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 4.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (contimued)
PERSONNEL AND HOSPITAL SHIPS
ARCHANGEL
MANXMAN
AUTOCARRIER
MONA'S QUEEN
BEN-MY-CREE
NEWHAVEN
BIARRITZ
NEPHRITE (Store Ship)
CANTERBURY
NGAROMA
CLAN MACALISTER
NORMANIA
COTE D'ARGENT
} french
PARIS (Hospital)
COTE D'AZUR
PRAGUE
DINARD (Hospital)
PRINCESS MAUD
DORIAN ROSE (Store Ship)
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
FENELLA
ROEBUCK
FOAM QUEEN
ROUEN
ISLE OF GUERNSEY (Hospital)
ROYAL DAFFODIL
ISLE OF THANET (Hospital)
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
KILLARNEY
ST. ANDREW (Hospital)
KING GEORGE V
ST. DAVID (Hospital)
LADY OF MAN
ST. HELIER
LEVENWOOD (Store Ship)
ST. JULIAN
LOCH GARRY
ST. SEIRIOL
LORINA
#
SCOTIA
MAID OF ORLEANS
TYNWALD
MALINES
WORTHING (Hospital)
MANXMAID
WHITSTABLE
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS
ADVENTURESS
BONNY BELLE
AGNESS CROSS (Life-boat)
BOURNEMOUTH LIFE-BOAT
ALBATROSS III
B.P. ONE
ALOUETTE
BRITANNIA
ANDORA
BULLFINCH
ANDORA II (R.A.F. Launch)
CABBY
ANNE IV
CANVEY QUEEN
ATHOLA
CAVERSHAM (M.B.)
AURA
CHAMOIS (Lighter)
BAIL
CHERFIELD
BAT (Lighter)
CLAUDE (Water Boat)
BEE (Lighter)
COMMODORE
BELFAST
CONSTANT NYMPH
BLACK ARROW
CORDELIA
BLACK JAVA
CORNELIA
BLACKPOOL
C. 9 (Tugs)
BOBELI (Motor Cruiser)
C. 11
BONNY HEATHER
C.Y. 63
DABB II
DEFENDER
DHOON (Trawler)
Sunk
(Continued)

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)

Page 6.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
MINORU II (M.B.)
# RENOWN
MINWOOD
RESOLUTE
MONARCH
RICAS
MOTOR-BOAT 42
ROBERT CLIFF
MOTOR-BOAT 27 B
ROSA WOOD AND PHYLLIS LUND
MOTOR-BOAT 43 (R.A.F.)
ROWAN (Smack)
MOTOR-BOAT 101 (R.A.F.
RYGATE II (Yacht)
MOTOR-BOAT 102 (R.A.F.
ST. ABBS
#
MOTOR-BOAT 243 (R.A.F.
ST. CLEARS
MOTOR-BOAT 270 (R.A.F.)
#
ST FAGAN
MOTOR-BOAT 275
ST OLAF
M.L. 8 (W.D. Craft)
SAMBRA (M.B.)
MURIOUS
SAVIOUR
NANETTE (M.L.)
SCENE SHIFTER
NELSON (M.B.)
SCOTTISH CO-OPERATOR
NEMO IV
SEA FALCON
NEWHAVEN LIFE-BOAT
SEA FOAM
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
SEASALTER
No. 4
in
SEINE
No. 101
(Hopper Barges)
SHAMROCK
No. 102
)
SHEFFIELD (M. Barge)
OCEAN BREEZE
SILICIA (Coaster)
OFFERIA
SILVA FOAM
OLIVIA
SILVER BREEZE
ORIENT LINE (M.B.)
#
SILVER QUEEN (M.B.)
PAULETEER
SINGAPORE
PEGGY IV
SYKLARK (Abandoned)
PELLAG II
PERSIA (Tug)
SKYLARK I
PIGEON (W.D. Craft)
SKYLARK II
PIONEER
SKYLARK VI
PRIMA (Tug)
SMALL VIKING
PRINCE OF WALES
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA
PRINCESS FREDA
SPEEDWELL
PRINCESS LILY
SPRITE (Harbour Launch)
PUDGE
SULTAN
QUEEN
SUN IV
QUEEN ALEXANDRA
SUN X
SUN XI
~~~
(Tugs)
QUEEN BOADICEA II
QUEEN'S CHANNEL
SWALLOW
(Hopper Barge)
S.O. ONE
QUEENSLAND
TANGA (Tug)
QUICKSILVER
THARK
QUI SI SANA (M.B.)
TENIAS
RAMSGATE LIFE-BOAT
THYFORSA
THYRA
RAPIDE
REDA (M.B.)
TONY
TRITON
RELIANCE
TUG XV
# Sunk
(Continued)

TRAFFIC CARRIED SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE OF THE COMPANY AS EXHIBITED IN THEIR OFFICES AND ON BOARD THEIR STEAMERS. 50
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Co Limited.
(INCORPORATED IN THE ISLE OF MAN.)
TELEGRAMS:
"STEAMERS, DOUGLAS".
TELEPHONE N°
DOUGLAS 1101 (5 LINES)
General Manager's Office,
R.W. CANNELL,
GENERAL MANAGER.
OUR REFERENCE
YOUR REFERENCE
Douglas. 24th. June, 1940.
A/
The Private Secretary,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
Dear Sir,
I shall be glad if you will convey to the Minister of
Shipping our thanks for his kindness in forwarding letters of appreciation addressed to the Masters of the "LADY OF MANN",
"MONA'S QUEEN" and "FENELLA", three of our vessels which took part in the evacuation of Dunkirk. These have been transmitted to the Officers concerned.
It is very gratifying to my Board to know that these
Officers and the ships' companies under their command did their duty and worthily upheld the glorious traditions of the Merchant
Navy to which they are so proud to belong.
With respect to the dereliction of duty on the part of certain of the personnel of the "BEN MY CHREE", "TYNWALD" and
"MANXMAN", I am endeavouring to obtain authentic particulars of
12a.
the Officers and men who continued at their posts and will forward you the desired lists as soon as possible.
Yours faithfully,
,Lwbanneld
General Manager.
apt R.
th er
1y

Tune,
31 B
CONFIDENTIAL.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
PERSONNEL VESSELS.
Twenty-nine personnel vessels were used during operation "Dynamo"; a list is given in the enclosure.
of these, seven were sunk, five so damaged by bombing or gunfire as to render them unfit for further use during the operation, and two were damaged in collision.
Of these ships the following, namely MONA'S QUEEN,
BIARRITZ, CANTERBURY, QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, MAID OF ORLEANS,
AUTO CARRIER and ARCHANGEL; ST. HELIER and KING GEORGE V, had been engaged prior to Dynamo, in operations at Dunkirk,
Boulogne and Calais, and had completed the following trips:
MONA'S QUEEN 3 QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL 1 ARCHANGEL
1
BIARRITZ
2 MAID OF ORLEANS
3 ST. HELIER
2
CANTERBURY
3 AUTO CARRIER
2 KING GEORGE V.1
2. There was no doubt that the Captains and crews of these ships were feeling the strain when operation Dynamo started. After completing two round trips to Dunkirk harbour in operation Dynamo the Master of the CANTERBURY stated on the
28th that he would not take his ship to sea for a third trip.
The P.S.T.O. went on board and explained the gravity of the situation and ordered him to sail at 2230, but discovered some of the crew had been given leave. The P.S.T.O. therefore put an officer and some seamen and stokers on board to augment and stiffen the crew. The ship sailed at 0930/29, but was bombed and damaged on her return voyage from Dunkirk, and after landing troops did not take any further part in the operation.
3. After completing one round trip the Captain of the
St. SEIRIOL refused to sail, and accordingly one officer, an armed guard and 7 stokers were put on board at 1000 on the 29th.
