GALLANT

Details

GALLANT
1st Destroyer Flotilla Lt.Cdr. C.P.F.Brown, R.N.
28th May
0100
Alongside Dunkirk pier. Embarked
troops.
0415
Left Dunkirk with about 900 troops.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 976 troops.
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1500
Arrived La Panne. Embarked troops.
1900
Sailed for Dover with 900 troops.
29th May
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 904 troops.
1
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1215ca
Dive bombed. Damaged by near miss.
Took no further part in Dynamo.
Total 1880
Authority - - R.O.I. p.35.
354

Details

[H.M.S.] Gallant's M/B
1st June
1430
Sailed from Harwich for Dunkirk in tow
2250
of the P.M/S Glen Gower.
Arrived off Malo. Gallant's M/B, with
other boats was sent in shore to
2015
ferry troops.
2nd June
0210
After her last trip and when about to
return homewards in tow, Gallant's M/B
May
0500
was hit by shrapnel, and was cut adrift
1015
and abandoned.
2
but
had
Authority - T.O.9144/40.
the
R.O.I, p.255. 123
2230
June
0800
0930
Total 123
5th June
2100ca
Took in tow & (No.
L.4050), out of towed
her to Nechaven.
Authority - R.O.II, p.600.
R.O.III, p.96.
355

Details

GLEN GOWER - Continued.
31st May
0700
(contd.)
Glen billet. Gower occupied the destroyer's
0810
0836
Continued embarking troops.
0850
Slipped and proceeded to Harwich.
1715
Spitfires seen in some numbers.
Arrived Harwich. Disembarked 800 troops
1st June
1400
Ships of the 8th M.S.F. were ordered
to proceed to the beaches, 1 to 1 ¹/2
miles east of Dunkirk [1.e. Malo-les-
Bains]. Boats were taken in tow,
Glen Gower having the dr. Gallant's
M/B, and 2 cutters and a pinnace from
Shotley. Ships proceeded independent-
ly.
1430
Glen Gower sailed.
1930
Spitfires and British bombers were seen
mostly going homeward.
2123
Fires could be seen at Dunkirk blazing
furiously.
2150
Passed the wrecks of the P.M/S Brighton
Queen and of a large vessel which was
on her side and still burning.
Dunkirk and environs now appeared
an inferno. Huge flames were
shooting up from fires in the town
and the noise of gunfire and bursting
shells was terrific.
2245
Just after passing Dunkirk, a very
heavy explosion, obviously due to
a magnetic mine, took place astern,
and seemed to lift the ship out of
the water. A big column of water
was seen to go up round a "small
coaster"; when the column subsided,
the "coaster" had disappeared. [In
fact, it was the yacht Grive which
had been blown up by a mine].
2250
Informed by a "M.T.B." [probably it was
M.A/S.B. No. 10 which, with R.A.
Dover on board, was directing
operations] that the Glen Gower was
now in the correct position and was
to go inshore and anchor.
2355
Anchored in 4 fathoms off Malo beach,
and sent in the ship's boats. From
now on the ship was continually under
fire from shore guns and howitzers.
One cutter became water-logged and had
to be cut adrift, and the pinnace
was left grounded.
The same "M. T. B. " hailed to proceed at
2nd June
0210
0300. its last trip the Gallant's motor cut
on boat was hit by shrapnel and was
Weighed adrift. and proceeded to Harwich a with
0320
about 500 troops, including
Brigadier. embarkation last vessel The had to leave been Glen Malo. Gower very trying: was The the
and hearing were almost
overwhelmed "Sight by the ruddy glow of
the flashes of gunfire, and the
shrieking the noise of their explosion they
flames, of shells all around, as
burst".
379

Details

Details

GRENADE
28th May
(H.86) 0500 Destroyer A (Nore Command) Cdr. R.C. Boyle, R.N.
and patrol, established Kwinte between Bank light the N. Goodwin L.V.
Javelin, by buoy, was
0700ca
Survivors and of the S.S. Aboukir(
of a F.A.A. Gladiator 1)
detached transferred to the Grenade, were which
Presumably, the Grenade landed these
from the destroyer flotilla. was
survivors and then proceeded to
1730
The Grenade sailed from Dunkirk with
Dunkirk, where she embarked troops.
over 900 troops on board.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,000
troops. (2)
29th May(3)
0830
Proceeded to Dunkirk by route I, the
drs. Gallant and Jaguar in company.
1155
Dive bomber attack off Snouw bank.
The Gallant was damaged and retired.
1250
The Grenade berthed alongside the
west side of the east pier; the
Jaguar berthed outside her. Grenade
did not embark troops, because S.N.O.
Dunkirk stated that he wanted a
destroyer to remain alongside.
1400
The P/V Lochgarry, which was berthed
ahead of the Grenade, cast off
(assisted by the trs. Fyldea and
Arley) and left the harbour.
1420ca
The Fyldea, and the 5 trawlers Arley,
Polly Johnson (the last 4 having just
Brock, Calvi, John Cattling and
entered the harbour), then occupied
the berth vacated by the Lochgarry.
The Fyldea and Arley secured along- 4
side the pier; the remaining
trawlers secured alongside them,
Air three abreast. commenced. Grenade pier could
1530ca
attacks fire because the the
not on her side.
was on
Jaguar was ordered to provide She
The Jaguar for the Lochgarry. Lochgarry
A/A cover off and closed the harbour
which cast was then off the
Two a the two near also in trawlers S/V were
There damaged;
Crested casualties [See Fyldea] Eagle the and eastern which in was the side Sp. berthed of the
Air alongaide east attack. pier. The Jaguar, off the
1630ca
(1) The Abukir was 220 survivors including were
killed crew, troops fire.
the
(2) (3)
D.R. D.R. records in the a 29th May. This is of evidently an from error.
Lad
Grenade on

Details

-1-
JAGUAR (F.34)
1st Destroyer Flotilla Lt.Cdr. J.F.W.Hine, R.N.
28th May
1045
From patrol, proceeded to Dunkirk,
in company with drs. Javelin and
Codrington.
Off Bray-Dunes, lowered motor cutter.
and whaler, and with them and a
derelict whaler and skiff, embarked
troops.
1550
Left boats in charge of Javelin, (q.v.)
and entered Dunkirk.
1730/
Embarked 700 troops, and proceeded,
1900
dr. Impulsive in company.
29th May
0100
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 700 troops.
0830
To Dunkirk by X route, drs. Grenade
and Gallant in company.
1155
Off Snouw Bank about 17 dive bombers
attacked the 3 destroyers. Gallant
was damaged and retired. One dive-
bomber, hit by pom-pom, was finished
off by a fighter.
1250
Secured alongside Grenade at Eastern
Arm, Dunkirk.
1400/
Air attack, while embarking about 1,000
1525
troops. Ordered to provide A.A.
cover for P/V Lochgarry. Closed
Lochgarry off the harbour entrance.
1500/
Whilst taking station ahead of
1605
Lochgarry, dive bombers attacked with
salvoes of 4 bombs. About 14
salvoes aimed at Jaguar one at
Lechgarry. A near miss severely
damaged Jaguar, holing her near
waterline, and putting engines and
Catimpton
steering out of action. A list to
port developed. [Codrington seen to
close a transport which had been hit
by level bombers.] Jaguar drifted
to within 50 yards of & wreck.
1710
Torpedoes and depth charges having been
Fevella
jettisoned, dr. Express towed along-
side at 4 knots, while the majority
of Jaguar's troops were transferred
to her. sk. Rika closed Express
and removed more troops.
1800
Express took Jaguar in tow, from aft,
by hawser, at 9 knots.
1850
Tow parted; Jaguar anchored.
1905
Express embarked Jaguar's wounded, and
proceeded.
1950
Jaguar's engines repaired - proceeded
at 20 knots.
2014
Straddled by bombs very close astern.
2026
Another level bomber attack.
2350
Entered Dover harbour.
Total 700
Authority - R.O.I. p.80.
75

Details

ROUTES to Dunkirk
The routes to Dunkirk came to be known as Route Z (the
southern route), Route Y (the northern route), and Route X
(the middle route); they are shown on the accompanying Plan.³.
These routes were brought into use in the following
circumstances:
(Appx.n2)
On 27th May, the V.A. Dover reported to the Admiralty/that the
normal channel, Dover to Dunkirk (the southern Route 2) was
impracticable in daylight owing to fire from shore batteries
sited from Les Hemmes to Gravelines.
Consequently, the northern Route y, via Dyck whistle buoy,
Middel Kerke buoy and Zuydecoote pass, had to be used instead,
thus increasing the round trip from 80 miles to 172. Route Y
had to be used before it could be swept. (1)
Work was also commenced on a new channel (the middle Route X)
from the North Goodwin to the Ruytingen Pass, and thence into
£
the Dunkirk roads 2), thus shortening the round trip from 172
miles to 108. (See skipjack)
On 28th May, all ships proceeding to Dunkirk from Dover were
ordered to use the southern Route Z, provided that the passage
from No.6 Calais Bell Buoy to Dunkirk could be made in darkness
This order continued in operation, even after Route X was
brought into general use on 29th May.
(Appx.ns)
On 29th May, during the forenoon, the drs. Jaguar, Gallant and
Grenade were despatched via the middle Route X, to test the
opposition by shore batteries. On arrival at Dunkirk, Grenade
chadveen/
reported no fire from shore batteries.
In the early afternoon, Route X was brought into use for
destroyers! Small ships were still route-ed via Route YD
shortly after noon, however, enemy batteries near Nieuport,
brought the Zuydecoote Pass under spasmodic gunfire.
At 1606, Route X having been fully swept, (3) all ships were
ordered to use it(Appx.K.s).
Note: Route X passed some 26 miles to the south-
westward of the extreme N.E. point of
Route Y, (the locality in which enemy
M.T.B. attack threatened), and was
shielded by the French minefields in the
Ruytingen and Dyck channels. It appears
that the enemy M.T.B. command failed to
appreciate the withdrawal of traffic
to the S.W. and did not follow up. (4)
On the 29th May also, according to D.R., "the northern Route Y
having been swept, (4)(51t was arranged to sail personnel ships
to Dunkirk at daylight, and to continue to sail throughout
(1) L The M/S's Gossamer and Ross swept a section of the route
between the Dyck and Middel Kerke buoys on the forenoon
of 29th May.
however,
Kla
(2) (3) SeeVunder According Impulsive. to D. R..K At Skipjack 1530/29, Gossamer and North ROSS commenced Goodwin
a double Oropesa sweep from W buoy to the
(5)(4) The M/S's Ross and Gossamer commenced sweeping the section at
L.V.
of Route Y between the Dyck and Middel Kerke buoys
about 1100 on 29th May.
(4) Dover Command letter 14/0/876/40
41

Details

the cheery young Scot who manned the Lewis
machine gun on the bridge of their otherwise
unarmed pleasure steamer. They called him
simply Mac."
He had joined them in
such a hurry before the
by BERNARD McGOVERN
Clyde-built Daffodil left
Campbeltown, Argyll, for
the beaches of France
Nobody ordered him to
risk his life the way he did.
that there had been little
He just wanted to do his bit
time for formalities.
and his own safety didn't
come into it.
But in six perilous trips
between Dover and Dun-
"I was down in the hold
kirk in May 1940 to
checking bomb damage when
somebody shouted to me that
7,052
evacuate 14,000 British
Mac had been killed.
troops from under the
"I was shattered and just
noses of the Germans,
felt sick. I wished to God
there was one thing about
then that I'd got to know
which all of them were
him better. Now. in a way,
certain: he was the
I will, by meeting his
sisters."
bravest man they had
ever known.
His cheerful insistence on
Bravest
remaining on the bridge
during countless attacks by
It was only recently that
enemy aircraft won him the
Mr Oldfield discovered who
admiration of shipmates and
Mac was after a photo-
wounded and exhausted sur-
graph of himself and Tommy
vivors alike.
and other Daffodil crew was
published in a local news-
Yet for almost 40 years the
paper.
remarkable story behind the
courage and heroism of
"That brave lad never got
Tommy McMorrow, then a
so much as a thank you, yet
23-year-old c m
for the Daffodil's performance
in the evacuation there were
traveller from Glasgow, has
quite a few decorations
been untold and unrecog-
nised. Until now.
handed out D.S.C.s, a
D.SM and mentions in
despatches," said Mr Oldfield.
Guts
I'm going to tell Tommy's
sisters they can take it from
But next month Mr Ken-
me he was the bravest man on
neth Oldfield, the Daffodil's
that ship."
former chief electrician, will
travel from his home in
It was on June 2, 1940, on
Lancashire to a small Scot-
her seventh trip to Dunkirk to
tish village on the banks of
snatch more stranded troops
the Clyde to meet the hero's
off the besieged beaches that
two elderly sisters and fill in
seven German planes swung
the missing pieces.
low out of a late afternoon
sky and mercilessly strafed
Mr Oldfield, now white-
haired and 72, said at his
the Daffodil, leaving a gaping
bomb hole in the steamer's
home in Heathfield Road,
300ft hull and the gallant tin-
Fleetwood I've never been
hatted Scottish gunner dead
able to forget the lad's guts.
on the bridge.
He was a real hero who
stuck his head out every. time
As the crippled Daffodil was
he went up on that bridge.
escorted back to Britain by a
destrover Mr Oldfield asked
around for information about
the dead seaman but nobody
could help him.
Now he has found out that
Tommy was born the young-
est of four children in Glas-
gow's Townhead district. was
23 when he died, and is
buried in Ramsgate.
Hinted
His brother James died ten
years ago but his sisters, Mrs
Chrissie Morrison. 70, of
Erskine, Renfrewshire, and
Mrs Liz Laird, 68, a widow,
of Old Kilpatrick, near Glas-
gow, are still alive.
Mr Oldfield's businessman
son Jim will join him on the
last leg of his sentimental
journey.
Mrs Laird, said Chrissie
and I have always been very
proud of Tommy. He was a
wonderful brother and
always great fun to have
around.
We believe Tommy had a
premonition he'd never get
out of the Dunkirk rescue
alive. He hinted at this in a
letter to his brother James.
It is a wonderful gesture
of Mr Oldfield's to come and
tell us of Tommy's courage."

Details

SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 OCTOBER, 1941                                   59<>5
as instructors to assist in the training of new         I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the
formations, while an equal number have been          chief of the Mission, General de Division Voruz,
attached to the Force, for instruction, from         and to all his staff for their ever ready help to
units at home.                                       the-British Army on all occasions.
   Despite the almost complete absence of battle        Thanks to their efforts, matters relating to
casualties the supply of officers has caused me      billeting, hire of land, and local purchase of
concern. Over four hundred candidates have           material have been handled without friction.
been sent home for training as officers, while a     To them is due, in large measure, the friendliness
further four hundred have been recommended           of the relations which exist between the French
for immediate commissions.                           population and the troops, and also as between
   These have been drawn to a large extent from      French and British staffs and regiments.
Warrant Officers Class III.                             A British Military Mission under Brigadier
   A large number of War Establishments, par-        J. G. des R. Swayne was established with the
ticularly for the Intelligence Corps and for units   Headquarters of General Georges under whose
on the Lines of Communication, were found to         immediate command the British Expeditionary
need adjustment and steps have been taken to         Force is serving.
this end.
   The existing War Establishment of an infantry      Distinguished Visitors.
battalion, which was not designed for Continental       26. On 4th December His Majesty The King
warfare, has called for modification and I am         visited his troops in France and was received
grateful that my recommendations for an in-          -everywhere with enthusiasm. During the three
crease have been accepted.                            days tour His Majesty was able to make a
   The Royal Corps of Signals has been put to         detailed inspection of forward and rear areas.
great strain in providing communications not          On his return to England, His Majesty was
only for the Army, but for the whole of the Air       graciously pleased to send a message to his
Forces in France. The degree of dispersion            Army which was warmly appreciated by all
required in modern warfare has materially             ranks.
added to their difficulties.                             The President of the French Republic has
   The success with which these demands have          spent a day with the British Expeditionary
been met is due not only to the spirit in which       Force.
the personnel of that Corps have faced and               The Prime Minister and other members of the
overcome difficulties, but to the successful          War Cabinet, the Ministers from the Dominions,
arrangements for co-operation with the French         many members of the Army Council and seven
military and civil organisations, and with the        Field Marshals are amongst those who have
 General Post Office. The Wireless Intelligence       visited my Headquarters at various times.
Staff have done valuable work, and the cipher
duties of the Force have been most efficiently       Honours and Awards.
performed by personnel of the Army Educational          27. I am submitting separately the names
Corps.                                               of officers and other ranks whom I wish to
   The Survey Directorate has been called upon       recommend for reward or to bring to your notice
to carry out a great deal of work under difficult    for gallant or distinguished service.
conditions and has fulfilled all the demands
made upon it.
                                                                   I have the honour to be,
Liaison with the French.                                                      Sir,
  25. On the arrival of the British Expeditionary                      Your obedient Servant,
Force in France a French Military Mission was
established at my headquarters to deal with                                       GORT.
French military and civil authorities and to act
as a link with Grand Quartier General. In
addition, officers and non-commissioned officers                                           General,
of the French Army are attached for liaison                                   Commander-in-Chief,
duties to the headquarters of each formation                          British Expeditionary Force.
and unit as it arrives.


Details

SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 OCTOBER, 1941                                   5921
as it turned out, fatally injured in a motor             These moves left only four divisions on the
accident returning from the conference which he      frontier defences and made'it possible to with-
and I had attended at Ypres on the night of          draw the headquarters and Corps troops of
2ist May. General Blanchard succeeded him in         3rd Corps for employment on the Canal line
command of the French First Group of Armies,         where they were badly needed. This was done
and presumably succeeded to the function of          at 4 p.m. on 23rd May, leaving ist Corps with
co-ordination although this was never officially     42nd and ist Divisions and 2nd Corps with
confirmed.                                           3rd and 4th Divisions.
                                                         2nd, 44th and 48th Divisions tcame under
out                                                  3rd Corps and that night made a' march west-
of three different nations, and that I personally    wards. I had decided to employ 2nd and 44th
could not undertake any measure of co-ordina-        Divisions on the Canal line facing west, but their
tion in the forthcoming operations as I was          move required a farther twenty-four hours to
already actively engaged on my Eastern and           complete.
Southern fronts and also threatened on my                Meanwhile the canal defences required stiffen-
Lines of Communication.                              ing as much as possible. And accordingly,
   Nevertheless, I saw General Blanchard and         Polforce temporarily assumed control of the
proposed to him that to implement our part of        whole front between St. Omer and Raches,
the Weygand plan, we should stage an attack          and two regiments of 2nd Armoured Recon-
southwards with two British divisions, one           naissance Brigade were placed under its com-
French division and the French Cavalry Corps.        mand. Polforce also undertook the responsi-
So far as we were concerned the attack could         bility for demolitions as far north as Watten
not take place till the 26th at the earliest owing   including no less than 43 bridges.
to the.reliefs which were in progress, and the           The sector eastward from Raches was now
need to assemble 5th and 5oth Divisions. I           handed over to the French, the British
also asked General Blanchard to enquire from         demolition parties being left on the bridges at
G.Q.G. how such an operation could be syn-           the disposal of French 3rd Corps.
chronised with the attack from the line of the           Macforce, now comprising four field batteries,
Somme which was said to be in process of             half an anti-tank battery and one battalion,
preparation. These negotiations, as will be seen,    withdrew from the line Carvin-Raches on
were later continued by Sir Ronald Adam on           23rd May and was moved to a rendezvous in
my behalf. I emphasised, both to the Secretary       the. eastern end of the Forest of Nieppe where
of State and'to General Blanchard, that the          it was joined by Headquarters and one. regiment
principal effort must come from the south, and       of ist Armoured Reconnaissance Brigade.
that the operation of the northern forces could      i39th Infantry Brigade (46th Division) continued
be nothing more than a sortie.                       to hold the sector from Carvin to Raches until
   I never received any information from any         26th May.
source as to the exact location of our own or           .The situation on the canal line deteriorated
enemy forces on the far side of the gap; nor         during 23rd May and the enemy established
did I receive any details or timings of any          bridgeheads at Aire, at St. Omer (which seems
proposed attack from that direction.                 to have changed1hands twice during the day)
                                                     and near Watten. His tanks were reported as
 zyrd May—Further development of the Canal line.     harbouring in the forest of Clairmarais, and
    39. On 23rd May the organisation- was con-       during the day his armoured fighting vehicles
 tinued of " stops " behind the Canal line.          came within three miles of Hazebrouck. ,By
    At Hazebrouck, where the organisation of         the evening, however, these movements nad
 defences had been begun on 2 ist May by the         been checked and steps taken to keep. the
 staff of the Major-General R.A. at G.H.Q.           enemy out of the Forest of Nieppe.
 the garrison was now about 300 strong and             . The enemy had also been active that day on
 included eighteen French light tanks and some       the canal line at Be'thune, where they had been
 Belgian machine gunners.                            driven off and had then moved towards Carvin.
    Cassel was occupied by i3/i8th Hussars, less     Here the defenders had been reinforced by
 one squadron, and on the same afternoon (23rd)      further artillery under C. R. A. 2nd Division
 Brigadier Usher's force took over the defence of     (Brigadier. C. B. Findlay), and the crossings
 Bergues.                                            were firmly held.
    On the night of 22/23rd May the withdrawal-          On 23rd May Calais was finally isolated. Its
 to the frontier defences had been carried out.      garrison; had been reinforced under the orders
 The French had taken over the sector northwards     of the War Office, by 3oth Infantry Brigade
 from Maulde and the right boundary of the           (Brigadier C. Nicholson) and 3rd battalion
.B.E.F. was now Bourghelles-Seclin both inclu-       Royal Tank Regiment—a cruiser tank regiment.
 sive to the French.. This change of boundary did    I had intended to move the latter within the
 not however affect the dispositions which the       canal line, but it was already too late-. After
 B.E.F. had taken on the Canal line by which         two attempts they were driven back into Calais,
 the rear of the French positions was protected.     with the. exception of three tanks which
    On the left of the B.E.F. the Belgians, who      eventually reached Dunkirk by way of Grave-
 had previously agreed to relieve the 44th           lines. The remainder of the gallant defence
 Division after withdrawal to the Lys on the         of Calais was conducted under the orders of the
 night of 23rd/24th May, ordered one of their        War Office. It-was finally concluded on the
 divisions to occupy the sector Halluin-Courtrai     night of 26/27th May.
 on the night of 22nd/23rd May. 44th Division            Information received at this time indicated
 was concentrated in G.H:Q. reserve on the           that two enemy armoured divisions were
 morning of 23rd May.                                converging on Calais and two more,- supported
    On the right, 2nd and 48th Divisions passed      by a motorised. S. S. (Schutz-Staffel) division,
 through the French on the night of 22nd/23rd        on St. Omer. A fifth armoured division appeared
 Mav and also concentrated in G H.O reserve.         to he mnvincr rm


Details

5928          SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 OCTOBER, 1941

   ist and 2nd Corps were to withdraw on the .         on the historic ground of the Ypres-Comines
night of 28th/29th May to a horse-shoe position        Canal, Zillebeke and the eastern outskirts of
on the line Proven-Poperinghe-Ypres-Bix-               Ypres, and on these positions, the infantry, well
schoote, with outposts on the line Ypres-              supported by the artillery, had stubbornly held
Godevaersvelde. The position of 3rd Corps was          their ground in the face of strong and deter-
more difficult and obscure. 2nd Division, now          mined attacks by the enemy.
reduced to less than the strength of an infantry          ist Corps also ordered ist Division to move
brigade, had fought hard and had sustained a           into their sector of the perimeter; on the same
strong enemy tank attack. It was already in            day ist Corps was ordered to reinforce the
process of withdrawing from the line and orders        garrison of Bergues with one battalion. This
were issued for it to fall back in the direction of    order could not be carried out that day, but
Beveren and Proven, prolonging the right flank         next day (29th May) a battalion of 46th Divi-
of ist Corps. 48th and 44th Divisions were in'         sion (9th Foresters) was sent there.
contact with the enemy on a front of over twenty
miles from Bergues through Cassel to Vieux                During this time it had been, a constant
Berquin, in touch with the French ist Light             anxiety to G.H.Q. lest those enemy forces
Mechanised Division, west of the latter place.         released by the Belgian armistice should fore-
The French ist Army had 3rd and 4th Corps in           stall our occupation of the perimeter. There
line between Merville and Sailly-sur-la-Lys,           had been no time to lose. Early on the 28th
but were out of touch with their 5th Corps.            the leading enemy mobile troops and tanks had
   The orders to 48th Division were to stand           reached Nieuport, and they would have arrived
for a few hours longer. They withdrew that             there unopposed had it not been for the work
night under pressure from the enemy, with the           of a troop of i2th Lancers. The state of the
assistance of the armoured vehicles of the             roads, congested as they were with refugees and
Hopkinson Mission. The garrison of Worm-               Belgian troops, must also have played their
houdt was extricated together with such portions       part in delaying the enemy. Throughout the
of the garrison of Cassel as could disengage from      day, however, the defensive positions were
the enemy. 44th Division was also ordered              improved and a number of additional troops
to disengage that night, and to move north- '          from various units, chiefly Royal Artillery, were
eastwards towards the old frontier defences.           collected and organised to occupy them.
46th Division, which had moved on the night               On 29th May, troops of I2th Infantry Brigade
26th/27th May from the Seclin area to Steen-           and Corps Artillery began to arrive; that
vorde, was to move into the Dunkirk perimeter.         night 4th Division relieved the mixed detach-
   Before he received this order, the Commander        ments which up to now had been holding the
of 44th Division (Major-General Osborne) had           sector. Throughout the 29th May the enemy
visited headquarters of the French 4th Corps,          had been attempting to cross the canal between
where he learned of the Belgian armistice ; and        the French-Belgian frontier and Nieuport.
heard that General Prioux had orders to stand          At the latter place, where the bridge had not
his ground. He, too, had endeavoured to                been blown, they established a bridgehead in
convince General Prioux that the only hope             the town. Everywhere else they were driven
for his army lay in withdrawal.                        back. Some attempted to cross in rubber boats;
                                                       others were disguised as civilians, even as nuns,
   Later, on 28th May fresh orders were issued         and attempted to cross with the refugees, horses
by the French ist Army. They were to the               and cattle. On this day enemy forces advancing
effect that General Prioux himself would               near the coast were shelled by H.M. ships.
remain with the 4th Corps in its present position,        Thus, once again the enemy had been fore-
and that General de la Laurencie, with his own         stalled just in the nick of time, and the prompt
3rd Corps and the Cavalry Corps, would with-
draw so as to arrive within the Dunkirk peri-           and gallant action of the troops on the spot had
meter on 3oth May. No copy of this order               gained the few vital hours which were to make
reached General Osborne, who learned of the            it possible, against all expectation, to embark
change*of plans when, at 10.30 p.m. that night,        practically the whole force.
he visited the headquarters of the French ist              54. On the afternoon of 28th May, I moved
Army. As General de la Laurencie had decided           my headquarters from Houtkerque to La
to begin his move at 11.30 p.m., General Osborne.       Panne, which was in direct telephonic com-
had some difficulty in conforming, but succeeded        munication with London. On arrival I heard
in doing so. I was genuinely very glad to learn         reports from Sir Ronald Adam and the Quarter-
that part, at any rate, of the French ist Army          Master-General.
would now be sharing in the withdrawal, how-               These reports were not optimistic. No ships
ever great the difficulties might be.                   could be unloaded at the dock§ at'Dunkirk, and
                                                      . few wounded could be evacuated. There was
Occupation of the Perimeter Completed.                  no water in Dunkirk and very little on the
   53. ist and 2nd Corps were now free to pro-          beaches. The naval plans were not yet in full
ceed with the occupation of their sectors of the        operation, and some 20,000 men were waiting
Dunkirk perimeter, and both Commanders met              to be taken off the beaches, 10,000 having been
Sir Ronald Adam on 28th May. 2nd Corps                  taken off in the last two days, chiefly from
had, that morning, ordered Headquarters, 2nd            Dunkirk. The area was congested with French
Armoured Reconnaissance. Brigade, to take over          and Belgian troops and their transport, as well
the sector from Fumes exclusive to the sea at           as with refugees.
Nieuport, and now ordered 4th Division to move             They gave it as their opinion that, given a
from the line of the Ypres-Comines Canal to             reasonable measure of immunity from air attack,
relieve them. 3rd Division was to follow as             troops could gradually be evacuated and
soon as possible and take over the sector               supplies landed. If, however, intensive enemy
between the French-Belgian frontier and Furnes.         air attack continued, the beaches might easily
   These two divisions had been in the line at          become a shambles within the next forty-eight
Ypres since 25th May. They had held positions           hours.


Details

5934         SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 OCTOBER, 1941

of my three Corps. Lieut.-Generals Sir Alan          Honours and Awards.
Brooke, M. G. H. Barker and Sir Ronald Adam,            73. I am submitting separately the names of
Bart. The sudden turn of events on iyth May          officers and other ranks whom I wish to recom-
threw a violent and unexpected strain on the         mend for reward or to bring to your notice for
Commander, Lines of Communication Area (the          gallant or distinguished service.
late Major-General P. de Fonblanque), and I
wish to record my sincere appreciation of his                        I have the honour to be
good and devoted work during the time that he
was serving under my command.                                                       Sir,
   Finally, I desire to express my thanks and                              Your Obedient Servant,
good wishes to all those officers in' the' French                                 GORT,
Army whose duties brought them into contact
with the British Expeditionary Force, and whose                                        General,
goodwill, understanding and personal friendship
 did so much to foster the good relations which                              Commander-in-Chief,
existed between the two armies.                                          British Expeditionary Force.


                  APPENDIX TO SECOND DESPATCH OF C.-IN-C., B.E.F.

OPERATIONS OF IST CORPS FROM 6 P.M.                   artillery fire. It was therefore evident that the
ON 3isT MAY TO MIDNIGHT SND/SED JUNE,                 force could not be evacuated completely on the
                 1940                                 night ist/2nd June. Major-General Alexander
                                                      therefore agreed on a modified plan with Admiral
   Major-General Hon. H. R. L. G. Alexander,          Abrial and General Fagalde at 8 a.m. on ist June.
on taking over command of ist Corps, handed           He arranged to hold his present line till
over command of the ist Division to Brigadier         midnight ist/2nd June; thus he would cover
M. B. Beckwith-Smith. He then proceeded to            Dunkirk and so enable the French to evacuate
Dunkirk to see Admiral Abrial, who informed           as many of their troops as possible. He would
him that he intended to hold the perimeter till       then withdraw to a bridgehead round Dunkirk
all the troops were embarked. A French Corps          with all available anti-aircraft and anti-tank
on the right was to hold the sector from Grave-       guns and such troops as had not yet embarked.
lines to Bergues (Gravelines however had not              During the ist June, heavy enemy attacks
apparently been in French hands for some days)        developed on the British sector, supported by
and a mixed French and British Corps under             bombing and artillery fire. The garrison of
command of Major-General Alexander was to             Bergues (ist Loyals) were forced to withdraw
hold a line from Bergues to Les Moeres, and           to the line of the canal north of the town, and
thence to the sea.                                     to the west, 46th Division, i26tH Infantry
    Major-General Alexander at once • told the         Brigade of 42nd Division and ist Division
Admiral and General Fagalde that in his view           were forced back north of the canal for about
this plan did not take account of the true naval       1,000 yards. 5oth Division had also to meet
and military situation which was serious and           enemy penetration from the east, but by
deteriorating rapidly. The fighting condition of       nightfall on ist June the enemy advance had
the tro'ops was now such that prolonged resist-        been checked on a line Bergues-Uxem-Ghyvelde,
 ance was out of the question and the present          thence due east to the frontier and along the
front could riot in his opinion be maintained          frontier defences to the sea.
 after.the night ist/2nd June : furthermore the
 line to be held was so close to the beach and to         Embarkation was temporarily stopped at
 Dunkirk that the enemy might soon stop all            3 a.m. on 2nd June to prevent casualties in
 further evacuation by short range artillery fire.     daylight; by that time there remained in the
 He gave the same opinion to the Secretary of          Dunkirk area about 3,000 men of various
 State and received a reply that the British force      artillery and infantry units, with seven anti-
 should be withdrawn as rapidly as possible on a       aircraft guns and twelve anti-tank guns. They
 basis of equal numbers of British and French           held the outskirts of Dunkirk throughout
 continuing to be embarked from that time            - 2nd June with little interference save heavy
 onward. This he showed to Admiral Abrial               shelling and bombing of the beaches.
 and General Fagalde informing'them that he                By midnight on 2nd/3rd June, all the remain-
 would hold the sector allotted to him till mid-        ing British troops had been embarked. Major-
 night ist/2nd June and then withdraw under             General Alexander, with the Senior Naval Officer
 cover of darkness. They agreed that in the.            (Captain W. G. Tennant, R.N.) made a tour of
 circumstances no other plan was feasible.              the beaches and harbour in a motor boat and
    The naval situation had by now grown worse,         on being satisfied that no British troops were
 and the Channel from Dunkirk was under direct          left on shore, they themselves left for England.


