TNA Unclassified 1

Dynamo 185.
182
MOTOR YACHT "MARSAYRO"
170
6th.June 1960
B14/0/1513
II.
Leading Seaman BROWN.
No.R.E.2/014.
Vice Admiral,
Dover.
169
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, that I took over dommand
The Nore.)
esday 29th.May 1940.
rt I tried to sort things on, regarding any particular
Forwarded.
stremely hasty. I therefore nga will suffice.
2. Reports and recommendations
Friday 31st.May 1940 at concerning the above named vessels with X217 and 2 other were forwarded by my Nos. I.1/14/015 utenant
POOL,R.N.
We and R.E. 2/014. of 8th and 9th out 3 p.m. we name in sight
June, 1940.
moke and explosions as far later we contacted the
3.
Of the vessels mentioned in the French soldiers from the above reports only the "Royal Eagle", to the beach; it was
"Golden Eagle" and "Crested Eagle"
imen and capsised at once.
are specifically named in Appendix 1, it himself from being more thdrew my ship to review
4.
In addition to the vessels
" stuff that looked like named in Minute 1 above, the Yachts
ID devil as I know that
"Christobel II" "Caleta"; "Glala"
our propellers in the way
"Amulree" and the tug "St Clears"
happen as soon as I had were mentioned in my reports, and each we managed to pick are presumed to be included in the captured and used a little note to Appendix 1.
troops appeared to be a
>-loads for some 5 hours,
'Jaba" and so on. On this
ADMIRAL 1940
am Queen" (about 2000 tons
- she had put her nose.
*
30th JULINE,
;ines of "Marsayru" and
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE, ce ghout this day and the
Dover
HEERNESS.
all a complete jumble in tant fire of various kinds, the ship was not hit by more lune I think - we were tion to -done, nearest ship being te 1 above, by 4 brave Messershimits who dived and
"
"Caleta th much vigour but exceedingly poor aim the tug our. No had a Bren and 2 rifles but did in my German pilots seemed disinolined to come reports 0 and I had given orders to hold our fire on Eagle" casA pity. After half an hour of this 3
above arcifically aght and we saw no more of the Messerschmits
2/014. of my 8th in addition of we were bombed by a large formation of arded by Nos.
40.
in Minute 1 all. At least I think it was our little stobel II" "saless it was one on the horison, in eports only the me mentioned solddimurse of these operations we took off the vessels ree" and opamony miles.
Eagle" and "C presumed tax, ocumnof 400 French soldiers. To our bitter cifically named to Appell ad tind no British, others ware luckier.
Christrisor a few hours - she was on tow -
"Amulre" stely tied up with bits of line and n addition to vive MI
were men tisard. The tow rope broke and we n Minute 1 a had a are presfroit cast about for a time. However obel II" "( pilots Be e" and the I had give note to rises - faithruk thing. No arrived ntioned in ty. After ts, evening having called from Ramsgate sumed to be and we saw
Appendix 1.
ICEADM in We borught back 2 "prises" - a nice
IRA

CONFIDENTIAL.
252
From
The Commanding Officer. H.M.S. Sheldrake.
Date
3rd. June. 1940. Reference RDA/C/38.
TO
The Commander in Chief. The Nore.
Through The Commodore in Charge. Sheerness.
boby to Senior officer. Conettes.
1.
The following re of operations carried out in accordance with C-in-C. Nore's 1121/2 is submitted.
2.
Sheldrake sailed from Sheerness at 1615 with an additional demolition party of 12, with orders to destroy the asdic gear in
Basilisk ashore off La Panne. On passage zig zagging was employed where submarine attack could (be) reasonable expected.
3.
Routed via T Buoy (2005), Oostdyck (2053), Middlekerke (2128),
Nieuport Bk. (2024) Buoys I closed the shore in stages as the light failed, and was able to identify Basilisk by 2131 andthen waited till 2230 for darkness before closing in. She was awash up to her
FX deck in position Latitude 51degs. 08mins. 20secs. North. Longitude 2degs. 34mins. 50secs. East., 2 miles off shore.
4.
The demolition party was immediately placed abcard, while
Sheldrake lay off about a cable from the wreck.. A few minutes after midnight the fuzes were lit, and the whaler hoisted at 0017. The officer in charge of demolitions has submitted a separate report as to the location of charges, which were lowered as far below water level as possible. The ship apperas to have already been pretty well gutted by fire forward, and her bridge wrecked. He was unable to make his way aft, but reports that her back had apparently been broke en by an explosion in the vicinity of the engine room. one empty
C.B. chest was found.
5.
Throughout the operation I was apparently not located though a few enemy aircraft were seen. Sever-fighting was taking place ashore up till midnight, the right 01 the enemy line t. he on the beach abreast the ship, with their gun batteries on the left and
Dunkirk illuminated by fire(as usual) to my right. This fighting died down as the repeated bombing of gun positions by the R.A.F. took effect. I regret it was not possible to close the reported position of Crested Eagle on the beach as Sheldrake would undoubtedly have been illuminated by our own parachute flares. I had also hoped by placing depth charges to complete the destruction of the ship, as had been done to Wakeful, in addition to the internal demolitions, but this was not possible: nor would a Mk. VII. charge fired from the throwers have operated in the shallow water in which she was lying.
6. Apart from tide, there were no navigational difficulties, as the buoys were lit.
continued overleaf