The Captain was placed under open arrest and the ship sailed at
1100. On her return voyage the ship was bombed and damaged and did not sail again.
4.
The TYNWALD transported 7534 troops in 5 voyages; she should have completed 6 voyages. When due to commence her fourth voyage at 1945/1, she refused to sail and did not sail again until 1945/2.
On a written enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, on the 2nd June, whether or not the ship would sail for Dunkirk if required, the Master, W. Qualbrough, replied by letter as follows:
"Dear Sir,
Your letter received. I had a signal from the master of the MALINES last night to say him and the master of the BEN MY CHREE had considered it apt R.
hopeless to proceed to Dunkirk. Our crews have been continually on their feet all the week and especially the deck officers who have had to be on their feet for 30 long. I myself have had 4. hours rest for th week and am at present physically unfit for another trip like what we have had. If it is absolutely necessary to go I will abide with the masters of the other ships decision.
i
P.S. There is two more of the crew going ashore now g
absolutely nervous wrecks and certified By the naval
ER
doctor.
In/
rized.

June,
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 3.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
remaining; she started a trip but failed to make Dunkirk. On return, the original Captain rejoined with some of the original crew. She should then have sailed at 2010/3, but the Captain reported 3 engineers short at the last minute. It was not considered necessary to wait for the engineers and the Master and crew disembarked and the new crew provided for the second time. Before further use could be made of her, however, the evacuation terminated.
9. The MONA'S QUEEN was sunk by a mine on her second voyage to Dunkirk, and the FENELLA was bombed and sunk on her first voyage.
10. The MALINES who had completed two trips, refused to sail on the 1st, left Dover at 1600 on the 2nd without orders and was subsequently found to have proceeded to Southampton.
11. It was felt that trouble might occur in the ST.HELIER
and PRINCESS MAUD, and accordingly a naval party was put on board to supplement the ships crews, and in consequence no trouble occurred.
12. The outstanding ships were the MAID OF ORLEANS 6 trips, one being diverted without completing the trip, and once returning due to collision. ROYAL DAFFODIL 7 trips, on one of which she was turned back by a French destroyer -
ROYAL SOVEREIGN 6 trips
KING GEORGE V
5 trips
COTE d'ARGENT
5 trips
ST. HELIER
4 trips after having refused to
158 rgdl sail once.
PRAGUE
3 trips with full loads, bombed,
85mght severely damaged and beached on the last return trip.
13. Eleven other ships were concerned in the Operation, details of which are as follows:
27th May BIARRITZ
27th May
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
ARCHANGEL
27th May
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
QUEEN OF THE
Sunk by bombing attack.
CHANNEL
28th May
LORINA
Sunk by bombing attack.
29th May
NORMANIA
Sunk by bombing attack.
28th May LOCH GARRY
One trip.
28th May SCOTIA
One trip.
2nd June
THE
28th May KILLARNEY
Sunk by bombing attack.
One trip.
2nd June ROUEN
One trip.
2nd and 3rd
Acapt R.
June AUTO CARRIER
Two trips.
2nd and 3rd
June NEWHAVEN
Two trips.
fice of
Enclosure:-
g Officer Commanding,
Details of Personnel
ER.
Ships used.
2 June, 1940.
authorized.

-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.

Braved
PIC WORK OF
ches
ST. SEIRIOL
Steamer's
SEVEN TRIPS TO
23
cuation
DUNKIRK
Making seven trips to Dunkirk in the d them on to waiting other ships, and then midst of heavy bombing, the North Wales iol herself with about 900
pleasure steamer St. Seiriol (1,586 tons), f the seven voyages.
now on Admiralty service, played a
FICER'S GALLANTRY
brilliant part in the rescue of 335,000
rvived was a miracle in men, in which a thousand ships of all dozen aircraft flew over sizes took part last May.
circled round to make
Only now is it possible to reveal the full
D with their missiles, and story of her gallant work-as told by Mr.
cks with machine-gun
E. Keble Chatterton. the well-known naval n the Crested Eagle, an writer, in The Epic of Dunkirk (Hurst
0, became a furnace after and Blackett, 10s 6d). Merseyside was well
Seiriol got as close as represented among the rescuing craft. The about 5½ hours her crew
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. for pick up survivors.
instance, had eight of their ships engaged.
ficer, Mr J. McNamee, and lost three of them-iKng Orry, Mona's ulean service. Immedi-
Queen, and Fenella. The North Wales
Company's vessels were St. Tudno, St. Silio he was at the beach, and St. Seiriol, but it was the last-named the boats, helping men that won particular notice from the naval id ferrying them to the essel.
authorities.
"On arrival in partially paralysed below
Exhausted Crew
1 that he asked was per-
According to Mr. Chatterton she proved one back and do one more of the most useful vessels engaged, and her two masters during this crew, subject to the immense strain of aerial
Morris and Captain R.
attack, and without rest during her continual journeys to and from the historic beach, were finally in an advanced stage of physical and
MINED CREW
nervous exhaustion. A week before her first nal courage and endurtrip sho had already managed to enter Calais and, defying bombs. had reached the quay and says Mr. Chatterton, got away safely. Then. on May 27 she went impressed the naval over to assist at Dunkirk.
uch trips also strained
At first she was at the jetty, but afterwards etermined crew, so that lay off the beach, where her boats did ver the military doctor invaluable service. She would send three boats hands were unfit to to the beach, bring off an average of about ger. They were sent to forty-seven men in each, though bombs rest and another crew dropped from the planes like rain. and load them on to waiting destroyers or other ships, continue the brave duty and then fill up St. Seiriol herself with about be associated with this
900 men on each of of the seven voyages.
Later on, in June,
How she survived was a miracle in
Iready published, was itself." says Mr. Chatterton. Often a dozen ees from Le Havre, aircraft flew over simultaneously, circled beril from fierce enemy round to make careful direction with their air, and again got back missiles. and raked the decks with machinegun bullets."
When the Crested Eagle, an oil-burning who will sail on this ship, became a furnace after a direct hit. St.
e should be spared to
Seiriol got as close as possible, and for about ce-time duties, will be five and a half hours her crew were toiling wledge of the brilliant to pick up survivors.
in "the most difficult
Her chief officer, Mr. J. McNamee, nd military operation performed herculean service. Immediately as the Admiralty after this he was at the beach, wading in comparable with the from the boats, helping men on to them, and amers' part at Zeeferrying them to the nearest large vessel.
On arrival in port he became partially nd, if Royal Daffodil paralysed below the waist, yet all that he why not Royal St.
asked was permission to go back and do one more trip. She had two masters during this time, Captain R. Morris and Captain R.
D. Dobb.
The Royal St. Seiriol?
The exceptional courage and endurance of
St, Seiriol," says Mr. Chatterton, consider.
ably impressed the naval authorities. Such trips also strained and shook her determined crew, so that on arrival at Dover the military doctor decided that all hands, were unfit to carry on any longer. They were sent to their homes for rest and another crew took the ship to continue the brave duty that must ever be associated with this pleasure vessel."
Later, in June, St. Seiriol was evacuating lement each time. Our refugees from Le Havre, again in deadly peril from fierce enemy assaults from the air, and bombed and shelled ahea again got back safely.
The part played by St. Seiriol in the most t from a few shell spli difficult combined naval and military operaamage.
tion ever carried out" recalls the epic exploit of the Mersey ferry steamers, Royal Iris and
Royal Daffodil, at Zeebrugge in 1918. When peace comes, perhaps St. Seiriol will achieve icer, Mr Macdonald, had
Royal fame.
and smashed the glass o standing.
It seemed an unluc

you
REPORT OF PART PLAYED BY H.M.H.C. "ISIE OF GUERNSEY"
in the evacuation of Dunkirk.
