TNA ADM 199 792

124/3
CONFIDENTIAL.
122
Page 3,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
27/5
Monday, 27th May (continuod).
2 Military Officers from G.H.Q., which suggested that the situation of the B.E.F. was procarious and it was possible that the enomy might succeed in cutting off this force from Dunkirk.
This report appeared to confirm the results of air rcconnaissance, which indicated that German armoured units wore operating to the south of Dunkirk. Sinco it appeared that ovacuation might well be strictly limited, both in regard to numbers and time available for the operation, it was a cided to concentrate every effort in sending 'ovcr as many craft as possible to the beaches without delay. Had the situation appeared to be less critical, an organised flow of large and small craft working in reliefs would have been arranged.
9.
On receipt of these signals from S.N.O., Dunkirk, all available forces were diverted to the beaches, the Personnel
Ships to the beach, code letters A.B.C. and D., the destroyers on patrol being diverted to La Panne. Destroyers that were working off Dunkirk were ordered to divert the Personnel Ships going into Dunkirk to lay off the beaches and the smaller craft such as drifters and motor boats were ordered to be used for ferrying troops from the beach to the larger ships. Two
27MAY
important strings of boats being towed by a tug were lost in the night through the tows being run down and cut in half, the boats being scattered.
10.
As a result of the above action there were assembling off the beaches 2 transports, 9 destroyers, 4 minesweepers,
CALCUTTA, 17 drifters and a few skoots, and all the ships were ordered to use their own boats for ferrying as none of the inshore flotilla had arrived. From signals received it appeared that the situation was desperate, that little could be lifted direct from the Port of Dunkirk, and that the maximum effort must be made from the beaches. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, at this stage provided additional reinforcements of minesweepers and paddlers. During the night, Vice Admiral, Dover, was informed of continuous bombing and machine gunning of troops in the beach areas, and directed Senior Officers present on the beach to use their discretion in ordering withdrawal of the
Naval forces, observing that a strong fighter protection should be expected after dawn; this having been arranged after a special visit by the Liaison Officer to Hawkinge to procure the maximum effort.
11. Limiting factors were thought most likely to be restrictions due to enemy action at Dunkirk and on the beaches, and the difficulties of concentrating the ships and troops at a common point or points. The general evacuation plan had been conveyed to the G.O.C. by the S.N.O. on his way to Dunkirk, and the Vice Admiral, Dover, hoped to receive in return some outline of the Military's operational plan upon which the rate of evacuation in the various areas under the scheme must depend.
Subject to the development of beach evacuation and the continuation of fine weather, it appeared to the Vice Admiral that adequate shipping for his plans was either in, or on, its way to the Dover area, except for a chronic shortage of beaching boats.
nes f the
Tuesday, 28th May ch. their ted to/

124
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 5.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
126
125
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
to S.N.O., Dunkirk by signal - timed 1555/28 - and provided for the use of 3 Hospital Carriers, 7 personnel steamers and
2 destroyers at the East Pier, Dunkirk, while some 20
destroyers, 19 paddle and fleet sweepers, 17 drifters, 20 to
40 skoots, 5 coasters, 12 motor boats, 2 tugs, 28 pulling cutters and life-boats were to be distributed between La
Panne and point 1½ miles East of Dunkirk, on the beaches; the destroyers running continuous round trips.
It was estimated that the personnel vessels and hospital:o carriers would be clear of the danger area by 0630. As regards the beaching and other small craft which had not yet reached the Dover Straits, arrangements were made with other authorities to route all small craft, which had not already been despatched, direct to the beaches East of Dunkirk, provided they had charts, food, fuel, etc.
At this time some difficulty was experienced in having at hand the large number of charts required for these additional vessels.
17,
Owing to the suspension of daylight work by personne vessels it was necessary to increase the number handled in
Dunkirk during the dark hours as the attempt to use the surplus personnel vessels off the beaches by night seemed unlikely to bear fruit. Accordingly, Dunkirk, was asked whether personnel vessels could be berthed inside
Dunkirk harbour, the only information in Vice Admiral's k.
possession having indicated that the East Pier of the harbour entrance was the only suitable berth for such ships to which
British troops could have access. To increase the off-shore forces, Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was asked to sail CALCUTTA
to be opposite La Panne at 2200 to embark troops using own boats.
Orders were issued that all ships proceeding to Dunkirk from Dover were to use the southern route Z provided that the passage from No. 6 Calais Buoy to Dunkirk could be made in darkness.
S
18.
At 1830 GRAFTON reported that several thousand troops remained on beaches at Bray and that more were arriving. At that time there were off Bray, one tow of pulling boats, number uncertain, 2 power boats, at least
2 skoots, CALCUTTA, GALLANT, WAKEFUL, VERITY and GRAFTON, using what survived of their own whalers and motor boats.
This force was reinforced by 2 minesweepers at 2115. Later reports of concentrations of troops on the beaches were received, particularly at La Panne and Bray. Craft approaching the coast were directed accordingly. Naval Officer-in-
Charge, Ramsgate, was requested to maintain a continuous evacuation service by skoots between Margate and Ramsgate and the beach, and take over responsibility for servicing those vessels. Meantime CALCUTTA, who was off La Panne, reported that conditions for embarkation there were very bad owing to heavy surf, but that they might improve with the rising tide.
Shortly after midnight CALCUTTA was informed that the third corps of the B.E.F. and the Commander-in-Chief were all now at La Panne. She was directed to make every endeavour to concentrate all destroyers and light craft at that end of the beach/

