Details

Details

Details

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Details

Details

RELFORT
French Bloop
BELFAST
(nirorect
Ceritaine de corvette L. Viel
tender)
Nothing known of this vessol.
20th May
30th May
Disembarked Ordered to 61 troops. (1) proceeding
25th May
Sailed in company with the 10/0 La
Bondense, secorting the Prench 0.0.
Hebe and
26th May
1000
off Dover, the Relfert exploded 5 ind no
on the ourface; it shook the ship
severely.
1450
The llebe (1680 tons) and the Margoux
(1462 tons) anchored in the Downs.
87th May
1233
The Belfors soiled from the Downs.
2019
Returned to the Downs
28th May
1200
Air attack.
29th May
1848
Sailed from the Downs for Dunkirk.
30th May
0130
Anchored off
0430
After an English ship had passed, a
wine exploied neurby, putting out the
oxigort's lights; Comage to boiler
especially to the brickwork.
0500
ALP attack.
0550
Segured alongwide Quai Felix Paure.
subarred 400 French troops of the
208 and 3rd Regiments of Engineers,
during on artillery bombarément.
0030
Bailed for Wolkestone.
2200
Disemberred 400 troops.(1) at volkestons
31at may
061j0
Loft Polkastone.
0735
Arrived Dover.
10% 2000
0107
Choesed a parachuts mine drop from a
Oceman plane about 100 yards to
port) also 2 smaller objects which
appeared to be tied together.
Buoyed the spot and shifted billet.
1830
Salled for Cherbourgy escorting the dr.
Cyclone and Chasseur 2.
0455
for Dover.
3rd June
1700
Bank S floating mine.
1907
Anchored off Dover.
1605
Sailed for Brest, eacorting the excess
45b June
8.8. Normanville, Proness and
Bargaux.
Total 400
Authority - Prench Admiralty record, Polio No.15.
(1) D.R. mentioned in D.R.
92

Details

BELFORT
French sloop
Capitaine de corvette L. Viel.
(aircraft
tender)
24th May
Ordered to protect convoys proceeding
to Dunkirk.
25th May
Sailed in company with the M/S La
Boudeuse, escorting the French S.S.
Hebe and Margaux.
26th May
1000
Off Dover, the Belfort exploded a mine
on the surface; it shook the ship
severely.
1450
The Hebe (1680 tons) and the Margaux
(1462 tons) anchored in the Downs.
27th May
1233
The Belfort sailed from the Downs.
2019
Returned to the Downs.
28th May
1200
Air attack.
29th May
1848
Sailed from the Downs for Dunkirk.
30th May
0130
Anchored off Dunkirk.
0430
After an English ship had passed, a
mine exploded nearby, putting out the
Belfort's lights; damage to boiler
room, especially to the brickwork.
0500
Air attack.
0550
Secured alongside Quai Felix Faure.
Embarked 400 French troops of the
2nd and 3rd Regiments of Engineers,
during an artillery bombardment.
0630
Sailed for Folkestone.
2200
Disembarked 400 troops, (1) at Folkestone
31st May
0640
Left Folkestone.
0735
Arrived Dover.
1st June
0107
Observed a parachute mine drop from a
German plane about 100 yards to
port; also 2 smaller objects which
appeared to be tied together.
Buoyed the spot and shifted billet.
1830
Sailed for Cherbourg, escorting the dr.
Cyclone and Chasseur 5.
3rd June
0455
Sailed for Dover.
1700
Sank a floating mine.
1907
Anchored off Dover.
4th June
1605
Sailed for Brest, escorting the French
S.S. Normanville, Fronsac and
Margaux.
Total 400
Authority - French Admiralty record, Folio No. 15.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
93

Details

BOUNTY (No.4) Portsmouth Inner
Patrol Yacht
Lt. C.A. Lundy, R.N.V.R.
29th May
1800
Left the Hamble other for Dover in
(see Seriola) eight Inner patrol company yachts with
30th May
0930
2200
Arrived Dover.
Left the Dover for La Panne in with
Inner Patrol yacht flotilla. company
31st May
0530
0600
Arrived at beach off La Panne.
Cdr. G.O. Stephenson came on board
from the M/B Triton and indicated his
flagship. intention to use the Bounty as his
-
Proceeded alongside a paddle minesweeper (1)
which interview. the Commodore boarded for
0808ca
Proceeded alongside the dr. Keith and
embarked R.A. Dover, taking him close
inshore to inspect the beach.
0910ca
After about 3/4 hour, took the Admiral
back to the Keith.
-
Cdre. Stephenson taken to the P.M/S,
(which appeared to be aground) in
Bounty's M/L.
1030ca
Closed Keith and took a Captain R.N. (2)
from her to the M/S Hebe. Received
written orders for delivery to S.N.O.
Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dunkirk
accordingly.
1300ca
On return from Dunkirk, re-embarked
Cdre. Stephenson.
1800
The yachts Seriola and Ahola closed
the Bounty and Cdr. Stephenson
informed the 3 yachts that "the
final effort of the operation would
take place between 2100 May 31st and
0400 June 1st."
2100/
Ferried troops from the beach to
2400
destroyers.
2400ca
Took Lord Gort from the Hebe to the
Keith.
1st June
0100/
Ferried troops from beach to destroyers.
0830
While carrying 150 troops( fouled
port propeller. Cdre. Stephenson
signalled a destroyer for a tow. The
destroyer was however full of troops
and on the destroyer's captain's sug-
gestion the Seriola took Bounty in
0845
Cdre. tow. Stephenson and Lt. Lundy boarded
the Seriola, which took Bounty in
tow and proceeded with the yacht
Lahloo in company.
1430
Arrived Ramsgate in tow.
At the end of his report, Lt. Lundy of
of "the magnificent work
P.O./T. speaks Jones throughout operations".
N11.(4)
(1) Not probably the Devonia or Bush. the Oriole.
(2) Not identified, identified, but E.W.
(3) (4) These Ramsgate were report THE states <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< you the and disembarked
11 "gervion" B.E.F. [1.e. The Lahloo herself states that she
15.
117

Details

EILLA II (No.9) Portsmouth Yacht Inner Patrol Lt. E.H. Batt,
R.N.V.R.
29th May
1750
Left Hamble for Dover in company with
the 8 yachts of the Inner Patrol
(see Seriola)
30th May
0600
Arrived Dover.
2130
Sailed from Dover in company with the
Inner patrol flotilla.
31st May
0545
Eilla II arrived alongside the dr.
Keith off Bray and embarked a naval
officer "to assist in organisation"
-
Ordered to La Panne beach to transport
troops to destroyers Keith and
"Emerald (2) and the "sloop"
[i.e. the M/S] Hebe.
-
Several trips made between La Panne and
Bray.
-
Ordered to proceed to seaward when
shelling and bombing became severe.
-
Returned to La Panne and embarked
[?ferried] more troops.
1100
The"Dover Patrol vessel Blue Bird"(3)
was aground with foul propellers.
The Eilla II towed her off.
Owing to an on-shore wind, small
boats found it very difficult to get
off to the Eilla II, whose motor
launch was eventually lost in the
heavy sea.
-
The Eilla II developed a leak and
engine trouble.
2130
The Naval officer in charge of
operations in the yacht Ankh [Capt.
J.M. Howson, R.N.] ordered the Eilla
II to return to Dover.
1st June
0700
Arrived Dover.
5th June
1130
En route for Hamble, picked up 3 French
troops in a ship's boat off Folkestone
and landed them at Newhaven.
The Eilla II ferried about 200 troops
from shore to ships.
Total 3
Authority - - R.O.II, 306.
(1) Not clear who this was. He was disembarked "before the
(2) There Eilla II not began destroyer, nor any other vessel means of this
embarking troops".
name, was in operation & Dynamo. Lt. Batt probably
(3) There the dr. Express. vessel named Blue Bird in Dover Patrol. from 26th The
May danlaying - 4th yacht June. A M/B, the Blue Bird, over to
was no Blue Bird was at Liverpool was towed
Dunkirk on lst June.
275

Details

FITZROY (N.03)
M/S (4th M.S.F.) Lt.Cdr. R.A. Forbes, R.N.
28th May
1530
Sailed in from the Downs for Dunkirk,
M.S.F's.
company with the 4th and 5th
2010
4 miles off Dunkirk, the Fitzroy was
ordered to investigate a fishing
smack and small M/B flying Belgian
colours. Eight Belgian officers, 2
French soldiers and 2 Jewish
refugees were embarked. The M/B was
hoisted on board. The smack was
taken in tow, but her stem pulled out
and she was abandoned.
2130
Fitzroy anchored off La Panne. Sent
away the ship's boats (1.e. 2
whalers, a motor skiff and the
Belgian M/B).
29th May
0030
The Belgian M/B was swamped in the
surf.
0350
Proceeded to Dover.
1115
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 109
British troops, eight Belgian
officers, 2 French soldiers and 2
Jews.
2235
Sailed for Dunkirk.
30th May
-
Anchored off Malo beach.
0430ca
Transferred troops from 2 skoots,
[1.e. the Sursum-Corda and the Hebe II]
-
Sailed for Dover.
1235
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 678 British
troops.
1950
Sailed for Dunkirk.
31st May
0210
Anchored off Bray. Only 3 soldiers
could be found.
0030
Proceeded to Dover.
0825
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 3 troops.
1850
Proceeded to rendezvous with the 4th
M.S.F. at W buoy.
lst June
0130
Anchored off Bray.
0132
The D/G gear caught fire and became
useless. Sent away the ship's boats.
Embarked 67 troops.
0345
Weighed and proceeded via route Y.
The M/S Skipjack was seen enveloped
-
in red flame; she then disappeared(1)
1215
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 67 troops.
The Fitzroy took no further part the in
operation Dynamo because of of
to her D/G gear. Two her
officers damage and 4 ratings volunteered
to go to Dunkirk in other ships.
Total 857
1000A
Authority - R.O.I, p.244.
amag
(1) The Skipjack was not hit until about 0845; she sank about
0900.
318

Details

FRISO(1)
Skoot
Lt. G.O. Symons, R.N.
26th May(2)
1315
Arrived Newhaven from Portsmouth.
27th May
2100
Sailed for Dover.
28th May
0900
Arrived Dover.
1230
Sailed boat. for Dunkirk towing a pulling
2330
Entered Dunkirk roads. Steamed close
inshore, from 6 miles to the eastward,
up to Dunkirk. Saw no troops.
29th May
0030
Entered Dunkirk and secured alongside
the Mole. Embarked troops.
-
The sk. Sursum Corda secured outside
the Friso and embarked troops across
her. (3)
0130/
Several skoots endeavoured to come
0300
alongside the Sursum Corda. Lt.
Symons instructed the C.O. of the
Sursum Corda to tell these skoots
to berth further up the mole.
0315ca
Left the mole with about 354 on board,
and proceeded.
1500ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 354 troops.
2100ca
Having embarked provisions and water
tins, sailed for Dunkirk by the
Calais channel.
30th May
0245ca
Observed a large derelict 2-funnel ship
with a list to port and apparently
sinking. (4)
-
A bomb dropped 250 yards on Friso's
starboard bow.
0415ca
Entered Dunkirk harbour but left at
once as the mole was deserted and
shelling was in progress. Proceeded
along the coast and anchored off a
beach crowded with troops.
Lowered boats and embarked troops
0630
Air raid; no ships in the vicinity were
hit.
During the morning it was noted that
the skoots Hebe II and Sureum Corda
were beached.
During the forenoon a large motor
pleasure boat was got alongside and
the Friso transferred 250 troops to
her.
1230ca
Slipped and sailed with 648 troops on
board.
In Dunkirk roads, ordered by a
(1) Not included in D.R's list of ships.
(2) Friso's dates, throughout, appear to be one day ahead of
D.R.'s dates of disembarkations are also other day ships
(Sec M/S Fitzroy, and the skoots Hebe II 1 and Sursum ahead. Corda)
the correct date, and have been amended accordingly.
(3) According to the Sursum Corda's report, no were
(4) Not in harbour The Sursum Corda which was about astern 1/2 of mile the
when she entered.
Friso west of Dunkirk harbour entrance. It was probably
identified. describes it as a "wreck", situated the
..B/V King Orry.
345

Details

HAVANT
9th Destroyer Flotilla
Lt. Cdr. A.F. Burnell-
Nugent, D.S.C., R.N.
29th May
1815
Sailed from Dover.
2100
Arrived off Braye-Dunes. The motor
cutter and whaler were sent in and
arrived back with French troops of
which there were a large number on
the beach.
-
Ordered by the M/S Hebe to proceed to
La Panne.
-
As there were no troops there, returned
to Bray, where the Sl. Bideford,
aground and with her stern blown off,
asked for assistance.
An attempt was made to tow Bideford
but the tow parted. In the meantime
embarkation of French troops continued
by various shore boats.
30th May
0130
Proceeded.
0400
Arrived Dover. Disembarked about 500
French troops. (1)
0500
To Sheerness in company with other
destroyers under orders of the dr.
Javelin.
31st May
0400
Sailed from Sheerness for Dunkirk.
0800
Arrived Braye-Dunes. Embarked about
400 troops.
1300
Proceeded to Dunkirk harbour and
embarked a further 600 troops.
Proceeded.
1700
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 932
troops 2)
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2145
Secured alongside the jetty. Embarked
about 1,000 troops.
2215ca
Proceeded.
1st June
0230
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,000
troops 3)
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
0730
Secured alongside the jetty. Embarked
troops.
0800
Heavy air attack. The dr. Ivanhoe,
just outside the harbour and full
of troops was hit amidships.
0840ca
Havant went alongside Ivanhoe; the
M/S Speedwell was alongside her
other side. All troops and wounded
were transferred.
Havant proceeded with about 500 on
board.
Heavy dive bombing attacks on the way
down Dunkirk channel.
0906ca
when at the end of the Channel, Havant
was hit by 2 bombs in the engine
room which passed through the star-
board side. A third bomb dropped 50
yards ahead, and exploded as the
Havant passed over it.
(1) D.R. states 291.
(2) D.R. shows a second disembarkation (of 533) on 31st May.
(3) D.R. states 882.
19

Details

HAZARD
M/B (Owner, Crescent Trade Facilities Ltd.)
lst June
Left Southend.
1130
Disabled, the Hazard arrived at
Ramsgate in tow of the M/B Sea Hawk
There is no evidence that the Hazard
went over to Dunkirk. She was,
however, lost, having "broken from
tow" [probably when returning to her
home station].
0350
by 100
troope had been
Authority TO.9144/40.
number
of
stretcher
then proceeded.
1010
Dover, Disembarked 550
troope.(1)
1410,
Procesded for La Panne by route Y.
1840
ore whistle Buoy, Heavy dive bombing
raid in progress, Hebe attacked by
1900
3 Heinkele. After the attack, picked
up a wounded R.A.F. officer, and
proceeded into Dunkirk harbour, where
Capt. E.W. Buch, D.B.C., R.H. who
had been acting as S.N.O. (afloat),
was embarked.(2)
2115
Embarked survivors from a troop ship
[the Crested Bagle, a wooden ship
which had eaught fire] which had been
sunk in the raid at 1900. There were
several severe casualties suffering
from burne. (See M.T.B.68)
2230
Arrived at La Panne, under the orders
of Capt. Bush.
30th May
0045
Received a signal from the are Sex to
send a boat for the Red. Dover
[Rear-Admire] U.P. Wake-Walker 0.8.5.
and staff.
0100
staff embarked in Hobel
[Capt. Bush then made B general
situation report to R.A. Dover, who
had been appointed B.N.O. (afloat)].
Troops unbarked from boats between La
Panno and Bray,
1000
Proceeded alonguide at Dunkirk and
filled to consecty. [The R.A. Dover
landed, to see the @.N.O. Dunkirk
Capt. 0. Tennant, R.N.),
but he use away on 4A visit to
Co.nt as LA Pannel.
The Haba laft under the orders
Off aray, R.A. Dover. the R.A. Dover and his staff
tronsferred to the are Windsor(b)
(1) D.R. This 1a considered excessive and is probably a
mincript for 150.
(2) D.R. states that Captain Bush was sent to Hebe as "S.N.O.
afloct off the besches".
(3) R.A. nover gives the time 0.0 0200. Generally speaking,
Heba's times differ from those of ReAs Dover by about 45
minutes. R.A. Dover states, however, that such of his
report had to be completed from memory.
(4) The Rebe's report incorrectly states that R.A. Dover
to the 21 Keith at 1515.

Details

HEBE (N.24)
lst M.S.F.
Lt.Cdr. J.B. G.Temple, R.N.
28th May
1723
Arrived Dover.
1830
Ordered to raise steam and proceed to
La panne, using route Y.
-
Experienced difficulty in finding the
Whistle Buoy marking the channel
off Braye-Dunes. Having eventually
29th May
0110
found the buoy, the Hebe anchored off
La panne.
[on passing the Whistle Buoy, a heavy
explosion occurred about 1/4 mile to the
eastward
Using ship's boats, embarked troops
0350
until dawn, by which time about 100
troops had been embarked, 'including
a number of stretcher cases. Hebe
then proceeded.
1010
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 550
troops. (1)
1410
Proceeded for La Panne by route Y.
1840
off Whistle Buoy. Heavy dive bombing
raid in progress. Hebe attacked by
1900
3 Heinkels. After the attack, picked
up a wounded R.A.F. officer, and
proceeded into Dunkirk harbour, where
Capt. E.W. Bush, D.S.C., R.N. who
had been acting as S.N.O. (afloat),
was embarked. (2)
2115
Embarked survivors from a troop ship
[the Crested Eagle, a wooden ship
which had caught fire] which had been
sunk in the raid at 1900. There were
several severe casualties suffering
from burns. (See M.T.B.68)
2230
Arrived at La Panne, under the orders
of Capt. Bush.
30th May
0045
Received a signal from the dr. Esk to
send a boat for the R.A. Dover
[Rear-Admiral W.F. Wake-Walker O.B.E.]
and staff.
0100
R.A. Dover and staff embarked in Hebe(
[Capt. Bush then made a general
situation report to R.A. Dover, who
had been appointed S.N.O. (afloat)
-
Troops embarked from boats between La
Panne and Bray.
1000
Proceeded alongside at Dunkirk and
filled to capacity. [The R.A. Dover
landed, to see the S.N.O. Dunkirk
(Capt. W.G. Tennant, M.V.O., R.N.),
but he was away on a visit to
Lord Gort at La Panne].
The Hebe left Dunkirk under the orders
of R.A. Dover.
1530
off Bray, the R.A. Dover and his staff
transferred to the dr. Windsor( 4)
(1) D.R. This 1a considered excessive and is probably a
miscript for 150.
(2) D.R. states that Captain Bush was sent to Hebe as "S.N.O.
afloat off the beaches".
(3) R.A. Dover gives the time as 0200. Generally speaking,
Hebe's times differ from those of R.A. Dover by about 45
minutes. R.A. Dover states, however, that much of his
report had to be completed from memory.
(4) The Hebe's report incorrectly states that R.A. Dover
transferred to the dr. Keith at 1515.

Details

HEBE (continued)
30th May
1530
[but Capt. Bush took passage in the
(contd.)
(contd.)
Hebe "to stress the vital necessity
for boats and crews if any numbers
were to come off from the beaches" (1)
The Hebe proceeded by route X to
Dover.
(2)
2000
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 270 troops.
2345
Disembarkation completed.
31st May
0618
Sailed from Dover, with Capt. Bush on
board [carrying plans for the
evacuation that night, for delivery
to R.A. Dover (1)
1035ca
Arrived at La Panne. Embarked troops
during the forenoon and afternoon
from ship's and other boats. The
Hebe's M/B capsized and was lost and
a whaler was sunk in collision.
1200ca
Hebe came under fire from shore batter-
ies and moved further west. (1)
1700ca
Attacked by 4 dive bombers. 12 heavy
bombs dropped by 3 of them; the 4th
machine-gunned the ship. Hebe
severely shaken by near misses and
some damage caused. One Heinkel shot
down in flames.
1800
Signal from the shore, saying that
G.H.Q. would embark from La Panne
beach. Hebe proceeded to La Panne
beach but was then informed that
G.H.Q. would embark from a point
2 miles to the westward of the beach,
instead. Proceeded accordingly and
"sent boats in". (3)
1830
Lord Gort and his A.D.C. embarked
from the yacht Lahloo]. During
the embarkation there was an air raid
by about 40 aircraft, and considerable
shelling was directed on to La Panne
beach, then 2 miles to the eastward.
2000
Hebe returned to La Panne to continue
embarkation of troops.
2300
From this time onwards the beach and
town at La Panne was heavily
bombarded and the latter was set on
fire(4).
lst June
0015
Lord Gort transferred to the dr. Keith
[in the yacht Bounty].
0300
Because of the heavy bombardment of
La Panne, Capt. Bush ordered the
troops there to move to the westward.
0350
Hebe proceeded to Bray, but finding
that all small boats there were fully
occupied, she continued on to
Dunkirk and filled up to 420 troops.
A larger number was not taken as the
ship was short of ammunition and fuel.
(1) R.A. Dover's report.
(2) D.R. This is evidently an error for 570, as the Hebe was
filled to capacity.
3) Actually, the yacht Lahloo towed in Hebe's whaler (see
note (4) below).
See Harvester, footnote (1).
23

Details

3
HEBE (continued)
Lieut. A,H, Rowlandson, R.H.
Glout. R.A.B. Powell, R.Ne
1st June
0420
Proceeded to Dover by X route.
(contd).
0830
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 420
troops.(1)
25th May
Commissioned at Porten Total 1,140ca
27th May
Bailed for Dunkirk and the beaches, "in
company with the rest of the group".
Authority - R.O.I, p.274. ved off Dunkirk. Approached the
twice but found no troops.
R.O.III, p.374.
alongside Dunkirk east pier and
embarked all the troops that were
there.
Sailed for Dover with about 150 on
The following awards were made:
sced 150 troops at Dover. (2)
D.S.C.
2000
Sailed from Dover by the Calais route.
Lt. Cdr. J.B.G. Temple, R.N.
30th May
orr Dunkirk, encountered the ek.
Sursum-Cords which was lowering a
D.S.M.
boat near a wreck; a man's voice
C.P.O. S.F. Piggott.
WBS heard. A M/S arrived, and the
Hobe II continued on her course.
Passed Dunkirk harbour entrance; the
Mention in Despatches.
jetties and piers' were deserted.
E.R.A.3rd Cl. H.B. Biles. Beached the ship near a large body
of British troops. Lowered the only
boat and a carley float, and commenced
embarkation. "Approsched the beach,
and, bows to the shore, enabled men
to wade out and climb on board".
When about 300 were on board, ferried
them to a destroyer.
0430
Repeated the operation, taking the
troops to the M/S Fiteroy. No other
large ships were lying off Dunkirk.
The Sk. Friso was embarking troops
and the Sursum-Corde was aground
close inshore. Attempted to tow
the latter orf, but was driven aground
and remained 80 until 1830.
1830
Refloated, loaded about 250 troops and
proceeded towards La Penne to
transfer them to a destroyer.
Resourd men from the water, embarked
men from boats and pontoons and
transferred them to a destroyer.
2300
Sailed for Dover with about 250 on
board.
31st May
1100ea
Arrived Dover, Disembarked 365
troops.(3)
Sailed for Ramagate, the Friso in
company.
2nd June
Bailed to Dover, with 249 German
prisoners on board.
1600
Arrived Dover.
(1)
Corred to in D.R. B.B. "Hebe".
mentioned in D.R.
(3) D.P. dates this disembarkstion 1st Jone,
24

Details

HEBE II(1)
Skoot
Lieut. A.H. Rowlandson, R.N.
Lieut. P.A.B. Powell, R.N.
24th May
The ship was taken over by a naval
crew.
25th May
Commissioned at Portsmouth.
27th May
Sailed for Dunkirk and the beaches, "in
company with the rest of the group".
28th May
0030ca
Arrived off Dunkirk. Approached the
beach twice but found no troops.
Went alongside Dunkirk east pier and
embarked all the troops that were
there.
Sailed for Dover with about 150 on
board.
-
Disembarked 150 troops at Dover. (2)
29th May
2000
Sailed from Dover by the Calais route.
30th May
-
Off Dunkirk, encountered the sk.
Sursum-Corda which was lowering a
boat near a wreck; a man's voice
was heard. A M/S arrived, and the
Hebe II continued on her course.
-
Passed Dunkirk harbour entrance; the
jetties and piers' were deserted.
Beached the ship near a large body
of British troops. Lowered the only
boat and a carley float, and commenced
embarkation. "Approached the beach,
and, bows to the shore, enabled men
to wade out and climb on board".
When about 300 were on board, ferried
them to a destroyer.
0430
Repeated the operation, taking the
troops to the M/S Fitzroy. No other
large ships were lying off Dunkirk.
The Sk. Friso was embarking troops
and the Sursum-Corda was aground
close inshore. Attempted to tow
the latter off, but was driven aground
and remained so until 1830.
1830
Refloated, loaded about 250 troops and
proceeded towards La Panne to
transfer them to a destroyer.
-
Rescued men from the water, embarked
men from boats and pontoons and
transferred them to a destroyer.
2300
Sailed for Dover with about 250 on
board.
31st May
1100ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 365
troops. (3)
-
Sailed for Ramagate, the Friso in
company.
2nd June
Sailed to Dover, with 249 German
prisoners on board.
1600
Arrived Dover.
(1) Referred to in D.R. as "Hebe".
(2) Not mentioned in D.R.
(3) D.R. dates this disembarkation 1st June.
25

Details

I
HEBE II - Continued
Belgian trawler
4th June
0920
10
Sailed for Poole, escorting the Sk.
Kaap Falga. 65 Allied troops. (1)
Total 515 33
Authority - R.O.II, p.22.
(1) Ramsgate report. Ramagate report records 3 disembarkations
from the 2.40 on 3rd June between 1110 and 1245 -
presumably she was employed ferrying troops from off-lying
ships to the harbour.

Details

HOWSON. Captain J.M., R.N. (N.O.I.C. beaches)
Report by
29th May
At 1600 an additional beach party of 7 officers
[among them Cdr. H.G. Gorton, R.N. and Cdr.
R.J.O. Otway-Ruthven, R.N. under Captain J.M.
Howson, R.N. was sailed from Dover in the dr.
Sabre for Dunkirk. [Captain E.W. Bush, D.S.C.,
R.N., who had already visited Dunkirk, also
took passage in the Sabre, to act as S.N.O.
Afloat off the beaches, in the M/8 Hebel.
"on leaving Dover", says Capt. Howson, "the
intention had been that ..... my officers
should work on the beaches in two batches either
side of Bray, and that I should either double-
bank the S.N.O. [Capt. Tennant, R.N., S.N.O.
Dunkirk] or alternatively, work on the beaches,
with H.Q. at or near Bray, the whole being
subject to S.N.O.'s [capt. Tennant's] wishes
on arrival".
On the party's arrival at Dunkirk, Capt.
Tennant was found to be away on a visit to
Lord Gort at La Panne, and Capt. Howson was not
able to confer with him until 2300/29. On
his return to Dunkirk Capt. Tennant decided that
he did not wish to be double-banked.
At about 2330 Capt. Howson therefore divided his
force into 2 parties; one party under Cdr.
Gorton, proceeded along the beach to work east
of Bray, the other, under Cdr. Otway-Ruthven
proceeded to Bray. Capt. Howson went with the
latter party.
30th May
About 0100, a boat from the M/S Medway Queen,
which was anchored off, was hailed. A second
pulling boat and later a power boat also
appeared. Troops in the vicinity were hailed
and some 700-750 were sent off by early morning.
Later, the Sp. S/V Crested Eagle was passed,
high and dry, and still burning after being
bombed.
on approaching Bray, at about 0300, Capt.
Howson saw 4 or 5 destroyers and minesweepers,
and some skoots off shore; men were embarking
in the few odd boats that were available.
Several boats were ashore, holed, or without
oars.
Capt. Howson made contact with Corps H.Q. in a
house at Bray at about 0600 and met Cdr.
Gorton. He also met some naval officers
[probably the beach party working under Cdre.
T.H. Hallett, C.B., C.B.E., R.N.] who had been
working on the beach before his arrival
[1.e. since 2330, 29th May].
It was then about 0800, and Capt. Howson proceeded
by motor cycle to La Panne where he met Care.
J.S. Dove, O.B.E., R.N., who took him to see
the Q.M.G. with whom he discussed the situation.
Having learnt of R.A. Dover's presence in a
ship lying off [the M/S Hebe], Capt. Howson
signalled to him the urgent need of boat
keepers. Throughout this day, says Capt.
Howson, vast bodies of French troops covered
the beaches and dunes on their westward
march to Malo; fortunately the visibility was
poor. "More and more British troops continued
to arrive, but there were practically no ships
for them to embark in and only a few boats and
pontoon craft and perhaps a couple of power
boats. An A.L.C. A.L.C.5 operating off La
44

Details

KEITH (D.06) 19th Destroyer Flotilla Capt. (D) E.L.Berthon,
30th May
1732
Left Dover by X route for Dunkirk.
D.S.C., R.N.
1959
2020
Secured alongside Eastern arm, Dunkirk.
Being in search of R.A. Dover, slipped
and proceeded eastward. (4)
MA
2050
Re-entered Dunkirk and embarked about
2119
1,400 troops.
Proceeded.
31st May
0045
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1,200
troops
0305
Proceeded.
0552
Passed Dunkirk harbour. R.A. Dover was
in the dr. Express, and Keith was
ordered to follow.
0608
Stopped off Braye-Dunes.
0645
R.A. Dover and his staff transferred
by whaler from Express to Keith.
0655
Proceeded to La Panne.
0742
Anchored off La Panne.
0808
R.A. Dover embarked in the M/Y Bounty(2)
(q.v.) to inspect the beach.
0910
R.A. Dover returned to Keith.
0930
Commodore Stephenson, N.O.I.C.La Panne
came alongside in "No. Yacht"
to confer with R.A. Dover.
0934
Cdre. Stephenson slipped.
1113
Weighed and proceeded to Braye-Dunes.
1134
Proceeded to Dunkirk, marshalling
boats and tows of boats and ordering
them to the more eastern beaches.
1154
Off Dunkirk. Enemy artillery firing
on S.S. Clan Macalister, started a
small fire; she had been on fire
since 29th May.
1255
Returned to Braye, arriving 1331.
1424
Off La Panne.
1540
Off La Rosendal. R.A. Dover disembarked
into an M.T. B. (3) to consult with
beach staffs. He returned at 1630.
1703
Dive bomb attack. Two A/C shot down.
No damage.
1716
Near miss on the port quarter.
1815
Off La Panne.
1845
Between La Panne and Braye, the M/B
and whaler were sent inshore to
embark the Army G.H.Q. Staff.
1908
Embarked the first boat load of the
Army Staff. Lord Gort had gone to
the M/8 Hebe in a yacht L viz: the
Lahloo].
1937
Air attack.
1942
Embarked the second boat load of Army
Staff Officers.
2005
Air attack.
2016
Embarked the 3rd and last boat load of
Army B taff.
(2) Keith 200 troops. "M.T.B. " and that R.A. Dover went
(1) D.R. states
to converse says this with was Lord an Gort's C.S.O. At 1240/31, M.T. B. 102
(3) i.e. the BOUNTY.
says she embarked R.A. Dover to inspect the beaches.
(4) Cdr. Maund R.N (Retd.), whowas Abo!
of elubarkation peni pier there 108 that

Details

2
KEITH (continued)
31st May
2020/
(continued)
2310
Off Dunkirk, Braye and La Panne,
2400
Off La Panne. Lord Gort transferred
passing orders and marshalling boats.
to the Keith from the Hebe, in the
Bounty.
1st June
0015
Anchored off La Panne. A/A ammunition
now reduced to 2 rounds of 3-1nch
and 150 rounds of pom-pom per gun.
This shortage was represented to the
R.A. Dover.
0206
Off Braye.
0304
Lord Gort and General Leese, his C.S.O.,
proceeded in a "M.T.B." [this was
M.A/S.B.6 (q.v.)] for Dover. (1).
0510
Air (m.g.) attack.
0737
Dive bomb attack. All 3 inch ammunition
expended. A near miss damaged the
steering gear. Hand steering aft.
0805ca
Numerous dive bomb attacks. Ship
straddled. Hit in No.2 boiler room,
which was set on fire, flooded and
its crew killed. Heavy list to port,
upper deck touching the water.
Torpedoes and depth charges jettisoned
No steam. Ship anchored.
R.A. Dover and staff transferred to
a M.T.B. [i.e. M.T.B.102].
[They proceeded to Dunkirk; thence, at
0930, they proceeded to Dover.
Further dive bomb attacks on Keith.
Near misses. As the ship was settling
the order was given to abandon ship.
0830ca
The tug St. Abbs came alongside and
assisted by the tug Vincia took off
survivors and picked up others.
The sk. Hilda picked up 2 officers
and about 20 ratings and proceeded.
A grey schooner, or yacht, which
was picking up survivors was bombed
and sunk. The M/S Salamander picked
up seven ratings.
0849
The M/S Skipjack which had picked up
some survivors was bombed and sunk.
Signals were made to the Salamander
and the dr. Basilisk asking them to
sink Keith, but by now they themselves
had both been bombed, were out of
control and required assistance.
Salamander, however, fired 2 rounds
of S.A.P. at Keith's asdic dome.
Basilisk sank 3 hours later.]
0940ca
Keith was sunk in a salvo of bombs from
about 50 aircraft between La Panne
and Braye.
0950
The tug St. Abbs was bombed and sank
immediately.
(1) Keith says this was at about 0040/1.
109

Details

LAHLOO
Portsmouth Inner Patrol
Yacht
Lt. J.V. Ould, R.N.V.R.
29th May
1740
Slipped Hamble. and proceeded to sea from
Took station with the yachts of the
Inner Patrol on course for Dover
(see Ankh).
30th May
0830
Arrived Dover.
1050
Depth charges removed.
1940
Cast off, and proceeding from harbour,
took station with yachts. Crossed
channel in station with yachts.
31st May
0610
Lahloo arrived off Zuydcoote. Towed
boat loads of troops to destroyers,
and picked up 7 men from a boat
which had capsized in the somewhat
rough sea.
p.m.
Ordered by Cdre. Stephenson in the
yacht Bounty to proceed to La Panne
and close the destroyers off shore.
went alongside the M/S Hebe and was
given a boat with 3 ratings, told
to lay off La Panne, and put the Hebe's
boat ashore to take off General
Lord Gort.
1700
Lay off La Panne as ordered, and while
waiting took several boat loads of
troops (who had rowed out) to
destroyers.
1830
The Hebe's boat brought Lord Gort and
his A.D.C. to the Lahloo, which put
them aboard the Hebe.
While this was taking place the enemy
shelled and bombed the beach and
bombed the Hebe.
-
Off La Panne. The Lahloo continued to
ferry troops, which were now coming
off slowly - about 2 men to a boat.
-
Lay alongside the dr. Keith, but lost
touch with her in the dark.
1st June
0330ca
Closed the yacht Seriola.
0400ca
Ordered by a destroyer to collect
empty drifting boats and tow them
inshore. Bombed and machine gunned
while doing this.
-
Closed by the yacht Bounty, with Cdre.
Stephenson on board. He told
Seriola to take Bounty in tow, and
ordered the Lahloo to slip the boats
she was towing and to lead him back
to Ramsgate.
0815
Set course over route X for Ramsgate.
On the way back the yacht was bombed
and shot up by fighters.
off the N. Goodwin L.V., a launch came
-
alongside the Lahloo and ordered her
to return to Dunkirk. In view,
however, of the Commodore's orders
to precede him to Ramsgate, and
because Lt. Ould and his crew had
had no sleep for 5 nights, the
Lahloo continued on her course.
143

Details

LOCUST
Gunboat
Lieutenant A.N.P. Costobadie, R.N.
29th May
1348
The G/B's Locust and Mosquito sailed
from Sheerness for La Panne and
1730
Braye-Dunes respectively.
1845
The Mosquito parted company.
The Locust arrived off La Panne beach.
Large numbers of British and French
1900
troops were waiting on the beach.
The Locust beached herself forward, to
facilitate embarkation, but this
method did not have much success;
she therefore got off and anchored.
Embarkation was then commenced using
the ship's 2 whalers.
1950 -
Engaged enemy aircraft which were
2130
bombing the beaches.
2200
Cdr. Cordeaux in the Sp. S/V Royal
Eagle having been reported as
incapacitated, the Locust became
S.N.O. La Panne.
2220
S.N.O. Afloat [Capt. E.W. Bush, D.S.C.,
R.N.] in the M/S Hebe approached,
and approved a proposal by Lieut.
Costobadie, that, in view of the
lack of power boats, he should land
and organise a ferry service of
pulling boats, manned by the troops
themselves.
2230
Lieut. Costobadie disembarked, and
found six R.N. cutters and 3 ship's
life boats stranded about 300 yards
from the water's edge. There were
about 1000 British troops, apparently
in charge of N.C.O's; they salved
the boats, got them down to the
water, and ferried troops to the
Locust and other ships.
M.T.B. 68 transferred some casualties
from the Hebe to the Locust. (1)
2400
Ships and beach bombed by aircraft.
30th May
0300
Lieut. Costobadie re-embarked in
Locust.
0310
With 620 British and French troops
on board, the Locust proceeded to the
assistance of the sl. Bideford at
Braye-Dunes; she had been bombed
aft [her stern was blown off] and was
A aground. tow was passed to the Bideford,
0330
Bideford came off, and both ships
(see also Kellett),
0425
proceeded.
0445
and
Tows parted.
0540
0605
Locust secured Bideford alongside water. and
towed her clear of shoal
tow astern again.
0930
2235
Stopped, Passed because the Bideford had a man
overboard. (2)
(1) The it was the "Lotus," included an error in which
no C.O. doubt of accounts M.T.B.68 for says the "Lotus" being
(2) A French D.R.'s soldier, list of ships. fully equipped, had jumped overboard.
179

Details

MARGAUX (1462 tons) French cargo vessel
25th May
-
The Margaux and the French S.S. Hebe
were escorted to the Downs by the
sloop Belfort.
26th May
Anchored in the Downs.
There is no further information, but
according to D.R., on 31st May, the
"Margeaux" landed 369 troops in
England. (1)
4th June
Sailed from Dover for Brest escorted by
the sloop Belfort, the Normanville
and Fronsac in company.
Total 369
Phote by film fros of french In see)
Margaux left
Dunkirk with
1343 troofs
one of them died.
(night of 30 ,H/3/50
of May)
Ican't precise
if she Panded them
in U.K. os in France.
(1) D.R. "Margeaux" among the French destroyers; The
there places the not one of that name. named destroyer
Marceau larceau is took given no in D.R's list of French
was, however, part in Dynamo, but a vessel warships.
236

Details

2
M.A/3.B.6 - Continued.
31st May
2400ca
(contd.
On return to the Keith, General Leese
was embarked and instructions were
given to collect Lord Gort from the
M/S Hebe and return to England.
1st June
0030ca
By the time the Hebe was reached, Lord
Gort had gone over to the Keith;
M.A/S.B.6 therefore returned to the
Keith.
0304
Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and
General Leese.
0547
Arrived Dover. Disembarked Lord Gort
and General Leese.
2nd June
1201
Left Dover to search for the dfr.
Girl Gladys (reported broken down
7 miles east of Dunkirk) and also
for about 30 soldiers in an open
boat (reported by aircraft to be 3
miles off Dunkirk).
1330
3 miles off Dunkirk, collected 5
Spaniards and about 6 troops from 2
open boats. Then went alongside a
Thames barge( 1) (containing about 220
troops including 2 colonels, an
artillery major and some wounded),
which was endeavouring to sail to
England. An attempt to repair the
barges diesel engine was unsuccessful.
M.A/S.B.6's First Lieutenant,
S/Lt. T.E.B. de Hammel, R.N.V.R. was
transferred to the barge with
instructions to sail the barge to
M.A/S.B.6 Dover. continued unsuccessfully to
search for the Girl Gladys.
Two miles to the east, M.A/S.B.6
When east of La Panne, abandoned the
picked up 18 troops from an open boat.
search for the Girl Gladys, and set
to intercept the barge.
When course out of sight of land, M.A/S.B.6 was 20
1720ca
attacked by about 7 dive bombers.
50 ahead and M.A/S.B.6 passed
to yards of the ship. One exploded
30 bombs were dropped within 10 to
through just the splash. Two casualties.
Arrived Dover. Sent out a tug to troops search
Proceeded to Dover.
1922
for the barge. Disembarked 24
The and barge 5 was found by the tug(2) about.
Spaniards.
[2100
10 miles fron Dover.]
Total 26(3)
Authority - R.O.II, pp. 391, 468.
(1) Not identified.
(2) Not identified
(3) Not mentioned in D.R.
253

Details

Details

M.T.B.68
10th M.T.B.Flotilla
Lieut. R.K.L. Walker,
R.N.V.R.
28th May
0655
Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk, M.T.B.16
0825
in company.
Secured at Dunkirk.
Ferried troops from the west to the
east piers.
1130
Sailed for Dover with message for V.A.
Dover.
1310
Arrived Dover.
2137
Sailed for Dunkirk, taking Capt. E.W.
Bush, R.N., Cdr. Dove R.N., and
Lt. Cdr. S.H. Dennis R.N.
2350
Secured to Dunkirk east pier.
29th May
0400
Took Capt. Bush and others to inspect
beaches.
0600
Returned to Dunkirk. Ferried troops
from the west to the east piers.
0910
Sailed for Dover, taking Capt. Bush
and Lt. Cdr. Dennis.
0940
Engaged 2 aircraft.
1035
Arrived Dover.
1540
Sailed for Dunkirk, taking a W/T
transmitter and telegraphists for
Lord Gort, and a demolition party.
1710
Secured at Dunkirk. Landed demolition
party. Two air attacks during
afternoon.
1900ca
During the night, supplied fuel for
motor boats; transferred troops
and seaman from the M/S Hebe to
attendant destroyer; took wounded
airman and troops from the Hebe to the
2230ca
G/B Locust( 1) transferred W/T
transmitter and ratings to Locust
for Lord Gort; took R.A. Dover to
organise beach parties.
30th May
0530
Sailed for Dover.
0710
Arrived Dover. Repairs to engines.
31st May
1110
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1230ca
Embarked an officer [Lt. Cdr. Wynne-
Edwards] from the dr. Keith and
patrolled between Dunkirk and La Panne,
while he organised beaching of drifters
etc. at Bray and the distribution of
small craft as they arrived.
2035
Sailed for Dover.
2050
Overtook M.T.B's 67 and 107 and proceeded
in company.
2205
Arrived Dover.
1st June
1430
Sailed for Portsmouth for repairs, with
M.T.B.67 in company.
2040
Arrived Portsmouth.
Nil
(1) Lieut. Walker calls this ship the "Lotus"; there was no
vessel of this name in operation Dynamo. The G/B Locust
was at La Panne at this period.
D.R. includes the "Lotus" in its list of ships.
312

Details

Details

SHARPSHOOTER
(N.68)
lst M.S.F.
Lieut. A.E. Doran, R.N.
1730
28th May
1842
Arrived Hebe. Dover in company with the M/S
2
Ordered Panne. by V.A. Dover to proceed to La
1903
Proceeded via Route Y.
0115
p-
29th May
Arrived boats off the beaches. Lowered
0300
and embarked troops.
Only surf. to 30 the troops lack of had boats been and embarked, the inshore owing
0500
About 100 troops had been embarked.
1215
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 100
Proceeded to Dover by Route Y.
troops. (1)
1830
Sailed via Route X for the beaches.
er
P
0035
30th May
Anchored close inshore [presumably
off La Panne]. Embarked 260 troops,
assisted by 2 boats manned by
Royal Engineers.
0335
Proceeded to Dover by Route X.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 273
troops. (1)
1800
Sailed via Route X.
2210
While steaming down the southern side
of Dunkirk channel, Sharpshooter was
in collision with the P/V St. Helier
[The St. Helier reports that she
1
kept going slow ahead for about an
hour until the tug Foremost 22
had taken Sharpshooter in tow.
St. Helier then withdrew from the
Sharpshooter and escorted her to
Dover].
-
The Sharpshooter arrived at Dover in
tow of Foremost 22.(q.v.).
1)
Total 373
Authority R.O.I., p.369.
e
(1) D.R.
125

Details

SKOOTS (Schuits, or Dutch coasters)
In D.R.'s list of ships, the names of 43 skoots
given. Actually, there were 40 skoots in Operation Dynamo. are
Five names have been deleted from D.R's list, two
have been added, and two names have been amended, as follows:- names
(1) Deletions
Demok I was a Dutch yacht, not a skoot.
"Orange Yreeswi jh" was in fact the Oranje,
port of origin Vreeswijk.
"Tung" (q.v.) was not a skoot, and, as a
ship, did not apparently exist.
Java and Princess Juliana broke down and
took no part in Operation Dynamo.
(2) Additions
Jaba and Rian were commissioned for
Operation Dynamo, and worked off the beaches.
(3) Amendments
"Frisco" (q.v.) has been amended to Friso
"Hebe" has been amended to Hebe II.
149

Details

SURREY
M/L (Owner E.T. Thomas)
On arrival at Sheerness from Kingston, the
Surrey was boarded by a rating and 3 reservists.
have Nothing is to known of her movements, but she may
gone Dunkirk, as a French rifle
the owner.
found in a locker when the boat was returned was to
of
Authority - TO.9144.
in the
0 and 2 akcota
were lying DIT, and 2 ships just
The western side of the
harboor was ablass.
0330
Embarked about 370 British troops and
selled for Dover. By this time 6 or
7 other akoots and a hospital ship
had entered the harbour and were
embarking troops.
1130
Arrived DIE Dover, Disemberred 370
B.B.F.(1)
2100
Bailed indepentantly for Dunktrk by
the Oalais route.
30th May
West or Dunkirk sighted a wreck in the
approach channel and a man's ories
were heard. Lowered a boat; but BB
a W/S from Dunkirk arrived on the
ecene, the Surem-Cords proceeded.
(See Hebe II).
:
0430
Suraum-Cords orrived off beach east of
Dunkirk Malol.
Closed the M/D Fitzrov, and was asked
to ferry troops to her and to the
Av. Vanquisher, 32 cables to the
westward. AB there were only 4 or 5
muhll hoats to assist, decided to
close the beach and embark tecops
over the ship's howe.
Two trips were thus made, after which
the Fltaroy and Vanquisher sailed.
A third trip Van then attempted, but
the Gurcum-Corda, overloaded, went
securely aground and, in spite of
the efforts or the Sk. Hebe II, could
not be refloated.
0800
Decided to wait for high mater.
1800/
Purther unsuccessful efforta made to
2030
refloat, which resulted in damage to
the ship's engines.
May
0430
Transferred BOWN sounded to an
0520
Transferred ambulance. of to a
The M/B.
12300a
Capt. and crow the
corvette Kingfisher,
Ramagete.
Authority
Total_370
197

