Details

Details

Details

GRAFTON
1st Destroyer Flotilla
1400. Sailed from wover nicompana will
dr. greyhound (V.V.)
Cdr. Lieut. C.E.C.
28th May
1100ca
Arrived Dover from Dunkirk.
R.N. R.N.
1210ca
Disembarked 860 troops.
beame
1445
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
Braye. Anchored close inshore.
Embarked and the troops, using ship's whalers
2100ca
580 troops had been embarked. Boats
cr. Calcutta's power boats.
now ordered to ferry to skoots
2310ca
lying closer in shore.
The sk. Doggersbank transferred about
280 troops to Grafton. Four of
Grafton's ratings sent to augment
Doggerabank's crew.
29th May
0015
Left for Dover. Considerable traffic;
all ships showing navigation lights.
0230ca
The wreck was seen of the dr. Wakeful,
which had been tcrpedoed in the
vicinity 01 Kwinte Bank buoy.
Lowered both whalers to rescue
survivors. Signalled the M/S Lydd
asking for information; Lydd was
darkened.
0240ca
Observed a small darkened vessel 3
cables on the port quarter.
Signalled her to pick up survivors.
Almost at once a torpedo on the
port side was reported - followed
immediately by a violent explosion
and then a second explosion.
The Grafton's bridge was wrecked;
4 killed including the Captain - due
apparently to a bomb hit. The
torpedo hit had blown off Grafton's
stern, abaft the after magazine
bulkhead, and had apparently broken
Ship's boats and rafts were prepared. off
her back.
0350ca
An approaching M.T.B. was driven H.M.
drifter by Comfort which was subsequently
gunfire. [It was in fact
rammed and sunk by the M/S Lydd]. and
0400
The P/V Malines came alongside
embarked Grafton's troops, except
0430
Five the destroyers seriously wounded. were seen approaching the
Dover. One of them, closed
Ivanhoe from was She detached embarked and the listing seriously
Grafton. Grafton was now
wounded. and the after end Ivanhoe was awash. fired
heavily ship" ordered about
"Abandon shells into the Grafton at to
Dunkirk. 500 3 yards and [Malines then Proced 800 men at
Dover].
Total 860
Authority - R.O.I., p.36.
Lid

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Details

SCOTIA
L.M.S.Ry.
27th May
2130
Capt. H.W. Hughes, Master.
Left Southampton for Dover.
1700
2
28th May
2145
Left was the Downs for Dunkirk. [Ts.Malines.
Off Dunkirk, Malines in company.
0055
P
29th May
Whilst torpedo in Dunkirk Eastern a
keel struck the Scotia's channel, bilge
0130
Berthed alongside east pier Dunkirk.
but failed to explode.(1)
Embarked troops. "The counter
showed 2,700, but many more had
taken aboard. estimated fully 3,000 been
0355
[British] troops on board".
Proceeded. It was now gettting light.
On the way, passed a large number of
vessels of every description, either
proceeding towards or returning
from Dunkirk.
1000
Dover. Disembarked 3,000 troops. (2)
30th/31st
May.
Coaling ship at Dover, Sheerness and
Margate.
1st June
0740
Left Margate roads for Dunkirk.
-
2 miles from No.6 buoy, 10 A/C attack.
No hits.
-
Approaching Dunkirk, attacked by 2
A/C. No hits.
1
1100
Berthed alongside Dunkirk west mole.
Embarked about 2000 French troops.
1125
Proceeded.
-
After passing No. 6 buoy, attacked by
about 12 dive bombers. Several
bombs hit, one passing down the
after funnel. Ship sinking by the
stern and heeling over to starboard.
Engines out of action. "Abandon ship"
ordered. From Dunkirk, the dr.
1)
Esk came to assist. By now the
boat deck, starboard side, was in the
water and Scotia was still heeling
over. When the Scotia's forward
funnel and mast were in the water 2
A/C again attacked, dropping 4 bombs
and machine gunning. those swimming
and clinging to wreckage. The Esk
kept firing and drove the enemy away.
The Scotia's port bilge keel was now
out of the water, and hundreds of
troops were huddled on the bilge.
The bombers returned but were driven
away by the Esk's fire.
The Esk transferred about 1,000
French troops. Further survivors
1305
were picked up by other craft, (3)
(2) D.R.
3) 40 were says 2000. M/L Bonnie Heather, 16 by the dfr. dfr.
Mare, picked 2 by the up dfr. by Three Kings, and 1 by the
the French Tarpeta
Tweenaways, a few Warenster
loas Branlebas pickes up about 60. 103
however,
(1) Report by Caplam Hughes.
2vis nots) clear whence
This torpede came. The cidenvis nov mentioned in D.R.

Details

SCOTIA
L.M.S.Ry.
27th May
2130
Capt. H.W. Hughes, Master.
Left Southampton for Dover.
28th May
1700
2
2145
Left was the following. Downs for Dunkirk. Ts.Malines
Off Dunkirk, Malines in company.
0055
P
29th May
Whilst torpedo in Dunkirk Eastern a
keel struck the Scotia's channel, bilge
0130
Berthed alongside east pier Dunkirk.
but failed to explode.(1)
Embarked troops. "The counter
showed 2,700, but many more had
taken aboard. estimated fully been 3,000
0355
[British] troops on board".
Proceeded. On It was now gettting light.
the way, passed a large number of
vessels of every description, either
er
proceeding towards or returning
from Dunkirk.
1000
Dover. Disembarked 3,000 troops. (2)
30th/31st
May.
Coaling Margate. ship at Dover, Sheerness and
1st June
0740
Left Margate roads for Dunkirk.
-
2 miles from No.6 buoy, 10 A/C attack.
No hits.
-
Approaching Dunkirk, attacked by 2
A/C. No hits.
1
1100
Berthed alongside Dunkirk west mole.
Embarked about 2000 French troops.
1125
Proceeded.
-
After passing No. 6 buoy, attacked by
about 12 dive bombers. Several
bombs hit, one passing down the
after funnel. Ship sinking by the
stern and heeling over to starboard.
Engines out of action. "Abandon ship"
ordered. From Dunkirk, the dr.
1)
Esk came to assist. By now the
boat deck, starboard side, was in the
water and Scotia was still heeling
over. When the Scotia's forward
funnel and mast were in the water 2
A/C again attacked, dropping 4 bombs
and machine gunning those swimming
and clinging to wreckage. The Esk
kept firing and drove the enemy away.
The Scotia's port bilge keel was now
out of the water, and hundreds of
troops were huddled on the bilge.
The bombers returned but were driven
away by the Esk's fire.
The Esk transferred about 1,000
French troops. Further survivors
1305
were picked up by other craft, (3)
(2) 3) D.R. 40 were says picked 2000. by M/L Bonnie Heather, 16 by the dfr.
Mare, 2 by the up dfr. Three Kings, and 1 by the dfr.
the Freuch Tarpeta
Tweenaways, and a few Warcester
loat Branlebas pickes upabout 103 60.
however,
(1) Report by Caplain Hughes.
2vis nots elear whence
This torpede came. The cidear is nov men Trained in D.R.

Details

Page 8
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. GRAFTON - Commander Cecil E. C. Robinson, R.N.
(Killed when ship was torpedoed)
GRAFTON embarked 277 troops during the night of 27th
May, landing them at Dover 1100/28 after which she returned
to Bray beach. Leaving Bray just after midnight with 850
troops on board, she was hit by 2 torpedoes fired by a
M.T.B. at 0250, while lying stopped picking up survivors
from a sunken ship.
The stern of the ship abaft the after magazine bulkhead
was blown off and the ship's back appeared to be broken.
An hour later, the ship rolling heavily in a rising
sea, the troops were transferred to S.S. MALINES and then
all the ship's company that could be spared. The remainder
transferred later to IVANHOE when GRAFTON was slowly
sinking.
Recommendations.
OFFICER.
Surgeon-Lieutenant Joseph Wishart Shield, M.B., B.Ch. R.N.V.R.
Worked indefatigably among the many wounded and
with complete disregard for his own safety, visited
damaged compartments in the stern searching for
wounded before he could possibly have known that the
ship would not sink at once.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

237
213
ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY.
Dynamo sb, B14/0/
Sea Transport Office
1121
Lord Warden Hotel,
212
Dover.
5th.June 1940.
236 eet.
B.
The Vice Admiral,
The Castle,
Dover.
OPERATION DYNAMO.
irth
Submitted:
The following cases of ships refusing to
me,
sail occurred.
by
1. At Dover.
29th. May S/S"Canterbury" Special report.
29th. May S/S"Ngaroma" (Sailed when Armed Guard arrived)
30th. May s/s"St.Seiriol"
3rd. June S/S"Manxman" Special report.
lly
2. At Folkestone.
g.
2/3rd. June s/s"Ben-my-Chree. On the afternoon of the 2nd.
at
the Guard had to force the crew back on board at the point
of the bayonet in order to keep them on board until the
relief crew arrived.
2nd. June S/S"Tynwald" and S/S"Malines"
S/S"Tynwald" subsequently sailed in accordance with
instructions. S/S"Malines" proceeded to Southampton, without
orders.
VICE ADDI
14
6- JUN 1940
*
#
DOVER
Commodore R.N.
D
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSFORT OFFICER, DOVER.
2.
Lyranno
t
Never completed a trip. Should have sailed on
3 separate occasions. On the last occasion, at 1745/2, she
produced an engine breakdown as excuse.
Was given up
as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.

Details

Details

2nd June 1940
To V.a. Dovel
From S.I.O. Folkestone
Sailing orders even given by
me on the evening of 1st June to the Maati
some delay had arisen and he informed
of malines /o leave here for at 18. me 30.
he could not have steam before 20" 00,
in the meantime Ben my Charee came alongiade
and was visited by Master of Malines, I
presume they had same conversation about
conditions at Durkque. about 20 00 I
called on master Ben my Charl and asked
definite "no and the Masti Malines
if he world sail, he gave me a
agreed Later I sent orders is 'Lywoold'
to sail which he accepted but did not
obey, In clone comespendence Thone had
today which will perhaps give an idea
of what caused at 10 10 this liday refusal the Maline
sailed without order, and to me her
destination is unknown
Chea E Stocks
Lient RaR.
VIOE DOVO 2- JUN ADMIR 1940

Details

737
213
ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY.
Personnel Vessels.
Dynamo sb, 814/0/121
Sea Transport Office
Lord Warden Hotel,
212
et.
Dover.
5th.June 1940.
236
The Vice Admiral,
The Castle,
rth
Dover.
OPERATION DYNAMO.
Submitted:
ne,
The following cases of ships refusing to
by
sail occurred.
1. At Dover.
29th.May S/S"Canterbury" Special report.
3
29th.May S/S"Ngaroma" (Sailed when Armed Guard arrived)
ally
30th.May S/S"St.Seiriol"
3rd.June S/S"Manxman" Special report.
ag.
hat
2. At Folkestone.
2/3rd.June S/S"Ben-my-Chree. On the afternoon of the 2nd.
the Guard had to force the crew back on board at the point
of the bayonet in order to keep them on board until the
relief crew arrived.
DW
2nd.June S/S"Tynwald" and S/S"Malines"
S/S"Tynwald" subsequently sailed in accordance with
instructions. S/S"Malines" proceeded to Southampton, without
the
orders.
at
pt
ng
VIOE ARE
12
0
to
6- JUN 1940
DOVER
Commodore ,R.N.
PRINCIPAL SEA TRANSPORT OFFICER DOVER.
it
145/2.
thout
Leferance
on
3 separate occasions. on the last occasion, SU 1740/2, she
produced an engine breakdown as excuse.
Was given up
as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.