127
129
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 8.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
29/-
Wednesday, 29th May (continued)
midship end on the bottom. All the troops on board went down with the ship; certain of the crew floated clear. After about 1/2 hour motor drifters NAUTILLUS and COMFORT arrived and started to pick up survivors, later joined by GOSSAMER.
Captain of the WAKEFUL was in the COMFORT. GRAFTON and LYDD
were close and Captain of WAKEFUL warned GRAFTON she was in danger of being torpedoed, At that moment, 0250, GRAFTON was torpedoed, COMFORT was lifted in the air, and Captain of
WAKEFUL washed overboard. COMFORT was going full speed and as she came round in a circle LYDD and GRAFTON opened fire on her, evidently thinking she was an enemy ship. It is believed that COMFORT crew, except cne, and WAKEFUL survivors, except 4, were killed. LYDD then bore down on COMFORT, rammed and sank her.
Previously GRAFTON, who was proceeding to Dover with troops, had observed a ship tropedoed, and Icwered her boats to pick up survivors, subsequently ascertained by signal to
LYDD to be WAKEFUL. A small darkened vessel, thoughtto be a drifter, was signalled and told to pick up survivors.
Within a few seconds of this, GRAFTON was torpedoed, The bridge was also hit, either by a shell or grenade, and the
Captain killed instantly. LYDD then tried to come alongside but after hitting starboard side sheered off, and appeared to ram a vessel on port quarter. This was COMFORT. GRAFTON
opened fire under the impression LYDD had rammed the M.T.B.
Target was then shifted to another vessel further away on port quarter, and vessel was observed to blow up with a bright flash. This may well have been the enemy M.T.B.
29, During the forenoon JAGUAR, GALLANT and GRENADE
were dispatched via the new Middle Route X to test the opposition by shore batteries prior to introducing this route as an alternative to the long Northern route. GRENADE arrived
Dunkirk, reported no fire from shore batteries, but that she had experienced heavy bombing. These three destroyers were attacked by dive bombers when approaching Dunkirk at about noon, and GALLANT was damaged. At least six attacks were carried out, one enemy aircraft was brought down by gunfire and others by fighters. An hour later MALCOLM reported
Dunkirk heavily bombed with a large number of aircraft and during the afternoon this bombing extended up the coast to ships off Bray. During the afternoon the Middle Route x was brought into use for destroyers, but small ships were still routed round the Northern route to Zuydecoote Pass. LOCUST
and MOSQUITO joined Dover Command and were despatched to work on the beaches during the afternoon. Shortly after noon enemy shore batteries near Nieuport began to bring Zuydecoote
Pass under spasmodic gunfire and the state was being reached whereby the new Middle Route would become the only practicable daylight approach to Dunkirk and the beaches. At noon,
CALCUTTA, who was able to get across to La Panne beach to receive troops by small boats, embarked 1200 troops from the minesweepers and then sailed for Sheerness the minesweepers remaining to load up again. At 1606 the New Route X having been fully swept, all ships were ordered by the Vice Admiral to use Route X, exercising navigational caution, and those from Dover were instructed to proceed by Route 2, the South route

