Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Y\M
EVAT
THANKS CATAM
codid
(1)saut Jul
NANETTE II (L.T.55)
M/L
I.V.
Owner/
Parton, Angineer
2nd
See under Sherfield.
rived Imagess from Harrish.
[4th June?]
"Proceeded to Dovor where 2 B/Lt's
DE navel ratings same on board".
[Sth June?]
"Taken in tor by à motor years, and
company with 2 DDTO mail motor
boats, a destroyer and 3 other
boste,(1) vest to Boblogns
and then class toys the coast search.com
the beaches for * company of welsh
and Irish denide (who were supposed
to have been marooned) but did not
succeed in loonting them.
Did_not take part in Opporation Dynamo (but M
under Eastern Diatrict Fishing Pleet).
0021
0000
Authority - 10.914h.
10.9436.
OOSS
7052
bnS
9 .8.A S 1940H
oqui
side
1000A
E.g
3d
Jud
Etm
(00
SI
.0.2 -
R.OT
18 univollon 207
roming .E.A
emLoq .U.A (1)
monnt ad
omLag .8.A (s)
at SBW
ESE ad? (E)
enot "Eah 8
(1) 34 that those were the June Hannah, Renate.
ameR
RAMA Besss Boy Fred, and Age:
322323

Details

Details

X-Lighter
X.95
1415
Sailed the from Sheerness in company with
31st May
Y.C.63 and the M/L Nanette II.
motor barge Sherfield, the lighter
p.m.
In the darkness, X.95 lost contact with
her companions.
p.m.
Being broken down in the vicinity of
1st June
Dunkirk harbour was taken in tow by
the sk. Tilly.
2400ca
Arrived Ramsgate in tow.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.198.
R.O.III p.265.

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Notor Barge Sherfield
1
#
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
185
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Dyram 189. 180
e
STATEMENT OF PATRICK THOMAS SULLIVAN, ABLE SEAMAN, C/JX,147897.
I am a survivor of the "SILVER QUISIDIV" that left Sheerness on
Wednesday 29th May, 1940, for Dunkirk. We stopped at Ramsgate for about
an hour, and then all the boats that WEBC capable put to sea at dusk, being
nine boats all told, on the way over one blew her engine, others dropped out,
and we finally reached Dunkirk at 0800 on Thursday.
We proceeded to ferry troops to H.M.S. "Esk" and then the German
artillery started shelling us, we carried on and after we had been working
for about two hours, the planes came over and started to bomb us, one coming
so close, it lifted us out of the water (roughly 25' off the starboard beem).
We managed to take about 1,000 troops to the big ships, and then on
our 10th or 11th trip, we had about 100 French soldiers on board, took them
to a Trweler, who told us to go to Dunkirk harbour for another ship.
We got there but found no ship, so we decided to come home. To had no
charts or compsss, but trusted to our sense of direction. Halfway over
we found a soldier's field compass and used that. Then we sighted land,
and thinking it was Ramsgate or some other Port, we turned towards it, and
got about half a mile off, when the Germans opened fire, then we discovered
it was Calais. They pounded away at us with six batteries for roughly 30
minutes, one round hitting us in the stern and another on the starboard
bow. The Yser, in company with us, was also hit and she started to draw
water badly.
She had a Verey's Light pistol and fired it, whereupon a
Destroyer came up and covered us.
We reached Ramsgate at 2100, managed to tie up and disembark the troops,
then she was slowly sinking. We lost everything we set out with, but we
were fitted out with clothes at the (word missing) and on H.M.S. PERVENT.
(sd) P.T. Sullivan.
Able Seaman, C/JX.147897.
ing
e