Details

737
213
ISLE OF MAN STEAM PACKET COMPANY.
Personnel Vessels.
These were MONA'S QUEEN, MANXMAN, TYNWALD,
MANX MAID, FENELLA, BEN MY CREE and LADY OF MAN.
of the 29 personnel vessels employed in the
MONA'S QUEEN was sunk by a mine on her second voyage
operation, none of these 7 came through with a clean so sheet.
excluded from the comments which follow. FENELLA
likewise is was sunk in Dunkirk harbour on her first voyage.
TYNWALD.
Transported 7534 troops in 5 voyages. Should
have completed 6 voyages. When due to commence her fourth
voyage at 1945/2, refused to sail and did not sail again
until 1945/2.
On 8 written enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone,
the 2nd June, whether or not the ship would sail for
Dunkirk on if required, the Master, W. Qualbrough, replied by
letter as follows:-
Dear Sir,
Your letter received. I had a signal from the
master of the MALINES last night to say him and the
master of the BEN MY CREE had considered it hopeless
to proceed to Dunkirk. Our crews have been continually
on their feet all the week and especially the deck
officers who have had to be on their feet for so long.
I myself have had 4 hours rest for the week and am
at present physically unfit for another trip like what
we have had. If it is absolutely necessary to go
I will abide with the masters of the other ships
decision.
P.S. There is two more of the crew going ashore now
absolutely nervous wrecks and certified by the
naval doctor.
Meantime relief crews had been sent for for the
TYNWALD and an armed naval guard was placed alongside at
Folkestone where the ship lay. The crew did not attempt
to leave the ship but contented themselves with shouting
abuses at the sentries. Relief crews arrived at 1950/2
and the old crew were then allowed to leave. Complete
list of their names and addresses were taken and given to
the S.T.O., Folkestone. Those who stayed of the old
crew were the Chief Officer as Master, Second Officer,
Purser, W/T Operator and Carpenter.
A naval officer and 10 naval ratings were put
on board as moral stiffeners and the ship sailed at 1945/2.
Completed a round trip which was repeated next day without
incident.
MANX MAID.
Never completed a trip. Should have sailed on
3 separate occasions. On the last occasion, at 1745/2, she
produced an engine breakdown as excuse.
Was given up
as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.

Details

214
BEN MY CREE.
Transported 408 troops in 8 trips. Should with have
completed of the TYNWALD and the MALINES. On failing written to
4. The master was evidently in league
the masters during the night 1/2nd June, in reply to & not he
enquiry sail, George Woods, Master, replied in Dunkirk
sail from the S.T.O., Folkestone, whether writing or -
would "I beg to state that after our experience at
yesterday, my answer is 'No'."
1850/2 BEN MY CREE came alongside Folkestone. the
Naval As the ship was berthed the crew were and on
guards At were placed on the gangways and demonstrating abreast
and the being run out, they attempted to do so with come on
ship. shouting that they were going to leave the ship their
kits. and advance up the Drow. The crew thereupon relief returned
prow Leading Stoker Booth ordered his men to
guard board at once, where they remained until the
on arrived. The Captain and crew left the ship, the
Chief and the W/T Operator. Otherwise the ship was manned
crew Officer stayed as Captain, together with 3 greasers with
BEN new MY CREE was in collision and did not complete the trip.
the crew. Unfortunately on sailing, at 1905/2,
LADY OF MAN.
Carried out 4 trips and transported 2902 troops.
the ship was ordered back from Dunkirk before entering that
One trip was abortive through no fault of the Master, as
harbour. The last 2 trips were carried out with a Naval
officer and 10 Naval ratings on board as an insurance,
but there is no suggestion that the LADY OF MAN did not
attempt to play her part.
MANX MAN.
Transported 233 troops in 3 voyages. Should
have completed 5.
On her fourth trip, due 2115/2, MANX MAN refused
to sail from Folkestone. New crew put on board, the
engineers remaining. She started a trip but failed to
make Dunkirk. On return, the original Captain rejoined
with some of the original crew. She should then have
sailed at 2010/3, but the Captain reported 3 engineers
short at the last minute. It was not considered necessary
to wait for the engineers and the Master and crew
disembarked and the new crew provided. Before use could
be made of her, however, the evacuation terminated.

Details

164
163
APPENDIX I.
Page 2
of
and final.
181
Operation "DYNAMO"
-
Narrative of Events.
FLARE BURNING
BOY ROY
GOLDEN GIFT
PAXTON
DRIFTER:
EILEEN EMMA
GOLDEN SUNBEAM
SHIPMATES
FORECAST
LORD HOWARD
THE BOYS
GERVAIS RENTOUL
LORD HOWE
TORBAY II
GIRL GLADYS
MIDAS
UT PROSIM
GIRL PAMELA
NETSUKIS
YORKSHIRE LASS
YOUNG MUN
GUARDSHIPS AND
LORMONT
MONA'S ISLA
KING ORRY
A.B.V's:
LLANTHONY
CORVETTES:
KINGFISHER
G
ILLEMOT
F.A.A.
AIR FORCE
GRIEVE
AMULREE
TRAINING VESSEL:
M.T.B's:
16
M.A.S.B's:
6
67
7
68
10
100
102
107
PERSONNEL SHIPS:
ARCHANGEL
LOCH GARRY
PRINCESS MAUD
AUTOCARRIER
LORINA
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
BEN MY CHREE
HAID OF ORLEANS
ROUEN
BIARRITZ
MALINES
ROYAL DAFFODIL
CANTERBURY
MANX MAID
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
COTE D'ARGENT
MANX- MAN
SCOTIA
FENELLA
MONA'S QUEEN
ST. HELIER
KILLARNEY
NEWHAVEN
ST. SEIRIOL
KING GEORGE V
NORMANIA
TYNWALD
LADY OF MAN
PRAGUE
OSPITAL CARRIERS: DINARD
ISLE OF GUERNSEY ST. ANDREW
ISLE OF THANET ST DAVID
PARIS
ST JULIAN
WORTHING
OTE:
In addition, some 23 of H.M. Trawlers, Drifters and
Yachts of the Nore Command assisted by taking one or more
tows of boats to the coast.

Details

Details

1940
The Office of the Resident
Naval Officer,
WEYMOUTH.
No. 6/5 AB/40.
16th August, 1940.
18 AUG 1940
Report of Enquiry into the loss of
BRANCH MILITARY
6
H.M.S. "Grafton" in operation "Dynamo".
Sir,
With reference to AL. NL 6245/40 dated 1st August, 1940,
be pleased to submit to their Lordships the following report
resulting from an enquiry held into the circumstances attend-
ing the loss of H.M.S. "Grafton" on 29th May, 1940.
2.
I examined Lieutenant Commander H.C.J. McRea R.N., the
Senior surviving officer, and Lieutenant (E) J.A.L. Hoskin R.N.
the Engineer Officer of "Grafton".
3.
At about 0250 when in vicinity of KWINTE WHISTLE BUOY
"Grafton" was hit by a torpedo on the port quarter just ahead
of port propeller. The stern of the ship abaft the fore part
of the wardroom was completely severed and sank.
(ii)
The upperdeck watertight hatch to wardroom
lobby was, shortly afterwards, closed.
4.
The explosion of the torpedo caused the upper deck to
be considerably indented right across between the after
torpedo tubes and the after superstructure.
5.
Before the after bulkhead of the after magazine and shell
room the ship was making no water but shortly afterwards "Lydd"
was in collision with "Grafton" and hit her at about the posi-
tion of the indentation mentioned above. Water then commenced
to leak into No. 7 oil fuel tank. As water was getting through
to the after boilers with the fuel from No. 7 and 8 tanks,
these were shut off.
6.
Although "Lydd" struck "Grafton" on the starboard side
in the vicinity of No. 7 oil fuel tank, the blow was a glancing
one and, while not in itself fracturing the ship's side, caused
some indentation and probably started rivets and aggravated any
damage to the tank that may have been caused by the explosion.
A little later S.S. "Malines" came alongside and all surviving
troops were transferred to her.
7.
The Engineer Officer states that after the explosion it
was found that the starboard propeller shaft could be moved but
not the port shaft which was bent at the engine room bulkhead.
Otherwise all machinery and boiler rooms were in working order
and all lights were burning.
8.
Almost immediately after the torpedo struck the ship an
explosion in the vicinity wrecked the whole of the fore part of
the bridge killing the Captain and Navigating Officer. The
side plating on both sides were left intact. It has not been
possible
of the Admiralty.
Vice Admiral.
C. E. 7831/1922.
Wt. 48364/D6526 6/40 S.P.&Co

Details

APPENDIX I.
Page 2
of
and final.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
URNING
BOY ROY
GOLDEN GIFT
PAXTON
:
EILEEN EMMA
GOLDEN SUNBEAM
SHIPMATES
FORECAST
LORD HOWARD
THE BOYS
GERVAIS RENTOUL
LORD HOWE
TORBAY II
GIRL GLADYS
MIDAS
UT PROSIM
GIRL PAMELA
NETSUKIS
YORKSHIRE LASS
YOUNG MUN
IPS AND
LORMONT
MONA'S ISLE
KING ORRY
:
LLANTHONY
ES:
KINGFISHER
GUILLEMOT
CE
GRIEVE
G VESSEL:
i
16
M.A.S.B's:
6
67
7
68
10
100
102
107
EL SHIPS:
ARCHANGEL
LOCH GARRY
PRINCESS MAUD
AUTOCARRIER
LORINA
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
BEN MY CHREE
HAID OF ORLEANS
ROUEN
BIARRITZ
MALINES
ROYAL DAFFODIL
CANTERBURY
MANX MAID
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
COTE D'ARGENT
MANX MAN
SCOTIA
FENELLA
MONA'S QUEEN
ST. HELIER
KILLARNEY
NEWHAVEN
ST. SEIRIOL
KING GEORGE V
NORMANIA
TYNWALD
LADY OF MAN
P. LGUE
L CARRIERS: DINARD
ISLE OF GUERNSEY ST. ANDREW
ISLE OF THANET ST. DAVID
PARIS
ST. JULIAN
WORTHING
In addition, some 23 of H.M. Trawlers, Drifters and
achts of the Nore Command assisted by taking one or more
OWS of boats to the coast.

