TNA MT 40 66

ISVP
91 LL YSMEDDYS.
DANTILE RINE SEDICTOR
?
NEWPORT.
PEMB.
H. bamp bell
4
40
ce Sliect
87
11-9 -45.
warton
Matered in Day Buoz in
2
41
will with reference to b.
your letter of 30 th June.
1948.
ih
The letter signed by Ronald Cross γ sealed the ret the loss of my hrough enemy action was framed & left on l. the letter that
H.M. H. Cavil No 24.
tion of Dunkirk.
when she was Quick by by t me have a enemy action off any is.
once
Jaw very loaths to ask sipation tion for a copy but it it was was not exactly my fault the tion
D.S.C.
lost. Thanking you in anticipation Your Ceal faithfully Joy.
inc
Mr. Wilson at the las much I
her. Ronald Cross your faithfully,
R. S. of S& S Ceail for
Rd. Cardiff
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING
DOVER.
25th October, 1940.

DANTILE LINE SERVICE
90
H. bamp bell
FILE CORK
ce Sheet
87
LETTER
warton
TM.4324/40
L
41
-1 1945.
POS
SOM
6
ib.
Sir,
1948.
With reference to your letter ih of the 10th May, I am directed to request that you will be good enough to furnish full particulars of the
, et the loss of my circumstances in which the sealed letter which the Minister of Shipping hrough enemy action sent you in June, 1940, was lost, i.e whether it was lost by enemy action l. the letter that or other causes.
ym
I am, Sir, peaque lion of Dunkirk.
Your obedient Servant, by t me have a
A. BROADLEY
once sipation tion
Imuche the
Captain Cecil Joy, their
D.S.C.
Llysmeddyg,
Newport,
Pembrokeshire.
inc
Mr. Wilson at the las much her. Ronald Cross your faithfully,
R. S. of Sx S Ceal for
Cardiff
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING
DOVER.
25th October, 1940.

Home address:-
H. bamp bell
Rating:-
89
ce Pliect
87
-:queweSedue warton and O.N. and day
Ilysmeddyg.
41
TO ensst JO 77
Newport.
2 5 MAY 945
Pemb.
Dear Sir,
SHIPPING luctor & wo forms which
SEAMEN
10 have 1945.
I have completed as fully as et the loss of my posible. I can slnd you hrough enemy the action l. the letter form of Dis change from merchand tion of Dunkirk.
have but believe you have copy t me have a of it. C.R.S.8. Swansea dated ence.
15 Jany 1943.
sipation as Inceived a Commendation
Plague whilet on F.M.H.T.2Y
the
"St. David" at Dunkisk evacuation
D.S.C.
which has since been lost on the ship I wonder if you will be so good as to issue me Mr. Wilson at the las a Copy. It was signed by her. Ronald Cross your faithfully,
R.S. of S& S Cecil for
Plantiwa i Rd. Cardiff
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING
DOVER.
25th October, 1940.

ANK C. LIMITED STRICK of Co₂
48
AND AT
LYMOUTH, CARDIFF, NEWPORT, SWANSEA,
BRISTOL, AVONMOUTH, NEWCASTLE ON TYNE,
ASGOW, HULL, MANCHESTER, MIDDLESBROUGH,
GIBRALTAR, MARSEILLES, ORAN, ALGIERS,
117-121, Leadenhall Street,
HAIFA, PORT SAID, SUEZ, PORT SUDAN,
KHORAMSHAHR, BUSRA, BAGHDAD.
LLOYDS AGENTS AT
ORAN, ARZEW, BENISAF, MOSTAGANEM,
NEMOURS & OUDJDA.
London,E.C3.
TELEGRAPHIC ADDRESS, "ARDIA", LONDON.
CODES:- SCOTT, BENTLEY, MARCONI & BOE.
TELEPHONE SERVICE,
25th June, 1940.
AVENUE 4650 (7 LINES)
TRUNK 67.
"
The Private Secretary, to the Minister of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House, W.1.
Dear Sir,
We acknowledge with thanks your letter of the
19th June, and enclosure addressed to Captain W.C. Robertson of our steamer "KOHISTAN". Captain Robertson will be gratified to receive the appreciation of his services and those of his Ship's Company, in regard to the evacuation from Calais.
As far as we know, none of our ships took part in the evacuation of Dunkirk, but you will doubtless be aware of the fact that the "KOHISTAN", "FLORISTAN, and
'BAHARISTAN", all took part in more recent evacuation operations, and we think it only right that we should send you the reports received from the two latter ships, dated 20th and 21st June, respectively.
Yours faithfully,
For FRANK C. STRICK & CO. LIMITED.
will
ENCLS.
apt R.

