Details

ADVENTURESS 1)
M/V
R.N.
30th May
1130
Left Dover for Dunkirk in company with
the tug Foremost 22, the M/Y Laroc
[Uo
and 3 other vessels.
1930ca
Arrived Malo beach. Embarked troops
Comodore
A.H.
and proceeded.
31st May however, 6 1100 the Arrived Margate. Disembark 85
troops. (2)
Ddre. Teylor also reports that
in the Aegir throughout Operation Total 85
trips in the M/B Dabb II.
Disemberkations from the Asgir were 0.0 follows:
30th May
1565
At Margate, disemberked 355 troops, (1)
May
1815
At Margate, disembarked 350 troops. (1)
lot June
1650
At Hargate, disembarked 130 troops. (1)
The dr. Havens reports as follows:
lot June
0706ca
The Havent was hit by 3 bomba. Ber
troops were transferred to the E/S
Saltash and the yacht Grive, She
then taken in tow by the Saltach.
1000ca
The Dayant commenced to sink; part of
her orew transferred to the
social
Shortly afterwards, hope of saving
the Hayant was abandoned, and the
remainer of the ship's company
transferred to the Aegin
Total 835
R.O.I., p.55.
R.O.II, pp.391,
(1) An Examination Service vessel of this name appears for the
first time in the Red List on 23rd June 1940.
(2) Largate report.
(1) Murgate and Dover 13
14

Details

AEGIR
Skoot
Lieut. W.B. Whitworth, R.N.
Lieut. R.W. Thomson, R.N.V.R.,
lst Lieut.
[No report of proceedings from the Aegir is available]
Commodore A.H. Taylor reports that Lieut. Whitworth
made 6 trips in the Aegir. Only 3 of these are,
however, recorded in D.R. (see below).
Cdre. Taylor also reports that Lieut. Thomson was not
in the Aegir throughout Operation Dynamo; he made 4
trips in the M/B Dabb II.
Disembarkations from the Aegir were as follows:
30th May
1565
At Margate, disembarked 355 troops. (1)
31st May
1815
At Margate, disembarked 350 troops. (1)
1st June
1650
At Margate, disembarked 130 troops. (1)
The dr. Havant reports as follows:
1st June
0906ca
The Havant was hit by 3 bombs. Her
troops were transferred to the M/S
Saltash and the yacht Grive. She was
then taken in tow by the Saltash.
1000ca
The Havant commenced to sink; part of
her crew was transferred to the
Aegir.
Shortly afterwards, hope of saving
the Havant was abandoned, and the
remainder of the ship's company was
transferred to the Aegir.
Total 835
Authority - R.O.I., p.55.
R.O.II, pp.391, 394.
(1) Margate and Dover reports.
14

Details

/
GLEN AVON (P.m/s). 8th M.S.F.
Ty. Lieut. B.H. Loyns, R.N.R.
30th May
1340
2225
Left Harwich for Dunkirk beaches.
La Panne. Anchored close inshore.
Engaged inshore. enemy aircraft. Sent boats
2245
Embarkation of troops commenced.
31st May
0400ca
Ship went aground.
0525
587 officers and men of the B.E.F. and
3 French officers on board.
Refloated. Engaged enemy A/C, be-
lieved to have been shot down.
Proceeded.
1520
Arrived Harwich. Secured alongside the
M/S Snaefell. Disembarked 590
troops. (1)
1st June
1450
Sailed for the beaches, with cutters
and a motor boat in tow.
on passage two of the cutters became
damaged and were cut adrift.
[2230ca]
When one mile west of Dunkirk mole, what
was "apparently a trawler" [it was
the F.A.A. yacht Grive] was seen to
blow up. There were several small
craft in her vicinity. (4)
2245
Arrived off Malo-les-Bains beach.
2315
Sent away lifeboats and commenced em-
barkation. The ship's M/B broke
down and had to be abandoned.
2nd June
0300
Ordered by the beach officer to sail.
There were 295 officers and men
aboard.
0430
Met a M.L.B. of the S.S. Alphacca(2)
with 3 French soliders and 24
Spaniards. Embarked them, searched
them and placed them under arrest.
Sank the M.L.B.
1145
Arrived Harwich. Disembarked 295
troops(3) and the 27 rescued men.
Total 888
Authority - R.O.I., p.252.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches
Sea. A.G. Farrow.
(1) D.R. states that the "trawler Glenavon" disembarked 652
(2) A Dutch troops. ship of 5759 tons. port of Co. origin, Rotterdam.
(3) Owners, Van that the "trawler Glenavon" the Grive disembarked blew up 294. at
Nievelt Goudriaan &
(4) D.R. Including states the tr. Gula, which says
2345.
377

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

GRIVE
Yacht( 1)
Capt. Lt. the Hon. L.J.O.
30th May
1400
1900ca
Arrived Left Dover for Dunkirk.
2130ca
Proceeded on board. with just whalers under 300 and troops 2 M/B's.
with the Malo ship's beach 2 and embarked troops
31st May
a.m.
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 325
troops(2)
1400
1830ca
Sailed from Dover.
Entered Dunkirk harbour, and secured
outside the dr. Whitehall which
alongside dr. Winchelsea. Embarked was
about 400 troops from the jetty.
Aircraft being sighted Grive left
the harbour, (3) on orders from the
Whitehall.
2030
When clear of harbour, an A/C was
believed to have been shot down by
Grive's after 12 pdr.
1st June
0100
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 374 troops.
0300
Sailed from Dover (with only 5 rounds
of ammunition per gun).
0800
Approaching Dunkirk, at first proceeded
to assistance of the dr. Ivanhoe;
then went alongside the jetty.
During heavy bombing, embarked troops
and proceeded.
By Persia, and the dr. Havant on
now the Ivanhoe was in tow of (with the
Ivanhoe's tug troops and survivors
board), and on fire (she Bank Havant later).
hit by a bomb, was listing
Saltash) The heavily (which Grive was and went transferred taken proceeded. alongside in tow her by to the troops Dover the M/S and
with survivors about Dover. .700 Disembarked 785(4)
1300ca
1600ca
Arrived 1 mile to pieces on for Dunkirk by board. a mine the Gula, and Grive
troops. now insisted a rest; on he Lieut.
1800 /
2230ca(5)
About The distant,
sank yards
(1) (3) (2) Fleet The D.R. Air Arm Training Vessel. that at 1920 she was 374 in and collision 2345+
dr. Whitehall states "Grieve" as
(4) (5) D.R. with shows Grive 2 of the dfr. Gula gives this time
West
Date Lad

Details

GRIVE (continued)
Hecon,
2230ca
1st June)
(conta)
lowered
up a M/B.(2) 4, and 4 The took others dfr. were Renascent clinging picked up 11 picked up to by the
The buoys two WINE Builed Via
for Dunkirk Total 1584
troops.
the Kestrel Ramegate, (0.76)
Authority - i.0.17681/40.
R.O.III, p.276
1st
Proceeded.
The following awards were made:
of
D.S.C.
S/Lt. J.K.B. Miles, R.N.V.R.
Total
Mention in Despatches (posthumous).
Capt. the Hon. L.J.O. Lambart, D.S.O., R.N. (Retd.)
Note: Their Lords Commissioners of the
RO.II,
Admiralty sent a Letter of Praise
to Mrs. L. Lambart to commemorate
the services of her late husband.
Camaltis in GRIVE -
6 officers
19 ratings
1cw ("amilthes in 8.57)
25
in one Bhe says 11 survivors,

Details

HAVANT (continued)
1st June
-
The ship continued to steam ahead, out
(contd.)
of control, in the direction of the
sand banks opposite Dunkirk. It was
impossible to enter the engine room
but Chief Stoker M. Gallon, in spite
of there being a fire in one of the
boiler rooms, let the steam out of
the boilers, and the ship was brought
up in 4 fathoms by the starboard
anchor.
-
The M/S Saltash and a large yacht
[the Grive] then came alongside and
all the troops were transferred,
during almost continuous bombing.
-
The Havant was then taken in tow by the
Saltash which proceeded at slow speed.
The Havant, however, began to heel
over and settle.
-
The majority of the ship's company was
transferred to the Sk. Aegir.
Air attack, one bomb falling between the
Havant and the Saltash, another close
to the port quarter.
1000ca
Heavy list, decks almost awash.
Decided to abandon ship. Tow slipped;
remainder of ship's company
transferred to Aegir.
1015
The Havant rolled over and sank in
approx. position 51° 08.1' N., 2°
17.2" E. Casualties were 1 officer
and 7 men killed and about 25 wounded.
At least 25 soldiers were killed or
wounded.
Total 2,432(1)
Authority - R.O.I., p.52.
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
Ch. Sto. M. Gallon.
P.O. Stwd. J. Lysaght.
Mention in Despatches
Lt. Cdr. A.F. Burnell-Nugent, D.S.C., R.N.
S.B.A.A.W.Keller,R.N.A.S.B.R.
(1) D.R.'s total is 2638.
20

Details

LAROC
Yarmouth Examination
Service Yacht.
Capt. G.B. Butler,
Master/Owner.
29th May
2230
Arrived Portsmouth from Yarmouth.
30th May
0030
Left Portsmouth.
1130
Arrived Dover. Ordered to proceed to
Dunkirk with the tug "Foremost 4"
[it was the Foremost 22], "H.M.S.
Grieve" [ the M/Y Grive], "Foremost 2"
[?], the Adventuress(1) and the M/V
Lady Sheila.
1400ca
Left Dover accordingly.
1930ca
Arrived Malo beach. Embarked about 75
troops from rowing boats.
2200
Sailed for Ramsgate as air raid
commenced.
31st May
0500
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 75 troops.
0600
Sailed for Dunkirk with whaler in tow.
1030
Anchored off Malo beach.
1100
Collected two "large passenger boats"
and embarked troops.
Note: At 1100, the Adventuress landed
85 troops at Margate.
1515ca
"All three ships filled" - about 170
troops. Proceeded.
1930ca
Arrived Ramsgate. The Laroe disembarked
60 troops. (2)
1st June
0600
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1000ca
Off coast between Gravelines and
Dunkirk.
Heavy bombing of large ships.
A damaged British destroyer [the
1005ca
Havant was taken in tow by tug [the
M/S Saltash].
1015ca
Steered N.W. from 5 W buoy to get clear
of big ships.
1025ca
Salvo of bombs dropped 30 yards astern
of a troopship [the Prague] near 9 W
buoy.
1030ca
French destroyer [ the Foudroyant] hit
by bombs; she sank within about one
minute, about 1 mile north of 13 W
1035ca
British buoy. destroyer [the Keith] bombed 3
miles N.N.E. from 5 W buoy. She was
later sunk by gunfire from a sloop
[the M/S Salamander].
1115
Proceeded to Dunkirk. Picked up 8 men
from a small boat.
1800
Arrived Proceeded. Ramsgate. Disembarked 12 troops
1815
Ferried about 310 troops from ships
outside the harbour to Ramsgate
pier. (3)
Total 147
Examination vessel of this name appears for the
Cirst time Service Red List on 23rd June.
annentioned in the Ramsgate report.
Lieote report in mentions D.R. or 55 landed at 2030.
152

Details

RELONZO
LL Trawler
Skpr. Slater Hannaford,
(Dover M/S Command)
R.N.R.
31st May Carried out LL duties off Dover. Dunkirk.
Arrived Dunkirk. Directed by B.
destroyer to the beach 8 miles to the
eastward.
Authority - R.O.II, p.503
Air attack. Embarked troops from small
boats.
Ordered by a destroyer to go back to
the westword.
1700cs
On the way west, ordered by an "Eagle"
paddle-steamer [the Golden Eagle]
to transfer the troops then on board
to her.
-
Ran the Renascent on to the beach and
embarked troops,
vice
Refloated, having embarked 180 troops.
2030
Proceeded. Air attack.
1st June
0800
Arrived Ramagate. Disembarked 180
troops. (1)
1740
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2300
While in Dunkirk roade, and *following
a large steam yacht" [the P.A.A.
Ymoht Grive], the yacht blew up and
disappeared. She had been mined.
Renescent lowered a boat and picked
up 4 survivors. Visibility WRS very
poor and the smoke from the shore was
hanging on the water.
Proceeded into Dunkirk harbour.
Embarked 80 British troops. The
French would not embark.
2nd June
0200
Proceeded.
0700
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 80
troops. (2)
Total 250
Authority - R.O.II, p.372.
(1) Ramagate report states 66. D.R. does not mention.
(2) Remagate report states 70. D.R. states 80.
117

Details

RENASCENT
Drifter (Sheerness
Skpr. R.E. Hannaford,
M/S Command)
R.N.R.
31st May
0500ca
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
-
Arrived Dunkirk. Directed by a
destroyer to the beach 8 miles to the
eastward.
-
Air attack. Embarked troops from small
boats.
-
Ordered by a destroyer to go back to
the westward.
1700ca
On the way west, ordered by an "Eagle"
paddle-steamer [the Golden Eagle]
to transfer the troops then on board
to her.
-
Ran the Renascent on to the beach and
embarked troops.
-
Refloated, having embarked 180 troops.
2030
Proceeded. Air attack.
1st June
0800
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 180
troops. (1)
1740
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2300
While in Dunkirk roads, and "following
a large steam yacht" [the F.A.A.
Yacht Grive], the yacht blew up and
disappeared. She had been mined.
Renascent lowered a boat and picked
up 4 survivors. Visibility was very
poor and the smoke from the shore was
hanging on the water.
-
Proceeded into Dunkirk harbour.
Embarked 80 British troops. The
French would not embark.
2nd June
0200
Proceeded.
0700
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 80
troops. (2)
Total 260
Authority - R.O.II, p.372.
(1) Ramagate report states 66. D.R. does not mention.
(2) Ramsgate report states 70. D.R. states 80.
18