273
F 262
THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE
FLOTILLA
ROYAL EAGLE
GOLDENT EAGLE.
CRESTED EAGLE.

FROM.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
Dynama 10, 263 Aveley
DATE
1st June, 1940.
274
TO
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, THE NORE.
(through and EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERINES).
PROCEEDINGS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - A/A SHIPS. PERIOD
Submitted.
27/31st May, 1940.
were and full speed to & position 9 miles East anchored to proceed at outer estuary a signal was received that/ships were
During in the the night of 27th-28th May when all ships
Dunkirk minutes embark troops. All ships were underweigh within of a few of the signal being decoded and proceeded towards under dark night conditions was not easy and I consider credit the North Goodwin. The passage through the Edinburgh Channels is due to the Commanding Officers of the ships for the way in which they were handled. The signal was cancelled before ships reached North Goodwin and they returned to normal duties. Early on 28th May ships were ordered to return to Sheerness forthwith and land surplas crew not required for embarking troops.
I had previously issued a memorandum on the steps to be taken if ships were used as troop carriers so that ships were ready with the necessary organisation and special arrangements.
Later only two ships were stated to be required and I
detailed "Royal Eagle" and "Crested Eagle" and myself decided to go to the "Royal Eagle".
Ships sailed from Sheerness at 1400 and were ordered to proceed to the Downs. On arrival at the Downs I reported the arrival of both ships to the Vice Admiral, Dover and also endeavoured to find out from every ship visible in the Downs if there were any orders for me. There were a number of troopers and hospital ships present so I put ships to short notice for steam and anchored for the night. There was considerable activity amongst the transports during the early morning so that I again asked for instructions and was then told to proceed to Dunkirk by route "y"
(Goodwin to West Hinder). I stationed "Crested Eagle" astern and proceeded at 1030 high speed. On approaching the Belgian Coast
I noticed a few rounds from Shore Batteries falling round ships ahead of me but the firing was not at all intense. On approaching
Dunkirk I saw a large number of men on the-beaches as far as La
Panne so not being able to get any instructions from anyone proceeded to the spot where British Troops appeared thickest and anchored at about 1530 close inshore to embark them. I sent
"Crested Eagle" to Dunkirk as I felt that on account of my original instructions ships might have been wanted there - however she soon re-appeared and anchored about 2 miles East of me and contenced embarking troops. At about 1630 German planes were sighted and
"Royal Eagle" opened a heavy fire - the plane carried out a high bombing attack on ships and beaches. The "Royal Eagle" was only hit by splinters but a Drifter near was set on fire and H.M.S.
proceeded under her own steam. A number of casualties occurred
"Greyhound" appeared to receive severe damage - although she later to boats and soldiers and were taken in board - amongst them volunteer crew and I regret to say died some hours later.
the Paymaster crews Subo Lieutenant of H.M.S. "Sandown" who W&B in a
Although boats explosive bomba were used on ships I noticed a line only high to be incendiary bombs along the line of the beach. of Embarkation what appeared proceeded slowly chiefly owing to the lack the of power boats and the fact that few seamen were available for boats which were left with an insufficient Military crew.