150
1
148
CONFIDENTIAL.
9
Page 29
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
2/6
Sunday, 2nd June (continued).
85. At 1700 movement towards Dunkirk commenced. The
Armada consisted of 13 personnel vessels, 2 large store carriers, 11 destroyers, 5 paddle minesweepers, 9 fleet sweepers, 1 special service vessel, 9 drifters, 6 skoots, 2
ly armed yachts, 1 gunboat, a large number of tugs, lifeboats, etc., formed either in organised tows or free lance, The composition of the French contingent was unknown it was thought to consist of 6 small destroyers, 4 avisos and about 120
fishing craft.
86. At 1538 the S.N.O. Dunkirk, made the following situation report:-
"French still maintain front line except for area east of Bergues where the Germans have penetrated two miles on a two-mile front. Counter attack being made at
1500. In port no movement. Present situation hopeful.'
87. At 2145 it was learned that the ROYAL DAFFODIL, the first of the personnel vessels, had been bombed near the North
Goodwin Light Vessel on the outward passage whence she returned to Ramsgate. At 2200 it was learned that loaded vessels were leaving Dunkirk.
88. At 2330 S.N.O. Dunkirk, reported "B.E.P. evacuated".
89. Casualties to H.M. Ships - Sunday 2nd June.
Hospital Carrier PARIS, whilst proceeding to Dunkirk by X Route near W. Buoy, was shelled when off the French coast.
The engines were put out of action. Ship was eventually abandoned. No wounded on board. The crew and medical staff were taken off by other vessels. Prior to this the Hospital
Carrier WORTHING had been fired at but returned to the Downs with slight damage.
A/S Trawlers BLACKBURN ROVER and WESTELLA both sunk by mines.
A/S Trawler CAPE ARGONA damaged by near misses whilst on patrol and returned to Harwich.
A.A. Cruiser CALCUTTA had many near misses whilst out on patrol off the beaches, which shook ship and did minor damage.
Personnel Vessel ROYAL DAFFODIL bombed whilst off
Dunkirk and damaged, but returned under her own steam.
Destroyer SABRE attacked by enemy aircraft and received damage. Able to return to harbour under own steam.
Monday, 3rd June,
90. The hopes that a large number of French troops would be lifted following the completion of B.E.F. embarkation, waser shaken when at 0030 Rear Admiral, Dover, reported from Dunki
1
that/
inary/

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
161
159
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 40
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Inshore Flotillas and Naval Shore Parties (continued).
June 1st, noon. Dunkirk East Beach.
"Conditions other than state of the sea, which was good, were shocking. The German planes were flying low and using machine guns. Operation delayed as great difficulty was experienced persuading some of the French to embark.
So far as I could understand their units were incomplete, and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark without the rest. At one point on the beach there were at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark."
Monday, 3rd June. Dunkirk East Pier. 0045.
"There were no troops on the jetty so I went to the inner end. There I found a French Colonel with about 3,000
men waiting to be told where to go. I had to stand at the end telling them that their Colonel was in my ship before they would follow."
ARTLETT
LA DORADO
RINGIA
STELLA
OLVES
OLVINA
ffice of
Flag Officer Commanding,
MIN
SILVER DAWN
Dover.
DRI
June, 1940.

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

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

Dynams 46.
N°.4.
253
H.M.S. "LYNX".
251
31st May, 1940.
The Commander M/S,
Dover.
ze NAUTILUS
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report:-
71
At 1700 on Tuesday 28th May H.M.T. "Nautilus" and "Comfort"
left Dover under my directions en route for La Panne.
At 0030 the 29th May in vicinity of Kwinte Bank Buoy we heard cries for help and "Nautilus" picked up six survivors from
Destroyer "Wakeful" which had been torpedoed. "Comfort" picked up sixteen, including her Captain.
I instructed "Comfort" to return to Dover and land survivors.
Was unable to transfer any of the survivors to "Comfort" owing to weather conditions.
"Nautilus" proceeded to La Panne arriving there at 0540.
Closed "Calcutta" and transferred "Wakeful's" survivors to her.
29/5
"Nautilus" then proceeded closer in shore and started ferrying soldiers to the H.19 and when she left at noon we ferried them to H.05 ("Greyhound").
Panne
At 1630 with 150 B.E.F. on board German bombers came along and in the endeavour to hit "Sandown" and "Greyhound" straddled the
"Nautilus". Although not actually hit the engines and steering gear of "Nautilus" were put completely out of action and the vessel began making water rapidly.
"Nautilus" managed to get alongside Destroyer "Greyhound"
and embark troops. In the middle of this the "Greyhound" was damaged by a bomb and her Captain decided to weigh anchor and proceed towards Dover.
Decided on consulting Skipper of "Nautilus" and Captain of "Greyhound" to abandon "Nautilus".
The Skipper poured petrol on C.B's and set them on fire.
He then set his bunk on fire pouring more petrol on same endeavouring to set "Nautilus" completely on fire, as being a very stoutly built wooden ship she would not sink.
About ten soldiers were wounded by bombs falling around
"Nautilus" but none fatally. None of the crew were injured.
Two of "Nautilus" crew were left behind as crew of a large ship's lifeboat which was working in conjunction with a flat bottomed motor punt.
The "Nautilus" transferred between 700 and 800 B.E.F. to the two destroyers.
The crew of the "Nautilus" were grand, in particular the us
Skipper, 2nd engineer, and the cook.
(Continued over).