Details

Details

WHITE BEAR
0130
M/B Destroyer Comd. Gnr. E. Deacon, R.N.
30th May May
1830
0730
Plymouth.
1st June
1530 Oca
Arrived off Dunkirk.
Left for Dunkirk [in tow of the dfr.
1725
Ordered [i.e. the to return by and the Star"
dfr. Kindred Star] "Kildare
2nd June
0600
0950
Arrived Dover.
1120
1350
Sailed by 2
1415
Arrived off Dunkirk.
1900
Proceeded Entered harbour by X route. and embarked 800 troops
Arrived troops. Dover. Disembarked 593
Authority - R.O.II, p.227.
May
0025
Proceeded dr. to Dunkirk by 2 route, the
Venomous in company. Fouled
0300
off Dunkirk.
sunken wreckage en route.
0330
Ordered into harbour but remained out-
I
0415
side to clear starboard propeller.
Entered harbour. Embarked 1,300 troops
0815
and proceeded by X route,
0950
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,300 troo mill
1250
Proceeded to Dunkirk by X route.
Arrived Dunkirk. (Intermittent air
1315
attacks throughout the afternoon).
Stood by the dr. Impulsive, aground on
sunken wreck.
1400
Impulsive cleared; Whitehall proceeded
to Bray.
1530
Ample destroyers at La Panne and Bray;
Whitehall returned to Dunkirk. Whilst
waiting to enter, 12 French troops
embarked in ship's whaler.
1710
40 to 50 dive bombers overhead,
1717
Air attack on the drs. Whitehall and
Ivanhoe which were outside the
harbour waiting to enter Whitehall
received some damage from a near
miss.
1830
Entered harbour and secured alongside
dr. Winchelsea. The yacht Grive
secured outside.
At this time (1830), 2 minesveepers,
the Venomous and drifters were
secured to the wall to sesuard of
1910
Large Whitehall. force of dive bombers and
Ordered Grive to elip and leave harbot
fighters approaching from N.S.
and Winchelsea to follow Whitehall
1912
Grive out. proceeded, followed by Venemous
Grive stopped 01088 outside the
Whitehall and winchelson.
1920
Whitehall, entrance. (onable to check any or her
because winchelsea use following
and was holed at 155 station.
out), received damage to
collided
D.R.
312

Details

WHITEHALL
(D.94) 1900 11th Destroyer Flotilla Lt. Cdr. A.B.Russell,
29th May
Arrived Dover from Plymouth.
R.N.
0130
30th May
0510
0530ca
Proceeded Arrived Embarked Dunkirk to Dunkirk roads. roads by X
of trawlers the A. 600 B/V troops King Orry and some survivors route.
0550
Clythness]. [i.e. the Lord from Grey two and the
0950
Proceeded Arrived to
1120
1350
1415
-
1900
Proceeded troops.
Sailed Arrived Entered harbour off by Dunkirk. X route. and embarked 800
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 593
troops. (1)
31st May
0025
Proceeded dr. to Dunkirk by Z the
0330
Off Dunkirk.
sunken wreckage en route.
Venomous in company. route, Fouled
0300
Ordered into harbour but remained out-
0415
side to clear starboard propeller.
Entered harbour. Embarked 1,300 troops
0815
and proceeded by X route.
0950
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,300 troops
1250
Proceeded to Dunkirk by X route.
Arrived Dunkirk. (Intermittent air
1315
attacks throughout the afternoon).
Stood by the dr. Impulsive, aground on
sunken wreck.
1400
Impulsive cleared; Whitehall proceeded
to Bray.
1530
Ample destroyers at La Panne and Bray;
Whitehall returned to Dunkirk. Whilst
waiting to enter, 12 French troops
embarked in ship's whaler.
1710
40 to 50 dive bombers overhead.
1717
Air attack on the drs. Whitehall and
Ivanhoe which were outside the
harbour waiting to enter Whitehall
received some damage from a near
miss.
1830
Entered harbour and secured alongside
dr. Winchelsea. The yacht Grive
secured outside.
At this time (1830), 2 minesweepers,
the Venomous and drifters were
secured to the wall to seaward of
Whitehall.
1910
Large force of dive bombers and
fighters approaching from N.E.
Ordered Grive to slip and leave harbour
and Winchelsea to follow Whitehall
1912
Grive out. proceeded, followed by Venomous
Whitehall and Winchelsea.
Grive stopped close outside the
1920
Whitehall, entrance. (unable to check way of her ship
because winchelsea was following
out), collided with Grive and
received damage to her superstructure
and was holed at 155 station.
(1) D.R.
313

Details

WHITEHALL (D.94) 11th Destroyer Flotilla Lt. Cdr. A.B. Russell,
R.N.
29th May
1900
Arrived Dover from Plymouth.
30th May
0130
Proceeded to Dunkirk roads by X route.
0510
Arrived Dunkirk roads.
0530ca
Embarked 600 troops and some survivors
of the A.B/V King Orry from two
trawlers. i.e. the Lord Grey and the
Clythness].
0550
Proceeded to Dover by X route.
0950
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 655.
1120
Sailed by Z route for Dunkirk.
1350
Arrived off Dunkirk.
1415
Entered harbour and embarked 800 troops.
-
Proceeded by X route.
1900
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 593
troops. (1)
31st May
0025
Proceeded to Dunkirk by Z route, the
dr. Venomous in company. Fouled
sunken wreckage en route.
0300
Off Dunkirk.
0330
Ordered into harbour but remained out-
side to clear starboard propeller.
0415
Entered harbour. Embarked 1,300 troops
and proceeded by X route.
0815
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,300 troops
0950
Proceeded to Dunkirk by X route.
1250
Arrived Dunkirk. (Intermittent air
attacks throughout the afternoon).
1315
Stood by the dr. Impulsive, aground on
sunken wreck.
1400
Impulsive cleared; Whitehall proceeded
to Bray.
1530
Ample destroyers at La Panne and Bray;
Whitehall returned to Dunkirk. Whilst
waiting to enter, 12 French troops
embarked in ship's whaler.
1710
40 to 50 dive bombers overhead.
1717
Air attack on the drs. Whitehall and
Ivanhoe which were outside the
harbour waiting to enter Whitehall
received some damage from a near
Entered miss. harbour and secured alongside
1830
dr. Winchelsea. The yacht Grive
secured outside.
At this time (1830), 2 minesweepers,
the Venomous and drifters were
secured to the wall to seaward of
Whitehall.
Large force of dive bombers and
1910
fighters approaching from N.E.
Ordered Grive to slip and leave harbour
and Winchelsea to follow Whitehall
out.
1912
Grive proceeded, followed by Venomous
Whitehall and Winchelsea.
Grive stopped close outside the
entrance.
1920
Whitehall, (unable to check urrom
because Winchelsea
out), collided with arce"se Badoop 10"
received damage to er. usobe who
and was holed at 1 Juella Ke: neer* Wenseled IDJP
(1) D.R.
313

Details

2
WHITEHALL (continued) 1920
31st May
(contd.)
Whitehall's after group shot down one
bomber. (1)
2000
Venomous and Grive left at full speed.
Whitehall re-entered harbour.
2055
Proceeded with 700 troops on board,
using X route.
0045
1st June
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 871 troops.
0830
Sailed for Dunkirk. In the Downs, the
dr. Windsor advised the use of Y
route; proceeded accordingly.
1223
At Middelkerke buoy (at low water)
sighted the dr. Basilisk off Bray.
She was aground on a shallow bank
and out of action. Embarked her
ship's company.
1310
Shelled Basilisk and set her on fire
below the bridge.
1325
Fired 4 torpedoes at Basilisk at 2,000
yards; one is thought to have hit.
1340
Sailed for Dover.
1740
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 34.
2300
Sailed for Plymouth with Basilisk's
survivors.
Total 3,453
Authority - R.O.I., p.169.
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
P.O. C.K. Souster.
Mention in Despatches
Lt. Cdr.
Ty. Surg. Lieut.
A.B. J.G. Russell, Brown, M.B., R.N. B.S., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., R.N.V.R.
C.P.O.
H.M. Seabrook.
C.E.R.A.
W.A.F. Luke.
Offr's L/Tel. Stwd. 1st Cl. W. Smith.
W.E. Breton.
A.B.
G.F. Sims.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
314

Details

2
WHITEHALL (continued)
31st May
1920
(contd.)
Whitehall's after group shot down one
(contd.
bomber. (1)
2000
Venomous and Grive left at full speed.
Whitehall re-entered harbour.
2055
Proceeded with 700 troops on board,
using X route.
1st June
0045
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 871 troops.
0830
Sailed for Dunkirk. In the Downs, the
dr. Windsor advised the use of Y
route; proceeded accordingly.
1223
At Middelkerke buoy (at low water)
sighted the dr. Basilisk off Bray.
She was aground on a shallow bank
and out of action. Embarked her
ship's company.
1310)
Shelled Basilisk and set her on fire
below the bridge.
1325
Fired 4 torpedoes at Basilisk at 2,000
yards; one is thought to have hit.
1340
Sailed for Dover.
1740
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 34.
2300
Sailed for Plymouth with Basilisk's
survivors.
Total 3,453
Authority - R.O.I., p.169.
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
P.O. C.K. Souster.
Mention in Despatches
Lt. Cdr.
A.B. Russell, R.N.
Ty. Surg. Lieut.
J.G. Brown, M.B., B.S., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., R.N.V.R.
H.M. Seabrook.
C.P.O.
W.A.F. Luke.
Offr's C.E.R.A. Stwd. 1st Cl. W. Smith.
W.E. Breton.
L/Tel.
G.F. Sims.
A.B.
aunentioned in D.R.
314

Details

YARMOUTH BASE (H.M.S. WATCHFUL)
to H.M.S. The
following Watchful: flotilla of 13 M/S drifters was attached
Alcmaria
Feasible
(Skpr. Group A.C. Offord, R.N.R.)
Skpr. Officer, A.H. J. Turner, R.N.V.R.,
Genius
(Unit Skpr. Officer, S/Lt. J. N.W.A. Mann, R.N.V.R.
Finlay.
Skpr. A.W. West, R.N.R.
Green).
Gula Jeannie MacIntosh
Skpr. J. Nicholson).
John & Norah
Skpr. J. Sims, R.N.R.)
Lord Barham
Lord Hood
Skpr. J. McD. Masterton, R.N.R.)
Skpr. J.W. Lawn, R.N.R.
Overfalls
Skpr. D. Miller, R.N.R.
Reed
Skpr. G. Hattan, R.N.R.
Rewga
Swift Wing
Skpr. J.S. MacAuley, R.N.R.)
Skpr. G. Frosdick).
Taransay
( Skpr. G.S. Peak).
30th May
2345
The Ramsgate. flotilla sailed from Yarmouth for
31st May
1500
Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dunkirk.
1515
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1900
On approaching Dunkirk roads, the
flotilla, attacked by about 60
bombers, was ordered to scatter.
The Lord Hood was severely damaged
by a near miss and had 1 killed and
2 wounded. She was abandoned, and her
crew were picked up by the Alcmaria.
Later, she was towed to Ramsgate.
British fighters drove off the
bombers, but the flotilla came under
fire from shore batteries.
2000
The 12 drifters secured alongside
Dunkirk north [?east] pier and
embarked troops.
2030
Ordered by a Commander R.N. to pick up
troops from the beaches. Five ships,
being already filled with troops,
were [These were Alcmaria, Genius, Gula,
ordered back to Ramsgate.
Lord Barham and Rewga
The to the From then
remaining seven followed the
Feasible drifters
on, returning the to
This back work to the continued the beaches 1st June, worldore.ceasing N.O.I.C.
2nd June
0300
all throughout were ordered by empty or
Ramsgate drifters to leave Dunkirk, roads.
0730ca
The 31st The Feasible full. were flotilla drifter May. engines disabled: by She anchored Ben a of near was the and taken miss following Lucy. in Ramsgate in - shell, bomb. tow stern. drifters by on
Lord the Hood by an by explosion under
(1)At 2345, 1st June, the Gula, Genius 100 picked yards up
Grive, saw her blow up.
She
346

Details

Page 92.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GRIVE - Captain. the Hon. Lionel Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., R.N.
Sub. -Lieutanant - the John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R. (Retired). -
only surviving officer.
2359/29 she embarked sailed for Dunkirk 1400/30, where for 21/2 Dover
GRIVE and left Portsmouth 1530/29th May, arrived
arriving back troops at from the East beach with her own hours
GRIVE left Dover a.m. 31st with just under 300 boats, troops.
harbour air at 2000/31 and embarked 400 troops during a
Dover again at 1400/31, entered Dunkirk
her troops and although having only 5 rounds of ammunition
severe raid. GRIVE arrived back at Dover 0100/1, very landed
left per gun, sailed again at 0300/1.
Reaching Dunkirk 0800/1 GRIVE went alongside the
harbour and took off a group of troops during heavy bombing. Leaving pier
bomb, and was on fire, and took off all her troops and
GRIVE went alongside HAVANT, which had been hit by a
Dover 1300/1 with 700 on board.
wounded, together with IVANHOE's survivors. GRIVE arrived
R.N.R. (an officer of over 60) ashore, as he had done
At this stage Captain Lambart put Lieutenant C.E. West,
magnificent work handling the ship "and had earned a rest".
Captain Lambart himself, who was 67, would not rest; he
assembled his crew, informed them he intended to start off
again immediately. The crew were equally determined and,
having 1600/1. provisioned and ammunitioned, the ship sailed at
When approaching Dunkirk about 2230 GRIVE apparently was
mined and was blown to pieces.
This account is taken from the narrative of Sub. -Lieut.
Miles, the only officer saved.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Captain, the Hon. Lionel John Olive Lambart, D.S.O., R.N. (Retired)
For gallantry and exceptional endurance and
devotion to duty.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R.
For gallantry in action.
Recommended for decoration.