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF A/A SHIPS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
MAY 31st - JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all naddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed
CONFIDENTIAL
Deproms. 140.
279
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
te
DATE
6th June, 1940.
7
266
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHE RNESS.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR H.M. SHIPS "ROYAL" "GOLDEN" AND "CRESTED EAGLE".
"ROYAL EAGLE". (1). Lieut. Comdr. Farrow R.N.R. Commanding Officer for coolness and ability in handling and directing his ship under difficult conditions.
(2). Lieutenant Dunkerley R.N.R. For coolness and ability in handling the ship and for inexhaustive energy and skill in organising the ship and personally assisting in the evacuation of Military Units under fire.
(3). Lieutenant (E) Helyer R.N.R. Chief Engineer.
For exceptional work outside his normal duties in organising the ship for the reception of casualties and troops and for the personal example of coolness and ability in embarkation and rescue work under. fire.
(4). C.P.O. Percy S.T. Munn C/J10033 Torpedo
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional qualities of leadership and devotion to duty. The excellent morale of the ship's company and the smooth and efficient working of the whole organisation was due to a very great extent to the personal influence of this elderly. Chief Petty Officer.
(Pensioner). For coolness and good qualities of leadership
(5). C.P.O. William J. Jones C/J2950 D.S.M.
during the evacuation of troops.
ast
(6). Ordinary Seaman Miller C/JX170070. For
120
untiring care and devotion to the wounded.
"GOLDEN Lieutenant Newman O.B.E. R.N.V.R. (though On the not indisposition of his Officer) assumed command of successful
EAGLE". (1). Commanding Officer, Lieut. Newman the ship and the Senior remaining example and leadership was bombing and in evacuating through his a personal large number of years troops of under age heavy and has little real shell sea fire. This officer personal is 54 example and initiative take was undoubtedly experience, the but reason his that "Golden Eagle" was able to an om
FG"
active part in the evacuation.

- -SECRET- -
had been put were at full the disposal and all officers of the troops cabins - 1+11 all and as an bunks example the Captain's who abin had was occupied by dozen completely naked men carried swam 1700 on board.
Eagle" this
Officers assisted most I would THE the STATE
THE 1pl ne
Second Lieutena to Wilson 201 Company,
Engineers who was indefatigablein his
It is almost impossible to mention any officers ratings who were outstanding when all were excellent but or consider that the efficiency of the ship is due to a grea extent to her Commanding Officer whose to cool whom and balanced
T
was able
280
"GOLDEN EAGLE" continued.
889
(2). Lieutenant Lucas R.N.R. This officer supported Lieutenant Newman and by his handling of the shi personal efforts in berthing and securing carried out inva work under dangerous and very difficult conditions.
(3). C.P.O. James S. Seaman C/J3192 Torped
Coxswain (Pensioner). For exceptional work in organising leading the ship's company in difficult and dangerous work elderly Chief Petty Officer led every form of work and act and his untiring efforts resulted in the rescue of a very number of men.
(4). Seaman E.C. Utton R.N.R. X19617a. Thi seaman went ashore from H.M.S. "Golden Eagle" with a line organised a ferry service between the ship and shore. He exceptional coolness and ability under fire and his individual work throughout the whole proceedings was exceptional.
R.N.V.R. C/WRX84. For exceptionally good work and devoti
(5). F.J. Shirley, Acting Leading Telegrap duty.
LIIB
(6). Able Seaman Scott S.T. T.D./X1406.
coolness and ability whilst at the helm under fire.
his ship and after presence she had been set on fire by severe coolness of mind in the manner in which bombing
"CRESTED EAGLE". (1). Lieutenant Commander B.R. Booth he continuously (2). the Sub. Lieut. of R.M. Robertactions shoberts.
series of keeping attacks guns and maintaining until SI
although the severe ship bombing was on fire and out of nottenbeve control finally to be abandoned.
F
Able Seaman G. Friend C/J95190.
excellent work in (3). assisting to fire from the ship be aban face of severe air attacks until she had last to orid (4). Chief Steward Cooch (1) J.F. (T.124). CO
air extreme attack care and and with devotion the ship to finally the wounded disabled whilstand on
BBW
order of asw odg Cordeau
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF A/A SHIPS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
MAY 31st - JUNE 3rd.
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed forthwith to the beaches and I at once went on board "Royal Eagle"
and after having embarked extra lifebelts and some rafts from the
North Wall at Sheerness the ship proceeded to the beaches via route
"X" at full speed.
When half way across a signal was received from V.A. Dover ordering "Royal Eagle" to Ramsgate to await instructions so the ship was turned and anchored off Ramsgate. No instructions were received but an Examination Vessel called alongside with a set of directions to minesweepers and paddle minesweepers to proceed to a point 1½ miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
that "Royal Eagle" was meant to htaining this I signalled that
CONFIDENTIAL
281
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR "ROYAL " "GOLDEN"
to arrive off the beaches
AND "CRESTED EAGLE".
Officer to anchor a full 1½
(s.o. T.D.D.F.'s Letter of 6th June, 1940
ve room for the ships coming ench drifter with some French arked them but by 2320 I had
II.
then some six or more al to V.A. Dover to this
COMMODORE IN CHARGE,
SHEERNESS.
weepers were to be underway resumed that this was on
-ly continuous, though in the
Forwarded, concurring with the recommendations of the Senior Officer,
Thames Local Defence Flotilla.
gistèred on a wreck a few as most of the shells fell
E just around the wreck.
1 splinters and I kept the
S much as possible.
CAPTAIN.
0" commenced to weigh but
7/6/40.
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
0 ship near them and they were as well as two seriously h was manned by naval ratings.
ches about 0330 being the last absence of boats only some 120
h had been embarked.
ess and owing to a boiler
13 steam for half speed only.
to 1320 and I at once
Commanding Officer was in a in leave and assumed command received for "Golden Eagle"
00/3 and take off troops from crossing by route "X" near"FG"
hich, after passing at some

