Details

Details

KESTREL
W.D/M.L.
A.E. Cains, Mate.
Lt. Cdr. H.G. Boys-Smith,
L/Sea. R.W. Legg, Coxswain. R.N.R.
31st May
0815
Arrived Ramsgate from Portsmouth, the
a.m.
W.D/M.L. Grouse in company.
Lt. Cdr. Boys-Smith (ex the Sk. Twente)
embarked in the Kestrel, took command
1415
of Kestrel and Grouse and sailed via
U, V and W buoys for Dunkirk beaches.
-
Arrived off the beaches. Embarked a
full load of troops using the M/L's
dinghy. When the dinghy capsized,
went alongside a grounded vessel and
embarked troops from her.
-
Sailed for Ramsgate, Grouse in company.
-
When off the Goodwin Sands, the Kestrel
began to sink, owing to a fault in
the self-baling device. The Grouse
took off some of the men, and Kestrel
was able to proceed at slow speed -
baling hard.
2215ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Kestrel disembarked
35 troops.
1st June
1200
The Kestrel left for the beaches via
U, V and W buoys.
1530
Approaching Dunkirk, great air activity
was observed. The sky was filled with
German bombers and shell bursts.
1600
Arrived off the beach. Went alongside
a wreck and acquired one of her boats
which ferried troops to the Kestrel.
French troops were unwilling to embark
so shifted further east.
-
Proceeded with a full load. Repeated
air attacks. One soldier wounded by
m.g. fire.
2230
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 20 troops.
[Lt. Cdr. Boys-Smith transferred to
a fast Dutch M/L, taking with him
his Coxswain L/Sea. Legg].
-
The Kestrel went over to Dunkirk.
3rd June
0500
Returned to Ramsgate empty and leaking
badly.
-
Reported sunk off Dunkirk.
-
Towed into Margate with engine disabled.
Total 55
Authority - R.O.II, pp.140, 491.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Mr. J.H. Spain, Third Engineer.
115

Details

Skoot
TWENTE
Lt. Cdr. H.G. Boys-Smith,
Lt. N.J. Mountfield, R.N.R. R.N.V.R.
(lst Lieut.)
25th May
p.m.
Sailed from Tilbury to Sheerness.
27th May
p.m.
Sailed from Sheerness to Dunkirk via
West Hinder Buoy, in company with
other skoots.
28th May
0330
When approaching beaches, was ordered
by a Naval M/L to return to
Ramsgate.
0400
Air attack.
a.m.
Arrived Ramsgate.
1745ca
Sailed for Dunkirk via U, V, W, buoys.
2345ca
Arrived Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 380
troops, which were ferried off by
drifters.
-
Proceeded. "Fierce fires were blazing
all over Dunkirk, lighting up the
sea".
29 th May
a.m.
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 390
troops. (1)
a.m.
Sailed for La Panne, via West Hinder
Buoy.
p.m.
Air attack. In the vicinity of
Middel Kerke buoy, the P.M/S
Gracie Fields was bombed and hit
amidships. She was "unable to stop
her engines". Her "upper deck [was]
enveloped in clouds of steam.
Operation of going alongside had to be
performed whilst both ships were
proceeding ahead. Secured alongside.
Terrible mortality and shambles on
board. Transferred as many injured
and others as the Twente would hold".
Another skoot [the Jutland], secured
on the other side of the Gracie
Fields and took off the remainder.
-
Proceeded to Ramsgate.
30th May
0400ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 399
troops. (1)
Entire ships company relieved for
24 hours. The Twente sailed
immediately with a relief crew,
commanded by Lt. A.W. McMullan, R.N.R.
with S/Lt. Adderley R.N.V.R. as
1st Lieutenant.
2230
Arrived off Dunkirk roads. Anchored.
31st May
0500
Embarked 400 troops, assisted by a
"motor boat and two cutters"
[actually these were the M/B
Constant Nymph, with a cutter and a
whaler]. Proceeded.
[a.m.
As the Twente had not returned, Lt. Cdr.
Boys-Smith took command of the 2
W.D/M.L's Kestrel and Grouse]
(1) D.R.
248