108E6H cowe COME
16
SALES & OFFERS ARE MADE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF OUR FORM OF CONTRACT INCLUDING WAR, STRIKE, LOCKOUT & ACCIDENT CLAUSES & ACCEPTANCE
ALL RETURN OF POST UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED. DUES, WHARFAGE & EXPORT TAX, IF ANY, TO BE PAID BY PURCHASER, UNLESS OTHERWISE STIPULATED
STEPHENSON CLARKE AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES LIMITED.
TELEPHONE: MANSION HOUSE 3270. TELEGRAMS: STEPHENSON CLARKE, BILGATE, LONDON.
DIRECTORS:
LOCAL DIRECTORS AND BRANCHES:
LORD HYNDLEY, G.B.E., CHAIRMAN
EWART R EVANS.
CARDIFF.
JOHN P. STEPHENSON CLARKE.
JAMES C. GALBRAITH,
GLASGOW.
VICE-CHAIRMAN
H.R. STEVENS,
MIDLAND AREA
NORMAN BELLERBY.
J.C. FLISHER
EDWIN WILLIAM GANDERTON.
WILLIAM WAUGH
NEWCASTLE-UPON TYNE.
JOHN CRANDON GRIDLEY.
BELFAST. BIRMINGHAM. FORTH PORTS.
WILLIAM R.HANN.
HULL. LIVERPOOL. NEWPORT.
WILLIAM McGILVRAY.
4, ST DUNSTANS ALLEY.
NOTTINGHAM. SHEFFIELD. SOUTHAMPTON.
FREDERICK CHARLES PILLEY,
WEST HARTLEPOOL.ETC.
JOSEPH W. RODGERSON,
LONDON, E.C.3.
GP
20th June, 1940.
F. H. Keenlyside, Esq.,
The Private Secretary,
Minister of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square, W. I.
Dear Sir,
We beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the
19th instant, and the letter you have been kind enough to enclose for Captain C. G. West, O.B.E., who is in command of our S.S.
"NEPHRITE" will be handed over in due course. As you are aware, this steamer is still running under Government requisition, and it may therefore be a few days before we can pass on your communication.
With regard to the second paragraph of your letter, the S.S.
"NEPHRITE" was the only one of our vessels that actively assisted in the evacuation from Dunkirk, but in addition, our S.S. "PETWORTH"
was diverted from her regular trade and we understand, in accordance with orders, stood by at Dover in case she was required.
Yours faithfully,
Is
N
Comben, Longstaff & CO., Lta.,
WILLIAMSTOWN
3, Lime Street Square,
London, E.C.3.
Capt. R. Th
LADY O
Comben Longstaff & Square, Co., Ltd., essel acto
LORINA
WORTHTOWN
3, Lime street
London, E.C.3.
Capt. E.
NORMAND
John Stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
/CANTERE
YEWDALE
308 Clyde Street,
MAID OR
John stewart & Co. Shipping Ltd.,
Glasgow, C.1.
Capt R.
/BIARRITI
YEWGLEN
308, Clyde Street,
AUTOCAR
Glasgow, C.1.