                                              LONDON
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Details

SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 JULY, 1947                                            3303
GRAFTON she was in danger of being tor-               the French minefields hi the Ruytingen and
pedoed. At that moment, 0250, GRAFTON                 Dyck channels.       It appears that the enemy
was torpedoed, COMFORT was lifted in the              M.T.B. command failed to appreciate the with-
air, and Captain of WAKEFUL washed over-              drawal of traffic to the S.W. and did not follow
board. COMFORT was going full speed and as            up.
she came round in a circle "LYDD and                    In the evening it was reported that there was
GRAFTON opened fire on her, evidently think-          no congestion anywhere on the coast, except at
ing she was an enemy ship. It is believed that        La Panne. The force at La Panne was accord-
COMFORT crew, except one, and WAKEFUL                 ingly reinforced as ships became available.
survivors, except four, were killed.        LYDD
then bore down on COMFORT, rammed and                    29. An additional beach party of seven
sank her.                                             officers and a number of ratings under
   Previously GRAFTON, who was proceeding             Captain J. Howson was sailed in SABRE at
to Dover with troops, had observed a ship tor-        1600 for Dunkirk, and Captain E. Bush, who
pedoed, and lowered her boats to pick up sur-         had already visited Dunkirk and was aware of
vivors, subsequently ascertained by signal to         the general conditions, was sent to HEBE as
LYDD to be WAKEFUL. A small darkened                  S.N.O. afloat off the beaches. An M.T.B. was
vessel, thought to be a drifter, was signalled and    placed at the disposal of the S.N.O. on the
told to pick up survivors. Within a few seconds       coast.
of this, GRAFTON was torpedoed. The bridge               30. At about 1600 a heavy air attack com-
was also hit, either by a shell or grenade, and       menced on the East Mole Pier, Dunkirk har-
the Captain killed instantly. LYDD then tried         bour, mainly by dive bombing, which lasted
to come alongside but after hitting starboard         continuously for more than two hours. At
side sheered off, and appeared to ram a vessel        the same time, other air attacks took place on
on port quarter. This was COMFORT.                    ships lying off Bray. Attacks were renewed
GRAFTON opened fire under .the impression             from time to time up till after 2000, not only
LYDD had rammed the M.T.B. Target was                 on Dunkirk, but on ships off Bray, in the
then shifted to another vessel further away on        Zuydecoote Pass and those in the Southern end
port quarter, and vessel was observed to blow         of X Route. These attacks were to have a
up with a bright flash. This may well have            disastrous result on the evacuation arrange-
been the enemy M.T.B.                                 ments at Dunkirk. There were present along-
                                                      side the inner side of the Eastern Arm two
   28. During     the     forenoon     JAGUAR,        destroyers GRENADE and JAGUAR, three
GALLANT and GRENADE were dispatched                   trawlers ahead of the GRENADE and
via the new Middle Route X to test the opposi-        JAGUAR, three more trawlers ahead of them
tion by shore batteries prior to introducing this     with CANTERBURY in the next berth, and
route as an alternative to the long Northern          a French destroyer ahead of the CANTER-
route. GRENADE arrived Dunkirk, reported              BURY. Outside the harbour on the outside
no fire from shore batteries, but that she had        of the Eastern Arm the Transport FENELLA
experienced heavy bombing. These three des-           was berthed opposite the GRENADE and
troyers were attacked by dive bombers when            JAGUAR and the CRESTED EAGLE opposite
approaching Dunkirk at about noon, and                the six trawlers. In addition, the MALCOLM
GALLANT was damaged. At least six attacks             and VERITY were also in the harbour but fur-
were carried out, one enemy aircraft was              ther inside. This presented a very good target
brought down by gunfire and others by fighters.       and the ships were soon hit and embarkation
An hour .-later MALCOLM reported Dunkirk              of troops ceased for the time being. CANTER-
heavily bombed with a large number of air-            BURY, accompanied by JAGUAR, succeeded
craft and during the afternoon this bombing           in leaving harbour, but both were hit by bombs
extended up the coast to ships off Bray. During       and damaged. Both succeeded in reaching
the afternoon the Middle Route X was brought          Dover, though JAGUAR had to be towed part
into use for destroyers, but small ships were still   of the way and was subjected to many attacks
routed round the Northern route to Zuydecoote         on passage. CANTERBURY reached harbour
Pass. LOCUST and MOSQUITO joined Dover                at 2115 and disembarked 1,950 troops but was
Command and were dispatched to work on the            sufficiently damaged to prevent her being used
beaches during the afternoon. Shortly after           again in these operations. To return to Dun-
noon enemy shore batteries near Nieuport began        kirk, FENELLA was lying alongside on the
to bring Zuydecoote Pass under spasmodic gun-         outside of the pier,n and was hit and sunk.
fire and the state was being reached whereby           GRENADE and one of the trawlers on the
the new Middle Route would become the only            East side were hit and the trawler sank in the
practicable daylight approach to Dunkirk and          fairway. GRENADE sinking and on fire had to
the beaches. At noon, CALCUTTA, who was               be abandoned and appeared to be about to
able to get across to La Panne beach to receive        sink in the fairway. A trawler was detailed to
troops by small boats, embarked 1,200 troops          tow her clear. VERITY, who witnessed this
from the minesweepers and then sailed for Sheer-      occurrence • was continuously straddled by
ness, the minesweepers remaining to load up           bombs for 35 minutes. Passage all along the
again. At 1606, the New Route X having been            pier having ceased, she cast off, and skirting
fully swept, all ships were ordered by the Vice        the burning GRENADE and trawler, proceeded
Admiral to use Route X, exercising navigational        out of harbour, grounding: slightly on a sunk
 caution, and those from Dover were instructed         drifter in the entrance. At about 1800 KING
 to proceed by Route Z, the South route, pro-          ORRY arrived to find the harbour occupied
vided the passage between Calais Bell Buoy             only by burning and sinking ships, with no
 and Dunkirk be made in darkness.                      sign of any one on the pier nor any boat moving
   Route X passed some 26 miles to the South-          in the harbour. She was immediately subjected
 Westward of the extreme N.E. point of the             to heavy bombing attacks, having previously
 Northern Route Y, the locality in which enemy         had her steering gear put out of action by^ a
 M.T.B. attack threatened, and was shielded by         dive bombing attack when about half mile


Details

33^4          SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 JULY, 1947
unceasingly without relief or rest, exposed to         distinguishing between the uniforms of such
incessant air attacks, for seven days. The             officers as were present and those of other ranks.
work of these officers and men was of the              It was soon realised that it was vitally necessary
greatest value and contributed largely to the          to despatch Naval Officers in their unmistakable
success of the undertaking.                            uniform with armed Naval beach parties to take
                                                       charge of the soldiers on shore immediately
   113. As regards the bearing and behaviour           prior to embarkation. Great credit is due to
of the troops, British and French, prior to and        the Naval officers and Naval ratings for the
during the embarkation, it must be recorded            restoration of some semblance of order. Later
that the earlier parties were embarked off the         on when troops of fighting formations reached
beaches in a condition of complete disorganisa-        the beaches these difficulties disappeared.
tion. There appeared to be no Military officers
in charge of the troops, and this impression           Dover,
was undoubtedly enhanced by the difficulty in             18.6.40.


                             APPENDIX I TO F.O. DOVER'S DESPATCH
List of H.M. Ships, Personnel Ships and Hospital Carriers taking part, showing those lost or damaged
                               (by bomb, gunfire, mine or collision)
A.A. Cruiser CALCUTTA
Destroyers
  BASILISK                    (sunk 2gth May)          HAVANT                    (sunk ist June)
  GRAFTON                     ( „ „       „ )          KEITH                     ( „ „ „ )
  GRENADE                                              WAKEFUL


  ANTHONY ...                 (damaged soth May) SABRE                           (damaged 30th May
  EXPRESS ...                 (    >?   jISl    ,, )                                    and 2nd June)
  GALLANT ...                 (         29th   „ ) SALADIN ...                   (   „     29th May)
  GREYHOUND                   (    „    29th „ ) SCIMITAR ...                     (   „ 3ist „ )
  HARVESTER                   (         3ist „ ) VENOMOUS                         (   „     ist June)
  ICARUS                      (         3ist „ ) VIMY                             (   „     ist „ )
  IMPULSIVE                   (         3ist „ ) VIVACIOUS ...                    (   „     ist „ )
  INTREPID ...                (         29th „ ) WHITEHALL                        (   „     ist „ )
  IVANHOE ...                 (    „     ist June) WINDSOR ...                    (   „ 28th May)
  JAGUAR                      (    „    2gth May) WOLFHOUND                       (   „ 29th „ )
  MALCOLM ...                 (    „    3ist May WOLSEY     ...
                                    and 2nd June) WORCESTER                                 30th    „
   MONTROSE                    (   ,, 29th May)


   BLYSKAWICA (Polish)                  MACKAY                               WHITSHED
   CODRINGTON                           SHIKARI                              WILD SWAN
   ESK                                  VANQUISHER                           WINCHELSEA
   JAVELIN                               VERITY
 Total 41, of which 6 were sunk and 23 damaged.

 Sloops and Gunboats
   BIDEFORD             ...    (damaged ist June) MOSQUITO ..                     (sunk ist June)
                                                  LOCUST
 Corvettes
   KINGFISHER           ...    (damaged ist June) GUILLEMOT


 Guardships and Armed Boarding Vessels
   KING ORRY (damaged 27th May and sunk 30th May)                            LLANTHONY
   MONA ISLE (        „ 27th May and ist June)                               LORMONT

 Minesweepers
   BRIGHTON BELLE              (sunk 28th May)          SKIPJACK .                (sunk ist June)
  DEVONIA                      ( „ 3Ist „ )             WAVERLEY                  ( „ 29th May)
   GRACIE FIELDS ...           ( „ 28th „ )


Details

3302          SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 17 JULY, 1947
uncertain, 2 power boats, at least 2 skoots,        every prospect of the weather improving and
CALCUTTA,          GALLANT,         WAKEFUL,        the surf reducing as the tide rose. Nevertheless,
VERITY, and GRAFTON, using what survived            an increased number of H.M. Ships was'
 of their own whalers and motor boats. This         ordered to Dunkirk to augment the personnel
force was reinforced by 2 minesweepers at           vessels, though it was feared that an accumula-
 2115. Later reports of concentrations of troops    tion of ships alongside the East Pier at Dunkirk
 on the beaches were received, particularly at      by day might well invite intensive air attacks.
 La Panne and Bray. Craft approaching the               Subsequently, 'this fear was fully to be
 coast were directed accordingly. Naval Officer-    justified.
•in-Charge, Ramsgate, was requested to main-            24. Meantime, considerable anxiety was felt
 tain a continuous evacuation service by skoots     as to the fate of the personnel vessels which had
 between Margate and Ramsgate and the beach,        been despatched in a steady stream to Dunkirk
 and take over responsibility for servicing those   commencing the previous evening. The first of
 vessels. Meantime CALCUTTA, who was off            these was due back at Dover about 0300, but
 La Panne, reported that conditions for embarka-    by 0900 nothing had been sighted or reported.
 tion there were very bad owing to heavy surf,      But at 0700, S.N.O. Dunkirk had reported that
 but that they might improve with the rising        the embarkation there was going on at the rate
 tide.                                              of 2,000 an hour, so it was presumed that the
    Shortly after midnight CALCUTTA was in-         transports had failed to enter the harbour during
 formed that the Third Corps of the B.E.F. and      darkness, had waited outside, and had com-
 the Commander-in-Chief were all now at La          menced to enter in succession at dawn. The
 Panne. She was directed to make every              necessity for continuous fighter protection in
 endeavour to concentrate all destroyers and        view of the exposure of these unarmed ships
 light craft at that end of the beach with the      while at Dunkirk and during the daylight pas-
 object of embarking that force as soon as          sage through coastal waters, was obvious. Con-
 possible.                                          stant touch was maintained with the R.A.F.
    19. As regards enemy activity, this day the     Commands to obtain continuous fighter protec-
 Germans contented themselves with bombing          tion during the hours when the Vice-Admiral,
 the town and port of Dunkirk, but on a small       Dover, estimated the largest concentration of
 scale compared with that to be experienced         vessels would be present, it being realised that
 later, probably because of increasing R.A.F.        the R.A.F. resources were not sufficient to pro-
 air cover and also due to the fact that a heavy    vide continuous air cover, and to dispense with
 pall of smoke from the burning town covered        •full cover at less important periods.
 the operation most of the day.                         25. At 0930 the belated return of the per-
                                                    sonnel vessels from Dunkirk commenced, and
Wednesday 2gih May.                                 proceeded steadily through the day. In addi-
   20. The Northern Route Y having been             tion to the personnel vessels using Dunkirk the
swept, it was arranged to sail personnel ships      Admiralty were informed of the -necessity for
to Dunkirk at daylight and to continue to sail      X-lighters and other self-propelled lighters to
throughout the day; this route would take ships     increase the facilities for beach evacuation. A
clear of the artillery fire on shore. Personnel     Medical Party was shipped in VERITY for use
ships accordingly started at 0230.                   on the beaches, and a Naval Medical Party was
                                                     sent to Dunkirk.
   21. Much consideration had been given to
the practicability of building piers on the             26. The considerable alarm as to the imme-
beaches using lines of barges. Reports from          diate safety of the B.E.F. felt during the even-
ships that worked off the beaches showed,           ing and early night of the 28th, which caused
however, that owing to the very gradual shoal-      all available resources to be immediately
ing of the water at all states of the tide such a   concentrated on the French Coast, eased during
barge pier to be effective, would have to be of     the 29th. But emergency measures taken late
very great length, beyond the resources avail-      on the 28th had an adverse effect on the orderly
able.                                               organisation for evacuation so (necessary if effec-
                                                     tive measures were to be devised and put in
   22. Information was received that the per-       force.
sonnel vessels with their Mercantile Marine
crews were having 'difficulty in making the             27. Meantime, in the early hours of the 29th,
entrance to Dunkirk Harbour in the face of 'the     an unfortunate disaster occurred involving the
navigational difficulties caused by a heavy         loss of H.M. Destroyers WAKEFUL and
smoke pall over the entrance and in face of          GRAFTON, and the danlayej COMFORT.
bombing and shelling encountered en route and       WAKEFUL, after embarking troops at Bray,
whilst alongside. Nevertheless it subsequently      sailed for Dover at 2300/28 by the Zuydecoote
transpired that at Dunkirk there had been a         Pass and North Channel. Approaching the
good number of ships throughout the night, at        Kwinte Whistle Buoy the speed of the ships
times exceeding the influx of troops.               was 20 knots, and a zigzag of 40 degrees every
                                                    four minutes was started. At 0045 two torpedo
   23. S.N.O. Dunkirk, and other Senior             tracks were observed, one torpedo missed, the
Officers on the Coast reported during the early      other hit amidships. WAKEFUL broke in half
hours that surf on the beaches was retarding         and. the two portions sank in 15 seconds, each
boat work. S.N.O. Dunkirk, at 0709, asked           remaining standing with the midship end on
for all ships to go to Dunkirk. The Vice-           the bottom. All the troops on board went down
Admiral could not accept this as it was essential    with the ship; certain of the crew floated clear.
to maintain lifts off the beaches as well as from    After about half-an-hour motor drifters
Dunkirk Harbour, both from the aspect of the         NAUTILUS and COMFORT arrived and
military situation and from the fact that Dun-       started to pick up survivors, later joined by
kirk was limited by a bottleneck, formed by the      GOSSAMER. Captain of WAKEFUL was in
narrrw gangway along the East Pier to the            the COMFORT. GRAFTON and LYDD were
poinf= ?f embarkation. Furthermore, there was        close and Captain of WAKEFUL warned


Details

cw
CONFIDENTIAL.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AWARDS.
CALAIS DEMOLITIONS - H.M.S. "WINDSOR" - "DYNAMO".
(Commander-in-Chief, Western Approaches' No.P.340/57
dated 7th November, 1940.)
II
ALTRINS: 06
No. B23/1598/40.
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
(copy to Commander-in-Chief,
Western Approaches.)
Forwarded for the consideration of Their Lordships.
2.
Recommendations of Demolition Parties were dealt with
direct between the Officers in charge of the Parties and
Admiralty. I was under the impression that the awards to the
Calais Party had already been considered and decided upon.
3.
The remaining officers and men (with the exception of
Commissioned Gunner (T) Dennis) were recommended for their
services in Operation "Dynamo" - Surgeon Lieutenant Shutte and
Able Seaman Johnson were included in List "A" and the remainder
in List "B".
4.
H.M.S. "Windsor" did very good service, transporting
about 4,500 Troops from France and suffering slight damage and
about 30 casualties as a result of air attacks.
There were not many outstanding cases of gallant
conduct and the list submitted by the Commanding Officer contains
more than the average number of names, but it is evident that
the Ship's Company as a whole displayed exemplary conduct and
devotion to duty.
5.
In the London Gazette of 16th August, 1940, the
Captain and Surgeon Lieutenant Shutte, R.N.V.R. were mentioned
in Despatches, and Able Seaman Johnson was awarded a Bar to his
D.S.M. Under the circumstances I submit for the consideration
of Their Lordships that recognition of the general good service
of the ship be acknowledged by the award of one or more
decorations and mentions to men in the forthcoming half-yearly
list, list. selection being made from those given in the accompanying
36018
1940
Dover,
13th November, 1940.
VICE ADMIRAL.
Ltd.
51-6446

Details

Details

Page 11
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. HARVESTER - Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
After only 21/2 days of "working-up" after commissioning,
HARVESTER was sent to Dover and completed 3 round trips
to the coast. On the last of these she experienced the
full weight of the intensive air attack early on the
1st June. Her A.A. gunnery was most effective, and she
shared in the destruction of at least 3 enemy aircraft.
The ship was well handled throughout. Her inshore boat
work was excellent.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
Displayed exceptional initiative and sound
judgment. Handled his ship with great coolness
under fire.
Recommended for mention.
Mr. William George Alfred Robinson, Gunner (T).
In charge of HARVESTER'S boats working inshore.
Was especially noted by the senior officers of the
beach parties for cool and gallant work. Set an
admirable example.
Recommended for mention.
This rating showed great initiative and resource in
getting wounded men from HAVANT to AEGIR. He took charge
well and set a fine example.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 43.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. WORCESTER (continued).
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, JX. 129206.
Displayed courage and skill in maintaining the
fire of 'Y' gun, the crew of which were ultimately
all killed or wounded.
Recommended for decoration.
Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J.8739.
The Chief Boatswain's Mate displayed courage
throughout - excellent example to all hands. Was
conspicuous in the work of embarking troops from pier
and by boat.
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman John E. Reynolds, P/JX.147968.
For his courage and skill at the Pom-Poms where
he was ultimately killed.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Stoker T. Moscrop, P/KX.83677.
For his courage and zeal in assisting the
ammunition supply at 'A' gun and in relieving the
wounded. He was killed performing this duty.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
E.R.A. 2nd Class Ronald W. Brenton, P/MX.46507.
Petty Officer Lawrence Motteram, P/JX.129270, Gunner's Mate.
Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews, J.3593, Coxswain.
Petty Officer Horace William Smith, P/J.108414, T.G.N.
Leading Seaman John Leonard Brown, JK. 138757.
Leading Stoker Charles W. Norris, P/KX.81034.
Able Seaman Edward Gair, SSX. 15905.
Stoker Ralph Kearvell, P/KX.99946.
Ordinary Seaman Bert Marston, P/JX.175182.
These ratings were all outstanding in devotion
to duty and in gallant conduct under fire.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 81
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
FLARE-BURNING DRINTERS OF THE DOVER COMMAND.
Captain Eric Wheler Bush, D.S.C., R.N.
continuous service in connection with the Calais operation
These 19 drifters had been employed on 10 days'
and on patrol immediately prior to the commencement of
DYNAMO. Throughout DYNAMO, they worked with marked zeal
where the shelling was most severe. All did well in a
particularly at the post of honour in the inner harbour,
and conspicuous success, rainly at Dunkirk Harbour, and
varying degree and were responsible for lifting to safety
some 10,000 Allied troops.
The following officers and men have been selected
for special recognition of their gallant services.
OFFICERS:
Recommendations.
H.M.Drifter THE BOYS: - Skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., W.S.3319.
Skipper A. Buchan, his own ship being under
repair, volunteered immediately for any service, with
the remark that he would do anything for his country.
He was given charge of a tow of Liege lake boats. He
subsequently took command of the drifter YORKSHIRE LASS
embarking soldiers under fire.
His endurance and determination when injured,
clad in rags and completely exhausted, were of the
highest order. He was finally ordered to the sick
list. It is considered that Skipper Buchan's
behaviour was exceptional.
Recommended for decoration.
H.M. Drifter MIDAS. - Skipper Herbert Holden, R.N.R., W.8.3432.
Skipper H. Holden is commended for service in
action when in command of MIDAS. This Officer's
conduct and leadership were of the highest order.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS:
H.M.Drifter BOY ROY:- Skipper Dettman. R.N.R. (Decorated for this
operation in London Gazette of 7th June, 40
Chief Engineman Harry B. Sharman, LT/KX.105182.
When BOY ROY was damaged and in a sinking
condition, he remained in the engine room regardless
of any danger to himself, until his ship was beached,
the water having risen in the meanwhile to the
furnace door. He sent the rest of his engine room
crew up to safety and remained alone at his post.
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.D. THE BOYS/

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Page BE
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE. - Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth, R.N.R.
subsequent off Dunkirk bombing, beaching and burning of CRESTED EAGLE the
During the aerial bombardment of the pier, and
displayed great gallantry, devotion to duty and were
on 29th May, the following officers and men
conspicuous amongst a gallant ship's company.
number of survivors.
disaster, their effort resulted in the rescue of a large
Remaining steady at their posts when overtaken by
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth. R.N.R.
Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones, T.124.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Able Seaman George Frend, C/J.95190.
Chief Steward John Gooch, T.124.
Able Seaman George Tilleny, C/SS.7050, R.F.R. B.17336.
Able Seaman Frederick James Slack, C/J 93546.R.F.R. B.21781.
Ordinary Seaman Frank A.V. Patrick, C/JK.171302.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 100.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
CONSTANT NYMPH (continued).
performed courage and disregard of danger, and undoubtedly
gallant and meritorious service.
Recommended for decoration.
otor Boat LADY CABLE: - Acting Sub. -Lieutenant G. A., Cadell. R.N.
Recommendations.
(Retired).
FFICERS:
Acting Sub. Lieutenant G. A. Cadell, R.N.
troops from Dunkirk Inner Harbour off to tugs
On the night of June 2nd ferried about 200 French
WISHART. 24 Finally, when all ships were leaving, and embarked
any British remained. Then encountered a series see of
French soldiers, having searched the Quay to if
mishaps with his engines, and on the voyage home
himself at one time or another falling overboard.
attempted to salve W. D. craft HAIG, all his crew and
Finally broke down at mid-day on the 3rd, close to the
Coast, and was in grave peril of falling into hands
Southwest of Dunkirk. LADY CABLE drifted helplessly enemy
about the Channel for many hours before being rescued.
Sub. Lieutenant Cadell, suffering from a weak heart,
underwent considerable physical strain, and there is no
coolness and effic) ency.
doubt that he and his crew displayed remarkable courage,
Recommended for mention.
Cadet Rating G. R. Price.
Acted as first lieutenant to Sub. -Lieutenant Cadell,
whom he ably assisted. He had previously been in
command of the Motor Boat SKYLARK.
Recommended for early promotion,
Motor Yacht MASAYRU: - Skipper G. D. Olivier.
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Skipper G. D. Olivier.
With a civilian crew of 3 and one Leading Seaman,
R. N. sailed from Sheerness 0400/31 in convoy. On
arriving off the beaches spent more than 48 hours on
ferrying work, and in salving craft; and in towing off
ships aground. Underwent the common experience of being
stormed by French troops and having to repel these
boarders in order to save his ship. When isolated,
attacked by 4 Messerschmitts with machine-guns for about
half an hour, and at other times was under sporadio gun-
fire. Ferried off a total of about 400 French troops.
This civilian displayed a complete disregard of danger
and showed a high order of seamanship.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
more same successful than other small craft working in
the areas. On the 31st May, when he was 8 hours the off
Displayed great devotion to duty under fire, and marked
coast, subjected to continuous air attack.
Senior Officers on more than one occasion.
initiative; and was favourably reported upon by the
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub.Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley. R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 19÷. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Recommendation.
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Took over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
to Ramsgate to Bray beach in the darkness with no navigating
instruments. From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked without help
ferrying off troops and co-ordinating the activities of
other power boats in the vicinity. His boat acted as
flagship of Commodore Stephenson in control of embarkation,
who, together with other senior officers, comments most
favourably on this officer's conduct. Under almost
continuous air bombardment and artillery fire in capsized
and swamped boats he was inderatigable in his efforts.
Directly responsible for the successful embarkation of
hundreds of troops. Set an excellent example of devotion
to duty and gallant conduct, and performed a remarkable feat
of endurance.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 105.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Motor Boat FERVENT Commander (H.M.S. FERVENT, Ramsgate). - Lieutenant-
William Ronald Thomas Clements, R.N.R. (Retd)
attacks. for gallant work on 31st May during intense noticed
The cool performance and of this boat was especially
instructions The civilian coxswain, faithfully obeyed all air
given him by officers.
Recommendation.
Coxswain Douglas Kirkaldie. (of 4, Kent Place,
Ramsgate).
Recommended for mention.
Motor Vessel LAROC - Mr. George B. Butler. Master.
This civilian manned motor boat, normally is employed
as a Boarding Vessel, Western Examination Service,
Portsmouth. Master and crew volunteered for service to
Dunkirk and for three days did excellent work off the
coast, not only with the yacht itself but by directing
the activities of many open boats and giving assistance
to vessels in distress. Was present during the worst
two days of air raids.
Recommendations.
Master, Mr. George B. Butler.
Handled his vessel with conspicuous judgment.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 109.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
BOAT RAPIDE - Sub.Lieutenant J. C. Clarke, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations
sub,Lieutenant J. C. Clarks, R.N.V.R.
during some 28 hours continuous beach work with his
Displayed commendable initiative and seamanship
Kept his motor boat from capsizing in spite of frenzy
motor boat, and derelict pulling boats he had salved.
of French soldiers on board during bombing. Handled
a large number of troops during frequent bombing
A cool and gallant officer.
attacks. Assisted in rescuing survivors of MOSQUITO.
Recommended for mecoration.
S. DORIEN ROSE (Store Ship). - W. Thompson, Master.
This civilian manned ship, and performed useful and
gallant service.
Officers and men endured very trying conditions within
Dunkirk harbour during seven hours on 30th May, disembarking
stores and redeiving troops. She was attacked by M.T.B.'s
on the way in. On 28th was twice attacked by aircraft off
Dunkirk and rescued 950 troops and the crew of QUEEN OF THE
CHANNEL, who had been disabled by bombs and was sinking.
Everyone remained calm and gave the utmost assistance to
the troops. The E.R.M. staff had to effect repairs under
fire. All did well.
Recommendations.
Master W. Thompson.
Chief Engineer B. Murphy.
Second Engineer J. Steward.
Lewis Gunner T. W. Watson.
Mate, T. O. Hanlon.
Bosn., P. McFadden.
Able Seaman J. O'Rawe,
Able Seaman J. Upperton,
Able Seaman T. Bassett,
Ordinary Seaman W. Bassett,
Ordinary Seaman C. Bassett,
Fireman A. Gilson,
Fireman S. Khan,
Fireman M. Mohand,
The above officers and men formed the crew.
Recommended that all should be mentioned, and that
the Master, Mate, Chief Engineer and a proportion of
the crew should be decorated.

Details

Page 110.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
MES
COCKLE BOAT Herbert FLOTILLA Bernard (40 ft, Soloman, boats). R.N.V.R. - Sub. Lieutenant Michael
Recommendation,
FICER:
sub,Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R.
In command of Flotilla of 6. Proceeded
boats from Southend found to Dunkirk without charts on 31/5. direct
offshore unsuitable for beach work, largely Cockle to
harbour and on the outside of the harbour breakwaters
obstructions, worked Flotilla inside Dunkirk owing
from 2130/31 to 0300/1. Flotilla handled about 900
troops, finally returning to Ramsgate fully laden.
Cockle boats being no longer serviceable, commandeered
tug and boat taking them to Dunkirk harbour. There
employed as interpreter controlling French troops on
being one of only two survivors. By a remarkable feat
shore. Was sunk in R.A.F. motor boat by air attack,
of endurance was swimming for four hours finally climbing
unaided into deserted boat. Rescued by French fishing
vessel. A gallant young officer who displayed courage,
initiative and determination of high order. This
officer was especially noted for good work by many
semior officers encountered in the operation.
Recommended for decoration.
Mr A. B. Devine.
Signed on T.124 agreement and took over motor-
boat LITTLE ANN to the beaches at Dunkirk. There he was
dive-bombed and machine-gunned, and the boat sank.
Notwithstanding this he carried on working at the beaches
for four days. DYNAMO being over, he then volunteered
for Captain Selby's operation, and after that for CYCLE,
when he was severely wounded.
Recommended for decoration and
Commission in the R.N.V.R.

