TNA ADM 199 792

APPENDIX I.
160
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
Narrative of Events.
162
-
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
A.A. CRUISER:
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS:
ANTHONY
HARVESTER
MALCOLM
VIVACIOUS
BASILISK
HAVANT
MONTROSE
WAKEFUL
BLYSKAWICA
ICARUS
SABRE
WHITEHALL
CODRINGTON
IMPULSIVE
SALADIN
WHITSHED
ESK
INTREPID
SCIMITAR
WINCHELSEA
EXPRESS
IVANHOE
SHIKARI
WINDSOR
GALLANT
JAGUAR
VENOMOUS
WOLFHOUND
GRAFTON
JAVELIN
VANQUISHER
WOLSEY
GRENADE
KEITH
VERITY
WORCESTER
GREYHOUND
MACKAY
VIMY
(40)
SLOOPS:
BIDEFORD
GUNBOATS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
UNESWEEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
EL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGO
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH WESTWARD HO
A/S VESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SANGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
re
SPECIAL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
ROYAL EAGLE
ESSELS:
"LL" TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
it
A/S TRAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
ore
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WESTELLA
an
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
ue
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
all
INE RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
SILVER DAWN
RIFTERS:
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

164
163
APPENDIX I.
Page 2
of and final.
181
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
FLARE BURNING
BOY ROY
GOLDEN GIFT
PAXTON
DRIFTER:
EILEEN EMMA
GOLDEN SUNBEAM
SHIPMATES
FORECAST
LORD HOWARD
THE BOYS
GERVAIS RENTOUL
LORD HOWE
TORBAY II
GIRL GLADYS
MIDAS
UT PROSIM
GIRL PAMELA
NETSUKIS
YORKSHIRE LASS
YOUNG MUN
GUARDSHIPS AND
LORMONT
MONA'S ISLA
KING ORRY
A.B.V's:
LLANTHONY
CORVETTES:
KINGFISHER
G
ILLEMOT
F.A.A.
AIR FORCE
GRIEVE
AMULREE
TRAINING VESSEL:
M.T.B's:
16
M.A.S.B's:
6
67
7
68
10
100
102
107
PERSONNEL SHIPS:
ARCHANGEL
LOCH GARRY
PRINCESS MAUD
AUTOCARRIER
LORINA
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
BEN MY CHREE
HAID OF ORLEANS
ROUEN
BIARRITZ
MALINES
ROYAL DAFFODIL
CANTERBURY
MANX MAID
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
COTE D'ARGENT
MANX- MAN
SCOTIA
FENELLA
MONA'S QUEEN
ST. HELIER
KILLARNEY
NEWHAVEN
ST. SEIRIOL
KING GEORGE V
NORMANIA
TYNWALD
LADY OF MAN
PRAGUE
OSPITAL CARRIERS: DINARD
ISLE OF GUERNSEY ST. ANDREW
ISLE OF THANET ST DAVID
PARIS
ST JULIAN
WORTHING
OTE:
In addition, some 23 of H.M. Trawlers, Drifters and
Yachts of the Nore Command assisted by taking one or more tows of boats to the coast.

166
164
2
APPENDIX III
TO
OPERATION "DYNAMO".
MONA'S ISLD LA. (A.B.V.) 17500
DAILY LIST OF DISEMBARKATION IN U.K. PORTS.
+
Notes:
(i) The numbers shown against each vessel d
are often approximate only.
(ii) This list is not necessarily complete as a number of vessels did not record their totals.
BYSTANDER TE/S Yacht) 74
is m S 3
ry
3
M4
1
be ast ppp it or
REIGN VESSELS
SHEAOHISMI HO
DESTROYERS
a u
ic
8
1

APPENDIX
to
1st June
Page 7
Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events.
DESTROYERS
PERSONNEL SHIPS
MINESWEEPERS
PADDLE MINESWEEPERS
SKOOTS
FRENCH DESTROYERS
VANQUISHER (I)
640
ST. HELIER
659
GOSSAMER
845
QUEEN OF THANET 850
DEMOK
114
FLORE
351
HAVANT
882
LADY OF MANN
870
NIGER
310
SANDOWN
800
ORANJE
100
BOUCLIER
300
WHITEHALL (I)
871
MAID OF ORLEANS 1856
FITZROY
67
ORIOLE
470
HEBE
365
SCIMITAR (I)
584
TYNWALD
2000
LYDD
252
PRINCESS ELIZABETH 510
AEGIR
130
WOLSEY
533
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
47
LEDA
650
MEDWAY QUEEN
700
ANTJE
150
MALCOLM
1200
KING GEORGE V
700
DUCHESS OF
WESTWARD HO
918
PACIFICO
414
WORCESTER (I)
661
BEN-MY-CHREE
2080
FIFE
535
WIPPINGHAM
2500
AMAZONE
111
WINDSOR
493
ST. HELIER
1250
HALCYON
243
QUEEN OF THANET 1500
HILDA
530
VIVACIOUS
427
ROUEN
800
SALAMANDER
479
WESTWARD Ho
900
RIKA
200
Total 58,4
VANQUISHER (II)
1200
COTE D'ARGENT 1000
SPEEDWELL
972
FRISO
648
HARVESTER
576
SALTASH
400
ICARUS
1114
QUEEN OF THE
ROSS
260
CODRINGTON
746
CHANNEL
52
DUNDALK
280
SABRE
451
HALCYON
508
SHIKARI
623
SALTASH
400
DRIFTERS
MISCELLANEOUS
453
HOSPITAL SHIPS
FOREIGN VESSELS
WINCHELSEA
1150
SUTTON
SCIMITAR (II)
376
KELLETT
40
Miscellaneous 1110
FOREMOST
200
ESK (I)
979
WESTWARD Ho
900
ST. ANDREW 130
INCENIEUR CACHIN
1
GOLDEN GIFT
123
VINCIA
108
PATRIE
WHITEHALL
(II)
34
157
GRIEVE (F.A.A.
GASTON RIVER
120
WORCESTER
(II)
900
OCEAN BREEZE
TRAWLERS
Trg. vessel)
374
MISCELLANEOUS (Cont.)
MONIQUE CAMILLE
302
JACKETA
564.
MOSQUITO (Gunboat) 610
REINE DE FLOTS
62
LORD INCHCAPE 240
LOCUST
"
620
LADY
ANDRE LOUIS
317
17.97
SATURN
307
NEPHRITE
500
SOUTHBORO
350
CHALUTIER
100
D. TRAWLER
100
ESKBURNE
27
RAPID
25
CHASSEUR MARIE
117
GRIEVE (Yacht)
411
MAYSPEAR
15
NORMANVILLE
500
647
UNNAMED M.B.
23
TENIAS
100
ONDERS ONS
95
II's CHANNEL
108
GALLEON
FRANSAH
500
KINGFISHER (A/S Exp.
REACH
123
Ship) (I)
180
HOPPER 24
580
KINGFISHER
-do-
(II)210
LLANTHONY
90
IOLANTHE
35
(ex serv.vessel)
10593
173171
THREE KINGS
59
GOLDEN EAGLE
KINGSGATE
910
(sp.serv.) 1250
CHRISTOBEL II
33
ROYAL EAGLE
10503
OLIVIA
103
(AA Ships)1250
ATHOLA
6
ROEBUCK (Coastal steamer)408
Lifeboat
35
MINWOOD
=
51
509
MONA'S ISLE
(A.B.V.)
1500
FL
TB
S
3
e
S
d it

