TNA ADM 199 790

163
SCIMITAR REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
168
PAGE 2
*
The reasons for this collision and as report on the damage sustained have been more fully reported to Capatin (D) 16.
8. I arrived at Dunkirk at about 1300/31 and was ordered to go to Bray beaches. I spent this afternoon and evening in company with "Vivacious" and "Shikari" off Bray under intermittent bombardment and bombing during which no damage was sustained. During one bombing attack at sbout 1700(?) an aircraft was shot down; it is thought that this was from "Scimitar's" A
gun. I myself was watching A gun bursts, which appeared close to the target and at the moment the aircraft caught fire a burst from A gun appeared nearly in line. The aircraft fell in the sea and was obviously a total loss. During this period no troops were embarked as I had no boats and no other boats come near.
There seemed to be trouble in embarking due to choppy water.
9. At nightfall/31 the weather improved and troops were very quickly embarked, principally from the "skoot" "Hilda"
which was doing excellent work. I sailed at about 2300 with
500 troops, proceeding at 8 knots. During the passage numerous aircraft were heard but no attacks were made. A slight collision occurred with an unknown trawler, in which my port propellor guard was damaged. I arrived at Dover at about 0600/1 and after disembarking troops proceeded to oil. A further examination of the damage was made.
100 At 1000/1 I was ready and was orderedato proceer to Dunkirk again, but when near the North Goodwin L.V. I was ordered to return. At this time I had just sighted Prague in difficulties 80 I went to his assistance. Re asked me to take some of his troops 80 I went alongside while under way and embarked 500. I then stood by while he proceede through the Downs and at about 1530/1 I arrived at Dover and disembarked troops subsequently proceeding to a buoy.
11. At 0600/2 I proceeded to Sheerneas to disembark ammunition, thence to London for repairs by Messrs
Harland and Wolff. Repairs are expected to take 14 days.
12. "Soimitar" being short handed compared to other destroyers, all ratings had to work very hard and it was noteworthy that Engine room ratings not only steamed the ship with full also assisted on deak in embarkation etc. Nearly all seamen took efficiency and took their place at ammunition supply parties, but part as boat's crews at one time or another, using skill and determintion inxtrying conditions. The following are considered
Midshipman M.J.BALL R.N.R.,.for taking adminate charge with of the boats particularly worthy of mention or award.
in bombing etc. for & day ship absent.
A.B.
P/J
96339.
for taking charge of his gun's crew
G.PASMORE
well, and skill in shooting down an enemy
P/K 61614 aircraft For long and untiring it work as driver
Stoker in TYLER the motor and keeping running nearly continuously for 3 days.
I have the honour to be
Sir
The Vice Admiral your obedient servent
DOVER
Two copies to
Strants
The Captain (D)
16th D.F.
Lieutenant in Command
ADMIRAL
9-JUN 1940
DOVER

CONFIDENTIAL
Dyramo 140. 2535
269 2
6th June, 1040.
252
CONFIDENTIAL
Dynama,
FROM
shalls Comminding Officer
The Extended Defences Officer,
Hreating his ship unice
Sheerness.
DATE
7th June 1940.
MAIN For coolness
Insurancive energy and
SECRET
Drynams 13%
965
COMMANDING OFFICER,
DEFENCES OFFICER,
H.M.Y. GLALA.
ADMIRALTY SHEERNESS. HOUSE,
4th June, 1940.
Siro
I have the honour to report that having received orders, I
proceeded from Sheerness in conjunction with three other Yeahte:
at 1930 on Thursday 30th May, 1940.
Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North
Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable to contact the
Examination Tug the Yacht "ChristobellII", the senior ship ordered us to anchor.,
At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer I weighed that and he was closed to and entered Amulree" unable at Shortly the Dunkirk Tugo to before and proceed 'Roads' Having "Caleta" eleven owing received about and the to 11300 we French engine proceeded orders anchored No Coast trouble, from steamed by off was her route so the eighted along I beach delivered "X", the and 3 coast miles we tow then
East of about 1230, "Golden Bagle" to us to close She asked when us to this
WBC halers which were full 02 could be of assistance, but wo Dunkirk, signalled soldiers alongaide and she replied completed that she we was asked alright if we and that we could be of more use further alongo
Off "Venomous" called us up and alose informed to the us her motor La boat Panne had H.M.S. broken down inshore. transports, No went and having
49
piero We contacted As securing were allowed all 01 then she towing but ready which was went them alongside the now to nam was back way to boat go getting back constructed drift inshore. and to were took when we the to underway were informed it beach the filled. in we of beach left tow took Агщу and we completely that with At and and closed them this this returned abe anchored a as time single point had H.M.S. new close took three wird to with strand. our as "Vivacious" out the boats possible, steering and the on her destroyer. at intention It whaler. which that was and ropes ly moment impossible to Sclent continuously the bombing became repair and intense. it shelling without make A which Captain for the had RaNa open been in sea going Yacht and No.1 all the 05
the smaller Patrol power ordered lowed craft him outo

rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
-
Page
3
401
kships and transferred to H:M. 2020 proceeded in two tow
.M. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress, icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
B., 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go rnand her large turning circle.
ay, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships, sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S.
KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk bed tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without ct.
H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S.
rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107
ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being busly and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and of accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S.
KARI" any M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover ship had or already been observed, and it was now practically broad daypendently to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved no at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered in and, the vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having the sands faith
7 The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
he compass. North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, lay, 4th June.
At Dover.
esday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
B. 102.
eeded ined
B.
107
was ing a were engaged 11 and P
busly sep clear. After S"SHI
rieno received crew frooz compa vrem outside, thereafter takin We bloor of the second ttendeafter
A/S. IVACIOUS" and Averir Dover in oor
V wasriencedilty was experiesuvring awckag, hech heavy wrecksility to June.

CONFIDENTIAL
COMMANDING OFFICER,
H.M.Y. "AMULREE"
137.
Extended Defences
OMMANDING OFFICER,
173
Officer,
2nd June, 1940.
GLALA.
164
Sheerhess.
Dynamd 138 163
June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that
Ereing in all respects ready for sea and to engage the enemy we sailed fróm g received orders, I
Sheerness at 1930 30th May, 1940 and in three other Yachts proceeded to the Downs for orders. We anchored off North Goodwin Light Vessel at about 0030 31st May and received vicinity of the North to contact the routeing instructions at about 0530
when we proceeded by "X" route to La the senior ship
Panne arriving about 1200. On arrival we began to pick up and to tow out
Senior Officer that he pontoons containing soldiers from the ble, so I weighed and beach to various destroyers and merchant om her I delivered them ships.
by route "X".
At 1500 when making fast two
It was sighted and we pontoons in 2 fathoms the enemy began teamed along the coast shelling the beach and one shell burst off the beach 3 miles approximately 50 yards ahead distracting
She asked us to tow the attention of the leadsman and longside and when this causing the ship to ground. We reassistance, but she floated at 1700 and again got underway could be of more use under heavy gunfire. In all we towed out 11 pontoons up to 1900.
a us up and informed us
At this time we received a signal
We went close to the from Captain Howson R.N. (S.N.O.
ports, and having
Beaches) directing operation from No.
urned to the destroyer.
Yacht attached to Inner Hamble Patrol,
Lme took out her whaler.
to stand by him as his ship was making
H.M.S. "Vivacious" and water through the stern gland.
had three boats which close as possible, chored with the intention point our steering ropes
1 as single strand. It was t with ir it without completely new wire and at that shell and shelling which had been going on tense. hie intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the us to stored us to make for the open sea and all the
'ollowed t followed him out.
out 1
loated nder he of bombs 8'Q of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb fall
11
the only V, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few he opened fife opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy ier 17 *iy nier 17 we registered a direct hit with OUD Lewis gu engine fird engine buret into flames and he crashed into the ere also refere also firing I cannot claim this seroplane nomise iromised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
opened all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring to
17 we bortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged engine urst isur dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore also embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was ve continued over.