Details

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

Details

THELE
Portsmouth Inner Patrol
Yacht
Lt. H.M. Glassborow,
1800
R.N.V.R.
29th May
Left other Hamble for Dover in with
(see Seriola)
8 yachts of the Inner company Patrol
30th May
0600
Arrived Dover.
2130
Sailed for Bray in company with the
Inner Patrol flotilla.
31st May
0600
Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La
Panne under orders from the M/Y Ankh
[Capt. J.M. Howson, R.N. ] to take
0630
troops off the beach.
Arrived off La Panne. Ferried troops
-
from surf boats to destroyers.
Ordered by a destroyer [
]
to place the Thele at the disposal
anchored off the beach. [ Collected
of a "paddle steamer"
]
her boats, and with their assistance,
ferried troops to the "paddle steamer"
-
The Commodore [G.o. Stephenson] in the
M/Y Bounty suggested that Thele used
her M/L. It was however smashed
while being launched.
1040ca
Ordered by Keith to anchor astern of
her.
1113
Keith weighed. Thele remained in situ
as a "despatch boat", but got under
way as bombs were dropping.
-
The Commodore arrived in a small boat,
transferred to the Thele and took
command of her. The Thele then sailed
round La Panne and Bray, boarding
ships and transmitting the Commodore's
orders.
1300
Went alongside the M/S Hebe and embarked
her Captain. Put the Commodore on
board a paddle steamer [the M/S
Devonia]. Air attack - the paddle
steamer weighed and left with the
Commodore on board her.
-
Heavy air attack. The Capt. of the
Hebe ordered Thele to signal all
ships to move 1/2 mile to the westward.
-
The Thele followed the Hebe to try
and transfer her Captain.
Arrived alongside Hebe off Bray, and
after some delay because of an air
attack, the Captain of the Hebe
was transferred to his own ship.
Ordered by Hebe to proceed to La Panne,
-
to deliver Night Operation Orders
to Lord Gort, and to take off G.H.Q.
Proceeded personnel. to La Panne, escorted by the
-
Hebe and lay off the pier.
1630
Sent the dinghy inshore, in charge of
C.P.O. Gutsell, with the Night
Operation Orders for delivery to
Lord Gort. While waiting, embarked
1830
The troops. dinghy returned with S/Lt. E.C.
Croswell, R.N., of the dr. Harvester; since
he had been on La Panne beach
attached 29th himself to Lord Gort's staff.
May, having temporarily
219

Details

THELE (continued)
-
31st May
The yacht Ahola transferred Lord Gort's
(contd.
baggage, his valet and his driver,
to the Thele.
-
Closed the Hebe and put Lord Gort's
gear and servants aboard.
-
Lay destroyers. off La Panne and ferried troops to
1st June
0200
No more troops could be found.
-
Off Bray, ordered by M.T.B.102 to lay
off the Keith.
0300
Keith weighed and proceeded.
0325
No ships in sight; proceeded to
Ramsgate.
0900
Arrived off Ramsgate.
1100
Arrived Dover. S/Lt. Croswell
disembarked.
Nil
It is estimated that 250 troops were
ferried from the beach to off-lying
ships.
Authority. - R.O.II, p. 301.
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
C.P.O. A.H.H. Gutsell.
220

Details

WINDSOR (L.94)
June
Destroyer (Nore Command) Dover. Lt. Cdr. P.D.H.R.Pelly
2300
25th May
Left Dover, dr.
0140
26th May
0300
Off It a raft. picked up 3
vessels to out Calais, cover the if soldiers ordered. to carry from R.N.
so craft was assisted decided back to Verity not Dover. to to evacuate escort Calais, small
0645
0745
Dive-bomb attack - no hits.
Anchored in Downs. Disembarked 3
Fervent. soldiers into a boat from the
Returned
1700
Retired to Dover.
27th May
0635
0904
Left Dover to patrol.
Closed Mona's Isle, full of soldiers;
she had been machine gunned.
Escorted her to Dover.
1515
Resumed patrol.
28th May
1145
Close to No.: buoy (near S. Goodwin
Light Vessel), attacked by 15
dive-bombers supported by 10
fighters.
No direct hits but extensive damage
by bomb splinters and m.g. bullets.
W/T out of action, 30 casualties.
1400
Secured alongside. Repairs put in
hand.
30th May
0930
Sailed from Dover for Dunkirk.
1330
Arrived off La Panne. Embarked troops
from small boats.
1530
R.A. Dover transferred his staff from
the M/S Hebe to the Windsor.
[1630
R.A. Dover landed at La Panne to visit
Lord Gort. Captain Tennant (S.N.O.
Dunkirk) was with Lord Gort, and
the situation was discussed. ](1)
1700
The R.A. Dover transferred to the dr.
2100ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 606 troops.
Worcester. The Windsor proceeded.
31st May
0200ca
0600ca
Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
1000ca
Arrived Proceeded. Dover. Disembarked 658 troops.
1200ca
1615
Arrived Left Dover Dunkirk for Dunkirk. harbour. Secured which
alongside the dr. Icarus was
alongside the
-
Arrived Embarked Dover. troops and troops
-
1st June
0545ca
Left Arrived Dover drs. for Dunkirk. Berthed Icarus out-
side and the the
2030
Sailed Embarked for Dover, troops. Icarus in company.
(1) R.A. Dover's report.
325

Details

Details

Details

Details

40
Page
Page
41
5
G.
Page
Ethel Taylor
Page
5
9
Gadfly
22
Guillemot
Page
Doon
3
Ethfra
35
Gael
31
Page
17
Gula
J.
Galvani
15
Kunishi
Doonie Braes
4
Etruscan
14
Gulfoss
Jacketa
23
17
30
11
Kurd
Dorada II
11
Eunice Euclase and Nellie
23
Garola
Gulzar
Jacinta
16
35
11
5
Kuroki
Dorando-Pietri
S
Jack Eve
37
14
Garry
20
Gunner
26
14
Dorienta
37
Europa
5
Gava
Gwenllian
Jade
Dorileen
2
Evadne
Gelert
5
35
32
5
Gwmaho
James Barrie
28
8
4
37
Dorinda
Evelyn Rose
14
Geneva
James Lay
15
Dorothy
15
Evening Primrose
5
General Botha
17
Jano
L.
11
Dorothy Lambert
29
Everton
Genius
36A
Jason
Lacenia
5
31
26
Dragonet
H.
13
Evesham
8
Geordie
15
Jasper
13
Lady Beryl
21
Drangey
35
Exyahne
23
Halcyon
10
Jeanie Deans
19
Lady Blanche
5
Drummer Boy
22
7
E.&T.S.
George and Albert
12
Halcyone
11
Jeannie Howie
Lady Brassey
11
Duchess of Down
12
27
Ex Fortis
George Cousins
Halo
13
27
28
Jeannie Leask
8
Lady Elsa
25
Duchess of Fife
36A
10
Explorer
George Robb
21
Hanyards
3
Jeannie Mackay
Lady Enid
9
22
Duchess of Rothesay
2
Georgette
Harbinger
14
6
Jeannie McIntosh
17
14
Lady Hogarth
Duenna
Gervais Rentoul
Harlech Castle
5
27
Jennet
18
Lady Lilian
31
Dulcibelle
10
16
Gilt Edge
Harmattan
28
Jenny Irvin
Lady Madeline
31
8
16
Dundalk
Girl Christian
Harpada
2
Jessie Tait
Lady Philomena
10
27
27
Dundarg
F.
22
Harrier
10
Jester
Lady Shahrazad
19
Girl Ellen
19
36A
11
23
Harry Melling
Jewel
Lady Shirley
17
Dungeness
Fair Breeze
27
Dunnet
2
7
Fairway
17
Girl Gladys
10
Harvest Gleaner
21
Jocelyn
Laguna Belle
23
22
Dunraven Castle
27
Fair Weather
28
Girl Helen
Lahloo
8
23
Harvest Hope
28
John Alfred
14
Dusky Queen
11
29
Girl Mary
Larch
12A
Fairy Knowe
22
Harvest Reaper
7
John and Norah
15
Falconet
Girl Pamela
Laroc
8
11
10
Hatano
2
John Cattling
11
Lass o'Doune
3
Faraday
17
Girl Pat
12
Haussa
14
John Fitzgerald
37
E.
Laurel
16
Favour
27
Girl Winifred
23
Hav
35
John Stephen
36
Lavatera
27
Eager
29
Fawn
28
Gladys
29
Hawthorn
24
T. Hendry
12
Lavinia L
12
Eaglet II
5
Fazenta
35
Glala
12
Hawthorn Bank
18
Joseph Button
3
Laws
23
Earl Essex
2
Feaco
35A
Gleam On
29
Hazard
29
Jubilee
22
Learig
30
Earl Kitchener
13
Feasible
15
Gleaner
June Rose
31
Hazel
25
23
Leda
10
Easter Rose
27
23
Gleaners
Heather Sprig
27
Juniper
25
Felicity
22
Leeds United
4
Ebor Jewel
17
Fenella
36A
Hebe
29
Justifier
15
Glen Avon
23
Leeward
28
Ebor Wyke
29
Fentonian
12A
Hekla
17
Glen Gower
23
Leicester City
26
Eccleshill
29
Helen
5
Fernmoor
Glen Heather
3
Lephreto
3
29
Ecila
2
Helen West
28
Glen Kidston
Leprechaun
8
Eden
2
Ferry Belle
8
17
Helier II
36B
K.
Le Tiger
25
29
Ferry Prince
8
Glen Strathallan
19
Edith M. Purdy
Fertile Vale
Heliopolis
34
Kalan
19
Letna
8
22
E. D. Walmsley
5
Glen Usk
23
Helvellyn
19
Kathleen
3
Leyland
32
Edwardian
Fervent
11
12A
Glitter II
12
Helvetia
17
Kellet
10
Libra
35
Edwina
Fidget
11
5
Gloamin
7
Hendon
20
Kelpy
12
Libyan
35
Egeria
Fidra
36
22
Gloria
29
Henriette
23
Kelt
32
Lichen
12A
Eileen Emma
10
Filey Bay
16
Glow
22
Hertfordshire
9
Kennet
20
Liddoch
3
Eilla II
8
Fintray
5
Go Ahead
12A
Hickory
24
Kennet (Tender)
12
Liffey
20
Elbury
Fir
24
19
21
Kennymore
7
Lilac
24
16
Goatfell
Hildena
Eldorado
23
Firefly
21
Golden Eagle
12A
Hinba
29
Keverne
12
Lily Oak
28
Elena
35
Fisher Boy
11
Golden Effort
19
Hiniesta
3
Kiddaw
12
Lincoln City
26
Elgin
16
Fisher Lad
28
Golden Emblem
22
Holdfast
11
Kiloran
3
Lincolnshire
19
Elizabeth Angela
11
Fitzroy
16
10
Holly
24
Kindred Star
9
Lizzie Birrel
24
Golden Gift
22
14
Llanthony
S
Elk
2
Flanders
23
Golden Harvest
8
Hollydale
King Emperor
Ellesmere
18
13
King Orry
11
Loch Aline
18
25
Fleming
Golden Lily
27
Hopeful
Elm
28
25
27
8
Kingscourt
16
Loch Alsh
16
Flora
Golden News
Horizon
Elmenzala
5
17
Loch Buie
23
35
Floreat II
22
Golden Sunbeam
10
Hornbeam
Kings Grey
Elna
9
28
Hosanna
11
Floreat III
King Sol
25
Loch Eribol
16
Eloquent
22
Loch Hope
17
Golden Thyme
19
Florence Brierley
37
Golden View
14
Hoverfly
20
Kingston Agate
8
Else Rykens
Huddersfield Town
4
Kingston Alalite
10
Lochinvar
20
28
Flush
Elsie Carn
20
Goodwill
22
30
Kingston Amber
8
Loch Inver
17
35
Elsie and Nellie
Flying Admiral
5
Goodwin
11
Hugh Walpole
Kingston Andalusite
10
Loch Laggan
12
10
12
El Tovar
Flying Breeze
4
Gorse
28
Hussar
Kingston Beryl
30
Loch Leven
16
37
22
Fontenoy
10
S
Loch Long
Embrace
15
Gossamer
Kingston Cairngorm
27
Foray
16
8
Loch Melfort
32
Emilia Primeiro
27
Goth
Force
I.
Kingston Ceylonite
37
14
Gowan
22
Kingston Chrysoberyl
8
Loch Monteith
25
Emilion
16
Forecast
12
Emperor of India
19
Idyll
32
Loch Oskaig
25
10
10
Gowan Craig
S
Kingston Chrysolite
Empress
Forerunner
Ijiun
33
Loch Rannock
5
12A
10
Kingston Coral
Loch Shin
29
9
Gracie Fields
29
Empyrean
Fort Robert
15
Imelda
Kingston Crystal
33
Englishman
8
35
Grampion
25
33
Loch Tulla
28
Fort Ryan
29
Grateful
28
Imperialist
19
36
Kingston Cyanite
Forte
10
Lois
11
Enterprising
Ephretah
Fortitude
2
Gregory
17
Inchgower
20
26
Kingston Galena
30
London Pride
13
25
Indian Star
Epine
28
Fort Rose
19
Greenfly
28
Kingston Jacinth
Loon
29
10
2
Indian Summer
Equerry
29
Forward
35A
Green Howard
27
Kingston Olivine
Lord Ashfield
26
30
Erimo
22
Foss
9
Green Pastures
29
Industry
29
Kingston Onyx
30
Lord Austin
19
3
29
4
Internos
28
Kingston Peridot
Lord Barham
15
Erith
Fox
Greetings
30
Erna
16
Foyle
30
11
Invercairn
Grey Mist
11
Kingston Sapphire
30
Lord Beaconsfield
17
10
Inverforth
37
12
Kingston Topaz
Lord Cavan
11
Eroican
Franc Tireur
20
30
Grimsby Town
Escalonia
35A
Friesland
17
Grosmont Castle
27
Inverugie
15
Kingston Turquoise
3
Lord Collingwood
11
Esmeralda
28
28
Irvana
Freyer
18
Kirkella
35
17
Lord Essenden
19
Grouville
Esperanza
9
Frons Olivae
36A
Guava
5
Isle of May
28
Kopanes
Essex Maid
4
Fumarole
22
Guide On
23
Istria
24
Fyldea
28
Guiding Light
28
11
Guelder Rose
23

Details

Details

Details

40
Page
Page
Dorothy Lambert
15
Esmeralda
41
25
29
Craig Alvah
Dragonet
Esperanza
26
13
Drangey
Essex Maid
9A
Page
Page
22
14A
Craig-Bo Craig Island
Drummer
Ethel Taylor
Forfeit
Page
26
Golden Lily
26
36
Herdis
Drummer Boy
35
Ethfra
24
Forte
2
17
Golden News
8
Hero
Craigmiller
28
Duchess of Down
7
Ethiopian
Fortitude
36
23
19
Golden Sunbeam
10
Heron
Fort Robert
17
Craig Roy
26
Duchess of Fife
13
Etruria
9A
35
Golden Thyme
28
Hertfordshire
22
Etruscan
29
Fort Rose
9A
Cramond Craik Island
Duchess of Rothesay
15
14B
Golden View
14
Hickory
24
22
2
Duenna
Euclase
7
Fort Ryan
29
Goodwill
22
Hilda Cooper
14
Cranefly
28
25
35
Fortuna
23
Goodwin
17
Dulcibelle
Europa Eunice and Nellie
Hildegarde
36B
Crannock
17
14a
Forward
9A
Gorecht
9
Hildena
21
Dundalk
16
Creagh Mhor
26
14a
Foss
29
Gorse
28
Hinba
Dundarg
27
8
Evadne
14B
Crest
14A
Fox
30
Gossamer
16
Hiniesta
3
Crestflower
Dunedin
14
12A
Eveline
Foyle
20
Goth
Crevice
Dungeness
14B
18
Evelyn Rose
5
16
Holdfast
11
Franc Tireur
36A
14
Gowan
22
Holland
8
Cuirass
28
Dunluce Castle
28
Evening Primrose
Freres Coquelin
35B
Gowan Craig
19
14
Holly
15
Cumulus
12
Dunnet
2
Everton
Friesland
35
14A
G. R. Purdy
24
Hollydale
22
Curlew
15
Dunraven Castle
27
Evesham
Freyer
21
Grampion
15
Hondsrug
9
17
Curtana
5
Dusky Queen
11
Ewald
Friarage
24
Grateful
28
14B
Hopeful
18
Cutty Sark
Exchequer
Frons Olivae
22
Great Admiral
5
Horizon
28
8
6
Cypress
Fumarole
28
Gregory
26
Hornbeam
5
6
Exyáhne
36A
Cysne II
E. & T.S.
Fyldea
10
Greenfly
13
Hortensia
35
E.
14
Green Howard
19
Hosanna
11
Ex Fortis
22
Green Pastures
29
Hoverfly
21
Eager
14A
Explorer
12
G.
Greetings
4
Huddersfield Town
4
D.
Eaglet II
5
21
Gadfly
22
Grey Mist
11
Hugh Walpole
30
Dahinda II
2
Earl Essex
14
Gael
17
Grimsby Town
10
Hurrying Angel
9
13
Daisy Bank
25
Earl Kitchener
14
Galatea
5
Grosmont Castle
27
Hussar
Dale Castle
19
Easter Rose
27
F.
Galvani
14B
Grouville
28
Hval V
35
Dalmatia
8
Ebor Abbey
26
Fairhaven
Garola
35
Guava
5
Damito
9A
Ebor Jewel
17
Fairway
36B
Garry
20
Guide On
14A
Dane
22
Ebor Wyke
29
Fair Weather
14
Gaston Riviere
35B
Guiding Light
28
I.
14
Guelder Rose
23
Idyll
12
Dane Hill
23
Eccleshill
29
28
Gava
Fairy Knowe
Daneman
8,25
Ecila
14A
Gelert
9
Guillemot
31
Ijiun
8
3
Falconet
Daniel Clowden
29
Eden
11
Genberdina Johanna
6
Gula
14B
Imelda
29
2
Fano
12
24
Geneva
17
Gulfoss
15
Imperia
17A
Danube III
Edith M. Purdy
29
Faraday
14B
Genius
15
Gulzar
11
Imperialist
25
Danube IV
12
Edward Walmsley
13
Favour
Inchgower
27
Geordie
23
Gunner
25
2
Danube V
12
Edwardian
12A
Fawn
George and Albert
12
Gustave Dennis
35B
Indian Star
2
D'Arcy Cooper
28
14
Edwina
14
Fazenta
George Bligh
37
Gwenllian
35
Indian Summer
28
Darnaway
35
25
E. & F.
5
Feaco
George Cousins
26
Gwmaho
4
Industry
26
Darnett Ness
8
3
Egeria
17
Fear Not
George D. Irvine
14
Interloper
9A
Darogah
30
Internos
14A
12A
Eileen Duncan
Darthema
35
Feasible
15
George Adgell
11
8
Eileen Emma
10
Fedalmo
George Robb
15
Invercairn
28
Darwin
12
35
Eilla II
9
23
Georgette
3
H.
Invercauld
35
David Ogilvie
23
Felicity
Gervais Rentoul
10
Haarlem
36c
Inverforth
3
Davey
Elbury
16
Fenella
36A
28
Eldorado
Gilder
17A
Halcyon
13
Inverugie
12
Dayspring
25
Fentonian
12A
28
Iona
7
26
Dee
E. Lauland
Gillian
24
Halo
17
Fernmoor
29
20
Gilt Edge
8
Hanyards
3
Irvana
15
Defiance
Electra II
5
Ferry Belle
9
Girard
37
Harbinger
6
Isle of May
18
2
De la Pole
Elena
35
Ferryman
17
Girl Christian
22
Harlech Castle
27
Istria
28
14B
Delphinus
Elgin
Deodar
35
16
Elisabeth Therese
Ferry Prince
9
Girl Ellen
23
Harmattan
28
35B
Fertile Vale
22
Girl Gladys
10
Harrier
13
Deo-Na-Mara
22
Elizabeth Angela
11
11
Girl Helen
23
Harry Melling
23
J.
17
Fervent
Deo Volante
Elizabeth Green
12A
11
Girl Mary
22
Harvest Gleaner
14
Jacketa
11
28
Dervish Derby County
Elk
Fidget
22
Girl Pat
12
Harvest Hope
28
Jacinta
14
4
2
Fidra
Ellesmere
16
Girl Winifred
23
Harvest Reaper
7
Jack Eve
14A
9A
Filey Bay
19
Jacqueline Clasine
36A
Desiree
17
Elm
21
Gladys
29
Hatano
Destinn
35
Elna
25
Fintray
24
Glala
12
Hatuse
35
Jade
32
Devon City
5
Eloquent
9A
Fir
Gleam On
26
Hav
35
James Barrie
37
12A
Devon County
20
19
Firefly
Gleaner
31
Hawthorn
24
James Lay
15
Else Rykens
11
Dewey Rose
12A
Elsie Carn
28
Fisher Boy
28
Gleaners
22
Hawthorn Bank
18
Janetha IV
12
Dhoon
27
35
Fisher Lad
Glen Avon
23
Haybourne Wyke
3
[ano
11
Elsie and Nellie
16
Diana
Glen Gower
23
Hazard
29
[ason
31
14
El Tovar
12
Fitzroy
21
22
Glen Heather
3
Hazel
25
Jasper
13
Dirkje
9
Embrace
Flanders
14
Glen Kidston
17
Heather Belle
30
Jean Edmunds
35
Discovery II
6
Emilion Emerald Wings
27
Flandre
13
Doctor Lee
Glen Strathallan
19
Heather Sprig
27
Jeanie Deans
19
30
8
Fleming
17
Glen Usk
23
Hebe
29
Jeannie Howie
27
Doggers Dolores Bank
29
Empress Emperor of India
11
Flixton
27
Glitter II
12
Hekla
14
Jeannie Leask
8
9
36
Flora
22
Gloamin
7
Helen
5
Jeannie Mackay
22
Donna Doon Nook
12A
En Avant
9A
Floreat II
22
Gloria
29
Helen West
28
Jeannie McIntosh
14A
23
Doonie Braes
Englishman
6
Floreat III
18
35A
Helier II
36c
Jennet
18
Glow
5
Doorie Brae
Enterprising
19
Florence Brferley
4
35A
Heliopolis
18
Jennifer
17
Go Ahead
Dorade II
17
Ephretah
20
Florio
20
19
Helvellyn
19
Jenny Irvine
17
Goatfell
Dorando-Pietri
36A
Epine
28
14A
Golden Eagle
12A
Helvetia
14B
Jenny Irwin
35A
Flush
4
Flying Admiral
19
Hendon
20
Jessie Tait
27
Dorienta
11
Equerry
15
Golden Effort
Dorileen
22
Henriette
23
Jester
19
Erimo
22
Flying Breeze
7
Golden Emblem
8
Golden Gift
Henriette (Fr.)
35B
Jewel
7
Dorinda
Erin
37
3
Flying Wing
15
10
Erith
Golden Harvest
8
Hercules
36A
Jocelyn
21
Dorothy Dorothy (B.D.V.)
36c
27
Fontenoy
H 2
2
Erna
12
16
Foray
12A
28
Eroican
18,37
10
(C38488)
Force
Escalonia
17
Forecast
12A
28
Forerunner

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Page 51
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. HEBE. - Lieutenant-Commander J. B. G. Temple. (Decorated for
this operation in London Gazette of 7th June, 40)
This ship in addition to embarking troops from the
beaches and Dunkirk was used by S.N.O. afloat and his
deputy. During this time the ship was subjected to heavy
bombing attacks and was machine-gunned. The ship was
considerably shaken by near misses.
Recommendations.
RATINGS:
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, 0.B.E..P/J.15784.
For his coolness and gallantry in action,
superlative leadership and good example to the ship's
company.
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. Harold Biles, P/MX.4730.
For his co-operation in action and devotion to
duty during very difficult situation.
Recommended for mention.

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DSm
Stoker F. Tyler, P/K. 61614, H.M.S. SCIMITAR.
Leading Stoker Alfred Browne, D/KX. 81441,
vv
Ordinary Seaman George Park, D/JX.
Signalman William Hicks,
Chief Engine Room Artificer Francis
Leading Seaman James David Oliver Anderson, Paget, P/JX.
VLeading Petty Petty Officer Officer Seaman E.R. Frederick Meredith, Martindale, P/J.95625, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS VIMY
Stoker J.J. Williamson, P/KX.76409, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Leading
Petty Officer Seaman Cecil Walter Kenneth George Souster, Harold
/Engine Room Artificer 4th Class Joseph
57728,
Acting Leading Seaman Dennis Phillip Arthur Gilbert,
C/JX.151519, H.M.S. WOLSEY
Telegraphist Joseph Graham, P/SSX.17539, H.M.S. WOLSEY
/Electrical Leading Seaman Artificer John William Kenneth Simpson, C/MX.45564, H.M.S. WOLSEY
Flattery, P/JX.131896, H.M.S.
Chief Engine Room Artificer Sidney Arthur Wilkins, WORCESTER P/M.18465,
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, JX. 129206,
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J. 8739, H.M.S. WORCESTER
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Acting Leading Stoker F. Putt, 84370, H.M.S. ALBURY
Canteen Manager A. Harris, H.M.S. ALBURY
Able Seaman W.T. Elmslie, D/RHRY. 19014, H.M.S. DUNDALK
Signalman D. Minter, 155114, H.M.S. FITZROY
Signalman Frederick Froggatt, C/JX. 144084, H.M.S. FITZROY
Ordinary Seaman G.H. Hawkins, A.F.A., H.M.S. FITZROY
you
Stoker 1st Class W.A.W. Ward, C/KX. 97894, H.M.S. FITZROY
Able Seaman J. Fleming, D/JX.140199, H.M.S. GLENGOWER
Leading Seaman T. Neive, T.124, H.M.S. GLENGOWER
Assistant Cook (0) T.H. Ward, MX. 59579, H.M.S. GOSSAMER
Petty Officer Edward William Higgs, C/JX.133416, H.M.S.
Able Seaman Clarence Edward Jarmill, 95955,
GOSSAMER
Stoker Petty Officer John Henry Salmon, H.M.S. D/K. 66811, HALCYON H.M.S.
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, (O.B.E.), HALCYON
Chief Ordinary Seaman James Frederick P/J.15794, H.M.S. HEBE H.M.S. KELLET
Engine Room Artificer George Shirat, Bertram R.F.A., Head, P/M.34498,
Petty Petty Officer John Collins, H.M.S. LEDA
Petty Officer Henry McAllister, P/J.90457, H.M.S. LEDA
Officer Alfred Ernest Crossley, 23168, C/J.103237, H.M.S. H.M.S. MEDWAY QUER
Able Seaman Kenneth Roy Olly, R.N.R., C/X. 20348A,
MEDWAY QUEEN
Petty Leading Seaman Clive Frederick Maine Cooper, H.M.S. C/JX. MEDWAY 137062,
QUEE
Officer Henry George Coalbran, P/JX. H.M.S.
NIGER
Stoker Ernest Baker, T.124, H.M.S. H.M.S. PRINCESS PRINCESS 127274, PRINCESS ELIZABE ELIZABETH
Theo. Norman R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
Leading Engine Signalman Edward Charles Pasfield, Atkins, P/JX. H.M.S. 176952,
ROSS
Stoker Stoker Petty Room Artificer Officer T. C.H. Andrew, H.M.S. 152931, ROSSMAND SALAMA
Stoker 1st the H.M.S. H.M.S. SALAMANDER SALAMANDER H.M.S. SALTASH
Able Seaman H.J. D/JX. M.28768, 61034, H.M.S. H.M.S.

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Dynaino Duplicate
16
Dynams 22H
13
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.I940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S. Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for .M.S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from H.M.S. Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
10
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North West of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen

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Dynamo Duplicate
16
17 14
was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire
but this was impracticable owing to the unsteadiness of
the boat. The approximate position of the mine was later
reported.
7.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being
short of petrol, closed H. M.S. Hebe but was unable to obtain
any from her. As there were no other ships carrying petrol
off La Panne, it was thought desirable to return to Bray in
order to have a reasonably safe margin of petrol before
conveying troops. On arrival at Bray, "Excellent's" boat
signalled that she had struck a submerged object and req-
uired assistance. As I had been told by a destroyer that
the depth of water in that position was 3 feet and had also
been told by the Senior Officer at Bray to be extremely
careful not to get into shallow water, it was not considered
advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the loss of
a second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
try to assist but ran aground.
8.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
boat proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, how-
ever, all ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore
batteries from the town which was shortly afterwards OCC-
upied by the enemy. In consequence the motor boat returned
to Bray.
9.
Enquiries were made at destroyers and other vessels
present as to whether "Dolphin's" boat could be of any ass-
istance, but again , owing to the shallowness of the water
and state of the sea it was not possible to go alongside the
improvised pier from which all troops were being embarked
(no troops were at this time wading out to boats), nor was
there a demand for a boat for towing purposes.
10. as to the usefulness of this boat under the circumstances,
After consultation with the senior officer present
it was decided to obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel, and
there it was hoped that another tow could be obtained back
to Dunkirk, where, it was believed , the boat could be more
usefully employed. A tow was obtained from H.M.S.Sargossa
at 1415

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manding Officer H.M.S. Saltash.
Dyram 91.
The 4th.1039.
Brulohing
by
M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
"
71
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
329
ng Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
the honour to submi t their names so that suitable action
taken.
Join ieutenant Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S.
0011 the night of Friday, May 31st,he was loaned to H. Hebe
was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went
other to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
lacking a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach
nick ame im Danna WAS hains hombarded the
mmander in chief more
Dynamo go. 67
in
on operations carried out By M.B. Honderung
C Dutch schoole).
n 26 may and 5 June 1940.
anchaed at sheerness waiting for orders
Sailed from Sheerness
arrived and anchored on Deal.
ordered to Junkirk in company with 5 other Schools
on Eastern entrance to I unkink roads.
ships harsing advised us that Dunkirk had
fallen. Senior officers schoote developed engine
Grouble ordered Hondsrug to take him in low
Readed away drom unkink
Sliphed tow as S.O.S engine now working
and schools ordered Crack to Deal
german seaplane, machine gunned and
Comled us no damage, Put rather unpleasant
as we had no gans to return fire.
anchored GM Dear.
ordered to Dunkink have uh and proceeded.
on Dunkink harbour made for beaches
Saw move teashing from beach and ran
verset hand up on sand. Embarked troops

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From: Commanding Officer H.M.S. Saltash.
Dyram 91. Blulol by
Date: June 4th.1039.
is
71
11149
To; Sement Space M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
I have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action
may be taken.
1. Lieutenant T,E. Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S.
On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe
but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went
in shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
and, pullading a whaler behind them, he made his way along the beach
nick Danna was haina hombarded the
To: Commander in chief more
Dynamo go. 67
Rehart on operations carried out By M.B. Honderung
(Dutch schoote).
Between 26 may and 5 June 1940.
26 anchaed at sheerness waiting for orders
24"
300 Sailed from Sheerness
000 arrived and anchored on Ifeal.
500 ordered to Junkirk in company with 5 other Schools
300 on Eastern entrance to unkink roads.
ships harsing advised us that Dunkink had
fallen. Senior 6 Hiers schoote' developed engine
trouble ordered Hondsrug to take him in low
Readed away drom Dunkink
28
345 Slithed tow as S.O.S engine now working
and schools ordered Crack to Deal
430 german seaplane, machine gunned and
Comled us no damage, Put rather unpleasant
as we had no gans to return fire.
000
anchored GH Dear.
815
ordered to Dunkink have wh and proceeded.
330 on Dunkink harbour made for beaches
29
200 Saw more thashing open beach and nan
verset hand up on sand. Emparked troops

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Form: Commanding Officer H. Saltash.
Dysams 91. Blulol by
Date:June 4th.1039.
is
71
114g
P; Seven M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
ollowing Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
have the honour to submi t their names so that suitable action
ay be taken.
Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S.
On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe
Out he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went
shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
nd, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach
mink ame un Danne was haine hombarded the
2/
68
another Schoote on shore came in alongside
Found moheller had hicked wh nohe and
engines would not turn ScRoole Bornrit
towed us ON and back to Deal roads.
arrived and anchored disembarked troohs.
30"
00
after several attempts to clear screwohom heart
asked SNQ Ramsgate it we might be towed in
and beached This was approved.
1000 arrived Ramsgate hut vessel on Hand
231
200 Shih dry. cleared screw
730 Proceeded to Dunkink
500
arrived on beaches. heavy bombing.
300
no Goats available to bring men ON, sobeached
shin but troops would not wade out so
backed on and anchored
300
Embarked about 100 French troobscrom
is
mata boat.
000
Cruised along beaches. and then made for
harbour entrance.
130
Secured alongride Preakwater. embarked
hoops, heary Combing going on
cleared harbour. we were able to machine
gun low deying german heave troops assisting

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Prom: Commanding Officer H. Saltash.
Depairs 91. Bruloling by
Date:June 4th.1039.
o; Sement space M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
"
71
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
ollowing Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
If have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action
ay be taken.
Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R., First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S.
On the night of Friday, May 31st,1 he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe
but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went
shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
nd, pullading a whaler behind them, he made his way along the beach
nick ame Danna was haine hombarded the
3/.
-
69
with Bren guns
arrived Ramsgate and disembarked troops
Proceeded Dunkink Combed on several
occasions no damage.
Entered harbour embarked French trooks
harbour being shelled and bombed
,
cleared harbour
2"
10
arrived Ramsgate disembarked hooks and
anchored ON waiting for aders.
3"
10
Hore wh and proceeded Dunkink in company
with three other schootes
45
arrived alongside Jetty at Past
and embarked French troops
'+
000 serv Dunkink and proceeded.
530 arrived Ramsgate after thick too tor east
three hours a hassage, diseimbarked troops.
1630 anchaed ON and rested crew
615 ordered to Fillury home, rh and proceeded
200 arrived Sanding stage
es
00 Pilor exanded and vessel proceeded to
surrey commercial Dock

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Tom: Commanding Officer H. Saltash.
Dysams 91. Brulohing by
ate:June 4th.1039.
0; Semon spece M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
"
71
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
⑉ have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action
ay be taken.
Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of Saltash. H.M.S.
On the night of Friday, May 31st,he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe
but he was not required. On his way back in & motor boat he went
texin shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
and, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach
CAR he could nick amv un La Panpe was being bombarded the
41.
-
66
70
10
Secured to Quelee Dock - haid off shin
returning all stores and crew to chatham.
P.O.(T). amb Potts /J.92816 showed great coolness
getting men under cover when shih was
gunned and Combed on 28' may.
and was a tower astrength during the
whole operation.
THenny
7.- JUN 1940
.
*
THE NORE
Sient. R.N.R.
6 may 1940.
Times given in this report are approximate.
Total number or men landed about 1500
in town expective hassages drom Dunkink

Details

Dysam
91.
From: Commanding Officer H.M.S. Saltash.
Bhulo
Date:June 4th.1039.
To; Seven Spece M.S.F. Vice adminar, Dover
"
71
1149
Sir,
During the operations off Dunkerque the
following Officer and men have shown perseverence and courage,
I have the honour to submit their names so that suitable action
may be taken.
1.
Lieutenant T,E.Williams R.N.R.,First Lieutenant of H.M.S.
Saltash.
On the night of Friday, May 31st, he was loaned to H.M.S.Hebe
but he was not required. On his way back in a motor boat he went
in shore to pick up soldiers, not finding any he took two sailors
and, pullading a whaler behind them,he made his way along the beach
to see if he could pick any up.La Panne was being bombarded the
whole time he was ashore. He knew that I thought he was aboard 'Hebè
and that the C.O.of 'Hebe' thought he was aboard me so that he could
not expect any ship to wait for him;both pontcons were destroed
while he was ashore. Eveentually he turned to 'Hebe' and when he
came, back to me on Sunday night was perfectly ready and fit for more.
He franch only dead men & must have been ashise two hours
While Saltash was rescuing survivors from S.S.
Brighton Queen,and was in a precarious position alongside her bridge
and on her deck and might have had to move any time (there was also
summarke of small air attack) intermitted sumbing - gunning
2. Brian Sto.1.,C/KX79268. ,stripped and swam with a line to
two men a mile away, finding the line a hindrance he discarded it,
and, unaided, rescued these two men.After a short rest he continued to
swim out lines to men closer to the ship. Bombing and machine gunning
Was going on in close proximity to Maughan.
3. Frederick HUTTER, X7183. with the aid of two
or three untrained assisstants, succoured ninety (98), repeat(98),
casualties, ten of whom required artificial respiration, several of the
others were serious casualties. There was no medical Officer on board
and only two men of the 98 died. Hutter worked till he collapsed.
4. Receive, Thomas CRANSTONE a.B. ,B22751(R.F. swam out with a line
and orders to sh ps skiff which WAS in difficulies rescued this party
and a party on a Neither party could have reached the ship unaidad
for some time. Distance swum about 200 yards.
Y.R.Jah.
Liautenant-Commander in Command.
VICE ADMIRAL
8-JUN 1940
+
DOVER

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2
163
into tugs there (I did not know that ships were going
to embark troops and return to Margate, discharge them
alongside the Pier - according to the chart there is not
ERQUE
enough water) and return to position W. by 2200. I
turned West again, but there seemed there would be a waste
S.
of time so, I decided to turn East again and eport myself
Panne) and assist in embarking troops aboard other ships.
to "HEBE" (who had informe me me was Senior Office, La
Circumstances made it necessary to embark 100 troops
aboard myself, no opportunity arising to put them aboard
any ot er ships.
6.
Later I was ordered to proceed in execution of previous
orders (I left one boat with "HEBE"). Just Test of Bray
I passed the Admiral and reported to him that I had 100
KERQUE
troops on board. He told me to join him and I followed
DS.
him back to La Panne. While lying off there a further
raid commenced and he ordered ne to 80 West at full speed.
It was during this raid that one aeroplane ms brought
down by the 12 pdr. gun at maximum range. The raid was
nearly over and the Admiral out of sight by the time I was
West of Dunkerque, SQ I returned to look for him and was
told to return to La Panne, and embark troops after dark.
7.
At La Panne an B.N.V.R.Signalman reported to no that
"HEBE" wanted an officer badly, the wording of the signal
sounded as if the Commanding Officer wanted someone
capable of relieving him for a period. This appears to
have been wrong, and may have originated in at verbal
KERQUE
message from the C.O. or the Commodore of the motor boat
alongside. At any rate, I sent over my 1st. Lieutenant,
ADS.
he found he was not required in "HEBE", SO took the motor
boat ashore to look for more troops. Finding none, he,
with the aid of to sailors, walked along the beach pulling
the whaler with them to see if they could find any. The
whole time the place was being bombarded. ("HEBE" was
signalling at times with a bright light) He eventually
returned to "HEBE". I consider his actions worthy of
reward, as he could eatly have rned to no at once.
8.
In the meantime I had taken a further 300 or SO troops
on board and was nearly full and, as the difficers amongst
IKERQUE
them told me there were no further troops on 8 org, I
ADS.
reported this to "HEBE" and was told to return to Marcate;
not knowing my 1st. Lieutenant was assore, but thinking
him in "HEBE", I did SO.
9.
I had now been between Dunkerque and La Panne for about
steamer when she was being shelled and during frequent air
13 hours, several times passing the burning Clan Line
raids. Ships company had been continuously at action
they had been courously employed almost continuously
stations, or takins on troops, without proper food; also
since leaving the Tyne 60 hours before but, as yet, showed
only officers were myself, Lieutenant R.N.V.R., Sobey R.N.R., and
no signs of strain. I was short of two H. seamen and the
Temporary is surficiently experienced to be left as 0.0.7,,
Lieutenant A.R.Patton, who, as yet,
except not under the most favourable conditions, and the

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200
215
2.
over envisaged for more men being embarked from the beaches than was in
tice possible when the moment arrived, and I had therefore to modify them
the spot to make greater use of Dunkirk, and continually adjust the plan and
means to a changing situation.
During the day of 30th May embarkation proceeded slowly - there were not
gh ships off the beaches and at one moment HEBE was there alone. Men were
ng off in pontoons but there was often no one to take these craft shore
in, During the day lorries were driven into the sea to form piers.
There were many wounded on board HEBE, and at 4 Della I decided to
a her home. Captain Bush went in her to stress the vital necessity for
ts and crews if any mmbers were to come off from the beaches.
Accordingly I transferred to WINDSOR off Bray at 1600, and at 1630
ded at La Parme to visit the C.-in-0. It was necessary to wade the last few
ds. Captain Tennant was with the C.-in-C. and the situation was discussed.
tressed my views as to the difficulties of embarkation by boat and the
essity for moving towards Dunkiric, but I could not but be aware of a relustance
the part of the Army to do so and a feeling that the Havy ought to be able to
ark large numbers by boat from the beaches. Arrangements to take off the
in-C. at 1600 on Friday were made, and he informed = of the affort of which
had heard from the 1st Sea Lord by telephone, and which was to be made on
day night. The details of this I received next day at 1000. when Captain
sh returned in HEBE.
At my first attempt to return to WORCESTER in a pontoon peddled by
ldiers the boat swamped in shallow water, but the second attempt with a
aller crew was successful and I got on board at 2200.
31st May
At 0130 on Friday, 31st May, as WORCESTER was full up with troops I
ansferred to EXPRESS and in her proceeded to Dunkirk at daylight to direct ships
where they were most needed.
On this day the breese freshened and being onshore made boat work very
ffficult. Many boats were breached to and stranded at high water so that
barkation from the beaches case almost to a standstill. I continued to urge
ovement of troops to Dunkirk and considered the value of beaching shipe but
dde. as very doubtful that it would be of any use except for a small period of the
9.
At 0645 I transferred to H.M.S. XETTH and kept her free from troops
mbarkation or wounded men.
hereafter that my movements should not be haspered by consideration of
O.
At 1000 HEBE arrived with the plans for the evacuation for Friday night.
The essence the provision of larger numbers of small boats and
crews to bring of off these the was rearguard at 0430 to minsswespers which were to be there
about that time.
made 21. it During the day to get Destroyers, Paddlers, and other creft these
the time of embarkation was advanced to 2030 and off this
Dunicisk at that time. could have Boaded quicker. As it was, I sent every mmber ship of
beaches necessary for no Buf for this many of these ships would have been sent into
which could itself where be they taken from the beaches into Dunkirk but I the liked. large
places from which possibly boats were working looked up more ships than
moved 22. About noon At 1430 I proceeded in KNITH to La Parme to try to locate
HOLD off La Panne came under fire from a shore battery and
the battury on I withdrow.
further but West. it was being directed by an observation balloon. KEITH was
/23. A

Details

201
216
3.
23.
A heavy gun was also shelling somewhat blindly off Bray, the shots
falling outside the ships in fairly well defined areas which could be avoided.
24.
An encounter between our own and enemy aircraft took place off
Bray in which three of our own adroraft were shot down. Later air attack
developed on ships and 10 raids took place but no ships were damaged.
25.
In accordance with the plans tows of boats should have arrived off
Dunkirk about 1800. Two tows of dinghies arrived at 1700 and were sent
to La Panne where I also went in order to ensure the embarkation of the C.in c.
I left behind Ideutenant Communder in an M.T.B. to direct the
tows when they arrived and to order a large mmber of Hoppers and similar craft
to beach themselves on the rising tide at the Western beaches. At La Parme
I found that HEBE had embarked Cy-in-C. according to plan, and I ambarked the
rest of the H.Q. from the beach 2 miles west in KEITH's boats. During this
time KEITH and HERE were bombed and the boats were narrowly missed.
26,
I then returned to Dunicirk where the rest of the town did not
arrive till it was getting dark, making it very difficult to ensure their
finding the further beaches. Lt. Commander Wynne-Bhrards was left behind
in M.A.S.B.6. to direct then and I took KETTH up to La Fame to shepherd
some of the town in that direction. By this time the wind had dropped.
27.
About Midnight M.A/S.B.6 returned to KETTH, embarked the 0.-in-C.
and took him to Dover.
28.
HEITH remained off La Parme during the night, during which there
were reports of Parachute Mines off Bray, M.T.B's were heard to the Eastward,
probably our own, and a few shells fell among ships off La Panne. The town
and beaches at La Panne were heavily shelled and the embarkation moved
Westward in consequence. It was impossible to tell how the embarkation -
going in the dark as KETTH could not get close inshore, but such reports as
came in showed that it was slow and that beaches at la Panne were being
heavily shelled.
1st June
29.
As the enemy would be in occupation of La Panne in the worning
ships were ordered to withdrew to the Westmard at dam. At daylight the
situation was as follows. The beaches at La Panne were espity and - were
moving along all beaches to the Westward. Ships Bast of Bray were moving
Westward. A Minesweeper and a Paddler were schore off Bray: a large mmber
of boats were floating expty and without crews.
30. loading into Dunkirk and tried to get some of the boats collected by
During the next few hours I sent all ships that sere not full Hotor or
boats and towed West. I also spent some time trying to induse a tug to
assist the Minesweeper ashore. I kept BASILISK with 200 and eapty of troops
in case any covering fire was needed.
were 31. made on nearly all ships off the beaches by Dive Bumbers.
About 0730 large numbers of energy Aircraft appeared and attacks
KEITH, 32. During and a tug with survivors of KNITH and were the others
this period, one Destroyer off Dunkirk SKIPJACK was hit and BASILISK, sunk.
Bombs SKIPKACK, be dropped in threes and fives, one large and that
bombs had and three delay planes action of about 20 seconds. I have learnt this time. subsequently
Small, appeared to attacked together; one of my staff states scie
that all small a craft and beaches were machine gunned at
33. BASILISK so KNITH that was KRISH could load at Dunkirk and then return
short of assunition and I had intended to to transfer Dover. to
#
At 0745 a near miss jammed the stearing goar in KNITH and shortly
/ after

Details

Dynams 147. 259
H.M. Tug "St, Clears",
275
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk of Hollo area.
I submit the Ang report and the movements
naval in company with "Sun Via, towing eleven naval outters and
The Tug "St. clears" under my command left Sheerness,
28th May.
ratings under Cormander Hayward, R.N.R.Ro on board at with 1205 70 on
0015 examination tug in Sauth Downs and both tugs proceeded and
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by
locate same. I then proceeded as instructed by "Montrose". to
"Montrose". I searched the vicinity for two hours but failed
on 29th May, "Sun V" was involved in collision with H.M.S. at
passing in Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery Then
on our course for a short time until the firing because intensified
a position bearing 0220 from Dunkerque C.W. buoy. We continued
shells falling very close to our stern some of which holed and sank
two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmsman to alter course
to bring the battery astern of finally stearing a course of 020°
till out of range of guns. The us, wireless operator was maintaining
continuous watch so I was able to make an immediate report of the
attack which I considered urgent in view of the possibility of
a and by North Foreland Redio. During the
the same route. This sarning was received
conduct of my officers and men THE admirable,
that of Able Sesman Artime Chawner who was at the wheel,
0200 efficiently when ordered to do SO₂ No then proceeded on the course
ship with great precision and altered course
Rovers" Was some delay I proceeded Northern route
we arrived at position 3 where H.M. Trawler "Blackburn
by Destroyers, very close, were lost in this action and
a a this battery was silenced
passing Newport, shore batteries again
Eagle" adrift, this cutter was proceeded with
a third cut but two cutters later picked up by H.M.S. "Crested
and towed cutters cutters to my and position to anchored the beach off off of La La La Parme. Panne Panne. I and Commander commenced time Hayward at
embarking troops During the whole of the and
immediately. continuous. Commander Hayward his
the courage troops.
attacks were and endurance in working the cutters,
the guns were manned, after Lewis gun by myself, guns at
Our the foremost by/navel a rating being one of
supplier with crew ammunition of outters, by naval the ratings. We fired machine both which any
and and and and and and a Garried out that a came machine within gunning range attack. particularly Under taking at these one shelter very exceptional in I alleyways 1050
in anchor decks when ordered by me. destroyer which had "Bideford" been ashore,
the crew behaved excellently During one bombing raid his but
to signalled unknown to assist proceeded H.M.S. to assist.
was to "Golden 70 Eagle" French and troops from The small defect local was boats.
up to main engines. situation to H.M.S.
back "Hebe". a to Sheerness I closed at "Hebe" slow and speed saked made due me necessary to to defect. report (Sgd) report W.J. then Permey. proceeded
H.M. Master. Tug "St. Cleara".