CONFIDENTIAL.
APPENDIX. VI.
179
to
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
177
5
Enemy aircraft destroyed by ships' fire.
Ship.
Locality.
Time.
Polish T.B.D. BLYSKAWICA
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
0315/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
1130/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. WOLFHOUND
1140/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.P.M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
1500/27
North Goodwin.
HcM.Sc MONTROSE
Dawn/28
Near Kwinte Buoy.
M.T.B. 16
1500/28
Bray.
1530/28
H.M.S. SABRE and other ships
Dunkirk Harbour.
1630/29
H.M.S. BIDEFORD
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. EXPRESS
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. MOSQUITO
Bray.
1900/29
S.S. LEVENWOOD (Store ship}
Bray.
S.S. LEVENWOOD ( - do
1210/31
Bray.
1220/31
H.M. Skoot AMAZONE
Dunkirk Roads.
1440/31
H.M.S. HEBE
La Panne.
1700/31
af
H.M.S. SCIMITAR and other ships
Bray.
1700/31
S.S. LADY OF MAN (Trassport) Dunkirk Roads.
1700/31
nd
H.M.Y. ARONIA
La Panne.
1830/31
H.M.S. WHITSHED
Dunkirk Roads.
1930/31
H.M.S. SALTASH
Bray.
2000/31
S.S. NEPHRITE (Store ship)
On Route X.
2030/31
H.M.Y. GRIVE
Dunkirk Roads.
2030/31
H.M.Y. ARONIA
Dunkirk Harbour.
0500/1
H.M.S. IVANHOE
La Panne.
0530/1
is
H.M.S. LYDD
Bray.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER
Dunkirk Harbour.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER and other ships
Dunkirk Roads.
0610/1
H.M.Ships CODRINGTON,
3
HARVESTER and others
Off Gravelines.
0750/1
S
H.M.S. SKIPJACK
La Panne.
0900/1
H.M.S. MALLARD
On Route X.
1015/1
H.M.S. CALCUTTA
Between W and Y Buoys.
1020/1
H.M.P. M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
West of Dunkirk.
1600/1
H.M.Y. ALOUETTE
Off Gravelines.
1700/1
H.M.Y. CRISTOBEL II and other ships
La Panne.
1730/1.
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Dunkirk Roads.
2000/1
TOTAL: 35 enemy aircraft definitely destroyed by ships'
gun fire between 0300/27 and 2000/1.
ery
In addition over the same period 21 others were heavily damaged by ships' fire (and seen in distress but
NOT seen to crash definitely) of H.M. Ships HARVESTI
IVANHOE, VIVACIOUS, WINCHELSEA, WOLFHOUND, SABRE,
LOCUST, FITZROY, LYDD, MALLARD, MOSQUITO, WOLSEY,
EXPRESS, JAGUAR, GLEN AVON, ORIOLE, H.N.Y. ARONIA, as
Storeship NEPHRITE and French M.T.B.24.
)p]
Note: On 30th May flying conditions were bad and few enemy aircraft operated. After the 1st June operations proceeded only between dusk and day.
i

FROM
ASSISTANT SECRETARY TO FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING
DOVER.
179
DATE
21st JUNE, 1940.
No. A14/0/40.
181
TO
HEAD OF MILITARY BRANCH, ADMIRALTY.
In reply to your communication dated 20th June,
I have to inform you that the original stencils on
Operation "Dynamo" will be taken to the Admiralty by
Miss Livesay, who is at present loaned to Dover from the
Central Copying Branch, on completion of the typing of the various reports.
Na Loarn
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
to VICE ADMIRAL.

M.011883/40.
180
5
DRAFT I.
182
All Flag Officers.
I am to forward herewith for your information a copy of the report of the V.A. DOVER on operation
"Dynamo" (Evacuation of the B.E.F.)
This report and in particular those sections dealing with the inter-service co-operation are under consideration between the Admiralty, War Office and
Air Ministry. Their Lordships desire to place you in full possession of the facts concerning this operation and have not omitted those sections of the report in which criticisms of other Services are stated or implied. Their Lordships are of the opinion that a great deal of valuable work which was vital to af the success of the operation was being carried out in areas not under the immediate observation of the C.Os. of
H.M. Ships and Naval Authorities concerned. Consequently nd the reports may in some cases necessarily be based on incomplete knowledge of the whole situation and of the
R.A.F. operations which were proceeding concurrently with the evacuation.
BY COMMAND OF THEIR LORDSHIPS.
is
3
S
r.
e is
>p
11

.011883/40.
DRAFT II.
181
Air Ministry.
War Office.
183
I am commanded by My Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to acquaint you, for the information of the
(Army Council that Their Lordships are now in possession
(Air Council of the complete reports of the V.A. DOVER and other Naval
Authorities concerned in the operation of the evacuation of the B.E.F. from FRANCE.
Their Lordships consider that these reports, together with any parallel documents in the possession of the (Army Council are of sufficient importance to
(Air Council merit full analysis by a committee of the three Services with the object of making recommendations regarding interservice co-operation in combined operations.
Their Lordships propose that, if the (Army Council i
(Air Council agree, the Committee should be composed of three officers, one from each Service, of the rank or equivalent rank of
3
Captain R.N., and that the work should be carried out at
S
the I.D.C.
I am, therefore, to request your early remarks on this proposal and, if possible, the name of the officer selected.
I am, etc.
r
3
ii

Duplicate list details, tempy., for use in nowhested M.S. In in hape
Now.
4.10.40
Notid.
Cadanel
Dosp.
12.X.40
Nsted
D.of N. 14.10.40.

140
CONFIDENTIAL.
183
THONE
FROM
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER.
185
DATE
5th September 1940.
NO. B22/1349/40.
TO
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY
SHIPS LOST DURING OPERATION DYNAMO
TARY BRANCH
7-SEP 1940
Be pleased to lay before the Board, as shown in the accompanying schedule, reports of losses of H.M. Ships which
DMIRALT
occurred during Operation Dynamo.
2.-
All reports of recommendations of personnel have been extracted and dealt with on other papers.
B. Mamay
VICE ADMIRAL.