Details

Details

Details

Lieutenant Derek Peel Willan. Rovel
H
:
you publication in next
authorised for press
H.I
Landa Subtemant
3
he admiralty
REGIST
15, Sunningdale Drive
which
S.W.1. 1.
Oakwood
August,
The Sicretary of the Admirally.
Sun. Salford. Oct13/40
I that
Dear Sir
I big to acknowledge receive with
Ks, for the Copy of The Second supplement to The
insus /40 m
9 of my award-
8th October,
0
CW.19295/40
edging same as I
Sir,
rs Daythfully
I am commanded by My Lords
b. . mason
Commissioners of the Admiralty to thank
you for your letter WHC/EF/JS 10607 of
the 14th June, 1940, concerning the
Radio offices
services of Captain Mallory, Master of
the S.S. MALINES in the Dunkirk with-
drawal, and I am to say that Their
Lordships have given full consideration
to all reports that have been received
of the Services of Officers in this
operation.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
rean Cowley not only
It is hoped that
"Iuence in the Isle
good name.
The General Secretary,
The Officers (Merchant
Navy) Federation,
23 Leadenhall Street,
London, E.C.3.
retry
AD
S AXOMENT ALLEEMO 77239
BICO DIO SEX Group n
Lieutenant Artnur Alan whitshed POLICE TEEMS go CAHOJ 0 LEARTS (1) RESEER
Captain
Roval Navy, H.M.S. Codrington.
YES
Transport Levenwood.

Details

Commander HolGook.
wared you care To remark on This letter?
R: elleadave
Honous Teacher or Awards
Ctee
18.6.40
Master of certainly some award; his action
It would S.S. appear MALINES from the contents deserves of enclosed letter, that the
comes up to the necessary standard.
2. Captain G. Mallory has not been interviewed.
for
Wmannugh DIRECTOR OF TRADE DIVISION.
24/6/40.
In view of par. 10 p.3 of V.A.Dover ' 1 report
On the personal ships it would seem
difficult [carry this further
Suggest thanking that officers Federation for their
to all reports of good service
letter addring that full consideration is heing given at
N.Arson the for klacw
(4-ACE)
boneur with Hd TC. W.
irector of Thade Divi
6.10.4
Letter accordingly Droop you (HAC
7.10.40.

Details

Wt. 47238/0555 40M 2/40 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
ADMIRALTY.
REFERENCE SHEET.
g,
rom The Head of Military Branch
To The First Lord
THE
CW
OFFICERS
MERCHANT
NAVY
FEDERATION LTD.
Representing Navigating and Engineer Officers of the British Merchant Navy.
MEMBER OF
Registered Office: 23, LEADENHALL STREET, LONDON, E.C.3.
THE NATIONAL
MARITIME BOARD
All correspondence to
Our Ref.
WHC/EF/JS.10607
TELEPHONE: MANSION HOUSE 0455 (3 LINES)
be addressed to the
Your Ref.
TELEGRAMS: "PULONEROPE. FEN. LONDON."
General Secretary.
Branch Offices in Liverpool, Glasgow, Cardiff, Southampton
Representatives in all principal Ports at Home and Abroad
19295
June 1940.
he Federation is governed by a
epresentative Council of
The Secretary,
The Admiralty,
19401
Ls
avigating and Engineer Officers,
S. W.
ected by its Constituent
Associations.
16JUNE4A
Sir,
PRESIDENT
re: Captain G. Mallory of REGIST
VICE-ADMIRAL SIR EDWARD
HEATON ELLIS, K.B.E., C.B., M.V.O.
S.S. "MALINES".
GENERAL MANAGER :
WILLIAM H. COOMBS
We are given to understand that the Masters of
(MASTER MARINER)
the ships engaged in the Dunkirk evacuation have been
asked to report on services of special merit rendered
Federated Organisations:
by their officers and crews.
UNITED KINGDOM.
We are quite certain that Masters will refrain
Navigators & Engineer Officers Union.
Navigators 8 General Insurance Co., Ltd.
from making any reference to their own particular
Radio Officers Union.
service, and it is for this reason that we venture
AUSTRALIA.
to inform you that we have been asked by some of the
Merchant Service Guild of Australasia.
officers concerned, to venture to direct your
CHINA AND HONG KONG.
attention to the work of Captain Mallory, Master of
China Coast Officers Guild.
the S.S. "MALINES" owned by the L.N.E.R.
Marine Engineers Guild of China.
NEW ZEALAND.
You will be aware that he answered distress
New Zealand Merchant Service Guild.
signals from H.M.S. "GRAFTON" and we understand he
STRAITS SETTLEMENTS.
put his ship alongside the "GRAFTON" and was
Straits Merchant Service Guild.
instrumental in saving approximately 1000 lives and
subsequently picked up survivors from H.M.S. "WAKEFUL"
Canadian Merchant CANADA. Service Guild.
I understand that the officers of his ship,
Parliamentary Committee:
both deck and engine-room officers, were greatly
immodore The Rt. Hon, The Earl Howe,
impressed by the fine seamanship and cool courage
Lord Churston.
[P.C., C.B.R., R.N.V.R.
ement leut Davies, Esq., K.C.,
shown by their Captain.
P. -Commdr. R.T.H. Fletcher, M.P. R.N., M.P.
dmiralof the Bart., Fleet, Sir Roger J.B. Keyes,
Herbert, Esq., M.P.
We trust that it will be possible for Captain
Mallory's name to be considered if awards are in
ommander -Col, Stephen King-Hall, M.P., M.P. etc.
G.C.B., K.C.V.O.
contemplation.
J. T. C, Moore-Brabazon, R.N.,
leut.-Col. M. Pickthorn, Esq., M M.P. C.,
M.P
D, Smiles, M.A.,
C.I.E., D.S. O., M.P.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
PERSONNEL VESSELS.
Twenty-nine personnel vessels were used during
operation "Dynamo"; a list is given in the enclosure.
Of these, seven were sunk, five so damaged by bombing
or gunfire as to render them unfit for further use during the
operation, and two were damaged in collision.
of these ships the following, namely MONA'S QUEEN,
BIARRITZ, CANTERBURY, QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, MAID OF ORLEANS,
AUTO CARRIER and ARCHANGEL; ST. HELIER and KING GEORGE V, had
been engaged prior to Dynamo, in operations at Dunkirk,
Boulogne and Calais, and had completed the following trips:
MONA'S QUEEN 3 QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL 1 ARCHANGEL
1
BIARRITZ
2 MAID OF ORLEANS
3 ST.HELIER
2
CANTERBURY
3
AUTO
CARRIER
2 KING GEORGE V.1
2. There was no doubt that the Captains and crews of
these ships were feeling the strain when operation Dynamo
started. After completing two round trips to Dunkirk harbour
in operation Dynamo the Master of the CANTERBURY stated on the
28th that he would not take his ship to sea for a third trip.
The P.S.T.O. went on board and explained the gravity of the
situation and ordered him to sail at 2230, but discovered some
of the crew had been given leave. The P.S.T.O. therefore put
an officer and some seamen and stokers on board to augment and
stiffen the crew. The ship sailed at 0930/29, but was bombed
and damaged on her return voyage from Dunkirk, and after landing
troops did not take any further part in the operation.
3. After completing one round trip the Captain of the
St. SEIRIOL refused to sail, and accordingly one officer, an
armed guard and 7 stokers were put on board at 1000 on the 29th.
The Captain was placed under open arrest and the ship sailed at
1100. On her return voyage the ship was bombed and damaged and
did not sail again.
4.
The TYNWALD transported 7534 troops in 5 voyages; she
should have completed 0 voyages. When due to commence her
fourth voyage at 1945/1, she refused to sail and did not sail
again until 1945/2.
On a written enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, on
the 2nd June, whether or not the ship would sail for Dunkirk if
required, the Master, W. Qualbrough, replied by letter as follows:
"Dear Sir,
Your letter received. I had a signal from
the master of the MALINES last night to say him and
the master of the BEN MY CHREE had considered it
hopeless to proceed to Dunkirk. Our crews have been
continually on their feet all the week and especially
the deck officers who have had to be on their feet
for so long. I myself have had 4 hours rest for the
week and am at present physically unfit for another
trip like what we have had. If it is absolutely
necessary to go I will abide with the masters of the
other ships decision.
P.S. absolutely nervous wrecks and certified by the naval
There is two more of the crew going ashore now
doctor.
In/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 2.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
In the meantime, relief crews had been sent for
for the TYNWALD and an armed naval guard was placed alongside
at Folkestone where the ship lay. The crew did not attempt
to leave the ship but contented themselves with shouting abuses
at the sentries. Relief crews arrived and the old crew were
then allowed to leave. Complete listsof their names and
addresses were taken and given to the S.T.O., Folkestone. Those
who stayed of the old crew were the Chief Officer as Master,
Second Officer, Purser, W/T Operator and Carpenter.
A naval officer and 10 naval ratings were put on
board as moral stiffeners and the ship sailed at 1945/2. She
completed a round trip which was repeated next day without
incident.
5. MANX MAID. Never completed a trip; she should have
sailed on 3 separate occasions. On the last occasion, at
1745/2, she produced an engine breakdown as excuse; was given
up as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.
On the afternoon of 3rd June, when it was realised
that MANX MAID was not going to be used, the majority of the
crew, in response to an appeal by the S.T.O., Dover, volunteered
to replace men in other personnel vessels who had left their
duty. 18 seamen and firemen were accepted and sailed to
Dunkirk in LADY OF MANN, and others were drafted to MANX MAN
who, however, did not sail.
6. BEN MY CHREE. Transported 408 troops in 2 trips; she
should have completed 4. The master was evidently in league
with the masters of the TYNWALD and the MALINES. On failing
to sail during the night 1/2nd June, in reply to a written
enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, whether or not he would
sail, George Woods, Master, replied in writing - "I beg to state
that after our experience at Dunkirk yesterday, my answer is
'No'. "
At 1850/2 BEN MY CHREE came alongside Folkestone.
Naval guards were placed on the gangways and abreast the ship.
As the ship was berthed the crew were demonstrating and shouting
that they were going to leave the ship and on the brow being
run out, they attempted to do so with their kits. Leading
Stoker Booth ordered his men to come on guard and advanced up
the brow with fixed bayonets. The crew returned on board at
once, where they remained until the relief crew arrived. The
Captain and crew left the ship, the Chief Officer stayed as
Captain, together with 3 greasers and the W/T Operator. Other-
wise the ship was manned with the new crew. Unfortunately, on
sailing, at 1905/2, BEN MY CHREE was in collision and did not
complete the trip.
7. LADY OF MANN. Carried out 4 trips and transported
2902 troops. One trip was abortive through no fault of the
Master, as the ship was ordered back from Dunkirk before entering
that harbour. The last 2 trips were carried out with a Naval
officer and 10 naval ratings on board as an insurance, but there
is no suggestion that the LADY OF MANN did not attempt to play
her part.
8. MANX MAN. Transported 233 troops in 3 voyages.
Should have completed 5.
her fourth trip, due 2115/2, MANX MAN refused to
sail from On Folkestone. A new crew was put an board, the engineers
remaining/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 3.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
remaining; she started a trip but failed to make Dunkirk. On
return, original Captain rejoined with some of the original
crew. She should then have sailed at 2010/3, but the Captain
reported 3 engineers short at the last minute. It was not
to wait for the engineers and the Master
and the new crew provided for the second
time. Before further use could be made of her, however, the
evacuation terminated.
9. The MONA'S QUEEN was sunk by a mine on her second
voyage to Dunkirk, and the FENELLA was bombed and sunk on her
first voyage.
10. The MALINES who had completed two trips, refused to
sail on the 1st, left Dover at 1600 on the 2nd without orders and
was subsequently found to have proceeded to Southampton.
11. It was felt that trouble might occur in the ST. HELIER
and PRINCESS MAUD, and accordingly a naval party was put on
board to supplement the ships crews, and in consequence no
trouble occurred,
12. The outstanding ships were the MAID OF ORLEANS 6 trips,
one being diverted without completing the trip, and once
returning due to collision. ROYAL DAFFODIL 7 trips, on one of
which she was turned back by a French destroyer -
ROYAL SOVEREIGN 6 trips
KING GEORGE V
5 trips
COTE a' ARGENT
5 trips
ST. HELIER
4 trips after having refused to
sail once.
PRAGUE
3 trips with full loads, bombed,
severely damaged and
beached on the last return
trip.
13. Eleven other ships were concerned in the Operation,
details of which are as follows:
27th May BIARRITZ
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
27th May
ARCHANGEL
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
27th May
QUEEN OF THE
Sunk by bombing attack.
CHANNEL
28th May LORINA
Sunk by bombing attack.
29th May
NORMANIA
Sunk by bombing attack.
28th May LOCH GARRY
One trip.
28th May SCOTIA
One trip.
2nd June
1111
Sunk by bombing attack.
28th May KILLARNEY
One trip.
2nd June ROUEN
One trip.
2nd and 3rd
June AUTO CARRIER Two trips.
2nd and 3rd
June
NEWHAVEN
Two trips.
ce
of
Enclosure:-
ER. Officer Commanding,
Details of Personnel
June, 1940.
Ships used.