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40.
Dynamo 188.
Motor Barge Sherfield
#
18
Ex-idghter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Sub It. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 9.
we were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.9
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was Just as well. brought us to a buny round which was painted -"Ostend". This
Dyroms 188 - 181
REPORT.
SUB LIEUT. P. SNOW. R,N.
Motor Boat "REDA" - 12 ton - speed 8 knots.
Left Sheerness at approx. 1900 on Tuesday
28th. Made first crossing to Dunkirk on Wednesday 29th
leaving Ramsgate at 1000. Arrived in company with five
other small boats at 1700. Whilst proceeding up Dunkirk
roads towards the beaches we were machine-gunned by low
flying aircraft. Bullet stuck in deck-head having failed
to penetrate. Embarked soldiers on destroyers and sloops
for 3 hours under continual bombardment from the air.
Headed for Ramsgate at 2200 with a party of 21 English
soldiers on board. Whilst leaving were deliberately
bombed one salvo falling within 30 yards of the boat.
Loosened several planks but no material damage sustained.
Arrived Ramsgate approx. 0600 Thursday.
Left on second trip at 1100 on Friday 31st,
arriving at Dunkirk at 1730. Took off about 50 Frenchmen
to waiting ships and left for Ramsgate with 23 Frenchmen
on board. Heavy bombers were bombing the beaches when we
left at 2015.
Anchored off N. Goodwin for the night and
proceeded into harbour at 0530.
Crew for 1st trip :-
R.W. Rawlings (P.O Motorman)
1 Civilian Volunteer
Crew for 2nd trip :-
R.W. Rawlings
1. Leading Seaman
1. A.B.
All times are approximate.
(Signed) P.Snow
Sub. Lieut, R,N.

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Notor Barge Sherfield
1
# 185
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, 31st May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
we were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, paniol Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was tust as well. brought us to a buoy round which was painted -"Ostend". This
*
182
19t.
REPORT OF "SKYLARK" - S/Lee MARES R.N.V.R.
Abandoned in Mid Channel and crew taken on board
1ty
"Strathelliott". S/L Mares was left behind at Dunkirk.
2
(Crew came back on Trawler).

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Motor Barge Sherfield
1 - 185
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
we were under way heading out to sea.
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniol Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never know, which perhaps
was just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted - -"Ostend". This
Dynam 193 " 183 196
REPORT OF "MARY ROSE" - S/I H. Mc.Clelland R.N.V.B.
Ity
Engines failed on way over. Ship taken in cow, began
2
making water fast and became unmanageable and was
abandoned in Mid Channel where she sank. Crew taken on
board the Trawler "Strathelliott" where they helped to
take off troops from the beach at Dunkirk.
Journey back made in trawler. No injuries to anyone.
8
on
dng
18
#

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynams 188.
Notor Barge Sherfield
1
#
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
185
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
we were under way heading out to sea.
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was just as well, brought us to a busy round which was painted - -"Ostend". This
Dynamotique
197
184
*
s
7
REPORT OF "SINGAPORE" R.N.V.R.
Ity
No personal injury to self or crew. Engine failed
in North Sea and return had to take tow, Owing to heavy
swell sudden strain WAB put on to tow and the winch was torn
taking with it part of the fore deck, the anchor, cable
and all ropes.
Managed to repair ngine temporarily and returned to
Ramagate.
too

