Details

BARBARA JEAN Sailing barge
(R.& W. Paul Ltd.)
C. Webb, Master.
31st May
Left Dover loaded with stores and
ammunition in tow 8 tug ?Foremost 87].
The barge was abandoned at Dunkirk "on
instructions from a naval officer,
owing to bombing".
Barbe Augusta AD396
Authority - T.O.9436/40.
anxiliary
Lieutenant de
RAOUL
Note by Car. Cras, of French Historical Section
the
83

Details

CECIL & LILIAN PHILPOTT R.N.L.I.
(Newhaven)
A/B W.J. Morris, Cozn.
life boat
[Report by A.B. Morris, Sto. Sproy and
Ord/Sea. Whyte].
31st May
0500
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
-
Arrived Dunkirk beach. Ran aground
for 2½ hours. Rescued 2 British
and 3 French (washed out of a boat
in tow).
p.m.
Small boats seen leaving in tow.
Cerons
(dark)
Ferried a load of troops from a
grounded barge to a trawler.
Proceeded.
1st June
0400ca
Starboard engine broke down. Taken in
tow and returned to Dover.
2nd June
1600
Left Dover with the M.L/B Thomas Kirk
Wright in tow of the tug Foremost 87.
2115ca
Slipped the tow.
2230ca
Went alongside Dunkirk jetty. Made 6
Pan
ferrying trips to a troopship. On
6th trip, told to take up tow astern
cherooung
with troops on board.
"Saved about 600/800 troops all told"
3rd June
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 51
troops. (1)
Total 51
Authority - R.O.II, p.251.
The following awards were made to the crew of the Newhaven
of the Newhaven R.N.L.I. lifeboat: (2)
D.S.M.
A.B. W.J. Morris.
Mention in Despatches
Sto. 1st C1. W. Spray.
0/8
T.E. Whyte, R.N.V.R.
(1) D.R.
168

Details

0001
FAIRPLAY(1)
Tug (Managed by
W. Watkins Ltd.)
S. Wright and G. Finch
25th May
Towed the water boat Claude to Dunkirk.
31st May
1600
Left Dover, with barges in tow; tug
Sun XII in company.
2350
Arrived Dunkirk. Put barges on the
beach at Braye-Dunes.
Proceeded, in company with Sun XII,
to the eastward.
1st June
0400
Returned to Braye-Dunes. Proceeded.
1030
Arrived Dover.
2155ca
Left Dover for W buoy in company with
6 other tugs (See Sun XI).
2nd June
0920ca
Arrived back at Dover.
1530ca
Left Dover, in company with tugs Sun X,
Sun XI, and Foremost 87, for Dunkirk.
2215ca
Arrived Dunkirk.
-
Returned to Dover.
Nil
(1) This account of Fairplay tugs. I's activities is compiled from
Dive at
the reports of 309 other

Details

/
FOREMOST 87
Tug. (W. Watkins Ltd.)
J.' Fryer, Master
S/L. H.M. Davis
R.N.R.
30th May
0800
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
-
Entering Dunkirk roads saw "large
1445
oil tanker" settling by stern.
1700ca
Arrived Dunkirk harbour and entered.
By order, beached the dumb barges Sark
and Shetland (which were at anchor
off Malo) 100 yards apart off Malo
Casino. Air attacks and gunfire.
Returned to vicinity of Dunkirk
harbour and assisted ships wherever
possible.
2100
Towed P/V Prague from eastern arm to
2400ca
Dunkirk roads. (See Lady Brassey)
Assisted a destroyer to berth.
31st May
0200ca
Proceeded with a few troops on board.
0700ca
Dover. Disembarked
troops
(number not stated).
1445
Left Dover for Dunkirk with 2 S/B's
loaded with provisions in tow.
2300
Beached the 2 barges on Malo beach as
ordered.
2400
Steaming off the harbour.
1st June
0330ca
Proceeded.
0730
Dover.
2nd June
1600ca
Left Dover with the M.L.B's Cecil and
Lilian Philpott and Thomas Kirk
Wright in tow. S/L. H.M. Davis,
R.N.R. took passage in Foremost 87
in this trip.
2145 ca
Arrived at given position and cast off
tow (2)
Proceeded to assist H/C Paris which
had been bombed and was sinking
slowly in a position approx. 2 milea
to seaward of No. 5 buoy.
Picked up 95 survivors of Paris
including 5 nurses ( the full comple-
ment).
2145
Picked up 13 Spanish seamen from a
small boat. Proceeded.
3rd June
0430
Dover. Landed survivors( 1) one of whom
(Deck Boy Bullock, aged 16) had
died, and the 13 Spanish seamen.
1630
Picked up 3 men from a destroyer which
was in collision in the harbour with
an empty transport. (3)
Total 100 (estimated)
Authority - R.O.II, pp. 215, 430.
W.W.
TM. 6213/40.
(1) D.R. "Foremost" disembarked 91.
(2) S/L. says Tug "Knowing that my 2 Cox'ns boats, 1/c of I cast the life- them
boats off and were proceeded capable to embark the survivors
Davis Bays, of navigating their of the [H/C]
(3) These Paris. vessels cannot be identified.
330

Details

FOREMOST 87 - Continued.
(Tilbury
The following awards were made:
Co.,Ltd.
D.S.C.
Any
0350
Capt. J. Fryer, Master.
Left Portsmouth for Dover.
2120
Arrived Dover. Ordered to Emagate,
Arrived Runegats,
Stat May
0540
Sciled for Donkirk, the hopper Lody
1255
Southborough 1.11 company.
Anchored off Dunkirk penoh.
1415
Launched 2 life boots. AT attacks.
The life boats plied between ship
shore, embarking French soldiers.
2030
Ordered by a "M.T.B." to leave hunkless.
2055
Left Dunkirk.
Reached 5 French soldiers from 8
dinghy.
Les Jane
0555
Arrived Dover. Ordered to Roangate. :
1025
Arrived Remegate, Disembarked 70
troops. (1)
Total 70
Authority - R.O.III, p.98
report that 0845 638 and
331

Details

HOLLAND
Blockship
Lt.Cdr.E.C. Coats R.N.
2nd June
2010
Weighed and sailed from the Downs to
Dunkirk. In company were Vivacious
leading, and towing M.T.B.107;
the Westcove and the Edvard Nissen.
2117
M.A/S.B.7 joined the convoy off the 8.
Goodwin L.V. opposite Calais, Holland
was unable to maintain the 7½ knots
of the convoy and soon lost sight of
it.
Nearing Dunkirk, a tug(1) "towing
a very long line of boats" crossed
Hollands bows and further delayed her.
3rd June
0315ca
Asked M.A/S.B.7 to lead Holland into
Dunkirk. Shortly after, "a long
line of destroyers came out" of
Dunkirk. "Astern of them, there was
a gap of over a mile and then a
large and fast transport."
[Note: The following destroyers left Dunkirk for Dover
at the times stated in brackets: Vanquisher
(0230), Whitshed (0245), Malcolm (0248)
Codrington (0250), Express (0250).
The following transports left Dunkirk at the
times stated in brackets:
Newhaven
1,888 tons, 3 steam turbines
(0245)
Tynwald
2,376 tons, 4 steam turbines
0300)
Rouen
1,882 tons, 3 steam turbines
was in Dunkirk
in the early
hours of 3rd
June (see
Thomas Kirk
Wright, p.240))
Cote d'Argent [3,047 tons, 4 steam turbines) (landed
troops at Dover
on 3rd June)]
I.A/S.B.7 led Holland through the gap
etween the destroyer line and the
Note
Anceuse allution a
ransport. When the transport was
cables away, and steaming very
'ast with the first streaks of dawn
ehind her, the danger of collision
my abordage n'afparait
ecame apparent, and Holland sounded
ne blast and put the wheel hard to
daws Bizafforth du
tarboard. The transport, says
t. Cdr. Coats, "had then only to a/c
Newhaven / du Rown
to starboard to pass well clear....
owever she appeared to alter to
ort". She struck Holland hard on
et de Pa cote d Argent
he bridge and just before the boiler
Dom bulkhead. The transport "did
ot appear to sustain much damage,
be Rouen n'a pas appareises' de
acked out and carried on". As
olland had no buoyancy in hand, her
Dewkergue cette nuit la
aptain ordered "abandon ship" a
etant zaste' ichour a P 'oceast
W seconds before she was struck.
de Pa fatee' d' Embacquat age
feesgee are miliere de Pa fournea
due 3 freen
Foremost 87.
Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept.
37

Details

HOLLAND
Blockship
Lt.Car.E.C. Coats R.N.
2nd June
2010
Weighed and sailed from the Downs to
Dunkirk. In company were Vivacious
leading, and towing M.T.B.107;
the Westcove and the Edvard Nissen.
2117
M.A/S.B.7 joined the convoy off the 8.
Goodwin L.V. opposite Calais, Holland
was unable to maintain the 7½ knots
of the convoy and soon lost sight of
it.
Nearing Dunkirk, a tug(1) "towing
a very long line of boats" crossed
Hollands bows and further delayed her.
3rd June
0315ca
Asked M.A/S.B.7 to lead Holland into
Dunkirk. Shortly after, "a long
line of destroyers came out" of
Dunkirk. "Astern of them, there was
a gap of over a mile and then a
large and fast transport."
[Note: The following destroyers left Dunkirk for Dover
at the times stated in brackets: Vanquisher
(0230), Whitshed (0245), Malcolm (0248),
Codrington (0250), Express (0250).
The following transports left Dunkirk at the
times stated in brackets:
Newhaven 1,888 tons, 3 steam turbines
(0245)
Tynwald
2,376 tons, 4 steam turbines
0300)
Rouen
1,882 tons, 3 steam turbines
was in Dunkirk
in the early
hours of 3rd
June (see
Thomas Kirk
Wright, p.240))
Cote d'Argent [3,047 tons, 4 steam turbines) (landed
troops at Dover
on 3rd June)]
M.A/S.B.7 led Holland through the gap
between the destroyer line and the
transport. When the transport was
6 cables away, and steaming very
fast with the first streaks of dawn
behind her, the danger of collision
became apparent, and Holland sounded
one blast and put the wheel hard to
starboard. The transport, says
Lt. Cdr. Coats, "had then only to a/c
5° to starboard to pass well clear....:
However she appeared to alter to
port". She struck Holland hard on
the bridge and just before the boiler
room bulkhead. The transport "did
not appear to sustain much damage,
backed out and carried on". As
Holland had no buoyancy in hand, her
captain ordered "abandon ship" a
few seconds before she was struck.
(1) Either Sun X, Sunk XI or Foremost 87.
37A

