TNA ADM 199 792

1
96
CONFIDENTIAL.
NL
Oa 27/26 AB/40
11387
25th September, 1940.
1940
Enquiry into the loss of
H.M. Armed Yacht PELLAG II
in Operation "Dynamo"
CENTRAL
(27 SEP 1940
Sir,
REGIS
In accordance with Admiralty Letter N.L.6245/40 dated 1st August,
1940, be pleased to lay before Their Lordships the following report resulting from an enquiry held into the loss of H.M. Armed Yacht PELLAG II
in Operation "Dynamo".
2. Temporary Lieutenant F.W.R. Martino, R.N.V.R. was interviewed on
3rd September, 1940.
3. When PELLAG II was approaching Dunkirk at about 1000 on 31st May,
1940, she went to the assistance of a trawler which was aground. In her efforts to tow the trawler off, the clutch of Diesel Engine burnt out and the wire cable of steering gear parted. Effort to tow was then abandoned.
4. The hand tiller was rigged but could not be efficiently operated on account of the depth charge davit which prevented it passing the midship position. The ship could only proceed very slowly and the
Commanding Officer asked WORCESTER to take her in tow.
5. WORCESTER was leaving Dunkirk heavily loaded with troops and as she was being subjected to bombing attack and PELLAG II's defective steering made towing very difficult, WORCESTER took the Commanding Officer and men on board and cast PELLAG II off. An effort to sink the yacht was unsuccessful on account of aerial bombardment.
6. PELLAG II was, at 0600 on the 2nd June, found adrift by a party of Royal Engineers which, under Major M.C.A. Henniker, R.E., was making its escape from the French Coast in rowing boats. They boarded the yacht and managed to get the engines running. PELLAG II was making slow progress when at 0515 on 2nd June H.M.S. LOCUST closed and examined her. As the engines and steering gear were found to be defective, officers and other ranks were taken on board LOCUST and PELLAG II was taken in tow. Shortly afterwards, the tow parted. Two further attempts were made to tow her but as enemy aircraft were in the vicinity the Commanding Officer of
LOCUST decided to abandon her. An attempt to sink her by gun-fire was not successful, and the Commanding Officer of the LOCUST, states, in a written report he has sent to me;-"with the prevailing set of wind and
"tide it is Klams that she may have subsequently fallen into the hands of"
"the enemy."
7. S.P.'s and Charts were transferred to WORCESTER.
8. I was assisted in my enquiry by Commander A.J. Cubison, D.S.C.,R.N., and Lieutenant Commander (E) W.G.H. Nicholson, R.N.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
SE
Secretary a Sesford of the Admiralty.
VICE-ADMIRAL.

tions of Commander k.
der Dove, Sub Lieutenant
N.V.R. The object was to erect
7th June, 1940.
rt of Dunkirk. Commander Dove atsuki" on May 2000 with 200
-Admiral Sir James ut. Field and Sub Lieut Addis
Somerville, K. C.B., D.S.O.,.
taul". On instructions from took command of the Drifter
On the orders of Commander Yates, we iled from Dover 6345 Friday the honour to submit the following es for the demolition party, 4
ort on the activities of Commander officer Major Russell, 1 Army e's party at Dunkirk.
3 signal ratings. After an
Dunkirk 0930 to find a large
We have the honour to be, Sir, rogress. We noted then, and for that in spite of the courage and
Your obedient Servants, the great majority of their targets. We immediately entered
J.L. Field Subtient RNVILE
the South Quay.
R.G.addis Subtient RMVR.
ratings, we reported to Cdr.
La Rentaul" to keep clear of the nent which had recommenced. We emolition party that we had afterwards made contact with portion of a demolition party.
re-enter the harbour and took
CS.
threatening to block completely a done at once it would have
32" the hospital and personnel y. The, "Gervaise" was mana side to avoid the risk of her ion in the fairway. Ammunition nd handed over to Cdr Banks who y primersor detonators for the a two hospital ships which were
$
The attached papers have been ng these was just put in hand seen by the Vice Admiral, Dover, and note made
* available at any time during for his list of personnel recommendations.
himself and with help of his the necessary work. Now the
Yours sincerely, ble for further hospital and
During these operations Cdr.
e situation in Dunkirk was so he opportunity nor the facilitie hadch Cress rk. Furthermore there was a re-
1" dive bombing until Monday 27th old Cdr Dove that there was no ommandeered a car and bought
SECRETARY to rom estaminets which were still
VICE ADMIRAL.
de tour of inspection and found property and personnel was il tanks on the south side of the atening the railway and timber
S. to S.W. which blew a pall of scene appear far worse than evening the work of loading ship eady a large number of noncomour besides an increasing number quay. The night was quiet planes sincleithe town for over*
ely small number of bombs. Early ho had been instructed by Cdr.
for safety, reported that magnet mines nad Deen 1814 near the entrance and that a French merchantmen had been blown up.
ore dawn, the situation will become extremely grim'

