast motor boat (possibly Commander MAVND) to proceed alongside the mole and embark troops, so I told my boats, before they went in again, to carry on taking troops off to the other ships and that I would return to the position I was then in to meet them again. I then proceeded alongside the mole and embarked about 50 French soldiers, subsequently embarking another 28 Frenchmen and 4 English naval ratings from a broken down motor boat. I then returned to the original anchorage, and waited for the boats for about an hour. During this time there was a slight amount of remonstrance from the French troops on board who were anxious to get away. The boats returned about 0300 with another 50 British troops (having done one or two trips in the meantime to other ships.)
5.
During the night Dunkirk was being shelled from the West by what seemed to be a heavy battery, and from the East by lighter guns. The lighter shells appeared to be directed at the mole, and towards
0300 the shelling was coming nearer and nearer down the mole, and a fire was started either on the mole or just to the Westward. At about 0300 there was an outburst of rifle fire apparently just on the mole where the boats had been embarking troops, and Lieutenant

3. 396
work getting a line ashore from the barges to the beach by the pulling the boats hauled off to the barges, the troops then which being ferried by fire-float to the waiting ships.
Lieutenant WALKER left at 0335 (2nd. June), the fire-float being then just aground (low water 0400 approx). He had to leave the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk. At 0345 there were no about 150 men on the barges, but there were no troops visible on troops visible on the mole, and a paddle minesweeper was just leaving. An anonymous Brigadier who boarded WALKER's craft, said that at about 0200 there would be 1000 - 1500 British (2) troops still to come.
At this stage, it was the unamizous opinion of all the officers named above that small slow motior boats and pulling boats would be of no further use on the beaches. It might have been worth while trying to reach the barges 1 mile East of Dunkirk with fast shallow draught craft at about 2200 (2nd. June).
It is worthy of remark that these wrecked barges made excellent piers for motor boats to use, pulling boats working between them and the beach with a line to haul themselves off. Three barges were afloat at any state of the tide and two others were aground about an hour before low water. M.T.B.S could go alongside the barges 3
hours either side of H.W.I and shallow draught boats for longer.
Beach parties, eventually, were not required on the night of
Sunday 2nd. June, and everybody was able to get some much needed rest and food.
Monday 3rd. June - Tuesday 4th. June.
A further operation for these nights was organised from
RAMSGATE, a copy of the orders being attached herewith. I organised the following tugs to tow:-
SUN IV - Commander Le MESURIER, Lieut. MARTIN R.N.J Lieut.
FLETCHER, R.N.R.
TANGA - Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R.
SUN XV Two R.N.R. Officers.
RACIA: Lieut. Commander MILLER, D.S.O. RINdRd, Lieut.
WALKER, R.N.V.R.
Each tug was to take 4 motor boats in tow, with orders to work from the Nouveau Avant Port and from any point of the East mole which they could reach, and to ferry troops down to the ships alongside or to the transport LOCUST. The tugs had no specific orders, and I instructed the Officers in the tugs that they should wait just outside the entrance to Dunkirk, keeping clear of ships going in and out (of which I understood there were to be a good many) and to be ready to go alongside to pick up troops as opportunity offered or to assist as required.
The convoy left a little after 1700 with 14 motor boats in all, two having failed (one with engine trouble, one was aground in
RAMSGATE). The passage across was uneventful, save for a certain amount of trouble with the tows, and the encountering of two mines in the neighbourhood of W. buoy which were dealt with by minesweepers. Commodore H.) TAYLOR, R.N.R. took passage with me, but about halfway Dunkirk. across was picked up by a Motor Torpedo Boat and went on to