Details

LADY BRASSEY
Rescue Tug
(Dover Harbour Board)
F.J. Hopgood, Master(1
27th May
1200
Assisted tug Simla to tow A.B/V.
Mona's Isle into Dover.
29th May
0030ca
Having embarked the Assistant Salvage
Officer, Lieut. G.M. Robinson R.N.R.,
left Dover to assist dr. Montrose.
which had been in collision with a
tug [the Sun v].
0300
Found Montrose about 1 mile W.S.W. of
No.2 Buoy. Towed her to Dover,
stern first, being assisted when off
the eastern entrance by the Simla
0630
Dover. Secured Montrose to No.8 buoy.
30th May
1100
Left Dover for Dunkirk, with the tug
Foremost 87 in company.
1830ca
Arrived Dunkirk Pier. Entered harbour.
2230ca
With assistance of Foremost 87, towed
the P/V Prague out of the harbour.
31st May
0030
Left Dunkirk for Dover, Foremost 87
in company.
0700
Diverted to N. Goodwin to assist the
dfrs. Golden Gift and Shipmates
which were aground. Foremost 87
continued on to Dover.
0810
Met Golden Gift, which had refloated.
No sign of Shipmates.
1015
Returned to Dover.
1st June
1200ca
Left Dover to assist Prague, which was
contacted off N.W. Goodwin.
1330
Took Prague in tow.
1630ca
Prague beached on Sandwich Flats.
2100ca
Towed Prague inshore east of Sandown
Castle.
2nd June
2000
Left Dover to assist the H/C Paris,
near W buoy, Dunkirk.
-
Passed Ramsgate tug Fabia, returning,
having been unable to find the Paris.
3rd June
0015
Arrived off W buoy.
0315
Sighted Paris 1 mile east of W buoy,
listing heavily, and settling fast.
She had been abandoned (see
Foremost 87)
0400
paris sank 4 mile east of W buoy in 17
fathoms.
0800
Arrived Dover.
Nil
Authority R.O.II, p.432.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Capt. F.J. Hopgood, Master.
(1) There Referred to in Supplement No. 34925 of London Gazette of
16th August 1940 as "F. J. Hopwood". 133

Details

Hospital carrier
PARIS
S. Ry. Co.)
Capt. E.A. Biles, Master
1556
25th May
Left Dover for Dunkirk, the H/C
Isle of Thanet in company.
1815
Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed outside
the Isle of Thanet. Embarked wounded.
000lca
26th May
Left Dunkirk with wounded on board.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked wounded. (1)
28th May
1830
Left the Downs, the P/V's Manxman
and Prague in company.
2250
All 3 ships grounded on Smac Bank.
The Paris and Prague came off
immediately, but the Manxman remained
aground for some hours.
29th May
0355
The 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk, after
which they acted independently.
The Paris embarked troops and sailed.
Disembarked 400 troops( 2) at a home
port.
30th/31st
-
The Paris again went to Dunkirk and
May
returned with 230 troops. (2)
2nd June
1648
Left the Downs for Dunkirk.
-
Between the N. Goodwin L.V. and W buoy,
1855ca
ran into thick fog. Near W buoy
the fog cleared. (3)
1900ca
About 15 miles N.W. of Dunkirk,
attacked by 2 aircraft. Severe
damage from near misses. Ship out
of control, all lights extinguished.
2000ca
Attacked by 3 aircraft. Further
damage to ship and her lifeboats.
A motor boat I see 40 foot ship's
fast motor boat. took Paris's boats
in tow. The Paris was abandoned.
-
All personnel transferred to the tug
Foremost 87, and the boats abandoned.
2311
The tug Sun XV sighted Paris listing
heavily to starboard; she made fast
a wire, but it parted.
3rd June
0100
The tug Sun IV arrived on the scene.
Air attack. It was decided by the
tugs that an escort would be necessary
-
The tug Lady Brassey sighted Paris
listing heavily and settling fast.
0400
The Paris sank 4 mile east of W buoy in
17 fathoms.
Total 630
Authority - T.M. 6213/40.
R.O.II, p.177
(2) 1) This was of Operation Dynamo.
(3) D.R. D.R., para. before the commencement near W buoy, was shelled
when off the 89 states, coast Engines put out be of action
a the but
French appears bombed. to
379

Details

Tug
PERSIA
H. Aldrich, Master.
0900
29th May
Left Dover, towing dumb barges Sark and
Shetland. En route to Dunkirk, the
tow parted twice.
0500
30th May
Anchored 4 miles east of Dunkirk.
1245
Towed the barges to east pierhead,
Dunkirk, and anchored them as ordered.
(See Foremost 87)
1600
Left Dunkirk with soldiers and equipment
2400
Anchored in the Downs.
0700
Disembarked 27 troops at Dover.
31st May
2230
Left Dover, towing the S/B's Glenway
and Lark.
2305
Tow parted.
2400
Tow connected up again.
1st June
0800
Arrived east pier Dunkirk. Air raid on.
Towed the barges to 1 mile east of
pierhead and then let them sail ashore.
Saw dr. Ivanhoe hit by bomb; ordered
to take her in tow. Did so, but
concussion from a bomb broke the
towing hawser. Put another hawser on
board and proceeded towards Dover.
Bombed for over 2 hours until our
1000
planes came and dispersed the enemy.
Fired on by shore batteries - no
Abreast damage. the North Goodwin L.V.,
ordered to tow the Ivanhoe on to
Sheerness. In vicinity of Oaze, to a
the C.9
/
Government tug [e.g.] assisted
the Ivanhoe to Chatham. Another Point.
tow came to assist at Garrison Sheerness.
Persia tug made fast to a buoy at
2200
Left Sheerness with lifeboats for for
2nd June
1200
Ramsgate, Made Margate and
and oil tender Ramsgate, Margate
then roads. on to Deal, where Persia anchored
2200.
3rd June
0700
At Dover.
4th June
Standing by.
Total 27
Authority - T.M. 6213/40.
W. W.
389

Details

L.N.E.Ry.Co.
PRAGUE (H.M.T.) 1830
Capt. Baxter, Master.
Left Manxman the Downs via route Y. P/V
28th May
2250ca
Grounded and H/C Paris in
came off on Smal Bank. Prague company. and Paris
remained aground for same hours.
immediately, but Manxman
Anchored near Nieuport Bank buoy.
0355
All 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk,
29th May
after which they acted independently.
-
Entered Dunkirk. Prague embarked troops.
0735
Left Dunkirk and proceeded by Y route.
1330
Folkestone. Disembarked 2,000 troops.
1700
To Dunkirk by X route, in company with
30th May
numerous craft, large and small,
naval and merchant.
2030
Berthed inside Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Ship grounded as tide went out.
Refloated, assisted by the tugs
Lady Brassey and Foremost 87.
2245
Proceeded.
Folkestone. Disembarked 1039 troops.
31st May
0648
1st June
0355
To Dunkirk by X route.
0700
In company with other craft, attacks from
the air.
0715
Entered Dunkirk. Embarked about 3,000
French troops.
0903
Proceeded down the Western Roads.
1009
Dive bomb attack between Buoy "W" (past
1025
the Ruytingen) and Buoy "V". Near
misses astern by 3 bombs. Severe
Starboard engine out of
red to Scimitar, (1) a sloop( 3)
action. damage. Majority of troops transfer- and
the P.M/S Queen of Thanet, (2) while
under in way. tow by the tug Lady Brassey. Deal.
1331
1730
Taken Ship beached off Sandown Castle,
Total 3039.
Authority - R.O.III, p. 177.
TM. 6213/40.
(1) Capt. Baxter this was the Shikari; but that destroyer
(2) Capt. Except was Baxter in that Dover it says says at the it not was time. the an Calcutta)
the "sloop" has was not yet
405

Details

PRAGUE (H.M.T.) 1830
L.N.E.Ry.Co.
28th May
Left Manxman the Downs and via route Y.
Capt. Baxter, Master.
2250ca
Grounded on Smal H/C Paris P/V
-
Anchored came remained off near aground immediately, Nieuport Bank. for same Bank but hours. Manxman buoy. Paris
0355
29th May
All after 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk,
-
Entered which they acted independently.
0735
Left Dunkirk. Prague embarked troops.
1330
Folkestone. Dunkirk and proceeded by Y
Disembarked 2,000 troops. route.
1700
30th May
To Dunkirk by X route, in company with
numerous craft, large and small,
naval and merchant.
2030
Berthed inside Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Ship grounded as tide went out.
Refloated, assisted by the tugs
Lady Brassey and Foremost 87.
2245
Proceeded.
31st May
0648
Folkestone. Disembarked 1039 troops.
1st June
0355
To Dunkirk by X route.
0700
In company with other craft, attacks from
the air.
0715
Entered Dunkirk. Embarked about 3,000
French troops.
0903
Proceeded down the Western Roads.
1009
Dive bomb attack between Buoy "W" (past
1025
the Ruytingen) and Buoy "V". Near
misses astern by 3 bombs. Severe
damage. Starboard engine out of
action. Majority of troops transfer-
red to Scimitar, (1) a sloop( 3) and
the P. M/S Queen of Thanet, (2) while
under way.
1331
Taken in tow by the tug Lady Brassey.
1730
Ship beached off Sandown Castle, Deal.
Total 3039.
Authority - R.O.III. p. 177.
TM. 6213/40.
(1) Capt. Baxter Shikari; but that destroyer
(2) Capt. Except was Baxter in Dover says says at this the it was time. was an the Calcutta)
the "sloop" that it has was not not yet the
405

Details

SARK
Dumb barges
SHETLAND
20th May
Towed to Dover by the tug Foremost 87.
2
29th May
0900
Left Dover in tow of the tug Persia.
30th May
0500
The Persia anchored 4 miles east of
1245
Dunkirk, with the barges.
The Persia towed the barges to the east
1700
pier Dunkirk, and anchored them there.
The two barges were assisted on to Malo
beach by the Foremost 87.
I
Authority - M. 016146/40.
I 12
d
(a)
a