Statement of the operations of Commander
Dove's party at Dunkirk.
Prefatory Note.
The party consisted of Commander Dove,R.N., Sub.Lieutenant
Field, and Sub.Lieutenant Addis, R.N.V.R. The object was to erect
& lethal kite barrage round the port of Dunkirk. Commander Dove sailed with H.M.D. "Boy Roy" and "Natsuki" on May 2014 with 200
sets of lethal kite year.,Lieut, Field and ub.Lieut Addis left Daver with H.M.D. "Gervais Rentaul". On instructions from
Captain A/P Dover,.Lieut. Field took command of the Drifter
(skipper Mr.Burgess,R.N.R)
Report.
Sub.Lieut Field and Addis, sailed from Dover 6345 Friday
May 25th with 9 tons high explosives for the demolition party, 4
tons of medical stores, 1 Medical officer Major Russell, 1 Army liaison officer Captain Hill, and 3 signal ratings. After an uneventful passage, we arrived off Dunkirk 0930 to find a large scale air attack by the enemy in progress. We noted then, and for the whole time we were in Dunkirk that in spite of the courage and persistence of the shore A.A.units the great majority of their salvoes were well astern of their targets. We immediately entered the harbour and made fast alongside the South Quay.
ratings, we reported to Cdr.
La Rentaul" to keep clear of the nent which had recommenced. We emolition party that we had afterwards made contact with
OFFICE OF
portion of a demolition party.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER.
re-enter the harbour and took threatening to block completely a done at once it would have
32" the hospital and personnel
18th June, 1940.
7. The, "Gervaise" was man-
1 side to avoid the risk of her ion in the fairway. Ammunition nd handed over to Cdr Banks who
Dear Gleadowe, y primersor detonators for the
The attached papers have been a two hospital ships which were seen by the Vice Admiral, Dover, and note made ng these was just put in hand for his list of personnel recommendations.
* available at any time during himself and with help of his the necessary work. Now the
Yours sincerely, ble for further hospital and
During these operations Cdr.
8 situation in Dunkirk was so he opportunity nor the facilitie hadch Cres rk. Furthermore there was a re-
1" dive bombing until Monday 27th old Cdr.Dove that there was no ommandeered a car and bought
SECRETARY to rom estaminets which were still
VICE ADMIRAL.
de tour of inspection and found property and personnel was il tanks on the south side of th atening the railway and timber
S. to S.W. which blew a pall of scene appear far worse than evening the work of loading shi eady a large number of noncomour besides an increasing number quay. The night was quiet planes circledthe town for over*
ely small number of bombs. Early ho had been instructed by Odr.
for safety, reported that magnet mines nad been 1810 near the entrance and that a French merchantmen had been blown up.
ore dawn, the situation will become extremely grim'