Details

II.
26y
(NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S. FRISO DURING
283
OPERATION DYNAMO)
Friday 31st May (contd) During the mornang one of the Beachmasters
came off to me and endeavoured to persuade ae to beach the ship
(HEBE & SURSOM CORDA) were doing so very successfully. As it was
so as to lead quicker, pointing out that two other smaller skoots
now a falling tide with an onshore wind I refused. For this I
was later very glad as both other skoots shor tly afterwards
became stuck on the beach and were unable to get off. (HKBE came
off at the next high water. During the forenoon I hailed a large
motor driven pleasure boat, got him alongside no and transferred
256 men to him. By about 1230 I had onboard 648 men and space
was extremely cramped. I had delayed my departure hoping that a
destryer or other fast craft would appear and take my load from
me so that I could fill up again. However as another skoot appeared
I slipped my anchor (the capstan being again defective) and sailed.
Just as I was about to leave Dunkirk Roads I was hailed by a Fleet
Minesweeper and ordered to tow a Drifter full of troops to Dover.
By 1330 the Drifter was in tow and we were proceeding at about
5 knots. At approximately 1400 a Heinkel appeared out of the low
cloud and at a height of 350 feet released a large bomb, probably
500 lbs, and as he passed over he opened fire with machine guns.
The bomb fell on my Port quarter batween ate and the Drifter.
Luckily the Bomb exploded below the surface and beyond violently
shaking both ships no ajur major damage was done. The force of
the explosion caused my compans to jump out of its gimbals.
Certain damage was done to Auxiliary Machinery in the Engine Room.
After we had been proceeding for about half an hour we were shelled
by the Nieuport Battery. As the third salvo straddled us I decided
to risck the navigational dangers and cut across the snadbanks 80
as to present the minimum target and to open the range as fast as
possible. Luckily the Enemy never found the range again. Thick
fog was encountered at about 1830.
On making the North Goodwin Light Vessel I discovered
that the Shaking up had caused a 30 dgree error in the compass.
During the cassage through the Downs the tow parted on several
occasions due to the wash of fast moving vessels.
At about 0100 on Saturday lat June I was about 1
cable from the entrance to Dover Harbour when I was bombed again.
This time it was only a very small bomb, which although a very
near miss only wetted the troops on the port aide aft. There
were no casualties from machine gun fire. At 0130 I secured
alongside Admiralty Pier Dover. At 0230 we shifted billet and
secured for the night for which I was very grateful an we had
been running continuously for over three days and I had had no
sleep for 90 hours. On Saturday temporary repairs were At effected 1700
to the and provisions and water ware embarked.
where as I could not anchor I secured in the Inner
I proceeded Engine to Ramsgate with HEBE in company arriving Harbour. at 2000,
Sunday and Monday 2nd & 3rd June respectively
permanent On were effected to the Engine in and Capatan. they were When
all repairs brought to immediate notice case
required skoots were it was decided that FRISO Harbour. was not sufficiently
reliable again and so was left in the Inner
I and on Friday were in the Boats at the time
cannot speak too highly of ay crew for 7/4 who hours worked
continuously, The 0 nly men being onboard and myself. were
without my First & Lieutenant break. one seamen and the B.R.A.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
VICE
ADMIRAL
Your obedient servant,
JUN1940
DOVER
Lieutenant.
Royal Navy.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised 356
October, 1935.)
ite
SS
10
ECRE
1
55
An
Dynam
349
Alel Tasman.
60
355
65
3
TER OF PROCEEDINGS EVACUATION.
RN
a
70
A
23c
344
a I I
st.
0030.
Crossed to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival 1 ound
(approx) he had just gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith.
0304
Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese.
0547
Arrived Dover.
Fueled and carried out rep-airs to starboard bow.
3nd.
1201
Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys"
reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and
soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by
aircraft.
1330
Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk.
(approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately
240 soldiers to Dover.
1530
Picked up 18 soldiers in open boat. Carried out
(approx)
unsuccessful search for drifter "Girl Gladys".
1700
Abandoned search. Set course to intercept Thames barge.
1720
Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes.
1730
Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board.
1922
Arrived Dover.
rd.
Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes and engines.
Fuel tanks and hull seems leaking.
th.
1255
Sailed for Portland.
2057
Arrived Portland for dooking.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dynams 805. 356
October, 1935.)
te
$$
100
ECRE
SS
1
An
60
Dynam
355
65
TER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
DN
a
70
Decreases 20H. 010
3160
-3-
with engines stopped when boats and planes could be detected by sound
at a far greater range than visibility permitted. It is submitted
that this course might profitably be employed during patrols.
May 31st 1940. 1140 to June 1st 1940. 0547.
Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and
escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453
approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken
at Ramsgate to off-load all depth charges as it was considered
inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of
5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small
boats. The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when
the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable
the convoy to arrive together. At this time & large force of
German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were
inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and &
general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at
this time and the attack became disorganised, - the bombers
eventually disappearing inland. The convoy arrived off Dunkirk
from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as
at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut. Comdr. Wynne-Edwards
required. approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith
a collision At occurred with what appeared to be as medium-sized yacht.
S.0.6. astern but the yacht's stern swinging
round was put into to port stove in S.0.6. on the starboard
bow as she altered course ribs and making & large out in the planking the aid
above fracturing several the damage was being inspected by
On shaded torch fire General Leese was embarked and instructions
of a waterline. While was opened on 9.0.6. from at German aeroplane.
were arrival given at Keith Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England
Keith. at Hebe it as Keith and approximately three-quarters embarked
dropping arrival General Leese discovered that Lord Gort crossed to
to collect in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved. had
of an 9.0.6. returned Gort to also arrived there. He to Dover. was
forthwith and the and that it was the first time be any desired. the crew had
hour later Lord General Leese taken direct of
fire fact their behaviour left nothing to
June 2nd 1940. 1201 to 1982
Gladys" Instructions were received down 7 miles east about 3 miles off
to carry out a of search Dunkirk for drifter and for "Girl
approximately reported 30 broken soldiers in an was open set boat from Dover direct to Dunkirk towards
reported tho by aircraft. Course than intended to proceed to slowly put out to
clear of land and make allow for the set promised and
the coast to search for another the approach to the of coast the tide fro BI the
outer Reutigen. It was open boat, subsequently approximately sea
10 miles east of Dunkirk to escort had been
time caution the had report to be was exercised received. as Air no ships were operating off Dunkirk

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
1320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dynamo 203. 356
October, 1935.)
rite
ECRE
oss
100
55
1
"
Dynam 355 349
lasman 60
65
ETTER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
DN
a
70
- 2 -
350
:
0030
Crossed to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival found
(approx) he had just gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith.
0304
Sailed for Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese.
0547
Arrived Dover.
Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow.
d.
1201
Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys"
reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and
soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by
aircraft.
1330
Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk.
(approx) Left 1st .Lieut. to sail Thanes barge with approximately
240 soldiers to Dover.
1530
Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out
(approx)
unsuccessful search for drifter "Girl Gladys".
1700
Abandoned search. Set Sealth COULESE to intercept Thanes barge.
1720
Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes.
1730
Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board.
1922
Arrived Dover.
rd.
Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes dndengines
Fuel tanks and mll seams leaking.
th.
1255
Sailed for Portland.
2057
Arrived Portland for docking.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised 356
October, 1935.)
te
ECRE
ss
10
55
1
PA
Alel Tasman.
60
Dynam 355
65
THER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
a
70
352
346
with engines stopped when boats and planes could be detected by sound
at a far greater range than visibility permitted. It is submitted
that this course might profitably be employed during patrols.
May Slst. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547.
Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendenvous and
escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453
approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken
at Ramsgate to off-load all depth charges as It was considered
inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of
5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small
boats.
The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when
the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased dom to enable
the convoy to arrive together. At this the a large force of
German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were
Anumorable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and a
general bombing raid was commenced. British Mighters arrived at
this time and the attack because disorganised, The bombers
eventually disappearang inland.
The convoy arrived off Dunkirk
at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut.Comdr.@ynne-Edwardes
from Keith who directed the canvoy to the various beaches as
required. At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith
a collision occurred with what appeared to be at medium-sized yacht.
S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern subcking swinging
round as she altered course to part stove in S.O.6. on the starboard
bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking
above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid
of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane.
were given at to collect Lord Corb from Hebe, and to return to England
On arrival Keith General Leese was eurbarked and instructions
dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved.
Keith. arrival at Hebe returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters
On it was discovered that Lord Cort had crossed to
of Inc. S.0.6. Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked
forthwith an hour later and General Leese taken direct to Dover.
Considering fire the their behaviour laft nothing to desired.
and he fact that it was the first time be any of the crew had
June 2nd. 1940. 1801 to 1922.
Gladys" were broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk 3 miles and off for
Instructions received to carry out a search for drift."Girl
approximately reported 30 soldiers in Course an open was boat set about from Dover direct Dunkirk to
reported the by aircraft. It was then intended subsequently to proceed to slowly put out towardds to
the outer Reutigen. for the open boat, approximately sea
clear coast to search make another approach to the coast the tide from the
10 of land and Dunkirk to allow for the set of been promised and
time miles east of received. Air escort had off Dunkrik
causion the had report to be was exercised as no ships were operating

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Dynamo 211. B46368
3741
H.M.S. "Sharpshooter",
8th. June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report
on the Evacuation of Allied Forces from DUNKIRK:-
"Sharpshooter" arrived at DOVER in company with
"Hebe" in accordance with previous instructions at 1730 on Tuesday,
28th. May, 1940.
2.
At 1842 on that day orders were received from
the Flag Officer Commanding DOVER to proceed to LA PANNE,
"Sharpshooter" slipped at 1903 and using Route "1" arrived off the
beaches at 0115, Wednesday 29th. May. Boats were lowered and
embarkation was proceeded with.
5.
Dy 0300 only 30 officers and nen had been
embarked. This was due to lack of boats and the surf encountered
inshore at the time. Difficulty was also experienced in locating
the troops when boats were first sent inshore.
acting in accordance 4. with orders received from "Hebe", "Sharpshooter"
By 0500 about 100 men had been embarked, and,
weighed and proceeded for DOVER using Route "Y", securing alongside
Admiralty Pier at 1215.
After disembarkation TBC completed ship secured
to 8. buoy at 5. 1315. Having drawn stores "Sharpshooter" slipped at
1830, and proceeded via Rouse "1", anchoring close inshore at 0035,
difficulty and much assistance from two boats manned by Royal
30th. May. 260 officers and men were taken off with little
Engineers.
"Sherpshoote" weighed 8% 0335 and returned to
DOVER using 6. Route PX". After disembarkation was complete, ship
secured to & buoy and took in stores.
"X" 7. At At 2210 while steaming down the southern collision
1800 30th. May, "Sharpsheoter" sailed via side Route
with the S.S. DUNKIRK #St. Helier", channel, sustaining damage casualties. which
of for the beaches. "charpshooter" usa involved necessitated in a &
return to DOVER under tow. There were no
all operations the ship's and company energy. as a
whole carried 8. out During their duties with tireless seal
1 have the honour to be,
Str,
VICE
11 JUN ADMIRAL 1940
Your obedient servant
Andrew &. Doran
Sintent
The Flag Officer Commanding Dover.
hery

Details

391
H.M.M.T.B. No. 68
at Portsmouth.
- 304
10th June, 1940.
eport of Proceedings of H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
and 1st June, 1940
port of Proceedings of M.T.B. 67
Page 3
1/Eba
turday, 1st June
1430. Sailed for Portsmouth to be slipped. M.T.B. 68 in company.
2200. Arrived Portsmouth.
000o0o0
393
officers to inspect beaches
H.M.M.T.B. No. 68
ast Piers.
at Portsmouth.
in Bush and Lieutenant Commander
10th June, 1940.
)fdinary Telegraphist Kirkwood
trcraft made off as soon as we
I have the honour to submit the
: Kirkwood to H.M.S. "SANDHURST".
;or Torpedo Boat No. 68 under my command, )res. ansmitting set and two tele-
lowing letter of proceedings of H.M.
:ween 27th May and 1st June, 1940.
lo demolition party.
caused by W/T set, reached
I have the honour to be,
hore batteries. Took necessary
Sir,
lition party. Intense dive
tivities in the neighbourhood
your obedient servant.
dr raid instructed crew to
3E" and act under orders of
Lieutenant R.N.V.R.
(ht reporting on activities of
in Command.
or motor boats; transferred
BE" to attendant destroyer;
Vice Admiral, Dover.
3. "HEBE" to H.M.S. "LOTUS" and
pies to;- "HORNET". Portsmouth,
L instructions to hand personally
Commander-in-chief, The
organise beaching parties.
ver.
engine.
n H.M.S. "KEITH". Took
officer on board

Details

Details

Prom:- Resident Naval Officer, Poole.
Dynam 241.
32
To:- F.O.I.C. Portland.
22
21
1
21
*
to
940
-
17
III.
night , JUne 2nd , in the final final evacuation.
At 1400 June 3rd Kasp Falga sailed for
Boole in company with another dutch scoot Hebe.
We arrived at Poole at 1200/4 and
paid the ship off , discharging the crew to
Devonport Barracks at 0915/5.
11. Rages. Wykebam- lientenant Martin
VICE
12 JUN ADMIRAL 1940
Rogal Many.
AO e
*
#
War II. having been CUE. de stated at may were
Germans Office, his communications Dunkirke and, forces
00
Beaches no longer were were required advancing falling or bach possible from on La to Panne land and as and that
was He anticipated had been killed near been him taken to the
Lt. reported Beale had that been Lt. wounded Solater in the 108 and had
Military Hospital
The
See/over.

Details

From:- Resident Naval Officer, Poole,
Dynam 241.
To:- F.O.I.C. Portland.
22
Copy to Staff Officer Operations, Portmouth.
REPORTS RECEIVED FROM COMMANDING OFFICERS OF REQUISTITIONED
DUTCH COASTERS, WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO"
"SAN ANTONIO"
B
people. On first trip 270 people were taken off Dunkirk Breakwater and on Second trip 330
On second trip a dive bombing attack was made on the vossel from ahead by & Junkers
89 plane and two bombs just missed astern. The first of these was a delay action
bomb. The ship experienced heavy bombardment by 5.9 inch shells whilst embarking
the second time.
A
"HEBE" ( Report as written by commanding Officer)
The Dútch Coastal vessel "Hebe" was takon over by a Naval Crew on Friday 24th. May 1940
H.M.S. Hebe was commissioned on Saturday 25th. May 1940, Commanding Officer, Lieut.
A. H. Rowlandson R.N., First Licut. Lieut P.A.B.Powell R.N., and a crew of LP.O.
1 E.R.A. 2 Stokers 1 A.B. and 4. Ordinary Seaman.
The first O eration carried out was on Monday 27th. May when TO sailed in
Company with the rest of the group with orders to evacuate troops from the Beach be-
tween Dunkirk and La Panne or from Dunicirk.
Hebe arrived off Dunicirk at about 0030 and I approached the beach twice
but found no troops and no opposition. I turned West along the beach towards
Dunkirk, entered and went alongside the east fetty in shore, I loaded with troops
all that remained there, and returned to Dover on completion with about 150 on
board. No opposition was encountered.
The only casuality was a slight wound in the foot of the commanding
officer H.M.S. Hebe from a bullet accidentally fired by a British Soldier on
board.
The second operation began on Tednesday 29th. leaving Dover at 20.00. I
went to Dunkirk by the Calais route and although constantly searched by
searchlights no batteries opened fire on the Calais coast.
Off Dunkirk I came up to H.N.S. Sursun Corda lowering a boat near the
wreckage of a vessel apparently mined. One voice was heard and a mineaveeper
arrived and sent over a boat I continued my course.
I passed close to the entrance to Dunkirk, the jetties and piers were
deserted so I continued eastward and went ashore near & large body of British troops
I lowered the only boat and carly left and began embarking these troops. This proved
to be very slow so I approached the beach and bows to the shore enabled men to
wade out and climb on board. About 300 were taken on board and forried out to a
destroyer.
I repeated this operation and took operation and took over another 300
to 350 men to the minesweeper Fitaroy. The Captain let me have two large type life
saving nets to put over the bows which assisted embarking troops after I returned
to shore.
No other large ships were lying off Dunkirk. H.M.S. Friso was embarizing
troops and H.M.S. Sursum Corda was aground close in shore. I attempted to tow her
Yoff but failed and was driven onto a small Bank close to her and remained aground
until 18.30
At 18.00 Geramn Artillery began shelling the sand dunes and beach, although
shapnel fell over us and wounded men aboard Sursum Corda we got afloat without
difficulty and oaded about 250 troops and went down towards La Panne to ass them
to a destroyer there.
I remaine a there resouing men from the water embarking men from boats
and pontoons the majority of these were passed to & destroyer and were suffering from
exposure.
At 23. I found no more men to embark and returned to Dover without
further incident with about 250 people on board.
The ship was without ater and fuel and I arrived at Dover at about 11.00
on Friday 31st. May. Wa or and provisions were embarked and I was sent to Remsgate
In company with H.M.S. Fiso whose compass WILB useless owing to banbing attack.
On Sunday June 2nd. 1940 while under way to the fuellingJetty In
Ransgate Harbour I was ordered alongside the Pior to enbark 249 Cerman prisoners
to take them to
The Dover. hold filled and about a dosen wounded were left lying on deck. the The
"uard consiste of 36 was frenc security Police and 6 cadets of the O.T.C. under
Command of a 2nd. Licut,

Details

II.
62
(NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S. FRISO DURING
61
OPERATION DYNAMO)
Friday 31st May (contd) During the moráing one of the Beachmasters
came off to me and endeavoured to persuade me to beach the ship
so as to lead quicker, pointing out that two other smaller skoots
(HEBE & SURSOM CORDA) were doing so very successfully. As it was
now a falling tide with an onshore wind I refused. For this I
was later very glad as both other skoots shor tly afterwards
became stuck on the beach and were unable to get off. (HEBE came
off at the next high water. During the forenoon I hailed a large
motor driven pleasure boat, got him alongside me and transferred
250 men to him. By about 1230 I had onboard 648 men and space
was extremely cramped. I had delayed my departure hoping that a
destryyer or other fast craft would appear and take my load from
me so that I could fill up again. However as another skoot appeared
I slipped my anchor (the capstan being again defective) and sailed.
Just as I was about to leave Dunkirk Roads I was hailed by a Fleet
Minesweeper and ordered to tow a Drifter full of troops to Dover.
By 1330 the Drifter was in tow and we were proceeding at about
5 knots. At approximately 1400 a Heinkel appeared out of the low
cloud and at a height of 350 feet released a large bomb, probably
500 lbs, and as he passed over he opened fire with machine guns.
The bomb fell on my Port quarter between me and the Drifser.
Luckily the Bomb exploded below the surface and beyond violently
shaking both ships no xjer major damage was done. The force of
the explosion caused my compass to jump out of its gimbals.
Certain damage was dome to Auxiliary Machinery in the Engine Room.
After we had been proceeding for about half an hour we were shelled
by the Nieuport Battery. As the third salvo straddled us I decided
to risck the navigational dangers and cut across the snadbanks so
as to present the minimum target and to open the range as fast as
possible. Luckily the Enemy never found the range again. Thick
fog was encountered at about 1830.
On making the North Goodwin Light Vessel I discovered
that the Shaking up had caused a 30 dgree error in the compass.
During the oassage through the Downs the tow parted on several
occasions due to the wash of fast moving vessels.
At about 0100 on Saturday 1st June I was about 1
cable from the entrance to Dover Harbour when I was bombed again.
This time it was only a very small bomb, which although a very
near miss only wetted the troops on the port side aft. There
were no casualties from machine gun fire. At 0130 I secured
alongside Admiralty Pier Dover. At 0230 we shifted billet and
secured for the night for which I was very grateful as we had
been running continuously for over three days and I had had no
to the Engine and provisions and water were embarked. At 1700
sleep for 90 hours. On Saturday temporary repairs were effected
where as I could not anchor I secured in the Inner Harbour.
I proceeded to Ramsgate with HEBE in company arriving at 2000,
On Sunday and Monday 2nd & 3rd June respectively
permanent repairs were effected to the Engine and Capatan. were When
all skoots were brought to immediate notice in case they
required again it was decided that FRISO was not sufficiently
reliable and so was left in the Inner Harbour.
I cannot speak too highly of my crew who worked
without a break. The o nly men being onboard at the were
continuously, and on Friday were in the Boats for 7½ time hours
my First Lieutenant one seamen and the E.R.A. and myself.
I have the honour to be,
VICE ADMIRAL
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
*
*
DOVER
Gene Lymmus.
Lieutenant.
To the Vice Adminal
Royal Navy.
Dorn.

Details

127
-2-
This method was found successful and two trips were
carried out in same manner. For the third endeavour,
"VANQUISHER" and"FITZROY" having left for England, and no other
larger craft being in the vicinity, my intentions were to
close again, fill to capacity and proceed towards La Panne, to
transfer troops if requested, or return to England.
It is regretted that this effort failed in that
"SURSUM"CORDA" was beached too securely and no efforts ot my part
were successful in re-floating.
Thiswwas due to an error in judgement on my part in
allowing too many men on board at the time and my incorrect
appreciation of the time of the tide turning, no tide tables being
carried.
H.M.S. "HEBE" came to my assistance, but unfortunately
though a tow was passed, her lack of power and manoeuvreability
were strong handicaps, and she herself grounded two cables to
Eastward.
At 0800/30 it was realised there was no chance of the
ship moving until the following High Water.
During the period of waiting until High Water that
evening, I assisted where possible on the Beach in the vicinity
of the Ship, and during periods where there were no small craft
operating, took aboard soldiers for shelter and distributed
what food remained aboard "SURSUM-CORDA".
All members of my crew worked magnificently under
somewhat strained conditions, and with no consideration for
themselves.
Further endeavours to re-float were made between 1800
and 2030 using kedge anchor with soldiers onboard assisting.
At 1840 a shell from an enemy shore battery burst & few yards ahead
of the ship and four soldiers were hit by splinters. I ordered
these and one officer hit whilst on the beach to be placed below
and with the assistance of a stretcher bearer my First
Lieutenant, Lieutenant Brooks rendered first aid and made them as
comfortable as conditions allowed.
I then cleared the ship of soldiers and continued my
efforts to re-float, but with no success, delay being caused by
an influx of soldiers somewhat naturally seeking shelter after
the shell fire, whom L'ordered to stand by to board "HEBE" who
I could see appeared to shew hopeful signs of clearing the
beach. The majority of them carried out these orders and
"HEBE" was re-floated at approximately 1945. On receiving
report of my engines being temporarily out of action and on
point of "seizing-up") decided further efforts were fruitless,
and retaining only wounded and completely exhausted men onboard
for shelter, until small craft or ambulances could be commandeered
to take them off, decided to land and assist on beach where
possible.
(continued
ty
d,
that
too
Cing.

Details

2186
OPERATION DYNAMO.
NCLOSURE NO. 13.
SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN's MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT B.F. CORNISH-BOWDEN, R.N.
In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT's Power Boat,
this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday,
31st May.
2.
Soon after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel,
EXCELLENT's boat signalled to the effect that she was very
doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at
maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was
reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being
considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a
following sea.
3. The two boats were routed to leave the usual
course for Dunkirk some 20 miles from that place and
proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and Bray.
About 15 miles N.W. of Bray an enemy floating mine was
seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire.
This, however, failed, and the position of the mine was
later reported.
4.
Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely
by an inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at
1100 and after enquiring as to our whereabouts proceeded
to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol
from H.M.S. HEBE.
5.
Owing to the shortage of petrol I returned to
Bray and to try and fill my tank. However, this again
proved impossible and so I decided to use what petrol I
had and ask for a tow home when the tank was dry.
6. EXCELLENT's boat had damaged herself on a submerged
object and was close inshore. I was about to go to her aid
when I was informed that the depth of the water was only 3
feet and I was ordered not to go in tooclose. I therefore
was unable to be of any assistance in embarking troops from
the improvised pier. I therefore asked ships present if I
could be of any assistance to them, but unfortunately they
were already getting all that they needed.
7.
I then proceeded back to La Panne but when almost
there the enemy started shelling the ships which immediately
weighed and proceeded to Bray. On return to Bray, I
consulted the Senior Officer present as to my usefulness and
it was decided that I should obtain a tow back to Dover to
refuel when I hoped to obtain a tow back to Dunkirk with a
full tank and where I believed I could be more usefully
employed.
8.
I left Bray at 1415 in tow of the dan-laying yacht
SARGOSSA, arriving at Dover Harbour at about 1930, since
when I have been employed towing and carrying despatches in
Dover harbour.
(Signed) E.F. Cornish-Bowden
Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.
[OVER

Details

REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 29th OF H.M.S. "LOCUST" DURING OPERATION "DYNAMO" 245 258
May 1940 to 4th June 1940.
29th May. H.M.S. "Locust" and H.M.S. "Mosquito" were ordered to sail
for La Panne and Bray Dunes respectively, and proceeded at
1348.
At 1730 "Mosquito" parted company and at 1845 "Locust"
arrived in position off La Panne Beach.
Large numbers of both British and French Troops were seen
to be waiting on the beach, and it was decided that a first
attempt at embarkation shouldbe made by grounding the fore
part of "Locust" and trying to get the soldiers to wade
out and climb on board over the bow. Ladders were accord-
ingly rigged forward and the ship steamed in to the beach.
The kedge anchor was let go over the stern and at 1900
the ship took the ground forward. After hailing the
beach a few soldiers started to wade off, but gave up the
attempt, and as the tide was falling the ship was got off
and anchored, and embarkation started by means of the Ship's
two whalers.
At 1950 engaged enemy aircraft and continued to do so in-
termittently until 2130. Enemy aircraft were carrying out
bombing attacks on the beaches.
At 2200 "Locust" signalled Commander Cordeaux in "Royal
Eagle" for information, as embarkation was proceeding very
slowly, and there appeared to beno Power boats available.
Reply from "Royal Eagle" that Commander Cordeaux was id-
capacitated and that "Locust" was S.N.O. La Panne.
As there were no powerboats in sight, and a number of pulling
boats could be seen stranded on the beach by the receding
tide I decided to land in order to organize the troops into
pulling themselves off from the beach.
At 2220 S.N.O. "A" in "Hebe" approached and approved my
landing. I accordingly landed at 2230 and found six R.N.
and three Merchant Service (pulling) Life boats
Mut
stranded cutters on the beach about 300 yards from the water's be edge.
about 1000 British Troops who appeared to had
Locut
There were of Non-commissioned Officers. The boats half
of
in charge across the beach and were jambed together, The full
swung and in many cases imbedded in the sand. what was
they
of water took some little time to understand emptied re-
soldiers of them, but eventually all the boats were then pulled
quired down to the water's edge. They were the Soldiers.
and got "Locust" and other ships present by were again
At midnight, enemy aircraft which caused some boats
out to 29th/30th the ships and the beach slight delay
30th May.
bombed the embarkation, by but by 0300 all the board. available
were in off the beach and I returned on
P.T.O.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
of, Petty throughout operations.
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
280
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE".
C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R.
May 29. 1800. Left Hamble.
May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100.
Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area.
2130. Left Dover in company.
May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under
orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach.
0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf
boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later
ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at
disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did
this, collected her boats, took them in to beach
and brought soldiers to her.
The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our
launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we
tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it
in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH"
and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half
an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left
ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat.
As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but
remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small
boat, transferred to us and took over the ship.
Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and
1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While
transmitting Commodore's orders.
on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft
board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer.
we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy
air all ships to move half a mile
attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered
Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off
to signal "HEBE" to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived
alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to
bombers, so was in action, but close enough for him on
while she was her if necessary. Later, put proceed
pass orders and to received orders from him Was to given to
board "HEBE" off G.H.Q. personnel.
La Panne and take Orders to hand and to Lord lay Gort. off pier. Proceeded
Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with Gutsell, C.P.O. and hand and
1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact G.H.Q. took on
G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting
soldiers.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
F
I should Officer like to draw T. Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty throughout operations.
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to O.Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
sir and shelling from the land.
280
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE".
C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R.
May 29. 1800. Left Hamble.
May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100.
Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area.
2130. Left Dover in company.
May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under
orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach.
0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf
boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later
ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at
disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did
this, collected her boats, took them in to beach
and brought soldiers to her.
The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our
launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we
tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it
in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH"
and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half
an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left
ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat.
As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but
remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small
boat, transferred to us and took over the ship.
Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and
1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain While
transmitting Commodore's orders.
on alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft
board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer.
we and were she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. me Heavy
air ships to move half a mile
attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" Westward. ordered
Followed her off Bray, just as she was attacked lie off
to signal "HEBE" all to try and put her Capt. aboard. by Arrived
alongside ordered by her Capt. to him her to
while she if necessary. Later, put proceed
bombers, so was was in action, but close enough for him on
pass orders "HEBE" and to her received orders from him Was to given to
board La Panne and take Orders off G.H.Q. to hand personnel. to Lord Gort. off pier. Proceeded
Night to La Operation Panne escorted ashore by "HEBE" with and lay Gutsell, G.H.Q. C.P.O. and hand and
1630. Sent dinghy with orders to contact took on
G. over Duncan, Night A.B., Operation Orders. While waiting
soldiers.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
M
I should Officer like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty throughout operations.
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, .Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
ain and shelling from the land.
2.
it
281
REPORT.OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE" (cotnd).
1830. (May 31). Dinghy returned with Lt. Crosswell, R.N., N.L.O.
to Lord Gort. Lord Gort was taken off by a destroyer's launch.
Went to Bray to try and contact "HEBE", but on the way was
ordered by Admiral to go in to beach with whale r and take off
a General. At beach "AHOLA" arrived and transferred to me Lord
Gort's baggage, valet and driver. Requested "AHOLA" to attend to
General and went off again to find "HEBE" Ordered by Admiral to
proceed to sea and collect boats drifting about. Went about 2
miles out and collected three boats and brought these back to
Bray. Closed "HEBE" and put Lord Gort's gear and servants aboard.
Lt. Crosswell remained with me.
le Lay off La Panne ferrying soldiers to destroyers until 0200,
when no more troops could be found.
Proceeded in direction of Dray and was ordered by M.T.B.102 to
lay off H.M.S. "KEITH" as we might be wanted. Didithis until
0300 when shelling of water started. "KEITH" weighed and went
off without giving me any orders.
Informed by Lt. Crosswell that everything had to be gone by 0400
and, as no ships could be seen at 0325, left beaches and proceeded
to Ramsgate, arriving off Ramsgate 0900, June 1st.
Proceeded to Dover and arrived 1100.
It is estimated that about 250 soldiers were taken off in course
of the day.
C.P.O,A.H.H.Gutsell, P/J 28475, remained starre dinghy, in spite
of heavy shelling of the Pier, until G.H.Q./arrived.
Sgd. H.M.Glassborow, Lieut, R.N.V.R.
Commanding Officer.
6th. June 1940
VICE ADMIRAL
*
DOVER

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
of, I should Petty Officer like to T.Jones draw special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin ships accompanied and me and reported to .O.Ramsgate,
volunteering services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to S.N.O.Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
306
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "EILA II".
-
285
Commanding Officer, Lieut. E.H.Batt, R.N.V.R.
y 29. 1750. Left Hamble.
y 30. 0600. Arrived Dover.
2130. Left Dover.
LV 31. 0545. Arrived alongside destroyer "KEITH" off Bray and
embarked officer to assist in organisation. Ordered to
La Panne beach to assist in transporting troops to
destroyers "KEITH" & "EMERALD" and sloop "HEBE". Several
trips were made between La Panne & Bray;when shelling and
bombing became too severe, I was ordered to proceed to sea-
ward. I afterwards returned to La Panne and embarked more
troops.
1100 Observed Dover Patrol Vessel "BLUE BIRD" well aground
and in a precarious position with both her propellom foul;
I lowered my dinghy and ran a tow to her, and succeeded in
getting her off. I was under frequent shellfire during the
whole operation. I estimate that the amount of troops
taken off did not exceed 200, as it was some time after
arrival before I disembarked the Naval Officer and wass
able to start embarking troops. Although I anchored close
in at both places I found that the troops seemed unable
to man the boats. The wind was blowing onshore which made
it extremly difficult to get off to us. I called for
volunteers to man the motor launch and Engr, T.M.Weir and
A.B. Tozer responded but were unable to make the beach
owing to the heavy sea and the launch was eventually lost.
Special mention may be made of Engr. Weir who rowed in
a small dinghy and rescued three soldiers under fire.
Later on in the day the Engr. XXX reported a serious
leak in the "EILA II" and at one time the water was level
with the engine room floor. I reported the matter to
a destroyer who ordered me to proceed to seaward and
2130. The Naval Officer in charge of operations on to the
locate the damage.
continue but from my Engr's report of the leak doubtful and as my
"ANKH" asked if my vessel was in a fit condition
port was out of commission, I was then
if she reverse would gear survive further operations. I was
ordered to proceed to Dover and arrived
the
1
0700. From theis time until 5th. June lying in Dover
Harbour.
me 5
Folkestone Yachts, Gate observed a small ship's boat
1130. Being left Dover for Hamble and while passing about through 2
unable to locate the other Inner Patrol
(continued)

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
of, Petty throughout operations.
I should Officer like to T.Jones draw special attention to the magnificent work 295
2
The following Potter-Irwin officers, Lieut. Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and ships accompanied and me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to S.N.O. Ramsgate, we were informed
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
Good
290
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "LAHLOO". C.O., Lieut.J.V.Ould, R.N.V.R.
y
29. 1740. Slipped and proceeded to sea from Hamble.
Took station with yachts of Inner Patrol on course
for Dover.
y 30 Made fast on arrival in Dover Harbour. Depth Charges removed,
1050 hours.
1940. Cast off and, proceeding from Harbour, took station
with yachts. Crossed Channel in station with yachts.
81 0610. Arrived off Zuydcoote. Destroyer signalled to lay off
close to beach and tow boat loads of soldiers as they pulled
out from beach to destroyers. Carried on with this work
for some hours taking many boat loads in tow.
In the course of this operation was told that a boat had
overturned in seas which had now got up somewhat considerably.
Hurried round stern of a destroyer and found quantities of
men struggling in the water. Managed to save seven of them
and put them aboard a destroyer. (In point of fact I believe only
one of the boat load was lost.) Carried on towing as before
while being bombed at frequent intervals, by enemy aircraft.
During the afternoon, Commodore Stephenson in "BOUNTY"
ordered me to proceed to La Panne and close destroyers off
Went shore. alongside H.M.S.HEBE who gave me a boat with three
ratings and told me to lay off La Panne and put this boat
1700. Lay off La panne as ordered and, while waiting for Lord
ashore to take off General Lord Gort.
Gort, took several boat loads of soldiers who had rowed
1830. Boat brought out General Lord Gort and his Aide and de
out from shore and put them aboard destroyers.
put him aboard me. H.M.S.HEBE. It appeared to me that bombed enemy
Camp out to He came aboard and I took him over the
knew of his departureas they shelled the beach and over
it as he left and a very large enemy formation flew
and him aboard the HEBE.
Continued to lay nightfall, off by which time they were Had had no coming
bombed as I put La Panne as instructed, taking only off
out further had La him soldiers away Panne at told from intervals orders me until in him the to in lay except early with consequence With alongside morning about that first the two him daylight of and flaet men which told the per were me destroyer I I if lost found boat. he to going had lay touch myself further KEITH had to with shell any near who
I.P. instructions. Yacht in the "SERIOLA" dark. Found and he had closed not to so see told him we would remain
around there until further orders.
(Continued).

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY (Contd).
of Petty throughout operations.
I should Officer like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
2
officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
accompanied me and reported to S.N.O.Ramsgate,
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
and services on the following day if required.
June 2. Having reported to O.Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air. and shelling from the land.
315
REPORT OF "BOUNTY" (Lieut.C.A.Lundy, R.N.V.R.) on Evacuation of
DUNKIRK:
294
May 29. 1800 Left Hamble in company with Inner Patrol Yachts for
Dover.
May 30. 0930 Arrived Dover. Ordered into Submarine Basin.
2200 Left Dover for La Panne.
e.
yeario
ard and informed me he
Deprover 351.
Proceeded alongside a
re Stevenson boarded
longside H.M.S.Keith and
S close inshore as
OFFICE
After approximately
LIEUTENANT TO COMWANDER-IN 1940 CHIEF
Admiral back to H.M.S.
to board the paddle-
JUN
aground, was taken
FLAG
)fficer Jones since
PORTSMOUTH
bring "Bounty" along-
received signal from H.M.S.
R.N. from H.M.S.Keith to
Outstanding reputs
rs for S.N.O.Dunkirk
, obtain receipt and
nkirk and return
rom officirs of the
'S. On returning from
ison venson. sent signal for other
me Patrol Patsmonth
:lose. "Seriola" and
son then informed us that
ild take place between
no took part in
and wished us luck.
ops from beach to destroyers.
Hebe: to H.M.S.Keith.
om beach to destroyers.
Imams
on board, fouled port
ent signal to destroyer
oyer, was informed that as she
The delay is repetted
dangerous for her to
thereupon undertook to
of due to the officers
n and self boarded
"Bounty" in tow.
avery
been
resuired
GE
Cycle.
(Continued).
E
*
O.E.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
of I should Petty Officer like to T.Jones draw special throughout attention operations. to the magnificent work 295
2
officers, Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
accompanied and me and reported to Ramsgate,
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
services on the following day if required.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air. and shelling from the land.
REPORT OF "BOUNTY" (Lieut.C.A.Lundy, R.N.V.R.) Dyrams.35. on Evacuation of
315
DUNKIRK:
.
204
May 29. 1800 Left Hamble in company with Inner Patrol Yachts for
Dover.
May 30. 0930 Arrived Dover. Ordered into Submarine Basin.
2200 Left Dover for La Panne.
y 31. 0530 Arrived at beach off La Panne.
0600 Commodore Stevenson came aboard and informed me he
wished to use my ship as Flagship. Proceeded alongside a
paddle-mine-sweeper, which Commodore Stevenson boarded
for interview. Subsequently went alongside H.M.S.Keith and
embarked the Admiral, taking him as close inshore as
possible in order to inspect beach. After approximately
three quarters of an hour took the Admiral back to H.M.S.
Kieth. Commodore Stevenson wishing to board the paddle- 1 Devonia
minesweeper, which appeared to be aground, was taken
alongside in the launch by Petty Officer T,Jones since
it was apparently too dengerousto bring "Bounty" along-
side. Soon after return of launch, received signal from H.M.S.
Keith to close her. Took Captain R.N. from Keith to
H.M.S.Hebe. Received written orders for S.N.O.Dunkirk
with instructions to deliver them, obtain receipt and
return to H.M.S.Hebe.
Time taken to proceed to Dunkirk and return
approximately two and a half hours. On returning from
Dunkirk re-embarked Commodore Stevenson.
About 1800 Commodore Stevenson sent signal for other
patrol boats in the vicinity to close. "Seriola" and
'Ahola" closed. Commodore Stevenson then informed us that
the final effort of operation would take place between
2100 May 31st and 0400 June 1st and wished us luck.
From 2100 to 2400 took troops from beach to destroyers.
2400 Took Lord Gort from H.M.S.Hebe to H.M.S.Keith.
June 1. From 0100 to 0830 took troops from beach to destroyers.
0830 While carrying 150 troops on board, fouled port
requesting propeller. tow. On closing destroyer, was informed her to as she
Commodore Stevenson sent signal to destroyer that
was take "Bounty" in tow. "Seriola" thereupon undertook to
full to capacity, it was too dangerous for
tow "Bounty".
At 0845 Commodore Stevenson and self boarded tow.
"Seriola" and proceeded to take "Bounty" in
Berthed in Ramsgate 1430.
(Continued).

Details

Dyram. 147 428
404
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I Clears" submit the following report and the movements of
Tug "St. during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk H.M. area.
in company with "Sun V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness,
naval ratings under Commander Hayward, R.N.R. on board at 1205 on
28th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by
examination tug in South Downs and both tugs proceeded and at
0015 on 29th May, "Sun V" was involved in collision with H.M.S.
"Montrose". I searched the vicinity for two hours but failed to
locate same. I then proceeded as instructed by "Montrose". When
passing Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery
in a position bearing 022° from Dunkerque C.W. buoy. We continued
on our course for a short time until the firing became intensified
shells falling very close to our stern some of which holed and sank
two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmsman to alter course
to bring the battery astern of us, finally steering a course of 020°
till out of range of guns. The wireless operator was maintaining
continuous watch so I was able to make an immediate report of the
attack which I considered urgent in view of the possibility of
other small craft following the same route. This warning was received
and inmediately re-broadcast by North Foreland Radio. During the
whole of this time the conduct of my officers and men was admirable,
particularly that of Able Seaman Arthur Chawner who was at the wheel,
he steered the ship with great precision and altered course
efficiently when ordered to do SO. We then proceeded on the course
0200 until we arrived at position T where H.M. Trawler "Blackburn
Rovers" was stationed. After some delay I proceeded Northern route
as instructed by trawler. When passing Newport, shore batteries again
opened fire, shells falling very close, this battery was silenced
by French Destroyers, but two cutters were lost in this action and
a third cut adrift, this cutter was later picked up by H.M.S. "Created
Eagle" and towed to my position off La Panne. I proceeded with
six remaining cutters and anchored off La Panne. Commander Hayward
dispatched the cutters to the beach of La Panne and commenced
La Panne aerial attacks were continuous. Commander Hayward his
embarking troops immediately. During the whole of the time and at
men showed great courage and endurance in working the cutters,
continually transporting troops.
a
Our were manned, the foremost by/naval myself, rating being one of
machine was circumstances and supplied the carried in anchor. mess not relief out that with decks crew a I guns came machine proceeded ammunition the when of within crew cutters, ordered gunning behaved to by range unknown naval by the attack. me. particularly excellently after ratings. destroyer to During Lewis assist Under one taking We at gun H.M.S. which these bombing one fired by shelter had machine very "Bideford" both to been raid exceptional assist. guns in which hit I alleyways have ashore, at but any
required. I was signalled Eagle" and proceeded local boats.
At During "Hebe". I signalled transferred 2200 this Engineer to period "Bideford" cutters reported I picked to who "Golden defect asked up made 70 to me French main to THE from small was
back to Sheerness I closed at "Hebe" slow and speed due to defect.
R.J.Penney
H.M.

Details

436
H.M.M.T.B. No. 681
465
at Portemouth.
. 437
H.M.M.T.D. No. 68
10th June, 1940.
at Portemouth.
, Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
10th June, 1940.
I have the honour to submit the
ring letter of proceedings of H.M.
Terpedo Boat No. 68 under my command,
3. Flotilla.
n 27th May and 1st Juno, 1940.
Fuelled.
I have the honour to be,
Bir,
1th M.T.B. 16.
, Gravelines. Took necessary
your obedient servent.
S.N.O. Instructed to stand by.
Richard
iers from West to East piers.
or Vice Admiral Dover.
red.
Licutonant R.N.V.R.
in Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N
in Command.
C Vice Admiral, Dover.
pies to:- Commander-in-Chief, Portenouth,
The Captain, H.H.S. "HORNET".
officers to inspect beaches
ast Piers.
in Bush and Lieutenant Commander
)Fdinary Telegraphist Kirkwood
ircruft made off as soon as 10
à Kirkwood to H.N.S."SANDOURST".
)res. rensmitting set and two tele-
to demolition party.
caused by W/T net, reached
bereverines and YEARS rircu on by shore batteries. Took necessary
Julon. and landed demolition party. Intense neighbourhood dive
Manus carerree $ that soning into occured a the standstill. Dunkirk afternoon brought After second all activities air raid instructed in the crew to
Drund-in Suinenft, ansthereu cestrol Bavre dbat. or Patrolled Ordered in collected dugout to beaches proceed on and East supplied throughout to Pier. H.M.S. H.M.S. fuel "HEBS" night "HERE" for motor and reporting to set attendant boats; under H.M.S. on activities transferred orders destroyer; "LOTUS" of and of
Add curunded and merchant airmen and seamen soldiers from from H.M.S. "HEBE" instructions to to hand personally
4
Lord targed Gort; W/T set took Admiral with to organise beaching parties.
Enureday, 30th May.
0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover.
0710. Considerable Secured Dover. repair necessary to engine.
2101. Repair completed and fuelled.
Friday, 31st May.
1110. Sailed for Dunkird Dover in H.M.S. "KEITH". Tools
1230. Reported to Vice Admiral officer on board .....

Details

H.M.M.T.B. No. 681
465
at Portemouth.
. 437
10th June, 1940.
sport of Proceedings of and H.M. 1st Motor June, Torpedo 1940 Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
onday. 27th May.
0805. Sailed for Dover with 10th N.T.B. Flotilla.
1305. Secured Submarine Basin Dover. Fuelled.
uesday, 28th May.
0655, Sailed for Dunkirk in company with M.T.B. 16.
0750. Fired on by shore batteries near Gravelines. Took necessary
avoiding action.
0825. Secured Dunkirk and reported to S.N.O. Instructed to stand by.
Ferried British and French soldiers from West to Sant piers.
1130. Sailed for Dover with message for Vice Admiral Dover.
1310. Secured Dover. Fuelled and stored.
2137. Sailed for Dunkirk taking Captain Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N
and Lieutenant Commander Dennis, R.N.
2350. Secured Dunkirk East Pier.
Wednesday, 29th May.
0400. Took Captain Bush and party of officers to inspect beaches
between Dunkirk and La Panne.
0600. Returned to Dunkirk.
Ferried soldiers from West to East Piers.
0910. Returned to Dover, taking Captain Bush and Lieutenant Commander
Dennis. 0940. Engaged two hostile aircraft. Ordinary Telegraphist Kirkwood
wounded in wrist by machine gun bullet. Aircraft made off as soon as 18
opened fire.
1035. 1040. Secured Discharged Dover. Ordinary Telegraphist Kiriwood to H.N.S. "SAMMURST".
graphists Marchall Lord Gort. Aldo demolition party.
1540. Fuelled Sailed for Dunkirk taking W/T transmitting set and two tele-
and replaced damaged stores.
coast 1635. near Gravelines Owing and was fired on by shore batteries. necessary
for Field to considerable degiation caused by W/T cet, Took reached
avoiding
bombing of Dunkirk during to a the standstill. After second air raid
1710. Secured Dunkirk afternoon brought all activities instructed in the neighbourhood crew to
action. and landed demolition party. Intense dive
take shelter on East Pier.
Ordered in dugout to proceed to H.M.S. "HEBE" and act under orders of
S.N.O. afloat.
Patrolled beaches throughout night motor reporting boats; on activities transferred of
Omall craft, collected and supplied from H.M.S. fuel "HERE" for to attendant to H.M.S. destroyer; "LOTUS" and
soldiers took wounded and merchant airmen and seamen soldiers from H.M.S. "HREE" instructions to hand personally
discharged to Lord Gort; W/T set took Admiral with to organise beaching parties.
Thursday, 30th May.
0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover.
0710. Considerable Secured Dover. repair necessary to engine.
2101. Repair completed and fuelled.
Friday, 31st May.
1230. 1110. Reported Sailed for to Dunkir Vice Admiral Dover in H.M.S. "KEITH". board Took
officer on .....

Details

- 2 -
sbq
1st.
0030
(approx)
he Crossed had just to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival - 441 found
0304
Sailed for gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith.
0547
Arrived Dover.
Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese.
2nd.
1201
Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow.
Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys"
reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and
aircraft. soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by
1330
Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk.
(approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately
240 soldiers to Dover.
1530
Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out
(approx) unsuccessful search for course drifter "Girl Gladys".
1700
Abandoned search. Set search to intercept Thames barge.
1720
Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes.
1730
Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board.
1922
Arrived Dover.
3rd.
Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes andengines.
Fuel tanks and hull seams leaking.
4th. 1255
Sailed for Portland.
2057
Arrived Portland for docking.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
0200 returned to block-ships.

Details

- 3 -
-
471
with engines greater stopped range when than boats and planes could be detected 443 by sound
at a that far this course might profitably visibility be employed permitted. during patrols. It is submitted
May 31st. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547.
Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and
escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453
approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken
off-load all depth charges as it was considered
inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of
5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small
boats.
The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when
the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable
the convoy to arrive together. At this time a large force of
German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There were
inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and a
general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at
this time and the attack became disorganised, - The bombers
eventually disappearing inland.
The convoy arrived off Dunkirk
at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut Nyme-Edwardes
from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as
required. At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith
a collision occurred with what appeared to be a medium-sized yacht.
S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern swinging
round as she altered course to port stove in S.O.6. on the starboard
bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking
above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid
of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane.
On arrival at Keith General Leese was emvbarked and instructions
were given to collect Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England
dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved.
On arrival at Hebe it was discovered that Lord Gort had crossed to
Keith. S.0.6. returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters
of NX an hour later Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked
forthwith and he and General Leese taken direct to Dover.
Considering the fact that it was the first time any of the crew had
been under fire their behaviour left nothing to be desired.
June 2nd. 1940. 1201 to 1922.
Instructions were received to carry out a search for drift "Girl
approximately 30 soldiers in an open boat about 3 miles off Dunkirk to
Gladys" reported broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk and for
reported by aircraft. Course was set from Dover direct
the coast Reutigen. to search for the open boat, subsequently to put out
the outer It was then intended to proceed slowly towardds to sea
clear of land and make another approach to the coast approximately the
10 miles Dunkirk to allow for the set of the tide from and
time the east of was received. Air escort had been promised
causion had report to be exercised as no ships were operating off Dunkrik
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
0200 returned to block-ships.

