Details

BLOCKSHIPS
Blocking of Dunkirk Inner Harbour.
This operation was carried out on 2 successive nights,
under the command of Captain E. Dangerfield R.N. The ships
employed were as follows:
2nd/3rd June
dr. Vivacious,
M.A/S.B.7.
M.T.B.107, and the blockships
West Cove,
Edvard Nissen,
Holland.
3rd/4th June
dr. Shikari,
M.A/S.B.10,
M.T.B.107, and the blockships
Gourko,
Moyle,
Pacifico.
Two of the blockships were sunk on the way to the
harbour; the Holland by collision with an unknown personnel
ship; the Gourko by what is said to have been a magnetic mine(1).
The blocking operation was made difficult by the ebb tide,
and the strength of the out-going current was greater than had
been expected. Consequently, a gap of about 100 to 120 feet
was left unobstructed on the west side of the channel; part of
this gap, however, was shoal water, because of the shelving
bank.
The following awards were made to the operation staff;
Mention in Despatches.
Capt. E. Dangerfield R.N.
Lieut. R.A.F. Heap, R.N.
(1) Gourko was de-gaussed, and had been wiped in Chatham
Dockyard on 31st May.
107

Details

EXPRESS (H.61) 20th Destroyer Flotilla Capt. (D) J.G.Bickford,
D.S.C.
28th May
0600
Express Portsmouth. and dr. Esk arrived at
1415
2000
Arrived Dover.
Sailed for Dover, Esk in company.
2040
Express and Esk, in company with
Malcolm and Scimitar proceeded via
Zuydcoote Channel.
29th May
0130
Arrived off Bray beach. Lowered boats
1250
and embarked troops. One whaler lost.
Air attack on Dunkirk.
1400
Transferred S.N.O. Dunkirk from Malo
to La Panne. With about 500 troops
on board, proceeded into Dunkirk.
1530
About to secure alongside dr. Grenade.
Dive bomb attack; near misses ahead
and astern; proceeded out of harbour
[Grenade was sunk by bombs at 1800].
dr. Jaguar sighted, stopped and
disabled, drifting on to a wreck.
Express towed her clear and took off
some of her troops and about 45 wounded
1800
Towed Jaguar astern.
1830
Tow parted. Transferred the remainder
of Jaguar's troops and proceeded,
leaving a trawler to escort Jaguar.
2400
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 650 troops.
30th May
0920
Proceeded by route Y.
1245
Alongside Dunkirk pier. Embarked about
800 troops.
1315
Proceeded.
1650
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,067
troops. (1).
1800
Proceeded by route Y.
2130
Off La Panne beach. Embarked troops.
31st May
0250
Embarked R.A. Dover and his staff from
dr. Worcester.
0700
R.A. Dover transferred to the dr. Keith.
Embarked more troops, including
Major General Thorne. Proceeded with
about 600 troops.
1115
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 467
1st June
Made good small defects.
2nd June
2200
Left Dover.
3rd June
0200
Entered Dunkirk. The pier was devoid
of troops. Ordered by R.A. Dover to
return in company with dr. Codrington
0500
Dover.
2200
Left Dover. Ran into fog.
4th June
0230
Arrived Dunkirk. An unknown ship
[i.e. blockship Gourko] seen to sink,
presumably to mined. the pier. Embarked beach 600
French Secured troops and the British
party.
(1) D.R.
303

Details

3
GOSSAMER (continued)
3rd June
2030
The On reported both the last 2 trips M.T.B's
the on the return journey. were A8
it whole route was full of M/B's
identify them.
was difficult to know how to
& for Dunkisk.
4th
June
0130
The
blockships
Total 3214(1)
No.14
Captain
0.00
DI the bloorchies to
Authority - R.O.I., p.263. the
0225
Care Hemaing to Courko,
0230
Shikari
The following awards were made:
Gourko
D.S.O.
if
Cdr. R.C.V. ROSS, R.N.
0245
Gourko
was
D.S.M.
by
P.O.
E.W. Higgs.
Asst. Cook T.H. Ward.
was
cumites.
Mention in Despatches
took
to
P.O. Stwd. A. Hockney.
0345
red picked up
of the
One of the
[The on
Authority - H.011431/40.