Details

Details

22953
Captain G. Mallony. SS Malines.
cw 19295/40. (alto)
Capt: Mallory very well reported on by
the officers [Mercht havy] tederation.
But VA Davis Report (attache) an " Dynams"
Personnel fessels
(= Manapata
P3 §10 =
The Malines who had completed two tipo repused
to sail on the 1ˢᵗ, left Doner at 1600 without
order + was subsequently found to have
proceeded the
23
The General Secretary,
The Officers (Merchant
Navy) Federation,
23 Leadenhall Street,
London, E.C.3.
AD
Wt.48364/D6526 1,000,000 6/40 S.P. Co., Ltd. 51-6446

Details

22953
(Revised "June, 1933.)
1940
51.
FROM WHOM
DATE
hilitary secretary BEF.
7. 7.40.
MARKINGS TO BOARD.
SUBJECT.
Worcester
Second Sea " Lord.
appreciation of services in
evacuating trops from Dunkirk.
cdove. W.P. Gandell R.N.
Caps. H.A.B. Digley. Beore R.I.N.
FORMER
Cape. w.e. G. Jennet R.N
call hewis. R.N.
CNX 154411. A.B. Burrows.
appreciation of services
NOTATION ONLY
Referred
Referred
Date
Date
to
Referred to
Date
to
CW. 19295/40 8th October,
0
Sir,
I am commanded by My Lords
Comissioners of the Admiralty to thank
you for your letter WHC/EF/JS 10607 of
the 14th June, 1940, concerning the
services of Captain Mallory, Master of
23
the S.S. MALINES in the Dunkirk with-
drawal, and I am to say that Their
Ardships have given full consideration
to all reports that have been received
of the Services of Officers in this
operation.
RO
2/5/44
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
The General
23 Leadenhall Street,
London, E.C.3.
AD
Wt. 48364/D6526 1,000,000 6/40 & Co., Ltd. 51-6446

Details

Page 4.
WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYN/MO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
NEL AND HOSPITAL SHIPS
RCHANGEL
MANXMAN
UTOCARRIER
MONA'S QUEEN
EN-MY-CREE
NEWHAVEN
IARRITZ
NEPHRITE (Store Ship)
ANTERBURY
NGAROMA
LAN MACALISTER
NORMANIA
OTE D'ARGENT
PARIS (Hospital)
OTE D'AZUR
PRAGUE
INARD (Hospital)
PRINCESS MAUD
ORIAN ROSE (Store Ship)
#
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
ENELLA
ROEBUCK
ОЛМ QUEEN
ROUEN
SLE OF GUERNSEY (Hospital)
ROYAL DAFFODIL
SLE OF THANET (Hospital)
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
ILLARNEY
ST. ANDREW (Hospital)
ING GEORGE V
ST. DAVID (Hospital)
ADY OF MAN
ST. HELIER
EVENWOOD (Store Ship)
ST. JULIAN
OCH GARRY
ST. SEIRIOL
LORINA
#
SCOTIA
AID OF ORLEANS
TYNWALD
MALINES
WORTHING (Hospital)
MANXMAID
WHITSTABLE
BRITISH SHIPS
ADVENTURESS
BONNY BELLE
re
AGNESS CROSS (Life-boat)
BOURNEMOUTH LIFE-BOAT
ALBATROSS III
B.P. ONE
ALOUETTE
BRITANNIA
ANDORA
BULLFINCH
ANDORA II (R.A.F. Launch)
CABBY
ANNE IV
CANVEY QUEEN
ATHOLA
CAVERSHAM (M.B.)
AURA
CHAMOIS (Lighter)
BATL
CHERFIELD
BAT (Lighter)
/
CLAUDE (Water Boat)
BEE (Lighter)
COMMODORE
BELFAST
CONSTANT NYMPH
BLACK ARROW
CORDELIA
BLACK JAVA
CORNELIA
BLACKPOOL
BOBELI (Motor Cruiser)
C. 11
C. 9 } (Tugs)
BONNY HEATHER
C.Y. 63
DABB II
DEFENDER
DHOON (Trawler)
(Continued)
Sunk

Details

Page 8
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.S.
GRAFTON
- Commander (Killed Cecil E. C. Robinson, R.N.
when ship was torpedoed).
May, Bray beach. Dover 1100/28 after which she of 27th
GRAFTON landing embarked them at 277 troops during the night
to board, Leaving she Bray just after midnight returned 850
M.T.B. from a sunken ship. lying stopped picking up survivors by a
troops on at 0250, while was hit by 2 torpedoes fired with
was blown and the ship's back appeared to be broken.
The stern off of the ship abaft the after magazine bulkhead
all the ship's company that could be spared. The remainder
sea, the troops were transferred to S.S. MALINES and then
An hour later, the ship rolling heavily in a rising
transferred sinking. later to IVANHOE when GRAFTON was slowly
Recommendations.
FICER.
Surgeon-Lieutenant Joseph Wishart Shield, M.B., B.Ch. R.N.V.R.
Worked indefatigably among the many wounded and
with complete disregard for his own safety, visited
damaged compartments in the stern searching for
wounded before he could possibly have known that the
ship would not sink at once.
C.,,D,S.C.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 8
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
I.S. GRAFTON - Commander Cecil E. C, Robinson. R.N.
(Killed when ship was torpedoed).
GRAFTON embarked 277 troops during the night of 27th
May, landing them at Dover 1100/28 after which she returned
to Bray beach. Leaving Bray just after midnight with 850
troops on board, she was hit by 2 torpedoes fired by a
M.T.B. at 0250, while lying stopped picking up survivors
from a sunken ship.
The stern of the ship abaft the after magazine bulkhead
was blown off and the ship's back appeared to be broken.
An hour later, the ship rolling heavily in a rising
sea, the troops were transferred to S.S. MALINES and then
all the ship's company that could be spared. The remainder
transferred later to IVANHOE when GRAFTON was slowly
sinking.
Recommendations.
TICER.
Surgeon-Lieutenant Joseph Wishart Shield, M.B., B.Ch. R.N.V.R.
Worked indefatigably among the many wounded and
with complete disregard for his own safety, visited
damaged compartments in the stern searching for
wounded before he could possibly have known that the
ship would not sink at once.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
PERSONNEL VESSELS.
Twenty-nine personnel vessels were used during
operation "Dynamo"; a list is given in the enclosure.
(i
Of these, seven were sunk, five so damaged by bombing
a:
or gunfire as to render them unfit for further use during the
operation, and two were damaged in collision.
er
Of these ships the following, namely MONA'S QUEEN,
nd
BIARRITZ, CANTERBURY, QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, MAID OF ORLEANS,
le
AUTO CARRIER and ARCHANGEL; ST. HELIER and KING GEORGE V, had
been engaged prior to Dynamo, in operations at Dunkirk,
Boulogne and Calais, and had completed the following trips:
MONA'S QUEEN 3 QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL 1 ARCHANGEL
1
BIARRITZ
2
MAID OF ORLEANS
3 ST.HELIER
2
CANTERBURY
3 AUTO CARRIER
2 KING GEORGE V.1
a
2. There was no doubt that the Captains and crews of
these ships were feeling the strain when operation Dynamo
started. After completing two round trips to Dunkirk harbour
in operation Dynamo the Master of the CANTERBURY stated on the
28th that he would not take his ship to sea for a third trip.
The P.S.T.O. went on board and explained the gravity of the
situation and ordered him to sail at 2230, out discovered some
of the crew had been given leave. The P.S.T.O. therefore put
os,
an officer and some set nen and stokers on board to augment and
stiffen the crew. The ship sailed at 0930/29, but was bombed
and damaged on her return voyage from Dunkirk, and after landing
troops did not take any further part in the operation.
3. After completing one round trip the Captain of the
St. SEIRIOL refused to sail, and accordingly one officer, an
armed guard and 7 stokers were put on board at 1000 on the 29th.
The Captain was placed under open arrest and the ship sailed at
1100. On her return voyage the ship was bombed and damaged and
did not sail again.
should 4. have completed 6 voyages. When due to commence her
The TYNWALD transported 7534 troops in 5 voyages; she
fourth voyage at 1945/1, she refused to sail and did not sail
again until 1945/2.
On a written enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, on
the 2nd June, whether or not the ship would sail for Dunkirk if
required, the Master, W. Qualbrough, replied by letter as follows:
"Dear Sir,
Your letter received. I had a signal from
the master of the MALINES last night to say him and
the master of the BEN MY CHREE had considered it
hopeless to proceed to Dunkirk. Our crews have been
continually on their feet all the week and especially
the deck officers who have had to be on their feet
for so long. I myself have had 4 hours rest for the
week and am at present physically unfit for another
necessary to jo I will abide with the masters of the
trip like what we have had. If it is absolutely
other ships decision.
P.S. absolutely There nervous wrecks and certiffed by the naval
is two more of the crew going ashore now
doctor.
In/