SECRET Дупашь COMMANDING 137.
EXTENDED ADMIRALITY DEFENCES HOUSE, OFFICER
OFFICER,
173
H.M.Y.
GLALA.
164
178.
SHEERNESS
4th June, 1940.
167
sir,
I have the honour to report that, having received orders, I
from Sheerness in conjunction th three other Yachts
Thursday 30th May, 1940.
Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North
Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable. to contact the
Examination to Tug anchor., the Yacht "ChristobelkII", the senior ship ordered us
At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer that he was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and e
closed the Tug. Having received orders from her I delivered them to "Amulree" and "Caleta" and we proceeded by, route "X".
Shortly before eleven the French Coast was sighted and we my d
entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast and at about 1230, "Golden Eagle" anchored off the beach 3 miles
East of Dunkirk, signalled to us to close. She asked us to tow d.
two whalers which were full of soldiers alongside and when this was completed we asked if we could be of assistance, but she replied that she was alright and that we could be of more use to further along.
he
Off La Panne H.M.S. "Venomous" called us up and informed us her motor boat had broken down inshore. We went close to the pier, which was constructed of Army transports, and having irk.
contacted the boat took it in tow and returned to the destroyer.
We then went back to the beach and this time took out her whaler.
grees
As she was now getting underway we closed H.M.S. "Vivacious" and st securing alongside were informed that she had three boats which to were to inshore. We took them as close as possible, he allowed ready them to go drift to the beach and anchored with the intention of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering It was ropes all but and we were left with a single strand. that impossible gave to way repair it without completely new wire and on at of and shelling which had been going see
Moment the bombing became intense. À Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 all the of the surf
Solent continuously Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and and that smaller power craft followed him out.
hat out men, d
art ut bombs fell across our stern the stern last down oomo a ralling few feet about in the 30 water. ft away, We the opened only fire on this aeroplane direct hit which with was OUD Lewis this time a salvo of effect was to drag our a heavy gun bomber type Dornier 17 we burst registered into flames a and he this crashed aeroplane into the sea, and as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim definitely. As I had promised to embark speed the hoping British to adrift troops find a which boat at Dunkirk we to magaged bring I them to steamed off, we were back at fortunate all possible in finding immediately a Whaler sent these two boats this ashore was very pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops I at approximately at 1750, continued over

- 2 -
39375
and troops owing owing to to the fact that the weather ship was conditions almost full, for small and boats, to 31/5
At the 1100, adverse I decided to discontinue embarking proceed to Dover.
and at 1120, "Olvina" was under way.
"Sabre's" motorboat was handed over to "Vivacious"
Vessel, the "Viking", a diesel engined Thames barge, with 70
When between Dunkirk and North Goodwin Light troops aboard, was taken in tow from "Dwarf" and brought into
Dover. Owing to delay outside the harbour, the troops were not disembarked until 2200.
"Olvina" was revictualled and berthed alongside
Prince of Wales Pier by 0100/1 June.
On proceeding to the office of Captain Auxiliary
Patrol, I was informed that "Olvina" should not have gone to
Dunkirk, but should have been on A/S patrol. Accordingly, at
0820/1 June, "Olvina" proceeded to a patrol station 17 miles
NNW of Dunkirk, which was reached at 1125. At 1500, 70
survivors from "Basilisk" came alongside in a French fishing boat, and at 1917 we went alongside "Whitehall" in Dover harbour and disembarked them.
"Olvina" was in harbour during 2nd and 3rd June, and on 4th June escorted "Bideford" to Portsmouth thout incident.
I have the honour to be
Sir,
Your obedient servant
Sub Lt. R.N.V.R.
-II-
No. 1594/07.
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
P.R.T.S.
VICE ADMIRAL.
Portland.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
18th June, 1940
VICE ADMIRAL
20 JUN 1940
*
DOVER

421
Note of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107.
31/V.
Left Felixstowe for Dover in company with 67 at
0500 arrived Dover a.m. Proceeded with 67, 1600, for Dunkirk and La Panne to bring off Lord Gort.
On passage shelled by battery near Gravelines -
shooting not very accurate. Met "KEITH" near Dunkirk
RAD?
with V.A.D. on board, about 1800. Received order to proceed to La Panne to ensure embarkation of naval
Ratings from shore. At La Panne recovered 3 ratings from sea. Considerable shellfire at La Panne, some being uncomfortably close. Continuous bombing of beaches. Returned to Dover arriving about 2000 -
again shelled by Gravelines Battery 4d insccurate in dusk.
I/VI.
Embarked Admiral Hallet proceeded 1100 to patrol transport line on Route from N. Goodwin L.V. to
Dunkirk. Relieved 1800 (approx.).
2/VI.
Proceeded with blocking expedition to Dunkirk leaving at approx. 1900. In tow of "VIVACIOUS" until 2230
when tow slipped and embarked Capt. Dangerfield.
Proceeded to Dunkirk - entered harbour and proceeded to Inner Harbour. Landed Capt. Dangerfield and secured alongside E. Pier. Much shelling and bombing.
Re-embarked Capt. Dangerfield and left harbour, thereafter searched for and found block-ships, giving them instructions. Followed block-ships in after all transports had left, at about 0330. Took off crew of 1st Hockship and transferred to "VIVACIOUS"
lying west of harbour. Returned to harbour and picked up remainder of crew of 2nd block-ship and transferred to "VIVACIOUS". Thereafter proceeded in company with "VIVACIOUS" to M.A.S.B. '07' to Dover.

ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
457
Page
2
429
ckships "VIVACIOUS". and transferred 2230 to "VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru om H. M. S. difficult by proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
H. S. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N. tow rendered which had spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on compass and never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured entered harbour cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress, land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. fter closing the block ships llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
Cornand her large turning circle.
nday, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships, ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S.
SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk lipped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship S.S. Gourko to follow her n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without ffect. H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S.
Gourko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance nd secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and mbarked part of her ship's company. NXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107
reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being was eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty of xperienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence M.T.B.
or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and
07. wreck of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search he "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of ack H.M.S. "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover
SHIKARI" of any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad dayight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and, ndependently wing at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the oodwins. a my I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
to regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands rthe compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, uesday, 4th June.
At Dover.
ednesday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
.T.B. 102.

Dynams so. O.D.
526
TO:
COMMANDER M/S.
N°6. 497
DATE: 6TH JUNE, 1940.
FROM: LIEUTENANT J.A. SIMSON R.N.V.R., H.M.S. "LORD GREY".
carried 29th/30th out May, 1940, at Dunkirk. under my command during the night of
I have by the the ships honour to report as follows on the operations for Dunkirk orders to report on arrival to Captain Tennant. at 1615
H.M.T's with "Lord Grey" and "Clythness" left Dover instead. signalled S. Foreland P.W.S.S. to use route "X" both we ways, were
Instructions from were to proceed by route "Y", but
We therefore proceeded by route "X" and arrived off
Dunkirk at 2300. The harbour was found on entering to be very congested as a number of drifters were manoeuvring in the fairway and it was decided to lay off the entrance until it was clear to proceed alongside the quay.
At 2330 we again entered the harbour and tied up alongside the Eastern Jetty. Sub. Lieutenant Heckstall-Smith (Clythness)
and myself went along the quay in an effort to ascertain the whereabouts of Captain Tennant, and the state of affairs inside the harbour. It was impossible to get far owing to the damaged condition of the jetty and we therefore returned.
Considerable air activity and continuous bombing was going on over the town, which was ablaze.
It was decided to keep the ships moored alongside in such a way that they could slip at a moment's notice, and to await dawn before going further in to the harbour.
A number of rifles and a Bren gun found on the quay were put aboard "Lord Grey".
At 0210 on the 30th May, cries for help were heard outside the harbour and both ships instantly left to investigate. It was found that H.M.S. "King Orry" had sunk on leaving the harbour.
Ships' boats were launched and "Lord Grey" rescued ten men,
"Clythness" four. "Lord Grey" transferred her survivors to H.M.S.
"Vivacious", and was ordered by the Commander to return to harbour, and if possible embark troops for transfer to his ship. "Clythness"
was signalled accordingly and both ships proceeded back to Dunkirk harbour, and as it was now light it was possible to reach the
Southern end of the quay.
On arrival 0410 - I reported to S.N.O - Captain Tennant was not then available - and was ordered to embark troops for transfer to a destroyer and then to carry out "LL" sweep in a
N. Easterly direction from the harbour.
Troops were accordingly embarked - "Clythness" 300 (approx)
"Lord Grey" 350 - and were transferred at 0515 to the destroyer
"Whitehall".
"Clythness" signalled that her dynamo In was these not working circumstances and her a signal was passed to S.N.O. and
At 0605 D/G gear was consequently useless. fresh orders requested.
(Contd. over).

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkirs approximately by shortest
Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Candr. Dennis Canalet. staff of
Cleared ORRY. Fouled perews on submerged up 11
from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked S.O.N.T.B's, survisors
0300. from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine Thursday, towed in 30th, and started.
accepted screws. tow Engines wouldwetart. 0200, wreekage.
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. 0100. Completed bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunision
Engines most unsatisfactory
Tel. Hii. 3211 306 Broan Rill Road 7
Calford, 571
X
12-6-40
London S.E.G.
Dear Sity Herewite a rough report of part them by "ot Fagur in evacuating time of Dunkish not much I'm afraid but you will note that had did bring back the Company
1- think this is what in callul for by
C.P.G.O. 1700 Could you please have + typet and made to look presentable
EXCELLENT
your
JUN 1940
NHALE IRLAND
It. Ch.