Details

GOURKO( (1)
Blockship
Cdr. A.V. Hemming, R.N.
3rd June
2030
The blockships Gourko, Moyle
Pacifico, Shikari in company with and
M.A/S.B.10 off sailed from a position
(with M.T.B.107 in dr. tow) and
z, for Dunkirk.
the S. Goodwin L.V., via route
4th June
0130
The blockships anchored off Dunkirk,
between No. 14 W. and No.16 W. buoys.
Captain Dangerfield and the C.Os.
of the blockships transferred to
M.A/S.B.10 and made a reconnaissance
of the harbour.
0225
Cdr. Hemming returned to Gourko,
weighed and closed.
0230
Shikari which proceeded to lead to a
position for entering the harbour.
0240ca
Near No. 17 buoy Dunkirk roads,
Gourko anchored while Captain
Dangerfield in M.A/S.B.10 went
forward to see if all was clear.
0245
Gourko weighed anchor. When anchor
was nearly aweigh, a violent
explosion in Gourko occurred aft,
caused by a magnetic mine.
"Abandon ship" was ordered as Gourko
was rapidly sinking. She sank stern
first in 3 minutes. M.A/S.B.10
took off nine survivors and transfer-
red them to Shikari. Seven others
0345
were picked up some from alongside,
some out of the water by M.T.B.107.
One of the crew was missing, and 8
wounded.
were [The other 2 blockships carried on
with the operation.]
Authority - M.011431/40.

Details

MALCOLM (continued)
0309
1st (contd.) June
Arrived off Dunkirk. Spoke the dr.
0315
Worcester, lying off.
Secured alongside east pier, which was
crowded with troops and no other
1,000. ships alongside. Embarked about
Soon after, other destroyers and
transports entered.
0442
Proceeded by route X.
0758
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,200 troops
E
2nd June
2206
Sailed for Dunkirk.
3rd June
0145
Off Dunkirk.
0212
All destroyers ordered back to Dover
except Malcolm and Whitshed.
0248
R.A. Dover ordered all destroyers back
to Dover.
0530
Arrived Dover, empty.
1730
Embarked food for French troops and 2
French naval ratings to assist in
their embarkation.
2108
Proceeded.
4th June
0023
Arrived off Dunkirk. Several destroyers
and other vessels waiting to go in.
The G/B Locust was lying off and
embarking men from small craft.
0210
Secured alongside east pier. Embarke/
about 800 French troops, carrying
their enormous packs.
0225
Locust came alongside, ahead of Malcolm,
and filled up with about 200 French
troops.
0245
Slipped. Outside Dunkirk met
Shikari and signalled her to return
to Dover. Found she was escorting
a blockship [the Gourko]. A magnetic
mine exploded alongside the blockship
just after Malcolm passed her at
about 1/2 a cable's distance.
-
In fog, near North Goodwin, picked up
some survivors of a "schuyt" which
had been sunk by collision with a
minesweeper [the M/S Leda had sunk
the Belgian trawler Marechal Foch].
Took in tow a French motor boat which
was picking up survivors and whose
propeller had been disabled by
wreckage; Admiral Abrial, French
Commander-in-Chief, Dunkirk was on
board her. (1)
0600ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 736 French
troops, and the French C. in C. who
was received by the V.A. Dover.
Total 5,851.
Authority R.O.I. p.104.
(1) See also the Newhaven, which states she embarked Admiral
Abrial.
223