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
SUN X
and Co. Ltd.
W.A. Fothergill, Master.
S/Lt. A.J. Weaver, R.N.V.R.
1515ca
2nd June
Left them Dover with 4 boats. in tow [one of
was the Skylark III (1)], in
Arrived off Dunkirk. "The town
Fairplay I and Foremost 87.
company with 3 other tugs [Sun XI,
2215
burning furiously, shells and was bombs
exploding all over the place and a
pall of black smoke blowing gently
to the westward, blotting out the
2300ca
coast line". Cast off the tow.
Sun X entered the harbour to assist a
grounded transport [
]
which was full of troops. Found
there was insufficient depth of water.
Picked up several boats loaded with
men from the transport and proceeded
outside the harbour to pick up Sun X's
boats. Embarked troops from small
boats.
3rd June
-
After embarking about 300 troops, re-
entered the harbour to assist berthing
of transports.
0400ca
In the meantime Sun X's boats had
disappeared. Ordered to proceed to
Dover.
-
Half way across took 2 boats in tow.
0900
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 211
troops. (2)
Total 211
Authority - R.O.II, pp.219, 393.
W.W.
(1) S/Lt. "3.30 A.J. Weaver sent states: to tug Sun X (Lieut. Philpotts) which
towed p.m. 3 boats was to Dunkirk. (At destination Lt. Philpotts
left tug to act as beach master and did not return).
Boats loaded tug to capcity with French troops, and tug
(2) D.R. entered Dover at 8.30 a.m."
189

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
SUN XI
& Co., Ltd.)
J.R. Lukes, Master.
2330
30th May
Left for Tilbury, Ramsgate. towing 3 sailing barges
1300
31st May
1530
Arrived Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dover.
Dover with barges.
Sailed with a lighter, loaded with
1730
Arrived Dunkirk. A M/B took over the
stores and cans of water, in tow.
1800
Proceeded. lighter and beached her.
1900
Air attack. A drifter was sunk; the
1930
tug Contest picked up her crew.
Passed the tugs Sun XV, Sun VIII and
Sun IV going in.
2300
"Sorry for them, glad to get out".
Arrived North Goodwin. Anchored
inside S. Brake at 2400.
1st June
2130
Berthed a destroyer [the Worcester]
which had been in collision inside
Dover harbour.
2155ca
Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and pick
up anything.
2400
Off North Goodwin, there were seven
tugs, in single line ahead, viz. the
Challenge, Ocean Cock, Crested Cock,
Fairplay I, Sun VII, Sun XI, Sun XII.
2nd June
0200
Sighted small lights. Found a large
Govt. lighter Y.C.63 broken down
and full of wounded and troops.
Among them was "Captain (D) of the
19th Flotilla whose destroyer
[ the Keith had blown up".
0230
Took Y.C.63 in tow.
0630
Arrived Dover. Berthed lighter.
1400
Captain Fraser R.N. came on board.
1500ca
Left Dover, towing 4 boats, (1)
followed by tugs Sun X, Fairplay I and
Foremost 87.
[2115ca]
Foremost 87 picked up 6 life boats full
of wounded and survivors [from H/C
Paris] and turned back.
2245
Anchored west of Dunkirk Mole. Sun x
alongside. Embarked troops from M/B's
2330
Ordered inside the harbour to refloat
a grounded transport. Too shallow.
Transferred her troops by M/B's.
3rd June
0245
Went inside harbour again to assist a
sloop. Low water, went aground. Had
to back out.
0330
Daybreak. Full of troops, proceeded,
with a large life boat full of troops
in tow and also one small one
[the M/B Skylark III]
0900
Arrived Dover. Unloaded 188 troops.
Total 188
Authority W.W.
(1) One of which was the M. L/B Michael Stephens [and probably
the Southern Queen, and Jane Holland].
190

Details

TUGS
THE FOLLOWING TUGS TOOK PART
IN OPERATION DYNAMO:
William Watkins Ltd.
Cervia
Kenia
Doria
Persia
Fabia
Racia
Fairplay I(1)
Tanga
Foremost 87(1)
Vincia
Java
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd.
Sun
Sun VIII
Sun III
Sun X
Sun IV
Sun XI
Sun V
Sun XII
Sun VII
Sun XV
The Gamecock Steam Towing Co.
Crested Cock
Ocean Cock.
Gaselee and Son Ltd.
Fossa
Saml. Williams and Sons Ltd.
Duke
[Marquis] (2)
Prince
Princess
Elliot Steam Tug Co. Ltd.
Challenge
Contest
United Towing Co. Ltd.
Empire Henchman
Southern Railway Co. Ltd.
Foremost 22
(1) Managed by W. Watkins Ltd.
(2) Left Ostend at 2200 on 26th May. There is no record of
her having taken part in Dynamo.
244

Details

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

Sub-Lieutenant John Francis Worthington, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Halcyon.
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant James Tomkin, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Princess
Probationary Sub-Lieutenant Eric Sidney Flint, R.N.R., Elizabeth. H.M.S.
Midshipman Ian Kinloch Bryce, R.N.R., H.M.S. Fitzroy. Mosquito.
Midshipman Malcolm John Ball, R.N.R., H.M.S. Scimitar.
Commissioned Engineer Reginald Thomas Jones, Royal Navy, H.M.S.
Commissioned Engineer Thomas Kirby Reynolds, Royal Sabre. Navy, H.M.S.
Gunner Frederick William Benoy, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Salamander. Wolsey.
Gunner (T) Reginald William Clare, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Grenade.
Skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., H.M.Drifter The Boys.
Skipper George Hattan, R.N.R.,
Reed.
Skipper Herbert Holden, R.N.R., H.M.Drifter Midas.
Skipper William Francis Reynolds, R.N.R., H.M.Drifter Dorienta.
Captain Clifford Rowland Baxter, Master, S.S. Prague.
e.
Captain John Fréyer, Master, Tug Foremost 87.
Captain Charles Archibald Hancock, Master, S.S. Canterbury.
or
Captain Ernest Leonard Hill, Master, Sx8x Hospital Carrier Isle
of Guernsey.
Captain William Henry Hughes, Master, S.S. Scotia.
C Captain Robert McCallum McLean, Master, H M.hanspat King yearge V.
Captain Reginald Richard Pitman, Master, S.S. St. Helier.
Captain William Thompson, Master, S.S. Dorrien Rose.
Captain William Oswald Young, Master, H.M. Transport Levenwood.
Captain a ohn Henry Whiteway, Master, S.S. Tynwald.
Mr. Terence O'Hanlon, Mate, S.S. Dorrien Rose. S.S.
S.S.
Mr. Hubert Donald Freeman, First Officer, St. Helier. S.S.
Mr Arthur Patrick Joseph Paterson, Chief S.S. Officer, Royal Daffodil.
Mr. Frank Edward Martin, Second Officer, 1/1 St. Helier.
SS.
15.5 Mr. Allan Watterson, Second Officer of Tynwald.
Mr. Joseph William fred Coulthard, Chief Engineer, Royal Daffodil.
Mr. William MagGregor, Chief Engineer, H.M. Transport King George V
Mr. Bernard Murphy, Chief Engineer, S.S. Dorrien Rose.
Mr. Walter Ernest Oxenham, Chief Engineer S.S. Prague.
Mr. David Douglas Robb, Chief Engineer M.V. Hospital Guernsey. Carrier Isle of
Mr. Andrew Sinclair, Chief Engineer, S. Royal Sovereign.
D
Mr. George Frederick Todley, Second Engineer, S.S. Maid of Orleans.
all
MR. James Lang Crockart, Engineer S.S. Biarritz.
Mr. Charles/Mason, Radio Officer Tynwald.
Queen.

Details

eutenant Alexander Harper Turner, R.N.V.R.
ipper George Hattan, W.S.3022, H.M.
skipper illiam John Francis REED
Sub-Lieutenant DORI
Lieutenant Sub-Lieutenant Sub-Licutenant Robert Robert George Hunter Walter Arthur Irving, Timbrell, R.M.R., R.C.N., Motor LLANTH GRI
Lieutenant Charles Waterland
Sub-Lieutenant William Ronald Mo
Sub-Lieutenant John Cambridge Clarke, SWALLOW, R.N.V.R., Et
Boat RAPIDE.
Master W. Thompson, S.S. DORIEN ROSE.
Chief Engineer B. Murphy, D.D. DORIEN ROSE.
Mate, T.O. Hanlon, S.S. DORIEN ROBE.
Sub-Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman
Thames Cockle Boat
Master, J. Freyer, Tug FOREMOST 87.
Lieutenant Commander Stratford Hercules Dennis
Co manding M.T.B. Bas
Lieutenant Christopher William Stuart Dreyer,
M.T.B. 1
Lieutenant Donald Terry McBarnet, R.N., Dutch
H.M.S. DOGGERSBAN
Sea Cadet Lieutenant Harry Sidmouth-Willing, D
R.M.S. HILDA.
Lieutenant Frederick Thomas Renny, R.N.S., Dut
H.M.S. HONDBRUG.
Engineer Mr. J. Crockett, - BIARRITZ.
Master, Charles Archibald Hancock, - CANTERBUR
Master, Ernest Leonard Hill, Hospi tal GUERNSEY Carrier
Master, Robert Mellum licLean, Personnel Ship LI
William Oswald Young, H. Transport
Master, chard Pittman, - St. Helie HEL
Master, Second Officer Reginald Frank Edward Martin, - ET.
Second Chief Engineer Officer The Allan Joseph Conspicuous Watterson, Wilfrid Gallantry Coulthard, - TYINTALD 0/3x.2 Medal. R
Acting Able Beuman Leading (Cook) Seaman J.H. Ronald Elton, H.M.Y.
Account

Details

Onequs channel
Page 112:13.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Tilbury Dredging Co. S.S. QUEENSLAND - J. L. Bunt, Master.
Recommendations.
Deckhands W. Absolom and M. Hains,
DSM
Fine examples of British mercantile seamen. As
?D.S.M.
boats crews, continuously ferried troops under fire
until all boats were stove in or swamped. Also ran
lines to other boats full of soldiers when in
rk
difficulties and swamped, during heavy bombing.
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.Tug ST. ABBS. - Lieutenant Thomas Ernest Brooker, R.N. (Retired).
Recommendations,
Le
Leading Officer Steward Edmund Samuel Lawrence, P/L. 8649.
When KEITH, SKIPJACK and ST. ABBS were sunk
during a heavy bomb attack, some survivors were
embarked in a steam lighter. Leading Steward Lawrence
was conspicuous for his coolness, courage and devotion
to duty at all times, and foraged round the wreck for
:o
food and clothing, and assiduously tended the wounded
on the voyage home.
Recommended for decoration.
Tug FOREMOST 87. - J. Freyer, Master.
This tug was used throughout the operations for
purposes of salvage, and in particular for towing
barges to the beaches.
Recommendation.
Master, J. Freyer.
Showed great initiative and seamanship under
difficult conditions whilst being bombed in towing
loaded barges to the Dunkirk beaches, and also in
bringing same back again to Dover, and in the salving
of damaged craft.
D.S.C
Recommended for decoration.
Tug LADY BRASSEY. - T. J. Hopwood, Master.
M
This tug was used repeatedly for all kinds of
salvage jobs during the operation DYNAMO, very often

