Details

ALPHACCA
Motor lifeboat of the Dutch S.S. Alphacca.
25th May
(See Glen Avon)
united from Poole to Fortanouth.
26th May
At Portemouth+ ship and
stored with provisions,
Datta
swong ship for complise adjustment.
Salled at dear for Nowanvon, In
company the Thoots vacific. Atlontic,
1030 and Freeboll.
27th May
0005
Sighted & surfaced subscribe * mile
anot of Owars L.V.
0400
Anchored outside Demaven harbour.
Suiled at dark for the Downe, In
company with other skoots, led by the
Foxglove,
2016 say(1)
0500ca
Arrived Dover.
130000
Called "for operation Dynamo", in
company with 5 other skoots (including
the Pacific and the Poscholli
Amazone led the skoots first, but
Toil Schind.
cile enst of Bray, besched the
bowe the Sent the ship's
2 bonts in.
19th May
0500
About 100 troops embarked. Proceeded.
1000am
Accived Dover. Discmbarked 100
3
0230
Sailed in company with Pacific but seen
lost touch.
1000m
Areived off Bray, Embarked about 400
troops, and sent in water druns by
the expty Sests.
1915
Proceeded, by route Y, the St. Fredanja
in concery.
2010
orr Middel Kerite bucy, a bomber dropped
3 bowns Please the Fredania.
1013
3 more bombo dropped close to
1018
5 before dropped between Amazone and
No damage to America.
2050es
Mashine gunned: 4 soldiers wounded.
Proceeded in company with Fredanja
whose engine bolts were fractured
and compasa damaged.
31st way
06:5ea
Arrived Ramagate, Disembarked 320
.E.P. And 16 Tranch, (3)
1215
Left Hamagate for
1440
Amazone fired at & bomber (wirendy
desaged by destroyers) with flow
past, low on the port fell
in eea 200 yarde actern.
1550
east or
Dunkiys. Sent ropa In to lirebont
with the intention or hauling it off
(1) Lt. Cdr. Phillips given two reporte, In one he states that
he sailed from Dover D.C. 27th) in the other, Date 20th.
It 1n considered that p.m. 20th to correct.
(2) D.R. dates this disemberkation 28th May. D.R. also states
that on 29th way, the Americane diseabarked 400 troops.
[The Amergone only made 3
(3) Recisgate report, and D.R.
4142

Details

AMAZONE
Skoot
Lt. Cdr. L.H. Phillips, R.N.
25th May
Sailed from Poole to Portsmouth.
26th May
a.m.
At Portsmouth. "Wiped" ship and
stored with provisions.
p.m.
Swung ship for compass adjustment.
Sailed at dark for Newhaven, in
company the Skoots Pacific, Atlantic,
Zeus and Pascholl.
27th May
0005
Sighted a surfaced submarine 2 mile
east of Owers L.V.
0400
Anchored outside Newhaven harbour.
-
Sailed at dark for the Downs, in
company with other skoots, led by the
Foxglove.
28th May(1)
0800ca
Arrived Dover.
1300ca
Sailed "for operation Dynamo", in
company with 5 other skoots [including
the Pacific and the Pascholl
Amazone led the skoots at first, but
fell behind.
-
3/4 mile west of Bray, beached the
Amazone, bows in. Sent the ship's
2 boats in.
29th May
0300
About 100 troops embarked. Proceeded.
1000ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 100
B.E.F. (2)
30th May
0230
Sailed in company with Pacific but soon
lost touch.
1000ca
Arrived off Bray. Embarked about 400
troops, and sent in water drums by
the empty boats.
1915
Proceeded, by route Y, the Sk. Fredanja
in company.
2010
Off Middel Kerke buoy, a bomber dropped
3 bombs near the Fredanja.
2013
3 more bombs dropped close to Fredanja.
2018
3 bombs dropped between Amazone and
Fredanja. No damage to Amazone.
2030ca
Machine gunned; 4 soldiers wounded.
Proceeded in company with Fredanja
whose engine bolts were fractured
and compase damaged.
31st May
0645ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 320
B.E.F. and 18 French. (3)
1215
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
1440
Amazone fired at a bomber (already
damaged by destroyers) which flew
past, low on the port side; she fell
in sea 200 yards astern.
1530
Anchored inshore, two miles east of
Dunkirk. Sent rope in to lifeboat
with the intention of hauling it off
(1) Lt. Cdr. Phillips gives two reports. In one he states 28th. that
he sailed from Dover p.m. 27th; in the other, p.m.
(2) D.R. dates this disembarkation 28th May. D.R. also states
It is considered that p.m. 28th is correct.
that on 29th May, the Amazone disembarked 400 troops.
[The Amazone only made 3 trips].
(3) Ramsgate report, and D.R.
42

Details

FREDANJA
Skoot
Lt. Cdr. K... Stewart, R.N.
(Retd.)
Note: Lt. Cdr. Stewart's dates are 1 day
behind the correct date, and have been
amended accordingly.
27th May
2200
Sailed from Newhaven for the Downs. (1)
28th May
2330
Arrived off Dunkirk.
29 th May
0015ca
Went alongside the eastern arm,
0415
Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Left Dunkirk with about 400 troops on
board. Used Y route.
1415ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 400
troops. (2)
30th May
0800
Having loaded about 20 tons of stores
and water, sailed for Dunkirk,
proceeding by route 2, in company
with sk. Jaba,
1400
Anchored 1 mile east of the eastern arm,
close to the beach [Malo]. Lowered
2 skiffs to land the stores and
embark troops.
-
To accelerate embarkation, transferred
the stores to the Jaba, which put
her bows on to the beach and landed
the stores.
1830
Having embarked about 450 troops,
1900
weighed, and when the Jaba refloated
the Fredanja proceeded to Ramsgate by
rout e Y with the Sk. Amazone in
company.
2010ca
Air attack between Nieuport and Middel-
kirk buoys. Four bombs dropped.
Fredanja's engine and compass damaged
by concussion from near misses.
2030ca
Machine gunned by aircraft; six
casualties.
Proceeded, with Amazone standing by.
3lst May
0645
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 450
troops. (3)
Total 850
Authority - R.O.II, p.58.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches
Lt. Cdr.
K.W. Stewart, R.N.
T.A. Willing.
P.O. E. R.A. 4th Cl. J.S. Ambrose.
(1) See Appendices F.16, F.19, and F.24.
(3) (2) Not Ramsgate mentioned report. Not mentioned in D.R.
in D.R.
341

Details

2
IVANHOE (continued)
Skoot
The following awards were made: progeedings or this vessel.
reporto of the OK. Fredenja, compiled the M/B Maruayra,
10
from
the
D.S.M. A.B. J.P. Clare. the "Remegate report"].
30th May
0800
Left Dover for Dunkirk via route Z, 11
Mention in Despatches.
company with the BR. Predanja.
Cdr.
P.H. Hadow, R.N. Both ships anchored DB close.to Dunkt
Lieut. (E).
A.C. Mahoney, R.N. beach 08 possible - about 1 mile end
C.E.R.A.
R.E. Cox.
or the east pier 1.0. off Hald beach
Ch. Sto.
H.J. Prendergast.
The Fredanja transferred her stores
S.B.A.
E.J.L. Gibson.
to the Jaba, which put her bown on
the beach and landed the stores.
1900
The Jaba refloated [and apparently
sailed for Remsgate].
31st May
0845
Arrived Remagate and disembarked 275
B.E.F.(2)
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2000cs
The M/B Narseyru ferried troops to"the
Jabe and other ships off Dunkirk"
lst June
Belle
[The Jaba apparently sailed for
Ramsgatej,
1250
Arrived Remente, Disembarked 95 B.E
and PO WEALTH tracce.(2)
Total 469
(1) (2) Not Remagnte mentioned report in erroneously D.R. attributes this disembarkation In Operation
Dynam, to the and the tug JAYS traill not responsible
"Jave"> The Ok. Jayn took no part for this
disembarkation.
69

