TNA MT 40 66

ST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS.
A.A. CRUISER.
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS.
ANTHONY
INTREPID
VENOMOUS
BASILISK
IVANHOE
VERITY
CODRINGTON
JAGUAR
VIMY
ESK
JAVELIN
VIVACIOUS
EXPRESS
KEITH
WAKEFUL
GALLANT
MACKAY
WHITEHALL
GRAFTON
MALCOLM
WHITSHED
GRENADE
MONTROSE
WINCHELSEA
GREYHOUND
SABRE
WINDSOR
HARVESTER
SALADIN
WOLFHOUND
HAVANT
SCIMITAR
WOLSEY
ICARUS
SHIKARI
WORCESTER
IMPULSIVE
VANQUISHER
SLOOP.
BIDEFORD
CORVETTES.
GUILLEMOT
MALLARD
SHELDRAKE
KINGFISHER
SHEARWATER
WIDGEON
GUNBOATS.
LOCUST
f
MOSQUITO
MINESWEEPERS.
ALBURY
HEBE
BRIGHTON BELLE
ROSS
KELLETT
BRIGHTON QUEEN
SALAMANDER
LEDA
DEVONIA
SALTASH
LYDD
DUCHESS OF FIFE
SANDOWN
MARMION
DUNDALK
SHARPSHOOTER
MEDWAY QUENEN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
SKIPJACK
NIGER
FITZROY
SNAEFELL
ORIOLE
GLENAVON
SPEEDWELL
PANGBOURNE
GLENGOWER
SUTTON
PLINLIMMON
GOSSAMER
WAVERLEY
PORTSDOWN
GRACIE FIELDS
WESTWARD Ho
HALCYON
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WHIPPINGHAM
QUENN OF THANET
Sunk.
Conti

Page 5.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
DOGGER BANK
HANDY BILLY
DORIA (Tug)
HASTINGS LIFE-BOAT
DREADNOUGHT II
HOLLAND
DREADNOUGHT III
HOPPER 26
DUCHESS OF YORK
HOUND (Lighter)
DWARF
HYTHE (Coaster)
D.1)
IOLANTHE
D.4
)
IOTE
D.7
(Harbour
IRMA MARIA (Fishing boat)
D.9
Launches)
JABA
D.16
JACINTA (Trawler)
D.C. 715
JAMES 67 (Hopper Barge)
D.G. 694
JANIS
D.G. 950
JOHANNA (Eel Boat)
EASTBOURNE LIFE-BOAT
JONG
EDWARD NISSEN
JORDAN
EDWINA (Trawler)
KAYELL
ELIZABETH QUEEN
KESTREL
E.M.E.D. (Motor Life-boat)
KINGSGATE
EMPRESS
KITCAT (M.B,)
EMPRISE (Harbour Launch)
K.L.
ENDEAVOUR
LADY BRASSEY (Rescue Tug)
ENTERPRISE (M.B.)
LADY CABLE (M.B.)
ERICA
LADY SHEILA
ESKBURN
LADY SOUTHBOROUGH
FAIR BREEZE (Drifter)
(Hopper Barge)
FAWLEY (Gosport Ferry)
LANDANIA
FERRY KING (Gosport Ferry)
LANSDOWNE
FERVENT
LAROC
FISHBOURNE (I.O.W. Ferry)
LETITIA (Smack)
FOREMOST 2 (Hopper Barge)
LITTLE ANN (M.B.)
FOREMOST 87 (Tug)
LOTUS
FORMIDABLE
LOUISIANA
FORSA
MADAM SANSGENE
FOSSA (Tug)
MAID ERRANT
FRIGHTENED LADY
MALDEN
F.W. 23 (Lighter)
MALDEN ANNIE IV
GALLEON'S REACH (Hopper)
MA JOIE
GALZAR
MARASOLE
GAY CRUSADER
MARGERITA
GLENWAY (Barge)
MARLBOROUGH (W.D. Craft)
GLITTER II
MARQUIS (Tug)
GOLIATH
MARY ROSE
GOURKA
MARY SPEARING I
GRACE DARLING
MARY SPEARING II
GRAPPLER (Lighter)
MASSEY SHAW (Fire Float)
GREATER LONDON LIFE-BOAT
MAYSPEAR
GONDIA (Tug)
MEANDER
H. 75
HAIG (W.D. Craft)
MERMAIDEN (M.L.)
M.F.H. (Lighter)
HALFWAY
MICHAEL STEVENS
MINEKOI (Tug)
Sunk
Continued)

ISTRY OF WAR
MHOL
thing
Daily Telegraph gan save we
02/01/19
To THE THE description BOATS THE the In THE DUNKIRK in the
OF DUNKIRK DUNKIRK
War Transport,
DN.
GAT
Mr Bellamis
13
culars s in charge names of the which her name and thedient THE
oftain any
2, Mitre-ct. Bldgs., t July, 1941.
C a callag ersonal lettes know the
16/7/41
istry. of le "DUCHESS"
n.
1
Thank ghave ut that have o
been be he
M. wditle w. worth survivor while (or lost) to from about The informed ans names n
about the m names 1 cell then so Shall you particulars we rked use is reach
Bettamy No
"1th kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
W. CARTER.
Commander
AMERICA
ID
DECREED
=>
ALL FREIGHT ENGAGEMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS OF OUR USUAL FORM OF Check