Details

Details

Details

e/172
H.M.S. Pangbourne"
158
At Sea.
5th.June 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to forward the following narrative
in accordance with your signal 2049/4/6.
At approximately midnight on Sunday 26th. May, H.M.S.
with the remainder of the 5th.m.s.
149
3
154
Entire Ship's Company of "Twente" relieved for
24 hours 88 sleep had been unobtainable for 3 nights and
2 days running. "Twente" sailed immediately with relief
crew.
st. a.m.
"Twente" unaccountably not returned. Took cormand
of two Army Metor Launchee, "Kestrel" and "Grouse" instead,
and seiled for Dunkirk Beaches via U, 1, and * bucys.
Embarked a full load of French troops during afternoon.
Slow process. Motor Launches' dinghy *** used to begin
with but capsized. Slight swell. Troope then boarded
a grounded craft whilst Motor Launches were manosuvred
alongside seaward and of this. Considerable air
activity and bombing throughout operations. Returned
immediately to Ramsgate.
Whan off Goodwin Sands Launon I HAS In, "Kestrel",
began to sink. "Grouse" came alongaide and took off
some men. By hard baling and slow speed Ramagate was
somehow reached at midnight. Investigation and repairs
immediately put in hand. (Patent self-baling device
responsible for leak).
1st. Noon.
"Kestrel" fit for gea. Left for Dunkirk Baaches
via U, V, and * buoys. On approaching Dunkirk at 1530
most intense air activity was observed. Sky filled
with German bombers and shall bursts. Beach was reached

Details

3
140 14
131
41
Entire Ship's Company of "Twente" relieved for
24 hours as sleep had been unobtainable for 3 nights and
h
2 days running. "Twente" sailed immediately with relief
crew.
st. a.m.
"Twente" unaccountably not returned. Took command
of two Army Motor Launches, "Kestrei" and "Grouse" instead, plan
and sailed for Dunkirk Beaches via U, V, and W buoys.
Embarked a full load of French troops during afternoon.
Slow process. Motor Launches' dinghy was used to begin
with but capsized. Slight swell. Troops then boarded
a grounded craft whilst Motor Launches were manceuvred
did
alongside seaward end of this. Considerable air
300.
activity and bombing throughout operations. Returned
immediately to Ramsgate.
When off Goodwin Sands Launch I was in, "Kestrel",
ans
began to sink. "Grouse" came alongside and took off
some men. By hard baling and slow speed Ramsgate was
1
somehow reached at midnight. Investigation and repairs
Erik
immediately put in hand. (Patent self-baling device
00
responsible for leak).
1st. Noon.
situme
"Kestrel" fit for sea. Left for Dunkirk Beaches
via U, V, and W buoys. On approaching Dunkirk at 1530
*
ak.
most intense air activity was observed. Sky filled
leh
with German bombers and shell bursts. Beach was reached
I
4R
ICE ADMIRAL
ill day light an air
9- JUN 1940
Vo
*
the durlsping at
DOVER
- disamber bed toops,
promium stan.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

DUNKIRK. May 30, 31, June 1, 2 & 3.
TOTAL
Mostly with Scratch Crews
Trips to Dunkirk.
Numbers
on 4th trip and all on 5th
W.D.LAUNCH
Date & time
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
0400 hrs.
1415 hrs.
Various hrs
Various hrs.
Various hrs.
rescued.
trip.
arrival
31.5.40.
31.5.40.
1.6.40.
2.6.40
3 - - 4 June
Ramsgate
15 French
20 French
Out of
Out of action
35
1.
"GROUSE"
0815 hrs.
action
Portsmouth
31.5.40.
2215 hrs.
1830 hrs.
1.6.40. Brought down an enemy
"HAIG"
0845 hrs.
Ferry service
Escorted a
80
Salved by R.A.F.
945
aeroplane by Lewis Gun.
2.
badly damaged
at Dunkirk p.m. 3 June.
2.6.40. Rammed by tug & report-
Lowestoft
at Dunkirk.
31.5.40.
800 saved
destroyer to
Sailed back to Ramsgate
ed sunk with 30 men on board.
Brought back
Sheerness
All saved.Engr.Walter landed at
65 at 2200
Margate.
hrs.
1830 hrs.
3.6.40. Salved by R.A.F.
35
20 French
"KESTREL"
0815 hrs.
Back empty
Reported sunk Dunkirk
55
4th trip. Leaking badly.
3 June, Towed into
5.
5th trip. Reported sunk off
Portsmouth
31.5.40.
2215 hrs.
2030 hrs,
o500 hrs.
Margate, engine disabled.
Dunkirk, but towed
(3.6.40)
into Margate.
51
21 French
40 French
20 French
Towed into Dover. Lost
132
5th trip. Towed back to Dover.
"MARLBOROUGH"
p.m.
propellers and rudder
4.
50,5,40.
2007 hrs.
1830 hrs.
0430 hrs.
462
491