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 3.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Monday, 27th May (continucd).
2 Military Officers from G.H.Q., which suggested that the situation of the B.E.F. was procarious and it was possible that the enomy might succced in cutting off this force from Dunkirk.
This report appeared to confirm the results of air rcconnaissance, which indicated that German armoured units were operating to the south of Dunkirk. Sinco it appeared that ovacuation might well be strictly limited, both in regard to numbers and time available for the operation, it was a cided to concentrate every effort in sending 'over as many craft as possible to the beaches without delay. Had the situation appeared to be less critical, an organised flow of large and small craft working in reliefs would have been arranged.
9.
On receipt of these signals from S.N.O., Dunkirk, all available forces were diverted to the beaches, the Personnel
Ships to the beach, code letters A.B.C. and D., the destroyers on patrol being diverted to La Panne. Destroyers that were working off Dunkirk were ordered to divert the Personnel Ships going into Dunkirk to lay off the beaches and the smaller craft such as drifters and motor boats were ordered to be used for ferrying troops from the beach to the larger ships. Two important strings of boats being towed by a tug were lost in the night through the tows being run down and cut in half, the boats being scattered.
10. As a result of the above action there were assembling off the beaches 2 transports, 9 destroyers, 4 minesweepers,
CALCUTTA, 17 drifters and a few skoots, and all the ships were ordered to use their own boats for ferrying as none of the inshore flotilla had arrived. From signals received it appeared that the situation was desperate, that little could be lifted direct from the Port of Dunkirk, and that the maximum effort must be made from the beaches. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, at this stage provided additional reinforcements of minesweepers and paddlers. During the night, Vice Admiral, Dover, was informed of continuous bombing and machine gunning of troops in the beach areas, and directed Senior Officers present on the beach to use their discretion in ordering withdrawal of the
Naval forces, observing that a strong fighter protection should be expected after dawn; this having been arranged after a special visit by the Liaison Officer to Hawkinge to procure the naximum effort.
11.
Limiting factors were thought most likely to be restrictions due to enemy action at Dunkirk and on the beaches, and the difficulties of concentrating the ships and troops at a common point or points. The general evacuation plan had been conveyed to the G.O.C. by the S.N.O. on his way to Dunkirk, and the Vice Admiral, Dover, hoped to receive in return some outine of the Military's operational plan upon which the rate of vacuation in the various areas under the scheme must depend.
Subject to the development of beach evacuation and the ontinuation of fine weather, it appeared to the Vice Admiral hat adequate shipping for his plans was either in, or on, its ay to the Dover area, except for a chronic shortage of beachng boats.
Tuesday, 28th May