Details

Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel. Page
112,
Tilbury Dreaging Co. S.S. Recommendations, QUEENSLAND - J. L. Bunt, Master.
Deckhands W. Absolom and M. Hains.
Fine
until boats lines crews, all to boats in mercantile troops under seamen, As
difficulties and swamped, full during of soldiers or heavy swamped. when bombing. in Also fire
ran
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.Tug ST. ABBS. - Lieutenant Thomas Ernest Brooker. R.N. (Retired).
Recommendations.
Leading Officer Steward Edmund Samuel Lawrence, P/L.8649. 8649.
When KEITH, SKIPJACK and ST. ABBS were sunk
during a heavy bomb attack, some survivors were
embarked in a steam lighter. Leading Steward Lawrence
was conspicuous for his coolness, courage and devotion
to duty at all times, and foraged round the wreck for
food and clothing, and assiduously tended the wounded
0
on the voyage home.
Recommended for decoration.
Tug FOREMOST 87. - J. Freyer, Master.
This tug was used throughout the operations for
purposes of salvage, and in particular for towing
barges to the beaches.
Recommendation.
Master. J. Freyer.
Showed great initiative and seamanship in under towing
de
whilst being bombed also in
B.
difficult conditions to the Dunkirk beaches, and in the
bringing loaded barges same back again to Dover, and salving
of damaged craft.
Recommended for decoration.
Tug LADY BRASSEY. - T. J. Hopwood, Master.
kinds
of
salvage This jobs tug during was used the repeatedly operation DYNAMO, for all very ofter

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
MESSAGE 0746/3rd June
OUT.
To. V.A. Dover, 438.
Date 3.6.40
Repeated C. in C. Nore. 922.
20
C. in C. Portsmouth. 245,
F.O. 1/c London.
Commodore 1/c Sheerness. 618.
F.O.1/c Portland. 567.
N.O.i/c Ramegate.
N.O.1/c Newhaven.
War Office.
P/L BY T/P
From Admiralty.
IMPORTANT.
Reference Admiralty mesuage 2321/1,
instructions regarding disposal of tugs and lighters
should be amended as follows so far as craft named
are concerned:-
(1) Following London tugs which were requisitioned
specially for Operation should be returned to
CHALLENGE, CONTEST, PERSIA, RACIA, CERVIA, TANGA
Gravesend - -
HIBERNIA, CRESTED COCK, OCEAN COCK, WATERCOCK,
They should be utilised as fully as possible
SUN, SUN X, SUN XI, SUN XII, BETTY.
for towage of craft or boats to be returned to
the Thames or elsewhere en route.
(ii) Under-mentioned tugs which are under orders of
D. of S.T. should proceed as follows:-
(a) EMPIRE HENCHMAN to Portsmonth with barges
SNOWDON and SALADIN for N.S.O. These carges were
left at Ramsgate by tug TANGA on 29th May.
pair of barges from those mentioned in (v) Below
(b) FOREMOST 37 to Weymouth with any convenient
sufficiently seaworthy, for towage as in (1)
(c) FAIRPLAY I to Gravesend being used, if
above. (d) GONDIA to Fishguard with barges SARK and
SHETLAND. These barges ware left at Dover on
20th May by FOREMOST 87.
(iii) Tugs SUN VII and FOREMOST 23 should return to
station at Southend and Newhaven respectively
taking any convenient tow.
(iv) If any of the tuge named above are required to
assist in other more urgent towages arrangementa
should be made by you direct with D. of S.T.
Crews of EMPIRE HENCHMAN, GONDIA and FOREMOST 87
may be given at your discretion up to 24 hours
standeasy before proceeding Westward.
(v) The barges JAPAN, KENYA, EGYPT, APRICA, LONDON
and SCOTLAND which arrived Dover from Tilbury
on 2nd June should not repetition not be
returned/....

Details

27
MESSAGE
To O. in C Portsmouth
0120/14th Juno
OUT
Repeated C. in C Western Approaches
c. in C Nore
Date 14/6/40
Seatrans, Newhaven
Seatrans, Plymouth
Seatrans, Falmouth
Commodore in Charge Sheerness
Seatrans, Littlehampton
Divisional Transport Southsmpton
N.O. 1/c Ramagate.
P/L by T/P
From D of S.I.
The following craft when no longer required for
Operation Cycle should be directed as follows. Tugs PERSIA
and TANGA proceed to Plymouth as Boon as possible and report
to S.T.O. on arrival. Both tugs should be kept at Plymouth
b
ready to sail at short notice. Instructions to S.T.O. will
follow. Tugs CONTEST and QUEENS CROSS tow barges WESTOLIFF
WOKING BRENTLAND and LINCOLN from Newhaven to Felmouth
reporting to S.T.O. on arrival. Tug FOREMOST 87 tow barges
VARSITY and VIGIL from Littlehnmpton to Falmouth. Tug
KROOMAN tow barge SERLO from Southampton to Falmouth. Tug
HEADWAN tow S.B. DORRIEN ROSE from Newhaven to Orchard
Drydock, Blackwall, London and return to Sheerness to tow
barges JULIA and CHARLES I from Shoorness to Scapa. Tug
FAIRPLAY ONE proceed to Sheornese and tow barges BASKET and
CHEEKIE from Sheerness to Portsmouth for dolivery to N.S.O.
Tug WATERCOOK proceed to Falmouth. Tuge SUN XI and CRESTED
COOK proceed to Ramsgate for orders.
0120/14.
for D. of S.T.
D of P (3)
C.O.R.T.
M. (3)
D of S.T.
D.T.D. (2)
D.T.D. (Basement)
D.S.V.P.
Msl
68

Details

4d.
49
Copy/
DYNAMO 234.
Salvage
Office,
11, Cambridge Dover. Terrace,
11th
June,
1940.
Commander
Days
The
Castle,
Dover.
Sir,
As instructed I enclose my report of operations
$
carried out under my orders on the following Tugs, LADY BRASSEY,
FOREMOST 87 and ST. OLOARD
29th May 0/30 State left Dover on LADY BRASSEY to assistance of
H.M.S.
"MONTROSS".
3/- Took "MONTROSE" in tow from the range of enemy
searchlights off Gris Nez.
6/110 Arrived at Dover after towing "MONTROSE" stern
first all the way.
30th May 11 Refle Left Dover on LADY BRAS BY with FOREMOST 87
in company, bound for Dunkirk in search of H.M.S.
"BIDEFORD", missed the "BIDEFORD" in fog, received 8
bombing off Gravelines - no damage done; carried on
to Dunkirk.
5/0 Dalla On arrival S.N.O. ordered me to assist in
harbour work. I sent the FOREMOST 87 to handle barges
onto the Marlo bench, etc., BRASSEY into harbour.
Towed "PRAGUE" out of harbour stern first and guided
incoming craft to troop embarkation points.
31st May 0/30 Stalle Left Dunkirk under orders of V.A.D. by W/T,
no troops then available for me to bring over, there
being five vessels waiting at that time.
7/0 ReMe Visual signal from Leathercoats sent me back
to N. Goodwins to assist two Trawlers ashore. I ordered
FOREMOST 87 back to Dover.
8/30. Arived back at Dover. Trawlers refloated.
lot June 10/30 seme Left Dover on the "ST. OLOAP" to assistance
of *H.S.S. "SALAMANDER" reported to be off "Western Buoy"
and proceeding slowly towards Dover; went to assistance
of S.S. "PRAGUE" off N. Goodwin, vessel had been
bombed and was in sinking condition and troops were
being transferred to small craft which were alongside,
finding my mistake in ships I requested the "JAVA" to
take my place and tow the "PRAGUE" to the Small Downs
and beach her whilet I went after the "SALAMANDER" -
this the "JAVA" did; at about 3 palla we were dive
bombed near *** buoy - "no damage", so went to
assistance of several other craft "not required".
After searching between the and Western Buoy for some
time and finding no sign of the "SALAMANDER" I sent
W/T to V.A.D. that I would wait around the area for
orders or would assist anything I came across. Later
I took in tow H.M.S. ? D.96, destroyer which had been
battered and was laid helpless - full of troops.
Towed her until off the E. Goodwin and Goodwin Knoll,
when her engines came back to life.
Whilst towing the D.96 I received W/T from V.A.D.
to return to Dunkirk and handle H.M.S. "KEITH". I
replied unable to obey orders as I was fully engaged
with the D.96. Later, when D.96 was able to proceed
under her own power I phoned from Deal for further
orders; these were then given to the Captain of the
Tug whilet I myself was put into hospital from injuries
received/

Details

42 50
received during the general melee of bombing and
getting ropes fast to the D.96.
I should like to mention the Skipper of the Tug
FOREMOST 87 for his coolness in towing barges around the Dunkirk
beaches and work which he helped me with in Dunkirk Harbour under
fire; also the Master of the "ST. OLOAF" AND "BRASSEY" throughout
the operations.
WI regret that I cannot supply time, during the
operations. I had no time to make notes.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Signed) Geo. 11. Robinson,
Lieut, R.N.R.
Assistant Salvage Officer.
to
on this planes
overhoad and the gan vis fired by Zite Robinson.
arrived Deskrick a missage
von Lm to the them had been
wast over to the 8
to come Inste and berth alomgaide the mot pter
To alongside the plan about 6.50
11, Robinson visit on shore for than
orders to - with School and return. but this order use
and orders given for the seg to reming by the
Staff orriser, who asked for shree itrabulto So past in and
notor best that una standing by for time This 789 down)
the said that be would not pus trade OR board but va
vare to rousin slongatde of the any until further orders.
I Laon him titn's I 414 not think va could remin very
Img in this borth on account of the death of intere Ba
advised THE to-shirt for ther our tountries the and of the HEAP
about 9 Date No shifted bearth about 9 Date to the outer
not the plan. I then found with the small that the tugs
sterboard bills bel VIA striking the contrage stome before
the rubbing band tools a houring on the dene I sent one of
YOU most along the plan to report to hts 11 196 not safe
tug to renain and Sept the tour almas by
the state
About 9a Date 90 received orders for both toge
too the Improport off the but Pier at 10,
The "PEASOR" and lying head into the and draving
about 17 the of and at that time there would be abroad
18 No of votern. alon a stoot of * extent, bet
a 11,01 for N guide to Tream
of 2014
check Della se got that be the atorn of Six.
"PRAGUE" and the on her 10.
the "MASSSSY"#" utro with not nade meanths on the
and 11 attained ore, TO got our voce on board and
That to the of the Ii not vary
in the starr of the