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 2.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
In the meantime, relief crews had been sent for
for the TYNWALD and an armed naval guard was placed alongside
at Folkestone where the ship lay. The crew did not attempt
to leave the ship but contented themselves with shouting abuses
at the sentries. Relief crews arrived and the old crew were
then allowed to leave. Complete listsof their names and
On
addresses were taken and given to the S.T.O., Folkestone, Those
ginal
who stayed of the old crew were the Chief Officer as Master,
;ain
Second Officer, Purser, W/T Operator and Carpenter.
A naval officer and 10 naval ratings were put on
er
board as moral stiffeners and the ship sailed at 1945/2. She
nd
completed a round trip which was repeated next day without
le
incident.
5. MANX MAID. Never completed a trip; she should have
r
sailed on 3 separate occasions. On the last occasion, at
1745/2, she produced an engine breakdown as excuse; was given
up as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.
On the afternoon of 3rd June, when it was realised
that MANX MAID was not going to be used, the majority of the
to
crew, in response to an appeal by the S.T.O., Dover, volunteered
to replace men in other personnel vessels who had left their
duty. 18 seamen and firemen were accepted and sailed to
Dunkirk in LADY OF MANN, and others were drafted to MANX MAN
who, however, did not sail.
to
6. BEN MY CHREE. Transported 408 troops in 2 trips; she
should have completed 4. The master was evidently in league
ps,
with the masters of the TYNWALD and the MALINES. On failing
to
to sail during the night 1/2nd June, in reply to a written
enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, whether or not he would
sail, George Woods, Master, replied in writing - "I beg to state
that after our experience at Dunkirk yesterday, my answer is
'No'.
"
to
At 1850/2 BEN MY CHREE came alongside Folkestone.
Naval guards were placed on the gangways and abreast the ship.
As the ship was berthed the crew were demonstrating and shouting
that they were going to leave the ship and on the brow being
run out, they attempted to do so with their kits. Leading
Stoker Booth ordered his men to come on guard and advanced up
the brow with fixed bayonets. The crew returned on board at
once, where they remained until the relief crew arrived. The
Captain and crew left the ship, the Chief Officer stayed as
Captain, together with 3 greasers and the W/T Operator. Other-
wise the ship was manned with the new crew. Unfortunately, on
sailing, at 1905/2, BEN MY CHREE was in collision and did not
complete the trip.
7. LADY OF MANN Carried out 4 trips and transported
2902 troops. One tri_ was abortive through no fault of the
Master, as the ship was ordered back from Dunkirk before entering
that harbour, The last 2 trips were carried out with a Naval
officer and 10 naval ratings on board as an insurance, but there
is no suggestion that the LADY OF MANN did not attempt to play
her part.
8. MANX MAN. Transported 233 troops in 3 voyages.
Should have completed 5.
On her fourth trip, due 2115/2, MANX MAN refused to
sail from Folkestone. A new crew was put on board, the engineers
remaining/
nnel

Details

Details

Details

Details

Dynamne 256.
154
H.M.T. "Malines",
SOUTHAMPTON.
138
11th June, 1940.
The Principal Sea Transport Officer,
DOVER.
Sir,
Replying to your letter of June 5th., I submit the following
account of the operations as experienced in this ship :-
Ordered from Southampton, #6 proceeded to Dovor and received
instructions to go to Dunkirk by the Northern route from the North
Goodwin Light Vessel. As events proved, it would have been better if my
instructions had boon more detailed and if I had been supplied with the
large scale charts. These latter had been promised but not delivered.
However, the necessary daylight to navigate the shouls remained,
and I had had some experience of the locality, 30 "Malines" proceeded at
16 knots to arrive off Dunkirk just after dark.
To my astonishment, the whole port seemed to be in flames, and,
although it could not be exactly determined, the work of destruction
appeared still to be going on. The mate and funnels of ships could be
distinguished by the light of the flames, but whether suniters or afloat
I did not know.
Morse signals were ignored, and an attempt to inter the
harbour was mot by gunfire from the Western breakmater, 30, determined
to find out the true condition of affairs, 1 patrolled along towards
Gravelines, where & Pilot station was supposed to be established.
Dunkirk. I An attempt: to enter by our consort, Hellet. "Scotia", use also
Although hailed several craft, I could get no replice, and returned to
greeted with gunfire, 80 that I decided to go Enstwards to meet friendly
co-operation.
The dim shapes of vessels inshore could be determined, healtated but to my
draught than 13 foot, and no chart to hand, 1
deviate being more Channel. Hare my lack of information 1a now apparent,
10% from from later the events, I judge that these ships were attention removing were parties of
y
of extreme the beaches. annoyance No to them, who proforred to be unobserved by
from doubt by signals to attract the enemy. source
of the One and large I was on the point of returning to question be
vossel, recognised later as it Clan liner, him, moved when out
vaa attacked port, and aunt completely across the fairway.
cont.a ot, Therefore, and encountered I & destroyer, who signalled Turning
reauned the patrol to the Restward, "Follow aeaking 26 batter

Details

219
LETTER OF 6TH JUNE 1940 FROM THE OFFICER IN CHARGE NO.3.
PARTY R.N. BARRACKS, CHATHAM, to VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
II.
8. Hospital Ship "St. Julien". It was reported that the crew of this
ship were very tired and shaken and required assistance in working the ship.
A party of twenty-two hands under ub.Lieutenant Radoliffe, R.N.V.R. was sent
for this purpose, half of whom were to assist in the engine-room. The crew
were very willing and the Naval party lent practical and moral support. The
ship proceeded to Dunkirk on May 31st, where she arrived at 0850 and went
alongside the pier. She remained there until 1015 and was under heavy fire
during the whole of this time. All the Naval ratings except the Stokers on
watch were ashore bringing off stretcher cases. No casualties were sustained.
Licutenant Radeliffe was himself ashore carrying stretchers and was the
last man on board having Seen all his men had returned.
9.
FOLKESTONE. At 0500 on Sunday 2nd June, 1940, it was reported that three ships -
"Malines" S.S. "Ben-my-Chree" S.S. "Tynewald" - were giving trouble. An
armed S.S. party under Petty Officer Hollingsworth was sent over to take guard leave duties
these ships. The Patty Officer had instructions that no-one was to
the ships were sent out to anchorage. Nothing untoward occurred before
on these ships under any circumstances. Shortly after the arrival of this party 1400
when a relief party under Leading Stoker Booth took over duties.
At 1850 8.5. "Ben-my-Chree" came alongaide the jetty. Three sentries-
A.B. the remainder being posted at intervals along the ship. As the ship was leave
Clithero, 0.Smn. Tomlinson, As Cook Blackman - were placed on the ganguay, being
berthed the crew were demonstrating and shouting that they were going to their
the and on the brow. being run out they attempted to do so with the brow. Rits.
Leading The crew thereupon returned on board at once, where they remained
ship, Stoker Booth ordered his nen to come on guard and advance up until the
relief crew arrived.
to leave the 3.8. ship, but contented themselves with shouting abuse at the sentries. then
"Tynewald" came alongside at 1910. The orew did not attempt
Relief crews leave. Complete lists of their names and addresses were ordered.
for these two ships arrived at 1950, and the old crews were taken and
given allowed to to the S.T.O. Folkestone. These ships subsequently sailed as at about
9.9. "Malines", had left the harbour with no instructions
1600, and was subsequently found to have proceeded to Southempton.
rendered and sending out guards and Stoker parties with the utmost despatch, the
10. the The most invaluable service in the Transit Camp, not only by regulating
Chief Gunner's Mate of the Company - Chief Patty Officer Ward
but our own also party by keeping a complete record of all Naval ratings Parties passing etc. through
Camp. These included survivors, Lewis Gun parties, U.P.
The following ratings were also outstanding - Petty officer The Harding, whole
Petty party remained in good spirits throughout and were always cheerful cager for
11. Officer Burge, Petty Officer Willook, Leading Stoker Booth - and
any duties, that were to be performed.
12. Two of these were retained in Dover and I would like hour strongly of the
The party had proceeded to Dover in buses from Maidstone and District to
commend night to transport our various parties, so saving valuable time, also
'Bus Company. the Drivers, who were only too willing to turn out at any and
day turned or to themselves in shifting gear and stowing in the buses for transport
when necessary. A report to this effect has been sent to the Proprietors.
(Sgi)
COPIES TO
Lieutenant Commander R.N.
OFFICER IN CHARGE NO.3.
Commodore. P.S.T.O.
Commodore. R.N. Barracks, Chatham.
PARTY.
Captain (G) R.N. Barracks, Chatham.
Battalion Commander.
Company Commander.

Details

Details

413
LETTER OF 6TH JUNE 1940 FROM THE OFFICER IN CHARGE NO.3.
387
PARTY N .BARRACKS, CHATHAM, to VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
II.
7. 3.8. "Seiriol. It was reported that the Captain
of this ship had refused duty. As there were no spare
Crews for Merchant ships in the port, Lieutenant Mc.Ewen,
R.N.R. was ordered to take command of the ship. Petty
Officer Harding and six armed ratings, with one Stoker
Petty Officer and six Stokers joined the ship at 1000 on
29th May, 1940. The Captain was put under open arrest
and the ship proceeded. The Naval ratings manned the
Lewis Guns and Bren Guns in the ship and on arrival at
Dunkirk were standing by to take lines ashore had it been
possible to get alongside. This was not possible so they
manned the only two boats left in the ship. The only
ships ratings who assisted were one Officer and as Steward.
They embarked survivors from S.S. "Crested Ragle* which
was on fire, and H.M.S. "Grenade" which had been sunk
alongside. They also embarked soldiers from the beach.
About two hundred men were brought on board, half of whom
were badly wounded. As there was no medical party on
board the ship left before being fully loaded on account
of the latter.
the crew 8. of this ship were very tired and shaken and re-
Hospital Ship "St.Julien". It was reported that
quired assistance in working the ship. à party of twenty-
two hands under Sub. Lieutenant Radeliffe, R.N.V.R. was
sent for this purpose, half of whom were to assist in the
engine-room. The crew were very willing and the Naval
party lent practical and moral support. The ship proceed-
ed to Dunkirk on May 31st, where she arrived at 0850 and
went alongside the pier. She remained there until 1015
and was under heavy fire during the whole of this time. All
the Naval ratings except the Stokers on watch were ashore
bringing off stretcher cases. No casualties were sustain-
ed. Sub. Lieutenant Radcliffe was himself ashore carrying
stretchers and was the last man on board having seen all
his men had returned.
9. FOLKESTONE.
At 0500 on Sunday 2nd June, 1940, it was reported
that three ships 9.3. *Malines* 5.9. "Ben-my-Chree" S.S.
"Tynewald" - were giving trouble. An armed party under
Petty Officer Hollingsworth was sent over to take guard
duties on these ships. The Petty Officer had instructions
that no-one was to leave these ships under any circumstances.
Shortly after the arrival of this party the ships were sent
out to anchorage. Nothing untoward occurred before 1400
when at relief party under Leading Stoker Booth took over
duties.
At 1850 S.S. "Ben-my-Chree" came alongside the
jetty. Three sentries - A.B.Clithero, 0.8m. Tomlinson,
Cook Blackman - were placed on the gangway, the remainder
being posted at intervals along the ship. As the ship was
being berthed the crew were demonstrating and shouting
that they were going to leave the ship, and on the brow.
being run out they attempted to do so with their kits.

