Details

D.C/M.B.
(H.M.S. Excellent's)
Lieut. E.F. Hamilton-
Meikle, R.N.
29th May
2100
Left staff Dover for Dunkirk (car. Cazalet,
of V.A. Dover and Lt. Cdr.
Dennis, board). S.O., M.T.B's Dover, on
2300
Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11
Engine breakdown.
survivors from the A.B/V. King Orry.
30th May
0200
Taken in tow by the dr. Vivacious.
One engine towed in and started.
0300
Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk
harbour.
0400
Embarked 15 Allied troops.
0415
Air attack.
0425
Proceeded for Dover, speed 8 knots.
0945
Dover. Disembarked 15 troops.
Boat's engines unsatisfactory.
Total 15(1)
Of the officers in D.C/M.B., Lieut. R.H. Mead
R.N.V.R. assumed command of the Walton and
Frinton life boat [E.M.E.D.]; Lieut. Hamilton-
Meikle assumed command of a 40 foot ship's fast
motor boat.
Authority - R.O.II, pp.484, 612.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
225

Details

H.M.S. DOLPHIN'S power boat
S/Lt. E.J. Cornish-Bowden,
R.N.
29th May
1915
Left Gosport.
2200
Arrived Littlehampton.
-
Sailed for Dover, via Ramsgate, the
Dutch M/L M. 73 in company.
30th May
1400
Arrived off Dover.
31st May
0030ca
Sailed for La Panne, in company w1th
H.M.S. Excellent's A/A motor boat,
which was bound for Bray.
1115ca
The Dolphin arrived off La Panne.
No petrol obtainable. Proceeded
to Bray. It was decided "by the senior
officer present" that the Dolphin
would be of doubtful value off the
beaches.
1415
Dolphin sailed for Dover, in tow of the
yacht Sargasso.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p. 228.
R.O.III, p.13.
244

Details

ENDEAVOUR
M/B (owner,
G.H. Kent).
See "Cockle Bawley
30th May
1120 Left Portmouth Boats" in too or the hopper
Foremost 102,
31st May
1100
Left Ramsgato for bonkisk in company
with the 1/3 and the
Excellent's 35-foot feat W/B; all
1730oa
three being in too or the Cortment 102
Acrived OFF Braw beach. S/Lt. K.H.Martin
11.11. (1n the Forscost 102) and his
party of 12 naval maings manned the
three U/B's and ferried troops for
ships. 5 hours to the Foremost 102 and other
2230ca
S/Lt. Martin proceeded in the Poremont
102 to Remagate with two of the
but left the Enterprise to Curry
troops for the sk, Amazone,
2300
The Auterprise ran-aground and bed_so
be abandoned. She did not return -
from Dunkirk.
Authority - R.O.II, p.31.
R.O.III, p.104.
TO. 9436.
289

Details

ENTERPRISE
M/B (Owner,
G.H. Kent).
?
30th May
1120
Left Portsmouth in tow of the hopper
Foremost 102.
31st May
1100
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk in company
with the M/B Wave Queen and the
Excellent's 35-foot fast M/B; all
three being in tow of the Foremost 102
1730ca
Arrived off Bray beach. S/Lt. K.H.Martin
R.N. (in the Foremost 102) and his
party of 12 naval ratings manned the
three M/B's and ferried troops for
5 hours to the Foremost 102 and other
ships.
2230ca
S/Lt. Martin proceeded in the Foremost
102 to Ramsgate with two of the M/B's
but left the Enterprise to ferry
troops for the sk. Amazone.
2300
The Enterprise ran aground and had to
be abandoned. She did not return
from Dunkirk.
Authority - R.O.II, p.31.
R.O.III, p.104.
TO. 9436.
290

Details

H.M.S. EXCELLENT'S A/A Motor boat
S/Lt. A.W.M. Matthew, R.N.
30th May
2400ca
Left Dover for Braye-Dunes in company
with H.M.S. Dolphin's power boat.
31st May
a.m.
Arrived off Bray. Went inshore to tow
small boats to the ships. A heavily
laden boat capsized. Most of the men
(in full equipment) sank like stones.
Picked up one man. The A/A motor
boat's screws fouled and she was
driven aground.
S/Lt. Matthew went ashore, refloated
an abandoned cabin-cruiser, and left
her to carry on in charge of the A/A
motor boat's crew.
It was now found that the A/A motor
boat "was of no further use".
S/Lt. Matthew got a ship's life boat and
made several trips. When she became
holed, he obtained another.
By this time, the cabin cruiser's
engine was giving trouble, so the crew
rejoined S/Lt. Matthew in the life
boat and continued ferrying.
2345ca
The life boat was now much damaged and
the crew were exahusted with their
efforts. They all transferred to
1st June
0115
the P.M/S Princess Elizabeth which
0735
proceeded and arrived at Margate.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.604.
301

Details

Details

WAVE QUEEN
M/B (Owner,
G.H. Kent)
?
0900
31st May
Arrived tow of Ramsgate from Portsmouth in
1100
Sailed prise in company with the M/B 102.
the hopper Foremost
fast and the Excellent's Enter-
1730ca
Arrived off Bray beach. S/Lt.
M/B, in tow of the Foremost 35-foot 102.
Martin, took R.N. (in the Foremost K.H. 102)
ferried troops for 5 hours to the
charge of the 3 M/B's and
2230ca
Foremost 102 and other vessels.
The Foremost 102 sailed for Ramsgate
with the Wave Queen and Excellent's
M/B in tow. The Enterprise remained
behind to ferry troops to the Sk.
Amazone. During the passage home the
Excellent's M/B became water-logged,
broke adrift and was lost.
1st June
0700
Wave Queen arrived in tow at Ramsgate.
1400
Still in tow, arrived at Margate.
[Note: On 5th June, at 0300, the Wave Queen,
then off Folkestone, en route for
Portsmouth) in tow of the Foremost 102,
broke adrift. She was water-logged
and in a sinking condition, and was
abandoned].
Authority - R.O.II, p.104.
TO. 9436.