185
SECRET.
187
R.N. BARRACKS,
DEVONPORT,
2nd June 1940.
BASILISK
Sir,
I regret to have to report the loss ofcH.M.S.
"BASILISK" by enemy action at 1213 1st June 1940 off the Belgian coast. The circumstances are as follows.
2.
At about 0815 while embarking British troops off
A/C
LAPANNE I was attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKERS
dive bombers. They=approached from astern and on sighting I went full speed ahead (3 boilers connected) and as the bombs were released turned hard to port. As far as I could judge each aircraft released a pattern of five bombs one being a large "B" type and four smaller bombs with slight delay action. One of the latter exploded at the after end of No.3 boiler room on the port side and piereed blew away the bulkhead, piercing both main and auxiliary steam lines and main oil fuel supply. All engine room and boiler room personnel were killed. About six of the "B" type bombs then exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and shell room and probably the gland compartments and store rooms just forward of this position. The upper deck and sides of the ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the mainmast. This is a general line. of weakness in destroyers.
JUNEI
3.
In order to preserve stability the torpedoes and depth charges were jettisoned and the ship floated comfortably with little increase in draught. I inspected engine room and No.3
boiler room and found that a small amount of water was making its way through shrapnel holes. These were plugged and collision mat placed over the worst leaks. It was found impossible to get steam to the engines and the ship thereafter remained immobile.
4.
Efforts were now made to send out messages for assistance. A tug who had been attending on H.M.S. "KEITH" passed me a signal telling me to sink KEITH to which I replied that I
was out of action and required immediate assistance. I also requested him to inform The Flag Officer Commanding, Dover to this effect. Tug then disappeared. Signals for assistance were also made by W/T using type 4 H with battery power. It is doubtful whether any of these messages were received owing to very heavy traffic at the time and comparative weakness of my signals.
5.
A Belgian fishing smack under French colours was seen in the distance and the motor boat was despatched to summon her to our assistance. She was LE JOLIE MASCOTTE of CAEN and after some efforts a tow was passed and corse set to open from the coast
This had hardly been accomplished before a second attack devellopp at about 0945. This consisted of level bombing from about 000ft each bomber acting independently. About half a squadron of 18
carried out the attack. Considering the ship was & stationary target and there was little wind these attacks were poorly carri out and no bombs hit. This may have been due to pom pom fire of which Mr FRANCIS Gunner (T) was in charge. Unfortunately this gallant officer was killed at his post by machine gun bullets whic were fired continuously as the bombers passed overhead.

SECRET.
Bage 2.
186
188
June
6.
A second attempt was now made to tow the ship clear but little progress had been made before a third attack noon developped at about noon, carried out by a squadron of HENSCHEL?
dive bombers. By this time nearly all ammunition was expended and the 4.7" guns were firing S.A.P. in the hope of keeping the enemy at a distance. The Germans, however, made a determined diving attack which was well pressed home to about 400 feet.
The ship was completely smothered by hits and near misses some of which were of the "B" bomb type. The ship immediately began to settle and I gave the order to abandon ship. Thanks to the adequate preparations made by my First Lieutenant, Lieutenant-
Commander W.G.BOAKS, R.N., there were plenty of boats and carley floats ready for survivors. After collecting all stray swimmers the boats and floats pulled out to sea. LE JOLIE MASCOTTE
picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings and H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" 2
officers and 52 ratings. One whaler and the motor boat had proceeded too far over the shoals which run parallel to the coast for H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" to pick them up.
noon
Sunk
7.
H.M.S. 'BASILISK" sank in about 4 fathoms of water in approximate position with her upper deck awash. Although the Asdic and V.C.-V.F.
gear and all important documents had been destroyed I was anxious to complete the destruction of the vessel. Accordingly
I requested the Captain of H.M.S. "WHITEHALL" to fire guns and torpedoes. This was done and the ship was left on fire forward.
It is not certain whether any of the torpedoes hit and I
consider further destruction advisable. I intimated this in a signal timed 2036/1 to the Flag Officer Commanding Dover despatched as a secret hand message.
8.
When the ship was rendered immobile after the first attack I ordered the destruction of all Signal
Publications except the Fleet Signal Book bridge copy, Syko machine and current naval Syko card. This was done by Sub-
Lieutenant W.H.ELLIS, R.N. who burnt them in the two galleys.
All Confidential Books prefixed '0' were dumped overboard in a weighted sack except those out on loan to officers as these could not be got at due to damage aft. The Asdic gear in the cabinet and on the bridge was dismantled where possible and thrown overboard and the remainder smashed. The oscillator was removed and brought on the upper deck amidships as the final attack developped. It is not known for certain whether the oscillator slid overboard when the ship sank. V.C.-V.F. lanterns were unshipped and thrown overboard.
9.
The following books and documents were left on the bridge: C.B. 1618 Q and certain charge documents in the
Captain's springback and the Fleet Signal Book. The bridge was burning fiercely when last seen and it can be confidently stated that these documents and papers were destroyed.
10.
I would like to emphasise that the older destroyers with pom poms using belted ammunition and 4.7" guns with only 30 degrees elevation are no match for a determined air attack. OurcLewis guns had also been recently surrendered.
When ships of this type are operating within range of enemy air attack losses must be expected unless adequate fighter protection is afforded. In all the enemy launched four big air attacks at about hourly intervals during the forenoon of the 1st June. The first, second and fourth of these were unopposed apparently unopposed by any British Aircraft

187
SECRET.
Page 3.
189
apparently unopposed by any British Aircraft. On the third occasion an intense air battle could be heard in progress above the clouds and no effective bombing took place. I would also like to state that from my observation the enemy aircraft even when opposedcwere always more numerous than our own and in the subsequent air battles our fighters although outnumbered fought most courageously and effectively but generally lost more planes than the enemy. From our point of view the B.B.C.
Bulletins describing the air actions off Dunkirk entirely misrepresent the true situation.
11.
The courage and behaviour of my officers and men was a great inspiration to me during the four hours while the ship drifted without help under the threat of destruction.
Their cheerfulness and efficiency under these trying conditions was extraordinary. That so few were lost was almost miraculous but may be put down to some extent to the trained courage of the ship's company who fought their guns where possible and took cover when they could not otherwise be of use. It is most difficult where all conducted themselves valiantly to choose those specially conspicuous for their behaviour, but these I
append a list of those specially worthy of mention.
12.
The following Appendices are attached:-
Appendix I:-
Verbatim statement by various officers and ratings
Appendix II:-
List of known survivors and known killed.
Appendix III-
List of officers and men specially mentioned.
Appendix IV:-
Copy of preliminary report sent to the Flag
Officer Commanding Dover.
I have the honour to be,
Sir, your obedient servant,
Whachmond
The Commander in Chief,
Commander,
Western Approaches,
Royal Navy.
Copies to:- The Flag Officer Commanding, Dover.
Captain (D), 19th Destroyer Flotilla.
Captain (D), Plymouth.
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF
3-JUN1940
*
*
WESTERN APPROACHIES

SECRET
181
II.
No. M. 595/199.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER. (Copies to:-
Forwarded for necessary action,
2. With reference to paragraph 12, Appendix IV
has not yet been received.
Commander 3. W. G. Boaks, R.N., the First Lieutenant the
A report dated 4th June, 1940, from Lieutenant of
---
ship, is also attached.
ADMIRAL
COMMANDER-IN-CHIER
Plymouth. 6th June, 1940.
VICE ADMIRAL
- JUN 1940
#
*
DOVER