-2-
of Ship.
Name & Address of Owners
Name of Master.
LAN MACALISTER
Clan Line Steamers, Ltd.
Capt. R.W. Mackie
Tylney Hall, longuines are still learning
Rotherwick, made as to whicher
Near Basingstoke, Hants.
office is still alive.
KOHISTAN *
F.C. Strick & Co. Ltd.
Capt. W.C. Robertson
117-121, Leadenhall St.
E.C.3.
BENLAWERS *
Petrograd Steamers Ltd.,
Capt. J.P. Drummond.
28, Bernard Street,
Leith
(Managers: Wm. Thompson
& Co.)
K
L
CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH
Ellerman & Bucknall
Capt. A.W. Wooster
S.S. Co., Ltd.
Tudor Court,
Cobham, Surrey.
K1
ROEBUCK
c/o Chief Docks Manager,
Capt..Larbalestier.
G.W. Railway Company,
Cardiff.
ST
KITTY
Basso & Company,
Mr. W. McCondach,
Weymouth.
13, Ox Street,
Weymouth.
ST
SPINEL +
William Robertson Ltd.,
Capt. R. Humphreys
ST
Glasgow, C.1.
ST
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
The General Steam
Capt. W.J. O'Dell
PAR
Navigation Co., Ltd.,
"
ROYAL DAFFODIL
G. Johnston
ISL
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
15, Trinity Square,
"
T. Aldis
DIN
E.C.3.
WOR
ISLI
MONA'S QUEEN
Isle of Man Steam Packet
~~
Capt. A. Holkham
"
R. Duggan $
FENELLA
Company Limited,
Capt. W. Cubbon
MANXMAN
x
Imperial Buildings,
If
P.B. Cowley
TYNWALD
*
Douglas,
-
qual
&
Isle of Man.
Chief Officer
J.Whiteway 0
BEN-MY-CHREE
X
Capt. G. Woods and
Chief Officer
T. Cain /
LADY OF MANN
Capt. T.C. Woods
LORINA
Southern Railway Co.,
Capt. A. Light.
NORMANNIA
Waterloo Station,
Capt. M.C. Whiting
CANTERBURY
S.W.1.
Captain C. Hancoc
MAID OR ORLEANS
2
(Capt. A.E. Larki
(Capt. G. Walker
BIARRITZ
Capt. M.H. Bake
AUTOCARRIER
Capt. C. Maste orized.

-3-
nip.
Name & Address of Owners
Name of Master.
SS MAUD
London Midland & Scottish
Capt. H. Clarke.
IA
Railway,
Capt. W.H. Hughes.
L.M.S. Railway Headquarters,
Watford, Herts.
ST. SEIRIOL
Liverpool & North Wales
Capt. R.D. Dobb
S.S. Co., Ltd.,
40, Chapel Street,
Liverpool, 3.
/PRAGUE
London & North Eastern
Capt. C. Baxter.
Railway Company,
26, Glengall Road,
Woodford Green,
Essex.
KING GEORGE V
David MacBrayne Limited,
Capt. R.E. MacLean.
LOCHGARRY
44, Robertson Street,
Capt. E. MacKinnon.
Glasgow, C.2.
KILLARNEY
Coast Lines Limited,
Capt. R. Hughes.
2, Crescent Road,
Kingston-on-Thames,
Surrey.
ST. HELIER
Great Western Railway Co.,
Capt. R. Pitman c/o Chief Docks Manager,
Cardiff.
ST JULIEN
Great Western Railway Co.,
Capt.L.S.Richard
ST ANDREW
Paddington Station, W..2.
Capt. H.C. Bond
ST DAVID
Capt. C.Joy.
PARIS
Capt. E. Biles
ISLE OF GUERNSEY
Southern Railway Co.,
Capt. F.W. Hodges
DINARD
Waterloo Station,
Capt. P. Lewis
WORTHING
S.E.L.
Capt. C.J. Munton
ISLE OF THANET
>
Capt. A.J. Hammond
60
&
These Masters took over when original Masters were too exhausted to carry on.
x Evacuation of Calais.
+ This vessel was ordered to Dunkerque laden with B.E.F. petrol and did not actually evacuate, troops.
INED
orized.