Details

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

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VIII
Typical of the urge which characterised sailed from Ramsgate this movement at 0205 of small craft was
escorting the trawler motor Strathelliot, boats, 8 which of which were disabled and in tow of on various the 31st May
the M/B Skylark, disabled, was in tow of Strathelliot. At 0640 the Skylark's vessels
towing bollard tore away and she was taken the in tow stern first. Then the M/B
embarked the Skylark in also the in became Strathelliot. tow-and damaged, later Shortly taken after in tow this stern the first-and M/B Malden crew Annie Lad ber, IV
crew were transferred to the Strathelliot and she and was Mary sunk after Rose was her sunk. Her
Mary Rose, which had been in tow of M/B the Rapid I, was damaged.
had to be taken she arrived
water fast, and dritting on to the was She
Dunkirk beaches with her pumps beach choked, she bilge abandoned. full of rubbish fund making off
useful purpose, however, by being used as a pier.
It is impossible to give the story of every ship, although each ship has its
which went over on the 31st May in company with the lighters X. 217 (S/Lt.
story. Here, for instance, is the unvarnished history of the M/B Marsayru
R.A. W. Pool, R.N.) X. 213 and X. 149. They arrived off Malo beach at about
1600. During an air attack X. 213 and X. 149 were sunk. The Z. 217 was
beached and, assisted by the dinghy, embarked 95 troops which were transferred
to the yacht Llanthony. The X. 217 continued to embark troops using the
Marsayru and a cutter. At about 2100 that evening, with the Marsayru's
skipper and crew and about 200 British and French troops on board, the X. 217
left for home towing the Marsayru and a cutter.
Shortly after sailing the Marsayru broke adrift, and in darkness could not be
found. Next day, the 1st June, however, at 1400, S/Lt. T.E. Godman, R.N.V.R.
in a Naval steam pinnace, off La Panne, sighted the Marsayru drifting with the
tide and unoccupied. She was found to be in working order; the engine was
started up and Sub-Lieut. Godman took an A.B. and a soldier as crew. He
left Petty Officer Morrison in charge of the steam pinnace with orders to lay off
and wait for the return of the Marsayru.
With the dinghy in tow the Marsayru proceeded to the western end of the
beach capacity. and anchored; the dinghy ferried 19 troops to her, which filled her to
In the meantime the crew of the steam pinnace had embarked in the skoot
Doggersbank and had left the steam pinnace anchored near Dunkirk harbour.
Sub-Lieut. Godman decided to leave her there and sailed in the Marsayru for
England; from her. he overtook the Doggersbank on the way and obtained some fuel
and in tow waited for daylight. At 0430 on the 2nd June a trawler a took the Marsayru
At 2330 on the Ist June the Marsayru made fast to conical flashing buoy
embarked. to Ramsgate, which was reached at 0800, and the 19 troops were dis-
the Queen's pleasure launches Enterprise and Wave Queen), the Foremost Southborough,
White Heather,Westeriey,A Lansdowne, hopper barge .26. The M/B's. Marsayru,
and the 101, Lady Minotaur,
The motor coaster Hythe. M/B, the Dolphin's Balquhain, power Tigris boat, I, Rapid the Nelson's I, picket
the motor X lighters launch 95, 149, 209 (towing a boat), 213, Sherfield,
motor launches Grouse, Nanette II the lighter Y.C.63. The and War 217. The motor barge seven 30 knot
eighth, The skoot the Pigeon, Hilda went Haig, over on Kestrel, 1st June. Marlborough, Swallow, Department's Wolfe and Vulture an
Gipsy Three King, more Golden of towed Spray over II the and motor two life-boats. boats Moss Rose, Rose Marie, Lady Haig, Britannic
and
the M.F.H. Pickford & Co. Ltd.'s motor vessels went over, viz the Chamois, Hound
72