Details

Page 12
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
MISCELLANEOUS.
CALCUTTA (A.As Vessel).
Commanding Officer.
Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
LORMONT.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R.
Ratings.
Marine A. Hobberjam.
Marine, H. Ambrose.
H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.As Motor Boat
Commanding Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N.
Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE
Officer.
Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R.
Rating.
Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192.
Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE.
Officers.
Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R.
Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R.
A.A. Kite Party.
Commanding Officer.
Commander John Scott Dove, R.N.
Officers.
Sub. Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R.
Sub. Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R.
Motor,

Details

Dynaino Duplicate
16
Dynams 22H
13
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.I940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S. Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for .M.S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from H.M.S. Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
10
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North West of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen

Details

Dynamo Duplicate
16
17 14
was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire
but this was impracticable owing to the unsteadiness of
the boat. The approximate position of the mine was later
reported.
7.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being
short of petrol, closed H. M.S. Hebe but was unable to obtain
any from her. As there were no other ships carrying petrol
off La Panne, it was thought desirable to return to Bray in
order to have a reasonably safe margin of petrol before
conveying troops. On arrival at Bray, "Excellent's" boat
signalled that she had struck a submerged object and req-
uired assistance. As I had been told by a destroyer that
the depth of water in that position was 3 feet and had also
been told by the Senior Officer at Bray to be extremely
careful not to get into shallow water, it was not considered
advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the loss of
a second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
try to assist but ran aground.
8.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
boat proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, how-
ever, all ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore
batteries from the town which was shortly afterwards OCC-
upied by the enemy. In consequence the motor boat returned
to Bray.
9.
Enquiries were made at destroyers and other vessels
present as to whether "Dolphin's" boat could be of any ass-
istance, but again , owing to the shallowness of the water
and state of the sea it was not possible to go alongside the
improvised pier from which all troops were being embarked
(no troops were at this time wading out to boats), nor was
there a demand for a boat for towing purposes.
10. as to the usefulness of this boat under the circumstances,
After consultation with the senior officer present
it was decided to obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel, and
there it was hoped that another tow could be obtained back
to Dunkirk, where, it was believed , the boat could be more
usefully employed. A tow was obtained from H.M.S.Sargossa
at 1415

Details

2186
OPERATION DYNAMO.
NCLOSURE NO. 13.
SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN's MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT B.F. CORNISH-BOWDEN, R.N.
In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT's Power Boat,
this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday,
31st May.
2.
Soon after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel,
EXCELLENT's boat signalled to the effect that she was very
doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at
maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was
reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being
considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a
following sea.
3. The two boats were routed to leave the usual
course for Dunkirk some 20 miles from that place and
proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and Bray.
About 15 miles N.W. of Bray an enemy floating mine was
seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire.
This, however, failed, and the position of the mine was
later reported.
4.
Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely
by an inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at
1100 and after enquiring as to our whereabouts proceeded
to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol
from H.M.S. HEBE.
5.
Owing to the shortage of petrol I returned to
Bray and to try and fill my tank. However, this again
proved impossible and so I decided to use what petrol I
had and ask for a tow home when the tank was dry.
6. EXCELLENT's boat had damaged herself on a submerged
object and was close inshore. I was about to go to her aid
when I was informed that the depth of the water was only 3
feet and I was ordered not to go in tooclose. I therefore
was unable to be of any assistance in embarking troops from
the improvised pier. I therefore asked ships present if I
could be of any assistance to them, but unfortunately they
were already getting all that they needed.
7.
I then proceeded back to La Panne but when almost
there the enemy started shelling the ships which immediately
weighed and proceeded to Bray. On return to Bray, I
consulted the Senior Officer present as to my usefulness and
it was decided that I should obtain a tow back to Dover to
refuel when I hoped to obtain a tow back to Dunkirk with a
full tank and where I believed I could be more usefully
employed.
8.
I left Bray at 1415 in tow of the dan-laying yacht
SARGOSSA, arriving at Dover Harbour at about 1930, since
when I have been employed towing and carrying despatches in
Dover harbour.
(Signed) E.F. Cornish-Bowden
Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.
[OVER

Details

25a
241
ST. CLEARS 428
LADY BRASSEY
130
DANLAYERS.
FOREMOST 87
ST. OLAF
GULZAR
GREY MIST
M.T.B's, M.A.S.B's.
SARGASSO
D.C.M.B. & W.D.M.I.
+39
COMFORT
NAUTILUS
M.T.B. 107 447
STARLIGHT RAYS
M.T.B. 68 405
THOMSONS
M.T.B. 67,
M.T.B. 16 ,
ECHO SOUNDING YACHTS.
M.T.B. 1020 459
CONIDAW
M.A.S.B. 10/474
D.C.M.B., 484
CHICO
M.A.S.B. 61468
RAMSGATE
M.L.
100 x476
M.A.S.M. No. 7x479
MOTOR BOATS.
W.D.M.L's 8V487 8 491
SMALL CRAFT UNDER CONTROL OF
DOVER M/S COMMAND.
193
CONTRABAND CONTROL BASE
VEYMOUTH.
LL. TRAWLERS.
M.B. FORTY TWO
THOMAS BARTLETT
LIGHTER Y.C.72
INVERFORTH
X
M.B. TWO RIVERS
LORD INCHCAPE
M.L. MERMAIDEN
OUR BAIRNS
LORD GREY
REPORTS OF SMALL CRAFT RECEIVED
CLYTHNESS
FROM, CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT,
RELONZO
PORTSMOUTH.
RESTRIVO
H.M.S. ST. FAGAN
OROPESA TRAWLERS.
D/C MOTOR BOATS.
H.M.S.EXCELLENT'S A.A. MOTOR BOAT
BOTANIC
HOPPER GALLION'S REACH
FYLDEA
MARETTA
VESSELS OWNED BY LONDON &
ARLEY
ROCHESTER TRADING CO. LTD.
POLLY JOHNSON
1493.
BROCK
THYRA
CALVI
PUDGE
JOHN CATTLING
CABBY
SEINE
"M" DRIFTERS
DETAILED FROM
YARMOUTH.
FEASIBLE
SWIFT WING
REED
JOHN AND NORAH
GENIUS
ALCMARIA
LORD HOOD
LORD BARHAM
OVERFALLS
JEANNIE MACINTOSH
GULA
REWGA
x
TARANSAY

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynams 375
Subject.
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
583
68
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth.
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The attached reports on the evacuation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. FAGAN, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper
"Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden-
tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
you ADMIRAL *
DOVER 26JUN 1940
RT
CAPTAIN.
wy.
just
clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats
and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily
laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it
we managed to recover one who revived after some
was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While this our screws became foul In of spite
doing obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong
surf of and ebbing tide soon drove us aground.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynam 375 Bw/
Subject.
500
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
563
}
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The attached reports on the evacuation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. PAGAN, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper
"Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden-
ne
tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
OF ADMIRAL *
DOVER 26JUN 1940 RT
CAPTAIN.
DO
&
WAS a line to the pulling boats
the is unustes is to the ships. One boat, heavily
be acquipment capsised just as it
the weat incompled medicare was made A Names a were the who men revived sank like after stones treatment. but
in Lan , care 4. and I news became foul of some
usba endered useless. In spite
Cani inho futae Herto by other boats, the strong
Business Exhand drove us aground.