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

of the Admiralty C.W. (Honours to & Awards Committee) expression
of their warm appreciation of the arduous and-vital
19th August 1940.
services undertaken in this War, at his own request,
by your late husband, Captain the Honourable Lionel
Sir,
Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., Royal Navy; and more especial
I am commanded by My Lords Commissioners of the of
of
the
undaunted
gallantry
Admiralty to acquaint you for the information of the
H.M.S.
GRIVE,
in
Army Council that in connection with the Dunkirk
or
thought
of
self,
he
Evacuation to the the name under of fire from the Beaches,
Private George William Crowthers HAVANT,
Hart6th Field Ambulance B.Co.
of fourteen 7354480 hundred of his countrymen.
was recommended to the Admiralty for the award of the
am,
Distinguished Service Medal. Your obedient Servant,
My Lords while concurring in the recommendation
feel that the award of the Military Medal would be more
appropriate and would be glad if the Army Council would.
take the necessary action.
I am, Sir,
Your Obedient Servant,
EP Secretary of State,
War Office,
S.W.1.

Details

NTIAL
S
DRAFT OF PROPOSED LETTER TO MRS. LAMBART,
TO BE SIGNED BY THE
SECRETARY.
to
by
Madam,
I am commanded by My Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty to invite you to accept an expression
on
of their warm appreciation of the arduous and vital
services under taken in this War, at his own request,
by your late husband, Captain the Honourable Lionel
er
Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., Royal Navy; and more especially
of the undaunted gallantry with which, in command of
H.M.S. GRIVE, in his sixty-eighth year, without respite
or thought of self, he gave his last days and nights
1,
to the rescue under fire from the Beaches, Pier and
Harbour of Dunkirk and from H.M.S. HAVANT, then ablaze,
it
of fourteen hundred of his countrymen.
an
I am, Madam,
7
that
Your obedient Servant,
fully
S of
it of
Ships
and Men for
awards
chat
be taken out
d should at
CADONE. an

Details

Details

375
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 2.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. SHITHHALL's letter dated 7th June, 1940).
The 0001 conduct, seal, power of command and professional
skill of this rating was very noticable and contributed greatly to
the efficient running of the ship.
(8) Wallace Eugene BRETON, Leading Telegrachist, O.N.
D/JX 135520.
Was in charge of the W/2 Department which functioned
perfectly during this period.
(9) Francis Buckler NICHOLSON, Acting Petty Officer,
O.N. D/JX 135893.
John Henry 0'NEILL, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 89930.
Herbert JONES, Able Serman, 0.N. D/J 110186.
George Frederick SINS, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 111898.
These four torpedomen worked continuously from 2100/31st
May until 0700/1st June and successfully carried out temporary
repairs to the D.G. circuits which had been out when W.M.S.
WHITEHALL was in collision with H.M.Tacht GRIVE. Able SIZES
is also mentioned in paragraph (1).
(10) Wlod STRZELEZCKI, Signalman, Polish Havy.
Lent from MARYNARKA NOJENHA. Showed great coolness
in the bridge and rendered useful service in spotting the
approach of enemy aircraft.
I have the honour to be,
sir,
Your obsdient servant,
as. (unsch
LIXUTENANT COMMANDER.
IN CUMMAND.
Vice Admiral Dover.
(Copy to:-
Captain (D), Plymouth).
VIDE A TRAD
11 JUN 1940
*
+
DOVER

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
-
382
Page 2.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. SHITEHALL's letter dated 7th June, 1940).
The cool conduct, seal, power of command and professional
skill of this rating was very noticable and contributed greatly to
the efficient running of the ship.
(8) Wallace Eugene BRETON, Leading Telegraphist, O.N.
D/JI 135520.
Vas in charge of the V/T Department which functioned
perfectly during this period.
(9) Francis Buckler FICHOLSON, Acting Petty Officer,
O.N. D/JX 135893.
John Henry Q'NEILL, Able Seaman, O.N. D/J 89930.
Herbert JONES, Able Seaman, O.N. D/J 110186.
George Frederick SINS, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 111898.
These four terpedomen worked continuously from 2100/31at
May until 0700/1st June and successfully carried out temporary
repairs to the D.G. circuits which had been out when U.M.S.
WHITEHALL was in collision with H.M.Yacht GRIVE. Able Seamer sizes
is also mentioned in paragraph (1).
(10) Wlod STREELEZCKI, Signalman, Folish Navy.
Lent from MARYNARKA WOJENHA. Showed great coolness
in the bridge and rendered useful service in spotting the
approach of enemy aircraft.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
adminism
LIBUTENANT COMANDER.
IN COMMAND.
Vice Admiral Dover.
(Copy to:-
Captain (D), Plymouth).
VICE
11 JUN ADMIRAL 1940
*
+
DOVER

Details

I
- 151
The following REPORT has been extracted from this file and
is being forwarded under cover of Vice Admiral, Dover's letter
concerning loss of ships during operation DYNAMO.
F.A.A. TRAINING YACHT:
GRIVE

Details

149
147
14536
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 26
Operation "DYNAMO" - arrative of Events,
1/6
Saturday 1st June (continued).
Personnel vessel PRAGUE attacked by enemy aircraft
when on return from Dunkirk in position 2 miles 315° from V.
Buoy loaded with troops. She was eventually taken in tow and
beached in the Downs opposite Sandown Castle.
Destroyer HAVANT attacked by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk, hit by bombs and sank.
Personnel vessel SCOTIA attacked by aircraft on way
back from Dunkirk loaded with troops, Ship sank but crew and
troops mostly picked up, the majority being taken by the ESK.
Gunboat MOSQUITO attacked by enemy aircraft at about
1200 and sunk.
Trawler WESTWARD HO. Slight damage by near misses
from aircraft.
Destroyer WORCESTER at 1630 - 1700 damaged by enemy
bombing attack on leaving Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dover under
own steam.
Corvette KINGFISHER damaged by enemy bombing attack
and rendered unseaworthy in rough weather.
Minesweeper SANDOWN damaged by shell fire in boiler
room.
Destroyer IVANHOE damaged by aircraft bombing attack.
Taken in tow and proceeded to Sheerness.
Destroyer VIVACIOUS damaged by aircraft bombing attack
returned to Dover under own steam.
Bearing
Personnel vessel MONA'S ISLE. On way to Dunkirk
straddled by enemy shore batteries at No.5 Buoy and subsequent-
ly attacked by dive bombers - all near misses. Ship proceeded
to Dunkirk - embarked troops. Advised by Senior Naval Officer,
Dunkirk, to wait until high water as ship was fully loaded and
returned at 0400, arriving Dover on June 2nd at 0150. Ship
was found to be making water in No.2 stokehold and steam pipes
to be leaking.
F.A.A. Training Yacht GRIVE after leaving Dunkirk,
was blown up by a mine.
Minesweeper SKIPJACK was off La Panne engaged in
embarking troops. Continuous air attacks were made on the ship
from 0530. No fighters were seen except for about 5 minutes.
250 - 300 troops had been embarked by 0845 when ship was hit
several times. Orders were given to abandon ship and within
about 2 minutes she turned turtle. Most of the troops were
lost, having been put below. Those in the water were machine-
gunned.
Destroyer BASILISK was embarking troops off La Panne
and

Details

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
APPENDIX. VI.
179
to
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
177
5
Enemy aircraft destroyed by ships' fire.
Ship.
Locality.
Time.
Polish T.B.D. BLYSKAWICA
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
0315/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
1130/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. WOLFHOUND
1140/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.P.M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
1500/27
North Goodwin.
HcM.Sc MONTROSE
Dawn/28
Near Kwinte Buoy.
M.T.B. 16
1500/28
Bray.
1530/28
H.M.S. SABRE and other ships
Dunkirk Harbour.
1630/29
H.M.S. BIDEFORD
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. EXPRESS
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. MOSQUITO
Bray.
1900/29
S.S. LEVENWOOD (Store ship}
Bray.
S.S. LEVENWOOD ( - do
1210/31
Bray.
1220/31
H.M. Skoot AMAZONE
Dunkirk Roads.
1440/31
H.M.S. HEBE
La Panne.
1700/31
af
H.M.S. SCIMITAR and other
ships
Bray.
1700/31
S.S. LADY OF MAN (Trassport) Dunkirk Roads.
1700/31
nd
H.M.Y. ARONIA
La Panne.
1830/31
H.M.S. WHITSHED
Dunkirk Roads.
1930/31
H.M.S. SALTASH
Bray.
2000/31
S.S. NEPHRITE (Store ship)
On Route X.
2030/31
H.M.Y. GRIVE
Dunkirk Roads.
2030/31
H.M.Y. ARONIA
Dunkirk Harbour.
0500/1
H.M.S. IVANHOE
La Panne.
0530/1
is
H.M.S. LYDD
Bray.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER
Dunkirk Harbour.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER and
other ships
Dunkirk Roads.
0610/1
H.M.Ships CODRINGTON,
3
HARVESTER and others
Off Gravelines.
0750/1
S
H.M.S. SKIPJACK
La Panne.
0900/1
H.M.S. MALLARD
On Route X.
1015/1
H.M.S. CALCUTTA
Between W and Y Buoys.
1020/1
H.M.P. M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
West of Dunkirk.
1600/1
H.M.Y. ALOUETTE
Off Gravelines.
1700/1
H.M.Y. CRISTOBEL II and
other ships
La Panne.
1730/1.
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Dunkirk Roads.
2000/1
TOTAL: 35 enemy aircraft definitely destroyed by ships'
gun fire between 0300/27 and 2000/1.
ery
In addition over the same period 21 others were heavily
damaged by ships' fire (and seen in distress but
NOT seen to crash definitely) of H.M. Ships HARVESTI
IVANHOE, VIVACIOUS, WINCHELSEA, WOLFHOUND, SABRE,
LOCUST, FITZROY, LYDD, MALLARD, MOSQUITO, WOLSEY,
EXPRESS, JAGUAR, GLEN AVON, ORIOLE, H.N.Y. ARONIA,
as
Storeship NEPHRITE and French M.T.B.24.
)p]
Note: On 30th May flying conditions were bad and few
enemy aircraft operated. After the 1st June
operations proceeded only between dusk and day.
i

Details

Details

260
2
Royal Naval Hospital,
Cha tham.
Dynamo 251,
B14/0/1276
263
6th
June,
1940.
259
H.M.S. GRIVE - REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS. 262
to GRIVE
(Report from Sub Lt. J.K.B. Miles, R.N.V.R.,
dated 6th June, 1940.)
the movements of
1 The Hon. L.J.O. Lambart
bn
II.
5m Portsmouth on Wednesday
to notify the changes in
80
and which may possibly
y in compiling CR ualty list
No. 0221/80.
ers to proceed from
VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
5-40) S/Lt. F.B. Hobson
seen the Medical Officer
Forwarded. It is suggested that
e of which he was
recommendations for awards to officers should
meantime Captain Lambert
be made on the contents of this letter, and
Lee-on-Solent as an
after further reference to Sub Lieut. Miles
operations and he joined
as regards ratings. I would like to add
that Captain the Hon. Lionel Lambart was 67
years of age and was one of the happiest men
th at 1530 on the
in England when he came to say goodbye before
2400 awaiting further
sailing for Dover.
re at 0800 30th and
mander-in-Chief Dover,
the evening tide at
Hames
00 and we proceeded
Portsmouth.
ach with our two whalers
10th June, 1940.
Admiral.
ed however that for the
d carry this method was
CADMIRAL
VE" remained about two
ver A.M. 31st with
n air raid on the town
13JUN 1940
but the beach remained
SV-R
attack at the Eastern
guns.
at 1400 31st, "GRIVE
bout 2000, and took O
psoy 400 troops Irom the Jetty, more might have been
e 2891 but there was a very severe air raid and as the
This were three abreast at the jetty Captain Lambart
theade 1 to withdraw and reduce the target. This air maid
BMS'S med out to sea and just after clearing the harbour
1th0 uconfidentally thought that "GRIVE'S" after 12 pounder
£8006 for an enemy machine. Returning to Dover by
Heanr 6. June, "GRIVE" landed her troops, and although having
ounds of ammunition per gun, set out again at 0300.
IBB-0 moon
a NORBE. Joproaching Dunkirk about 0800 "GRIVE" proceeded in
spett to a signal to the assistance of H.M.S. "IVANHOE",
gruer Accourival found another vessel alongside already. I
EBHI SETho armanted to Captain Lambart that I could see a group
contien anrine owne on the jetty and he accordingly proceeded alongside
ca Bk them off undergoing very heavy bombing attacks
in De Domenthe babunately left us unharmed although one salvo dropped
Lunde the jetty while we were on the inside. We
mcvoe.dh edot missenrom the harbour and proceeded to sea, a tremendous
was proceeding all this time.
and
[over