& SONS LIMITED.
War Transport,
13
21st July, 1941.
Dear Loring, of 19th June I with reperence am now writing to to your let you personal know the letter results of the enquiries made by this Ministry. Of the two ships mentioned in your letter, the "DUCHESS"
appears to be ruled out, as our information about her movements is not consistent with her having been at
Ostend on or about the 27th May last. The "MARQUIS"
is recorded as having sailed from Ostend about that date and we have asked the owners whether they have brought away among her passengers. They have informed any record of a family named Emmerson having been us, however, that (as is understandable in the circumstances) the Master had no record of the names of any of the civilian passengers whom he took board; her but as they told us that the ship disembarked on answers the specific question in your letter.
passengers at Dover on the 28th May, 1940, this use reach to you. If any further relevant particulars
I hope this information may be of some me, I will, of course, let you know.
With kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
W. CARTER.
Commander F.G. Loring, O.B.E., M.I.E.E.,
STATE
TO
Connaught House,
International Marine Radio Co. Ltd.,
63, Aldwych,
DECEIVED
1112
London, W.C.2.
ALL FREIGHT ENGAGEMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS OF OUR USUAL FORM OF CHARTER

MAY & SONS LIMITED.
War Transport,
13
Glasgon 21st July, 1941.
Dear Loring, of 19th June I am now writing to your let you know the with reperence to personal letter results of the enquiries made by this Ministry. Of the two ships mentioned in your letter, the "DUCHESS"
appears to be ruled out, as our information about her movements is not consistent with her having been at
Ostend on or about the 27th May last. The "MARQUIS"
is recorded as having sailed from Ostend about that date and we have asked the owners whether they have any record of a family named Emmerson having been brought away among her passengers. They have informed us, however, that (as is understandable in the circumstances) the Master had no record of the names of any of the civilian passengers whom he took on board; but as they told us that the ship disembarked her passengers at Dover on the 28th May, 1940, this answers the specific question in your letter.
I hope this information may be of some use to you. If any further relevant particulars reach me, I will, of course, let you know.
With kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
"X" W. CARTER.
STATE
ID
Commander F.G. Loring, O.B.E.,M.I.E.E.,
Connaught House,
International Marine Radio Co. Ltd.,
DECEIVED
11/12/19
63, Aldwych,
London, W.C.2.
ALL FREIGHT ENGAGEMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS OF OUR USUAL FORM OF CHARTER

J. HAY & SONS LIMITED.
TELEPHONES:
TELEGRAMS:
RENFIELD STREET: 8331 CENTRAL (3 LINES)
STEAMER DEPT: "HAYSTRATH"
PORT DUNDAS:
1359 DOUGLAS
LIGHTER DEPT.
"HAY"
GRANGEMOUTH
129
GRANGEMOUTH:
"HAY"
BOWLING:
17.
KIRKINTILLOCH: 344
CODES: Scott's. WATKINS
H
(BOATYARD)
AND BOE
ON.
ALSO AT GRANGEMOUTH. BOWLING & PORT DUNDAS
STEAMSHIP OWNERS & BROKERS,
LIGHTER OWNERS & FORWARDING AGENTS.
STEAMERS
45 Renfield Street, 14
THE PRESIDENT
THE MONARCH
THE DUKE
THE EARL
THE VICEROY
THE MARQUIS
THE SULTAN
THE COUNTESS
THE DUCHESS
THE EMPEROR
THE BARON
THE MARCHIONESS
ALSO FLEET OF COASTING LIGHTERS AND CANAL BARGES.
Glasgow C.2. 5th July, 1941
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of War Transport,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON W. 1.
Dear Sir,
S.S. "THE MARQUIS".
We duly received your letter of 1st instant, and were able to get into touch promptly with the Master of the above steamer. We enclose a letter from him dated 3rd. instant, of which we have retained a copy.
Unfortunately, he is unable to give any information regarding the Emmerson family, but perhaps the details he supplies will be helpful to you in your enquiries.
Yours faithfully,
J. Hay & Sons Limited,
Faithfully monal enclo:
BONS
Director.
Received y me 15/7/41
&
NOT ACKNOWLEDGED
IN REGISTRY,
MISTRY RECEIVED 7 1/19/1198 40 JUL OF SHIPP 1941 131/18
ALL FREIGHT ENGAGEMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS AND EXCEPTIONS OF OUR USUAL FORM OF CHARTER PARTY AND WAR CLAUSE