2nd June. 1940.
APPENDIX I.
188
Inquiry into the loss of H.M.S. Basilisk.
1. P.O. Tel Covington
190
Syko Machine and operating signals left in office.
All W/T books burnt including Syko cards burnt except Naval Syko 1st June.W/T sets not wrecked.
Several BR's burnt.
Communications.
Immediately after lights failed, connected up
4H to 51 ariel from Whalers davits to masthead.
Endeavoured to get into communication with Dover forces and W/T.Set appeared to be working efficiently.
Appeared to be to much traffic in air my signals Jammed.
Very Good reception. Found by still remaining of main aeriel; disconnected it from all other legs and then ran lead from aeriel connection inside office to the 4H.
Retune set and again tried to get Dover forces and
Dover W/T. Reception throughout good until time of abbndoning ship. Finding power to 4H not sufficiert connected up 100 To receiving battery in series making
220V but gunfire from ship kept loosening contacts.
Signals appeared to be going out alright.
Firstv message sent out in Nyko " Have been hit"
broadcasting at regular intervals.
2nd. attack made "Help Bray" several times.
Last signal made "Send tuge require immediate assistance offBray 17 ( in Nyko ). Possible non reception was probable due to loss of powerin lead and jamming due to heavy traffic ( Dover W/T., Trawlers on R/T and ships in vicinity all broadcasting ).
Had 1t been possible to get 51 working could have got signal through. Heavy fumes in office after 3rd. hombing could not get at Syko machine and operating signals.
2.C.E.R.A. Nestlake.
Went into Engine Room as soon as steam had cleared, opened all boiler Safety Valves. Found both
C.E.R.A's Griffiths and Sto. Futt in front of the throttle killed. Platform generally wrecked, particularly Port side, Bulkhead to after BR. blown away ( from B.R. into E.R. ). Main and Auxillary Steem lines pierced ( Port side ) Shut off Bulkhead Valves.
Plugged water pouring in through rivet holes. Shut off remainder of Auxillary Sea Cocks, 1.0. stopped all leaks.
3. Cheif Stoker Ricketts.
Forward supply party. Went down after B.R.
after steam cleared.
Found 011 pump of port after fan and steam pipes port side blown away.
Found 1 Stoker hanging on ladder (Sto. Manion )
1 P.O.in bilges
(Sto. P.O. Lowry)
2 in front of boilers, all killed
( P.O. Mahoney & Wormold)

Page 2.
(Cheif Sto. Ricketts continued )
BASILISK
189
After boiler Port side completely wrecked.
Shut off oil supply coming out of main line, shut off after strainer; main oil line carried away.
All emergency valves shut off and S.V's opened.
191
4. P.O. Cast.
All lights in ship out after 1st. Salvo.
went down to L.P. room to make sure battery was still on. Vent aft and found dynamos out of action. Sent hand to switch on Oldham lamps previously placed tall in place and all worked)
Joined up with party under Gunnor(1) and jettisoned torpedoes and depth charges (Torpedoes fired with air levers forward
Scuttling charges placed on foremost end of
E.R. bulkhead Starboard side against ships side under
Water Level, consisted of 11 1b T.N.T. 2 primers and
2 detonators, Bickford fuse. These were not fired in the end.
5.P.O. Robinson.
Q.Where were you stationed during 1st air attack?
A.With "A" gun.
Q.When did you 80 to Pom-Pom?
A.When you called for volunteers (after Capt. went)
Q.What was ultimate reason why Pom-Pom would not fire?
A.Crdinary cartridge Jam which took 3 mins. to clear,
Q.D1U you remain at Pom-Poms after I left?
A.No I went up to "A" gunn.
Q.Who stayed behind.
A.L/Sea. Peperell.
6. Yeo. Bunkin.
All S.P's put in weighted bag and given to
S.O. for destruction.
F.S.B. left on bridge on orders of Captain
All Signal logs left on bridge ( Including A, AZ,QZ, etc. all in wh relhouse )
V.C. V.F. lanterns taken down and thrown overboard.
Selector boxes left intact.
Communications;-
(a) Called AAA-P in direction of tug and Salamander when realized it was Salamander called with her pendants
She was facing towards Basilisk but did not answer.
Called for about 20 mins. with Aldis. Tug called
Basilisk and made "Go and destroy Keith" Basilisk made "Q" and made AAA-P. Tug still made 111 Basilisk made "Q". Could see he would not read Basilisk, so decided to read his message:-
" Proceed and sink Keith by gunfire by firing at
Water Level and destroy Asdic cabinet D.19, standing by to watch you sink her. Sorry to trouble you."
Made following signal.
Bas. I am out of action.
Tug. Sink her with torpedoes.
Bas. I have jettisoned torpedoes.
Tug. Sink her by depth charges.
Bas. I have no depth charges, I am out of action, require inmediate assistance and tug.
Tug,gave "R"

190
About 15 to 20 minutes called up tug and made
192
" Pase following information to V.A.Dover, Basilisk out of action require immediate assistance and tug'
Tug made "R" After that another high bombing raid and tug was not seen again.
Fired two white rockets.
L/Sea. helan.
Q.Where were you in first attack?.
A.In charge of Fore Supply on H.D.
8. hat happened there?
A.No trouble in supply except lights out and torches.
:- hat about Oldham lamps?
A.Mag. crew said they were out of action.
Q.What did you do after that?
A. Continued fore supply until going forward to assist in getting out tow. Supply parties continued fusing and supplying shells to guns. H.E. shells expended
S.A.P. suplied. Last we did untilorder order given to destroy Asdic gear.
Do Then what did you do?
A. Took A/S parts down to cabinet Unshipped all portable gear took it up on upper deck and smashed
1t beyond recognition and then threw it overboard.
Stuff unable to unship smashed with a crowbar.
Unshppped oscillator and took on upper deck left it by guard rail on iron deck amidships, when ship listed over it was below water and cannot say whether it definately went over the side, but beleive it must have elid over ships side.
A/S gear on the bridge unshipped and destroyed returned to M.D. and waited outside T.S. until abandoning ship.
8.P.O. Bradley.
E. here were you in the first attack?
A.At director - firing continued until bombers disappeared - wont round ship to find where she was taking in water.
Found several small holes on the Fort side abreast the F.R. -inserted wooden plugs in those within reach, then finding she was holed below.In placed collision mat.
Tent in fobastle for tow forward.
At "A"X gun for 2nd. raid.
2nd. attempt to tow forward.
abandoned this for 3rd. air raid on focasle for this.
Assisted with supply until I went to T.S. and BSW clock smashed before abandoning ship.
9. P.O. Erskine.
In T.B. for 18t. raid, passed orders from
Control officer to guns.
1st. bomb put out all lights. Switched on secondary lighting and remained in T.3. Could not get into comminication with the bridge so challenged bridge through "B" gun and found "R" bridge still correct. Then I went on fo' castle to prepare to tow.
2nd. raid went downto T.S. again hen I arrived
/hitmore and Ferryweather had broken un F.O. table.
Remained there during bombing, on fo'castle again for 2nd. tow forward. ent down below for 3rd. raid.
ent up on fo' tle and abandoned ship.

Page 4.
193
10. A.B. hitmore and Merryweather but canvas cover over top and smashed Gials on top. Transmission panel and power supply, ensisted with jettisoning torpedoes. Smashed table after firing
APPI
torpedoes, and depth charges.
Torpedore G.H. gave order to anash table.
11.2.C. Rogers.
In T.S. for 1st. attack. Stopped there until finished firing 4.70
In between attacks jettisoning heavy gear accomodation ladders and everthing heavy we could
Bot hold of. Botween attacks was working with boats alongside supplying gear and dropping heats astern and hoisting out Carley floats.
12. C.P.O. Street.
1st. attack at the wherl carrying out helm and telstaph orders. stayed up there until no further use navigationally lashed wheel hard a Port.
ont round less deck, everything in darkness down there for 2nd. attack. Took over supply party from
L/S. and supplied Section to guns and Pom-Pom ammunition
Helped to put A.B. Riddle in Neil Robertson and saw 1st. Lieut. about putting him in M.B. and A.B. Davies
Tent aft to obey pipe 77 Volunteers to steer from aft
Say aft "
Cleared tiller flat ( l'awston, Frost )took cover for final attack and themabandoned ship IVS helan exceptionally good with supply parties. No lights all done with torches.
toker Mercer worked very well with supply parties
A.B. passed up ammunition from shell room.