Details

260
2
Royal Naval Hospital,
Chatham
263
6th June, 1940.
The Commander-in-Chief,
H.M. Ships & Vessels.
Portsmouth.
to GRIVE
Sir,
I have the honour to report the movements of
H.M.S. "GRIVE", commanded by Captain The Hon. L.J.O. Lambart
g
D.S.O., R.N., from her departure from Portsmouth on Wednesday
29th May, 1940, and also especially to notify the changes in
officer personnel which took place and which may possibly
have caused confusion or uncertainty in compiling CA ualty list
At the time of receiving orders to proceed from
Portsmouth to Dover (i.e. 1300. 29-5-40) S/Lt. F.B. Hobson
R.N.V.R. was unwell and had already seen the Medical Officer
at R.N.B. Portsmouth, in consequence of which he was
immediately put ashore, but in the meantime Captain Lambert
had obtained Lt. Branwell R.N. from Lee-on-Solent as an
additional officer for the pending operations and he joined
the ship just before sailing.
H.M.S. "GRIVE" left Portsmouth at 1530 on the
29/5 29th May and anchored off Dover at 2400 awaiting further
orders. Captain Lambart went ashore at 0800 30th and
after receiving orders from the Commander-in-Chief Dover,
decided to sail at 1400 and utilise the evening tide at
Dunkirk.
30/5
Dunkirk was reached about 1900 and we proceeded
to take off troops from the East beach with our two whalers
and two motor boats, it was evidenced however that for the
number of troops which "GRIVE" could carry this method was
not an economic proposition. "GRIVE" remained about two
and a half hours and returned to Dover A.M. 31st with
just under 300 troops. There was an air raid on the town
during the period of "GRIVE'S" stay but the beach remained
untouched except for some artillery attack at the Eastern
end, directed I think, against A.A. guns.
Setting out again from Dover at 1400 31st, "GRIVE"
31/5
this time entered Dunkirk Harbour about 2000, and took O
nearly 400 troops from the jetty, more might have been
taken, but there was a very severe air raid and as the
ships were three abreast at the jetty Captain Lambart
decided to withdraw and reduce the target. This air maid
continued out to sea and just after clearing the harbour
it was confidentally thought that "GRIVE'S" after 12 pounder
accounted for an enemy machine. Returning to Dover by
0100 lst June, "GRIVE" landed her troops, and although havin,
8
only 5 rounds of ammunition per gun, set out again at 0300.
1/6
Approaching Dunkirk about 0800 "GRIVE" proceeded "IVANHOE" in
to a signal to the assistance of H.M.S. I
but response arrival found another vessel alongside already.
of on the jetty and he accordingly proceeded attacks alongsidle
then on reported to Captain Lambart that I could see a group
troops them off undergoing very heavy bombing
and which we fortunately took left us unharmed although one salvo dropped lle
withdrew just from the harbour and proceeded to sea, a tremendouss
outside the jetty while we were on the inside.
ned
air battle was proceeding all this time.
[over

Details

- 2 -
12
she if she was spared further direct attack it seemed tug likely
By now H.M.S. "IVANHOE" was in tow with a and
261
who had earlier taken troops and survivors off H.M.S. "IVANHOE",
would make home, in the meantime H.M.S. "HAVANT,"
264
was hit and on fire and did not look likely to last, she was
half-hull down and listing badly to port. "GRIVE" got
alongside and took off all the troops and "IVANHOE" survivors
together with wounded and her medical officer, another vessel
had "HAVANT" in tow. "GRIVE" then proceeded to Dover having
1300. about 700 on board including many wounded, she arrived about
At this stage Captain Lambart put Lt. C.E. est R.N.R.
of the ship at the beach and in harbour and alongside
ashore, his work had been tremendous and his skilful manouevring
H.M.S. "HAVANT" contributed enormously to "GRIVE" 8" success,
but he had done his share, and as a man of over sixty had
earned a rest.
Nevertheless Captain Lambart himself would not rest
and having called the crew together, who had been simply
magnificent, told them of his intention to start off again
1/6
immediately and take part in the operation at 2200. that night.
They were all as determined as he, and "GRIVE" sailed about 160
having first taken on provisions and ammunition.
Before sailing we were reinforced by S/Lt. Meyer.
R.N.V.R. from Dover, and also we put ashore the 4th Engineer
Officer (T.124), Mr. Terry, whose nerves were not standing
the strain, incidentally he had already lost his ship once in
this war, the H.M.Y. "PRINCESS".
Lt. Branwell was throughout a tremendous value and
showed great energy and efficiency. "GRIVE" proceeded slowly
to the rendezvous and whilst proceeding along the South side
of the channel to Dunkirk we heard an aeroplane in the
vicinity though could not see anything, a few minutes later
(about 22307 there was a tremendous explosion and "GRIVE" was
literally blown to pieces and sank in a few seconds. I
think it is probably that the 'plane we heard was actually
sowing magnetic mines in the paths being used by shipping ano
"GRIVE" was an immediate victim.
Together with three others of the ships company I
was picked up by a boat from a drifter and I believe about
a dozen others were picked up by another drifter and 3 or 4
more by a destroyer. The ships proceeded to Dunkirk and
took off troops and we were all landed at Ramsgate.
I trust this report, sir, though not necessary is not
tedious, but having regard to the personality of my fine old
Captain and to the fact that so far as I know I am the
only surviving officer I felt it my duty and thought that
you would wish to have an account of the matter.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
(Signed) J.K.B.Miles.
S/Lt. R.N.V.R.
ide
pped
dous
[over

Details

262
Royal Naval Hospital,
265
Chatham.
6th June, 1940.
The Commander-in-Chief,
H.M.Ships & Vessels.
GRIVE
Portsmouth.
Sir,
83
I have the honour to report the movements of
H.M.S. "GRIVE", commanded by Captain The Hon. L.J.O.Lambart
D.S.O., R.N., from her departure from Portsmouth on Wednesday
29th May, 1940, and also especially to notify the changes in
officer personnel which took place and which may possibly
have caused confusion or uncertainty in compiling casualty lists.
At the time of receiving orders to proceed from
Portsmouth to Dover (i.e. 1300. 29-5-40) S/Lt. F.B.Hobson
R.N.V.R. was unwell and had already seen the Medical Officer
at R.N.B. Portsmouth, in consequence of which he was
immediately put ashore, but in the meantime Captain Lambert
had obtained Lt. Branwell R.N. from Lee-on-Solent as an
additional officer for the pending operations and he joined
the ship just before sailing.
H.M.S. "GRIVE" left Portsmouth at 1530 on the
29th May and anchored off Dover at 2400 awaiting further
orders. Captain Lambart went ashore at 0800 30th and
after receiving orders from the Commander-in-Chief Dover,
decided to sail at 1400 and utilise the evening tide at
Dunkirk.
Dunkirk was reached about 1900 and we proceeded
to take off troops from the East beach with our two whalers
and two motor boats, it was evidenced however that for the
number of troops which "GRIVE" could carry this method was
not an economic proposition. "GRIVE" remained about two
and a half hours and returned to Dover A.M. 31st with
just under 300 troops. There was an air raid on the town
during the period of "GRIVE'S" stay but the beach remained
untouched except for some artillery attack at the Eastern
end, directed I think, against A.A. guns.
Setting out again from Dover at 1400 31st, "GRIVE"
this time entered Dunkirk Harbour about 2000, and took off
nearly 400 troops from the jetty, more might have been
taken, but there was very severe air raid and as the
ships were three abrenst at the jetty Cantain Lambart
decided to withdraw and reduce the target. This air maid
continued out to sea and just after clearing the harbour
it was confidentally thought that "GRIVE'S" after 12 pounder
accounted for an enemy machine. Returning to Dover by
0100 1st June, "GRIVE" landed her troops, and although having
only 5 rounds of ammunition per gun, set out again at 0300.
response to a signal to the assistance of H.M.S. "IVANHOE", I
Approaching Dunkirk about 0800 "GRIVE" proceeded in
but arrival found another vessel alongside already.
of on the jetty and he accordingly proceeded attacks alongside
then on reported to Captain Lambart that I could see a group
and troops took them off undergoing very heavy bombing
just outside the jetty while we were on the inside.
hich we fortunately left us unharmed although one salvo We dropped
withdrew from the harbour and proceeded to sea, a tremendous
air battle was proceeding all this time.
[over

Details

- 2
Royal Noval Hospital 263
By now H.M.S. "IVANHOE" was in tow with a tug and
if she was spared further direct attack it seemed likely
266
she would make home, in the meantime H.M.S. "HAVANT,"
The
who had earlier taken troops and survivors off H.M.S. "IVANHOE",
was hit and on fire and did not look likely to last, she was
half-hull down and listing badly to port. "GRIVE" got
longside and took off all the troops and "IVANHOE" survivors
together with wounded and her medical officer, another vessel
had "HAVANT" in tow. "GRIVE" then proceeded to Dover having
1300. about 700 on board including many wounded, she arrived about
At this stage Captain Lambart put Lt. C.E. est R.N.R.
ashore, his work had been tremendous and his skilful manouevring
of the ship at the beach and in harbour and alongside
H.M.S. "HAVANT" contributed enormously to "GRIVE success,
but he had done his share, and as a man of over sixty had
earned a rest.
Nevertheless Captain Lambart himself would not rest
and having called the crew together, who had been simply
magnificent, told them of his intention to tart off again
immediately and take part in the operation at 2200. that night.
They were all as determined as he, and "GRIVE" sailed about 160
having first taken on provisions and ammunition.
Before sailing we were reinforced by S/Lt. Meyer.
R.N.V.R. from Dover, and also we put ashore the 4th Engineer
Officer (T.124), Mr. Terry, whose nerves were not standing
the strain, incidentally he had already lost his ship once in
this war, the H.M.Y. "PRINCESS".
Lt. Branwell was throughout a tremendous value and
showed great energy and efficiency. "GRIVE" proceeded slowly
to the rendezvous and whilst proceeding along the South side
of the channel to Dunkirk we heard an aeroplane in the
vicinity though could not see anything, a few minutes later
(about 22307 there was a tremendous explosion and "GRIVE" was
14
.iterally blown to pieces and sank in a few seconds.
I
think it is probably that the 'plane we heard was actually
sowing magnetic mines in the paths being used by shipping and
"GRIVE" was an immediate victim.
Together with three others of the ships company I
was picked up by a boat from a drifter and I believe about
dent
a dozen others were picked up by another drifter and 3 or
more by a destroyer. The ships proceeded to Dunkirk and
took off troops and we were all landed at Ramsgate.
I trust this report, sir, though not necessary is not
tedious, but having regard to the personality of my fine old
Captain and to the fact that so far as I know I am the
only surviving officer I felt it my duty and thought that
you would wish to have an account of the matter.
way
I have the honour to be, Sir,
further
Your
obedient
servant,
at
30th
(Signed)
J.K.B.Miles.
Mrs
commander
S/Lt. R.N.V.R.
1400
the
at
ded
[over

Details

Royal Noval Hospital Chatham 267
June 6" 1940.
The Commander in Chief
264
H.M. Ships of Vessels.
GRIVE
Portsmouth
original
95
Su
I have the honour to report the movements of
H.M.S. grive commanded by Captain the Hon
L.J.O. Lambart D.S.O. R.N., from her departure
from Partsmouth on Wednesday 29th Way 1940,
o also especially to notify the changes m
officer personnel which took place D which may
possibly have caused confision or uncertainty
in compiling casualty lists.
at the time of receiving orders to proceed from
Portsmouth to Dover (ie. 1300 29-5-40) S/Lt
F.B. Hobson R.N.U.R. was unwell D had already
seen the medical officer at R.N.B. Partsmouth,
in consequence of which he was immediately
put ashore, but in the meantime Capt. hambart
had obtained ht Branwell R.N. from Lee-on-Solent
as an additional officer for the pending
operations 0 he joined the ship just before
sailing H.M.S. grive left Partsmouth at 1530 m the
29th may 0 anchored off Dover at 2400
awaiting further orders. Capt. Lambart went
ashore at 0800 30th Q after receiving orders
from the commander in chief Dover, decided
to sail at 1400 of utilise the evening tide at
Dunkisk
Dun kish was reached about 1900 I we proceeded
[over

Details

268 265
to take off troops from the East beach with
our two whaters D two motor boats it was
1
evidenced however that for the number of hoops
which quive could early this method was not
an economic proposition. Grive remained
about two Q a half hours 0 returned to Dover
86
A.M. 31st with just under 300 troops There
was an air raid on the town during the period
of grive's stay but the beach remained
untouched except for some artillery attack at
the Eastern end, directed I Think against
A.A. quns.
setting out eqain from Dover at 1400 31st grive
this time entered Dunkirk Harbour about 2000
O took off nearly 400 troops from the jetty,
more might have been taken but there was a
very severe air raid & as the ships were three
abreast at the jetty Capt. hambart decided to
withdraw Q reduce the target This air laid
continued out to sea Q just after clearing the
harbour it was confident ally thought that Grive's
after 12 pounder accounted for an enemply
machine. Returning to Dover by 0100. 1st June
grive landed her troops, Q although having
only 5 rounds of ammunition per qun,
set out again at 0300.
approaching Dunkuh about 0800. grive
proceeded in response to a signal to the assistance
of H.M.S. Ivanhae but on arrival found another
vessel alongside already. I then reported to
capt. Lambart that I could see a group of
trops on the jetty & he accordingly proceeded
alongside & we took them off under going very
[over