Details

OR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
or Barge Sherfield
#
185
Lighter Y.O. 63.
Lighter X.95.
Sub Dr. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
or Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, 31st May, 1940, we
ceived. command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
om the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
though we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and
cidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
B just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted -"Ostend". This
a a most salutary effect on us and putting the wheel to starboard we headed for
e battle. The succession of sunken ships with the oil saturated water covered.
th junk and garbage of all sorts began to have a dampening effect on everybody.
wever, we fortified ourselves with large helpings of Mr. Machonicie's Irish Stew.
Continuing on passed Nieuport we found ourselves between two destroyers and
shore battery in action;during this one of the destroyers was hit and the super-
tructure burst into flames. On closing in it was obvious that there was no one
board and we drew away a magazine explosion. Shells then began to drop round us
rom the remaining destroyer and to further our consternation at this moment at
orpedo passed under the "Sherfield", disappearing up the beach; whether fired by
submarine or the other destroyer is not known.
Next thing on the programs was the finding of a whole lot of chaps who had
een in the oil-covered water for a considerable time and we experienced difficulty
n getting them aboard as there were several wounded amongst them. These - were
ostly off destroyers sunk during the day. During this interlule soldiers were
een gathering on the foreshore, and owing to ebbing tide it was impossible to
each the lighters and the motor boat. commenced to collect the soldiers and take
chem to the lighters at twenty at a time. One young Army officer to whom great
redit is due came along with a motor boat full of wounded, and after putting them
aboard helped with the embarkation.
In the meantime one lighter continued to fish people out of the water and the
ther went alongside the wrecked "Clan MacAlister" and took off 15 wounded
survivors of the "Keith" and other ships.
All was going well when a number of enemy planes started to machine gun the
beach and bombard the vicinity. It would be as well to mention that there were
no other British ships or planes in sight, and being completely unarmed except for
one Boer War rifle, we couldn't do much against them. As the last load was being
gathered it appeared that the enemy were using Trench Mortars and machine guns from
begind the Dunes.
During a lull the second lighter and motor boat made for the open sea; while
the motor barge was receiving her last load of wounded enemy planes started paying
further attention to her. She stopped all movement and drifted about for the next
three quarters of an hour, hoping to be taken for a derelect, which thank God she
wast At length the planes eased off and she made a dash (at 6 knots) for the open
the familiar whine of a power bomber was heard, followed by a pattern of bombe
sea, large quantities of tea being consumed. Peace reigned, but not for long;
exploding round the barge and a nice little machine gun attack followed.
The remainder of the trip was quite uneventful, entering Dover at 7 a.m. on
Sunday morning.
volunteers and the youngest being 17. A fine example was set by the fortitude
Too much praise cannot be given to the Civilian members of the crews, all being of
the Troops waiting on the shore and in the water. All Naval members of the orews
acted as expected.
missed On during the first night, had managed to get to Dunkirk and had had her full
returning to Sheerness we found the third member of our convoy, whan - had
share of excitement.

Details

4.
.
37194
33.
Lieut. "Mermaiden Nimmo, back R.N.R. to Weymouth. - Took "Filleul" yacht
/.
34.
Lieut. J.S. Seal, R.N.R. - in "Queen Boadicea
picked up three seamen survivors from' Janis"? II"
Dunkirk Pier. The latter's Captain Sub Lieut. off Bell
by a bomb on Friday may 31. The survivors were
R.N.V.R.? and a stoker had been killed outright
landed at Ramsgate.
35,
Mr. C.V. Cogger - signed in "Seine" at Rochester.
Left her on Wednesday full of water for the aches
( Lieut. Cdr Filluel in command). Brought hack
350 British and French troops to Ramsgate. Sailed
again for Dunkirk and brought back 300 troops.
36.
Sub Lieut. W.E. Mercer, R.N.V.R. of "Strathelliot" -
saw the"Mary Rose" and "Skylark" sink in mid ocean,
crew all brought back. Following were seen abandoned
as Dunkirk :- "Malden" "Annie IV" and "Empress".
The former was used as a pier.
37.
"Scene Shifter" was swamped by French troops on
Wed. June 29th. "Triton" was cast off while in
tow with foul screw.
38.
Lieut. W.B. Whitworth, R.N. did 6 trips in "Aeger".
39.
Mr. R. Brown - went over in "Madame Sansgene" on
night of Monday June 3rd. Elgar H. Jefferey and his
brother were also in the boat. Towed over by "Tanjar"
(Tug) with another Motor boat. On way back boats
fouled a rope, which had been veered by the "Tanjar"
to stutch it as it was new, and the boats had to be
abandoned. The "Madame Sansgene" claimed to have
shot down a bomber.
40,
P.O. E. Wells, R.N.R. - went over in "Nanette II",
who had a Lieut. R.N.V.R. in charge. They went to
Ostende an then to Dunkirk and brought back mostly
French troops, some of whom had been in the water
for 12 hours. "Nanette" was finally returned to
41.
Dover.
Sub Lieut. Church, R.N.R. - In "Portsdown"
see separate report.
42
Coxn. George Senior, O.N. 239990 - In YC 78
Wed, May 29th for Ramsgate. Sailed from Ramsgate at at
(Lieut. Mortimer R.N.R. 1/c). Left Sheerness on
2245 Thursday night and arrived at Dunkirk
1100 on Friday. The only soldiers on the beaches vessels
there, They left Dunkirk about 1830 towing
on 45 of them, were ferried off in the YC 71
and a about midnight and anchored. H wever, and
skiff. Thornycroft motor boat. The YC 72 broke down the
herself boat managed to start up again about must
Thornycroft informed Ramsgate for a tug came out 0700
have and towed YO 78 and YC 71 back to Ramsgate.