Statement of the operations of Commander
Dove's party at Dunkirk.
Prefatory Note.
The party consisted of Commander Dove, b.Lieutenant
Field, and Sub.Lieutenant Addis, R.N.V.R. The object was to erect a lethal kite barrage round the port of Dunkirk. Commander Dove sailed with "Boy Roy" and "Natsuki" on May 2004 with 200
sets of lethal kite gear. Sub,Lieut,Field and Sub.Lieut Addis left Daver with H.M.D. "Gervais Rentaul". On instructions from
Captain A/P took command of the Drifter
(skipper Mr.Burgess,R.N.R)
Report.
Sub.Lieut Field and Addis, sailed from Dover 6345 Friday
May 25th with 9 tons high explosives for the demolition party, 4
tons of medical stores, 1 Medical officer Major Russell, 1 Army liaison officer Captain Hill, and 3 signal ratings. After an uneventful passage, we arrived off Dunkirk 0930 to find a large scale air attack by the enemy in progress. We noted then, and for the whole time we were in Dunkirk that in spite of the courage and persistence of the shore A.A.units the great majority of their salvoe were well astern of their targets. We immediately entered the harbour and made fast alongside the South Quay.
Army Officers and signal ratings, we reported to Cdr.
Henderson B.N.L.O. who order "Gervais Rentaul" to keep clear of the harbour to avoid the aerial bombardment which had recommenced. We then reported to Cdr. Banks of the demolition party that we had brought his explosives, and shortly afterwards made contact with
Cdr. Dove who had taken charge of a portion of a demolition party.
Cdr.Dove now signalled the G.R. to re-enter the harbour and took in tow two sinking tugs which were threatening to block completely the South Quay. If this had not been done at once it would have been difficulty if not impossible for the hospital and personnel ships to make fast to the South Quay. The, "Gervaise" was maneeuvred to a small lock on the south side to avoid the risk of her being hit and exploding the ammunition in the fairway. Ammunition medical stores were then unloaded and handed over to Cdr. Banks who up to that time had not received any primersor detonators for the depth charges.
Cdr.Dove then signalled in two hospital ships which were in the offing and the work of loading these was just put in hand inmediately. As there was no. labour dock available at any time during our stay in Dunkirk Commander Dove himself and with help of his officers organised and carried out the necessary work. Now the
South Quay was cleared it was possible for further hospital and personnel ships to enter and load. During these operations Cdr.
Dove reached the conclusion that the situation in Dunkirk was so grave that we should have neither the opportunity nor the facilitie to erect a kite barrage round Dunkirk. Furthermore there was a regrettable lack of wind and no low or dive bombing until Monday 27th
At midday dr.Henderson told Cdr. Dove that there was no water in Dunkirk and we therefore commandeered a car and bought sufficient vichy and perier water from estaminets which were still open in Malo form H.Q.staff. We made tour of inspection and found that up to date the damage done to property and personnel was surprisingly little, although the oil tanks on the south side of th town were blazing flercely and threatening the railway and timber yards. There was a light uir from S. to S.W. which blew a pall of smoke over the harbour and made the scene appear far worse than reality. During the afternoon and evening the work of loading shi went on smoothly but there were already a large number of noncombatant forces crowded into the harbour besides an increasing number*
of ambulances lined up on the south quay. The night was quiet except for one air-raid when German planes circledthe town for over
(ca hour before dropping a comparatively small mimber of bombs. Early next morning May 26th, r.Burgess who had been instructed by Cdr.
Dove to anchor outside the harbour for safety, reported that magnet mines had been laid near the entrance and that a French merchantmen had been blown up.
dawn, the situation will become extremely grim'