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
6
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. (Commander Low water Dunkirk approximately by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff of
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
Engines most ungeti
H. M.S. EXCELLENT 608
PORTSMOUTH
12-6-40572
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
have the know to render the following report, in accurdance with Confidential Portsmouth General Order ho.1700, of first taken by H.h. Tug "SiFagan" in evacuation of BEF.
0708 (APPROX) FRIDAY "MAY - Orders received from P.A. Donn to take from Dunkish.
three Thomes Saiting Barges in togo and proceed a to Duratish stretch of heach east of Sunkirk where Barges were to he beached to act as embarRation Pontouns for BEF.
Two suffied these Darges undere filted with ausectling engines.
taking they in low.
instructed to proceed actside Harbuur to facilitate
I them them with necessary towing Rawson and this
0830 (APPROX.) the 1 Procuded outside hurhum and took Banges in third tow length of tow from how of stragan" to stery to the Bange being approve 200 fathous, 1 Rausess of Rad
1000 Sands. an Processed speed with tow vip channel through Gooduria not (APRROX) strong secured enough to for masts towing of Banges as other fittings were
1115 channel opprose. by as (APPROX.) tar Destroyers at Rad average arrived to. and to 12 be W then at Bary nursed "w" vissels of Bury as 5 constantly Kurts instructed passing and mg Course at through a Could high was 4 speed. the set made wash to good enter caused the some the essential, marks mumeries mish Hrikension after High that dark, sandbanks faccepted Water sheed draught was Junkiok an felt north it of of was en ship of not this being date affreace. was distance and that at the 14feet, 2105 on of luck 7₫ one and meles but of of
300 directive owing (APPROX) to turnerds - amind Dumkish in was Channel reduced / could and recognised, on proceeded nearing proced in the an at stad Easterly was defficulty of avoiding the memoran only whichs slow with sheed the

CONFIDENCIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
$
H.M. D/C motor OPERATIONAL boat under DYNAMO.
Wednesday, possible route 29th over May, shallow 1940. At 2100 my sailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkir's approximately by shortest
Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Commar. Casalet. staff of from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked Dennis 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
Cleared screws. ORRY. Fouled porews on submerged up accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, weekage. 30th,
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed In and started.
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots the to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat of Flag Officer, Dover for
Engines most
609
lay withs tow were and fould the in numerous the 2 darkness Jush on having three in occasions, the Channel, and 573
the must of third lighter was camisdaway.
30 Saturday "June- Harbour alroam, further Cantine Rad to be exercised as no chart uses mailable for Channel East of Dunkink, direction being obtained by haiting following passing Vessels.
(affrom) Received
0230 (approse.) 1 my Coeswain Petty officer BASTABLE- volunteered to take the shiff ashare, taking ABLE SEAMAN NEALE, to this I shiff was lumored and sent in.
investigate suitable hosition for hearting the Banges, and
0300 Capture.) - Received signal from Beach requesting boat to take off British Soldiers, and decided to heart the &
Barger using one with awaithing enginer to fatch of the to Lightermen and as many troops as we Could camey and small engines- - the Lighterman to return in own on finally its own beach third tighter Barge by sending it in was Thingly my estimated position at this time
3 mids East of Dunkish.
Banges to the were Lightermen. hanled claim to shih and instructions given
0340 without (apparme) - Barger slipped, and am with took the are bow engain in - heard tow and went a head engines to hass rund
1355 (approse.) sunk I with Aircraft in a By very ese plasion short and hund, occurred / found and the myself ship callupsed in the water and mg one of which my and Telegraph near the two
P.H& was and suring the sinday slowly, Barge 1 these out were reached Barges with contacted my Criswain in the skiff Rad adrift landed officer sent a party two of British Trans whose and
Corporals with him Quanding to organing