Details

Details

604
2
569
H.M.B Excellent.
12 June.
Sir,
He
I have the honour to submit the following narrative
of events covering the period 2200 Wednesday 29th May
until the morning of saturday June 1st
In accordance with verbal orders, 9 sailed from
Portomouth in H.M.S' EXCELLENT'S A/A motor Boat
about 2200 May 29th. The following afternoon it
became necessary to put in to Dover owing to
insufficient fuel to proceed to Ramsqate. While
refuelling I received orders to remain at Dover.
about michight I got sailing orders to proceed
at once to BRAY DUNES to assist with the terrying
operations between the beach and waiting ships.
and went straight inshore. There was heavy sust
Early on Friday morning we arrived off BRAY
and many of the pulling boats which the soldiers
were manning from a jethy of abandoned army
transports appeared to be in difficulties. The
general idea was for the power boats to nun in just
clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats
and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily
laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it
we managed to recover one who revived after some
was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While doing this our screws became foul In of spite
obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong
suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
154
Page 35.
156
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Inshore Flotillæsand Naval Shore Parties (continued)
boats which had been cast away by the soldiers on
disembarkation.
106. By the night of the 30th/31st a considerable
number of collapsible boats and pontoons had been received
from the Royal Engineers of the B.E.F. These were of great
assistance and paddled off about 10 men in each trip, but
again, in spite of all efforts, in the vast majority of cases,
the soldiers left these craft when they arrived at the
offshore ship.
107. Much of the most meritorious work of lifting off
the beaches was done by the offshore warships' own boats, who
were tireless in their efforts. All small pulling boats and
small power boats were lowered and were lent from ship to
ship when their own parent ship left the coast to unload at
a United Kingdom port. In addition, H.M. ships seized
drifting and abandoned boats as opportunity offered and
manned them up with boat keepers. Owing to the physical
exhaustion of these boats' crews after hours of work, relief
crews of stokers were frequently provided from amongst the
many volunteers that came forth.
108. A typical example of dogged work by a ship's boat
was afforded by the action of JAVELIN's and JAGUAR's boats
off Bray beach in the afternoon of 28/5. When their two
motor cutters and two whalers first grounded offshore they
were rushed and swamped by soldiers. Order being restored
the boats had to be baled out and the wet engines restarted,
following which) 700 troops were embarked by these few boats
in a short time during continuous bombing attacks.
109. Of the power boats available by far the most
useful and suitable were the A.L.Cs., M.L.Cs. and the small
type of R.N.L.I. life-boat. The high speed service motor
boats such as DOLPHIN's and EXCELLENT's boats and the R.A.F.
Seaplane tenders proved unsuitable for work in shallow
waters on a lee shore owing to the vulnerability of their
propellers and rudders and their poor manoeuvring powers at
low speeds.
110. Of the civilian manned craft one of the best
performances was that of the London Fire Brigade fire float
MASSEY SHAW. All the volunteer crew were members of the
London Fire Brigade or Auxiliary Fire Service and succeeded
in doing 4 round trips to the beaches in their well-found
craft. In contrast to this performance and that also of
the R.N.L.I. crews of the Ramsgate and Margate life-boats,
who took their boats over to Dunkirk, no volunteers, except
for the coxswain and engineer of the Dover life-boat, were
forthcoming from the R.N.L.I. crews of the other life-boats,
which were accordingly manned by R.N. crews. Also it must
be noted that civilian craft of such flotillas as the Rye
fishing fleet did not relish the idea of carrying out ferry-
ing work off the Flanders coast. Fishing boats and pleasure
boats from as far along the south coast as Brixham and
Dartmouth arrived at various times up to p.m. 30/5, but again
the civilian crews were not prepared to proceed to Dunkirk.
Accordingly, the most suitable of such boats as could be
manned by the Naval personnel available were taken up, but
the remainder took no part in the operations.
111./

Details

we 89034/0256 100M 1/40 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 071.
112
Register No. N.L.11938/40
Minute Sheet No. 1
Submitted.
A copy of N.O.i/c. Leith's No.15, dated 2/7/40
was received in D.0.9002/40.
As a result of this report, W.P.S., Newcastle was
asked to obtain targets composed of bitumastic deck covering
fixed both upon mild steel plates and upon wood. These
were supplied by Messrs. Wailes Dove Bitumastic Ltd. Captain
EXCELLENT carried out firing trials on 15/8/40. The trial
results, although promising, were not sufficiently so to
warrant the adoption of this material for protective purposes.
(See EXCELLENT's No.X 1798/7 dated 19.8.40 in G.011567/40.)
It was then decided to try a coarser composition such as that
used in cattle boats, but before tests could be made a report
was received from D.S.D. (IA/AW & D) giving particulars of a
similar material which showed greater promise, containing a
coarse granite aggregate and using bitumen as a binder. This
material is being fitted to merchant ships, but before adopting
it in warships it was considered necessary to get EXCELLENT
to carry out firing tests which are in hand.
I.V.Goodall.
D. N. 08/10/40
18OCT1940
Noted
BAT
22/10/40.
Noted.
form
02.11.40
Ltd. 31-6446