Details

388
LETTER OF 6TH JUNE, 1940 FROM THE OFFICER IN CHARGE, NO.3.
PARTY: .BARRACKS, CHATHAM, to VICE ADMIRAL, DOVER.
III.
Leading Stoker Booth ordered his men to come on guard and
advance up the brow. The crew thereupon returned on board
at once, where they remained until the relief crew arrived.
S.S. "Tynewald" came alongside at 1910. The crew
did not attempt to leave the ship, but contented them-
selves.th shouting abuse at the sentries. Relief crews
for these two ships arrived at 1950, and the old crews
were then allowed to leave. Complete lists of their names
and addresses were taken and given to the .0.Folkestone.
These ships subsequently sailed as ordered.
S.S. "Malines" had left the harbour with no
instructions at about 1600, and was subsequently found to
have proceeded to Southampton.
10. The Chief Gunner's Mate of the Company - Chief
Petty Officer Ward rendered the most invaluable service in
the Transit Camp, not only by regulating our own party and
sending out guards and Stoker parties with the utmost des-
patch, but also by keeping a complete record of all Naval
ratings passing through the Camp. These included survivors,
Lewis Gun parties, Parties etc.
11. The following ratings were also outstanding -
Petty Officer Harding, Petty Officer Burge, Petty Officer
Willock, Leading Stoker Booth - The whole party remained
in good spirits throughout and were always cheerful and
eager for any duties, that were to be performed.
12. The party had proceeded to Dover in buses from
Maidstone andDistrict 'Bus Company. Two of these were
retained in Dover and I would like strongly to commend the
Drivers, who were only too willing to turn out at any
hour of the day or night to transport our various parties,
so saving valuable time, and also turned to themselves in
shifting gear and stowing in the buses for transport when
necessary. A report to this effect has been sent to the
Proprietors.
COPIES TO.
Lieutenant With Commander, R.N.
Commodore. P.S.T.O.
OFFICER IN CHARGE NO.3.
PARTY.
Commodore. R.N.Barracks.
Chatham.
Captain (G). R.N.Barracks.
Chatham.
Battalion Commander.
Company Commander.

Details

416
390
APPENDIX 11. TO LETTER OF 6TH JUNE 1940, FROM THE OFFICER
IN CHARGE NO.3.PARTY: R.N.BARRACKS CHATHAM to VICE
ADMIRAL: dover.
Armed Guards had to be placed on the following
ships at various times during the operation.
S.S. "St. Helier"
S.S. "Manxman"
S.S. "Seiriol"
S.S. "Ben-my-Chree"
S.S. "Tynewald"
S.S. "Malines"
2.
A guard was sent to the Dutch boat *Ngaroma*
but she sailed on their arrival.
Parties to supplement ships' crews were also
lent 3. to the following ships, besides those mentioned
above.
S.S. "Canterbury"
S.S. "Lady of Mann*
S.S. *Princess Maud"
h.s. "St.Julien"
and various Drifters and Motor-boats.

Details

TUESDAY, 28TH MAY
CHAP. V
had all come under fire from the shore guns at Calais and Gravelines. At
0415 on the 28th May the Queen of the Channel, loaded with 904. troops, was
attacked by one aircraft; 3 or 4 bombs were dropped, which straddled the ship
abaft the mainmast and broke her back, the starboard propeller shaft and the
rudder. By good fortune the Dorrien Rose, en route for Dunkirk, was in the
vicinity and rescued the troops : the Queen of the Channel sank about 1/2 hour
later. The St. Seiriol, which left Dunkirk at about 0415 with 494 troops,
reached Folkestone in safety.
Civilian crews feel the strain
Some 45 personnel vessels were used during operation "Dynamo"
Of these eight were sunk, at least six were so damaged by bombing or gunfire
as to render them unfit for further use during the operation, and two were
damaged in collision. Nine of the largest of these personnel vessels had been
engaged prior to "Dynamo" in operations at Dunkirk, Calais and Boulogne,
and their Captains and crews were beginning to feel the strain when Operation
"Dynamo" started.
Thus it was that the Master of the Canterbury, which had already completed
2 round trips to Dunkirk in operation "Dynamo", reported, on the 28th May,
that he was too worn out to make a third trip. The P.S.T.O. went on board
and explained the gravity of the situation to the Master, and the Canterbury
sailed at 0930 the next day. On her return voyage from Dunkirk she was
bombed and damaged, and after landing her 1960 troops went into dock for
repairs. In the 3 trips she made the Canterbury brought back 4,416 troops;
her Master, Captain C. A. Hancock, was awarded the D.S.C.
Personnel vessels not to be employed during full daylight
On the 28th May, however, it had become apparent that development of
the German air threat over the evacuation area, and the increasing artillery
fire from shore batteries covering the sea approaches to Dunkirk, prohibited
the employment of personnel and similar vessels during daylight, until the
position was restored, and that evacuation from Dunkirk by day must for the
moment be confined to warships and small vessels².
It was not, therefore, until later in the day, that the P/V Royal Daffodil
sailed for Dunkirk, and eight other personnel vessels and a hospital carrier³
received their sailing orders during the afternoon and evening.
The northern Route Y was by this time in general use⁴, but ships proceeding
from Dover to Dunkirk were ordered to use the southern and shorter Route Z,
if the passage from Calais Bell buoy to Dunkirk could be made in darkness.
N.O.I.C. Ramsgate responsible for servicing skoots
In these circumstances some 20 skoots reached Dunkirk, or arrived off the
beaches during the day and evening of the 28th May; others were on the way.
Their speed varied, but most of them were very slow. Eight of them went
into Dunkirk harbour⁵, and four to Bray beach⁶. The Abel Tasman, loaded
with ammunition, the Alice and Kaap Falga, loaded with food, and three
I This number includes 3 store ships, 3 motor vessels and a few freighters, coasters and
tramps.
2 D.R. p. 4, para. 13.
3 The Scotia, Malines, Prague, Manxman, Royal Sovereign, Tynwald, Lochgarry, Killarney
and the H.C. Paris.
4 Appendix K.1.
5 The Caribia, Fredanja, Friso, Jutland, Tilly, Patria, Sursum-Corda, and Twente.
6 The Amazone, Doggersbank, Hilda, and Oranje.
29

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
out because of the men in the water. By the time the Lydd had picked up
10 survivors, the destroyer Grafton, loaded with about 800 troops from Bray
beach, also arrived and ordered the Lydd to circle round her. The Gossamer
went on to Dover.
In the meantime, the Comfort had reached the stern portion of the wreck of
the Wakeful, and finding that it had fallen over¹, went alongside the Grafton
to warn her of the danger of torpedoes. It was then about 0240, and the
Grafton having first sighted a small darkened vessel about 3 cables on the port
quarter, signalled it to pick up survivors. Almost at once a torpedo hit the
Grafton's port side and exploded; a second explosion followed, thought to be
a shell or grenade hit, which wrecked the Grafton's bridge killing her Captain,
Cdr. C. E. C. Robinson, R.N., and 3 others. The torpedo blew off. the Grafton's
stern, abaft the after magazine bulkhead, and broke her back, but she still
floated on an even keel. A German submarine, U.69 had fired the torpedo.
The torpedo explosion almost swamped the Comfort; she rose, and Cdr.
Fisher was washed overboard. He seized a rope's end, but with the Comfort
going full speed ahead soon had to let go. The Comfort came round in a wide
circle until within about 50 yards of the stricken Grafton, whereupon the
Grafton and Lydd, mistaking her in the darkness for an E-boat, opened a heavy
raking fire with 4-inch and Lewis guns.²
Comfort cut in half
When the firing ceased Cdr. Fisher, who had reached the bow of the Comfort,
endeavoured to get abord; but the Lydd, having circled round to finish off
the supposed E-boat, bore down at full speed and, ramming the Comfort amid-
ships (it was then about 0307), cut her in half. Some of the Comfort's crew
attempted to spring aboard the Lydd, but the Lydd, mistaking them for boarders,
opened up with rifle fire. Two men were, however, taken off the rammed vessel
and it was then discovered that she was the Comfort. Altogether, the number
saved from this most tragic occurrence, shrouded in the darkness of the night,
were only 5, of which 4 were survivors from the Wakeful. As the Grafton then
appeared able to look after herself, the Lydd set course for Ramsgate.
When the Comfort went down Cdr. Fisher again sank, but he came to the
surface and, after swimming about until 0515, was picked up by a boat lowered
from the Norwegian S.S. Hird, which was en route from Dunkirk to England
with about 3,500 troops and refugees on board.
Grafton sunk
In the meantime, at 0400, the personnel ship Malines, which was returning
empty from Dunkirk, heard S OS signals; she placed herself alongside the
torpedoed Grafton and transferred the destroyer's 800 troops. "The Master
handled his ship with extreme skill," reported the acting Captain of the Grafton,
Lieut. H. C. J. McRea, R.N.
It was now 0430, just before sunrise, and the destroyers Javelin, Icarus,
Vanquisher, Intrepid and Ivanhoe, en route from Dover to Dunkirk, sighted the
sinking Grafton. The Ivanhoe went to her assistance and embarked the
I On the 30th May the corvette Sheldrake was ordered to destroy the Wakeful's asdic
apparatus. She found the Wakeful completely capsized with her stern resting on the
bottom. As, by then, information was received that the area had been mined, the Shel-
drake, to minimise the risk, sank the wreck by gunfire and a pattern of depth charges.
2 Later the Grafton's fire was shifted to another vessel further away on the port quarter,
which was observed to blow up with a bright flash. This may well have been the E-boat.
37

Details

Details

INDEX
Lord Southborough, 60, 69, 83.
Lorina, sunk, 45.
Louise-Irene, 73n.
Louise Marie, 62n.
Lucian Gougy, 107n.
Lusyne, Capt. P., 116.
Lutteur, 62.
Lydd, 28n, 36-7, 44, 52, 100-1, 103.
Lydie-Susanne, 73.
M.41, 73n.
McClelland, Lt. Cdr. J. W., 59n, 75-7 (work at La Panne).
McCullough, Lt. Cdr., 59n.
Mackay, 20n, 27, 35-6 (put out of action).
MacKewn, Lt. A. R., R.N.R., takes over St. Seriol, 48.
McRea, Lt. H. C. J., 37.
Maid of Orleans, 16-17, 22n, 24, 31n, 54n, 87 (damaged), 127.
Mainwaring, Lt. A. H., killed, 93.
Ma Joie, 60n.
Malabar, 85.
Malcolm, 28n, 54n, 55, 62 (makes two trips on 30th May), 83 (collides with Dunkirk pier),
109 (sent back empty), 112n, 114n, 116, 118.
Malden Annie IV, abandoned, 72.
Malet, Pilote, 73.
Malines, 29n, 37.
Mallard, 34, 99, 104.
Mallow, 88.
Malo, see Beaches.
Manxman, 29n, 54n, 102, 114n.
March, Mr. F. J., 47.
Maréchal Foch, sunk, 116.
Maretta, damaged, 13.
Margaux, 73.
Marie, 74.
Marlborough, 72n.
Marmion, 28n, 54n, 100-1, 107n, 109.
Marrack, Capt. H. R., 74.
Marsayru, adventures of, 72-3.
Mary Rose, sunk, 72.
Mary Scott, 100.
M.A./S.B.6, 52 (sinks Minikoi), 66-7 (takes Lord Gort to Dover), 75.
M.A./S.B.7, 111-112 (in operation CK.).
LA./S.B,10, 101-2, 108, 119.
Massey Shaw, 119.
Maund, Cdr. G. O., speeds up embarkation, 63-64; leads ships into Dunkirk, 101.
Medical Parties, sent across, 49.
Medway Queen, 23n, 27, 31, 100-1, 105, 107n, 109, 114n.
Merchant Navy, see Civilians.
Mermaiden, 72n.
Meuse, 114n.
M.F.H., 72n.
Michael Stevens, 107n.
Midas, 23n, 107n.
Mines and mining, British, 34; German, 38, 93, 110; French, 62-3.
Minikoi, sunk 52.
Ministry of Sea Transport, 21.
Ministry of Shipping, 5.
Minotaur, 72n.
Mirasol, 53.
Mistral, 39, 40n, 41 (damaged), 43.
Monarda, 71n.
Mona's Isle, 16, 19.
Mona's Queen, 16, 28, 31n, 38 (sunk).
Montgomery, Maj.-Gen. B. L., 2, 75, 77 (embarks).
Morrison, P. O., 72.
Montrose, 20n, 27, 32n, 36 (put out of action).
202