Details

77) Wt. 26777/4432 50M 10/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
Register No.
Minute Sheet No.
M.V.O., D.S.C., harder still, especially as some Officers
The case is of Captain Llewellyn Vaughan Morgan, C.B.E.,
have already been decorated for "Dynamo" Staff work at Dover;
the correct appointment for his services being C.B.E., which
he already is. Officers were added to the Staff at Dover for
the conduct of this operation and Captain Morgan as Chief
Staff Officer had to weld together these additional Officers
with the Naval Staff. This he succeeded in doing, so that
they became a team, working perfectly together without pause by
day and night throughout ten days. His energy, tact and
leadership were essential to success.
The Committee have no doubt therefore that he has
earned a further decoration. As his services were not in action,
he cannot be immediately appointed a C.B. or D.S.O.; he could,
however, be made a C.B. in the New Year's Honours List, and
it is submitted that Vice-Admiral, Dover should be informed
of the difficulties and invited to include Captain Morgan's
name in his next half yearly recommendations. It might then
be hoped that a C.B. at the New Year would be available for
him. In the meantime it is submitted that he be awarded a
Mention in Despatches
The third difficult case is that of Captain The
Honourable Lionel Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., Royal Navy, (Retired),
Captain Lambart was in command of H.M.S. GRIVE when between
1400/30 May and 1300/1 June she made three round journeys
between Dover and Dunkirk, bringing home 1,400 Troops and
wounded Sailors from the Beaches (in her own boats), Harbour
and Pier and HAVANT, who was on fire. She entered the Harbour
during a very severe air raid and was heavily bombed at the
Pier. On his third return to Dover, Captain Lambart put
Lieutenant West, an Officer of over sixty, ashore as he had
handled his ship so well and "had earned a rest. " He himself
was sixty-seven but would not rest. He told whomere his crew/that Equally he
would cross again at once; so, as soon as they had taken in
stores, they sailed a fourth time. She was near the further
shore when she was blown to bits and Captain Lambart lost his
life. The Committee had no doubt that for Captain Lambart's
gallantry a Posthumous Mention in Despatches would be a poor
S
award. But after scrupulous debate they reluctantly agreed that
this was not quite a case for the Victoria Cross, the only
posthumous decoration that might be correct. Captain Lambart's
courage, spirit and devotion to duty were exemplary; but, though
he would doubtless gladly have done so, he was not knowingly
incurring a risk of almost certain death. The Committee however
are anxious that some signal honour should be paid to the memory
of so gallant an Officer, and they therefore submit that, as in
the case of Captain Kennedy of "RAWALPINDI", a special letter
should be written to his widow. The draft of such a letter is
attached. It is, then, submitted that Captain Lambart be
awarded a
Mention in Despatches (Posthumous)
and that a letter of appreciation should be sent to his widow.
It is understood that V.A. Dover wared not propose a V.C. in This case.
The Committee, while satisfied that the names on List B
were put forward by Vice-Admiral Dover for very good reasons,
regret that they do not feel justified in submitting that these
Officers and Men should be Mentioned in Despatches, and they
have somewhat reduced the number of Mentions in List A; their
sole motive is the avoidance of what might appear to be an
excessive number of awards for this Operation.
For/

Details

8190) Wt. 36485/0155 40M 12/39 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. Gp.671.
Register No.
Minute Sheet No.
The Aloards Committee have had a inflain tark in
signing of comfaring the defend for
this operation of the find from the print 2
vair I unders of diarations is, think, Learnable.
The Ileani them taking fact m in this Josahia prestormed
a Service the Engine atteast as Great a Zeerhngge.
Inform to affrre generally. glad to fee
Chrowork 2 to many ratings rewarded.
thard on more than one, Land afterworms, of the
wonderpe devoting & fining the men.
twoids suggit than Lower in be
worded X bar this DSO Hh will affreciate the
a higher award in the whis y Knighthood may 4
in Pata x Ifeel fave L would covet the her this
DSO as, an outward high 2 Li and derice on this
organis. The ingustions lapt. Lambark is in gird
one for 1/10 gallant officie.
Cheony

Details

Details

Details

Details

Remarks.
335
Sub.
Lt.
Don
reported
efloat. later He did went not in render abandoning unserviceable "YSER" which he could not
308
im.
He the Army M.B's and showed for much which keenness. I admonished
Sub. Lt. Liddell R.N. Took charge of"Bonny Heather"
Sub. Lt. Mac Intyre. Took charge of S/D "FAIRBURN".
Mr. Butler. I/C"LAROIC
X 209 Sub.Lt. W.R. Williams, R.N.R.
up. Sub. Made Lt. G.N. excuses Blake, for R.N.V.R., not H.M.S. VERNON. Bad case of
ut aving ind picked in charge up R.A.F. of Admiral Officer going, from sea., returned Considered 3 hours after departure
warrant him back. Barge again and sent him it to inadvisable office to get to
asten this was supposed to Reported be no water. Gave in speedboat to
Wippingham her to Dunkirk. paddle steamer arrived p.m. Visited
ommander S Powell, R.N.R. last night's trip Mde by order Flotilla to use Drifters sea water, under
"MAIE
1 Trip.
"SARAH HYDE"
"TWEENWAYS"
1 Trip.
"UNI
1 Trip.
"RIGG"
1 Trip.
"JACK EVE"
2 Trips.
"THREE KINGS"
1 Trip.
2 Trips.
"JACINTA" reported sunk on Goodwin and abandoned, officers name
ot noted, was seen floating near RAMSGATE next day when one of the
rawlersof same company went out and fetched her. Regret no record of
his ship's name.
Block Ship party: Lt. Lloyd R.N.
Sub. Lt. Satterford.
Sub Lt. Don.
Sub Lt. E.R. Davis, R.N.R.
Sub Lt. Mulholland
Sub Lt. cantron
?
This party was not required taking off block ship officers,
hough they were ready, instead they worked at Dunkirk ferrying.
Mr. Sidmouth-Welling, Sea Cadet Lt, showed great keenness and was
ways to the fore to get over to Dunkirk.
Dr. Wrighinneve. rain Mouth Street, W. 1. did one trip in"CAIRNGORM".
m K Common Chantry ashbyRd waltn Searomer
The Averatich were unarmed showed great keenness in
towing over amilite "PRIMA", "DUKE", "PRINCESS master 2
ТЛЬ WALLISE_6IUR & Sons, Dagenham Dock, Essex. It is
they Benefit. owners for their willing and gallant
111. 61 tieds 30.2.
US. whelle BUBOR Shere: - Gordon Thomas, 4, Berners Street, London,
ISCS.). Har 1181 mizza herive, Wembley Park., Wm.Joseph Fir Mason, Tree Road, 55, Oakley Banstead, Gdns,
Mark son, R.N.V.R., Moorings,
HOUDS: Groanitz lavendoned Brook, Glen Haven, Taplow.
toegr. Ebrecume nder Admiral Capt. Taylor: Hammond took command of the 4 school.
BEO 110 Z2WA
DB 1-ADETEDA
RNR
IICI. BIWLLY
Lt. Commander Miller. DSV
DV 26 BLUEBIRD.
EANDER + 7 others, could not find names.

Details

Dynamo 93
72
SECTION
NOD
and Juno 1940.
sir,
I regret to have to report the loss of thereise
BRITHER by enemy action at 1013 let June 1940 off the Bolgian
coast. The circumstances are as follows.
at about 0315 while embarking British troors off
DEPARTMENT I TRUE attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKSHS
dive bombers. They approached from astern and on eighting 1 went
full speed shoul 13 boilors connected, and as the Dombo were
released turned hard to port. as far as I could judge such aircraft
released a pattern of five bombs one being & large "B" type and
four smaller bombs with slight delay action. one of the latter
exploded at the after end 02 HOW boilor room on the port side and
siereed blew anay the bulkhoad vioroing both main and auxiliary
stoam linou and main oil fuol supply. «11 engine room and boilor
room personnel were killoi. About six of the "B" type bonds than
exploded underneath the ship flooding the after cagazine and
shell room and probably the gland conpartments and storo rooms
just forward of this position. The uppor dock and sideo of the
ship crecked right across in the vioinity of the suimast. This 18
& general line of mouthous in dostroyers.
In order to precerve stability the torpedoes and
death charges were jottluoned and the ship floated confortably
with little increase in drought. I invected ongine room and No.3
doilor room and found that a Joall acount of nuter was making its
very through shrapnol holos. Those were plugged and colligion not
placed over the norst louks. It WILL found imposible to got steam
to the enginos unl the ship thereafter remined imobile.
1.
fforts were now made to sond out measages for
assistance. is tug who had been attending on Hamada "KEITH" passed
no a 013nal telling DD to sink to which I replied that I
was out of action und required imediate assistance. I also
requested him to inform The Ylag officer Commending, Dover to
this effect. Due then dies peared. Signals for assistance were
also made by using type & II with battory nover. It is
Coubtful whether any of these measuges more received owing to very
heavy traffic at the time and comparative woukness of by signals.
5.
a Bolgiun fiching smock under French colours was
soon in the distunco and the notor boat TRIO dearatched to susson
her to our assistance. She WELL is JULIA AMOUNT of Card and after
JONE offorts a tow was pussed and corse set to open from the coast.
This ha hardly been accomplished before & second attack devollopped
at about 0945. This consisted of lovel bumbing from about 0000t.
such bomber acting independently. about hulf a squalron of 18
carried out the attack. Considering the ship WAS & stationary
targot and there was little wind these attacks were Dourly carried C
out and no bumbo hit. This may have been due to pon pon fire is
which Hunner 12 new in charge. Unfortunately this
gallant officer WAS killed at his post by machine run bullets which
were fired continuously us the bombers pussed overhead.

Details

Dyusum 93
106
110
SECTION
DEVONUES,
and Juno 1940.
Sir,
I regret to have to report the loss of Hellows
by enemy action at 103 lat June 1940 off the Belgian
coast, The circumstances are 68 follows.
at about 0815 while embarking British troors off
EASURES I TRIC attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKARS
dive bombers. They approached from astern and on sighting I went
full speed shoul 13 boilors connected and as the bombu were
released turned hard to port. 43 far as I could judge such aircraft
released & pattern of five Dombs one boing a large "B" type and
four smaller bombs with alight delay action. une of the latter
exploded at the ufter end of 40.3 boilor room on the port side and
storeed blew away the bulkhoad pieroing both main and suxiliery
steam linou and main oil fuel supply. +11 engine room and boilor
room personnel were killed. About six of the "B" type bomba then
exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and
shell room and probably the gland compartments and store rooms
Just forward of this position. The uppor deck and older of the
ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the minnest. This is
a gonoral line of neukness in dostroyers.
In order to precerve stability the torpedoes and
depth charges were jottluoned and the ohio floated confortably
with little increase in drought. 1 increated ongine room and Ro.3
boiler room and found that a small amount of nuter was making its
way through shrapnel holos. These were plugged and collision eat
placed over the norst lonks. It WELL found impossible to got steam
to the enginee and the ship thereafter remined imobile.
4.
fforts were now made to send out messages for
assistance. a tug who had boon attending on Hahada "K-ITH" passed
me a signal triling DO to sink to which I replied that I
was out of action and required immediate addistance. 1 aluo
requested him to inform The Ylag officer Commanding, Nover to
this effect. Tue then dion peared. Jignals for assistance were
also mudo by using type 4 4 with battory power. It is
doubtful whether any of these seauages were received owing to very
heavy traffic at the time and comparative meukness of by cignals.
5.
a Belgiun fishing smook under French colours was
seen in the distunce and the notor boat TRIO desputched to
her to our assistance. she WAS 43 JULI- of Could and after
DOBB efforts a tow WELD passed and corse not to open from the coast.
This ha: hardly been accomplished before & second attack devellopped
ut about 0945. This consisted of lovel bumbing from about S, 10000.
each bomber acting independently. about hulf 5 squairon of 18
curried out the attack. Considering the ship was a stationary
target and there was little wind these attacks were pourly curried C
out and no bumba hit. This may have been due to pon pom fire if
which Hunner (2) 183 in charge. Unfortunately this
gallant officer WBG killed at his post by machino [un bulleta which
wore fired continuously as the bonbers pussed overhead.

Details

+645
Ship's position now untenable and recelled
1720.
When boats returned with last load
1
proceed close inshore to avoid shell bursts.
1840
Arrived Dunkirk harbour and proceeded are
foremost.
1850.
Berthed alongsido East Pier and embarked the
870 treops
During embarkation continuer air attack and
shelling took place, ships guns were frequently in action
2058.
Cas's off and proceeded with abou : 1250 trops
on board.
0015. Saturday 1t Judee
Anchored in Margate Road
0603.
Alongside Margate Pier.
Disembarked trom
The Commanding Officer now returned or board.
0800.
Cast off from Margate Pier and anchere in
(94).
Went alongside H.M.S. GALLANT for C
1935.
Proceeded Sevards Dunkirk and at 2235 Lightel
unknown obstructions in In, vicinity of No 70 Dunitick Road
the weather was very 16.23 and thick smoke from Dunkirk
obscured everythings and 2t was decided to amitee hatman
"FG" and "W" buoys until dayligh
0315 2nd June proceeded bac
545.
1114 left for Sheerness who
The Senior Opficer of the I
and Book command 01 the ship, se
ashore on leave.
connection with the proc
we "
like to emphasise the
a
whole ip's company.
It is difficult to single
commendation bat undoubtedly th
James Seamar O. No C/J 3192 wa
and the individual work done by
cn the beach itself was outstan
XI.
The Sheerness. Extended Defences Office
Forwarded
4th June 1940
found in acorphecked and found in accordance with Regulations
ecked and found in ref action taken
able to action taked for
to actionserived and checked
able to or hecked ahable to select (C.W.
hecked and found in acaci accordang up for interview sent
received and scate received and checked

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Dyramo 140. 2535
4 269 2
6th June, 1040.
08/10/8,
252
CONFIDENTIAL
UNIVERSITY
FROM
SEA comminiting 08:100
The Extended Defences Officer,
resting is ship unique
Sheerness.
DATE 7th June 1940.
THE For coolness
extensive energy and
TO.....
The Commodore in Charge
unisting in the
Sheerness.
SUBJECT. Senior Officer, Themes Local
Rellefle Chief ingineers
Defence Flotills.
Hom in organizing the
roops and car the
emberition and
I wish to recomend the
THE R.N.
0/210035 20 Hedo
Belon as leadership
L.R.C.F. for his great
D of the ship's company
and also for
a whole organizati
shown during the
mal incluses of this
operation Dynamo.
overboard when the wholer capsined
Ris gallant action in going
0/32950 Dailably
100 OF Insurance
inthe the water for over an hour remaining to clear
alongoide ROYAL BAGLE end
I propeller or the motor boat RIS,
G/J3170070. for
praise.
consider, worthy of the greatest
We on the
Lettle Name (though
commond of the chip
(Sd) W. E. CORNABE
orando VBB successful
doe honry boolding and
CAPTAIN,
age ml has Little real
EXTENDED DISTRIBUTE OFFICER.
and Initiative van
⑈ use able to take an
for aevosion mannay enrough ПДО CTIOPES, steam VISA
always ready, TO and auty. when off watch he was to be found looking to the
welfare of the troops.
10. Seaman LR/JX 173534. 14332 of H.S.D. be
Monarda John Henry Williams is Gunner he was always to Ze
remarkable Vigourously found at for his coolness to devotion whenever post see whenever that under opportunity to all duty. energy danger arms hombins were presented threatened ready, attacks itself. and the and 10 ship. to He replied be also especially showed took
praised for his pride in his work.
11. Hannaford in of which H.M.D. he directed Renascent his for ship the
and courageous manner the B.S.F. from Bunkerque and for which his
prompt brought action off in members receiving of the crew of steam yacht Grieve
was mined.

Details

Dynam 196.
108
107
June 7th, 1940.
Supplementary to a brief report given to the
Resident N.O. at Poole - From the 0.0. H.H.S.
"Pascholl".
The above ship returned from La Panne to
Sheerness on Sunday 2nd June. Her Captain immediately
left her to return to his duties in Naval Control,
Ramagate. At 1830, on instructions from the Commodore's
Office, I reported to Admiral Taylor and without further
notice, was told by him to take command of the above
ship, and take her to Dunkirk. There being no routing
orders available I was told instead to await the
departure of H.N.S. "Reiger" and sail in company to
Ramsgate. "Reiger" was unable to sail until 1630
and Ramsgate was reached at 2300. To anchored and
went ashore for instructions which were to our intense
disappointment; we were to be off for the night and
await further instructions. With the exception of
two of the ship's company, all on board complained that they were
reliefs for the original crew and asked to be relieved,
having done one or maybe two trips across already. It
proved impossible to do this for them until Tuesday
morning, but after they had been allocated definite
jobs and posts during the operations and had been given a
little verbal encouragement they settled down, gave of
their best and did their duty in traditional manner.
2. At 1430 Monday, 3rd June, I was advised that the
"Pascholl" would be salling as flagship with four other
Schults. At 1500 Commander Hammond, R.N. cnme on
board with his navigator, Lieutenant de Mornay, H.M.
With great tact and understanding they assured me that
they were largely passengers and in no way intended to
interfere with, or supercede the Captain. by somewhat
natural disappointment at the apparent loss, in spite
of these assurances, of the opportunity of conducting
the operations on my own initiative, was more than
offset by company, guidance and encouragement they
afforded to the two Officers of the ship.
5. We sailed at 1600 and promptly loat one of the
five ships - "Reiger" which,, to Commander Hamond's
lurid disgust, went on the putty (Quern Sand).
Overtaking a convoy of wierd, but gallant little French
fishermen, we arrived in Dunkirk harbour at 3500
after a most tame passage. The town was blasing
furiously and presented a trult memorable spectacle.
The harbour Was congested, sonté of the ships there
being wrecked, and in cases already ablase. Difficult
navigation was intensified by our not being able to
find the Nouveau Avant Port (no proper plan of the
harbour being available ), our perigrinations nearly
putting us on the putty twice. In desperation we
went alongaide the Packet boat quay of. the inner
harbour, secured and got ladders aboard. Commander
Troup, waiting on the quay immediately asked our
capacity, and I foolishly but optimistically replied
"Oh, between 500 and 1,000% Poilus in reasonable
order commeneed to invade the ship and were embarked
in an orderly fashion, each mon being disarmed before
being allowed to descend into the hold. The work of
embarkation was su ervised by the First Licutenant
(Sub Lieut. St. Aubin, R.N.V.R.) in & most creditable
manner

Details

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

Details

COPY.
359
- 226
0771061, VREBOR PORTN.
Principal Sea Transport Office, French Ports.
358
c/o Ministry of Shipping, (Room 8009),
Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square,
335
DUPLICATE
LONDON, Wele
24th June, 1940.
the Widelle,
The Director of Sea Transport. Inlais in Definer
I
RM bringing the of the Skipper to the
Submitted: Director of to his buting
Forwarded with a request that the gallant action
Order you please and Sty
of these two mon may be suitably rewarded.
vas 033 the guay the SIGNED: W.P. GANDELL
which does
quest.
COMMODORE, R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
address up to 085 Aund FRENCH PORTS.
Hotols
for for Transport Officer,
Printi locks,
(Commetore Senstall, MA)
(63gma)
Secretary,
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signal)
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

Details

COPY.
359
FROM
-
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER, FRENCH PORTS.
336
TO
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER. (Copy to MA/DST).
31st May, 1940.
R.N.R., of my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter
I enclose a. copy of a report from Moutenant Whittle,
"Lord Howe".
10
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the
notice of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being
rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members
of his crow should also be brought to the notice of the Director
of Sea Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse
all parts of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done
alongside the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of PaSaTeO.,
South-Western Hotel, Southampton, Facture,
howy for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P. Gandell, R.N.)
I
carrot
too
(signed)
Secretary.
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signed) bells
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of See Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

Details

442
-2-
-
416
fire and bombing. I would especially mention M.T.B. 102
under the command of Lieutenant Dreyer, who carried out my
orders with remarkable skill and coolness and who took R.A.D.
off H.M.S. "KEITH" during a dive bombing attack as though
he were going alongside a jetty in peace time. Lieutenant
Everett in M.A.S.B. 6 evacuated Lord Gort. On one occasion
he was subjected to intense machine gun and dive bombing
attacks during daylight hours whilst saving the lives of
British soldiers off La Panne. Lieutenant Eyre of M.A.S.B.
10 also showed himself to be a level headed and gallant Officer
and quite untiring.
During operation Dynamo no boats were seriously
damaged and the casualties only amounted to four ratings
wounded.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant.
R.N.
Commanding Officer M.T.B's.
VICE 11 ADMIRAL JUN 1940 R *
*
De

Details

487
SPECIAL FLEET ORDER No. 1.
458
8th June, 1940
EVACUATION of the BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE from DUNKIRK
The undermentioned ratings of the War Department Fleet are commended for
the gallant part they played in connection with the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk - 30th May to 3rd June, 1940
W.D.M.L. "GROUSE"
T/Mate i/c
Mason, W.T.
T/A.B.
Taylor, J.R.
T/3/Engr.
Hewett, c.
68
1486
457
Cl.Mr.
Wales, P.J.
H.M.S. HORNET,
Allen, 8.
mid
Farmer, 7.
GOSPORT
Engr.
Walter, R.
HANTS
Engr.
Crabb, S.
6.
hear Dennis
marth
1/c
Cains, A.B.
Vine, A.S.
Engr.
Spain, J.H.
I uninction yr require
have 7 two ? the
Cl.Mr.
Matthews, J.
ew of N.TB.68 is connection
B.
Ferrier, c.
S.
Durrant, x.
is the consuation ?
Engr.
Stone, A.L.
Engr.
Stewart, 2.
unkugar.
Then was liten l'chose
ate 1/0
Yealland, 3.4
B.
Brenton, J.
whom the behavior 7
Engr
Rowe, S.E.
by ? my crew- they were
my
ate i/o
Clarke, W.R.
ee excellent.
Hay, H.
Engr.
Cherry, F.
Peaman and are
cames zone however
/Cl.Mr.
Beard, E.L.
particularly worry of vertin
Thompson, A.
Engr.
Hodgkinson, D.
Their name . of
3 i/o
Bell, L.C.
1/a.B.
Parry, A.J.
3rd Engr.
Bygrave, 3.

Details

487
SPECIAL FLEET ORDER No. 1.
458
8th June, 1940
EVACUATION of the BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE from DUNKIRK
The undermentioned ratings of the War Department Fleet are commended for
the gallant part they played in connection with the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk - 30th May to 3rd June, 1940
W.D.M.L."GROUSE"
T/Mate i/c
Mason, W.T.
T/A.B.
Taylor, J.R.
T/3/Engr.
Hewett, C.
W.D.M.L. "HAIG"
A/1/C1.Mr.
Wales, P.J.
A.B.
Allen, 8.
A.B.
Farmer, 7.
1st Engr.
Walter, R.
3rd Engr.
Crabb, S.
Mate i/c
Cains, A.B.
W.D.M.L. "KESTREL"
A.B.
Vine, A.E.
T/3/Engr.
Spain, J.H.
W.D.M.L. "MARLBOROUGH"
A/1/Cl.Mr.
Matthewa, J.
T/A.B.
Ferrier, C.
T/O.S.
Durrant, K.
T/3/Engr.
Stone, A.L.
T/3/Engr.
Stewart, R.
T/Mate 1/c
Yealland, E.L.
W.D.M.L. "PIGEON"
T/A.B.
Brenton, J.
T/3/Engr
Rowe, S.B.
T/Mate i/o
Clarke, W.R.
W.D.M.L. "SWALLOW"
Hay, H.
A.B.
Cherry, F.
3rd Engr.
Beard, E.L.
T/2/C1.Mr.
Thompson, A.
W.D.M.L. "WOLFE"
A.B.
Hodgkinson, D.
T/3/Engr.
Mate i/c
Bell, L.C.
Parry, A.J.
W.D.M.L. "VULTURE"
T/A.B.
Bygrave, F.
3rd Engr.

Details

2.
General above eight vessels: sent the following letter to the Masters Quarter of the
Lt. General to Sir the Forces Walter Venning, has K.C.B., C.M.G., C.B.E., M.C., Master 1--488
459
"I fine wish part to which thank you, your engineer and crew for the
tion of the B.E.F.
you and they played in the recent evacua- very
In in which particular the I wish to convey my admiration for the
volunteered to perform a dangerous task quite outside
personnel of the W.D. vessels participating way
their normal duties.
To have been successful in saving the lives of over 1,300
British and Allied soldiers is a feat of which all of you
concerned may well feel proud.
The damage done to so many of the craft engaged is a testi-
mony to the dangers which you and those serving under you
faced with cheerfulness and gallantry.
I am proud to think that, as Quartermaster-General to the
Forces, the War Department fleet comes within my sphere."
In addition, Colonel Redman - Deputy Director of Transportation
Equipment, Ministry of Supply has written me privately - as follows:
"Dunkirk, May 30th to June 3rd, 1940.
I took my hat off to the Navy, but I have put it on again
and now take it off to the Fleet.
I was extremely interested to receive the particulars you
sent me yesterday, and shall keep them in memory of very
gallant actions. You must be proud of your lads."
Whilst Captain P.Hodgkinson - - who as Officer i/c Transport at Portsmouth has
for so long been intimately connected with the War Department fleet has
generously sent the following message:
"All ranks of the War Department Fleet at Portamouth wish
to convey to those members of the Fleet, who took part in
the recent evacuation from Flanders, their congratulations
on a hazardous job well carried out, and felicitations on
their safe return.
With Portsmouth also wish to be associated. They appear to
the above, the members of the Transport Staff at
have well supported the motto of the Corps."
Finally I, as your Commanding Officer, would like once again to express my
deep appreciation of the work you all did.
Well done.
G.EBad work
Colonel
A. D. M. T.
Woolwich
8 June, 1940

Details

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
COPY.
INITIALS
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
EDC.
TO.
CAPTAIN
A/P,
DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
OPS.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of
my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter 'Lord Howe".
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the notice
of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members of his
crew should also be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea
Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse all parts
of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done alongside
the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton,
for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
tric Bush.
Dover.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.

Details

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
2 JUIN 1940
COPY.
INITIALS
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA TRANSPORT
OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
EDC.
TO.
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
OPS.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of
my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter 'Lord Howe".
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the notice
of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members of his
crew should also be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea
Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse all parts
of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done alongside
the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton,
for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
tric Bush.
Dover.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.

Details

124
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 5.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
126
125
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
to S.N.O., Dunkirk by signal - timed 1555/28 - and provided
for the use of 3 Hospital Carriers, 7 personnel steamers and
2 destroyers at the East Pier, Dunkirk, while some 20
destroyers, 19 paddle and fleet sweepers, 17 drifters, 20 to
40 skoots, 5 coasters, 12 motor boats, 2 tugs, 28 pulling
cutters and life-boats were to be distributed between La
Panne and point 1½ miles East of Dunkirk, on the beaches; the
destroyers running continuous round trips.
It was estimated that the personnel vessels and hospital :o
carriers would be clear of the danger area by 0630. As
regards the beaching and other small craft which had not yet
reached the Dover Straits, arrangements were made with other
authorities to route all small craft, which had not already
been despatched, direct to the beaches East of Dunkirk,
provided they had charts, food, fuel, etc.
At this time some difficulty was experienced in having at
hand the large number of charts required for these additional
vessels.
17,
Owing to the suspension of daylight work by personne
vessels it was necessary to increase the number handled in
Dunkirk during the dark hours as the attempt to use the
surplus personnel vessels off the beaches by night seemed un-
likely to bear fruit. Accordingly, Dunkirk, was
asked whether personnel vessels could be berthed inside
Dunkirk harbour, the only information in Vice Admiral's
k.
possession having indicated that the East Pier of the harbour
entrance was the only suitable berth for such ships to which
British troops could have access. To increase the off-shore
forces, Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was asked to sail CALCUTTA
to be opposite La Panne at 2200 to embark troops using own
boats.
Orders were issued that all ships proceeding to Dunkirk
from Dover were to use the southern route Z provided that the
passage from No. 6 Calais Buoy to Dunkirk could be made in
darkness.
S
18.
At 1830 GRAFTON reported that several thousand
troops remained on beaches at Bray and that more were
arriving. At that time there were off Bray, one tow of
pulling boats, number uncertain, 2 power boats, at least
2 skoots, CALCUTTA, GALLANT, WAKEFUL, VERITY and GRAFTON,
using what survived of their own whalers and motor boats.
This force was reinforced by 2 minesweepers at 2115. Later
reports of concentrations of troops on the beaches were
received, particularly at La Panne and Bray. Craft approach-
ing the coast were directed accordingly. Naval Officer-in-
Charge, Ramsgate, was requested to maintain a continuous
evacuation service by skoots between Margate and Ramsgate and
the beach, and take over responsibility for servicing those
vessels. Meantime CALCUTTA, who was off La Panne, reported
that conditions for embarkation there were very bad owing to
heavy surf, but that they might improve with the rising tide.
Shortly after midnight CALCUTTA was informed that the
third corps of the B.E.F. and the Commander-in-Chief were all
now at La Panne. She was directed to make every endeavour to
concentrate all destroyers and light craft at that end of the
beach/

Details

127
129
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 8.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
29/-
Wednesday, 29th May (continued)
midship end on the bottom. All the troops on board went
down with the ship; certain of the crew floated clear. After
about 1/2 hour motor drifters NAUTILLUS and COMFORT arrived and
started to pick up survivors, later joined by GOSSAMER.
Captain of the WAKEFUL was in the COMFORT. GRAFTON and LYDD
were close and Captain of WAKEFUL warned GRAFTON she was in
danger of being torpedoed, At that moment, 0250, GRAFTON was
torpedoed, COMFORT was lifted in the air, and Captain of
WAKEFUL washed overboard. COMFORT was going full speed and
as she came round in a circle LYDD and GRAFTON opened fire on
her, evidently thinking she was an enemy ship. It is
believed that COMFORT crew, except cne, and WAKEFUL survivors,
except 4, were killed. LYDD then bore down on COMFORT,
rammed and sank her.
Previously GRAFTON, who was proceeding to Dover with
troops, had observed a ship tropedoed, and Icwered her boats
to pick up survivors, subsequently ascertained by signal to
LYDD to be WAKEFUL. A small darkened vessel, thoughtto be
a drifter, was signalled and told to pick up survivors.
Within a few seconds of this, GRAFTON was torpedoed, The
bridge was also hit, either by a shell or grenade, and the
Captain killed instantly. LYDD then tried to come alongside
but after hitting starboard side sheered off, and appeared
to ram a vessel on port quarter. This was COMFORT. GRAFTON
opened fire under the impression LYDD had rammed the M.T.B.
Target was then shifted to another vessel further away on
port quarter, and vessel was observed to blow up with a bright
flash. This may well have been the enemy M.T.B.
29, During the forenoon JAGUAR, GALLANT and GRENADE
were dispatched via the new Middle Route X to test the
opposition by shore batteries prior to introducing this route
as an alternative to the long Northern route. GRENADE arrived
Dunkirk, reported no fire from shore batteries, but that she
had experienced heavy bombing. These three destroyers were
attacked by dive bombers when approaching Dunkirk at about
noon, and GALLANT was damaged. At least six attacks were
carried out, one enemy aircraft was brought down by gunfire
and others by fighters. An hour later MALCOLM reported
Dunkirk heavily bombed with a large number of aircraft and
during the afternoon this bombing extended up the coast to
ships off Bray. During the afternoon the Middle Route x was
brought into use for destroyers, but small ships were still
routed round the Northern route to Zuydecoote Pass. LOCUST
and MOSQUITO joined Dover Command and were despatched to work
on the beaches during the afternoon. Shortly after noon
enemy shore batteries near Nieuport began to bring Zuydecoote
Pass under spasmodic gunfire and the state was being reached
whereby the new Middle Route would become the only practicable
daylight approach to Dunkirk and the beaches. At noon,
CALCUTTA, who was able to get across to La Panne beach to
receive troops by small boats, embarked 1200 troops from the
minesweepers and then sailed for Sheerness the minesweepers
remaining to load up again. At 1606 the New Route X having
been fully swept, all ships were ordered by the Vice Admiral
to use Route X, exercising navigational caution, and those
from Dover were instructed to proceed by Route 2, the South
route

Details

133
22
.
131
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 12.
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
29/5
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
Personnel Vessel FENELLA attacked by enemy aircraft and
sunk alongside EASTERN ARM at Dunkirk.
Personnel Vessel MONA'S QUEEN sunk by mine whilst off
Dunkirk.
Paddle Minesweeper WAVERLEY sunk by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk. Bombed for 1½ hours.
Trawler POLLY JOHNSON damaged by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk and finally sunk by ARLEY.
Paddle Minesweeper GRACIE FIELDS sunk by enemy aircraft
in position 51° 14' N, 2° 40' E. Troops were transferred to
other ships.
Danlayer COMFORT sunk in collision by LYDD.
Drifter GIRL PAMELA sunk in collision.
Danlayer NAUTILUS damaged by bombs when off La Panne.
Transferred troops to GREYHOUND, then set on fire and
abandoned, finally sinking.
The following ships were all damaged by enemy aircraft,
either by direct hits or near misses -
INTREPID
SALADIN
ST. SEIRIOL (Personnel Vessel)
BIDEFORD
KELLETT
CANTERBURY
(Personnel Vessel)
M/S
PANGBOURNE
GALLANT
WOLFHOUND.
GREYHOUND
JAGUAR
Particulars of bombing attacks taken from reports are as
follows:-
SALADIN approached Dunkirk at 1845 and was attacked 10 times
by bombers. Steam pipes were fractured and fire started in
"ready" cordite aft. This was thrown overboard. Ship
returned to Dover owing to damage, the Commanding Officer
deciding that the ship would be a hindrance to further
operations.
GREYHOUND. Damaged by near miss. Steam pipes cut. Returned
eventually under own steam.
INTREPID. Continuously bombed during approach to La Panne.
One boiler room was put out of action. Ship returned to Dover.
BIDEFORD, attacked by enemy aircraft, bomb hit stern and put
her out of action. Ship was towed back to Dover. Troops were
transferred to KELLETT.
PANGBOURNE was damaged below water line by several near misses
necessitating dockyard repairs.
Thursday 30th May

Details

APPENDIX I.
160
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
Narrative of Events.
162
-
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
A.A. CRUISER:
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS:
ANTHONY
HARVESTER
MALCOLM
VIVACIOUS
BASILISK
HAVANT
MONTROSE
WAKEFUL
BLYSKAWICA
ICARUS
SABRE
WHITEHALL
CODRINGTON
IMPULSIVE
SALADIN
WHITSHED
ESK
INTREPID
SCIMITAR
WINCHELSEA
EXPRESS
IVANHOE
SHIKARI
WINDSOR
GALLANT
JAGUAR
VENOMOUS
WOLFHOUND
GRAFTON
JAVELIN
VANQUISHER
WOLSEY
GRENADE
KEITH
VERITY
WORCESTER
GREYHOUND
MACKAY
VIMY
(40)
SLOOPS:
BIDEFORD
GUNBOATS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
UNESWEEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
EL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGO
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH WESTWARD HO
A/S VESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SANGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
re
SPECIAL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
ROYAL EAGLE
ESSELS:
"LL" TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
it
A/S TRAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
ore
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WESTELLA
an
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
ue
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
all
INE RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
SILVER DAWN
RIFTERS:
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

185
SECRET.
187
R.N. BARRACKS,
DEVONPORT,
2nd June 1940.
BASILISK
Sir,
I regret to have to report the loss ofcH.M.S.
"BASILISK" by enemy action at 1213 1st June 1940 off the Belgian
coast. The circumstances are as follows.
2.
At about 0815 while embarking British troops off
A/C
LAPANNE I was attacked by a squadron of nine German JUNKERS
dive bombers. They=approached from astern and on sighting I went
full speed ahead (3 boilers connected) and as the bombs were
released turned hard to port. As far as I could judge each aircraft
released a pattern of five bombs one being a large "B" type and
four smaller bombs with slight delay action. One of the latter
exploded at the after end of No.3 boiler room on the port side and
piereed blew away the bulkhead, piercing both main and auxiliary
steam lines and main oil fuel supply. All engine room and boiler
room personnel were killed. About six of the "B" type bombs then
exploded underneath the ship flooding the after magazine and
shell room and probably the gland compartments and store rooms
just forward of this position. The upper deck and sides of the
ship cracked right across in the vicinity of the mainmast. This is
a general line. of weakness in destroyers.
JUNEI
3.
In order to preserve stability the torpedoes and
depth charges were jettisoned and the ship floated comfortably
with little increase in draught. I inspected engine room and No.3
boiler room and found that a small amount of water was making its
way through shrapnel holes. These were plugged and collision mat
placed over the worst leaks. It was found impossible to get steam
to the engines and the ship thereafter remained immobile.
4.
Efforts were now made to send out messages for
assistance. A tug who had been attending on H.M.S. "KEITH" passed
me a signal telling me to sink KEITH to which I replied that I
was out of action and required immediate assistance. I also
requested him to inform The Flag Officer Commanding, Dover to
this effect. Tug then disappeared. Signals for assistance were
also made by W/T using type 4 H with battery power. It is
doubtful whether any of these messages were received owing to very
heavy traffic at the time and comparative weakness of my signals.
5.
A Belgian fishing smack under French colours was
seen in the distance and the motor boat was despatched to summon
her to our assistance. She was LE JOLIE MASCOTTE of CAEN and after
some efforts a tow was passed and corse set to open from the coast
This had hardly been accomplished before a second attack devellopp
at about 0945. This consisted of level bombing from about 000ft
each bomber acting independently. About half a squadron of 18
carried out the attack. Considering the ship was & stationary
target and there was little wind these attacks were poorly carri
out and no bombs hit. This may have been due to pom pom fire of
which Mr FRANCIS Gunner (T) was in charge. Unfortunately this
gallant officer was killed at his post by machine gun bullets whic
were fired continuously as the bombers passed overhead.