Details

M.A/S.B.10
89th A/S Group Portland
Lieut. R.G.H.G. Eyre,
R.M.
1st June
1715
Embarked Dunkirk. R.A. Dover and proceeded to
1900
Secured Dunkirk. at inner end of Eastern arm
2115
slipped. Underway throughout the night
directing evacuation.
2nd June
0300
Set course for Dover.
0430
Arrived Dover.
1815
Embarked R.A. Dover and Adm. Sir James
Somerville and their staffs and
proceeded to Dunkirk.
1945
Arrived Dunkirk.
2100
Slipped( and remained under way
throughout the night directing
evacuation.
3rd June
0300ca
Embarked some naval ratings of the shore
party from eastern arm and proceeded
with the R.A. Dover.
0427
Arrived Dover.
1500
Embarked Capt. G.A. Garnons-Williams R.M.
and proceeded to the Downs to issue
orders to blockships. Returned to
Dover 1630.
1800
Proceeded to join the dr. Shikari which
was with 3 blockships the Gourko,
Moyle and Pacifico]. Carried out
screening duties ahead of the block-
ships on passage to Dunkirk.
4th June
0115
Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked the C.O's of
the blockships and Capt. E. Danger-
field, R.N. Reconnoitred the harbour.
0200
Returned to the blockships.
0215
The Gourko blew up. "Picked up all
survivors" and transferred them to
the Shikari". (2)
0345
Embarked the last of the block-ships'
crews and proceeded to Dover.
0600
Arrived Dover.
N11
Authority - R.O.II, p.474.
The following award was made:
Mention in Despatches
Lieut. R.G. H.G. Eyre, R.N.
(1) S.N.O. Dunkirk that General the Hon. H.R.L.G. Wake-Walker 2nd June. in
Alexander a"M.T.B." 2130 second on Despatch,
According to is the stated Appendix that to General Alexander S.N.O. Dunkirk left Dunkirk
however, in a motor it boat [1.e. M.T.B.102] with
(Capt. Tennant, R.N.)
e M.T.B.107.
257

Details

MOYLE
Blockship
Lt. Cdr. R.H.D. Lane, R.N.
3rd June
1800
Anchored off the S. Goodwin L.V.,
2015
2 other blockships in company.
Weighed and proceeded in order Shikari,
shill
Gourko, pacifico, Moyle. M.A/S.B.10
was in company, M.T.B.107 was in tow
of Shikar1.
4th June
0130ca
Anchored west of Dunkirk.
Capt. Dangerfield and the C.Os. of
blockships embarked in M.A/S.B.10
and reconnoitred the harbour.
0230ca
Weighed to shift berth close to the
entrance, Moyle's 2 lifeboats
towing alongside.
0245
Gourko struck a magnetic mine and sank
in 3 minutes.
0250
Ordered by Capt. Dangerfield to "Go in".
0300
Moyle entered harbour, and proceeded to
the inner channel. When between the
inner west pier and the wreck of the
Westcove she rammed the former, and
scuttled the Moyle. As Moyle sank,
she slid off the bank towards the
centre of the channel (as the Westcove
had done), and finally settled at a
slight angle to the line of the
channel, her after part being
against the Westcove.
Authority - M.011431/40.
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
C.E.R.A. C.B. Clapson.
Mention in Despatches.
Lt. Cdr. R.H.D. Lane, R.N.
308

Details

by
OOEL
DEAL
boy date
M.T.B.102 (continued) M.T.D. Flotilla
Ment. J.Cameron, R.H.V.
May
0800
Authority - R.O.II, p.459.
Lofa Dover, Portsmouth for Felizatows via
DOS
28th May
1200
1830
Arrived Felixatowe.
Left Felixatove on patrol.
The following awards were made: to Felixatowe.
D.S.C. May
0600
Left Pelizatowe for Dover.
Lieut. C.W.S. Dreyer, 1745 R.N. Left Dover in company with N.R.B.67.
Off Dunkirk. M.T.B.67 closed dr.
D.S.M.
Keith (R.A. Dover on board) for
00
E.R.A.3rd Cl.
orders. Proceeded to La Panno with
G.W. Hymas.
M.T.B.67.
YOU tall
A.B.
A.R.C. Stephens. ed out various duties, including
some rescue work, and cruised in
company with M.T.B.67.
2100
Proceeded to Dover in company with
M.T.B.67=
2315
Arrived Dover.
1st June
1100
Left Dover with Odre. T.J. Hallett on
board. Patrolled route X.
1600
Proceeded to Dover.
east JBI
1830ca
Dover.
2nd June
1845
Left Dover for the Downa, where the
Captains of the blockships Westerve,
Edvard Niesen and Holland were
embarked and transferred to dr.
Vivacious.
2020
Proceeded in tow or Vivacious.
2230
Blipped tow) embarked Capt. Danger-
2330ca
field from Vivacious end set course
for Dunkirk, Arrived 233008.
Landed Capt. Dangerfield at Seet Pien
On his return left harbour to search
for blockships. Two only found,
[Westoove and Edvard Nissen}; the
third Holland had been Bunk in a
collision on the way.
enot brrs
3rd June
03200a
In harbour, embarked all the crew of
the 1st and part of the orer of the
and blockships, and transferred them
to the Vivacions which was lying
outside.
0345
Prodeeded, Vivagious and N.A.B.D.7
in company.
0630
Dover.
snot DIE
1735
Loft Dover. Rebarked the Captains or
the blockships Gourko, Novle and
Pacifico and transferred them to the
dr. Rhikari.
2030
Proceeded in tow of shimari, blockship
in company.
4th June
0245
Followed blockship dourko into Dunkirk
Heavy explosion in COMPRO 00 ane
smit and
entered the haroouts
(1) M.T.B.107 wes only received from the builders to stand on
23rd May 1940. she no
(1)
315316