Details

131
1?9
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 9, 130
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
128
7/5
Wednesday, 29th May (continued).
route provided the passage between Calais Bell Buoy and
Dunkirk be made in darkness.
Route X passed some 26 miles to the South-westward of the
extreme N.E. point of the Northern Route Y, the locality in
which enemy M.T.B. attack threatened, and was shielded by the
French minefields in the Ruytingen and Dyck channels. It
appears that the enemy M.T.B. command failed to appreciate the
withdrawal of traffic to the S.W. and did not follow up.
In the evening it was reported that there was no congestion
anywhere on the coast, except at La Panne. The force at La
Panne was accordingly reinforced as ships became available.
30. An additional beach party of 7 officers and a number
of ratings under Captain J. Howson was sailed in SABRE at
1600 for Dunkirk, and Captain E. Bush, who had already visited
Dunkirk and was aware of the general conditions, was sent to
HEBE as S.N.O. afloat off the beaches. An M.T.B. was placed at
the disposal of the S.N.O. on the coast.
31. At about 1600 a heavy air attack commenced on the
East Mole Pier, Dunkirk harbour, mainly by dive bombing,
which lasted continuously for more than 2 hours. At the same
time, other air attacks took place on ships lying off Bray.
Attacks were renewed from time to time up till after 2000,
not only on Dunkirk, but on ships off Bray, in the Zuydecoote
Pass and those in the Southern end of x Route. These attacks
were to have a disastrous result on the evacuation arrangements
at Dunkirk. There were present alongside the inner side of
the Eastern Arm 2 destroyers GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 Trawlers
ahead of the GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 more trawlers ahead of them
with the CANTERBURY in the next berth, and a French destroyer
ahead of the CANTERBURY. Outside the harbour on the outside of
the Eastern Arm the Transport FENELLA was berthed opposite the
GRENADE and JAGUAR and the CRESTED EAGLE opposite the 6 trawlers.
In addition, the MALCOLM and VERITY were also in the harbour
but further inside. This presented a very good target and the
ships were soon hit and embarkation of troops ceased for the
time being. CANTERBURY, accompanied by JAGUAR, succeeded in
leaving harbour, but both were hit by bombs and damaged. Both
succeeded in reaching Dover, though JAGUAR had to be towed
part of the way and was subjected to many attacks on passage.
CANTERBURY reached harbour at 2115 and disembarked 1950 troops
but was sufficiently damaged to prevent her being used again
in these operations. To return to Dunkirk - FENELLA was lying
alongside on the outside of the pier, and was hit and sunk.
GRENADE and one of the trawlers on the East side were hit and
the trawler sank in the fairway. GRENADE sinking and on fire
had to be abandoned and appeared to be about to sink in the
fairway. A trawler was detailed to tow her clear. VERITY,
who witnessed this occurrence was continuously straddled by
bombs for 35 minutes. Passage all along the pier having
ceased, she cast off, and skirting the burning GRENADE and
trawler, proceeded out of harbour, grounding slightly on a
sunk drifter in the entrance. At about 1800 KING ORRY arrived
to find the harbour occupied only by burning and sinking ships, was
with no sign of any one on the pier nor any boat moving in thantly
harbour
uld
little
36

Details

131
129
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 10.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
29/5
Wednesday, 29th May (continued).
harbour. She was immediately subjected to heavy bombing
attacks, having previously had her steering gear put out of
action by a dive bombing attack when about mile outside of
the entrance. She remained in sole occupation of the harbour
until shortly after midnight 29th/30th, when her Captain
rightly decided to take the ship out of harbour before she
also was sunk, thus freeing the berth and safeguarding the
channel from being blocked.
Little information of these disasters filtered through to
Dover, except that it was known that Dunkirk was under heavy
air bombardment, and that the destroyers there were being hit
soon after 1600.
32.
At 1.906 the Vice Admiral promulgated the plan for the
night by signal as follows: "Evacuation of British troops to
continue at maximum speed during the night. If adequate
supply of personnel vessels cannot be maintained to Dunkirk
East Pier, destroyers will be sent there as well. All other
craft except hospital carriers to embark from beach which is
extended from one mile East of Dunkirk to one mile East of
La Panne. Whole length is divided into three equal parts
referred to as LA PANNE, BRAY, MALO, from East to West with a
mile gap between each part. LA PANNE and BRAY have troop
concentration points each end and in Middle, MALO at each end.
These points should be tended by inshore craft. Pass the
message by V/S to ships not equipped W/T as opportunity offers".
33,
About 1900 a telephone message was received from
La Panne Military Headquarters through the War Office and the
Admiralty to the effect that Dunkirk harbour was blocked
by damaged ships, and that all evacuation must therefore be
effected from the beaches.
About the same time a corrupt message from S.N.O., ,Dunkirk,
was received stating continuous bombing, one destroyer sinking,
one transport with troops on board damaged and impossible at
present to embark more troops, though pier undamaged.
34. In this confused situation the Vice Admiral, Dover,
at 2128, ordered all ships approaching Dunkirk not to close the
harbour, but instead to remain off the Eastern beach to collect
troops from the shore, and the drifters and minesweepers which
were about to be despatched to Dunkirk harbour were also
diverted to the beaches.
It appeared, therefore, at this time that the use of
Dunkirk harbour would be denied to us except possibly to the
small ships.
Signals addressed to S.N.O., Dunkirk, HEBE, VERITY, who
were known to be in the vicinity of Dunkirk, were sent require-
ing information as to the accessibility of the Eastern pier for
personnel vessels. Admiral Nord was also informed that Dover
was out of touch with Captain Tennant, and asked whether it was
still possible for transports to enter harbour and berth alongside.
No reply to these enquiries could be expected until after midnight.
35, In the event only 4 trawlers and a yacht entered
Dunkirk during the hours of darkness, and as enemy activity was
much reduced only two bombing attacks being made, it subsequently
transpired that a good opportunity had been missed, It is
probable that ships to lift some 8000 to 10, 000 troops could
have been made available for Dunkirk during the night at little
loss to embarkation from the beaches.
36,

Details

132
130
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 11.
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
29/5
Wednesday, 29th May(continued).
36. Rear Admiral Wake-Walker proceeded from Dover in ESK
at about 1900 for passage to HEBE off the coast where he was
to carry out the duties of S.N.O., Dunkirk in charge of all
embarkation arrangements, taking over from Captain Bush who
had been working in HEBE under the orders of S.N.O., Dunkirk.
He expected to arrive at Dunkirk at 2330.
37. As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst
the destroyer force, particularly the misfortunes which befell
those of the larger and more modern types, a consultation was
held between the Admiralty and the Vice Admiral which led to a
decision to withdraw destroyers of the 'H', 'I' and 'J' classes
from DYNAMO. All destroyers of the 'G' class were already
out of action.
There remained available for DYNAMO 15 destroyers:-
ESK
MALCOLM
VERITY
EXPRESS
WHITEHALL
VANQUISHER
ANTHONY
WINCHELSEA
SABRE
KEITH
WORCESTER
SCIMITAR
CODRINGTON
WINDSOR
SHIKARI
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be
expected to maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the
coast and would lift 17,000 troops in 24 hours.
38. The day closed with a formidable list of ships lost
or damaged, a marked reduction in the number of destroyers
available and with failure to achieve the high rate of
evacuation hoped for. Some 38,000 were landed in England
during the 24 hours, but the effect of the day's occurrences
was to be more marked next day when instead of some 50,000 to
60,000 which had been calculated as the probable achievement
only 48,000 odd were in fact transported.
39.
Casualties to H.M. Ships - 29th May.
Destroyer WAKEFUL torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Destroyer GRAFTON torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Special Service Vessel CRESTED EAGLE, whilst off the
beaches at Dunkirk, was bombed and set on fire. Ship was
beached and gutted.
Personnel Vessel NORMANIA attacked by enemy aircraft
and sunk.
Personnel Vessel LORINIA attacked off Dunkirk by enemy
aircraft and sunk.
Personnel

Details

134
13
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 13.
132
Operation "DYNAMO"
Narrative of Events.
30/5
Thursday, 30th May.
40. As an example of the difficulty of any one man
appreciating the situation at Dunkirk and the beaches during
the night, at 0030/30 the S.N.O. on the French Coast reported
that he had no destroyers. In fact, at that time, all
available destroyers, namely 10, in the Dover Command, were
either on, or on passage to or from, the coast, and the
remaining 5 were at Dover discharging troops, embarking
ammunitition, fuelling, etc. and were to sail within the next
4 hours.
Simultaneously the V.C.I.G.S. reported that the
beaches were well organised, the troops in good heart, and
there had been no bombing since dark, but that there was still
a great shortage of small craft - urgently required. This
last fact was well known to the Vice Admiral, Dover.
41. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was requested to send as
much grass hawser as possible to Ramsgate, as quickly as
possible, for supplying the skoots, to haul boats off the
beaches, thus speeding up the boat work to compensate for the
shortage of boats, which would continue for at least another
24 hours.
42. At 0500 the 7 modern destroyers remaining with Vice
Admiral, Dover - ICARUS, IMPULSIVE, INTREPID, IVANHOE, HAR-
VESTER, HAVANT and JAVELIN - sailed to Sheerness in accordance
with Admiralty instructions. The MONTROSE and MACKAY sailed
for repairs.
43. Meantime the Vice Admiral, Dover, had been much
exercised regarding the possibility of the continued use of
Dunkirk harbour for personnel vessels and was anxiously
awaiting the report from VANQUISHER, who had been sent to
investigate the reported obstruction. VANQUISHER'S report
was received at 0610 stating entrance was practicable but that
obstruction exists towards outer inside end of the EASTERN ARM.
Pending amplifying reports, the sailing of personnel vessels
to Dunkirk was resumed, although at this time there were still
4 personnel vessels presumed to be in the vicinity of Dunkirk
Harbour, whose movements and whereabouts throughout the night
still remained obscure.
The Vice Admiral asked R.A. Dover, who was in HEBE,
whether personnel ships could, in fact, still use Dunkirk. In
the meantime a series of signals from Rear Admiral Dover, and
destroyers off the coast, were received, stating that the
beaches were filling up rapidly and more ships and boats were
urgently required there. Although it was known that the
destroyers could use Dunkirk, it appeared at this time that the
best division of transport was to send the great majority of
destroyers to the beaches, where urgent demands could not be
ignored, and the personnel vessels to Dunkirk Harbour, only an
occasional destroyer being sent to Dunkirk from the reduced
number now available for the operation.
44/

Details

143
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 22
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events,
141
31/5
Friday 31st May (continued).
65. Casualties to H.M, Ships during 31st May,
M/S DEVONIA received damage from near miss bombs
whilst off La Panne. About 1600 ship was ordered to be beached.
At 0600 on the 1st, after having destroyed all useful
apparatus, and ammunition put overboard, ship was beached and
abandoned.
M/S HEBE, whilst off Dunkirk, was damaged by enemy
aircraft and returned under own power to Dover.
Destroyer EXPRESS. Damaged by enemy aircraft whilst
off Dunkirk.
Saturday 1st June.
66.
2 Hospital Carriers which had sailed the previous
1/6
evening returned shortly after dawn. Only one had succeeded
in entering Dunkirk Harbour, the other had laid off 4 hours
under heavy fire and returned to Dover. 4 personnel vessels
failed to enter Dunkirk during the night, but succeeded in the
early hours of the morning. One of these, the PRAGUE, was
bombed and severely damaged half-way across on the return
journey, but succeeded in making the Downs with the assistance
of tugs, where troops transferred to other ships particularly
A/S trawlers LADY PHILOMENE and OLVINA. The supply of person-
nel vessels was maintained throughout the day, not without a
series of setbacks caused by 3 ships refusing to sail and by
2 being turned back when on passage, by French Destroyers owing
to heavy bombing and shelling of the approaches to Dunkirk.
Of those that operated during the 24 hours, 1 was sunk, 2
damaged by bombs and shell-fire and 1 by collision.
67. During the middle watch it transpired that no further
troops were attempting to evacuate from La Panne off which
were stationed one paddle minesweeper, a fleet sweeper and two
destroyers, probably due to the heavy shelling from German
guns eastward, and later information was received that the
troops were marching from La Panne through Bray towards
Dunkirk. Accordingly, during the night the Rear Admiral,
Dover, instructed all small craft to move wast, with boats in
tow, towards Dunkirk, and the Vice Admiral directed all ships
under orders for La Panne to other positions further west,
concentrating the main effort on the beach immediately east
of Dunkirk.
To a request from Dunkirk for Hospital Ships, the
Vice Admiral replied at 0715 that the large ship berths
alongside at Dunkirk must be occupied by personnel ships and
the wounded that could conveniently be embarled should go with
personnel. This direction was in accordance with the Govern-
ment policy previously communicated to the Vice Admiral.
68. Soon after dawn enemy aircraft were active and
heavy bombing and machine gun attacks developed at 0500 over
the whole area from Dunkirk to La Panne. A second series of
attacks commenced at 0830 and lasted until 0900, during which
time nearly every ship off the coast was subjected to
intensive bombing and machine gunning, formations of 30 and 40
machines/

Details

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

Details

Details

Details

Details

APPENDIX
to
1st June
Page 7
Operation "DYNAMO" Narrative of Events.
DESTROYERS
PERSONNEL SHIPS
MINESWEEPERS
PADDLE MINESWEEPERS
SKOOTS
FRENCH DESTROYERS
VANQUISHER (I)
640
ST. HELIER
659
GOSSAMER
845
QUEEN OF THANET 850
DEMOK
114
FLORE
351
HAVANT
882
LADY OF MANN
870
NIGER
310
SANDOWN
800
ORANJE
100
BOUCLIER
300
WHITEHALL (I)
871
MAID OF ORLEANS 1856
FITZROY
67
ORIOLE
470
HEBE
365
SCIMITAR (I)
584
TYNWALD
2000
LYDD
252
PRINCESS ELIZABETH 510
AEGIR
130
WOLSEY
533
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
47
LEDA
650
MEDWAY QUEEN
700
ANTJE
150
MALCOLM
1200
KING GEORGE V
700
DUCHESS OF
WESTWARD HO
918
PACIFICO
414
WORCESTER (I)
661
BEN-MY-CHREE
2080
FIFE
535
WIPPINGHAM
2500
AMAZONE
111
WINDSOR
493
ST. HELIER
1250
HALCYON
243
QUEEN OF THANET 1500
HILDA
530
VIVACIOUS
427
ROUEN
800
SALAMANDER
479
WESTWARD Ho
900
RIKA
200
Total 58,4
VANQUISHER (II)
1200
COTE D'ARGENT 1000
SPEEDWELL
972
FRISO
648
HARVESTER
576
SALTASH
400
ICARUS
1114
QUEEN OF THE
ROSS
260
CODRINGTON
746
CHANNEL
52
DUNDALK
280
SABRE
451
HALCYON
508
SHIKARI
623
SALTASH
400
DRIFTERS
MISCELLANEOUS
453
HOSPITAL SHIPS
FOREIGN VESSELS
WINCHELSEA
1150
SUTTON
SCIMITAR (II)
376
KELLETT
40
Miscellaneous 1110
FOREMOST
200
ESK (I)
979
WESTWARD Ho
900
ST. ANDREW 130
INCENIEUR CACHIN
1
GOLDEN GIFT
123
VINCIA
108
PATRIE
WHITEHALL
(II)
34
157
GRIEVE (F.A.A.
GASTON RIVER
120
WORCESTER
(II)
900
OCEAN BREEZE
TRAWLERS
Trg. vessel)
374
MISCELLANEOUS (Cont.)
MONIQUE CAMILLE
302
JACKETA
564.
MOSQUITO (Gunboat) 610
REINE DE FLOTS
62
LORD INCHCAPE 240
LOCUST
"
620
LADY
ANDRE LOUIS
317
17.97
SATURN
307
NEPHRITE
500
SOUTHBORO
350
CHALUTIER
100
D. TRAWLER
100
ESKBURNE
27
RAPID
25
CHASSEUR MARIE
117
GRIEVE (Yacht)
411
MAYSPEAR
15
NORMANVILLE
500
647
UNNAMED M.B.
23
TENIAS
100
ONDERS ONS
95
II's CHANNEL
108
GALLEON
FRANSAH
500
KINGFISHER (A/S Exp.
REACH
123
Ship) (I)
180
HOPPER 24
580
KINGFISHER
-do-
(II)210
LLANTHONY
90
IOLANTHE
35
(ex serv.vessel)
10593
173171
THREE KINGS
59
GOLDEN EAGLE
KINGSGATE
910
(sp.serv.) 1250
CHRISTOBEL II
33
ROYAL EAGLE
10503
OLIVIA
103
(AA Ships)1250
ATHOLA
6
ROEBUCK (Coastal steamer)408
Lifeboat
35
MINWOOD
=
51
509
MONA'S ISLE
(A.B.V.)
1500
FL
TB
S
3
e
S
d
it

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

222
220
Page 3.
OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINAT REPORT OF PROCENDINGS FOR
PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
(Commanding Officer, I.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June 1940)
29. At 1703 the ship was attached by enemy dive bombing 31/5
X
aircraft, which were engaged by the 3" П.А. and pom poms. One
aircraft was shot down by the port pom pom and two other enemy
machines were seen to crash, probably due to our fighters.
30. At 1716 a bomb dropped close on the port quarter and
the aircraft was engaged by H.A. armament.
31. At 1730 six enemy Messerschmitt aircraft were observed
attacking three friendly Hudson reconnaissance aircraft. The
attack dispersed after "Keith" opened fire with 3" H.A. sun.
32. At 1815 "Keith" arrived off La Panne to find that the
anchorage was under fire from a gun or guns situated near
Nieuport. Its location could not be seen but an enemy
observation balloon was observed.
33. At 1835 "Keith" proceeded Westwards again until at
1845, when between La Panne and Braye, signalling was seen from
the beach informing us that the General Headquartero were there
awaiting embarkation. The motor boat and starboard whaler were
lowered and proceeded inshore. At 1908 the first boat load
were aboard. Lord Gort, the Commander-in-Chief, went to H.M.S.
31
"Hebe" in a yacht. Our boats returned inshore for other officer
34. At 1910 about 80 enemy aircraft were sighted coming
over and "Keith" circled in the constricted space at high speed
engaging the enemy with 3" H.A. The enemy however proceeded in
the direction of Dunkirk. At 1927 large numbers of enemy
aircraft again appeared overhead on their way back to enemy
territory.
35. At 1937 an enemy high level bomber attacked "Keith"
dropping four bombs without result. This aireraft was engaged
by 3" H.A. and pom pom: the ship was again circling.
36. At 1942 the boats returned from the beach with their
second load of Staff officers and was sent back for the remain-
ing men.
37. At 2005 a further large number of enemy bombers and
fighters were seen overhead and the ship engaged them with H.A.
armament. On this occasion, a few bombs were dropped near the
ship and one aircraft attacked the boats inshore, narrowly
missing them. At 2016 the boats returned to the ships and were
hoisted. At 2018 "Keith" proceeded towards Dunkirk. The dunes
and beaches near La Panne were at this time under steady
artillery fire.
May
38. At 2120 "Keith" was off Dunkirk passing orders to boats
tugs and yachts as to their duties.
39. At 2125 she proceeded Bastwards again and at 2140 was
off Braye where she remained for some time marshalling small
craft.
40. At 2310 "Keith" proceeded to La Panne where at 0015/1
after laying off, she anchored.

Details

SECRET
PAGE 3. 225
H.M.S. "KEITH" - FINAL REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 30th MAY - 227
1st JUNE, 1940, WITH HER EVENTUAL DESTRUCTION.
(Captain Berthon's No.31 of 1st July to Vice-Admiral,1 Dover)
22.
Six enemy Messerschmidt aircraft were observed at
1730 attacking three British Hudson reconnaissance aircraft.
The attack dispersed after "Keith" opened fire with 3" H.A.
gun.
23.
At 1815 "Keith" arrived off La Panne to find that
the anchorage was under shell fire from a gun or guns situated
near Nieuport. The location of the battery could not be
established but an enemy observation balloon observed to the
eastward was immediately hauled down by the enemy on the
approach of our fighter aircraft.
24. "Keith" resumed course to the westward at 1835 until
at 1845, when between La Panne and Braye, signalling was
observed from the beach informing us that the Army G.H.Q.Staff
was there awaiting embarkation. The motor boat and starboard
whaler were lowered and proceeded inshore.
25. At 1908 the first boat load of the staff was onboard.
Lord Gort, the Commander-in-Chief, went to H.M.S. "Hebe" in a
yacht. Our boats returned inshore for other officers.
26. At 1910 about 80 enemy bombing aircraft were sighted
coming over and "Keith" circled in the constricted space at
high speed, engaging the enemy with 3" H.A. The enemy
however carried on to Dunkirk.
31/5
27.
A large number of enemy aircraft again appeared
overhead at 1927 on their way back to enemy territory. At
31/5
1937 an enemy high level bomber attacked "Keith", dropping
four bombs without result. This aircraft was engaged by
3" H.A. and pom-pom, the ship again circling.
28. "Keith's" boats returned from the beach at 1942
with their second load of staff officers and were sent back
for the remaining men.
29. At 2005 a further large number of enemy bombing
aircraft were sighted overhead and the ship engaged them
with the H.A. armament. On this occasion a few bombs were
dropped near the ship and one aircraft attacked the boats
inshore narrowly missing them.
30. At 2016 the boats returned to the ship with the
last load of the Army staff and were hoisted. "Keith" then
proceeded towards Dunkirk. The dunes and beaches near La
Panne were at this time under steady shell fire.
31. "Keith" was off Dunkirk at 2120 passing orders to
boats, tugs and yachts as to their duties. At 2125 she
continued to the eastwards and at 2140 was off Braye where
she remained for some time marshalling boats and small craft.
32. At 2310 "Keith" proceeded to La Panne where she
anchored at 0015 after lying off for a short period. Between
2200 and midnight several enemy aircraft passed overhead and,
as was reported later dropped magnetic mines to the west of
La Panne and off Braye.
reduced 33. to 2 rounds of 3" H.A. ammunition and 150 rounds of
After the air attacks of the day the ship was now
X
pom-pom per gun. This shortage was represented to the
Admiral in view of the certainty of further attacks on the
following day.
...34.
La Panne anchorage

Details

2
291
.017978/41.
9.11.41.
(R.A., 1st C.S. 461/K.16)
Rear-Admiral 29th May to 4th Wake-Walker's June, 1940. account of the evacuation from Dunkerque, 200
29th May.
293
1445
Asked there. by VCNS to go to Dunkerque to organise embarkation
Title:- R.-A., Dover. Not to supersede Captain Tennant
(SNO, Dunkerque), but to be i/c offshore at Dunkerque.
5
70,000 men already embarked.
Accompanied by Cdr. Norfolk, Lieut. -Cdr. Wynne-Edwards.
Own Flag-Lieut. then at Newcastle, so one lent from among
the signal officers at Dover (Viscount Kelburn) with some
signal ratings.
Told by ISL that the French were not thought to be pulling
their weight: ? to refuse them embarkation if British
troops were ready to embark. (On 31st May, signal to say
Government policy was for equal opportunities to British
and French troops.)
(2)
1600 Left for Dover by car. Arrived at 1800.
General idea:-
3 beaches, each in 3 sections, for British troops at
La Panne, Braye & St.Malo. French were using other
beaches between St. Malo & Dunkerque.
Dunkerque had been heavily bombed: GRENADE and other
ships sunk there. One Eastern approach to Dunkerque
could not be used at night as E-boats had sunk a destroyer
there: Western one being shelled from shore in daylight:
centre one difficult for navigational reasons.
Captain Bush (HEBE) i/c offshore until my arrival.
Arrangements:-
2 destroyers ready to sail from Dover to Dunkerque to take
over 2 lots of beach parties. One of 80 officers and men
(G. & T. Long Courses) was for disciplinary purposes on
the beaches. In the earlier stages the troops were
completely disorganised, discarding their rifles, lying
down on the beaches and refusing to get into the boats:
it was intended that men would not be taken off unless
they had their rifles. By the time I arrived things had
improved very considerably in this respect.
(3)
Another party of 200 were intended to act as beach parties
to assist the embarkation, but these never materialised.
I
Commodores Stevenson and Hallett arrived at Dover by train
after I did - thought they were already at Dunkerque.
2000
Sailed in ESK with all the above, except the 200 men of
the beach parties. Stevenson to take charge off La Panne
Hallett off Braye. Intended myself to be off St. Malo and
Dunkerque, or to put Bush i/c there.
ore
Warned officers of beach parties not to get caught, and
that it møght be impossible to give them any order as to
when to come off.
Had no clear idea of what might be possible or how to set
about it, nor any idea of local conditions, communications, I
General etc. plan was to put an officer in some small ship i/c
hit
offshore at each of the main beaches and try to organise
ore
the flow of ships to beaches myself from some central
and
position.
que
al
(4)
Dark
0
isi

Details

2
(4)
291
Dark oil tanks when we arrived near Dunkerque. burnin
above. lighted up the sky, with Flames from smoke
at anchor Saw a ship (CLAN MACALLISTER) a black pall of
provided a off Braye: burning until the on fire offshore but
plight. Another deserted merchant ship was in similar and
guns. useful diversion for German bombers end, deserted, shore
0400 30th May. time, parties in destroyer's boats. South, All landing
the We approached beach Dunkerque beaches from the
Cdr. and it was not until 0400 that we found HEBE this took (Lieut.-
the John Temple) off Braye and transferred to her. At
Flat same time the 2 Commodores were put into drifters.
to boats off the beaches. Bush (who was in HEBE) seemed
and calm: difficult to see in dark; many ships, drifters
be rather despondent, having seen the shore black with
men standing up to their waists in water; embarkation
process being extremely slow.
Dawn
Arrived ahead. in HEBE off La Panne and got some idea of the task
(5)
Physical description of the beach. Long stretch of sand
dunes rising fairly steeply in places from a gently
shelving beach which dries for 200 yards or more at L.W.
Offshore the water deepens very gradually and a destroyer
cannot get nearer than half a mile, etc.
Large groups of men all over the beaches and a dark line
of men at the water's edge. Off Braye BIDEFORD was ashore
with her stern completely blown off by a bomb: LOCUST -
river g.b. - trying to tow her off, which she eventually
did and got her back to England. Farther towards Dunkerque
another ship (CRESTED EAGLE ?) was high and dry and burnt
out; also many boats broached to on the beach. Lying off
were destroyers, sloops, drifters, etc., and men making
their way off in whalers, motor boats and pontoon craft.
A slight swell made landing difficult, and many boats
broached to and were stranded on a falling tide. The
visibility was not good, with low-lying clouds: very
thankful for this, a blessing we were not always to enjoy.
Daylight
Could now get a clearer idea of situation and conditions.
Beaches were packed with troops, but they appeared to be
orderly and under proper control. A few ships were lying
as close in as possible and were being slowly filled up
by their own boats and a few local craft. Ships' motor
boats were towing off the whalers assisted by motor launchen
but these could not get very close in; pontoon craft were
being paddled off by soldiers, but it was not easy to get
them back ashore again and often they were left to float
away empty. As soon as a sloop or destroyer was full up
I
she left and took her boats with her - the boats' crews
were guns' crews and no one wanted to be without them.
To anyone with the appreciation of the practical difficult-l
ies of embarking in small boats with a long pull to seaward'
the sight of that beach black with troops was dismaying.
The number steadily increased and at back of our minds all ore
the time was question and fear of how long the defence
line could hold and the weather remain fair.
(6) 0630
Crux of matter was boats, boats' crews and towage; and at
0630 I signalled the urgent need of these. By about 0730
0730
most of the ships had loaded up and were leaving: I asked r
for more ships and again stressed need of boats.
I now moved down to Dunkerque to get in communication with
hit.
Tennant and went alongside pier in response to a signal.
nore
Description of Dunkerque (see plan). Outer harbour is
formed by 2 breakwaters approx at right angles, leaving a
and
narrow entrance between. Western Arm of solid stone:
que
Eastern Arm (called here East Pier) only solid for short
al
part of inshore end, the rest being built of concrete piles.o
wide enough for 4 men walking abreast. Alongside short
through which tide flows and on which is a narrow pathway East isi
Pier is channel to inner harbour and docks. A
length

Details

length of piling runs out parallel to East Pier 295
292
wide. encloses the entrance to this channel - about 150 and
A new series of docks under construction has yards
into the harbour by this entrance is the West Quay.
entrance opening off the inner harbour, and jutting out an
93
West Quay was used entirely by the French; luckily for us
they did not consider East Pier suitable for embarkation. to
All British troops were embarked from East Pier, and on
se
last 2 days a large number of French troops also.
Bi g rise and fall of tide: at H.W. can step straight on
a destroyer's deck, but at L.W. it was a 15 ft. drop.
Many ladders were sent over and secured to sides of pier,
O
but sobdiers with rifles and packs took a long time to get
down ladders.
When I first went in (30th) there was a trawler (c) sunk
alongside pier and another ship (A) sunk outside the end.
The trawler and drifter shown sank later, as also the
(9
blockships.
4 berths alongside East Pier could be used. Inner one (F)
only by small ships at L.W., but at H.W. personnel ships
(7
could get into B, D and E.
On 24th May, KING ORRY had rammed the pier during a bombing
raid and made a large gap in it abreast E berth: until
this was bridged outer berths could not be used as roadway
along pier was cut. Harbour very shallow to the west of
West Quay, and place where ROUEN went ashore on night of
2nd June when leaving the quay is shown - also where
KELLETT grounded on night of 3rd June.
As soon as HEBE got alongside East Pier I went to local
Naval H. Q., while she was quickly filled up with 6-700
some of them wounded.
men, Naval H.Q. were established in a dug-out at shore end of
East Pier. This area was not large and was separated
from mainland by a bridge over a cabal. Surface was
uneven and covered with heaps of rubble; there was a
and a few ambulances, cars and wounded men.
Bofors small gun staff of the SNO, Captain Tennant, did wonderful the
The controlling the embarkation and dealing with shell
work ashore: they worked under constant Tennant fire
and were was away with the General, but was and that
situation short of sleep and food. Did not informed see that
as he of troops were ready to embark at sent pier in.
plenty would take all ships that could be East
At this cut off the end, so that the only Later, accessible this
they time gap in roadway halfway along Pier
completely points were inside this point. along its
embarkation bridged so that pier could be alongside. used whole
Had intended to keep HEBE as my headquarters, so she had
length gap was except where ships were sunk
not been used to embark any troops from beaches. Felt this I
could not refuse to do this at Dunkerque, and once
done the question of their disposal arose.
was returned to beaches and sent any surplus ships to load to
(8)
I Dunkerque, and from then on had continually to and try needs
hold beaches and Dunkerque. Also reported that, essential to more
at the balance between the respective claims until
boats of were available for ferrying, it was itself.
Explanation why Dunkerque was then being so little used
concentrate on evacuation from Dunkerque
and 25th so May, Dunkerque was heavily attacked from sunk, the and air
much effort expended on beaches:-
On harbour was full of ships. GRENADE was
when ORRY and several other ships alongside piers Party were ashore hit.
KING result of this, a junior member of Naval of the day,
whose off in a car to La Panne where he Dunkerque and
a judgment had been affected by events saw Lord Gort
dashed Admiralty that further embarkation from sending al
phoned was impossible. Dover was, therefore, took 2 days to
itself to beaches and none to Dunkerque: which had a
ships overcome results of this indiscretion, consi
erable temporary effect on the plans.

Details

4
296
VA, A destroyer Dover, having reported that Dunkerque was
293
0830 I asked me if ships should be sent there. usable,
0830
signalled from HEBE that destroyers could At into
Dunkerque in succession and that troops were waiting come close
to the pier. Loading off beaches was proceeding slowly:
conditions were not bad, but the slight swell running in
was enough to render boats liable to broach to. At La
Panne and Braye, lorries were being driven into the sea to
form a sort of breakwater.
Noon
About midday there was an air attack on ships and on La
Panne. Later, when it had cleared a bit overhead, there
was an attack on Dunkerque. Several French destroyers
came in by Y channel and were fired on from the north of
La Panne; some guns tried to shell beach between Braye
and La Panne, but the steep dunes protected it.
On returning to La Panne met Stevenson who had transferred
to a motor launch and was doing excellent work. He saw
(9)
Lord Gort who was anxious to see me. As conditions were
getting worse and I did not want to get stranded, decided
to go to Dunkerque and drive to La Panne from there.
HEBE could not be detained any longer, so sent her back to
Dover with troops and wounded and told Bush to explain the
boat situation and point out vital necessity for sending
out boats and crews.
1530
Transferred my staff to WINDSOR and went into Dunkerque in
MTB 102, sent at my request. Badly wanted some means of
getting about quickly and a fast boat of light draught
would have been invaluable: when I did get one its endur-
ance was so low that it had to return almost at once to
Dover.
On getting to Dunkerque found Tennant was with Gort and
that to drive there would take up more time than I cared
to be away: decided to land from a boat after all.
The MTB had not enough fuel to reach La Panne and return
to Døver, SO boarded GOSSAMER and took her to La Panne
1730
where I transferred to WORCESTER at about 1730.
La Panne was in telephonic communication with England;
also received W/T messages from Dover. One (1749) said
ships were urgently wanted off La Panne: actually, at
1900, there were 4 destroyers and 1 minesweeper there and
situation was constantly changing.
G.H.Q. was in touch with Admiralty and VA, Dover, and gave
views and criticisisms of what was happening. This
probably accounts for signal from 1st SL on this day asking
if boats were distributed along beaches to best advantage.
Actually, only boats that could get inshore, except distri- pontoons
bution depended on position of ships they belonged but
and a few local craft, were the whalers, and their to.
(10)
badly So hampered by lack of quick transport: once ships had
far as possible kept ships off all beaches, was
boats away a re-distribution was impracticable.
1900
beaches; with ammunition. Told her to beach cleared at as La
Small and about this time the TINY puffer herself
their numbers of aircraft attacked La Panne and arrived, ships off
loaded tide being then high; did so and was of was
Panne, tide fell, though think that a good deal cargo
finally on beach in slight swell (thied attempt visual to see Gort),
dumped in the sea.
2000
Landed Flag-Lieut. and a few signalmen to and open General
went with them to GHQ - last villa but one on
communication taking with GHQ. Met by Tennant south edge Lees;
of La Panne. situation. Seemed obvious to me back that more the
(11)
Discussed felt they had successfully fallen it now or
soldiers intact inn face of great odds and that was not making up
to less the Navy to get them off, but that Navy were
Stressed of large scale embarkation from beaches; off said from
any real difficulty, effort to do slowness so. and dependence on fine
weather that bulk of any troops should move westward and come This
Dunkerque.

Details

6
Destroyers, arriving, minesweepers and all manner of 298 205
were at one but there were often periods and when Dunkerque
continuously, loading and leaving the beaches craft were
Bombing of place or another and embarkation had no shi wait. ps
the ships and beaches had so far been to -
sound day of had been overcast and visibility was not spasmodic good;
freedom from air attack.
fighters overhead seemed to account for our
0400 31st May. Report received at 0400 of aircraft dropping mines 1 mile
north of La Panne: planes frequently passed close over-
head during dark hours.
Dawn
Light N. W. wind sprang up right on the beaches: many boats
seen capsized, broached to or high and diry, including at
least one of the local boats which carried a lot of men
and could get close inshore. Not a cheering sight.
Sky cleared and visibility improved; absence of haze all
day.
0730
Made contact with KEITH. EXPRESS now fully loaded and
left for Dover as soon as I had transferred to KEITH, in
which ship I now hoisted my flag - prior to this I had
used a Red Ensign (no flag being available before) to
indicate which ship I was in.
While I was in KEITH she did not embark any troops - same
as for HEBE.
1035
To VA, Dover:- "Majority of boats broached to and have no
crews. Conditions on beach very bad due to freshening
onshore wind. Only small numbers being embarked even in
daylight. Under present conditions any large scale
embarkation from beach is quite impracticable; motor boats
cannot get close in. Only hope of embarking any number
is at Dunkerque. Will attempt to beach ship to form a
lee to try to improve conditions."
Reply:- Urging importance of using beaches as long as
(15) 1105 To possible. VA, Dover:- "Dunkerque our only real hope. Can guns
shelling pier from westward be bombed and silenced?"
Successful use of Dunkerque depended on being able to put
ships alongside Eastern breakwater: my constant fear that
this might be so accurately shelled as to render it unten-
able. Signalled to shore urging movement towards Dunker-
que: troops seen moving slowly westward.
Beach events clearly visible from seaward. Bodies
of
men
marched along - some in good order, others in groups and
knots. Ond battalion in perfect order seen marching down
through a winding road from dunes to shore - told later it
was the Welsh Guards, but not certain if this was correct.
Embarkation going on all the time, with ships leaving as
Commencing of day before and continuing on form day, a the
soon as filled; largest numbers came from Dunkerque. this
Army barricade and breakwater. At Braye the lorries R.E. planked that
had been driving lorries down to beach to had
and made a handrail on these so
a gangway boats could go alongside. As line breakwater ran straight out
motor to sea and wind was directly on shore, gave
very forenoon sent Stevenson over to some paddle a break- mine-
little shelter - still it helped.
During off Braye to get one beached to act as at
sweepers Done; next day she was high and dry ship was daylight. long
Don't enough to cover distance tide ran out, so
water. know to what extent she was used: no could only be
HEBE of returned with Bush, bringing plan for embarkation
value for part of the tide.
1000
that night. numbers Was of boats as follows:- were now being sent over in to tow be of
Large etc. Due to start arriving at 1500; were scheme
tugs, for use of rear guard for whom embarkation were being
(16)
kept planned. To take the troops, 11 sloops in company,
was and were to rendezvous and proceed Given berths
collected being timed for 0130 on 1st June. each of the
arrival in which to anchor in 3 batches, 1 batch off
embarkation beaches.
An

Details

7
299
206
were An impracticable not feature of this plan was that craft
inshore asking too much to think that when our crying need It was for
to be used except for the rear guard. small
boats, any such could be held idle while was
men were on beaches with ships waiting to take them so many off.
Actual development of this plan was very different.
(19)
HEBE sent up to La Panne, to be there at 1800 to receive
Gort whom Stevenson was to bring off.
Beaches shelled during the day, but in most cases shells
landed on dunes which had a fairly steep scarp and protect-
ed the beach. Shelling was principally to westward of
Braye; at one time a French battery 2 or 3 miles out of
Dunkerque on top of dunes, but close to sea, received a
lot of attention.
1330
As I was returning to eastward HEBE signalled she had been
shelled off La Panne at 1200 and had had to move westward
a couple of miles.
1430
Went up in KEITH off La Panne to see if battery could be
shelled, but had to withdraw - not essential to be so far
to the eastward and battery was not visible. Its fore
was directed by an observation balloon over Nieuport;
aircraft came out to shoot it down, but without result;
it was re-hoisted as soon as they left. Shell bursts
appeared to be 6 or 8-inch, in salvoes of four.
(17)
Owing to the shelling of anchorage at La Panne urged Gort
to embark as soon as possible, but he would not leave
before the time arranged.
Soon after, I moved down to Dunkerque so as to be on spot
when boats arrived. En route a terrific air battle over-
head - 3 Spitfires shot down, 2 in the sea; onepilot
killed, the other not found.
While waiting off Dunkerque signal from VA, Dover, to say
Army wanted to start embarkation at 2000 instead of 0100.
Replied: Boats had not arrived and sloops would not be
there then, but would do my best. (This had an unfortu-
nate effect: as sloops could not be there in time I had
to keep destroyers, etc., off the beaches which would
otherwise have been sent to Dunkerque during the night.
Result = though many were embarked from beaches, very few
ships went into Dunkerque where men were waiting, and full
use of it was not made.)
Always impossible for me to do more than deal with the
situation of the moment. Did not know what ships were
coming or when - except for the pre-arranged plan of the
sloops; nor could Dover give me much information.
The stream of ships was constant, but irregular; not pos-
sible to see any way ahead. My policy was to keep only
enough ships off the beaches and send all others into
Dunkerque, but situation changed continually. I wanted
(18)
to be in several places at once.
The first of the boat tows did not arrive until 1700 - a
tug with what looked like 6 dinghies in tow: she was
Could not wait off Dunkerque as I wanted to get up to La
preceded by some motor yachts which came in company.
Panne for Gort, so left Wynne-Edwards in a motor yacht to
direct the tows as they arrived, and to order a large
number of hoppers and other craft that were lying off the
westwen beaches to beach themselves on the rising tide so
that men could embark.
Gort's embarkation produced some odd incidents.
Dover had sent over 4 MTBs and MA/SBs to get him: the
reached me. During the afternoon 2 MTBs came to me and
signal informing me of this, like many others, never
said they were to embark a party from a point 2 miles west
of La Panne. Could not understand this; thought they
must have been sent to fetch off some of Naval landing the H.
party, but realise now the party concerned was
Staff. While approaching La Panne, shortly before 1800, HEBE
1800
signalled to me "General on beach abreast you, and saw a
group at water's edge with 2 cars and some KEITH'S gnalmen.

Details

8
300
KEITH'S I learnt boats he sent in, but Gort was not in 207 and
No one his staff: heavy air attack trips necessary time.
to bring off was in HEBE already. Three first boat
(21)
ships and was hit, though narrow escapes. Many during this on
increase beaches; HEBE shot down a Heinkel. attacks
(19)
of shell fire off Braye, where CLAN Great
was and a valuable decoy: she was hit and bombed MACALLISTER several times
blindly into this area, as shells fell near CLAN MACALLIS-
started burning again. Enemy guns seemed to be firing
TER but not among ships loading which were some inshore
of her. Later, these ships did come under fire, way and
VIVACIOUS was hit twice and had 11 casualties - 2-300
troops on board. Ordered her to go into Dunkerque and
fill up there.
Lees was Senior Staff Officer of H. Q. Staff, and I thought
it would be a good education for him to see something of
what the naval problem was, so I kept him on the bridge
with me. As Gort was in HEBE I felt he was safe, and as
HEBE was doing good work embarking troops I did not send
her back to Dover with him at once. Therein, perhaps, I
was wrong, as I had not realized the anxiety of Government
to have him safe and sound at home, but felt he would
1st
sooner the ship helped to bring off more men than he should
land a few hours earlier in England.
During the day made signal to all ships with instructions
for supporting fire against enemy tanks and lorries on the
beach. Critical place likely to be at La Panne after the
line was evacuated; intended to be there myself in KEITH
at daybreak next morning. Also kept BASILISK free of
(22) troops for same purpose.
1700
Weather improved gradually. Signal = "Weather off beaches
now good: many more boats should come into use again as
tide rises. General movement of troops westward towards
Dunkerque. No petrol supply yet and many boats getting
short off La Panne and Braye. Movement from Dunkerque
continues. Great air activity. "
1815
Drifters with petrol arrived.
After embarking H. Q. Staff I returned to Dunkerque and
found Wynne-Edwards had been doing good work. Saw for the
first time that strange procession of craft of all kinds
that has become famous - small motor yachts, motor launches
drifters, Dutch schuyts, Thames barges, fishing boats,
pleasure steamers, tugs towing dinghies, lifeboats and all
manner of pulling boats.
(20)
As tows of boats appeared they were told to which beach be
they should go; particularly anxious there should
sufficient at La Panne which was farthest off. Directed 10
miles up the coast; and as light was beginning the remaining to fail,
several tows to go on to La Panne, telling them it was
Motor I left and Wynne-Edwards went on up to in La a MA/SB Panne myself. to direct Off Panne Braye were I saw
tows I had feared - that tows ordered to La
stopping what at Braye: got there just in farther time to on. warn
CODRINGTON (off Braye) to send them
out to Lees how easy it was to talk about ten-mile distribu-
Pointed boats and craft at certain places along different a
ting of coast, but that it was a very craft which thing
stretch it done in practice, in the dark, by to help
to get not been there before and with no lights the first place them. they
had inevitable tendency was to stop assembled. at
The where other craft were
In the (on a his return to me at about off was La Panne.
came to end pretty fair distribution was 2230) made, and able Wynne- to
Edwards report that it was there this were evening a number that of I boats saw 2 would transports be bombed. go into
Dunkerque and out was just as it was getting from dark, that direction.
I think very nervous that they and shortly
They moved heard very heavy bombing aircraft attacking off
Actually, afterwards bombing was from our NOW own dark and I remained
batteries La Panne in down company the coast. with HEBE and several other Stayed ships.

Details

9
may 301 208
by Stayed moving off La Panne during the night, as could do much
Shelling was continuous and by the sound anywhere. some were
about after dark. No lights not
falling among the ships at the anchorage. News shells
(21)
no boats; ship message = boats found no one on beach.
conflicting: shore message = thousands of men waiting, very but
Probable truth was - Germans had range of lorry breakwater
and beaches near it and they shelled them heavily. Boats
went in there and found no one, as troops had moved farther
west clear of shell fire. Don't know what really took
place. Off shore one felt helpless, etc.
Aircraft passed close overhead flying down the anchorages
and fairway; MALCOLM off Braye reported a number of para-
chute mines dropped to westward of there, and suggested
ships should leave by Zuidcoote Pass in the morning as
passage to west was so heavily mined. Noise of MTB engines
often heard to seaward and eastward: ? our own patrol.
2300
Received urgent signal from Admiralty asking where Gort was
and why I had detailed the MTBs sent for him to other work.
Gort had just left HEBE in a motor launch: after long
search for him in the dark, at last found him, transferred
1st (24) June. As a result of the bombing the day before, asked for
him to the MA/SB and sent him off to Dover with Lees.
fighter protection at dawn.
0215
Heard that troops were moving westward and decided that
embarkation at La Panne was no longer possible. MALCOLM
and HARVESTER ordered from La Panne to Dunkerque. Also
told ships to keep close to fairway buoys to avoid mines
in the channel.
0235 (22) To Admiralty and VA, Dover:- "Yesterday ships off Braye
under fire. Today's shorter front will bring dangerous
area westward. Consider beach work too costly and evac-
uation must be confined to Dunkerque. Small craft will be
moved westward at dawn.
VA, Dover, reply = "While leaving this to your discretion,
essential that beaches be used until found impossible.
0330
Growing light. BASILISK with me - kept empty for support- La
fire against tanks or lorries along beach. Up by and
ing beach was deserted except for lorry breakwater - boats
Panne scattered cars. Sea also seemed deserbed small to the
westward. some of the boats adrift. Off Braye Ships were
had One or two motor launches about: there them was to a
vanished, a few empty ones drifting on tide told
collect and a paddle minesweeper ashore. and men were
minesweeper still loading off Braye and to the westward,
moving down westward off Braye along and the hailed beaches. a tug which and was try on to its tow way
Moved some soldiers on board to go in was
back with minesweeper. Master paid no attention; him and sent an only
(86)
off the get away. Trained a gun on board
anxious to to take charge, put the soldiers on
RNVR Sub-Lt. which was nearby, and go off to help the minesweeper with
SABRE, was that tugs had been told to regarded go over them-
Real trouble boats in tow and load up, and never they informed of this
pulling transports only. I was tugs.
selves as them as tugs and for use as by
All the night, but the degaussing possible. and
and regarded this time I was moving in waters mined proved effieient aircraft
(27)
during to edge of fairway when of the
I kept low clouds. Most ships were though full.
0400 (23)
Misty with that were not I sent into Dunkerque, and some for of the
Those were still many men on beaches, of small craft
there small gone back boats to for were England. the still night there, Did and not were majority then going realise back June. as they intended. Troops had had been
Reported are evacuating gradually directing to Dunkerque all boats as and eastern small beaches craft
sent over "Situation report at 0600, 1st
to
0625
are untenable. and loading Am all ships at Dunkerque. and fighter More attacks ships
vicinity required. Heavy bombing on Dunkerque About
(28)
on ships."