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 35,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events,
Inshore Flotillasand Naval Shore Parties (continued)
boats which had been cast away by the soldiers on
disembarkation.
106. By the night of the 30th/31st a considerable
number of collapsible boats and pontoons had been received
from the Royal Engineers of the B.E.F. These were of great
assistance and paddled off about 10 men in each trip, but
again, in spite of all efforts, in the vast majority of cases,
the soldiers left these craft when they arrived at the
offshore ship.
107. Much of the most meritorious work of lifting off
the beaches was done by the offshore warships' own boats, who
were tireless in their efforts. All small pulling boats and
small power boats were lowered and were lent from ship to
ship when their own parent ship left the coast to unload at
a United Kingdom port. In addition, H.M. ships seized
drifting and abandoned boats as opportunity offered and
manned them up with boat keepers. Owing to the physical
exhaustion of these boats' crews after hours of work, relief
crews of stokers were frequently provided from amongst the
many volunteers that came forth.
108. A typical example of dogged work by a ship's boat
was afforded by the action of JAVELIN's and JAGUAR's boats
off Bray beach in the afternoon of 28/5. When their two
motor cutters and two whalers first grounded offshore they
were rushed and swamped by soldiers. Order being restored
the boats had to be baled out and the wet engines restarted,
following which 700 troops were embarked by these few boats
in a short time during continuous bombing attacks.
109. Of the power boats available by far the most
useful and suitable were the A.L.Cs., M.L.Cs. and the small
type of R.N.L.I. life-boat. The high speed service motor
boats such as DOLPHIN's and EXCELLENT's boats and the R.A.F.
Seaplane tenders proved unsuitable for work in shallow
waters on a lee shore owing to the vulnerability of their
propellers and rudders and their poor manoeuvring powers at
low speeds.
110. Of the civilian manned craft one of the best
performances was that of the London Fire Brigade fire float
MASSEY SHAW. All the volunteer crew were members of the
London Fire Brigade or Auxiliary Fire Service and succeeded
in doing 4 round trips to the beaches in their well-found
craft. In contrast to this performance and that also of
the R.N.L.I. crews of the Ramsgate and Margate life-boats,
who took their boats over to Dunkirk, no volunteers, except
for the coxswain and engineer of the Dover life-boat, were
forthcoming from the R.N.L.I. crews of the other life-boats,
which were accordingly manned by R.N. crews. Also it must
be noted that civilian craft of such flotillas as the Rye
fishing fleet did not relish the idea of carrying out ferry-
ing work off the Flanders coast. Fishing boats and pleasure
boats from as far along the south coast as Brixham and
Dartmouth arrived at various times up to p.m. 30/5, but again
the civilian crews were not prepared to proceed to Dunkirk.
Accordingly, the most suitable of such boats as could be
manned by the Naval personnel available were taken up, but
the remainder took no part in the operations.
111./

Details

Page 12,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
MISCELLANEOUS
CALCUTTA (A.A. Vessel).
Commanding Officer.
Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
LORMONT.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R.
Ratings.
Marine A. Hobberjam.
Marine, H. Ambrose.
H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat
Commanding Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N.
Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE.
Officer.
Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R.
Rating.
Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192.
Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE.
Officers.
Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R.
Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R.
A.A. Kite Party.
Commanding Officer.
Commander John Scott Dove, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R.
Sub.Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R.
Motor/

Details

Page 3.
OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
-
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
# KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft )
V. 4 ("Vernon' s" pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S" A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
Ambleve.
Escaut.
transferred
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Meuse.
from
Craft)
Sambre.
Semoise.
page 9.
yser.
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
PASCHOLL
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PATRIA
ALICE
FRISCO
PRINCESS JULIANA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
REIGER
ANTJE
HEBE
RIKA
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RUJA
BART
HONDSRUG
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
SURSUM CORDA
BRANDARIS
JAVA
TILLY
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TINY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TUNG
DEMOK I
LENA
TWENTE
DENEB
ORANJE
VREDE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
ZEUS
(Continued)
# Sunk

Details

Page 12.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
MISCELLANEOUS,
CALCUTTA (A.As Vessel).
Commanding Officer.
Captain Dennis Marescaux Lees, R.N.
LORMONT.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander Walter Stuart Smithies, R.N.
Officers.
Sub.Lieutenant Alexander Frederick Sidney Davidson, R.N.R.
Ratings.
Marine A. Hobberjam.
Marine, H. Ambrose.
H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.As Motor Boat
Commanding Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant Alastair William Maxwell Matthew, R.N.
Thames L.D.F. GOLDEN EAGLE.
Officer.
Lieutenant James Colin Newman, M.B.E., R.N.V.R.
Rating.
Chief Petty Officer James S. Seaman, C/J.3192.
Thames L.D.F. ROYAL EAGLE.
Officers.
Lieutenant Arnold Herbert Dunkerley, R.N.R.
Lieutenant (E) Rodney L. Helyer, R.N.R.
A.A. Kite Party.
Commanding Officer.
Commander John Scott Dove, R.N.
Officers.
Sub. Lieutenant John Lawrence Field, R.N.V.R.
Sub.Lieutenant Richard Graham Addis, R.N.V.R.
Motor/

Details

Dynamo
16
13
Dynams 224
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North Weat of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
XX at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
cretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
theMay, I was engaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
istern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
ücen to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
erations one boat was lost.

Details

Dynamo
16
in
Dynams 224
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.I940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S.Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for H.M.S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North Weat of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
Box at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
Secretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
eastern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
Sth.May, I was engaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
taken to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
perations one boat was lost.

Details

Dynamo
16
17 14
was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire
but this was impracticable owing to the unsteadiness of
the boat. The approximate position of the mine was later
reported.
7.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being
short of petrol, closed H.M.S.Hebe but was unable to obtain
any from her. As there were no other ships carrying petrol
off La Panne, it was thought desirable to return to Bray in
order to have a reasonably safe margin of petrol before
conveying troops. On arrival at Bray, "Excellent's" boat
signalled that she had struck a submerged object and req-
uired assistance. As I had been told by a destroyer that
the depth of water in that position was 3 feet and had also
been told by the Senior Officer at Bray to be extremely
careful not to get into shallow water, it was not considered
advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the loss of
a second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
try to assist but ran aground.
8.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
boat proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, how-
ever, all ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore
batteries from the town which was shortly afterwards OCC-
upied by the enemy. In consequence the motor boat returned
to Bray.
9.
Enquiries were made at destroyers and other vessels
present as to whether "Dolphin's" boat could be of any ass-
istance, but again ,owing to the shallowness of the water
and state of the sea it was not possible to go alongside the
improvised pier from which all troops were being embarked
(no troops were at this time wading out to boats), nor was
there a demand for a boat for towing purposes.
10.
After consultation with the senior officer present
as to the usefulness of this boat under the circumstances,
it was decided to obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel, and
there it was hoped that another tow could be obtained back
to Dunkirk, where, it was believed the boat could be more
usefully employed. A tow was obtained from Sargossa
at 1415
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
Box at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
Secretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
28th,May, I was angaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
eastern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
taken to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
operations one boat was lost.