Details

216
214
COPY.
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
11th June, 1940.
GRENADE hithybomb
34
Sir,
May 29/1800 Sank
I have the honour to submit the following report
in accordance with your verbal instructions. The delay
has been occasioned by the difficulty in collecting the
necessary information from the Officers, some of whom
landed at Dover, some at Margate and some at Ramsgate.
During and just after the final attack so much was happening
at the same time that I have described firstly what
happened in the vicinity of the Bridge and what action I
took, and, secondly, what happened aft. As appendices
I have attached the report of the adventures of Mr. Crews,
Warrant Schoolmaster, after he had left the GRENADE and a
statement of the known damage done by the bombs.
2.
During the evening o? the 28th May I left
28/5 Dunkirque with over 900 troops for Dover; these troops
were disembarked without incident, and on the Forenoon of
29/5 the 29th of May I received orders from V.A. Dover to proceed
with all dispatch to Dunkirque, taking JAGUAR and GALLANT
with me. I was ordered to take route X to report if I
was subjected to shelling off !ravellines. No shelling
was experienced but all destrovers were subjected to a dive
bombing attack when close to the coast. GALLANT suffered
damage astern but as she did not appear to require assistance
I proceeded alongside the western side of the pier, berthing
JAGUAR outside me. A certain number of attacks were
experienced but no bombs came ery close to either ship.
GRENADE could not fire her guns owing to JAGUAR being on
her starboard side and the pier on her port side.
3.
JAGUAR was filled wi h troops and then proceeded,
being subsequently bombed and it whilst on passage. About
this time some bombs from a hi h level attack fell fairly
GRENADE
Dynams 319
213
ass
215
SUBJECT:
LOSS OF H.M.S. "GRENADE".
33
pm
FROM
THE CAPTAIN (D), FIRST DESTROYER FLOTILLA,
the
...
H.M.S. "CODRINGTON".
-
e
...
14th June, 1940.
NO. T.3.
DATE
GRENADF
ill
ibt
he
TO
THE VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER.
...
LE
The attached report from Commander Richard C Boyle,
Royal Navy, Commanding Officer of H.M.S. "GRENADE", is submitted
t
for your information.
BEAUMIRA
ly
As this is the only copy available in my office it is
rd
15 JUN 1940 requested 2. that it may be returned in due course.
*
ear
DOVER
GFSnom Guille.
CAPTAIN.

Details

216
214
COPY.
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
11th June, 1940.
GRENADE hithybomb
34
Sir,
May 29/1800 Sank
I have the honour to submit the following report
in accordance with your verbal instructions. The delay
has been occasioned by the difficulty in collecting the
necessary information from the Officers, some of whom
landed at Dover, some at Margate and some at Ramsgate.
During and just after the final attack so much was happening
at the same time that I have described firstly what
happened in the vicinity of the Bridge and what action I
took, and, secondly, what happened aft. As appendices
I have attached the report of the adventures of Mr. Crews,
Warrant Schoolmaster, after he had left the GRENADE and a
statement of the known damage done by the bombs.
2.
During the evening o? the 28th May I left
28/5 Dunkirque with over 900 troops for Dover; these troops
were disembarked without incident, and on the Forenoon of
29/5 the 29th of May I received orders from V.A. Dover to proceed
with all dispatch to Dunkirque, taking JAGUAR and GALLANT
with me. I was ordered to take route X to report if I
was subjected to shelling off !ravellines. No shelling
was experienced but all destrovers were subjected to a dive
bombing attack when close to the coast. GALLANT suffered
damage astern but as she did not appear to require assistance
I proceeded alongside the western side of the pier, berthing
JAGUAR outside me. A certain number of attacks were
experienced but no bombs came ery close to either ship.
GRENADE could not fire her guns owing to JAGUAR being on
her starboard side and the pier on her port side.
3.
JAGUAR was filled wi in troops and then proceeded,
being subsequently bombed and it whilst on passage. About
this time some bombs from a hi gh level attack fell fairly
close to GRENADE but did no damage. No troops were put
into GRENADE as the S.N.O. stated that he wished a
destroyer to remain alongside. A transport ahead of
GRENADE left and this position was taken by 6 trawlers.
Acting on the instructions of the S.N.O. I order a V class
destroyer whose name I have fo 'gotten to proceed alongside
ahead of these trawlers.
29/5
4.
At about 15.00 the f rst deliberate attack on
GRENADE commenced; two bombs Cell about 20 - 25 yards from
the Starboard Bow, killing one and wouding one rating on
the Forecastle, damaging A-gun and woundingone rating on the
Searchlight Platform. Some ratings in the trawlers ahead
of GRENADE and one in the CRES ED EAGLE on the other side
le
of the pier were killed. I atched these bombs fall until
they were about 50 feet from the water and there is no doubt
that they were released simultaneously, as was, I think, the
case 0. the bombs which hit GR SNADE at 1800.
h
5.
At about 17.50 12 enemy aircraft circled over the
end of the pier and the second deliberate attack on
GRENADE commenced. Two planes commenced a dive bombing
attack and a number of bombs dropped. I have found it
bomb
difficult to discover exactly where GRENADE was hit, but I
am of the opinion that two bombs were dropped simultaneously
as in the earlier raid, No. 1 Talling close to the Starboard
Side between A & B guns, making ahole in the side, causing
a fire at the after end of the Fore Mess Deck and sinking
a trawler just ahead of GRENADE; No. 2 hitting the ship near
the Sick Bay, penetrating nearly to the bottom of the ship
before exploding.

Details

216
214
COPY.
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
11th June, 1940.
GRENADE hithybomb
34
Sir,
May 29/1800 Sank
I have the honour to submit the following report
in accordance with your verbal instructions. The delay
has been occasioned by the difficulty in collecting the
necessary information from the Officers, some of whom
landed at Dover, some at Margate and some at Ramsgate.
During and just after the final attack so much was happening
at the same time that I have described firstly what
happened in the vicinity of the Bridge and what action I
took, and, secondly, what happened aft. As appendices
I have attached the report of the adventures of Mr. Crews,
Warrant Schoolmaster, after he had left the GRENADE and a
statement of the known damage done by the bombs.
2.
During the evening of the 28th May I left
28/5 Dunkirque with over 900 troops for Dover; these troops
were disembarked without incident, and on the Forenoon of
29/5 the 29th of May I received orders from V.A. Dover to proceed
with all dispatch to Dunkirque, taking JAGUAR and GALLANT
with me. I was ordered to take route X to report 1f I
was subjected to shelling off !ravellines. No shelling
was experienced but all destro ers were subjected to a dive
bombing attack when close to the coast. GALLANT suffered
damage astern but as she did not appear to require assistance
I proceeded alongside the western side of the pier, berthing
JAGUAR outside me. A certain number of attacks were
experienced but no bombs came ery close to either ship.
GRENADE could not fire her guns owing to JAGUAR being on
her starboard side and the pier on her port side.
3.
JAGUAR was filled wi in troops and then proceeded,
being subsequently bombed and it whilst on passage. About
this time some bombs from a high level attack fell fairly
close to GRENADE but did no damage. No troops were put
into GRENADE as the S.N.O. stated that he wished a
destroyer to remain alongside. A transport ahead of
GRENADE left and this position was taken by 6 trawlers.
Acting on the instructions of the S.N.O. I order a V - class
destroyer whose name I have fo gotten to proceed alongside
ahead of these trawlers.
29/5
4.
At about 15.00 the first deliberate attack on
GRENADE commenced; two bombs 'ell about 20 - 25 yards from
the Starboard Bow, killing one and wouding one rating on
the Forecastle, damaging A-gun and woundingone rating on the
Searchlight Platform. Some ratings in the trawlers ahead
of GRENADE and one in the CRES EAGLE on the other side
e
of the pier were killed. I atched these bombs fall until
they were about 50 feet from the water and there is no doubt
that they were released simultaneously, as was, I think, the
case of the bombs which hit GR SNADE at 1800.
5.
At about 17.50 12 enomy aircraft circled over the
end of the pier and the second deliberate attack on
GRENADE commenced. Two planes commenced a dive bombing
attack and a number of bombs were dropped. I have found it
bomb
difficult to discover exactly here GRENADE was hit, but I
am of the opinion that two bombs were dropped simultaneously
as in the earlier raid, No. 1 falling close to the Starboard
Side between A & B guns, making ahole in the side, causing
a fire at the after end of the Fore Mess Deck and sinking
a trawler just ahead of GRENADH; No. 2 hitting the ship near
the Sick Bay, penetrating nearly to the bottom of the ship
before exploding.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 5.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
to S.N.O., Dunkirk by signal - timed 1555/28 - and provided
for the use of 3 Hospital Carriers, 7 personnel steamers and
2 destroyers at the East Pier, Dunkirk, while some 20
destroyers, 19 paddle and fleet sweepers, 17 drifters, 20 to
40 skoots, 5 coasters, 12 motor boats, 2 tugs, 28 pulling
cutters and life-boats were to be distributed between La
Panne and point 1½ miles East of Dunkirk, on the beaches; the
destroyers running continuous round trips.
It was estimated that the personnel vessels and hospital
carriers would be clear of the danger area by 0630. As
regards the beaching and other small craft which had not yet
reached the Dover Straits, arrangements were made with other
authorities to route all small craft, which had not already
been despatched, direct to the beaches East of Dunkirk,
provided they had charts, food, fuel, etc.
At this time some difficulty was experienced in having at
hand the large number of charts required for these additional
vessels.
17, Owing to the suspension of daylight work by personnel
vessels it was necessary to increase the number handled in
Dunkirk during the dark hours as the attempt to use the
surplus personnel vessels off the beaches by night seemed un-
likely to bear fruit. Accordingly, S.N.O., Dunkirk, was
asked whether personnel vessels could be berthed inside
Dunkirk harbour, the only information in Vice Admiral's
possession having indicated that the East Pier of the harbour
entrance was the only suitable berth for such ships to which
British troops could have access. To increase the off-shore
forces, Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was asked to sail CALCUTTA
to be opposite La Panne at 2200 to embark troops using own
boats.
Orders were issued that all ships proceeding to Dunkirk
from Dover were to use the southern route Z provided that the
passage from No. 6 Calais Buoy to Dunkirk could be made in
darkness.
18. At 1830 GRAFTON reported that several thousand
troops remained on beaches at Bray and that more were
arriving. At that time there were off Bray, one tow of
pulling boats, number uncertain, 2 power boats, at least
2 skoots, CALCUTTA, GALLANT, WAKEFUL, VERITY and GRAFTON,
using what survived of their own whalers and motor boats.
This force was reinforced by 2 minesweepers at 2115. Later
reports of concentrations of troops on the beaches were
received, particularly at La Panne and Bray. Craft approach-
ing the coast were directed accordingly. Naval Officer-in-
Charge, Ramsgate, was requested to maintain a continuous
evacuation service by skoots between Margate and Ramsgate and
the beach, and take over responsibility for servicing those
vessels. Meantime CALCUTTA, who was off La Panne, reported
that conditions for embarkation there were very bad owing to
heavy surf, but that they might improve with the rising tide.
Shortly after midnight CALCUTTA was informed that the
third corps of the B.E.F. and the Commander-in-Chief were all
now at La Panne. She was directed to make every endeavour to
concentrate all destroyers and light craft at that end of the
beach/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 8.
Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events,
Wednesday, 29th May (continued)
midship end on the bottom. All the troops on board went
down with the ship; certain of the crew floated clear. After
about 1/2 hour motor drifters NAUTILLUS and COMFORT arrived and
started to pick up survivors, later joined by GOSSAMER.
Captain of the WAKEFUL was in the COMFORT. GRAFTON and LYDD
were close and Captain of WAKEFUL warned GRAFTON she was in
danger of being torpedoed. At that moment, 0250, GRAFTON was
torpedoed, COMFORT was lifted in the air, and Captain of
WAKEFUL washed overboard. COMFORT was going full speed and
as she came round in a circle LYDD and GRAFTON opened fire on
her, evidently thinking she was an enemy ship. It is
believed that COMFORT crew, except one, and WAKEFUL survivors,
except 4, were killed. LYDD then bore down on COMFORT,
rammed and sank her.
Previously GRAFTON, who was proceeding to Dover with
troops, had observed a ship tropedoed, and Iovered her boats
to pick up survivors, subsequently ascertained by signal to
LYDD to be WAKEFUL. A small darkened vessel, thought be
a drifter, was signalled and told to pick up survivors.
Within a few seconds of this, GRAFTON was torpedoed, The
bridge was also hit, either by a shell or grenade, and the
Captain killed instantly. LYDD then tried to come alongside
but after hitting starboard side sheered off, and appeared
to ram a vessel on port quarter. This was COMFORT. GRAFTON
opened fire under the impression LYDD had rammed the M.T.B.
Target was then shifted to another vessel further away on
port quarter, and vessel was observed to blow up with a bright
flash. This may well have been the enemy M.T.B.
29. During the forenoon JAGUAR, GALLANT and GRENADE
were dispatched via the new Middle Route X to test the
opposition by shore batteries prior to introducing this route
as an alternative to the long Northern route. GRENADE arrived
Dunkirk, reported no fire from shore batteries, but that she
had experienced heavy bombing. These three destroyers were
attacked by dive bombers when approaching Dunkirk at about
noon, and GALLANT was damaged. At least six attacks were
carried out, one enemy aircraft was brought down by gunfire
and others by fighters. An hour later MALCOLM reported
Dunkirk heavily bombed with a large number of aircraft and
during the afternoon this bombing extended up the coast to
ships off Bray. During the afternoon the Middle Route X was
brought into use for destroyers, but small ships were still
routed round the Northern route to Zuydecoote Pass. LOCUST
and MOSQUITO joined Dover Command and were despatched to work
on the beaches during the afternoon. Shortly after noon
enemy shore batteries near Nieuport began to bring Zuydecoote
Pass under spasmodic gunfire and the state was being reached
whereby the new Middle Route would become the only practicable
daylight approach to Dunkirk and the beaches. At noon,
CALCUTTA, who was able to get across to La Panne beach to
receive troops by small boats, embarked 1200 troops from the
minesweepers and then sailed for Sheerness, the minesweepers
remaining to load up again. At 1606 the New Route X having
been fully swept, all ships were ordered by the Vice Admiral
to use Route X, exercising navigational caution, and those
from Dover were instructed to proceed by Route Z, the South
route/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 12,
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
Tuesday, 28th May (continued).
Personnel Vessel FENELLA attacked by enemy aircraft and
sunk alongside EASTERN ARM at Dunkirk.
Personnel Vessel MONA'S QUEEN sunk by mine whilst off
Dunkirk.
Paddle Minesweeper WAVERLEY sunk by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk. Bombed for 1½ hours.
Trawler POLLY JOHNSON damaged by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk and finally sunk by ARLEY.
Paddle Minesweeper GRACIE FIELDS sunk by enemy aircraft
in position 51° 14' N, 2° 40' E. Troops were transferred to
other ships.
Danlayer COMFORT sunk in collision by LYDD.
Drifter GIRL PAMELA sunk in collision.
Danlayer NAUTILUS damaged by bombs when off La Panne.
Transferred troops to GREYHOUND, then set on fire and
abandoned, finally sinking.
The following ships were all damaged by enemy aircraft,
either by direct hits or near misses -
INTREPID
SALADIN
ST. SEIRIOL (Personnel Vessel)
BIDEFORD
KELLETT
CANTERBURY (Personnel Vessel)
PANGBOURNE
GALLANT
WOLFHOUND.
GREYHOUND
JAGUAR
Particulars of bombing attacks taken from reports are as
follows:-
SALADIN approached Dunkirk at 1845 and was attacked 10 times
by bombers. Steam pipes were fractured and fire started in
"ready" cordite aft. This was thrown overboard. Ship
returned to Dover owing to damage, the Commanding Officer
deciding that the ship would be a hindrance to further
operations.
GREYHOUND. Damaged by near miss. Steam pipes cut. Returned
eventually under own steam,
INTREPID. Continuously bombed during approach to La Panne.
One boiler room was put out of action. Ship returned to Dover.
BIDEFORD, attacked by enemy aircraft, bomb hit stern and put
her out of action. Ship was towed back to Dover. Troops were
transferred to KELLETT.
PANGBOURNE was damaged below water line by several near misses
necessitating dockyard repairs.
Thursday 30th May
!

Details

APPENDIX I.
to
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
RUISER:
CALCUTTA
YERS:
ANTHONY
HARVESTER
MALCOLM
VIVACIOUS
BASILISK
HAVANT
MONTROSE
WAKEFUL
BLYSKAWICA
ICARUS
SABRE
WHITEHALL
CODRINGTON
IMPULSIVE
SALADIN
WHITSHED
ESK
INTREPID
SCIMITAR
WINCHELSEA
EXPRESS
IVANHOE
SHIKARI
WINDSOR
GALLANT
JAGUAR
VENOMOUS
WOLFHOUND
GRAFTON
JAVELIN
VANQUISHER
WOLSEY
GRENADE
KEITH
VERITY
WORCESTER
GREYHOUND
MACKAY
VILY
BIDEFORD
TS:
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
EEPERS:
ALBURY
HEBE
QUEEN OF THANET
BRIGHTON QUEEN
HALCYON
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
EL
DEVONIA
LEDA
SALTASH
DUNDALK
LYDD
SKIPJACK
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SANDOWN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
MEDWAY QUEEN
SNAEFELL
FITZROY
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
ORIOLE
SUTTON
GLENGOWER
PANGBOURNE
SHARPSHOOTER
GOSSAMER
PLYNLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WESTWARD HO
ESSELS:
ARLEY
COMFORT
MARETTA
BOTANIC
CONIDAW
NAUTILUS
BROCK
FYLDEA
POLLY JOHNSON
CALVI
GULZAR
SARGASSO
CHICO
JOHN CATLING
STARLIGHT RAYS
AL SERVICE CRESTED EAGLE
GOLDEN EAGLE
LS:
ROYAL EAGLE
TRAWLERS: INVERFORTH LORD INCHCAPE OUR BAIRNS THOMAS BARTLETT
RAWLERS:
ARGYLLSHIRE
KINGSTON ANDALUSITE STELLA DORADO
BLACKBURN ROVERS
KINGSTON OLIVINE
THURINGIA
CAYTON WYKE
LADY PHILOMENA
WISTELLA
GRIMSBY TOWN
SAON
WOLVES
KINGSTON ALALITE
SPURS
OLVINA
RECOVERY
FIDGET
JACKETA
ERS:
SILVER DAWN
FISHER BOY
LORD CAVAN

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-2-
(11) a number of ratings who are outstanding above their
fellows, but whose service in this Operation, though
meritorious or gallant, 18 not up to that exceptional
standard displayed by the other ratings who remain in
List "A".
Were it not for the general practice of strictly
limiting decorations and "mentions" in Naval operations, this
artificial division of the roll into Lists 'A' and 'B' would
not have been undertaken, and it is hoped that Their Lordships
will see fit to adopt the recommendations for List 'B' as if
it were part of List 'A'.
4.
It is true to say that every officer and man
mentioned in List 'A' compiled from a close study of more than
350 separate written reports, earned recognition for gallant
service time and time again during the Operation. In compiling
the list, normal standards for judging conduct in face of the
enemy have had to be set aside and to gain a place in List 'A',
instances of gallantry had to be accompanied by other meritor-
ious service, BL in as conspicuous endurance and unremitting
devotion to duty over a prolonged period, and/or exceptional
display of initiative and judgment.
Similarly, the majority of those individuals
recommended for "mention" would, in any normal operation or
engagement have been justifiebly recommended for, and awarded,
a decoration.
5.
The number of officers and men (including military
and civilian Junteers) directly employed afloat, ashore on
the Flanders coast, or controlling, directing or serving in
the base organisations supporting the Operation, is estimated
at 19,000; of these more than 1,700 were officers.
List "A" contains the names of -
224 officers,
446 men.
Of these, recommendations are made for:-
315 for decoration,
345 for mention,
10 for advancement.
List 'B' contains the namesof -
100 officers,
103 men,
all of whom are recommended for mention.
Having regard to the unique conditions of service
attached to this Operation, the proportion of officers and men
recommended for recognition out of the total number involved
is considered to be fair, and in fact, to be low.
Admiralty Letter C.W. (undated, but about 15th June)
was received too late for its contents to be brought to the
notice of Commanding Officers concerned, but I suggest, in any
case, that its terms are hardly applicable to an Operation of
this nature in which there were so many deeds of daring, whose
representation/

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Page 21.
Operation "DYNAMO" Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. KEITH - Captain Edward Lyon Berthon, D.S.C., R.N.
After completing a short refit at Chatham the KEITH
sailed for Dunkirk at 1732/30/5 when she took off about
1400 troops, these being disembarked at Dover. At
0305/31/5 she again sailed for Dunkirk where she acted as
-
flagship of the Rear-Admiral, Dover, in charge of all sea
forces on the coast.
From the time of her arrival until she finally sank
at about 0940/1/6 she was patrolling along the French and
Belgian coasts during which time she was almost continually
opening fire on enemy aircraft, two of which were shot down..J
It is to be noted that the 3" H.A. gun was found to be most
effective in warding off the attackers and that all 3"
ammunition was expended before the arrival of the final
attacks which sank the ship.
It is evident that few if any ships had to face more
severe bombing attacks and that during the whole time the
conduct of the ships company was exemplary.
On the afternoon of 31st May, the ship survived both
dive and high level bombing attacks and early the next day
was subjected to machine gun attack followed by an intensive
dive bombing attack. A second powerful dive bombing
attack followed as a result of which the ship was lost.
Further bombing and machine gun attacks took place while
the ship was being abandoned. Many survivors went to the
Tug St. Abbs, which after escaping one dive bombing attack,
was sunk in a further attack; many of "Keith's" survivors
being lost in her.
Apart from the names given below, there were many
incidents of gallant conduct by men who were lost either in
"Keith" or after they had left the ship. 3 officers and
33 men in all were lost.
RECOMMENDATIONS.
OFFICERS:
Captain Edward Lyon Berthon, D.S.C., R.N.
The Rear-Admiral reports: "Under shell fire and
bomb attacks Captain Berthon handled his ship with great
coolness and judgment, and met all the calls put upon
him and his ship".
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant Charles Paynder Adams, R.N.
By his personal example in action maintained a hig
state of discipline and fighting spirit in the ship when
subjected to heavy bombing attacks. Later organised the
return passage of survivors to England in Yard Craft 63.
Recommended for decoration

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bfrow BLODOSS UOWGJA fust
eds of amottostdo 3111 Yours 01101
fueLs
A Lefe' QUE AUG carefit
9 decordation STOUB Rug
send'
SUKILY 18 course, JO
DRB em of этоо wort and Lordships II views h
the proposed inscription.
sure that the right boats DHERE gi
Laf
would be almost impossible to mak
and perhaps larger difficulty that
GL my TH B counse митср I TO pag ST to There to JuLie DTR
be of B little interest a
authorisation, but it would perhap
The
it would not seem to require any
the custom of the sea. If internal
would therefore hardly accord with
and also in war time to countries of
pesodoad The
home ports and fishing ports and hum
usually confined to the ships names,
external painted inscri tions are
COMMAC queoxe of
cat the gallant Lambert and
99° 04' 52ff your

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are dates available
that the gallant Lambert was
go unrecognised except
external painted inscri tions
usually confined and to the ships names,
home ports in fishing ports and humi
and also war time to countries
ownership. The proposed inscriptio
would therefore hardly accord with
the custom of the sea. "nit If internal
it would not seem to require any
"D
authorisation, but it would perhaps
be of B little interest. eli
eggel S Imdus of bed I doldw mi deu
There is a of course a furt
and perhaps larger difficulty that,
JET
would be almost impossible to make
the
also

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&
C.W.22953
THE SECRETARY,
ADMIRALTY,
1940
LONDON, S.W.l.
Reference attached copy of a letter
received from the General Officer Commanding,
1st Division.
General the Viscount Gort, V.C., G.C.B.,
C.B.E., D.S.O., M.V.O., M.C., wishes me to
convey his thanks and appreciation for the
gallant aid given by all ranks of H.M.S.WORCESTER.
C.A. Jondane
to
58 Cadogan Square,
Brigadier,
London, S.W.1.
Military Secretary,
British Expeditionary Force.
17th July 1940.
YTT anougha crm9 TTAUS non TOO OTTM SMOTO arm? am TO
spite of suffering continual casualties among the crews was
the admiration of all. The Army owes a debt to this
gallant ship's company for the large number of lives saved
and brought safely into the home port.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(signed) J.C. Currio, Lt.Col. R.A.

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The Secretary,
Admiralty,
London, S.W.1.
COPY.
TO:- Commander, Royal Artillery,
1st Division.
FROM:- Commanding Officer
2nd Field Regt., R.A.
Sir,
I have the honour to request that the gallant action
of the Captain and crew of H.M.S. Worcester on Saturday
June 1st, may be recorded and reported to the Lords of the
Admiralty. A considerable number of officers and men
of this Regiment embarked in H.M.S. Worcester at approximately
1600 hours at Dunkirke on 1st June.
Bombs were being dropped
in the harbour at the time though no attack was actually made
on the ship at this period. No attempt was made to leave
until the ship had as full a load as possible, and during
the period of loading the officers and crow were a. splendid
example of coolness, and continued to assist the troops in
embarking as though nothing was happening. Shortly after
leaving the harbour H.M.S. Worcester was twice attacked by
numbers of dive bombers, at least 8 aeroplanes taking part
in the second attack.
A very large number of bombs
were dropped. Considerable damage was done to the ship
and a large number of casualties were caused, and it was
a general opinion among all ranks on board that it was only
the cool and brilliant handling of the ship, already only
able to proceed at half speed, that saved the lives of all
on board.
Added to this, the magnificent performance
of the guns' crews who served their guns throughout in
spite of suffering continual casualties among the crews was
the admiration of all. The Army owes a debt to this
gallant ship's company for the large number of lives saved
and brought safely into the home port.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(signed) J.C. Currio, Lt.Col. R.A.

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30th July, 40.
C.W.22953/40.
H.M.S. WORCESTER: Aid given to the Royal
Artillery at Dunkerque,
June lst.
Commander-in-Chier,
H. M. Ships and Vessels, Nore.
I am to inform you that General the Viscount Gort has
requested that an expression of his thanks and appreciation
may be conveyed to the Commanding Officer, the Officers and
men of H.M. WORCESTER for the gallant assistance rendered
by them on June 1st, when a number of Officers and men of the
2nd Field Regiment, Royal Artillery, was embarked at Dunkerque
and brought to England. to the
at
Lord Gort has expressed warm admiration of the cool
and skilful handling of WORCESTER during and after enemy air
attacks; he has emphasized the calmness and efficiency with
which the troops were assisted during the embarkation and he
has drawn attention to the bravery and persistence of the
guns' crews who served their guns throughout in spite of
casualties.
Their Lordships cordialls endorse Lord Gort's
appreciation and 1 am to request you to cause it to be
conveyed to WORCESTER accordingly.
by lat, BY COMMAND OF THRIR LORDSHIPS, the
erque
to
Angland,
of
hir
he has the ith
the he
has to What
sweet crows who
casualties.
Their Lordships cordially endorse Lord Gort's
appreciation and I am to request you to cause it to be
conveyed to WORCESTER accordingly.
BY COMMAND OF THEIR LORDGHIPS,
51-6446

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Page 11
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S. HARVESTER - Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
After was only sent 21/2 days to
HARVESTER the coast. On the last 3 commissioning,
full June. Her A.A. intensive air attack early on
to weight of the of these she experienced the
1st in the destruction gunnery was most effective, and the
The ship handled throughout. Her inshore boat
shared was well of at least 3 enemy aircraft. she
work was excellent.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
x
Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
Displayed exceptional initiative and sound
judgment. Handled his ship with great coolness
under fire.
R
Recommended for mention.
X
Mr. William George Alfred Robinson, Gunner (T).
In charge of HARVEST R'S boats working inshore.
Was especially noted by the senior officers of the
beach parties for cool and gallant work. Set an
admirable example.
M
M
Recommended for mention.
r
Ratnigs.