26th May 1940
Having received orders from Dover at noon, we proceeded towards Dunkirk in company with the Hospital Carrier "Worthing" and Transport "Monas Queen", following the route given by the Naval Authorities. At approximately 4.0 p.m. as we approached Calais, which lay in ruins under a heavy pall of smoke, two British destroyers crossed our bows, hove to and commenced shelling the shore Batteries who promptly returned the challenge. To avoid this No Mans land we were forced to Deviate, as our proper course would have taken us between the combatants. Whilst carrying out this manouvre, enemy planes appeared and commenced bombing the convoy but none of the three vessels were struck, although bombs fell very close.
Arriving off Dunkirk, which was under an even heavier pall of thick black smoke than id
Calais, we manouvred our way inside through the various wrecks of vessels which had been struck by bombs and the "Worthing" having been made fast to the Quay we moored alongside her. A few moments after our arrival streams of motor ambulances arrived threading their on way through the columns of troops who were not so seriously wounded and were able to walk. ne
Loading was commenced immediately and every member of the ships Crew assisted in stretcher t bearing so as to facilitate the loading. By 9.55 p.m. both Hospital Carriers were loaded is with as many as they could take, the "Isle of Guernsey" having 346 cases on board, and as ond her number of cots is only 203, many of these cases were accommodated in between the cots r, on the deck along corridors, in fact wherever it was possible to put a stretcher. The ck voyage back to Newhaven, via Dover passed without incident and was completed by 4.53 a.m.
on the 27th May. At 11.47 a.m. on the same day, unloading having been completed, Water, provisions and Oil fuel taken aboard we proceeded to Dover for orders.
X
May 29th 1940.
At 5-16 p.m., having received orders, we proceeded towards Dunkirk, following a course which took us well clear of Calais. At 7-12 p.m. we stood off for a while because of an engagement between aircraft and a British destroyer immediately in our track. At
7.30 p.m. an airman was observed descending by parachute close ahead of us and the vessel was stopped to savePhim. One of the seamen went down a rope ladder to assist the ariman, but before he reached the bottom, 10 enemy planes attacked the Ship with bombs cannon and machine guns. By a miracle none of the bombs struck the ship, although considerable damage was done by the concussion, shrapnel, cannon shells and machine gun bullets.
British fighter planes drove off the enemy and we proceeded towards Dunkirk with a terrific air battle taking place overhead. Arrived off the port at 8-20 P.m. we found it was being bombed and shelled, and we had orders from the shore to keep clear. Returning along the channel in company with two destroyers, we later received orders to wait until darkness had fallen and then return to Dunkirk, At 11-30 p.m. we entered between the breakwaters, the whole place being brilliantly lit up by the glare of fires, burning oil tanks etc., and managed to moor up alongside what was left of the quay at 12-30 a.m.
Loading commenced at once and by 2-15 a.m. we had taken on board as many as we could numbering 490. All the crew and R.A.M.C. personnel behaved lendidly throughout, carrying on with their duties and doing their utmost to load the ship as quickly and as fully as possible, although the ship was shaken every few minutes by the explosion of bombs falling on the quay and in the water. Leaving the quay at 2-15 a.m. we proceeded out of the harbour and just outside we found the sea full of men swimming and shouting for help, presumably a transport had just been sunk. As two destroyers were standing by picking these men up, we threaded our way carefully through them and proceeded towards
Dover. It would have been fatal for us to attempt to stop and try to save any of these men, as we made such a wonderful target for the aircraft hovering ahead, with the flames of the burning port showing all our white paintwork up. Everything was comparatively quiet on the way across, except that just before we got to Dover, a patrol boat headed us off as we were heading straight for a recently laid minefield. Arriving off Dover at
7.0 a.m. we received orders to proceed to Newhaven and arrived at that port at 11-15 a.m.
No further trips were made to Dunkirk, because by the time our damage had been repaired, the evacuation was completed.
(Signed) E. Hill
(Signed) R.F. Pembury
Master
Chief Officer.

127
COPY.
S.S. MAID OF ORLEANS
60
Southampton
June 20th '40.
R.P. Biddle Esq.,
Docks and Marine Mngr.
Southampton.
EVACUATION OF B.E.F. FROM DUNKIRK.
Sir,
On May 26th, this vessel received orders to proceed to Dunkirk.
Prior to leaving 6.000 (2 gall) cans of water were put aboard for use of troops at that port, together with other stores, cases of maps etc.
A detachment of troops 250 in number, consisting of details of A.S.C.
Signals etc. were also embarked. Left Dover at 1100 and proceeded to
Dunkirk, taking the short sea route. Came under fire from a battery near Calais. Shells although falling cloas. registered no hits on the ship.
Arrived off Dunkirk, but did not enter port, but returned to
Dover, arriving off the port during the afternoon.
Received orders to return to Dunkirk, this time with an escort and arrived off there at about 1730. Entered and berthed alongside
Mona's Queen at the Gare Maritime. She was already loaded with troops and we could not discharge until she had pulled out, thus allowing us to go alongside the quay to land the water and stores.
There was no interference from aircraft, probably due to the fact that a thick pall of smoke covered the ship from the oil reservoirs burning nearby. All hands then discharged the cans of water. This was done by forming a chain quay from the Well deck to the gangway. Work proceeded until an order from the quay was given to stop. The water supply being considered sufficient. Troops were embarked and the ship left about 0300.
Some difficulty was experienced on leaving owing to the low state of water and the port propeller was slightly damaged on vessel sunk in fairway. The total number carried on this trip was 988, including 8 civilians. Arrived at Dover at 0600 and discharged.
The same afternoon (May 27th) we returned to Dunkirk, but on arrival at the Roads received orders from the S.T.O. Dunkirk
(transmitted by S.S. CANTERBURY) not to enter, so returned to Dover and anchored in Harbour.
On the morning of the 29th May, at 0437, returned to Dunkirk, and berthed alongside East Mole, as far inshore as possible. Shifted ship three times as tide ebbed making inner berths at pier untenable.
Vessel was alongside about five hours, during which time the pier was shelled. On leaving, passed through an area where a submarine hunt was in progress. Stopped off Nieuport and picked up two French officers who were attempting crossing in a small open boat.
The vessel was subjected to bombing attacks. Arrived at Dover and discharged the 1372 troops carried and which included a number of stretcher cases. On May 30th, at 2145 we left again for Dunkirk and arrived at the East Mole at approximately 0100. The only berth now usable being the one at the extreme end as the pier had been subjected to heavy damage from shell fire and bombs.
Embarked 37 Officers and 1216 O.R. (including 42 stretcher cases)
The/

119
ALL QUOTATIONS, CONTRACTS, &C., SUBJECT TO USUAL STRIKE, LOOK-OUT, AND ACCIDENT CLAUSES. 123
BENTLEY'S PHRASE.
CODES:
BOE.
K
TELECRAMS: "KELPY, BELFAST."
57481 (3 LINES)
TELEPHONE: Nos
57484 (TRUNKS)
essq
67
stock
JOHN KELLY LIMITED,
STATION STREET,
COAL IMPORTERS
QUEEN'S QUAY,
AND
STEAMSHIP OWNERS.
BELFAST. 18th September, 1940.
BUOI
BRANCHES,
THE DOCKS, WARRENPOINT,
PM/EK.
GOVERNOR'S PLACE, CARRICKFERGUS,
WHITEABBEY,
54, FOYLE STREET, LONDONDERRY.
307, TOWER BUILDING, LIVERPOOL.
Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping, (HO),
W RECEIVE 17/18/19 IDENTIFICATION
LONDON.
Dear Sir,
We thank you for your T.M. 6213/40/STA6 of 15th inst. acknowledging receipt of the report from the Master of our S.S. "CLEWBAY" on the part which that vessel played in the
Dunkirk evacuation.