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 5.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
to S.N.O., Dunkirk by signal - timed 1555/28 - and provided for the use of 3 Hospital Carriers, 7 personnel steamers and
2 destroyers at the East Pier, Dunkirk, while some 20
destroyers, 19 paddle and fleet sweepers, 17 drifters, 20 to
40 skoots, 5 coasters, 12 motor boats, 2 tugs, 28 pulling cutters and life-boats were to be distributed between La
Panne and point 1½ miles East of Dunkirk, on the beaches; the destroyers running continuous round trips.
It was estimated that the personnel vessels and hospital carriers would be clear of the danger area by 0630. As regards the beaching and other small craft which had not yet reached the Dover Straits, arrangements were made with other authorities to route all small craft, which had not already been despatched, direct to the beaches East of Dunkirk, provided they had charts, food, fuel, etc.
At this time some difficulty was experienced in having at hand the large number of charts required for these additional vessels.
17, Owing to the suspension of daylight work by personnel vessels it was necessary to increase the number handled in
Dunkirk during the dark hours as the attempt to use the surplus personnel vessels off the beaches by night seemed unlikely to bear fruit. Accordingly, S.N.O., Dunkirk, was asked whether personnel vessels could be berthed inside
Dunkirk harbour, the only information in Vice Admiral's possession having indicated that the East Pier of the harbour entrance was the only suitable berth for such ships to which
British troops could have access. To increase the off-shore forces, Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was asked to sail CALCUTTA
to be opposite La Panne at 2200 to embark troops using own boats.
Orders were issued that all ships proceeding to Dunkirk from Dover were to use the southern route Z provided that the passage from No. 6 Calais Buoy to Dunkirk could be made in darkness.
18. At 1830 GRAFTON reported that several thousand troops remained on beaches at Bray and that more were arriving. At that time there were off Bray, one tow of pulling boats, number uncertain, 2 power boats, at least
2 skoots, CALCUTTA, GALLANT, WAKEFUL, VERITY and GRAFTON, using what survived of their own whalers and motor boats.
This force was reinforced by 2 minesweepers at 2115. Later reports of concentrations of troops on the beaches were received, particularly at La Panne and Bray. Craft approaching the coast were directed accordingly. Naval Officer-in-
Charge, Ramsgate, was requested to maintain a continuous evacuation service by skoots between Margate and Ramsgate and the beach, and take over responsibility for servicing those vessels. Meantime CALCUTTA, who was off La Panne, reported that conditions for embarkation there were very bad owing to heavy surf, but that they might improve with the rising tide.
Shortly after midnight CALCUTTA was informed that the third corps of the B.E.F. and the Commander-in-Chief were all now at La Panne. She was directed to make every endeavour to concentrate all destroyers and light craft at that end of the beach/

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 8.
Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events,
Wednesday, 29th May (continued)
midship end on the bottom. All the troops on board went down with the ship; certain of the crew floated clear. After about 1/2 hour motor drifters NAUTILLUS and COMFORT arrived and started to pick up survivors, later joined by GOSSAMER.
Captain of the WAKEFUL was in the COMFORT. GRAFTON and LYDD
were close and Captain of WAKEFUL warned GRAFTON she was in danger of being torpedoed. At that moment, 0250, GRAFTON was torpedoed, COMFORT was lifted in the air, and Captain of
WAKEFUL washed overboard. COMFORT was going full speed and as she came round in a circle LYDD and GRAFTON opened fire on her, evidently thinking she was an enemy ship. It is believed that COMFORT crew, except one, and WAKEFUL survivors, except 4, were killed. LYDD then bore down on COMFORT, rammed and sank her.
Previously GRAFTON, who was proceeding to Dover with troops, had observed a ship tropedoed, and Iovered her boats to pick up survivors, subsequently ascertained by signal to
LYDD to be WAKEFUL. A small darkened vessel, thought be a drifter, was signalled and told to pick up survivors.
Within a few seconds of this, GRAFTON was torpedoed, The bridge was also hit, either by a shell or grenade, and the
Captain killed instantly. LYDD then tried to come alongside but after hitting starboard side sheered off, and appeared to ram a vessel on port quarter. This was COMFORT. GRAFTON
opened fire under the impression LYDD had rammed the M.T.B.
Target was then shifted to another vessel further away on port quarter, and vessel was observed to blow up with a bright flash. This may well have been the enemy M.T.B.
29. During the forenoon JAGUAR, GALLANT and GRENADE
were dispatched via the new Middle Route X to test the opposition by shore batteries prior to introducing this route as an alternative to the long Northern route. GRENADE arrived
Dunkirk, reported no fire from shore batteries, but that she had experienced heavy bombing. These three destroyers were attacked by dive bombers when approaching Dunkirk at about noon, and GALLANT was damaged. At least six attacks were carried out, one enemy aircraft was brought down by gunfire and others by fighters. An hour later MALCOLM reported
Dunkirk heavily bombed with a large number of aircraft and during the afternoon this bombing extended up the coast to ships off Bray. During the afternoon the Middle Route X was brought into use for destroyers, but small ships were still routed round the Northern route to Zuydecoote Pass. LOCUST
and MOSQUITO joined Dover Command and were despatched to work on the beaches during the afternoon. Shortly after noon enemy shore batteries near Nieuport began to bring Zuydecoote
Pass under spasmodic gunfire and the state was being reached whereby the new Middle Route would become the only practicable daylight approach to Dunkirk and the beaches. At noon,
CALCUTTA, who was able to get across to La Panne beach to receive troops by small boats, embarked 1200 troops from the minesweepers and then sailed for Sheerness, the minesweepers remaining to load up again. At 1606 the New Route X having been fully swept, all ships were ordered by the Vice Admiral to use Route X, exercising navigational caution, and those from Dover were instructed to proceed by Route Z, the South route/