18
VO 15 LND V BIC
TO MR W.H.BROWN
FROM MR GROSS
1520/27
YOUR SRL 63 1330/27
THE DUCHESS
AR CLYDE 29/4/40 SD GLASGOW 7/5
AR BOULOGNE ABT. 14/5 AT BOULOGNE 18/5,SD?
SD DOWNS 21/5 ARR LONDON 21/5 SD22+5
AR CLYDE 28/5 AND SD 2/6
AR ST MALO 4/6 SD 11/6
AR GLASGOW 14/6 SD 17/6
AR MILLAN PREV.20/6 SD 20/6
AR SWANSEA 21/6 SD 25/6
AR NEWPORT 25/6 SD 26/6
AR/#8A////
AR CORK A// 28/6 SD 1/7 FOR CARD IFF
THE MARQUIS
AR LONDON 29/4/40 SD 3/5
AR GLASGOW 8/5 SD 10/5
AR ROUEN 14/5 SD 15/5
AT CAEN 16/5 SD 18/5 APPROX
AR LONDON 18/5 SD 22/5
ANCH. SOUTHEND 23/5 SD DOWNS 24/5 BOUND FOR OSTEND, BXX NO RECORD
OF ARRIVAL OR SAILING DATED FROM a a OSTEND. ANCH DOWNS 27. 28/5
SD 28/5
AR DOVER 28/5 SD 5/6
AR LONDON 6/6 SD? PD SOUTHEND 9/6
AR GLASGOW 12/6 SD?
ANCH GOUROCK BAY 29/6 AND SD 1/7 FOR SHOREHAM
10++++
/RECD 1530/27

152
19
copy.
of 19th June, 1941, from
21
Letter Commanding Loring of International
Marine Radio Co. Ltd.
DIO COMPANY LIMITED, refer the attached correspondence.
Mr. Carter has asked me to
HOUSE,
TELEPHONE: HOLBORN 8765.
YCH,
TELEGRAMS: INLAND INTELCOMAR,ESTRAND,LONDON
C.2.
Could you let hation on er you the the the and f
19th June 1941.
in time of the scout
Belgium?
will
(Sgd.) D. J. Richman.
Passual
23rd June, 1941.
can.
Mr. D.H. Edwards.
Yours sincerely,
Ins. Bellamy n making the following inquiry,
1
CARTER.
to try and trace the relatives of
Commetier research Loring, these 0, B.E., E.
mersons were a British family
England when Belgium was invaded.
International Warine movents Radio Co.Ltd., last ster at Ostend, that these people their bon
S.S. "Duchess" on 27th May, 1940.
you
W.C.2.
rson. The first inquiry seems to be to
7th May 1940, reached an English day and June, from AT/INT
sl it would be very kind of you.
how to set about this inquiry hiss Dais
25/6
Yours sincerely,
7.00

YORK UNIVERSITY cours and TL
20
21
Loff of
1,626,63
21st June, 1941.
DIO COMPANY LIMITED,
THE
PP
HOUSE,
TELEPHONE: HOLBORN 8765.
AUG
han
PERSONAL.
YCH,
C.2.
TELEGRAMS: INLANDI INTELCOMAR.ESTRAND,LONDON
fine
OF
Ea
Dear Loring,
Thanks about the relatives what for your personal letter of
19th June 1941.
Miss information can be mention, obtained and about will of 19th Emmerson. June I will see the write two to ships you again you as soon as I
Passual can.
with kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
1 making the following inquiry,
W. CARTER.
1
Commander F.G.Loring, O.B.E., to try and trace the relatives of
M.I.E.E., lersons were a British family
Internationsl Marine Radio Co.Ltd., ngland when Belgium was invaded.
connaughtwych, ter at Ostend, that these people
.S. "Duchess" on 27th May, 1940.
W.C.2.
son. The first inquiry seems to be to th May 1940, reached an English it would be very kind of you.
how to set about this inquiry
Yours sincerely,
7.00mg

21
INTERNATIONAL MARINE RADIO COMPANY LIMITED,
DIRECTORS:
F. GILL.O M.INST C.E. M.I.E.E.
CONNAUGHT HOUSE,
TELEPHONE: HOLBORN 8765.
COMMANDER F.G. LORING, O.B E.M.I.E.E.
TELEGRAMS: INTELCOMAR,ESTRAND,LONDON.
H. THORPE-WOODS, M.N.E.C.INST.
63, ALDWYCH,
UNLAND
A.DAVIDSON,
T.G. SPENCER.
LONDON,W.C.2.
19th June 1941.
W. Carter Esq., C.B.E.,
Ministry of Sea Transport,
Berkeley House,
Passual
Berkeley Square,
S.W.1.
Dear Carter,
I should be very grateful for your help in making the following inquiry, assuming there is no objection to it.
We have been asked by our Spanish company to try and trace the relatives of their English secretary, Miss Emmerson. The Emmersons were a British family resident in Antwerp, who endeavoured to get to England when Belgium was invaded.
It has been ascertained from the Harbour Master at Ostend, that these people left Ostend in either the S.S. "Marquis" or the S.S. "Duchess" on 27th May, 1940.
Nothing more has been heard of them by Miss Emmerson. The first inquiry seems to be to ascertain if these ships (or either of them) on 27th May 1940, reached an English port, and if so which port.
If you could help to obtain this information, it would be very kind of you.
Please forgive my troubling you, but I do not know how to set about this inquiry otherwise.
With kind regards.
Yours sincerely,
7.00mg

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".