4. 397
The for the following reasons boats given were below:- abandoned either on passage or at Dunkirk,
(a) THARK. Rope foul of propeller and rudder. Abandoned half way.
(b) SANTOSY. point arose Petrol here. failure. Abandoned near W. buoy. An interesting had been The Sub-Lieutenant in command said that he officer told him which cans to take was dressed as a Lieut.
certain who cans which were subsequently found to contain water. The instructed to fill up with petrol at RAMSGATE from
Commander (E) RINI When this was discussed, the Sub- Lieutenant reported this to the Engineer Captain (or Commander) at
RAMSGATE, who said that there was no Lieut. Commander (E) at
RAMSGATE, at any rate on the staff. I do not know if this officer could be, or ever was, traced and identified.
(c) DIANA MARY. Engine trouble and damage to propeller. Abandoned at Dunkirk.
(d) ADMIRAL SUPERINTENDENT&S BARGE (Portsmouth).
Ran on a pile of submerged masonry in Dunkirk and abandoned.
The officer in this boat (Sub-Lieutenant BIGGS, R.N.,VeR.) left his charts on board. I should have sent him back for them, but did not do so as it was near the time ordered for laeving, and
I thought he only had charts from RAMSGATE which gave no useful information to the enemy. Subsequently reflections made ne think he might have had a chart from Portsmouth, SO I went in to
S.O.(1) office at Portsmouth on 6th. June and reported the circumstances, leaving S.0.(1) to pursue the matter further.
to The convoy arrived at Dunkirk between 2300 and 2345, having beendelayed by trouble with the tows. Most of the boats had been slipped in the neighbourhood of the S.W. RUYTINGEN buoy and sent on. The other three tugs proceeded to the East of the entrance: SUN IV at first stayed just to the West of the wreck outside the entrance, and in this position picked up an open boat with a dozen French soldiers and an officer, who had been isolated and escaped. From the officer it was learnt that the Germans had possession of MARDYCK fort about
3 miles West of Dunkirk.
5. The motor boats carried on with their work, and SUN IV proceeded just to the Eastward of the entrance, having a look to see if there was any work to be done while passing. All appeared to be going well, all berths at the East mole were occupied and there were one or two ships lying off ready to berth.
6. At about 0115 (4th. June) one of my motor boats returned, and told me that there were no more French troops at the QUAI FELIX FUARE, and that Commander TAYLOR had left the QUAL. This boat was slightly damaged and so I left her in company.
7. At about 0200 the two end berths on the East mole were clear. H.M.S.
"MALCOLM" went alongside and I fallowed in SUN IV, as also did the tug RACIA, to see if there were any more French troops. There were only a few, who embarked in "MALCOIM", this ship asked me to push her stern in to the jetty, which I did.
sailed RAMSGATE; the return passage was uneventful. I was passed
I left at 0230, approximately, picked up the waiting motor boat, and by two or for three destroyers and a minesweeper. Tug SUN XV towed home another vessel one picked up halfway.
8.
Out 14 boats which started for Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be abandoned of the for one reason or another, but the crews were recovered safely. The remainder found their own way back to RAMSGATE, with the

398
5.
exception of the one I towed back (MERMAIDEN).
(a) As during regards these recommendations for officers and ratings who did well: but I am operations, unable the following officers known to me well did others who must of to say whether they did better than time to collect necessity remain anomymous, since there many ion, spirit, both of young officers and ratings was the names. I can only say that, frompersonal observat- was no ient. One had only to ask for volunteers for crews to receive magnific- more applications than were necessary.
(b) Officers names.
Lieutenant J.V. WILKINSON R.N.J
Lieutenant R.E. LLOYD R.IN.
Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.O. R.N.R.J
Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD R.N.R.J
Lieutenant WALKER R.IN.V.R.
Lieutenant J.E.L. MARTIN R.N. (late "Pelican")
Lieutenant FLETCHER R.N.R. (late at Invergordon)
(a) I also respectfully submit for Their Lordships consideration that letters of appreciation might be written as follows:-
To The London Fire Brigade
.) for the services of their fire-float LADY MASSEY (?)
The Alexander Towage Company ) for the services of their
H.J. Alexander Ltd St John: Wharf- Wapping- E.I. tugs SUN, SUN IV, & SUN IV.
The Watkins Tug & Towage Company) for the services of their
Natkurs Ltd 112 Funchusch st- London E.C.S.
tug
TANGA.
(b) As regards the tug RACIA of the Watkins Company, the master of this vessel was obviously unwilling to go over to Dunkirk, although he did actually go on the nights of 31st. May and 3rd. June. On the 3rd of June he was under the orders of Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.JO.
R.N.R.
(c) The spirit of the masters and crews of the other tugs (especially the SUN tugs) was excellent. The owner of the Alexander Tug
Company was himself the captain of the tug SUN IV, and a young
Trinity House pilot volunteered to navigate this tug throughout.
Unfortunately I cannot remember his name.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient servant,
Managina to inectes
Edward. K.
Commander R.N.)

