TNA MT 40 66

82
11th June, 1940.
(Tuesday)
S.S. "YEWDALE"
126
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk.
Sunday 26th May, 1940.
Whilst at anchor in the Downs I received orders from N.C.S.O. to proceed to Dunkirk.
At 4.0 a.m. we hove up and proceeded in company with m.v. "SEQUACITY"
and passed Calais about 2 miles off at 6.40 a.m. with "SE UACITY"
about a quarter of a mile ahead. Twenty minutes later heavy gunfire was heard and shells began to burst allaround the steamer. We immediately took avoiding action by zig-zagging to seaward. Although this involved the risk of striking mines, it appeared to me to be safer than continuing on our course. This heavy firing continued for about 20 minutes and seemed to be concentrated upon this steamer.
When haze appeared over the land firing ceased, and ship was brought back on her course. Not long after when the weather cleared shelling was resumed in much greater intensity and was directed mostly on
"SEQUACITY" which was about a quarter of a mile on our starboard bow.
We saw this ship being struck amidships and in engineroom as she was altering course away from fire. At 8.20 а.ш. while still under fire we managed to pick up five men on a raft who said they were solders who had left Calais in the dark. They informed me that they believed that Dunkirk had been captured by Germans. I then got in touch with
Master of "SEQUACITY" whose ship I could see was very badly damaged.
We were at this time north of Dunkirk channel about 1a miles north of our course. As it meant coming back to the range of German guns to get into Dunkirk, we decided to return to Downs for further information.
We were then attacked by 8 or 9 enemy Messerschmitt planes who swept our decks with bullets destroying our rafts and port lifeboat. I
immediately sent out an S.O.S. Shortly afterwards the enemy disappeared when British planes came on the scene. On the way back to Downs at 10.10 a.m. "SEQUACITY" began to sink so we stood by and took on board her crew while a British plane covered us until every man was on board and only left us after we had given the signal that all was well.
The "SEQUACITY" sank in about 10 minutes from the time she began to list (in position 52.04.20 N. and 1.38.36 E approximately).
We arrived in Downs at 12.30 p.m. and anchored. We were then asked to go back to Dunkirk but as we had neither food nor water we were allowed to remain until these could be supplied.
On Tuesday 28th May, after stores had been put on board, we were ordered to Le Panne with full details of what to expect and what we were to carry. At 10.30 p.m. 28th May we left Downs in company with m.v. "BEAL" and m.v. "BULLFINCH" and arrived at Le Panne, at
4.30 a.m. 29th May. We anchored to await orders but as we received none I decided to move down the Channel to where a large number of troops were gathering. When shifting we picked up two boats with ten soldiers in them. We took the men on board leaving two men in each boat to take them ashore again for more troops. We also put our boat out which A. Flett, G.A. Sutherland and G.A. MacKenzie
(16 years old) manned. MacKenzie later took charge of one of the other boats and directed the soldiers who were rowing, himself steering the boat. W. Watterson (Mate) and J. Runcie (Second Engineer)
also took charge of the boats and made several trips to the beach.
The rest of crew including the Chief Engineer and Firemen were employed in bringing the boats alongside with lines. Army Captain
Fred Williams kept count of the men and at 12.30 p.m. he reckoned
-1-

-2-
11/6/40.
S. S. "YEWDALE"
127
Master's Report of Evacuation of Troops from Dunkirk (contd)
we had 500 men on board. As we were at that time being assisted by several Motor Launches and other small boats, counting become almost impossible, Another Officer who also assisted a great deal counted
20 men boarding in 5 minutes. This we maintained until 2.30 p.m. when
I decided that we were too tightly packed to hold any more.
The soldiers numbering about 1000 were put into the cargo hold of vessel and in addition every available space on the deck (which being a. self-trimming vessel was very limited) was covered with men. Every room and space on the ship including the engineroom and stokehold was packed with men.
2.35 p.m. we hove up and closed a Destroyer for advice and we were told that we could travel in company with her.
There had been a few Air Raids during the day but no bombs had dropped, at least not close to us. At 4.0 p.m. several German planes were seen overhead, and bombs dropped close to this ship. We then hove up and proceeded on our passage to Downs with m.v. "BEAL" about
1 mile ahead and a Destroyer about 1 mile astern. At 4.50 p.m.
several enemy planes appeared overhead and began dive-bombing; several bombs fell very close. This continued of and on for about threequarters of an hour with one final attack shortly before 6.0 p.m.
During the third attack shrapnel struck the steamer and five men were killed and 78 wounded (two I believe died later). Our Mate, W.
Watterson, was struck in the leg and seriously injured.
About six soldiers who apparently thought the ship to be sinking jumped overboard. These men possibly were picked up by the Destroyer astern. It would have been dangerous, to all those on board for us to turn back for them. In the next raid a Dive-Bomber was hit by our guns and appeared out of control, it lost height and as it passed close over the ship our gun kept firing and each tracer bullet was seen to enter the plane until it got out of range. Several soldiers ctually saw it striking the water about half a mile on our port bow.
At 6.0 p.m. the Raiders were driven off, we believe by our own planes.
During these Raids our compass had been smashed and we had to depend entirely on other ships and on a small field compass which could only give us an approximate direction when used on top of wheelhouse.
At 9.30 p.m. as we were approaching the Coast I signalled the Destroyer to report that I had wounded men on board. I also kept calling UD
other ships when entering Downs where we eventually arrived at 11.10
p.m. one mile off Deal Pier. After continuing calling up by flashing
(wireless was smashed) until 11.40 p.m. we gave up and awaited dawn.
We then attracted attention by firing our Lewis guns and a Naval ship got in touch with the Coastguard and at 6.0 a.m. a lifeboat with a
Doctor on board arrived, and we were then ordered to Ramsgate where we arrived and disembarked all troops by 9.30 p.m. and then proceeded for temporary repairs to Sheerness.

79
1 ml
EN LINE STEAMERS
1940.
TRACT OF LETTER FROM CAPTAIN EDGAR JONES, S.S. "YEWDALE", SHEERNESS,
UNDER DATE 2nd JUNE, 1940.
128
There is a great deal of damage to this ship, caused by shrapnel from bombs. These have penetrated through the ship's side into holds, bunkers and engine room, also Mate's room has been badly damaged shrapnel having penetrated through about 14" of steel at doubling plate and has damaged cabin and Master's room. The Wheelhouse is badly damaged and compass completely wrecked.
There are several burst pipes and defects in engine room.
The shrapnel that penetrated stokehold has also damaged boiler but we do not think that marks on boiler are very deep.
We broughtabout 900 men across, 7 of whom were killed and
77 injured. Mate who was in Wheelhouse with Bo'sun and myself was struck below the knee by shrapnel and is in grave danger of losing his leg. I have not been able to find out what hospital he is in, but he is neither at Ramsgate or Deal. I have written to his wife and forwarded his wages.
We obtained some satisfaction in these raids however, as we brought down one enemy bomber which we Saw plunging headlong into the sea half a mile ahead of us. When we arrived at the spot we could see nothing but oil.
dd
The great
TWIS
a bi., varge were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

MORT
SEAL
LINE STEAMERS
79
80 st, 1940.
Director of Sea Transport, exten
Ministry of Shipping, od.
25th August, 1940.
London.
mort
Gentlemen,
129
and
I have to acknowledge the receipt of
RECEIVED
rebiod
130
your letter of the 20th instant and to
USA Area STATE
thank you for the interesting report of
7th instant.
the Master of the S.S. "BENLAWERS" on tain a report from the Master
VIDAD
the evacuation from France his experiences at Calais.
I am, Gentlemen,
'S truly, gards
Your obedient Servant,
902
JOP
(Sgd.) b.y. Whyman
S to proceed into harbour, for Director of Sea Transport.
Pp on, and that things did
Messrs. William Thomson & Co., breakwaters we picked up
28, Bernard Street,
Leith.
from the harbour, but rong tide and the space clearing the breakwater cort, and once more reaching the being apparently received the signal from within.
instructed us out to sea,
In the afternoon we managed in, mooring alongside that quay with our head out ready for any emergency, for it was the came Calais was not to be held long. Major Attway R.M., apparent for, who on board together with Officers of the unit our cargo D.S.T.O. was destined asked us to co-operate as much as possible to get the cargo der
SINGLE
The great majority of the buoys were unlit,
TWI
the a bi., were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

TROGRAD Telegraphic STEAMERS Address, LTD. LTD.
STEAMERS
"THOMSON, LEITH."
Memorandum
EPHONE 35652 LEITH
79
20th August, 1940.
From William Thomson Ho
To Director of Sea Transport,
PARTNERS
28 Bernard Street,
IOMSON.
Ministry of Shipping,
THOMSON
J.D. THOMSON, Bart.
Leithl.
London.
M.MITCHELL.
M. Ref: T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6
Dear Sir,
130
"Benlawers"
We refer to your letter of 7th instant.
We have now been able to obtain a report from the Master of the above vessel in connection with the evacuation from France and this report is enclosed.
Yours truly,
ENCLOSURE
N°295
that we were in for a hot reception, and that us to proceed into harbour,
Many not look too well. As we headed between the things did this a available we message were was easier ordered "Keep for ship's said out", in again than of which "Benlawers" at done was once owing flashed by size. the to the O.C. to On us strong Escort, breakwaters clearing from tide the the and harbour, we breakwater picked the space but up
"Benlawers" was put in a position to enter, on reaching and once the more breakwaters having however, Escort hailed us and instructed us out to sea, apparently received the signal from within.
In the afternoon we managed in, mooring alongside quay that with our head out ready for any emergency, for it was apparent the
Calais was not to be held long. Major Attway R.M., D.S.T.O.
came for, on board together with Officers of the unit our cargo was destined who asked us to co-operate as much as possible to get the cargo der
SINGLE
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, the
TWI
a bi.,
Daige were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

78
STATEMENT FROM "BENLAWERS" ON EVACUATION FROM CALAIS.
131
On the 23rd. May 1940 "Benlawers" was instructed to proceed to sea from Southampton with her usual cargo of M.T!s, whi were mainly filled with ammunition and in addition about 30 tons of
Petrol was stowed on the after main deck.
9060
On arrival off Dover on the morning of the 24th. May, orders were received to proceed in company with the "Kohistan" and a Destroyer Escort to Bologne, all going well till we headed down the
French coast towards that port, when heavy gunfire broke out close ahead, and we were not surprised when the Escort ordered us to about ship and follow him.
Off Calais the Escort ordered us to proceed into harbour, warning us that we were in for a hot reception, and that things did not look too well. As we headed between the breakwaters we picked up a message "Keep out", which was flashed to us from the harbour, but this was easier said than done owing to the strong tide and the space available for ship's of "Benlawers" size. On clearing the breakwater we were ordered in again at once by the 0.C.Escort, and once more
"Benlawers" was put in a position to enter, on reaching the breakwaters, however, Escort hailed us and instructed us out to sea, having apparently received the signal from within.
In the afternoon we managed in, mooring alongside the quay with our head out ready for any emergency, for it was apparent that Calais was not to be held long. Major Attway R.M., D.S.T.O.
came on board together with Officers of the unit our cargo was destined for, who asked us to co-operate as much as possible to get the cargo der single the
The great majority of the buoys were unlit,
TWIS
a bi., carge and were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