Details

269-
266
heavy bombing attachs which fortunately left us
unharmed attough one salud dropped just outside
-
the jetty while we were on the inside We withdrew
from the harbour of proceeded to sea, a tremendous
air battle was proceeding all this time. By now
H.M.S. Ivanhoe was in Tow with a tug O it she
was spared further direct attach it seemed likely
she would make home, in the meantime H.M.S. Hawant,
who had earlier taken troops D survivors off
H.M.S. Ivanhoe, was hit Q on fire o did not
look likely to last, she was half -hull down
Q listing badly to port. Grive got alongside
o took off all the troops of Ivanhoe survivors
together with wounded Q her medical officer,
another vessel had Havant in tow. Grive then
proceeded to Dover having about yoo on board
in cluding many wounded, she arrived about 1300
at this stage Capt. hambart put ht. C.E. West R.N.R.
ashore, his work had been tremendous Q his
skil full manovering of the ship at the beach
of in harbour o alongside H.M.S. Havant
contributed enormously to grives success, but
S
he had done his share o as a man of over
n
sixty had earned a rest nevertheless Capt. Lambart
himself would not rest s having called the
d
re
crew together , who had been simply magnificient,
told them of his intention to start off again
immediately Q take part in the operation at
S
2200. that night They were all as determined
hi
or
as he D grive sailed about 1600 having just
taken on provisions D ammunition.
que
Before sailing we were rempred by s/Lt
si
Weyer R N.U.R. from Dover of also we put
[over

Details

270-
207
ashore the 4th Engineer officer (T. 124) Terry
whose nerves were not standing the strain,
incidentally he had already lost his ship
once in this war, the H.M.Y. Princess.
Lt. Branwell was throughout of tremendous
value O slowed great energy Q efficiency.
grive proceeded slowly to the rendez-vous
o whilst proceeding along the South side of
the channel to Dunkiik we heard an aeroplane
in the vicinity though could not see anything,
a few minutes later Cabout 2230) there was
a tremendous explosion Q grive was literally
blown to pieces D sank in a few seconds. I
think it is probable that the plane we heard
was actually sowing magretic mines in the
paths being used by shipping D Grive was
an immediate victim .
Together with three others of the ships company
I was picked up by a boat from a drifter
Q
I believe about a dozen others were picked
up by another drifter D 3 or 4 more by a
destroyer. The ships proceeded to Dun Rirk
Q took off troops o we were all landed at Ramsqate
I trust this report sir though not
necessary is not tedious, but having regard to
the personality of my fine old captain
of to the fact that so for as I know I am
the only surviving officer I felt it my duty
Q thought that you would wish to have an
account of the matter
MMANDER-I I THIEF have the honour to be,
8. JUN 1940
*
su,
e
ORTSMOUTH
your obedient servant
(J. K. B. MILES.)
s/lt. RN.V [over

Details

FLAG OFFICER Captain Ever COMMANDING DOVER.
DUPLICATE
263
Blulo
a
FROM
272
271
westoft.
75
DATE.
14th JUNE, 1940.
June
19th,
No. G22/3595/40.
265
Γo.
NAVAL OFFICER IN CHARGE, LOWESTOFT.
Orrder
r.
It is understood that Skipper A. W. West
of H.M.T. "GULA" may be able to throw some light
m the loss Submitted of H.M.S. "GRIVE" on 1st June, 1940.
89
3
It is requested that he may be called
pon to furnish a report giving all details he
aay have in his possession of survivors and
nication of
Jasualties, giving the disposal of the former if
snown.
A.W. West of
H.M.T. "Gula" on the loss of B.M.S. "Grive" is
forwarded herewith
F.J. Walker
29/5
for VICE ADMIRAL.
u
Centain ./P.
nd
westoft.
r was
de
to
ored
Number
and
S
of
epr
aed was
d
ler way
re
backagth loading up. It was improsible to decypler this and
a second report stating that all cyphes were destroyed was made
in anxiliary lode.
10
2. Mosquito arrived Bray Dunes about 1830 and univediately
commenced taking hoops oH the beach. I found the bestmethod
was to anchor with my how afloat and my stein just on The
o
bottom and with a hass time form the ship to the shore
This enabled the army portoons and my whaters to have out
[over

Details

Details

270 2
H.M.T. Gula.
273 al
6.C. Base Lowestoff.
17-6-40. 17- 40.
91
He GRIVE
Sir
so requested that on the night of 1st
I beg to report
P
une 1940 @ 23 hours 45 hinutes H.M.Y
aday
Greives passed us on our starbord
and pulled into line ahead, at a distance
of about 100 ydo a big eseplazion was
345
2
elen. when the whole of the Vessel was
dure
blown to prices this occured about a
at
will outside Due kuk harbour whilst
land
the Port. Jessel We was on her way in to the
to
munched our small boat and received
EACH insdiately stopped. thiship
b was
eleven survivors who were seen chinging
ble
to wreekage, a small motor boat also
to
gave a hand + we understand that
a they micked up four of the survivors.
ord
thorough search was made and
and
of
epr
N.C.G.O.'s were also destroyed. the next signal received was
a eypher which came first as Mosquito was waiting on her way
backagth loading up. It was improsible to decypler this an
a second report stating that all cyphes were destroyed was me
in anxiliary lode.
2. Mosquito arrived Bray Dunes about 1830 and immediate
commenced taking hoops oH the beach. I found the bestmethon
was to anchor with my how afloat and my stein just on The
bottom and with a hass time form the ship to the shore
This enabled the army portoons and my whaters to have out
[over

Details

4/7/88) (1709) Wt. 22622/4313 50M 9/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
6
Register No. N.L. 6245/40.
Minute Sheet No.2.
Shin
Date lost
Senior surviving
Officers.
Miscellaneous.
CRESTED EAGLE (con'd) 30th May
Probationary Temporary
Lieutenant
D.J.R.Davies,R.N.R.
-
VKING ORRY
11528
30th May
Commander J.Elliott,
R.N.R.
Temporary Lieutenant J. Lee, R.N.R.
-
"GRIVE
10168
1st June
Temporary Sub-Lieutenan
J.K.B.Miles, R.N.V.R.
"MOSQUITO 10932
1st June
Lieutenant
D.H.D. Gardiner, R.N.
Probationary Sub-Lieut.
E.S. Flint, R.N.R.
T.C.Skeat
for HEAD OF C.W.
22nd June, 1940.
Would Cw and ACR please stal
the present addresses of these
affecirs.
C. Wallworth
for Ho. ML
13.7.40
R.o.mote:
also dear Lerein
-
Sr. Jagan (H.m. Ing) 10932
-
Pellag II (H.M. armed Jush) 11387
Vessels marked 0 1 covered in reports

Details

Present
Ex.
Location (17/7/40
Name
Appointment
KING ORRY PEMBROKE addl.
Tempy.Lieut.J.
Not to join;
Lee, R.N.R.
Home address:
59, Cambridge Avenue,
Great Crosby,
Liverpool, 23.
GRIVE
R.N.Hospital,
Tempy.Sub-
Chatham.
Lieut.J.K.B.
Miles, R.N.V.R.
Proby.Sub-Lieut.
MOSQUITO
Sick Leave.
E.S.Flint.R.N.R.
(is a nominee for
Submarine Course)
Attached "Victory."
(Home address S2 Preston Road.
Newport, Mon.).
Tic.Skeat
for HEAD OF C.W.
22nd July, 1940.
The following information as to Skipper Class
officers is forwarded as requested:-
Name.
ex.
Present
appointment.
Tempy. Skipper
THOMAS
EUROPA for VELMONT
J.J.Tomlinson, R.N.R.
BARTLETT.
3144 W.S.
Tempy. Skipper
CALVI
EUROPA.
B.D.Spindler, R.N.R.,
3170 W.S.
Skipper Lt. (retd)
POLLY
L.Lake, R.N.R., 2347 W.S. JOHNSTON
WATCHFUL for
BERVIE BRAES.
Skipper W. Martin, R.N.R., BLACKBURN
2645 W.S.
RACER for VICTRIX.
ROVERS
Chief Skipper A.Gove, R.N.R., WESTELLA
2345 W.S.
EUROPA.
Skipper C.E. Chaney, RNR.,
2952 W.S.
-do-
EUROPA.
Tempy. Skipper
A.M.Lovis, R.N.R.,
PAXTON.
LYNX for GOLDEN
Tempy. Skipper
SUNBEAM.
E.F.Dettman, R.N.R.,
BOY ROY.
3306 W.S.
LYNX for BILEEN
EMMA
Tempy. Skipper
C. Sanson, R.N.R.,
3394 W.S.
GIRL PAMELA
LYNX for YOUNG MON.
Tempy. Skipper
J.Solewidge,
R.N.R.,
LORD CAVAN.
CLIO for GAVA
Skipper R.A. MacLean

Details

DEADMIT
'S' propopre*
Jombs
.
not
ADA Lemb*
y's' Counter
seep* B*W*B*
VERBINES
anowe
1'2" Jostrumon
Louis*
DEADNIT
V*S* Cox
prone*
SINTH OL OREN
KELLA
0"2"
product 8*W*
CITIZE
ВОЛЕВЗ
FEE
ГУНИК
NAME OF OFFICER AND SHIP
RANK
SHIP
TYBE
W.J.C. Fuller,
Temp, LieutenNnt MEDWA
BRIGHTON BELLE
R.N.V.R,
J.S. Weddle
Sub-Lieut, R.N.R. CALLI
ARGYLLSHIRE
D.J. Hutton
Sub-Lieut. R.N.V.R. GOSS
THOMAS BARTLETT
MISCELLANEOUS
E.L. Berthon
Captain, R.N.
VIC
KEITH
J.K.B. Miles,
Temp. Sub-Lieut.
R,N.
GRIVE
R.N.V.R.
6
F.B. Proudfoot,
Lt. Cmdr., R.N.,
PEMB
SKIPJACK
(Retd.)
E.S. Flint,
Pby. Sub-Lieut.,
DOLP
MOSQUITO
R,N.R.

Details

Details

IS
Name
Ex.
Present
Appointment
Location
Tempy.Lieut.J.
KING ORRY PEMBROKE addl.
Lee, R.N.R.
Not to join;
Home address:
noticoal
59, Cambridge Avenue,
DEAL
.Loring nationali
Great Crosby,
Liverpool, 23.
Tempy.Sub-
GRIVE
R.N.Hospital,
Miles, R.N.V.R.
Cha them.red
Proby.Sub-Lieut.
MOSQUITO Sick Leave.
E.S.Flint,R.N.R.
(f.om)
(is a nominee for
Submarine Course)
STOTHO
STATED
Directment nt
surary
exas
LODA 7MYX
(signed) T.C. SKEAT
Chin
YHOTOKV
YXJOYAT for HEAD OF C.W.
22 July, 1940.
PRONABORT
N
ИОТЧМАНТОВ
ATHOVED
.Ebby HOMALY
"
SUI
202
event :/ola no
638 Chim
to) AXOUXABHT
bancado at
STRATUMI
202
YYIO
203 SUBLLITYOSA
FOLLTAN TESTORAD 201
XXX980
.brefities
KNIL 202
HERTUMA
10%
SPELIOD
EXTURED
SIDAR
CONDTOIV

Details

Ship
Date Lost
Senior surviving officers
Pre
Drifters.
PAXTON
29th May
Probationary Temporary
LYNX
Skipper A.M. Lovis, R.N.R.
BOY ROY
29th May
Probationary Temporary
LYNX
Skipper E.F. Dettman, R.N.R.
GIRL PAMELA
29th May
Temporary Skipper C. Sanson,
LYNX
R.N.R.
LORD CAVAN
1st June
Temporary Skipper J.H.
CLIC
Mugridge, R.N.R.
OAI
Danlayers.
COMFORT
29th May
None
NAUTILUS
29th May
Acting Skipper R. Maclean, R.N.R.
LYNX
Harbour Defence Patrol Craft.
AMULREE
1st June
Probationary Temporary Sub-
OSPR
Lieutenant G.P. Probert,R.N.V.R.
tra
Miscellaneous.
CRESTED EAGLE
30th May
Probationary Temporary Lieut-
PEMB
Commander B.R. Booth, R.N.R.
Probationary Temporary Lieutenant
VICT
D.J.R. Davies, R.N.R.
Por
KING ORRY
30th May
Commander J. Elliott, R.N.R.
ROSE
Temporary Lieutenant J.Lee,R.N.R.
PEMB
Home
Aven
Live
GRIVE
1st June
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant
R.N.
J.K.B. Miles, R.N.V.R.
MOSQUITO
1st June
Lieutenant D.H.D. Gardiner, R.N.
Probationary Sub-Lieutenant
Sick
E.S. Flint, R.N.R.
for :
Atta
Home
Newp
Minesweeper
SKIPJACK
lst June
Lieutenant-Commander F.B.
Proudfoot, R.N.
Temporary Lieutenant
PATRO
E. Richardson , R.N.R.