Details

6
GOSPORT,
June 6th 1940.
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
ceedings of H.M.S. "DOLPHIN'S" Power Hoat.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th
with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch,
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to
ay in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only
sible to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor
mch M.73 had arrived about 15 minutes previously.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S. Peregrine
the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M.73.
arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
ed with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
uel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
R before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol
y, and it was not before 1900 that orders were received
n the Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate
was to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st May for H.M.S. "DOLPHIN'S"
to proceed with a similar boat from H.M.S. "EXCELLENT" to La
18 and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
any until within a short distance of the French coast.
ts and the route were supplied to each boat and information
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching
destination if could be obtained from H.M.S. "HEBE".
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
found that more petrol was being consumed than had been
mated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern
and swell, and "EXCELLENT'S" boat found it necessary to
ce speed to about 8 knots.
Some 8 miles North West of Bray an ememy floating mine was
and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire but this
imprecticable owing to the unsteadiness of the boat. The
oximate position of the mine was later reported.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being short of
ol, closed H.M.S. "HEBE" but was unable to obtain any from
As there were no other ships carrying petrol off La Panne,
as thought desirable to return to Bray in order to have a
onably safe margin of petrol before conveying troops.
rrival at Bray "EXCELLENT'S" boat signalled that she had
ck a submerged object and required assistance. As I had
told by a destroyer that the depth of water in that position
3 feet and had also been told by the Senior Officer at Bray
e extremely careful not to get into shallow water, it was not
idered advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the los:
second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
to assist but ran aground.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, however,
ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore batteries
the town which was shortly afterwards occupied by the enemy.
msequence the motor boat returned to Bray.

Details

325
320
OPERATION DYNAMO.
SIGLOSURE NO. 13.
SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN'S MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT 1.7. CORNISH-BONDEN, R.B.
In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT's yower Boat,
this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday,
31st May.
of
Soon after passing the North Doctwin Light Vessel,
EXCELLENT'S boat signalled to the effect that she was very
doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at
maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was
reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being
considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a
following sea.
3.
The two boats were routed to leave the usual
course for Dunkirk same 20 miles from that place and
proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and sray.
About 15 miles N.J. of Bray an energy floating nine vas
seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire.
This, however, failed, and the position or the nine was
later reported.
by an 4. inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at
Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely
1100 and after enquiring as so our whereabouts proceeded
to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol
from H.M.S. HEBS.
Bray and impossible and so 1 decided to tank use was dry. 1
5. to try and fill ay tank. However, what petrol again
Owing to the shortage of petrol 1 this returned to
proved had and ask for a tow home when the
EXCELLENT'S boat had damaged about herself to go on to a her submerged aid
object 6. and was close that inshore. the depth 1 was of the water was only 3
when were was feat could there the 7. unable THE I already and the was and 1 enemy 1 to was informed proceeded then be ordered of any to not 1 assistance aray. therefore to present go them. they to the on in needed. La saked in but return as ships tooclose. Panne enbarking unfortunately to ships which ay to but usefulness Bray, present when troops 1 immediately therefore 1 almost they from if and 1
consulted weighed the Senior 1 officer should obtain & back GOW to back Dunkirk to Dover with to a
it was decided that to obtain a SOW usefully
full refuel tank when and I where hoped I believed 1 could be more
employed. 1 left arey at Dover 1415 Harbour in sow at carrying of about the dan-laying 1950, despatches since yacht in
when 8. 1 at towing and
Dover. harbour.
(signed) 3.7. cornish-Sowden
Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.
Cover

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
in the Bray and Malo sectors were being thinned out by movements westward
towards Dunkirk iteslf. This change of plan involved concentrating the special
tows and the minesweepers to which they were to transfer the troops, into the
stretch opposite the beach between Zuydcoote Sanatorium and one mile east
of La Panne¹, and also advancing the commencement of the operation by one
hour².
A risk was involved in this change of plan as the boat tows were not in com-
munication with the Vice-Admiral, and it would therefore be necessary for
minesweepers to see that the escorting M.A./S.B.'s shepherded the tows to the
new positions It had been explained to the Naval officers in each tow that
the minesweepers would be anchored so as to serve as guiding marks³.
" It was always impossible for me to do more than deal with the situation of
the moment", says Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker. "I did not know what ships
were coming or when-except for the pre-arranged plan of the sloops. Nor
was it possible for Dover to give me much information. Ships got back there,
unloaded, and were off again, the stream was constant but irregular and it was
not possible to see any way ahead. My policy was always to keep only sufficient
ships off the beaches and send all the others into Dunkirk, but the situation
changed continually."4
Small craft arrive in hundreds
It was in such circumstances that, at about 1900, Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker had proceeded to Dunkirk in the Keith to see how the boat situation
was getting on. There he saw for the first time that strange procession of
craft of all kinds the story of which was to become famous-tugs, towing
dinghies, life-boats and all manner of pulling boats5-small motor yachts,
motor launches, drifters, Dutch skoots, Thames barges, fishing boats, pleasure
steamers⁶. This was indeed the first time that the small craft had come over
in hundreds⁷. Since noon Lt. Cdr. C. J. Wynne-Edwards, R.N. (of R.-A.
Dunkirk's staff), embarked in M.T.B.68, had been directing the tows to the
various beaches.
I See Appendix Q.18, observing that D.R. p.20, para. 61 says the beach between Bray
and 1 mile east of La Panne."
2 Appendix Q.19.
3 D.R. p.20, para. 61.
4 M.017978/41, p.17.
5 The following 14 tugs (their tows are shown in brackets) reached Dunkirk that evening:
The Racia (12 life-boats), Sun VIII (12 life-boats), Sun XV (6 life-boats), Vincia (3 life-
boats), Sun IV (9 boats), Tanga (6 boats), Ocean Cock (6 M/B's), Sun VII (seaplane tenders
243, 254, 276, 291 and A.M.C.3), Foremost 87 (two sailing barges), Fairplay I (sailing barge
Barbara Jean), Empire Henchman (sailing barge Aidie), Crested Cock (a lighter), Sun XI (a
lighter), and the Sun XII (sailing barges Tollesbury and Ethel Everard).
In the early hours of 1st June 4 other tugs arrived. The St. Fagan (auxiliary barges
Pudge and Lady Rosebery, and the sailing barge Doris), St. Abbs (auxiliary barge Thyra
and sailing barges H.A.C. and Duchess), Cervia (sailing barge Royalty), and the Persia
(sailing barge Glenway and Lark).
6 M.017978/41, p.19.
7 New arrivals off Dunkirk and the beaches on 31st May included the following The
yachts Amulree, Aronia, Glagla, Caleta, Christobel II and Llanthony, the nine yachts of the
Portsmouth Inner Patrol, viz the Ahola, Ankh, Bounty, Caryandra, Eilla II, Lahloo,
Noneta, Seriola and Thele and from the R.N. Air Station, Ford, the yacht Andora.
The drifters Ben and Lucy (towing 4 boats), Dorienta (towing boats), Monarda, Renas-
cent and the 13 drifters of the Yarmouth Base, viz Alcmaria, Feasible, Genius, Gula,
Jeannie MacIntosh, John and Norah, Lord Barham, Lord Hood, Overfalls, Reed, Rewga,
Swift Wing and Taransay. The drifters Fair Breeze and Ocean Breeze were again over,
the former towing a motor life-boat and 3 life-boats.
The steam hopper barges Foremost 102 (towing the Excellent's 35 ft. fast motor boat and
71