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MUTT
MYOLA
c/o Toughs
Did not go.
6th Ramsgate Scouts
No trace of return from
MONTAGUE WHALER
Dunkirk.
MARGARET MARY
G.Chantry
A.P.S.
MATA HARI
J.W.Lintott
A.P.S.
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S.
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40.
MINNEDOSA
A.J.Riding
damaged.
ROSE
Lt.Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P.
ROSA
MATOYA
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
RUBY
A.P.S.
Edvy
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs. Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
WON
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
KOU
MESORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
Reported lost.
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NAIAD ERRANT
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G.Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
NAUTILUB A
J.F.Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk.
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners.
Kichy JOH 9 RCO a SON Ro from Sile
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No. tress. of
A.P.S.
J.Emons
NIN
Returned to Owners
c/o Toughs
NIRVANA
A.P.S.
Mr.Mason
NO NAME II
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
NORWICH BELLE
(Stm. Boat Co.
A.P.S.
Mr. Wilcox
NANCY BELLE
Returned to Owners.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o "oughs
T.98. Returned to Owners
J.L.Shakespeare
OFFEMIA
19/6.
A.P.S.
Mr.Forman
Returned to Owners 3.6.40.
OMEGA
H.J. Gallop
ORATAVA RX 45
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
H.Joynson
Prepared for Dunkirk, did
ORELLANA
H.M. Customs,
not go.
OSPREY
Gravesend
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
OULTON BELLE
(stm.Boat Co.
(Returned to Owners 19/6
Mr.Beran
OUR LIZZIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40
OUR MAGGIE
Re-allocated Special
(Admiralty Service (6A)
A.P.S.
H.Payne
ONA II
Prepared but did not go
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
to Dunkirk.
-do-
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
-do-
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
Returned to Owners
W.Walker
PROVIDENCE
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40.
PALMESTON

Details

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

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX A
TROOPS
MOTOR BOATS, LAUNCHES AND VESSELS (contd.)
TRANSPORTED
M.F.H. (W. H. Smith, Capt.)
87
Minikoil (S/Lt. R. E. Blows, R.N.V.R.)
/
Minoru II'
/
Minotaur (T. Towndrow, Skipper)
/
Minwood
51
Mirasol
/
Moss Rose1
/
Murious
/
Naiad Errant
8
(A. B.S. Palmer, i/c)
Nanette II
30
Nayland
83
Nemo IV'
/
New Britannic
83
(W. Matthews, Cox.)
New Prince of Wales'
-
(S/Lt. P. H. E. Bennett, R.N.)
New White Heather
-
Offemia
50
Patricia (T.H.V.)
/
Pauleter
400
(Sto. D. T. Banks)
Peggy IV:
-
(S. H. Hughes, Skipper)
Pioneer¹
-
Princess Freda
-
(S/Lt. E.S. Forman, R.N.V.R.)
Princess Lily
-
(Prob. Ty. S/Lt. K. E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.)
Princess Maud
-
Provider
Not known
(F. Hannaford, Skipper)
Queen Boadicea II
-
(Lieut. J.S. Seal, R.N.R.) (Capt. J. Whittaker)
Queen of England'
-
Quest
-
Quicksilver
20
(S/Lt. D.L. Satterford. R.N.) (L/Sea. T. Phillips)
18
Quisisana
(S/Lt. A. J. Weaver, R.N.V.R.)
28
Rapid I
(S/Lt. J.C. Clarke, R.N.V.R.)
Reda
44
Reliance (S/Lt. P. Snow, R.N.) (P.O. R. W. Rawlings, Motorman)
80
(Skpr. A. Legget)
Renown'
-
Resolute (Skpr. W.H. Noakes)
40
Roberta (Skpr. H.D. Osborne)
-
Rocinante
-
Rosabelle
-
Rose Marie
Not known
St. Patrick1
-
Sambrez
Not known
Santosy
-
Saviour (Actg. S/Lt. J.M. Chappell, R.N.)
22
I Lost.
2 Ex-Belgian canal boat.
150