Details

JABA(1)
Skoot
?
[There is no report of proceedings of this vessel.
The following account 18 compiled from the
reports of the Sk. Fredanja, the M/B Marsayru,
and the "Ramsgate report"].
30th May
0800
Left Dover for Dunkirk via route Z, in
company with the Sk. Fredanja.
1400
Both ships anchored as close to Dunkirk
beach as possible - about 1 mile east
of the east pier [i.e. off Malo beach]
The Fredanja transferred her stores
to the Jaba, which put her bows on to
the beach and landed the stores.
1900
The Jaba refloated [and apparently
sailed for Ramsgate].
31st May
0845
Arrived Ramsgate and disembarked 173
B.E.F.(2)
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2000ca
The M/B Marsayru ferried troops to "the
Jaba and other ships off Dunkirk."
1st June
a.m.
[The Jaba apparently sailed for
Ramsgate].
1250
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 95 B.E.F.
and 201 French troops. (2)
Total 469
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
(2) Ramsgate report erroneously attributes this disembarkation in Operation
the "Java". The Sk. Java took no part for this
Dynamo, to and the tug Java was not responsible
disembarkation.
70

Details

Details

SURSUM-CORDA
Skoot
Lieut. C.L.G. Philpotts, R.N.
Lieut. Brooks, 1st Lieut.
1600
24th May
Left Poole for Portsmouth.
2130
Arrived Portsmouth.
Remained in company with other skoots,
under the orders of the Sk. Fredanja.
28th May
1400
Sailed for the evacuation of troops,
via North Goodwin and Middelkerke.
2230ca
Arrived off the beaches. Entered
Dunkirk harbour. There were a large
number of troops on the mole, but
apparently no other ships in the
harbour; a transport and 2 skoots
were lying off, and 2 ships were just
leaving. The western side of the
harbour was ablaze.
29th May
0330
Embarked about 370 British troops and
sailed for Dover. By this time 6 or
7 other skoots and a hospital ship
had entered the harbour and were
embarking troops.
1130
Arrived off Dover. Disembarked 370
B.E.F.(1)
2100
Sailed independently for Dunkirk by
the Calais route.
30th May
-
West of Dunkirk sighted a wreck in the
approach channel and a man's cries
were heard. Lowered a boat; but as
a M/S from Dunkirk arrived on the
scene, the Sursum-Corda proceeded.
(See Hebe II).
0430
Sursum-Corda arrived off beach east of
Dunkirk [Malo].
Closed the M/S Fitzroy, and was asked
to ferry troops to her and to the
dr. Vanquisher, 3/2 cables to the
westward. As there were only 4 or 5
small boats to assist, decided to
close the beach and embark troops
over the ship's bows.
Two trips were thus made, after which
the Fitzroy and Vanquisher sailed.
-
A third trip was then attempted, but
the Sursum-Corda, overloaded, went
securely aground and, in spite of
the efforts of the Sk. Hebe II, could
not be refloated.
0800
Decided to wait for high water.
1800/
Further unsuccessful efforts made to
2030
refloat, which resulted in damage to
the ship's engines.
31st May
0430
Transferred some wounded to an
0520
Transferred ambulance. remainder of wounded to a
The M/B. Sursum-Corda was abandoned.
-
1230ca
Capt. and crew transferred to the
corvette Kingfisher, which sailed for
Ramsgate.
Total 370
Authority - R.O.II, p. 132.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R. 198

Details

Page 121
Operation "DYNAMO" list Recommendations of Personnel.
Dutch Skoot FREDANJA - Lieutenant-Commender Kenneth Warden
Stewart R.N.
beaches and also in evacuating troops. Bombing and
This skoot was employed in landing stores at the
machine-gun attacks were made on several occasions and
damage was caused by near misses. Casualties also
occurred due to machine gunning.
Recommendations.
OFFICER.
Lieutenant-Commander Kenneth Warden Stewart. R.N.
Showed great initiative, determination and
devotion to duty in ferrying off troops whilst
under bombing attacks, and also in the landing
of stores whilst off the beaches.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS.
Petty Officer Thomas A. Willins, P/J.100988.
Showed great coolness, efficiency and devotion
to duty during the bombing and machine gun attacks,
and calm. by his leadership was able to keep the troops
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. 4th Class. Jack S. Ambrose, P/MX. 65337.
By his efficiency and devotion to duty was able
1
to keep the engines running although damaged by
bombing attacks.
Recommended for mention.
Dutch Skoot H.M.S. HILDA - Lieutenant Archibald Gray, R.N.
The HILDA carried out 3 trips to the beaches and
Dunkirk, during the first 2 of which she operated more
than 48 hours continuously off the beaches, for long
periods under heavy air attack.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Archibald Gray, R.N.
The seamanlike efforts to embark troops off the R.
beach at Bray Dunes marked with conspicuous success.
More than 1,000 troops were embarked, mainly trans-
ferred to other ships offshore. During this period
his ship was bombed. On the second trip, acting
under the orders of Captain R. P. Pim, R.N.V.R., he
convoyed a flotilla of motor boats and lifeboats Dunkirk to

Details

0
Shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) PN. 4307, Charles Motor Greenwood, Yacht ERICA.8899,
Petty Second Officer Engineer F.J. J. Norton, Steward, S.S. DORIEN ROSE Launch MERMAIDEN
Boswain P. McFadden, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Able Seaman J. Upperton, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Able Seaman T. Bassett, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Ordinary Seaman C. Bassett, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Fireman S. Khan, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Fireman M. Mohand, S.S. DORIEN ROSE
Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley, P/J.93203, R.N.L.B.
WALTON & FRINTON
Able 1st Engineman Seaman MacManus, R. Walter, P/SSX.14756, Launch HAIG R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON
T. 3rd Engineer J.H. Spain, Launch KESTREL
Able Seaman F. Cherry, 3rd Engineer, Launch SWALLOW
Master T.J. Hopwood, Tug LADY BRASSEY
VSkipper Henry Forester, Master W.S.3348, Tug ST. OLAVE
Master H.F. Boyce, HOPPER BARGE W.24
Auxiliary Fireman Eric Gordon Wright, London Fire Brigade Fire
Float MASSEY SHAW
Auxiliary Fireman Henry Albert William Day, London Fire Brigade
Fire Float MASSEY SHAW
Lieutenant Richard Eyre, R.N., M.A./S.B.10
Lieutenant Ralph Kenneth Livingstone Waller, R.N.V.R.,
M.T.B.68
Leading Seaman Percy Ward, JX.134801, M.T.B.68
Able Seaman Sydney Davey, 146839, M.T.B.68
Leading Seaman Albert Dawkin, PS/SX.17391, M.T.B.102
Lieutenant John Cameron, R.N.V.R., M.T.B.107
Chief Petty Officer M.J. Driver, 6134D, M.T.B.107
Leading Stoker C.W.T. Murrin, P/KX.82587, M.T.B.107
Lieutenant-Commander Laurence Henry Phillips, R.N.,
Commanding Officer of H.M.S. AMAZONE
Commander Charles Euman, R.N. (Retd.) Commanding Officer of
Lieutenant-Commander Kenneth Warden Stewart, R.N.,
BRENDARIS, MARLBOROUGH, WOLF
Petty Officer Thomas A. Willins, P/J.100988, Dutch Skoot
Dutch Skoot FREDANJA
1
Engine Room Artificer 4th Class Jack S. Ambrose, FREDANJA P/MX.65337,
Leading Seaman Lauchan McLean Watt Dutch Gibb, D/J.64311, Skoot FREDANJA Dutch
Lieutenant Petty Officer Alexander Tyson, R.N., Dutch Skoot H.M.S. Skoot H.M.S. LENA REIGER
VChief Able Master 1st Officer Seaman Officer William J. Francis R. Hay Fowles, F. Baker, Pembury, Herbert Hospital - BIARRITZ Hospital Franklin, Carrier Dutch Carrier Coaster P/J.96765, ISLE OF ISLE H.M.S. GUERNSEY OF GUERNS ZEUS
2nd Officer Arthur Patrick - PRAGUE
VV
W.C.E. William Leonard - PRAGUE - DAFFODIL
Second Engineer John Bingham Woodhouse, Joseph Paterson,
Master 7520070, R.A.M.C. Evans, - ROYAL
Commodore Captain John Konts.John Smith, Herbert Gilbert Hubert Oliver Otway Hospital R.N. - R.N.
First Officer Cecil Bond, ROYAL Carrier DAFFODIL ST. ANDREW
ST. C.M.G., HELIER (Vice-Admi ( award
R.N., (Vice Admiral Retire
THE THE THE THE Ruthven,
R.N.
McClelland, Junor, R.N. R.N.
Hay, - Frank SWALLOW Neil Brockett, R.N.R.