Details

Park NL 6245/40 - TR
Vice Admiral A. Bedford,
c/o Commander-in-Chief,
Commander-in-Chief,
31
H. M. Ships and Vessels,
T
Western Approaches,
The Nore.
Plymouth.
Copies to:-
is
Commodoreyin-Charge,
17th August, 1940.
Sheerness.
Secretary, N.L. Branch,
Admiralty.
No:- A.B.2/40.
With reference to Admiralty Letter N.L. 6245/40 of 31st
July, 1940 I propose the following programme for holding the
enquiries which I am directed to carry out:-
Name of Officer.
Ship.
Date.
Time.
Late.
Now Serving.
Temp. Lt. H. Jones,
GRACIE
WILDFIRE
Wednesday 1430.
ted
R.N.V.R.
FIELDS.
81/8/40
Temp.Lt.Cdr.B.R.
CRESTED
PEMBROKE for
Thursday
0930.
Booth, R.N.R.
EAGLE.
EMPEROR OF
22/8/40
INDIA.
Lieut. D. H. D.
MOSQUITO
HUSSAR
- do -
1100
Gardiner, R.N.
Temp.Sub.Lt.
GRIVE
R.N. Hospital, Friday
a.m.
J.K.B. Miles,
Chatham.
23/8/40
R.N.V.R.
2. If these arrangements are convenient it is requested
that I may be informed where I may hold these enquiries and that
the Officers named above may be directed to attend. The order in
which the enquiries on first three ships named are held is
immaterial.
3. It is requested that the two Officers detailed in
accordance with the last paragraph of the Admiralty Letter attend
a quarter of an hour earlier than the time of opening the Enquiry.
(spe)
VICE-ADMIRAL
GADM L
UADM
PASS T
I $
PASS TO
ADDRESS
VICE ADM ADMIRAL
ROOM FOR
PSE READ
R 1002/23
78.

Details

will Bebby
10932
x Confidential
D-51.
(Revised-June, 1933.)
1940
78
FROM WHOM
DATE
Adminal Bedford.
various dates
MARKINGS TO BOARD.
SUBJECT.
Loss of various H.L. thips
/
"Dinamo"
CONFIDENTIAL.
No. 14/13 A.B./40.
CENT AUGTRY
Admiralty, S.W. 1.
-
75
30th August, 1940.
Enquiry into loss of H.M.
Armed Yacht GRIVE in
Operation Dynamo.
10168
Sir,
119401
With reference to Admiralty Letter M.L 6245/40
dated 1st August, 1940, be pleased to lay before Their
Lordships the following report resulting from an enquiry
into the loss of H.M. Armed Yacht GRIVE on the 1st June
1940.
2.
Temporary Sub Lieutenant J.K.B. Miles, R.N.V.R,
the senior surviving officer of GRIVE was examined on
29th August, 1940.
3.
At about 2230, when GRIVE had just turned on
an easterly course and was about 1½ miles from the coast
a big explosion right underneath literally blew the ship
to pieces and she disappeared in about 8 to 10 fathoms.
4.
Although it cannot be definitely stated what
was the cause of the explosion it seems most probable
that it was due to a magnetic mine.
5.
The ship had not been degaussed but work was
1947
in hand when she was withdrawn for Operation Dynamo.
6.
In the circumstances nothing was learnt from
the loss of this vessel.
ARY
7. H. de P. Richardson, R.N., and Commander (E) C. Gatey,
I was assisted in my enquiry by Commander
1940
R.N.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
aBidford Vice Admiral.
he Secretary of the Admiralty.
178.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 26
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Saturday 1st June (continued).
Personnel vessel PRAGUE attacked by enemy aircraft
when on return from Dunkirk in position 2 miles 315° from V.
Buoy loaded with troops. She was eventually taken in tow and
beached in the Downs opposite Sandown Castle.
Destroyer HAVANT attacked by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk, hit by bombs and sank.
Personnel vessel SCOTIA attacked by aircraft on way
back from Dunkirk loaded with troops. Ship sank but crew and
troops mostly picked up, the majority being taken by the ESK.
Gunboat MOSQUITO attacked by enemy aircraft at about
1200 and sunk.
Trawler WESTWARD HO. Slight damage by near misses
from aircraft.
Destroyer WORCESTER at 1630 - 1700 damaged by enemy
bombing attack on leaving Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dover under
own steam.
Corvette KINGFISHER damaged by enemy bombing attack
and rendered unseaworthy in rough weather.
Minesweeper SANDOWN damaged by shell fire in boiler
room.
Destroyer IVANHOE damaged by aircraft bombing attack.
Taken in tow and proceeded to Sheerness.
Destroyer VIVACIOUS damaged by aircraft bombing attack
returned to Dover under own steam.
Personnel vessel MONA'S ISLE. On way to Dunkirk
straddled by enemy shore batteries at No.5 Buoy and subsequent-
ly attacked by dive bombers - all near misses, Ship proceeded
to Dunkirk - embarked troops. Advised by Senior Naval Officer,
Dunkirk, to wait until high water as ship was fully loaded and
returned at 0400, arriving Dover on June 2nd at 0150. Ship
was found to be making water in No.2 stokehold and steam pipes
to be leaking.
F.A.A. Training Yacht GRIVE after leaving Dunkirk,
was blown up by a mine.
Minesweeper SKIPJACK was off La Panne engaged in
embarking troops. Continuous air attacks were made on the ship
from 0530. No fighters were seen except for about 5 minutes.
250 - 300 troops had been embarked by 0845 when ship was hit
several times. Orders were given to abandon ship and within
about 2 minutes she turned turtle. Most of the troops were
lost, having been put below. Those in the water were machine-
gunned.
Destroyer BASILISK was embarking troops off La Panne
and/
daylight/

Details

Details

Lieutenant Derek Peel Willan, Royal Navy,
Lieutenant H.M.S. Icarus. Frederick Worcester. Greville Woods, Royal
Captain John Henry Wh
Transport Tynwald.
Lieutenant Navy, H.M.S. Alfred Thomas Cook, R.N.R.,
Mr. Terence O' Hanlon, :
Dorrien Rose.
H.M.S. Medway Queen.
Lieutenant Lieutenant Kenneth Arthur Gadd, R.N.R.,
Joseph Cox, R.N.R.
Mr. Hubert Donald F1
H.M. Hospital Carrier
Mr. Arthur Patrick Jo
Lieutenant Tom Preston Graham, R.N.R.
H.M.S. Ross.
Officer, H.M. Transpo
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.,
Mr. Frank Edward M
Lieutenant Frederick Thomas Renny, R.N.R.,
Motor Boat Triton.
H.M. Hospital Carrier
Mr. Allan Watterson,
H.M. Skoot Hondsrug.
Transport Tynwald.
Lieutenant Robert Archibald Vallings, R.N.R.,
Mr. Joseph Wilfred Coul
Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
H.M.S. Speedwell.
H.M. Transport Royal
Mr. William McGregor,
Princess Elizabeth.
Lieutenant Robert Peverell Hichens,
Transport King Georg
Mr. Bernard Murphy,
R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Niger.
Lieutenant Alexander Harper Turner,
Transport Dorrien Ro
R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Watchful.
Mr. Walter Ernest Oxer
Sea Cadet Lieutenant Harry Sidmouth-Willing,
H.M. Transport Prag
H.M. Skoot Hilda.
Mr. David Douglas R
Surgeon Lieutenant Joseph Wishart Shield,
H.M. Hospital Carrie
M.B., B.Ch., R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Grafton.
Mr. Andrew Sinclair,
Sub-Lieutenant Edmund Charles Croswell,
Transport Royal Sove
Royal Navy, H.M.S. Harvester.
Mr. George Frederick To
Sub-Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-
H.M. Transport Maid
Mulhallen, Royal Navy.
Mr. James Lang Croc
Sub-Lieutenant William Ronald Williams,
Transport Biarritz.
Royal Navy, Motor Boat Swallow.
Mr. Charles Powell Maso
Sub-Lieutenant Eric Sidney Flint, R.N.R.,
Transport Tvnwald.
H.M.S. Mosquito.
Sub-Lieutenant John David Greaves, R.N.R.,
H.M.S. Medway Queen.
Sub-Lieutenant John Cambridge Clarke,
R.N.V.R., Motor Boat Rapide.
+
Sub-Lieutenant Thomas Ellison Godman,
R.N.V.R., H.M.Y. Seriola.
Sub-Lieutenant R.N.V.R., H.M.S. William Sutton. Geoffrey Hewitt,
Sub-Lieatenant R.N.V.R., H.M. John Grive. Kenneth Barton Miles,
Herbert Bernhard
H
TOTAL
H.M.S.
John Ball, R.N.R.,
Bryce, R.N.R.,
Jones, Royal Engineer Navy, Engineer H.M.S. Reginald Sabre. Thomas
Gunner Reynolds, Royal Navy, H.M.S.Salamandr.
Gunner H.M.S. Frederick Wolsey. William Benoy, Royal
Skipper Navy, (T) H.M.S. Reginald Grenade. William Clare, Navy,
Skipper Drifter Andrew The Boys. Buchan, R.N.R., Royal
Skipper Reed. George Hattan, R.N.R., H.M. H.M.
Drifter Midas. Herbert Holden, R.N.R., Drifter
Skipper Captain H.M. Reynolds, R.N.R., H.M.
Captain Captain Card CANADA Captain Captain H.M. most Scotia. H.M. 87. Transport James Transport Robert Fryer, McCallum Prague. Rowland Master, Hughes, Baxter, H.M. Master, Tug Master, Master, Master, Fore- H.M. S.S.
Pitman, Master, H.M.
Master, Master, H.M.

Details

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

Details

Page 92.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GRIVE - Captain. the Hon. Lionel Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., R.N.
Sub. -Lieutanant - John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R. (Retired). -
the only surviving officer.
GRIVE left Portsmouth 1530/29th May, arrived Dover
2359/29 and sailed for Dunkirk 1400/30, where for 2½ hours
she embarked troops from the East beach with her own boats,
arriving back at Dover a.m. 31st with just under 300 troops.
GRIVE left Dover again at 1400/31, entered Dunkirk
harbour at 2000/31 and embarked 400 troops during a very
in
severe air raid. GRIVE arrived back at Dover 0100/1, landed
her troops and although having only 5 rounds of ammunition
left per gun, sailed again at 0300/1.
Reaching Dunkirk 0800/1 GRIVE went alongside the pier
and took off a group of troops during heavy bombing. Leaving
harbour GRIVE went alongside HAVANT, which had been hit by a
bomb, and was on fire, and took off all her troops and
wounded, together with IVANHOE's survivors. GRIVE arrived
Dover 1300/1 with 700 on board.
At this stage Captain Lambart put Lieutenant C.E. West,
R.N.R. (an officer of over 60) ashore, as he had done
e
magnificent work handling the ship "and had earned a rest".
Captain Lambart himself, who was 67, would not rest; he
assembled his crew, informed them he intended to start off
again immediately. The crew were equally determined and,
having provisioned and ammunitioned, the ship sailed at
1600/1.
n
When approaching Dunkirk about 2230 GRIVE apparently was
mined and was blown to pieces.
This account is taken from the narrative of Sub.-Lieut.
Miles, the only officer saved.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
ps,
23
uring
Captain. the Hon. Lionel John Olive Lambart, D.S.O., R.N. (Retired)
stered
ivors
For gallantry and exceptional endurance and
was
devotion to duty.
whom
Port. M.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R.
For gallantry in action.
DSC D.S.C
Recommended for decoration.
a
ip
1008
evec
in.

Details

Page 92.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GRIVE - Captain, the Hon. Lionel Oliver Lambart, D.S.O., R.N.
Sub. -Lieutanant - the John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R. (Retired). -
only surviving officer.
GRIVE left Portsmouth 1530/29th May, arrived Dover
2359/29 and sailed for Dunkirk 1400/30, where for 2½ hours
she embarked troops at from the East beach with her own boats,
arriving back Dover a.m. 31st with just under 300 troops.
GRIVE left Dover again at 1400/31, entered Dunkirk
harbour at 2000/31 and embarked 400 troops during a very
severe air raid. GRIVE arrived back at Dover 0100/1, landed
her troops and although having only 5 rounds of ammunition
left per gun, sailed again at 0300/1.
Reaching Dunkirk 0800/1 GRIVE went alongside the pier
and took off a group of troops during heavy bombing. Leaving
harbour GRIVE went alongside HAVANT, which had been hit by a
bomb, and was on fire, and took off all her troops and
wounded, together with IVANHOE's survivors. GRIVE arrived
Dover 1300/1 with 700 on board.
At this stage Captain Lambart put Lieutenant West,
R.N.R. (an officer of over 60) ashore, as he had done
magnificent work handling the ship "and had earned a rest".
Captain Lambart himself, who was 67, would not rest; he
assembled his crew, informed them he intended to start off
again immediately. The crew were equally determined and,
having provisioned and ammunitioned, the ship sailed at
1600/1.
When approaching Dunkirk about 2230 GRIVE apparently was
mined and was blown to pieces.
This account is taken from the narrative of Sub,-Lieut.
Miles, the only officer saved.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Captain. the Hon. Lionel John Olive Lambart, D.S.O., R.N. (Retired)
For gallantry and exceptional endurance and
devotion to duty.
Recommended for posthumous decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Kenneth Barton Miles, R.N.V.R.
For gallantry in action.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Details