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
At least fourteen other motor boats¹ were lost by misadventure, e.g. engine
failure, grounding, swamping, damaging rudders and/or propellers on floating
or submerged wreckage, or breaking adrift and being lost when on tow. The
seaplane tender No. 291 managed to get back to England in spite of the damage
she had sustained, but was unable to take any further part in "Dynamo".
Conflicting news of La Panne
Meanwhile, as the tows of boats (which Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker now
saw for the first time at 1900 on the 31st May), arrived off Dunkirk they were
directed to the beaches by Lt. Cdr. Wynne-Edwards, first from M.T.B.68 and
later at about 2100, from M.A/S.B. 6. It was found, however, that in the
growing darkness, and with no lights to help them, there was a tendency for
the boats to stop at the first place they came to where other craft were assembled.
At about 1930 the Codrington, then off, Bray, was warned by Rear-Admiral
Wake-Walker to send on the boats detailed for La Panne, but the bulk of them
did not get further than Bray.
The night was dark, and Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker stayed off La Panne,
"wondering how things were going. Everything was black, ships and boats
and shore showed no lights", although arrangements had been made for a light
to be shown to seaward to guide boats inshore. Shelling was continuous and
seemed to be falling among the ships at the anchorage. News was conflicting;
a message from the shore said that thousands of men were waiting but there
were no boats, while messages came from ships that their boats could find no
one on the beach. the ships and the boats were there, and the troops
ashore, and one could do no more.
I do not know to this day", says Rear-
Admiral Wake-Walker, what really took place there".
La Panne beach 31st May/1st June
It is not easy to discover what happened at La Panne, but the following
account, based on a report by Lt. Cdr. J. W. McClelland, R.N., who with a
party of signalmen reached La Panne in the minesweeper Gossamer at 1930 on
the 30th May, gives the main course of events. He was S.N.O., La Panne, for
the seven hours prior to its abandonment as a place of embarkation at about
0200 on the 1st June.
About 1600 on May 31st Captain Tennant, who had been visiting Lord Gort
at La Panne, decided to return to Dunkirk, but he first instructed Lt. Cdr.
McClelland to arrange for the evacuation of Lord Gort and his staff, to carry
out the duties of S.N.O., La Panne³, and to join Major General B. L. Mont-
gomery, then in command of 2nd Corps.
At that time, says Lt. Cdr. McClelland, an enemy battery near Nieuport,
assisted by 2 kite balloons, had found the range of the beach and the off lying-
ships, which had accordingly withdrawn to the westward. Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker asked for the balloons to be shot down, and aircraft came over for that
purpose; at times the balloons were hauled down-but they always re-ap-
peared.
I A.L.C.8, A.L.C.15, Enterprise, Excellent's 35 ft. M|B, Excellent's A/A M|B, Golden
Spray II, Princess Lily, St. Patrick, and the Seaplane tender 243 and A.M.C.3; the Sea
Falcon, Sunshine, Triton and the Two Rivers.
2 M.017978/41, p.21.
3 Lt. Cdr. McClelland speaks of the final evacuation of A, B and C beaches La Panne,
but this is evidently an error as the beaches were lettered from West to East (See Plan 3)
and must therefore have been M, N and O Beaches.
M.017978/41, p.16.
75