Ship sailed from Dover at 0850 on 29th May, did a days minesweeping and arrived off Dunkirk, lit by the red flames of the burning oil tanks at 0040 on 30th May. On this occasion troops were embarked off BRAY
DUNE in our own boats and canvas punts. There were no incidents of note, and we sailed at 0515, arriving at Dover at 1015 on Thursday morning. All boats were left on the beach by order from Rear Admiral
Dover.
Third trip. Sailing from Dover at 1330 with a party of signalmen for LA PANNE, we arrived off BRAY at 1830. Admiral Wake Walker came on board for passage to LA PANNE, where we transferred him to H.M.S.
"WORCESTER" and enchored at 1930. I can recall no. features of this trip, which was eclipsed by the incidents of the following one.
we proceeded at 0118 and arrived at Dover at 0600.
Fourth trip. In order to comply with Vice Admiral Dover's
0446/30 12 hours were spent at Dover.
A
smallamotor-boat, the
"Handy
Billy! was requisitioned. We left at 1800 and anchored as ordered, one mile west of LA PANNE and 4 cables from the shore, at 1207.
Sub-Lieutenant M.Phipps proceeded to search the shore in "Handy Bill and reported no answer to his hails. Inside an hour, however, the situation had changed, and thousands were massing abreast the ship.
UI called for more boats by searchlight up and down the immic coast, and eventually was much assisted by H.M.S. "IVANHOE" who lent me a motor-boat. The vital need now was for more boats. About this time
Lieutenant-Commander McLelland swam off from shore with a message for
Dover which he was just able to gasp out before collapsing. The troops had been forcedout of LA PANNE and were marching West.
We also embarked a Major, 2nd in Command 2nd Coldstream Guards, and on his advice ordered the bulk of the troups to move West on Dunkirk in small groups.
I decided to remain where I was and to embark the wounded and such troops as refused to move on. "IVANHOE" remained with me.
At this time a paddle minesweeper most gallently grounded herself close inshore to save as many as possible. I do not know har name.
At 0500 as I had expected a flight of Messerschmidt 109's appeared from Eastward, flew low over the beaches and sprayed ships and men with machine-gun fire. The silvery tracer bullets were clearly visible in the morning light. Our fire did something to disperse these machines and casualties did not appear to be heavy.
At 0600 Captain D in H.M.S. "CODRINGTON" asked me my intentions
End as I had 675 troops on board I replied I was proceedingt He ordered me to Dunicirk to "Fill up".
On our way there we went alongside H.M.S. "SKIPJACK" who required
8oz.
chloroform. We then berthed on East Arm just beyond the break, and very quickly embarked some 170 French troops. The enemy was now bombing the town and massing off the harbour entrence. As I went astern "IVANHOE" was hit as she steamed full speed past the pierhead.
We set course west, and were about to turn North at 5W Buoy when we were attacked by some five Junkers 87 dive bombers. These were followed by nine or ten otheres the a few minutes later. It was at this time that H.M.S. "HAVANT" was hit. During these attacks
I
attribute our escape to the coolness and precision with which Lieutenant.Menisty and Yeoman of Signals J.Young ( C/J X 131436
observed each aircraft as it turned to the attack, and assisted me in handling the ship. The salvoes sonbanneck of four small bombs and one large one fell very close; on two occasions it was only our swing during the flight of the bombs that saved us. The 0.5" machine-gun fired until all the feree springs fell off. The 4" guns were hampered by the swing of the ship.
This was a most trying time for the troops between decks who could not tell whether or not we were hit. A great deal was done to calm them by P.O. Std. A.Hockney ( L 14824 ) who actually sat on the ladder to the messdeck and sang to the soldiers.

copy she
That Your Majesty may be pleased to approve the award of the following Honours and Decorations to officers and men of Your Majesty's Ships for service in connection with the evacuation of the Allied Forces from
Dunkirk
Knight Commander of the Bath (Military)
Vice-Admiral Bertram Home Ramsay, M.V.O.,
Flag Officer Commanding, Dover.
Companion of the Bath (Military)
rd
Rear-Admiral William Frederick Wake-Walker, O.B.E.,
Rear-Admiral, Dover.
Captain William George Tennent, M.V.O., Royal Navy.
Senior Naval Officer, Dunkirk.
es
Captain Michael Maynard Denny, Royal Navy.
,
Also in charge of evacuation arrangements at Dunkirk breakwater and beaches.
7
Distinguished Service Order.
ions 10
Captain Thomas Edgar Halsey, Royal Navy, H.M.S. MALCOLM.
-
Captain George Frederick Stevens-Guille, D.S.O.,O.B.E.,
Royal Navy, H.M.S.CODRINGTON. (Bar).
Commander Guy Oakley Maund, Royal Navy (Retired).
Commander Renfrew Cotto, Royal Navy.
Commander Villiers Nicholas Surtees, Royal Navy.
Commander Ralph Lindsay Fisher, Royal Navy, H.M.S.WAKEFUI
Commander John Hamilton Allison, Royal Navy.
H.M.S. WORCESTER.
Major A.E.M. Walter, B.A., Royal Engineers.
Captain L.E.L. Wright, Royal Engineers.
Lieutenant Commander James Coverley Stopford, Royal Navy.
6th June, 1940.