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Page 21,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S. KEITH - Captain Edward Lyon Berthon, D.S.C., R.N.
sailed for Dunkirk at 1732/30/5 when she took off about
After completing a short refit at Chatham the KEITH
1400 troops, these being disembarked at Dover.
0305/31/5 she again sailed for Dunkirk where she At acted
flagship of the Rear-Admiral, Dover, in charge of all sea as
forces on the coast.
at about 0940/1/6 she was patrolling along the French and
From the time of her arrival until she finally sank
Belgian coasts during which time she was almost continually
opening fire on enemy aircraft, two of which were shot down.
It is to be noted that the 3" H.A. gun was found to be most
effective in warding off the attackers and that all 3"
ammunition was expended before the arrival of the final
attacks which sank the ship.
It is evident that few if any ships had to face more
severe bombing attacks and that during the whole time the
conduct of the ships company was exemplary.
On the afternoon of 31st May, the ship survived both
dive and high level bombing attacks and early the next day
was subjected to machine gun attack followed by an intensive
Sive bombing attack. A second powerful dive bombing
attack followed as a result of which the ship was lost.
Further bombing and machine gun attacks took place while
the ship was being abandoned. Many survivors went to the
Tug St. Abbs, which after escaping one dive bombing attack,
was sunk in a further attack; many of "Keith's" survivors
being lost in her.
Apart from the names given below, there were many
incidents of gallant conduct by men who were lost either in
"Keith" or after they had left the ship. 3 officers and
33 men in all were lost.
RECOMMENDATIONS,
or
OFFICERS:
Captain Edward Lyon Berthon, D.S.C., R.N.
The Rear-Admiral reports: "Under shell fire and
bomb attacks Captain Berthon handled his ship with great
coolness and judgment, and met all the calls put upon
him and his ship".
Recommended for decoration.
Lieutenant Charles Paynder Adams, R.N.
By his personal example in action maintained a when hig
subjected to heavy bombing attacks. Later organised 65. the
state of discipline and fighting spirit in the ship
return passage of survivors to England in Yard Craft
OF
nu
Recommended for decoration

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Page 43.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
S. WORCESTER (continued).
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, JX. 129206.
fire all killed of or wounded. crew of which were maintaining ultimately the
Displayed 'Y' gun, courage the and skill in
Recommended for decoration.
Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J.8739.
M
throughout excellent example to all hands. courage
The Chief - Boatswain's Mate displayed
conspicuous and by boat. in the work of embarking troops from Was pier
ic
FO
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman John E. Reynolds, P/JX.147968.
For his courage and skill at the Pom-Poms where
he was ultimately killed.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Stoker T. Moscrop, P/KX.83677.
For his courage and zeal in assisting the
ammunition supply at 'A' gun and in relieving the
wounded. He was killed performing this duty.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
E.R.A. 2nd Class Ronald W. Brenton, P/MX.46507.
Petty Officer Lawrence Motteram, P/JX.129270, Gunner's Mate.
Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews, J.3593, Coxswain.
Petty Officer Horace William Smith, P/J.108414, T.G.N.
ing
Leading Seaman John Leonard Brown, JK. 138757.
ered
Leading Stoker Charles W. Norris, P/KX.81034.
ors
Able Seaman Edward Gair, SSX. 15905.
Stoker Ralph Kearvell, P/KX.99946.
as
Ordinary Seaman Bert Marston, P/JX.175182.
nom
These ratings were all outstanding in devotion
IS
to duty and in gallant conduct under fire.
Recommended for mention.
nu

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Page B1
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
FLARE-BURNING DRITERS OF THE DOVER COMMAND.
Captain Eric Wheler Bush, D.S.C., R.N.
ty
and on patrol immediately prior to the commencement
continuous service in connection with the Calais operation
These 19 drifters had been employed on 10 days'
DYNAMO. Throughout DYNAMO, they worked with marked of zeal
particularly at the post of honour in the inner harbour,
and conspicuous success, rainly at Dunkirk Harbour, and
where the shelling was most severe. All did well in a
varying degree and were responsible for lifting to safety
some 10,000 Allied troops.
The following officers and men have been selected
for special recognition of their gallant services.
OFFICERS:
Recommendations.
H.M.Drifter THE BOYS: - Skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., W.S.3319.
PSC
Skipper A. Buchan, his own ship being under
repair, volunteered immediately for any service, with
the remark that he would do anything for his country.
He was given charge of a tow of Liege lake boats. He
subsequently took command of the drifter YORKSHIRE LASS
embarking soldiers under fire.
His endurance and determination when injured,
clad in rags and completely exhausted, were of the
highest order. He was finally ordered to the sick
list. It is considered that Skipper Buchan's
behaviour was exceptional.
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.Drifter MIDAS. - Skipper Herbert Holden, R.N.R., W.S.3432.
Skipper H. Holden is commended for service in
IDsc
action when in command of MIDAS. This Officer's
conduct and leadership were of the highest order.
Recommended for decoration.
if
RATINGS:
E.F.
H.M.Drifter BOY ROY: - Skipper operation Dettman, in R.N.R. London (Decorated Gazette of for 7th this June.40
Chief Engineman Harry B. Sharman, LT/KX. 105182.
e.40)
DSM,
When he remained in the engine room regardless beached,
BOY ROY was damaged and in a sinking
condition, of danger to himself, until his ship to was the ft of
the water He sent the rest of his his engine post. room
any having risen in the meanwhile
crew furnace up to door. safety and remained alone at
S,
cuate
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.D. THE BOYS/

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Page 87
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
"M" DRIFTERS attached to H.M.S. WATCHFUL - Lieutenant Alexander Harper-
Turner N. Group Officer
troops from Dunkirk Harbour and off the beaches. They were
Thirteen Drifters were used in the operation, taking
continually being bombed and also shelled by shore
batteries. Three ships of the flotilla were put out of
action by near misses. The remainder all received
superficial damage from splinters and concussion.
k
Recommendations.
Page 35
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
e
R.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE. - Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth, R.N.R.
t
During the aerial bombardment of the pier, and the
subsequent bombing, beaching and burning of CRESTED EAGLE
off Dunkirk on 29th May, the following officers and men
displayed great gallantry, devotion to duty and were
n
conspicuous amongst a gallant ship's company.
Remaining steady at their posts when overtaken by
disaster, their effort resulted in the rescue of a large
number of survivors.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
iring
stere
M
Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth, R.N.R.
ivors
Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones, T.124.
was
whom
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
DS
M Able Seaman George Frend, C/J.95190.
M Chief Steward John Gooch, T.124.
MY Able Seaman George Tilleny, 0/88.7050, R.F.R. B.17336.
M
Able Seaman Frederick James Slack, C/J 93546.R.F.R. B.21781.
M
Ordinary Seaman Frank A.V. Patrick, C/JK.171302.
Recommended for mention.

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Page 100.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.B. CONSTANT NYMPH (continued).
performed gallant and meritorious service.
courage and disregard of danger, and undoubtedly
Recommended for decoration.
Motor Boat LADY CABLE: - Acting Sub. -Lieutenant a. A. Cadell. R.N.
Recommendations.
(Retired).
OFFICERS:
X
Acting Sub. Lieutenant G. A. Cadell, R.N.
D.S
on the night of June 2nd ferried about 200 French
troops from Dunkirk Inner Harbour off to tugs and
WISHART. Finally, when all ships were leaving, embarked
24 French soldiers, having searched the Quay to see if
any British remained. Then encountered a series of
mishaps with his engines, and on the voyage home
attempted to salve W. D. craft HAIG, all his crew and
himself at one time or another falling overboard.
Finally broke down at mid-day on the 3rd, close to the
Coast, and was in grave peril of falling into enemy hands
Southwest of Dunkirk. LADY CABLE drifted helplessly
about the Channel for many hours before being rescued.
Sub. Lieutenant Cadell, suffering from a weak heart,
underwent considerable physical strain, and there is no
doubt that he and his crew displayed remarkable courage,
coolness and effic) ency.
M.
Recommended for mention.
Cadet Rating G. R. Price.
Acted as first lieutenant to Sub. -Lieutenant Cadell,
whom he ably assisted. He had previously been in
command of the Motor Boat SKYLARK.
turing
stered
ivors
Recommended for early promotion,
was
whom
Motor Yacht MASAYRU: - Skipper G. D. Olivier.
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Skipper G. D. Olivier.
3
D.S.M.
With a civilian crew of 3 and one Leading Seaman,
R. N. sailed from Sheerness 0400/31 in convoy. On
arriving off the beaches spent more than 48 hours on
ferrying work, and in salving craft; and in towing off
ships aground. Underwent the common experience of being
stormed by French troops and having to repel these
boarders in order to save his ship. When isolated,
attacked by 4 Messerschmitts with machine-guns for about
half an hour, and at other times was under sporadic gun-
fire. Ferried off a total of about 400 French troops.
This civilian displayed a complete disregard of danger
and showed a high order of seamanship.
Recommended for decoration.

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Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
OCEAN BREEZE, HAIG
& PASCHOLL (cont).
more same successful than other small craft working in the
the areas, On the 31st May, when he was 8 hours off
coast, subjected to continuous air
Displayed great devotion to duty under attack. fire, and marked
Senior Officers on more than one occasion.
initiative; and was favourably reported upon by the
M.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A.Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley. R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
1
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 191. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
M
during
Recommended for mention.
istered
vivors
was
whom
dotor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
m
Recommendation.
&
i:
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Took over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
to Ramsgate to Bray beach in the darkness with no navigating
instruments. From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked without help
3
ferrying off troops and co-ordinating the activities of
other power boats in the vicinity. His boat acted as
in
flagship of Commodore Stephenson in control of embarkation,
r
per
who, together with other senior officers, comments most
an
favourably on this officer's conduct. Under almost
10
continuous air bombardment and artillery fire in capsized
1
and swamped boats he was inderatigable in his efforts.
of
Directly responsible for the successful embarkation of
hundreds of troops. Set an excellent example of devotion
to duty and gallant conduct, and performed a remarkable feat
of endurance.
DSC
Recommended for decoration.

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Page 105.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
n.
Motor Boat FERVENT (H.M.S. FERVENT. Ramegate). - Lieutenant-
Commander William Ronald Thomas Clements, R.N.R. (Retd)
t
The performance of this boat was especially noticed
W
attacks. The civilian coxswain, faithfully obeyed all
for cool and gallant work on 31st May during intense air
instructions given him by officers.
Recommendation.
rk
Coxswain Douglas Kirkaldie. (of 4, Kent Place,
Ramsgate).
M
Recommended for mention.
: bar,
Motor Vessel LAROC - Mr. George B. Butler, Master.
This civilian manned motor boat, normally is employed
as a Boarding Vessel, Western Examination Service,
Portsmouth. Master and crew volunteered for service to
Dunkirk and for three days did excellent work off the
coast, not only with the yacht itself but by directing
the activities of many open boats and giving assistance red
to vessels in distress. Was present during the worst
two days of air raids.
Recommendations.
during
Master, Mr. George B. Butler.
;istered
vivors
Handled his vessel with conspicuous judgment.
M
was
Recommended for mention.
whom
n
m
en
4
ck
E
as
1.
en
ided
3
rom
four
in
31°
e
inder
ar
10
r.
d
of

Details

Page 109.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
MOTOR BOAT RAPIDE - .Lieutenant J. C. Clarke, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub, Lieutenant J. 1,Clarke, R.N.V.R.
Displayed commendable initiative and seamanship
during some 28 hours continuous beach work with his
rk
motor boat, and derelict pulling boats he had salved.
Kept his motor boat from capsizing in spite of frenzy
of French soldiers on board during bombing. Handled
a large number of troops during frequent bombing
attacks. Assisted in rescuing survivors of MOSQUITO.
A cool and gallant officer.
?DIC
DIC
Recommended for Decoration.
S.S. DORIEN ROSE (Store Ship). - W. Thompson, Master.
This civilian manned ship, and performed useful and
gallant service.
Officers and men endured very trying conditions within
Dunkirk harbour during seven hours on 30th May, disembarking
o
stores and redeiving troops. She was attacked by M.T.B.'s
on the way in. On 28th was twice attacked by aircraft off
Dunkirk and rescued 950 troops and the crew of QUEEN OF THE
CHANNEL, who had been disabled by bombs and was sinking.
Everyone remained calm and gave the utmost assistance to
the troops. The E.R.M. staff had to effect repairs under
fire. All did well.
Recommendations.
DSC
Master W. Thompson.
DUC
Chief Engineer B. Murphy.
Second Engineer J. Steward.
Lewis Gunner T. W. Watson.
1
D.S.C. Mate, T. O. Hanlon.
Bosn., P. McFadden.
DSM.
Able Seaman J. O'Rawe,
Able Seaman J. Upperton,
Able Seaman T. Bassett,
Ordinary Seaman W. Bassett,
S
Ordinary Seaman C. Bassett,
Fireman A. Gilson,
Fireman S. Khan,
Fireman M. Mohand,
The above officers and men formed the crew.
Recommended that all should be mentioned, and that
the Master, Mate, Chief Engineer and a proportion of
the crew should be decorated.

Details

Page 111.
Page 110.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
THAMES COCKLE BOAT FLOTILLA (40 ft, boats). - Sub. Lieutenant Michael
Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R.
Recommendation.
OFFICER:
Sub.Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R.
In command of Flotilla of 6. Proceeded direct
from Southend to Dunkirk without charts on 31/5. Cockle
boats found unsuitable for beach work, largely owing to
offshore obstructions, worked Flotilla inside Dunkirk
harbour and on the outside of the harbour breakwaters
from 2130/31 to 0300/1. Flotilla handled about 900
troops, finally returning to Ramsgate fully laden.
Cockle boats being no longer serviceable, commandeered
tug and boat taking them to Dunkirk harbour. There
employed as interpreter controlling French troops on
shore. Was sunk in R.A.F. motor boat by air attack,
being one of only two survivors. By a remarkable feat
of endurance was swimming for four hours finally climbing
unaided into deserted boat. Rescued by French fishing
vessel. A gallant young officer who displayed courage,
initiative and determination of high order. This
officer was especially noted for good work by many
semior officers encountered in the operation.
D.S.C
Recommended for decoration.
went our white
1
Mr. A. B. Devine.
Signed on T.124 agreement and took over motor-
boat LITTLE ANN to the beaches at Dunkirk. There he was
dive-bombed and machine-gunned, and the boat sank.
Notwithstanding this he carried on working at the beaches
for four days. DYNAMO being over, he then volunteered
for Captain Selby's operation, and after that for CYCLE,
when he was severely wounded.
DSM
Recommended for decoration and
Commission in the R.N.V.R.

Details

-2-
(11) a number of ratings who are outstanding above their
fellows, but whose service in this Operation, though
meritorious or gallant, is not up to that exceptional
standard displayed by the other ratings who remain in
List 'A'.
Were it not for the general practice of strictly
limiting decorations and "mentions" in Naval operations, this
artificial division of the roll into Lists 'A' and 'B' would
not have been undertaken, and it is hoped that Their Lordships
will see fit to adopt the recommendations for List 'B' as if
it were part of List "A".
4.
It is true to say that every officer and man
mentioned in List 'A' compiled from a close study of more than
350 separate written reports, earned recognition for gallant
service time and time again during the Operation. In compiling
the list, normal standards for judging conduct in face of the
enemy have had to be set aside and to gain a place in List 'A',
instances of gallantry had to be accompanied by other meritor-
ious service, such as conspicuous endurance and unremitting
devotion to duty over a prolonged period, and/or exceptional
display of initiative and judgment.
Similarly, the majority of those individuals
recommended for "mention" would, in any normal operation or
engagement have been justifiably recommended for, and awarded,
a decoration.
5.
The number of officers and men (including military
and civilian volunteers) directly employed afloat, ashore on
the Flanders coast, or controlling, directing or serving in
the base organisations supporting the Operation, is estimated
at 19,000; of these more than 1,700 were officers.
List "A" contains the names of -
224 officers,
446 men.
Of these, recommendations are made for:-
315 for decoration,
345 for mention,
10 for advancement.
List "B" contains the namesof -
100 officers,
103 men,
all of whom are recommended for mention.
Having regard to the unique conditions of service
attached to this Operation, the proportion of officers and men
recommended for recognition out of the total number involved
is considered to be fair, and in fact, to be low.
Admiralty Letter C.W. (undated, but about 15th June)
was received too late for its contents to be brought to the
notice of Commanding Officers concerned, but I suggest, in any
case, that its terms are hardly applicable to an Operation of
this nature in which there were so many deeds of daring, whose
representation/

Details

-2-
(11) a number of ratings who are outstanding above their
fellows, but whose service in this Operation, though
meritorious or gallant, is not up to that exceptional
standard displayed by the other ratings who remain in
List "A",
Were it not for the general practice of strictly
limiting decorations and "mentions" in Naval operations, this
artificial division of the roll into Lists 'A' and 'B' would
not have been undertaken, and it is hoped that Their Lordships
will see fit to adopt the recommendations for List 'B' as if
it were part of List "A".
4.
It is true to say that every officer and man
mentioned in List 'A' compiled from a close study of more than
350 separate written reports, earned recognition for gallant
service time and time again during the Operation. In compiling
the list, normal standards for judging conduct in face of the
enemy have had to be set aside and to gain a place in List 'A',
instances of gallantry had to be accompanied by other meritor-
ious service, such as conspicuous endurance and unremitting
devotion to duty over a prolonged period, and/or exceptional
display of initiative and judgment.
Similarly, the majority of those individuals
recommended for "mention" would, in any normal operation or
engagement have been justifiably recommended for, and awarded,
a decoration.
5.
The number of officers and men (including military
and civilian volunteers) directly employed afloat, ashore on
the Flanders coast, or controlling, directing or serving in
the base organisations supporting the Operation, is estimated
at 19,000; of these more than 1,700 were officers.
List "A" contains the names of -
224 officers,
446 men.
Of these, recommendations are made for:-
315 for decoration,
345 for mention,
10 for advancement.
List 'B' contains the namesof -
100 officers,
103 men,
all of whom are recommended for mention.
Having regard to the unique conditions of service
attached to this Operation, the proportion of officers and men
recommended for recognition out of the total number involved
is considered to be fair, and in fact, to be low.
Admiralty Letter C.W. (undated, but about 15th June)
was received too late for its contents to be brought to the
notice of Commanding Officers concerned, but I suggest, in any
case, that its terms are hardly applicable to an Operation of
this nature in which there were so many deeds of daring, whose
representation/

Details

Page 11
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. HARVESTER - Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
HARVESTER was sent to Dover and completed 3 round trips
After only 21/2 days of "working-up" after commissioning,
to the coast. On the last of these she experienced the
full weight of the intensive air attack early on the
1st June. Her A.A. gunnery was most effective, and she
shared in the destruction of at least 3 enemy aircraft.
The ship was well handled throughout. Her inshore boat
work was excellent.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS.
Lieutenant Commander Mark Thornton, R.N.
Displayed exceptional initiative and sound
judgment. Handled his ship with great coolness
under fire.
Recommended for mention.
Mr. William George Alfred Robinson, Gunner (T).
In charge of HARVESTER'S boats working inshore.
Was especially noted by the senior officers of the
beach parties for cool and gallant work. Set an
admirable example.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 43.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S. WORCESTER (continued).
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden. JX. 129206.
Displayed courage and skill in maintaining the
fire of 'Y' gun, the crew of which were ultimately
all killed or wounded.
Recommended for decoration.
Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J.8739.
The Chief Boatswain's Mate displayed courage
throughout - excellent example to all hands. Was
conspicuous in the work of embarking troops from pier
and by boat.
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman John E. Reynolds, P/JX. 147968.
For his courage and skill at the Pom-Poms where
he was ultimately killed.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Stoker T. Moscrop, P/KX.83677.
For his courage and zeal in assisting the
ammunition supply at 'A' gun and in relieving the
wounded. He was killed performing this duty.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
M
E.R.A. 2nd Class Ronald W. Brenton, P/MX.46507.
Petty Officer Lawrence Motteram, 129270, Gunner's Mate.
Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews, J.3593, Coxswain.
Petty Officer Horace William Smith, .108414, T.G.N.
Leading Seaman John Leonard Brown, JK. 138757.
Leading Stoker Charles W. Norris, P/KX.81034.
Able Seaman Edward Gair, SSX. 15905.
Stoker Ralph Kearvell, P/KX.99946.
Ordinary Seaman Bert Marston, P/JX.175182.
These ratings were all outstanding in devotion
to duty and in gallant conduct under fire.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 01
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel,
FLARE-BURNING DRINTERS OF THE DOVER COMMAND.
Captain Eric Wheler Bush, D.S.C., R.N.
These 19 drifters had been employed on 10 days'
continuous service in connection with the Calais operation
and on patrol immediately prior to the commencement of
DYNAMO. Throughout DYNAMO, they worked with marked zeal
and conspicuous success, rainly at Dunkirk Harbour, and
particularly at the post of honour in the inner harbour,
where the shelling was most severe. All did well in a
varying degree and were responsible for lifting to safety
some 10,000 Allied troops.
The following officers and men have been selected
for special recognition of their gallant services.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
H.M.Drifter THE BOYS: - Skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., W.8.3319.
Skipper A. Buchan, his own ship being under
repair, volunteered immediately for any service, with
the remark that he would do anything for his country.
He was given charge of a tow of Liege lake boats. He
subsequently took command of the drifter YORKSHIRE LASS
embarking soldiers under fire.
His endurance and determination when injured,
clad in rags and completely exhausted, were of the
highest order. He was finally ordered to the sick
list. It is considered that Skipper Buchan's
behaviour was exceptional.
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.Drifter MIDAS. - Skipper Herbert Holden, R.N.R., w.s.3432.
Skipper H. Holden is commended for service in
action when in command of MIDAS. This Officer's
conduct and leadership were of the highest order.
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS:
Drifter BOY ROY:- Skipper operation Dettman, in R.N.R. London (Decorated Gazette of for 7th this June, 40
Chief Engineman Harry S. Sharman. LT/KX.105182.
condition, of danger to himself, until his ship to was the
When he remained in the engine room regardless beached,
BOY ROY was damaged and in a sinking
the water He sent the rest of his his post. room
any having risen in the meanwhile engine
crew furnace up door. to safety and remained alone at
Recommended for decoration.
H.M.D. THE BOYS/

Details

Page as
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. CRESTED EAGLE. - Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth.R.N.R.
During the aerial bombardment of the pier, and the
subsequent bombing, beaching and burning of CRESTED EAGLE
off Dunkirk on 29th May, the following officers and men
displayed great gallantry, devotion to duty and were
conspicuous amongst a gallant ship's company.
Remaining steady at their posts when overtaken by
disaster, their effort resulted in the rescue of a large
number of survivors.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Commander Bernard Ralph Booth. R.N.R.
Engineer Lieutenant Ewart Jones, T.124.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Able Seaman George Frend, C/J.95190.
M
Chief Steward John Gooch, T.124.
Able Seaman George Tilleny, C/SS.7050, R.F.R. B.17336.
Able Seaman Frederick James Slack, C/J 93546 R.F.R. B.21781.
Ordinary Seaman Frank A.V. Patrick, C/JK.171302.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Page 100.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
CONSTANT NYMPH (continued).
performed gallant and meritorious service.
courage and disregard of danger, and undoubtedly
Recommended for decoration.
Motor Boat LADY CABLE: - Acting Sub. -Lieutenant G. A. Cadell. (Retired). R.N.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Acting Sub. Lieutenant G. A. Cadell, R.N.
On the night of June 2nd ferried about 200 French
troops from Dunkirk Inner Harbour off to tugs and
WISHART. Finally, when all ships were leaving, embarked
24 French soldiers, having searched the Quay to see if
any British remained. Then encountered a series of
mishaps with his engines, and on the voyage home
attempted to salve W. D. craft HAIG, all his crew and
himself at one time or another falling overboard.
Finally broke down at mid-day on the 3rd, close to the
Coast, and was in grave peril of falling into enemy hands
Southwest of Dunkirk. LADY CABLE drifted helplessly
about the Channel for many hours before being rescued.
Sub. Lieutenant Cadell, suffering from a weak heart,
underwent considerable physical strain, and there is no
doubt that he and his crew displayed remarkable courage,
coolness and efficiency.
Recommended for mention.
Cadet Rating G. R. Price,
Acted as first lieutenant to Sub. -Lieutenant Cadell,
whom he ably assisted, He had previously been in
command of the Motor Boat SKYLARK.
Recommended for early promotion.
Motor Yacht MASAYRU: - Skipper G. D. Olivier.
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Skipper G. D. Olivier.
R. N. sailed off the beaches spent more than and 48 in hours towing on
With a from Sheerness 0400/31 in convoy.
civilian crew of 3 and one Leading Seaman, On
arriving ships ferrying boarders half stormed attacked aground. by work, by in THE and Underwent troops in salving and the of having craft; common to 400 under When experience repel French sporadic isolated, these for danger troops. of about gun- being off
This fire. Forried off a total disregard of
and
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Displayed more same the coast, areas, successful great subjected On devotion than the 31st other to continuous May, small when craft air he attack, was working 8 hours in the off
Senior initiative; Officers and on was more favourably than to duty one reported under occasion. fire, upon and by marked the
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A.Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 191. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Recommendation.
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
Took to Bray beach in the darkness with without no navigating help
to Ramsgate From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked activities of
instruments. ferrying off troops and co-ordinating His the boat acted as
Directly who, continuous other favourably flagship and swamped together power responsible of on air Commodore boats with in other the for Stephenson vicinity: senior conduct. excellent officers, in control in example Under embarkation fire comments his of remarkable almost efforts, in of embarkation, most capsized devotion of feat
hundreds to duty and of gallant troops. conduct, Set an and performed a
of endurance.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 105.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Motor Boat FERVENT Commander (H.M.S. FERVENT. Ramagate). - Lieutenant-
William Ronald Thomas Clements, R.N.R. (Retd)
for gallant work on 31st May during intense noticed
The cool performance and of this boat was especially
attacks. The civilian coxswain, faithfully obeyed all air
instructions given him by officers.
Recommendation.
Coxswain Douglas Kirkaldie. (of 4, Kent Place,
Ramsgate).
Recommended for mention.
Motor Vessel LAROC - Mr. George B. Butler, Master.
This civilian manned motor boat, normally is employed
as a Boarding Vessel, Western Examination Service,
Portsmouth. Master and crew volunteered for service to
Dunkirk and for three days did excellent work off the
coast, not only with the yacht itself but by directing
the activities of many open boats and giving assistance
to vessels in distress. Was present during the worst
two days of air raids.
Recommendations.
Master, Mr. George B. Butler.
Handled his vessel with conspicuous judgment.
Recommended for mention.

Details

Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Page 105.11.
MOTOR BOAT RAPIDE - Sub.Lieutenant J. C. Clarke, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
sub.Lieutenant J. C.Clarke, R.N.V.R.
motor during Displayed boat, some 28 and hours commendable continuous initiative beach and seamanship
Kept his motor boat derelict from pulling boats work he had with salved. his
of a large French number soldiers on board capsizing during bombing. in spite of Handled frenzy
attacks. of troops during frequent
A cool and Assisted in rescuing survivors bombing of MOSQUITO.
gallant officer.
Recommended for decoration.
S.S. DORIEN ROSE (Store Ship). - W. Thompson, Master.
This civilian manned ship, and performed useful and
gallant service.
Officers and men endured very trying conditions within
Dunkirk harbour during seven hours on 30th May, disembarking
stores and redeiving troops. She was attacked by M.T.B.'s
on the way in. On 28th was twice attacked by aircraft off
Dunkirk and rescued 950 troops and the crew of QUEEN OF THE
CHANNEL, who had been disabled by bombs and was sinking.
Everyone remained calm and gave the utmost assistance to
the troops. The E.R.M. staff had to effect repairs under
fire. All did well.
Recommendations,
Master W. Thompson.
Chief Engineer B. Murphy.
Second Engineer J. Steward.
Lewis Gunner T. W. Watson.
Mate, T. O. Hanlon.
Bosn., P. McFadden.
Able Seaman J. O'Rawe,
DSM
Able Seaman J. Upperton,
Able Seaman T. Bassett,
Ordinary Seaman W. Bassett,
DSM
Ordinary Seaman C. Bassett,
Fireman A. Gilson, DSM
Fireman S. Khan,
Fireman M. Mohand,
Recommended The Mate, that Chief all Engineer should be and a proportion and of
above officers and men formed mentioned, the crew.
that
the the Master, crew should be decorated.

Details

83
's 1700.&1723. VESSELS TAKING PART IN OPERATION DYNAMO.
C.E.in C. Dept. Hopper Barge W.26.
Reports of Master and Engineer.
Left Portsmouth mid-night Wednesday 29th for Ramsgate. Arrived
over 10.0 p.m. Thursday. Anchored in Downs, weighing anchor
.0 a.m. Friday 31st we proceeded to Ramsgate, arriwing at 9.0 a.m.
ived orders to proceed to Dunkirk to embark troops. Left
gate at 9.40 a.m. arriving at Dunkirk at 1.0 p.m. Berther along-
of damaged pier to collect what troops were available, by 5.0 p.m.
all hands assisting, took on board 400 troops, officers and men,
gst whom were six wounded "Walking Cases". During this period
incountered a little difficulty owing to fast passing vessels
ing swell and parting mooring wires 3 in No. rendering useless
it 100 Fms. of 22" wire. We also encountered two Air Raids, but
lamage, and left with our passengers at 5.0 p.m. While steaming
the Harbour Channel we encountered another Air Raid. Thanks
ur Royal Navy and gallant Air Force, the Raider, which appeared
st overhead, was brought down by gunfire and plunged into the
between us and the beach. We arrived at Ramsgate pier at 9.5.p.m.
mbarking our troops in 15 minutes. Requiring drinking water and
fuel, we were supplied with 40 in No.Petrol cans of water, and
roceeded to Margate arriving off Margate at 11.50 p.m. Anchored
red to proceed to Margate for fuel. Leaving pier at 9.40 p.m.
1 4.30 a.m. Saturday 1/6. Proceeded alongside H.M.S. "Guillemot",
taking in 10 tons of oil fuel. At 7.55 we returned to Ramagate
any of H.B.95 to our home port, arriving at St.Helens Roads at
orders arriving at 9.25. We were then ordered to proceed in
0 p.m. Ordered to anchor until daylight at 4.30 a.m. Sunday
eighed getting permission from Examination officer, St.Enooh we
eeded to anchor, enter Harbour at 6.0 a.m. Mooring alongaide
.0 a.m. and landing at Asia Pontoon at 8.30.
(sa) W.J. Allan.
MASTER.