Details

M.T.B.107(1)
10th M.T.B. Flotilla
Lieut. J.Cameron, R.N.V.R
27th May
0800
Left Dover. Portsmouth for Felixstowe via
28th May
1200
1830
Arrived Felixstowe.
Left Felixstowe on patrol.
29th May
0400
Retd. to Felixstowe.
31st May
0600
1600
Left Felixstowe for Dover.
1745
Left Dover in company with M.T.B.67.
Off Dunkirk. M.T.B.67 closed dr.
Keith (R.A. Dover on board) for
orders. Proceeded to La Panne with
M.T.B.67.
-
Carried out various duties, including
some rescue work, and cruised in
company with M.T.B.67.
2100
Proceeded to Dover in company with
M.T.B.67.
2315
Arrived Dover.
1st June
1100
Left Dover with Cdre. T.J. Hallett on
board. Patrolled route X.
1600
Proceeded to Dover.
1830ca
Dover.
2nd June
1845
Left Dover for the Downs, where the
Captains of the blockships Westcove,
Edvard Nissen and Holland were
embarked and transferred to dr.
Vivacious.
2020
Proceeded in tow of Vivacious.
2230
Slipped tow; embarked Capt. Danger-
2330ca
field from Vivacious and set course
for Dunkirk. Arrived 2330ca.
Landed Capt. Dangerfield at East Pier.
On his return left harbour to search
for blockships. Two only found
[Westcove and Edvard Nissen]; the
third [Holland] had been sunk in a
collision on the way.
3rd June
0320ca
In harbour, embarked all the crew of
the lst and part of the crew of the
2nd blockships, and transferred them
to the Vivacious which was lying
outside.
0345
Proceeded, Vivacious and M.A/S.B.7
in company.
0630
Dover.
1735
Left Dover. Embarked the Captains of
the blockships Gourko, Moyle and
Pacifico and transferred them to the
dr. Shikari.
2030
Proceeded in tow of Shikari, blockships
in company.
4th June
0245
Followed blockship Gourko into Dunkirk.
Heavy explosion in Gourko as she
entered the harbour.
(1) M.T.B.107 was only received from the builders by road on
23rd May 1940. She had no astern gear.
316

Details

2
You ENS
M.T.B.107 (continued)
Yes diss
4th June
(contd.)
Closed Gourko and secured alongside.
M.A/S.B.10 did the same and embarked
part of the ships company" (1) The
Gourko sank rapidly. M.A/S.B.10
ares
followed the remaining blockship into
TSN
harbour. M.T.B.107 rescued the C.O.
vote
and 7 others from the Gourko.
0355ca
Unable to find Shikari or M.A/S.B.10,
M.T.B.107 proceeded to Dover.
Flotilla
Delayed by fog en route.
0730
Arrived Dover.
Group
Nil.
Authority - R.O.II, pp.447, 456.
Other
vessels
in
this
in Dynamo,
The following awards were made:
D.C/M.B.
Mention in Despatches
Lt.
J. Cameron, R.N.V.R. (2) *
50S
C.P.O. M.J. Driver, R.N.R.
M/L
L/Sea. A.P. Dawkins(3
L/Sto. C.W.T. Murrin.
M.T.D.22
N.T.B.175(2)
D.B.O.
Lt. Cdr. 8.H. Dennis, R.N.
Total:
13.
(2) Shown in Supplement 34925 to London
(1) See M.A/S.B.10.
(3) Supplement 34925 to London Gazette
August 1940 as being in M.T.B.102
to C.W.29685/40, L/sea. "A. Dawki