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)

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

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

STATE UNITED
G.W.R.
- 4 -
180
O.W.Mly Docks Manager's that it would have been impossible to load even had the occupants of the ambulances been alive. Again the ves el shifted to another
.0. 908, part of the Harbour. This also was done during 8. heavy raid.
CIM.C/3077/3.
In the new borth, impromptu gangways were rigged by the crew from planks, or any handy material which could be produced
BOOKS
from ship or store.
B.23/272.
2800
There again all hands assisted in carrying the stretchers, gas and carry was a. long one, and made more difficult by the large
091
number of Troops that were passing along to embark on other vessels;
and by bombs and shrapnel which were still falling.
Dear Sir, While this was in progress the tide was falling and the daylight going. This was important, as the ship would have been in danger of grounding or hitting submerged wreckage close under her stern when leaving. On these grounds the S.T.O. decided it would be better for the ANDREW" to leave, and instructed the "STDAVID", by morse, where to berth, in order that she may embark the remainder of the wounded and sailvat daylight. By this time the enemy was on the outskirts of the town and was bombarding the quay with shore batteries, but owing to large fires, clouds of dense smoke, and the confusion of shipping on the Pier Heads, it was impossible to say if the message was properly received.
On her way out, when passing along the Grawelines sho Navigat on the homeward passage was both difficult, and dangerous, as there were no aids to navigation, and the risk of over-running the hundreds of small craft, heavily laden with Troops, and which carried ordights, was very great. out of the Channel to avoid gan fure. Later on, air craft (apparently French)
escorted During these fourteen days, very little rest was had by any of the crew - double look-outs were kept, work as stated was done in the French Ports, and while atusea it yas too dangerous to allow the men to use the forecastles; but all carried on with 8. good will.
The next morning she proceeded to the Downs, and the day after It is evident from the foregoing that the fficers and men of sour ST. ANDREW" were exposed to great danger, and it was only g
due to their untiring devotion to duty that thousands of wounded were hurriedly evacuated from France, who otherwise would have been left on the piers to die. sok or the usual aids to navigation and the fact that many vessels had been sunk in the fair-ways since her last leaving that Port. At 8.00/0100k that evening she entered Dünkirk, where Yours faithfully, morning.
Duting the whole (SGD.) J.D. REED. town, quays, etc.
were subjected to terrific bombardment by air and Land, and It became necessary, owing to the laok of for the reamen, Fireman, Stewards etc. to load the wounded themselves.
I hope to be able to report on the Item DAVID" in the course on of ca few daysing the wounded and placing they in the nots etc.
to wed
This work was exceedingly difficult, as the whole area
1g the was in a bad condition, and there was not even any gangways available nd for passing the stretcher cases on board, However, the Ingineers n of whole time of the embarkation.
constructed & wide and useful gangway, which was used during the scor the
W.J. THOMAS, ESQ., craft
CARDIFF.

FOR
BAX 478 118
183
-3-
or no Ted 40 Briwo E.S.W
Later another magnetic mine droped only four feet away from the starboard quarter, but, fortunately, this time did not explode.
To revoceN
The splashes from the sea fell on the deck of the vessel as she mine entered the water. Other mines were dropped, but the vessel
Issuey 1008
apparantly avoided them all. At the same time the "St. David" was subjected to heavy machine gun fire.
At 10.p.m. the "St. Andrew" backed out from Dunkirk and stignalle d
FROM
to the "St. David" but owing to the fires and smoke in background the Andrew's swinging at that time it was not possible to get
?
the signal; so Captain Mendus went close in to Dunkirk and signal led ashore by morse and also hailed ashore by megaphone but receivedno reply.
The town had been subjected to heavy bombardment by field guns and enemy aeroplanes again attached the "st. David" dropping paracgute flares to enable them to see their target more clearly.
At about 1.0.p.m. on the 1st June Captain Mendus made one more attempt to get into Dunkirk but failed, and in the circumstances decided to return to Dover for further instructions.
The vessel was continually worried by air craft on her return passage and she anchored off Dover at 6 a.m. that day feeling that her troubles were over for the time being.
However half and hour later a terrific explosion occurred within
20 yeards of the Port Quarterm and it was subsequently discovered that the Port Engine Shaft and other machinery had received multiple damage and that the Compasses were more or less useless.
Captain Mendus made contact with the Naval Authorities, who ordered him to Southampton for repairs, but owing to great diffcutuly in navigating his vessel during hazy weather and without proper compasses or aid to navigation, he did not arrive at that port until the next dau, the 2nd June.
se g
Captain Mendus would like to mention that during the time his vessel was at sea, and at Dunkirk, the Navigating and Engine-
Room Officers, and Ratings, àlthough tired and weary, carried out their duties with great coolness and courage, particularly when loading wounded under fire in France.
Yours faithfully,
Sqd. J.D. Reid.
W.J. Thomas Esq.,
CARDIFF
wed g the
Lid in of escort f the craft