Details

11
303
300
reluctance when bombing was probable, especially
several would only go into Dunkerque in daylight. as This
now considered too dangerous, and Naval Officers were put
on board to act as advisers to the masters and crews were
stiffened with seamen. They went in every night and did
(32)
magnificent work. Other craft, also, including French
destroyers, were to go in and load alongside: British at
East Pier, French at West Quay.
Gap in pier had been bridged, but I feared that Germans
would now shell pier heavily and make it impossible for
ships to be kept alongside. Asked RAF to reconnoitre:
report gave accurate account of gap, but no word as to
whether pier was being shelled.
1700
Arranged to leave Dover at 1700. Picked up Wynne-Edwards
and Norfolk and embarked in MA/SB 10, in which a portable
loud-speaker was fitted (similar sets found very useful in
(29)
HEBE and EXPRESS). A flag had been made for me out of a
piece of cleaning cloth - the red stripe made one half of
the cross, and the other half and the balls had been added
in red paint. Harbour was full of destroyers, sloops,
etc., many showing signs of minor damage. Some were out
of action all together, and all were enjoying a short,
well-earned rest. I had an hour's sleep on way over; up
till then had had about 7 hours in short snatches, but
felt quite fresh and fit.
When some miles away from Dunkerque sighted 2 MTBs approach
ing on port bow. They did not make contact and were
(38)
probably French.
1900
Arrived at Dunkerque and made fast alongside shore end of
pier. Went to the "Bastion" (H.Q. of Army and the local
(34)
French Naval and Military Command) - 10 minutes' walk.
Many buildings and sheds damaged. A French field gun was
firing back over the town. Road fairly clear, but litter-
(30)
ed with vehicles the whole way. Men straggling along the
road, but very few troops seen as they were kept away on
beach behind shelter of wall except when ships came along-
Found side. Tennant and Alexander at the "Bastion. Heard that
French were holding a line in rear of ours and that rear
would continue to hold. Joined by my proper Flag-Lieut. with
guard were to withdraw through this line which the French
(Balfour): he had come over the day after I left, a
Returned to the pier. A Lysander Army Co-op plane, which
W/T set.
had been flying over pier all day, was fired at by several
Bofors guns - not hit. Explained it was probably the
reconnaissance plane I had asked for.
(31)
While having some food in the MA/SB, the Navigating Officer He
of KEITH appeared, saying he was the only survivor.
had swum ashore and reached a battery on the dunes some
distance outside Dunkerque, and had then walkked in.
(Actually, only 3 Officers and 33 mon were lost, and 16
wounded.) Close by my boat was Tennant's drifter; he also had 2 old
steamboats. Next day the drifter was sunk by a shell.
Naval Party ashore = about 6 Officers and a number of men
messengers, signalmen, etc. Arranged to collect some of
them at 0200/2, but Tennant would not leave then.
"Tomorrow we'll either be back in London, in a German
prison or done for.
went outside harbour to meet the first ships arriving.
2100
Beginning to get dark. First ship was a sloop, followed off
(35)
by beaches to the east of the pier and boats ferried men
minesweepers, destroyers and tugs. They anchored the
off. Noticed 3 or 4 Thames barges anchored off them beach; and
they seemed to be deserted, but men got off to full of
away. soldiers who were trying to sail her home: a Officer
One barge was met later in mid-Channel Naval
was put on board and she got back safely.
During

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bought a large supply of chocolates and cigarettes, and reached Dover
about 6.0 p.m.
At the casemates in Vice Admiral, Dovor's offices I was given somo
idea of the situation and shown a map of the coast to the Northward of
Dunkirk; on this three boaches off In Panne, Braye and St. Molo had been
optimistically numbered for embarkation of British troops, each beach
?
being divided into three sections. I was told that the Army were coming
down to these particular beaches and that certain others between St. Melo
and Dunkirk were heing used by the French, I received very little other
information except that Dunkirk harbour itself had been heavily bombed,
and "GRENADE" and other ships had been sunk there,
I was also shown the three approaches to Dunkirk. One of them from
the East could 120 longer be used at night as enemy H.T.B.' had sunk a
dostroyer there.
The Western one was being sholled from the shore in daylight and
the centre one was none too easy to make for navigational reasons,
Captain Bush was in the "HEBE" and was in charge off shore until
my arrival.
Two destroyers were ready to sail from Dover for Dunkirk and were
to take over two lots of beach parties. One of these parties amounting
to about 80 was made up of Lieutenants from the Gunntory and Torpedo
Long Courses with Petty Officers and Mon; they were intended to not 08
disciplinary parties on the beaches. In the carlier stages of the
embarkation many of the troops were completely disorganised and had
become a rabble, some throwing away their riflee and others lying on the
beaches refusing to get into the boats. These disciplinary beach pertics
were intended to check this and an order vas contemplated that no man
would be embarked unless he had his rifle.
Actually by the time I got there things had improved and the fina
bearing of the men, their discipline, and the way they stuck to their
equipment was most marked.
Another party of 200 mon were intended to not as beach parties to
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had hoped to get over to Dunkirk in daylight but the Various dolays
in collecting men and BO on mode this impossible and it was dark whon
we got near. From a long way off the flamos from burning oil tanks at
Dunkirk lighting up the sky, and a black pall of smoko above It, could
be seen.
A3 we got nearor we could also see a ship on fire off shore, and
this eventually proved to be the "CLAN MACALLISTER" at anchor off Erayo.
She continued to burn up till the end and there were accesional pops
of small arm ammunition. She Was deserted but played a very useful part
as a distraction for the Germans who sholled and bombed her continuously
instead of the ships nearby who were embarking non. Often an I passed
her later on I thought of getting her towed away but there was no ship
to spare from the more important work of saving mon, and I expect she is
still there.
you.
30
Another deserted Merchant ship off the entrance to Dunkirk played a
similar useful role and was the target for many bombing attacks.
We approached the Dunkirk beaches from the South and stopping off
each we sent the beach parties ashore in the Destroyer's boats. All
this took time and it was not till 0400 that we found the "HEBE"
0400
(commanded by my old shipmate, Lieutonamt-Commender John Temple) off
Braye and tronsferred to her. At the same time the two Commodores were
put into drifters. It was difficult to see in the daik what the situation
was, except that there were many ships, drifters and boats off the
beaches, end they were joined by the two destroyers. It was flat calm,
In the "HEHE" I found Captain Bush and heard more of the situation, and
he spoke of the ghastly sight of the shore Week with mon standing in
the water up to their waists. He had had to watch the terribly slow
progress of embarkation which I had not then seen, but I as.d not feel
that J. could accept the note of despair which I Becomed to detect in his
voice.
In the "HEBE" we moved eastward to La Panne and there down Sound us
and gave us some idea of the task ahead.
The coast here is a long stretch of Band dunes rining fairly steoply
in places from a gently sholving beach which drice for 200 yards 03' more

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high tide personnel ships could get into B, D and E.
30/5
The "KING ORRY" during a bombing attack on 24th May rammod the pier /29th
and made a large gap in it abreast E borth; until this WO.ES bridged the
outer berths could not be used as the roadway along the pier was cut. The
harbour was very shallow to the west of the West quay, and the place where
the "ROUEN" went ashore on the night of 2nd June when leaving the Quay is
shown - also where the "KELLETT" grounded on the night of 3rd Juno.
As soon 2B "HEBIG" got alongside the East Pier I made my way up to the
Local Naval Headquarters while the "HEBE" was quickly filled up with six to
seven hundred men - some of them wounded.
The Naval Headquarters were established in a dug-out at the shore end
of the East Pier. This area was not large and VISA separated from the main-
land by a bridge over a canal. The surface was uneven and covered with heaps
of rubble. there was a Bofors gun and a fow ambulances, dust-stained dis-
hevelled cars and wounded men. I was greeted by some of the staff of the
S.N.O., Captain Tennant. This small band of Officers with a party of
ratings did wonderful work controlling the embarkation and doaling with
the situation ashore. They worked under constant shellfire and were short
of sleep and food. While I was waiting there, shelling of the area began
and we retired to the dug-out entrance - but were urged by a French soldier
to go further down and round the corner as he said the direction of the fire
was straight into the entrance. I did not see Tonnant as he was away some-
where with the General, but I learnt that there were plenty of troops ready
to embark at the pier and they would take all the ships that could be sent
in.
At this time the gap in the roadway half way along the East Pier
completely out off the end, so that the only berths where we could
embark were inside this point. Later this hole was bridged DD that the whole
pier could be used except where ships were sunk alongside.
It had been my intention to keep "HERE" as my headquarters, and for
this reason she had not taken any troops on board from the beaches. I did
not feel I could refuse to fill her up at Dunkirk, and onco this was done
the question of their disposal inovitably arose. On leaving Dunkirk I

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no pants. Luckily it was fairly warm even at night, though at times I
did feel rather lightly clad about the legs.
It was about 2230 when I got aboard the "WORCESTER" which was slowly
31/5
filling up with troops and I remained there till 0100. By that time she was
full up and I sent her back to Dover and transferred to the "EXPRES."
Earlier in the day I had asked for a ship with two lines of W/T communication
and had been told that "KETTH" was detailed and was due at 2000. She did not
appear and I remainod for the
rest of the night in "EXPRESS" which
gradually filled with troops.
by this time I had been off the beaches for 24 hours and they had seemed
very full ones. I don't know when I ate or slept though I have a recollection
of lying down in the "HEBE" for an hour, and of trying to sloop sitting down
on the bridge of the "EXPRESS" loaning against some instruments with very
sharp corners.
The picture as I saw it then was briefly this: There were tens of
thousands of men on or near the beaches and in and around Dunkirk - no-one
X
seemed able to say how many. The rearguard were to be withhlrawn at midnight
the next night, i,e., 24 hours ahoad, they were the best troops and must be
got off. Dunkirk itself was the only place where rapid embarkation could
take place and D. large proportion of the troops were coming down to Is Panno
and Braye, 10 and 5 miles away from Dunkirk,
At the beaches the only boats available except for pontoons and a very
few local boats were ships' boats which went away with their ships 02' were
r
crewless if left. In many cases they had to pull in DD ships' motor boats were
often out of action, and towage was badly needed. Embarkation depended
entirely on fair weather - an onshore wind of any force would have stopped
embarkation completely.
I had stressed the vital necessity for more shallow drought boats and
crews and knew that steps were being taken at home to do all that WSD possible.
During the day French destroyers had been coming in by the Northorn
passage and channel and had been fired at from the shore. They went into
Dunkirk and loaded at the West quay. Otherwise no French ships sceemed to be
there.

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Destroyers, minesweepors, paddlers and all manner of craft were
arriving, loading and leaving the beaches and Dunkirk continuously, but
there were often periods when no ships were at one place 02 another and
loading had to wait,
Bombing of ships and beaches had so far been spasmodic - the day
X
had been overcast, visibility was not good and you could not SCO from La
Panne to Dunkirk. The sound of fighters out of sight overhead second to
account for our freedom from air attack,
A report of aircraft dropping mines one mile north of Is Patine was
received at 0400 and planes frequently passed close overhead during the
dark hours. With the dawn 2. wind from the N.W. sprang up right on the
X
beaches, and when it was light many boats could be seen capsized or broached
to and high and dry on the beach, including one at least of the local boats
which carried a lot of men and could get close inshore, It: was not a
cheering sight and as the day aged the sky overhead cleared and visibility
improved. No watched the sky anxiously for the protection of hase but 16
remained clear all day.
At 0730 I made contact at last with "KEITH." "EXPRESS" was by that time
fully londed and left for Dover as soon as I had transferred to "KETHI." Hero
I found that D. flag had been procured and it was flown on my arrivel on
board; up till then I had used a red ensign to indicate which sitty I was in.
As had been my intention with "HEBE," "KETTH" did not embark any troops
and I moved up and down the coast in her doing what I could to keep ships
distributed off the beaches and a flow of ships into Dunkins. A signal made
by me at 1035 gives a good picture of the conditions:-
11 To V.A. DOVER. Najority of boats broached to and have no Crows, Conditions
on beach are very bad due to freshening on-shore wind. Only small numbers
are boing embarked even in daylight. Under present conditions any largo-
scale embarkation from beach is quite imprecticable. Motor boats cennot
get close in. Consider only hope of embarking any number to at Dunkinis.
Will attempt to beach ship to form a Ice to try and improve conditions.
From V.A. Dover coure a signal urging the importance of using the boochou
8.15 long AB possible, and to emphasise the situation made a Surther signal

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at 1105 to say:-
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" Dunkirk our only real hope. Can guns cholling pier from Westward be
FRID
bombed and silenced. 17
The successful use of Dunkirk depended on our being able to put ships
alongside the Eastern breakwater and it was my constant fear that this might
be so accurately shelled as to render it untenable.
I also signalled to the shore urging movement towards Dunkirk and 00 a
result troops could be seen moving slowly westward,
From seaward, everything that happened on the beach could be clearly
seen. Bodies of men marched along - some in good order, others in groups
and knots. At one time a battalion in perfect order marched down through
a winding road from the dunes to the shore and I was told later that it was
the Welsh Guards, but I am not certain that this was no.
It must not be thought that embarkation from the beaches coased - all
the time slowly men came off and ships filled and left, but the largest
numbers came from Dunkirk itself.
Commencing the day before and continuing on this Friday the army had
been driving lorries down the beach to form a sort of barricade and break-
water. At Brayo the R.E. had planked a. gangway and made D. handrail on these
lorries so that motor boats could go alongside. Unfortunately the line ran
straight out to sea and as the wind was directly on shore the broakwater
gave very little shelter - still it did help.
During the forenoon I made contact again with Commodore Stevenson
who by now had completely lost his voice. I sent him over to some paddle
minesweepers which were off Erayo to got one beached to not 20 a broakwater.
This he eventually did and the next day she was high and day at daylight.
I do not know to what extent she was of use - the trouble boing that no
ship was long enough to cover the distance the tide ran out, and so could
only be of value for part of the tide.
The "HEBE" returned at 1000 with Captain Hush and the plan for the
embarkation that might. Briefly the plan W&B this:-
Large numbers of boats were now being sent over in tow of tugo end oll
manner of vessels. They vero due to stert arriving at 1500 and these boats

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were to be kept for the use of the rearguard for whom the ombaitation
scheme was planned.
To take the troops II sloops were being collected and WO1'0 to rendesvous
and proceed in company, their arrival boing timed for 0130 on the lot. They
were given berths in which to anchor in three batches, one batch off each of
the embarkation beaches.
A. feature of this plan which I folt to be impracticable was that the r
small craft were not to be used except for the resrguard, It was asking too
much to think that when our crying need WSS for inshore boats any such could
possibly be held idle while so many men were on the beaches with chips ready
waiting to bring them off.
The actual dovelopment of this plan WOB very different and the results
will be told later,
After discussion with Captain Bush I sent "HEBE" up to In Panne with
orders to be there at 1800 to receive Lord Gort whom Stevenson was to bring
off. I intended to be there myself but was concerned to have 2. second string
in case of mischance,
There was some shelling of the beaches during the day, but in most cases
the shells landod on the dunes which had a fairly steep scarp and protocted
the beach. This shelling was principally to the westward. of Braye one at ene
time a French battery 2 or 3 miles out of Dunkirk on the top of the dunce
but close to the sea received a lot of attention.
About 1330 as I was returning to the eastward "HEES" signalled that she
had been shelled off La Panne at 1200 and had had to move westward & couple
of miles. Later at 1430 I went up in "КЕТТИ" 02% In Panne to see 15 the
battery could be shelled. As soon as we got there shells began to fall and
got gradually closer until I judged 10 wisest to move out of range. It WAS
not essential be be so far east and there was nothing to be soon of the
battery, The fire W8.8 being directed by 211 observation balloon away over
by Nicupert which was plainly visible. I asked for It to be shote down,
atroreft came over apparently for the purpose and at times ** was hauled
down but always reappeared. The sholl bursts wore Entrly heavy and opported
to be 6 02' 8-inch and they fell In salvoss of four.

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line - I wanted to be in several places at once.
31/5
The first of the boat tows was due at 1500 but did not appear till a
couple of hours later. I can well remember the first, a tuz with what
looked like helf a dozen dinghies in tow. She was proceded by some useful
motor yachts which came in company.
I could not wait off Dunkirk as I VAB anxious to get eway up to In
Panno for Lord Gort, so I left Wynne-Edwards in 2. motor yacht to direct the
tows as they arrived, and to order a large number 0: hoppers and other craft
that were lying off the Western beaches to beach themselves on the rising ride
so that men could embark,
The embarkation of Lord Gort produced some odd incidents, As already
related I had orranged with Stevenson to bring him off at six o' clock, If
the weather was too bed he was to go into Dunkirk and emhark from there.
I had ordered "HEBE" to be off La Panne at that time and was going
up there myself in "KNITH." In the meantime Dover had been busy and had
sent over four M.T.B.'s and M.A.S.B's to get him. The signal informing me
of this, like many others, never reached me. During the afternoon two N.T.B.'s
came to me and said that they were to enbark a party from a point two miles
west of La Panne. This quite baffled me and I thought that they must have
been sent to fetch off some of the Naval lending party, but I realise now
that the party concerned was the H.Q. Staff.
31/5
Anyway, shortly before 1800 I was approaching La Panne when "HEBS"
signalled to me "General on beach abreast you," and there I saw a group etc
the water's odge with a couple of cara and some signalmen. "XEXST"S"
boats were at once sent in, but to my surprise Lord Gort Y.O.D not in the
first boat and I learnt that he was in "HERE" already. Three taxipo were
necessary to bring off his staff and a heavy air attack book place while
this was going on. One plane tried to bomb the boats and they had a
mireculous escape. I saw one bomb burst between than 08 they 1701'0 loading
up and the motor boat returned covered in grey mul.
Many air attacks were made at this time on the ships and baschos, and
"HEBE" shot down a Heinkel. There WRB also a great increase in sholl The
off Brayo, where the "OLAN MACATI.TSWER" was a valuable docoy. She you 1:20

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and bombed several times and started burning again. I got the impression
that these guns were firing blindly into this area, as sholls foll near the
Olan Macallistor" and over her but not among the ships loading which were
some way inshore of her. Later, however, these chips did COMO under fire,
and "VIVACIOUS" reported she had been hit twice and had eleven casualties,
and two or three hundrod troops on board, I ordered her to 80 into Dunkirk
and fill up there.
General Lees 172.S the Senior Officer of the H.Q. Staff and I thought it
2
would be a good education for him to see something of what the naval problem
was, so I kept him on the bridge with ICC. As Lord Gort was in the "EdEE"
I felt that he WGB safe, and as the "HEBE" was doing good work caberking
troops I did not send her back to Dover with him at once. Thorein perhaps
I was wrong, as I had not realized the anxiety of the Government to have
him safe and sound at home but had felt he would soonor the ship helped to
bring off more men rather than that he should land a few hours carlier in
England.
During the day I made a signal to all ships with instructions for
supporting fire against enemy tanks and lorries on the boach. The critical
place was likely to be at La Panne after the line was evacuated, and I intended
to be there myself in "KETTH" at deybreak the noxt morning. I also kopt
"BASTLISK" free of troops for the same purpose.
The weather improved gradually and at 1700 I was able to signal:-
" Weather off beaches now good. Many more boats should come into use again
Q.B tido rises. General movement of troops westward towards Dunkirk. No
petrol supply yet and many basts are getting short off La Panno and Braye,
Movement from Dunkirk continuos. Great air activity."
Actually drifters with petrol arrived not long after at 1815.
31/5
After embarking the Headquarters Staff I returned to Dunkirk to DOG
how the boat situation was getting on. There I found Wynne-Invardo who had
been doing good work, and I saw for the first time that strange procession
of craft of all kinds that has become Pamous - tuge towing dinghise, life-
boats and all manner of pulling boats - small motor yachts, motor Isunchos,
drifters, Dutch scoots, Thames barges, fishing boats, pleasure ateamoro,

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As the town of boats appeared they were told to which beach they should go,
and I was particularly anxious that there should be sufficient at La Panno
which was farthest off. I directed several town to 80 on to In Penno, tolling
them it was ten miles up the coast, and shortly after, as the light WDD
failing, I decided to leave Wynne-Edwards in an M.A.S.B. to direct the remaining
town and go Q11 up to La Panne myself. are Braye I saw what I had fourd, that
the tows I had ordered to La Panne were stopping at Braye and I arrived there
just in time to warn "CODRINGTON," who was off Braye, to send them on. further.
I had General Lees on the bridge and I remember pointing out to him how easy
Z
it was to talk about distributing boats and craft at certain places along a
ten mile stretch of coast, but that it was a very different thing to get it
done in practice, In the dark, by craft which had not been there before and
with no lights to help them. The inovitable tendency was to stop at the first
place they came to where other craft were assombled.
However, in the end a protty fair distribution vas made and Wynno-
Edwards, when he returned to me at about 2230, was able to tell no that there
were a number of boats off LQ Panne.
It must have been on this evening that I saw two Transports go into
Dunkirk and I was very nervous that they would be bombed. Just as it was
getting dark they moved out and shortly after there came the sounds of Very
heavy bombing from that direction. I felt sick SC I thought that these two
ships were being attacked, but I learnt later that 10 was not so, and this
bombing, I think, was from our own aircraft attacking battorios down the posst.
It was now dark and I remained off La Panne in company with and
Hebe
several other ships.
Once it was dark I ase not feel that much could be done by moving about,
so I stayed off LA Panne during the night. I waited there wordoring how things
were going. Everything was Back, ships and boats end shore showed no lights
though I had asked for a light to be shown ssaward to guide boats inchore. So
far as I know the rearguard was falling back and 1t was a question whother to
could got off before the Germans found out and could follow up. Shelling was
continuous and by the sound some shells were falling among the ships at the
anchorage. what nows I had was conflicting - a message from shore to Day that

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thousands of men were waiting but no boats, messages from ships that thoir
beats found no one on the beach. The truth of 1t was, I think, that the
Germans had the range of the lorry breakwator and the beaches nost 1t and
they shelled them heavily. Boats went in there and found no one on the
troops had moved further west clear of the shell firo. I do not know to
this day what really took place there. Off shore one felt helpless, the
ships and the boats were there and the troops ashoro and one could do no more.
Aircraft passed close overhead flying down the anchorages and fairway,
and "MALCOLM" off Braye reported that a number of parachuto mines had been
dropped to westward of there and suggested that ships ought to loavo by the
uidcoote
Zudcote
Ruy pass in the morning, as the pasuage to the West WEB no heavily mined.
The noise of M.T.B. engines could often be hobrd to deaward and castward
and added to my anxiety, though I thought they might possibly be our own
patrol. About 2300 I received an urgent signal from Admiralty asking where
Lord Gort was and why I had detailed the M.T.B.'s sent for him to other work.
As the M.A.S.B. had just returned with Wynne-Edwards, I sent it off at once
to "HEBE" to collect Lord Gort. To my horror it came back almost at otice to
say that Lord Gort had just left "HEBE" in a motor launch. It was very dork
and "НЫВЕ" could not; be seen though we knew where she was and I wellted anxiously
for the boat to arrive. Presently out of the dark a boat appeared and como
alongside, still not the right one and I had a bad moment thinking of the
possibilities of the boat getting lost. However, to my relief, after what
appeared about half an hour, the right boat, in charge OF Stevenson once moro,
found US at last. Apologizing to Lord Gort for keoping him walting 30 long,
I transferred him to the M.A.S.B. and sent him off to Dovor with Ceneral Iecs.
My experience of the bombing the day before led 100 to request fighter
June,
protection at dawn though I had no doubt that this was alroady hoing arrenged.
At 0215 I heard that troops were moving Westward and case to the conclusion
that embarkation at La Panne was no longer possible. "MARCOLN" and "HARVISING"
which were off Lo Panne were ordered into Dunkirk in consoquence.
I also made D. signal telling ships to keep close to the buoyo
as I hoped that they would thus avoid any minos which had boon Groy od in the
channel. At 0235 I made the following signal to V.A. Dover and

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alongside the pier. They could carry large numbers, some as many 08 3,000
mon, and so were very valuable, but they Were also large targets and were
X
used with reluctance when bombing was probable, especially as several would
only go into Dunkirk in daylight. This WAB now considered too dangerous, and
in consequence Naval Officers were put on board to act as advisors to the
masters and the crews were stiffened with seamon. For the rest of the
ovacuation they went in every night and did magnificent work.
Besides the personnel ships various other craft were to go into the
harbour to load alongside, including French destroyors, The British ships were
to use the East Pier where the British troops were and the French the Foot quay,
where the French were.
If any large numbers were to come off from Dunkirk itself it WCG covential
to be able to use the East Pier. This already had one gap in it made by the
"KING ORRY", but the gap had been bridged. I feared that the Germans would
now shell this pier heavily and perhaps damage it or at any rate make it
impossible to keep ships alongside. I accordingly asked if the P.A.F. could
reconnoitre and report what the state of the pier was and whother It was being
sholled. This was arranged and had an amusing seque]. as will be told later.
Before I returned to Dunkirk a report came back from the air reconnaissance
giving an accurate description of the gap in the pior which we alroady know
about, but not a word as to whether 3.t was being shelled.
It was arranged that I should go over in N.A.S.B.10, one of the Motor
Anti-Submarino Boats. These are large fast motor hosts, enthor like M.T.B.to,
with a speed of 25 knots and armed with two twin mochine guns and depth charges.
A portable Loud-spockor act was to be fitted in her. as I had found cirilar
X
set very useful in "HEBE" and "EXPRESS."
In the afternoon my Secretary, Paymaster Commander Batloy, srrived down
bringing with him some clothing which was very welcome, and I VIOB able to feel
respectable once more. I sent him back to London 85 there WOD nothing there
1/6
for him to do.
I had arranged to leave Dover at 1700 and on my way down to the Naval
Horbour I stopped in the own to buy & pair of pants and SOMO food to take bed over
with UD. I picked up Wynne-Edwards and Norfolk at the hotsol where they

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Noted.
2. The 3" A.A. gun in KEITH was not primarily intended for close
defence. For this purpose the ship had two converted Mk. II* pom pom equipm rang
3. Shields are being provided for all close range weapons.
not:
4. The multiple pom poms are/available for SKIPJACK class except at t)
expense of other services.
5. D.T.S.D. referred re 0.5 inch Mk. IV twin equipments.
CW
WSG
BJ
3.9.40.
for DIRECTOR OF NAVAL ORDNANCE.
4
September, 1940.
&
1.
Concur with D.N.O. (There appears to be a typing
error in his paragraph 4.)
2.
0.5" Mark IV equipments cannot be made available for
SKIPJACK class as all are allocated to Auxiliary war vessels
None the less HALCYON class minesweepers are certainly under-
armed. Subject to D.N.O's and D.N.C's remarks it is proposed
to submit for approval in principle to alter their A.A.
armaments as follows, positions being prepared for the
additional guns as opportunity offers and the guns to be
allocated as and when available.
(A) GOSSAMER, LEDA, SEAGULL, HAZARD, HEBE, SHARPSHOOTER,
BRAMBLE, BRITOMART and SPEEDY:-
Add 1 - 0.5" Mark III and re-arange this
and existing 0.5" Mark III in sided positions.
(B) GLEANER and JASON (A/S Patrol vessels of H ALCYON Class)
Add 1 - 0.5" Mark III as for GOSSAMER etc.
(C) NIGER and SALAMANDER
Remove forward 4" V in C.P. II and substitute
4" V on H.A. III or IV mounting.
Add 1 - 0.5" Mk. III as for GOSSAMER etc.
(D) HALCYON, HARRIER, HUSSAR and SPEEDWELL.
Remove 2 pdr. II and substitute 2 - 2 pdr on
single mountings, sided. Priority for allocation
+1
to be after Corvettes.
requirement 3. for 11 additional 0.5" Mk. III equipments for Ships
Should it be clearly impossible to meet the
shown in para. 2 (A) and (B), single 2 pdrs. (2 per ship)
should be allocated in lieu and the existing 0.5"s diverted
to other services.
and
w
DIRECTOR OF TRAINING AND STAFF DUTIES
DIVISION.
14-9.40.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 9.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Wednesday, 29th May (continued).
route provided the passage between Calais Bell Buoy and
Dunkirk be made in darkness.
Route X passed some 26 miles to the South-westward of the
extreme N.E. point of the Northern Route Y, the locality in
which enemy M.T.B. attack threatened, and was shielded by the
French minefields in the Ruytingen and Dyck channels. It
appears that the enemy M.T.B. command failed to appreciate the
withdrawal of traffic to the S.W. and did not follow up.
In the evening it was reported that there was no congestion
anywhere on the coast, except at La Panne. The force at La
Panne was accordingly reinforced as ships became available.
30. An additional beach party of 7 officers and a number
of ratings under Captain J. Howson was sailed in SABRE at
1600 for Dunkirk, and Captain E. Bush, who had already visited
Dunkirk and was aware of the general conditions, was sent to
HEBE as S.N.O. afloat off the beaches. An M.T.B. was placed at
the disposal of the S.N.O. on the coast.
31. At about 1600 a heavy air attack commenced on the
East Mole Pier, Dunkirk harbour, mainly by dive bombing,
which lasted continuously for more than 2 hours. At the same
time, other air attacks took place on ships lying off Bray,
Attacks were renewed from time to time up till after 2000,
nt only on Dunkirk, but on ships off Bray, in the Zuydecoote
Pass and those in the Southern end or X Route. These attacks
vere to have a disastrous result on the evacuation arrangements
at Dunkirk. There were present alongside the inner side of
the Eastern Arm 2 destroyers GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 Trawlers
head of the GRENADE and JAGUAR, 3 more trawlers ahead of them
vith the CANTERBURY in the next berth, and a French destroyer
head of the CANTERBURY. Outside the harbour on the outside of
;he Eastern Arm the Transport FENELLA was berthed opposite the
RENADE and JAGUAR and the CRESTED EAGLE opposite the 6 trawlers.
in addition, the MALCOLM and VERITY were also in the harbour
ut further inside. This presented a very good target and the
hips were soon hit and embarkation of troops ceased for the
ime being. CANTERBURY, accompanied by JAGUAR, succeeded in
eaving harbour, but both were hit by bombs and damaged. Both
succeeded in reaching Dover, though JAGUAR had to be towed
art of the way and was subjected to many attacks on passage.
ANTERBURY reached harbour at 2115 and disembarked 1950 troops
ut was sufficiently damaged to prevent her being used again
n these operations. To return to Dunkirk - FENELLA was lying
longside on the outside of the pier, and was hit and sunk.
RENADE and one of the trawlers on the East side were hit and
he trawler sank in the fairway. GRENADE sinking and on fire
ad to be abandoned and appeared to be about to sink in the
airway. A trawler was detailed to tow her clear. VERITY,
no witnessed this occurrence was continuously straddled by
ombs for 35 minutes. Passage all along the pier having
eased, she cast off, and skirting the burning GRENADE and
rawler, proceeded out of harbour, grounding slightly on a
ink drifter in the entrance. At about 1800 KING ORRY arrived
o find the harbour occupied only by burning and sinking ships,
th no sign of any one on the pier nor any boat moving in the
harbour/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 10.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Wednesday, 29th May (continued).
harbour. She was immediately subjected to heavy bombing
attacks, having previously had her steering gear put out of
action by a dive bombing attack when about - mile outside of
the entrance. She remained in sole occupation of the harbour
until shortly after midnight 29th/30th, when her Captain
rightly decided to take the ship out of harbour before she
also was sunk, thus freeing the berth and safeguarding the
channel from being blocked.
Little information of these disasters filtered through to
Dover, except that it was known that Dunkirk was under heavy
air bombardment, and that the destroyers there were being hit
soon after 1600.
32. At 1906 the Vice Admiral promulgated the plan for the
night by signal as follows: "Evacuation of British troops to
continue at maximum speed during the night. If adequate
supply of personnel vessels cannot be maintained to Dunkirk
East Pier, destroyers will be sent there as well. All other
craft except hospital carriers to embark from beach which is
extended from one mile East of Dunkirk to one mile East of
La Panne. Whole length is divided into three equal parts
referred to as LA PANNE, BRAY, MALO, from East to West with a
mile gap between each part. LA PANNE and BRAY have troop
concentration points each end and in Middle, MALO at each end.
These points should be tended by inshore craft. Pass the
message by V/S to ships not equipped W/T as opportunity offers".
33. About 1900 a telephone message was received from
La Panne Military Headquarters through the War Office and the
Admiralty to the effect that Dunkirk harbour was blocked
by damaged ships, and that all evacuation must therefore be
effected from the beaches.
About the same time a corrupt message from S.N.O., Dunkirk,
was received stating continuous bombing, one destroyer sinking,
one transport with troops on board damaged and impossible at
present to embark more troops, though pier undamaged.
34. In this confused situation the Vice Admiral, Dover,
at 2128, ordered all ships approaching Dunkirk not to close the
harbour, but instead to remain off the Eastern beach to collect
troops from the shore, and the drifters and minesweepers which
were about to be despatched to Dunkirk harbour were also
diverted to the beaches.
It appeared, therefore, at this time that the use of
Dunkirk harbour would be denied to us except possibly to the
small ships.
Signals addressed to S.N.O., Dunkirk, HEBE, VERITY, who
were known to be in the vicinity of Dunkirk, were sent require-
ing information as to the accessibility of the Eastern pier for
personnel vessels. Admiral Nord was also informed that Dover
was out of touch with Captain Tennant, and asked whether it was
still possible for transports to enter harbour and berth alongside.
No reply to these enquiries could be expected until after midnight.
35.
In the event only 4 trawlers and a yacht entered
Dunkirk during the hours of darkness, and as enemy activity was
much reduced only two bombing attacks being made, it subsequently
transpired that a good opportunity had been missed. It is
probable that ships to lift some 8000 to 10, 000 troops could
have been made available for Dunkirk during the night at little
loss to embarkation from the beaches.
36/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 11.
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
Wednesday, 29th May(continued).
36. Rear Admiral Wake-Walker proceeded from Dover in ESK
at about 1900 for passage to HEBE off the coast where he was
to carry out the duties of S.N.O., Dunkirk in charge of all
embarkation arrangements, taking over from Captain Bush who
had been working in HEBE under the orders of S.N.O., Dunkirk.
He expected to arrive at Dunkirk at 2330.
37. As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst
the destroyer force, particularly the misfortunes which befell
those of the larger and more modern types, a consultation was
held between the Admiralty and the Vice Admiral which led to a
decision to withdraw destroyers of the 'H', 'I' and 'J' classes
from DYNAMO. All destroyers of the 'G' class were already
out of action.
There remained available for DYNAMO 15 destroyers:-
ESK
MALCOLM
VERITY
EXPRESS
WHITEHALL
VANQUISHER
ANTHONY
WINCHELSEA
SABRE
KEITH
WORCESTER
SCIMITAR
CODRINGTON
WINDSOR
SHIKARI
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be
expected to maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the
coast and would lift 17,000 troops in 24 hours.
38. The day closed with a formidable list of ships lost
or damaged, a marked reduction in the number of destroyers
available and with failure to achieve the high rate of
evacuation hoped for. Some 38,000 were landed in England
during the 24 hours, but the effect of the day's occurrences
was to be more marked next day when instead of some 50,000 to
60,000 which had been calculated as the probable achievement
only 48,000 odd were in fact transported.
39.
Casualties to H.M. Ships - 29th May.
Destroyer WAKEFUL torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Destroyer GRAFTON torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Special Service Vessel CRESTED EAGLE, whilst off the
beaches at Dunkirk, was bombed and set on fire. Ship was
beached and gutted.
Personnel Vessel NORMANIA attacked by enemy aircraft
and sunk.
Personnel Vessel LORINIA attacked off Dunkirk by enemy
aircraft and sunk.
Personnel

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 11.
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
Wednesday, 29th May(continued).
36. Rear Admiral Wake-Walker proceeded from Dover in ESK
at about 1900 for passage to HEBE off the coast where he was
to carry out the duties of S.N.O., Dunkirk in charge of all
embarkation arrangements, taking over from Captain Bush who
had been working in HEBE under the orders of S.N.O., Dunkirk.
He expected to arrive at Dunkirk at 2330.
37. As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst
the destroyer force, particularly the misfortunes which befell
those of the larger and more modern types, a consultation was
held between the Admiralty and the Vice Admiral which led to a
decision to withdraw destroyers of the 'H', 'I' and 'J' classes
from DYNAMO. All destroyers of the 'G' class were already
out of action.
There remained available for DYNAMO 15 destroyers:-
ESK
MALCOLM
VERITY
EXPRESS
WHITEHALL
VANQUISHER
ANTHONY
WINCHELSEA
SABRE
KEITH
WORCESTER
SCIMITAR
CODRINGTON
WINDSOR
SHIKARI
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be
expected to maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the
coast and would lift 17,000 troops in 24 hours.
38. The day closed with a formidable list of ships lost
or damaged, a marked reduction in the number of destroyers
available and with failure to achieve the high rate of
evacuation hoped for. Some 38,000 were landed in England
during the 24 hours, but the effect of the day's occurrences
was to be more marked next day when instead of some 50,000 to
60,000 which had been calculated as the probable achievement
only 48,000 odd were in fact transported.
39.
Casualties to H.M. Ships - 29th May.
Destroyer WAKEFUL torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Destroyer GRAFTON torpedoed and sunk by M.T.B. off
Kwinte Whistle buoy.
Special Service Vessel CRESTED EAGLE, whilst off the
beaches at Dunkirk, was bombed and set on fire. Ship was
beached and gutted.
Personnel Vessel NORMANIA attacked by enemy aircraft
and sunk.
Personnel Vessel LORINIA attacked off Dunkirk by enemy
aircraft and sunk.
Personnel

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 13.
Operation "DYNAMO"
Narrative of Events.
Thursday, 30th May.
40. As an example of the difficulty of any one man
appreciating the situation at Dunkirk and the beaches during
the night, at 0030/30 the S.N.O. on the French Coast reported
that he had no destroyers. In fact, at that time, all
available destroyers, namely 10, in the Dover Command, were
either on, or on passage to or from, the coast, and the
remaining 5 were at Dover discharging troops, embarking
ammunitition, fuelling, etc. and were to sail within the next
+ hours.
Simultaneously the V.C.I.G.S. reported that the
beaches were well organised, the troops in good heart, and
there had been no bombing since dark, but that there was still
a great shortage of small craft - urgently required. This
last fact was well known to the Vice Admiral, Dover.
41. Commander-in-Chief, Nore, was requested to send as
nuch grass hawser as possible to Ramsgate, as quickly as
ossible, for supplying the skoots, to haul boats off the
beaches, thus speeding up the boat work to compensate for the
hortage of boats, which would continue for at least another
14 hours.
42. At 0500 the 7 modern destroyers remaining with Vice
dmiral, Dover - ICARUS, IMPULSIVE, INTREPID, IVANHOE, HAR-
ESTER, HAVANT and JAVELIN - sailed to Sheerness in accordance
ith Admiralty instructions. The MONTROSE and MACKAY sailed
'or repairs.
43. Meantime the Vice Admiral, Dover, had been much
xercised regarding the possibility of the continued use of
unkirk harbour for personnel vessels and was anxiously
waiting the report from VANQUISHER, who had been sent to
nvestigate the reported obstruction. VANQUISHER'S report
as received at 0610 stating entrance was practicable but that
bstruction exists towards outer inside end of the EASTERN ARM.
ending amplifying reports, the sailing of personnel vessels
o Dunkirk was resumed, although at this time there were still
personnel vessels presumed to be in the vicinity of Dunkirk
arbour, whose movements and whereabouts throughout the night
till remained obscure.
The Vice Admiral asked R.A. Dover, who was in HEBE,
hether personnel ships could, in fact, still use Dunkirk. In
he meantime a series of signals from Rear Admiral Dover, and
estroyers off the coast, were received, stating that the
eaches were filling up rapidly and more ships and boats were
rgently required there. Although it was known that the
estroyers could use Dunkirk, it appeared at this time that the
est division of transport was to send the great majority of
estroyers to the beaches, where urgent demands could not be
gnored, and the personnel vessels to Dunkirk Harbour, only an
ccasional destroyer being sent to Dunkirk from the reduced
umber now available for the operation.
44/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 22
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events,
Friday 31st May (continued).
65. Casualties to H.M. Ships during 31st May,
M/S DEVONIA received damage from near miss bombs
whilst off La Panne. About 1600 ship was ordered to be beached.
At 0600 on the 1st, after having destroyed all useful
apparatus, and ammunition put overboard, ship was beached and
abandoned.
M/S HEBE, whilst off Dunkirk, was damaged by enemy
aircraft and returned under own power to Dover.
Destroyer EXPRESS. Damaged by enemy aircraft whilst
off Dunkirk.
Saturday 1st June.
66. 2 Hospital Carriers which had sailed the previous
evening returned shortly after dawn. Only one had succeeded
in entering Dunkirk Harbour, the other had laid off 4 hours
under heavy fire and returned to Dover. 4 personnel vessels
failed to enter Dunkirk during the night, but succeeded in the
early hours of the morning. One of these, the PRAGUE, was
bombed and severely damaged half-way across on the return
journey, but succeeded in making the Downs with the assistance
of tugs, where troops transferred to other ships particularly
A/S trawlers LADY PHILOMENE and OLVINA. The supply of person-
nel vessels was maintained throughout the day, not without a
series of setbacks caused by 3 ships refusing to sail and by
2 being turned back when on passage, by French Destroyers owing
to heavy bombing and shelling of the approaches to Dunkirk.
Of those that operated during the 24 hours, 1 was sunk, 2
damaged by bombs and shell-fire and 1 by collision.
67. During the middle watch it transpired that no further
troops were attempting to evacuate from La Panne off which
were stationed one paddle minesweeper, a fleet sweeper and two
destroyers, probably due to the heavy shelling from German
guns eastward, and later information was received that the
troops were marching from La Panne through Bray towards
Dunkirk. Accordingly, during the night the Rear Admiral,
Dover, instructed all small craft to move west, with boats in
tow, towards Dunkirk, and the Vice Admiral directed all ships
under orders for La Panne to other positions further west,
concentrating the main effort on the beach immediately east
of Dunkirk.
To a request from Dunkirk for Hospital Ships, the
Vice Admiral replied at 0715 that the large ship berths
alongside at Dunkirk must be occupied by personnel ships and
the wounded that could conveniently be embarked should go with
personnel. This direction was in accordance with the Govern-
ment policy previously communicated to the Vice Admiral.
68. Soon after dawn enemy aircraft were active and
heavy bombing and machine gun attacks developed at 0500 over
the whole area from Dunkirk to La Panne. A second series of
attacks commenced at 0830 and lasted until 0900, during which
time nearly every ship off the coast was subjected to
intensive bombing and machine gunning, formations of 30 and 40
machines/

Details

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

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

19.
The Conspicuous Gallantry Medal.
4
Acting Leading Seaman Ronald Thirlwall, C/JX.159421, H.M.S.
mer.
Seaman Cook Jesse Harry Herbert Elton, LT/JX.180250, H.M.Y. Mosquito.
Bystander.
Bar to the Distinguished Service Medal.
WE
Able Seaman Arthur Victor Johnson, P/J.24734.
The Distinguished Service Medal.
Chief Petty Officer Albert William Cobley, C/J.22075, H.M.S.
Chief Petty Officer Ernest George Dewey, C/J.104364, H.M.S. Speedwell. SAbre.
Chief Petty Officer Arthur Henry Herbert Gutsell,P/J.28475,
H.M.Y. Thele
Chief Petty Officer Rowland Evan Lines, C/JX.142401, Pensioner
S.
e.
11254, H.M.S. Malcolm.
Chief Petty Officer Percy Simeon Thomas Munn, C/J.10033, H.M.S.
Royal Eagle.
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, P/J.15784, H.M.S.
Hebe.
Chief Petty Officer Francis Withington, C/J.8739, H.M.S. Worcester
Chief Petty Officer Reginald Frank Tupper, P/J.94060, H.M.S. Icaru
Chief Yeoman of Signals Fred Laister, C/J.69665, H.M.S. Keith.
Chief Engine Room Artificer ХИЛКАЙ Redvers Woodhead Atkinson,
C/MX.47004, H.M.S. Malcolm.
Chief Engine Room Artificer George Bertram Head, P/M.34498,
H.M.S. Leda.
Chief Engine Room Artificer Andrew Millar McOwan, C/M.18445, H.M.S
Sabre.
Chief Engine Room Artificer Francis Henry Patrick, C/M.14987,
H.M.S. Vanquisher.
Chief Engine Room Artificer Sidney Arthur Wilkins, P/M.18465,
H.M.S. Worcester.
Chief Mechanician Second Class Frederick Arthur Ford, P/K.21534,
H.M.S. Whippingham.
Chief Stoker Martin Gallon, P/K.59221, H.M.S. Havant.
Chief Stoker Horace Frederick Goddard, P/KX.95692, H.M.S. Icarus.
Engine Room Artificer First Class Charles Henry Andrew, D/M.28768,
H.M.S. Salamander.
Engine Room Artificer Third Class George William Hymas, P/MX.49826
Engine Room Artificer Fourth Class Eric Matt Horne, C/MX.62572,
on,
H.M.Skoot Doggersbank.
Engine Room Artificer Fourth Class Joseph Edric Whitenstall,
P/MX.57728, H.M.S. Winchelsea.
Engine Room Artificer First Class James Barton, R.N.R., Portsmouth
32EE, H.M.S. Express.
Electrical Artificer First Class Kenneth Simpson, C/MX.45564,
H.M.S. Wolsey.
Petty Officer Hyacinth Alec George Adam, P/JX.131408, H.M.S. Express.
41.
Petty Officer Harold Beasley, C/J.93287, H.M.S. Sutton.
S.
Petty Officer Henry George Coalbran, P/JX.127274, Elizabeth. H.M.S. Princess
Petty Officer John Collins, P/J.90457, H.M.S. Leda.
Petty Officer George Albert Coussens, P/J.7788, H.M.S. Dward.
Petty Officer Maurice William Crisp, P/J.100655, H.M.S. Express.
Shaw
Petty Officer Alfred Ernest Crossley, C/J.103237, H.M.S. Queen. Medway.e

Details

a
ENCLOSURE No.1 TO DOVER LETTER No.B23/862/40 dated 4 June 1940.
Page 2.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF OFFICERS FOR SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH
THE EVACUATION OF THE ALLIED FORCES FROM DUNKIRK.
(contd.)
CAPTAIN THOMAS EDGAR HALSEY, ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "MALCOLM", D.So
50
D.S.O.Lay.
CAPTAIN GEORGE FREDERICK STEVENS-GUILLE, D.S.O., O.B.E., DSO
is the ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "CODRINGTON",
COMMANDER BRIAN DEAN, ROYAL NAVY, (RETIRED), H.M.S. "SABRE" ,D.S.O.
COMMANDER RALPH LINDSAY FISHER, ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "WAKEFUL" ,DSO
COMMANDER JOHN HAMILTON ALLISON, ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "WORCESTER"
D.S.O
COMMANDER RICHARD CYRIL VESY ROSS, ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "GOSSAMER"
ACTING COMMANDER KENNETH MORLAND GREIG, ROYAL NAVY, (RETIRED)
H.M.S. "SANDOWN",
DSC,
\
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER COLIN HENRY CAMPBELL, ROYAL NAVY,
DSC
H.M.S. "WOLSEY",
sqs,DSOL
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JOHN BRUCE GOODENOUGH TEMPLE, ROYAL NAVY,
H.M.S. "HEBE",
DSC
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER HAROLD UNWIN, ROYAL NAVY, H.M.S. "LEDA",
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JOHN MARK SYMONDS COX, D.S.C., ROYAL NAVY,
? This should Ge Commander Hinton.
H.M.S. "HALCYON",
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER CECIL JOHN WYNNE-EDWARDS, ROYAL NAVY,
H.M.S. "PRESIDENT",
D.S.C.
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER REDVERS MICHAEL PRIOR, ROYAL NAVY, (RETIRED)
H.M.S. "LYNX",
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER ARTHUR JELFS CUBISON, D.S.C.,
ROYAL NAVY (RETIRED),
D.S
LIEUTENANT COMMANDER NEVILLE LIONEL JOHN PISANI, D.S.C., D.S.O
ROYAL NAVY (RETIRED), H.M.S. "FERVENT",
D.SC
TEMPORARY LIEUTENANT CEDRIC VICTOR BRAMMELL, ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE
H.M.S. "GULZAR",
D.SC
D.S.C
TEMPORARY LIEUTENANT E. L. DAVIES, ROYAL NAVAL VOLUNTEER RESERVE
H.M.S. "ORIOLE",
D.S.C
PROBATIONARY TEMPORARY SUB. LIEUTENANT JACK MASON, ROYAL
NAVAL VOLUNTEER RESERVE, H.M.S. "CHICO",
D.S.C.V
TEMPORARY SKIPPER JAMES HENRY MUGRIDGE, ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE,
SKIPPER,
W.S.3018,
TEMPORARY PROBATIONARY GEORGE WILLIAM ALDAN, ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE
D.S.C.
W.S.3014, H.M.TRAWLER "JOHN CATTLING",
PROBATIONARY TEMPORARY SKIPPER EDWARD FREDERICK DETTMAN,
ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE, W.S.3306, H.M. DRIFTER "BOY ROY",
D.S.C.
PROBATIONARY TEMPORARY SKIPPER ALFRED MANNING LOVIS,
ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE, W.S. 3397, DRIFTER "PAXTON",
70
LIEUTENANT VAN HAMILEN, ROYAL NETHERLANDS NAVY.
For distinguished service while serving in His Majesty's
Ships carrying Troops from Dunkerque to Dover.
Ships were the target for continual attacks from enemy
aircraft, submarines, and M. T. B'S.
They were required to berth under exceptionally difficult
conditions in darkness, and in a confined harbour obstructed
by wrecks and crowded with small craft under way.
: Commander Cronin of Nigu. Sevin officer 4 ᵃ Maicsweepoing Aistilla.
(Continued

Details

Page 2.
HICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS.
CRUISER.
TTTA
ROYERS.
ONY
INTREPID
VENOMOUS
LISK
IVANHOE
VERITY
INGTON
JAGUAR
VIMY
JAVELIN
VIVACIOUS
ESS
KEITH
WAKEFUL
ANT
MACKAY
WHITEHALL
TON
MALCOIM
WHITSHED
ADE
MONTROSE
WINCHELSEA
HOUND
SABRE
WINDSOR
ESTER
SALADIN
WOLFHOUND
NT
SCIMITAR
WOLSEY
US
SHIKARI
WORCESTER
LSIVE
VANQUISHER
P.
EFORD
VETTES.
LLEMOT
MALLARD
SHELDRAKE
GFISHER
SHEARWATER
WIDGEON
BOATS.
UST
#
MOSQUITO
ESWEEPERS.
ROSS
URY
HEBE
SALAMANDER
GHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALTASH
GHTON QUEEN
LEDA
SANDOWN
ONIA
LYDD
SHARPSHOOTER
HESS OF FIFE
MARMION
MEDWAY QUEEN
SKIPJACK
DALK
SNAEFELL
PEROR OF INDIA
NIGER
SPEEDWELL
CZROY
ORIOLE
SUTTON
ENAVON
PANGBOURNE
WAVERLEY
ENGOWER
PLINLIMMON
WESTWARD HO
SSAMER
PORTSDOWN
CIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WHIPPINGHAM
LCYON
QUEEN OF THANET
(Continued)
Sunk.

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 51
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
1.S.
HEBE. - Lieutenant-Commander this J. B. G. Temple. (Decorated
operation in London Gazette of 7th June, for 40)
beaches and Dunkirk was used by S.N.O. afloat and his
This ship in addition to embarking troops from the
deputy. attacks During and this time the ship was subjected to heavy
bombing was machine-gunned. The ship was
considerably shaken by near misses.
Recommendations.
RATINGS:
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, O.B.E. P/J.15784.
O
For his coolness and gallantry in action,
superlative leadership and good example to the ship's
company.
DSM
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. Harold Biles, P/MX.4730.
For his co-operation in action and devotion to
duty during very difficult situation.
M.
Recommended for mention.
ri
te
vo
as
ho
is
*
on
OF nu

Details

Page 51
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. HEBE. - Lieutenant-Commander J. B. G. Temple. (Decorated for
this operation in London Gazette of 7th June, 20)
This ship in addition to embarking troops from the
beaches and Dunkirk was used by S.N.O. afloat and his
deputy. During this time the ship was subjected to heavy
bombing attacks and was machine-gunned. The ship was
considerably shaken by near misses.
Recommendations.
RATINGS:
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, 0.B.E.,P/J.15784.
For his coolness and gallantry in action,
DSM-
superlative leadership and good example to the ship's
company.
Recommended for mention.
E.R.A. Harold Biles, P/MX.4730.
For his co-operation in action and devotion to
duty during very difficult situation.
Recommended for mention.

Details

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

Details

23
SECRET.
MESSAGE
OUT 2239/8/June.
Addressed C. in C. Portsmouth, 447.
Date 8.6. J.
Repeated F.O.I.C. Portland, 616.
N.O.I.C. Poole.
052
Naval Cypher C.
From Admiralty.
The following Dutch Coasters now lying at Poole
are to be commissioned forthwith as tenders to VICTORY
and will be under the orders of C. in C. Portsmouth.
KAAT FALGA
WEGA ?
HEBE II
RUGA
JABA
ABEL TASMAN
ATLANTIC
DESPATCH II
ZEUS
PRISO
? FRISO
SAN ANTONIO
PACIFIC
2. Officers and crews are assembling at R.N. Barracks
Portsmouth.
3. The operation for which these ships are being
prepared is called CYCLE.
2239/8.
for D.O.D. (H)
1st Lord.
PERSONAL
1st S.L.
PERSONAL
V.C.N.S.
PERSONAL
A.C.N.S.
PERSONAL
A.C.N.S. (T)
PERSONAL
A.C.N.S. (H)
PERSONAL
C.S.O. to 1st S.L.
PERSONAL
Duty Cap to
PERSONAL
D.D.I.C.
PERSONAL
D. of P.
PERSONAL
D.P.S.
PERSONAL
D.N.I. (3)
PERSONAL
I.S.P.S.
PERSONAL
D.O.D. (H)
PERSONAL

Details

Details

Details

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

Details

no
(35)
CONFIDENTIAL.
FROM
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER.
CANADA DATE MILITARY 10 your
8th June, 1940. No. B14/0/882/40.
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
(copies to: Commander in Chief,
Portsmouth.
Commanding Officer,
H.M.S. "HEBE". )
UCNS
With reference to Admiralty Message 1320/8, be
pleased to inform Their Lordships that Captain E.W.Bush, D.S.C.
(Captain, Auxiliary Patrol, Dover) was on board H.M.S. "HEBE"
for the greater part of the Dunkirk evacuation. As far as
he is aware no gas attack took place.
VICE ADMIRAL.

Details

no
(35)
CONFIDENTIAL.
FROM
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING DOVER.
DATE
8th June, 1940. No. B14/0/882/40.
10
UN 1019
MILITARY
SECRETARY OF THE ADMIRALTY.
(copies to: Commander in Chief,
Portsmouth.
Commanding Officer,
H.M.S. "HEBE" -)
UCNS
With reference to Admiralty Message 1320/8, be
pleased to inform Their Lordships that Captain 3.W.Bush,D.S.C.
(Captain, Auxiliary Patrol, Dover) was on board H.M.S."HEBE"
for the greater part of the Dunkirk evacuation. As far as
he is aware no gas attack took place.
VICE ADMIRAL.

Details

011298 40
SECRET
V148380/088* 2/40 1,800 pads jcastic Gp874/88
MESSAGE.
HORE
1320/8.June.
OUT
CONFIDENTIAL.
BAYS
To V.A., Dover. 549.
DATE 8.6.40.
HEBE.
0.in O., Portsmouth. 416.
P/L BY T/P.
SENT
From Admiralty.
It is understood H.M.S.HEBE experienced a gas attack off
La Panne on 31st May.
Request report in writing be forwarded as soon as possible.
1320/8.
Sec. V.C.N.S.
(Approved by V.C.N.S.)
I.L.
I.S.L.
V.C.N.S.
A.C.N.S. (H).
D.T.S.D.
D.T.M.
M.D.G.
Ops. (4).
D.D. (3).
Admiral Bellairs.
M. (3).
.B.H.

Details

VESSERHAMER
OWNER
ЯДИМО
REMARKS JM882V
ABDE BEAUCLARK
Lifeboat
ABEL TASMAN
Dutch
JoodsTid везихойса
AEGIR
Dutch
ALICE
.I.А.И.Я
security
Dutch
AMAZONE
Dutch
ANTJE
Dutch
$8009711
OJ benefits
BART
.00 .K.B .0 & .9
"D"
Dutch
BORNRIFF
Dutch
BRENDARIS becreach
Isodetts ВОИТВАН
Dutch
CARIBIA
SHTYH
Dutch
TOS Wasmotat OK
antil 7838 SHIE
DELTA
(A) STACHERS
STATEMENT mott
Dutch
DESPATCH II benefits S
Dutch enta Itall Isvor
DOGGER BANK (bensuder
(a) STAORSTAR
Dutch
of Бептитея
office? nstbens0
STAOSHIRE
FERDANTA
Dutch .btd .00 18.8
FRISCO exem0 benefits
Dutche0 .M.B .0 58 .9
(81) STACHETIJ
TOT
CORECHT 03 benefits
Dutch mebH.8.2 Date:
TAOHERIS
of DenindeR
(Totoli S)
HEBE hev 10005 on
Dutch
(8) STAOSETIC
HONSDRUG FeersV gateelM
Dutch
xa
HORST S bite Demitter S
Dutch ITSAO ИТДВОЯ xH
(+) STACHATIS
besiges aeno
JAVA ATUJOT TO SEASE of
Dutch sibal
STAOSHERS
JUTLAND mort
Dutch .00 mottegivell
(afessev OL)
DIE INJURITY TOD
SERVETE SCIUDI
KAAPFALGA
Dutch della
52000214 Agridobia
YOUR
LENA
Dutch Говлойн Aground on Brady beach.
BILIN & 011900
XII STAOSBULI 4
ORANJE
Dutch
RITCAD
OD
NOTE
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PACIFIC "dati
Dutch
HYHORIDA
PASCHULL
⑉06⑉
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RUJA
Dutch
SANANTINO
Dutch
STADHAM
SURSUM CORDA
Dutchidelli blowdows
TTOO YEAR
зия ита ATAHOTM
Dutch
(dsods)
TILLY
Dutch
TWENTE
nosemic 18
BEDRIT
.renwo of Белшей
Dutch
(Jebdoth
VREDE Jon bib
LOOPE TELEPORT
Dutch
(THATEW XSTX BAMORT)
WEGA
Dutch
Jeodella STAOLMAS
ZEOS
bna CLOOD АВОЯ
anuz
******** HUMAN
ИОТИТЯЧ bire MOTJAW

Details

Dynamo
16
13
Dynams 224
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North Weat of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
XX at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
cretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
theMay, I was engaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
istern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
ücen to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
erations one boat was lost.

Details

Dynamo
16
in
Dynams 224
-
H.M.S. Dolphin,
16
Gosport.
June 6th.I940.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
proceedings of HM.S.Dolphin's Power Boat.
2.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th.
May with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch, rem-
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible to
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to delay
in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only possible
to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor launch M73 had
arrived about 15 minutes previously.
3.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S.Peregrine
and the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M 73.
On arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
bined with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
in the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
refuel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
ship before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol jetty,
and it was not before 1900 that orders were received from the
Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate but was
to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
4.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st. May for H.M.S.Dolphin's
boat to proceed with a similar boat from Excellent to La
Panne and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
company until within a short distance of the French coast. Charts
and the route were supplied to each boat and information was
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching the
destination it could be obtained from H.M.S.Hebe.
5.
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
was found that more petrol was being consumed than had been est-
imated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern sea
and swell, and "Excellent's" boat found it necessary to reduce
speed to about 8 knots.
6.
Some 8 miles North Weat of Bray an enemy floating mine
was seen
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
Box at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
Secretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
eastern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
Sth.May, I was engaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
taken to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
perations one boat was lost.

Details

Dynamo
16
17 14
was seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire
but this was impracticable owing to the unsteadiness of
the boat. The approximate position of the mine was later
reported.
7.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being
short of petrol, closed H.M.S.Hebe but was unable to obtain
any from her. As there were no other ships carrying petrol
off La Panne, it was thought desirable to return to Bray in
order to have a reasonably safe margin of petrol before
conveying troops. On arrival at Bray, "Excellent's" boat
signalled that she had struck a submerged object and req-
uired assistance. As I had been told by a destroyer that
the depth of water in that position was 3 feet and had also
been told by the Senior Officer at Bray to be extremely
careful not to get into shallow water, it was not considered
advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the loss of
a second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
try to assist but ran aground.
8.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
boat proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, how-
ever, all ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore
batteries from the town which was shortly afterwards OCC-
upied by the enemy. In consequence the motor boat returned
to Bray.
9.
Enquiries were made at destroyers and other vessels
present as to whether "Dolphin's" boat could be of any ass-
istance, but again ,owing to the shallowness of the water
and state of the sea it was not possible to go alongside the
improvised pier from which all troops were being embarked
(no troops were at this time wading out to boats), nor was
there a demand for a boat for towing purposes.
10.
After consultation with the senior officer present
as to the usefulness of this boat under the circumstances,
it was decided to obtain a tow back to Dover to refuel, and
there it was hoped that another tow could be obtained back
to Dunkirk, where, it was believed the boat could be more
usefully employed. A tow was obtained from Sargossa
at 1415
Cash to the value of 1,000 Francs was extracted from the Deed
Box at the D.S.T.O's Office, which was subsequently handed to the
Secretary to the P.S.T.O. at Dover, whose receipt is attached.
T.S.S. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL".
During the early hours of
28th,May, I was angaged in embarking troops from the beach at the
eastern side of the Harbour entrance in this vessel's five lifeboats.
200 men were brought alongside in this manner and others were
taken to other craft In the vicinity.
During these
operations one boat was lost.

Details

374
348
2.
at Dover envisaged far more men being embarked from the beaches than was in
practice possible when the moment arrived, and I had therefore to modify them
on the spot to make greater use of Dunkirk, and continually adjust the plan and
the means to a changing situation.
13.
During the day of 30th May embarkation proceeded slowly - there were not
enough ships off the beaches and at one moment HEEE was there alone. Men were
coming off in pontoons but there was often no one to take these craft ashore
again. During the day lorries were driven into the sea to form piers.
14.
There were many wounded on board HEBE, and at 4 Della I decided to
send her home. Captain Bush went in her to strees the vital necessity for
boats and crews if any numbers were to come off from the beaches.
15. landed at La Parme to visit the C.-in-C. It was necessary to vade the last few
Accordingly I transferred to WINDSOR off Bray at 1600, and at 1630
yards. Captain Tennant was with the C.-in-C. and the situation was discussed.
I stressed my views as to the difficulties of embarkation by boat and the
necessity for moving towards Dunkirk, but I could not but be sware of a reluctance
on the part of the Army to do so and & feeling that the Navy ought to be able to
embark large mumbers by boat from the beaches. Arrangements to take off the
C.-in-C. at 1600 on Friday were made, and be informed no of the affort of which
he had heard from the 1st Sea Lord by telephone, and which Yes to be made on
Friday night. The details of this I received next day at 1000. when Captain
Bush returned in HEBE.
16. soldiers the boat swanped in shallow water, but the second attempt with &
At my first attempt to return to WORCESTER in a pontoon paddled by
smaller crew was successful and I got on board at 2200.
31st May
17. transferred At 0130 to EXPRESS on and in her proceeded to Dunkirk at daylight to direct ships
Friday, 31st May, as TORCESTER Yes full S with troops 1
to where they were most needed.
the breeze freshened and being onshore made boat work that very
18. On this day boats were breached to and stranded at high continued water so to
movement was very doubtful of troops that it would be of any use except for a small period the
embarkation from to Dunkirk and considered the value of beaching ships of
difficult. Many the beaches came almost to a standatile. I but urge
tide.
19. thereafter At 0645 so that I my movements should not be hangered by
transferred to H.M.S. KEITH and kept her consideration free from troops of
embarkation or wounded men.
arrived with the plana for the evacuation small for boats Priday and night.
20. At 1000 HERE the provision of larger numbers of to be
The crews essence to bring of off these the was rearguard at 0130 to minesweepers which were there
about that time.
21. During the for day me to get Destroyers, Paddlera, and would other have been sent these
the time of embarkation vas advanced to 2030 craft and off this
made it necessary for this sany of these ships sent every into ship
beaches at that time. But could have loaded quicker. As it was, I mmber of
Dunkirk itself where be they taken from the beaches more into Dunkirk than but I the liked. large
which places could from which possibly boats were working looked up ahiya
22. About noon At 1430 I proceeded in KRITH to La balloon. Panne try KETTH was locate
HERE off La Panne came under fire from at ahore to battery to and
moved the battery further but West. it was being directed by an observation
fired on and I withdrew.
/23. A

Details

Report Captain I. Hugge RN
of Bray the Paime beaches
I reported to Vice Admiral Dover, about 0530
on Wednesday, 29th May. As a result of a report of an
Army officer recently evacuated, it was decided that
a party of Naval Officers was required on the beaches
between La Panne and Dunkirk. Accordingly, I together
with Commanders Gorton and Otway-Ruthven, Lt.Commander
brop
Nottle and Jones)embarked in SABRE about 1400, eventually
Cockburn, R.N., Lt.Commander Woodward and Lts. Whalley,
sailing for Dunkirk about 1600.
Dunkish
Captain Bush, who had also arrived from Dover in
the morning, took passage with my party. On arrival in at
Dunkirk about 1820, the Western side of the town was
southward. GRENADE was seen to be heavily on fire and
flames and vast volumes of smoke were drifting to the
alongside the Eastern pier and a transport sinking
sinking in the inner harbour. A trawler was sinking at
the outer side of the Eastern pier.
29
We disembarked at once, and proceeded to the
inner Dunkirk) staff. Captain Tennant had proceeded at
end of the pier where we met Captain Tennant's
to G.H.Q. Our arrival coincided with until dusk. heavy
in the morning and was expected back of any
bombardment had to clear the harbour as soon as possible to
time. which went on almost continuously owing
SABRE bombing, and it was therefore impracticable her
to the W/T sets she had brought prior to 2100(?) leaving
transfer beaches. the Captain Tennant returned time about to seek
his my function had been)to act to as
and proceeded instructions as to my party's disposal. either as
for the to a conference before I had Before
double-back leaving Dover, for Captain Tennant or alternatively decision. work
on the beaches according to S.N.O's
the above shelling and bombing, manoeuvring 3 or 4
transports were to the harbour was a near miss
During sunk or disabled. ordered KING ORRY to proceed
and subsequently remaining there until towed making the
clear, rammed the Eastern pier alongside by large at
in the entrance but before doing go was damaged by making a
drifter. hole, and The pier was holed by at bomb outer
part useless.
hospital ship about to enter was dark. ordered As to
proceed clear A and a considerable return alongside number after of stretcher the only cases three
darkness fell, accumulated were despatched other in side of the
which ambulances had available readiness' for to the the quay hospital the ship's across return. the Large
harbour in of walking cases were transferred
harbour numbers by drifter to the same quay.
Captain Bush in the S.N.O. meanwhile afloat proceeded of the beaches, in an
M.T.B. M.T.B. to embark being directed in HEBE as to return to transport me to the
beaches the later if necessary.
At about to proceed along the beaches. divided officers passage
2330 (7) S.N.O. returned and said On he
wished across my the party Channel, I had tentatively my into/

Details

6
GOSPORT,
June 6th 1940.
I have the honour to submit the following report of the
ceedings of H.M.S. "DOLPHIN'S" Power Hoat.
The boat sailed from Gosport at 1915 on Wednesday 29th
with orders to proceed to Ramsgate with all despatch,
aining overnight at Newhaven, or if it should not be possible
reach there before dark, to make Littlehampton. Owing to
ay in sailing and to adverse weather conditions it was only
sible to make the latter port at 2200. The Dutch motor
mch M.73 had arrived about 15 minutes previously.
80 gallons of petrol were embarked from H.M.S. Peregrine
the motor boat proceeded to Ramsgate in company with M.73.
arrival off Dover at 1400, owing to shortage of petrol com-
ed with the uncertainty of navigation by the boat's compass
the prevailing fog, it was decided to enter the harbour to
uel. Considerable delay was necessary at the contraband control
R before entering and also before fuelling at the petrol
y, and it was not before 1900 that orders were received
n the Naval Base that the boat was not to proceed to Ramsgate
was to be held in readiness to proceed to sea at short notice.
Orders were given at 0030 on 31st May for H.M.S. "DOLPHIN'S"
to proceed with a similar boat from H.M.S. "EXCELLENT" to La
18 and Bray Dunes, respectively, the two boats to remain in
any until within a short distance of the French coast.
ts and the route were supplied to each boat and information
obtained that if there was a shortage of petrol on reaching
destination if could be obtained from H.M.S. "HEBE".
Shortly after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel it
found that more petrol was being consumed than had been
mated, mainly due to yawing caused by a considerable stern
and swell, and "EXCELLENT'S" boat found it necessary to
ce speed to about 8 knots.
Some 8 miles North West of Bray an ememy floating mine was
and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire but this
imprecticable owing to the unsteadiness of the boat. The
oximate position of the mine was later reported.
At 1115 the boat arrived off La Panne, and, being short of
ol, closed H.M.S. "HEBE" but was unable to obtain any from
As there were no other ships carrying petrol off La Panne,
as thought desirable to return to Bray in order to have a
onably safe margin of petrol before conveying troops.
rrival at Bray "EXCELLENT'S" boat signalled that she had
ck a submerged object and required assistance. As I had
told by a destroyer that the depth of water in that position
3 feet and had also been told by the Senior Officer at Bray
e extremely careful not to get into shallow water, it was not
idered advisable owing to the state of the sea to risk the los:
second boat. Another shallower draughted boat did, in fact
to assist but ran aground.
20 gallons of petrol were obtained at Bray and the
proceeded back to La Panne. Before reaching there, however,
ships weighed and left under shell fire from shore batteries
the town which was shortly afterwards occupied by the enemy.
msequence the motor boat returned to Bray.

Details

SECRET.
Dysams 233 Alwol 1031s
THE COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S.HEBE.
7th June, 1940.
THE VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER. (Copies to:- Senior Officer's
1st & 6th M.S. Flotillas).
JECT. REPORT ON OPERATION "DYNAMO".
Orders were received at approximately 2145 for "HERR"
1 "SHARPSHOOTER" to sail for Dover. The passage which was
Carted at 2250 was made without incident except for thick fog
om Kinnand Head to Bell Rock. Both ships arriwed at Dower at
23 on May 28th and secured to buoys.
2. At 1830/28 I was ordered to raise steam and proceed with
1 dispatch to La Panne, taking cassage by Route Y to embark troops
com the beach. Difficulty was experienced in finding the Whistle
by marking the channel off Braye. This was eventually found and
NBR anchored off La Panne at 011009 On passing the Whistle Buoy
heavy explosion occurred about È mile to Testward which was
liewed to be due to a magnetic mine. No information was forth-
ming as to whether any British ships were damaged.
3. Embarkation of troops continued till dawn, using ship's
Dats about 100 troops were embarked, including a number of stretcher
ses.
4. "HEBE" weighed and proceeded at and arrived alongside
Dover at 1010.24 After disembarking troops, ship secured to
19 buoy and took on board water and fresh provisions.
5. "HEBE" proceeded for La Panne via Y channel at 1410 and
crived off Whistle Buoy at 1840./29 A very intense air raid by dive
ombers was in progress at this time and It was decided to postpone
try into the Roads until this was over. Various enemy aircraft
ere engaged, and "HEBE" was attacked by three Heinkel Bombers, two
C which had already dropped their bombs, and opened fire with
achine guns ; the attacked with what was believed to be
hcendiery bombs. No hits were scored by the enemy.
6. After these attacks, a voice was heard crying for help
nd a floating figure was observed. With the help of the loudspeaker
rescued this man (who turned out to be a wounded R.A.P. Officer) and
Name to his assistance. He was picked up in very shallow water.
7. In accordance with instructions I then proceeded to
unquerque and embarked Capt. 3. Bush, D.S.C. R.N. At 211531 I
mbarked survivors from a troop ship which had been sunk in the
in raid at 1900. There was several severe casualties suffering
rom burns.
8. I arrived at La Panne at 2230 taking my orders from
Sapt.Bush. At 0045/30 a signal was received from ESK to send boat
or R.A. and staff, who arrived on board 0100.26
9. Troopa were embarked from boats at various places from
a Panne to Braye, up till 10000 when "HEBE" proceeded alongside at
Dunquerque and filled to capacity.
10. On leaving Dunquerque proceeded under orders of R.A. until
1515, when he and his staff transferred to "KKITH". "HEBE" then
sailed via Route X for Ver where she arrived at 2000. Des-embark-
ation was completed at 2345 and ship secured to No. 20 buoy, and
60

Details

94
-2-
30
hished ammunition. Left Dover again at 0618 with Capt.Bush
ard and arrived at La Panne at 1035-31 Troops were embarked
3 forenoon and afternoon from ships and other boats. During
operations ship's motor boat broke down, capsized and was lost,
he whaler was sunk in collision. No casualties were sustained.
3 this period H.M. ships at anchor at La Panne and Braye were
cted to bombardment from shore guns in the neighbourhood of
ort and inland. Constant manoeving was necessary to avoid this
fire.
11. At 1700 approximately an intense air raid started and "HEBE"
ttacked by four dive bombers, and twelve heavy bombs were The dropped
ree of them, all of which fell very close to the ship.
h plane machinggunned the ship. Apart from all lights being
rarily extinguished, the seizing of one boiler-room an engine
he collapse of boiler brick work, only superficial damage was
d, such as the breaking of crockeryåtrivials. It is remarkable
einkel Bomber was shot down in flames by the .5 machine gun.
greater damage was not sustained as the ship was very badly shaken.
12. At 1800 131 a signal was received from shore saying that
would embark from La Panne. I proceeded there, and then miles received
her Westward instead. Arrangements were made for boats to go
: instructions that G.H.Q. would embark from a point two to
1e and Lord Gort and his A.D.C. arrived on board at 18.30/31 "KETTH".
remainder place of G.H.Q. are all believed to have embarked in
a Lord started. It was noticed that the shelling was directed at
Gort was embarking, another air raid and considerable
ling where G.H.Q. would have originally embarked. Approximately dropped on
y air During these attacks I proceeded at "KRITH" high
beach, craft took part in the raid and many bombs were speed,
e and ships. frequently and kept as far away from and G.H.Q. as possible, were
ring course that the enemy had information that Lord continue Gort embarkation
eving card her. At 2000 I returned to La Panne to
roops. This continued till 0300/1
13. Lord Gort transferred to "KEITH" at 0015./1 0015.
ected to a very to this bombardment Capt. Bush gave embark in ships troops
14. From heavy bombardment, and by 0300 order for town
2300 onwards the beach and town at La much Panne of were the
on fire. Due to the Westward or Dunquerque to to assist in
e possible. and it was found that all small therefore were fully
a Panne to move At 035011 proceeded towards Braye boats
rkation there to ships already there, and I number proceeded was
pied in transport I filled up to 420 troops. A ger and fuel, and
unquerque where as the ship was short of ammunimition embarkation operations,
consequently very opened on enemy aircraft of all
taken on board 'tender'. During all types. Proceeded
0420 was to frequently Dover via X channel, arriving there at
15. Having to boiler brickwork and fan engine. collapsed due
taken in oil and ammunition "HEBE" remained During alongside the
lowing 24 hours sent to Sandhurst for treatment. for Portsmouth at
make good defects one officer and 28 members of the I crew reported this
shock t to Vice and Admiral were Dover who ordered me to sail
0 on June 3rd and give leave.
16. Lithough the consuct of the officers and Ade on individual
ad very little sleep and ship's were continually company has at
n ion beyond Further report will Inflamph cases.
DOVER
R
LIEVTRIANT-COMMANDER
Commanday office. Ams Hstr.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Part
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S. WHITSHED.
The Rear Admiral (D) gave me orders to II
loud hailer and stop other ships entering and this
Some 80 troops and 10 civilians and others were en
from small craft. Orders were received to return
as no more troops were available and ship proceede
0245, When at No. 5 W. buoy H.M.S. HOLLAND was obs
apparently splitting in half and sinking. I stood
but survivors were taken off by M.T.B. 102 so I pr
arriving Dover at 0530.
A Dutch scoot flying the white ensign he
me in Dover harbour the previous afternoon piercin
oil tank. While off Dunkirk with H.M.S. MALCOLM 1:
across my bows an unknown paddle minesweeper rammed
stern and carried away part of the depth charge ra
Ship accordingly proceeded alongside Sandhurst when
damaged stern was made watertight.
although lying at one time alongside H. HEBE we
My ship's company were in very good heart
unaffected by their hysteria.
pier party ship sailed at 1900 for Dunkirk with the
Embarking Commander Buchanan, R.A.N. and
harmonica band playing.
jammed me in the entrance and and tide we
Ship arrived Dunkirk at 2215, 3rd June.
berth and a wire out but this got my I put part 0
ships off the Eastern arm. I the wind bows alongside
party into the M. T.B. that had parted. (D) abc
my and wires. The harbour was now French full of troops ships of all
again went alongside, but the Rear Asmiral would I
brow SABRE who had slipped and my me. I gave 8
alongside M. a transport's stern stern alon
sizes backing and filling. Eventually I got II
as to the transport to assist in inside them in embarking to
one the very tide was small narrow brow. or She, four however, decided th
they only had some three hundred on boar
more board. and about I or that ens fell can troops the Perforce same use M.T.B'S in falling sight time. I were of I she By sailed this again must now down at number I at and leave high had the 0245 embarked nn harbour about speed and board having H.M.S. 200 and with a and been furthe troops salvo SABRE so my the WI V
manoeuvring uncomfortably of to the ship One while
passage made in dense from fog. within a mile arrived of the Dover breakwa at
of After making of arrangements which about the was admin th
sailed at 1315 for a
I have the honour to be, Sir
Your obedient Servanys
The (Copies Vice (Sga.) E.R. CONDER
CANADA

Details

Dynam. 330.
SECRET
SECRET
Page 2.
TO.
VICE ADMIRAL DOVER
DATE
14th June $940
FROM
COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S.HEBE
SUBJECT.
REPORT ON OPERATION DYNAMO (Contd.)
use If
S was :
embarked
Further to my report on the above ration, the
to Done
following Recommendations for decorations and Mention
ed at
in Despatches are submitted:-
served
d by E
1.
Recommended for Mention In Despatches
roceeded
Lieutenant Horman Eyre Morley D.S.C. R.N.V.R.
By his tireless efforts and good
ed гаше
organization the embarkation of troops
ng No.5
was carried out smoothly and rapidly.
lying
ed my
2.
Recommended for Distinguished Service Medal
acks.
ere the
C.P.O. Stanley Freeman Piggott Medal O.B.E.
P/J 15784
For his coolness in action, superlative
leadership, and good example to the
rt
and
Ship's Company.
ere
A.B. Luther Andrew Harvood, Royal Victorian
Medal
the
P/J 96116
18
For his coolness in Action, and as the
Gunlayer of the 0.5" Machine Gun in
Bringing down one enemy aircraft.
A
a
sett
3.
Recommended for Mention in Desmatches
le
in
E
of
the
E.R.A. Harold Biles P/MX 4730
oard
80
For his powers of leadership and good
at
example in the Engine Room, during
not
sorts
intensive bombing attacks.
bows
ngside
P.O. John Thomas Gillatt P/JX152881
For his good example and cheerfulness
a
special
as Gunlayer of No.1 Gun.
troops
and
Stoker P.O. Bernard Walkens P/K 66352
hat
as
As Stoker P.O. in charge of "B"
went
Boiler Room, for his powers of
on
leadership and good example to his
others
juniors.
POUR
plating
ith
no
(0.8. Harold PHILLIPSON. P/SSX 25762
0.S. Ernest Howell P/SSX25756
warned
(0.8. Préderick William Carter P/SSX 26795
of
Who volunteered to go ashore in a
whaler, under agrs, to the Beach, at
0580
La Panna, to bring off troops,
while a heavy bombardment was in
ter
progress.
istrat
S.B.A.John Peake Hodgkin P/MX 53848
By whose devotion to duty, and
no
assistance to the Medical Officer,
S.
173
he contributed greatly to the efficient
treatment of casualties.

Details

235
A.B. Sidney George Coles P/JX 138121
For his coolness in the face of the
enemy as trainer of the 0.5" Machine
Gun, in bringing down one enemy aircraft.
P.O.Steward Frederick Earnest Phibrow
P/L 15183
For his dovotion to duty, and the manage-
ment of the Wardroom staff in providing
meals for Lord Gort V.C. and many other
officers of the B.R.F.
*
COMMANEING Memple OFFICER
*
H.M.S. H. "HEBE"
Lieutenant Corrander
Action EE AL
Cormanding Officer.
*
*
DOVER
R

Details

RAS
of
-2-
MAY 26TH. A careful sweep of the Harbour and approaches
carried out during the forenoon and the area was declared
and the Harbour open at 1436. Sweeping operations were
later to ensure that delayed action mines should be destrope
The order to withdraw the B.E.F. from Dunkirk was given and
embarkation of the troops started this evening.
JOFF
A staff organisation known as "DYNAMO" was set up to carry
plan for evacuating the beaches at Dunkirk. Dutch Skoots,
Launches, Life-boats and numerous other small craft began
assemble at Dover and were berthed at Prince of Wales Piers
in Submarine Basin. These vessels were at once supplied
fuel, food and water to enable them to sail for Dunkirk at
earliest possible moment.
MAY 27TH. The tugs "Sun V11" and "Sun X" and "Persia" arriv
and reported for duty with K.H.M. They were detailed for
lighters and boats to Dunkirk.
MAY 28TH. At 0300 the Examination Vessel "Ocean Reward" ⑉
and sunk off Dover by the Hospital Ship "Isle of Thanet" with
loss of all hands. Boats were lowered by "Isle of Thenet
serched the position of the accident to gether with the tug
Brassey" but no survivors were found. The night was fine
calm and clear and both vessels were showing lights. Facts
contributory to the accident may have been the high speed
"Isle of Thanet" and possibly a misunderstanding on the pari
"Ocean Reward" that "Isle of Thanet" would stop off Dover
The tug "Foremost 87" arrived and joined the flotilla of
lighters and boats to Dunkirk. At 0830 the requisitioned
Skoots "Ruja", "Sursum Corda", "Jaba Amazone", "San Antonio"
arrived for duty on the Flanders coast. They required water
"Pacific", "Frendja", "Hebe", "Frisco Wega", "Pascholl" and
fuel and provisions and steps were to provide
During these operations the air raid taken warning at once sounded and
precautions in the Dockyard were taken. No attack develop
immediately after the "All Clear" was sounded these vessels
for Dunkirk.
MAY tow. 29th. The tug "Fairplay 1" with the water lighter "Cla "SM
was Lt. with Sub. the Comdr. detached Commodore Lieuts. Military and the R.G. K.A. for tug stores Wardrop Harwood, duty "Persia" sailed at R.N.R. Dunkirk. with E.S. for of Hill the Dunkirk. Commodore lighters and G. Jones "Sark" R.N.V.R. and
MAY connection numerous by motor of enemy the 30TH. boats Examination holes action. with H.M.S. arrived Superintendent's caused operation The Service "Jaguar" by former bombs "DYNAMO". was and had detached and staff, "Greyhound" thirteen aircraft for dead arrived duty on at board both duty Many
Dunkirk order by tugs and drifters. during the day All and whose were
Several Thames sailing barges orene
sailed during afternoon.
available at the Prince arrived and as will
visions same day. and ammunition. of Two Wales tugs Pier sailed they with them to
whom Many more vessels were now available evacuating the
many thousands were landed at Admiralty for Pier.
MAY 31ST. The Fleet in tow
"Locust". She had been Sweeper struck "Bideford" arrived which had
her depth charges and blown by & bomb aft
was taken in hand for temporary repairs H.M.S. Sanahu
800 troops on board at the time thirty and feetmoff suffered her
At the Prince of Wales Pier in the by the
"Ocean Cook" and "Challenge" towed morning the lighters and
"F.23" loaded with Military stores over to Dunkir&,

Details

SECRET
- 2 -
May 30th.
0005. Twelve Officers of the Army General Staff (Four
Officers of the Scotts Guards, Four Officers of the
Coldstream Guards, and four Officers of the Grenadier
Guards under the command of Colonel E. Mackenzie,
Scots Guards) embarked in Motor A/S Boat No.7.
Awaiting delivery of Secret Hand llessages.
0020, Left Dover for Dunkirk.
0240. Arrived off Dunkirk. Boat was taken close to
Beach One to land four Officers but shallow
water made this impracticable. The officers were
put aboard a Destroyer off Beach 1 and landed in
Boats. This procedure was carried out at each of
the other beaches landing four officers at each
beach. Motor A/S Boat No.7 then entered Dunkirk
Harbour to deliver a Secret Hand message to the
Senior Naval Officer, Dunkirk. It was found that
S.N.O. Dunkirk was aboard H.M.S. "Hebe". The secret
hand message was delivered to S.N.O. and thirty-
eight French soldiers embarked 0725. Motor A/S Boat
No.7 left Dunkirk in accordance with previous orders.
1035. Boat arrived at Dover.
1100. Disembarked French Soldiers.
May 31st.
1135. Motor A/S Boat No.7 left Dover to endervous off
Ramsgate with Motor A/S Boat No.6 to escort convoy
of Small craft.
1147. off Deal. Developed a fire on the port Engine.
1203. Fire extinguished. Boat taken in tow by Tug "Doria".
1517. Arrived Dover and commenced repairs.
1730. Repairs completed and Boat placed at half an hours
notice.
June 2nd.
1345. Motor A/S Boat No.7 left Dover and proceeding officer to
Block Ships Anchorage, with Navigating of the
Block ships aboard.
1410. Boat going alongaide block ships; Navigating and Officer
1531. to details of movements to block ships.
obtaining particulars of block ships issuing
1610. Returned to Dover Harbour.
1900. Left Dover to rendezvous with Destroyer and Block ships
1945. boarded the Destroyer Dangerfield. to obtain
rinal ins ortions from Captain
1950. oil leak discovered in Engine obtain Room. more Motor oil. A/S Boat
No.? returned to Dover to
2040. Arrived Dover - embarking oil.
2100. 2117. Joined Blockships Convoy off South Goodwin L/V.
Left Dover.
0115.....

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. IV
round trip from 80 to 172 miles, and the for route the had to be swept before it
and thence into the Dunkirk Impulsive, the THE
be used. Orders were therefore given the North Goodwin
route (the middle Route X), from road, and at 1140
commenced by the destroyer Vessel Patricia. This
advantage of shortening the round trip to 108 miles.
Halcyon, and the Trinity House from 172 route X had the great and
Helier¹ and Royal Daffodil, which left at 1054 under escort of the des- St.
Among the earliest ships to use the Dover northern Route Y were the P/V's
The convoy was joined en route by the hospital carriers St. Andrew and St.
troyer Vimy; in company was the destroyer Anthony, escorting the S.S. Kyno.2
Julien. Route Y was certainly, at that time, out of range of gunfire, but two
bombing attacks were made on the hospital carriers between the West Hinder
and Kwint Bank buoys, and when the convoy arrived off Dunkirk heavy air
attacks were in progress there. The Royal Daffodil and the St. Helier entered
the harbour, but the latter was ordered to withdraw, and she and the 2 hospital
carriers returned empty to the Downs under escort of the Vimy. The Royal
Daffodil embarked 840 troops before returning to Dover.
Sea and Air Patrols
The principal patrol line covered in the morning of the 27th May by Fighter
Command, was Calais-Dunkirk, as it was not known that the Calais garrison
had ceased fire. From 1450 onwards, however, Calais fell out of the picture,
and it became possible to concentrate fighter protection more exclusively on
the work of evacuation³. Sixteen squadrons, varying in strength from 9 to 20
aircraft, were engaged on these activities from 0500-2130; patrols were, how-
ever, limited to squadron strength. Most squadrons carried out 2 patrols,
and 287 sorties in all were flown during the day.4
To cover the passage of ships between Dunkirk and the Downs destroyer
patrols had been established to the northward during the forenoon, and Vice-
Admiral, Dover, asked for 6 additional destroyers to strengthen the Dover
forces. The Admiralty immediately ordered 4 destroyers from the Western
Approaches Command, and 2 from the Portsmouth Command, to proceed
to Dover.⁵
Ex-Dutch skoots for Dunkirk
Other vessels were on their way to Dunkirk during the day, among them
being 15 skoots⁶. Of these the Lena, Hebe II, and later the Oranje, arrived
off the beaches and embarked troops during the night of 27th/28th May the
Abel Tasman, Alice and Kaap Falga, loaded with ammunition and food,
arrived off La Panne early in the morning of 28th May; the Hilda and Doggers-
bank reached Dunkirk by noon the 28th May, and were sent to the beaches;
while the remainder⁷, in error, returned to the Downs, after having got within
a few miles of Dunkirk.
2 Off R buoy the Anthony, with the Kyno, was ordered back to the Downs and sub-
I Eleven of the St. Helier's crew had been replaced by naval ratings.
sequently 3 to Portsmouth. The Kyno took no further part in Operation "Dynamo".
R.A.F. Narrative, p. 319.
5 4 R.A.F. Narrative, P. 320.
Scimitar were sent.
Appendices D. 1 and D. 2. The Wakeful, Mackay, Worcester, Montrose, Shikari and
6 7 See Appendix F.
The Bornrif, Brandaris, Hondsrug, Jutland, Patria, Tilly, and Twente.
20

Details

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

Details

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

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. V
off Dunkirk at 1315. They had picked up that morning from arrived
The destroyers Codrington, Jaguar and Javelin, 33 survivors diverted from patrol,
S.S. Abukir, which had been torpedoed by United an E-boat while returning the
about 200 evacuees from Ostend to Grenade the which Kingdom; these survivors with
Javelin Dunkirk. were transferred using The their Codrington to own the boats, destroyer went embarked into Dunkirk troops harbour, from subsequently Bray while beach. the went Jaguar At on 1730 and to
the Grenade left Dunkirk with 1,000 troops on board.
skoot Lena. The Vimy also made a second
359 troops from Zuydcoote, assisted by ships' a the second.t.Bip,embarked
Between 1230 and 1815 the Vivacious, a her
Dunkirk harbour.
More ships were on the way. From 1230 onwards 19 minesweepers were
sailed from Harwich, from Dover and the Downs, for Dunkirk and the beaches.
By 2130 five of them had arrived off Bray beach I, and four off La Panne²;
three reached Dunkirk by 2140³.
Four other minesweepers arrived off the beaches late on the night of
28th/29th May4, and two more reached the beaches at 0600/29⁵.
Early on the 28th May the eight ships of the 7th and 8th minesweeping
flotillas had been ordered from Rosyth to Harwich, to work under the orders
of the Vice-Admiral, Dover⁶; they could not, however, reach the beaches
until about 72 hours later.
During the forenoon and afternoon of the 28th May the call went out for
more and more destroyers, and seven reached the evacuation area next day⁷.
In the signals from the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral, Dover, summoning
them there sounds the same note of extreme urgency, traceable to S.N.O.
Dunkirk's message⁸ declaring that evacuation on the night of 28th/29th May
was problematical. "If the older class destroyers and other vessels cannot
compete with the situation signalled the Admiralty, destroyers of all classes
are to be used for bringing men off'.9 Every available destroyer" in the
Western Approaches and Portsmouth Commands was to be sailed to Dover.
Destroyers on patrol or on escort duty were to be diverted to Dunkirk or the
beaches.¹¹
Vulnerability of personnel vessels
The vulnerability of the personnel vessels, with their large troop-carrying
capacity, was a cause of anxiety. On the 27th May the Biarritz and Archangel,
the Mona's Queen, King Orry, Sequacity, Yewdale, and the Isle of Thanet12,
I The Albury, Gossamer, Leda, Kellett and Sutton.
2 The Salamander, Halcyon, Skipjack and Waverley.
3 The Ross, Pangbourne and Lydd.
4 The Hebe, Sharpshooter, Duchess of Fife snd Emperor of India.
5 The Oriole and Marmion.
6
A.M.0163/28.
7 The Verity, Harvester, Esk, Malcolm, Express, Shikari and Scimitar.
8 Appendix M.4.
9 A.M.0754/28.
10 A.M.1229/28.
11 Appendices D.4, D.5 and D.7.
collided with the Examination Service Vessel leaving Ocean Reward, which sank
12 At 0254, on 28th May, shortly after Dover for Newhaven, the Isle of Thanet
Assisted by the tug Lady Brassey, a search was made for survivors, but none was found.
28

Details

CHAP. VI
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
straddled by bombs for and 35 minutes), the seeing burning that Grenade traffic all along the east
proceeded out of harbour, out of a into drifter in the Calvi,
had ceased, cast off, skirting grounding slightly on sunk and the sunken pier
The troops now of began the Piermaster climbing Cdr. J. one C. Clouston, ship
restored the instructions order.
having arrangements of his in the clear of the fairway,', R.N.,
At 1815 made the Grenade was abandoned with the Piermaster and her Captain, to tow her Cdr. R. C. Boyle,
embarked with some ship's company Crested Eagle.
Polly Johnson sunk
to the five remaining her Oropesa and the John Cattling was instructed on
The burning wreck of the Grenade trawlers. did, The in fact, commence to drift down
attempt vivors to pull clear, out of the remaining harbour 4 trawlers, with troops and to
on board, proceeded towards the beaches. A sur-
later, of the near Nieuport caused Bank buoy, miss the in Polly Johnson, leaking badly as a result little
engine, was abandoned; Arley embarked her crew and troops and sank
damage by a the near the first air attack, and with damaged
her by gunfire.
Grenade blown up
She burned fiercely for some hours and then blew up.
The Grenade was guided into a pocket to the westward of the main channel.
Crested Eagle blazing, is beached
swung clear of the east pier and proceeded on an easterly course. Shortly
Meanwhile, when the Verity left the harbour at 1755, the Crested Eagle
afterwards, she however, she was hit by 4 bombs and caught fire; out of control,
about she might transfer her troops; but the Crested Eagle could not stop. At
that continued under way. The Verity instructed the Crested Eagle to stop so
in Eagle ran aground west of Bray beach. The 200 survivors, who could be seen
1830, blazing fiercely fore and aft (she was a wooden ship) the Crested
to the the water, were heavily machine-gunned from the air, and the ships that came
rescue were bombed. Some of the survivors, several with severe burns,
Captain and other survivors of the Grenade, by the minesweeper Albury.
were picked up by the minesweepers Hebe and Lydd; others, including the
Among those picked up by the Sabre was the Second Engineer of the Crested
Eagle and a stoker from the Grenade.
Normania sunk
gunboat Ross took Mosquito, but then began to sink. The Mosquito and the minesweeper by
by a bomb off 11 W buoy. She was towed clear of Dunkirk channel was the
In the course of this third air attack the personnel vessel Normania hit
sank off off the crew and the few troops that on board. The Normania
11 W buoy at about 0245 the following were day.
Saladin and attacks The 2000. fourth off severely Ships Bray air attack, returning beach damaged, which to was England Lorina widespread, sunk were bombed. took place There between were about continuous 1830
was so company there were attacked; the destroyers attacked Sabre, 10 times,
Saladin in and its vicinity; the Verity and
severely damaged in the engine room by Saladin, a near miss that she had to
44