Details

INDEX
Mosquito,44,727, 74, 88 (damaged), 92-3 (sunk).
Motor boats Control sunk Organisation, 5, 25.
93. to salvage pulling boats, 60-61,; follow Capt. Howson to England 74.
Movements 119-120.
M.T.B.67, 66n, 67.
M.T.B.16, 28, 113.
M.T.B.68, 66n, 71, 75.
M.T.B.107, 66n, 111, 119 (in operation CK).
M.T.B.102, 66n, 90, 108, 115.
Naiad Errant, 72n, 92.
Nautilus, sunk, 36, 42, 47.
Nanette II, 72n.
Nelson's, picket boa+, 72n : motor boat, 107n, 119.
Nayland, 32n, 47n, 114n.
Netsukis, 23n, 107n.
Nettle, Lt., 49.
New Britannic, 32n, 47n.
Newhaven, 102, 107n, 109, 112n, 114n.
Newhaven, sends small craft, 61.
New Prince of Wales, damaged, 74.
Ngaroma, 16.
Nicolle, General, 101.
Niger, 61, 86, 100 (meets small craft returning empty), 101, 107n, 109 (rams a French ship).
Noakes, Mr. W. H., killed, 73.
N.O.I.C. Beaches, see Capt. Howson.
Noneta, 71n.
Nord, Admiral. see Abrial, Admiral.
Nore C. in C., 8, 17 (to cover Dynamo) ; provision of boats, 51; M.T.B.'s, 70.
Normania, sunk, 44.
Ocean Breeze, 60, 71n.
Ocean Cock, 71n.
Ocean Reward, 28n, 34 (sunk).
Olivier, Mr. G. D., 73.
Olvina, 60 (goes to France in error), 91.
O.L.V. van Vlaandaren, 73n, 110 (lost).
Operations : CK Blocking of Dunkirk, 111-2, 119-20; XD (E) Dunkirk demolitions, 8,
19, 106; XD (G) Boulogne demolitions, 8-9.
Oranje, 20, 24, 29n, 47n, 100.
Oriole, 28n, 47 (beached to form pier), 107n.
Osborne, Mr. F. W., 73n.
Osborne, Mr. L. V., 73n.
Ostend, unsuitable for military requirements, 7; captured, 27.
Otway-Riven, Cdr. H. J. O., 49, 80n.
Our Bairns, 34.
Overfalls, 71n.
Pacific, 30n.
Pacifico, 119-120.
Pangbourne, 28n, 41 (damaged), 42, 97, 107n, 120.
Paris, 29n, 103-4 (sunk).
Parminster, Brigadier, 22.
Pascholl, 30n, 114n, 115-7.
Patria, 20n, 24, 29n, 46.
Patricia, 20.
Patrols : air, see Royal Air Force ; Naval of the routes, 20, 23, 28, 33-34 (ships taken off),
34 (strengthened), 85 (inshore channel).
Pauleter, 60n.
Paxton, 23n, 31 (damaged).
Pellag II, sunk, 95.
Persia, 71n, 90.
Personnel vessels : vulnerability, 28; not to be employed in daylight, 29, 99; strain
Pharailde, 73n.
on, 48; sailings suspended, 70; heavy losses, 98-9.
203

Details

ESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
VANTE
MUTT
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MYOLA
c/o Toughs
Did not go.
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th Ramsgate Scouts
No trace of return from
Dunkirk.
MARGARET MARY
G. Chantry
A.P.S.
MATA HARI
J.W. Lintott
A.P.S.
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S.
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40.
A.J.Riding
damaged.
MATOYA
Lt.Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P.
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
A.P.S.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs. Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
MESORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H. Goldsmith
Reported lost.
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
NAUTILUS A
J.F. Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk.
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners.
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No trace of return from
Dunkirk.
NIN
J.Emons
A.P.S.
NIRVANA
C/o Toughs
Returned to Owners
NO NAME II
Mr.Mason
A.P.S.
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
Stm.Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr.Wilcox
A.p.s.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners.
OFFEMIA
J.L.Shakespeare
T.98. Returned to Owners
19/6.
OMEGA
Mr.Forman
A.P.S.
ORATAVA RX 45
H.J.Gallop
Returned to Owners 3.6.40.
ORELLANA
H.Joynson
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
Prepared for Dunkirk, did
Gravesend
not go.
OULTON BELLE
Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
Stm. Boat Co.
OUR LIZZIE
Mr.Beran
Returned to Owners 19/6
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40
Re-allocated Special
Admiralty Service (6A)
ONA II
H.Payne
A.P.S.
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
Prepared but did not go
to Dunkirk.
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
-do-
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
-do-
PROVIDENCE
W.Walker
Returned to Owners
PALMESTON
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40.