tothe
COPY.
GREAT WESTERN RAILWAY.
benefits
Chief Docks Manager's Department,
Marine Section,
Weymouth.
of
B.S.28488.
5th June, 1940.
184
AA
Dear Sir,
"In
30%
BUS
S.S. "Roebuck".
ong
I confirm my telephone message of to-day informing you this vessel arrived and b erked at Weymouth at 12-40 p.m.
The vessel left here for Dover on May 29th and on arrival at that port was instructed to proceed to La Panne, a small Belgian seaside resort nine miles east of Dunkirk.
the When approaching Dunkirk following the Channel in accordance with instructions, the "Roebuck" was struck in the
0705/31
stern by a destroyer. The damage is fortunately slight, a few plates being dented, a frame forced, the belting torn and one of the deck leads snapped.
was
La Panne arrangements were being made to take troops from the open beach when an urgent order was received to proceed at once to Dunkirk.
On arrival off Dunkirk it was not possible to enter at once as the "St. Julien" and another vessel were occupying the available berths. When the "St. Julien" came out the
"Roebuck" went alongside and loaded 45 cot cases, 70 wounded and about 385 troops making total of 500, nd conveyed these safely to Dover.
The Authorities at Dover would not permit the vessel to make another trip as the Master was given to understand he was the only vessel engaged in the evacuati on work that had not been degaussed.
Having regard to the fact that the whole of the crew knew before departure from Weymouth the work on which they were about to be engaged and the extra danger which they would run that as the vessel had not been demagnetised, I report with pride the whole of the crew were only too pleased to under take the work, and they appear to have done remarkably well.
at are known asking if in view of the fact that magnetic mines
Portland I have to-day been in touch with the Degaussing Officer bet to be in the vicinity of Weymouth the vessel could now dealt with, and the Officer states that Portland is be already dealt overloaded th work and the S.S. "Roebuck" could not wed
Ministry of Shipping.
with unless a priority order is received from the g
and an o
Channel sail for Guernsey to take up their regular sailings on the
The Crew of the "Roebuck" are being rested and will esco ff the
Islands traffic tomorrow night.
rcra
Yours faithfully,
(sgd) D.G. HOPPINS.
W.J. Thomas Esq.,
CARDIFF.

3
CLARKE
WAR,
15th August August,1940.
STRIKE.
o BE PAID BY PURCHASER. LOCKOUT & ACCIDENT UNLESS OTHERWISE CLAUSES & ACCEPTANCE STIPULATED.
186
COMPANIES CLARKE. BILGATE. LONDON. LIMITED. 45
EWART LOCAL DIRECTORS AND BRANCHES:
R EVANS.
the
H. JAMES c. GALBRAITH, GLASGOW. CARDIFF.
R. STEVENS.
J. FLISHERI
MIDLAND AREA.
WILLIAM WAUGH)
NEWCASTLE TYNE
Gentlemen, Hynard, I have to your scknowledge letter you of for theley the
HULL BELFAST. BIRMINGHAM. FORTH PORTS.
NOTTINGHAM. SHEFFIELD. SOUTHAMPTON.
LIVERPOOL. NEWPORT.
WEST HARTLEPOOL ETC.
Director ceipt Berkely of thank made by the
14th August 1940
32d
187
Berkeley
Dear of during llamy
Sir, enclose I am, Gentlemen, the ex of a repoyour I of to the they servant, the 7th
'escribing
Dunkirk.
Clarke & Companies stephend.
the and descriptio wards full 01 troops, and soon we ent
GO Dunkirk passing numerous wrecks.
Off Di
JI Enemy Planes attacked the shipping, but qu eared with our Planes on their tails.
Threading our way agn the numerous wrecks at the harbour entrance
I proceeded into Jue harbour against the ebb tide, and received orders to berth alongside the Pier. It was now noon and soon about 200
Soldiers were embarked and they quickly disposed of the food we had cooked for them. The crew were assisting in the embarkation, and were also kept busy preparing more food for the hungry troops. Several
Officers, including a Padre and a Doctor boarded, and I gave them the
]
use of the Cabin Accommodation to make themselves comfortable. The
V
Steward from nowon was continuously employed in getting meals ready
0
for the Army Officers who were starving, having had but one meal during the last three days. The Doctor who was Jewish, on being told there was pork in the stew, replied "I do not care if there are dead dogs t]
in it, I am going to have my share it smells so good".
11
ewman an eso off +
aircr