Details

Details

Details

Details

3. (astailed account).
29
5/40 Sailed Amazone, Poole to Portsmouth D.Y.
5/40 a.m. 'wiped' ship in Block; stored with 14 days provisions and
various instruments and navigational books.
p.m. Swung ship for compass adjustment and anchored near outer
Spit Buby. Sailed at dark in company to Newhaven.
5/40 0005 sighted submarine, surfaced, 1'm E of Owers Lt.V.. Reported
to Examination Vessel on arrival with instructions to pass on
message. Anchored outside harbour on orders received, having no
opportunity to provide sand-bags, Lewis gun, etc.
Salled at dark for Dover in company, led by Foxglove.
5/40
Arrived at Dover a.m.
Sailed p.m., for Operation Dynamo, in company, and proceeded by
long route.
Amazone led the skyts, but the compass was found to be reading
about 70 low, due to Gerricks' being topped ready for the exercise,
and her position was lost by the time this was rectified. I beached
the ship about m/a mile west of Bray, bows in, and with a kedge astern.
Lieut. Audley, R.N.V.R. landed in our two small boats and led down
troops from the sand-dunes. By 0300 the boats' crews were exhausted
and the boats were being capsized by the sea which had increased
with the westerly wind. It was obvious that no more could be taken
off in our own boats from the beach. I approached a sloop which
was not anxious to take our troops. A large steamer at anchor
outside informed me that she was on her way in, and there was too
much sea for putting Amazone alongside her. I decided not to go in
to the eastern jetty at such a late hour with troops on board and
returned, without incident, by the long route to Dover.
Disembarked about 100 officers and men (British) at Admiralty Pier.
Lieut. Audley's leg had been injured when hoisting in our boats4
and he was placed on the sick list.. Sub. Lieut. Clarabut, R.N. was
detailed from Montrose as First Lieutenant. I embarked essential
stores and large quantities of water, also a Lewis gun and as few
sand-bags.
Nei ther the Naval Shore Signal Station nor the Pier Master was
urs.
able to inform Mr. Clarabut of the ship's whereabouts and it was
0th.
not possible to leave until 0230 after I had found him myself. This
wasted five hours.
0230 Sailed in company with Pacific but lost touch soon afterwards. Made
landfall to Eastwards of Dunkirk about 0930. Having been informed
that there was no danger from mines I had taken a short out in shallow
water. This, and the fact that the compass was still 'low', caused
us to mistake Gravilines for Dunkirk! I steamed up and down the
coast and examined the harbour from about 1 mile out and found no sign
of life. Having no W/T, and having had no orders since 2100 the day
before, I steamed W.N.W to seek information. Picked up drifter and
Anchored about 300ˣ from shore in 10 ft. water and embarked about
proceeded to Bray Beach.
400 officers and other ranks, sending in water drums by empty boats.
340691 L.A. C. Harker returned inshore several times, until exhausted,
with a large collapsible boat, taking water drums each time. He took
charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently and set a very
fine example. Later, while the ship was being dive-bombed, he took
charge of the troops on deck and directed rifle-fire very cooly during
each attack in spite of fairly accurate machine-gun fire.
.915
Proceeded. Fredanja informed me he was taking route Y so,
presuming there were special orders, sailed/company. in
2010
Attacked by German bomber off Middlekirke. Three bombs dropped
close to Fredanja - avoided delay-action effect.
013
3 more bombs dropped close to Fredanja.
Lef.

Details

2.
in
18
Three no damage. bombs dropped between Fredanja and Amazone (Amazone 1 target) 30 -
-2030 Attacked soldiers by machine-gun. wounded - Replied with Lewis-gun and rifle-fire.
Four one seriously.
30 Proceeded in company with Fredanja whose engine-bolts were factured
and compass damaged.
ay
Entered Ramsgate and disembarked troops. Took on board grass-rope,
Aldis lamp, and provisions, also a party of officer cadets, under
2nd. Lt. Harman, and three Bren guns.
15 Proceeded.
sect
20 ? Attacked by dive bombers.
40
A German bomber, already damaged by destroyers' fire, flew past
low (port side), we engaged her and she fell in sea 200' astern.
50
Parachutists astern, out of range.
30
Anchored inshore, 2' E of Dunkirk harbour, where it appeared
grass-rope would be very useful as the only boats were large ones
and seemed to be aground. Sent rope in to Lifeboat and hauled
off in own winch. All further attempts were spoilt by grass'
beingfouled by motorboats, and by City of London which came across
rope several times, and finally collided with Amazone before getting
clear.
15
S/L Clarabut took dinghy inshore to explain procedure with grass-rope.
Returned loaded and reported no hope of further use. He was dead
beat after the pull and after struggling with the French preventing
them sinking his craft.
45
Shifted berth to 3' E of Dunkirk Pier. I commandeered large motorboat
from Hopper 103 and sent it inshore with dinghy to ferry men from
beach to motorboat. 2nd.Lieut.Harman and French "Guard" went in M.3.
Ordinary Seaman Wakeham (Ports.Div.- Newfoundland Rating) on this
and other occasions handled his boat extremely well under trying
conditions and showed great persistence and resource.
045 Motorboat returned with load and went back to beach. During this
behind the dunes. Shells were landing on the beach and all ships
time a high level bombing attack was made on shore, bombs landing
were leaving.
200 Attempted to take off French troops from motor-lighter but his
engines were worked the wrong way by the crew and my astern clutch were
failed, so abandoned the attempt. The motor-boat and dinghy
not very overdue.
300. The was heard answering our hails. A dim light was shown The
to dinghy it and was promptly answered by a hail of bullets. abandon the
motor-boat, dinghy came and also our own dinghy after a shell had
guide alongside with our men. They had had to exploded
close to them. The motor-boat was aground.
315 Straddled by shell-fire - slipped dinghy and proceeded by 'short-cut'
and later by route X.
015 Parachute flare dropped to starboard.
123
"
"
II
" port.
336 Sighted N. Goodwin Lt.
500
On Saturday 1st, secured on Ramsgate Pier and disembarked troops.
gn

Details

Bru/0/307 Dynoms 377
B1c
I
561
bject: REPORT ON E.M. HORNE,
H.M.S. Fredanja
MX. 62572, ENGINE ROOM
ARTIFICER 4TH CLASS.
at Poole.
om: THE COMMODORE, ROYAL NAVAL
BARRACKS, CHATHAM.
55
}
Commanding officer.
H.M.C Doggwsbank.
report that on our
4 ⁵ June.
ved in the approachesto
isked another ship, which
Commoclove R.N. Bawachio
whether we were required
Chathern.
* needed there we
I beg to submit the
ent alongside the Eastern
llowing velort on E.M. Horne
X 62572 E.R.A. 4: Class who
sail not later than 0330
10 lun in plavge of the Sugm.
t that time we remaine
on depav/ment of this ship
ad about 400 soldiers
uning the time she has feen 3
eng is that they were
ommissioned 00 one of H.M. ships.
of the pier before us,
He tooks ovu the enquies two m
4 on the jetty at
Le Autch engineer who shoh. no
glish & has lean complately
was sighted shortly after
lue returned by
smpetint with them from the
tart. Besides his duties in
alongside adminity PL
Garge of the machinery he bus
28th
May 285-298 about
tons of stores Deary and fresh water were put Dunkiik, onboard and
20 on May2915 we again Sailed for S.
proceeding at 0800 by Route N in company with H.M jaba'.
anchored as close to the beach as possible
about immediately lowered our two skiffs howev the
one mile we to the Eastward of the Eastern arm toland at
mo
1400 and embark troops 2t was soon found,
stoles that the embarkation was getting ahead of the discharge 6
and