Details

2
M.T.B.107 (continued)
4th (contd.) June
Closed Gourko and secured alongside.
M.A/S.B.10 did the same and embarked
part of the ships company" (1) The
Gourko sank rapidly. M.A/S.B.10
followed the remaining blockship into
harbour. M.T.B.107 rescued the C.O.
and 7 others from the Gourko.
0355ca
Unable to find Shikari or M.A/S.B.10,
M.T.B.107 proceeded to Dover.
Delayed by fog en route.
0730
Arrived Dover.
N11.
Authority - R.O.II, pp.447, 456.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches
Lt.
J. Cameron, R.N.V.R. (2)
C.P.O. M.J. Driver, R.N.R.
L/Sea. A.P. Dawkins (3)
L/Sto. C.W.T. Murrin.
(2) Shown M.A/S.B.10. in Supplement 34925 to London Gazette of 16th
(1) See
(3) August 1940 as being in Gazette T. B. 102. of 16/8/40. According B. 102.
Supplement to C.W.29685/40, 34925 to L/Sea. London "A. Dawkin" was in

Details

20018
g
PACIFIC - Continued
Lt.odr.
O.H.P.
1st June
20
0400
OOSI
You area
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 272 B.E.F
0011
and 142 French troops. (1)
June
0130
The blockshipe anchored
0230
Weighed and proceeded Total 945
OEAO
herbour entrance.
0245ca
OECO
Gourko usa seen to be sinking by the
Vall 4232
storm and turning over on her
/
Authority - R.O.II, pp.25, 101. side. to the dr. Shikari that
Pacifico would be scuttled in the
Gourko's allotted position.
0010
The Pacifico intended to proceed
:
TSM HATS
between and beyond the wrecks of
the Edvard Nissen and Westooye
and then drift down between them
brondside one
0020
The current was too strong to pensit
0500E1
of this manocuvre, 30 Pacifico remed
the Westcove abreast her after hold,
dropped the anchor into her end
secured the cablo. The store then
came over to port towards the Nissen,
but after a certain point would not
DOES
turn further owing to the tide race
between the two shipo.
Pacifico THE then ordered to scuttle
the ship. The scuttling was
occoupanied by t. considerable sheet
0050
VaN does
of flame, us in the case of the
but in this instance
probably due to oil fuel vapour.
0345
The orew - pduked up by
Authority - H.011431/ho.
До
BI
The following swards were mass
0
tell NJOE
O
Cdp, O.H.F. Owles, R.N.
Meen. B₂ Phillpott.
Pension in Despatches.
VISSUE D.M. Johnson, R.N.V.S.
150. A.J. Wilson.
Yes JUIE
A. ImeDonald, R.N.H.R.
(1) D.R. attribute this disembarkation and
to and the Ramsgate "Pacifico". report The Pacifico was a blockship
(1)
transported no troops.
374

Details

PACIFICO
Blockship
Lt.Cdr. G.H.F. Owles, R.N.
3rd June
2030
Sailed from " position off the S.
Goodwin L.V. in company with the
blockships Moyle and Gourko (q.v.)
4th June
0130
0230
The blockships anchored off Dunkirk.
Weighed and proceeded towards the
harbour entrance.
0245ca
Gourko was seen to be sinking by the
stern and turning over on her
starboard side.
Signalled to the dr. Shikari that
Pacifico would be scuttled in the
Gourko's allotted position.
The Pacifico intended to proceed
between and beyond the wrecks of
the Edvard Nissen and Westcove
and then drift down between them
broadside on.
The current was too strong to permit
of this manoeuvre, BO Pacifico rammed
the Westcove abreast her after hold,
dropped the anchor into her and
secured the cable. The stern then
came over to port towards the Nissen,
but after a certain point would not
turn further owing to the tide race
between the two ships.
Pacifico was then ordered to scuttle
the ship. The scuttling was
occompanied by a considerable sheet
of flame, as in the case of the
Westcove, but in this instance
probably due to oil fuel vapour.
0345
The crew was picked up by M.A/S.B.10.
Authority - M.011431/40.
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Lt. Cdr. G.H.F. Owles, R.N.
D.S.M.
Ch. Mech. H. Phillpott.
Mention in Despatches.
9/Lieut. D.M. Johnson, R.N.V.R.
P.O. A.J. Wilson.
A.B. A. MacDonald, R.N.V.R.
375