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 29
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Sunday, 2nd June (continued).
85. At 1700 movement towards Dunkirk commenced. The
Armada consisted of 13 personnel vessels, 2 large store carriers, 11 destroyers, 5 paddle minesweepers, 9 fleet sweepers, 1 special service vessel, 9 drifters, 6 skoots, 2
armed yachts, 1 gunboat, a large number of tugs, lifeboats, etc., formed either in organised tows or free lance, The composition of the French contingent was unknown it was thought to consist of 6 small destroyers, 4 avisos and about 120
fishing craft.
86. At 1538 the S.N.O. Dunkirk, made the following situation report:-
"French still maintain front line except for area east of Bergues where the Germans have penetrated two miles on a two-mile front. Counter attack being made at
1500. In port no movement. Present situation hopeful."
87. At 2145 it was learned that the ROYAL DAFFODIL, the first of the personnel vessels, had been bombed near the North
Goodwin Light Vessel on the outward passage whence she returned to Ramsgate. At 2200 it was learned that loaded vessels were leaving Dunkirk.
88. At 2330 S.N.O. Dunkirk, reported "B.E.P. evacuated".
89. Casualties to H.M. Ships - Sunday 2nd June.
Hospital Carrier PARIS, whilst proceeding to Dunkirk by X Route near W. Buoy, was shelled when off the French coast.
The engines were put out of action. Ship was eventually abandoned. No wounded on board. The crew and medical staff were taken off by other vessels. Prior to this the Hospital
Carrier WORTHING had been fired at but returned to the Downs with slight damage.
A/S Trawlers BLACKBURN ROVER and WESTELLA both sunk by mines.
A/S Trawler CAPE ARGONA damaged by near misses whilst on patrol and returned to Harwich.
A.A. Cruiser CALCUTTA had many near misses whilst out on patrol off the beaches, which shook ship and did minor damage.
Personnel Vessel ROYAL DAFFODIL bombed whilst off
Dunkirk and damaged, but returned under her own steam.
Destroyer SABRE attacked by enemy aircraft and received damage. Able to return to harbour under own steam.
Monday, 3rd June.
90. The hopes that a large number of French troops would be lifted following the completion of B.E.F. embarkation, was shaken when at 0030 Rear Admiral, Dover, reported from Dunkirk that/

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 29
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Sunday, 2nd June (continued).
85. At 1700 movement towards Dunkirk commenced. The
Armada consisted of 13 personnel vessels, 2 large store carriers, 11 destroyers, 5 paddle minesweepers, 9 fleet sweepers, 1 special service vessel, 9 drifters, 6 skoots, 2
armed yachts, 1 gunboat, a large number of tugs, lifeboats, etc., formed either in organised tows or free lance, The composition of the French contingent was unknown it was thought to consist of 6 small destroyers, 4 avisos and about 120
fishing craft.
86. At 1538 the S.N.O. Dunkirk, made the following situation report:-
"French still maintain front line except for area east of Bergues where the Germans have penetrated two miles on a two-mile front. Counter attack being made at
1500. In port no movement. Present situation hopeful."
87. At 2145 it was learned that the ROYAL DAFFODIL, the first of the personnel vessels, had been bombed near the North
Goodwin Light Vessel on the outward passage whence she returned to Ramsgate. At 2200 it was learned that loaded vessels were leaving Dunkirk.
88. At 2330 S.N.O. Dunkirk, reported "B.E.P. evacuated".
89. Casualties to H.M. Ships Sunday 2nd June.
Hospital Carrier PARIS, whilst proceeding to Dunkirk by X Route near W. Buoy, was shelled when off the French coast.
The engines were put out of action. Ship was eventually abandoned. No wounded on board. The crew and medical staff were taken off by other vessels. Prior to this the Hospital
Carrier WORTHING had been fired at but returned to the Downs with slight damage.
A/S Trawlers BLACKBURN ROVER and WESTELLA both sunk by mines.
A/S Trawler CAPE ARGONA damaged by near misses whilst on patrol and returned to Harwich.
A.A.Cruiser CALCUTTA had many near misses whilst out on patrol off the beaches, which shook ship and did minor damage.
Personnel Vessel ROYAL DAFFODIL bombed whilst off
Dunkirk and damaged, but returned under her own steam.
Destroyer SABRE attacked by enemy aircraft and received damage. Able to return to harbour under own steam.
Monday, 3rd June.
90. The hopes that a large number of French troops would be lifted following the completion of B.E.F. embarkation, was shaken when at 0030 Rear Admiral, Dover, reported from Dunkirk that/