Details

BI4/0/307
561
ramo 377
Blu/o/
1472
- 557
Subject: REPORT ON E.M. HORNE,
MX. 62572, ENGINE ROOM
ARTIFICER 4TH CLASS.
T.S. Fredanja
at Poole.
From: THE COMMODORE, ROYAL NAVAL
BARRACKS, CHATHAM.
Date: 12th June, 1940. No. H/40.
To:
VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
(Copy to:- Commander-in-Chief,
The Nore.)
were
Forwarded in accordance
act that on our
with Nore General Order 448.
in the approachesto
Horne's full names are:-
a another ship, which
Eric Matthew.
ether we were required
as
Rumen
needed there we
ADMIRAL
alongside the Eastern
14 JUN 1940
*
*
DOVER
M
R not later than 0330
COMMODORE.
hat time we remained
about 400 soldiers
quano
is that they were
filling larger shipsat the own
the pier before us,
and also the troops were only arriving on the jetty at
irregular intervals.
a German avicraft was sighted shortly after
we had sailed but did not attack. lue returned by
Route'Y' 'Y' to Dover where we secured alongside adminaty Pui
PORT
to disembark at about 1415 on May 28th
625
0
TIFI
During the night of May 28ᵗʰ-29ᵗʰ about
tor. 6.
ARTIEEP
tons of stores and fresh water were put onboard and
MX. 6.
00800 on May 2915 we again Sailed for Dunkiik,
ARTI
800
MX.
my by Raute Z in company with H.M. S. 'Jaba'.
I
ART1
MX. 6.2
we anchored as close to the beach as possible
ART ARTIFI
mile to the Eastward of the Eastern arm at
14/01,
- 557
immediately lowered our two skiffs toland the
isk troops. It was soon found, however,
gation was getting ahead of the discharge of

Details

Dynamn 377
Blulo/
14/2
23. -
June 2 6th
H.M.S. Fredanja
at Poole.
Su,
have the honow to report that on our
first visit to Dunkiik we arrived in the approachesto
the harbour at about 2330 and asked another ship, which
had been to look at the beaches, whether we were required
there. Hearing that we were not needed there we
proceeded into the harbour and went alongside the Eastein
Arm at about 0015.
we had orders to sail not later than 0330
but as we were not full of troops at that time we remained
alongside until 0415 when we had about 400 soldiers
onboard. The reason we were So long is that they were
filling larger shipsat the outer end of the per before us,
and also the troops were only arriving on the jetty at
irregular intervals
a german avicraft was sighted shortly after
we had sailed but did not attack. lue returned by
Route 'Y' to Dover where we secured alongside adminity Pui
to disembark at about 1415on May 28ᵗʰ.
During the night of May 285-296 about
20 tons of stores and fresh water were put onbrard and
at 0800 on May2915 we again Sailed for Dunkiik,
proceeding by Route Z in company with H.M. S. 'Jaba'.
we anchored as close to the beach as possible
about one mile to the Eastward of the Eastern arm at
1400 and immediately lowered our two skiffs toland the
namo
stoles and embark troops 2t was soon found, havever,
that the embarkation was getting ahead of the discharge of

Details

Dynamic 376
8/4/0/139
126
J .6633,
c/o Messrs. J.S. White & Co.
Cowes, Isle of White,
20th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of
proceedings during operation "DYNAMO" in accordance with P. G. 0.
1700/6/6/40.
In accordance with orders from Commander-in-Chief,
Portsmouth, I assumed command of His Majesty's Ship "SURSUM_
CORDA", (Ex Dutch Skoot) at Poole, P.M. Friday 24th May, 1940,
sailing for Portsmouth at 1600, arriving at 2130.
"SURSUM-CORDA" remained in company with other Skoots
under the ordera of Lieutenant Commander Stuart in H.M.S
"FREDANJA" until P.M. 28th May, 1940, when ship was sailed for
Dunkirk from Dover at 1400 by order of Vice Admiral Dover, for
islbe
the evacuation of troops via North Goodwin and Middle Kirke.
On arrival off beaches at Dunkirk at approximately
2230, decided to enter harbour straight away having sighted
large number of soldiers on mole, but apparently no other ships
in the harbour, though a transport and other skoots were lying
off, and two ships just leaving. The western side of the harbour
was ablaze.
Having evacuated British troops, approximate number
three hundred and seventy, ship sailed for Dover at 0330; &
hospital ship and six or seven other skoots having entered and
secured to the mole were also embarking troops by this time.
Ship arrived off Dover 1130/29, no incidents of
30/5?
importance occurring on passage.
"SURSUM-CORDA" remained at Dover, storing and provision-
ing until orders were received to sail again for Dunkirk at 2100.
Short routevia Calais was taken; ship proceeding
independently as visibility was decreasing and all skoots were
not ready.
On arrival off Western beaches of Dunkirk, a wreck
was sighted approximately half a mile to West of Harbour
31/5
entrance in the approach channel, and cries of & man in the
water were heard, a boat was lowered, but the rescue work was
Priso)
left finally to a Sloop's whaler the Sloop itself being on her
return passage to England. "SURSUM-CORDA" proceeded and arrived
off beaches Eastern side of Dunkirk at 0430/30.
Many men were sighted waiting on the beach approximately
two or three miles east of the mole, and on closing H.M.S. "FITZROY"
lying approximately three quarters of a mile off the beach, was
asked to assist in ferrying troops from small craft to ITZROY"
and "VANQUISHER", three to four cables to Westward.
For approximately half an hour my Ship remained stopped
three cables from the beach embarking as many troops as possible.
This process I considered far tooslow as the number of
small boats employed in that area amounted only to four or five
and these appeared to be in danger of being swamped by excessive
loads, so decided to close the beach while the tide was flooding
and endeavour to embark troops over my bows.

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

Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Dutch Skoot FREDANJA - Lieutenant Commander Kenneth Warden
Stewart, R.N.
This skoot was employed in landing stores at the
beaches and also in evacuating troops. Bombing and
machine-gun attacks were made on several occasions and
damage was caused by near misses. Casualties also
occurred due to machine gunning.
Recommendations.
OFFICER.
Lieutenant-Commander Kenneth Warden Stewart, R.N.
Showed great initiative, determination and
devotion to duty in ferrying off troops whilst
under bombing attacks, and also in the landing
of stores whilst off the beaches.
Recommended for mention.
be
nel
RATINGS.
sh
Petty Officer Thomas A. Willins. P/J.100988.
Showed great coolness, efficiency and devotion
to duty during the bombing and machine gun attacks,
and by his leadership was able to keep the troops
calm.
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. 4th Class, Jack S. Ambrose, P/MX.65337. 65337.
By his efficiency and devotion to duty was able
to keep the engines running although damaged by
bombing attacks.
Recommended for mention.
Dutch Skoot H.M.S. HILDA - Lieutenant Archibald Gray, R.N.
The HILDA carried out 3 trips to the beaches and
Dunkirk, during the first 2 of which she operated more
than 48 hours continuously off the beaches, for long
periods under heavy air attack.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Archibald Gray, R.N.
The seamanlike efforts to embark troops off the
beach at Bray Dunes marked with conspicuous success.
More than 1,000 troops were embarked, mainly trans-
ferred to other ships offshore. During this period
his ship was bombed. On the second trip, acting
under the orders of Captain R. P. Pim, R.N.V.R., he
convoyed a flotilla of motor boats and lifeboats to
gh
Dunking