Details

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX G
22. REAR-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY for 1ST SEA LORD
destroyers and sloops. Until more on a a strongly
Your 1019. Beaches crowded. Hardly small any ships are here for loading. Request
of
opinion essential to concentrate
1107/30
23. ADMIRALTY to F.O. DOVER STRAITS (R) V.A. Dover
taken to send as many as possible.
Understand pulling boats are weak link please confirm. Every step is being
1141/30
24. ADMIRAL TAYLOR, SHEERNESS to D.S.V.P. (R) D. of S.T.
no more be sent.
Thames river steamers have no condensers and cannot run on sea water. Request
1150/30
25. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER, N.O.I.C. RAMSGATE
War Office have placed seven 30-knot motor launches at your disposal and are
sending them to Ramsgate today Thursday. Naval crews are being sent to man
them.
Names of launches : Marlborough, Wolfe, Grouse, Kestrel, Vulture, Swallow,
Pidgeon.
1336/30
and later
26.
Add to list of fast military launches Haig.
1882/30
27. C.-in-C. PORTSMOUTH to ADMIRALTY, N.O.I.C. Ramsgate, VICE-ADMIRAL, Dover.
Small craft due Ramsgate approx. as follows:
1900/30 Power boat R.F.A. 115 (?)
2100/30 Fast motor boat, Admiral's barge and Examination Serv. Vessel
Llanthony.
0100/31 F.A.A. Tender Ocean Rover and hopper Foremost 102.
0880/31 Car Ferry Fishbourne (previously reported but delayed.)
1000/31 One self-propelled lighter.
1300/31 One self-propelled lighter and steam pinnace.
1852/30
28. F.O.I.C. LONDON to C.-in-C. NORE, VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER, N.O.I.C. RAMSGATE,
N.O.I.C. SOUTHEND, ADMIRALTY.
23 merchant ships motor-lifeboats and 46 rowing ditto in tow of six tugs leaving
Tilbury from now till complete, manned by volunteers and naval ratings
On arrival Southend they will be route-ed immediately to Ramsgate where first
tow should arrive about 0600 Friday [31st May].
1900/30
Friday, 31st May
29. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to C.-in.-C. NORE, F.O.I.C. HARWICH, Admiralty, R.A. Dover,
N.O.I.C. Ramsgate.
Boat convoy for last flight of B.E.F. departs Ramsgate 1300 Friday 31st for
Dunkirk via Route X. Anticipate time of return to Dover and Sheerness 1000
Saturday 1st June. Request all available M.T.B.'s may escort this convoy for as
much of the outward passage as possible and for the whole of the return passage.
Anticipated speed of advance outward bound six knots.
0459/31
30. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to M.A/S.B.'s 06, 07, M.T.B.'s 68, 102 (R) R.A. Dover
M.A/S.B.'s are to rendezvous off Ramsgate at 1200 Friday 31st May with boat
convoy about to Dunkirk, and escort on outward passage also on return passage, sailing
0300, Sat. 1st June for Dover.
Off Dunkirk beaches, M.A./S.B.'s and available M.T.B.'s are to embark, under
the direction of R.A. Dover, the C.-in.C., B.E.F., and Staff.
M.T.B.'s report when ready to sail.
0736/31
168

Details

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

Details

ИМ
THE
SOME DIED
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING.
On
REF:
MINISTRY MESSAGE. OF SHIPPING.
OUT
more
159.
MESSAGE
1336/30 May.
IN
To
V.A. Dover. 327.
DATE 30.5.40.
SECRETARY
N.O.i/c Ramsgate.
IMMEDIATE
202
RECEIVED :-
From
SEATRANS, HERRATES.
DATE 29.5.40.
STATE SEAL 9 / STATE
NAVAL CYPHER (c).
TIME
From Admiralty.
LOR - DEPARTMENT
Addressed
SKATRAMS, DOVER, REFEAT TRANSPORTS, VESDO, LONDON.
a
War Office have placed 7 30-knot motor launches
at your disposal and are sending them to Ramsgate today
Date
AA
Tursday.
Naval crews are being sent to man them.
TRAVLERS HECO URASE BOTTOLK-SOSS SAILED 1950.
Names of Launches:-
T.H.I. 1945.
MARLBOROUGH
WOLFE
GROUSE
KESTREL D.O.S.T.
VULTURE S.T.A.8.
SWALLOW MR. DU BOISSON.
PIDGEON. S.T.N.GA
A.T.B.
EXTRA.
Gp 684 Gp 684
1336/30.
for D. 0. D. (H)
(SUB(C) - &L,Ld J.R & Ld
let S.L.
M.O.S.1.
C.S.O.to 1st S.L.
D.O.S.T.
Ons.(4)
Mr.D.H.Edwards.
O.D.(3)
Mr.DuBoisson.
O.I.C. (2)
S.T.N.6B.
D.S.D.9.
P.
V..CN.S.
Extra.
D.N.I.(4)
D.T.S.D.
D.VS.W.
V.P.
?)
.s.(T)
A .3.(H)
k.
(3)
2nd S.L.
1.(2)
M.
P.S.
6.
B.
tional Circulation.
S.T.