Details

ROYAL SOVEREIGN (continued)
4th June
0255
Leaving harbour, saw crew of an
(continued)
(conta)
unknown vessel Pblockship Gourko]/lhe
being rescued by small boats.
0600
Margate. Disembarked 1350 troops.
1st
June
0720
While being towed Total 6,772(1)
1 mile or Do
the Royalty clipped the tow rope,
set sail, and steared head first
on to the beach at Malo. Soldiers
began to run down the beach towards
Authority - R.O.III. p.190.
her,
but
to
TM.6213/40.
was The
crew of the Royalty and about 6
soldier atevedores, rowed off in
their boat to the tug Cervia,
0830ca
The Ceryia took the barge Tollesbury
tow and sailed for Ramagate.
The following awards were made: Royalty was
D.S.C.
Capt. T. Aldis, Master.
Mr. A. Sinclair, Chief Engineer.
D.S.M.
Ch. Stwd. T.E. Manser.
(1) "Exact number unknown, but approximately 11,000" -
Master's report.
47

Details

SHIKARI (continued)
1st June
0330ca
0600
Shelling increases.
0620
Sailed Ordered to Dunkirk to fill to capacity.
Air with other ships for Dover.
1000
attacks en route.
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 623(1)
Army. French troops of General Piroux's
ep.
2130
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2nd June
0125
0200
Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
0540
Ship full. Returned to Dover.
r
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 470
troops. (1)
1845
Sailed under orders of the dr. Sabre
for Dunkirk.
-
Shore batteries opened fire as Shikari
dear
rounded No. 6 W buoy.
-
Embarked troops.
2200
Ship full. Sailed for Dover.
3rd June
0130
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 700
troops(1)
1800
Capt. E. Dangerfield, R.N., and his
staff arrived on board.
Sailed for the Downs and anchored
for 2 hours near the 3 blockships
[Gourko, Moyle and Pacifico].
M.T.B.107 brought the Captains of the 31.
blockships to the Shikari, on board
which a conference was held.
2030
Sailed for Dunkirk by route Z, acting
as guide for the blockships. Speed
7 knots; the M.T.B.107 was in tow
of Shikari.
4th June
0130
Anchored near Dunkirk harbour entrance.
0230
Ordered to weigh by Capt. Dangerfield
who had transferred to a "M.T.B."
(1)
[i.e. M.A/S.B.10]. Shikari led the
a
blockships to the entrance. Shortly
after weighing, the leading block-
ship [the Gourko] blew up, presumably
on a mine. The "M.T.B." picked up
survivors. (2)
0245ca
The remaining 2 blockships "carried on
with their job".
-
Shikari proceeded alongside and
embarked 400 French troops "who had
been left after the last ship
evacuating had sailed". Among those
embarked was General Bathelemy,
Commander of the Flanders Garrison;
he stated that 12,000 French troops]
still remained in Dunkirk.
0330ca
Shelling commenced. One shell hit the
jetty causing many casualties.
0340
Ordered to withdraw by Capt. Dangerfield
se
(1) (2) D.R.
Both M.T.B.107 and M.A/S.B.10 picked up survivors; these
Shikari. by the latter were transferred to the
133

Details

rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
-
Page
3
401
kships and transferred to H:M. 2020 proceeded in two tow
.M. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
B., 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
rnand her large turning circle.
ay, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S.
KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
bed tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her
nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ct.
H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S.
rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had
eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107
ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in
ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
busly and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was
rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of
wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and
of accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S.
KARI" any M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining
t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover
ship had or already been observed, and it was now practically broad day-
pendently to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved no
at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered in and, the
vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having the sands faith
7 The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
he compass. North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
lay, 4th June.
At Dover.
esday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
B. 102.
eeded
ined
B.
107
was
ing a
were engaged 11 and P
busly
sep clear. After S"SHI
rieno
received crew frooz compa vrem
outside, thereafter takin We
bloor of the second ttendeafter
A/S. IVACIOUS" and Averir Dover
in oor
V wasriencedilty was experiesuvring
awckag, hech heavy wrecksility to June.