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Calcutta contacts Lord Gort
On receipt of this signal at 0345 the Calcutta, which had already been embark-
ing troops from La Panne beach, sent her boats in again, in charge of Mr. F.J.
March, Gunner. Mr. March made personal contact with Lord Gort about
8 miles inland, and placed the Calcutta at his disposal for his or his staff's evacua-
tion. Lord Gort, however, courteously refused to be evacuated at this
stage¹.
La Panne beach cleared of troops
Meanwhile the Calcutta was proceeding with the embarkation, having en-
listed the assistance of the minesweepers Sutton and Salamander, the tug Java,
five drifters2, and three motor launches³. By 1357 the Calcutta had embarked
1200 troops, with whom she proceeded to Sheerness.
In addition to the ships assisting the Calcutta, 7 minesweepers4, 4 skoots5,
and 5 destroyers⁶ also embarked troops from La Panne beach. Of the
destroyers, the Greyhound was bombed and severely damaged (see p.42).
The minesweepers embarked, in all, 3415 troops, the skoots 1137 and the des-
troyers 2100. The tramp Yewdale and the motor vessels Beal and Bullfinch
between them brought off 1,854. The assault landing craft A.L.C.15 ferried
about 750 troops from the beaches to off-lying ships, and finally transported
25 to Dover ; the A.L.C.5 also ferried troops throughout the day.
The paddle-minesweeper Oriole had beached herself at La Panne at about
0600, thus permitting about 2,500 troops to pass over her decks to be embarked
by other ships before she refloated at about 1800. In this connection, Sub-
Lieut. Croswell, who had been landed at La Panne at about 0600 with a small
beach party in the Harvester's motor skiff, says : " On the beach we found
14 boats which we launched. A line ferry was established from a paddle-
steamer [the Oriole] which was aground close inshore, and this steamer served
as a pier alongside which other boats were able to come.
Throughout
the
day embarkation continued."
Later in his report, Sub-Lieut. Croswell says " About 1400
bombing
commenced - there were no casualties though 8 heavy bombs fell within 100
yards of the place of embarkation. A supply ship [the danlayer Nautilus]
to the right of the beach was fired and destroyed by a near miss, and a destroyer
[the Greyhound] was hit by an incendiary bomb [in fact she was severely
damaged by a near miss] but continued in action. I joined up with the Army
Staff controlling evacuation - there were no other naval officers at La Panne.⁷
About 2300
I requested that piers should be built but was told nothing
could be done that night.
Lord Gort arrived on the beach on Thursday
morning [30th May] and asked what could be done to assist. I again sug-
gested erection of piers, and under Colonel Porter's direction this was begun,
the pier at La Panne being ready and in use by 1400".
I Calcutta's report.
2 The Golden Sunbeam, Lord Rodney, Lord Keith, Lord St. Vincent, and Lord Collingwood.
3 The Angler II, Nayland and New Britannic.
4 The Emperor of India, Gracie Fields, Halcyon, Hebe, Oriole, Princess Elizabeth and
Waverley.
5 The Reiger, Doggersbank, Jutland and Oranje.
6 The Shikari, Harvester, Anthony, Sabre and Greyhound.
7 Sub. Lt. Croswell was not given orders by his commanding officer to remain ashore.
He says as at La Panne there was no liaison between Army and Navy, I realised I could
do a much more useful job by remaining there," and he stayed there until 1st June. Com-
menting on this, Lt. Cdr. M. Thornton, R.N., Captain of the Harvester says: " This young
officer wisely accepted responsibility of missing his ship and then took charge of the beaches
and embarkation.
(C.W.23187/40.)
47

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VIII
should take charge Rear-Admiral off La Panne Wake-Walker, and Commodore that Hallett the off Bray. It
hardly go on for more than a he had or very little idea of what was expected to be could
then thought, says day two, and each day embarkation was
last. At this time, he says, about it.4 it was going to the be
possible to do, or how to set
and Dover Forces," and to Captain Bush, Nore
As early as 1321 V.A. S.N.O., Dover Dunkirk, had informed that all "Ships vessels and Authorities,
were the Admiralty's to report for appointment orders of Rear-Admiral
Dover sent a further signal, at 1943, informing the Hebe and Hebe
S.N.O., Dunkirk, in charge of all embarkation the arrangements². of
R. A. Wake-Walker was proceeding to to carry out the duties that
day, the 30th May, presumably to clarify authorities situation, the On the Admiral
Dover sent the following signal³ to all concerned:
"
Authority for Operation Dynamo under V.A. Dover is as follows:
R.A. Wake-Walker has been appointed as R.A. Dover, for command of seagoing
ships and vessels off the Belgian coast.
R.A. Dover has hoisted his flag in Hebe. Captain Tennant has been appointed
as S.N.O. Dunkirk, and is responsible under R.A. Dover for all shore organisation.
T.O.O. 1328/30."
Plan for the night 29th/30th May
Meanwhile, at 1906, the Vice-Admiral, Dover promulgated the plan for the
night by signal⁴ as follows
"Evacuation of British troops to continue at maximum speed during the night.
If adequate supply of personnel vessels cannot be maintained craft to Dunkirk east
pier embark from beach which is extended from one to one
destroyers will be sent there as well. All other mile east except of hospital Dunkirk carriers
to mile east of La Panne. Whole length is divided into 3 equal parts referred each to as La
Panne, Bray, Malo, from east to west with a mile gap between in part. Malo La at
Panne and Bray have troop concentration points each end and middle; this
each end. These points should be tended by inshore craft. Pass message
by V/S to ships not equipped W/T as opportunity offers. 1906".
Dunkirk harbour reported blocked
Almost at the same time he received (through the War Office and the the effect Ad-
miralty) that Dunkirk harbour was blocked by damaged ships, and that
a telephone message from La Panne military headquarters all to evacuation
must therefore be effected from the beaches.⁵
" Pier undamaged", but impossible.
embark.
troops'
time this telephone message came through a bombing, corrupt
message sinking, one transport with troops on board damaged
About from the same S.N.O., Dunkirk, as was received, stating: continuous and im-
one possible destroyer at present to embark more troops, though pier undamaged".
2 M.017978/41, It was not until p.3. 0100/30 that Admiral Wake-Walker found the Hebe, and he took over
from Captain Bush at 0400. (Report by Admiral Wake-Walker).
3 Appendix O.5.
Appendix 0.11. Dunkirk harbour had p.350). been
telephoned 4 5 D.R. Apparently p.10, by para. Cdr. incorrect Dove 33. The from information destroyer La Panne." as was to presumably the (S.N.O. blocking Dunkirk's the of report, R.O.III,
Note:
S.N.O. did p.394). not Dunkirk return The corrupt to went Dunkirk to La until Panne referred about by motor 2100 to by (Report boat V.A. at Dover by was therefore
message
his absence.
50

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VI
and returned to harbour; the remainder Chantecler reached and the La Panne at 0500/30.
Dutch eel-boats Johanna and Chantecler M.B. Golden Lily also The
and Ramsgate " compass at which 2200/29. was reached situated The the over beaches, the was engine. however, only capable revolved at 0900 of slowly 4 knots, round and and left her
she had no charts, lost way 30th Later darkness, and returned to
and brought back 30 troops. her in the Downs in the get over on May,
round"¹. She The Johanna did not on the 30th
Ramsgate on the morning of the May. on that day she was towed
to the beaches by the skoot Jutland.
Troops transported on 29th May
reduction in the number of destroyers available and with failure to achieve
The 29th May closed with a formidable list of ships lost or damaged, a marked
the high rate of evacuation hoped for. The effect of the day's occurrences
even more marked next day, when instead of the 50,000 to 60,000 British was
troops which had been calculated as the probable achievement, only 48,000 odd
were in fact transported.²
Nevertheless, 47,310 troops (including some 2,000 casualties) were landed
in England on the 29th May (see Table 2), 13,752 having been lifted from the
beaches and 33,558 from the harbour. Only about 11 per cent of these were
French troops³, whose organised evacuation had not yet begun. (See Appen-
dices Y.2 to Y.5).
During the morning and forenoon of the 29th May, when there was no
bombing of Dunkirk harbour, 1Q personnel vessels⁴ lifted 14,760 troops from
the east pier; during the afternoon, in spite of the bombing, the Canterbury
lifted a further 1,960.
The development of beach evacuation is indicated by the fact that nearly
21 times the number of troops were lifted from the beaches on 29th May as
compared with the number lifted on the previous day. Seventeen destroyers
each made one round trip during the 24 hours of the 29th May and an eighteenth
destroyer, the Icarus, made two such trips. On these trips the 18 destroyers
embarked and transported to England 10,694 troops of which 6,198 were
lifted from the beaches and 4,506 from Dunkirk harbour. Nine minesweepers⁶
together lifted 2,426 troops from the beaches although one of them, the Albury
did not land her troops in England until the next day.⁷ Among other ships
which brought back troops from the beaches was the cruiser Calcutta with
1,200.
The record of troops landed in England now stood as follows :-
From the
From the
Total for
beaches
harbour
the day
26th May
Nil
Nil
Nil
27th May
Nil
7,669
7,669
28th May
5,930
11,874
17,804
29th May
13,752
33,558
47,310
I Report by Chantecler.
40,724. This figure probably puts does not include troops carried by foreign ships (See Prague,
3 2 D.R., D.R. p.11, which para. incidentally 38. the total of troops and casualties landed on 29th Table May 2). as
The Côte d'Argent, Killarney, King George V, Maid of Orleans, Manxman,
Javelin, Malcolm, Express, Verity, Wolsey and Marmion
Royal 5 The Daffodil, Anthony, Royal Codrington, Sovereign, Esk, Scotia, and Tynwald. Greyhound, Harvester, Intrepid, Worcester. Ivanhoe,
6 The Albury, Duchess Sabre, of Scimitar, Fife, Emperor Shikari, of Vanquisher, India, Fitzroy, Halcyon, Hebe, Leda,
and Sharpshooter.
7 See Table 3, in conjunction with the reports of ships' proceedings in Vol. II.
54

Details

CHAP. VI
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
Ramsgate at 2200/29. situated over the engine. capable of 4 knots, also and left
Dutch eel-boats Johanna The Chantecler was only M.B. Golden Lily The
and returned to harbour; and the remainder Chantecler reached and the La Panne at 0500/30.
and brought back lost troops. her in the Downs in the get over on May,
and round"¹. She 30 The Johanna did not on the 30th and
compass which was reached the beaches, however, revolved at 0900 slowly round her
Ramsgate on the morning on that day she was towed
she had no charts, of way the 30th May. Later darkness, and returned to
to the beaches by the skoot Jutland.
Troops transported on 29th May
reduction in the number of destroyers and with failure to
The 29th May closed with a formidable available list of ships lost or damaged, a marked
the high rate of evacuation hoped for. The effect of the day's occurrences achieve
even more marked next day, when instead of the 50,000 to 60,000 British was
were in fact transported.²
troops which had been calculated as the probable achievement, only 48,000 odd
Nevertheless, 47,310 troops (including some 2,000 casualties) were landed
in England on the 29th May (see Table 2), 13,752 having been lifted from the
beaches and 33,558 from the harbour. Only about 11/2 per cent of these were
French troops³, whose organised evacuation had not yet begun. (See Appen-
dices Y.2 to Y.5).
During the morning and forenoon of the 29th May, when there was no
bombing of Dunkirk harbour, 1Q personnel vessels⁴ lifted 14,760 troops from
the east pier; during the afternoon, in spite of the bombing, the Canterbury
lifted a further 1,960.
The development of beach evacuation is indicated by the fact that nearly
2½ times the number of troops were lifted from the beaches on 29th May as
compared with the number lifted on the previous day. Seventeen destroyers⁵
each made one round trip during the 24 hours of the 29th May and an eighteenth
destroyer, the Icarus, made two such trips. On these trips the 18 destroyers
embarked and transported to England 10,694 troops of which 6,198 were
lifted from the beaches and 4,506 from Dunkirk harbour. Nine minesweepers6
together lifted 2,426 troops from the beaches although one of them, the Albury
did not land her troops in England until the next day.⁷ Among other ships
which brought back troops from the beaches was the cruiser Calcutta with
1,200.
The record of troops landed in England now stood as follows :-
From the
From the
Total for
beaches
harbour
the day
26th May
Nil
Nil
Nil
27th May
Nil
7,669
7,669
28th May
5,930
11,874
17,804
29th May
13,752
33,558
47,310
I Report by Chantecler.
3 D.R., which incidentally puts the total of and casualties landed on 29th Table May 2). as
2 D.R. p.11, para. 38.
40,724. This figure probably does not include troops carried by foreign ships (See Prague,
4 The Côte d'Argent, Killarney, King George troops V, Maid of Orleans, Manxman,
Royal Daffodil, Royal Sovereign, Scotia, and
Javelin, Malcolm, Sabre, Scimitar, Verity, Wolsey and Worcester. Marmion
5 The Anthony, Codrington, Esk, Express, Tynwald. Greyhound, Harvester, Intrepid, Ivanhoe,
6 The Albury, Duchess of Fife, Emperor Shikari, of Vanquisher, India, Fitzroy, Halcyon, Hebe, Leda,
and Sharpshooter.
7 See Table 3, in conjunction with the reports of ships' proceedings in Vol. II.
54

Details

CHAP. VII
ferring By 0100 to her Rear-Admiral from single-minded come face to be of spoken incredible
such a THE EVACUATION
gress situation, Captain the water of Bush. and up to of their From the the waists. ghastly him, Esk, Wake Walker Lound sight He had of the the more trans- from as a
seemed then Commodores seen, to embarkation", detect but I in did his not voice". says feel Rear-Admiral that I could accept Wake-Walker to the note of terribly standing in despair I had pro- not
Stephenson
and
Bray. proceeding to take charge off-shore Hallett at were La Panne, transferred and the to drifters, latter off-shore the which former I
groups he had of to work. all He saw the beaches. a dark line of men the
Wake-Walker By dawn the was Hebe able was to off glimpse La Panne, for the and first in the growing light Readmul at
stern completely men blown over off and Off Bray the Bideford was ashore and large
off the beaches Eagle was high and dry on the beach-burnt out. Nearer
Dunkirk the Crested the Locust was trying to take her in tow. with her
were destroyers, sloops, drifters and other craft, while Lying
were making their way off in whalers, motor boats and pontoon craft. There men
was a slight swell which made landing difficult, and many boats were lying
broached-to and stranded by the tide.
As daylight illumined the scene Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker saw that the
beaches were packed with troops, who were orderly and under proper control.
To anyone with an appreciation of the practical difficulties of embarking in
small boats with a long pull to seaward, the sight of that beach black with troops
was indeed almost dismaying. The numbers increased steadily as more men
filed down the sand dunes, and at the back of our minds all the time", says line
Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker, "was the question of how long the defence boats.²
could hold and the weather remain fair." The crux of the matter was
Twice during contact Captain Tennant. With his staff these ships in
the day Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker went to Dunkirk he transferred in un-
successful efforts to to the Windsor and thence to the Worcester, home as in the Hebe
from the Hebe with troops. Captain Bush took passage large numbers were to
turn " to stress filled the up vital necessity for boats and crews if any The Rear-
benches".³
would Admiral come There off arrive was was the great hampered at beaches difficulty by and in lack start exercising of means loading; The control urgency of getting and off of a the beaches. Ships
everything⁴. desirable, At 2000 would on the be 30th May was at La La Panne discussed Panne at
and where 1800 arrangements next he met day, Lord and were Commodore Gort made and for of Stephenson identifying Tennas embarkation fre of the beaches seaward it. was
On
this
evening
a
method
M.017978/41, p.4.
R.A. Dover's report (M.017978/41).
(R.O.III,
p.374).
R.A. R.A. Dover's Report
Dover's Report (M.017978/41).
58

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THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VII
and miracle. unpredictable difficulties, as a
such courage, energy and single-mindedness, that it has since and in come the face to be of such incredible
found
the
Hebe
situation, Captain the ferring By water 0100 to Bush. and her up Rear-Admiral to from "of their From the the waists." ghastly him, Esk, Wake-Walker Rear-Admiral Rear-Admiral he sight He took had of over the had the shore, Wake-Walker, Wake-Walker to duties watch black of with the off S.N.O. heard terribly standing in Bray, (Afloat) and, trans- from
gress of embarkation", says I could the which I had pro-
seemed to detect in his voice".¹
then seen, but I did not feel that accept note of despair which not I
proceeding to take charge off-shore at Panne, and the latter off-shore at
Commodores Stephenson and Hallett were La transferred to drifters, the former
Bray.
Wake-Walker was able to glimpse for the first
By dawn the Hebe was off La Panne, and in the growing light Adminal the growing lear Readminl
he had to work. He saw a dark line of men at the water's edge, and large
groups of men all over the beaches. Off Bray the Bideford was ashore with her
stern completely blown off and the Locust was trying to take her in tow. Nearer
Dunkirk the Crested Eagle was high and dry on the beach-burnt out. Lying
off the beaches were destroyers, sloops, drifters and other craft, while men
were making their way off in whalers, motor boats and pontoon craft. There
was a slight swell which made landing difficult, and many boats were lying
broached-to and stranded by the tide.
As daylight illumined the scene Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker saw that the
beaches were packed with troops, who were orderly and under proper control.
To anyone with an appreciation of the practical difficulties of embarking in
small boats with a long pull to seaward, the sight of that beach black with troops
was indeed almost dismaying. The numbers increased steadily as more men
filed down the sand dunes, and "at the back of our minds all the time", says
Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker, "was the question of how long the defence line
could hold and the weather remain fair." The crux of the matter was boats.²
Twice during the day Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker went to Dunkirk in un-
successful efforts to contact Captain Tennant. With his staff he transferred
from the Hebe to the Windsor and thence to the Worcester, as these ships in
turn " filled up with troops. Captain Bush took home in the Hebe
come off the benches".3
to stress the vital necessity for boats and crews if passage any large numbers were to
would Admiral was hampered by lack of means of about quickly". Ships
There was great difficulty in exercising control off the beaches. The Rear-
desirable, everything would be impracticable. The urgency of a the moment governed
arrive at beaches and start loading ; getting and redistribution, though
where At 2000 he on the 30th May Rear-Admiral Panne
and met Lord Gort and Captain Tennant. Wake-Walker landed at La discussed
1800 arrangements next were made for Lord Gort's The situation was Panne at
On this day, and Commodore Stephenson embarkation from of La it.
1 evening a method of identifying was the put beaches in charge from seaward was
2 2 R.A. report
M.A. Dover's p.4.
R.A. Dover's Dover's Report Report (M.017978/41). (M.017978/41). (R.O.III, p.374).
58

Details

CHAPTER VIII
FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
EVACUATION REACHES ITS ZENITH
Lord Gort hands over his Command to Major-General Alexander
(2nd Corps) to withdraw to the The 50th 5th Divisions
Orders had been issued on the the beaches 30th May and for Dunkirk. the 3rd, 4th and
began to take place on the morning of 31st May.
the British Base staff at Dunkirk, to come the 1st Corps. These moves with
to fall back to the French defences on Belgian under frontier and, together
This meant that the remnant of the B.E.F., on being withdrawn inside the
area of the French defences, came under the orders of Admiral Abrial; the
ance with the instructions he had received.² He selected Major-Generalthe selected Major-Generl the
time had therefore arrived for Lord Gort to hand over
Hon. H. R.L. G. Alexander to remain in France in command of the 1st Corps,
now numbering less than 20,000 men in all; and, on taking over command
of the Ist Corps, Major-General Alexander handed over command of the Ist
Division to Brigadier M. B. Beckwith-Smith.
Lord Gort agreed with Major-General Alexander that a provisional date for
evacuating his force was to be the night of 2nd/3rd June.
On the 31st May therefore, Lord Gort's headquarters closed at 1800, and,
after handing over command to Major-General Alexander, Lord Gort embarked
with his A.D.C. in the Hebe's whaler, which had been towed in by the motor
yacht Lahloo to a point a little west of La Panne beach. He proceeded to the
Lahloo and thence to the Hebe. During the embarkation an enemy attack
was made by about 40 aircraft and considerable shelling was directed on to
La Panne beach itself. With Lord Gort on board, the Hebe proceeded to La
Panne beach and continued to embark troops.
It was not, however, till about midnight, that the motor yacht Bounty with
Cdre. Stephenson on board proceeded to transfer Lord Gort from the Hebe to
the Keith. At about the same time, however, the M.A/S.B.6, having em-
barked Lord Gort's chief staff officer General Leese from the Keith, was sent to
the Hebe with orders from Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker to embark Lord Gort.
On finding that he had left the Hebe, the M.A/S.B.6 returned to the Keith, em-
barked Lord Gort, and sailed at 0304 on the 1st of June for Dover which she
reached at 0547 the same evening.
It had been the intention of the Admiralty that Lord Gort and his staff
should be embarked in M.T.B.'s and at 1522 V.A. Dover had informed Rear-
Admiral Wake-Walker by signal that 4 of these vessels would be available for
this V.A. Dover's did not reach R.A. Dover4,
and other and signal all four back at Dover
by Speaking of the non-receipt uses; of indeed Dover's were signal, Rear-Admiral
Wake-Walker reached says, The signal informing V.A. of this, like many others, never
me At 1543/30 Rear-Admiral me Wake-Walker had asked that he
I 2 Lord Lord Gort's Second Despatch,
a M.T.B's. Gort's Second Despatch, para.57.
R.A. 67, 107, 68 and 102. para. (See 58.
M.017978/41, Dover-Report p.18. of Proceedings (R.O. Appendix III. para. G.30). 19).
66

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FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
be embarked in a ship capable of keeping 2 wireless lines for communication
purposes, and at 0645/31 he embarked in such a ship, viz. the flotilla leader
Keith, and thereafter (until she was sunk 24 hours later) kept her free from
troops so that his movements should be unrestricted¹.
One of the four M.T.B.'s, viz: M.T.B.67, had been ferrying troops to the
gunboat Mosquito at 1915 from La Panne beach, and her commanding Officer,
Lieut. C. C. Anderson, R.N., says, It is desired to express appreciation of an
unknown soldier, who, although severely wounded about the face and head
and on the point of collapse, remained quietly in the water watching M.T.B.67
draw away because he thought we looked full up and might not want him.
This man was of course taken on board".
Meanwhile anxiety was felt at Dover at the non-appearance of Lord Gort
and at 2336, the Admiralty sent a peremptory signal to Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker demanding an explanation. Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker says,
" About 2300 I received an urgent signal from Admiralty asking where Lord
Gort was and why I had detailed the M.T.B.'s sent for him to other work.
As the M.A./S.B. [i.e. M.A/S.B.6] had just returned with [Lt. Cdr.] C. J. Wynne-
Edwards², I sent it off at once to Hebe to collect Lord Gort
it came back
almost at once to say that Lord Gort had just left Hebe in a motor launch. It
was very dark and Hebe could not be seen though we knew where she was, and
I waited anxiously for the boat to arrive. Presently out of the dark a boat
appeared and came alongside, still not the right one, and I had a bad moment
thinking of the boat getting lost. However, to my relief, after what appeared
about half an hour, the right boat, in charge of [Commodore] Stephenson once
more, found us at last. Apologising to Lord Gort for keeping him waiting so
long, I transferred him to the M.A/S.B. and sent him off to Dover with General
Leese".³
In the meantime, a little before 1800, Lord Gort's staff had been embarked
during an air attack by the Keith's boats at a point 2 miles west of La Panne.
Signal communication established between Dunkirk and Dover⁴
At daylight on the 31st full signal communication was at length established
between Dunkirk and Dover.
On the 26th May the destroyer Wolsey had been despatched to Dunkirk to
act as W/T link. The S.N.O., Dunkirk, on arrival next day, decided, however,
that conditions in the port made it impossible for a destroyer to lie there. On
the morning of the 27th May Commander M. O. D. Ellwood, R.N., who had
been placed in charge of communications in Operation Dynamo", proceeded
to Dunkirk in the Wolfhound that afternoon with a signal party consisting of
one yeoman of signals and 24 signalmen, who were distributed between Naval
headquarters at Dunkirk (one yeoman and 8 signalmen) and the beach parties
(2 signalmen each). The only equipment available other than hand flags was
one Aldis lamp, which was taken over from the British Naval Liaison Officer
and made to function with the help of a battery acquired from a French motor
car.
A Headquarters signal station was established at the shore end of the East
Pier for communication with ships arriving, but until 30th May, when one
Naval wireless set arrived, there was no means of communication between
I R.A. Dover - Report of Proceedings (R.O.III, p.374, para. 19).
2 He had been engaged in directing the then arriving tows of boats to the beaches.
3 M.017978/41, page 21.
4 R.O. Case 5458, Vol. III, p.417.
67

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THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VIII
several wrecks close inshore. vessels one to and
boats, motor launches and yachts About aground mile and, out in most cases, abandoned, most cases, abandoned,
numerous boats were destroyers running and between other the shore waiting and these ships. the but scarcely
quiet any except for occasional shelling and intermittent
between 0800 and 1315 Lt. Col. Hutchins about 250 ferried about 450
pulsive off Malo, and thereafter, about 1800 troops to the off Bray.
the
The Swallow sailed for Ramsgate at with 30 troops on board.
beaches were very bad owing to a freshening in on-shore wind; that the majority small
of pulling boats were no crews that
At 1035 Rear-Admiral broached-to Wake-Walker and informed had V.A. Dover that the majority that the majority that the majon smity
numbers were being embarked even daylight; that motor boats could
get close in, and that under present conditions any large scale embarkation not
a ship to form a lee and SO improve conditions¹.
of embarking any number was at Dunkirk, that he would attempt to beach
from the beaches was quite impracticable. but He considered that the only hope
Sailing of personnel vessels suspended
Simultaneously with this bad news came a signal from S.N.O., Dunkirk, to
the effect that Dunkirk was being continuously and heavily bombarded; that
the enemy artillery were gradually finding the range of the loading berths
and that only ships necessary for the flow of troops should enter². This signal
personnel vessels to Dunkirk until the number of those en route had been
confirmed the V.A. Dover in a decision he had made to suspend the sailing of
reduced. There were at this time no less than 9 personnel vessels and 3 hospital
carriers known to be on the round trip U.K.-Dunkirk and back, and one other
personnel vessel had been ordered to sail during the night but her whereabouts
was unknown. In addition, 3 other personnel vessels were under orders to
sail between 0900 and 1030.
Military plan changed
B.E.F. beach on the 30th May, was to lift the B.E.F. rearguard of 4,000, R.N.
The plan, arranged between V.A. Dover and representatives of the C.-in-C.,
been parties, on the night of 31st May/Ist June; and naval plus had
been made³. The minesweepers had received their orders4 arrangements instructions had
all available X; and C.-in-C. Nore, and F.O.I.C. Harwich, were to
Route issued for the special tows to leave Ramsgate at 1300/31 for Dunkirk via
as possible. M.T.B.'s to escort this convoy for as much of requested the outward provide
at Dover Speed of advance 6 knots⁵. A party of Naval officers assembled passage
At 1000 to embark in these tows were given detailed instructions
evacuation. the Hebe arrived off La Panne beach carrying the plans on the for plan. this
Military In the afternoon of the 31st May, however, Dover
covering plan had been changed, as it was was informed that the
withdrawn embarkation. Instead, the finally to withdraw to
the beaches position for to be held by 4,000 troops no who longer were possible for the original
was to be westward from the La Panne easternmost Division was to boats be
I used to lift this force from the beaches. area, and At the the special same time flight the of troops
Appendix Q.6.
2 Appendix Q.7.
5 Appendix Q.1.
4 3 Appendices Q.1, G.29.
Appendix G.29.
70

Details

CHAP. VIII
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
that could be found, the intention at Panne 1600-being boats
the past 24 hours². Parties were organised the time-about collect all the oars and for
wood R.N.¹ and the 12th Lancers to marshalling the beaches
Work was commenced on a second who lorry had pier been at La Panne by Lieut. Great-
the embarkation of troops from La would at 2030 be with two ships, to recommence
hoped the fire of the Nieuport battery less effective3.
westward of La Panne, which considered would be out
Dover for the embarkation of Lt. Cdr. McClelland at about 1800 from a point 2 miles V.A.
At about 1630, arrangements Lord were Gort made from La Panne direct with
range of the Nieuport battery. In the event, however, Lord Gort embarked of
in the Hebe's whaler nearer to La Panne.
were already filled put off. No additional boats arrived, however, and the
At 2030 two ships arrived off La Panne⁴, and the beaching craft there which
rate fell to about 150 an hour. With about 7,000 men awaiting embarkation
of embarkation was no more than 300 an hour ; indeed, as darkness set in, rate the
before 0400 the next morning (when the beach would be exposed to gunfire,
and might even be in the hands of the enemy) a rate of at least 1,000 an hour
was the necessary. for Urgent representations were made to V.A., Dover, and to ships
however, in response to this signal that at 2223 the Keith asked V.A., Dover, to
to urgently and that they lacked ships and boats⁵. It was probably,
informed clear Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker that La Panne had reported 6,000 troops
in vicinity more boats, but none came, although at 2130 V.A., Dover,
tell S.N.O., Dunkirk, that troops must be moved down to Bray, as tows of boats
got Panne. intercepted at Bray in the dark, with a resulting shortage of boats at La
During darkness hostile low-flying aircraft were patrolling continually over-
head and bombing promptly all lights shown, which no doubt explains why
lights. Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker in the Keith did not see the pre-arranged shore
By 2200 the situation at La Panne had become serious; only about 600
troops had been embarked and the few boats available, which had to be handled
and pulled in the darkness by troops inexperienced in this work, had dwindled
to three. At this time, as the telephone to Dover was still working, Lt. Cdr.
McClelland destroyed the W/T set.
At about 2300 the situation was becoming critical, as troops for whom there
were no boats were piling up on the beach, and the military withdrawal which
would full leave La Panne in no-man's-land by 0400 the following morning was in
on the crowded beach, causing casualties with almost every shell.
swing. To make matters worse the Nieuport battery opened a slow fire
D.G. Johnson, V.C., D.S.O., M.C., Commanding the 4th Division, who in turn
Lt. Cdr. McClelland discussed the situation with the G.O.C., Major-General
conferred the with the Duty Captain at Dover, and it was finally decided to march
being reached after Lt. Cdr. McClelland had made reconnaissance
6,000 men remaining at La Panne to Dunkirk, via Bray-Dunes, the decision
right had along the beaches, without finding any more ships a personal or boats, and after he
not arrives. informed the G.O.C. in reply to a direct question that he thought they would
List. I Lt. Cdr. McClelland's report. The name Greatwood is not in the May 1940 Navy
2 3 S/Lt. E. C. Croswell R.N. (C.W.23187/40).
Appendix Q.16.
4 Probably the Worcester and Hebe.
5 Appendix H.16.
76

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
After about an hour the Margate life-boat, the Lord Southborough, appeared.
All destroyers were now under way, and as the life-boat was returning to Margate
the party went back in her¹. She reached Margate at 1450 on May 31st.
Thus, by about 0830 on the 31st May all the beach parties of which there are
any records had returned or were on their way to England.
Devonia is beached
At 1035 Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker had informed V.A. Dover that he would
beach a ship in the hope of improving conditions for boat work, which was then
being made difficult by a lop and he instructed Cdre. Stephenson accordingly.
Cdre. Stephenson, then in the yacht Bounty off. La Panne, boarded the
minesweeper Devonia at 1600 and gave orders to beach the ship. The
Devonia, already much damaged by near misses at 1230, was beached at
full speed off La Panne, and at 1930, on account of the shelling and bombing,
she was abandoned. Fortunately by 1700 the weather off the beaches had
much improved.
Casualties to H.M. Ships
With the exception of the Devonia none of H.M. ships was lost on this day,
but the following were slightly damaged : the Vivacious was damaged by a
shell hit and had 3 dead and 12 wounded; the Hebe received slight damage
from a near miss; the Wolsey was in collision with the P/V Roebuck; the
Impulsive damaged a propeller on uncharted wreckage; the Malcolm was in
collision with Dunkirk pier; and the Scimitar was in collision with the Icarus
and later with a drifter².
Air patrols
During the 31st May Fighter Command carried out patrols, as on the 30th
May, at an average strength of three to four squadrons. Eight patrols in all
were flown, involving 289 sorties. The periods in the day when the Dunkirk
area was not covered were 0620-0800, 0830-1110, 1510-1615, and 1745-1915³.
Coastal Command patrolled the line North Goodwins-Gravelines-Ostend
throughout the day, patrols being of one section strength, involving in all
37 sorties⁴.
Shortly before 0930 the Air Ministry intercepted a meassage indicating that
the enemy air force had been ordered not to attack the town or harbour of
Dunkirk but to concentrate attacks on shipping at sea, or leaving the coast³.
It was at about 1230 that, off La Panne, the Devonia received extensive
damage to her hull from 4 near misses, but the first major attack on our ships
occurred about 1415-1430 when one of our squadrons estimated the enemy
strength as about 100 aircraft (bombers and fighters). Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker says, "a terrific air battle took place overhead and it seemed to go
against us". Actually, we lost 9 aircraft and claimed 7 enemy shot down.6
Air attacks then followed at half-hourly intervals between 1530 and 1730,
and at about 1717 the Ivanhoe, Whitehall and Express off Dunkirk harbour
were attacked by about 50 bombers. The Whitehall received some damage
and the Express slight damage from near misses. At this time also the Hebe
was attacked off La Panne by 4 bombers and was damaged by near misses ;
I Cdr. Richardson's report (R.O.III, p.370).
2 Probably either the Gervais Rentoul or the Eileen Emma which both returned damaged
as the result of collisions.
3 R.A.F. Narrative, p.334.
4 R.A.F. Narrative, p.336.
5 M.017978/41, p.17.
6 R.A.F. Narrative, p.335.
83

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SIGNALS
APPENDIX E
8. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Sabre
Last chance of saving B.E.F. is tonight. Proceed with all despatch to beach one
to three miles east of Dunkirk and embark troops using own boats. Route from
Dover is by No. 6 Calais buoy, south of Dunkerque B.W. buoy and French coastal
route. Return by Zuydcoote Pass Q.Z.F.3. and Q.Z.S.60. Other British ships
will be off the beach. You should leave at your discretion and anyhow not later
than 0330.
2305/27
SIGNALS RE BUILD UP OF DESTROYERS
Thursday, 30th May
9. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY, C.IN-C. NORE
Dover 30th May, departures: Javelin, Impulsive, Havant, Harvester, Icarus,
Intrepid, Ivanhoe, at 0515, for Sheerness.
0538/30
Note: This followed a decision to withdraw the 7 modern destroyers from Operation
Dynamo.
10. C.-IN-C. NORE to Harvester, Havant, Ivanhoe, Impulsive, Icarus, Intrepid (R) C.S.
S/H, V.A. Dover.
Raise steam forthwith and proceed to Dunkirk by Route x for X-ray.
1531/30
Note: The decision to withdraw. the modern destroyers was revoked.
11. ADMIRALTY to C.-IN-C. NORE (R) Ajax, Hotspur, V.A. Dover, Lynx
A spare destroyers crew is to be sent to Dover as soon as possible to provide
temporary reliefs in crews of destroyers operating off Belgian coast.
2341/30
APPENDIX E
SIGNALS RE BUILD-UP OF MINESWEEPERS
Note . 36 minesweepers took part in Operation Dynamo and were drawn from
the following flotillas: 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th, and 12th.
Sunday, 26th May
1. ADMIRALTY to C.IN-C. HOME FLEET, (R) A.C.O.S., V.A. Dover, M/S 1, M/S 6
Owing to casualties, 6 M.S.F. at Dover has been reduced to two effective ships.
Oil-burning fleet sweepers are urgently required there to maintain channel for
communication with B.E.F.
Request two ships of 1st M.S.F. may be spared from your command and sailed
to join 6 M.S.F. at Dover forthwith¹.
1833/26
I Hebe and Sharpshooter arrived Dover 1723/28.
Monday, 27th May
2. C.-IN-C. NORE to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
5th M.S.F. can sail from Harwich at daylight.
Would they be of use to you at Dunkirk.
2345/27
Reply
3.
No thank you very much.
0044/28
Tuesday, 28th May
Note: Admiralty message 1063/28 [not available] ordered the 7th and 8th M/S
Flotillas (which were at Rosyth) to Harwich, under the orders of the Vice-
Admiral, Dover.
4. C.-IN-C. NORE to F.O.I.C. HARWICH, (R) V.A. Dover, Admiralty
12th M.S.F. is to proceed to arrive off La Panne at 2200 today, Tuesday
5th M.S.F. is to proceed to arrive off beach between Zuydcoote and Malo-les-Bains
at 2200 today Tuesday
0939/28
T.O.R. 1036
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THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX F
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Emperor proceed of India, direct Princess minefield Elizabeth [10th M.S.F.] (R)
troops. Emperor of India is to over to La Panne to embark C.M.S.
northward to be at your discretion depending place. clear to
Princess of Elizabeth Gravelines is to Point proceed where over enemy minefields batteries to may Dunkirk be in keeping well
troops. Return route on the state
APPENDIX F
SIGNALS RE BUILD-UP OF SKOOTS
22nd May
F.1. ADMIRALTY V.A. to Dover C.-IN-C. PORTSMOUTH, (R) F.O.I.C. Portland, F.O.I.C. Southampton,
200-300 tons, are to be sent immediately These to Docks, Southampton, where
From the following list of Dutch coasters lying New in Poole, four empty and of about
will be loaded with military supplies. will be manned by naval crews after they
arrival at Southampton, and will work under the War Office.
manned by naval crews and ready will be at the disposal of V.A. Dover.
2. As many of the remainder when as are in light condition will be taken over and
of these vessels reporting names of vessels as they became ready for service.
3. C.-in-C. Portsmouth, is requested to arrange for the organisation and assembly
Chart Depot.
4. Arrangements are being made for sets of charts to be sent to Portsmouth
5. Further signal will be made regarding provision of naval personnel and dis-
posal of Dutch crews on taking over.
6. It is a matter of great importance that these vessels should be got ready for
service as soon as possible.
7. Despatch II
Horst
Brem'
Jaba
Sursum Corda
Bockelo'
Ruja
Abel Tasman
Hebenobel1
Java
Virgo
Kaapfalga
Friso
Alice
Aldo'
Dourswold
Nottingham1
Fredanja
Hebe II
1703/22
F.2. ADMIRALTY to C.-IN-C. NORE (R) F.O.I.C. London, V.A. Dover
in Wharf ballast and of about 200-300 tons, are to be sent immediately to Victualling
1. From the following list of Dutch coasters lying in the Port of London, four
after Deptford to load military supplies. These will be manned by naval crews
arrival at Deptford, and will work under the War Office.
over manned by naval crews.
2. and As many of the remainder which [?as] are in light condition are to be taken
these 3. C.-in-C. Nore is requested to for the and assembly of
vessels which when ready will be arrange placed at the disposal organisation of V.A. Dover.
4. Names of ships to be reported as they became ready for service.
Sheerness. 5. Arrangements are being made for sets of charts to be sent to Chart Depot
personnel 6. Further for manning. signal will be made re dispoasl of Dutch crews and provision of
I Was not available.
164

Details

SIGNALS
APPENDIX G-
14 ADMIRALTY to C.-in-C. Sheerness. PORTSMOUTH, C.-in.-C. NORE (R) V.A. Dover, N.O.I.C. Rams-
gate, Cdr. i/c
Investigate as a matter of urgency provision of additional small craft which can
be made available within 48 hours from all ports in your command for Operation
Dynamo including X-lighters and other self-propelled lighters. Any available in
Portsmouth Command to be sent to Dover forthwith.² Those in Nore Command
to be sent to Ramsgate. V.A. Dover to be kept informed.
All craft are to be provided with charts and if necessary manned by naval crews.
S.T.O.'s have been informed and have full requisitioning powers.
1115/29
15. (ADMIRALTY) D.S.V.P. to C.-in-C. Portsmouth, Nore, Vice-Admiral, Dover (R), N.O.I.C.-
Ramsgate, C.S. Sheerness, S.N.O. Yarmouth, S.N.O. Newhaven.
My 0940/29 and Admiralty 1115/29:
Officers of S.V.P. now in area mentioned have been ordered to co-operate with
your organisations.
They are to supply records from S.V.P. of boats available, and to send boats as
ordered in Admiralty 1115/29 and not repetition not as in my 0940/29.
1130/30
16. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER (R) C.-in-C. Nore.
20 Thames barges in tow of 5 tugs expected to arrive Ramsgate 1700 today May
29th
It is for consideration that they be used as piers.
1255/29
17. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Hebe for CAPTAIN BUSH
20 Thames barges in tow are being sent. Can they be usefully used as piers for
loading troops at points on the beaches or do you consider they would be more use-
fully employed for ferrying troops
1456/29
18. C.-in-C. NORE to A/S CHATHAM, COMMODORE IN CHARGE, Sheerness, D.M.O. (R),
N.O.I.C. Ramsgate.
All available X-lighters which can be released without disorganising dockyards
are to be sent to Ramsgate forthwith.
1210/29
19. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to C.-in-C. PORTSMOUTH
All small craft should be route-ed direct to Ramsgate and not repeat not to Dover.
1618/29
Thursday, 30th May
20. C.-in-C. PORTSMOUTH to ADMIRALTY, N.O.I.C. Ramsgate, Vice-Admiral, Dover
Small craft for Belgium operations due Ramsgate approximately as follows:
0600 3 fast M/B's.
0700 Dutch Mok I.
0900 2 fast paddle steamers, 1 M/B, 1 Picket boat.
1000 H.M.S. Dwarf, tug Grappler towing lighter and launches, tug Emprise
towing launch, and 2 coaling tugs.
1100 3 Hopper barges.
1200 2 picket boats, 1 diesel boat.
1300 2 small cargo carriers, 1 launch, 1 small tug.
1400 1 Dutch M/B and 2 M/B's.
1500 2 I.O.W. car ferries and 2 drifters.
1600 1 small tug towing launch.
1900 5 Hoppers.
2400 2 launches.
All above times are 30th May. No ships are degaussed.
0005/30
21. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Hebe.
Rear-Admiral [Dover] from 1st Sea Lord.
Report conditions on beaches and whether boats are distributed to best advantage.
1019/30
2 See Appendix G.22.
167

Details

SIGNALS
APPENDIX o
I have sent Capt. Bush by M.T.B. with an appreciation.
There is little food or water in Dunkirk. This should be sent as soon as possible
Armies are quite unable to help or organise anything. Keep on sending any ships.
A good medical officer with staff should be despatched
1001/29
4. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER C.-IN-C. PORTSMOUTH
Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker has been appointed as R.A., Dover for command
of seagoing ships and vessels off the Belgian coast, and is to hoist his flag in such
ship as V.A. Dover shall direct.
1748/29
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to SHIPS & AUTHORITIES NORE & DOVER (R) Admiralty
C.-in-C. Portsmouth, C.-in-C. Nore
My 1748/291, 1321/29 and 1832/29 to Hebe only :
Authority for operation Dynamo under V.A. Dover is as follows :
R.A. Wake-Walker has been appointed as R.A. Dover for command of seagoing
ships and vessels off the Belgian coast.
R.A. Dover has hoisted his flag in Hebe. Captain Tennant has been appointed
as S.N.O. Dunkirk and is responsible under R.A. Dover for all shore organisation.
1328/30
6. ADMIRALTY to SHIPS & AUTHORITIES IN AREA A (R) C.-in-C. Portsmouth C.-in-C. W.A.
During present operations on Belgian coast where many small craft are present,
destroyers are not repetition not to stop to render assistance to ships in distress. 1105/29
7. Ivanhoe to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
From S.N.O. Dunkirk-enemy shelling pier with shore batteries from S.E.
Request bombers to counter. Vital.
1105/29
and later
8. B.N.L.O., C.-IN-C. NORTHERN NAVAL FORCES to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
My
1105 cancel request. Consider possible retaliation would be to our dis-
advantage.
1200/29
SIGNALS RE EVACUATION 29TH MAY
9. MAJOR GENERAL LLOYD to MAJOR GENERAL DEWING, D.M.O., WAR OFFICE
Morale of troops landing is remarkably high partly no doubt due to arrival home.
Approximately half armed. Percentage of officers small. All drawn from units
promiscuously, mostly Third Corps
1204/29
10. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to GENERAL LINDSELL [Q.M.G.], S.N.O. DUNKIRK
Stores and supply craft have had to return undischarged owing to lack of assist-
ance from shore.
Must press you to organise parties for unloading purposes; Naval beach parties
will indicate when and where required.
1432/29
I V.A. Dover's 1748/29 cannot be traced. Probably Admiralty Message
1748/29 (see Appendix O, 9c) is meant.
G
177

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

Details

OPERATION DYNAMO.
VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
ABDE BEAUCLARK
Lifeboat
ABEL TASMAN
Dutch
AEGIR
Dutch
ALICE
Dutch
AMAZONE
Dutch
ANTJE
Dutch
BART
Dutch
BORNRIFF
Dutch
BRENDARIS
Dutch
CARIBIA
Dutch
DELTA
Dutch
DESPATCH II
Dutch
DOGGER BANK
Dutch
FERDANTA
Dutch
FRISCO
Dutch.
CORECHT
Dutch
Dutch
HEBE
HONSDRUG
Dutch
Dutch
HORST
Dutch
JAVA
Dutch
JUTLAND
Dutch
KAAPFALGA
Dutch
Aground on Brady beach.
LENA
Dutch
ORANJE
Dutch
PACIFIC
Dutch
PASCHULL
Dutch
PATRIA
PRINCESS JULIANA
Dutch
Dutch
REIGER
Dutch
RIKA
Dutch
RUJA
Dutch
SANANTINO
Dutch
SURSUM CORDA
Dutch
TILLY
Dutch
TWENTE
Dutch
VREDE
Dutch
WEGA
Dutch
ZEOS

Details

OPERATION DYNAMO
DUTCH. YESSELS.
VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
lamy
ABDE BEAUCLARK
Lifeboat
Mr.Bellamy (Dutch)
ABEL TASMAN
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy (Dutch)
AEGIR
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
ALICE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
AMAZONE
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
ANTJE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
BART
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
BORNRIFF
Dutch
Mr. .Bellamy
BRENDARIS
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
CARIBIA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
DELTA
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
DESPATCH II
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
DOGGER BANK
Dutch
Mr.Bellemy
EN
Very
twing
FERDANTA
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
FRISO
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
WI
GORECHT
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
H H H
ZEO
HEBE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
HONSDRUG
Dutch
Mr. Bellamy
HORST
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
JAVA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
JUTLAND
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
KAAFALGIA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy

Details

Durch Vessds:
B
OPERATION DYNAMO
VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
ABDE BEAUCLARK
Lifeboat
Mr.Bellamy (Dutch)
ABEL TASMAN
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy (Dutch)
AEGIR
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
ALICE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
AMAZONE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
ANTJE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
BART
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
BORNRIFF
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
BRENDARIS
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
CARIBIA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
DELTA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
DESPATCH II
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
DOGGER BANK
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
FERDANTA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
FRISO
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
GORECHT
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
HEBE
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
HONSDRUG
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
HORST
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
JAVA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
JUTLAND
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy
KAAFALGIA
Dutch
Mr.Bellamy