Details

454
COPY.
Rescue Tug "LADY BRASSEY".
Saturday, 1st June, 1940.
Sir,
I, Frederick John Hopgood, was in charge of the tug
"LADY BRASSEY" when at 10.40 B.M. Lt.-Commander Laloe was
put on board the Hospital ship "ST. DAVID" lying at anchor
off the detached Mole with engine trouble. He then told me
to go back into harbour and see if S.S. "ROEBUCK" lying at
the Admiralty Pier was ready to be assisted off. le had
just left the Hospital ship about 11.30 a.m. when we
received instructions from the examination steamer to proceed
to the no Transport AMANDER" and
53
44
it
a
COPY.
md
"GONDIA",
e
Dover.
rd.
dp
10/6/40.
Dalle
Report of trip to Calais 24/5/40.
To:
in
Admiral Ramsey, R.No
VaADe
Sir,
At 1100 24/5/40, "Gondia" and "Foremost 87" left
Dover for Calais and proceeded by routes given.
Arriving in vicinity of No. 1 Calais de Ridens buoy
ke
at 1300, we found two destroyers engaged shelling the
shore, one to the W of the entrance, the other close east
of pierheads, while manoeuvring at full aneed. We
proceeded lowly in towards No. 5 buoy, then "Foremost 87"
spoke destroyer and was told to clear off as it was not
safe to go in. Bomba at that time were also being
S
dropped in the entrance, and at 1335 we proceeded back
to Dover for further orders.
hen we were some two miles off Calais, a Saint tug
e
(name unknown) was proceeding along the coastal route
d
past Calais, as though proceeding towards Dunkirk, and
bug continued hor voyage, and we saw nothing more of her
a
as we returned.
Arrived back in Dover 1550, and made fast.
I am, Sir,
Yours obediently,
(SGD.) CHARLES PRATT.
MASTER.
me.

Details

RAS
of
-2-
MAY 26TH. A careful sweep of the Harbour and approaches
carried out during the forenoon and the area was declared
and the Harbour open at 1436. Sweeping operations were
later to ensure that delayed action mines should be destrope
The order to withdraw the B.E.F. from Dunkirk was given and
embarkation of the troops started this evening.
JOFF
A staff organisation known as "DYNAMO" was set up to carry
plan for evacuating the beaches at Dunkirk. Dutch Skoots,
Launches, Life-boats and numerous other small craft began
assemble at Dover and were berthed at Prince of Wales Piers
in Submarine Basin. These vessels were at once supplied
fuel, food and water to enable them to sail for Dunkirk at
earliest possible moment.
MAY 27TH. The tugs "Sun V11" and "Sun X" and "Persia" arriv
and reported for duty with K.H.M. They were detailed for
lighters and boats to Dunkirk.
MAY 28TH. At 0300 the Examination Vessel "Ocean Reward" ⑉
and sunk off Dover by the Hospital Ship "Isle of Thanet" with
loss of all hands. Boats were lowered by "Isle of Thenet
serched the position of the accident to gether with the tug
Brassey" but no survivors were found. The night was fine
calm and clear and both vessels were showing lights. Facts
contributory to the accident may have been the high speed
"Isle of Thanet" and possibly a misunderstanding on the pari
"Ocean Reward" that "Isle of Thanet" would stop off Dover
The tug "Foremost 87" arrived and joined the flotilla of
lighters and boats to Dunkirk. At 0830 the requisitioned
Skoots "Ruja", "Sursum Corda", "Jaba Amazone", "San Antonio"
arrived for duty on the Flanders coast. They required water
"Pacific", "Frendja", "Hebe", "Frisco Wega", "Pascholl" and
fuel and provisions and steps were to provide
During these operations the air raid taken warning at once sounded and
precautions in the Dockyard were taken. No attack develop
immediately after the "All Clear" was sounded these vessels
for Dunkirk.
MAY tow. 29th. The tug "Fairplay 1" with the water lighter "Cla "SM
was Lt. with Sub. the Comdr. detached Commodore Lieuts. Military and the R.G. K.A. for tug stores Wardrop Harwood, duty "Persia" sailed at R.N.R. Dunkirk. with E.S. for of Hill the Dunkirk. Commodore lighters and G. Jones "Sark" R.N.V.R. and
MAY connection numerous by motor of enemy the 30TH. boats Examination holes action. with H.M.S. arrived Superintendent's caused operation The Service "Jaguar" by former bombs "DYNAMO". was and had detached and staff, "Greyhound" thirteen aircraft for dead arrived duty on at board both duty Many
Dunkirk order by tugs and drifters. during the day All and whose were
Several Thames sailing barges orene
sailed during afternoon.
available at the Prince arrived and as will
visions same day. and ammunition. of Two Wales tugs Pier sailed they with them to
whom Many more vessels were now available evacuating the
many thousands were landed at Admiralty for Pier.
MAY 31ST. The Fleet in tow
"Locust". She had been Sweeper struck "Bideford" arrived which had
her depth charges and blown by & bomb aft
was taken in hand for temporary repairs H.M.S. Sanahu
800 troops on board at the time thirty and feetmoff suffered her
At the Prince of Wales Pier in the by the
"Ocean Cook" and "Challenge" towed morning the lighters and
"F.23" loaded with Military stores over to Dunkir&,

Details

-5-
2519
Other demands were made for 50 tons of dry
provisions of all kinds to Dutch and French vessels.
Other demands were for 7 days provisions for 150 men
to 4 ships and provisions for 400 men for one day
to each of 15 vessels. As large reserves had been
built up these demands were quickly met.
During the period 200 ships were supplied with water -
some of them several times. About 743,000 gallons
were supplied by the Water Boat "Aqua". All the
Victualling Store Staff worked for 18 hours a day on
most days and the crew of Aqua" worked almost contin-
uously.
GS
Twelve tugs were detailed for operation "DYNAMO"
for towing barges and small craft. of these
"Foremost 87" was outstanding and made four passages
to France and was willing to go again if required.
"Foremost 22" and "Fairplay 1" made the passage twice
and were ready to go again. Other tugs made one
passage.
A report by Lieutenant Commander Wardrop R.N.R on
the situation at Dunkirk while he was there on detached
duty is attached.
COMMODORE SUPERINTENDENT.
18JUN 1940
OVER

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

THE NIGHT 2ND-3RD JUNE
CHAP. XI
to were seen and no ships Dunkirk of No. 604
2120 on the 2nd June, to clear reported the air being for the attacked. night's work. Blenheims No enemy air-
craft Squadron then continued to patrol singly over throughout the night.
reported, and R.A.F. fighters intercepted successfully 3rd on three.
Only on three occasions during the 2nd June were enemy all aircraft formations
evacuation effort. Eighteen Blenheims a level (1,000-3,000
series of attacks on the batteries near bombed Gravelines, from low to coincide with the
During the early morning hours of Pointe the de June the R.A.F. carried out a
feet), but were unable to observe results.
By night, the policy was continued of directing a small proportion of our
effort to targets near the battlefront and the main weight against Germany ;
and air in conformity with this policy twelve Wellingtons attacked Bergues.
Blocking of Dunkirk Inner Harbour (Operation C.K.) (See Plan 4 and
Appendix Z)
The blocking of the inner harbour at Dunkirk was under the command of
Captain E. Dangerfield, R.N., and was carried out on two successive nights.
The operation was first timed to be carried out on the night 1st-2nd June, but
at 1808 on the 31st the Admiralty ordered its postponement.
On each night three blockships, escorted by a destroyer, an MA/S.B. and an
M.T.B., were employed. The blockships assembled in the Downs, and (as
usual) they were such crocks that one, the French built Emerald Wings (Govern-
ment Yard, Cherbourg, 1920) broke down soon after leaving Portsmouth for
the Downs and had to be towed back to harbour; a second could not keep up
with the convoy; and a third, the Moyle, developed defects which, however,
by dint of working on her all night, were remedied in time.
The ships finally employed on the night 2nd-3rd June were as follows :-
Vivacious (destroyer)
M.A/S.B. 7
M.T.B. 107
Blockships Westcove 2734 tons, built 1912
Edvard Nissen 2062 tons, built 1921.
Holland Dutch M.V. 895 tons, built 1923.
Early on the 2nd of June Admiral Nord asked that the blockships might be
sent over to arrive at the entrance to Dunkirk harbour at 0300 on the 3rd, the
latest hour at which they could enter on that night, by which time it was hoped
the evacuation would have been completed. During the afternoon of the 2nd
however, the Admiralty received a message from the Admiral postponing the
operation because the evacuation would not be completed that night. However,
the Admiralty still hoped to complete the evacuation and ordered the block-
ships to sail.
At 2030 on the 2nd the Vivacious, with Captain Dangerfield on board and
with M.T.B. 107 in tow and M.A/S.B. 7 in company, sailed from the Downs,
leading the three blockships, and proceeded to Dunkirk by Route Z. The
Holland, unable to maintain the 71 knots speed of the convoy, was soon lost
to sight astern. Nearing Dunkirk a tug (either the Sun X, Sun XI or Foremost
87), towing a very long line of boats, crossed her bows and still further delayed
her, but she eventually made contact with M.A/S.B. 7 and asked to be led
into the harbour. The other two blockships had anchored at 0230, and a
1 This is her correct name
111