SECRET
mánoeuvring.ne near the slightly wall fairly heavy shelling progress58.
284
outside round the bearing the port paddle had arriving the harbour was I found wounded by a splinter. was On in hemp the entrance - so as soon as I was just many clear fathoms of wreck at on with knives to to the port, I stopped and got a of the of hands and I was able to clear it. The bearing was practically number cleared light proceed though only at half speed. In the increasing of the ship was shelled from a gun position coast I picked up a Service motor launch and also a lifeboat and to the west Dunkirk, but was not hit. Soon after leaving the towed them back to the North Goodwin.
H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE" I have not yet seen the report from the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. "Crested Eagle" but from the evidence of a survivor it appears that, after I had ordered her to Dunkirk on May 29th, she proceeded alongside the eastern side of the East Mole at Dunkirk and embarked troops and casualties including many from H.M.S. "Grafton" and a transport which had both been sunk alongside by bombs. Heavy bombing and shell fire was experienced but "Crested Eagle" was unhit until the evening when she had just left the Mole to proceed home with her load of troops and casualties and was hit by a bomb in the engine room. A fire was started and it appeared that as the engines were still working slowly the Commanding Officer decided to beach the ship. Before or after she was beached it is believed she was hit again by two bombs. It is thought that only a small proportion of the ship's company were casualties but that many of the stretcher cases who were accommodated in the wardroom and after part of the ship were lost in the fire.
H.M.S. "GOLDEN" EAGLE". 1 I would like to add the following remarks in respect of th report of proceedings forwarded by Lieutenants
Newman and Lucas. Although technically Lieut. Lucas is second in command of the ship (as an R.N.R. Officer - Lieut Newman being an
R.N.V.R. Officer), Lieut. Newman has carried out the duties of
First Lieutenant and there is no doubt that the initiative and good work done by the ship during the absence of her Commanding
Officer was due almost entirely to Lieutenant Newman who took upon himself the command and was loyally supported by the two
R.N.R. Officers-Lieutenants Lucas and Dent, who did excellent work once Lieutenant Newman had decided what was to be done. Lieut. J.
C. Newman is 54 years of age and quite inexperienced in Naval matters - but I consider that the part he played in these operations is worthy of the highest commendation and I am convinced that had it not been for his leadership and initiative "Golden Eagle" would not have taken any active part in the proceedings.
I would like also to mention the goods work done by Lieut.
Lucas R.N.R. who handled the ship with great skill, and on the occasion on which the ship was in Dunkirk harbour at night. I
consider that the fact that she got out safetly was in a great measure due to his personal efforts on the springs, etc, as well as his handling of the ship.
To the list of men recommended I would like to add Fredk.
J. Shirley, Acting Leading Telegraphist R.N.V.R. C/WRX84, whose assistance of to me as Senior Officer of the flotilla and also that efficiency and extreme devotion to duty has been of the utmost rely Able Seaman Scott S.T. TD/X1406, who was the only man I could the upon to take the wheel with degree of competency during given to C.P.O. Seaman and Utton, I thoroughly Seaman R.N.R.
night visit to Dunkirk. any endorse the recommendations

Dyrams 37.
291
Copy.
Commodore's Office, 273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship Finella
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
CONFIDENTIAL Dynama 269 286
nmenced in which some ne harbour and ships in
"Grenade" was hit, and
The Extended Defences Officer, so intense that my
FROM.
Sheerness.
pening in the immediate
DATE... 7th June 1940.
ng between raids and nder Clouston, R.N., who
TO.
The Commodore in Charge
Sheerness.
ed her survivors came on
SUBJECT. Senior Officer, Thames Local ges were passed by this
Defence Flotilla.
when a bomb dropped down n. from "Finella" to "Crested
I wish to recommend the
'S from the damaged ships
Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence
Flotilla, Commander E.C. Cordeaux R.N.
proceed by Commander
M.B. M.R.C.S. L.R.C.P. for his great judgment and initiative, and also for sy and steering an Easterly iously until, as I learnt his unflagging energy shown during the ther, four of which hit the whole period of operation Dynamo.
idles) were still functioning overboard when the whaler capsized
His gallant action in going ile, but I soon discovered y from amidships right aft.
alongside ROYAL EAGLE and remaining and the sides were in.
inthe water for over an hour to clear
:enant Jones, reported on the propellor of the motor boat are15, adly burnt) to say that
I consider, worthy of the greatest ur, so decided to beach the praise.
3.P's and C.B's. were
Kinnahi
10 P.O. Telegraphist.
to the beach where she
CAPTAIN,
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
ed ground and with the wind

Dyrams 37. 291
Copy.
Commodore's Office,
273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000
Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330
Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship Finella.
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
SECRET
COPY.
133.270
enced in which some
Dynamo
57 Greville Hall, harbour and ships in
Greville Place.
Grenade" was hit, and
N.W.6.
30 intense that my ning in the immediate
Extended Defences Officer,
Sheerness.
between raids and
5th. June ler Clouston, R.N., who
1940.
(t) at eststa Istoeqa
1 her survivors came on
Sir, es were passed by this
"Forward Report of Proceedings and list
With reference to your signal when a bomb dropped down of any recommendations" received after rom "Finella" to "Crested my arrival home at noon to day, I regret that without reference to the deck and from the damaged ships signal logs I am unable to give a report roceed by Commander of the proceedings. This, I understand has already been given by the S.O., and steering an Easterly
T.L.D.F. and I submit that if my report isly until, as I learnt
10 forthwith. urgent, that I return to the base er, four of which hit the
Les) were still functioning out, individuals for special
I find it difficult to single
Le, but I soon discovered from amidships right aft.
recommendation, for the entire ship's
1 the sides were in.
company behaved magnificently ant Jones, reported on throughout the 5 days evacuation.
lly burnt) to say that so decided to beach the
The following members are deserving of praise for the reasons p's and C.B's. were stated.
P.O. Telegraphist.
Lieut. Dunkerley (N) RNR for the very
, the beach where she excellent navigational duties performed under very difficult circumstances, and ground and with the wind for valuable rescue work in taking drifting boats, taking them to the charge of a motor launch and collecting

Dyroms 37.
291
Copy.
Commodore's Office,
273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss of H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
1940.
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship Finella.
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
SECRET Dynamo 271 289
menced in which some
C.O. ROYAL EAGLE's letter of 5thJune '40
concerning Report of Proceedings.
e harbour and ships in
"Grenade" was hit, and so intense that my ening in the immediate
II
THE EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER
g between raids and
SHEERNESS.
der Clouston, R.N., who ed her survivors came on
Submitted, ges were passed by this
I entirely concur with the remarks made by Lieut. Commander Farrow.
when a bomb dropped down
The officers and men mentioned from le "Finella" to "Crested also came under my own personal notice and I can fully endorse the recommendations made.
B from the damaged ships proceed by Commander
I would like also to mention the coxswain (leading seaman) of H.M.S.
/ and steering an Easterly
GREYHOUND'S motor boat, which after busly until, as I learnt
H.M.S. GREYHOUND had been bombed worked ther, four of which hit the for a time from the ROYAL EAGLE.
iles) were still functioning
The name of this rating is not known, but I was much struck by his ile, but I soon discovered
/ from amidships right aft.
coolness and devotion to duty.
ad the sides were in.
Deall vill enant Jones, reported on adly burnt) to say that
6, so decided to beach the
.P's and C.B's. were
COMMANDER R.N.
e P.O. Telegraphist.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE
to the beach where she
FLOTILLA.
a ground and with the wind aft

Dyroms 37. 291
Copy.
Commodore's Office, 273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on the loss 1940. of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May,
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship "inella.
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several
Думашо
Camepacs 314/0/1115
mmenced in which some
GRAMS
3320
idmiral, Chatham.
Office of the Commander-in-Chieft,
The Nore,
PHONE:- 9
Admiralty House, he harbour and ships in
Chatnam No. 3221.
(Extensions 210 and 519).
Chatham.
"Grenade" was hit, and
13th June, 1940.
so intense that my pening in the immediate
No.187.P/40.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING, DOVER.
ng between raids and nder Clouston, R.N., who
LOSS OF H.M.S. "CRESTED EAGLE".
ed her survivors came on ges were passed by this
With reference to Nore 3019/
187.P/40 of 5th June, 1940 paragraph when a bomb dropped down full names etc. are as follows:-
n.
from "Finella" to "Crested
Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones. (T.124)
George Frend.A.B. C/J95190.
"'s from the damaged ships
John Gooch. Chief Steward. T.124.
proceed by Commander
George Tilbury. A.B. C/S.S.7050.
sy and steering an Easterly
R.F.R. B.17336.
Frederick James Slack. A.B. C/J.93546.
iously until, as I learnt ther, four of which hit the
R.F.R. B.21781.
Frank A.V. Patrick. Ordinary Seaman.
idles) were still functioning
ON/NK.
ile, but I soon discovered
VA
Ly from amidships right aft.
and the sides were in.
tenant Jones, reported on a.Gndon. Hune badly burnt) to say that ar, so decided to beach the forADMIRAL.
3.P's and C.B's. were ne P.O. Telegraphist.
VICE ADMIRA
to the beach where she ed ground and with the wind

Dyroms 37.
291
Copy.
Commodore's Office, 273
Royal Chatham. Naval Barracks,
31st May, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report on loss 1940. of H.M.S. 'CRESTED EAGLE", under my command, on 29th May, the
The times are approximate only.
1000 Ordered to proceed in company with "Royal Eagle" to
Coast east of Dunkirk to embark troops. "Royal Eagle" had on board S.O.T.D.F., Commander Cordeaux, R.N.
1330 Approaching coast I received signal from S.O.T.D.F., to proceed Dunkirk as it appeared to him that there were only Belgian and French troops on the beach at that time.
1430 Made fast on eastern side of Dunkirk Jetty, outer berth but one, which was occupied by troopship "Finella".
On the opposite side was "Grenade" and several trawlers.
1500 First raid after arrival commenced in which some trawlers were damaged.
1530 onwards Bombing raids on the harbour and ships in the vicinity almost continuous now, "Grenade" was hit, and more trawlers damaged. Attack was so intense that my attention was given to what was happening in the immediate vicinity.
Troops were trickling along between raids and boarding s/s HI inella
I was in touch with Commander Clouston, R.N., who was incharge on the Jetty.
After "Grenade" was damaged her survivors came on board "Crested Eagle" and W/T messages were passed by this ship to Dover, VA.
1700 inella was about to sail when a bomb dropped down her funnel putting her out of action.
Commenced to embark troops from "Finella" to "Crested
Eagle".
1700 to 1800. Troops and survivors from the damaged ships were embarked and I was ordered to proceed by Commander
Clouston who remained on the Jetty.
Swung clear of Jetty and steering an Easterly course, the ship was raided continuously until, as I learnt afterwards, five bombs dropped together, four of which hit the ship.
As the engines (paddles) were still functioning
I held on course for a little while, but I soon discovered that the ship my was on fire, certainly from amidships right in. aft.
The deck was up four or five feet and the sides were
The Engineer, Lieutenant Jones, reported on we should not be able to proceed far, so decided to beach the the bridge at this time (although badly burnt) to say that ship.
At this point all S.P's and C.B's. were jettisoned in the steel chest by the P.O. Telegraphist.
Ship's head turned to the beach where she brought up sometime Fire later. steadily gained ground and with the wind aft

293
274
0
Copy.
R.N. Chatham. Barracks,
The Commanding Officer,
H.M.S. "Crested Eagle".
Sir,
I have the honour to report that during the intense aerial bombardment of the pier, and the subsequent bombing, beaching, and burning of the vessel, all men under my control remained steady at their posts and carried out their duties with great coolness. I should like especially to report on the following men:
1e
Tilbury A.B.
Frend. A.B.
Plack, A.B.
Patrick. 0.S.
for their work in keeping the vessel alongside the quay and for assisting the wounded men to board the vessel. I have to report that an unknown A.B. or O.S. a survivor from the
"Grenade" suffering from severe facial injuries, requested that he should assist to men the A.A. guns. Being shorthanded I posted him as gunlayer and Captain of the Gun at
No.2 Pom pom. This Gun he kept in action for 20 minutes after the bombing of the vessel.
Four German Prisoners on board were of great al assistance in rescuing wounded from the damaged compartments, these men were handed over to a French N.C.O. on reaching shore.
side
Engineer Sub.Lieut. Turnbull, R.N.R. was placed in hospital in a large hotel about 2 miles East of Dunkirk.
He was badly burnt about the hands and face and suffering slightly from shock. Owing to the congested state of the beaches it was impossible to collect all survivors. All men seen were instructed to return to England by the earliest availableboat.
1.
in.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
R.M. Roberts,
Lieut. R.N.R.
1035. Observed large number of troops waiting by
Zuidcoote Sanaterium and no boats or ships in immediate vicinity.
1040 Anchored in 2½ fathoms in position
Dunkirk High lighthouse bearing 237 deg. 3.25 miles.
Established communication ashore by using ship's ropes secured ashore and by using two ship's boats and two small boats salved from beach, ferried troops from beach to ship.
Owing to falling tide, shallow water and inshore swell operations were difficult and troops had to wade into 3 feet of water to keep boats afloat but by changing the boats creews for every trip - about 60 troops per hour were embarked.
During this time bombing, shelling and aerial and machine gunning took place, and gun's crews were continually on the alert and in action and embarking operations continued without a break.
Embarked about 340 troops.

CONFIDENTIAL
114/0/392
FROM. EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER,
SHEERNESS.
295
DATE. 18th June, 1940.
24d/m/8
276
Local Defence Flotills.
7
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERNESS.
¥
er, Sheerness.
"CRESTED EAGLE" - ACTION OFF DUNKIRK.
DUNKIRK.
The attached letter from
Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence
Flotilla, is forwarded for information with a copy of "Crested Eagle's" report utenant Commander of proceedings.
H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE, he loss of the ship
I should like to endorse Commander
Cordeaux's views of the behaviour of the
Commanding Officers, Lieut. Comdr B.R.
al account Lieutenant
Booth R.N.R. and Sub. Lieut. R.M. Roberts tice to the splended
R.N.R.
fficers and ship's ed on her way into g and machine gun fire
CAPTAIN.
1 also later whilst
/ler
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER.
being made to rescue at
-II-
No.. D.Y.1/01.
STAMODORE- 18 ADMI
IN-CHARGE
VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
ssed by his account of
(Copy to:-
Roberts RNR who
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, up to their guns
THE NORE).
ombing attacks - the ely unprotected -
Forwarded.
ed fire until ition was exhausted.
th considers that the
S. COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE, ily the reason that the
SHEERNESS.
appears to me also that the behaviour of
20
urned to and situation is deserving of great praise.
P.O. TeCommander Booth himself, in his general handling le
Meal given
COMMANDER R.N.
ERNERNES
S.O. T.L.D.F.
is
0. Telegraphist. or of the P.O. Telegraphist.
ed to the beach wieshould turned to the beach where she brought up sometime ined ground and with theaey gained ground and with the wind aft in very few re fore and aft.
on fire fore and aft.
to estimate the number snult to estimate the number of men on board, under hey were embarked, I anceeat they were embarked, I should say round about 600.
ks were filled first, ceachdecks were filled first, casualties from the bomb been severe. After bechaneve been severe. After beaching I advised all water as their only chitroone water as their only chance, and probably 200
at one time in the wachen and at one time in the water. I regret to say that ne gunned.
seachine gunned.
alf an hour owing to the ship being all wood, of the hull, she was blazing furiously fore and
± I can safetly say that any gear or instruments

FROM
The Senior Officer, Thames Local Defence 10/14/19 Flotills.
7
DATE
16th June 1940.
y
TO
The Extended Defences Officer, Sheerness.
SUBJECT. CRESTED EAGLE - ACTION OFF DUNKIRK.
Submitted-
I have now interviewed Lieutenant Commander
B.R. Booth the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE, in and have had a personal account of the loss of the ship at Dunkirk.
I feel that in his original account Lieutenant
Commander Booth has hardly done justice to the splended work company. accomplished by himself, his officers and ship's
The ship was machine gunned on her way into
Dunkirk and under continuous bombing and machine gun fire for many hours before being hit and also later whilst
/lers on fire and whilst endeavours were being made to rescue ist the wounded.
I was particularly impressed by his account of the behaviour of Sub. Lieutenant M.Roberts RNR who
2.
encouraged his gun's crews to keep up to their guns under continuous machine gun and bombing attacks - the guns and gun positions being entirely unprotected -
and continued careful and controlled fire until practically the whole of the ammunition was exhausted.
Lieutenant Commander Booth considers that the accurate pom-pom fire was undoubtedly the reason that the ship remained unhit for so long.
It appears to me also that the behaviour of
Lieutenant Commander Booth himself, in his general handling le of the ship and situation is deserving of great praise.
general
B
COMMANDER R.N.
S.O. T.L.D.F.
da steel chest by the P.O. Telegraphist.
Ship's head turned to the beach where she brought up sometime later.
Fire steadily gained ground and with the wind aft in very few minutes she was on fire fore and aft.
It is difficult to estimate the number of men on board, under the conditions that they were embarked, I should say round about 600.
As the lower decks were filled first, casualties from the bomb hands to take to the water as their only chance, and probably 200
explosions must have been severe. After beaching I advised all men could be sighted at one time in the water. I regret to say that they were badly machine gunned.
with the exception of the hull, she was blazing furiously fore and
In less than half an hour owing to the ship being all wood, aft and I feel that I can safetly say that any gear or instruments

-2-
518
Skipper more than fifty men, and if damage became the considered not to could embark made the return journey and instructed I
I she inspected "Polly Johnson" and although damaged
489
more serious to transfer them to "Brock".
7
During this lull more wounded troops were embarked in
"Fynella" and "Canterbury" and a few other troops wandered up the jetty. I was then told that I could try and fill up my ships and I stationed Officers abreast each ship and instructed them to order all unwounded men down into the trawlers. They were mostly unwilling to embark in what they considered "fishing boats" at first and made various excuses to try and get to the larger ships.
As the rate of filling up was so slow I asked the Piermaster if I could send the four outside ships to sea to wait their turns and decrease the target, but I was told that there would be a large number of men ready as soon as the wounded had been embarked and that the ships were to remain alongside.
I was then asked by the Piermaster if I would place a trawler alongside the Western Jetty and light some smoke floats, and he suggested that I might like to volunteer for the job. I
said that I was quite prepared to do the job by boat, but that I
did not consider it possible to place a ship alongside the jetty as the foundations of the pier were shewing when I entered harbour, and that my trawlers were all drawing over 15 feet while the rise and fall on that day was only 11 feet.
"Jaguar" completed and left harbour during this period, and a large paddle steamer (I think Crested Eagle) berthed shead of "Fynella".
At about 1630 the second raid was carried out, but this was a rather half-hearted affair. All ships opened fire as before, and no damage was done to the ships alongside. About 20/30 bombs were dropped as before but they were divided between three targets -
"Jaguar" leaving the harbour - the ships alongside, and two French destroyers on the opposite side of the harbour. The "Jaguar" was damaged.
Fighters again appeared and the raiders were driven off.
The Canterbury completed and left harbour, and a destroyer came in to take her place.
After this raid more troops started to come down the pier and although traffic was still hampered by the wounded and stretcher cases quite a large number were embarked in the trawlers.
At about 1800 the third raid started. This was a very much more determined attack, and the bombers came over in waves at a few minute intervals fire was opened but fighters appeared and it was impossible to tell if they were enemy or not and it hampered the firing to a great extent.
About 100 bombs were dropped, and the attack appeared to be directed entirely on the pier and the ships alongside.
The "Calvi" and "Grenade" received direct hits and sank immediately. "Calvi's" masts and funnel were above water and her ensign remained flying from the foremast. There was a Mrect hit on the pier close to the end and "Fynella" was damaged, A cortain amount of panic ensued and men started climbing out of one ship into another, and some attempted to run back towards the shore.
At this time I was with the Piermaster and he instructed me to draw my revolver to quell the panic and to load up with survivors and troops and to get the ships out as quickly as possible.