Dyram. 147 428
401
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of H.M.
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness, in company with "Sun V". towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
Думашь 147.--
427 1
403 by
From: COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD. SHEERNESS.
Date: 7th June, 1940.
No: 2707.
id id nk
To:
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE.
20°
go
The attached report from the Master, H.M.
eired
Tug "St. Clears" is submitted in accordance with your le,
1608 of 4th June. I consider "St. Clears" did very well.
eel,
Both Master and Crew seem to have displayed energy and se courage, and Mr. William Josiah Penney, Master, and Able te gain
Seaman Arthur Chawner are worthy of special mention.
sted rd
COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD.
La any
11
ways it ore, oats.

Dyram. 147 428
404
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I Clears" submit the following report and the movements of
Tug "St. during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk H.M. area.
in company with "Sun V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness, naval ratings under Commander Hayward, R.N.R. on board at 1205 on
28th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by examination tug in South Downs and both tugs proceeded and at
0015 on 29th May, "Sun V" was involved in collision with H.M.S.
"Montrose". I searched the vicinity for two hours but failed to locate same. I then proceeded as instructed by "Montrose". When passing Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery in a position bearing 022° from Dunkerque C.W. buoy. We continued on our course for a short time until the firing became intensified shells falling very close to our stern some of which holed and sank two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmsman to alter course to bring the battery astern of us, finally steering a course of 020°
till out of range of guns. The wireless operator was maintaining continuous watch so I was able to make an immediate report of the attack which I considered urgent in view of the possibility of other small craft following the same route. This warning was received and inmediately re-broadcast by North Foreland Radio. During the whole of this time the conduct of my officers and men was admirable, particularly that of Able Seaman Arthur Chawner who was at the wheel, he steered the ship with great precision and altered course efficiently when ordered to do SO. We then proceeded on the course
0200 until we arrived at position T where H.M. Trawler "Blackburn
Rovers" was stationed. After some delay I proceeded Northern route as instructed by trawler. When passing Newport, shore batteries again opened fire, shells falling very close, this battery was silenced by French Destroyers, but two cutters were lost in this action and a third cut adrift, this cutter was later picked up by H.M.S. "Created
Eagle" and towed to my position off La Panne. I proceeded with six remaining cutters and anchored off La Panne. Commander Hayward dispatched the cutters to the beach of La Panne and commenced
La Panne aerial attacks were continuous. Commander Hayward his embarking troops immediately. During the whole of the time and at men showed great courage and endurance in working the cutters, continually transporting troops.
a
Our were manned, the foremost by/naval myself, rating being one of machine was circumstances and supplied the carried in anchor. mess not relief out that with decks crew a I guns came machine proceeded ammunition the when of within crew cutters, ordered gunning behaved to by range unknown naval by the attack. me. particularly excellently after ratings. destroyer to During Lewis assist Under one taking We at gun H.M.S. which these bombing one fired by shelter had machine very "Bideford" both to been raid exceptional assist. guns in which hit I alleyways have ashore, at but any required. I was signalled Eagle" and proceeded local boats.
At During "Hebe". I signalled transferred 2200 this Engineer to period "Bideford" cutters reported I picked to who "Golden defect asked up made 70 to me French main to THE from small was back to Sheerness I closed at "Hebe" slow and speed due to defect.
R.J.Penney
H.M.