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
REMARKS
MUTT
J.Mears
Returned to owner
MYOLA
%TOUGHS.
Did not go.
R
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th RAMSGATE SCOUTS
No trace of return from Dunkirk.
R
MARGARET MARY
G.Chantry
A.P.S.
R
MATA HARI
J.W.LINTOTT
A.P.S.
R
M.L. 108
?
A.P.S. ADMIRALTY OWNED.
R
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
Returned to Owner 6.6.40. damaged
A.J.Riding
MATOYA
Cdr. Gain
Allocated to A/P. D.N.G.
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
Reported lost by Owner.
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
A.P.S.
S.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs.Pickfords
Returned to Owners.
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
Returned to Owners 5.6.40.P
MEDORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
Reported lost by Owner
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
Reported lost
MOTOR LAUNCH, EXTIRADENTES
OWNERS (buta) TIREDENTES'
DAMAGED.
S.
S
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
Nightingale
S
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
to V.A.Dover.
into
S
NAUTILUS A
J.F. Mardling
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
Abandoned at Dunkirk
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
Returned to Owners
to
Ltd.
--- WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
No trace of return from Dunkirk.
PORT
MEM
J.Emons
A.P.S.
NIRVANA
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners
NO NAME II
Mr. Mason
A.P.S.
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
T.98 Returned to Owners.
(Stm.Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr. Wilcox
A.P.S.
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
Returned to Owners.
NELLIE (Sauding
F.C.WILSON?
(
E
6
G
OFFEMIA
6
J.L.Shakespeare
T.98. returned to Owners 19/6.
OMEGA
a
Mr. Forman
A.P.S.
ORATAVA RX 45
a
H.J.Gallop
Returned to Owners 3.6.40
ORELLANA
R.Joynson
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
Prepared for Dunkirk, did not go.
E
Gravesend
OULTON BELLE
Yarmouth & Gorleston T.98 Returned to Owners.
R
(Stm. Boat Co.
R
OUR LIZZIE
Mr. Beran
Returned to Owners 19/6
R
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
Released 3.6.40 Re-allocated
R
R
ONA II
(Special Admiralty Service (6A)
H.PAYNE
A.S.P. APS.
RI
OUR JOHN
STEVENS
STOOD BY. DIDNOT GO
RI
our
Boys
(Row boat)
(Row
boat)
H.J.VERRION.
Reported
RC
(NOIC
Ramagate)
RC
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
Prepared but did not go to
RO
Dunkirk.
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
do 1 I
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
do 1 I
RO
PRO VIDENCE
W.Walker
R
Returned to Owners.
PALMESTON
NW
Risdon Beazley
Released 1.6.40

