TNA ADM 199 792

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H.I.S. "BASILISK" - REPORT OF LOSS BY DUDLY ACTION.
APPENDIX III - SPECIAL LIMITIONS.
Mr. E.G. FRANCIS. Gunner (T) Retired.
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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