Details

Details

INDEX
Fighter Command. 36-7. See Royal Air Force.
Fisher, Cdr. R. L., 51n.
Fisher Boy, 32n,
Fletcher, Lt., 81.
Fitzroy, 31, 54n.
Fog, 115, 118-9.
38.
Ford, Ch. F. A., saves Whippingham, 87.
Ford R.N.A. Station, 71n
Forecast, 23n, 107n, 114n.
Foremost 87, 71n, 111.
Foremost IOI, 72n.
Foremost 102, 71n.
Foudroyant, 62n, 91-2 (sunk).
Fouque, Capt. de Freg. R., 62.
Franklyn, Maj.-Gen. H. E., 6.
Frazer, Capt. Hon. G., 97.
Fredanja, 29n.
French Navy. Failure to supply pier parties, 109.
French ships arrive, 35, 62.
French troops evacuation begins, 35 ; rush boats, 45, 51, 53 ; organised evacuation not
begun, 54; to embark equally with British, 56, 68; lack of information from, 84
uncertainty as to numbers, 105; pause in embarkation, 108; slow to embark, 128;
12,000 left, 120; discipline, 128.
Friso, 29n, 31n.
Fyldea, 13n, 39, 40n, 44.
Gallant, 23, 24n, 27, 32, 39 (damaged), 55n her motor boat, 110.
Gallion's Reach, 72n.
Gallon, Ch. Stkr. M., 91.
Gandell, Cdre., W. P., P.S.T.O. French Ports, 13.
Gara, 92.
Genius, 71n.
Georges, General, 1.
Gerard Léon, 73.
Gervais Rentoul, 83n (damaged), 95 (sunk).
Getuigt vor Christus, lost, 110.
Gipsy King, 72n.
Girl Gladys, 23n, 62.
Girl Pamela, 23n, 55 (sunk).
Glagla, 71n, 74.
Glen Avon, 60n, 100-1.
Glen Gower, 60n, 100-1.
Glenway, 71n, 107n.
Glitter II, 31n, 53 (towed to England).
Godman, S/Lt., T. E., R.N.V.R., 72.
Golden Eagle, 42, 107n.
Golden Gift, 23n.
Golden Lily, 54, 60n.
Golden Spray II, 72n, 75n.
Golden Sunbeam, 23n, 47n, 62, 107n.
Goliath, 114.
Gort, Lord faces possibility of evacuation, 4; proposal to counter attack, 5, 11, 14, 27
directed to execute Weygand Plan, 10; delays enemy, 26; moves H.Q. to La Panne,
26; refuses to be evacuated, 47; orders piers to be built, 47; plans for final phase,
56; hands over command and embarks, 66, 76; staff embarking, 67.
Gorton, Cdr. H. G., 49, 80n.
Gossamer, 28n, 33, 36, 75, 77, 81, 107n, 109.
Gould, Lieut. P. F. S., 113.
Gourko, 119-20.
Gracie Fields, 23n, 27, 41-2 (abandoned), 47n.
Grafton, 13 (bombards Calais) ; in Dynamo, 23, 27, 31, 37-8 (sunk), 55n, 85.
Gravelines, evacuated, 18.
Gravesend, sends small craft, 61.
Greater London, 117.
199

Details

rata
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING.
CONFIDENTIAL
MESSAGE.
0748/3rd June
OUT
COSPIDENTIAL
286
To V.A.Dover, 488
& 4 OF THEM STATE 1
DATE 5.6.40
Repeated 0. in C. Nore. 982
Rejoy 0. in O. Portsmouth 245.
P.O. 1/c London.
0
Commodore 1/c Sheerness 618.
SENT
Cortland 567.
616
N.O. 1/c Ramagate.
COME
N.O. 1/c Newhaven
War Office.
P.O.
2/0
(282)
Y.O.
i/c
2/6 By T/2
From Admiralty.
RES
&
IMPORTANT. 1/0 Crimsby.
1/6 Yarmouth.
Reference Admiralty message 2321/1.
instructions regarding disposal of tuge and lighters
should be amended as follows 80 far as craft named
are concernedi-co
(1) Following London tugs which were requisitioned
specially for Operation should be returned to
Gravesend -
GHALLENGE, CONTEST, PERSIA, RACIA, CERVIA, TANGA,
HIBERNIA, CRESTED COOK, OCEAN COCK, WATERCOOK,
GUN, SUN X, SUN XI, SUN XII, BETTY.
They should be utilised as fully as possible for
towage of craft or boats to be returned to the
Thames or elsewhere en route.
off
(11) Under-mentioned tugs which are under orders of
be Date of B, 7. should proceed as follows:-
(a) EMPIRE HENGHMAN to Portsmouth with barges
(84324C) Wt 84295/31 200 Pads 11/39 H,J,R&L,Ld Gp 684
SNOUDON and SALADIN for N.S.O. These barges were
left at Ramsgate by tug TANOA on 29th May.
(b) FOREMOST 87 to Weymouth with any convenient
pair of barges from those mentioned in (v) below.
(c) PAIRPLAY I to Gravesend being used, if sufficiently
seaworthy, for towage as in (1) above.
(d) GONDIA to Fishguard with barges BARK and SHETLAND.
These barges were left at Dover on 20th Bay by
FOREMOST 87.
OD.
(8)
(111) Tugs SUN VII and FOREMOST 22 should return to station
at Southend and Newhaven respectively taking any
convenient tow.
(iv)
If any of the tugs named above are required to
assist in other more urgent towages arrangements
should be made by you direct with D. of S.T.
Crews of EMPIRE HENOHMAN, GONDIA and FOREMOST 87
may be given at your discretion up to 94 hours
standessy before proceeding Westward.
(v)
The barges JAPAN, KENYA, EGYPT, AFRICA, LONDON
and SCOTLAND which arrived Dover from Tilbury
on 2nd June should not repetition not be returned
to Themes but will be allocated, if still seaworthy
to West Coast. FOREMOST 87 should take one pair to
Teymouth. Instructions for disposal of this pair
and of remainder will follow later.
0748/3
For D. of S.T.
V.O.N.S.
N.(2)
Sir J.Foley
A.O.N.S.(H)
S.T.N.4.
D. of (3)
D. of S.T.
A.C.N.S.(T)
C.C.R.T.
S.T.N.6A.
Mr.Justice
0.0.(8)
D. of S.T.
S.T.N.63:
W.P.L.
Mr.D.H.Ndwards
Dps. (4)
Mr.F.V.Cross
Nr.Bellamy
Capt.Fisher
Extra

Details

Page 5.
OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY . 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
DOGGER BANK
HANDY BILLY
DORIA (Tug)
HASTINGS LIFE-BOAT
DREADNOUGHT II
HOLLAND
DREADNOUGHT III
HOPPER 26
DUCHESS OF YORK
HOUND (Lighter)
DWARF
HYTHE (Coaster)
D.1 )
IOLANTHE
D.4
IOTE
D.7
(Harbour
IRMA MARIA (Fishing boat)
D.9
Launches)
JABA
D.16
JACINTA (Trawler)
D.C. 715
JAMES 67 (Hopper Barge)
D.G. 694
JANIS
D.G. 950
JOHANNA (Eel Boat)
EASTBOURNE LIFE-BOAT
JONG
EDWARD NISSEN
JORDAN
EDWINA (Trawler)
KAYELL
ELIZABETH QUEEN
KESTREL
E.M.E.D. (Motor Life-boat)
KINGSGATE
EMPRESS
KITCAT (M.B,)
EMPRISE (Harbour Launch)
K.L.
ENDEAVOUR
LADY BRASSEY (Rescue Tug)
ENTERPRISE (M.B.)
LADY CABLE (M.B.)
ERICA
LADY SHEILA
ESKBURN
LADY SOUTHBOROUGH
FAIR BREEZE (Drifter)
(Hopper Barge)
FAWLEY (Gosport Ferry)
LANDANIA
FERRY KING (Gosport Ferry)
LANSDOWNE
FERVENT
LAROC
FISHBOURNE (I.O.W. Ferry)
LETITIA (Smack)
FOREMOST 2 (Hopper Barge)
LITTLE ANN (M.B.)
FOREMOST 87 (Tug)
LOTUS
FORMIDABLE
LOUISIANA
FORSA
MADAM SANSCENE
FOSSA (Tug)
MAID ERRANT
FRIGHTENED LADY
MALDEN
F.W. 23 (Lighter)
MALDEN ANNIE IV
GALLEON'S REACH (Hopper)
MA JOIE
GALZAR
MARASOLE
GAY CRUSADER
MARGERITA
GLENWAY (Barge)
GLITTER II
MARLBOROUGH (W.D. Craft)
GOLIATH
MARQUIS (Tug)
MARY ROSE
GOURKA
MARY SPEARING I
GRACE DARLING
MARY SPEARING II
GRAPPLER (Lighter)
GREATER LONDON LIFE-BOAT
MASSEY SHAW (Fire Float)
MAYSPEAR
GONDIA (Tug)
MEANDER
H. 75
HAIG (W.D. Craft)
MERMAIDEN (M.L.)
HALFWAY
M.F.H. (Lighter)
MICHAEL STEVENS
MINEKOI (Tug)
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

# sunk.
indicates Card for read and resul on service dring
this operation
$26.5.40
Additions to hist of ships taking part in operations Dynamo:-
4.6.40
Skoots
ATLANTIC
insired with Naval Grew
DEMOK.1.
DENEB
FREDANJA.
HILDA.
ORANGE YREESWIJH
TINY
TUNG
Other British Shipo.
ADVENTURESS
EDWARD NISSEN
AGNESS CROSS (Lipeboat)
ELIZABETH QUEEN ? GREEN
ALBATROSS III
E.M.E.D. (motor Liphoat)
ALOVETTE
EMPRISE (Harborn Lannch)
ANDORA.
ERICA.
ANDORA II (RAF Lanmch)
INNDORATI
ESKBURN
ANNE N ANNE
ATHOLA
FAIRBREEZE (Dript)
1
FAWLEY (Gosport Ferry)
BAIL
FERRY KING (Gosport Ferry)
BELFAST
FERVENT
BLACK JAVA
FISHBOURNE (19 w Ferry)
BLACKPOOL
FOREMOST. 2. (Hopper Bangh)
BONNY BELLE
FOREMOST 87. (Tug)
BOURNEMOUTH LIFE- BOAT)
FORMID ABLE
B.P. ONE
FORSA
BRITANNIA
# FOSSA (Tug)
BULLFINCH
FRIGHTENED. LADY.
F.W 23 (Lighter)
CABBY
CANVEY QUEEN
GALLEON'S REACH (Hopper)
CHERFIELD
GALZAR
#
CLAUDE (WATER BOAT)
GLENWAY (Barge)
CORNELIA
GUTTER II
C9 C 11 C " } TUGS.
GOLIATH.
GOURKA.
CY 63
GRAPPLER (Lighter)
DHOON (TRAWLER)
GONDIA (Thg)
DOGGER BANK
H.75 H. 75
DORIA (TUG)
HAIG (WD. Crap)
DWARF
HALFWAY
D.1.
HANDY BILLY
D 4
HOLLAND
D7
(HARBOUR LAUNCHES)
HOPPER 26
D9
HYTHE ( Coasth )
D 16
Si C
DC 715
DG 694
DG 950
IT PHO