CONFIDENTIAL.
WE.C.
Canel lerry. 53.
FROM.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER.
Macclesful.
DATE
4th. JUNE 1940.
No. B23/862/40.
TO
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
Distinguished Service Cross (Contd.)
ith, rs
Temporary Skipper Alfred Manning Lovis, R.N.R.
W.S.3397. H.M. Drifter PAXTON.
rthy
S.
Captain Gordon Dyer Walter, Master, MAID OF ORLEANS.
N
Captain George Johnson, Master, ROYAL DAFFODIL.
:ward
Captain Thomas Aldis, Master, ROYAL SOVEREIGN.
from
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL.
Petty Officer Thomas A. Topley, C/J. 112800.
names
.e
Yeoman of Signals Geoffrey Piper, C/JX. 132686.
lese are
Able Seaman Alexander C. Moore, C/JX. 129026.
may
Able Seaman James G. Owen, R.F.R. B.20977.
lations to
Able Seaman Joseph I. Turner, C/SS. X.24037.
e
:
Able Seaman Walter F. Cox, R.F.R. B.22716.
us
Able Seaman Gilbert Rose, J.X151776.
Able Seaman Francis H. McLaughlin, C/J.X146012.
3
5.30
Ordinary Seaman Andrew McKay H. Miller, C/JX.174079.
TLIN
Ordinary Seaman William J. Edward Burrows, C/JX.154411.
Ordinary Seaman Sydney V. Genner, C/JX.150954.
O.B.E. (Military)
Acting Commander Philip Brian Martineau, Royal Navy (Retd.)
Major A.E.M. Walter, B.A., Royal Engineers.
Captain L.E.L. Wright, Royal Engineers.
Lieutenant Commander James Coverley Stopford, Royal Navy.
6th June, 1940.

ENCLOSURE NO.1 TO DOVER LETTER 10.B23/862/40 dated 4th. JUNE
1940.
Page 3.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF OFFICERS FOR SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH
THE EVACUATION OF THE ALLIED FORCES FROM DUNKIRK.
(contd)
CAPTAIN MICHAEL MAYNARD DENNY, ROYAL NAVY,
OBE(M)
CB
ACTING COMMANDER PHILIP BRIAN MARTINEAU, ROYAL NAVY, (RETIRED),
MAJOR (TEMPORARY) A.E.M.WALTER, B.A., ROYAL ENGINEERS, wo OBE
(Deputy Assistant Director of Transport
Dafer,
JAMES LEONARD KEITH, ESQUIRE, MINISTRY OF SHIPPING,
CAPTAIN (TEMPORARY) L.E.L. WRIGHT, ROYAL ENGINEERS, we: OBEM,
(Reserve of Officers).
For distinguished service in organising the sailing of the very large number of ships and vessels of all classes employed for the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force and the French Army to the number of 307,218, between the breakwater and beaches at Dunkirk and British ports, under circumstances of unprecendented difficulty.
CB
also
For
Norwa
SNO audabus
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JAMES COVERLEY STOPFORD, ROYAL NAVY,
OBE(M)
wait Martincan.
i/ashi
For distinguished service in establishing and maintaining essential W/T communications with the Naval, part
Military, and French Authorities respectively in Dunkerque, and with the large number of small vessels employed during the evacuation under circumstances of great difficulties, thereby contributing very materaially to the success of the operation.
OFFICERS OF THE MERCHANT NAVY.
3
D.S.A
CAPTAIN GORDON DYER WALTER, MASTER, 'MAID OF ORLEANS',
D.S.A
CAPTAIN GEORGE JOHNSON, MASTER, 'ROYAL DAFFODIL',
CAPTAIN THOMAS ALDIS, MASTER, ROYAL SOVEREIGN'.
ok Foley.
For distinguished service while serving in His Majesty's
Transports carrying Troops from Dunkerque to Dover.
The transports of necessity provided a vulnerable and easy target for enemy aircraft, but were required to make their passages while subject to constant bombing attacks, and frequently under shell fire.
They were required to berth in darkness in a confined harbour obstructed by wrecks, and crowded with small craft under way.
VICE ADMIRAL.