Details

ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
457
Page
2
429
ckships "VIVACIOUS". and transferred 2230 to "VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru
om H. M. S. difficult by proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
H. S. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N. tow
rendered which had spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on
compass and never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
entered harbour cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. fter closing the block ships
llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
Cornand her large turning circle.
nday, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S.
SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
lipped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship S.S. Gourko to follow her
n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ffect. H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S.
Gourko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
nd secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
mbarked part of her ship's company. NXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107
reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had
emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in
etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being was
eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty of
xperienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence M.T.B.
or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and
07. wreck of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
he "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of
ack H.M.S. "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining
lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover
SHIKARI" of any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad day-
ight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and,
ndependently wing at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith
the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the
oodwins. a my I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
to regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands
rthe compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
uesday, 4th June.
At Dover.
ednesday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
.T.B. 102.

Details

THE FINAL NIGHT, 3RD-4TH JUNE
CHAP. XII
The Locust also, after embarking troops ferried out to her from 2300, came
alongside the East Pier at 0225, and when she sailed ten minutes later had on
board 196 troops.
Mining of the Emile Deschamps
The personnel vessel King George V which left the East Pier about 0300 with
817 troops, ran into thick fog off the English coast. About 0615, near the
Elbow Buoy 21/2 miles east of the North Foreland, she passed a "small French
naval vessel." Suddenly there was a heavy explosion astern of her, and
within a minute the vessel had sunk.
The small French ship was the Fleet Auxiliary Emile Deschamps which had
sailed from Dunkirk for England at about 2100 on 3rd June, crowded with
troops and refugees. About 0558 the minesweeper Albury, 5 cables ahead of
her, gave her a course for the North Goodwin Light Vessel, which the French
ship had missed. A quarter of an hour later the Emile Deschamps struck the
magnetic mine which sank her.
Several vessels were near and hastened to rescue the survivors. The fire-
float Massey Shaw, on passage from Ramsgate to London, was only 200 yards
away at the time and picked up 40, reported to be all sailors, which she trans-
ferred to the Albury. The King George V lowered four boats and picked up
67. The minesweeper Kellett, called up by signal from the Albury, rescued
some very badly injured people as did also H.M.S. Nelson's motor boat, whose
log contains the apparently, but no doubt unintentionally, casual entry
' 2400. L/Sea. Eggington lost overboard with candle-lantern." Fog came
down again as the rescue operations were completed. Among the survivors
landed at Margate were 7 French women and a boy.
Blocking Operation repeated night 3rd-4th June
Owing to the failure of the blocking operation of the previous night to close
the port, the Admiralty, during the forenoon of the 3rd June, ordered it to be
repeated on this night with Admiral Abrial's concurrence. Captain E. Danger-
field, R.N. was again in charge. The ships employed were as follows :-
destroyer :
Shikari;
coastal craft: M. A./S. B. 10,
M.T.B. 107
blockships
Gourko, 1975 tons, built 1911,
Moyle, 1761 tons, built 1907,
Pacifico, 687 tons, built 1905.
The force sailed from the Downs at 2030 on the 3rd by Route Z, M.T.B. 107
being in tow of the Shikari, and anchored at 0130 on the 4th between No. 14 W
and 16 W buoys, near the entrance to Dunkirk harbour.
At 0230 Captain Dangerfield, who had transferred to M. A/S. B. 10 ordered
the ships to weigh and the Shikari proceeded to lead them to the entrance.
The Gourko's anchor was barely aweigh when a violent explosion occurred aft,
caused, it is reported, by a magnetic mine, although the ship was degaussed
and had been wiped in Chatham Dockyard as recently as the 31st May. The
Gourko began to sink rapidly and was ordered to be abandoned. She sank
stern first in 3 minutes. M. A/S. B. 10 took off 9 survivors and transferred
them to the Shikari. M.T.B. 107 rescued 7 others, some of them from the
water. One of the crew was missing, and 8 were wounded.
Meanwhile, the other two blockships carried on with the operation. The
119