We have just discovered a mistake towards the end of that report at 2 a.m. 29/8/40. This should read 29th
May, 1940. The vessel commenced discharging at 8 a.m. 30th May and finished discharging 31st May instead of August.
Yours faithfully,
For JOHN KELLY, LIMITED.
PwCormick tide was ebb, it being about 21/2 hours after high water.
When I arrived in Dunkerque Roads there were a large number of other vessels in the vicinity, both large and small.
There was some confusion owing to the heavy bombardment from the shore and the activity of hostile aircraft.
Just after 11 p.m. I heard the sound of a heavy collision close to my vessel.
-1-
F.T.O

5
4
VISIT
Teles and address, and if possible a message to our men of the Merchant Navy, and it
Ship value Adoption to Society and is touching to read the letters of thanks from seamen expressing their gratitude for
Her the younger generation.
THE
Majesty has
Journal the kindly thoughts which prompted the every comforts, month and
The
THE country gifts and to know that they are not been schools forgotten.
and Dunkirk good work, such as specially sent to which have These
More than ever before is the general public recognising the valiant work which is performed on their behalf by the men
Parcels which during the do not not not not not no arrive of the Merchant Navy. Amongst gifts which contain knitted garments.
___???___ THE [Reprinted from the an she of
Agents are the and with an ma CO Wi recently received was a parcel containing three pairs of trousers, which came with
Navy's comes Comfort to Service. the mill of the Merchan ports made with that Polish,Con a message asking that the pockets should not be disturbed. Inside each pocket was purchased and
Mr. underwear Cross saw which a shilling and a packet of cigarettes.
offices shops. of Merchant officers had the and sent just as evidently they
QUEEN'S PARCELS
the occasion the Society every visit have other beenforts THE is
When the Queen visited the headsentative of Mr.
the spoke to
Navy,aviedgetaken being organisation and organisation and
Merchant indication be of London wh quarters of the service she expressed her pleasure at the manner in which this with after three weeks spent out hospital steam tanker just sonal touch has been infused into the work perof the Society. Her Majesty is also of his a wounded leg suffered as theren
___???___ about The men seam the keenly interested in the work of the British very as aeroplanes. result The second mate was killed Nazi ship being bombed by a result a of this wanton attack.
by has bypport board, have East Coast THE
with of the the has what outfit could Within readiness an been to look every by
MERCHANT NAVY COMFORTS SERVICE
the THE the 50,000 brary Since organisations, of the wations, it some with- of the Society coasters Still the from
Badge for Willing Helpers
THE British Ship Adoption Society and the have decided, at the request of a large
Merchant Navy Comforts Service the badges.
that he will be pleased to accept one of number be of members, to issue a badge to has behalf of the Merchant Navy. A design on he has nothing but admiration for the
The Minister of Shipping has said that worn by those who are working been prepared which incorporates the and officers and men of the Merchant Navy
Merchant Navy official badge. This is reproduced on the first page of this constantly We show in the face of the for the courage and endurance they
Bulletin. It measures 1 1/16 in.
in one who takes such a sympathetic interest
Ministry of Shipping is presided over by are very happy to know that enemy. the diameter and can be worn either in the in white metal and enamel and costs buttonhole or as a brooch. It is made of to Mercantile Marine; and we are glad the welfare of the men of the shilling, manufacture. a little less than the cost one of include in this Bulletin a short very
The Minister of Shipping has of Mr. Cross's visit to the Merchant account Navy tions connection with the Defence Regulasidered in our proposal to issue this badge con-
Telegraph. Journal of Commerce and Shipping
Comforts Service, reprinted from The which provide, inter alia, that person shall supply to or make for no
From our Postbag:-
be so nearly resembling any such any badge a Government Department or by unauthorised person any badge authorised any
Please find 2s. 6d. from a
The Times copyright photograph
Navy Comforts."
who wishes she could do more poor for woman the informed us that the adoption of has calculated to deceive,' and he as to
We have collected 14d. in farthings for this design would not lead to infringement the of cigarettes our men. Can you purchase tobacco and regulation. Mr. Cross has indicated
If at a cheaper rate than
SO I will send you a cheque. we can a left The is Queen Admiral visits Sir Edward the Merchant Navy Comforts on the [" right Service Mr. Edmund girls' school.
On the is
12
being UTIC about 2 hours " after the bo tide was When ebb, other vesseis it inkerque icinity, owing to the number there was of and tho activity the sound from collision Just close after to 11 my vessel.

ALL QUOTATIONS. CONTRACTS, &c., SUBJECT TO USUAL STRIKE, LOCK-OUT, AND ACCIDENT CLAUSES.
114
BENTLEY'S PHRASE.
BOE.
20 Nonday,
K
CODES:
TELEGRAMS: "KELPY, BELFAST."
TELEPHONE: Nos< 57481 (3 LINES)
57484 (TRUNKS)
STATION STREET,
84
JOHN KELLY LIMITED,
COAL IMPORTERS
QUEEN'S QUAY,
AND
STEAMSHIP OWNERS.
BELFAST, 9th September, 1940.
BRANCHES,
WC
THE DOCKS, WARRENPOINT,
GOVERNOR'S PLACE, CARRICKFERGUS,
EK.
WHITEABBEY,
54, FOYLE STREET, LONDONDERRY.
Your ref: T.M.6213/40/.S.T.A.6.
307, TOWER BUILDING, LIVERPOOL.
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
LONDON.
Dear Sir,
In reply to yours of 7th ult. enclosed please find an account given by the Master of our steamer "CLEWBAY", of the part that vessel played at the time of the Dunkirk evacuation.
We trust it will be of value to you in compiling the records you intend to keep of that outstanding occasion.
Yours faithfully,
For W. Cameron JOHN KELLY, LTD.
MARINE SUPERINTENDENT.
16/17/19
14
RECEIVED
of
1940
Encl.
near bombs exploding everywhere ashore.
At 12 midnight, high water, I steamed between the piers to carry out my orders, but no sooner had I got between the piers and attempting to make fast. when two bombs exploded in the channel astern of me. One was very close as the rebound of the sea from the explosion came right over our quarter deck. I remained there for about 15 minutes thinking still to make a landing and try and connect with the British Naval authorities, but just as I got alongside the
CONTINUED.

B
101
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Cor_Limited
101
General Managers Office.
T. M. 6213/40/s. T.A.6.
Douglas
A/DE.
F.N.6213/40/S.T.A.6,
1940.
1st September, 1940.
The Director of Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berke Sir, House,
Berkeley Square,
LO I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
Dear Sir,
A/DE of the 28th ultimo and to thank you for the reports of the Masters of your Company's ships which took part
I have received your relating to the from which the evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk.
evacuation is required.
I am, Sir,
The reports from the Masters of the
"FENELLA" deal chiefly with the Your obedient The Servant,
Master these of the "LADY OF MANN" includes some details of Pullice.
ships being lost in that operation.
evacuation have had of the the B.E.F. copied from Le in sgd.) B.E Bellamy herewith.
-
of You the "MONA'S QUEEN", one from joined left her will obser for Director of Sea Transport. who the the work ship on the 28th. May, and of Captain on that day.
The
General Manager, material which I forward of service
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Co., Ltd.,
General Manager's Office,
DOUGLAS.
Yours faithfully.
administ lobert
I
only left, in fact between the Pier Germans as the
Heinkels blew dived on to the berth which we had just vacated and practically it to pieces. However, we got back to Dover safely and disembarked our troops. On 24th. May we were ordered to go to anchorage in the Downs for a little rest as Dover harbour was getting rather congested. We were at anchor in the Downs on Saturday evening. Next 25/5
day at noon we got orders and a route for Dunkirk, so we accordingly set off as per instructions. Our route took us about 4 miles off Calais to a certain buoy. On nearing the position I could not see the buoy, but saw a buoy a little further inshore and steamed towards it to make certain. On nearing the buoy I saw it was not the buoy on the instructions and ordered the helm hard aport. Immediately hell was let loose on our ship. We were shelled from the shore by single guns and
1.