APPENDIX I.
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
RUISER:
CALCUTTA
YERS:
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
VILY
BIDEFORD
TS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
EEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
EL
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGOWER
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WESTWARD HO
ESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SARGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
AL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
LS:
ROYAL EAGLE
TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
RAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WISTELLA
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
ERS:
SILVER DAWN
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

Page 12,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
MISCELLANEOUS
CALCUTTA (A.A. Vessel).
Commanding Officer.
Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
LORMONT.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R.
Ratings.
Marine A. Hobberjam.
Marine, H. Ambrose.
H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat
Commanding Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N.
Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE.
Officer.
Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R.
Rating.
Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192.
Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE.
Officers.
Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R.
Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R.
A.A. Kite Party.
Commanding Officer.
Commander John Scott Dove, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R.
Sub.Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R.
Motor/

17.
'Dell
Leonard Travers,
Able Seaman a D/JX.133219, H.MS. Glengowe
Able Seaman James Wallis, C/SSX.27313, H.M.S. Keith.
Able Seaman Edwin George Webster, C/JX.142167, H.M.S. Kingfisher.
Able Seaman George John Woodger, C/J.45802, H.M.S. Keith.
Able Seaman Frederick William Jacobs, C/J.100758, R.F.R., B.23901,
H.M.S. Malcolm.
Able Seaman James Kidd, R.F.R., D/SSX.13321, H.M.S. Jaguar.
Able Seaman Frederick James Slack, C/J.93546, R.F.R., B.21781, H.M.S.
Crested Eagle.
Able Seaman George Tilbury, c/ss.7850, R.F.R., B.17336, H.M.S.
Crested Eagle.
Able Peaman Richard Philip Smith, R.N.V.R., БЕЗДХХЗЛАЙ MD/X.1950,
H.M.S. Codrington.
Signalman Harold Oscar Carter, C/SSX.17317, H.M.S. Locust.
Signalman Charles Raymond Craig, D/JX.141848, H.M.S. Bideford.
Signalman Harry Guy, C/JX.150713, H.M.S. Calcutta.
Signalman Eric Ernest Roden, C/J.103654, H.M.S. Locust.
Signalman Stanley Thompson, C/JX.133505, H.M.S. Kingfisher.
Signalman Leslie David Ball, R.M.V.R.? LD5/X.3548, H.M.S. Codrington.
Signalman James Stanley Duffy, R.N.N.R.A,C/TDX.1412,
Signalman Ronald Henry Walters, R.N.V.R., C/LDX.4178.
queen of Thanet.
Signalman John Albert Williamson, R.NV.R., LD/X.4036, H.M.S. Glenaven
Stoker First Class Jack Chadwick, D/KX.81834, HLM.S. Jaguar.
Stoker First Class Samuel Comben, P/K.62179, H.M.S. Vimy.
Stoker First Class Charles Irvine, C/KX.86537, H.M.S. Sabre.
Stoker First Class William Reginald Gordon Jones, C/KX.92890, H.M.S.
Wolsey.
Stoker First Class Percy William Spray, P/KX.87052, Newhaven Rosa Life Boa
Sick Berth Attendant Eric James Littlewood Gibson, D/MX.56025, Ivanhoe. H.M.S.
Sick Berth Attendant (R) Alfred Bassford, c/x.8080, R.N.A.S.B.R.
Sick Berth Attendant Albert William Keller, R.N.A.S.B.R., D/X.6785,
H.M.S. Havant.
Sick Berth Attendant James Timothy Tomlinson, R.N.A.S.B.R.? P/X.6941.
H.M.S. Vivacious.
Sick Berth Attendant Edward Welch, R.N.A.S.B.R., P/SBR/X.7341, H.M.S. Esk.
Sick Berth Attendant John Yeoman, R.N.A.S.B.R., P/X.7093, H.M.S. Express.
Ordinary Seaman Noel Edward Holmes Berry, D/JX.158456, H.M.S. Jaguar.
Ordinary Seaman Arthur Thomas Burton, P/JX.182142, H.M.S. Portsdown.
Ordinary Seaman Dominic Kenny, D/SSX.30221, H.M.S. Shikari.
Shaw
Ordinary Seaman William Lyons, D/SSX.30211, H.M.S. Shikari. are
Brigana aire