Ed into the long allisk
1. Lieut. E. Treweeks.
192
When we were bombed I was taking cover in after
194
lobby, then proceeded to E.R. hatch but could not get below because of steam, was joined by C. Sto. Ricketts and C.E.R.A.,
Westlake, gave orders to shut off all boiler room emergency valves and then safety valves and shut main steam bulkhead valve on deck. As soon as possible E. Room and after boiler room were entered.
Attention first given to casualties but all bar one were dead.
First thought possible to get some part of machinery going but not possible. Concentrated on leaks. Bomb dropped port fore side E.R. bulkhead and stove in boiler room bulkhead.
Disabling port fan, engine, oil full pump, number three boiler, port circulator, main and reserve feed tanks and all pipes and leads adjacent were pierced and broken.
Leak at after end of E.R. oil fulo tank plugged.
Efforts made to run petrol dynamo for WD/T but the magneto connection broke. Hands were told off to get hand steering in use. P.O. of fore boiler room reported no damage after first.
raid although C. Sto. reported oil suction line pierced and shut off.
2. Sub. Lieut. Jeaves.
During the first attack I was on the bridge as
Officer of the Watch and remained there for some time afterwards while the Captain went off to the engine and boiler rooms.
On the Captain's orders I went aft to the after steering compartment to see whether it was possible to steer by hand.
This was so, and leaving a Leading Stoker and two or three hands I returned to the bridge as the ship was being taken in tow.
When the second attack took place I WAS in the fore and aft passage below the wheelhouse-for some time and eventually went into the Petty Officers' Mess to try and assist the foremost supply party.
After the attack, on the First Lieutenant's orders,
I placed charts in the whaler and a small private motor boat and unshipped the steering compass from the wheelhouse, end put it in the whaler. I then went aft to continue connecting up to steer by hand. To do this it was necessary to clear a good deal of gear out of the compartment. This took about half an hour. By this time another attempt was being made to take the ship in tow, so 1 recovered the charts from the motor boat, and went up on the bridge.
When the ship was attacked for the third time I again went down to the fore and aft passage beneath the wheelhouse, where I stayed till the order Bandon ship was given. of the two charts containing confidential matter concerning minefields in the Dover area, one was destroyed and the other left in the whaler which has not yet returned.
The Fleet notices to Marines were thrown overboard in mid-channel. Fleet charts were left in their folios in the
Charthouse.

193
Sub-Lieutenent Ellis.
BASILISK)
3. Went on bridge at 0815 to relieve O.O.W., but was ordered
195
to clear the bridge during attack. Stayed in Wheelhouse during first dive bombing attack. Went on bridge oafterward and was given orders to destroy certain S.P's.
Burnt S.P. 02176 (convoy reciphering table), all SP's
'C' series and recognition forms from safe in chart house.
Went down to W/T office and got current recording and recyphering tables from P.O. Tel. and burnt them in forward galley, Gave orders to rig jury aerial and endeavoured to establish communication,
Went aft and inspected for'd cabin flat. Badly damaged by "B" bomb, so secured the hatch. Opened hatch to
Captain's Day cabin and got next lot of recognitions S.P's (D)
series and addendum No. 1 to Anglo-French code. Burnt them in forward galley. Gave orders for all S.P's to be taken to forward galley, (W/T & V/S department). Cleared remainder of books from safe in Chart house and took them to after galley.
Burnt Naval Cypher and Decypher and Table of Masthead heights,
Air Defence instructions, Table of Lettered Co-ordinates.
Threw Indicator Discs over the side over a wide area.
Collected lnotes in contrapt account from safe n Captains Cabin
Went to forward galley, and commenced burning all the
S.P's. Took cover by forward galley during second attack.
Continued burning all S.P's after second attack.
When all these had been burnt, took a weighted sack aft and opened up hatch to Captain's Day cabin.
Took out all C.B's, prefixed 0 and as many more besides as could be carried. Filled the sack by the after screen and started to take it forward to galley to burn if possible.
During third attack was by foremost funnel starboard side,
After this was over collected all C.B's which had been got. up and put them in weighted bag and threw overboard starboard side. Order abandon ship had been given so went over and took charge of carley float. Collected as many hands from the water as the float could support and paddled to the Jolie
Mascotte about 5 mile from the ship.
All safes were locked after books were taken from them and keys thrown overboard in the middle of the Dover Straits.
The VC-VF lanterns were got down and thrown overboard.
Following is a list of books destroyed:-
All SP's ordered to be carried by ships operating off Dutch and
Belgian coasts (except F.S.B. which is thought to have been burnt when bridge caught fire.
'D' Series Recognition S.P's.
Anglo French Code and Decode (and Addendum N.1).
Anglo-French War W/T call Signs.
Operating Signals (bridge copy).
Pendant list & Signal letters.
Cypher log and some 'S' series.
Home Fleet War Communication orders.
C.B's - Those previously mentioned.
Certain CB's were out on loan to A/S Control Officer and these were locked away in his cabin, they included:-
Handbook of the set.
Operating procedure for surface craft.
A/S manual.

Page 3.
194
Teut. car. W.G. Boaks.
BASILISK
196
4.
With after guns until motor boat lowered and then went forward to make quite sure coxswain of boat (Hicks) understood his orders reference embarking troops and collection of drifting boats, Just as we got the baat clear I heard a bomb whistling down and dived under Pom-Pom platform. About six, possibly more, bombs dropped, one of which was presumably the one that went through the engine room -- this very seriously wounded and burnt one rating and seriously burnt another but I escaped the full force of the back flash although thrown heavily against Pom-Pom deck overhead and almost knocked out.
I then went to the bridge to see what the position was there, but there were no casualties there and I then went aft to the after guns to find en route that deck was buckled by mainmast.
The after magazine and shell room were flooding and decided to close down. I then went down to my cabin and passed up about eight spare torches (placed there for use in disembarking troops previous day are night) as all lights were out and being daylight few were carrying torches on them. I found general chaos in Captain's Cabin flat and sent extra hands down to resecure deadlights as this compartment being next to the buckled part was rather important.
I then went forward to supervise tow forward. In the midst of this another heavy attack was made and most hands took shelter, some in forecastle locker. I then found all but three of the cordite rounds from "A" gun had been jettisoned and in view of the nature of the attack ordered these three to be thrown overboard. After this attack we came out and then started to provide cordite again. I then went aft to see what damage had been done during which the fishing drifter returned and I again went forward to rig new tow lines and also ordered individual hands to turn out and lower boats and carley floats into water as by then it was known ship could not move and drifter could not have towed faster than say four knots, I also placed one hand with a lead line aft to keep check on amount of water ship was in from point of view of grounding and stationed hands ready to cast off boats' painters should ship sink without warning.
Then to the forecastle to get up the after hemp and also 3-3-11 wire during course of which the third attack developed and I went aft to the after guns and with one round of cordite from forward fired the remaining round in Y gun myself at a passing bomber but not enough aim off in field of view to hit even with full deflection. After firing this round I went forward and noticed that X gun had a round left but was unable to fire as recoil cylinder had been emptied in preparation for firing and tearing gun out of mounting overboard. This cylinder was refilled but on going forward I discovered that the crack in deck appeared to have widened and gave orders that after guns were on no account to be fired in view of probable breaking off of after end. I then ordered every possible container of water to be filled from only remaining water left in hot water tank in galley and tore up soldiers ground capes to provide covers to prevent loss or contamination of this water. Boats' anchors were then placed in spare boats alongside and oars provided, sailing gear hi placed in whaler, after steering compass unshipped and placed in spare motor boat, torches distributed to boats, the after lifebuoy flare placed in whaler for possible use. After steering an party detailed and party to clear the flat of weeckage. I then que went forward for third time to take in tow during which the fourth attack developed - dive bombing - and upper deck was cleared.