Details

No.
TO
DOVER
LETTER
OF.
940,
SPIRIT BARGES.
NAME
Dumb or
Owner
Date of
Proc-
Name
Motor.
Requis-
eeded
Date
of
itioning
to
Tug
/ADA
Dumb
J.Harker,Ltd.
15.5.40.
London.
22.5.40.
Prizeman.
Knottingley.
Believed returned to Gravesend.
CHARLOTTE
Dumb
J.Harker,Ltd.
7.5.40.
Gravesend.
10.5.4.0.
Scotsman
Knottingley.
Believed returned to Gravesend.
DARIUS
Dumb
do
15.4.40.
Thames.
17.4.40.
Headman
Believed returned to Gravesend.
/DAUNTLESS C
Motor
J.W.Cook & Co.
18.4.40.
Calais
7.5.40
Bureaucrat
London.
Not known to have returned.
DRAKE C
Dumb
do
18.4.40.
Dover
9.5.40
Merman
Not known to have returned.
GANNET C
Dumb
do.
18.4.40.
London
22.5.40.
Prizeman.
Believed returned to Gravesend.
JEAN
Dumb
J.Harker, Ltd.
18.4.40.
Gravesend
20.4.40.
Krooman
Knottingley.
Believed returned to Gravesend.
/JOE
Dumb
do.
7.5.40
do.
10.5.40.
Scotsman
Believed returned to Gravesend.
/MARJORY H
Motor
do.
18.4.40.
Dunkirk
24.4.0.
Foremost 87
Not known to have returned.
/R.O.P. No.1.
Dumb
R.O.P.Ltd.,
25.4.40.
Gravesend
25.4.40.
Norman
London.
Believed returned to Gravesend.
/R.O.P. No.2
Dumb
do.
20.4.40
Dunkirk
24.4.40
Foremost 87
Not known to have returned.
R.O.P. No.5
Dumb
do.
18.4.40
Gravesend
20.4.40
Krooman
Believed returned to Gravesend
SAM H
Dumb
J.Harker,Ltd.
25.4.40
Dover
3.5.40
Merman
Knottingley
Believed returned to Gravesend
SEAMEW C
Motor
J.W.Cook & Co.
18.4.40
Calais
7.5.40
Bureaucrat
London.
Not known to have returned
SEAGULL C
Dumb
do.
18.4.40
Dover
9.5.40
Merman
Not known to have returned
24 LICE 1940
Q.H.

Details

Page 5.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
DOGGER BANK
HANDY BILLY
DORIA (Tug)
HASTINGS LIFE-BOAT
DREADNOUGHT II
HOLLAND
DREADNOUGHT III
HOPPER 26
DUCHESS OF YORK
HOUND (Lighter)
DWARF
HYTHE (Coaster)
D.1)
IOLANTHE
D.4
)
IOTE
D.7
(Harbour
IRMA MARIA (Fishing boat)
D.9
Launches)
JABA
D.16
JACINTA (Trawler)
D.C. 715
JAMES 67 (Hopper Barge)
D.G. 694
JANIS
D.G. 950
JOHANNA (Eel Boat)
EASTBOURNE LIFE-BOAT
JONG
EDWARD NISSEN
JORDAN
EDWINA (Trawler)
KAYELL
ELIZABETH QUEEN
KESTREL
E.M.E.D. (Motor Life-boat)
KINGSGATE
EMPRESS
KITCAT (M.B,)
EMPRISE (Harbour Launch)
K.L.
ENDEAVOUR
LADY BRASSEY (Rescue Tug)
ENTERPRISE (M.B.)
LADY CABLE (M.B.)
ERICA
LADY SHEILA
ESKBURN
LADY SOUTHBOROUGH
FAIR BREEZE (Drifter)
(Hopper Barge)
FAWLEY (Gosport Ferry)
LANDANIA
FERRY KING (Gosport Ferry)
LANSDOWNE
FERVENT
LAROC
FISHBOURNE (I.O.W. Ferry)
LETITIA (Smack)
FOREMOST 2 (Hopper Barge)
LITTLE ANN (M.B.)
FOREMOST 87 (Tug)
LOTUS
FORMIDABLE
LOUISIANA
FORSA
MADAM SANSGENE
FOSSA (Tug)
MAID ERRANT
FRIGHTENED LADY
MALDEN
F.W. 23 (Lighter)
MALDEN ANNIE IV
GALLEON'S REACH (Hopper)
MA JOIE
GALZAR
MARASOLE
GAY CRUSADER
MARGERITA
GLENWAY (Barge)
MARLBOROUGH (W.D. Craft)
GLITTER II
MARQUIS (Tug)
GOLIATH
MARY ROSE
GOURKA
MARY SPEARING I
GRACE DARLING
MARY SPEARING II
GRAPPLER (Lighter)
MASSEY SHAW (Fire Float)
GREATER LONDON LIFE-BOAT
MAYSPEAR
GONDIA (Tug)
MEANDER
H. 75
HAIG (W.D. Craft)
MERMAIDEN (M.L.)
M.F.H. (Lighter)
HALFWAY
MICHAEL STEVENS
MINEKOI (Tug)
Sunk
Continued)

Details

ING
PART
VF ELS TAKING PART IN THE DUNKIR
QUA
Master
Owners.
Tug
SUN"
H. Cole
x
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd
1019128
"SUN III"
F. Russell
X
do
"SUN IV"
C. ALexander
X
do
"SUN V
W. Mastin
X
do
"SUN VII"
G. Cawsey
do
"SUN VIII"
S. Smith
do
"SUX X"
W. Fothergill
Latter is. Gamern
do
Stm Tommis Co.
SUN XI"
J. Lukes
x
do
X.
"SUN XII"
(Mee) B. Mastin X Litter to Was washin, na)
do
Actician
"SUN XV"
mate,
J. Belton
X
do
XX08SAXX
XXXXXXXX
Elliot Steam Tug Co., Ltd
"CONTEST"
H. Bates
x
/
"CHALLENGE"
C. Parker
x
do
or
"FOSSA"
G. Finch
x
Gaselee & Son, Ltd.
"BETTY"
G. Leeks
X
do
nsit
rk's
ials
"CRESTED COCK"
T. Hills
X
The Gamecock Steam Tow
"OCEAN COCK"
A.V. Mastin
x
do
my
WATERCOCK
W. Fothergill (This Tug went to do Dover only
FOREMOST 87"
J. Fryer
Managed by W. Watkins, Lt.
"FAIRPLAY ONE"
S. Wright & G. Finch
do
(1084
"CERVIA"
W. Simmonds
William Watkins, td.
992,000
Gpt
"DORIA"
(REG
A. Mastin
do
"FABIA"
F. Smith
do
"GONDIA"
C. Pratt
do
"HIBERNIA"
B. Youseman
X
do
"JAVA"
W. Jones
X
do
For
(Continued)

Details

Isnol
force of the explosion blew the bows right off, throwing all
One of these either went through the bows of No.2B boat
occupants into the water.
explosions of these bombs.
The ship was severely shaken and damaged by the verrects
rescue of those that were in the water. No. 4B boat when lowered to th
Remaining life-boats were immediately lowered and sent to
Lord Pri
the water, immediately swamped as part of her side was blown in,
board. Myself, the Chief Officer, and Quarter-master Capps were left
Tell
A Naval speed-boat approached about this time and took us off
We then went to No. 4B boat which was swamped and took the occupants
off her into the speed boat.
her.
thro
As the ship was so badly damaged, and there were a number of
WAS
casualties from the bombing, and anticipating another attack, I decide
to abandon the ship.
with
her
The speed-boat picked up all lifeboats and towed us until we met
boats cast adrift.
the tug "Foremost 87", when all personnel were transferred to her and
The tug then proceeded to Dover, and landed everyone there.
boat believe no ship was in sight but a small motorcraft which personally I
From before the first attąck, until the arrival of the speed
took to have been a decoy was stationary close to the Red buoy, and
bombed, immediately steamed away.
no notice of our signals of distress, but on the ship being
behavious every of my Officers and crew. The discipline wish to stress excellent the
During the whole of these operations, I
At no performance time was any being panic carried shown. out with calmness and was precision.
VISV admod Jud
(Signed)
E.A.
Biles.
5th 03 Master.
June, 1940. besewol 8BW qide BA
7938W anixem Jon
I to were
OJ
esoelq 02
to foode has колентете vistatbammI V.d
.nwob-sbiecu
beforto sensiq vurene nglene

Details

COPY.
64
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
22nd May, 1940 to 6th June.
156
s.t. "PERSIA"
a May.
Left Gravesend 9-0 a.m towing barge "CELTIC" and Motor barge
AFFORD" for Dover, anchored Southend 11-0 a.m. for signal to proceed.
ve up at 2-15 p.m. Arrived at Dover Submarine Base 9-30 p.m., made
ast at West Wall 9-45 p.m.
3rd May.
Underweigh at 10-30 a.m. Towed barge "CELTIC" to her unload-
ing berth, then made fast at West Wall at 11-0 a.m., standing by.
24th May,
Underweigh at Noon. Went in Dock took in 19 tons 7 cwts. of
coal, finished at 2-30 p.m. Made fast at Submarine base at 2-45 p.m.
Standing by.
25th May.
Underweigh at 5-15 p.m. with Tug "FOREMOST 87" towing
Destroyer "H.73" stern first for rtsmouth.
26th May,
Anchored at 6-20 p.m. abreast of Nab Tower, Port being closed.
Hove up at 7-30 p.m., anchored Destroyer off Ryde at 1° p.m., our
services being finished. Anchoring Tug at 1°-15 p.m. for the night.
27th May.
Hove up at 6-30 a.m., steaming for Dover. Arriving 5-20 p.m.
made fast in Submarine Base 5-30 p.m. Standing by.
28th May.
Underweigh at 11-15 a.m. Shifting small craft, etc., until
4-50 p.m. Then made fast at South Wall at 5-0 p.m. Standing by.
29th May.
Underweigh at 9-0 a.m. Twwing Dumb barges "SARK" and
"SHETLAND" for Dunkirk. Tow parted abreast Goodwin Fork Buoy.
After some careful operations we got connected up again. Tow again
parted and was connected up and we arrived and anchored 4 miles east
of Dunkirk, at 5-0 a.m. on 30th May.
30th May.
Underweigh at 12-45 p.m. Received orders to tow barges to
East Pierhead Dunkirk. On arrival we received orders to anchor barges
as close as it was prudent, and motor boat would pull them on the
beach. Left Dunkirk 4-° p.m. with soldiers and equipment, anchoring in
the Downs at Midnight.
31st May.
Hove up at 5-45 a.m. proceeded to Dover, made fast at Prince
of Wales Pier at 7-0 a.m.
(Continued)