Page 72
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S. CALCUTTA on Captain Dennis Marescaux Leas. R.N.
Page 71
peration "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
BIDEFORD (Continued).
Displayed great personal courage in his decision to remain on board.
Recommended for decoration,
Stoker Petty Officer Charles William Donnelly. D/K.5995.
n
N.
Acting Cook Albert Victor Hocking, 58549.
When the ship was bombed everyone aft was killed or badly wounded except these two men. Stoker Petty
Officer Donnelly's duty was "in charge of the after fire and repair party". Hocking formed one of the
First Aid Party. The fire main aft was blown away and fire broke out in the cabin flat immediately above the after magazine. These two men, working entirely on their own initiative, ran hoses aft from the first connection and succeeded in getting the fire under control and hoses down the after magazine hatch to flood the magazine (the magazine flooding arrangements were destroyed) and partly flooded it before assistance came. Their prompt and efficient action probably saved the ship.
Recommended for decoration.
Signalman Charles Raymond Craig, D/JX. 141848.
Landed with an officer to organise embarkation on the beach, then joined one of the embarkation posts, took charge of the signalling apparatus and tring tered got into communication with several ships. When vors the station was destroyed by bombing, Craig improvised a signal lamp out of the headlight of a lorry and vas used this until the battery ran down. He remained hom ashore all night and was eventually sent back by the
M
embarkation officer. On arrival at Dover he volunteered to go over to Dunkirk pier, where signalmen were required, and spent another night there.
Recommended for mention.
ed
44
uplo

Page 72
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S. CALCUTTA - Captain Dennis Marescaux Leas, R.N.
beach troops.
On evacuating 28th and 29th May this ship was off La Panne
Recommendations.
OFFICER
Mr. Frederick James March, Gunner, R.N.
2
CALCUTTA'S boats and untiring example and in
Showed initiative and resource in charge of n
k working end. up to his waist in heavy surf for hours energy on
N.
M
M
Recommended for mention.
RATING
Signalman Harry Guy, C/JX. 150713.
Displayed untiring energy and devotion to duty in holding the whaler's bows to a heavy surf for many hours on end and whilst being continuously drenched with water up to the shoulders.
M
Recommended for mention.
tring tere vors vas hom ed
44
uplo

Page 12.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
MISCELLANEOUS,
CALCUTTA (A.As Vessel).
Commanding Officer.
Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
LORMONT.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R.
Ratings.
Marine A. Hobberjam.
Marine, H. Ambrose.
H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.As Motor Boat
Commanding Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N.
Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE.
Officer.
Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R.
Rating.
Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192.
Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE.
Officers.
Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R.
Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R.
A.A. Kite Party.
Commanding Officer.
Commander John Scott Dove, R.N.
Officers.
Sub. Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R.
Sub.Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R.
Motor/

PAOP 71,
Page 72
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. CALCUTTA BM Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
On 28th and 29th May this ship was off La Panne beach evacuating troops.
Recommendations.
OFFICER
Mr. Frederick James March, Gunner, R.N.
Showed initiative and resource in charge of
CALCUTTA'S boats and untiring example and energy in working up to his waist in heavy surf for hours on m
end.
Recommended for mention.
RATING.
Signalman Harry Guy. C/JX. 150713.
Displayed untiring energy and devotion to duty
M
in holding the whaler's bows to a heavy surf for many hours on end and whilst being continuously drenched with water up to the shoulders.
Recommended for mention.
some 280 Allied troops under bombardment from the air and sporadic artillery fire.
Stoker Beer was also a Lewis gunner of the ship and damaged one enemy aircraft. These ratings displayed the greatest keenness, cheerfulness and devotion to duty.
Recommend Stoker Beer to be decoratesssratesrati and the remainder mentioned.