105
4. (contd.).
197
On completion when ship had been struck and water was level with waist the question of scuttling ship came up but
Captain decided this was unnecessary and order was given to abandon ship. I reached one of the spare Army boats two hundred yeard away and after collecting survivors to limit of boats capacity went to drifter. After collecting all but two floats we went off to head off a destroyer for the remainder.
Particular merit:-
A.B. Rawstron - courage, example & cheerfulness.
A.B:s Glover and Ord. Sea Mullins - courage & cheerfulness.
P.O. Robinson took charge well on forecastle,
A.B. Davis. Torp. although badly burned took a lively interest in remaining action taken.
Lieut. Sowry - for tenacity of purpose with French drifter resulting in the recovery of seventy survivors and message passed to destroyer for remaining fifty,
5. Surg. Lieut. A.W. McHaffie.
1st. Attack, In Sick Bay - which was reduced to chaos from concussions. Casualties arrived after attack.
Soldier compaining of burns of arms.
Stocker complaining of burns of face.
2xStanker Terpedoman complaining of extensive surface burns of face, scalp, neck and both eyes.
Another rating complained of splinter wound of left arm.
L.S.B.A. reported A.B. Riddle lying under Pom-Pom platform. When
I arráved there I found him complaining of fracture of left femur and very extensive burns of face and shoulders - Dressed him and then went down into engine room where I saw two ERA's dead.
Griffeths & Griffeths& Putt (stoker) was also dead.
L.S.B.A. reported four dead in boiler room,
2nd. attack. Ordered to clear upper deck - and I went to port side alley way. Saw Mr. Francis of Pom-Pom platform and one rating. He called for rest of crew and I passed on call to ratings in fore mess deck. No hands came forward. Saw Captain climbing on to platform followed by rest of crew. Was called by
Captain to attend to Mr. Francis and I went on to Pom-Pom platform and found Mr. Francis unconscious - splinter through lungs. Gave
1/6th. morphine.
3rd. attack. Was still on Pom-Pom platform until shortly after attack when Mr. Francis died.
During interval between 3rd. and 4th. attacks.
Evacuated wounded into water boat lying in water amidships on starboard side. Was helped in this by L.S.B.A and Coxswain.
Orders to do so were given by First Lieutenant.
boat
4th. attack. Most of #crew of motor, boarded ship including all wounded except A.B. Riddle who was comatose and lying in
Robertson stretcher c. me on forecastle of motor boat - two ratings remained in boat.
Bomb hit water 10 yards off motor boat and wave upset and smashed boat against ship's side upsetting all within - Riddle disappeared before I could get to him and I lost sight of other menbers of boat's crew.
Ship by this time was being abandoned.

page 5.
198
Sub Lieut. Galbraith.
196
6.
I was by Y gun for first attack. After hit I though ship was on fire and took some of gun's crew forward to deal with it, ordering a torpedoman to start jettisoning Port forrard depth charges, which appeared to be in danger. Found no fire but hauled on board two burned men who were in water Port side. Went aft where it was reported that shell room was flooding. Had all hatches closed. Assisted Gunner with jettisoning depth charged.
Tried to render cabin flat water tight. Went forward to assist with tow forward observed bow to be bulged by close bomb near water line. Took cover in P.O's mess for start of 2nd. attack.
Captain ordered me to get Vickers in action. Found torpedoman who knew its action and managed to get only three single rounds off during attack. Complete jam resulted. Later saw G.M. who declared nothing could be done. Took cover for 3rd. attack.
Watched destruction of A/S Pannel. Was ordered by 1st. Lieut. to load.Army boat and supervise its manning. Accompanied Sub. Lt.
Ellis to Captain's cabin to get C.B's for destruction. Just reached deck when last attack started. Took cover by Y gun and inside after screen. On order to abandon ship, saw boat manned, threw some C.B's which I saw on U.D. over the side and then jumped for boat. A/S C.B's were not destroyed.
Lieut. Sowry.
7.
At the beginning of the first attack I was on the bridge on the G.C.O's phones. Soon after bombers were sighted I
gave the order "All guns with H.E:T.F - load" and "Rapid Salvos".
Planes were sighted astern, angle of sight about 60° and at no time was the Director Layer able to report Director on during this attack due to the A of S being too great. Consequently no executive order to shoot was given.
After this attack I was told by the Captain to take the motor boat away and commandere two fishing smacks which were passing 1/2 miles away. The first of these was abandoned and I
returned in the second and stood by to tow. A wire was passed and made fast round a stout beam in the smack, which carried away some 15 minutes later. A second wire was then made fast round the foremast but as the tow was not clear of the deck house, the smack veered round and had to be pulled back into position by the motor boat. An additional rope was passed and made fast on the other quarter and the ship was turned through about 60 degrees., but the smack was again in the wrong position for towing, being alongside the forecastle bows pointing aft. At this point second bombing attack took place and I slipped tow and stood off to about 1 mile, the smack being machine-gunned by four planes. When attack was over I returned and reconnected tow which later parted due to taking up the slack too väolently. This was due to the language difficulty of giving orders to the French crew of the smack, the only other man on board the smack being an R.A.F. pilot. A
further bombing attack started, the final one, and I again stood off from the ship. When I returned the crew was abandoning ship and I picked up all men in the water, two Carley floats, one RE
pontoon and some men from each whaler. At this point, with 70
men aboard, Whitehall appeared in the distance and we made out to intercept her, using the smack's siren and the French ensign half way up the foremast. We met her about 12 miles away and passed information to her and requested her to collect men from remaining boats. I then set out on a course for England and in mid-chai.nel we transferred everyone to H.M. Trawler Olvina.

Page 6.
197
Leading Seaman Wordhouse.
Motor hoat.
199
Whilst pushing the towing vessel into position, the bombing formation came over. I let go and sheered off, the first salvo lifting the boat almost out of the water.
Messerschmidt fighters attacked us with machine gun and cannon (Bombs were also dropped) for just a few minutes short of an hour. L.S. Hicks watched their flight and gave me helm and engine orders, the boat not being hit though a couple of cartridge cases dropped into us. We found ourselves out of sight of the ship, had a little council of war, and decided, knowing the ship was out of wireless communication to make Dunkirk for help. We headed west, and not far outside the harbour two troopships were bombed and sunk. We picked up what we considered a safe complement, tried to get in touch with a vessel to assist Basilisk.
In this were not successful and were told to make England.
We drew a rough chart and set our course, arraving
Ramsgate roughly eight hours later. I then turned over the boat to the Naval authorities. We reported that Basilisk was badly hit and were assured that help had been sent.