Page69
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. WHIPPINGHAM - Lieutenant Eric Reed. R.N.R.
from Embarked Dunkirk troops harbour from on the Dunkirk 1st June. beach on 31st May and
Recommendations.
RATING.
Chief Mechanician Arthur Frederick Ford, P/K.21534.
When the ship was alongside the pier overladen and straddled by enemy gunfire, troops rushed to port and the ship took a list of 20 degrees. Ford checked the rush and moved the troops back to starboard, thus preventing a major disaster.
Ford again showed powers of leadership above the ordinary in pressing troops into service for getting in the brows, cutting the moorings and getting the ship away from the pier Afterwards he went below to take the ship out.
E/DSM
Recommended for mention.
ring tere vor as hom adol

Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Page
70
H.M.S. BIDEFORD This - Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
being off the bombed beach vessel and proceeded machine-gunned to Bray on beach the on the 29th May bombing blown was quarter gun In spite platforms grounded away, deck, attack of No.2 the aft embarking wrecked, about took damage and gun 40 place. put of done, feet in the troops out addition casualties of The of of stern in the action ship the to fact being was much evening, way and that struck other completely the across. the 0.5 the on damage. ship machi While the third and continued 13 men killed, 1 officer and 18 men suffered (3 BIDEFO offic eventually England towed off and home, carried 400 troops and when to to embark troops during the night, wounded), on the 31st May.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
In spite of the severe damage to his ship by
D.S.C
bombs and the fact that his ship was aground, he continued to rescue troops from Bray beach, and eventually carried 400 to England.
M
Recommended for mention.
Surgeon Lieutenant John Jordan, M.B., B.Ch., R.N.
Displayed zeal and unswerving devotion to duty throughout the period 29th-31st May, when he was an outstanding example to all. His sick berth attendant seriously wounded, he doalt with some 50
casualties, many horribly mutilated or dangerously wounded, and performed several major operations, having organised his limited resources to their utmost. Throughout the period tended his patients continuously and at all times displayed great ability, patience and understanding. No effort was too much for him - no call was left unanswered.
He was completely selfless and upheld the traditions of the Royal Navy and of his profession in a most worthy manner.
D.S.O. D.S.C.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS.
Private George William Crowther, 6th Field Ambulance
B. Company, No. 7354480.
DSM.
(D.M)
This man had been embarked from Bray beach. After was Office to assist the Surgeon. An hour later, when the troop the ship was struck by bombs he immediately volunteer on said he would remain in BIDEFORD and continu was board had been transferred to another ship,
Crowther work there, knowing full well that BIDEFORD time his severely damaged. and aground, and at the that ship very considered highly improbable that to would it was reach England, but he gave up his comrades. chance
Carried get away out his voluntary duties for all but hor in order to tend his wounded 48
continuously in a most efficient manner.

Page
Page 14%
Page 146.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
E STAFF (continued).
ICERS:
Captain William Vesey Hamilton Harris, M.V.O., D.S.C.,R.N. (Retd.)
This officer was solely responsible for the organisation of the minesweeping vessels which took part in the operation. These ships not only evacuated troops from Dunkirk but also maintained routine sweeps under most difficult circumstances. By his cheerful leadership and tireless efforts, this officer was able to maintain his entire force at my disposal, and thereby contributed largely to the success of the enterprise.
M
Recommended for mention.
Commodore John Stewart Gordon Fraser, D.S.O., R.N. (Retd.).
For tireless zeal, energy and good judgment in dealing with the largely increased demand for repair and
)
maintenance arrangements of the Port during the operation 545n
With limited facilities, the organisation built up by
Commodore Fraser met all requirements, and the arrange-
1
ments for which this officer was responsible contributed in a major degree to the success of the enterprise.
M
Recommended for decoration.
Commander Francis John Lambert, D.S.C., R.N. (Retd.).
For exceptional zeal and devotion to duty. This officer, as King's Harbour Master, had to control and berth large numbers of ships, transports, skoots, and small vessels, and direct their movements for the
L).
purposes of repairs, fuelling, coaling, etc. To do
128)
this Commander Lambert was almost continuously on duty day and night throughout the operation, and his untiring efforts contributed materially to the success of the enterprise.
M
air
Recommended for decoration.
no
Lieutenant Commander (E) Weston Smith, R.N.
This officer worked throughout the operation with exceptional and tireless energy and enthusiasm when in
,EA
charge of repairs and making good damage caused to ships and boats. His skill as an Engineer Officer and
40.
intelligent improvisation and adaptability in all
73.
respects proved of inestimable value. His cheerful bearing and leadership during the long hours by day and night were an inspiration to all with whom he came in contact, and contributed largely to the success of the
M
operation.
Recommended for decoration.
Surgeon Captain Arthur Rowland Fisher, R.N. (Retd)
ion.
M
This officer was faced with the difficult problem of, dealing with casualties out of all proportion to those