(2)
132
hloaded as quickly as possible for the enemy was close, saying they would hold them if they got the stuff to do it with. All our men em turned to, and did their utmost to this end, the R.E's being more
WEB
This for
Total or less played out, having we understood been at it for three days to
700
without a break. Our task was considerably hampered by recurring we
50
bombing attacks from the air, and later from shell fire from the
BY
The direction of the town, which we were told was from howitzers towed into the town by the advance tanks, and it was evident they were very close as men we had landed contacted the enemy within half an to on deck S.B. our hour of being put ashore. About 10 p.m. we had discharged part of were received to proceed to low our cargo, when Major Attway, who I may add was carrying out the to admirable work along with his S.T.O. colleagues, told me that things batteries, looked very black, and left it to me to leave when I considered it n to to necessary, but at the same time ordering me to stay and take off as the many men as possible. All preparations were made for a hasty departure,
30 on the I decided it but I gave my word that I would not leave till he ordered me to bank to the line of do so. Meantime the last train load of wounded arrived, apparently after we we to a very and rough passage, having been bombed heavily, and I am told
French with of us. The the driver had to be forced to keep the train moving at the of a revolver. first point we to take the wounded, this I agreed to, By this were asked on a few of the
As the hospital ship which was expected did not arrive, were being heavily shelled, all making over our lying in this time we precarious or 30 the position a the one. Attempts were made to discharge more cargo during night the or rather May early morning, as Officers from the front pleading for ammunition, and this was done till we started were the wounded. At to load about 2 a.m. we felt an extra heavy blow to the ship, der single
The great majority of the buoys were unlit,
TWIN
a bi.,
Daigo were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

tup an
(3)
133
medj
DUE
bion but to our relief this was not followed by an explosion, and on examination later we found a hole on our port side, and a 6" shell lying on one of the lorries containing ammunition in our No. 2
2d en
&
tweendeck. This shell was landed at Southampton for examination.
Fts
The wounded amounting to about 700 men, mainly stretcher cases, were anto nottost shipped by 6 a.m., and in addition we took on board about 50 others
9dj comprised of soldiers, prisoners, and a few civilians. The wounded
040
were accomodated as much as possible under deck, all members of the
E73)
crew giving up their rooms to them, the remainder unfortunately had
THOM
to lie on deck as our holds were more or less full of cargo. Orders
TWO
were received to proceed to sea, and it was nearing low water when the we cleared the breakwater, to be met with heavy fire from the shore lool batteries, which put us in rather an awkward possition, for in order
9A
to clear the banks, we had to give the enemy our full broadsides. On attempting this, however, the shells were dropping uncomfortably close, so on sizing up the matter, I decided it safer to risk crossing the bank to get our stern on the line of fire, and although at one time we smelt bottom, we were soon relieved to feel our speed increase, and with plenty of water under us. The shells were falling close on either side for the first three miles, after which shrapnel was used, inflicting shight injuries on a few of the wounded men, whom I may state, although lying all over our unprotected decks, showed great fortitude. Six miles or so out from the breakwater we got out of range, our course being set for Dover, where we arrived about 9 a.m.
on the 25th. May to be refused entry. As most of our wounded were sex serious cases, the Officer in charge asked me to do all I could to get the men landed at the earliest possible moment. To get permission der single 1110.
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the
TWIS
a bi were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

Loris orig on To redal ciler 900 Two
(4)
134
to enter, I sent a message off stating the gravity of the situation, but after waiting off Dover for over five hours, we
108 THE 10 d behause to because no were ordered to Southampton, where we were all fast at about
5 a.m. on the 26th. May, all much relieved to see the wounded men safe in the hospital train, which was ready alongside waiting our
095 an anivis besings 1979
arrival. Under the circumstances it was fortunate that only one man died before our arrival.
no eil WOID
eviecer
919W of
Master S.S. "Benlawers"
of
Issic 03
for Director (&/) of Sex -
no Oa
Hasd que Dete of Steam a MR Orfice.
NEW
OF
ne der single line.
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the
TWIS
a bi., were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

5
74
9,1 1.8 a 18 Jud of as gay
213/40/9.T.A6
22nd August,1940. 1.35
HIBITED IN THEIR OFFICES AND ON BOARD THEIR STEAMERS. 76
son no one of
Man
Packet
Packet Co:Limited your ebau of
020
Gentlemen, thank you for (A/D.B.) and
136
ofed belb Isvin letter I have of the to 20th would August be convenient relating if,
Manager's Office.
THE
to say that 1t being, material evacuation were
Douglas 20th. August, 1940.
for The the to time the Dunkirk Transport, only of forwarded.ley S
LONDO your Servant,
Dear Sir,
(Sgd.) b.7. whengman of Sea Transport.
at their the fullest THE the bart played by the read to my Board is esired to assemble
Merchant of from Dunkirk and copy the crews any such of the material ly Directors, ascertain if wish for particulars of the Dunkirk Evacuation only or of the of the B.E.F.
generally.
On receipt of your reply, such information as is available will be at once despatched to you.
Yours faithfully,
General Manager.
Reply hyped demp der single line.
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the
TWIS
a bi., were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

ALL TRAFFIC CARRIED SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE OF THE COMPANY AS EXHIBITED IN THEIR OFFICES AND ON BOARD THEIR STEAMERS. 76
The Isle ofMan Steam Packet Co. Limited.
(INCORPORATED IN THE ISLE OF MAN.)
136
TELEGRAMS
"STEAMERS, DOUGLAS"
TELEPHONE N:
DOUGLAS 1101 (s LINES)
General Manager's Office.
R.W. CANNELL,
GENERAL MANAGER,
OUR REFERENCE
YOUR REFERENCE
Douglas.
A/D.E.
T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6.
20th. August, 1940.
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
THE RECEIVED ON AUG of &
Dear Sir,
Your letter of the 7th. August was read to my Board at their last meeting. They note that it is desired to assemble the fullest possible information regarding the part played by the
Merchant Navy in the evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk and asking us to forward to the Department copy of any such material obtainable from the Masters or members of the crews of the
"MONA'S QUEEN", "FENELLA" and "LADY OF MANN". My Directors, however, instruct me to ascertain if you wish for particulars of the Dunkirk Evacuation only or of the evacuation of the B.E.F.
generally.
On receipt of your reply, such information as is available will be at once despatched to you.
Yours faithfully,
Awbarneth
General Manager.
Reply deart hypest der single line.
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the
TWIS
a bi were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

75
74
THE
MARINE SUPERINTENDENT
213/40/3.T.A.6
DON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
21st August 1940.
PARKESTON QUAY
STATION,
138
E.C.2.
HARWICH
IPSGATE
137
7600
18181
LS
ISA
2292
t 1940.
8
RECEIVED 21 16
sir, I have of your to Pad.
receipt of the for 20th the interesting S.S. "PRAGUE" report of on see abo 1212
you the his experiences during the Dunkirk ence 4th instant (T.M. 6213/40/
to my letter of the operation.
I
am, your Sir, obedient Servant, ct made by Captain Baxter riod his vessel was the
(Sgd) b.J. whyman from Dunkirk. I hope its.
this for Director of Sea Transport.
ly, fl am
Waves
Law
The Marine
Londonverpool Street ship and ised to return with but as had obtained one to a ship made all her passages scale charts only.
May
100. Orders to proceed were received and a departure and of 1830 was fixed. In accordance with these orders the ship time proceeded in company with "MANXMAN" and Hospital Ship "PARIS" weighed via route "Y". The weather was drizzly and misty, the visibility a
shortening as the coast of France was approached. The draught of the
G
ship was something over 16 feet and in view of the meagre information e
about the Zuidcoote Pass which was procurable from the small scale n
chart, it was decided to allow the other two ships, both of considerably
Ma less draught than "PRAGUE" to keep ahead, the ships being roughly in der single line.
STM1
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the a bil, next of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and also then boat the were and crew rowing of off in their boat towards one us. varge I anu picked one them t
wave bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

Letters to be addressed
74
CAPTAIN R. DAVIS
MARINE SUPERINTENDENT
THE MARINE SUPERINTENDENT
TELEPHONE
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
HARWICH 30. EXT.
NATIO
TEMPORARY LIVERPOOL ADDRESS:- STREET E.C.2. STATION, PARKESTON QUAY HARWICH
138
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS
EASTERN PARKESTON QUAY STATION
REFERENCE
TELEPHONE No: BISHOPSGATE 7500
LS
1
EXT. 2292
20th August 1940.
9097
RECEIVED 21
M1/4474/17 Pad
16
DOV
OF
FUG
The Director of bea Transport (HO)
the
Ministry of Shipping
Berkeley Square House
Berkeley Square W. 1.
see abo 1212
Dear Sir, reference to my
13th instant and your With reply further of a the report 14th made instant his by vessel was hope
STA6), of the I S.S. on now the time Dunkirk. I
this red ont will your
Yours faithfully,
Ribanio fl.
DUE ship and west, and promised to return with shart of the Dunkirk district when he had obtained but to this was evidently not possible and the ship made all her passages one and from Dunkirk on small scale charts only.
May 28th. 1700. Orders to proceed were received and a departure time and of 1830 was fixed. In accordance with these orders the ship weighed proceeded in company with "MANXMAN" and Hospital Ship "PARIS" via ted route "Y". The weather was drizzly and misty, the visibility a
shortening as the coast of France was approached. The draught of the
G
ship was something over 16 feet and in view of the meagre information e
about the Zuidcoote Pass which was procurable from the small scale n
chart, it was decided to allow the other two ships, both of considerably
Ma less draught than "PRAGUE" to keep ahead, the ships being roughly in der single line.
STM1
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked above the a bit, were and rowing of off in their boat towards the us. Darge I anu picked them
1.
next crew wave of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and also then boat the bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

8/36 7,000 pads of 250
27
5987 3/86 7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 73
S. "PRAGUE"
DEPARTMENT
To Captain R.Davis.
139
West India Dock.
STATION
Marine Superintendent.
17th. August 1940
193
Liverpool Street Station.
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
RECORD OF PART PLAYED BY S.S. "PRAGUE" DURING EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK.
May 27th. 2015. In accordance with orders received the ship left the
Old Dock Southampton, where she had been in port since the 24th. at short notice for steam, and proceeded to Dover via the route given by the N.C.S.O. Southampton.
May 28th, 0448. The ship made Dover and orders were received to go to anchorage in the Downs. This was done and the ship lying with the
South Foreland Lt-Ho. 261 31/4 miles by 0512.
During the same forenoon the Examination Officer visited the ship and gave me two small charts of the district, and promised to return with a large scale chart of the Dunkirk district when he had obtained one but this was evidently not possible and the ship made all her passages to and from Dunkirk on small scale charts only.
May 28th. 1700. Orders to proceed were received and a departure time of 1830 was fixed. In accordance with these orders the ship weighed and proceeded in company with "MANXMAN" and Hospital Ship "PARIS" via
1
route "Y". The weather was drizzly and misty, the visibility a
shortening as the coast of France was approached. The draught of the
G
ship was something over 16 feet and in view of the meagre information e
about the Zuidcoote Pass which was procurable from the small scale n
chart, it was decided to allow the other two ships, both of considerably
Ma less draught than "PRAGUE", to keep ahead, the ships being roughly in der single line.
The great majority of the buoys were unlit, and as remarked bove the
STM1
a bi one were rowing off in their boat towards us. varge I picked them up, also boat anu and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

8/36 7,000 pads of 250
TRA930
987 8/36 7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
DEPARTMENT
Jawana. attic
Door 01501
DEPARTMENT
To
140
STATION
193
22 SEAL
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
sora visibility poor and when very near to the Zuidcoote Pass "MANXMAN" and
"PARIS" ran aground on the Smal Bank and "PRAGUE" touched starboard side.
Door.NJTS You
"PARIS" came off immediately, but "MANXMAN" stuck for some hours.
softon JIONA 610
Meeting one of H.M. Sloops, whose Captain very kindly sent a boat with и onf advice of the district and a chart marked in better detail than our awn,
AO. yo
I realized that it was hopeless for a ship of my draught to attempt the
Pass at that state of tide and accordingly returned to the vicini ty of the Nieuport Bank Buoy and anchored to let the tide rise a few feet.
"MANXMAN" joined us here a few hours later and afterwards acted in concert with us.
910 9V.SS
May 29th. 0355. Got under way again and proceeded via the Pass to
Dunkirk and when ordered to enter the port made fast just inside the end
ENJ two of the Eastern Jetty. Embarkation started almost immediately, the Naval one
03
Beach Master realized our difficulties and loaded us up in time to return
Y.S.M.
through the Pass before the tide fell too much as our draught when loaded
20
with troops was estimated to be about 6".
bns
At 0735 the ship left Dunkirk and proceeded home by the same route, signalling Dover at 1230 the same day and received orders to proceed to
Folkestone, which port was reached by 1300. Troops were disembarked and the ship coaled and watered and prepared for the next voyage.
Generally speaking, as regards this voyage, the only serious difficulty encountered was a navigational one, there was plenty of enemy action but no direct attack upon the ship by air or sea.
May 30th. 1200 The ship proceeded to anchorage off Folkestone, weather dense fog.
GHOP
SUILSIM1
a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and also rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, boat were and grew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