-274
-
"LAROG"
268
Subject:
Report on Dunkirk Evacuation.
Wednesday
29th May. Seiled from Yarmouth to Portsmouth arriving
2230. Received instructions from C. in C's
Operational Office.
Thursday 60th May.
0030 hrs.
Sailed from Portsmonth for Ramagate.
1130 hrs.
Arrived Dover: closed Tug "Foremost 4" orders
"Foremont 4", H.M.S. "Grive", "Foremost 2",
"Adventuress", "Lady Shelia".
1400 hrs.
Left Dover, sailed for Dunkirk via Doute given
at Dover.
(about) 1930 hru.
Arrived off Dunkirk beach 1 adle to east of Pier.
Picked up about 75 British soldiers from small
naina the hands to fakah the mon
Думоть 349
Subject
267
OPERATION "DYNAMO". H.V. "LAROC".
From
THE EXTENDED DEFENCE OFFICER (WEST) YARMOUTH
Isle of Wight.
Date
18th June 1940
To
THE VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
(Copy to Commander-in-Chief, Portsmouth)
The attached narrative, forwarded by Hr. George Butler,
owner and Master of the Motor Yacht "LAROC" is submitted
for your consideration.
"LAROC" is normally employed as one of the Boarding
Vessels of the Western Examination Service, Mr. Butler and
all his crew volunteering immediately for this service at
Dover, his vessel being ready at short notice complete with
pa-
all requirements.
Mr. Butler informs me that he had no breakdowns and
it.
gs.
suffered no damage, although he hit sunken wreckage on one
en.
occasion. He formed the opinion that the safest area was
h
as close to the shore as possible, between the two commonest
ranges of the enemy guns, and it is evident that he handled
OY.
his vessel successfully.
to
Mr.Butler Mr. is about twentythree years of age, and the
crew are his ordinary yacht's crew.
OE ADMINAL
20JUN 1940
CAPTAIN
*
DOVH HI R
X.D.O. (WEST)

Details

-
"LAROG"
268
Subject:
Report on Dunkirk Evacuation.
Wednesday 29th May. Seiled from Yarmouth to Portsmouth arriving
2230. Received instructions from C. in C's
Operational Office.
Thursday 60th May.
0030 hrs.
Sailed from Portsmonth for Ramagate.
1130 hrs.
Arrived Dover: closed Tug "Foremost 4" orders
"Foremost 4", H.M.S. "Grive", "Foremost 2",
"Adventuress", "Lady Shelia".
1400 hrs.
Left Dover, sailed for Dunkirk via boute given
at Dover.
(about) 1980 hrs.
Arrived off Dunkirk beach 1 sile to east of Pier.
Picked up about 75 British soldiers from small
rowing boats, using the boats to fetch the men
from the beach so the ship.
2200 hrs.
Left for Ramsgate as a more intense air raid
commenced.
Friday
Slat May.
1800 hrs.
Anchored à mile north of 11. Goodwin Light Ship.
0430
Proceeded to Ramagate.
0500
Landed Troops.
0600
Sailed for Dunitirk with Shaler in tow and three
Naval ratings - John Doyle, 3. Mollahon, - King.
1030
Anchored off beach 1 mile to east of Pier.
Distance off 860 yards.
1100
Launched ship's boats. Collected two large
passenger boats and moored them actern of
"Laros" streeming the whaler astern of these
and collecting troops 18 at a time. Loaded the
this was going on I saw the "Llanthony" dried
three boats by neans of the whaler. While
out assistance was required but could do nothing
on the beach - went to her to know if any
During the day the beach was under fire from
to help.
The great endurance by swimming ashore themselves with
the Naval ratings John Doyle and So NoNahon
shore and aeroplanes.
showed line to enable the troops to pull water about
out hours. The entire crew did their to
a to the whaler. Being in the utmont
4 and were very calm.
(about) 1515
help filled all three ships - about attack 170 troops-
Having owing to great increase of enemy in the
Landed hands troops in Rangate. Noored ship for night.
proceed of a N.T.B., who anked
and to Ramagate, loaving whaler for it.
(about) 1930
Saturday 1st June.
for Dunkirk 0600, with four and Naval Gravelines. Ratings.
(about) 1000 hrs.
Arrived Sailed off coast between ships. Dunkirk
Heavy with British Destroyer bound west, in tow which by
bombing of large
=
1005
Closed been hit on how. nothing. the was taken
had steered tug and NaMe TWO could from do No. 5 W. Buoy to get clear
=
1015
of big of ships. bomba dropped about so yards No. astern 9
#
1025
Salvo East being sank near within about V.BUOY.
1030
one position
bombe 1 mile North
of No.15. bombing W. of British Destroyer No. 5 11. Buoy. - position
1035
Heavy about $ miles No N. from

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VI
seriously wounded. Ivanhoe The Grafton fired 3 was shells by into then her listing at 500 heavily, and had her
end awash; the where she berthed alongside the yards range and after
proceeded troops. to Dunkirk, east pier and embarked then
assist ships in
Following the distress.¹ loss of the Grafton, destroyers were ordered not to stop to
Mona's Queen sunk by mine
the Vanquisher had anchored ahead of the The Intrepid, waiting for a and
In the meantime the Javelin off and Malo Icarus beach. had entered Dunkirk harbour,
was loaded with water mine and troops. sank in Then, at about 0530, the Mona's which
anchored off the fresh harbour, for the personnel vessel Mona's Queen, berth,
and whaler 31 and of the the crew. Intrepid's motor picked up the Master, Captain A. Holkham
Queen blew up on a magnetic boat two minutes. The anquisher's
The German minelaying effort
the night 28th/29th May, was maintained with great intensity during the
Minelaying by the enemy and during the dark hours probably took place during
following two nights. Not only was the Dunkirk road mined, including the
Zuydcoote Pass, but also Route X and the area round the Kwint buoy. Folke-
stone and Dover Harbour entrances were also mined. In spite of the large
number of mines laid, only one British ship other than the Mona's Queen
known for certain to have been sunk by magnetic mines - the Fleet Air Arm was
yacht Grive which was sunk on 1st June. On that date, also, the hospital
by a LL. trawler sweeping close at hand. The A/S trawlers Thuringia, estella
carrier St. David was damaged at anchor off Dover when a mine was exploded
and Blackburn Rovers were believed at the time to have been sunk by moored
mines laid by a U-boat, although at first it was thought that the last two at
rate had been torpedoed. If the enemy had been able to lay moored contact any
mines different². by aircraft, instead of magnetic mines, the results would have been very
Allied air cover, 29th May
hostile The remainder of the long list of naval losses on this day was caused by
and Dunkirk- was up of The 10 to 28th 44, miles 4 Dunkirk bombers. the squadrons; May, Furnes- of smallest Dunkirk, led area The on Cassel³. 25. actually was the except odds covered All 29th which fighter the for to largest a a Hurricane our further patrols fighters number strengthening were patrol had of concentrated fighters at encountered midday of on the within any covering fighter on one the a patrols radius patrol a 27th line
mately 1450. the following times 0440 during 0610, the 0720 day by fighter patrols at approxi- 1400,
patrols 1620, 1700 1800, 1930 2030, 2000 0925, 1030 1200, 1300 Command
the day; covered the line North Goodwins - 2110³. Coastal throughout
down by Me. all three 109's aircraft at about of 1130³. one of the Coastal Gravelines - Command Ostend patrols were shot
2 I Appendix 0.6.
2 R.A.F. V.A. Dover's Narrative, letter, p.326. No. A.14/0/876/40, p.3, paras. 7(a) and 7 (c).
38

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VII
heavy craft, nor even by small craft similar in a pier lop, was it was invaluable
ing troops into small boats. A was completed and commenced in use on the morning of later for embark-
the 30th May at La Panne, and by the the same day the the same same d the morning day the morning day
(See p. 47).
2 or 3 motor yachts and paddlers to
Bray; none proceeded east of the Bray pier, where the
Captain Howson goes on to say that arrived in the and afternoon anchored one Fortwo skoots and the weskoots and
waited many hours patiently. One tried or two without destroyers or sloops passed from had
the westward to La Panne, and he he success with a lamp to
Admiral Wake-Walker asking him to arrange for this. Captain Howson also
them to anchor off the pier. Eventually managed to get a signal to Rear- tell
sent an officer to Dunkirk to represent learned the urgent need for destroyers off Bray.
It was not until 2 days later that he that all the destroyers, etc., had
been given specific instructions as to which beach they were to anchor off.
Later a certain number of destroyers, sloops and skoots anchored off Bray and
the embarkation proceeded satisfactorily. Unfortunately, time after time,
owing to a lack of naval ratings, he saw a procession of boats going off loaded
with troops, only to be cast adrift and left floating empty out to seaward¹.
Later that evening Captain Howson got in touch with Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker, then in the Worcester, and obtained permission to embark the following
day in a motor boat off the beaches SO as to prevent a recurrence of this waste
of beaching craft².
In spite of the difficulties and shortcomings emphasised in the above reports
great progress was being made. In fact, beach evacuation reached its peak
on this day; 29,500 troops were lifted from the beaches (as against 24,300
from the harbour) ; and some 50 ships, including destroyers, minesweepers,
skoots, trawlers, drifters, personnel and special service vessels, were engaged
continuously in the arduous work.
The armada grows, but service of ships to Dunkirk is slowed up
Meanwhile the build-up of ships continued, and some 31 additional craft
reached of Dunkirk and the beaches this day. They included two minesweepers
of the 8th M.S.F.³, the Fleet Air Arm training vessel Grive, 4 yachts and a drifter
the Dover M/S Command4, the corvette Kingfisher, (with the ex-Belgian
canal the boat Sambre in tow), the Yarmouth Examination Service yacht Laroc,
and M/V Scottish Co-operator, the S/M tender Dwarf, the drifters Fair Breeze
minesweeper barge Skipjack), the motor coasters Seine and Sheila, (in the coasting
Ocean Breeze, the ex-Belgian canal boats Ambleve and Escaut tow of the
the Viking, the ex-Dutch eel-boat Johanna (in tow Lady of the skoot Jutland),
water, and (R.N.L.I.) lifeboat Prudential (towing barges 7 Sark and with fresh
Ramsgate sailing barge Beatrice Maud, and the dumb Shetland. hopper The
the oyster dredging smacks Seasalter and Vanguard, the steam W.24,
borough, the punt Carama), and the Margate wherries loaded Lord South-
wherries. were The manned by their own crews, but (R.N.L.I.) naval lifeboat manned the
appeared on the scene. and picked up 244 troops. Another A/S patrol, to
Bray beach in error trawler Olvina, which should have been on ratings went
I At long last a dozen of the long awaited important motor contingent boats
R.O.III, p.396.
2 R.O.III, p.397.
4 3 The The Glen Avon and Glen Gower.
and 5 The the danlaying danlaying Constant yachts drifter Gulzar and Sargasso, the echo and Conidaw
Triton, Silver Pauleter Adventuress, and sounding Ma Black Joie. yachts Arrow, Chico Sunshine, Reda,
60

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CHAP. IX
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
side by two further hits, within a few inches of the to port, which the
bomb hit. It seems probable for the that ship serious took a damage heavy list was now caused to
until the upper deck was with one anchor down. water. Steam was increased
lost and the ship stopped, depth charges set to safe and Torpedoes were gradually
no range on and all were jettisoned.
As the ship was now settling, the order Rear-Admiral to abandon Wake-Walker transferred
the Keith to M.T.B. 102 this moment a further series ship was given, and from
shook the ship with near misses amongst the men in the water.
the men left her. At which landed of dive bombing most attacks of
took off survivors and picked up men water. The skoot Hilda
About 0830 the tug St. Abbs came alongside in the and assisted by the tug Vincia
was bombed and sunk. As late as 1100 men were still struggling in the oil
rescued 7 ratings. An unidentified grey yacht which was picking up survivors
Lt. Gen. Laidsell, 2 officers, and 20 ratings. The minesweeper Salamander rescued
slick, and the motor barge Sherfield, which had arrived off the coast with a small
convoy of 2 X lighters and a motor launch, rescued 15.
At about 0940 aircraft again appeared, and the Keith was sunk in a salvo of
bombs from about 50 of the enemy. Three officers and 33 men were reported
lost.
Ten minutes later the St. Abbs, by this time off Dunkirk, was hit by bombs
and sank in 45 seconds. Of the 135 officers, ratings and trcops on board, 30
were left swimming in the water, including the Captain of the Keith, Capt. E. L.
Berthon, D.S.C., R.N., who was saved.
Meanwhile the Skipjack, which had been busy off Malo embarking troops
and fighting off continuous air attacks from 0530 which had reduced her
ammunition supply to about 12 rounds a gun, was dive-bombed at 0845 by 10
aircraft and hit by 2 bombs. A minute later 3 more bombs hit her. She
turned turtle and floated bottom upwards for about 2 minutes before finally
sinking. A few survivors were picked up by the Hilda and the St. Abbs. Nearly
all the 275 troops on board were below decks and had no chance to escape.
Enemy aircraft machine-gunned men in the water.
Ivanhoe damaged, Basilisk sunk.
Already, by this time, another destroyer had been put out of action. At
0800 off Dunkirk harbour, the Ivanhoe, with 1,000 troops on board which she
had embarked from La Panne, was dive-bombed and hit amidships. Damage
was severe and she had 26 killed and 30 wounded. The troops and wounded the
were transferred to the Havant, the Speedwell and the yacht Grive; and
proceeded to Sheerness. tug While within radius of 1 mile of No. 6 W buoy,
Ivanhoe, assisted by the Persia and escorted by the War Dept. M. L. Haig, 3
waves (each of 21 bombers) attacked the a Ivanhoe and other vessels in that area
for half an hour, but the Ivanhoe received no further damage.
and Dunkirk, the Basilisk the also Keith and bombed off La Panne. Three room,
At about the time that Ivanhoe were under attack off attacks Bray
were made. In the first was being exploded in No. 3 boiler out of
action; six other bombs auxiliary exploded steam underneath lines the ship, causing the upper
cutting the main and attack one bomb and putting all machinery deck
and the ship's sides to buckle.
Torpedoes and depth charges were jettisoned and at 0845 the ship was
floating on an even keel.
An hour later, while efforts were being made by the French trawler Jolie
90