Master.

ALL TRAFFIC CARRIED SUBJECT TO THE CONDITIONS OF CARRIAGE OF THE COMPANY AS EXHIBITED IN THEIR OFFICES AND ON BOARDTHEIR STEAMERS.
B
The Isle ofMan Steam Packet Co Limited.
(INCORPORATED IN THE ISLE OF MAN.)
102
TELEGRAMS
"STEAMERS, DOUGLAS"
TELEPHONE N?
DOUGLAS 1101 (5 LINES)
R.W. CANNELL,
General Manager's Office.
GENERAL MANAGER,
OUR REFERENCE
YOUR REFERENCE
A/DE.
T.M.6213/40/S.T.A.6.
Douglas 28th. August, 1940.
The Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
Jiglio, 11/18/19 30 16 AUGISHD RECEIVED A 11121.
Dear Sir,
I have received your letter of the 22nd. instant, from which I note that the material relating only to the Dunkirk evacuation is required.
The reports from the Masters of the "MONA'S QUEEN" and
"FENELLA" deal chiefly with the evacuation from Dunkirk, both these ships being lost in that operation. The report from the
Master of the "LADY OF MANN" includes some details of the evacuation of the B.E.F. from Le Havre, Brest and La Pallice.
I have had the reports copied in extenso and enclose same herewith.
You will observe that there are two reports regarding the work of the "MONA'S QUEEN", one from Captain Duggan, who left the ship on the 28th. May, and of Captain Holkham, who joined her on that day.
I trust the material which I forward will be of service to the Department.
Yours faithfully,
Robannett please Is aniss Dans
General Manager.
in the
Germans disembarked blew Heinkels it to dived pieces. on to However, the berth we which got the back we had to just Dover vacated and practically congested. a little rest as Dover harbour was go in the Downs our for troops. On 24th. May we were ordered safely to to and anchorage day at We were at anchor in the Downs on Saturday getting rather Next to per instructions. Our route took us about 4 miles accordingly Calais set off noon as we got orders and a route for Dunkirk, so we evening.
but a certain buoy. On nearing the position I could not see the off certain. On nearing the buoy I saw it was not the buoy on the saw a buoy a little further inshore and steamed towards it to buoy, make instructions and ordered the helm hard aport. Immediately hell was let loose on our ship. We were shelled from the shore by single guns and
1.

COPY.
steamer "RUSHEN CASTLE".
2nd. July, 1940.
R. W. Cannell, Esq.,
103
General Manager.
Sir,
In reference to your letter of the 28th. June requesting a report from me as Master of H.M. Transport "MONA'S QUEEN" when on her last voyage from Dover to Dunkirk.
I joined the "MONA'S QUEEN" on the 28th. of May. On the evening of that date, I received orders to leave Dover in the early morning of the 29th. to carry fresh water to Dunkirk and return with troops. Everything was uneventful until we reached to within about half a mile off Dunkirk, when the ship was mined and sank within two minutes, the survivors being rescued by the destroyer "VANQUISHER".
With reference to the request for names of Officers and personnel who should be recommended, I can only say that the conduct of all survivors was exemplary.
not An outstanding example of bravery was witnessed by some of the survivors. It appears that H. Craine, Chief Cook, showed the greatest courage and disregard for his own safety when noticing that
Mr. Morgan, the Chief Steward, was unable to get away from the ship through injuries, he went back and rescued him knowing that the ship was rapidly sinking; further particulars can be obtained from Mr.
Morgan,
Chief
Steward.
Owing to the port Another meritotious act was that of 955244, Gunner J. Osborne, of the 253/64th. Field Regiment R.A., who rescued Mr. R. Gallagher, the Purser, and swam with him to the warship which was taking survivors to England. Unfortunately Gunner Osborne's self sacrificing heroism was unavailing as Mr. Gallagher died on board the warship before arrival at an English port.
took home, of
Duke I trust that this report will meet your requirements.
Canadian troops and all day that was off. Then Yours obediently, of ammunition and embarked the Irish of E's for Boulogne, It (signed) A. KHAM
cranes to load the ammunition, but willing soldiers we had the landed in Master.
embarked BE many troops as we
British,
RE the Germans only left, in fact
Heinkels dived on to the berth which we had just vacated and practically blew it to pieces. However, we got back to Dover safely and disembarked our troops. On 24th. May we were ordered to go to anchorage in the Downs for a little rest as Dover harbour was getting rather congested. We were at anchor in the Downs on Saturday evening. Next day at noon we got orders and a route for Dunkirk, so we accordingly set off as per instructions. Our route took us about 4 miles off Calais to a certain buoy. On nearing the position I could not see the buoy, but saw a buoy a little further inshore and steamed towards it to make certain. On nearing the buoy I saw it was not the buoy on the instructions and ordered the helm hard aport. Immediately hell was let loose on our ship. We were shelled from the shore by single guns and
1.

1640.
COPY.
H.M.T. "BEN-MY-CHREE", c/o G.P.O., LONDON.
3608M Istema
Mr. R. W. Cannell,
3rd. July, 1940.
General Manager.
104
Dear Sir,
In
Taby
JIOGY
In answer to your letter, herewith are details of the part played by the "MONA'S QUEEN" in the recent operations off the Dutch,
I
SEAL
Belgian and French coasts. The facts and circumstances are very plainly remembered by me, although I may not be quite certain as to the exact dates, I think I won't be very far off the mark.
TOTAL
Firstly, our experiences started when we left Dover for
List
Rotterdam on the 14th. May intending to evacuate Dutch troops etc.
Unfortunately we did not succeed in that because when we arrived at the mouth of the River Maas, the place was a raging inferno, even the river was afire with oil from destroyed tanks. We did our best but were beaten back. German bombers were overhead and tried to get us, but did not succeed as we HERE were very often enveloped in dense and choking smoke. Finally we were ordered to return to Dover and arrived there on the evening of the 15th. May. We left Dover again that night for Ostend and arrived off Ostend following morning, the authorities there would not let us in and we had to anchor. Whilst laying at anchoré we were attacked twice with bombers, but with our Lewis guns and the guns of a small Dutch vessel we beat them off. We entered Ostend about noon in spite of the fact that magnetic mines had been dropped in the harbour.
They had swept up some of them, not all. In Ostend we embarked
British, Dutch, French and Belgian refugees, men, women and children.
We left Ostend about 5-30 p.m. (16th) and arrived Folkestone at 10 p.m.
Owing to the trouble with passports etc. we did not get away from that port until noon (17th.) when we were ordered to Southampton. When we arrived at Netley Anchorage, we got orders to fill up with fuel and water and return to Ostend and to call at Dover for stores, arriving in Dover on the 18th. The Ostend trip was cancelled as the Germans had already got there. Then on the 19th. we went to Boulogne and as far as I can remember that was the night that G.H.Q. at Boulogne was bombed and we took home, amongst others, the Duke of Gloucester and his staff. The
Duke was wounded. Arrived back at Dover on the 20th. We then loaded
Canadian troops and stores for Dunkirk, but after they had been aboard all day that sail was off. Then we loaded about 400 tons of all kinds of ammunition and embarked the Irish and Welsh Guards, also a demolition squad of R.E's for Boulogne. It took fourteen hours at Dover, with cranes to load the ammunition, but with the work of my crew and a few willing soldiers we had the stuff landed in three hours. Then we embarked as many troops as we could carry (amongst them there were many wounded). Units from all Allies, British, French, etc., also women and children and we left Boulogne just as the Germans were coming in. We had only left, in fact were between the Pier Heads, when a squadron of
Heinkels dived on to the berth which we had just vacated and practically blew it to pieces. However, we got back to Dover safely and disembarked our troops. On 24th. May we were ordered to go to anchorage in the Downs for a little rest as Dover harbour was getting rather congested. We were at anchor in the Downs on Saturday evening. Next day at noon we got orders and a route for Dunkirk, so we accordingly set off as per instructions. Our route took us about 4 miles off Calais to a certain buoy. On nearing the position I could not see the buoy, but saw a buoy a little further inshore and steamed towards it to make certain. On nearing the buoy I saw it was not the buoy on the instructions and ordered the helm hard aport. Immediately hell was let loose on our ship. We were shelled from the shore by single guns and
1.