10/
8/36 7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
DEPARTMENT
To
141
STATION
193
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
1700. In accordance with orders the ship got under way and proceeded to
STATE
Dunkirk by route "X" in company with numerous craft large and small, all naval and merchant. Certain minor departures from the official route
SHIP
were made necessary by the draught of the ship, but the weather was fine solv and much clearer and 'PRAGUE" arrived off Dunkirk at 2030, berthed well
BST
inside the outer harbour alongside the Eastern Jetty.
Troops were embarked immediately SO as to clear the ship before the tide went as the low water depth alongside was only 10 feet, but despite this, with a full load of troops when ready to sail the ship was well on the ground and it took the combined efforts of two tugs and both engines working at full power to get the ship afloat which was eventually done by 2245 when the ship left for England again. While in Dunkirk there were air raids in the vicinity but no attack on the ship. There was however a considerable amount of shell fire, several projectiles bursting in the water close to the ship.
The voyage back along the western part of the Dunkirk Roads was made at slow speed but was otherwise uneventful, the ship arriving back in the
Downs at 0600 on the 31st whence she was ordered to Folkestone where she duly arrived at 0648 and disembarked her troops.
During this voyage considerable difficulty was experienced with the coal which was of a type unsuited to the ship's furnaces and our Firemen double banked atches in order to keep steam and maintain speed.
May 31st. From 0800 when the troops were clear, was spent in coaling and watering and preparing for the next voyage after which the ship went to anchorage off Folkestone.
up
+
COUIU
and twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

DEBA
3/86 7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
DEPARTMENT
To
142
STATION
193
THOT Yo
3
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
brem bne the
June 1st. 0315 Orders to proceed having been received, the ship was got sen under way by 0335 and proceeded to Dunkirk by route "X" again, where she
S
arrived at 0715. From about 0700 onwards the ship was subject to intense can 2000
eny € as down Junes obem ain attacks in company with other craft and we made what reply we could with one Lewis gun and one Bren gun.
Several casualties were observed among H.M. Ships, but we were too busy berthing the ship and later shifting across the harbour to take precise day notice of what was happening in this direction. The ship finally berthed at western side of the outer harbour, close outside the locks and then proceeded to load about three thousand French troops it was estimated.
June lst. 0903 Having completed loading the ship left for England once
Yo more and proceeded down the Western Roads. At the end of the channel in vicinity of No.6 "W" Buoy, the ship was subjected to a considerable amounted of shell fire from shore batteries at Gravelines. I immediately asked for utmost speed but could not, zig-zag on account of narrow ters.
The great majority of the shells fell short and none hit the ship.
1009 Buoy "W" near the Ruytingen was passed and the ship making along the homeward route towards Buoy "V" another intense air attack by dive bombers developed. Heavy fire was opened by all ships in the vicinity against these aircraft (estimated to number about half-a-dozen) and the ship kept continuously under helm. Suddenly an aircraft appeared out of the clouds almost directly overhead and swinging round, dived on the
"PRAGUE"
At this moment the "PRAGUE" was on a steady course and I ordered hard to starboard the aircraft released three bombs together while still at a up
+
COUIU
and twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore
£ e t a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevadores were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

DEPART
1/36 7,000 pads of 250
EASTERN
RAILWAY
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
DEPARTMENT
To
DEPARTMENT
To
43
STATION
STATION
is
193
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
to
STATE
4
considerable height, the bombs fell very close to the stern of the ship which was swinging to port. The force of the explosion was terrific and
W.O.I.
the ship seemed to be lifted almost out of the water.
ONE
230
though not actually hit it was evident that the ship was very badly
Lazar damaged aft. The stern settled down considerably and the starboard engine guiding
By had to be stopped immediately as the shaft was bumping badly. The watertight doors were closed at the time in accordance with wartime procedure,
233
but the force of the explosion had evidently made them considerably distorted, as the ship filled up to the after engine room bulkhead and of anot the water rose to the level of the main deck. There was a certain amount
E
of leakage into the engine room through the bulkhead, but the ship's pumps and managed to slow down the rate of the rising water to a reasonable amount.
The only presumable casualties to personnel were one fireman missing, of the presumed to be blown overboard.
by the
From the time of the explosion, 1025, the ship was kept going ahead as fast as it was possible to do on the port engine which was the only one the the left in service, craft in the vicinity were warned and several naval in auxiliaries agreed to stand by us and the ship slowly progressed the homewards.
in the to
It was evident however that the water was gaining, and such measures as getting as many troops as possible forward to ease the weight on the after part of the ship were giving only temporary respite, so I decided to try to transfer the troops while the ship was still under way so as to lose as little time as possible. Destroyer "SHIKARI" and a sloop and a paddle minesweeper whose names I was unable to obtain came alongside in us
7
COUIU
000
twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores
$ e t were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

DITATE
7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
LONDON DEPARTMENT & NORTH To
144
DEPARTMENT STATION
To
Oit tod
STATION193
UR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
.0.5°
turn and very skilfully managed to transfer all except a handful of troops
Last at OF STATE STORE THE SECURITY
while the ship was steaming as fast as possible towards the Downs. This being completed it was possible to concentrate all efforts on saving the gota
"PRAGUE" by getting into as shallow water as possible before we found
Tew
Id ourselves unable to control the inflow of water.
of
By 1331 the ship was well inside the Downs and the Tug "LADY BRASSEY"
SOTO? eng that tuo made fast. Dover was signalled and orders were received to anchor in the
Downs. On receipt of these the ship proceeded to the Small Downs and
Tat Sw add entered the Ramsgate Channel.
Having arrived at a spot slightly North of the ruins of Sandown Castle, beganam about a mile North of Deal, the ship was gently beached, port anchor laid out and all active participation in the evacuation of Dunkirk ceased by
SNT
1730 June 1st.
OTH
of the ensuing period there is little to say except that the ship was boarded by the Admiralty Salvage Officer first thing next morning and the ship examined as thoroughly as possible the next low water.
Each time the after part of the ship drained out with the tide, all the visible leaks both in the shell plating and in the bulkheads were stopped as effectively as possible with the materials at hand, three salvage pumps were rigged in the after 'tween deeks to deal with whatever water which leaked past the plugs.
These operations were in progress until Friday June 7th. when we were towed off the beach by Tug "LADY BRASSEY" and afterwards with the assistance of two tugs towed to London finally arriving at SW India Dock at 6 R.M.
wisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore th of the
S.N.T.
a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores
It 1 7
to as gentin were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
il Fri
SEY"
(Continued)
fi

TELEGRAMS:
8/36 7,000 pads of 250
CO.
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
61
A.6.
DEPARTMENT
To
145
STATION
Extra
193
any
OUR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
kg
I might add that during my. visits to Dunkirk I had much difficulty in
WE
berthing, due to the "PRAGUE" being so high above the Jetty and the harbour congested with smaller craft and wrecks. It was impossible to
REF.
use gangways and my crew assisted the soldiers on board the best way they
WORK
could, climbing planks and wooden rung ladders.
Bload.
(Sgd)
Master.
for airector of sea Transport.
Richard faithfully
RICHARD
z
Managing Director
STATE
as
+
twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore
£ r t e a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

MIOM DEPARTMENT
,
72
TELEGRAMS, PRIMROSE." LIVERPOOL 7
RICHARD HUGHES & CO.
Statement
13/40/S.T.
A.6.
20th August, 1940. TED.
BRANCH OFFICES,
9017
is
LACE JONES, DIRECTOR.
146
WEST BUTE STREET CARDIFF.
All
OX
TION.
TEL. Nos. CARDIFF. 2877 2878.
5.5
Gentlemen,
69, DOCK ST., NEWPORT. MON.
583
9155
I have to acknowledge the
TELEPHONE No. 4278.
ST
287800
FOWEY. CORNWALL.
type receipt of your letter HB/JS of the
TELEPHONE No. 12.
et,
PAR DOCK WAGON WORKS,
CORNWALL.
av.sware
THE
19th instant and to thank you for the
TELEPHONE No. PAR 98, of,2.
RUNCORN.
TELEPHONE No. 2500.
report on the part taken by the
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESSES,
B.S. "DORRIEN ROSE" in the Dunkirk
"ROSES"
CARDIFF
"ROSES"
NEWPORT
"HUGHES"
FOWEY
"CLAYROSE"-
19th August, 1940.
RUNCORN
operations.
The Ministry am, Gentlemen,
147
Berkeley Squar obedient Servant,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.I.
(Sgd.) b.y. whyman
Dear Sirs for Director of Sea Transport.
We & refer Co. (Liverpool) in Ltd., which the you 7th asked August us to experiences of our from Dunkirk,
We give you R the S.S.
"DORRIEN ROSE'S" are in the main drawn from the ship's log.
Tours faithfully,
RICHARD HUGHES & Co. (LIVERPOOL)
Managing Director.
CANADA * 181112: 8'
a bit, as I turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards destroyers were shore twisting in 1 coura and see we were likely to get run down whilst one the Tug underwigh were off could see our crew of the barge and the soldier the
$ t e and rowing of in their boat towards us. I picked them stevedores also next crew barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and then boat the wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

68
70
H.M.T. "DORRIEN ROSE" CARDIFF.
148
On the 22nd May, 1940 the above vessel was in the Downs loaded to with Army stores awaiting orders. She was instructed next day proceed to Dunkirk, but on approaching observed it to be in flames, and the "DORRIEN ROSE" passed three vessels outward bound, one of which signalled that it was unsafe to approach Dunkirk, so the Master reversed course and proceeded slowly outwards.
At 3-0a.m. on the 28th as dawn was approaching he decided to approach Dunkirk in daylight so he set a course for Middlekerke
Buoy. At 4-25a.m. on nearing the Buoy enemy aircraft suddenly attacked, several bombs were dropped and the "DORRIEN ROSE" retaliated with machine-gun fire.
At 5.05 after the bombs had fallen it was observed that the
M.V. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" was sinking, so he proceeded to her assistance and was requested by the O.C. to take off troups and ship's complement, whilst the troups were being transferred the Germans repeatedly attempted to renew the attack, but were prevented from doing any further damage by bursts of fire from our machine-guns. At
5-25 all the troups and the crew of the "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" were safely on board the "DORRIEN ROSE" and she then proceeded to Dover where she arrived at 2-20p.m.
The operation of transferring the troups was carried out expeditiously under the efficient direction of Commander M.L. Musson
R.N.R. and during the passage to Dover the Commander was of great assistance in attending to the signals, spotting enemy planes and controlling the troups.
On the 29th May the "DORRIEN ROSE" again proceeded towards
Dunkirk and was attacked next morning at 3a.m. by two enemy motor-craft which circled the ship and sprayed her with machine-gun fire the
"DORRIEN ROSE" gave as good as she received and the "E" boats ceased
&
I
their attack and the vessel continued her passage to Dunkirk were she
I
arrived at 6-50a.m. She then despatched as much food stuff as possible for the rear-guard troups and left again at 12-25p.m. with o
t
590 troups on board for Folkestone, she arrived at Folkestone at
8-45p.m. the same night.
W
d
During all these aperations all the officers and members of the
O
crew carried out their various duties in a cool and efficient manner, in particular Gunner.W.Watson, Bo'sun.McFadden and A.B.John Upperton who were on the bridge under enemy fire.
p al
De jo of th twisting as I could and see we were likely up to our get anchor run down and whilst kept the the Tug underweigh were as off see our crew of the barge and the soldier the a bit, I could turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards destroyers were shore and rowing of in their boat towards us. I picked them stevedores also e t next crew barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and then boat the wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

Steam 15. Navigation TRINITY SQUARE, Co. 69
68
K.C.S.
F.H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
21st August, 1940.
The Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
WJP/LK
Berkeley Square, W.1.
149
Dear Sir,
150
In the absence of Mr. Keenlyside, your letter of the
14th
I am writing to thank you for your a letter Co. Ltd. from which the gives Managing letter (WJP/LK) of the 17th August, connection rendered with by the the "QUEEN
enclosing evacuation extract from & letter vessels are small paddle from the Managing Director of the ION
thfully,
COMPANY
LIMITED.
Medway Steam Packet Company Limited.
Phelpon
Yours faithfully,
(Sgd.) FRANCIS LOYD
p.p pluse
Private Secretary.
Eastern Mail Steamer,
A was ng Troops from disvessel, numbering 500. A message was then by the OF THANET" asking him to call alongside also, and take Troops. When Within hamling distance,
Philpott, Esq. the "QUEEN OF THANET", Lieutenant ssked 'How many Troops were left came, 12000. mander Hallivell re-
"I the lot". These all safely embarked the for wounded, and again the vessel left for Margate this was on Sunday, May.
In the meantime the "PRAGUE" naving been lighted was able
I
with precaution to proceed under her own steam to Dover on Sunday
I
night. "QUEEN OF THANET" again proceeded to Dunkirk, and o
early Monday morning cleaned up the beach and brought over a few Troops including 47 wounded. The total number of Troops
W
brought over by the "QUEEN OF THANET" was 4,000 plus wounded.
a
Lieutenant Commander Hallivell has since been promoted Commander
O
"MEDWAY QUEEN" This vessel I understand made three or four trips to Dunkirk and each time brought over her full complement pl of about 800 passengers. I am endeavouring to get in touch with the Commanding Officer of the "MEDWAY QUEEN", but each al occasion she was lying so far from the pier that I was unable to
De jo of th
I see immediately we were hove up our anchor and kept the he twisting as I could and likely to get run down whilst the Tug underweigh as were rowing as off could see our crew of the barge and the soldier in towards the a bit, I turning to clear the bombs. I paddled destroyers shore were rt e
and of in their boat towards us. I picked them stevedores
7
next crew wave of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and also then boat the bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

STBP
General Steam Navigation Co., Ltd.,
68
ess for Telegrams:
15, TRINITY SQUARE,
/CONIC TELEX."
E.C.3.
F.H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
LONDON.
17th August
The Ministry of Shipping,
Telephone:
ROYAL 3200-7.
Berkeley Square House,
(23 LINES.)
Berkeley Square, W.1.
OTH
Reference WJP/LK
Dear Sir,
150
I thank you for your letter of the 14th instant and now enclose extract from a letter from the Managing
Director information regarding the services rendered by the the "QUEEN
of the New Medway Steam Packet Co.Ltd. which gives some THANET" and the "MEDWAY QUEEN" in connection with
OF evacuation from Dunkirk. Both these vessels are small paddle steamers.
Yours faithfully,
W.J.Philpout for THE GENERAL STEAM NAVIGATION W.Mhilpon COMPANY LIMITED.
p.p pluse
Encl.
vise
North Eastern Mail Steamer,
"PRAGUE".
A destroyer was alongside transferring Troops from disabled vessel, numbering 500. A wireless message was then received by the "QUEEN OF THANET" asking him to call alongside also, and take off the Troops. hen within hamling distance, the Commanding Officer of the "QUEEN OF THANET", Lieutenant
Commander Hallivell, R.N. V.R., asked 'How many Troops were left on board' and the reply came, '2000. Commander Hallivell replied, "I will take the lot". These were all safely embarked including the few wounded, and again the vessel left for Margate
Jetty; this was on Sunday, May.
In the meantime the "PRAGUE" having been lighted was able
I
with precaution to proceed under her own steam to Dover on Sunday
I
night. "QUEEN OF THANET" again proceeded to Dunkirk, and
C
early Monday morning cleaned up the beach and brought over a et few Troops including 47 wounded. The total number of Troops
W
brought over by the "QUEEN OF THANET" was 4,000 plus wounded.
a
Lieutenant Commander Hallivell has since been promoted Commander
O
"MEDWAY QUEEN! This vessel I understand made three or four trips to Dunkirk and each time brought over her full complement pl of about 800 passengers. I am endeavouring to get in touch in with the Commanding Officer of the "MEDWAY QUEEN", but each al occasion she was lying so far from the pier that I was unable to
De jo of th twisting as I could and I see immediately we were to likely hove up to our get anchor run down and whilst kept the the Tug underweigh he were a bit, rowing as I off could turning in see our clear crew the of the bombs. barge I and paddled the in towards destroyers the were shore rt and crew of barge their boat towards us. I picked soldier stevedores e
t next wave of bombers "DUCHESS" were overhead. that had anchored in the Roads, them up,also and then boat the
(Continued)

67
Extracts from letter from the Managing Director of the
NEW MEDWAY STEAM PACKET CO. LTD.
151
14th August, 1940
The "QUEEN OF THANET" which was stationed at Grantnam in the Firtn-of-Forth and Flotilla Leader of Minesw eepers received instructions on Thursday, during the evacuation to proceed to
Dunkirk. On arrival there, this vessel with many others proceeded to take in Troops off the beach under terrific bombing and shell-fire from the Germans; in spite of this she took in several hundreds of Troops and proceeded to Margate Jetty where they were disembarked. Arrangements were then made for her to take in oil fuel and proceed again to Dunkirk, as soon as possible; she arrived over the following evening, and again took on board several hundred more Troops and many wounded, and again proceeded to Margate Jetty, disembarked the Troops, and after taking in Stores and water proceeded again for Dunkirk. When more than halfway across the Channel they noticed a Steamer which had evidently been bombed and loaded with 3,000 Troops was in difficulties and seriously damaged; on arriving close to the vessel she proved to bettieLondon North Eastern Mail Steamer,
"PRAGUE".
A destroyer was alongside transferring Troops from disabled vessel, numbering 500. A wireless message was then received by the "QUEEN OF THANET" asking him to call alongside also, and take off the Troops. When within hamling distance, the Commanding Officer of the "QUEEN OF THANET", Lieutenant
Commander Hallivell, R.N.V.R., asked 'How many Troops were left on board' and the reply came, '2000. Commander Hallivell replied, "I will take the lot". These were all safely embarked including the few wounded, and again the vessel left for Margate
Jetty; this was on Sunday, May.
In the meantime the "PRAGUE" having been lighted was able
I
with precaution to proceed under her own steam to Dover on Sunday
I
night. "QUEEN OF THANET" again proceeded to Dunkirk, and o
early Monday morning cleaned up the beach and brought over a t
few Troops including 47 wounded. The total number of Troops
W
brought over by the "QUEEN OF THANET" was 4,000 plus wounded.
d
Lieutenant Commander Hallivell has since been promoted Commander o
"MEDWAY QUEEN" This vessel I understand made three or four trips to Dunkirk and each time brought over her full complement pl of about 800 passengers. I am endeavouring to get in touch with the Commanding Officer of the "MEDWAY QUEEN", but each al occasion she was lying so far from the pier that I was unable to
De jo of th
I see immediately we were hove up our anchor and kept the he twisting as I could and turning to likely clear to get run down whilst the Tug underweigh were rowing as could see our crew of the barge and the in towards the a bit, I the bombs. I paddled destroyers shore were and crew of barge off in their boat towards us. I picked soldier stevedores e
t next wave of bombers "DUCHESS" were overhead. that had anchored in the Roads, them up, and also then boat the
(Continued)

67
Extracts from letter from the Managing Director of the
NEW MEDWAY STEAM PACKET CO. LTD.
151
14th August, 1940
The "QUEEN OF THANET" which was stationed at Grantnam in the Firth-of-Forth and Flotilla Leader of Minesw eepers received instructions on Thursday, during the evacuation to proceed to
Dunkirk. On arrival there, this vessel with many others proceeded to take in Troops off the beach under terrific bombing and shell-fire from the Germans; in spite of this she took in several hundreds of Troops and proceeded to Margate Jetty Where they were disembarked. Arrangements were then made for her to take in oil fuel and proceed again to Dunkirk, as soon as possible; she arrived over the following evening, and again took on board several hundred more Troops and many wounded, and again proceeded to Margate Jetty, disembarked the Troops, and after taking in Stores and water proceeded again for Dunkirk. When more than halfway across the Channel they noticed a Steamer which had evidently been bombed and loaded with 3,000 Troops was in difficulties and seriously damaged; on arriving close to the vessel "PRAGUE". she proved to be the London North Eastern Mail Steamer,
A destroyer was alongside transferring Troops from disabled vessel, numbering 500. A wireless message was then received by the "QUEEN OF THANET" asking him to call alongside also, and take off the Troops. When within hamling distance, the Commanding Officer of the "QUEEN OF THANET", Lieutenant
Commander Hallivell, R.N.V.R., asked 'How many Troops were left on board' and the reply came, '2000. Commander Hallivell replied, "I will take the lot". These were all safely embarked including the few wounded, and again the vessel left for Margate
Jetty; this was on Sunday, May.
In In the meantime the "PRAGUE" having been lighted was able
I
with precaution to proceed under her own steam to Dover on Sunday
I
night. "QUEEN OF THANET" again proceeded to Dunkirk, and o
early Monday morning cleaned up the beach and brought over a t
few Troops including 47 wounded. The total number of Troops
W
brought over by the "QUEEN OF THANET" was 4,000 plus wounded.
a
Lieutenant Commander Hallivell has since been promoted Commander o
"MEDWAY QUEEN" This vessel I understand made three or four trips to Dunkirk and each time brought over her full complement pl of about 800 passengers. I am endeavouring to get in touch with the Commanding Officer of the "MEDWAY QUEEN", but each al occasion she was lying so far from the pier that I was unable to
De jo of th
I
as
I
see immediately we were likely hove up to our anchor and kept the Tug he could a twisting bit, and I turning to clear the get bombs. run down I whilst the destroyers underweigh were were and rowing as off could in see their our boat crew towards of the barge and paddled the soldier in towards stevedores the shore rt e
next crew wave of of barge bombers "DUCHESS" were overhead. that had anchored us. I picked in the Roads, them up,also and then boat the t
(Continued)

2.
152
do so. I also endeavoured to get the official numbers of this vessel from the Pier Authorities, but the recording of the numbers were in the hands of the Naval Authorities.
(
I
a
D
T1
01
th
We do of pl
S]
alc
Des joi off the amu we returned he
I immediately hove up our anchor and kept the Tug underwigh as I could see we were likely to get run down whilst the destroyers were twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores e t were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

COPY OF REPORT.
65
(DOVER HARBOUR TO DUNKIRK &
RETURN TO GRAVESEND)
Tug "CERVIA."
154
31st May, 1940.
Wind Light West.
We left Dover Harbour at 9-45 p.m. towing sailing barge
ROYALTY" part loaded with cans of fresh water and provisions, bound for alo, Dunkirk. "e were in company with Tug "PERSIA", towing two sailing
Darges. It was pitch dark towing up through the Downs and we had to keep our navigation lights burning on account of the number of H.M.
Destroyers which we kept meeting.
1st June, 1940. (Saturday).
About 12-30 a.m. we should have been abrest the North Goodwins
Light Vessel, but we could not find it and we set our course from the
Gull Light Buoy. S.E.4 E.24 miles to tow to the Ruytingen Pass Light
Buoy which we passed about 5-0 a.m. The stern barge of the "PERSIA'S"
tow had broken adrift twice on the way accross on account of the heavy wash from the passing Destroyers, and we had to ease in and wait for
"PERSIA" whilst he picked her up. From the Ruytingen Pass Buoy we steerëd a course S toward No. 5. Buoy in the West Dunkirk Roads, All sorts of craft were coming round the buoy all fully loaded with troops, and a batch of about 20 Belgium motor fishermen bore down on us, the leader asking us the way to England. I sang out the course and told him to follow the other traffic and he would be all right. I heard afterwards that they all passed over the Goodwin Sands on the High time Water and landed their troops and refugees safely on this side. We had to ease down many times whilst towing up the Dunkirk Roads as the Destroyers and
Cross Channel pakkets were coming down from the Mole in a 20 knot procession, but we had a good towrope and it held on.
The oil works to the west of Dunkirk Harbour were on fire and a black pall of smoke hung over the town. As we passed the pierhead,
Destroyers were embarking troops and some were backing out of the harbour.
The "PERSIA" was now about 2 miles astern of us, and about a mile East of the Pierhead we gave our barge a good full speed tow and he slipped the towrope and steered her head first up on the shore at Malo, at 7-20 a.m.
We dropped our anchor and watched the barge. Soldiers began to rund down the beach towards her, but guns started to bang away on the oubskirts of Dunkirk and an air raid siren blew and the soldiers went back to shelter.
A British Destroyer outside of us began to fire at the enemy planes and bombs began to fall near her as she steamed about. At full speel with her helm hard to port nine bombs fell in a line in the water, along her starboard side, and they exploded under water, heeling the
Destroyer over on her beam ends, but she was righted again and a sloop joined in the gun fire, also shore batteries, and as the raiders made off they over towards the land they machine gunned us and we returned the fire with our Lewis gun.
I immediately hove up our anchor and kept the Tug underwigh as I could see we were likely to get run down whilst the destroyers were twisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the next wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