198
APPENDIX II.
H.M.S. "BASILISK" - CASUALTIES.
200
FRANCIS, E.G.
Gurmer (T).
(RIFFITH, John E.
C.E.R.A.II. Pens. No.13060.
CRIFFITHS, Edward.
C.E.R.A.II., D/MX.47570.
LOWRY, Harry P.
S.P.O., D/K.60918.
MAHONEY, Herbert J.
S.P.O., Pens. No.22271.
MANION, Thomas
Stoker I., R.F.R.B.12894.
PUTT, Richard F.
Stoker I., D/KX.89644.
RIDDLE, Frederick W.
A.B., R.F.R.D.801.
WORMALD, Stephem
Stoker I, R.F.R.B.12968.

SURVIVORS OF H.M.S. "BASILISK".
199
BAKER, Walter T.W.
201
Ldg. Stoker Pens. R.F.R.
NOON, Robert
Stoker.
WESTLAKE, S.A.W.
Pens. C.E.R.A.
KAYE, Fredk. Leonard
Ldg. Stoker R.F.R.
WILLCOCKS, Edward. Stuart
Chief Armourer.
HOUGHTON, Leonard
Sto. R.F.R.
GREEN, Albert G.
Sto. R.F.R.
CUNINGHAM, Joseph H.
Pen. P.O. Stoker.
RICHARD, Frederick H.
Ldg. Std.
KINGSTON, Thomas J.
Stoker I.
ROWLES, Francis S.
Idg. Sto.
COWELL, D.C.
E.R.A.2.
RICHARDSON, Joseph
E.R.A.5.
BLIGHT, Leslie Roy
E.A.3.
COULTON, Amold
E.R.A.3.
HAWKER, Walter
Stoker.
SMALL, St ephen
Stoker I.
NICHOLIS, Reginald Wm.
Stoker I.O
HARRIS, Alfred
Stoker I.
CLAUGHTON, Harry
Stoker I.
SMALES, Ronald
Stoker
FOLEY, Alfred
Sy.P.O.
HODSDON
A.B.
MaANOY, Emest
Ldg. Ck (0).
JONES, Samuel
L.S.B.A.
CARR, Fredk. J.
Ldg. Stoker.
RICKETTS, John C.
Oh. Stoker.
EVANS, Thomas
P.O. Std.
ELLIS, Coorge
Ldg. Stoker.
PEARN, Kenneth C.
L.S.A.
TRELOAR, Worf.
Stoker I.
GOULD, Norman
Cook.
LIOYD, James J.
Stoker I.
STYLES, Charles W.
S.P.O.
HOLDER, William G.H.
P.O. Ck.
DANE, Alan
Std.
INCLES, JoAo
Stoker I.
SKONE, Leslie J.
Stoker I.
ARSTALL, Caorge R.
E.R.A.
HOBSON, Tan Oo
Stoker.
MERCER, Alfred
Stokpier.
GRIFFITHS, WoHo Charles
Steward.
BOMKER, Francis S.D.
Sto. P.O.
ROGERS, Stanley
P.O.
BRADLEY, W.E.G.
P.O.
STEAD, John A.
A.B., R.F.R.
FEELEY, S.
A.B.
FAIRFOUL, S.
A.B.
CORK, J.
A.B., R.F.R.
ATKINSON, God.
A.B.
WILSON, Win. H.
Sea. R.N.R.
BLUES, John
A.B.
THOMAS, Leslie
A.B., R.N.R.R.
TOMLINSON, Edward
Sea., R.N.R.
Phillips, Edward
Sea., R.N.R.
BRENTON, Sydney C.
Yeo.
HUCHES, Edward J.
A.B.
WHELAN, John
Lago Sea.
FERGUSON, James
A.Bo
FAIRBAIRN, Paul
A.B.
CROCKER, Ronald J.
Sig.
PAYNE, Gilbert P.
Ord. Sea., R.N.V.R.
A.B.
DARK, Wm.

200
PAGE 2.
SURVIVORS OF H.M.S. "BASILISK".
202
PEARSE, Arthur D.
A.B.
SPARROW, Charles A.
A.B.
ROBINSON, W:131.1am E.
P.O.
JONES, William H.
A.B., Pens.
20
SMITH, Harold
A.B.
BROOKES, Ben
A.B.
BEEBY, D.
A.B.
HARRIS, Douglas P.
A.B.
WILKINS, Joseph Do
A.B., R.F.R.
SMYTH, Kenneth E.
Tel.
ROGERS, William J.
A/Idgo Sig.
Wilfred E.
Ldg. Sig.
EATON, Richard
A.B.
JONES, Clifford
A.B.
ERSKINE, Samuel
A/P.O.
WALTERS, G.
A.B.
PATIENCE, John
A.B.
SMITH, Martin
Ord. Sea. R.N.V.R.
SYMES, G.H.
A.B., R.F.R.
COVINGTON, Henry
P.O. Tel.
CAST, Robert K.
P.O.
EMBLIN, Charles
A.B.
PERRETT, Vivian A.
Ord. Sea. R.N.V.R.
ROBINSON, W.P.
Sea. R.N.R.
NELSON, David
A.B.
COLEMAN
A.B.
NICHOLAS, James
Seaman, R.N.R.
MULLIN, Ronali R.
Ordo Sea. R.N.V.R.
DEWEY g R.F.
Ldg. Sea.
JETFERY, Stephen R.
A.B.
EVANS, George So
A.B.
WILLIAMS, Thomas J.K.
A.B., R.F.R.
ASHWORTH, Sidney
Sig. R.F.R.
BRADLEY, Jonah
A.B. R.F.R.
RAWSTRON, Horace
A.B.
HAYWARD, JOS.H.
A.Bo, R.F.R.
DREWITT, Spencer W.
A.B., R.F.R.
WHITMORE, Charles H.
A.B., R.F.R.
GLOVER, James T.
A.B.
ROWE, Leonard
Ord. Sea., R.N.V.R.
BOND, Alfred S.
A.B.
MERRYWEATHER, George P.
A.B.
O'CONNOR, Harry
Orde Sea. R.NoV.R.
BELSHAW, Ernest
A.B., R.F.R.
WARD, H.
Sea., R.N.R.
BINNER, Sydney V.
A/P.O. Tel.
DRURY, Walter
Ldg. Tel. R.F.R.R.
MANSTON, Arthur T.
A.Bo₃ R.F.R.
DAVIES, Thomas B.
A.B., R.F.R.
HANCOCK, Thomas W.A.
Orde Sea., R.N.V.R.
STREET, Thomas G.
C.P.O. Pens.
HICKS
Ldg. Sea.
PEPPERELL
Lag. Sea.
WOODHOUSE
Lag. Sea.
BRAITHWATTE
Stoker.
DOYLE
Sea. R.N.R.
WILLIS
A.B.
ALDERSON
AB.
WOOD
Ldg. Sea.
DRYDALE
A.B.
MUMFORD
AB
FROST
AB

203
201
PAGE 3.
SURVIVORS OF H.M.S. "BASILISK".
WALLIS
Telegraphist.
PITTARD
Ord. Sea.
OWEN, C.
A.B. (Landed at Dover).
21
SMART
Ldg. Sto. (In hospital at Dover).
DAAS, J.
A.B. (In hospital at Dover).
ADAMS, W.
Orde Sea. (In hospital at Dover).
Commander M. Richmond.
It. Car. W.Go Bcaks.
Lt. (E) Treweeks.
Lt. J.M. Sowry, R.N.V.R.
Sub. Into P.B. de B. Jeayes.
Shib. Lt. W.H. Ellis.
Sub. Lt. Galbraith.
Surg. Litio MoHaffle, R.N.V.R.
Midshipman I. McElvoy, R.N.R.