Details

Operation "DYNAMO"
Recommendations of Personnel.
Page 121
tch skoot FREDANJA skoot - Lieutenant Commander Kenneth Warden
machine-gun beaches This and attacks also was in employed evacuating in landing troops. stores Bombing Stewart, the R.N.
damage occurred was due caused to machine by near gunning. misses. on and
Recommendations.
FFICER.
Lieutenant-Commander Kenneth Warden Stewart. R.N.
under devotion bombing ,determination,and
Showed to great duty in
of stores whilst off the beaches. in the landing
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS.
Petty Officer Thomas A. Willins P/J.100988.
Showed great coolness, efficiency and devotion
to duty during the bombing and machine gun attacks,
and calm. by his leadership was able to keep the troops
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. 4th Class, Jack S. Ambrose. P/MX.65337.
By his efficiency and devotion to duty was able
to keep the engines running although damaged by
bombing attacks.
Recommended for mention.
Dutch Skoot H.M.S. HILDA - Lieutenant Archibald Gray. R.N.
The HILDA carried out 3 trips to the beaches and
Dunkirk, during the first 2 of which she operated more
than 48 hours continuously off the beaches, for long
periods under heavy air attack.
OFFICERS.
Recommendations.
Lng
tai
Lieutenant Archibald Gray, R.N.
to embark troops off success. the
beach More than at Bray 1,000 Dunes troops
The seamanlike efforts marked with conspicuous mainly trans-
his ship was bombed. Captain R. and he
ferred to other ships THE
under convoyed the a orders flotilla of of motor boats

Details

W 26776/9850 9/39 1,000 pads (2 patts) JC&SLtd Gp674/35
MESSAGE.
SECRET.
MESSAGE.
OUT
OUT
To C. in C. Portsmouth 843.
Nore 445
DATE
Repeated F.O.I.C. Portland. 474.
DATE
22.5.40.
F.O.I.C. Southampton.
V.A. Dover. 61.
P/T. BY T/P.
From Adviralty.
From Admiralty.
taken up
Goole
IMMEDIATE.
to ascerting
ation
From the following list of Dutch coasters lying in
1
Poole four empty and of about 200 - 300 tons are to be
As mouth's
sent immediately to New Docks, Southampton, where they
will be loaded with military supplies. These will be
when the
manned by naval crews after arrival at Southampton, and
Subject
will work under the War Office.
G
2.
As many of the remainder as are in light condition
will be taken over and manned by: naval crews and when
ready will be at the disposal of V.A., Dover.
the
Office.
3.
C. in C. Portsmouth, is requested to arrange for
the organisation and assembly of these vessels reporting
names of vessels as they become ready for service.
4.
Arrangements are being made for sets of charts
to be sent to Portsmouth Chart Depot
5.
Further signal will be made regarding provision
of naval personnel and disposal of Dutch crews on taking
over.
6.
It is a matter of great importance that these
vessels should be got ready for service as soon as possible.
26.8.40
7. DESPATCH - HORST
- JABA
BREM
SURSUM CORDA
- RUJA
BOCKELO
- ABEL TASMAN
- JAVA
HERENOBEL
Char KAAPFALGA
FRISO
VIRGO
- ALICE
DOURSWOLD
ALDO
FREDANJA
NOTTINGHAM
HEBE
1703/22.
27.viii.40
1st S.L.
for D.O.D. (H).
2nd S.L.
Controller.
Deputy Controller
D.P.S. (2).
Asst. Controller (Bath)
N.A. 2nd S.L.
4th S.L.
I.S.P.S.
Hydrographer.
V.C.N.S.
M. (15).
A.C.N.S.
Cdre. Stephenson Room 77 B.3.
A.C.N.S. (A).
Sub War Registry (Bath).
C.S.O. to 1st S.L.
I.P. (3).
Ops. (4).
O.D. (3).
S.V.P.
D.T.D. (3).
D.T.D. Basement
wo
VT

Details

25
Wilitory Branch.
The Secretary to
Commender-in-Chief,
12th June,
to
Partenouth.
with reference to A.M. 1703/22.5.40 and your
1623/24.5.40 please confirm that the underwentioned vessels
commissioned on 25th May, 1940, and state dates of paying
off ae for as
DESPATCH II
PACIFIC
HORST
SAN ANTONIO
SURGIN CORDA
PASCHOL
ABEL TASMAN
AMAZONN
KAAPTALOA
ISUS
ALION
WIGA
? maga
FREDANJA
ATLANTIC
II
FABA
RUJA
JAVA
FRIGCO
FRISO
for Beed of M. Brench.
which for from has he,

Details

Details

Details

ИI
- 2 -
1555 40M 2/40 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
ADMIRALT")
7.
A/P Trawler STAUNTON, the loss of which was
REFERENCE SHEET.
announced on 29th July, 1940, is to be regarded as formall public
paid off as from 27th July, 1940.
(M.014856/40)
Head of Military Branch.
To
The Secretary to
8.
H.D.P.C. MIRAGE (S.S.B.A
487(16)) commissioned
The Commodore,
4th July, 1940.
R.N. Barracks,
(M.012037/40).
12th August
1940.
Portsmouth.
A fast motor launch, purchased with the steam
M.010027/40
Information required, or notified.
9.
danlaying yacht HELIOPOLIS (S.S.B.A. 533(8)) has been
the service number M. B. 4026 and also named BANKBLOCK,
CONFIDENTIAL.
12836/40)
It is requested that it may be stated whether
10.
Reference S.S.B.A. 517(17) the following informatic
there off dates of the undermentioned "Dynamo"? coasters,
is any further information available Dutch concerning
is promulgated concerning the commissioning and paying
commissioned the paying with Portsmouth crews for operation
of Dutch Coasters employed in evacuation operations.
NAME.
COMMISSIONED
PAID OFF
RUJA (Understood paid off at Poole but Naval known). Officer
DESPATCH II
in Charge, Poole states date is not
25th May, 1940.
2nd July,1940,
HORST
25th May, 1940.
Not yet report
SURSUM CORDA
25th May, 1940.
Not yet report
AMAZONE
ABEL TASMAN
25th May, 1940
Sunk by enemy
action. Paid
HORST
14th June,1941.
KAAPFALGA
(S.S.B.A.522)
SURSUM CORDA
ALICE
25th May, 1940.
3rd July, 1940,
PACIFIC (Arrived Poole 29th June).
25th May, 1940.
Beached and
abandoned at
R.N. Barracks, Portsmouth's manned No.5241/200 by D
FREDANJA
Panne, 29th
HEBE II
25th May, 1940.
3rd July, 1940.
Portsmouth of 19th July Commodore, crew 1940 ex-JAVA. states that May TINY it be had stated been when this crew
25th May, 1940.
Lost through
TINY?
action. Paid OFFICE
JABA
from 11th June
DEIVED
RUJA
25th May, 1940.
Paid off 5th
JAVA
25th May, 1940.
Not yet
W.Aushin
25th May, 1940.
FRISCO FRISO
6th June 541(6)
<S.
of Military Branch.
PACIFIC
25th May, 1940.
5th July, 1940.
SAN ANTONIO
25th May, 1940.
Not yet report
PASCHOLL
25th May, 1940.
3rd July, 1940.
Do
AMAZONE
25th May, 1940.
19th June, 1940.
ZEUS
25th May, 1940.
WIGA ? wesa
25th May, 1940.
Not yet report
II
25th May, 1940.
3rd July, 1940.
ATLANTIC
2nd July, 1940.
Joses
RION
RIAN
25th May, 1940.
27th May, 1940.
2nd July, 1940.
un
NORSTAD
Sune,1940
nderstood were taken up for trials with
PINGUIN
15th June, 1940.
VESTLARM,
GORECHT
15th June, 1940.
.M.S. VERNON.
9th June, 1940.
29th July' 1940,
when up
DOGGERS BANK
9th June,
B. 19407(17))
4th July, 1940.
TWENTE
B.
9th
($.8.8.517(17)))
29th July, 1940.
for Head of Military Branch.
Outch
Lost through
enemy action.
2018M
were paid HONDSRUG, off 2nd July, JUTLAND, 1940. and CARIBIA (s.s.B.A. off 12th 517(17)) June,
NOTE. The above losses have not announced.
(M.010027/40)
1940.
Circulation as for Specist Broret Branch Acquaint No. 539.