COPY OF STATEMENT.
(2)
155
HMS keith
Steam and smoke were coming away from the Destroyer, and she n to take a list. I began to run towards her, as also did the Tug
ABBS", but the planes were bombing her again, intent on finishing off, so we had to sheer away from her. Her guns were going all time as she steamed round and round, but she stopped as she must re been hit again. She let go her anchor and swing round to head the tide, as the crew began to take to the boats and rafts we made r her again. As the bombers came over and machine-gunned the crew
3 they were all jumping overboard and the Tug "VINCIA", which was oming in the Bast end of the Roads began to pick them up, and the
'ST. ABBS" had got alongside her starboard bow and the sloop was also going to their assistance, so I turned rouried to a motor boat full of soldiers and picked them up.
lvanhoe
At this time I could see that another Destroyer had been disabled to the West of the Harbour, and a 'plane had just dropped a bomb on a small oil tanker astern of the "VINCIA" which went up in flames.
A direct hit on the stern of the sinking Destroyer blew up her depth charges and we made to the sailing barge #TOLLESBURY" which was signalling us. We went alongside of her and were requested to tow her out of it as she had over two hundred soldiers under her main hatch.
We passed the motore lifeboat "ORIENT IV" on to her stern and began to tow her down the Dunkirk Roads.
A Cross-Channel boat was backing out of the Harbour full of troops, and no more troops were to be seen on the Pierhead, when,
West of the Pierhead we saw that the "PERSIA" had the other disabled
Destroyer in tow and he was blowing for us. But we could not catch him as the Destroyer had one engine going as well.
The "VINCIA" by this time, was passing us with her decks laden with survivors of the sunken Destroyer, and as we all came to
No. 5 W. Buoy to turn out to sea, here the gun fire from shore batteries and Destroyers and trawlers was terrific as about 20 planes flew towards us to try and stop us getting away. The "PERSIA's" Destroyer put up a smoke screen, and we watched nine bombs fall from a plane and drop right alongside a Cross-channel boat that was bound in, but she kept going. Then a plane over us released five bombs and we watched them fall and they dropped in to the sea about 100 feet on our port bow, lifting the Tug bodily out of the water. Another bomb was aimed at the "PERSIA" which missed and must have put water on her deck, and yet another was aimed at the "VINCIA" which also missed. The Lewis gun on our barge was going all the time with ours.
A squadron of our planes was coming over and the Enemy 'planes began to turn away. A bomb exploded between a Sloop towing a disabled
Destroyer, and I think it must have parted the towrope as I could see they were trying to get connected again soon afterwards. The "PERSIA"
and Destroyer began to draw away from us, also the "VINCIA", and we continued on our tow.
A mine was exploded near us by a navy motor boat and when we arrived in the Downs we were met by the examination Tug "JAVA" about
3-0 p.m. and were ordered to Ramsgate. "e hove barge up alongside and anchored at Quern Buoy 4-45 p.m. where a motor boat launch came off and took ashore about 100 troops and returned for the others, with orders for us to tow barge to Gravesend.
In all, we brought about 230 troops out of Dunkirk, the Barge
"TOLLESBURY" and crew, and crew of "DUCHESS" and crew and Soldier stevedores of "ROYALTY" and Motor boat "ORIENT IV". We andored at Southend
10-0 p.m. and proceeded to Gravesend at 7-0 a.m. on Sunday 2nd June, arriving at Lobster Buoy with "TOLLESBURY" 9-30 a.m. Went to Pier and handed "ORIENT IV" over to Custom House,
(Signed) W.H. Simmons.
Master of Tug "CERVIA".

COPY.
64
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
22nd May, 1940 to 6th June.
156
s.t. "PERSIA"
a May.
Left Gravesend 9-0 a.m towing barge "CELTIC" and Motor barge
AFFORD" for Dover, anchored Southend 11-0 a.m. for signal to proceed.
ve up at 2-15 p.m. Arrived at Dover Submarine Base 9-30 p.m., made ast at West Wall 9-45 p.m.
3rd May.
Underweigh at 10-30 a.m. Towed barge "CELTIC" to her unloading berth, then made fast at West Wall at 11-0 a.m., standing by.
24th May,
Underweigh at Noon. Went in Dock took in 19 tons 7 cwts. of coal, finished at 2-30 p.m. Made fast at Submarine base at 2-45 p.m.
Standing by.
25th May.
Underweigh at 5-15 p.m. with Tug "FOREMOST 87" towing
Destroyer "H.73" stern first for rtsmouth.
26th May,
Anchored at 6-20 p.m. abreast of Nab Tower, Port being closed.
Hove up at 7-30 p.m., anchored Destroyer off Ryde at 1° p.m., our services being finished. Anchoring Tug at 1°-15 p.m. for the night.
27th May.
Hove up at 6-30 a.m., steaming for Dover. Arriving 5-20 p.m.
made fast in Submarine Base 5-30 p.m. Standing by.
28th May.
Underweigh at 11-15 a.m. Shifting small craft, etc., until
4-50 p.m. Then made fast at South Wall at 5-0 p.m. Standing by.
29th May.
Underweigh at 9-0 a.m. Twwing Dumb barges "SARK" and
"SHETLAND" for Dunkirk. Tow parted abreast Goodwin Fork Buoy.
After some careful operations we got connected up again. Tow again parted and was connected up and we arrived and anchored 4 miles east of Dunkirk, at 5-0 a.m. on 30th May.
30th May.
Underweigh at 12-45 p.m. Received orders to tow barges to
East Pierhead Dunkirk. On arrival we received orders to anchor barges as close as it was prudent, and motor boat would pull them on the beach. Left Dunkirk 4-° p.m. with soldiers and equipment, anchoring in the Downs at Midnight.
31st May.
Hove up at 5-45 a.m. proceeded to Dover, made fast at Prince of Wales Pier at 7-0 a.m.
(Continued)

COPY.
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
(2)
157
s.t. "PERSIA"
C May.
Underweigh at 7-15 a.m. Assisted French Destroyer off iralty Pier to sea, finished 8-0 a.m., made fast at Quay. Took in tons of coal and 15 tons of water. Underweigh at 10-30 p.m. with rges "GLENWAY" and "SARK" for Dunkirk.
st June.
Stern barge carried away at 2-10 a.m., connected up again
5-15 a.m. Arriving East Quay Dunkirk at 8-0 a.m. Air raid was on:
Received orders to tow barges 1 mile east of Pierhea and let them sail ashore. During these movements we had bombs droped all round us, and
I noticed one of our Destroyers hit, which proved to be the "IVANHOE".
I at once steamed full speed towards her, and found she had been hit.
I was told to get her in tow, and we had her in tow in a few minutes.
During the tow the concussions of the bombs and gunfire caused our towing hawser to carry away. Only a few minutes had elapsed when we had another hawser on board the Destroyer and were towing her towards
Dover. For over two hours we were being bombed and fired on by German
'planes, until our own 'planes came in sight and then the Enemy flew off. Towing by the shore batteries they fired about 15 rounds at us, but all missed their object. Abreast of the North Goodwin Light
Vessel we received orders from the Destroyer to tow on to Sheerness.
In the vicinity of the Oaze we were met by a Government Tug, and he made fast alongide and assisted us to tow same to Chatham Dockyard.
Another Tug came to assist us at Garrison Point. We finished with the Destroyer at 9-15 p.m., ran to Sheerness and made fast to a Buoy at 10-0 p.m.
2nd June.
Underweigh at 7-30 a.m. Went alongside Sheerness Dockyard, awaiting orders, etc. Left Sheerness at mid-day with oil tender for
Margate Roads and lifeboats for Ramsgate. We had a nasty Easterly breeze and could not proceed very fast. We made Margate 8-0 p.m. and
Ramagate 9-15 p.m. Then ran to Deal and anchored 10-0 p.m.
3rd June.
Underweigh at 6-0 a.m., making for Dover. Arriving alongside
Admiralty Pier at 7-0 a.m. Standing by.
4th June.
Lying alongside Quay. 'Standing by'.
5th June,
Left Dover at mid-day with small motor craft,a breast of
South Foreland, heavy swell, had to return to Dover with craft, made same fast to Quay. Reported this to "ing's Harbour Master. Awaiting orders. 3-45 p.m. received orders for Gravesend. Left Dover at
4-0 p.m., arriving at Gravesend 10-40 p.m.
(Signed) H. Aldrich.
Master of Tug "PERSIA".

COPY.
63
THE DUNKIRK EVACUATION.
s.t. "TANGA".
158
May 30th.
At 9-15 p.m. left Tilbury Landing Stage towing 12 ships lifeboats anchored off Southend 11-0 p.m.
May 31st.
At 1-40 a.m. received orders to get underway at 4-0 a.m.
and tow boats to Ramsgate. Anchored off Ramsgat about 10 a.m.
At 2-0 p.m. four Lewis guns and two gunners came on board, also
Liut. Com. and Lieut. R.N.R. We then took six boats in tow and proceeded towards Dunkirk.
About 7-30 p.m., when nearing Dunkirk, German 'planes started bombing and machine-gunning. When the bombs exploded it seemed to lift us up out of the sea. We arrived off Dunkirk Harbour about 8-40 p.m. but had to go 6 miles further on tb the beaches.
We sipped our boats and hung off. Our boats had to fill up and take the troops to the larger vessels.
1st June.
About 3-50 a.m. some of our boats returned to us with about
16° troops. We took them on board, abandoned all but one motor boat and had to run for it. When abreast of Dunkirk Harbour we fell in with a small boat with 6 men in it. We stopped and picked the up and they were the sole survivors of 25 from the H.M. Tug "ST. FAGAN", which had been bombed with her tow of three Thames barges, two of the barges were also blown up. A mile further on we picked up Barge
"PUDGE" with four men on board, two badly wounded. So we towed her back to Ramsgate where we anchored off at 9-0 a.m. Motor boats came off and landed our troops. At 4-0 p.m. we hove up, towing four boats and proceeded again to Dunkirk, arrived off about 10-30 p.m., slipped our boats as before and we paddled about outside.
2nd June.
At 3-30 a.m. we were ordered to clear out and run for it.
Not one of our boats had returned to us. Othe r boats had brought us about 90 British and 8° French troops to us, so we proceeded back to Ramsgate, towing one disabled motor boat, arriving back at 8-0 a.m.
3rd June.
At 4-30 p.m. we left Ramsgate once again towing 4 motor boats.
Arrived off unkirk at 11- p.m. Slipped our boats and awaited as before.
4th June.
About 2-° a.m., Tugs "SUN IV,XV", "RACIA" and "TANGA" were ordered to go alongside Pierhead inside and get as many troops as possible
We all went in, no sooner had we got alongside the ladders when we were ordered to clear out as fast as possible. We only managed to get
37 French toops, not any of our boats returned to us. We cleased the Pier head about 2-35 a.m., when a German plane started bombing.
Our Lieut. Com. gave orders to fire our guns. We were firing 5
Lewis and 3 Bren guns. There were about 50 men on our deck aft and they all say that our Lewis gunner aft with twin Lewis guns brought the 'plane down. We saw the 'plane crash from our bridge and we were alll happy about it. About 3 miles from the North Goodwin Lightship we fell in with a French fishing Lugger with a crew of three on board, as they did not appear to know where they were ge took them in tow and anchored them off Ramsgate about 7-30 a.m.
(Signed) H.P. Gouge.
Master of Tug "TANGA".