pt. C.W. 29685
40
Page 150
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
3.
SeaTransport
SEA TRANSPORT OFFICERS.
adminal Shipway
The work done by the Sea Transport Officers throughout the Operation of Dynamo, entailed an enormous amount of labour, which was carried out in a highly efficient manner.
0/
Commodore Jukes-Hughes was in charge at Dover, ing and it was entirely due to his organisation and smooth working that enabled nearly 181,000 to be disembarked at Dover without any hitch whatsoever,
8
and at Folkestone, nearly 32,000.
Commodore Edward Glyn de Styrap Jukes-Mughes. R.N. (Retd.)
As P.S.T.O. was responsible for the successful disembarkation of troops, and the greatest credit is due to the capable and efficient way in which the troops were disembarked and able manner in d
CBE
which he was able to arrange for the quick turn rounds of the various transports that came into ion harbour.
h and in
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant Allan Raymond MacKewn, R.N.R.
In addition to carrying out the ordinary duties of Sea Transport Officer, Lieutenant MacKewn went in command of an armed party to the ST. SEIRIOL, where the Master had refused to sail, thereby showing great devotion to duty.
n,
Min
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant-Commander Ralph William Soper, R.N.R.
In addition to carrying out his ordinary duties this officer volunteered to take over the duty of
Chief Officer of Transport, Canterbury, as there was no relief available, thereby showing great is devotion to duty.
ly
Mit
Recommended for decoration.
m
Major Lionel Steele Wilkinson, R.M.
During the period of the operation he was in almost constant attendance at the office and was only absent for very brief periods for sleep. His
0
local knowledge was of great assistance to the alty
P.S.T.O., and a great deal of the success of the organisation is due to his great devotion to duty.
this in on
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant/
td.

Page69
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Porsonnol.
H.M.S. WHIPPINGHAM - Lieutenant Eric Reed, R.N.R.
Embarked troops from Dunkirk beach on 31st May and from Dunkirk harbour on the 1st June.
Recommendations.
d B
RATING,
Chief Mechanician Arthur Frederick Ford, P/K. 21534.
in
When the ship was alongside the pier overladen and straddled by enemy gunfire, troops rushed to ce port and the ship took a list of 20 degrees. Ford
OR
checked the rush and moved the troops back to starboard thus preventing a major disaster.
Ford again showed powers of leadership above the ordinary in pressing troops into service for getting in the brows, cutting the moorings and getting the ship away from the pier. Afterwards he went below to take the ship out.
DSM
Recommendod for mention.
or are ope rs

Page 70
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. BIDEFORD - Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
This vessel proceeded to Bray beach on the 29th May, being bombed and machine-gunned on the way across. While off the beach embarking troops in the evening, the third bombing attack took place. The ship was struck on the quarter deck, about 40 feet of stern being completely blown away, No.2 gun put out of action and the 0.5 machin gun platforms wrecked, in addition to much other damage.
In spite of the damage done, of the fact that the ship was grounded aft and of the casualties suffered (3 office and 13 men killed, 1 officer and 18 men wounded), BIDEFOR
continued to embark troops during the night, and when eventually towed off and home, carried 400 troops to
England on the 31st May.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N.
In spite of the severe damage to his ship by bombs and the fact that his ship was aground, he continued to rescue troops from Bray beach, and
D&C eventually carried 400 to England.
Recommended for mention.
Surgeon Lieutenant John Jordan. M.B., B.Ch., R.N.
Displayed zeal and unswerving devotion to duty throughout the period 29th-31st May, when he was an outstanding example to all. His sick berth attendant seriously wounded, he doalt with some 50
casualties, many horribly mutilated or dangerously wounded, and performed several major operations, having organised his limited resources to their
DSD.
utmost. Throughout the period tended his patients continuously and at all times displayed great ability, patience and understanding. No effort was too much for him - no call was left unanswered.
He was completely selfless and upheld the traditions of the Royal Navy and of his profession in a most worthy manner.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS.
Private George William Crowther, 6th Field Ambulance
B. Company, No. 7354480.
= Dsmandard byour
This man had been embarked from Bray beach. After to assist the Surgeon. An hour later, when the troops the ship was struck by bombs he immediately volunteere board had been transferred to another ship,
Crowther on said he would remain in BIDEFORD BIDEFORD and continue his severely damaged and aground, and that at the work there, knowing full well that that time was very considered highly improbable chance ship to would in order to tend his wounded for all but it was reach England, but he gave up his comrades.
get away out his voluntary duties manner. 48 hours
Carried continuously in a most efficient