Contrast
2.
105
6, School Terrace,
School Road, also by salvos from shore batteries. Shells were flying all around us, the first salvo went over us, the second, astern of us. I
thought the next salvo would hit us, but fortunately it dropped
PO
short, right under our stern. The ship was riddled with shrapnel, as bever mostly all on the boat and promenade decks. Then we were attacked from the air. A Junker bomber made a power dive towards us and my dropped five bombs, but he was off the mark too, I should say about
150 feet from us. All this while we were still being shelled, although we were getting out of range. The Junker that bombed us was shot down and crashed into the water just ahead of us (no state survivors). Then another Junker attacked us, but before he reached us he was brought down in flames. Then the tension eased a little.
von from the Owing to the bombardment, I could see that the nerves of and some to of my men were badly shaken. I did not feel too well myself, but I mustered the crew and told them that Dunkirk was being bombed and wasxon fire. On being asked if they would volunteer to go in they did so to a man and I am glad to say we took off as many as the "MONA'S QUEEN" could carry. Coming back from Dunkirk, I made a route for myself and am glad to say we arrived safely at Dover and in the early hours of Monday morning. Our degaussing wires were damaged and it was necessary to have them made good; there was and also some machinery defect which was repaired. Captain Holkham ouldrrived to relieve me about 10-30 p.m. on the 27th. and I left vessthe "MONA'S QUEEN on the morning of Tuesday, the 28th. May. On me the 29th. she was sunk by enemy action while entering Dunkirk.
and as my and
I consulted with the Chief Engineer and If we could do the trip, there and back, hoard, and he told D6 that providing we Yours respectfully, speed we might just be able to manage. 1 Chief and Second Officers and we decided (signed) R. DUGGAN.
We arrived off Dunkitk at about 1.00 pom., but we were delayed from entering the Port to avoid a heavy bombing raid Master. then in progress. When this WS.8 over, we berthed on the of the
East jetty and commenced to embark troops and stratcher esces and continued to do SO throughout the siternoon, the embariation being slowed up considerably by continuous heavy bombing attacks,
We had between six and asses hundred troops on board when the enemy dive boinbers scored a direct bit on "TENELLA's promenade deck, doing considerable damage, at about 5.00 p.m. They also scored a hit on the jetty causing it to split in two, parts of the concrete being blown through the sip's side below the water line and into the engine room which immediately began to flood with water. Another bomb fall between the ship and the jetty, Use force of the explosion blowing out the oil cooler from the ship's side and completely wrecking almost every pipe and pump in the angine room, rendering the engines useless.
I inspected the damage in company with the Chief and Second
Officer - the ship was listing badly 5a fortunately inclining howards the jetty and WAS rapidly making water.
Our examination of the damage proved that the ship was doomed and the only course open was to disembark all troops and abandon ship, I instructed the 0.0. troops to this affect.
As the jetty abroant of gangways had been blown away, the only method of diestbhrkation with to climb over the rails on the forecastle head which fortunately YRS level with the jetty.
The enemy WLB particularly active 9.5 this time and Liase his boarding any held DD the disemberking of the troops, but owine to the skilful handling of by Chief and Become
/Officers, all troops and stretcher cases were safely

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)

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)

COPY
S. Y. "KILLARNEY"
40
Anchored in the Downs, one fine day in May, we received orders to proceed to Dunkirk to assist in the
194
evacuation of the B.E.F. We were given alternative routes, one for daylight and one for night time. As we left at night, we took the darkness route, which took us round past Calais and then along the coastline eastward.
Owing to misty weather, and all navigational aids being obliterated, we were compelled to anchor off Gravelines till daylight. This we did without trouble. With the break of day, we hove up and proceeded to Dunkirk. The sky was absolutely black with the smoke from burning oil dumps and tanks, which had been set on fire by the military to prevent their being of any use to the enemy. Arriving off Dunkirk
Breakwater, we had to lay off for some hours, while other vessels were filling up with troops. During this time, we were keeping a look-out for the "LOCHGARRY" one of our Company's ships, which was also on the same mission.
We saw a steamer much resembling her come up astern of us, using the daylight route. Whilst we were watching her, trying to ascertain who she was, there was a terrific explosion, and the centre part of her disappeared in a cloud of smoke. When the smoke cleared away, her stern portion from the mainmast aft had vanished, and in about two minutes the forward part heeled over and sank. So passed the "MONA'S QUEEN" as a result of a magnetic mine.
About an hour after this, we went alongside the
Breakwater, and immediately commenced embarking troops of all regiments, and including several stretcher cases. Some of these cases had been carried by their chums for four days and four nights. Whilst embarking the troops, we had extreme difficulty in preventing what appeared to be the whole canine population of France and Belgium from taking a passage with us. These animals had attached themselves to the Tommies, as their own people had fled, and it was rather pitiful to see them trying to get aboard after their new friends. Hundreds were shot on the quay to prevent their starving to death.
Whilst we were alongside, we witnessed an attack on a ship just outside, by German aircraft. Bombs fell all round her, but none registered a hit. Eventually our fighter planes drove them off.
On completion of loading troops we returned by the same route as we had taken to come in, and on passing
Gravelines again the fun started. Sailing quietly along, the tired and weary troops stretched out all over the ship, snatching their for the Ministry) maged by
G.S.N.
Lowed ing the
GS and our
Newman of entrance enemy bombs. A call for assisted an escort the British of Mission two destroyers had previously would be waiting hour when for the me aircraft off the consisting port. This attack lasted for half an returned to Ostend.

Mr. Dilke
36
COPY FOR - MR. W. G. HYNARD,
Director of Sea Transport,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House,
Berkeley Square, W.L.
197
WJP/LK
13th August, 1940.
The Right Hon. Ronald H. Cross, M.P.,
Minister of hipping,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.L.
Dear Bir,
EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
Further to our Chairman's letter of the 27th ultimo, we understand that you wish to collect information
Navy in connection with the evacuation of the B.E.F. from regarding the services rendered by the ships of the Merchant for THE GENERAL STEAM NAVIGATION CO. LTD.
e
Northern France and Flanders and we, therefore, take the
,wo which liberty of attaching copies of a few confidential reports we have received from various sources. If it would
Yours faithfully, be of interest to you we should be pleased to forward the
Company when we are able to obtain same.
similar information regarding other vessels owned by this so perience coasting and home trades, and the special knowledge and passenger vessels of this Company operate chiefly cargo in the
As you are aware, in normal times the and tense ming and which our Masters and Officers have of the channels exut under them to find their way to the beaches and berths coasts, enabled approaches to the Northern French and Belgian
15.0
y to and their ships, their shallow draft was also of the pleasure the difficult conditions. In the case of a
journeys good bunker capacity enabled these vessels assistance make backwards and forwards with a minimum of delay. to
O t.
The copies of reports enclosed, refer to:-
ship)iight m.v. "ROYAL SOVEREIGN"
m.v. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" (cross channel
O.
ch the
19
p.s. "GOLDEN EAGLE
(cargo vessel managed by G.S.N.
(Passenger paddle steamer
" passenge cut
S.S.
"ABUKIR"
rd in-
Lowed for the Ministry)
ing the is and
Newman of th an escort our entrance bombs. enemy A waiting for me aircraft off the the consisting British the the the half be an hour when the port. returned to Ostend.

Nywari hand durect colleg P
Mr. Dilke sent have would him your is
37
14th August, 1940.
vigation Company Ltd 6
14/8
are P 16th
I understand you collecting
15, Trinity Square,
Dear Sir,
Mr. Cross has asked me to thank you 198 london.Ec.3.
for your letter of the 13th August and for the enclosed copies of confidential reports
13th August, 1940.
199
which you have received. As you say, Mr.
Cross is anxious to collect as much informa- M.P., tion as possible about the services rendered
LTD.
by merchant ships, and he would certainly be very interested to see any similar informa- M
DUNKIRK
CO.
tion which you may be able to forward about ish 's letter of the 27th to collect information other vessels owned by the Company.
the ships of the Merchant tion of the B.E.F. from e
Yours faithfully, e, therefore, take the
Yours faithfully
F. H. KEENLYSIDE
ew confidential reports
C
sources. If it would pleased to forward e
Company
Private Secretary.
vessels owned by this
,WO
same.
:
W.J. Philpott Esq.,
The General Steam Navigation Company Ltd.
nal times the cargo and the erate chiefly in the so for THE GENERAL
and enabled approaches them to the Northern French and of the channels our Masters and and the Officers special have knowledge and exunder the difficult to find their way to the beaches Belgian berths coasts, tense pleasure conditions. In the and ming and their ships, their shallow draft case of the jut journeys backwards good bunker capacity enabled was these also of assistance make
15.
and forwards with a minimum vessels of delay. to y tb
The copies of reports enclosed, refer to
L a m.v. m.v. "ROYAL "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" (cross channel:-
)
to
SOVEREIGN"
p.s. "GOLDEN
"
O t.
s.s. "ABUKIR"
" passenger ship)iight for the Ministry)
by steamer) G.S.N.Co.
ch the cut rd in-
Lowed agreed.
my cluding out lines of the crew, and port sailed soldiers aircraft by the and British flew Belgi over S.S. was dopping "MARQUIR" sent out Verey as Mr. lights Newman and of ing the entrance bombs. enemy A for assistance informed me for that me an off escort the the consisting British This be an waiting hour when the aircraft port. returned to Ostend.

The General Iteam Navigation Company Ltd
ALEGRAMS-GLYCONIC TELEX LONDON
ELEPHONE-ROYAL 3200.7 (23 LINES)
CLORE
CODEs-PRIVATE
15, Trinity Square,
BENTLEYS PHRASE
SCOTTS 10TH EDTN.
A.B.C. 5TH EDTN.
BOE
London.E.c.3
Bofons
20mg
OUR REFERENCE WJP/LK
only
NUTOP
YOUR REFERENCE
13th August, 1940.
199
SECTO
The Right Hon. Ronald H. Cross, M.P.,
Minister of Shipping,
Berkeley Square,
LONDON, W.1.
Dear Sir,
EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
Further to our Chairman's letter of the 27th último, we understand that you wish to collect information regarding the services rendered by the ships of the Merchant for THE GENERAL STEAM NAVIGATION M.Philpott CO. LTD.
Navy in connection with the evacuation of the B.E.F. from
Northern France and Flanders and we, therefore, take the liberty of attaching copies of a few confidential reports
Yours faithfully, which we have received from various sources. If it would be of interest to you we should be pleased to forward e
Company when we are able to obtain same.
similar information regarding other vessels owned by this
,WO
As you are aware, in normal times the cargo and the passenger vessels of this Company operate chiefly in the
10
coasting and home trades, and the special knowledge and perience and which our Masters and Officers have of the channels exenabled approaches to the Northern French and Belgian coasts, tense them to find their way to the beaches and berths ming under the difficult conditions. In the case of the ut and pleasure ships, their shallow draft was also of
15.
journeys backwards and forwards with a minimum of delay. to their good bunker capacity enabled these vessels assistance make y to
L a
The copies of reports enclosed, refer to:-
)
m.v. "ROYAL SOVEREIGN"
m.v. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" (cross channel to
"
o t.
p.s. "GOLDEN EAGLE
(cargo vessel managed by G.S.N.Co.
(Passenger paddle steamer)
" passenger ship)
S.S. "ABUKIR"
for the Ministry)
ch the cut
.rd in-
Lowed ing the agreed. my cluding out entrance lines of the crew, and enemy A port sailed soldiers the and British Belgi S.S. was dopping "MARQUIS" sent informed waiting out Verey as me for Mr. that lights me Newman an off and escort the of bombs. the consisting British the be an hour when the aircraft port. returned to Ostend.

33
m.v. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL"
203
This vessel was requisitioned for Government Service as a troop and carrying transport on 8th January, 1940, when lying in the river
Fal.
She proceeded to Dover, where she arrived on 15th January and fitted out for the Service. Fitting out was completed on the 20th
February, compasses adjusted on the 21st, and the first passage made on the 23rd February to Boulogne with 492 troops returning from leave. Five Lewis Guns and Sixteen R.A. Gunners were attached to the ship for defensive purposes.
The vessel continued in this service fairly regularly during
March and April, one voyage being made each day, and carried on an average about 500 troops per passage, and about 13,000 in all.
After leave for troops was stopped, about lstMay, the vessel ran with mails, King's Messenger and troop details until 18th May.
The Irish Guards were carried to Boulogne for final defence of that port, and wounded and R.A.M.C. details brought back to Dover on the 22nd May.
On the 19th May a special voyage was commenced to Dunkirk for refugees, but the ship was stopped off Gravelines and eventually returned to Dover without proceeding to Dunkirk.
On 23rd May, the vessel proceeded to the Downs anchorage, returning to Dover on the 24th and anchoring in the Cuter Harbour until the morning of the 27th. The vessel's Lewis guns were in action against enemy aircraft on the nights of the 23rd and 26th.
On the morning of the 27th May at 5,00a.m. orders were received to stand by to proceed to Dunkirk, vessel victualled and watered and proceeded at 2.00p.m. Arrival at Dunkirk was about 3.00p.m., making fast to Eastern breakwater, about 50
troops were taken on board, after which the ship was ordered to anchor off the beach and send boats ashore for troops. Four boats were sent away and made several trips bringing off about
200 troops.
Fresh orders were then received to return to the Eastern
Breakwater and complete. Poats were hoisted inboard, except one which could not be traced in the dark. Vessel re-secured to breakwater, the balance of men were taken on board, making a total of about 920, and at 2.55a.m. on the 28th proceeded on the return voyage.
During the whole of the time in Dunkirk Air Raids were in progress, bombs being dropped through thick smoke indiscriminately and several wrecks on the banks being also machine-gunned.
For tunately none fell close to the ship.
After sailing, at about 4.15a.m., half-an-hour before sunrise, an aeroplane was observed approaching on the starboard bow about
2,000 feet up, distinguishing marks not being decipherable, this plane circled and dived when on the port beam. Lewis gun fire was then opened from the ship, but 3 or 4 bombs had then been released which straddled the ship a little abaft the mainmast. The slight delay action of these bombs caused an upward explosion which broke the vessel's back, the starboard propellor shaft and rudder, the stern dipping into the water. The wireless aerial had also carried away and No.5. boat was blown across the deck.
-1-

Det no and
BE
-2-
204
TES THE STATE and SEAL ONE SEAL LOKE THE and
$110
eroplane again circled and approached the part bow, dropping more
Lewis gun fire was continued as guns were able to bear, the through two lines of tracer bullets from the forward two guns, the bombs which fell about 100 feet away and, after apparently passing plane flew away to the eastward.
Meanwhile the aerial had been rehoisted and an S.O.S. sent of
STRATO
OFF
out, the four remaining boats swung out, and the troops ordered on
ROUN
the loud speakers to vacate the after end of the ship and walk
DRN
were forward, in order to life the after end as much as possible.
the
A slight electric wire fire was extinguished in the after the
STATE
HOTOR
dining saloon. Pumps were started on the two after lower saloons.
Reports from Carpenter shewed that water was making rapidly in the after four compartments, therefore orders were given to lower away
THE
ES
boats and fill them. This work proceeded in good order.
Y
STATE
OF
The S.S. "DORIEN ROSE", a store ship proceeding to Dunkirk,
OF
was standing by and, as the weather was fine, was requested to come alongside forward and the two vessels were secured port bow to starboard bow to prevent troops all going to one side and listing the "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
The troops were then ordered over the rail to the other ship, this work proceeded smoothly, the lifeboats meanwhile making an extra passage, having discharged their troops into the "DORIEN ROSE".
By 5.20a.m. all troops had been transferred. A further inspection was made, and water was found to be gaining in the stewards store room and engine room and by this time the bow was out of the water. It was therefore decided to abandon ship.
Confidential papers were collected and final tra nsfer was completed by 5.25.
name, 0540 Clear of harbour. 0866 flossing nine 50
The "DORIEN ROSE" let go and proceeded to Dover, arrival being at 2.30p.m., and the passage being without further untoward incident, and during part of it the destroyer H.O.5. acted as escort. The four lifeboats were towed for extra security in case of further attack, but during the passage two broke away and were lost.
10.10 anchored 031 Pier, 18.15 arrived alongaids of Pier.
38.80 left Matgato Pier. 1735 arrived off La Panis and teseared beary Give bombing attmch out with bony ludgen
1800g have up anchored and procesded to noolas Refe "Dellficat" Indian with troopehashore, 1825 "Bullfinch" affort and prosseded. 1080
commenced embarking trodgs from benches.
by BOTH 0410, have RP and processed lower down beach. 0420
Ang None Grouper 0530 vesselfull, ast to Number: 1928, arrived was Margate, 1136 alenguido of Sergane Pier disgnbarking troops. 1300 Left Cargate, 1785 shehered off Hunking on
Instructions. 1830 enchorad and ambariting steepe,
Way 8165 0130 hote of and prosession. 0515 sported as buy to plan 92 Four nurvivors of n Tradel situature which bad this
UTID arraved aleachide Plac, 0030
hova up and processed

as opposite)
number
254
622
THE WINE AND SPIRIT TRADE RECORD
17TH JUNE, 1940.
Co.'s Sherries). In giving a picture of Mr. Clarkson
LICENSED PREMISES, CLUBS, ETC.,
(captain of the Mimosa) and Mr. Clark (who organised
IN 1939.
the "Brighton Navy The Daily Sketch, in its issue of 5th June, remarked that "nothing more glorious in the annals of Britain's sea history has been done
THE Report of the Commissioner of Police of the than the work of our longshoremen in the rescue of
Metropolis for 1939 contains the following remarks the B.E.F. from Dunkirk."
concerning "on" and "off" licences, etc.:-
When the full story can be told, Londoners will be proud of the gallant part played in the evacuation
LICENSED PREMISES.
of our soldiers from Dunkirk by the G.S.N. Co.'s
"The number of premises licensed for the sale of pleasure steamers which, in happier days carried intoxicating liquor 'on' and ' off' the premises thousands of holiday-makers from London and
Chatham to the holiday resorts of Essex and Kent, and increased by 4 to 7,603. The number of 'off' licences also to the near Continental holiday centres. Such was unchanged at 3,553. The number of licences for well-known ships as the P/S.s Royal Eagle, Crested
Wine and Spirit dealers is 251 and for theatres 76.
Eagle, Medway Queen, M/V.s Royal Daffodil, Royal
Sovereign and Queen of the Channel, all took their
" Applications were made by most licensed share in this hazardous undertaking. Not only premises for extension of the permitted hours on 23rd pleasure steamers of the General Steam Navigation
December and on New Year's Eve. These days were
Co. took part, but also their cargo boats. Here is what may be described as a typical performance by one of regarded as special occasions justifying the grant of the company's cargo boats:-
Special Orders of Exemption, and 14,114 Orders were
NOTES FROM CAPTAIN H. BUXTON'S REPORT.
granted. There was no increased drunkenness which
M.v. Bullfinch.
At 10.20 p.m. on 28th May, 1940, whilst at anchor in could be attributed to the grant of these facilities.
Small Downs, the m.v. Bullfinch received orders to sail at
CLUBS.
once for La Panne beaches. The ship arrived off the beaches about 4.50 a.m. on 29th May. The beach was crowded with
"The number of registered clubs increased by 216
troops but there were only a few boats bringing off small numbers. The Master received orders to beach the Bullfinch and on 31st December, 1939, the total number was and accordingly he let go the kedge anchor and headed slow
3,085. This increase is almost entirely accounted for for the beach. The vessel grounded about 5.45 a.m., but owing to the kedge anchor not holding, her stern swung to by the formation of registered clubs at fire stations the eastward and the ship was aground fore and aft with the beach.
and auxiliary fire stations. Since the outbreak of war,
After the first boatload came aboard one of the troops no less than 193 such clubs were formed.
swam ashore with a line. Two 5in. ropes were run ashore and hauled boats off and back to the beach. When the tide
"The short life of many 'Social' clubs of the type receded the troops waded off and embarked up the ship's ladders. Embarkation proceeded until the ship had about which give trouble to the police was once again
1,500 on board, during which time the ballast tanks were noticed. During 1939, 262 such clubs were registered pumped out. The ladders were then pulled up, as the ship could take no more.
and 253 were closed or struck off the register.
The troops had two Bren guns with them, which were
Proceedings for irregularities were taken against mounted one each side of the boat deck. The troops also manned the ship's Lewis gun. Bomb attacks were taking
82 registered clubs, of which 54 were struck off the place all day and after a very anxious time from 5.30 p.m.
until 6.15 p.m., the vessel floated and proceeded.
register. The amount of fines and costs imposed was
German aircraft attacked the ship repeatedly. When
£5,364 9s. 7d. and 15 persons were sent to prison in passing Dunkirk several bombs dropped close to the vessel's stern, the concussion from which caused the circuit breaker default of payment of fines.
to come out and put the steering gear out of action. The
BOTTLE PARTIES.
engines were stopped whilst the engineers effected repairs, and the ship then proceeded.
"There was a slight increase during the year in
Three dive bombers then attacked the Bullfinch from aft.
One of the Bren gunners, Sergeant Cook, shot one down into the number of known 'bottle parties' from 24 to 28
the sea. Shortly afterwards three others attacked from forward and the sergeant again shot one down. Further
Successful proceedings were taken by the police in 32
attacks were made at frequent intervals until a formation cases for liquor offences, or for unlicensed pub of Spitfires drove the enemy off.
On arrival in the Small Downs the Bullfinch received music and dancing, or for both these offences, ar.
orders to proceed to - Harbour where the troops were fines and costs amounting to £3,420 6s. 10d. were promptly disembarked.
It was afterwards discovered that the concussion from imposed. In three cases the proprietors of the bottle the exploding bombs had put both compasses out. The ship was on one occasion attacked by machine-gun fire, but only parties were sentenced to imprisonment without the one soldier was wounded. The Master of the Bullfinch stated option of paying a fine. In addition, proceedings were that he could not speak too highly of the Bren gunner who held his fire until the planes were close to the vessel and taken in a number of cases by the Customs and Excise undoubtedly saved the ship.
on evidence supplied by the police, for soliciting orders
We hope on a later occasion to give further details of the magnificent work done by the seamen and others for intoxicating liquor on the premises of the 'bottle of the General Steam Navigation Co., Ltd., work of party or for failing to have a tobacco licence, or a which the directors of the company are justifiably refreshment house licence. This resulted in additional proud.
penalties amounting to £863 9s. Od."