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. XII
Moyle rammed the As Inner she sank, Western she Pier slid off abreast the bank the wreck towards of the Westcove
scuttled line channel, intention The of Pacifico the herself. as was channel, the to decided Westcove proceed her to after between had scuttle part done, down and in being and the between beyond finally against position the them settled the allotted wrecks Westcove. at of to a slight the the the Edvard Gourko. centre angle to of Her and the the
and Westcove and defeated then drift this the Pacifico broadside on. Nissen
the strong current after hold, dropped manoeuvre, anchor so into her and rammed However,
The stern then swung not over turn further owing to the tide Nissen, but, after
cove abreast her to port towards the Edvard secured
ships. of certain point, Orders would were then accompanied given for the by scuttling considerable of the Pacifico; race between As in the the case two a
due in this instance to vapour.
the Westcove, this was oil fuel a sheet of flame, probably
One shell hit the pier, causing many casualties, for there were still some 200
The time now was about 0330 and at this juncture shelling recommenced.
French troops on the East Pier. General Bathelemy, Commander of the
Flanders Garrison, who was taken off by the Shikari, stated that 12,000 French
troops still remained in Dunkirk. The Shikari carried 383 when she sailed
from Dunkirk at 0340 by orders of Captain Dangerfield; she was the last ship
to leave. Apart from an air attack, which caused no damage, her passage
home was uneventful.
An M.T.B. had been detailed to evacuate Admiral Abrial but the latter
could not be found, and as a matter of fact he was brought out from Dunkirk
in a French M.T.B. V.T.B. 25. Near the North Goodwin Light Vessel the
vessel's propeller became disabled by wreckage, and the Malcolm towed her
to Dover about 0600.
On the conclusion of the blocking operation there remained a gap of about
100 to 120 feet unobstructed on the west side of the channel. Part of this gap
was, however, shoal water, because of the shelving bank.
Disembarkation figures, 4th June
There were landed in England on 4th June 26,175 persons, of which British
ships had evacuated 21,600, French 3,838, and Belgian 737. These figures
included a number of survivors, both troops and ships' crews, from sunken
ships and some refugees. It was recorded that 622 of the total were evacuated
from the beaches, but it is doubtful whether any of these were actually
evacuated from the beaches, for the figure includes many such as the 43 French
troops landed by the Pangbourne, who were taken from a French vessel
(probably the mail packet Rouen) which had run aground on a sand bank: the
260 brought over by the Beatrice Maud: a number (apparently 210) recorded as
evacuated from the beaches and landed in England but actually ferried from
Dunkirk pier to various transports, by the motor launch Bonny Heather.
Operation Dynamo completed, 1423/4th June
Ammunition in Dunkirk was exhausted, enemy were and reported the remaining consisted
When the Shikari sailed, the to be only 3 miles away.
principally the of non-combatant units. troops Admiral Nord agreed that
was dispersed at 1030.
operation should be considered as Accordingly, terminated. The fleet of rescue ships
The decision to terminate the operation was agreed to by the French
120

Details

Details

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

Details

rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
Page 3
401
kships and transferred to H:M. S"VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in two tow
M.S. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and 1.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
rnand her large turning circle.
ay, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S.
KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
ped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her
nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ct. Heavy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S.
rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had
eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107
ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in
ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
busly and 4 less seritously injured. Very considerable difficulty was
rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of
wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and
of any accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S.
KARI" or M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining
ship had already been observed, and it was now practically broad day-
t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover
pendently at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered and,
bn to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved in the
vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having no faith
/ compass. The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across the sands
he North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, 4th June.
lay, 4th June.
At Dover.
esday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
B. 102.
Po
DO
servacus
rk closing
from her boat
aufter going
coecond blocksu,
Sand A/S.age the
sexperienn, M.T.B.
rkea Util the weat]
in
king ceared, and I
eeded to Dover, arriv

Details

ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
Page
2
429
to H&M. SM"VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru tow
om M. S. proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
H. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M. A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
Fornand her large turning circle.
onday, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S.
SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
lipped tos and employed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship Gourko to follow her
n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
Gourko" ffect. was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S.
er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
ns secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
mbarked part of her ship's company. MXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had
roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107
emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in
etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was of
xperienced in this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence
he wreck doing "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and
07. of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
ack H.M.S. of "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining
lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover
SHIKARI" any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad day-
ight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and,
ndependently wing to at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith
the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the
oodwins. regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands
namy I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
the compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
uesday, 4th June.
At Dover.
ednesday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
.T.B. 102.