Details

Details

501470
1 Sick Quarters at Ramsgate 4 SION HILL
June 7th
19 40
To NAVAL OF FICER IN CHARGE
RAMSGATE
Submitted
Report on the Medical Organisation at Ramsgate Naval
Base during the evacuation of the B.E.F. from the
French coast.
In such an emergency a basis of procedure had to
be rapidly improvised and modified according to
circumstances. Collaboration between the Naval. medical
personnel and the RAMC was essential and after the first
day was found to be working smoothly and efficiently.
The suggestion that the floor of the Merrie England
base should be used as & Clearing Station was supported
by the NOIC, and traffic from the eastern pier head
ATO
was so organised. Very little delay was found in
rapidly clearing the wounded from ships as they berthed.
tels
Smaller boats were dealt with at the Dover steps further
down. A naval and military doctor was always available
at the pier head for some time before and after high
led
tide at which time many of the larger vessels entered
the harbour. A pier head rallying point was
established for medical personnel, and here stocks of
dressings, stretchers and medical essentials were kept.
Transport in the form of ambulances Military, ARP, and
St.John's was always available and ample. I would
RILEA
United
JUTLAND
FREDANJA
TYCAP
CRASTS
JAJA
FOAM QUEEN
PACIFIC
BORNRIO
PASCHOLL
REIGER
SUN IV
LINIRED STAR
PATRIA
QUEEN
BRANDARIS
TANIA
RUJA
RESTREL
DELFUSE
SUN XV
HOPPER-
HANDBRUG
BARGE 24
(INO GEORGE y
SWALLOW
DWARP
CAVA
GROUSE
BOURNRIFT
ROYAL DAFFODIL
FABIA
PRINCE OF WALES
CARISTA
BAN
CELLETT
BOX FRED
ROYAL SOVERSION
LENA
VIRINO
SALVINA
DUCHESS OF FIFE ORIOLE

Details

Dynami - 302
308
J .6633,
c/o Messrs. J.S.White & Co.
This
Cowes, Isle of White,
carried In 20th June, 1940.
larger in
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of
proceedings 1700/6/6/40. during operation "DYNAMO" in accordance with P. G. 0.
in
Portsmouth, I assumed command of His Hajesty Ship "SURSMM"
In accordance with orders from Commander-in-Chief,
CORDA", (Ex Dutch Skoot) at Poole, P.M. Friday 24th May, 1940,
sailing for Portsmouth at 1600 arriving at 2130.
"SURSUM_CORDA" remained in company with other Skoots
under the ordera of Lieutenant Commander Stuart in H.M.S
"FREDANJA" until 28th May, 1940, when ship was sailed for
Dunkirk from Dover at 1400 by order of Vice Admiral Dover, for
the evacuation of troops via North Goodwin and Middle Kirke.
On arrival off beaches at Dunkirk at approximately
2230, decided to enter harbour straight away having sighted
large number of soldiers on mole, but apparently no other ships
in the harbour, though & transport and other skoots were lying
off, and twosships just leaving. The western side of the harbour
was ablaze.
Having avacuated British troops, approximate number
three hundred and seventy, ship sailed for Dover at 0330; &
hospital ship and six or seven other skoots having entered and
secured to the mole were also embarking troops by this time.
Ship arrived off Dover 1130/29, no incidents of
importance
occurring
on
passage.
"SURSUM_CORDA" remained at Dover, storing for Dunkirk and provision-
ing until orders were received to sail again at 2100.
Short routevia Calais was taken; and ship all proceeding skoots
independently as visibility was decreasing were
not ready.
arrival off Weatern beaches Neat of Dunkirk, of Harbour a wreck
was On approximately half a mile aries to of a man in
water were heard, Sloop's & whaler she Sloop being on her
entrance in the boat was lowered, but itself was
sighted approach channel, and the rescue work the
off return beaches passage Eastern to side of Dunkirk at 0430/30.
left finally to a England. "SURSUM_CORDA" proceeded and arrived
were sighted waiting on closing the beach H.M.S. approximately "FITEROY"
two or three miles three quarters of a small craft to "g ITEROY"
Many men east of the mole, and mile on off the beach, was
lying approximately ferrying troops from to Westward.
and asked "VANQUISHER", to assist in three to four cables
For half an hour as many my Ship troops remained as possible. stopped
three cables from far to slow as the number of
small boats This employed process in be that in danger area amounted of being only swamped to four by excessive or five
and these appeared to to close the beach while bows. the tide was flooding
and loads, endeavour so decided to embark troops over my

Details

TUESDAY, 28TH MAY
CHAP. V
had all come under fire from the shore guns at Calais and Gravelines. At
0415 on the 28th May the Queen of the Channel, loaded with 904. troops, was
attacked by one aircraft; 3 or 4 bombs were dropped, which straddled the ship
abaft the mainmast and broke her back, the starboard propeller shaft and the
rudder. By good fortune the Dorrien Rose, en route for Dunkirk, was in the
vicinity and rescued the troops : the Queen of the Channel sank about 1/2 hour
later. The St. Seiriol, which left Dunkirk at about 0415 with 494 troops,
reached Folkestone in safety.
Civilian crews feel the strain
Some 45 personnel vessels were used during operation "Dynamo"
Of these eight were sunk, at least six were so damaged by bombing or gunfire
as to render them unfit for further use during the operation, and two were
damaged in collision. Nine of the largest of these personnel vessels had been
engaged prior to "Dynamo" in operations at Dunkirk, Calais and Boulogne,
and their Captains and crews were beginning to feel the strain when Operation
"Dynamo" started.
Thus it was that the Master of the Canterbury, which had already completed
2 round trips to Dunkirk in operation "Dynamo", reported, on the 28th May,
that he was too worn out to make a third trip. The P.S.T.O. went on board
and explained the gravity of the situation to the Master, and the Canterbury
sailed at 0930 the next day. On her return voyage from Dunkirk she was
bombed and damaged, and after landing her 1960 troops went into dock for
repairs. In the 3 trips she made the Canterbury brought back 4,416 troops;
her Master, Captain C. A. Hancock, was awarded the D.S.C.
Personnel vessels not to be employed during full daylight
On the 28th May, however, it had become apparent that development of
the German air threat over the evacuation area, and the increasing artillery
fire from shore batteries covering the sea approaches to Dunkirk, prohibited
the employment of personnel and similar vessels during daylight, until the
position was restored, and that evacuation from Dunkirk by day must for the
moment be confined to warships and small vessels².
It was not, therefore, until later in the day, that the P/V Royal Daffodil
sailed for Dunkirk, and eight other personnel vessels and a hospital carrier³
received their sailing orders during the afternoon and evening.
The northern Route Y was by this time in general use⁴, but ships proceeding
from Dover to Dunkirk were ordered to use the southern and shorter Route Z,
if the passage from Calais Bell buoy to Dunkirk could be made in darkness.
N.O.I.C. Ramsgate responsible for servicing skoots
In these circumstances some 20 skoots reached Dunkirk, or arrived off the
beaches during the day and evening of the 28th May; others were on the way.
Their speed varied, but most of them were very slow. Eight of them went
into Dunkirk harbour⁵, and four to Bray beach⁶. The Abel Tasman, loaded
with ammunition, the Alice and Kaap Falga, loaded with food, and three
I This number includes 3 store ships, 3 motor vessels and a few freighters, coasters and
tramps.
2 D.R. p. 4, para. 13.
3 The Scotia, Malines, Prague, Manxman, Royal Sovereign, Tynwald, Lochgarry, Killarney
and the H.C. Paris.
4 Appendix K.1.
5 The Caribia, Fredanja, Friso, Jutland, Tilly, Patria, Sursum-Corda, and Twente.
6 The Amazone, Doggersbank, Hilda, and Oranje.
29