Page 146.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
STAFF (continued).
ERS:
Japtain William This Vesey officer Hamilton Harris, M.V.O., D.S.C.,R.N.
organisation the operation. of the was for the took (Retd part in troops from Dunkirk which under most routine evacuated sweeps leadership to maintain officer his cheerful contributed largely to force the success at my disposal, of the enterprise. was and able thereby
Recommended for mention.
Commodore John Stewart Gordon Fraser, D.S.O., R.N. (Retd.).
dealing with the largely increased demand for in
For tireless zeal, energy and good judgment
With maintenance arrangements of the Port during the repair operation and limited facilities, the organisation built up by
)
Commodore Fraser met all requirements, and the arrange-
45
ments for which this officer was responsible contributed in a major degree to the success of the enterprise.
Recommended for decoration.
Commander Francis John Lambert, D.S.C., R.N. (Retd.).
For exceptional zeal and devotion to duty. This officer, as King's Harbour Master, had to control and berth large numbers of ships, transports, skoots, and small vessels, and direct their movements for the purposes of repairs, fuelling, coaling, etc. To do this Commander Lambert was almost continuously on duty 8)
day and night throughout the operation, and his untiring efforts contributed materially to the success of the enterprise.
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant Commander (E) Weston Smith, R.N.
worked throughout the operation when with in exceptional and and making good damage Officer
This officer tireless energy and enthusiasm caused to i.A
charge of repairs His skill as an Engineer in all and adaptability cheerful bearing and to all the with long whom hours he by came day of in the and night contact, were and an contributed inspiration largely to the success operation.
Recommended for decoration.
Surgeon Captain Arthur Rowland Fisher, R.N. (Retd). difficult problem of dealing This with of all the proportion to those

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Operation "DYNAMO"
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Recommendations of Personnel.
SEA TRANSPORT OFFICERS.
The work done by the Sea Transport Officers throughout the Operation of Dynamo, entailed an enormous amount of labour, which was carried out in a highly efficient manner.
Commodore Jukes-Hughes was in charge at Dover, and it was entirely due to his organisation and smooth working that enabled nearly 181,000 to be disembarked at Dover without any hitch whatsoever, and at Folkestone, nearly 32,000.
Commodore Edward Glyn de Styrap Jukes-Hughes.R.N. (Retd.)
As P.S.T.O. was responsible for the succes disembarkation of troops, and the greatest cre is due to the capable and efficient way in whi the troops were disembarked and able manner in which he was able to arrange for the quick tur rounds harbour. of the various transports that came into
CBE
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant Allan Raymond Mackewn, R.N.R.
In addition to carrying out the ordinary dut of Sea Transport Officer, Lieutenant MacKewn wen in command of an armed party to the ST. SEIRIOL, where the Master had refused to sail, thereby showing great devotion to duty.
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant-Commander Ralph William Soper, R.N.R.
In addition to carrying out his ordinary duti this officer volunteered to take over the duty 03
Chief Officer of Transport, Canterbury, as there was no relief available, thereby showing great devotion to duty.
Recommended for decoration.
Major Lionel Steele Wilkinson, R.M.
During the period of the operation he we almost constant attendance at the office and only absent for very brief periods for sleep.
local knowledge was of great assistance to the
P.S.T.O., and a great deal of the success of th organisation is due to his great devotion to du
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutens