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

REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S."LOCUST" DURING OPERATION "DYNAMO245 258
29th May 1940 to 4th June 1940.
29th May. H.M.S. "Locust" and H.M.S. "Mosquito" were ordered to sail for La Panne and Bray Dunes respectively, and proceeded at
1348.
At 1730 "Mosquito" parted company and at 1845 "Locust"
arrived in position off La Panne Beach.
Large numbers of both British and French Troops were seen to be waiting on the beach, and it was decided that a first attempt at embarkation shouldbe made by grounding the fore part of "Locust" and trying to get the soldiers to wade out and climb on board over the bow. Ladders were accordingly rigged forward and the ship steamed in to the beach.
The kedge anchor was let go over the stern and at 1900
the ship took the ground forward. After hailing the beach a few soldiers started to wade off, but gave up the attempt, and as the tide was falling the ship was got off and anchored, and embarkation started by means of the Ship's two whalers.
At 1950 engaged enemy aircraft and continued to do so intermittently until 2130. Enemy aircraft were carrying out bombing attacks on the beaches.
At 2200 "Locust" signalled Commander Cordeaux in "Royal
Eagle" for information, as embarkation was proceeding very slowly, and there appeared to beno Power boats available.
Reply from "Royal Eagle" that Commander Cordeaux was incapacitated and that "Locust" was S.N.O. La Panne.
As there were no powerboats in sight, and a number of pulling boats could be seen stranded on the beach by the receding tide I decided to land in order to organize the troops into pulling themselves off from the beach.
At 2220 S.N.O. "A" in "Hebe" approached and approved my landing. I accordingly landed at 2230 and found six R.N.
cutters and three Merchant Service (pulling) Life boats
Mut stranded on the beach about 300 yards from the water's edge.
Locust
There were about 1000 British Troops who appeared to be in charge of Non-commissioned Officers. The boats had of swung across the beach and were jambed together, half full of water and in many cases imbedded in the sand. The
3
soldiers took some little time to understand what was rethis quired of them, but eventually all the boats were emptied x
and got down to the water's edge. They were then pulled out to "Locust" and other ships present by the Soldiers.
30th May.
At midnight, 29th/30th the ships and the beach were again bombed by enemy aircraft which caused some slight delay in the embarkation, but by 0300 all the available boats were off the beach and I returned on board.
P.T.O.

Думамо 243.
H.M.S."GUILLENCH."
259
11th,June,1940.
H.M.S. "DYNAMO" "GUILLEMOT" BETWEEN MAY REPORT 29th. OF and PROCEEDINGS JUNE 24th. DURING OPERATIONS
On Wednesday 29th. May "GUILLEMOT" received orders to proceed to SHEERNESS, and arrived there at 0700. On arrival she was ordered to embark fuel and stores and proceed to
MARGATE and act as base ship. She arrived at MARGATE at 2030, and at
2200 H.M. Schoot HORST came alongside for stores and lubricating oil.
She cast off at 2300.
On 30th. May H.M.S. "GOLDEN EAGLE" came alongside for fuel and water at 0625. At 0950 "GUILLEMOT" cast off from
"GOLDEN EAGLE", weighed anchor and proceeded alongside "ROYAL EAGLE"
to supply stores, water, and oil fuel to her. At 1100 we cast off from
"ROYAL EAGLE" and anchored. At 1840 "MEDWEY QUEEN" came alongside for oil fuel and water, and at 1950 H.M. Schoot DELTA came alongdide for diesel oil. "MEDWEY QUEEN" cast off at 2000 and "DELTA" at 2115.
At 2345 "GOLDEN EAGLE" came alongside for oil fuel and water and cast off at 0425 the following morning. During the day a supply of victualling stores was landed on MARGATE PIER for supply to ships'
companies of ships going alongside pending the arrival of stores from RAMSGATE. Signalman ALLEN was landed to assist the Signal staff ashore, which duty he performed until the ship sailed for DUNKIRK.
At 1110 on 31st.May oil lighter BRENDOR came alongside for orders as it had been arranged with N.O.I.C.MARGATE
that GUILLEMOT would take charge of all fuelling. BRENDOR carried about 30 tons of diesel oil and was extremely useful fuelling Schoots and other Diesel engined craft. Hopper W24 came alongside for oil and stores during the forenoon. At 1135 H.M. Schoot HORST secured alongside and Lieutenant SARGENT R.N.R., lst. Lieutenant of GUILLEMOT, took over command of her from Lieutenant Commander FARDELL R.N. Her crew was relieved by a volunteer crew from GUILLEMOT as her Officers and men had been three days and nights without sleep. HORST sailed at 1315.
Lieutenant SARGENT'S narrative is attached.

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.

gLT
One Wholer capsized along side from "Royal actually Begle" and elthough able to keep one of the men hims. during the sinking I I
that I the unable to revive round her to in the water I endoavoured Officer after a time 40
only two motor boats got e line to clear 100 and propeller and one of th of who Joined no it WAS conc. Unfortunately as a result "Royel 02 mon efficient help of the Second Engineer of the with immersion for over on hour I had G temporary collapse and the hand over command to Licutenant Commander Farrow Commanding had of H.M.S. "Royal Bagle" who carried on in D. \ my cool and manuer for about four hours until I was fit to take over able
During this time two more air reids Cook place and fr. DERIA
nollected 1 believe that "Royal Regle" accounted for One evidens
HER pompons, I very much regret to state that H.M.S. "Crested plano
Bagle" 1003 hit by a bomb and set on fire. I understand that
Commanding Officer tree able to beach her but she was completely gutted. I very much regret the 1030 of this ship and part of complemento H.M.S. "Crested Engle" had on excellent record EN
from. several weeks from personal contact with her officers and company, complete confidence in the ship in whatever dutyes called upon to performo I have not yet had a detailed report her casualties but am afraid that a number of valuable lives lost on board hero
On cosuming command at about 8.30 I signalled to the V1co
Admiral, Dover that I propoded remaining at anchor for the night and continuing the embarkation at down - I reported also the of power boats and the necessity for fighter aircraft defence dawns Just before dark however a minesweeper passed me and me to return, with the men I had evacuated, to Dover - I asket the authority and was told that it was from Captain Ao I order
May
"Royel Engle" to proceed to Margate as I considered that from point of view this was the best point for disembarkation. on arriving there at about 0500 on Wednesday 29th I found "Golden dutio who had apparently also been sent out for disemburication and
"Golden Regle" proceeded alongside Margate Pier before everythin me
"Royal Eagle" followed shortly before 0600. I found troops
30
had been hurriedly but most efficiently organisedo the aid disembarked and the casualties evacuated by first Lieute partied. About emoothly 700 had been carried a
General troops representations
Officer and (when staff, I I made strong Chief of Staff the power Chief) boats every and that means adequate should air protection should be that gethered was be taken to provide with provisions and water H.M.3. from who Pierothen had been as she was rather to provide 012 and was view
"Royal Engle" was supplied short of 012 enchored by engaged oiling "Golden Bagle". About 1000 "Golden Eagle"
sent to Margate I considered that should sailed urgent need and I ofor ships allowed the "Royal beaches Segle" sufficient boll
5 a second tons which trip WB only to the Just const. enough I to proceeded give her at B. Ergin signal about 1100 saying and by the
When near the West Hinder Buoy I received proceed a by "X" information BUD
were Bagle" not to proceed by "y" but were that to she had been At the him the route who WAS shond of no told me of shell fireo telling
15
30
however I was intercepted dangerous on account to on unknown unit embarked proceed I decided thet La Panno where from men field were batteries was not Englon on to a signal miting to be likely to subjected to accurate fire off La to dangerous DO proceeded firing at full speed. H.M.S. "Royal from Parme shore a prolonged but not very ship
I gun which did not coase until definitely the Separent merchant on the beach shipa at On arrival at 40 Panne W1 of considered that the, fire would be withing
Dunkirk and enchowed all BO at I proceeded about 1530 further opposite B

-3-
264
276
have off a the few boats. At this time I got a signal
I at this part of doing essential work and that there were
I was beaches were to proceed to Dunkirk but that as many men signal, and the coast to be evacuated I decided to ignore the other transports proceed with the evacuation. There were at most inadequate and the other only about 3 power boats of doubtful efficiency were and/cross arrived. The embarkation arrangements were first no channel boa on the beach but later a paddle minesweeper boats and Royal Engineers Ferry Boats do with very few seamen ratings present boats consisted of a few service boats mercantile between the loto It was only due to the magnificent work of the
Army units at this part of the beach who were admirably led by their
Officers. that embarkation was able to proceed at any sort of speed, although the work of the naval officers 10 were present in few power boats available was beyond praise. There appeared to be no centralised control either of boats or beach. During the afternoon and evening there was a certain amount of enemy air activity but enemy planes always moved away when A/A fire was brought to bear on them, and there were frequent visitations by British
Fighters which appeared to have an excellent deterrant effect. No bombs were dropped in my vicinity.
At about 2000 a short but heavy artillery fire was brought to bear on the part of the beach near to Dunkirk and many men started to swim out to the ships or come out in very inadequate boats.
I weighed anchor in the "Royal Eagle" - as the tide was approaching high tide and proceeded as close in shore as possible to pick up these men. At about 2200 when no further men were coming to the ship and "Royal Eagle" was packed to nearly full capacity - i.e. every covered in part of ship full and men also on the upper deck forward and aft, I decided to weigh and proceed to Sheerness rather than
Margate on account of the ships requirements in oil and water which at Margate would have taken too long to complete. I consider now that on this day I committed a serious error or judgement as in view of the poor embarkation facilities I should have ordered "Royal
Eagle" to ground herself in shore at low water and fill up my boats running between the ship and shore on a line and then have floated off and proceeded as the tide rose, or alternatively I might have grounded /Royal Eagle" to form a pier to facilitate embarkation by other ships when they arrived. I consider now on looking back that the provision of some sort of pier should have been a matter of primary importance.
In view of the shelling of the beaches from the Westward I
decided to proceed back by route "y" particularly as this was the only route known by experience. Shortly after leaving a report was received of M.T.B.'s off Bray but I then considered that it was too late to turn back. After passing Middelkerke Buoy the ship was attacked by an aircraft firing machine gun but I gave orders that no firing was to take place so that thereshould be less chance of giving away to ships position to M.T.B. The ship was not hito
During the night I passed three small dark vessels which I believed were French Torpedo Boats. I did not challenge but kept guns trained on them. About 0230 on 31st May there were signs of firing about
10 miles astern and about five minutes later a tremendous column of flame rose from the water. I consider now that I was to blame in using route "Y" and that I unduly hazarded the ship by 80 doing.
On arrival at Sheerness at 0600 I found that in response to my request every possible arrangement had been made for the reception of the troops and the cleaningofuelling, and provisioning of the ship. The ships company had had practically no sleep for about 48
hours and had been working under conditions of high tension and extreme discomfort and the fact that such excellent arrangements had been made by Sheprness was very much appreciated. I cannot speak too highly of the spirit and sense of duty shown by the officers and ships company. On both nights the whole of the ships...commodation

277
- - SECRET - -
had and been put at full the disposal and all officers of the troops cabine 0 1411 all as an bunks example were the Captain's men who rabin had was swam occupied on by dozen second NIGHt"Royal Eagle" 9 this 1700
completely naked carried board. a
TOTAL THE I would Military
1pl ne in was
Second Lieutena to Wilson indefatigablein 201 Company, his
Engineers who was
It is almost impossible to mention any officers ratings who were outstanding when all were excellen but or extent to her Commanding Officer whose cool and balanced consider that the efficiency of the ship is due to a grea opinions were of great help to me and to whom I was able confidently to give the direction of affairs when I was temporarily incapacitated.
I would like also to mention the Chief Engineer, who is a man of great experience in all matters not only those his particular department and whose advice I frequently asked on various matters.
SGD. E.C. Cordeaux.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
II.
Commodore In Charge,
Sheerness.
The report from SeLior Officer, Thames Local Defence
Flotilla shows that Commander Cordeaux is an officer who is able to sum up a situation and to act on his own initiative
I consider his work deserving of great praise, and also of recognition.
2. I have formed a very high opinion of the the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. "Royal amply justifies the trust I had in himo
1st Juneo 1940.
EXTENDED CAPTAIN OFFICER.
-III-
No.. M.I.1/14/015.
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, THE NORE.
(Copy to:_ VICE-ADMIRAL, The invaluable DOVER). work done by the already Padd1e fully of
Vessels of the Thames Flotilla is
*
4- JUN 1940 DMIRAL
established,
2. appreciation shown Commander cool balance, this your 181
The Local Defence judgement, and Donfused difficult by Cordeaux
Fand find the time operation and latent It is is typical worthy of of the this for during his short period of physical rest before resources again sailing
Belgian Coast.
H. R.
2nd June, 1940.
(Copy - X D
COMMODORE- (Sd.) IV E

SECRET
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132. 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st JUNE 3rd.
on May H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported
On 31st completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness ready to proceed.
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover,
GCRET
CONFIDENTIAL
Alule/
in
1391
ite
NORE LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - REPORT ON
OPERATIONS OFF FRENCH COAST.
263
(Commodore-in-Charge, Sheerness' No. M.I.1/14
/015 of 2nd June, 1940).
IV.
a
No. 3021/477.c.c/40.
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
so
(Copy to:- Flag Officer Commanding, Dover.).
Comdr.
Farrow
Forwarded for the information of Their
Lordships. The full names of the Officers mentioned in the last two paragraphs of Minute I are as follows:- Commanding Officer, Temporary Lieutenant
Commander Edward Frederick Allen Farrow, R.N.R. - Chief
Engineer Temporary Lieutenant (E) Rodney L.Helyer,
1
R.N.R. (T. 124 agreement). I recommend them for recognition.
I fully endorse (E) the remarks of the Commodorein-Charge, 2. Sheerness, in Minute III and I strongly recommend that the services of Commander Cordeaux should be recognised by the immediate award of a high he honour. Apart from his courage, energy and high powers of leadership I have no doubt he made full use of his qualifications as a Doctor.
On other papers (Nore No. 2033/199B/40
of 30th May, 1940) I have asked that Commander Cordeaux his present appointment and I hope Their Lordships will should be made an Acting Captain whilst holding approve of this also at an early date.
ere
R.P.E.E.Drax, gs.
ast
The Nore,
I
A
L.
120
5th June, 1940.
to
VICE ADMIRAL
(1). his
6- JUN 1940
of
DOVER
officer is years of age and
11
but that "Golden his personal and to om
FG"

277
-SECRET-
had been put at the disposal and all officers of the troops cabins © 1411 all and bunks were full Captain's abin was occupied as an example completely the naked men who had swam on board. by dozen second NIGHt"Royal Eagle" carried this 1700
Officers assisted Wilson 201 Company,
I would lpline 0 in was THE
Engineers who was indefatigablein
Second Lieutena to his
It is almost impossible to mention any officers or ratings who were outstanding when all were excellent but extent to her Commanding Officer whose cool and balanced consider that the efficiency of the ship is due to a grea:
and to whom I was able when
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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
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
FROM
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
Dynamo 132 282
DATE
5th June, 1940.
267
TO
EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS.
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS MAY OF A/A SHIPS - OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA.
31st JUNE 3rd.
on May 31st H.M.S. "Royal Eagle" proceeded to a buoy and reported
On completing discharge of the Military Units at Sheerness ready to proceed.
that all paddle minesweepers and minesweepers were to proceed
On June 1st at 0800 a signal was received from V.A. Dover, 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 11/2 miles East of Dunkirk at 2200 to embark troops. I
endeavoured to obtain confirmation that "Royal Eagle" was meant to be included in the signal but not obtaining this I signalled that
I intended to proceed and left at 1530.
"Royal Eagle" was the first ship to arrive off the beaches at 2200 and I directed the Commanding Officer to anchor a full 1½
miles from the breakwater so as to leave room for the ships coming on to anchor astern. On arrival a French drifter with some French soldiers arrived alongside and disembarked them but by 2320 I had seen no sign of any boats although by then some six or more sweepers had arrived and I made a signal to V.A. Dover to this effect.
A signal was received that all sweepers were to be underway and clear of Dunkirk by 0300, and I presumed that this was on account of the shelling which was fairly continuous, though in the dark not very accurate.
It seemed as if the enemy had registered on a wreck a few hundred yards away from "Royal Eagle" as most of the shells fell between "Royal Eagle" and the wreck or just around the wreck.
"Royal Eagle" was spattered with shell plinters and I kept the ship's company below the upper deck as much as possible.
A little before 0300 "Royal Eagle" commenced to weigh but two boats were sighted inshore with no ship near them and they were injured from a power lighter which was manned by naval ratings. the last closed and their occupants picked up as well as two seriously but one Eagle" ship to clear. Owing to the absence of boats only some
"Royal men eventually left the beaches about 0330 being 120
French troops and half a dozen British had been embarked.
defect "Royal was put Eagle" at immediate notice for steam for half speed only.
returned to Sheerness and owing to a boiler
"Golden finding that her Commanding Officer was command in a
Eagle" arrived at 1320 and I at once rather overwraught state Orders I were soon received for "Golden from transferred her and sent him on leave and assumed Eagle"
of the ship myself. to arrive at 0100/3 and take route off "X" troops near"FG"
to proceed to Dunkirk 1725. Whilst crossing by at some buoy the Mole. I sighted I sailed a motor at torpedo boat which, after passing

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