COPY OF REPORT.
62
s.t. "KENIA".
159
29th May, 1940 - 2nd June.
29th May, 1940.
At 6-20 p.m. sighted a Fleet Air Arm 'plane floating about two miles South east of south Goodwin Light vessel. We steamed to same and made our towrope fast on tail, which was partly above the water, and commenced to tow at slow speed towards Ramsgate. At
7-5 p.m. bomb dropped from rack under wing and exploded a little way astern. At 8-45 p.m., near No. 3 Ramsgate Buoy, stern of plane parted from the body. We marked position and returned to Harbour.
30th May,
At 5-30 a.m.we left Ramsgate Ferbour, in foggy weather, and found H.M.S."SCOOT" loaded with wounded soldiers. They needed a pilot so I went on board and took vessel into Ramsgate Harbour. I
came off again, went to Deal and towed H.MS. "SCOOT", which was broken down, into Ramsgate Harbour. Came out again and towed Motor Yacht
"INSPIRATION" to Ramsgate Channel and handed her over to s.t. "DORIA"
who took her to Ramsgate, while we returned to South Downs. [We found the Yacht "INSPIRATION" abandoned, floating in the Downs)
31st May.
At 6-15 p.m., sighted two motor launches about two miles south east X south of South Goodwin Light Vessel. Went to same and found them to be the "R.59" and "R.36", abandoned. Towed them into
Ramsgate Channel and then continued Patrol.
2nd June.
Whilst on Southern Inspection Patrol, sighted the S.S.MMMA", a Swedish ship, sinking about 12 miles Northeast of Dover, but could not give any assistance. We marked position of wreck with a Buoy.
At 8e0 p.m. sighted sailing barge about 21/2 miles south east of South Goodwin Light Vessel. The barge was needing assistance, and when arriving alongside same found it to be the Barge "ENA" with only
British Expeditionary Force men on board. They had managed to get the sailing barge over from the Dunkirk beach to British waters without the assistance of any sailors. We took the barge in tow and proceeded towards Ramsgate, anchoring barge a quarter of a mile south west X south of Ramsgate Pierhead.
(Signed) W. Hoiles.
(Master of Tug "KENIA")

COPY.
61
EXTRACTS FROM LOG WHILE AT DOVER
s.t. "FOREMOST 87"
160
Wednesday, 22nd May.
Lying in Dover Harbour awaiting orders. At 8-30 a.m., received orders to proceed to Calais. Cleared Eastern Entrance Dover
Harbour at 8-45 a.m., arrived Calais Harbour 11-0 a.m. Air Raid on.
Received instructions immediately ón entering Harbour to force lock gates which had been disabled by bombing by Enemy aircraft, air raid still in progress. Forded locked gates, time taken being 12 hours, and received orders to get S.S. "KATOWICE" loaded with refugees out of Dock as soon as possible. I did this and towed S.S. "KATOWICE"
clear of Galais Harbour and into Calais Roads, finishing at 2-0 p.m.
then returned to Calais Harbour. Aerial combat going on overhead.
Immediately on entering Harbour again, received orders to proceed to Calais Roads to assist S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" from
Roads to Harbour and to get her in at all costs. "CITY OF CHRIST-
CHURCH" in company of Dëstwoyer being bombed from the air. Took hold of steamer at 2-45 p.m. and towed same into Calais Harbour.
While endeavour to do this, three mines (magnetic) were exploded by French Trawlers ahead of "FOREMOST 87" and "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH".
Things looked very uncomgortable. We managed to berth steamer in outer Dock Calais, finishing at 4-30 p.m. I then received orders to proceed to Calais Roads again for s.m. "WILLIAMSTOWN" as things were a bit quieter. Took hold of vessel at 5-30 p.m. and towed same from anchorage in Calais Roads to berth in Outer Dock Calais Harbour, finishing at 7-30 p.m. Made fast astern of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH"
at 7-45 p.m.
Thursday, 23rd May.
Lying in Calais Harbour. At 2-30 a.m. told to take hold of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" and tow at once out of Harbour. While taking hold of S.S. "CITY OF CHRESTCHURCH", orders were to let ship lay. There was a 'Fifth column' scare and two men were put under arrest. "FOREMOST 87", however, still kept ropes made fast to the steamer. At 1-30 p.m., ordered to take hold of "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH", official this time, and to tow out clear of Harbour to Calais Roads.
Got vessel clear of Harbour and into Roads. At 2-40 p.m. returned to Harbour and received orders from Naval Authority to proceed to Dover for Water and Stores. Left Calais at 3-10 p.m. and arrived at Dover at 5-30 p.m. Air Raid in progrees when leaving Calais.
Friday, 24th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour. Received on board stores and water.
At 11-6 a.m. received orders to proveed to Calais. Cleared Eastern
Entrance to Dover Harbour at 11-D a.m. and arrived Calais Roads at
12-30 p.m. Heavings Heavy gunning and bombardment on the shore.
Situation too bad for "FOREMOST 87" to attempt making entrance to
Calais. Steamed about vicinity of Calais Roads. Situation getting worse, with gunfire and aerial bombing. I decided to return to Dover, arriving there at 4-50 p.m.
Saturday, 25th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour, awaiting orders. At 4-30 p.m.
received orders to tow "O.R.P.BUZA" (Polish Destroyer) from Dover to
Portsmouth. "BURZA" having been bombed on the Forecastle head, damaging plates and bulk head under water. Took Destroyer in tow, stern first, at 5-80 p.m. and cleared Dover Harbour Eastern Entrance
6-0 p.m. (Arrived Portsmouth with "O.R.P. BUZA" 10-0 p.m. on 26th
May, Sunday.
(Continued)

COPY.
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
161
t.FOREMOST 87"
Sunday, 26th May.
Arrived at Portsmouth towing "O.R.P. BUZA" stern first at
10 p.m. Slight Fog.
Monday, 27th May.
Coaling and storing in Portsmouth Harbour.
Tuesday, 28th May.
Left Portsmouth Harbour 6-0 a,m. Steamed towards Dover
Harbour, arriving and making fast 6-0 p.m.
Wednesday, 29th May.
Lying Submarine Dock Dover Harbour. At 3-30 p.m. Ordered to assist m.v. "RUYA" from berth to berth. Tooke hold of vessel at
4-0 p.m., finishing 4-15 p.m. At 4-20 p.m. took hold of S.S. "KING ORRY"
and assisted from Eastern Arm Dover Harbour to Sea, eastern Entrance
Dover, finishing at 4-50 p.m.
Thursday, 30th May.
At 8-0 a.m. received orders to proceed from Dover Harbour to Dunkirk. On nearing Dunkirk Harbour heavy bombing and shelling in progress. Went inside Harbour and received instructions to take barges
"SARK" and "SHETLAND", which were at anchor off St. Malo beach, in tow and to beach same on the shore 100 yards apart on St. Malo shore,.
Dunkirk, - Heavy aerial bombing and ground gunfire going on while doing this job, shrapnel splinters hitting deck very hard. Finished this and steamed inside Harbour again. Things getting worse but everybody happy. Troopship "PRAGUE" unable to get away from Eastern Arm Dunkirk
Hatbour, loaded with troops, so took same in tow and towed out clear to
Dunkirk Roads. Told to stand by and assist in any way. One or two little jobs leading Destroyers to berths in the dark rendered - heavy shelling and air raids still in progress. At 12 midnight told to return to Dover.
Friday, 31st May.
Returned from Dunkirk arrived Dover at 6-0 a.m. At 2-0 p.m.
received orders to take two sailing barges in tow to Dunkirk. Took hold of same at 2-45 p.m. and towed to Dunkirk. Orders received were t beach them at St. Malo Beach. This was accomplished under heavy bombing and shelling. The beach was one mass of troops. Time of beaching barges was 11-0 p.m. The sky was lit up with fires caused through bombing and shelling. Returned to Dunkirk Harbour, told to keep clear of heavy barrage which was prevailing and to stand by outside Harbour. Still steaming outside Harbour at midnight.
Saturday, 1st June.
At Dunkirk standing by. Assisting in anything and everything possible. At 2-0 a.m. received orders to return at once to
Dover. Arriving at Dover at 7-30 a.m.
Sunday, 2nd June.
Lying at Dover Harbour. At 3-30 p.m. received orders to take lifeboats R.N.L.B. "CECIL and "LILLIAN PHILPOTT" and "R.N.L.B.
THOMAS KIRK WRIGHT" in tow to Dunkirk Towed same to given position then did job of work with Hospital ship "PARIS" survivors who had been bombed and machine-gunned by Enemy aircraft.
(Continued)

COPY.
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
16%
(3)
s.t. "FOREMOST 87".
Sunday, 2nd June.
Rendered assistance to 95 survivors - five of these being nurses who were seriously wounded, also some of the crew of "PARIS"
who were scalded badly by boilers exploding. We also took 13 Spaniards on board from small boat. Landing all survivors (including lad of sixteen dying through injuries received in bombing of "PARIS") at Dover on the morning of 3rd June, Monday, at 4-30 a.m. at Admiralty Pier,
Dover.
(Signed) J. Fryer.
Master of Tug "FOREMOST 87"

COPY OF STATEMENT REGARDING SURVIVORS FROM HOSPITAL SHIP
"PARIS"
163
by s.t. "FOREMOST 87"
June
Wednesday, 5th May, 1940.
Dear Sir,
On Sunday afternoon, the 2nd June, I received orders from
Naval Authorities Dover to proceed to Dunkirk. My orders being to take Lifeboats R.N.L.B. "CECIL & LILLIAN PHILPOTT and R.N.L.B.
"THOMAS KIRK WRIGHT" in tow to assist in evacuating troops from
Dunkirk Harbour and Beach.
I cleared Eastern Entrare of Dover Harbour about 3-50 p.m.
with Lifeboats in tow, and on instructions before leaving towed towards given position where I had to cast lifeboats.o: I arrived at this position and was giving lifeboat coxwains courses for Dunkirk
Harbour, when, on hearing aircraft overhead and several explosions,
I noticed to the southward of me a Hospital ship which proved to be
S.S. "PARIS" of Newhaven, in, as It thought, difficulties. I at once altered my course, irrespective of routing instructions, towards said vessel, and onnnearing same I noticed several of her lifeboats full of survivors who had survived this bombing and machine-gunning which
I was afterwards informed had happened. I at once gave orders to crew to get lines etc. ready to take these survivors on board, some of whom were Sisters who were very seriously injured, also some of crew whod been badly scalded.
I managed to get all of the 95 survivors out of our boats, some of which were half full of water, on board of "FOREMOST 87", and did everything to make wounded (one of whom passed away on board Tug
"FOREMOST 87") as comfortable as I could, and then headed at full speed towards Dover.
I had hardly altered my course when I noticed another boat full of people. I stopped engines and on nearing this boat I found that it had 13 Spaniards aboard. I ordered these to be taken on board and kept apart from survivors of "PARIS" as I was uncertain of their Nationality, and I was unable to gather from them how and when they came to be in the boat I found them in.
I headed for Dover, time being about 10-50 p.m., at full speed. Arriving at Dober Pierheads Eastern Entrance about 3-30 a.m.
on Monday, 3rd June, and received orders to proceed direct to
Admiralty Pier and land survivors, this I did as soon as possible, everything being ready on shore to assist in this job of work. I
kept Spaniards on board until they were escorted ashore by armed guard, who no doubt found out more about them than I could.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Signed) J. Fryer.
Master of s.t. "FOREMOST 87".

GUIAR SERVICE
HSW
59
LITH
S
TELEPHONE: LEITH 37088-9
BOSTON
TELEGRAMS: "TRANSHIP, EDINBURGH"
LONDON
SCOTTISH Co-operative WHOLESALE SOCIETY LTD.
181
9
64
REGISTRY
17 AUG
RECEIVED
1010
COASTAL SHIPPING DEPARTMENT.
6 JOHN'S PLACE.
LEITH, 16th August 19 40.
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.I.
Dear Sir,
Your Reference T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6 of 7th August.
With reference to above and ours of 13th August, we enclose herewith statement as made by Captain T. S. Robertson,
Master of the m/v "Scottish Co-operator" in relation to the
Dunkirk operation.
We trust that the information is exactly as required by you for your purposes.
Yours faithfully,
Jobryce
Transport Manager.
arrival there I found there was not sufficient water at the pier of for my ship and I had to go to Margate where we arrived at 4 p.m.
cort
After discharging troops we were about to leave again for Dunkirk the but discovered that our degaussing cable was cut and owing to aft this I was ordered to anchor and await orders, which I did.
After the evacuation was completed I was sent to Sheerness to have degaussing wire repaired, after which I was ordered back to Newhaven where we arrived on Saturday 8th June, 1940.
(Signed) T. S. ROBERTSON, Master.
o0o

58
M.V. "SCOTTISH CO-OPERATOR".
EVACUATION OF B.E.F. FROM DUNKIRK.
165
Regarding the part taken by the above vessel in the evacuation of Dunkirk, there is very little to tell.
When these operations were begun we were loading ammunition in Newhaven, Sussex and this was completed on the evening of Tuesday 28th May. Orders were then received that this ship was required for other duties and the cargo just loaded was to be discharged. Work to this end was begun on the morning of Wednesday 29th May and completed the same day, after which we shifted and bunkered to full capacity.
On Thursday 30th May at 5 a.m., we sailed from Newhaven with instructions to proceed to Dover for orders. On arrival at
Dover, about noon, I spoke to Examination Vessel and was informed that we were going to Dunkirk to embark troops and that we were to anchor and await further orders. At about 5 p.m. we were ordered into South Downs where we were to close the Examination Vessel which would provide us with sailing orders and routing instructions.
On receiving these routing instructions I asked the
Examination Officer where the troops were to be embarked, and whether I had to enter the port of Dunkirk and I was told that
I would receive further instructions from British Naval Craft when I arrived off Dunkirk. At about 8 p.m. we sailed from the Downs and at about 11 p.m. arrived off Dunkirk Piers where several vessels were patrolling but none of these was able to give me any information as they all appeared to be in the same position as ourselves. One of them informed me, however, that there were sunken craft in the entrance and therefore it would not be safe to attempt entering during the hours of darkness so
I decided to keep on the move, at slow speed, until daylight.
There were several enemy aircraft over during the night which were engaged by our own or Allied Fighters, and driven off.
By 5.30 a.m. on Friday 31st, it was daylight and I
decided to proceed into harbour and we moored alongside breakwater at 6.30 a.m. The Germans, who were about five miles to the westward of Dunkirk, had the range of the breakwater and were keeping it under almost continuous shell fire, but fortunately neither the ship nor any member of the crew was hit, although overhead. shells were falling all around and occasional shrapnel bursting
The embarkation began immediately on arrival and after we had embarked 50 stretcher cases, 150 walking wounded and about
350 able men, we were about to sail when just then an hospital ship came alongside and it was decided to transfer all stretcher cases and walking wounded from our ship to the Hospital ship.
This was completed in about forty minutes and I then had to wait and fill up again with able men. At 10.30 a.m. we sailed with 550 men on board, including seven stretcher cases.
I had orders to discharge these men at Ramsgate but on arrival there I found there was not sufficient water at the pier for my ship and I had to go to Margate where we arrived at 4 p.m.
After discharging troops we were about to leave again for Dunkirk but discovered that our degaussing cable was cut and owing to this I was ordered to anchor and await orders, which I did.
After the evacuation was completed I was sent to Sheerness to have degaussing wire repaired, after which I was ordered back to Newhaven where we arrived on Saturday 8th June, 1940.
(Signed) T. S. ROBERTSON, Master.
o0o

DEPARTMENT
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS, "ARDIA". LONDON.
nede
CODES: SCOTT, BENTLEY, MARCONI & BOE.
TELEPHONE SERVICE, AVENUE 4650 (7 LINES) TRUNK 67.
THE
T.M.6213/40/STA6
121, Leadenhall Street,
17th August 40
London.E.C.3.
The
166
Gentlemon,
15th August, 1940.
2.
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 15th instant and to thank
167
13/40/S.T.A.6.
you for the copy of the report of the Master of the S.S. "KOHISTAN" regarding his of the 7th August, experiences at Calais.
13th August, which has written to us
I am, Gentlemen, ip at Calais.
Your obedient Servant, y,
C.
STRICK & CO. LIMITED.
(Sgd.) SELL B, E. BELLAMY,
Yahan
Director of Sea Transport.
Frank C. Strick & Co.,Ltd.,
117-121 Leadenhall Street,
E.C.3.
to come aboard. About ituation was rapidly rbour, on starboard t out of action, and
Jed by shelling.
After consultation with Brigadier General Griffin, who said more troops were to come and in the circumstances would I wait. I decided to do so until 11 a.m. By that time all the troops to be evacuated were aboard - over 4000
approximately, including 25 wounded - I proceeded to leave.
As the vessel got clear of the breakwater a shore battery commenced firing and, although shells were bursting extremely close, vessel was not hit. I proceeded to Dover.
When leaving Calais, men of the Rifle Brigade were lined up alongside the station and waved and cheered us, ships returned to Dover arriving as it seemed at and 5 the of the ship On and May the 27th/28th Naster applied a considerable for humber of the crew left scort the was were unable supplied to sail and twenty on May soldiers 28th as she with a had Naval Lewis to crew. oil guns. fuel. Naval The vessel ratings raft again entered that May the night harbour, 29th the embarked vessel sailed about for 2,000 Dunkirk in dense fog, without incident as it was troops a bad and day came for flying. back

RANK C. LIMITED STRICK & Co
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS, "ARDIA", LONDON.
CODES: SCOTT. BENTLEY, MARCONI & BOE.
TELEPHONE SERVICE, AVENUE 4650 (7 LINES) TRUNK 67.
AND AT
PLYMOUTH OARDIFF. NEWPORT, SWANSEA,
BRISTOL,AVONMOUTH NEWCASTLE ON TYNE,
GLASGOW. HULL. MANCHESTER. MIDDLESBROUGH.
GIBRALTAR, MARSEILLES. ORAN, ALGIERS.
117-121, Leadenhall Street,
HAIFA. PORT SAID, SUEZ, PORT SUDAN,
KHORAMSHAHR BUSRA, BAGHDAD.
London.E.c.3.
LLOYDS AGENTS AT
ORAN, ARZEW, BENISAF. MOSTAGANEM,
NEMOURS & OUDJDA.
15th August, 1940.
The Director of Sea Transport,
Berkeley Square House, W.1.
167
Your Reference T.M. 6213/40/S.T.A.6.
Dear Sir,
Referring to your letter of the 7th August, we enclose Robertson copy of the "KOHISTAN" has written Calais. us of a letter dated 13th August, which to
Captain regarding the operations of his ship at
Yours faithfully,
For LIMITED.
& OFF 191 171/1811 X 19/11/19
ENCL.
were to come aboard. About a.m. 1 was deciding to leave as the situation was rapidly worsening. The fort at entrance to harbour, on starboard side entering, had by this time been put out of action, and in the town still more fires were started by shelling.
After consultation with Brigadier General Griffin, who said more troops were to come and in the circumstances would I wait. I decided to do so until 11 a.m. By that time all the troops to be evacuated were aboard - over 4000
approximately, including 25 wounded - I proceeded to leave.
As the vessel got clear of the breakwater a shore battery commenced firing and, although shells were bursting extremely close, vessel was not hit. I proceeded to Dover.
When leaving Calais, men of the Rifle Brigade were lined up alongside the station and waved and cheered us, ships returned to Dover arriving as it seemed at
6 the d
On
May of again entered was unable that May the to harbour, 29th sail and the twenty on embarked vessel May soldiers 28th sailed about as for she with for a had Naval Dunkirk Lewis to crew. oil guns. in fuel. dense Naval The crew fog, vessel were the ship supplied and the 27th/28th Naster applied a considerable humber of the ratings left scort the raft night without incident as 2,000 it was troops a bad and day came for flying. back

COPY.
55
FRANK C. STRICK & CO. (GLASGOW) LTD.
95, Bothwell Street,
GLASGOW, C.2.
13th August, 1940.
Messrs. Frank C. Strick & Co.Ltd.,
LONDON.
168
Dear Sirs,
I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated
8th inst., enclosing copy of letter from the Ministry of
Shipping, and the following is my report. -
On 22nd May I received orders in Southampton to proceed to Dover for orders, in company with S.S. BEN LAWERS".
On 23rd, about 11 a.m., arrived Dover, when orders were received to proceed to Calais, and berthem there about
6 p.m. The town was being bombed and bombing continued at intervals all the time.
Discharging of cargo was commenced and continued during the night until about 4 a.m. on 24th, when discharge was completed.
About this time Germans commenced shelling the town and shells were bursting uncomfortably close to the ship.
Several fires were started on shore.
About 6 a.m. "BEN LAWERS" left and I was instructed to await further orders as troops were to come aboard. About
8 a.m. I was deciding to leave as the situation was rapidly worsening. The fort at entrance to harbour, on starboard side entering, had by this time been put out of action, and in the town still more fires were started by shelling.
After consultation with Brigadier General Griffin, who said more troops were to come and in the circumstances would I wait. I decided to do so until 11 a.m. By that time all the troops to be evacuated were aboard - over 4000
approximately, including 25 wounded I proceeded to leave.
As the vessel got clear of the breakwater a shore battery commenced firing and, although shells were bursting extremely close, vessel was not hit. I proceeded to Dover.
When leaving Calais, men of the Rifle Brigade were lined up alongside the station and waved and cheered us, p.m.
ships returned to Dover area arriving as it seemed at and 5 the
On
L of
May were the ship supplied and the and 27th/28th Master applied a considerable for a Naval humber of the crew left scort the was unable to sail twenty on May soldiers 28th as she with had Lewis to crew. guns. Naval The vessel ratings raft entered
May 29th the vessel anil oil fuel.

-2-
169
although they knew they were left to certain death. Their courage and bravery were magnificent.
The behaviour of ship's officers, deck and engine and lascar crew, was splendid and worthy of mention. And of the troops evacuated - wounded and well - I can only say
IBSQ
that while Britain has men like these and of the Rifle Brigade we shall never know defeat.
Yours faithfully,
(SGD.) W.C. ROBERTSON.
Master S.S. "KOHISTAN".
p.m.
une ships returned received to Dover and arriving as it seemed at again and g the d
of scort was were the ship supplied On and May the and 27th/28th Master twenty applied soldiers a considerable for a Naval humber crew. of the Naval crew ratings left the raft unable to sail on May 28th as she with had Lewis to oil guns. fuel. The vessel again entered that May the night harbour, 29th without the embarked vessel incident sailed about as for 2,000 it Dunkirk was troops a bad in and day dense came for fog, flying. back

wen THE WB OF gots THE any Tamel SIX bis
54
LWAY.
53
Lann
T.H.6213/40/S.T.
15th August,1940
IEF Docks MANAGER'S OFFICE,
170
CARDIFF.
to acknowledge the receipt of the
Please quote this reference:-
sir,
CDM./M.36/153/63.
I have letter the of your August and to thank you furnished
171
nkirk.
14th interesting reports vessels most Masters of the by the to your Company which took addressed to this and I have pleasure ned from my belonging part in the Dunkirk operations.
by this Company's on of the B.E.F.
You Your obedient Servant,
I am, Sir, steamer "The Mew"
although she did reached Dover.
little vessel
Director (Sgd.) B. of of the Sea Transport.
ing to this vessel, rmation or
Dir or Sea Transport, per HN, se
Ministry of Shipping, g
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
London W.1.
already
Is ink.
impossible in view of the orders Dunkirk planes again weu
11-0 p.m. to enter the ships returned received to Dover and arriving as it seemed at d
g and the of ship On and May the 27th/28th a considerable scort the again entered was were the unable supplied that May the night to harbour, 29th sail and the Naster twenty on embarked vessel May applied soldiers 28th sailed about as for she with for 2,000 a had Naval Dunkirk Lewis humber to crew. oil guns. in of fuel. dense the Naval The crew fog, vessel ratings left raft without incident as it was troops a bad and day came for back flying.

GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY.
53
Telegrams:-
COORDINATE, CARDIFF."
CHIEF DOCKS MANAGER'S OFFICE,
Telephone:
DJ.
CARDIFF.
8100: EXTN.
14th August, 1940.
Your reference:-
Please quote this reference:-
T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6.
CDM./M.36/153/63.
Dear Sir,
171
Evacuation of B.E.F. from Dunkirk.
Your letter of the 7th August addressed to this
Company at Paddington has been passed to me, and I have pleasure in sending you copies of the reports I obtained from my
District Officers regarding the part played by this Company's vessels named in your letter, in the evacuation of the B.E.F.
from Dunkirk.
You will be aware that our Ferry steamer "The Mew"
stationed at Kingswear, was requisitioned, and although she did not actually take part in the evacuation, this little vessel reached Dover.
I enclose copy of the report relating to this vessel,
Should you require any further information or particulars, I shall be pleased to furnish same.
Yours faithfully, My
W.J. THOMAS, per se
Director of Sea Transport,
04
Ministry of shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
London W.1.
already
Is ink.
Dunkirk planes
Coll
Neu impossible 11-0 p.m. to 111 enter view the of ships the orders returned received to Dover and arriving as it seemed at again g the d
of
;cort were the ship supplied the Naster applied for a Naval of the crew left
On and May 27th/28th a considerable humber the raft was unable and twenty soldiers with Lewis crew. Naval vessel ratings to sail on May 28th as she had to oil guns. fuel. The again entered that night harbour, embarked about 2,000 troops fog,
May the 29th the vessel sailed for Dunkirk in dense without incident as it was a bad and day came for flying. back

COPY.
GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY.
52
Traffic & Marine Agent's Office,
WEYMOUTH QUAY.
10th June, 1940.
172
asea
My Ref. B.S.
Dear
Sir,
S.S. Helier" - Evacuation of Troops from
Dunkirk and Calais.
I can now give the story of the part played by the
S.S. "St.Helier" evacuating troops from Dunkirk and Calais.
On May 22nd the Helier" proceeded from Southampton to Folkestone for orders, and was then sent to Calais to embark
2,000 troops. The vessel arrived at Calais the same day at low water and found the harbour and quays deserted. While endeavouring to get alongside, the vessel was bombed by three enemy planes which were only about 1,000 feet up, one bomb fell on the port bow, one on the quays and some astern. The vessel was moored by some French soldiers who came out of adjacent ruined buildings and planes again came over dropping bonbs The Master found the Sea Transport Officer in a dug-out but the position of the troops which were to be embarked was not known and the "St.Helier" had orders to "Clear out" and return again at daylight as it was a night of full moon. As the bombing still continued the crew cut the mooring ropes and returned to
Dover, they being again followed by planes. At the Downs Guard
Ship the Master was instructed to proceed to Dover and there learned it was of no use to return to Calais.
11
On May 23rd the vessel went to Dunkirk and embarked approximately 1,500 English and French evacuees, returned to
Dover the same day and landed them at midnight without incident.
On May 24th the ship was engaged in bunkering.
May 25th the vessel proceeded to Dunkirk but was sent back before she reached there as ships were being sunk by heavy shelling from the coast. After anchoring in the Downs for two hours the "st.Helier" in company with the "St. Andrew" and
Julien" went again to Dunkirk, this time via Ostend. The vessels were bombed by two planes and the "St. Andrew" had a very narrow escape. The vessels arrived at Dunkirk at 5-0 pm when nineenemy planes came overhead and directed their attack on the
S.S. Helier", the Master avoiding the bombs by steering the ship for the spot'where the last lot fell. The Helier" did not enter the Harbour until the raid was finished to avoid being sunk and blocking the entrance. On attempting to go alongside the quay the Sea Transport Officer ordered the vessel away again wed immediately. After waiting some time off Dunkirk planes again g +
came over and in view of the orders received and as it seemed d
impossible to enter the ships returned to Dover arriving at o:
11-0 p.m.
CO
th
On May 27th/28th a considerable humber of the crew left raf the ship and the Master applied for a Naval crew. Naval ratings were supplied and twenty soldiers with Lewis guns. The vessel was unable to sail on May 28th as she had to oil fuel.
May 29th the vessel sailed for Dunkirk in dense fog, entered the harbour, embarked about 2,000 troops and came back again that night without incident as it was a bad day for flying.

On the following day, Thursday, May 30th, the "St.
173
Helier" again left for Dunkirk, accompanied by two French troopships, the "st.Helier" being the leading ship, and halfway across was subjected to a fierce attack by three planes. Nino bombs fell on the port bow about twenty yards off the vessel, four bombs right ahead were even closer and many fell on the starboard side. One of the planes was shot down by anti-aircraft fire from the "St.Helier" Over 2,000
troops were embarked and the vessel turned to Dover at 7-0 a.m.
Friday, May 31st, arrived at Dunkirk again and loaded 30/5
1,600 French troops. On coming out the H.N.S. "Sharpshooter", a mine layer, went across the "St.Helier's" bows and there was a collision. At the request of the Captain of the "sharpshooter"
the St.Helier" did not withdraw but steamed into her at half speed on one engine for forty minutes to ease the pressure on the bulkheads. It was now quite dark and enemy planes came over dropping flares to locate the ships. A tue came to attend to the H.II.S. "Sharpshooter" Enemy planes were continually around the ships and in the confusion the "Princess Eleanora"
struck the St.Helier" on the starboard bow. After ascertaining this vessel required no assistance the voyage was just proceeding when the Helier" ran over a wreck, but fortunately without doing any underwater damage. The troops were landed at Dover.
On Saturday, June 1st, arrived at Dunkirk 3-30 p.m.,
1/6
16 planes being overhead dropping bombs. The Master of the
'St.Helier" was asked if he would wait and load stretcher cases, to which he agreed and at 6-0 p.m. the vessel shifted and while moving was shelled from the beach, two shells striking the docking bridge and slightly wounding the second mate, but it did not interfere with his duties. The "st.Helier" lay alongside the quay in all for seven hours, the Harbour being fiercely bombarded the whole time from planes and shore batteries. The vessel embarked 40 stretcher cases and filled up with troops, and left the berth at 10-15 p.m. being shelled from coast batteries for thirty minutes before getting out of range. The shells all went over the ship, most of them dropping within thirty yards. Flames from fires on the shore lit up the sea so that the ship was plainly visible.
OARDIFF.
After landing the troops on the Sunday morning the 2/6
Naval Authorities informed the Master that they considered he had done enough and stated they were prepared to put a Naval
Commander in charge. Captain Pitman refused relief. A Naval
Commander and ten ratings were put on board to assist in case the ship was required to take off troops from beaches. The vessel, however, again proceeded to Dunkirk and loaded a full complement of troops. The vessel had now become very difficult to manoeuvre and it was afterwards found that the fore peak was full of water, evidently arising from the collision damage followed by underwater explosions, though this was not discovered until the vessel had returned to Folkestone as it ed was too dangerous to allow any of the crew forward. The fore peak was pumped out at Folkestone. The vessel was shelled while she was alongside the quay at Dunkirk but fortunately of the aim was poor and all the she Is fell just short.
cor the
Though other ships came to Dunkirk after this and took aft
French troops, the S.S. "st.Helier" on this occasion loaded the last of the B.E.F. numbering over 2,000. These British troops were landed on Monday morning and the Helier" stood

for Pa Issued no ontita one Lot
OF
-3-
174
by to return to Dunkirk but it was found not to be necessary.
The total trips made by the SS "St.Helier" was one to
STOP
Calais and seven to Dunkirk.
to
Form
The return journey from Folkestone to Southampton which noth took eight hours, was made with only three seamen and one quartermaster on deck. The vessel had not proceeded far before the fore peak again filled with water and stewards working in relays stood in water in the fore peak working a, hand pump and kept the water down. The vessel arrived at Southampton Tuesday morning at 5-0 a.m.
TOVO
ONE
The Captain reports that the conduct of his Chief
Officer, Mr H.D. Freeman and the Second Officer, Mr F.Martin, was splendid throughout the whole of the operations and on
JOIS
every occasion whenever required as soon as arriving at
Dunkirk they would go ashore and help carry the wounded on board.
The Chief Engineer, Mr Griffiths, Acting Second
Engineer Dougal and Fourth Engineer Haner told the Captain that as long as the vessel remained afloat they were prepared to do anything required, and they kept their word.
The excellent service rendered by Captain Pitman is a magnificent example of untiring energy and courage and this the is fully shown in the record of the great work done.
laid off Yours faithfully, off Galais West we shells the (sgd) D.G. HOPPINS.
high. I sent B. South
We were to Hewhaven and Patients. The
Green Lights and Red Cross were plainly achibited.
Temporary 3nd Officer Rowlands left On sooment of vessel not boing arred.
W.J. Thomas Esq.,
CARDIFF. nemaven and In the Downa.
96th. Received orders to prodeed to Dunkirk in company the "St.Andrew". When ore Vousel Jalain, va the "Maid or Orleans", and from Shore Batteries on the three ships, and 0.00 it SPEND not possible to paso this place without serious on damage, I WELD in the
I away round, and the whole time until out of range, incident. I returned by RD the hunkirk. not having N the
27th We left the Downs, receiving to proceed to ed
"Roynl parfodd!", following in the tl were attacked by bonba and corpedone brin Kiddlekirk Bank Budy* There fall very the abily of no 30081 18
Visa to of the the aft

THEREOF
51
COPY.
H.M.H.C. "st.Julien",
OUTS
Newhaven, as
13th June, 1940.
GREATE
175
D.G. Hoppins Esq.,
Weymouth Quay.
100%
Dear Sir,
TOTAL
I beg to report the following incidents which took place while the above was engaged as a Hospital Carrier.
We left Southampton on the 23rd May and proceeded to Dover for orders: on arrival we received orders to anchor in the Downs.
On the 24th we received orders to proceed to Dunkirk and when close to the Inner locks Dunkirk Harbour the ship was heavily bombed, bombs falling a matter of 20 feet away.
Fortunately the tide was low and apart from a shaking, the vessel was not damaged. As no people could be seen, I
hailed French Soldiers and asked where we had to berth, but things began to get hot, so I decided to back out and return to Dover. I counted 17 planes sowing destruction.
On arrival off Dover, I reported the incident to the examination boat and after a lapse of 2 hours I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk, "St. Andrew" following and Air escort provided. This was done without incident. On arrival, Crew assisted in loading patients and leaving, as the "St.Andrew" had no charts for the particular route,
I laid off and waited for her. On our return journey, when off Calais West we were shelled by Shore Batteries, the shells falling over us, the elevation being slightly too high. I sent a message to South Foreland and was answered.
We were ordered to Newhaven and landed Patients. The
Green Lights and Red Cross were plainly exhibited.
Temporary 3rd Officer Rowlands left on account of vessel not being armed.
25th. Left Newhaven and anchored in the Downs.
26th. Received orders to proceed to Dunkirk in company with the Andrew". When off Dyck Light Vessel Ualais, we met the "Maid of Orleans", and firing from Shore Batteries began on the three ships, and as it was not possible to pass this place without serious risk of damage, as I was in the lead
I swung round, and zigzagging the whole time until out of range, incident. I returned by an unauthorised route and reported the
27th. We left the Downs, receiving orders to proceed to
Dunkirk. Not having a Chart we followed the Helier", ed
"Royal Daffodil", and "St.Andrew" following in the rear. We et were attacked by bombs and aerial torpedoes when off
Middlekirk Bank Buoy. These fell very close to the ship of but no damage was done. When we arrived off Dunkirk it con was absolutely impossible to enter on account of the bombing th by relays. Even to remain in the vicinity as we were told af we were a good target, so all ships returned to the Downs.
28th. At anchor.