Details

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX F
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Emperor proceed of India, direct Princess minefield Elizabeth [10th M.S.F.] (R)
troops. Emperor of India is to over to La Panne to embark C.M.S.
northward to be at your discretion depending place. clear to
Princess of Elizabeth Gravelines is to Point proceed where over enemy minefields batteries to may Dunkirk be in keeping well
troops. Return route on the state
APPENDIX F
SIGNALS RE BUILD-UP OF SKOOTS
22nd May
F.1. ADMIRALTY V.A. to Dover C.-IN-C. PORTSMOUTH, (R) F.O.I.C. Portland, F.O.I.C. Southampton,
200-300 tons, are to be sent immediately These to Docks, Southampton, where
From the following list of Dutch coasters lying New in Poole, four empty and of about
will be loaded with military supplies. will be manned by naval crews after they
arrival at Southampton, and will work under the War Office.
manned by naval crews and ready will be at the disposal of V.A. Dover.
2. As many of the remainder when as are in light condition will be taken over and
of these vessels reporting names of vessels as they became ready for service.
3. C.-in-C. Portsmouth, is requested to arrange for the organisation and assembly
Chart Depot.
4. Arrangements are being made for sets of charts to be sent to Portsmouth
5. Further signal will be made regarding provision of naval personnel and dis-
posal of Dutch crews on taking over.
6. It is a matter of great importance that these vessels should be got ready for
service as soon as possible.
7. Despatch II
Horst
Brem'
Jaba
Sursum Corda
Bockelo'
Ruja
Abel Tasman
Hebenobel1
Java
Virgo
Kaapfalga
Friso
Alice
Aldo'
Dourswold
Nottingham1
Fredanja
Hebe II
1703/22
F.2. ADMIRALTY to C.-IN-C. NORE (R) F.O.I.C. London, V.A. Dover
in Wharf ballast and of about 200-300 tons, are to be sent immediately to Victualling
1. From the following list of Dutch coasters lying in the Port of London, four
after Deptford to load military supplies. These will be manned by naval crews
arrival at Deptford, and will work under the War Office.
over manned by naval crews.
2. and As many of the remainder which [?as] are in light condition are to be taken
these 3. C.-in-C. Nore is requested to for the and assembly of
vessels which when ready will be arrange placed at the disposal organisation of V.A. Dover.
4. Names of ships to be reported as they became ready for service.
Sheerness. 5. Arrangements are being made for sets of charts to be sent to Chart Depot
personnel 6. Further for manning. signal will be made re dispoasl of Dutch crews and provision of
I Was not available.
164

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

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

# 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

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

Details

3. (astailed account).
30
29
5/40 Sailed Amazone, Poole to Portsmouth D.Y.
5/40 a.m. 'wiped' ship in Blook; stored with 14 days provisions and
various instruments and navigational books.
p.m. Swung ship for compass adjustment and anchored near outer
Spit Buby. Sailed at dark in company to Newhaven.
5/40 0005 sighted submarine, surfaced, I'm E of Owers Lt. Reported
to Examination Vessel on arrival with instructions to pass on
message. Anchored outside harbour on orders received, having no
opportunity to provide sand-bags, Lewis gun, etc.
Salled at dark for Dover in company, led by Foxglove.
5/40
Arrived at Dover a.m.
Sailed p.m., for Operation Dynamo, in company, and proceeded by
long route.
Amazone led the skyts, but the compass was found to be reading
about 70 low, due to Cerricks' being topped ready for the exercise,
and her position was lost by the time this was rectified. I beached
the ship about m/a mile west of Bray, bows in, and with a kedge astern.
Lieut. Audley, R.N.V.R. landed in our two small boats and led down
troops from the sand-dunes. By 0300 the boats' crews were exhausted
and the boats were being capsized by the sea which had increased
with the westerly wind. It was obvious that no more could be taken
off in our own boats from the beach. I approached a sloop which
was not anxious to take our troops. A large steamer at anchor
outside informed me that she was on her way in, and there was too
much sea for putting Amazone alongside her. I decided not to go in
to the eastern jetty at such a late hour with troops on board and
returned, without incident, by the long route to Dover.
Disembarked about 100 officers and men (British) at Admiralty Pier.
Lieut. Audley's leg had been injured when hoisting in our boaths
and he was placed on the sick list.. Sub.Lieut.Clarabut, R.N. was
detailed from Montrose as First Lieutenant. I embarked essential
stores and large quantities of water, also a Lewis gun and as few
sand-bags.
Neither the Naval Shore Signal Station nor the Pier Master was
urs.
able to inform Mr. Clarabut of the ship's whereabouts and it was
0th.
not possible to leave until 0230 after I had found him myself. This
wasted five hours.
0230 Sailed in company with Pacific but lost touch soon afterwards. Made
landfall to Eastwards of Dunkirk about 0930. Having been informed
that there was no danger from mines I had taken a short out in shallow
water. This, and the fact that the compass was still 'low', caused
us to mistake Gravilines for Dunkirk! I steamed up and down the
coast and examined the harbour from about 1 mile out and found no sign
of life. Having no W/T, and having had no orders since 2100 the day
before, I steamed W.N.W to seek information. Picked up drifter and
proceeded to Bray Beach.
Anchored about 300ˣ from shore in 10 ft. water and embarked about
400 officers and other ranks, sending in water drums by empty boats.
340691 L.A. C. Harker returned inshore several times, until exhausted,
with a large collapsible boat, taking water drums each time. He took
charge of the troops in his boat most efficiently and set a very
fine example. Later, while the ship was being dive-bombed, he took
charge of the troops on deck and directed rifle-fire very cooly during
each attack in spite of fairly accurate machine-gun fire.
.915 Proceeded. Fredanja informed me he was taking route Y so,
presuming there were special orders, saild/company.
in
010
Attacked by German bomber off Middlekirke. Three bombs dropped
close to Fredanja - avoided delay-action effect.
013
3 more bombs dropped close to Fredanja.
Lef.

Details

2.
18
Three no damage. bombs dropped between Fredanja and Amazone (Amazone target) - 30 -
-2030 Attacked by machine-gun. Replied with Lewis-gun and rifle-fire.
Four soldiers wounded - one seriously.
30 Proceeded in company with Fredanja whose engine-bolts were factured
and compass damaged.
ay
Entered Ramsgate and disembarked troops. Took on board grass-rope,
Aldis lamp, and provisions, also a party of officer cadets, under
2nd. Lt. Harman, and three Bren guns.
15 Proceeded.
sect
20 ? Attacked by dive bombers.
40
A German bomber, already damaged by destroyers' fire, flew past
low (port side), we engaged her and she fell in sea 200' astern.
50 Parachutists astern, out of range.
30 Anchored inshore, 2' E of Dunkirk harbour, where it appeared
grass-rope would be very useful as the only boats were large ones
and seemed to be aground. Sent rope in to Lifeboat and hauled
off in own winch. All further attempts were spoilt by grass'
beingfouled by motorboats, and by City of London which came across
rope several times, and finally collided with Amazone before getting
clear.
15
S/L Clarabut took dinghy inshore to explain procedure with grass-rope.
Returned loaded and reported no hope of further use. He was dead
beat after the pull and after struggling with the French preventing
them sinking his craft.
45
Shifted berth to 3' E of Dunkirk Pier. I commandeered large motorboat
from Hopper 103 and sent it inshore with dinghy to ferry men from
beach to motorboat. 2nd. Lieut. Harman and French "Guard" went in M.3.
Ordinary Seaman Wakeham (Ports.Div.- Newfoundland Rating) on this
and other occasions handled his boat extremely well under trying
conditions and showed great persistence and resource.
045 Motorboat returned with load and went back to beach. During this
time a high level bombing attack was made on shore, bombs landing
behind the dunes. Shells were landing on the beach and all ships
were leaving.
200 Attempted to take off French troops from motor-lighter but his
engines were worked the wrong way by the crew and my astern clutch
failed, so abandoned the attempt. The motor-boat and dinghy were
not very overdue.
300. The dinghy was heard answering our hails. A dim light was shown The
to guide it and was promptly answered by a hail of bullets. abandon the
motor-boat, and also our own dinghy after a shell had exploded
dinghy came alongside with our men. They had had to
close to them. The motor-boat was aground.
315 Straddled by shell-fire - slipped ainghy and proceeded by 'short-cut'
and later by route X.
015 Parachute flare dropped to starboard.
If
"
"
#
123
port.
306 Sighted N. Goodwin Lt.V.
500 On Saturday 1st, secured on Ramsgate Pier and disembarked troops.
in