Details

PLAN 1
Soate of Miles
10
5
o
10
20
30
40
N
The German
break-through
on 17th.18th
KENT
OSTEND
ANTWERP
DUNKIRK LA PANNE NIEUPORT
BRUGES
18th MAY
may
13th
MAY ON MAPS IN LORD CORTS DESPATCH
R.M.
FURNES
Yser
GAND
MALINES
GRAVELINES
a
BERGUES
CALAIS
SPYKE
RIYS
R.Senna
ALOST
WORMHOUTE
th
F.
LOUVAIN
YPRES
18MAY
Phyle
WATTEN
COURTRAI
MENIN
Escaut
BRUSSELS
13th MAY
CASSEL
COMINES
BOULOGNE
StOMER
R.Dendre
WAVRE
HAZEBROUCK
ARMENTIERES
P.LYS
AIRE
MERVILLE
LILLE
ATH
R.Meuse
EXOLISH
NAMUR
StAMAND
LA BASSEE
R.Sambre
VALE CIENNES
DOUAI
Fscaut
RRA
R.
18th MAY
18thMAY
13th:MAY
CAMBRAI
DOULLENS
ABBEVILLE
R
2.50mm
ALBERT
DIEPPE
PERONNE
AMIENS
st QUENTINE
18th MAY
MEZIERES
SEDAN
R.Oire
Approximiste BritishFrenchead Belgiadine on 13ᵗʰ May:
R.Aisne
"
" " 18th " :
German break break-through shewn in blue
RMass
TSD/HS (655)
C.B.H. 16675- Wt.41534 Dd. -625-6/49

Details

PLAN 2
Scale ofMiles
to
5
o
10
20
30
40
N
The Allied
withdrawal into
18th MAY
the Dunkirk
KENT
GSTEND
.
30ᵗMAY
BRUGES
ANTWERP
PANNE
perimeter on the
+
NIEUPORT
23rd MAY
30th May
May
+
4.
FURNES
MALINES
Yser
GAND
BASED ON MAPS IN LORD GORT'S DESPATCH
LINES
C
GRAVE
STATES
BERGUES
R.Lys
ALOST
R
WORMHOUTE
LOUVAIN
CHANNEL
YPRES
COURTRAI
Escant
R.Dyle
WATTE
MENIN
BRUSSELS
.
R
St. OMER
CASSEL
COMINES
Dandre
WAVRE
BOULDONE
.
ZEBROUCK
INS
ARMENTIERES
R.
R
AIRE
MERVILLE
ATH
LILLE
23rd:MAY
Meuse
23rd MAY
St. AMAND
NAMUR
.
BASSEE
CARVIN
.
18th MAY
R.
Sambre
St.POL
.
VALENCIENNES
DOUAI
BARRAS
Escaut
a
CAMBRAI
OULLENS
BEVILLE
B
ALBERT
R.Somme
PERONNE
him
AMIENS
StQUENTIN
French 10th Arm
MEZIERES
SEDAN
R.Oise
Mause
The Dunkirk Perimeter on 30th May.
Allied line on 18th Щау
French 3rd Army R.Aisne
Approximate British, French and Belgiantine on 23rd May
German progress shewn in blue
TSD/HS (ESG)
C.B.H.16675

Details

PLAN 2
Scale ofMiles
to
5
o
10
20
30
40
&
The Allied
withdrawal into
18th MAY
the Dunkirk
KENT
GSTEND
30thmay
BRUGES
ANTWERP
PANNE
perimeter on the
NIEUPORT
23rd MAY
+ 30th May May +
+
x
FURNES
GAND
MALINES
LINES
Yser
BASED ON MAPS IN LORD GORT'S DESPATCH
C
SAYKER
BERGUES
R.Lys
ALOST
a
WORMHOUTE
LOUVAIN
CHANNEL
YPRES
COURTRAI
R.Dyle
WATTE
MENIN
BRUSSELS
.
R
St. OMER
CASSEL
COMINES
WAVRE
BOULDONE
.
Dandre
ZEBROUCK
IVS
ARMENTIERES
R.
AIRE
LALT
MERVILLE
ATH
LILLE
23rd:MAY
Meuse
23rd MAY
.
St. AMAND
NAMUR
BASSEE
CARVIN
.
18th MAY
R
Sambre
St.POL
VALENCIENNES
DOUAI
ARRAS
R.Escaut
CAMBRAI
DOULLENS
BEVILLE
B
ALBERT
Somme
PERONNE
AMIENS
him
St.QUENTIN
French 10th Army
MEDIERES
SEDAN
R.Oise
RMause
The Dunkirk Perimeter on 30th May
Allied line on 18th Щау
French 3rd Army R.Aisne
Approximate British, French and Belgiantine on 23rd May
German progress shown in blue
TSD/HS (E56)
C.B.H.16675

Details

Page 4.
OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYN/MO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - - BRITISH SHIPS (contimued)
PERSONNEL AND HOSPITAL SHIPS
ARCHANGEL
MANXMAN
AUTOCARRIER
MONA'S QUEEN
BEN-MY-CREE
NEWHAVEN
BIARRITZ
NEPHRITE (Store Ship)
CANTERBURY
NGAROMA
CLAN MACALISTER
NORMANIA
COTE D'ARGENT
PARIS (Hospital)
COTE D'AZUR
PRAGUE
DINARD (Hospital)
PRINCESS MAUD
DORIAN ROSE (Store Ship)
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
FENELLA
ROEBUCK
FOAM QUEEN
ROUEN
ISLE OF GUERNSEY (Hospital)
ROYAL DAFFODIL
ISLE OF THANET (Hospital)
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
KILLARNEY
ST. ANDREW (Hospital)
KING GEORGE V
ST. DAVID (Hospital)
LADY OF MAN
ST. HELIER
LEVENWOOD (Store Ship)
ST. JULIAN
LOCH GARRY
ST. SEIRIOL
LORINA
SCOTIA
MAID OF ORLEANS
TYNWALD
MALINES name
WORTHING (Hospital)
MANXMAID
of Inen
WHITSTABLE
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS
ADVENTURESS
BONNY BELLE
AGNESS CROSS (Life-boat)
BOURNEMOUTH LIFE-BOAT
ALBATROSS III
B.P. ONE
ALOUETTE
BRITANNIA
ANDORA
BULLFINCH
ANDORA II (R.A.F. Launch)
CABBY
ANNE IV
CANVEY QUEEN
ATHOLA
CAVERSHAM (M.B.)
AURA
CHAMOIS (Lighter)
BAIL
CHERFIELD
BAT (Lighter)
CLAUDE (Water Boat)
BEE (Lighter)
COMMODORE
BELFAST
CONSTANT NYMPH
BLACK ARROW
CORDELIA
BLACK JAVA
CORNELIA
BLACKPOOL
C. 9
)
BOBELI (Motor Cruiser)
(Tugs)
C. 11
)
BONNY HEATHER
C.Y. 63
DABB II
DEFENDER
DHOON (Trawler)
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

Page 4.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (contimued)
PERSONNEL AND HOSPITAL SHIPS
ARCHANGEL
MANXMAN
AUTOCARRIER
MONA'S QUEEN
BEN-MY-CREE
NEWHAVEN
BIARRITZ
NEPHRITE (Store Ship)
CANTERBURY
NGAROMA
CLAN MACALISTER
NORMANIA
COTE D'ARGENT
} french
PARIS (Hospital)
COTE D'AZUR
PRAGUE
DINARD (Hospital)
PRINCESS MAUD
DORIAN ROSE (Store Ship)
QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL
FENELLA
ROEBUCK
FOAM QUEEN
ROUEN
ISLE OF GUERNSEY (Hospital)
ROYAL DAFFODIL
ISLE OF THANET (Hospital)
ROYAL SOVEREIGN
KILLARNEY
ST. ANDREW (Hospital)
KING GEORGE V
ST. DAVID (Hospital)
LADY OF MAN
ST. HELIER
LEVENWOOD (Store Ship)
ST. JULIAN
LOCH GARRY
ST. SEIRIOL
LORINA
#
SCOTIA
MAID OF ORLEANS
TYNWALD
MALINES
WORTHING (Hospital)
MANXMAID
WHITSTABLE
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS
ADVENTURESS
BONNY BELLE
AGNESS CROSS (Life-boat)
BOURNEMOUTH LIFE-BOAT
ALBATROSS III
B.P. ONE
ALOUETTE
BRITANNIA
ANDORA
BULLFINCH
ANDORA II (R.A.F. Launch)
CABBY
ANNE IV
CANVEY QUEEN
ATHOLA
CAVERSHAM (M.B.)
AURA
CHAMOIS (Lighter)
BAIL
CHERFIELD
BAT (Lighter)
CLAUDE (Water Boat)
BEE (Lighter)
COMMODORE
BELFAST
CONSTANT NYMPH
BLACK ARROW
CORDELIA
BLACK JAVA
CORNELIA
BLACKPOOL
C. 9 (Tugs)
BOBELI (Motor Cruiser)
C. 11
BONNY HEATHER
C.Y. 63
DABB II
DEFENDER
DHOON (Trawler)
Sunk
(Continued)

Details

Tune,
31 B
CONFIDENTIAL.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
PERSONNEL VESSELS.
Twenty-nine personnel vessels were used during
operation "Dynamo"; a list is given in the enclosure.
of these, seven were sunk, five so damaged by bombing
or gunfire as to render them unfit for further use during the
operation, and two were damaged in collision.
Of these ships the following, namely MONA'S QUEEN,
BIARRITZ, CANTERBURY, QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL, MAID OF ORLEANS,
AUTO CARRIER and ARCHANGEL; ST. HELIER and KING GEORGE V, had
been engaged prior to Dynamo, in operations at Dunkirk,
Boulogne and Calais, and had completed the following trips:
MONA'S QUEEN 3 QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL 1 ARCHANGEL
1
BIARRITZ
2 MAID OF ORLEANS
3 ST. HELIER
2
CANTERBURY
3 AUTO CARRIER
2 KING GEORGE V.1
2. There was no doubt that the Captains and crews of
these ships were feeling the strain when operation Dynamo
started. After completing two round trips to Dunkirk harbour
in operation Dynamo the Master of the CANTERBURY stated on the
28th that he would not take his ship to sea for a third trip.
The P.S.T.O. went on board and explained the gravity of the
situation and ordered him to sail at 2230, but discovered some
of the crew had been given leave. The P.S.T.O. therefore put
an officer and some seamen and stokers on board to augment and
stiffen the crew. The ship sailed at 0930/29, but was bombed
and damaged on her return voyage from Dunkirk, and after landing
troops did not take any further part in the operation.
3. After completing one round trip the Captain of the
St. SEIRIOL refused to sail, and accordingly one officer, an
armed guard and 7 stokers were put on board at 1000 on the 29th.
The Captain was placed under open arrest and the ship sailed at
1100. On her return voyage the ship was bombed and damaged and
did not sail again.
4.
The TYNWALD transported 7534 troops in 5 voyages; she
should have completed 6 voyages. When due to commence her
fourth voyage at 1945/1, she refused to sail and did not sail
again until 1945/2.
On a written enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, on
the 2nd June, whether or not the ship would sail for Dunkirk if
required, the Master, W. Qualbrough, replied by letter as follows:
"Dear Sir,
Your letter received. I had a signal from
the master of the MALINES last night to say him and
the master of the BEN MY CHREE had considered it
apt R.
hopeless to proceed to Dunkirk. Our crews have been
continually on their feet all the week and especially
the deck officers who have had to be on their feet
for 30 long. I myself have had 4. hours rest for th
week and am at present physically unfit for another
trip like what we have had. If it is absolutely
necessary to go I will abide with the masters of the
other ships decision.
i
P.S. There is two more of the crew going ashore now
g
absolutely nervous wrecks and certified By the naval
ER
doctor.
In/
rized.