Details

Details

INDEX
Discipline. See British Expeditionary Force and French troops.
Disembarkation ports, 25.
Docksey, Capt. T. E., 21.
Doggersbank, 20, 29n, 32, 45, 47n, 64, 72, 107n.
Dolphin's power boats, 72n.
Donald, Lt. Cdr. C. G. W. Died of wounds, 10.
Dorienta, 71n.
Doris, 71n, 94 (sunk).
Dorrien Rose, 24, 29, 62.
Dove, Cdr. J. S., 50n (reports Dunkirk blocked), 59.
Dover, mined, 38.
Dowling, Lt. Cdr. D. B., 82.
Drifters, 23, 24 (flare burning).
Drogou, Lt. de V., 73.
Duchess, 71n, 95 (sunk).
Duchess of Fife, 28n, 54n, 101, 107n, 109.
Du Guesclin, 62n, 73n.
Dundalk, 86, 107я, 109.
Dunkirk, S.N.O. See Tennant, Capt. W. G.
Dunkirk: water supply destroyed, 8; demolitions, 8, 19, 106; inundations, 12; bridge-
easier, munications 27, 30; limitations, 48; reported blocked, 50; ships not to close, 51 ; com-
head, 15, 18, 35; damaged, 15, 18; out of action, 23 ; reported fallen, 24; conditions
established with Dover, 51; reduced number of ships sent, 61-2 bom-
barded, 70; harbour deserted, 87; harbour full of ships, 88; growing number of
wrecks described, off, 117. 94; pier damaged, 97; blocking of inner harbour, 111-112, 119-20 piers
Duperre, 73.
Dwarf, 60.
Eastbourne Queen, 74.
E-boats, activity). 27-8, 36, 37n, 49 (fail to discover change of route), 68-9, 85 (recrudescence of
Edmond René, rams Kingfisher, 116.
Edvard Nissen, 111-12.
Edward Z. Dresden, 114n.
Eggington, Ldg. Sea., 119.
Eileen Emma, 23n, 83n (damaged), 95 (sunk).
Eilla II, 71n, 74.
Elizabeth Green, 53, 114n.
Ellwood, Cdr. M. 0. D. (i/c Communications), 67.
Emerald Wings, breaks down, 111.
Emile Deschamps, sunk, 119.
Emma, 73.
Emperor of India, 28n, 47n, 54n, 100.
Empire Henchman, 7In.
Endeavour, 73n.
Enterprise, 72n, 75n.
Epervier, 99.
Escaut, 60.
Esk, 28n, 49, 79 (takes across R.A. Dover and Beach parties), 54n, 55, 58, 64n, 92, 97,
102, 107n.
Ethel Everard, 71n, 95 (sunk).
Evans, W. L., 110.
Excellent's A/A M.B., 72n, 75n.
Excellent's 35 ft. M.B., 71n, 75n.
Exhaustion of ships' crews, 29, 113.
Express, back 28n, 41-2, 54n, 55, 59 (flag of R.A. Dover), 62n, 83 (slightly damaged), 109 (sent
empty), 112n, 114n, 118.
Fagalde, General, 12, 68, 85.
Fairplay I, 71n.
Fair Breeze, 60, 71n, 95 (sunk).
Feasible, 71n, 73 (disabled).
Fenella, 34, 43 (sunk), 46.
Fidget, 32n, 51n.
"Fifth Column", 24, 100.
198

Details

Page 3.
r OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
#
KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft )
v. 4 ("Vernon's pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE (Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S" A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Craft)
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PASCHOLL
ALICE
FRISCO
PATRIA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
PRINCESS JULIANA
ANTJE
HEBE
REIGER
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RIKA
BART
HONDSRUG
RUJA
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
BRANDARIS
JAVA
SURSUM CORDA
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TILLY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TINY
DEMOK I
LENA
TUNG
DENEB
ORANJE
TWENTE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
VREDE
ZEUS
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

Page 3.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
PORTSMOUTH A/P YACHTS
AHOLA
CARYANDA
NONETA
ANLAH
EILA II
SERIOLA
ANKH
LAHLOO
THELE
BOUNTY
MASAYRU
MISCELLANEOUS H.M. SHIPS (small craft)
A.L.C. 5
GREY MIST (Dan-laying
A.L.C. 15
Vessel)
A.L.C. 16
# GRIVE (F.A.A. Yacht)
A.L.C. 17
KINDRED STAR (Drifter)
ALOUETTE II
#
KING ORRY (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
# AMULREE (Harbour Defence
LLANTHONY (Examination
Patrol Craft)
Service Vessel)
ARONIA (Yacht)
LORMONT (Armed Boarding
BEN AND LUCY (Drifter)
Vessel)
BLUEBIRD (M.B.)
MONARDA (Drifter)
BYSTANDER
MONA'S ISLE (Armed Boarding
(Echo Sounding Yacht)
Vessel)
CALETA (Harbour Defence
ST. OLAVES (Rescue Tug)
Patrol Craft)
TARRET (A/S Yacht)
CHRYSTOBEL II (Harbour
THRIFTY (Drifter)
Defence Patrol Craft)
V. 4 ("Vernon's" pinnace)
"DOLPHIN'S" MOTOR-BOAT
VELIA (Armed Trawler)
EVELYN ROSE (Trawler)
VERNON I
"EXCELLENT'S' A/A MOTOR-BOAT
VIVIANA (A/S Trawler)
GAVA (Trawler)
GLALA (Harbour Defence Patrol
Craft)
DUTCH SKOOTS (Commissioned with Naval Crews)
ABEL TASMAN
DOGGERSBANK
PACIFIC
AEGIR
FREDANJA
PASCHOLL
ALICE
FRISCO
PATRIA
AMAZONE
GORECHT
PRINCESS JULIANA
ANTJE
HEBE
REIGER
ATLANTIC
HILDA
RIKA
BART
HONDSRUG
RUJA
BORNRIF
HORST (Abandoned)
SAN ANTONIO
BRANDARIS
JAVA
SURSUM CORDA
CARIBIA
JUTLAND
TILLY
DELTA
KAAPFALGA
TINY
DEMOK I
LENA
TUNG
DENEB
ORANJE
TWENTE
DESPATCH II
ORANGE YREESWIJH
VREDE
ZEUS
#
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

2186
OPERATION DYNAMO.
ICLOSURE NO. 13.
SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN's MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT E.F. CORNISH-BOWDEN, R.N.
In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT'S Power Boat,
this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday,
31st May.
2.
Soon after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel,
EXCELLENT's boat signalled to the effect that she was very
doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at
maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was
reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being
considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a
following sea.
3.
The two boats were routed to leave the usual
course for Dunkirk some 20 miles from that place and
proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and Bray.
About 15 miles N.W. of Bray an enemy floating mine was
seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire.
This, however, failed, and the position of the mine was
later reported.
4.
Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely
by an inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at
1100 and after enquiring as to our whereabouts proceeded
to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol
from H.M.S. HEBE.
5. Owing to the shortage of petrol I returned to
Bray and to try and fill my tank. However, this again
proved impossible and so I decided to use what petrol I
had and ask for a tow home when the tank was dry.
6. EXCELLENT's boat had damaged herself on a submerged
object and was close inshore. I was about to go to her aid
when I was informed that the depth of the water was only 3
feet and I was ordered not to go in tooclose. I therefore
was unable to be of any assistance in embarking troops from
the improvised pier. I therefore asked ships present if I
could be of any assistance to them, but unfortunately they
were already getting all that they needed.
7.
I then proceeded back to La Panne but when almost
there the enemy started shelling the ships which immediately
weighed and proceeded to Bray. On return to Bray, I
consulted the Senior Officer present as to my usefulness and
it was decided that I should obtain a tow back to Dover to
refuel when I hoped to obtain a tow back to Dunkirk with a
full tank and where I believed I could be more usefully
employed.
SARGOSSA, 8. arriving at Dover Harbour at about 1930, since
I left Bray at 1415 in tow of the dan-laying yacht
when I have been employed towing and carrying despatches in
Dover harbour.
(Signed) E.F. Cornish-Bowden
Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.
[OVER