- 4
472
an open with soldiers off hailed. He reported having picked with the during daylight. boat in tow was About half-way across a French trawler boat up boat for in ich Dunkirk and it was thought this might be the we were searching. To make sure we barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from proceeded to Dunkirk where хихаря two open boats and a Thames the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards, the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charys on board.
The air compressor motor was made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my lst.Lieut., SublLieut. Dehammel with instructions to sail the barge to Dover,and proceeded along the coast having opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course was set to intercept the Thames barge.
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attacked by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bombs were dropped and fell at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
The bombers appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and having released their bombs continued their dive firing machineguns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour to miss the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water, some on striking the surface and a certain appeared not to explode at all. One exploded under the bow right ahead and the ship passed through the splash. A certain amount of discomfort was experienced by myself and members of the crew who were exposed. to the splash in the M eyes for the next twelve hours or 30.
Able-Seaman Power was wounded in the leg when manning the port turrett also one of the soldiers in the fore peak. As I now had wounded on board I considered it advisable to return to Dover forthwith and to ask for assistance for the barge. A tug was sent out at approximately 2100 and found the barge sailing well about 10 miles from Dover.
I consider Sub,Lieut, Dehammel performed a very creditable operation. The bombing to which the ship had been subjected had caused leaks to the hull and the petrol tank and the ship was not used again for that night's operation.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.

561
6
I
531
sold not take Embarkation
Pat the Patria and medway Queen res slow and so J ran along he mole and hastened the arims groups of troops along of the Rarhour when I was
Patria towed my vessel out full of troops and at about
0330 on 29/5/40 cleared the sun kirk hasbour and proceeded followed under my own "Patria". power to damogate the time by we had been in During harbour was the sound of gun fire and explosions
We was no skelling of the harbour but these more or less incessant
845 arrived on back 29/5/40. at Ramsgate at seven and trips to Dunkink beaches made
In all the TILLY
quantity of troops back and brought a vast
Commanding officer of the school
On the 30/5/40 I relieved the ora June tow.
inner harbour. Ordered the staff but could find none; loaded with and French troops. Furtheat end of harbour now in German hands.
Returned Ramsgate.
Completed 5 journeys in all.

6.6
LOG of the m.v., "SEINE" Official No.160693 of Roohester.
580
Crow
Master - G.V. Cogger.
Mate - H.L. Stafford.
Engineer L. Godden,
Deck Hands J. Lawson and J. Kirby.
Tednesday May 22nd 1940 Sailed from Rochester at 7. 0 a.m. for S.R.D. Jetty,
Deptford, for stores for North France; arrived
579
614
Disnom 399
578
FROM
CAPTAIN OF DOCKYARD, CHATHAM.
DATE
17th June, 1940.
TO
ADMIRAL UPERINTENDENT, CHATHAM.
CONFIDENTIAL.
577
Page 2 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated
14th June, 1940.
2115. Transferred all survivors to a SUN class tug. 40 ft.
motor boat making water and liable to sink. SUN tug took motor boat in tow hoping that self-bales would keep boat afloat.
2130. Abandoned 40 ft. motor boat in tow.
Monday, 3rd.
0415. Arrived Dover in tow. Secured. 0700 motor boat awash, due to leaks. 0800. Hoisted motor boat out. Crew returned to D/C motor boat.
should like to bring to notice the coolness calm and of Patty
Officer J. during the extremely difficult 2nd period June, Glso at boat
I Luckins in obeying my helm orders with when the was Dunkirk being on heavily 29th/30th May his coolness was also promptitude attacked. on Sunday, noticeable.
The enemy aircraft with the stripped Sunday, 2nd June. gun, was accurate shooting and calamess of A.B. Lewis Cole who hit very at praiseworthy least one during the air attack on
15.6 D/C.