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SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE
CHAP. IX
Mascotte to tow the Basilisk, the enemy returned to the attack but made no
hits. The French trawler slipped the tow and moved off to a safer distance.
At noon bombers returned for a third time, diving to about 400 feet.
Smothered by hits and near misses the Basilisk shuddered and heeled to star-
board, righted herself momentarily, but sank in about 3 minutes, settling on
the bottom on an even keel in some 4 fathoms. As soon as she was abandoned
the Whitehall completed her destruction by gunfire and torpedoes.
The Jolie Mascotte picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings, the Whitehall 2 officers
and 52 ratings. Other survivors got away in the motor boat and a whaler.
Second air attack, 0906 : sinking of the Havant
Meanwhile the Havant, after transferring 500 troops from the damaged
Ivanhoe, proceeded down Dunkirk Channel. At 0906, at the western end of
the channel, she was hit by 2 bombs which entered the starboard side of the
engine room killing every one in it. A third bomb dropped 50 yards ahead and
exploded as the Havant passed over it. Out of control and listing to port, the
ship continued to steam ahead towards the sandbanks opposite Dunkirk. The
engine room and No. 2 boiler room were on fire, there was a heavy escape of
steam and all auxiliary machinery was out of action, resulting in a failure of
the electric supply. It was impossible to enter the engine room, but Chief
Stoker M. Gallon, in spite of the fire, let the steam out of the boilers and the
ship was brought up in 4 fathoms by the starboard anchor.
The Saltash and Grive came alongside and the Havant's troops were trans-
ferred during almost continuous bombing. The Saltash took the Havant in
tow, but further concussion from near misses increased considerably the des-
troyer's list to port, so the majority of her ship's company were transferred to
the skoot Aegir. A bomb fell between the Havant and the Saltash followed by
another close to the Havant's port quarter. By 1000 the list had increased and
the decks were almost awash. 'Abandon ship" was ordered, the tow was
slipped and the remainder of the ship's company were transferred to the Aegir.
At 1015 the Havant rolled over and sank. 1 officer and 7 men were killed,
25 wounded.
Third air attack, 1009. Prague damaged
The enemy air attacks had not been confined to ships off the beaches. At
1009 the personnel vessel Prague, which had embarked about 3000 French
troops from Dunkirk harbour, was attacked by dive-bombers between W and V
buoys and suffered severe damage astern from 3 near misses which put the
starboard engine out of action.
The majority of the troops were transferred, whilst the ship continued to go
ahead on the port engine, to the Scimitar, the minesweeper Halcyon and the
paddle minesweeper Queen of Thanet, the later taking on board no less than
1,500 and the Scimitar 376; and at 1331 the tug Lady Brassey took the Prague
in tow to the Downs, where the remaining troops were transferred to the trawlers
Olvina and Lady Philomena. The Prague had ended her service in Operation
' Dynamo", for to save her from sinking she was beached off Sandown Castle,
Deal, at 1730 that day. In three trips, she had taken out from Dunkirk over
6,000 men.
Sinking of the Foudroyant
Before the morning was out yet a fourth destroyer, the French Foudroyant,
was sunk by air attack. The ship had sailed from England at 0800. She
91

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SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE
CHAP. IX
boiler and engine rooms badly holed, the steering gear jammed with the rudder
hard over, the ship took a heavy list to port. The crew of the pom-pom were
all killed or knocked out except Acting Leading Seaman Ronald Thirlwall, who,
although shockingly badly wounded in at least four places, kept the one un-
damaged barrel firing until ammunition was exhausted. The 0.5" gun aft was
also kept in action by Able Seaman C. A. L. Hirschfield, who went aft and
brought the gun into action single handed after all the crew were wounded.
With water pouring into the ship, the Mosquito was abandoned, the survivors
being picked up by the Rapid and two drifters. Among the killed was the
executive officer Lieutenant A. H. Mainwaring, R.N.
Fifth and sixth air attacks, 1500 and 1610
Between 1230 and about 1500 there was a lull in the air attacks on shipping,
and when attacks were renewed at the latter hour R.A.F. and Coastal Command
patrols were operating and no damage occurred.
About 1600 the French minesweeping trawlers Président Briand, Denis
Papin, Moussaillon and Vénus, were approaching Dunk'rk after landing troops
in England, when gunfire from a shore battery opposite 6 W buoy caused the
two former, who were ahead, to turn back. Ten minutes later, a formation of
9 enemy aircraft dived cn them, directing their bombs on the Vénus and the
Denis Papin. The latter apparently sank immediately with total loss of her
crew, and the Vénus in four minutes, after a direct hit. Whilst the other two
trawlers were engaged in rescuing the survivors of the Vénus, the Moussaillon
was hit and sank within a minute.
Losses from mines
On this black day mines were also taking their toll of shipping. Enemy
aircraft had been mining the inshore channels during the night 31st May-1st
June, and at 0313 Vice-Admiral Dover informed the Admiralty that he was
allowing ships evacuating troops to use Route Y as well as Route X. In the
early hours the corvette Sheldrake after a night spent in dodging M.T.B.
torpedoes", was skilfully directed by aircraft to a position between the West
Hinder and Kwint buoys, where she found wreckage with men clinging to it.
This was the remains of the trawler St. Achilleus which had been mined on
patrol. The Sheldrake rescued 11 men, but 4 of them died before they could
be got to harbour. About the same time, i.e. at 0330, the little Thames Estuary
cockle bawley boat Renown was blown to pieces with her crew of 3, on the way
back from Dunkirk.
The third ship to be sunk on this day was the F.A.A. training yacht Grive a
vessel which, on account of her untiring activity, could ill be spared. Having
disembarked 374 troops at Dover at 0100 on the 1st June the Grive sailed again
two hours later for Dunkirk without waiting to replenish ammunition, of which
she had only 5 rounds per gun remaining. On the way in to the harbour she
lent assistance to the Ivanhoe after the latter was bombed and damaged, went
alongside the jetty and embarked troops under heavy bombing. At 0800 she
left again. On the way out, she passed the sinking destroyer Havant with the
Ivanhoe's troops and survivors of the crew on board; these she transferred,
and arrived at Dover with 785 persons about 1300. Three hours later, her
indefatigable Captain (Capt. the Hon. L. J. O. Lambart, D.S.O., R.N. (Retired)
sailed once more for Dunkirk. But he never arrived, for at about 2230, when
a mile or so outside the harbour, the Grive was blown to pieces by a mine.
Nineteen survivors were picked up, but her Captain was not among them.
93

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INDEX
Greatwood, Lt., 76.
Grenade, 28, 43-4 (damaged), 46, 50n (reported sinking), 55 (sunk).
Greyhound, 13 (bombards Calais) ; in Dynamo, 23, 27, 42 (damaged), 47 (remains in
action), 54n, 55n.
Grey Mist, 13.
Grimsby Town, 104, 110.
Grive, 38, 93 (sunk), 60, 90-1.
Grouse, 72n.
Guillemot, 114n, 117.
Gula, 71n.
Gulzar, 17, 60n, 114n, 118.
H.A.C., 71s.
Haig, 72n, 90.
Halcyon, 20, 28n, 45, 47n, 54n, 82, 86 (attacked), 91, 107n, 109, 114n, 117.
Hallett, Vice-Admiral T. J., (act. Cdre.), 49 (takes charge off Bray), 58, 79; leaves, 80 ;
effect of his arrival, 126.
Hancock, Capt. C. A., 29.
Handy Billie, 81.
Hanora, abandoned, 53 : sunk, 55.
Harris, Cdr. W. V. H., 13.
Harvester, 28n, 35-6, 47, 54n, 55n.
Harwich, F.O.I.C., 70; assistance to ships at, 94.
Havant, 46, 55n, 91 (sunk), 93.
Hawkinge, 5, 7.
Hebe, 44, 47n, 49, 50 (flag of R.A. Dover), 54n, 58 (hoists flag), 66, 67, 70, 76 (Whaler),
76n, 83 (slightly damaged), 84 (shoots down Heinkel).
Hebe II, 20, 24, 27, 28n.
Hemans, Lt. M. A., 81.
Henderson, Comdr. H. P., 22.
Hilda, 20, 29n, 32, 72n, 78, 90.
Hird, 37.
Hirschfield, A. B., C.A.L., 93.
Holford, Maj. C.F. L., R.M., 8.
Holkham, Capt. A., 38.
Holland, 111-2.
Holland, invaded, 1; surrenders, 2.
Holland-Martin, Lt. Cdr. D. E., 21.
Holmes, Maj.-Gen. W. G., 82.
Hondsrug, 20n, 24, 102, 114n, 116-7.
Hospital carriers, attacked, 16, 17, 43, 45, 104; space too valuable for them, 87.
Hound, 72n.
Howson, Capt. J. M.: S.N.O. Beaches, 49, 59; stops waste of boats, 60; returns to
Dover, 74; orders beach parties to embark, 79, 80; effect of his arrival, 126.
Hutchins, Lt. Col. R. L., 69-70.
Hythe, 32, 72n.
Icarus, 37-8 (damaged), 54 (makes two trips in 24 hours), 55n, 69, 83 (in collision), 87, 97
101 (in collision).
Impulsive, 20, 23, 27, 55n, 64n, 70, 83 (damages propeller).
Indépendence, 73n.
Ingénieur Cachin, 73.
Intrepid, 37, 38, 43 (damaged), 54n, 55n, 61n.
Inverforth, 34.
Ironside, General Sir Edmund (CIGS), 5.
Isle of Guernsey, 17, 45 (damaged).
Isle of Thanet, 19, 22n, 24, 28, 34 (sunk).
Ivanhoe, 37n-8, 54n, 55n, 77n, 83 (bombed), 86, 90-1 (damaged), 93.
Jackal, hunts submarine, 69.
Jacketa, 32n, 51n.
Jaguar, 28, 39, 41 (damaged), 42, 61n (in need of repair).
Java, 32, 42, 47.
Javelin, 28, 37-8, 54n, 55n, 61n, 105 (forbidden to sail).
Jeannie MacIntosh, 71n.
Jeune France, 62n, 73n.
200

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

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

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375
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 2.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. SHITHHALL's letter dated 7th June, 1940).
The 0001 conduct, seal, power of command and professional
skill of this rating was very noticable and contributed greatly to
the efficient running of the ship.
(8) Wallace Eugene BRETON, Leading Telegrachist, O.N.
D/JX 135520.
Was in charge of the W/2 Department which functioned
perfectly during this period.
(9) Francis Buckler NICHOLSON, Acting Petty Officer,
O.N. D/JX 135893.
John Henry 0'NEILL, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 89930.
Herbert JONES, Able Serman, 0.N. D/J 110186.
George Frederick SINS, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 111898.
These four torpedomen worked continuously from 2100/31st
May until 0700/1st June and successfully carried out temporary
repairs to the D.G. circuits which had been out when W.M.S.
WHITEHALL was in collision with H.M.Tacht GRIVE. Able SIZES
is also mentioned in paragraph (1).
(10) Wlod STRZELEZCKI, Signalman, Polish Havy.
Lent from MARYNARKA NOJENHA. Showed great coolness
in the bridge and rendered useful service in spotting the
approach of enemy aircraft.
I have the honour to be,
sir,
Your obsdient servant,
as. (unsch
LIXUTENANT COMMANDER.
IN CUMMAND.
Vice Admiral Dover.
(Copy to:-
Captain (D), Plymouth).
VIDE A TRAD
11 JUN 1940
*
+
DOVER

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CONFIDENTIAL
-
382
Page 2.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. SHITEHALL's letter dated 7th June, 1940).
The cool conduct, seal, power of command and professional
skill of this rating was very noticable and contributed greatly to
the efficient running of the ship.
(8) Wallace Eugene BRETON, Leading Telegraphist, O.N.
D/JI 135520.
Vas in charge of the V/T Department which functioned
perfectly during this period.
(9) Francis Buckler FICHOLSON, Acting Petty Officer,
O.N. D/JX 135893.
John Henry Q'NEILL, Able Seaman, O.N. D/J 89930.
Herbert JONES, Able Seaman, O.N. D/J 110186.
George Frederick SINS, Able Serman, O.N. D/J 111898.
These four terpedomen worked continuously from 2100/31at
May until 0700/1st June and successfully carried out temporary
repairs to the D.G. circuits which had been out when U.M.S.
WHITEHALL was in collision with H.M.Yacht GRIVE. Able Seamer sizes
is also mentioned in paragraph (1).
(10) Wlod STREELEZCKI, Signalman, Folish Navy.
Lent from MARYNARKA WOJENHA. Showed great coolness
in the bridge and rendered useful service in spotting the
approach of enemy aircraft.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
adminism
LIBUTENANT COMANDER.
IN COMMAND.
Vice Admiral Dover.
(Copy to:-
Captain (D), Plymouth).
VICE
11 JUN ADMIRAL 1940
*
+
DOVER

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I
- 151
The following REPORT has been extracted from this file and
is being forwarded under cover of Vice Admiral, Dover's letter
concerning loss of ships during operation DYNAMO.
F.A.A. TRAINING YACHT:
GRIVE