Details

COPY.
61
EXTRACTS FROM LOG WHILE AT DOVER
s.t. "FOREMOST 87"
160
Wednesday, 22nd May.
Lying in Dover Harbour awaiting orders. At 8-30 a.m., rec-
eived orders to proceed to Calais. Cleared Eastern Entrance Dover
Harbour at 8-45 a.m., arrived Calais Harbour 11-0 a.m. Air Raid on.
Received instructions immediately ón entering Harbour to force lock
gates which had been disabled by bombing by Enemy aircraft, air raid
still in progress. Forded locked gates, time taken being 12 hours,
and received orders to get S.S. "KATOWICE" loaded with refugees out
of Dock as soon as possible. I did this and towed S.S. "KATOWICE"
clear of Galais Harbour and into Calais Roads, finishing at 2-0 p.m.
then returned to Calais Harbour. Aerial combat going on overhead.
Immediately on entering Harbour again, received orders to
proceed to Calais Roads to assist S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" from
Roads to Harbour and to get her in at all costs. "CITY OF CHRIST-
CHURCH" in company of Dëstwoyer being bombed from the air. Took
hold of steamer at 2-45 p.m. and towed same into Calais Harbour.
While endeavour to do this, three mines (magnetic) were exploded
by French Trawlers ahead of "FOREMOST 87" and "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH".
Things looked very uncomgortable. We managed to berth steamer
in outer Dock Calais, finishing at 4-30 p.m. I then received orders
to proceed to Calais Roads again for s.m. "WILLIAMSTOWN" as things
were a bit quieter. Took hold of vessel at 5-30 p.m. and towed same
from anchorage in Calais Roads to berth in Outer Dock Calais Harbour,
finishing at 7-30 p.m. Made fast astern of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH"
at 7-45 p.m.
Thursday, 23rd May.
Lying in Calais Harbour. At 2-30 a.m. told to take hold
of S.S. "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH" and tow at once out of Harbour. While
taking hold of S.S. "CITY OF CHRESTCHURCH", orders were to let ship
lay. There was a 'Fifth column' scare and two men were put under
arrest. "FOREMOST 87", however, still kept ropes made fast to the
steamer. At 1-30 p.m., ordered to take hold of "CITY OF CHRISTCHURCH",
official this time, and to tow out clear of Harbour to Calais Roads.
Got vessel clear of Harbour and into Roads. At 2-40 p.m. returned
to Harbour and received orders from Naval Authority to proceed to Dover
for Water and Stores. Left Calais at 3-10 p.m. and arrived at Dover
at 5-30 p.m. Air Raid in progrees when leaving Calais.
Friday, 24th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour. Received on board stores and water.
At 11-6 a.m. received orders to proveed to Calais. Cleared Eastern
Entrance to Dover Harbour at 11-D a.m. and arrived Calais Roads at
12-30 p.m. Heavings Heavy gunning and bombardment on the shore.
Situation too bad for "FOREMOST 87" to attempt making entrance to
Calais. Steamed about vicinity of Calais Roads. Situation getting
worse, with gunfire and aerial bombing. I decided to return to Dover,
arriving there at 4-50 p.m.
Saturday, 25th May.
Lying in Dover Harbour, awaiting orders. At 4-30 p.m.
received orders to tow "O.R.P.BUZA" (Polish Destroyer) from Dover to
Portsmouth. "BURZA" having been bombed on the Forecastle head,
damaging plates and bulk head under water. Took Destroyer in tow,
stern first, at 5-80 p.m. and cleared Dover Harbour Eastern Entrance
6-0 p.m. (Arrived Portsmouth with "O.R.P. BUZA" 10-0 p.m. on 26th
May, Sunday.
(Continued)

Details

COPY.
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
161
t.FOREMOST 87"
Sunday, 26th May.
Arrived at Portsmouth towing "O.R.P. BUZA" stern first at
10 p.m. Slight Fog.
Monday, 27th May.
Coaling and storing in Portsmouth Harbour.
Tuesday, 28th May.
Left Portsmouth Harbour 6-0 a,m. Steamed towards Dover
Harbour, arriving and making fast 6-0 p.m.
Wednesday, 29th May.
Lying Submarine Dock Dover Harbour. At 3-30 p.m. Ordered
to assist m.v. "RUYA" from berth to berth. Tooke hold of vessel at
4-0 p.m., finishing 4-15 p.m. At 4-20 p.m. took hold of S.S. "KING ORRY"
and assisted from Eastern Arm Dover Harbour to Sea, eastern Entrance
Dover, finishing at 4-50 p.m.
Thursday, 30th May.
At 8-0 a.m. received orders to proceed from Dover Harbour
to Dunkirk. On nearing Dunkirk Harbour heavy bombing and shelling in
progress. Went inside Harbour and received instructions to take barges
"SARK" and "SHETLAND", which were at anchor off St. Malo beach, in tow
and to beach same on the shore 100 yards apart on St. Malo shore,.
Dunkirk, - Heavy aerial bombing and ground gunfire going on while doing
this job, shrapnel splinters hitting deck very hard. Finished this and
steamed inside Harbour again. Things getting worse but everybody
happy. Troopship "PRAGUE" unable to get away from Eastern Arm Dunkirk
Hatbour, loaded with troops, so took same in tow and towed out clear to
Dunkirk Roads. Told to stand by and assist in any way. One or two
little jobs leading Destroyers to berths in the dark rendered - heavy
shelling and air raids still in progress. At 12 midnight told to return
to Dover.
Friday, 31st May.
Returned from Dunkirk arrived Dover at 6-0 a.m. At 2-0 p.m.
received orders to take two sailing barges in tow to Dunkirk. Took
hold of same at 2-45 p.m. and towed to Dunkirk. Orders received were
t beach them at St. Malo Beach. This was accomplished under heavy
bombing and shelling. The beach was one mass of troops. Time of
beaching barges was 11-0 p.m. The sky was lit up with fires caused
through bombing and shelling. Returned to Dunkirk Harbour, told to
keep clear of heavy barrage which was prevailing and to stand by out-
side Harbour. Still steaming outside Harbour at midnight.
Saturday, 1st June.
At Dunkirk standing by. Assisting in anything and every-
thing possible. At 2-0 a.m. received orders to return at once to
Dover. Arriving at Dover at 7-30 a.m.
Sunday, 2nd June.
Lying at Dover Harbour. At 3-30 p.m. received orders to
take lifeboats R.N.L.B. "CECIL and "LILLIAN PHILPOTT" and "R.N.L.B.
THOMAS KIRK WRIGHT" in tow to Dunkirk Towed same to given position
then did job of work with Hospital ship "PARIS" survivors who had been
bombed and machine-gunned by Enemy aircraft.
(Continued)

Details

COPY.
EXTRACTS FROM LOG.
16%
(3)
s.t. "FOREMOST 87".
Sunday, 2nd June.
Rendered assistance to 95 survivors - five of these being
nurses who were seriously wounded, also some of the crew of "PARIS"
who were scalded badly by boilers exploding. We also took 13 Spaniards
on board from small boat. Landing all survivors (including lad of
sixteen dying through injuries received in bombing of "PARIS") at Dover
on the morning of 3rd June, Monday, at 4-30 a.m. at Admiralty Pier,
Dover.
(Signed) J. Fryer.
Master of Tug "FOREMOST 87"

Details

COPY OF STATEMENT REGARDING SURVIVORS FROM HOSPITAL SHIP
"PARIS"
163
by
s.t. "FOREMOST 87"
June
Wednesday, 5th May, 1940.
Dear Sir,
On Sunday afternoon, the 2nd June, I received orders from
Naval Authorities Dover to proceed to Dunkirk. My orders being to
take Lifeboats R.N.L.B. "CECIL & LILLIAN PHILPOTT and R.N.L.B.
"THOMAS KIRK WRIGHT" in tow to assist in evacuating troops from
Dunkirk Harbour and Beach.
I cleared Eastern Entrare of Dover Harbour about 3-50 p.m.
with Lifeboats in tow, and on instructions before leaving towed
towards given position where I had to cast lifeboats.o: I arrived
at this position and was giving lifeboat coxwains courses for Dunkirk
Harbour, when, on hearing aircraft overhead and several explosions,
I noticed to the southward of me a Hospital ship which proved to be
S.S. "PARIS" of Newhaven, in, as It thought, difficulties. I at once
altered my course, irrespective of routing instructions, towards said
vessel, and onnnearing same I noticed several of her lifeboats full
of survivors who had survived this bombing and machine-gunning which
I was afterwards informed had happened. I at once gave orders to
crew to get lines etc. ready to take these survivors on board, some
of whom were Sisters who were very seriously injured, also some of
crew whod been badly scalded.
I managed to get all of the 95 survivors out of our boats, some
of which were half full of water, on board of "FOREMOST 87", and did
everything to make wounded (one of whom passed away on board Tug
"FOREMOST 87") as comfortable as I could, and then headed at full
speed towards Dover.
I had hardly altered my course when I noticed another boat
full of people. I stopped engines and on nearing this boat I found
that it had 13 Spaniards aboard. I ordered these to be taken on
board and kept apart from survivors of "PARIS" as I was uncertain of
their Nationality, and I was unable to gather from them how and when
they came to be in the boat I found them in.
I headed for Dover, time being about 10-50 p.m., at full
speed. Arriving at Dober Pierheads Eastern Entrance about 3-30 a.m.
on Monday, 3rd June, and received orders to proceed direct to
Admiralty Pier and land survivors, this I did as soon as possible,
everything being ready on shore to assist in this job of work. I
kept Spaniards on board until they were escorted ashore by armed
guard, who no doubt found out more about them than I could.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Signed) J. Fryer.
Master of s.t. "FOREMOST 87".

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