Details

June,
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 2.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
In the meantime, relief crews had been sent for
for the TYNWALD and an armed naval guard was placed alongside
at Folkestone where the ship lay. The crew did not attempt
to leave the ship but contented themselves with shouting abuses
at the sentries, Relief crews arrived and the old crew were
then allowed to leave. Complete listsof their names and
addresses were taken and given to the S.T.O., Folkestone. Those
who stayed of the old crew were the Chief Officer as Master,
Second Officer, Purser, W/T Operator and Carpenter.
A naval officer and 10 naval ratings were put on
board as moral stiffeners and the ship sailed at 1945/2. She
completed a round trip which was repeated next day without
incident.
5. MANX MAID. Never completed a trip; she should have
sailed on 3 separate occasions. On the last occasion, at
1745/2, she produced an engine breakdown as excuse; was given
up as hopeless and other ships made use of instead.
On the afternoon of 3rd June, when it was realised
that MANX MAID was not going to be used, the majority of the
crew, in response to an appeal by the S.T.O., Dover, volunteered
to replace men in other personnel vessels who had left their
duty. 18 seamen and firemen were accepted and sailed to
Dunkirk in LADY OF MANN, and others were drafted to MANX MAN
who, however, did not sail.
6. BEN MY CHREE. Transported 408 troops in 2 trips; she
should have completed 4. The master was evidently in league
with the masters of the TYNWALD and the MALINES. On failing
to sail during the night 1/2nd June, in reply to a written
58mg
enquiry from the S.T.O., Folkestone, whether or not he would
sail, George Woods, Master, replied in writing - "I beg to state
85mg
that after our experience at Dunkirk yesterday, my answer is
Lestor
'No'.
"
At 1850/2 BEN MY CHREE came alongside Folkestone.
even
Naval guards were placed on the gangways and abreast the ship.
As the ship was berthed the crew were demonstrating and shouting
that they were going to leave the ship and on the brow being
run out, they attempted to do'so with their kits. Leading
Stoker Booth ordered his men to come on guard and advanced up
the brow with fixed bayonets. The crew returned on board at
acodg the
once, where they remained until the relief crew arrived. The
the
Captain and crew left the ship, the Chief Officer stayed as
Captain, together with 3 greasers and the W/T Operator. Other-
olliown
at
wise the ship was manned with the new crew. Unfortunately, on
38
sailing, at 1905/2, BEN MY CHREE was in collision and did not
on
complete the trip.
a
3rd
tmp
7. LADY OF MANN. Carried out 4 trips and transported
2902 troops. One trip was abortive through no fault of the
apt R.
god
Master, as the ship was ordered back from Dunkirk before entering
19.9
that harbour. The last 2 trips were carried out with a Naval
officer and 10 naval ratings on board as an insurance, but there
is no suggestion that the LADY OF MANN did not attempt to play
her part.
332
8. MANX MAN. Transported 233 troops in 3 voyages.
Should have completed 5.
On her fourth trip, due 2115/2, MANX MAN refused to
i g
sail from Folkestone. A new crew was put on board, the engineers
remaining/
athorized.

Details

June,
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 3.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Work of Personnel Vessels.
Personnel Vessels (continued).
remaining; she started a trip but failed to make Dunkirk. On
return, the original Captain rejoined with some of the original
crew. She should then have sailed at 2010/3, but the Captain
reported 3 engineers short at the last minute. It was not
considered necessary to wait for the engineers and the Master
and crew disembarked and the new crew provided for the second
time. Before further use could be made of her, however, the
evacuation terminated.
9. The MONA'S QUEEN was sunk by a mine on her second
voyage to Dunkirk, and the FENELLA was bombed and sunk on her
first voyage.
10. The MALINES who had completed two trips, refused to
sail on the 1st, left Dover at 1600 on the 2nd without orders and
was subsequently found to have proceeded to Southampton.
11. It was felt that trouble might occur in the ST.HELIER
and PRINCESS MAUD, and accordingly a naval party was put on
board to supplement the ships crews, and in consequence no
trouble occurred.
12. The outstanding ships were the MAID OF ORLEANS 6 trips,
one being diverted without completing the trip, and once
returning due to collision. ROYAL DAFFODIL 7 trips, on one of
which she was turned back by a French destroyer -
ROYAL SOVEREIGN 6 trips
KING GEORGE V
5 trips
COTE d'ARGENT
5 trips
ST. HELIER
4 trips after having refused to
158 rgdl
sail once.
PRAGUE
3 trips with full loads, bombed,
85mght
severely damaged and
beached on the last return
trip.
13. Eleven other ships were concerned in the Operation,
details of which are as follows:
27th May BIARRITZ
27th May
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
ARCHANGEL
27th May
Damaged by shell fire and returned.
QUEEN OF THE
Sunk by bombing attack.
CHANNEL
28th May
LORINA
Sunk by bombing attack.
29th May
NORMANIA
Sunk by bombing attack.
28th May LOCH GARRY
One trip.
28th May SCOTIA
One trip.
2nd June
THE
28th May KILLARNEY
Sunk by bombing attack.
One trip.
2nd June ROUEN
One trip.
2nd and 3rd
Acapt R.
June AUTO CARRIER
Two trips.
2nd and 3rd
June NEWHAVEN
Two trips.
fice of
Enclosure:-
g Officer Commanding,
Details of Personnel
ER.
Ships used.
2 June, 1940.
authorized.

Details

Details

57
I swung the ship and berthed on the store jetty at the root of
the East Pier and soon the troops started to board carrying badly
wounded men on stretchers.
Shell fire continued; shells falling on either side of the
Pier, one damaging the handrail on the east side abreast of the
ship, the pier is about six feet wide at this point.
Bombs fell at intervals from aircraft flying in the pall of
smoke over the town and fires were observed to start in many places.
At 1001 having on board 650 Officers and men 18 wounded, 4
French and 2 Belgian Officers, the Naval Embarkation Officer decided
to sail me as the shell fire was getting more and more accurate
I could probably have taken 20 or 30 more. The holds were full hut
there was a little space on the forecastle head.
On leaving the Pier a number of shells fell on each side of
the ship, one bursting under the starboard quarter. No damage was
suffered to the ship or troops. The vessel lying ahead appeared
to be damaged by this salvo (Malines).
The voyage back to Dover was uneventful except for a distant
air attack on vessels arriving and a few shells falling over apparently
from our unfriendly battery.
Dover was reached at 1640 after making a detour of some miles
to avoid mines laid the previous evening.
During the passage my hands tended the wounded and provided
tea etc., to the tired but wonderfully cheerful troops, until water
ran out.
I would like to emphasise that the conduct of the whole crew
was splendid throughout under most trying conditions. The engine
room staff kept a constant head of steam and the many difficult
manoeuvres were executed promptly. The Chief Engineer Mr. J.Bamforth
shewed leadership of his men by his example.
The Deck Officers and men embarked the troops rapidly and filled
the ship to capacity and carried stretchers from the quay. The
helmsman Able Seaman S. Walker obeyed every order I gave him and
shewed skill and coolness when entering and leaving the port, when
the rest of the crew had to take shelter. We remained at Dover
under immediate steam for four days but were apparently not again
required.
I am, Sir,
Yours obediently.
(Signed) R.W. Morford.
Master.
When off the No. 3 beach in addition to many other craft sunk
and aground our S.S. "LORINA" was observed, broken backed and aground.
R.W.M.

Details

90
TRANSPORT "SCOTIA"
115
used
J.1 In response to your request for a narrative of the
activities of the "Scotia" from the twenty-sixth of May
onwards, I submit the following account :-
"On the 26th May the "Scotia", with its full
crew was at Southampton under two hours notice. The
order came at 7.30 p.m. on the following day (27th) to
to
proceed to Dover with all possible speed. We left berth
42 at 9.30 p.m., and passed through Spithead at about
10.30 p.m. We arrived off Dover about 7.0 a.m. the
following morning. I there received orders to proceed to
28/5
Downs and anchor to await further orders. At 5.0 p.m.,
having received orders and route instructions we weighed
anchor and proceeded to Dunkirk, steering various courses
as ordered and made for the Eastern Channel off Dunkirk,
where we arrived at 9.45 p.m. The weather was calm and
hazy. We sighted several destroyers at anchor off the
Thew agoott Eastern Channel entrance who were engaged in shelling
enemy positions. We signalled destroyers for guidance
and were told to proceed to Dunkirk. It was now getting
dark so I signalled for a pilot but received no reply.
Dunkirk was all ablaze and dense clouds of smoke obscured
JIBQ -- the port. We could hear heavy firing from inshore and
twode
violent explosions in the port. Transport "Malines"
twode was following the "Scotia" so we consulted as to procuring
nedd a pilot. "Malines" signalled "proceeding towards
Gravelines". About two miles ahead "Malines" was fired
on from shore, so we returned steering east towards
Eastern end of Channel. Several small craft lay about
STOW
at the end of the Channel, none of them showing any lights.
need It was now 0.55 a.m., Wednesday 29th. Whilst going astern
and keeping in mid-channel the "Scotia" was struck abaft
engine room on the port side. It was sounded all round,
[eoo
. QU 10 but was found not to be making any water and all compartments
Ms were dry. This proved afterwards to have been a torpedo,
which had struck the bilge keel and failed to explode.
grited We hailed a small sloop which was proceeding towards the end
bre
,JOST of the Eastern Channel and asked if Dunkirk was clear. On
84.8 being told what ship we were he told us to proceed cautiously
towards the entrance. He added you are very badly needed".
avoidev
On this I decided to go on and do our utmost to relieve the
wot situation. The small craft all along the pier were shifted
I - as to enable us to berth. We berthed at about 1.30 a.m.
nt gatog close to the lighthouse, East Pier. Immediately the
Isnaia vessel was alongside the embarkation Officer requested that
I should take as many troops as possible. This I did. The
TOJSI counter showed 2,700, but many more had been taken aboard
of of whom no account could be taken. The "Scotia' estimated
had fully 3,000 troops on board, as every available space
had been taken up. The troops (British) were very
exhausted and many of them could hardly walk along the pier.
net The embarkation Officers' duty was a very strenuous one, and
borrego in passing, I should like to express my admiration of the
good no manner in which this difficult work was carried out by them.
bequort I gathered that some of these Officers had been on duty
unceasingly for thirty six hours.
senale
ows WORL
DIOVS
OF
oa