204
202
H.I.S. "BASILISK" - REPORT OF LOSS BY DUDLY ACTION.
APPENDIX III - SPECIAL LIMITIONS.
Mr. E.G. FRANCIS. Gunner (T) Retired.
22
This Officer was killed in action while controlling the pom pom guns during the second attack. He had particularly interested himself in the training and fighting of these guns and displayed great zeal in maintaining their efficiency.
During the whole of his service in H.M.S. "BASILISK" Hr Francis showed quite exceptional ability and cheerfulness and contributed in no small measure to the fighting efficiency of the ship.
He died at the special post of danger which he had himself selected while controlling and encouraging his guns'crews, and it was largely due to his efforts that the second attack was made abortive. I consider him worthy of high recognition for the greatest coolness, courage and tenacity of purpose under a rain of bombs and machine gun fire.
Chief E.R.A. Edward GRIFFITHS. O.N. MX47570.
( rentroned
I wish to place on record a very special tribute to the late Chief E.R.A. Griffiths, apart from the fact that he died at his post, for his general bearing and conduct since the beginning of hostilities. He not only worked hard but always intelligently and was a really gifted Destroyer Chief E.R.A.
I have already had occasion to mention this rating in despatches in March 1940.
Lieutenant-Commander V.G. BOAKS. R.N.
As first Lieutenant of the ship, this Officer set a fine example of leadership and cheerful courage in most adverse circumstances. A bomb from the first attack burst near him singeing his hair and eyebrows, but he carried on with his duties without a thought for himself. He concentrated on making the ship as watertight as possible by stopping up leaks and placing collision mat, and in this he succeeded admirably. Later he provisioned and equipped the extra boats lying off and was largely responsible for enabling every man alive to get away safely when the ship sank. He also visited gun quarters and supply parties during action and kept them going.
During nine months of arduous sea-going, Lieutenant-
Commander Boaks has been a great stand-by to me and I consider this final example of his worth is a suitable moment for some form of commendation.
Able Seamen Richard MUMFORD, J.97179 and Herbert A. ALDERSON. J. 108085.
Able Seaman Alderson was gunlayer and Able Seaman Mumford was the trainer at B gun where I spent most of my time after the engines became useless. From my personal observation their coolness and bearing were marvellous. Able Seaman Mumford particularly, kept a smiling face and cheerful conversation which was most heartening to all. They fought their gun to the last although they knew the task was hopeless.
Able Seaman

H.M.S. "BASILISK" - REPORT OF LOSS BY
BIL
JAIDENS
APPENDIX III III (CONTINUED) - SPECIAL MENTION ENEL
Able Seaman Horace RAWSTRON R.N. J.106622.
Able Seaman Ernest BELSHAV. R.F.R. B. 14173.
Able Seaman Edward R. TOLLINSON. R.N.R. 19810A.
BIOWARE
Ordinary Seaman Thomas V.H. gatatetniam HANCOCK, R.N.V.R. BD/X1767. atd atomat? These first ratings were among those [853 specially D9V
of the courage Naval Service. adversity. I have selected one of cheerfu and to me by my in Lieutenant as having displayed menti set of Rawstron as captain of "A" gun each al b an example leadership to his crew. bereefed
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to 205
Stade Form,
203
Stade bross,
Bovertracey
Devon
"BASILISK 4/6/40
23
Sir,
I have the Lonour to submit the following report g
as First Lieutenant, A.MS. "Basilisk"
The general conduct of affairs during the combat between large numbers of enemy Gombero &
H.M.S. Basilisk off Dunkink on, st. of June has been dealt with by my Commanding officer but the following can Lardly be forwarded by the same channels.
As the next senior officer orboard I was most impressed with Commander m. Richmonds conduct throughout this Larassing period & I feel that his efforts to keep up the morale of the ships company should not Lass without notice.
Every effort was made to get the ship towed back to Dover by the French fashing drifter folie
Mascotte" but although taken in tow two or three times the attentions of enemy bombers made it necessary to slip Tow twice X the last of many salvas striking the ship sunk it X attempt was abandoned.
The foremost guns continued fiving to last although only using A.P.P. shell in order to keep up the morale of the ship -This by order of Colr. Richmond
Firing at the after guns was stopped by my ordero after one round due to the possibility of shock breaking off after end of ship near mainmast whine it was badly buckled. & splitting more with movement of the ship

206
Abandon stip was ordered only after fix was
204
sinking but period in between was devoted the destruction of B.B's, A/S year & F.C.C. etc.
I have the Lonour to be
24
Sir, your obedient Servant g
W.C.Boaks.
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF K
Licutenant Commander.
*
5-JUN 1940
*
Jes
WESTERN C APPROACHES
Royal navy.
Commander in shief,
Western Aphroaches,
Alymouth
Regret this is only foolseaf haper available here

216
214
COPY.
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
GRENADE hithy bomb
11th June, 1940.
34
Sir,
May May 29/1800 29/1800 Sank.
I have the honour to submit the following report in accordance with your verbal instructions. The delay has been occasioned by the difficulty in collecting the necessary information from the Officers, some of whom landed at Dover, some at Margate and some at Ramsgate.
During and just after the final attack so much was happening at the same time that I have described firstly what happened in the vicinity of the Bridge and what action I
took, and, secondly, what happened aft. As appendices
I have attached the report of the adventures of Mr. Crews,
Warrant Schoolmaster, after he had left the GRENADE and a statement of the known damage done by the bombs.
Wt. 27446/5770.
400M. Pds. 9/39.
B.& S. Ltd. 51-4818
2
i
NAVAL MESSAGE.
Revised
OF
320b.
December, 1935.
207
Γ use it
Signal
205
partment only
20 BASILISK
on June 1
nators Instructions:
Codress/Plaindress
No. of dication of Priority,
SHM
Groups:
tercept Group, etc.)
FROM:
VA Dover
Basilisk
Following preluminary report of the 5
loss of HMS Banlish under my command 10 10
at about 0815 while picking up soldiers 15
off LA PANNE ) was attached from astim 20
by a squadion of german bombers who 25
drived to realease 0 ) left the boats and 30
went full speed ahead of twiced to part 35
but the bounds were accurately placed +
40
fell close round the ship one for certain 45
being duest hit Time intering of Operator the P.O.O.W. book after Date
50
System
P/L Code or Cypher
Receipt
Despatch