Details

3
140 14
131 41
Entire Ship's Company of "Twente" relieved for
24 hours as sleep had been unobtainable for 3 nights and
h
2 days running. "Twente" sailed immediately with relief
crew.
st. a.m.
"Twente" unaccountably not returned. Took command
of two Army Motor Launches, "Kestrel" and "Grouse" instead, plan
and sailed for Dunkirk Beaches via U, V, and # buoys.
Embarked a full load of French troops during afternoon.
Slow process. Motor Launches' dinghy was used to begin
with but capsized. Slight swell. Troops then boarded
a grounded craft whilst Motor Launches were manoeuvred
did
alongside seaward end of this. Considerable air
300.
activity and bombing throughout operations. Returned
immediately to Ramsgate.
When off Goodwin Sands Launch I was in, "Kestrel",
ans
began to sink. "Grouse" came alongside and took off
some men. By hard baling and slow speed Ramsgate was
1
somehow reached at midnight. Investigation and repairs
like
immediately put in hand. (Patent self-baling device
00
responsible for leak).
1st. Noon.
"Kestrel" fit for sea. Left for Dunkirk Beaches
situal
via U, V, and W buoys. On approaching Dunkirk at 1530
ak.
most intense air activity was observed. Sky filled
Leh
with German bombers and shell bursts. Beach was reached
20
4R
ICE ADMIRAL
ill day light an air
9- JUN 1940
*
the durlsping at
DOVER
- disamber bed toops,
promium stan.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

DUNKIRK. May 30, 31, June 1, 2 & 3.
Trips to Dunkirk.
TOTAL
Mostly with Scratch Crews
W.D.LAUNCH
Date & time
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
Numbers
on 4th trip and all on 5th
arrival
0400 hrs.
1415 hrs.
Various hrs
Various hrs.
Various hrs.
rescued.
trip.
Ramsgate
31.5.40.
31.5.40.
1.6.40.
2.6.40
3 - - 4 June
0815 hrs.
15 French
20 French
Out of
Out of action
35
1.
"GROUSE"
action
Portsmouth
31.5.40.
2215 hrs.
1830 hrs.
1.6.40. Brought down an enemy
"HAIG"
0845 hrs.
Ferry service
Escorted a.
80
Salved by R.A.F.
945
aeroplane by Lewis Gun.
2.
Lowestoft
at Dunkirk.
badly damaged
at Dunkirk p.m. 3 June.
2.6.40. Rammed by tug & report-
31.5.40.
800 saved
destroyer to
Sailed back to Ramsgate
ed sunk with 30 men on board.
Brought back
Sheerness
All saved. Engr. Walter landed at
65 at 2200
Margate.
hrs.
1830 hrs.
3.6.40. Salved by R.A.F.
0815 hrs.
35
20 French
"KESTREL"
Back empty
Reported sunk Dunkirk
55
4th trip. Leaking badly.
5.
Portsmouth
3 June, Towed into
5th trip. Reported sunk off
31.5.40.
2215 hrs.
2030 hrs,
o500 hrs.
Margate, engine disabled.
Dunkirk, but towed
(3.6.40)
into Margate.
51
21 French
40 French
20 French
Towed into Dover. Lost
132
"MARLBOROUGH"
p.m.
5th trip. Towed back to Dover.
4.
propellers and rudder
50.5.40.
2007 hrs.
1830 hrs.
0430 hrs.
491