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506
9.6.40.
The Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
To. N.O. i/c Ramsgate.
From. Captn. Wharton. S.V.P.
Vinsia
Operation "DYNAMO".
Report on Officers.
Whilst working under your command during the
evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunlirk, the work of the
following officer. was SO outstanding, that I wish to draw
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their names to your special attention. Though I had no
opportunity of seeing their work at Dunkirk itself, my duties
in turning boats round, and all which that involved,
gave me a clear indication of the sterling merits of
these officers.
Lt. Cmdr. J. I. Miller, D.S.O., R.N.B. This officer
was indefatigable in his efforts to got his boats ready
to return to operations. The minimum of time was
required by him for rest, the maximum time humanly
possible being spent at Dunkirk, his first consideration
being to get ready to return. His cheerful bearing and
keenness infused all with whom he came in contact and 1
consider his example is worthy of consideration.
I have no doubt that his conduct on the
Dunkirk side was in keeping with that of the Base end.
Lt. Van Hemel. Royal Dutch Navy. This remarkable officer
appeared to flourish on hard work with little or no sleep.
He had his own motor boat which he brought from Fortsmouth
on Thursday 30th May. He left Ramsgate at dawn on 31st May,
and remained at Dunkirk four days working off the beaches,
and at Dunkirk ferrying troops. de found fuel and food
over there and so avoided delay in returning to the Base.
On his return he got his boat ready, had five hours sleep,
and returned to Dunkirk. His stays in Ramsgate were of the
minimum duration thereafter. I was greatly impressed by
his manner and bearing and consider that his example was
inspiring and the work done by him of very great value.
.
Contd.,
suc.Lleutenant noyal NAVY.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.