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Hire and
Repairs and
Total Loss
Vessel
Type
Claimant
Expenses
Paper No.
Replacements
£ S d
£ s d
£ s d
"GEORGETTE"
&
"FEMINA"
}
Belgian
6 -
The Dartmouth Coaling
S.Ss
Co. Ltd.
AG.3/3531/40.Pt.II
34 11 8
Various
Southern Railway
"
"
Pt.I
75 - -
"VIMY"
Destroyer
"
"
"
"
"
10 6 -
"ROYAL DAFFODIL"
M.V.
Gen.Stm.Nav.Co.Ltd.
"
"
Pt.II
17 14 2
Sundry
Kris Cruisers(1934)] Ltd.
"
"
"
"ESKBURN"
210 12 -
S.S.
James & Sons
"
"
"
"HEBE"
1 19 1
M.V.
Shell-Mex & B.F.Ltd.
"
"
Pt.I
Sundry Services
22 14 5
R.L. Walls & Sons
"
"
Pt.II
Belgian
Trawlers
"
"
835 2 11
Torbay Trawlers Ltd.
"
AG.3/5009/41 for
details.
"
"
27 19 -
Cantell & Sons
Pt.I
Wm. Watkins Ltd.
"
"
3 1 6
Pt.II
Various
Petroleum Board
"
"
"
7 10 6
Capt. Pim's
Expenses
Geo.Hammond & Co.
"
"
"
1
-
10
Various
L.H. Webb
"
"
Pt.I
21 11 8
"
J.Mears Ltd.
T.M.3719/40
133 19 8
"TEANO"
S.S.
Ellerman's Wilson
AG.3/3531/40 Pt.II
79 17 11
Line
"HEBE"
M.V.
Wm. Cory & Son Ltd.
"
"
"
3 6 4
Various including
"PRINSES JOSEPHINE
Falmouth Dock &
CHARLOTTE"
Eng. Co.
"
"
"
46
7
9
Water Tanks
Balwins Ltd. (London)
AG.20047/40
78 19 6
"ATLANTIC"
Wm. Cory & Son, Ltd.
AG.3/3531/ Pt.I
14 11 10
"
Shell Mex & B.P.Ltd.
"
"
"
6 18 4
"
"
"SUN XII"
Tug
W.Watkins Ltd.
If
18 3 4
Poole Harbour Comrs.
"
"
"
"PHOENIX"
3 9
"JEFF" & Tug
"BARNES"
A. Perring
"
"
"
1 10 -
"KAAP FALGA"
M.V.
J. I.Thornycroft & Co.
Ltd.
"
" Pt.II
4 1 1
Southern Railway Co.
"
"
Dutch
11
"HORNRIF"
Coaster
2 11 8
W.H.Roberts
"
"TORBAY BELLE"
" Pt.I
15 -
Evacuation of Troops
T.M. 7280/40
Ship Federation Ltd.
T.M. 7280/40
"
"
"
"
"
407 14 7
471 12 4

Details

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

Details

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

Details

16
Extract Jun adminity weekly atelligue Refund
No.15 (Lint Ime, 1940). body on on T.09474. 16
DUNKIRK BEACHES.
243
The following narrative, based on noted made at the time,
has been contributed by an officer attached to R.A., Dover,
during the evacuation of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk.
Wednesday, May 29.
With R.A., Dover, and his staff I embarked in H.M.S. "ESK",
and at 2000 sailed for Dunkirk beaches. Halfway across the
Channel and it got dusk, huge fires showed the position of
Dunkirk and vividly lit up the eastern sky. A pall of black
smoke hung over the coast. At first it seemed that the whole
town must be burning, but as we approached I found that the
fires were confined to an area close westward of the town and
harbour where the oil refineries and storages were situated.
We steamed slowly up the narrow coastal channel and past
Dunkirk to the ten miles of beaches from which the troops were
being embarked. We had on board with us the naval beach
parties who were to be landed to superintend the boat embarka-
tion between Dunkirk at the western end and La Panne at the
eastern. The beach parties were put ashore in three sections at
different points in the ships' boats. The night was overcast and
very dark, and it was not possible to see how much activity there
was inshore. Boats were few, and not many ships were lying off
the beaches.
Thursday, May 30.
At 0200 we transferred to H.M.S. "HEBE" of Bray, and pro-
ceeded eastward along the coast to La Panne. Dawn found us
still there, and it brought with it one of the most astounding and
pathetic sights I have ever seen. Almost the whole ten miles of
beach was black from sand-dunes to waterline with tens of
thousands of men. In places they stood up to their knees and
waists in water waiting for their turn to get into the pitiably few
boats. It seemed impossible that we should ever get more than
a fraction of all these men away. The immediate and urgent
need was for more boats - both small pulling boats for inshore
work, and power boats to tow them seawards to the ships. These
we asked for, and as the day progressed many more arrived.
The weather to-day was most favourable, with low cloud and
poor visibility, little wind and a calm sea. Even so, there was
considerable surf on the beaches and inshore boat work was not
easy. The day was spent in getting into touch with the situation
ashore through S.N.O., Dunkirk, and the G.O., C. in C., and in
directing ships and boats as they arrived to where they were most
needed. It had been intended to keep "HEBE" free of troops for
R.A., Dover, but ships were too few and she filled up in Dunkirk
early in the day. After despatching her to Dover R.A. transferred
his flag to various destroyers as they waited to fill up off the
beaches.
One of the great difficulties was getting empty boats back
inshore. They had no boat keepers, and naturally a man, having
once got off to a ship, was not keen to return inshore again.
Some of the soldiers, however, did fine work in this wayy, and
went back many times.
During the whole of this day I saw no bomb drop on the
beaches, nor any enemy aircraft flying low to machine gun.
There were various ships attached by aircraft, but I do not think
any was hit. Air superiority was well maintained during the
- 1

Details

early
at beachearricades always we Bray appeared part to know of to the when have as of day, far tanks, this no out.townrds.evening fighter patrevening there the enemy were seemed times when
sh
tide which and it was came La plank Panne. pier of venthes, footway Wi as lorries, the handrail so water etc., R.E. mark were did
westward. As the afternoon wore a the abandoned the enemy's hit and saw "VI bu
and "CLAN
the to - get or outer twor-boats that men alongside. At could out walk ong out the to
brunt boats many the late ships boats his on grass staff in embarked a get to
of the evening a number of wind powe cl
in most like closely to thele THE in these or three - would states In bar this have of
the evening. the C. tide England MA/SB.
Friday, to 1,200 May men. 31. was in the region of 5-6 time hours to water load - line power that 18, for except 1,000 from the
Saturday
June 1 under very was as
There
with During the bet
encourage high the enough boats and sea dry the broached for twelve to at northerly high water work breeze most and a heavy
and the La Dunkirk. were good general
that west towards there the direction of numbers of enem
in holding Dunkink therolding Dunkirk as it the tonly real hoperds the the hours. We all that and were Many left of
be by The off from not them. The more rate than and getting the a fraction a beaches was & The beaches was & beache armies evacuation on Dunkirk, so from slow
to of and close in was possible lay to
At TOTAL offing, on Ke
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< THE
when patrols little there trouble were sky entirely was during clear, adequate the but earlier despite part this of the the enemy aircraft could
part staff much of his transferred own were way again and to many some bombs gaps until were during the which late the day. afternoon Our and fighter evening, gave
87's though was skipjack Keith All an
It close
of The this bad weather and other H.M.S. days in "KEITH" small off craft dropped. Bray. up and He At enemy spent 0645, had a R.A. large things and
attack on on hit
the on most the beaches of the almost small craft and onshore near wind, coupled with down the stranding coast.
these time after At the 0805 second a further or third The strong ship salvo imme was diatelya moving at boiler a hi fre qu
off day, the and it became tovident that toyal evident that there been was slowed the no hope greater down the of the part work of
THE sar
Bray. shelled About We from proceeded noon the "HEBE" eastwards at La and Panne were reported originally that they planned. were bringing
side, then. M.T.B.
noon trouble. to try An to locate up the to shore La Panne in forced "KEITH" to withdraw towards being
eastward spotting work. of La enemy Panne A observation and may have balloon battery been was which up was a early few causing in the the
after-
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< with w s
1430 down off by aircraft La Panne but signal 1t was was still made there asking able for to this do some miles useful to
the
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< 10-15 attack
number and at of the same time we a came tremendous under fire aerial from in a the hidden evering. shore to be At shot about
executed. frequent escorting STATE THE on broke while overhead. they engaged Our a the
fighters battle in which battery, large
type the most her the hit went off <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< the to from atta B
"KEITH" was bombed ships at 1500, and beaches without through. were success. mostly The ill
and
-3-
- 2 -

Details

391
H.M.M.T.B. No. 68
at Portsmouth.
,
324
10th June, 1940.
eport of Proceedings of H.M. Motor Torpedo Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
and 1st June, 1940
port of Proceedings of M.T.B. 67
Page 3
1/Eba
turday, 1st June
1430. Sailed for Portsmouth to be slipped. M.T.B. 68 in company.
2200. Arrived Portsmouth.
0o0o0o0
393
officers to inspect beaches
H.M.M.T.B. No. 68
ast Piers.
at Portsmouth.
in Bush and Lieutenant Commander
10th June, 1940.
)fdinary Telegraphist Kirkwood
trcraft made off as soon as we
I have the honour to submit the
; Kirkwood to H.M.S. "SANDHURST".
lowing letter of proceedings of H.M.
or Torpedo Boat No. 68 under my command,
)res.
ansmitting set and two tele-
:ween 27th May and 1st June, 1940.
lo demolition party.
caused by W/T set, reached
I have the honour to be,
hore batteries. Took necessary
Sir,
lition party. Intense dive
tivities in the neighbourhood
your obedient servant.
dr raid instructed crew to
3E" and act under orders of
Lieutenant R.N.V.R.
(ht reporting on activities of
in Command.
or motor boats; transferred
"BE" to attendant destroyer;
Vice Admiral, Dover.
3. "HEBE" to H.M.S. "LOTUS" and
pies to;- "HORNET". Portsmouth,
L instructions to hand personally
Commander-in-chief, The
organise beaching parties.
ver.
engine.
n H.M.S. "KEITH". Took
officer on board

Details

Details

From:- Resident Naval Officer, Poole,
Dynam 241.
To:- F.O.I.C. Portland.
22
Copy to Staff Officer Operations, Portsmouth.
REPORTS RECEIVED FROM COMMANDING OFFICERS OF REQUISTIONED
DUTCH COASTERS, WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO"
"SAN ANTONIO"
B
people. On first trip 270 people were taken off Dunkirk Breakwater and on Second trip 330
On second trip a dive bombing attack was made on the vossel from ahead by a Junkers
89 plane and two bombs just missed astern. The first of these was a delay action
bomb. The ship experienced heavy bombardment by 5.9 inch shells whilst embarking
the second time.
A
"HEBE" ( Report as written by commanding Officer)
The Dútch Coastal vessel "Hebe" was takon over by a Naval Crew on Friday 24th. May 1940
H.M.S. Hebe was commissioned on Saturday 25th. May 1940, Commanding Officer, Lieut.
A. H. Rowlandson R.N., First Licut. Lieut R.N., and a crew of 1 P.O.
1 E.R.A. 2 Stokers 1 A.B. and 4. Ordinary Seaman.
The first O eration carried out was on Monday 27th. May when TO sailed in
Company with the rest of the group with orders to evacuate troops from the Beach be-
tween Dunkirk and Ia Panne or from Dunkirk.
Hebe arrived off Dunicirk at about 0030 and I approached the beach twice
but found no troops and no opposition. I turned West along the beach towards
Dunkirk, entered and went alongside the east fetty in shore, I loaded with troops
all that remained there, and returned to Dover on completion with about 150 on
board. No opposition was encountered.
The only casuality was & slight wound in the foot of the commanding
officer H.M.S. Hebe from a bullet accidentally fired by a British Soldier on
board.
The second operation began on Tednesday 29th. leaving Dover at 20.00. I
went to Dunkirk by the Calais route and although constantly searched by
searchlights no batteries opened fire on the Calais coast.
Off Dunkirk I came up to H.N.S. Sursun Corda lowering a boat near the
wreckage of a vessel apparently mined. One voice was heard and a mineaveeper
arrived and sent over a boat I continued my course.
I passed close to the entrance to Dunkirk, the jetties and piers were
deserted so I inued eastward and went ashore near & large body of British troops
I lowered the only boat and carly left and began embariting these troops. This proved
to be very slow so I approached the beach and bown to the shore enabled nen to
wade out and climb on board. About 300 were taken on board and ferried out to a
destroyer.
I repeated this operation and took operation and took over another 300
to 350 men to the minesweeper Fitaroy. The Captain let me have two large type life
G.1
saving nets to put over the bows which assisted embaticing troops after I returned
to shore.
No other large ships were lying off Dunkirk. H.M.S. Friso was embarizing
troops and H.M.S. Sursum Corda was aground close in shore. I attempted to tow her
Yoff but failed and was driven onto a small Bank close to her and remained aground
until 18.30
At 18.00 Geramn Artillery began sholling the sand dunes and beach, although
shapnel fell over us and wounded men aboard Sursum Corda We got afloat without
difficulty and oaded about 250 troops and went down towards La Panne to ass them
to a destroyer there.
I remaine a there resouing men from the water embarking men from boats
and pontoons the majority of these were passed to & destroyer and were suffering from
exposure.
At 23. I found no more men to embark and returned to Dover without
further incident with about 250 people on board.
The ship was without ater and fuel and I arrived at Dover at about 11.00
on Friday 31st. May. Wa er and provisions were embarked and I was sent to Remagate
In company with H.M.S. Fiso whose compass WILB useless owing to banbing attack.
On Sunday June 2nd. 1940 while under WAY to the fuellingJetty In
Ransgate Herbour I was ordered alongside the Pier to enbark 249 Corman prisoners
to take them to Dover.
The hold was filled and about a dosen wounded were left lying on dock. The
uard consiste of 36 frenc security Police and 6 cades of the O.T.C. under the
Command of a 2nd. Licut,

Details

II.
62
(NARRATIVE OF THE COMMANDING OFFICER H.M.S. FRISO DURING
61
OPERATION DYNAMO)
Friday 31st May (contd) During the moráing one of the Beachmasters
came off to me and endeavoured to persuade me to beach the ship
so as to lead quicker, pointing out that two other smaller skoots
(HEBE & SURSOM CORDA) were doing so very successfully. As it was
now a falling tide with an onshore wind I refused. For this I
was later very glad as both other skoots shor tly afterwards
became stuck on the beach and were unable to get off. (HEBE came
off at the next high water. During the forenoon I hailed a large
motor driven pleasure boat, got him alongside me and transferred
250 men to him. By about 1230 I had onboard 648 men and space
was extremely cramped. I had delayed my departure hoping that a
destryyer or other fast craft would appear and take my load from
me so that I could fill up again. However as another skoot appeared
I slipped my anchor (the capstan being again defective) and sailed.
Just as I was about to leave Dunkirk Roads I was hailed by a Fleet
Minesweeper and ordered to tow a Drifter full of troops to Dover.
By 1330 the Drifter was in tow and we were proceeding at about
5 knots. At approximately 1400 a Heinkel appeared out of the low
cloud and at a height of 350 feet released a large bomb, probably
500 lbs, and as he passed over he opened fire with machine guns.
The bomb fell on my Port quarter between me and the Drifser.
Luckily the Bomb exploded below the surface and beyond violently
shaking both ships no xjer major damage was done. The force of
the explosion caused my compass to jump out of its gimbals.
Certain damage was dome to Auxiliary Machinery in the Engine Room.
After we had been proceeding for about half an hour we were shelled
by the Nieuport Battery. As the third salvo straddled us I decided
to risck the navigational dangers and cut across the snadbanks so
as to present the minimum target and to open the range as fast as
possible. Luckily the Enemy never found the range again. Thick
fog was encountered at about 1830.
On making the North Goodwin Light Vessel I discovered
that the Shaking up had caused a 30 dgree error in the compass.
During the oassage through the Downs the tow parted on several
occasions due to the wash of fast moving vessels.
At about 0100 on Saturday 1st June I was about 1
cable from the entrance to Dover Harbour when I was bombed again.
This time it was only a very small bomb, which although a very
near miss only wetted the troops on the port side aft. There
were no casualties from machine gun fire. At 0130 I secured
alongside Admiralty Pier Dover. At 0230 we shifted billet and
secured for the night for which I was very grateful as we had
been running continuously for over three days and I had had no
to the Engine and provisions and water were embarked. At
sleep for 90 hours. On Saturday temporary repairs were effected 1700
I proceeded to Ramsgate with HEBE in company arriving Harbour. at 2000,
where as I could not anchor I secured in the Inner
On Sunday and Monday 2nd & 3rd June respectively
permanent repairs were effected to the Engine and Capatan. were When
all skoots were brought to immediate notice in case they
required again it was decided that FRISO was not sufficiently
reliable and so was left in the Inner Harbour.
I cannot speak too highly of my crew who worked
without break. The 0 nly men being onboard at the were
continuously, and on Friday were in the Boats for 7½ time hours
my First a Lieutenant one seamen and the E.R.A. and myself.
I have the honour to be,
VICE ADMIRAL
Sir,
0JUN1940
Your obedient servant,
*
*
DOVER
B
Gene Lymmus.
Lieutenant.
To the Vice Adminal
Royal Navy.
Dorn.

Details

127
-2-
This method was found successful and two trips were
carried out in same manner. For the third endeavour,
"VANQUISHER" and"FITZROY" having left for England, and no other
larger craft being in the vicinity, my intentions were to
close again, fill to capacity and proceed towards La Panne, to
transfer troops if requested, or return to England.
It is regretted that this effort failed in that
"SURSUM"CORDA" was beached too securely and no efforts ot my part
were successful in re-floating.
Thiswwas due to an error in judgement on my part in
allowing too many men on board at the time and my incorrect
appreciation of the time of the tide turning, no tide tables being
carried.
H.M.S. "HEBE" came to my assistance, but unfortunately
though a tow was passed, her lack of power and manoeuvreability
were strong handicaps, and she herself grounded two cables to
Eastward.
At 0800/30 it was realised there was no chance of the
ship moving until the following High Water.
During the period of waiting until High Water that
evening, I assisted where possible on the Beach in the vicinity
of the Ship, and during periods where there were no small craft
operating, took aboard soldiers for shelter and distributed
what food remained aboard "SURSUM-CORDA".
All members of my crew worked magnificently under
somewhat strained conditions, and with no consideration for
themselves.
Further endeavours to re-float were made between 1800
and 2030 using kedge anchor with soldiers onboard assisting.
At 1840 a shell from an enemy shore battery burst & few yards ahead
of the ship and four soldiers were hit by splinters. I ordered
these and one officer hit whilst on the beach to be placed below
and with the assistance of a stretcher bearer my First
Lieutenant, Lieutenant Brooks rendered first aid and made them as
comfortable as conditions allowed.
I then cleared the ship of soldiers and continued my
efforts to re-float, but with no success, delay being caused by
an influx of soldiers somewhat naturally seeking shelter after
the shell fire, whom Lordered to stand by to board "HEBE" who
I could see appeared to shew hopeful signs of clearing the
beach. The majority of them carried out these orders and
"HEBE" was re-floated at approximately 1945. On receiving
report of my engines being temporarily out of action and on
point of "seizing-up") decided further efforts were fruitless,
and retaining only wounded and completely exhausted men onboard
for shelter, until small craft or ambulances could be commandeered
to take them off, decided to land and assist on beach where
possible.
(continued

Details

2186
OPERATION DYNAMO.
ICLOSURE NO. 13.
SHIP: H.M.S. DOLPHIN's MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB-LIEUTENANT E.F. CORNISH-BOWDEN, R.N.
In company with H.M.S. EXCELLENT'S Power Boat,
this boat sailed from Dover harbour at 0240 on Friday,
31st May.
2.
Soon after passing the North Goodwin Light Vessel,
EXCELLENT's boat signalled to the effect that she was very
doubtful whether she could get to the French coast at
maximum speed owing to lack of petrol and so speed was
reduced to about 8 knots, the speed over the ground being
considerably less owing to considerable yawing in a
following sea.
3.
The two boats were routed to leave the usual
course for Dunkirk some 20 miles from that place and
proceeded through shallower water to La Panne and Bray.
About 15 miles N.W. of Bray an enemy floating mine was
seen and an attempt was made to sink it by rifle fire.
This, however, failed, and the position of the mine was
later reported.
4.
Owing to an error in navigation, caused largely
by an inaccurate boat's compass, DOLPHIN arrived at Bray at
1100 and after enquiring as to our whereabouts proceeded
to La Panne and attempted unsuccessfully to obtain petrol
from H.M.S. HEBE.
5. Owing to the shortage of petrol I returned to
Bray and to try and fill my tank. However, this again
proved impossible and so I decided to use what petrol I
had and ask for a tow home when the tank was dry.
6. EXCELLENT's boat had damaged herself on a submerged
object and was close inshore. I was about to go to her aid
when I was informed that the depth of the water was only 3
feet and I was ordered not to go in tooclose. I therefore
was unable to be of any assistance in embarking troops from
the improvised pier. I therefore asked ships present if I
could be of any assistance to them, but unfortunately they
were already getting all that they needed.
7.
I then proceeded back to La Panne but when almost
there the enemy started shelling the ships which immediately
weighed and proceeded to Bray. On return to Bray, I
consulted the Senior Officer present as to my usefulness and
it was decided that I should obtain a tow back to Dover to
refuel when I hoped to obtain a tow back to Dunkirk with a
full tank and where I believed I could be more usefully
employed.
SARGOSSA, 8. arriving at Dover Harbour at about 1930, since
I left Bray at 1415 in tow of the dan-laying yacht
when I have been employed towing and carrying despatches in
Dover harbour.
(Signed) E.F. Cornish-Bowden
Sub-Lieutenant, R.N.
[OVER

Details

REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF H.M.S."LOCUST" DURING OPERATION "DYNAMO245 258
29th May 1940 to 4th June 1940.
29th May. H.M.S. "Locust" and H.M.S. "Mosquito" were ordered to sail
for La Panne and Bray Dunes respectively, and proceeded at
1348.
At 1730 "Mosquito" parted company and at 1845 "Locust"
arrived in position off La Panne Beach.
Large numbers of both British and French Troops were seen
to be waiting on the beach, and it was decided that a first
attempt at embarkation shouldbe made by grounding the fore
part of "Locust" and trying to get the soldiers to wade
out and climb on board over the bow. Ladders were accord-
ingly rigged forward and the ship steamed in to the beach.
The kedge anchor was let go over the stern and at 1900
the ship took the ground forward. After hailing the
beach a few soldiers started to wade off, but gave up the
attempt, and as the tide was falling the ship was got off
and anchored, and embarkation started by means of the Ship's
two whalers.
At 1950 engaged enemy aircraft and continued to do so in-
termittently until 2130. Enemy aircraft were carrying out
bombing attacks on the beaches.
At 2200 "Locust" signalled Commander Cordeaux in "Royal
Eagle" for information, as embarkation was proceeding very
slowly, and there appeared to beno Power boats available.
Reply from "Royal Eagle" that Commander Cordeaux was in-
capacitated and that "Locust" was S.N.O. La Panne.
As there were no powerboats in sight, and a number of pulling
boats could be seen stranded on the beach by the receding
tide I decided to land in order to organize the troops into
pulling themselves off from the beach.
At 2220 S.N.O. "A" in "Hebe" approached and approved my
landing. I accordingly landed at 2230 and found six R.N.
cutters and three Merchant Service (pulling) Life boats
Mut
stranded on the beach about 300 yards from the water's edge.
Locust
There were about 1000 British Troops who appeared to be
in charge of Non-commissioned Officers. The boats had
of
swung across the beach and were jambed together, half full
of water and in many cases imbedded in the sand. The
3
soldiers took some little time to understand what was re-
this
quired of them, but eventually all the boats were emptied
x
and got down to the water's edge. They were then pulled
out to "Locust" and other ships present by the Soldiers.
30th May.
At midnight, 29th/30th the ships and the beach were again
bombed by enemy aircraft which caused some slight delay
in the embarkation, but by 0300 all the available boats
were off the beach and I returned on board.
P.T.O.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
F
of, Petty Officer T.Jones throughout operations.
I should like to draw special attention to the magnificent work
295
2
The following officers, Lieut. Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
- 280
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE".
C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R.
May 29. 1800. Left Hamble.
May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100.
Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area.
2130. Left Dover in company.
May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under
orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach.
0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf
boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later
ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at
disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did
this, collected her boats, took them in to beach
and brought soldiers to her.
The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our
launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we
tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it
in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH"
and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half
an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left
ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat.
As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but
remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small
boat, transferred to us and took over the ship.
Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and
transmitting Commodore's orders.
1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain
on board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. While
we were alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft
and she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. Heavy
air attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" ordered me
to signal all ships to move half a mile Westward.
Followed "HEBE" to try and put her Capt. aboard. Arrived
alongside her off Bray, just as she was attacked by
bombers, so was ordered by her Capt. to lie off her
while she was in action, but close enough for him to
pass orders to her if necessary. Later, put him on
board "HEBE" and received orders from him to proceed to
La Panne and take off G.H.Q. personnel. Was given
Night Operation Orders to hand to Lord Gort. Proceeded
to La Panne escorted by "HEBE" and lay off pier.
1630. Sent dinghy ashore with A.H.H. Gutsell, C.P.O. and
G. Duncan, A.B., with orders to contact G.H.Q. and hand
over Night Operation Orders. While waiting took on
soldiers.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
I should Officer like to T.Jones draw special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty throughout operations.
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
sir and shelling from the land.
280
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE".
C.O., H.M.Glassborow, Lt., R.N.V.R.
May 29. 1800. Left Hamble.
May 30. 0600. Arrived Dover; berthed in Submarine Basin 1100.
Received orders to sail in company for Dunkirk area.
2130. Left Dover in company.
May 31. 0600. Arrived off Bray. Proceeded to La Panne under
orders from "ANKH" to take soldiers off beach.
0630. Arrived off La Panne, took soldiers from surf
boats and transferred them to destroyers. Later
ordered by Capt. of destroyer to place ourselves at
disposal of paddle steamer anchored off beach. Did
this, collected her boats, took them in to beach
and brought soldiers to her.
The Commodore in "BOUNTY" suggested we used our
launch and with assistance of soldiers on board, we
tried to get the launch in the water but smashed it
in the process. Later called up by destroyer "KEITH"
and ordered to anchor astern of her. After about half
an hour there was an air raid and "KEITH" weighed and left
ordering me to remain where I was as despatch boat.
As bombs were falling all around, weighed anchor but
remained i n position. The Commodore arrived in a small
boat, transferred to us and took over the ship.
Sailed round La Panne and Bray, boarding ships and
transmitting Commodore's orders.
1300. Went alongside sloop "HEBE" and took her Captain
on board. Put Commodore on board paddle steamer. While
we were alongside her, she was attacked by aircraft
and she wieghed and left with Commodore aboard. Heavy
air attack at La Panne; Capt. of "HEBE" ordered me
to signal all ships to move half a mile Westward.
Followed "HEBE" to try and put her Capt. aboard. Arrived
alongside her off Bray, just as she was attacked by
bombers, so was ordered by her Capt. to lie off her
while she was in action, but close enough for him to
pass orders to her if necessary. Later, put him on
board "HEBE" and received orders from him to proceed to
La Panne and take off G.H.Q. personnel. Was given
Night Operation Orders to hand to Lord Gort. Proceeded
to La Panne escorted by "HEBE" and lay off pier.
1630. Sent dinghy ashore with A.H. Gutsell, C.P.O. and
G. Duncan, A.B., with orders to contact G.H.Q. and hand
over Night Operation Orders. While waiting took on
soldiers.

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
295
of, Petty Officer Jones throughout operations.
I should like to draw special attention to the magnificent work
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
2.
it
281
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "THELE" (cotnd).
1830. (May 31). Dinghy returned with Lt. Crosswell, R.N., N.L.O.
to Lord Gort. Lord Gort was taken off by a destroyer's launch.
Went to Bray to try and contact "HEBE", but on the way was
ordered by Admiral to go in to beach with whale r and take off
a General. At beach "AHOLA" arrived and transferred to me Lord
Gort's baggage, valet and driver. Requested "AHOLA" to attend to
General and went off again to find "HEBE" Ordered by Admiral to
proceed to sea and collect boats drifting about. Went about 2
miles out and collected three boats and brought these back to
Bray. Closed "HEBE" and put Lord Gort's gear and servants aboard.
Lt. Crosswell remained with me.
he Lay off La Panne ferrying soldiers to destroyers until 0200,
when no more troops could be found.
Proceeded in direction of Pray and was ordered by M.T.B.102 to
lay off H.M.S."KEITH" as we might be wanted. Didithis until
0300 when shelling of water started. "KEITH" weighed and went
off without giving me any orders.
Informed by Lt. Crosswell that everything had to be gone by 0400
and, as no ships could be seen at 0325, left beaches and proceeded
to Ramsgate, arriving off Ramsgate 0900, June 1st.
Proceeded to Dover and arrived 1100.
It is estimated that about 250 soldiers were taken off in course
of the day.
A.H.H. Gutsell, P/J 28475, remained by the dinghy, in spite
of heavy shelling of the Pier, until G.H.Q./arrived.
Sgd. H.M.Glassborow, Lieut, R.N.V.R.
Commanding Officer.
6th. June 1940
VICE ADMIRAL
JUN 1940
*
DOVER

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
I should like to draw special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty Officer Jones throughout operations.
2
The following officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
and Potter-Irwin accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
volunteering ships and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and from the land.
306
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "EILA II".
%
285
Commanding Officer, Lieut. E.H.Batt, R.N.V.R.
y 29. 1750. Left Hamble.
y 30. 0600. Arrived Dover.
2130. Left Dover.
LY 31. 0545. Arrived alongside destroyer "KEITH" off Bray and
embarked officer to assist in organisation. Ordered to
La Panne beach to assist in transporting troops to
destroyers "KEITH" & "EMERALD" and sloop "HEBE". Several
trips were made between La Panne & Bray;when shelling and
bombing became too severe, I was ordered to proceed to sea-
ward. I afterwards returned to La Panne and embarked more
troops.
1100 Observed Dover Patrol Vessel "BLUE BIRD" well aground
and in a precarious position with both her propellos foul;
I lowered my dinghy and ran a tow to her, and succeeded in
getting her off. I was under frequent shellfire during the
whole operation. I estimate that the amount of troops
taken off did not exceed 200, as it was some time after
arrival before I disembarked the Naval Officer and wass
able to start embarking troops. Although I anchored close
in at both places I found that the troops seemed unable
to man the boats. The wind was blowing onshore which made
it extremly difficult to get off to us. I called for
volunteers to man the motor launch and Engr, T.M. Weir and
A.B. Tozer responded but were unable to make the beach
owing to the heavy sea and the launch was eventually lost.
Special mention may be made of Engr. Weir who rowed in
a small dinghy and rescued three soldiers under fire.
Later on in the day the Engr. the reported a serious
leak in the "EILA II" and at one time the water was level
with the engine room floor. I reported the matter to
a destroyer who ordered me to proceed to seaward and
locate the damage.
2130. The Naval Officer in charge of operations on the
"ANKH" asked if my vessel was in a fit condition to
continue but from my Engr's report of the leak and as my
port reverse gear was out of commission, I was doubtful
if she would survive further operations. I was then
ordered to proceed to Dover and arrived
the
1
0700. From theis time until 5th. June lying in Dover
Harbour.
me 5
1130. Being unable to locate the other Inner Patrol
Folkestone Gate observed a small ship's boat about 2
Yachts, left Dover for Hamble and while passing through
(continued)

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
I should Officer like to draw T.Jones special attention to the magnificent work 295
of Petty throughout operations.
2
officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Remsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air and shelling from the land.
Good
290
REPORT OF INNER PATROL YACHT "LAHLOO". C.O., Lieut.J.V.Ould, R.N.V.R.
y 29. 1740. Slipped and proceeded to sea from Hamble.
Took station with yachts of Inner Patrol on course
for Dover.
y 30 Made fast on arrival in Dover Harbour. Depth Charges removed,
1050 hours.
1940. Cast off and, proceeding from Harbour, took station
with yachts. Crossed Channel in station with yachts.
7.81 0610. Arrived off Zuydcoote. Destroyer signalled to lay off
close to beach and tow boat loads of soldiers as they pulled
out from beach to destroyers. Carried on with this work
for some hours taking many boat loads in tow.
In the course of this operation was told that a boat had
overturned in seas which had now got up somewhat considerably.
Hurried round stern of a destroyer and found quantities of
men struggling in the water. Managed to save seven of them
and put them aboard a destroyer. (In point of fact I believe only
one of the boat load was lost.) Carried on towing as before
while being bombed at frequent intervals, by enemy aircraft.
During the afternoon, Commodore Stephenson in "BOUNTY"
ordered me to proceed to La Panne and close destroyers off
shore.
Went alongside H.M.S.HEBE who gave me a boat with three
ratings and told me to lay off La Panne and put this boat
ashore to take off General Lord Gort.
1700. Lay off La panne as ordered and, while waiting for Lord
Gort, took several boat loads of soldiers who had rowed
out from shore and put them aboard destroyers.
1830. Boat brought out General Lord Gort and his Aide de
Camp out to me. He came aboard and I took him over and
put him aboard H.M.S.HEBE. It appeared to me that the enemy
knew of his departureas they shelled the beach and bombed
it as he left and a very large enemy formation flew over
Continued to lay off La Panne as instructed, taking off
and bombed as I put him aboard the HEBE.
out at intervals with about two men per boat. Had had shell no
soldiers until nightfall, by which time they were only coming
further except that the flaet were going to
La Panne orders in the early morning and the destroyer KEITH further who
had told to lay alongside him told me to lay with
him in the him dark. With first daylight I found myself had near
away from me in consequence of which I lost touch
instructions. Yacht Found he had not so toad him we would remain
I.P. "SERIOLA" and closed to see if he had any
around there until further orders.
(Continued).

Details

REPORT OF 'BOUNTY' (Contd).
295
of Petty Officer T.Jones throughout operations.
I should like to draw special attention to the magnificent work
2
officers, Lieut.D.A.Dawson, Sub.Lieuts. Godman
accompanied me and reported to Ramsgate,
and services on the following day if required.
Our names were accordingly entered on the Volunteer's List.
June 2. Having reported to Ramsgate, we were informed
that only fast and shallow draft vessels were required. During
course of day, found M.T.B.101. lying idle and requested use
of same, but were informed that the vessel was R.A.F. property
and we were unable to obtain permission to use her.
Received instructions to stand by and later to return
to own Base.
Throughout twenty seven hours spent at Dunkirk and
adjacent beaches, were under continuous bombardment from the
air. and shelling from the land.
Dyrams.351.
315
REPORT OF "BOUNTY" (Lieut.C.A.Lundy, R.N.V.R.) on Evacuation of
DUNKIRK:
.
204
May 29. 1800 Left Hamble in company with Inner Patrol Yachts for
Dover.
May 30. 0930 Arrived Dover. Ordered into Submarine Basin.
2200 Left Dover for La Panne.
y 31. 0530 Arrived at beach off La Panne.
0600 Commodore Stevenson came aboard and informed me he
wished to use my ship as Flagship. Proceeded alongside a
paddle-mine-sweeper, which Commodore Stevenson boarded
for interview. Subsequently went alongside H.M.S.Keith and
embarked the Admiral, taking him as close inshore as
possible in order to inspect beach. After approximately
three quarters of an hour took the Admiral back to H.M.S.
Kieth. Commodore Stevenson wishing to board the paddle- Devonia
minesweeper, which appeared to be aground, was taken
alongside in the launch by Petty Officer Jones since
it was apparently too dengerousto bring "Bounty" along-
side. Soon after return of launch, received signal from H.M.S.
Keith to close her. Took Captain R.N. from .S.Keith to
H.M.S. Hebe. Received written orders for S.N.O.Dunkirk
with instructions to deliver them, obtain receipt and
return to H.M.S.Hebe.
Time taken to proceed to Dunkirk and return
approximately two and a half hours. On returning from
Dunkirk re-embarked Commodore Stevenson.
About 1800 Commodore Stevenson sent signal for other
patrol boats in the vicinity to close. "Seriola" and
"Ahola" closed. Commodore Stevenson then informed us that
the final effort of operation would take place between
2100 May 31st and 0400 June 1st and wished us luck.
From 2100 to 2400 took troops from beach to destroyers.
2400 Took Lord Gort from H.M.S.Hebe to M.S.Keith.
June 1. From 0100 to 0830 took troops from beach to destroyers.
0830 While carrying 150 troops on board, fouled port
propeller. Commodore Stevenson sent signal to destroyer
requesting tow. On closing destroyer, was informed that as she
was full to capacity, it was too dangerous for her to
take "Bounty" in tow. "Seriola" thereupon undertook to
tow "Bounty".
At 6845 Commodore Stevenson and self boarded
"Seriola" and proceeded to take "Bounty" in tow.
Berthed in Ramsgate 1430.
(Continued).

Details

Dyram. 147 428
401
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk H.M. area.
in company with "Sun V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness,
naval ratings under Commander Hayward, R.N.R. on board at 1205 on
28th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by
examination tug in South Downs and both tugs proceeded and at
0015 on 29th May, "Sun V" was involved in collision with H.M.S.
"Montrose". I searched the vicinity for two hours but failed to
locate same. I then proceeded as instructed by "Montrose". When
passing Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery
in a position bearing 022° from Dunkerque C.W. buoy. We continued
on our course for a short time until the firing became intensified
shells falling very close to our stern some of which holed and sank
two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmsman to alter course
to bring the battery astern of us, finally steering a course of 020°
till out of range of guns. The wireless operator was maintaining
continuous watch so I was able to make an immediate report of the
attack which I considered urgent in view of the possibility of
other small craft following the same route. This warning was received
and inmediately re-broadcast by North Foreland Radio. During the
whole of this time the conduct of my officers and men was admirable,
particularly that of Able Seaman Arthur Chawner who was at the wheel,
he steered the ship with great precision and altered course
efficiently when ordered to do SO. We then proceeded on the course
020° until we arrived at position T where H.M. Trawler "Blackburn
Rovers" was stationed. After some delay I proceeded Northern route
as instructed by trawler. When passing Newport, shore batteries again
opened fire, shells falling very close, this battery was silenced
by French Destroyers, but two cutters were lost in this action and
a third cut adrift, this cutter was later picked up by H.M.S. "Created
Eagle" and towed to my position off La Panne. I proceeded with
dispatched the cutters to the beach of La Panne and commenced
six remaining cutters and anchored off La Panne. Commander Hayward
La Panne aerial troops attacks were continuous. Commander Hayward his
embarking immediately. During the whole of the time and at
men showed great courage and endurance in working the cutters,
continually transporting troops.
a
Our manned, the foremost by/naval rating being one of
machine supplied the relief that with crew guns ammunition of were within cutters, by range naval the particularly after ratings. Lewis We at gun these one fired by myself, machine very both exceptional guns which at any
was At circumstances During I and carried in transferred anchor. 2200 mess not this out required. decks period a I came machine proceeded cutters the when crew I I ordered was picked gunning to behaved to "Golden signalled defect unknown by up attack. me. excellently 70 Eagle" to French destroyer to main During assist Under and engines. troops one taking proceeded H.M.S. which bombing situation from shelter had The "Bideford" small to been raid defect assist. to in local H.M.S. hit I alleyways have was ashore, but boats.
"Hebe". signalled Engineer to "Bideford" reported who and asked made me necessary to report report then proceeded
back to Sheerness I closed at "Hebe" slow speed due to defect.
All Penney
H.M.

Details

436
H.M.M.T.B. No. 681
465
at Portemouth.
H.M.M.T.D. No. 68
. 437
10th June, 1940.
at Portemouth.
10th June, 1940.
) Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
I have the honour to submit the
ring letter of proceedings of H.M.
Terpedo Boat No. 68 under my command,
3. Flotilla.
n 27th May and 1st Juno, 1940.
Fuelled.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
1th M.T.B. 16.
, Gravelines. Took necessary
your obedient servent.
S.N.O. Instructed to stand by.
Richard
iers from West to Sest piers.
or Vice Admiral Dover.
red.
Licutonant R.N.V.R.
in Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N
in Command.
C Vice Admiral, Dover.
pies to:- Commander-in-Chief, Portenouth,
The Captain, H.H.S. "HORNET".
officers to inspect beaches
pies to
ast Piers.
in Bush and Lieutenant Commander
Ofdinary Telegraphist Kiritwood
ircruft made off as soon an 10
$ Kirkwood to H.N.S. "SANDSURST".
)res. ansmitting set and two tele-
to demolition party.
caused by W/T net, reached
BEEN led burversines and YEARS riruu on by shore batteries. Took necessary
"ted
on.
demolition
party.
Intense
dive
is at. igout andstill. Patrocruaft, Dunkirk afternomy address on mor Bleacured loat. and BOX ang Patrolled Ordered merchant in collected a the dugout standstill. Dunkirk afternoon to beaches proceed seamen on and East and supplied brought After throughout from to landed Pier. H.M.S. from H.M.S. second fuel all H.M.S. "HEBE" night "HERE" activities for air "HERE" motor raid and reporting to act attendant instructed boats; to in under H.M.S. the on neighbourhood activities transferred orders destroyer; hand "LOTUS" crew personally of to and of
ad
to
4
Decounded Fund Courged Gort; W/T airmen set took and Admiral and ratings soldiers Wake-Walker to same with to organise instructions beaching parties.
Priraday, 30th May.
0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover.
0710. Considerable Secured Dover. repair necessary to engine.
2101. Repair completed and fuelled.
Friday, 31st May.
1110. Sailed for Dunkir Dover in H.M.S. "KEITH". Took
1230. Reported to Vice Admiral officer on board .....

Details

H.M.M.T.B. No. 681
465
at Portemouth.
. 437
10th June, 1940.
sport of Proceedings of and H.M. 1st Motor June, Torpedo 1940 Boat No. 68 between 27th May,
onday. 27th May.
0805. Sailed for Dover with 10th N.T.B. Flotilla.
1305. Secured Submarine Basin Dover. Fuelled.
uesday, 28th May.
0655, Sailed for Dunkirk in company with M.T.B. 16.
avoiding
0750. action. Fired on by shore batteries near Gravelines. Took necessary
0825. Ferried Secured Dunkirk and reported to S.N.O. Instructed to stand by.
1130. Sailed for Dover with message for Vice Admiral Dover.
British and French soldiers from West to East piers.
1310. Secured Dover. Fuelled and stored.
and Lieutenant Commander Dennis, R.N.
2137. Sailed for Dunkirk taking Captain Bush R.N., Commander Dovo, R.N
2350. Secured Dunkirk East Pier.
Wednesday, 29th May.
0400. Took Captain Bush and party of officers to inspect beaches
between Dunkirk and La Panne.
0600. Returned to Dunkirk.
Ferried soldiers from West to East Piers.
0910. Returned to Dover, taking Captain Bush and Lieutenant Commander
Dennis.
0940. Engaged two hostile aircraft. Ordinary Telegraphist Kirkwood
wounded in wrist by machine gun bullet. Aircraft made off as soon as 18
opened fire.
1035. Secured Dover.
1040. Discharged Ordinary Telegraphist Kirkwood to H.N.S."SANDOURST".
Fuelled and replaced damaged stores.
1540. Sailed for Dunkirk taking W/T transmitting set and two tele-
graphists for Field Marchall Lord Gort. Aldo demolition party.
1635. Owing to considerable degiation caused by W/T cet, reached
coast near Gravelines and was fired on by shore batteries. Took necessary
avoiding action.
1710. Secured Dunkirk and landed demolition party. Intense dive
bombing during the afternoon brought all activities in the neighbourhood
of Dunkirk to a standstill. After second air raid instructed crew to
take shelter in dugout on East Pier.
S.N.O. afloat.
Ordered to proceed to H.M.S. "HEBE" and act under orders of
beaches throughout night reporting on activities of
and supplied fuel for motor boats; transferred
from H.M.S. "HERR" to attendant destroyer;
merchant seamen soldiers from H.M.S. "HRRE" to H.M.S. "LOTUS" and
took and Admiral Wake-Walker to organise beaching parties.
and ratings to same with instructions to hand personally,
Thursday, 30th May.
0530. Fuel running low. Sailed for Dover.
0710. Secured Dover.
Considerable repair necessary to engine.
2101. Repair completed and fuelled.
Friday, 31st May.
1230. 1110. Reported Sailed for to Dunkir Vice Admiral Dover in H.M.S. "KRITH". Took
officer on board .....

Details

- 2 -
sbq
1st.
0030
(approx) Sailed for gone over to Keith. Returned to Keith.
he Crossed had just to Hebe to collect Lord Gort. On arrival - 441 found
0304
0547
Arrived Dover.
Dover with Lord Gort and General Leese.
Fueled and carried out repairs to starboard bow.
2nd.
1201
reported broken down 7 mines east of Dunkirk and
Sailed from Dover to search for drifter "Girl Gladys"
aircraft. soldiers in open boat 3 miles off Dunkirk reported by
1330
Collected occupants of two open boats off Dunkirk.
(approx) Left 1st Lieut. to sail Thames barge with approximately
240 soldiers to Dover.
1530
Picked up 18 soliders in open boat. Carried out
(approx) unsuccessful search for course drifter "Girl Gladys".
1700
Abandoned search. Set search to intercept Thames barge.
1720
Dive-bombing attack by six or eight planes.
1730
Set course for Dover as now had wounded on board.
1922
Arrived Dover.
3rd.
Refueled. Carried out repairs to bullet holes andengines.
Fuel tanks and hull seams leaking.
4th. 1255
Sailed for Portland.
2057
Arrived Portland for docking.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
0200 returned to block-ships.

Details

- 3 -
a
471
with far engines greater stopped range when than boats and planes could be detected 443 by
at a that this course might profitably visibility be employed permitted. during patrols. It is submitted sound
May 31st. 1940. 1140 to June 1st. 1940. 0547.
Instructions were received to proceed to Ramsgate, rendezvous and
escort small boat convoy to Dunkirk. The Convoy sailed at 1453
approximately 3 hours after scheduled time. Opportunity was taken
at Ramsgate to off-load all depth charges as it was considered
inadvisable to continue carrying these. The convoy consisted of
5 tugs and 5 drifters each towing between three and fifteen small
boats.
The convoy straggled somewhat on the way over and when
the Reutigen bouy was reached the leaders were eased down to enable
the convoy to arrive together. At this time a large force of
German bombers and fighters were seen approaching. There
were
inumerable ships of all shapes and sizes in the vicinity and $
general bombing raid was commenced. British fighters arrived at
this time and the attack became disorganised, - The bombers
eventually disappearing inland.
The convoy arrived off Dunkirk
at approximately 2110, S.0.6. embarked Lieut.Comdr.Nynns-Edwardes
from Keith who directed the convoy to the various beaches as
required.
At approximately 2315 when returning to the Keith
a collision occurred with what appeared to be a medium-sized yacht.
S.0.6. was put into astern but the yacht's stern ankaing swinging
round as she altered course to port stove in S.0.6. on the starboard
bow fracturing several ribs and making a large out in the planking
above waterline. While the damage was being inspected by the aid
of a shaded torch fire was opened on S.0.6. from a German aeroplane.
On arrival at Keith General Leese was emvbarked and instructions
were given to collect Lord Gort from Hebe, and to return to England
dropping General Leese in Dunkirk if Lord Gort approved.
On arrival at Hebe it was discovered that Lord Gort had crossed to
Keith. S.0.6. returned to Keith and approximatly three-quarters
of NK an hour later Lord Gort also arrived there. He was embarked
forthwith and he and General Leese taken direct to Dover.
Considering the fact that it was the first time any of the crew had
been under fire their behaviour left nothing to be desired.
June 2nd. 1940. 1201 to 1922.
Instructions were received to carry out a search for drift "Girl
Gladys" reported broken down 7 miles east of Dunkirk and for
approximately 30 soldiers in an open boat about 3 miles off Dunkirk to
reported aircraft. Course was set from Dover direct
the Reutigen. for the open boat, subsequently to put out sea
the outer by It was then intended to proceed slowly towardds to
clear coast to search make another approach to the coast approximately the
10 miles of land and Dunkirk to allow for the get of the tide from and
time the east of was received. Air escort had been promised
causion had report to be exercised as no ships were operating off Dunkrik
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.
0200 returned to block-ships.