Details

I
Bru/0/307 Dynamn 377
Bluke
561
bject: REPORT ON E.M. HORNE,
H.M.S. Fredanja
MX. 62572, ENGINE ROOM
ARTIFICER 4TH CLASS.
at Poole.
'om: THE COMMODORE, ROYAL NAVAL
BARRACKS, CHATHAM.
555
~ Commanding officer.
H.M.C Doggwobanh.
report that on our
45 June.
ved in the approachesto
isked another ship, which
Commoclove R.N. Bamachio
whether we were require
Chathern.
* needed there we
I boy to submit the
ent alongside the Eastern
llowing velort on E.M. Horne
X 62572 E.R.A. 4: Class who
sail not later than 0330
13 lun in plavge of the Sugm.
t that time we remained
on depav/ment of this ship
ad about 400 soldiers
uning the time she has feen 3
eng is that they were
ommissioned 00 one of H.M. ships
of the per before us,
He tooks ovu the enquies two m
4 on the jetty at
Li Autch engineer who shoh. no
glish & has lean completely
was sighted shortly after
we returned by
tart. Besides his duties
supplint with them from the
alongside adminaty Pui
Garge of the machinery he in bus
28ᵗʰ
May 28ᵗʰ 29ᵗʰ about
20 tons of stores Deary and fresh water were put onboard and
on May 2915 we again Sailed for Dunkiik,
proceeding at 0800 by Route N in company with H.M S. jaba: as
we anchored as close to the beach possible
mile to the Eastward of the Eastern arm toland at
about and one immediately lowered our two skiffs however the
mo
stoles 1400 and embark troops. 2t was soon found,
that the embarkation was getting ahead of the discharge of

Details

Brn/0/307
561
name
377
Blu/o/
14]
- 55
Subject: REPORT ON E.M. HORNE,
MX. 62572, ENGINE ROOM
ARTIFICER 4TH CLASS.
T.S. Fredanja
at Poole.
From: THE COMMODORE, ROYAL NAVAL
BARRACKS, CHATHAM.
Date: 12th June, 1940. No. H/40.
To:
VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
(Copy to:- Commander-in-Chief,
The Nore.)
w,
Forwarded in accordance
at that on our
with Nore General Order 448.
in the approachesto
Horne's full names are:-
d another ship, which
Eric Matthew.
ether we were required
as
Rumed
needed there we
alongside the Eastein
el.
NOE ADMIRAL
14JUN 1940 JUN 1940
*
*
DOVER
A
R not later than 0330
COMMODORE.
hat time we remained
about 400 Soldiers
quano
is that they were
filling larger shipsat the own
0
the pier before us,
and also the troops were only arriving on the jetty at
ingular intervals.
a German avicraft was sighted shortly after
we had sailed but did not attack. lue returned by
Route'Y' to Dover where we secured alongside adminaty Pui
to disembark at about 1415 on May 28th:
During the night of May 285-294 about
ect: REPORT tons of stores and fresh water were put onboard and
MX. ARTIFI 625 800 on May 29 ᵗ5 we again Sailed for Durkiik,
showage
my by Raute Z in company with H.M. S. 'Jaba'.
- 557
we anchored as close to the beach as possible
-onile to the Eastward of the Eastern arm at
idmediately lowered our two skiffs toland the
uk troops. It was soon found, however,
wan action was getting ahead of the discharge of

Details

Dynamn 377
Blulo/
14/2
23. -
June 2 6th
H.M.S. Fredanja
at Poole.
Su,
have the honow to report that on our
first visit to Dunkiik we arrived in the approachesto
the harbour at about 2330 and asked another ship, which
had been to look at the beaches, whether we were required
there. Hearing that we were not needed there we
proceeded into the harbour and went alongside the Eastein
Arm at about 0015.
we had orders to sail not later than 0330
but as we were not full of troops at that time we remained
alongside until 0415 when we had about 400 soldiers
onboard. The reason we were So long is that they were
filling larger shipsat the outer end of the per before us,
and also the troops were only arriving on the jetty at
irregular intervals
a german avicraft was sighted shortly after
we had sailed but did not attack. lue returned by
Route 'Y' to Dover where we secured alongside adminity Pui
to disembark at about 1415on May 28ᵗʰ.
During the night of May 285-296 about
20 tons of stores and fresh water were put onbrard and
at 0800 on May2915 we again Sailed for Dunkiik,
proceeding by Route Z in company with H.M. S. 'Jaba'.
we anchored as close to the beach as possible
about one mile to the Eastward of the Eastern arm at
1400 and immediately lowered our two skiffs toland the
namo
stoles and embark troops 2t was soon found, havever,
that the embarkation was getting ahead of the discharge of

Details

Dynamic 376
8/4/0/139
126
J .6633,
c/o Messrs. J.S. White & Co.
Cowes, Isle of White,
20th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of
proceedings during operation "DYNAMO" in accordance with P. G. 0.
1700/6/6/40.
In accordance with orders from Commander-in-Chief,
Portsmouth, I assumed command of His Majesty's Ship "SURSUM_
CORDA", (Ex Dutch Skoot) at Poole, P.M. Friday 24th May, 1940,
sailing for Portsmouth at 1600, arriving at 2130.
"SURSUM-CORDA" remained in company with other Skoots
under the ordera of Lieutenant Commander Stuart in H.M.S
"FREDANJA" until P.M. 28th May, 1940, when ship was sailed for
Dunkirk from Dover at 1400 by order of Vice Admiral Dover, for
islbe
the evacuation of troops via North Goodwin and Middle Kirke.
On arrival off beaches at Dunkirk at approximately
2230, decided to enter harbour straight away having sighted
large number of soldiers on mole, but apparently no other ships
in the harbour, though a transport and other skoots were lying
off, and two ships just leaving. The western side of the harbour
was ablaze.
Having evacuated British troops, approximate number
three hundred and seventy, ship sailed for Dover at 0330; &
hospital ship and six or seven other skoots having entered and
secured to the mole were also embarking troops by this time.
Ship arrived off Dover 1130/29, no incidents of
30/5?
importance occurring on passage.
"SURSUM-CORDA" remained at Dover, storing and provision-
ing until orders were received to sail again for Dunkirk at 2100.
Short routevia Calais was taken; ship proceeding
independently as visibility was decreasing and all skoots were
not ready.
On arrival off Western beaches of Dunkirk, a wreck
was sighted approximately half a mile to West of Harbour
31/5
entrance in the approach channel, and cries of & man in the
water were heard, a boat was lowered, but the rescue work was
Priso)
left finally to a Sloop's whaler the Sloop itself being on her
return passage to England. "SURSUM-CORDA" proceeded and arrived
off beaches Eastern side of Dunkirk at 0430/30.
Many men were sighted waiting on the beach approximately
two or three miles east of the mole, and on closing H.M.S. "FITZROY"
lying approximately three quarters of a mile off the beach, was
asked to assist in ferrying troops from small craft to ITZROY"
and "VANQUISHER", three to four cables to Westward.
For approximately half an hour my Ship remained stopped
three cables from the beach embarking as many troops as possible.
This process I considered far tooslow as the number of
small boats employed in that area amounted only to four or five
and these appeared to be in danger of being swamped by excessive
loads, so decided to close the beach while the tide was flooding
and endeavour to embark troops over my bows.