Details

25a
241
ST. CLEARS 428
LADY BRASSEY
130
DANLAYERS.
FOREMOST 87
ST. OLAF
X3+30
GULZAR
GREY MIST
M.T.B's, M.A.S.B's.
SARGASSO
D.C.M.B. & W.D.M.I.
+39
COMFORT
NAUTILUS
STARLIGHT RAYS
M.T.B. 107. 447
THOMSONS
M.T.B. 68 405
M.T.B. 67, 443
M.T.B. 16 ,
ECHO SOUNDING YACHTS.
M.T.B. 1020 459
CONIDAW
M.A.S.B. 10/474
CHICO
D.C.M.B., 484
M.A.S.B. 61468
RAMSGATE
M.L.
100 476
M.A.S.M. No.7x479
MOTOR BOATS.
W.D.M.L's 8.V487
SMALL CRAFT UNDER CONTROL OF
DOVER M/S COMMAND.
493
CONTRABAND CONTROL BASE
WEYMOUTH.
LL. TRAWLERS.
M.B. FORTY TWO
THOMAS BARTLETT
LIGHTER Y.C.72
INVERFORTH
M.B. TWO RIVERS
LORD INCHCAPE
M.L. MERMAIDEN
OUR BAIRNS
LORD GREY
REPORTS OF SMALL CRAFT RECEIVED
CLYTHNESS
FROM, CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT,
RELONZO
PORTSMOUTH.
RESTRIVO
H.M.S. ST. FAGAN
OROPESA TRAWLERS.
D/C MOTOR BOATS.
H.M.S.EXCELLENT'S A.A. MOTOR BOAT
BOTANIC
HOPPER GALLION'S REACH
FYLDEA
MARETTA
VESSELS OWNED BY LONDON &
ARLEY
ROCHESTER TRADING CO. LTD.
POLLY JOHNSON
1493.
BROCK
THYRA
CALVI
PUDGE
JOHN CATTLING
CABBY
SEINE
"M" DRIFTERS
DETAILED FROM
YARMOUTH.
FEASIBLE
SWIFT WING
REED
JOHN AND NORAH
GENIUS
ALCMARIA
LORD HOOD
LORD BARHAM
OVERFALLS
JEANNIE MACINTOSH
GULA
REWGA
TARANSAY

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynam 375.
Subject.
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
563
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth.
68
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
B.E.F., Motor Boats, by H.M.S. Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. FAGAN, of the
The the attached reports on the evacuation
"Gallions EXCELLENT'S A.A. Motor Boat and D/C
tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden- Hopper
VIV ADMIRAL *
26JUN 1940 26JUN DOVER
a
CAPTAIN.
wy.
just
clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling- boats
and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily
laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it
we managed to recover one who revived after some
was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While this our screws became foul In of spite
doing obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken of the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong
suit and ebbing tide soon drove us aground.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Drynam 375 Bw/
Subject.
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
593
}
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 781/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The attached reports on the evacuation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.M.S. ST. PAGAN, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A.A. Motor Boat and Hopper
"Gallions Reach" are forwarded in accordance with Confiden-
ne
tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
ADMIRAL
OIL DOVER 26JUN1940
CAPTAIN.
&
a line to the pulling boats
to the ships. One boat, heavily
a prequipment capsised just as it
aproul the men sank like stones but
m dune who revived after treatment.
aws became foul of some
ine * sendered useless. In spite
Ourto omeetfurts by other boats, the strong
drove on drove us aground.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Subject.
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.B.P.
564
68
From
The CAPTAIN, H.M.S. EXCELLENT. Portsmouth
Date
24th JUNE 1940.
No. 761/4.
To
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
The Vine Octual
The attached reports on the ovnolation of the
B.E.F., by the Commanding Officers, H.H.S. ST. PAGAIF, D/C
Motor Boats, H.M.S. EXCELLENT's A+A+ Notor Boat and Hopper
"Gallion's Reach" are forwarded In accordance with Confiden-
tial Portsmouth General Order 1700/40.
three the how
per cold 7 gallions events Reach after E.J.P.BRIND
the In Commander accestance which GAPTAIN.
my Portsmonth Comed at the Mappers Poternanth
douth
wy
1
cating- boats
Michael Lifer) the Let Washe I Rest heavily
Hits Nationals the Albre fine intenst as it
TAXTET enects Insurancely tones but
== rate boulthe the treatment.
AM D/2 teste sudar agreement the of some
In spite
KOME SHE - listogh in is an 12m quarte, the strong
LasHa Colours See at whop and.

Details

604
2
569
H.M.B Excellent.
12 June.
Sir,
He
I have the honour to submit the following narrative
of events covering the period 2200 Wednesday 29th May
until the morning of saturday June 1st
In accordance with verbal orders, 9 sailed from
Portomouth in H.M.S' EXCELLENT'S A/A motor Boat
about 2200 May 29th. The following afternoon it
became necessary to put in to Dover owing to
insufficient fuel to proceed to Ramsqate. While
refuelling I received orders to remain at Dover.
about michight I got sailing orders to proceed
at once to BRAY DUNES to assist with the terrying
operations between the beach and waiting ships.
and went straight inshore. There was heavy sust
Early on Friday morning we arrived off BRAY
and many of the pulling boats which the soldiers
were manning from a jethy of abandoned army
transports appeared to be in difficulties. The
general idea was for the power boats to nun in just
clear of the suit, throw a line to the pulling boats
and then tow them out to the ships. One boat, heavily
laden with men in full equipment capsised just as it
we managed to recover one who revived after some
was reaching us. most of the men sank like stones treatment. but
While doing this our screws became foul In of spite
obstacle and rendered useless.
sunken the anchor and vain efferts by other boats, the strong
suit of and ebbing tide soon drove as aground.