Details

9807dmA EEC
. Togned
19816
TO FP THUS' тдло:
1
EXTRACT FROM LETTER dated 7th June, 1940.
To. The Director of Sea Transport,
From.
motî T93301
STATE CHAPEL 40 STREET STRAISHIP
21
.7901110
Ministry of Shipping,
1
Berkeley Square House,
LIVERPOOL
Berkeley Square,
LIVESPOUL
TEL 1835
9W as 2002 as bris mq 0.8 ons \ news YSM
London.W.i.
CENTRAL
COMPANY
381
LED
118 mort 2. gradmod
Dear Sir,
H.M.T.S."St.Seiriol"
about edd IIB Jeg bns nisss JUO 00 of ST9DTO
"We have now had an opportunity of interviewing the
around us. It was terrible and also a miracle
Master (R.D.Dobb) and various Members of the Crew of our
no gniog 11132 2.8W graderod 911 .dosed
steamer "St. Seiriol" on their exploits on the nights of 27th
and 29th May when the vessel was ordered to proceed to
0919610 mistqs0 90J DNS ALCOULT D9QQOTD 9W 02
got clear of them. We left there between 10 and
May Dunkirk to assist in the evacuation of the B.E.F. from that
and we consider it our duty to the Master and Crew to
VISA as J93 brie этопав 08 OJ DAS D9MNSM DILS
managed to get our two boats in the davits.
bring Port to the notice of the competent authority the exceptional Master
courage, endurance and devotion to duty shown by the
10
1497
Jisdel to dJ tw c.on to Food I
Captain Dobb acted wonderful in command
and Crew on these two occasions.
Bridge and also the Chief Officer. Mr.Onions
would respectfully draw your attention to the
We and seamanship displayed by the Master on the enemy night
JHI этолає againstud SHINTED ent find NISD 2.8W
staff had done their best looking after the wounded
of the 27th when he succeeded in taking his vessel and Mole try
coolness May, under heavy Gunfire and Bombing by to the
0'
and was then aboard by use of ships lifeboats, midnight and did.
aircraft, ordered by S.I.O. to go to the beaches which he
Aid) as we were bringing them on board. If
to 1101 Jsoa 9AJ Jeg OJ begsnem I OC
He and was get then troops ordered to return to the Nole about
eltdW 9dj "Your I obedient remain Servant
embarked nearly 600 B.E.F.Troops.
and also ships which were sunk by enemy
shore and was put successful in picking men from the water action were
On the the remaining lifeboat out to go to the who
night of 29th May he took his vessel well beach, in
bsol bns Te I9 9dd of NOBD 00 of 19171 Jones.
MY
based no mont Jug bns 2nd Officer. Seiriol"
and survivors then brought from other his Ship safely to Port with a complement of
ed
end of Hosd bris bsol Jsod Teddons
.E.F.men despiteintense air bombing.
9m blot 9dd 02 enevele Jasq fied JUOOS
doubt Lieut McEwen R.N. who was this, on and duty on
board Seiriol" wishes on to place on record his appreciation Lieut McBwen of R.N. the
We have no the 29th May will confirm
SISW veda as titubs Jsod 9dj Jaso bas based до 08 of
Captain gallant Dobb work and assistance he received from
emso "foimiss, edj Jiel SW Jawl
No praise is too high for the gallantry of Captain Dobb
erodes nom ald 10 bed 9d JANJ revorted 900
in the opinion of my Directors.
We would through by Chief Officer of the who,
also draw your attention to the J.McNamee good work
9dd NJ IW bebeecorq sW .bIsod no 9'19W 9W
undertaken in charge of and a ship's carried lifeboat with of two B.E.F.men other members to get off the
JS "lottles, 3" benief 1 ons isvol JS Devings
crew, helped a considerable Officer number B.Jones who under similar did similar tions
.dj8s
no
beaches, was in charge and also of another 2nd of the ship's lifeboats and
good work.
need bsd Vimet TOJIS , NOOLD'O \ Juods V8A JS 1919
did excellent work at their a Bren posts Gun, and
wse SW gridt Jamit sniT .Jaso0 9dj gnoss 116 dmod
by we understand permission of the the 4th Chief Engineer, with effect on enemy planes. and
ALL the Engineers Engineer (A.M.Rivett) manned
Steward Onions. 2nd Steward J.E.Brown tending to
"eigel Dits 1919 and
D.D.McMahon The Chief we understand aid heroic board. work in
Ted bns 9dd DOB bedmod need bad #811909
Purser the wounded, there being no Doctor on
Supplies and other consumable Comfort stores to of the
1919 edd they and TOJIA .qide Teddo 9dd
our Catering ALL the Department Medical were used to give Medical and
ben 9W .emodes Ted aus nisiqe0 edd 02 only no bns oadmoo
rescued. After the strain work during and anxieties the previous of these week, two Doctor the trips whole at of
I .Jist assod OWJ Vido bad OW TO .afsed and
after the strenuous shaken and the Military that Dover, the
edd 10 egrado Food TODITTO Te IdO edj bega 10
Waster after he had hands were unfit to carry homes. any #
the crew were examined thoroughly them, decided without on hesitation longer,
behand ,bebisos bebauow ,basod по based SW eased n99d 0 9dd
aluensequently and all they all returned to their
(Signed) H.lan Maclver.
116 edmod Drts 10 Teldaido Dd dedmoo
Chairman.

Details

Remarks.
335
308
Sub. Lt. Don reported abandoning "YSER" which he could not
Cloat. He did not render her unserviceable for which I admonished
1. He later went in the Army M.B's and showed much keenness.
Sub. Lt. Liddell R.N. Took charge of"Bonny Heather"
Sub. Lt. Mac Intyre.
Took charge of S/D "FAIRBURN".
Mr. Butler. I/C"LAROR".
X 209 Sub.Lt. W.R. Williams, R.N.R.
Sub.Lt. G.N. Blake, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. VERNON. Bad case of
d up. Made excuses for not going, returned 3 hours after departure
ing picked up R.A.F. Officer from sea. Considered it inadvisable to
: him in charge of Admiral Barge again and sent him to office to get
arrant back.
Wippingham paddle steamer arrived p.m. Visited in speedboat to
iten her to Dunkirk. Reported no water. Gave order to use sea water,
this was supposed to be last night's trip Mie by Plotilla Driftersunder
mander Powell, R.N.R.
"MAIE
1 Trip.
"SARAH HYDE"
1 Trip.
"TWEENWAYS"
1 Trip.
"UNI
1 Trip.
"RIGG"
2 Trips.
"JACK EVE"
I Trip.
"THRICE KINGS".
2 Trips.
"JACINTA" reported sunk on Goodwin and abandoned, officers name
noted, was seen floating near RAMSGATE next day when one of the
wlersof same company went out and fetched her. Regret no record of
S ship's name.
Block Ship party: Lt. Lloyd R.N.
Sub. Satterford.
Sub Lt. Don.
Sub Lt. E.R. Davis, R.N.R.
Sub Lt. Mulholland
?
Sub Lt. canhon
This party was not required taking off block ship officers,
ugh they were ready, instead they worked at Dunkirk ferrying.
Mr. Sidmouth-Welling, Sea Cadet Lt, showed great keenness and was
ays to the fore to get over to Dunkirk.
Dr. Weymouth Street, W. 1, did one trip in"CAIRNGORM". Secrnier
ring over of 3 tugs "PRIMA", "DUKE", "PRINCESS masti 2
The Master which were unarmed showed great
Mr Wright EW. wheatly of 9, 7th Chantry ashlyRd walton minome keenness - in
ed they be thanked Owner Sam through the owners for their willing and gallant
A. WALLIS", boats. The tugs William were & Sons, Dagenham Dock, Essex. It is
don Gentlemen who were there:- Wembley Park., Mm.Joseph Mason, 55, Banatead, Gdns,
operation. Gordon Thomas, 4, Berners Street, Oakley London,
1. 3., Martel, Lt. R.A. 88, Nicholson, The Drive, R.N.V.R., Moorings, Fir Tree Road,
rey, Mr. Kayell. J.H. Brook, Glen Haven, Taplow.
Flotilla under Admiral
Capt. Taylor: Hammond took command of the 4 school.
REGWA
HILDA
RAR
TILLY
LIKA
Lt. Commander Miller. 330
BLUEBIRD. MEANDER + 7 others, could not find names.

Details

415
9.
burst close to us and threw us off our feet. Henderson was
wounded in the neck and the back and after dressing him, sent him
onboard a destroyer for passage to England.
I should like to pay my tribute to Commander Henderson who
proved himself a loyal and gallant Officer, and who was quite
unmoved however black things night look. His cheerfulness and
sangfroid was an example to everyone. Coupled with his name I
should like to mention Paymaster Lieutenent Brockett.
A signal was sent to V. Dover informing him that lights
would be exhibited on the Piers at Dunkirk in order that ships
might make the entrance at night.
Despite this only one ship enetered Dunkirk during the
dark hours and that was the destroyer "IVANHOB".
Saturday 1st June.
Ships continued to arrive and embarkation proceeded
satisfactorily.
More air attacks were experienced and our losses
mounted up. KRITH and IVANHOE were bombed and MOSQUITO on
her way to entering the port WAS bombed and sunk. The enemy
carried out very severe bombing attacks on vessels which were
loaded with troops and which were on their way home.
It was therefore decided not to continue the daylight ear
barkation but to carry on the evacuation at night only.
At 2130 I proceeded to the mouth of the harbour in & motor
by & Dutch Naval Officer with a Dutch naval crew
boat and led commanded ships into harbour and allocated to then their berths, any
2300 all the night had grown pitch dark, and sometimes once as
By were endtering the port of Dunkirk at
as 6 or 7 craft leaving at the same time. All were without
whilst others were can be too high for the seamenship displar- along-
lights, and no praise Sloops, Transports and other craft coming collision.
side ed by Destro ers, the Mole. I did not witness & single Embarkation
and leaving French troops had collected at the were sent
Pier A large in the number Western of Harbour and the requisire vessels
thither
her propellers The Dutch Motor and her speed was reduced to 6 knots. sccordingly
to embark them. Boat collected a long length of net I round

Details

SECRET
Dynoms 299
/17
.0110.H.
H.V.S. "Vivacious"
c/o. G.P.O.
12th June 1940
Sir,
I have the honour to forward the following report of
proceedings for the H.M.S. "Vivacious" for the period 86th May
intil 4th June 1940 inclusive.
proceeded 2.- to rend zvous with Admiral Commanding 2nd Cruiser Squadron
"vivacious" left Dasingham at 2200 on 26th May 1940 and
in H.H.S. "Glattax Galatoa" in position 181 at 1215.C.S.2. Parted
company at 1800 and orders were received to patrol in company.
with "Gallant" ant the Polish Destroyer "Blyskawica" betw en North
Goodwin Light and "I" buoy.
Dunkirk 5.- to evacuate the B.E.F. nd arrived at 0030. The town was
At 2200 ships were ordered to a position one mile Best of
and oil fuel depots reached two to three thousand feet. During these
undergoing continual combardment and na anes from amunition dumps
raids whistling 'bombs were heard, their noise being similar to
that of a siren.
attacked 4.- the ships with machine guns. The "Blyskawica" shot down one
Two enemy airer It came through the thick smoke cloud and
of these in the harbour,
with 5.- aid of drifters and the whaler, and a report having been
"Vivacious" section of the be ch was cleared at 0330
received the from a personel boat that the last Jetty had been cleared,
the ship returned to Dower with 353 military personel.
proceeding 6.- by the Eastern Route.
The ship sailed again for Dunkirk at 1030 on 27th
machines was machines were shot down crashed (Two the beach, one
7.- Intense encountered off the $ stern Entrance Junkers 88 and SHEXX
aircraft attack by about twenty- and five 110 enemy EXE
another was not seen with to the crash but the pilot was seen
Heinkel 111). one port engine on fire crashed to leave sea. the plane third
жини three enemy burst into flames and into on the The and
by parachute.
8.- Arrival at and three quarter hours Scoot. some The return journey were was
point three miles East of Dunkirk 553 military was made at
by 1830 ships and boats, after five M.T.B.16 and a Dutch
made in company

Details

/179
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
11th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report in accordance
with your verbal instructions. The delay has been occasioned by the
difficulty in collecting the necessary information from the Officers,
some of whom landed at Dover, some at Margate and some at Ramsgate.
During and just after the final attack so much was happening at the
same time that I have described firstly what happened in the vicinity
of the Bridge and what action I took, and, secondly, what happened
aft. As appendices I have attached the report of the adventures of
Mr Crews, Warrant Schoolmaster, after he had left the GRENADE and as
statement of the known damage done by the bombs.
2. During the evening of the 28th May I left Dunkirque with over
900 troops for Dover; these troops were disembarked without incident,
and on the Forenoon of the 29th of May I received orders from
V.A. Dover to proceed with all dispatch to Dunkirque, taking
JAGUAR and GALLANT with me. I was ordered to take route X and to
report if I was subjected to shelling off Gravellines. No shelling
Was experienced but all destroyers were subjected to a dive bombing
attack when close to the coast. GALLANT suffered damage astern
but as she did not appear to require assistance I proceeded along-
side the western side of the pier, berthing JAGUAR outside me.
A certain number of attacks were experienced but no bombs came very
close to either ship. GRENADE could not fire her guns owing to
JAGUAR being on her Starboard Side and the pier on her Port Side.
3. JAGUAR was filled with troops and then proceeded, being
subsequently bombed and hit whilst on passage. About this time some
bombs from a high level attack fell fairly close to GRENADE but
did no damage. No troops were put into GRENADE as the S.N.O. stated
that he wished a destroyer to remain alongside. A transport ahead
of GRENADE left and this position was taken by 6 trawlers. Acting
on the instructions of the S.N.O. I ordered a V - - class destroyer

Details

Department 37
to /1/89
COPY.
SECRET.
c/o Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.
11th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report
in acceptions with your medal instructions. The delay
has been consioned by the difficulty in collecting the
necessary information from the Officers, BOXE of whom
landed at Dover, - at Margate and some at Ramagate.
During and just after the final attack 80 much was happening
at the - time that I have described firstly what
happened in the visinity of the Bridge and that nation I
took, and, secondly, what happened are. As appendices
2 have attached the repart of the adventures of Mr. Crews,
Warrant Schoolmator, after to had left the GRENADE and a
statement of the Imoin dissage done by the bombs.
Dunkirque 8. with 0112 900 treeps for Dover; these troops
During the evening of the 28th My = left
used disembarked without insident, and on the Foreneen of
the 29th of May 2 reseived orders from V.A. Dever to proceed
with all disputed to Dunkirque, taking JAGUAR and GALLANT
with - 1 TAB ordered to take route X to report If I
was subjected to shelling off Gravellines. No shelling
use experienced but all destroyers vare subjected to a dive
bonbing attack when close to the const. GALLANT suffered
damage astorn but 18 the did not appear to require assistance
: proceeded alongside the sestem side of the pier, borthing
JAGUAR outside - A certain number of attacks 1970
GRENADE could net fire her guna owing to JANUAR being on
experienced but 30 boobe I very close to either ship.
her starboard side and the pier 00 her port side.
JARIAR was filled with troops and then proceeded,
being 3. subsequently bashed and his whilet on passage. About
alose to CANADA but did no damage. No troops were put
this time 5009 bonbe from 8 high lovel attack fell fairly
destroyer into to remain alongside. A transport should of
GRENAIS as the S.N.O. stated that be wished a
Acting on- the instructions of the S.N.O. I order a V -class
GRENADE Left and this position was taken by 6 travlers.
destroyee whose - 3 have forgotten to proceed alongaide
ahoul of these traviers.
At about 15.00 the first deliberate attack on
GRENADE 4. commend; two bonbo fell about 80 - 25 yards from
the Pursonatle, damaging A-gan and VD ding one rating shoud on the
Starboard Bow, killing use and wouddnet ⑉ rating on
Searchlight the Platform. Some ratings LAGER in on the the trawlers other side
of these and no doubt until
GRENADS and is the CHILD fall
of vare about 80 feet from the water
that they the use released
ink, the
0899 of the boath
AS above. 01.00 18 issue SAN
1
" the
and 0. of the ydar and the coom? delibed commond attack 8 dive -
bombing
GRENATE command.
dropped. 3 have found it
attack and 8 number of
1870 GRENADE WAS htt, but I
disfloult opinion to discover third two bombe 9870 dropped alone to the miltaneously Starboard
Bide between after end of the Fore hitting the ship
se-in the a & 9 guns, making-shole Moss Deak and sinkings
an of the explier redd, No. falling Leiths side, causing
N fire at just the shead of GRENADE; No. the 8 bottom of the ship near
the strawler Biok Bay, penstrating nearly to
before exploding.

Details

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. II
Dover.¹ It was added that "Dynamo"2 the operation the for first which these ships were
prepared word. would be known as mention of the now famous being
18 lying at Poole were London were commissioned Portsmouth on of these,
As a result of this direction, commissioned 40 skoots by the in all C. were in C. commissioned;
the May, 25th and and 22 lying 27th at May. by the C. in C. Nore between
23RD MAY
Enemy within 20 miles of Dunkirk
May which (see to have changed enemy hands twice bridgeheads at Aire, at St. 23rd
Over in Plan France, 2), and the situation the on established the canal line deteriorated during the
mediately east of St. Omer), and, during the forest of Clairmarais
German seems tanks were reported harbouring during in the the day"3), and near Watten. Omer
vehicles within 3 miles of Hazebrouck; day, hostile armoured (im-
Dunkirk. enemy was then within some 20 miles these of
movements came had been checked,3 the and though by the evening fighting
Calais cut off
gallant was conducted under the orders of the War Office". of
Calais defence was now of Calais finally cut off, and, said Lord Gort, the remainder the
Dunkirk, available though for its water supply was destroyed,⁴ was by this time the
and port small unloading supplies. Even the small supply by air of only
craft arms ammunition now ceased, as it had become impossible rations
(Licut.-General to land. Accordingly, on the advice of the Quarter-Master-General for air-
During completed. day the evacuation of the R.A.F. Component of the B.E.F. rations.⁴ was
the W. G. Laidsell), Lord Gort put the B.E.F. on half
Dunkirk Naval demolition parties were ready at the Nore, and one was landed
XD(E)). during the day to prepare the locks for demolition. (Operation at
Boulogne evacuated
Comdr. Early A. on E. the same day a demolition party (Operation XD under
Buttercup", destroyer Vimy, to Boulogne, together with despatched,
in the P. Welman, D.S.O., D.S.C., R.N., (Retd.), was (G) also Lieut.-
consisted Major of C. F. L. Holford, R.M. was in cover the demolition
party; to restore control of the docks area and a force known as Force
guns and a medical 4 platoons of seamen, 2 Marine platoons command with a of section this force, of machine and it
attacked battery drawn When to had "Force by the been enemy Buttercup" sent tanks party. on the and Two arrived, previous battalions the day. and town the of Irish was under Guards shell and fire an and anti-tank being
orders jetty in readiness infantry, for Army forces were being with-
I during the afternoon that the evacuation, troops were although to stay the and War fight Office it out⁵. sent
2 Appendices F.1 and F.2.
Appendix F.3.
4 5 3 Lord Lord Gort's Gort's Second Despatch,
Admiralty Second Despatch, para. 39.
Message 1422/23, War para. Diary 37. 23.5.40, p. 356.
8

Details

OPERATION "DYNAMO" IS COMMENCED
CHAP. III
and blazing lights made them an easy target. On the 26th May the hospital
carriers St. Andrew and St. Julien sailed at 1054 for Dunkirk, but coming under
fire from the guns of Gravelines, they returned to Dover in company with the
P/V Maid of Orleans.
The hospital carriers Isle of Guernsey and Worthing sailed from Dover at
noon and were bombed when off, Calais; nevertheless, that night, flood-lit by
the fires which raged in the docks and town of Dunkirk, they each embarked
about 300 stretcher cases.
Admiralty call for cutters and whalers
All these troops and casualties, it should be noted, were lifted from the quays
of Dunkirk harbour. Evacuation from the beaches did not commence until
24 hours later, and then only in a very small way, using ships' boats. On the
26th May, says Vice-Admiral Ramsay, the only inshore craft available
were
4 Belgian passenger launches and the naval small craft of the Dover Command
such as drifters, and motor boats from the Contraband Control Base at Rams-
gate; the only ones capable of lifting personnel direct from a beach being the
boats from Ramsgate." The Admiralty had been asked for a supply of small
boats, especially whalers and cutters, but there remained the difficulty of
arranging for the personnel to man them¹. This request led at 2028, on 26th
May, to an Admiralty signal to the Home Ports asking how many cutters and
whalers could be made available for immediate service under Vice-Admiral,
Dover.²
Sea and air patrols
Meanwhile, at 1937, C. in C. Nore had been requested to use all available
forces to cover Operation Dynamo that night.
In conformity with these directions Allied fighters maintained continuous
patrols, from 1700 to 2130, on the line Calais-Dunkirk.3.
Germans occupy Calais
That very night, however, the gallant defence of Calais came to an end.
The yacht Gulzar had gone there with water and stretchers, to bring back
wounded. She secured alongside the Gare Maritime and sent a party on shore
to investigate. The town was found to be in German hands, and the Gulzar
made a hasty departure under fire. On the way out, however, in response to
a hail, she stopped, and brought off 3 officers and 48 men from the end of the
breakwater.⁴
I D.R. p. 1, para. 2.
2 Appendix G. 1.
3 R.A.F. Narrative, p. 315.
4 R.O. II, p. 513.
B
17

Details

MONDAY, 27TH MAY
CHAP. IV
meantime at 2025, the Vice-Admiral, Dover, received another signal sent only
a few minutes later :
" Port continuously bombed all day and on fire. Embarkation possible only
from beaches east of harbour A.B.C.D.¹ Send all ships and passenger ships
there to anchor. Am ordering Wolfhound to load there and sail. T.O.O.2005."
To the Vice-Admiral, Dover, the situation must have appeared critical
when, later that evening, he received a report from two military officers from
G.H.Q., that the plight of the B.E.F. was precarious and that the enemy might,
indeed, succeed in cutting it off from Dunkirk.²
All ships diverted to the beaches
Such was the grim picture presenting itself to the Vice-Admiral, Dover, that
night - the B.E.F. in grave and very real danger of being cut off altogether from
Dunkirk, and possibly only a bare 24 hours available for its evacuation. Admiral
Ramsay reacted to these dire tidings with characteristic drive and energy,
and a period of intense activity ensued. Every effort was concentrated on
sending as many craft as possible to the beaches without delay². Order
followed order in rapid succession. Personnel ships were diverted to the
beach, code letters A, B, C and D (i.e. Malo beach). Four paddle minesweepers³
were sailed from the Downs to La Panne beach. Destroyers were rushed to the
beaches and urged to embark as many British troops as possible, as this was
the last chance of saving them "; the Gallant, and Vivacious, then on patrol,
the Windsor, Vimy, Anthony, Impulsive, Sabre and the cruiser Calcutta, were
all ordered to proceed with the utmost despatch to the beach at Malo-les-Bains
and the beach at Zuydcoote, just east of it; the Grafton and Greyhound, on
patrol between Fairy Bank and Kwint Bank buoys, and the Wakeful, just
arrived at Dover from Plymouth, were hurried to the beach at La Panne.
The wording of some of the signals4 conveying these orders reflects the
desperation felt that night, a desperation which, in spite of the course of sub-
sequent events, was at the time only too well-founded. " Had the situation
appeared less critical," observes Admiral Ramsay, an organised flow of large
and small craft, working in reliefs, would have been arranged."⁵
Yet a further batch of vessels arrived off the beaches that evening; the
17 available flare-burning drifters of the Dover Auxiliary Patrol⁶ had sailed
for Dunkirk during the afternoon, and on arriving were diverted to the beaches
by the Wolfhound, in accordance with a signal from the Vice-Admiral, Dover⁷,
and anchored close inshore. The boats from the Wolfhound and Wolsey, and
I These letters refer to an arrangement, whereby at the commencement of Dynamo'
the Dunkirk beaches were described by a letter code referring to Map G.S.G.S. 4040,
Sheet 29, 1/50,000. The lengths of beach lying in each 1000 metre map square were
lettered, west to east, commencing with "A" at square 2686 in sequence to "0" at
square 3990. (Appx. N. 10). Under this arrangement, A.B.C.D. actually refers to the
beach at Malo-les-Bains.
This arrangement appears to have fallen into disuse on and after 29th May, when the
stretch of beach, one mile east of Dunkirk to one mile east of La Panne, was divided into
3 equal parts, referred to as La Panne, Bray and Malo, from east to west, with a mile gap
between each part. (Appendix O. 11).
2 D.R. page 3, para. 8.
3
The Sandown, Medway Queen, Brighton Belle and Gracie Fields.
4 See Appendices D. 3, D. 4, D. 5, D. 7, and D. 8.
5 D.R., p.3, para. 38.
6 They were the Netsukis, Lord Howard, Lord Howe, Golden Sunbeam, Midas, Golden
Gift, Girl Pamela, Paxton, Boy Roy, Eileen Emma, Girl Gladys, Forecast, Ut Prosim, York-
shire Lass, Young Mun, Shipmates and Torbay II.
7 Appendix D.6.
23

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. IV
from the St. Seiriol and Queen of the Channel, in addition to the drifters'
beaches during the night
dinghies, enabled these drifters of the to 27th/28th lift some May. 2,000 troops from Malo and Bray own
Results of S.N.O. Dunkirk's 2005/27
assembling off the beaches on 1 cruiser, 27th/28th May the Wolfhound,
As a result of the action taken the on night S.N.O. of Dunkirk's signals, there
3 Channel skoots and (the the Lena, St. Hebe Seiriol). other II and All small Oranje) these ships boats, were ordered to use Queen of thers, their own
Wolsey and 6 other destroyers¹, a
pulling boats, were yet available.
boats for ferrying, as no power cutters, whalers or other
S.N.O. Dunkirk's signals had therefore a big result; but owing to the diffi-
culty of passing orders at night in a shattered harbour his decision to divert
vessels to the beaches had unforeseen repercussions, and it was associated with
a false report that Dunkirk had fallen, and the failure of one personnel vessel
and 7 skoots to reach the beaches that night. The circumstances are described
below.
The P/V Canterbury, which had entered Dunkirk harbour at 2000, left at
2058 with 457 troops, including 140 stretcher cases. Before leaving, she was
ordered by the Sea Transport Officer to turn back ships attempting to
enter Dunkirk the order, evidently intended to divert ships to the beaches,
was misunderstood. In the Dunkirk road, the Canterbury passed the order
to the P/V Maid of Orleans and to the H/C's Isle of Thanet and Worthing, and
those vessels thereupon turned back to Dover. Later the order became
definitely garbled, for the skoot Tilly (which was in company with the 4 skoots
Hondsrug, Jutland, Patria and Brandaris) met the Canterbury (in company
with the 2 hospital carriers) 8 or 9 miles from Dunkirk, and received from her
the signal "Dunkirk is in enemy hands. Keep clear." This signal was
variously recorded by some of the other skoots, as Dunkirk has fallen. Re-
turn"; and all five of them, as well as the skoots Bornrif and Twente, did in
fact return to the Downs, although the Jutland and the Patria first closed
Nieuport Bank buoy in an unsuccessful endeavour to obtain more definite
information. Some of the skoots, in turn, promulgated this false report to
other ships, notably to the P/V Dorrien Rose; this ship, which received the
signal, unsafe to approach Dunkirk," did at first alter course to the north-
ward, but, shortly after, again set course for Dunkirk. It was subsequently
thought by some of the vessels concerned that the false information had been
passed by fifth columnists," though there is very little proof of this.³
Chronic shortage' of beaching boats
Such was the beginning of the great build-up of ships4 and of the inaugura-
tion of beach evacuation. The successful development of the latter was
necessarily good in into I the The of northern situation the dependent chronic having sector shortage changed on between the by continuation the south-west of beaching and of boats⁵. fine north-east weather, A wind would and and of any Wakeful the have strength making made went
from Dunkirk. The Windsor remained time they arrived, Anthony the Gallant had not yet returned
2 Portsmouth whither she had escorted on the patrol. S.S. Kyno. The
Canterbury's report.
4 3 See Appendices H.30 and H.32.
5 Appendices D, E and F.
D.R. page 3, para. 11.
24

Details

TUESDAY, 28TH MAY
CHAP V
While a situation that could only mean surrender was now visualised in
England as possibly a stark necessity, General Weygand sent an urgent tele-
gram to Lord Gort appealing to him personally to ensure that the British
Army took a vigorous part in any counter-attack thought necessary; the
situation, said General Weygand, made it essential to hit hard.
Lord Gort, who saw the situation more clearly, observes, when he [General
Weygand] sent this message, he could have had no accurate information of
the real position or of the powers of counter-attack remaining to either the
British or French."
Germans take Ostend
That evening, at 2030, the Admiralty informed the Vice-Admiral, Dover,
that Ostend was reliably reported to be captured. Dunkirk was the only port
left in Allied hands.
Situation at Dunkirk becomes easier
Nor were the prospects at Dunkirk very hopeful. When the Wolfhound and
the Wolsey left Malo beach for Dover just after midnight on the 27th May the
whole of the port appeared to be ablaze¹.
At 0125 the cruiser Calcutta, en route for La Panne, was missed by a torpedo
100 yards astern fired from an E-boat. No further attack took place, and the
Calcutta arrived off La Panne beach an hour later to find that the destroyers
Grafton, Greyhound and Impulsive, and the paddle-minesweepers Sandown and
Gracie Fields, were already there.
Ever since 0030 destroyers making their first trip to the evacuation area
had been arriving off the beaches, and only two - the Gallant and the Wakeful -
went to Dunkirk. The Vivacious and the skoot Hebe II reached Malo beach
at about 0030, and the Sabre at 0120. The Hebe II, unable to find any troops,
entered Dunkirk harbour and embarked 150 from the east pier; the Sabre
embarked troops from two drifters. At 0320 the Vimy arrived off the beach
at Zuydcoote, 3 miles east of Dunkirk, and sent her boats to assist in filling up
the minesweeper Brighton Belle, which was embarking troops with the assist-
ance of the ex-Belgian canal boat Yser and a small pulling boat. The skoot
Lena had been off Zuydcoote since the previous evening and in the early hours
of the 28th May transferred the 120 troops she had embarked to a destroyer ;
the minesweeper Medway Queen, off La Panne since 2300/27, sailed with 600
troops on board.
By 0400 the situation in Dunkirk harbour appears to have eased, and at
0436 S.N.O. Dunkirk was asking for all vessels to go alongside the east pier.
At 0445 the Vimy, leaving her boats with the Brighton Belle, went into Dunkirk
harbour and embarked 613 troops. At 0955 the destroyer Mackay reached
Dunkirk from the Irish Sea, and picked up 600 troops in an hour from the sea-
ward end of Dunkirk east pier, giving up her berth to the destroyer Montrose.
The Sabre, which had in the meantime returned to Dover with a load of 158
troops from Malo beach, berthed outside the Montrose. An hour later, the
destroyers Worcester and Anthony arrived, and berthed ahead of the Montrose.
The pier was crammed with troops and several aircraft, attempting to bomb
it, were driven off by the destroyers' gunfire. Vast columns of smoke were
drifting westwards from the burning oil tanks ashore, and houses on the sea
front were bursting into flames from time to time².
I Report by the Wolfhound.
2 Report by the Montrose.
27

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. V
and Hilda), two power boats and Kellett a tow and pulling Leda, but boats ; the(Doggersbank
with the Calcutta¹, the Gallant, Wakeful, of Verity, two skoots
was joined by the minesweepers the number there were insufficient
boats and motor launches to cope with of troops on the beach.
Calcutta had already lost one of her two whalers2.
70 wounded (cot cases) ; heavy embarkation difficult and the
Off La Panne, at 2157, the Calcutta, surf assisted made by the skoot Reiger, embarked
By the 28th May beach evacuation had become a vitally essential part
complete lack of small beaching craft, other than ships' boats - aftermath
Operation Dynamo". It was, however, severely restricted by the almost of
the wish, already noticed, to prevent early information of the operation be- of
coming known to the enemy; and an urgent and persistent cry for boats arose
from the ships off the beaches.³
Beach craft are sailed for Dunkirk
Steps had already been taken, however, to begin the provision of small boats.
At 0800 on the 28th May, 8 motor boats were sailed from the Thames for the
South Downs. At noon the tug Sun V with 8 cutters and 2 whalers in tow,
and the tug St. Clears with 11 cutters in tow, left Sheerness for Ramsgate, and
both tugs sailed for Dunkirk late in the evening. Of these two tows, however,
only 7 cutters reached the beaches, the remainder being lost en route.4
At 1500 the tug Java left Ramsgate for Dunkirk, in company with four
drifters⁵ and 5 motor launches⁶. They arrived off Bray at 0100 on 29th May,
and were the first arrivals of small motor craft off the beaches. With them,
at 1500 on the 28th May, 5 drifters of the 1st Mine Recovery Flotilla left Rams-
gate for Dunkirk⁷, and at 1845, 18 motor boats with 17 whalers left Sheerness
for Dover.⁸
Supply of small craft is accelerated
These supplied only a portion of what was required. There was still a lack
of small craft, and at 2002 V.A. Dover asked that every available shallow draft
power boat should be sent to the beaches⁹. The Admiralty's vigorous reaction
to this request became fully evident on the following day, the 29th May, when
the Portsmouth and Nore Commands, the Thames estuary and the Port of
London Authority were combed for motor boats, lighters and barges¹⁰. To
accelerate the journey arrangements were made to route them direct to the
beaches, provided they had charts, food, fuel etc.¹¹, though some difficulty was
experienced in providing the large number of charts required. Indeed, on the
road map" to navigate on.
31st May the Master of the coaster Hythe states that he was given an army
I 2 The Calcutta reported she was off La Panne.
Appendix H.2.
3 Appendices H.1 and H.2.
Five gunfire from Clears' cutters were lost en morning route to Dunkirk a collision with the destroyer the result of enemy
4 The of the Sun St. V's tow was lost early next in Montrose.
up 5 by The the Sp. Gravelines Serv./V. Crested and Nieuport; Eagle. one of the 5 was, next however, day, as subsequently picked
6 The Lord Walker Rodney, I, Lord Keith, Lord Collingwood
7 8 9 The Appendix Lord Cavan, G.6. Walker Fidget, II, Jacketa, New Britannic, Silver Dawn Nayland, and and Fisher and Lord Angler Boy St. Vincent. (Appendix II. G.5).
Appendix G.7.
II 10 Appendices G.13 to G.18.
Appendix G.9.
32

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Gallant put out of action
The destroyers Jaguar, Gallant and Grenade, en route for Dunkirk by the new
middle Route x with instructions to test it for opposition by shore batteries,
were attacked at 1155 off. Snouw Bank by about 17 dive bombers. The attack
was concentrated on the Gallant which was damaged by a near miss and had to
retire; she was unable to take any further part in Operation "Dynamo".
"One dive-bomber, was seen to be hit by pom-pom, and while losing height
observes the Jaguar, was despatched by a fighter". This attack appears to
have taken place just when one of our main [fighter] patrols had turned for
home."¹
On arrival at Dunkirk, the Grenade reported that there had been no inter-
ference from shore batteries. Shipping was thus able to make use of the route
directly it had been swept. The minesweepers completed this work late on
the same afternoon, and the route was taken into use within a few hours of both
the other routes, Y and Z, being rendered unsafe for use by day owing to
the German shore gunfire.
Bombing of Dunkirk and beaches commences
At 1358 the S.N.O., Dunkirk reported to V.A. Dover that the bombing of
the beaches and of Dunkirk pier had commenced without fighter opposition.
This attack occurred while Hurricanes were sweeping inland to Cassel.¹
At 1250 the Grenade berthed alongside the east pier in Dunkirk outer har-
bour (the Nouvel Avant-Port), the Jaguar securing alongside her. The
Grenade was ordered by S.N.O., Dunkirk, to remain at his disposal and not to
embark troops. Between 1400 and 1525, the Jaguar embarked about 1,000;
level bombers were being held off by fighters and A/A fire during this period,
and two patterns of heavy bombs which were dropped close to the pier did no
damage to ships.²
Fourteen ships lying at Dunkirk
In the meantime, at 1330, six Oropesa trawlers of the Dover M/S Command,
viz. : the Fyldea (Lieut. R. Bill, R.N., S.O.), the Arley, Brock, Calvi, John
Cattling and Polly Johnson, arrived off Dunkirk harbour and the Fyldea and
Arley were ordered inside to pull the personnel vessel Lochgarry, which had
embarked over 1,000 troops, away from the east pier³. By 1420 when they had
done this, the six trawlers, triple-banked, occupied the Lochgarry's berth.
Ahead of the six trawlers were the Grenade and Jaguar; astern of the trawlers
was the personnel vessel Canterbury, and astern of her, at the Quai Félix Faure
in Dunkirk inner harbour (the Avant-Port), was the French destroyer Cyclone.
On the opposite side of the outer harbour, at the west Quay, lay the French
destroyers Mistral and Siroco. Outside the harbour, on the seaward side of
the east pier opposite the Grenade, was the P/V Fenella, and at 1430 the Special
Service Vessel Crested Eagle berthed astern of her (see Diagram p.40). Off Malo,
Bray and La Panne beaches were numbers of destroyers, minesweepers, skoots,
personnel vessels, trawlers, tugs and small craft.
I R.A.F. Narrative, p.326.
2 Jaguar's report.
3 See Fyldea's report.
39

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Ships lost or damaged on 29th May
H.M. SHIPS SUNK
The destroyers Wakeful, Grafton and Grenade.
The armed boarding vessel King Orrry
The Special Service Vessel Crested Eagle.
The Paddle Minesweepers Waverley and Gracie Fields.¹
The Personnel Vessels Normania,1 Lorina, Fenella and Mona's Queen.
The trawlers Polly Johnson and Calvi.
The danlayers Comfort and Nautilus.
The drifter Girl Pamela².
H.M. SHIPS DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION.
The destroyers Saladin, Greyhound, Intrepid, Montrose, Mackay, Gallant
and Jaguar.
The sloop Bideford.
The minesweeper Pangbourne (required dockyard repairs).
The personnel vessel Canterbury.
The hospital carrier Isle of Guernsey.
OTHER VESSELS
SUNK A.L.C.16, the S.S. Clan Macalister (6,900 tons), the M/B's Minikoi,
Viewfinder, Bobeli, Hanora, Sceneshifter and Queen of England.
DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION The tug Sun V.
Destroyers of the "H," "I" and "J" Classes withdrawn
As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst the destroyer force,
particularly the misfortunes which befell those of the larger and more modern
types, a consultation was held between the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral,
Dover, on 29th May, which led to a decision to withdraw the 7 destroyers of
the "H", "I" and "J" Classes from "Dynamo"3; they were the only
modern destroyers remaining with Vice-Admiral, Dover. All destroyers of
the "G" class⁴ were already out of action.
There remained available for "Dynamo" 15 destroyers : :-
Esk
Malcolm
Verity
Express
Whitehall
Vanquisher
Anthony
Winchelsea
Sabre
Keith
Worcester
Scimitar
Codrington
Windsor
Shikari
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be expected to
maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the coast and would lift 17,000
troops in 24 hours⁵. It is noteworthy that in spite of their unsuitability for
the work of troop carrying, the 39 destroyers so employed in Dynamo"
brought off more troops-96,000-than any other type of ship (see Table 1).
The 45 personnel vessels brought off 87,000; the 36 minesweepers 46,000;
the 39 skoots 22,000 ; and among the smaller vessels, the 51 drifters brought
off 12,000.
I Actually sank on 30th May, as a result of damage received on 29th May.
2 In collision with the Lydd off Dunkirk harbour on the night of 28th/29th May.
3 The Icarus, Impulsive, Intrepid, Ivanhoe, Harvester, Havant and Javelin.
4 The Gallant, Grafton, Grenade and Greyhound.
5 D.R. p.11, para. 37.
55

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Ships lost or damaged on 29th May
H.M. SHIPS SUNK
The destroyers Wakeful, Grafton and Grenade.
The armed boarding vessel King Orrry
The Special Service Vessel Crested Eagle.
The Paddle Minesweepers Waverley and Gracie Fields.¹
The Personnel Vessels Normania,1 Lorina, Fenella and Mona's Queen.
The trawlers Polly Johnson and Calvi.
The danlayers Comfort and Nautilus.
The drifter Girl Pamela².
H.M. SHIPS DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION.
The destroyers Saladin, Greyhound, Intrepid, Montrose, Mackay, Gallant
and Jaguar.
The sloop Bideford.
The minesweeper Pangbourne (required dockyard repairs).
The personnel vessel Canterbury.
The hospital carrier Isle of Guernsey.
OTHER VESSELS
SUNK A.L.C.16, the S.S. Clan Macalister (6,900 tons), the M/B's Minikoi,
Viewfinder, Bobeli, Hanora, Sceneshifter and Queen of England.
DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION The tug Sun V.
Destroyers of the "H," "I" and "J" Classes withdrawn
As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst the destroyer force,
particularly the misfortunes which befell those of the larger and more modern
types, a consultation was held between the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral,
Dover, on 29th May, which led to a decision to withdraw the 7 destroyers of
the "H", "I" and "J" Classes from "Dynamo"3; they were the only
modern destroyers remaining with Vice-Admiral, Dover. All destroyers of
the "G" class4 were already out of action.
There remained available for "Dynamo" 15 destroyers :-
Esk
Malcolm
Verity
Express
Whitehall
Vanquisher
Anthony
Winchelsea
Sabre
Keith
Worcester
Scimitar
Codrington
Windsor
Shikari
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be expected to
maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the coast and would lift 17,000
troops in 24 hours⁵. It is noteworthy that in spite of their unsuitability for
the work of troop carrying, the 39 destroyers so employed in ' Dynamo "
brought off more troops-96,000-than any other type of ship (see Table 1).
The 45 personnel vessels brought off 87,000; the 36 minesweepers 46,000 ;
the 39 skoots 22,000 ; and among the smaller vessels, the 51 drifters brought
off 12,000.
I Actually sank on 30th May, as a result of damage received on 29th May.
2 In collision with the Lydd off Dunkirk harbour on the night of 28th/29th May.
3 The Icarus, Impulsive, Intrepid, Ivanhoe, Harvester, Havant and Javelin.
4 The Gallant, Grafton, Grenade and Greyhound.
5 D.R. p.11, para. 37.
55

Details

CHAP. XI
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
79, Of these 808 and 211,137 casualties were 1,129. Allied fit numbered 305,078.
At noon on the 3rd June British the fit total and of 13,004 troops casualties. evacuated had reached
Naval losses 2nd June
harbour at from motor boat sunk off Malo, and by enemy action,
The brightest Dunkirk feature had been of the carried night out was without that embarkation disturbance in the
and apart one losses off by enemy act from small craft from
collision or other misadventure, sinkings were confined to
In marked contradistinction attack the from 2nd. the heavy This losses of the 1st June only
ship was sunk from by air Calshot R.A.F. on station, which was the fast motor boat Seaplane one
at 1500 with Commander from J. C. the Clouston, situation R.N., pier master of the mole,
Tender 243, sailed from Dover for Dunkirk
was returning discussing with the staff at Dover, and a who
embarkation that the party; boats should she was be in used company with S.T. 276, the intention naval being
Walker during the night's work. At 1855, about 6 miles from Gravelines, 4
two as runners" for Rear-Admiral Wake-
enemy aircraft attacked S.T. 243, which received severe damage from a
miss and was abandoned in a sinking condition. Commander Clouston ordered near
S.T. 276 to proceed as the enemy aircraft were still continuing to attack, and
she subsequently arrived at Dunkirk though too badly damaged to be of service.
rating from S.T. 243 were picked up and saved.
Commander Clouston was seen later, drowned, and only one officer and one
The transport Royal Daffodil nearing Dunkirk from England was attacked
all movable gear to port and filling boats with water she was listed to bring
by aircraft about an hour after S.T. 243. The ship was holed but by shifting
the damage above water. The engineers, J. W. Coulthard and W. L. Evans
kept the motors running although the water had risen in the engine room, and
the ship returned to Margate under her own steam. Another personnel ship,
the Ben-My-Chree, was in collision on the evening of the 2nd shortly after
leaving Folkestone for Dunkirk, and took no further part in the operation.
Two further ships were sunk by mines on Route Y on the 2nd June, although
it was at first thought they had been torpedoed. At about 1600 the trawlers
Blackburn Rovers and Westella were on patrol near T buoy, when the former
blew up on a mine and sank instantly. As the Westella closed the position,
explosions from the Blackburn Rovers' depth charges lifted the ship out of the
water and put her asdic installation and pumps out of action. About 40
minutes later the Westella was herself blown up by a mine between S and T
buoys, and commenced to sink. Her depth charges were set to 'safe', and the
trawlers Saon and Grimsby Town sank her and picked up her survivors and
those of the Blackburn Rovers, some badly injured. (Appendix J.9, J.10).
Two other trawlers met with misadventure on the 2nd, but neither was sunk.
Details are lacking but it is known that the Spurs and another trawler, probably
either the Kingston Alalite or Kingston Olivine, were both damaged by gunfire.
The Spurs was on the patrol line, and it is not known how she came close
enough to the coast to be damaged by shore gunfire. Gunfire also sank the
Gallant's motor boat off Malo at 0210.
known. These were the Getuigt Vor Christus, the O.L.V. van Vlaandaren,
Three Belgian trawlers were lost on th 2nd June, though no details are
and the Sunny Isle.
Air co-operation, night 2nd-3rd June
The R.A.F. flew a patrol over the approaches to Dunkirk from about 2010
110

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Details

Details

Details

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX D
APPENDIX D
SIGNALS RE BUILD-UP OF DESTROYERS
BETWEEN 27th MAY AND 1st JUNE
Note (i)
The 213 signals in Appendices D to Z have been collated from the
some 370 which 2,500 accompanies Dynamo Admiralty signals in Record Admiralty Office Record Case 5458. Office Enclosure copies Box No. of
Note
(ii)
Command, 10 British destroyers-were employed of the Dover Command,
15 destroyers from from the the Portsmouth Nore Command, Command, 10 from and 6 the Western Approaches
total of 41 in Operation Dynamo.
Monday, 27th May
1. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY (R) C.-in-C. Nore
but not at the expense of Nore Command.
Request Dover Forces may be strengthened forthwith by six additional destroyers
1036/27
2. ADMIRALTY to C.-in-C. WESTERN APPROACHES, C.-in-C. PORTSMOUTH (R) Vice-
Dover. Admiral Dover, C.-in-C. Nore, C.-in-C. Home Fleet, F.O.I.C. Humber, R.A
Request four destroyers from Western Approaches and two from Portsmouth be
sailed for Dover as soon as possible.
1317/27
3. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Grafton (R) S.O. 10th M.S.F., Greyhound, Calcutta.
Close beach in vicinity of La Panne at 0100 and send in boats for British troops.
You should withdraw at your discretion and anyhow not later than 0330. Paddle
minesweepers and small craft will be in vicinity. Acknowledge.
2054/27
[V.A. Dover informed (between 2015 and 2055/27) that embarkation was only
possible from the beaches, and that evacuation on the night of 28th-29th May
was problematical (see Apps. M.3 and M.4) ].
4. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Grafton, Greyhound, Blyskawica (R) S.O. 10th M.S.F.
Close the beach at La Panne at 0100 tomorrow Tuesday and embark all possible
British troops using your boats. This is our last chance of saving them.
2127/27
4a.
2242/27 : I The Polish destroyer Blyskawica was not in company but she replied at
We have two pulling boats only. Can accommodate 3 in each
Monday, 27th May
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, Impulsive. DOVER to Gallant, Vivacious, Windsor, Vimy, Calcutta, Anthony.
all them. possible British troops using boats. last chance of saving
Close beaches one to three miles east of Dunkirk with utmost despatch and embark
Maid of Orleans, Lormont, your 17 drifters own and other This craft is our will be operating. 2142/27
6. VICE-ADMIRAL, 17 drifters DOVER to Wolfhound, Wolsey.
Direct arriving Dunkirk tonight
to beaches as necessary.
2158/27
7. VICE-ADMIRAL, Close DOVER to Vimy.
and embark the beaches one to three miles Tuesday
saving them. all possible British troops using east of your Dunkirk boats. at This 0100 is tomorrow our last chance of
2238/27
162

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

COPY
act of letter from Lieut. Charles Waterland Read, R.N.
dated 11th Sept.1940.
" I was sent to Ramsgate for the Evacuation, and selected the BONNY
HEATHER myself as a leader of a Convoy of motor boats for the Beach
work, and believe me the choice was justified, as of the whole lot
attached to the Convoy we were the only one to finish the course
throughout.
I'm afraid I am rather bad at descriptive accounts, but perhaps
one day I may have the pleasure of meeting you and then probably
be able to tell you more about the affair. This I can tell you, the
BONNY HEATHER behaved like a perfect lady in spite of theunusual
treatment she received, and stood up to it like a trojan and never
let us down - 7 complete round trips Ramsgate/Dunkirk after filling up
Transports (lying off) from the Beaches.
You say you heard third hand that we carried 80 men. I
don't know, of course, who told you that, but it was true on the last
trip, but normally about 60. On one trip that we picked up survivors
from the S.S. "Scotia" which was sunk by bombs, when full of French
Colonial tropps, we picked up the Chief Steward and 40 soldiers out
of the water and with our own crew a total of 45 wet sodden men, some
all in and they were lying about and not standing as soldiers were
in goodish condition, so you can imagine what your little vessel had
to put up with.
We tried to keep her in as good condition as possible under
the circumstances from sheer admiration of the gallant little ship,
which in my opinion deserves to carry the .C.colours.
I can't even begin to describe the Hell under which the
operations were carried out - bombed, machine gunned, shelled, caught
in parachute flares and bombed. - that little ship was certainly built
И
in a lucky zone, and dodging and twisting never once let us down,
f
loaded as she was.
V
dt
Trusting I have not bored you with this account, which I
tl
regret to say does not do justice to your famous little vessel. "
no
We
Th
on
iel
ne
I S
is
inf
whi
S.V
a machine gun and ammunition on board.
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on deck -
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

I am surprised that the Admiralty should be willing to sponsor a
book written as this is, but that is their affair. I don't think
it will hurt anyone but themselves. But it seems to me to be
patently untrue to say, as the introduction does, (to mention but
one example) that the evacuation from Dunkirk was "unspectacular"
and then to write it up in a whole book: to claim that the whole
success was entirely due to the Navy; to give no credit - not even
to mention, in the introduction - the work of the Air Force; to
say that it was the Navy alone who got the troops into the boats,*
and even to claim thatall the credit of the work by something like
600 non naval craft belongs to the Navy.
P.
4
The first para on page 4 is a queer description of an
"unspectacular" operation!
p.
4
Lord Gort had warned the Cabinet that evacuation from Dunkirk
might be moved on May 19 and the Admiralty began considering it
that day. Operation Dynamo began on May 26. Is this so "audden"
for the Navy?
p. 5
2nd para. The Army didn't all "wait on the beaches" while the
minute. And is it true to imply that while the Navy had the
gallant navy did all the work. The Army fought till the last
great losses stated the Army personnel lost at sea was only
"hundreds".
p.7
The description of the Campaign on p.7 seems to me almost wholly
inaccurate. What is a "typical fighting retreat"? The whole of
the B.E.F. fighting is discussed in the sentence "small delaying
actions by non combatants".
Counter attack "next day" if this means the 20th it
p. 8
Top is inaccurate. para. It appears on this page that operation in Dynamo the was
not, introduction, for here the War Office and Ministry of Shipping
after all, planned wholly by the Navy as claimed
If to the first conference on evacuation) it was not then
are the last para is still describing the 20th (which is the
mentioned.
"next day" that Calais was finally cut off and the garrison can at be Boulogne said
clear evacuated till May 24th. Also I doubt if it then
was accurately not that Destroyers "blew up the port of Boulogne" or
at any time.
p. 9
It is - "the Navy was right" in wishing to use a port. a This
not true to suggest that the Army wished evacuation from
the particular beaches boast is meaningless for any sane man prefers port if
it is available. 20th the leading troops of the B.E.F. reached untrue. Dunkirk" The is
meangingless quoted was sent by Mr Eden on the 27th May. Gen till Adam was
"on May and the end of this para is wholly
not telegram approached to organise the defence of the perimeter
May 26th.
The final and para the Germans were well aware of it. By the also page Dynamo
is only half true. Evacuation started before time
Dynamo started about 30,000 had already been evacuated (see 26).
And carelessly so written and full all of implied I have had or explicit seems open mis-statements. to question.
on. All the potted history seems to me to be far too
on I have p.36 not for read instance it all it but than is ridiculous rifles they (and had quite defeated untrue) it the with German to say
Armour". Agincourt that "with This when little is the more made victorious more ridiculous bow. troops had by the comparing advantage of a new
long range weapon in the long
* See for instance the photo opposite p.70.

Details

LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS.
A.A. CRUISER.
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS.
ANTHONY
INTREPID
VENOMOUS
BASILISK
IVANHOE
VERITY
CODRINGTON
JAGUAR
VIMY
ESK
JAVELIN
VIVACIOUS
EXPRESS
KEITH
WAKEFUL
GALLANT
MACKAY
WHITEHALL
GRAFTON
MALCOLM
WHITSHED
GRENADE
MONTROSE
WINCHELSEA
GREYHOUND
SABRE
WINDSOR
HARVESTER
SALADIN
WOLFHOUND
HAVANT
SCIMITAR
WOLSEY
ICARUS
SHIKARI
WORCESTER
IMPULSIVE
VANQUISHER
SLOOP.
BIDEFORD
CORVETTES.
GUILLEMOT
MALLARD
SHELDRAKE
KINGFISHER
SHEARWATER
WIDGEON
GUNBOATS.
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
MINESWEEPERS.
ALBURY
HEBE
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
BRIGHTON QUEEN
LEDA
SALTASH
DEVONIA
LYDD
SANDOWN
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SHARPSHOOTER
DUNDALK
MEDWAY QUEEN
SKIPJACK
EMPEROR OF INDIA
NIGER
SNAEFELL
FITZROY
ORIOLE
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
PANGBOURNE
SUTTON
GLENGOWER
PLINLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GOSSAMER
PORTSDOWN
WESTWARD HO
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WHIPPINGHAM
HALCYON
QUEEN OF THANET
Sunk.
(Continued)

Details

ENCLOSURE
No
2
TO DOVER LETTER OF 6 ans, 1940
Blwel 1359 -Kasa
OM :- The Flag Officer-in-Charge, Harwich.
:-
The Vice Admiral Dover.
Naval Officer-in-Charge, Ramsgate.
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, The Nore).
TE:- 15th June, 1940.
No. (M) J.60/40.
With reference to Operation "Dynamo" and Commander-in-Chief
ae Nore's 1411/8, the following small craft were sent from
he ports indicated in this Sub. Command and have not yet
rk
eturned.
rom Lowestoft.
at Newhaver Sxon 17/6
ishing Vessel
"Jane Hannah" (believed lost).
er.
rom Woodbridge.
acht.
"Major" (believed to be at Sheerness).
eller
rom Walton.
converted Lifeboat. APS "Barbara". (believed to be at Sheerness). ne
From Harwich.
Motor Boat of H.M.S. "GALLANT". (lost)
Motor Boat
"SEAMEW"
lost)
FROM Shotley. (H.M.S. "GANGES")
The following service boats
1 Sailing pinnace.
4 cutters.
4 whalers.
RT 10 E
3 skiffs.
You are requested to confirm that the above craft are not i.
your waters and to forward the list to Admiralty.
CAPTAIN Myan R.N.
for REAR ADMIRAL.
rk.
Barges.
ON.
F. Peters.
Towed to Ramsgate by DUKE.
N.
Leigh Building Supply Co.
"
"
"
If
PRINCE.
eam Tug.
Attached to N.C.S.O. Southend. Abandoned off Dunkirk: Engine
trouble.
VICE ADMIRAL
17 JUN 1940
*
TU
Oaptain,
N.C.S.O. Thames.
N.O.I.C. Southend.

Details

CONVIODORE
COPY.
*
H.M.S. "FORTE",
RECEIVED 27 16
C/o G.P.O.,
London.
11.9.40.
Dear Mr. Zoccola,
I have only to-day received your letter written on the 20th
August with your congratulations re Bar to my D.S.C., for which I
sincerely thank you.
Your letter had followed me all over the place - as I have
been attached to two ships since then, on escort and patrol work.
I was sent to Ramsgate for the Evacuation, and selected
the "Bonnie Heather" myself as leader of a Convoy of motor boats for
the Beach work, and believe me the choice was justified, as of the
whole lot attached to the Convoy we were the only one to finish the
course throughout.
I'm afraid I am rather bad at descriptive accounts, but per-
haps one day I may have the pleasure of meeting you and then probably
be able to tell you more about the affair. This I can tell you, the
"Bonnie Heather" behaved like a perfect Lady - in spite of the unusual
treatment she received, and stood up to it like a trojan and never let
us down - 7 complete round trips Ramsgate/Dunkirk after filling up
Transports (lying off) from the Beaches.
You say you heard third hand that we carried 80 men. I don't
know, of course, who told you that, but it was true on the last trip -
but normally about 60. On one trip that we picked up survivors from
the S.S. "Scotia", which was sunk by bombs, when full of French Colonial
troops, we picked up the Chief Steward and 40 soldiers out of the water
and with our own crew a total of 45, wet sodden men, some all in and
they were lying about and not standing as soldiers were in goodish con-
dition, so you can imagine what your little vessel had to put up with.
We tried to keep her in as good condition as possible under
the circumstances from sheer admiration of the gallant little ship,
which in my opinion deserves to carry the D.S.C. colors.
I can't even begin to describe the Hell under which the opera-
tions were carried out - bombed, machine gunned, shelled, caught in
parachute flares and bombed - that little ship was certainly built in
a lucky zone, and dodging and twisting never once let us down, loaded
as she was.
back that to few town of them VA very making folt regretfully able arrangements to by sign train. with on for employers, a month and etc. wont So
able seemed to warn me my too partners good to miss in any case, a month and I had with the
The to opportunity of playing boats for
or
Le
late in the afternoon Dockyard and interviewing mumerous signed on and
toured but there Sheerness was same difficulty that I in should getting be away for a bue bith Tic
to accurate be put 1dea what the job by was about and was 17.00 quite had formed people a TW was
the supervising off, the so fuel appealed and to the Commodore himself determined with few that
basin. Within half-an-hour victualling of explaining of the motor to
bo
night's

Details

ST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS.
A.A. CRUISER.
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS.
ANTHONY
INTREPID
VENOMOUS
BASILISK
IVANHOE
VERITY
CODRINGTON
JAGUAR
VIMY
ESK
JAVELIN
VIVACIOUS
EXPRESS
KEITH
WAKEFUL
GALLANT
MACKAY
WHITEHALL
GRAFTON
MALCOLM
WHITSHED
GRENADE
MONTROSE
WINCHELSEA
GREYHOUND
SABRE
WINDSOR
HARVESTER
SALADIN
WOLFHOUND
HAVANT
SCIMITAR
WOLSEY
ICARUS
SHIKARI
WORCESTER
IMPULSIVE
VANQUISHER
SLOOP.
BIDEFORD
CORVETTES.
GUILLEMOT
MALLARD
SHELDRAKE
KINGFISHER
SHEARWATER
WIDGEON
GUNBOATS.
LOCUST
f
MOSQUITO
MINESWEEPERS.
ALBURY
HEBE
BRIGHTON BELLE
ROSS
KELLETT
BRIGHTON QUEEN
SALAMANDER
LEDA
DEVONIA
SALTASH
LYDD
DUCHESS OF FIFE
SANDOWN
MARMION
DUNDALK
SHARPSHOOTER
MEDWAY QUENEN
EMPEROR OF INDIA
SKIPJACK
NIGER
FITZROY
SNAEFELL
ORIOLE
GLENAVON
SPEEDWELL
PANGBOURNE
GLENGOWER
SUTTON
PLINLIMMON
GOSSAMER
WAVERLEY
PORTSDOWN
GRACIE FIELDS
WESTWARD Ho
HALCYON
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WHIPPINGHAM
QUENN OF THANET
Sunk.
Conti

Details

Braved
PIC WORK OF
ches
ST. SEIRIOL
Steamer's
SEVEN TRIPS TO
23
cuation
DUNKIRK
Making seven trips to Dunkirk in the
d them on to waiting
other ships, and then
midst of heavy bombing, the North Wales
iol herself with about 900
pleasure steamer St. Seiriol (1,586 tons),
f the seven voyages.
now on Admiralty service, played a
FICER'S GALLANTRY
brilliant part in the rescue of 335,000
rvived was a miracle in
men, in which a thousand ships of all
dozen aircraft flew over
sizes took part last May.
circled round to make
Only now is it possible to reveal the full
D with their missiles, and
story of her gallant work-as told by Mr.
cks with machine-gun
E. Keble Chatterton. the well-known naval
n the Crested Eagle, an
writer, in The Epic of Dunkirk (Hurst
0, became a furnace after
and Blackett, 10s 6d). Merseyside was well
Seiriol got as close as
represented among the rescuing craft. The
about 5½ hours her crew
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. for
pick up survivors.
instance, had eight of their ships engaged.
ficer, Mr J. McNamee,
and lost three of them-iKng Orry, Mona's
ulean service. Immedi-
Queen, and Fenella. The North Wales
Company's vessels were St. Tudno, St. Silio
he was at the beach,
and St. Seiriol, but it was the last-named
the boats, helping men
that won particular notice from the naval
id ferrying them to the
essel.
authorities.
"On arrival in
partially paralysed below
Exhausted Crew
1 that he asked was per-
According to Mr. Chatterton she proved one
back and do one more
of the most useful vessels engaged, and her
two masters during this
crew, subject to the immense strain of aerial
Morris and Captain R.
attack, and without rest during her continual
journeys to and from the historic beach, were
finally in an advanced stage of physical and
MINED CREW
nervous exhaustion. A week before her first
nal courage and endur-
trip sho had already managed to enter Calais
and, defying bombs. had reached the quay and
says Mr. Chatterton,
got away safely. Then. on May 27 she went
impressed the naval
over to assist at Dunkirk.
uch trips also strained
At first she was at the jetty, but afterwards
etermined crew, so that
lay off the beach, where her boats did
ver the military doctor
invaluable service. She would send three boats
hands were unfit to
to the beach, bring off an average of about
ger. They were sent to
forty-seven men in each, though bombs
rest and another crew
dropped from the planes like rain. and load
them on to waiting destroyers or other ships,
continue the brave duty
and then fill up St. Seiriol herself with about
be associated with this
900 men on each of of the seven voyages.
Later on, in June,
How she survived was a miracle in
Iready published, was
itself." says Mr. Chatterton. Often a dozen
ees from Le Havre,
aircraft flew over simultaneously, circled
beril from fierce enemy
round to make careful direction with their
air, and again got back
missiles. and raked the decks with machine-
gun bullets."
When the Crested Eagle, an oil-burning
who will sail on this
ship, became a furnace after a direct hit. St.
e should be spared to
Seiriol got as close as possible, and for about
ce-time duties, will be
five and a half hours her crew were toiling
wledge of the brilliant
to pick up survivors.
in "the most difficult
Her chief officer, Mr. J. McNamee,
nd military operation
performed herculean service. Immediately
as the Admiralty
after this he was at the beach, wading in
comparable with the
from the boats, helping men on to them, and
amers' part at Zee-
ferrying them to the nearest large vessel.
On arrival in port he became partially
nd, if Royal Daffodil
paralysed below the waist, yet all that he
why not Royal St.
asked was permission to go back and do one
more trip. She had two masters during
this time, Captain R. Morris and Captain R.
D. Dobb.
The Royal St. Seiriol ?
The exceptional courage and endurance of
St, Seiriol," says Mr. Chatterton, consider.
ably impressed the naval authorities. Such
trips also strained and shook her determined
crew, so that on arrival at Dover the military
doctor decided that all hands, were unfit to
carry on any longer. They were sent to their
homes for rest and another crew took the ship
to continue the brave duty that must ever be
associated with this pleasure vessel."
Later, in June, St. Seiriol was evacuating
lement each time. Our
refugees from Le Havre, again in deadly peril
from fierce enemy assaults from the air, and
bombed and shelled ahea
again got back safely.
The part played by St. Seiriol in the most
t from a few shell spli
difficult combined naval and military opera-
amage.
tion ever carried out" recalls the epic exploit
of the Mersey ferry steamers, Royal Iris and
Royal Daffodil, at Zeebrugge in 1918. When
peace comes, perhaps St. Seiriol will achieve
icer, Mr Macdonald, had
Royal fame.
and smashed the glass o
standing.
It seemed an unluc

Details

mody
me
eu
ow
SOUTHERN RAILWAY
138
MOYO
Os,
of
ow
1008.
GENERAL MANAGER'S OFFICE,
WATERLOO STATION, S.E.1
MONTHLY'
100.
qu
T
46
47
please
70
erence.
DIRTOR
the
.XG.1929/40
22nd October, 1940
to
September, 1940.
0.00
OF
SIR,
OF
Q1,
my if you are yet in a position to
letter of the 20th September and to
I beg to draw your attention to
STATE
as become available
ion of British and French
ves
BOOM
enquire return to us the original reports made by
the Tilbury Contracting
on
the Masters of our vessels engaged in
ch are normally employed
the Dunkerque evacuation.
ne engaged upon contract
he appeal for volunteers
vice was answered by all
st to the last man.
oppers proceeded to
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
K
each of the five vessels
Viey
e general picture is that
to
25
B. Missender
, dropped anchor, launched
of the B.E.F. and French
heavy aerial attack as
theck
Lit
3, left Dunkirk again with
ark hours of Friday night,
during the course of
1st.
The Director of Sea Transport
Ministry of Shipping,
he crews was John Tarry,
Berkeley Square House,
dier on board out of the
Berkeley Square W.1
was transferred to
ters varied only in
vy swell running and
Iment, one salvo of
ad the opportunity of
; some shrapnel falling
to the unavoidable
or troops picked up and brought back
by ner could not be ascertained. During the operations one ship's
boat with troops on board was blown clean out of the water and
capsized by a bomb which fell close alongside withoutinjury to
any one. She sailed about 9.0.p.m. and just after leaving she
with odd pieces of wood, who were rescued. During her passage
sighted a small dinghy manned by five French soldiers rowing
back, enemy ships and aircraft were encountered. An air fight
took place overhead, and she was forced to make several detours
finally disembarking the troops at Ramsgate.
By way of recognition of their gallant services, the owners
have been able to obtain the special consent of the Board of Trade
to the issue to all the officers and men concerned of the Merchant
Navy Badge. It is understood that several individual names have
been mentioned in despatches.
S

Details

STAM
JANSINGO
138
EXTRACT FROM THE 'P.L.A. MONTHLY'
47
September, 1940.
asd
ECHOES OF DUNKIRK.
3
The following further information has become available
STATE
regarding the part played in the evacuation of British and French
soldiers from Dunkirk by the vessels of the Tilbury Contracting
9AY
THE
& Dredging Company, Limited, most of which are normally employed
in the Port of London but were at the time engaged upon contract
work for the Admiralty at Portsmouth. The appeal for volunteers
for despatch on secret and dangerous service was answered by all
the crews (some 76 officers and men) almost to the last man.
On Friday morning, May 31st, five steam hoppers proceeded to
Dunkirk.
Upon their arrival off the Beaches, each of the five vessels
had different individual experiences. The general picture is that
they all got as near in-shore as possible, dropped anchor, launched
life-boats to assist in embarking members of the B.E.F. and French
troops indifferently, and after enduring heavy aerial attack as
well as an artillery bombardment for hours, left Dunkirk again with
the rescued troops on board during the dark hours of Friday night,
landing her troops at Ramsgate or Margate during the course of
Saturday, June 1st.
The only casualty of any kind among the crews was John Tarry,
a deckhand, who in assisting to pull a soldier on board out of the
water unfortunately ruptured himself, and was transferred to
hospital upon returning to England.
The experiences of the individual Masters varied only in
detail. One vessel on arrival "found a heavy swell running and
was subjected to very severe aerial bombardment, one salvo of
bombs falling only a few yards away. She had the opportunity of
seeing several German aircraft brought down; some shrapnel falling
on the ship without hurting anyone. Owing to the unavoidable
confusion the exact number of troops picked up and brought back
by her could not be ascertained. During the operations one ship's
boat with troops on board was blown clean out of the water and
capsized by a bomb which fell close alongside withoutinjury to
any one. She sailed about 9.0.p.m. and just after leaving she
sighted a small dinghy manned by five French soldiers rowing
with odd pieces of wood, who were rescued. During her passage
back, enemy ships and aircraft were encountered. An air fight
took place overhead, and she was forced to make several detours
finally disembarking the troops at Ramsgate.
By way of recognition of their gallant services, the owners
have been able to obtain the special consent of the Board of Trade
to the issue to all the officers and men concerned of the Merchant
Navy Badge. It is understood that several individual names have
been mentioned in despatches.
S

Details

71a
2
BRITISH
SHIP
ADOPTION
3 TO THE
IT is, my opinion, more than ever to
Message in from the President of the Board SOCIETY of Education
NATION'S DEBT NAVY
be desired that the links between the
schools and our Merchant Navy, so happily
work the enterprise them. For that
Adoption Society, should now be strength-
forged in peace-time by the British Ship
Society of the
I am in issuing a British Ship
ened and not allowed to break. We all
of us recognise the debt which we owe
[Reprinted Minister from The Journal Ronald of Commerce which in Telegro
of Shipping's and Shipping Appeal
is
rupted admirable
their anxious, to
to our sailors, and the least we can do
that the by the and I
schools
is to try to keep alive the interest of
the schools in our ships and the men who
conditions overcoming the difficulties their
Shipping, Sir Mr. Douglas
of to the peace sea
RAMSBOTHAM. create. (Signed) HERS
of those who down down that term of it office will
seewners, that th
THE
DUNKIRK
An Epic WITHDRAWAL Story
the when he chairman, was received Mr.
is the story, in his own words,
Watts, secretary before the our conclusion London for his
men- as get a a square deal.
and
INCREASED INTEREST
"City this of Dieppe" concerning the part which
of a fireman in the Ellerman steamer
of We equipment gave and assisting
of vessel played during the withdrawal
the chief them coffee and injured
Mr. this see something
work Mr. of the over articles
Cross showed keen Navy's interest an
the British Expeditionary Force
well
Thelegraph. privileged ork that isComfort
the His many of distributions
Dunkirk, tion given in the course of from
The supply
as
the send for stores, Navy. receiving
There were a number of us in
when he called at our headquarters:- conversa-
than sleeves more like
of done the
men of the offices,
by
donkeyman came in and asked us to the
inn in Plymouth-when the bo'sun and a small
the Finally, our human freight in
a doctor-he was covered a
Service Avenue. was at Astarted of by which the has in in linking recent
aboard, we knew not what for, nor did go
ahead, engine-room telegraph rang was
that reason why. The watches were set we
was everyone was pleased that full
this Adoptione STATE
the B.E.F. homeward bound with a the
so of freely the able to Holn ob
and of which I was a member went down and
hoped who had done their portion
I to see
raised steam. After four hours at
sea, at the end of my watch, I found
four to go back and do more. bit
were bound for Dunkirk to bring back we
very journeys altogether, the last We made
many later as possible of the B.E.F. Two hours as
lying journey a hospital ship first 0
to of for of was convince the the which me this than and service of the set excellence up.
THE the the the this wond wond ful impressionised is
the last much a repetition of the thre
carried on. were in room on
Bombs we were attacked by
hitting the water than the vessels.
dropped in all directions, aeroplanes. more
Cross paid no attention to sunk The
Germans near us was bombed and which WAS
ships which could be plainly seen. the Re
us great more, Merchant is the debt Navy, we owe and
Our boats were swung out and
one to small craft sank a lifeboat was lowered as
under included, but we managed to ours
were bombed indiscriminately, Other
our would tion like to the repayment
occasion just Cross to There come been of THE many <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< THE American pa
were pick up the survivors. Volunteers
manned asked to man the boat. It
the our own steam. Eight get home
had obliged to sleep on deck as their crew were
crew were wounded and the members of
I to THE THE CANADA Service
cost by the 100 pullovers, garments the interes
with the by two A.B.s and three firemen, was
have
were struggling in the water. Eleven of them
pulled to the assistance of those We
second officer in command.
820 journey 760 men were brought back first and
been bombed out. On the quarters
Navy's Avenue, Merchant be grateful to broad- the
each time afterwards.
Comforts Service was hymn the offices a fe
on board the City of Dieppe.' The taken
pulled on to the lifeboat and
so on duty could not raise sufficient watch
the is a story of courage and heroism
In told this simple, straightforward language
was our back watch went down to assist. steam, Steam
to 120 lbs., when 240 is
sprit endures our race is unconquerable.
brotherhood of the sea. While such and
has Minister evacuation the the work The every reason of of the the to British stirred His recent Expeditionary the
Polish days later officer was who very visited glad to get for h
crew. recently wa
of Dunkirk general public number Before of between parcels
asked Quite to 120 provide men from The the service pro fo
pressure cleaned needed for emergencies. Having the
was board obtained and we were ready to
several fires the necessary steam
Honour for Ship's Officer
tion broadcast, each the day amounted to following
Mr. Schools will be delighted to learn that
received 30 and 35. the receive
for for vided over Northern a pullover waters. and a pair of socks in
on us the soldiers who were coming take
every man. work is not carried are encouraged on an
reach the quayside small craft and to
on floats. As we were not able to
has Creser, of adopted ship HJC/2la,
to boats brought the men out. They motor-
attempts Society's medal for particularly Humane gallant
been awarded the Royal
day, an Almost average the has, parcelsintment as
impersonal to This enclose way. with their Donors gifts their name
wounded, others were carrying two loads
be dead tired-some were slightly seemed
bitterest at rescue during of the
winter, storms in the Atlantic one last
Minister tunity Mr. Cross of of testifying to the
later
the
Bombs
assis
hitting
pressu
in the water.
Our
cleaned ied on to the life
one small 0
was obta the City of Dieppe.
to
on board ould not raise suffi
pick up us on floach went down to learn th
were
asked reach the qua 120 lbs. ship HJC/21
with manned the by boats brought for 0 Royal Huane
is
pulled
to be dead 1 fire particularly giane
strugglir
wounded, and during one of
the
could
Atlantic
was ebb, it being about poremost 2½ hours after the
so our watch went
was back to 120
pressure needed fc
cleaned several fire
was obtained and
tide number When of other I arrived vessels in Dunkerque Roads, bo
WO board the soldie
gling
floats.
As
pulled
th
pre clea so our watch
was back to
from the There shore was and some the confusion activity owing to the sound
W
pressure neede
ba
cleaned several
after 11 vesel.ard the O
was obtained
W board the
collision Just close to
on floats.
the

Details

- 2 -
"AITOOB" TROTENANT
3.55
(Wednesday Having embarked the troops We
trying
a.m.
just Channel after I saw leaving a troopship Dunkirk
was small could was full craft. then not of dark. say troops We if who these also were saw were being the on our the
JOOB" one BIOW wrecks.and when Wrecks. It. drog <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
The outward trip a
about ahead the on arriviting:
further vessels proceeding of incident. every "Scotia" description On our completed way - we passed its return-voyage.witter
4d
as many troops towards Dunkirk large and
wrecks and also in we I small sa
asswobelp. inspiring to see as these their vessels staft wouthers returning, their best to quite
off them. In which forms each an
render
We
arrived
and Its of were
SomaCrowding difficult outside until to as the the a shore berth ship was had at side. Dover a clear. heavy at Berthing list 10.0 a.m., was having rather waited
visafely smoothly on British and 3,000 soil. of our gallant However,
[Is] Mothe formation their the swood poop engin over
which was We done spent at some hours during the day
birs V.d THE funne. this
bewitmid-day Sheerness. 3.0 ordered a.m. and We shipped We arrived left ninety Dover for alongside Sheerness to enable coal on us hulk Thursday to proceed "Agincourt" coaling - 30th, to - about about part
was then off ordered the hulk to to Margate No. tons 13 Roads buoy of until coal. to 7.0 We a.m., were Friday. then
I bombs on <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
complete
bunkering.
no the supplied facilities by Coaling the at Naval Margate was Authorities a Roads. difficult The proposition "Scotia" having as there were
at stow THE
and carried coal was to bagged the bunkers. from the Coaster with "Jolly bags Days", and shovels, hove been
shipped in this
departments It was now 9.30 gave p.m., willing way. and Members untiring of assistance the crew from in all of
Altogether, ninety tons up, coal
Jatl owd
they completed, ordered I me signalled to await now effect, bunkering. being and
OWJ
Saturday. "Scotia" left The Margate order was to to this came at
maia?" sts
5.45
a.m.,
O,
miles courses from according No. 6 buoy to Roads The various
VASIT
was opposite repeated. signalled direction. by A one rouse.instructions, "Windy off No. 6 which Dunkirk was Channel going four in -
matters mand signs aside V
I
We passed saw us a sloop going in in few the minutes opposite afterwards direction the Buoy". Transport This "Prague" signal
lowered. our Commander Coust off the Dunki bow BY a now ves of
I learned later that tow the with sloop smoke had issuing had to from be and abandoned. a stem little to stern. later
enemy bombers About two miles from No. 6 buoy we saw
bombers, deck fire, all around and and but a kept Lewis they on for guns us. were Our We a guns counted Bren several opened ten poop
side the the came boat starboard had by wa la Be
helm and had us, the but engines none scored going at a hit. full speed. I Bombs manoeuvred were with dropped on
the The "Scotia" were the Comma bo
coming disappeared, enemy from A little vhile latery little whitht later little whille later no we this saw time several the British planes planes had
drove
the our planes gone than enemy
We were buoys now so approaching as to two avoid
by
1.
no.
engin

Details

- 2 -
"AITOO8" TROTSMART
trying
just 3.55 after a.m. I (Wednesday Having leaving embarked Dunkirk the troops We
was Channel full of saw troops a troopship who and
small craft. We also were the
I could was then not dark. say if these saw were a on our outward trip it sur
one DIO <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< about French at
The
further
"Scotia"
completed
its
of
THE vessels the - we large and
coducer off so came in In forma each sa
4d ahead and wrecks buoy trip also and small
assmobelp. to see these best to render quite
THE OF <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< the
We
outside difficult until as the a arrived berth ship was had at Dover clear. at Berthing 10.0.a.m., having
.gu the the DOO en a
visafely on British and 3,000 soil. of our gallant However, owing.to the troom
crowding smoothly to the shore side. a heavy list was rather waited
THE the the <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< IIst V.d <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< I
of Sheerness. which was We done spent at some Dover hours during the
BITS
bemitmad-day ordered 3.0 a.m. off and We the shipped We arrived left ninety for alongside Sheerness tons to enable of coal on us hulk Thursday to day "Agincourt" proceed coaling - 30th, to - about about part
was then ordered hulk to to Margate No. 13 Roads buoy until coal to complete 7.0 We a.m., were Friday. then
THE edu of the <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< the the injury ou
was carried shipped to the bunkers. the Coaster "Jolly Days", and shovels, hove been
and the coal was the bagged Naval from Authorities Roads. Theroposition with bags having as there
difficult bunkering. were
at
stow jailowt vd Lemphe to The wer of tr
in this
It departments gave willing way. crew ninety tons of
up, coal
completed, was now I 9.30 signalled p.m., from in bunkering. all
OWJ
Saturday. they ordered The me order to now effect, 5.45 being and
courses "Scotia" left Margate was to proceed to this came at
miss" VISIT sts nes V
a.m.,
miles from according No.6 buoy to The various
matters hand hand signs
befewas was opposite signalled direction. by one Channel four -
passed repeated. us A few 6 which Buoy". was going signal in I
our Couch
We I learned saw a sloop going in in tow the smoke the and Transport a This later "Prague"
later that the sloop had issuing had to from be stem little to stern.
th S
bombers, enemy bombers but About two miles from No. 6 buoy we abandoned.
all helm deck fire, around and and a kept us, Lewis they on navigating our for guns us. were Our We saw guns counted several opened ten poop
came the boat out on and "Scotia the the cont
and had A the but engines going at a bridge. hit. full I speed. Bombs manoeuvred were a Bren with dropped on
disappeared, coming from little while latery we saw several British planes
drove
our this planes time the enemy planes
had
Channel We were buoys now gone so approaching than two

Details

as
opposite)
number
254
622
THE WINE AND SPIRIT TRADE RECORD
17TH JUNE, 1940.
Co.'s Sherries). In giving a picture of Mr. Clarkson
LICENSED PREMISES, CLUBS, ETC.,
(captain of the Mimosa) and Mr. Clark (who organised
IN 1939.
the "Brighton Navy The Daily Sketch, in its issue
of 5th June, remarked that "nothing more glorious
in the annals of Britain's sea history has been done
THE Report of the Commissioner of Police of the
than the work of our longshoremen in the rescue of
Metropolis for 1939 contains the following remarks
the B.E.F. from Dunkirk."
concerning "on" and "off" licences, etc.:-
When the full story can be told, Londoners will
be proud of the gallant part played in the evacuation
LICENSED PREMISES.
of our soldiers from Dunkirk by the G.S.N. Co.'s
"The number of premises licensed for the sale of
pleasure steamers which, in happier days carried
intoxicating liquor 'on' and ' off' the premises
thousands of holiday-makers from London and
Chatham to the holiday resorts of Essex and Kent, and
increased by 4 to 7,603. The number of 'off' licences
also to the near Continental holiday centres. Such
was unchanged at 3,553. The number of licences for
well-known ships as the P/S.s Royal Eagle, Crested
Wine and Spirit dealers is 251 and for theatres 76.
Eagle, Medway Queen, M/V.s Royal Daffodil, Royal
Sovereign and Queen of the Channel, all took their
" Applications were made by most licensed
share in this hazardous undertaking. Not only
premises for extension of the permitted hours on 23rd
pleasure steamers of the General Steam Navigation
December and on New Year's Eve. These days were
Co. took part, but also their cargo boats. Here is what
may be described as a typical performance by one of
regarded as special occasions justifying the grant of
the company's cargo boats:-
Special Orders of Exemption, and 14,114 Orders were
NOTES FROM CAPTAIN H. BUXTON'S REPORT.
granted. There was no increased drunkenness which
M.v. Bullfinch.
At 10.20 p.m. on 28th May, 1940, whilst at anchor in
could be attributed to the grant of these facilities.
Small Downs, the m.v. Bullfinch received orders to sail at
CLUBS.
once for La Panne beaches. The ship arrived off the beaches
about 4.50 a.m. on 29th May. The beach was crowded with
"The number of registered clubs increased by 216
troops but there were only a few boats bringing off small
numbers. The Master received orders to beach the Bullfinch
and on 31st December, 1939, the total number was
and accordingly he let go the kedge anchor and headed slow
3,085. This increase is almost entirely accounted for
for the beach. The vessel grounded about 5.45 a.m., but
owing to the kedge anchor not holding, her stern swung to
by the formation of registered clubs at fire stations
the eastward and the ship was aground fore and aft with
the beach.
and auxiliary fire stations. Since the outbreak of war,
After the first boatload came aboard one of the troops
no less than 193 such clubs were formed.
swam ashore with a line. Two 5in. ropes were run ashore
and hauled boats off and back to the beach. When the tide
"The short life of many 'Social' clubs of the type
receded the troops waded off and embarked up the ship's
ladders. Embarkation proceeded until the ship had about
which give trouble to the police was once again
1,500 on board, during which time the ballast tanks were
noticed. During 1939, 262 such clubs were registered
pumped out. The ladders were then pulled up, as the ship
could take no more.
and 253 were closed or struck off the register.
The troops had two Bren guns with them, which were
Proceedings for irregularities were taken against
mounted one each side of the boat deck. The troops also
manned the ship's Lewis gun. Bomb attacks were taking
82 registered clubs, of which 54 were struck off the
place all day and after a very anxious time from 5.30 p.m.
until 6.15 p.m., the vessel floated and proceeded.
register. The amount of fines and costs imposed was
German aircraft attacked the ship repeatedly. When
£5,364 9s. 7d. and 15 persons were sent to prison in
passing Dunkirk several bombs dropped close to the vessel's
stern, the concussion from which caused the circuit breaker
default of payment of fines.
to come out and put the steering gear out of action. The
BOTTLE PARTIES.
engines were stopped whilst the engineers effected repairs,
and the ship then proceeded.
"There was a slight increase during the year in
Three dive bombers then attacked the Bullfinch from aft.
One of the Bren gunners, Sergeant Cook, shot one down into
the number of known 'bottle parties' from 24 to 28
the sea. Shortly afterwards three others attacked from
forward and the sergeant again shot one down. Further
Successful proceedings were taken by the police in 32
attacks were made at frequent intervals until a formation
cases for liquor offences, or for unlicensed pub
of Spitfires drove the enemy off.
On arrival in the Small Downs the Bullfinch received
music and dancing, or for both these offences, ar.
orders to proceed to - Harbour where the troops were
fines and costs amounting to £3,420 6s. 10d. were
promptly disembarked.
It was afterwards discovered that the concussion from
imposed. In three cases the proprietors of the bottle
the exploding bombs had put both compasses out. The ship
was on one occasion attacked by machine-gun fire, but only
parties were sentenced to imprisonment without the
one soldier was wounded. The Master of the Bullfinch stated
option of paying a fine. In addition, proceedings were
that he could not speak too highly of the Bren gunner who
held his fire until the planes were close to the vessel and
taken in a number of cases by the Customs and Excise
undoubtedly saved the ship.
on evidence supplied by the police, for soliciting orders
We hope on a later occasion to give further details
of the magnificent work done by the seamen and others
for intoxicating liquor on the premises of the 'bottle
of the General Steam Navigation Co., Ltd., work of
party or for failing to have a tobacco licence, or a
which the directors of the company are justifiably
refreshment house licence. This resulted in additional
proud.
penalties amounting to £863 9s. Od."

Details

Dynam 196.
108
107
June 7th, 1940.
Supplementary to a brief report given to the
Resident N.O. at Poole - From the 0.0. H.H.S.
"Pascholl".
The above ship returned from La Panne to
Sheerness on Sunday 2nd June. Her Captain immediately
left her to return to his duties in Naval Control,
Ramagate. At 1830, on instructions from the Commodore's
Office, I reported to Admiral Taylor and without further
notice, was told by him to take command of the above
ship, and take her to Dunkirk. There being no routing
orders available I was told instead to await the
departure of H.N.S. "Reiger" and sail in company to
Ramsgate. "Reiger" was unable to sail until 1630
and Ramsgate was reached at 2300. To anchored and
went ashore for instructions which were to our intense
disappointment; we were to be off for the night and
await further instructions. With the exception of
two of the ship's company, all on board complained that they were
reliefs for the original crew and asked to be relieved,
having done one or maybe two trips across already. It
proved impossible to do this for them until Tuesday
morning, but after they had been allocated definite
jobs and posts during the operations and had been given a
little verbal encouragement they settled down, gave of
their best and did their duty in traditional manner.
2. At 1430 Monday, 3rd June, I was advised that the
"Pascholl" would be salling as flagship with four other
Schults. At 1500 Commander Hammond, R.N. cnme on
board with his navigator, Lieutenant de Mornay, H.M.
With great tact and understanding they assured me that
they were largely passengers and in no way intended to
interfere with, or supercede the Captain. by somewhat
natural disappointment at the apparent loss, in spite
of these assurances, of the opportunity of conducting
the operations on my own initiative, was more than
offset by company, guidance and encouragement they
afforded to the two Officers of the ship.
5. We sailed at 1600 and promptly loat one of the
five ships - "Reiger" which,, to Commander Hamond's
lurid disgust, went on the putty (Quern Sand).
Overtaking a convoy of wierd, but gallant little French
fishermen, we arrived in Dunkirk harbour at 3500
after a most tame passage. The town was blasing
furiously and presented a trult memorable spectacle.
The harbour Was congested, sonté of the ships there
being wrecked, and in cases already ablase. Difficult
navigation was intensified by our not being able to
find the Nouveau Avant Port (no proper plan of the
harbour being available ), our perigrinations nearly
putting us on the putty twice. In desperation we
went alongaide the Packet boat quay of. the inner
harbour, secured and got ladders aboard. Commander
Troup, waiting on the quay immediately asked our
capacity, and I foolishly but optimistically replied
"Oh, between 500 and 1,000% Poilus in reasonable
order commeneed to invade the ship and were embarked
in an orderly fashion, each mon being disarmed before
being allowed to descend into the hold. The work of
embarkation was su ervised by the First Licutenant
(Sub Lieut. St. Aubin, R.N.V.R.) in & most creditable
manner

Details

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

Details

COPY.
0071
359
- 226
0771051, VREBON PORTN.
Principal Sea Transport Office, French Ports.
358
c/o Ministry of Shipping, (Room 8009),
Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square,
335
DUPLICATE
LONDON, Wele
24th June, 1940.
of & from Widelle,
The Director of Sea Transport. Inlais in Def.Cor
I
RM beinging the millers notion of the Skipper to the
Submitted: Director of Sea vium to his butag
Forwarded with a request that the gallant action
you please and Sity
of these two men may be suitably rewarded.
for
vas on the guay as the SIGNED: W.P. GANDELL
Whithle's which 65 does
the quest.
COMMODORE, R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER,
ty address up to 683 Aund FRENCH PORTS.
Hotol,
for Delecipal for Transport Officer,
Printi locts,
5.5 Senstall,
(63gma)
Secretary.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signal) nome
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

Details

COPY.
359
FROM
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER, FRENCH PORTS.
- 336
TO
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER. (Copy to MA/DST).
31st May, 1940.
R.N.R., of my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter
I enclose a. copy of a report from Moutenant Whittle,
"Lord Howe".
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the
notice rewarded. of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members
of his crow should also be brought to the notice of the Director
of Sea Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse
all parts of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done
alongside the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of PaSaTeO.,
South-Western Hotel, Southampton, States,
for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P. Gandell, R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary.
DUE
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
(signed)
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of See Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
(signed) Erio Bush.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.
Dover.
20th June, 1940.

Details

442
-2-
- 416
fire and bombing. I would especially mention M.T.B. 102
under the command of Lieutenant Dreyer, who carried out my
orders with remarkable skill and cooiness and who took R.A.D.
off H.M.S. "KEITH" during a dive bombing attack as though
he were going alongside a jetty in peace time. Lieutenant
Everett in M.A.S.B. 6 evacuated Lord Gort. On one occasion
he was subjected to intense machine gun and dive bombing
attacks during daylight hours whilst saving the lives of
British soldiers off La Panne. Lieutenant Eyre of M.A.S.B.
10 also showed himself to be a level headed and gallant Officer
and quite untiring.
During operation Dynamo no boats were seriously
damaged and the casualties only amounted to four ratings
wounded.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant.
R.N.
Commanding Officer M.T.B's.
VICE ADMIRAL
11 JUN 1940
*
*
= R
D

Details

487
SPECIAL FLEET ORDER No. 1.
/
458
8th June, 1940
EVACUATION of the BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE from DUNKIRK
The undermentioned ratings of the War Department Fleet are commended for
the gallant part they played in connection with the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk - 30th May to 3rd June, 1940
W.D.M.L. "GROUSE"
T/Mate i/c
Mason, W.T.
T/A.B.
Taylor, J.R.
T/3/Engr.
Hewett, c.
68
1486
457
Cl.Mr.
Wales, P.J.
H.M.S. HORNET,
Allen, 8.
Farmer, 7.
GOSPORT
Engr.
Walter, R.
HANTS.
Engr.
Crabb, S.
6.
40
hear Dennis xxx marth
i/c
Cains, A.E.
Vine, A.S.
Engr.
Spain, J.H.
I uninction you require
have 7 two ? the
Cl.Mr.
Matthews, J.
w of N.TB. 68 in connection
B.
Ferrier, c.
S.
Durrant, x.
a the consulation ?
Engr.
Stone, A.L.
Engr.
Stewart, R.
unkugat.
Then was liten to chose
ate 1/0
Yealland, 3.L.
B.
Brenton, J.
whom the behavior 7
Engr
Rowe, S.B.
by ? my crew- they were
ee excellent.
my
ate i/o
Clarke, W.R.
Hay, H.
Engr.
Cherry, F.
Peaman and are
camer zone however
/Cl.Mr.
Beard, E.L.
particularly worry of vertin
Thompson, A.
Engr.
Hodgkinson, D.
Their name . of
a i/o
Bell, L.C.
4/ A.B.
Parry, A.J.
3rd Engr.
Bygrave, 3.

Details

487
SPECIAL FLEET ORDER No. 1.
458
8th June, 1940
EVACUATION of the BRITISH EXPEDITIONARY FORCE from DUNKIRK
The undermentioned ratings of the War Department Fleet are commended for
the gallant part they played in connection with the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk - 30th May to 3rd June, 1940
W.D.M.L."GROUSE"
T/Mate i/c
Mason, W.T.
T/A.B.
Taylor, J.R.
T/3/Engr.
Hewett, C.
W.D.M.L. "HAIG"
A/1/Cl.Mr.
Wales, F.J.
A.B.
Allen, 8.
A.B.
Farmer, 7.
1st Engr.
Walter, R.
3rd Engr.
Crabb, S.
W.D.M.L. "KESTREL"
Mate 1/c
Cains, A.B.
A.B.
Vine, A.E.
T/3/Engr.
Spain, J.H.
W.D.M.L. "MAPLBOROUGH"
A/1/Cl.Mr.
Matthewa, J.
T/A.B.
Ferrier, C.
T/O.S.
Durrant, K.
T/3/Engr.
Stone, A.L.
T/3/Engr.
Stewart, R.
W.D.M.L. "PIGEON"
T/Mate 1/c
Yealland, E.L.
T/A.B.
Brenton, J.
T/3/Engr
Rowe, S.B.
W.D.M.L. "SWALLOW"
T/Mate i/c
Clarke, W.R.
A.B.
Hay, H.
3rd Engr.
Cherry, F.
T/2/Cl.Mr.
Beard, E.L.
W.D.M.L. "WOLFE"
Thompson, A.
A.B.
T/3/Engr.
Hodgkinson, D.
Mate i/c
Bell, L.C.
W.D.M.L. "VULTURE"
T/A.B.
Parry, A.J.
3rd Engr.
Bygrave, F.

Details

2.
Lt. General Sir the Forces Walter Venning, has K.C.B., C.M.G., C.B.E., 1--488
General above eight to vessels: sent the following letter to M.C., the Masters Quarter of Master the
459
"I fine wish part to which thank you, your engineer and crew for the
tion of the you and they played in the recent evacua- very
B.E.F.
In in which particular the I wish to convey my admiration for the
volunteered personnel of the W.D. vessels participating way
their normal duties.
to perform a dangerous task quite outside
To have been successful in saving the lives of over 1,300
British and Allied soldiers is a feat of which all of you
concerned may well feel proud.
The damage done to so many of the craft engaged is a testi-
mony to the dangers which you and those serving under you
faced with cheerfulness and gallantry.
I am proud to think that, as Quartermaster-General to the
Forces, the War Department fleet comes within my sphere."
In addition, Colonel A.S. Redman - Deputy Director of Transportation
Equipment, Ministry of Supply has written me privately - - as follows:
"Dunkirk, May 30th to June 3rd, 1940.
I took my hat off to the Navy, but I have put it on again
and now take it off to the Fleet.
I was extremely interested to receive the particulars you
sent me yesterday, and shall keep them in memory of very
gallant actions. You must be proud of your lads."
Whilst Captain P.Hodgkinson - who as Officer i/c Transport at Portsmouth has
for so long been intimately connected with the War Department fleet has
generously sent the following message:
"All ranks of the War Department Fleet at Portamouth wish
to convey to those members of the Fleet, who took part in
the recent evacuation from Flanders, their congratulations
on a hazardous job well carried out, and felicitations on
their safe return.
With the above, the members of the Transport Staff at
Portsmouth also wish to be associated. They appear to
have well supported the motto of the Corps."
Finally I, as your Commanding Officer, would like once again to express my
deep appreciation of the work you all did.
Well done.
G.EBadwook Colonel
Woolwich
A. D. M. T.
8 June, 1940

Details

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
2 JUIN 1940
COPY.
INITIALS
0
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA TRANSPORT
OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
E D.C.
TO.
CAPTAIN
A/P, DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
ors.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of
my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter 'Lord Howe".
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the notice
of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members of his
crew should also be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea
Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse all parts
of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done alongside
the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton,
for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas H.Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Dover.
tric Bush.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.

Details

FILE
ANSWERED
511
Y
YXI
PUT AWAY
2 JUIN 1940
COPY.
INITIALS
482
P.S.T.O.
FROM.
PRINCIPAL
SEA
TRANSPORT
OFFICER
FRENCH PORTS.
EDC.
TO.
CAPTAIN A/P, DOVER.
Copy to MA/DST).
OPS.
31st May 1940.
PAY.
I enclose a copy of a report from Lieutenant Whittle, R.N.R., of
my Staff, who took passage to Calais in the Drifter Lord Howe".
I am bringing the gallant action of the Skipper to the notice
of the Director of Sea Transport with a view to his being rewarded.
Can you please ascertain, and report to me, what members of his
crew should also be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea
Transport for reward.
I was on the quay at the time and can therefore endorse all parts
of Lieutenant Whittle's report, which refers to work done alongside
the quay.
My address up to 4th June will be care of P.S.T.O., South-Western
Hotel, Southampton,
for Principal Sea Transport Officer,
French Ports,
(Commodore W.P.Gandell,R.N.)
(signed)
Secretary,
II.
P.S.T.O., French Ports.
It is requested that the names of the following ratings
may be brought to the notice of the Director of Sea Transport:-
Second Hand Thomas .Christian, R.N.R., LT/HO.
Seaman William Bullen, R.N.R., LT/HO.
tric Bush.
Dover.
20th June 1940.
CAPTAIN AUXILIARY PATROL.