LES & OF OFFERS POST ARE UNLESS MADE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF OUR FORM OF CONTRACT INCLUDING WAR, STRIKE, LOCKOUT & ACCIDENT
TURN OTHERWISE SPECIFIED. DUES. WHARFAGE & EXPORT TAX, IF ANY, TO BE PAID BY PURCHASER, UNLESS OTHERWISE CLAUSES & STIPULATED. ACCEPTANCE
TEPHENSON CLARKE AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES LIMITED.45 LIMITED.
TELEPHONE: MANSION HOUSE 3270. TELEGRAMS: STEPHENSON CLARKE. BILGATE. LONDON.
DIRECTORS:
LORD HYNDLEY, G.B.E., CHAIRMAN.
LOCAL DIRECTORS AND BRANCHES:
JOHN P. STEPHENSON CLARKE.
EWART R. EVANS,
CARDIFF
VICE-CHAIRMAN.
JAMES c. GALBRAITH, GLASGOW.
NORMAN BELLERBY.
H. R. STEVENS,
MIDLAND AREA.
EDWIN WILLIAM GANDERTON.
J.C. FLISHERI
NEWCASTLE UPOM- TYNE.
JOHN CRANDON GRIDLEY.
WILLIAM WAUGH)
WILLIAM R. HANN.
BELFAST. BIRMINGHAM. FORTH PORTS.
WILLIAM McGILVRAY.
4.ST DUNSTANS ALLEY.
HULL. LIVERPOOL. NEWPORT.
FREDERICK CHARLES PILLEY.
NOTTINGHAM, SHEFFIELD. SOUTHAMPTON.
JOSEPH W. RODGERSON.
LONDON, E. C.3.
WEST HARTLEPOOL ETC.
LC/HM
14th August 1940
W.G. Hynard, Esq.
187
Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkely Square House,
Berkeley Square, W. 1.
surbellamy
Dear Sir,
With reference to your communication of the 7th instant, Ref. T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6., we have the pleasure to enclose herewith copy of the official Abstract of Log of the
S.S. "NEPHRITE", also a report compiled by the Captain describing the experiences of this vessel during the evacuation of Dunkirk.
Yours faithfully,
For STEPHENSON CLARKE AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES LIMITED.
and soon we entered the narrow channel to Dunkirk passing numerous the the descriptions were passed proceeding homewards Full 01 troops, wrecks. but quickly disappeared with our Planes on their tails.
and Off Dunkirk a squadron of Enemy Planes attacked
I berth alongside the Pier. It wąs now noon and soon food
Threading proceeded into the harbour against the ebb tide, and about 200
shipping, our way through the numerous wrecks at the harbour received entrance orders to were embarked and they quickly disposed of the we and had
Soldiers for them. The crew were assisting in the embarkation, Several were cooked also busy preparing more food for the hungry troops. them kept including a Padre and a Doctor boarded, and I gave The the
Officers, the Cabin Accommodation to make themselves comfortable. meals ready
]
use of from nowon was continuously employed in getting meal
V
Steward Officers who were starving, having had but one told there during
0
for the Army three days. The Doctor who was Jewish, on being dead dogs was in it, I am going to have my share it smells so good".
the last pork in the stew, replied "I do not care if there are t]
wed
11
g t and wman o:
an esco off th aircraf