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
8
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived Dunkirk at Dover Deme possible least depth over shallow minefield. Low water by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Commdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
0100, over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, approximately staff of
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled porews on suimerged wreokage.
Cleared screws. Engines Wouldwetart. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towad In and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. ohoo. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
574610 610
Engines most thin disposition and 3 to me guide that the he Banges. had amroal occumed, appose. also of Operamin later informed the ship when the explosion and that that bout eschlosion affeared to 8° drawn the Funnel of shih.
venty yards from was Caused by a bouth from aircraft, He then of woulded the twenty. officir and Ships Company, two officis and to pick up survivors, the ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown Boats:
and an stoker were wounded.
In addition to the seventeen maral ratings lat them was one initian who had Come on board from one of the Barges.
a complete list of survivors and ratings lost, including this when together with the two Antorals, were later friked hh
Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste by I & passing hig filled with troops and landed at Ramsgutes
Bastable Consider the murked zeal and initiating of Patty officer worthy of special commundation
I have the hunnur * h your Obedint Servant il Coptain
H.m.S Emallent
Luit. Canth
Portsmonth

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
H.M. D/C motor boat under
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
8
Wednesday, possible route 29th May, 1940. At 2100 my sailed command arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over over shallow minefield. Low for Dunkirk by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, mines 6 feet. (Commander water approximately
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dover and Dunkirk. Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff or from Cleared H.M.S. screws. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged Picked up 11 survisors accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. in Completed and started.
Proceeded H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed 30th, reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low bombing casualties. attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, level defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunsire
Engines most unsatisfactory.
LD
574 610
thin disposition and 3 to guide the Banges.
of Occarin later informed me that he had amount approve.
venty yards from the ship when the exchlosion occurred. also that escplosion was Caused by a bouth from aircraft and that the brub affeared to 80 down the Funnel of shih. He then worlded to pick up survivors, of the twenty-f officis and Ships Company, two offices and bese ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown and are stoker were wounded.
In initian addition to the seventeen maral ratings last them was one a who had Come on board from one of the Banges.
whom, together with the two Cartorals, were later fried hh
Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste complete list of surverois and ratings lost, including this by & passing tig filled with troops and landed at Ramsynts
Bastable worthy of special commundation
I Consider the musked zeal and initiation of Patty officer
I have the honour * &
your Obedint Servant
The Captain
Luit. Cand ces
H.m.S Emallent
Portsmouth

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Page 1 of
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
H.M. D/C motor boat under my command arrived at Dover p.m.
Wednesday, 29th May, 1940. At 2100 sailed for Dunkirk by shortest over shallow minefield. Low water approximately over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th, accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
CONFIDENTIAL.
575
Subject.
OPERATIONS OFF THE BELGIAN COAST.
From.
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
Date.
14th June, 1940.
as
To
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
a
In accordance with C.P.G.O. 1700, the report on operation DYNAMO is forwarded.
)
lle)
Lieutenant in Command.
ted utes ans ficer from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 lifeboats survivors spoke tow.
(hospital ship). Picked up wounded and took men in from wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow.
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to
(Continued.
)
psh.

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m.
possible 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 Low water Dunkirk by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, feet. (Commander approximately
Cleared screws. Fouled screws on submerged from Dover H.M.S. KING ORRY. Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors on board). 2300 Dover and Lieut. Crundr. Dennis Casalet, staff of accepted Proceeded to H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in 30th, and started.
tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle assumed command of 40 ft.
ships fast motor boat and manned it with:-
Petty Officer John Luckins. P/J 103170, coxswain of the D/C
motor boat (as coxswain).
A.B. Alfred J. Cole P/JX 129800 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT) (as Lewis
Gunner).
and Stoker W.M. Wells R.F.R. P/85.125744 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT).
These men all volunteered to accompany Lieutenant
Hamilton Meikle, and it was with difficulty that he could persuade them that orders were necessary before proceeding immediately to
Dunkirk. The boat was capable of 20 knots and one stripped Lewis gun was transferred to her from H.M. D/C(boat, MORE the other gun being in Lieutenant Mead's lifeboat.
Saturday, 1st June.
40 ft. motor boat assisted M.T.B. 107 (Commodore Hallet)
in regulating rescue traffic to and from Dunkirk.
Sunday, 2nd June.
motor boat escorted M.A.S.B. Continued 10 (Admiral towards Somerville)
but 40 ft. due to discrepancy in speed. 1900.
Dunkirk to see aircraft attacking hospital approximately 12
lost touch if boat was required for any purpose. ship. Proceeded Sighted formation of enemy 1910 Air attack. Duration All petrol minutes. cans
87215 to assistance. dive-bombing and machine günning. Between spare 30-40 M/G
pierced and near 1930. Took offices
JU 97's and miss bomb strained boat. off Captain and some from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 survivors tow.
bullet holes, no (hospital casualties. ship). Picked lifeboats up wounded and took men in from wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow. spoke
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to
(Continued