Details

VESSEL
OWNER
JTT
J.Mears
I
YOLA
% Sougho.
I
MONTAGUE WHALER
6th RAMSGATE SCOUTS
I
G.Chantry
&
MARGARET MARY
MATA HARI
J.W.LINTOTT
m
M.L. 108
?
MINNEDOSA
E.F.White &
A.J.Riding
MATOYA
Lt. Cdr. Gain
MADAME SANSGENE
Guy Shelly
MARY JANE
Lt.Col.H.S.C.
Richardson
M.F.H. 4B
Messrs.Pickfords
I
MAY QUEEN S.M.270
F.Leach
MEDORA (Wherry)
T.H.Read
MIRANDA No. 58 Boat
W.H.Goldsmith
I
C
NAIAD ERRANT
R.K.Taylor-
]
Nightingale
NANETTE II
E.G. Baxter
NARCISSA
H.Allbrow
D
NAUTILUS A
J.F.Mardling
]
DI
NEMO IV
Nemo Motor Boats
DO
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
Southend Mot.Nav.Co.
and
Ltd.
NEW WHITE HEATHER
J.Davis & Sons
]
NIN
J.Emons
NIRVANA
c/o Toughs
NO NAME II
Mr. Mason
FE
NORWICH BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
FR
(Stm. Boat Co.
NANCY BELLE
Mr.Wilcox
NEW WINDSOR CASTLE
c/o Toughs
GOP
OFFEMIA
J.L.Shakespeare
OMEGA
Mr.Forman
ORATAVA RX 45
H.J.Gallop
ORELLANA
R.Joynson
HEB
OSPREY
H.M. Customs,
HON
Gravesend
HOR
OULTON BELLE
(Yarmouth & Gorleston
(Stm. Boat Co.
OUR LIZZIE
Mr.Beran
OUR MAGGIE
Bob Leach & Son
ONA II
H. PAYNE.
JAVA
JUTL
PROSPERITY (WY59)
T.Eglon
KAAFA
PROVIDER
(WY71)
E.Turner
PROGRESS
(WY72)
E.Turner
PROVIDENCE
W.Walker
PALMESTON
Risdon Beazley

Details

Date 7.6.40.
To: COMMODORE. SHEERNESS 642,
epeated: C IN C NORE 48,
P.O.LONDON.
LT.COMDR.DUSTING.SHEERNESS.
P/L BY T/F.
From: ADMIRALTY
The following requisitioned Motor Boats released from
Dynamo end now at Sheerness are required at Toughs Bros.Yard
Teddington for overhaul. Those Motor Boats not mentioned
should remain at Sheerness pending further instructions.
Tug will call Sheerness at low water to embark Lt.Comdr.Dusting
who is to see that Motor Boats in following list are sent to
Toughs. Vessels capable of steaming should accompany tug under
own power.
VIDETTE, MEANDER, SP INDRIFTER, SEASWALLOW, MOUSMN, WESTWARD,
SUNDOWNER, WAIRAKEI II, BARBARA, ELIZABE TH GREEN, QUICKSILVER,
DURCONIA, PANDORA, GAY CRUSADER, RAPID, DOLPHIN, athena,
RYEGATE II, LURLINE, BLUEBIRD, A 41.,BONNY HEATHER, NANETTE II,
SINGAPORE, SHOLT, LADY KAYE, NAUTILUS, ALONA, DIANTHUS, LATONA,
MARSAYRU, HAIAD ERRANT, DAB II, HILFRANOR, LIFEBOAT 626, REDA,
USANCO, MOTOYA, MOIENA, SURREY, Lieut. Commander Dusting should
report at Admiralty after boats have reached Teddington.
= 1725/7
for D.S.V.P.
D.of D.S.V.P.
T.S.D.(Capt.01iver)
M.O.S.I.(3)
S.C.W..
D.O.S.T.
D.P.S.(2)
Mr.D.H.Edwerds.
D.M.S.
Mr.J.D.Walker,
D.D.T.M.
Mr.A.L.Moore,
D.N.C.
Mr.Du Boisson,
Sub War Reg.Bath.
S.T.N.2.
D.N.C.Bath.
S.T.N.4 A
S.T.N.6 B
Capt.Rashleigh
Extra.

Details

it of vessels requisitioned prior to Dynamo Operation
IDVENTURESS
ANNDORA II
BRITANNIA
CANVEY QUEEN
ELIZABETH GREEN
FAIRBREEZE
GLITTER II
LAROC
NANETTE II
OCEAN BREEZE
OLIVIA.
PELLAG II
SILVER QUEEN
WHITE HEATHER

Details

PELLAG II
ANTHE MARIA (Fishing boat)
PERSIA (Tug)
PIGEON (WD crap)
PRIMA (Tug)
INTA (Trawler)
PUDGE
67. (Hopper Bmse)
QUEEN'S CHANNEL (Hopper Baye)
HANNA (Eel Boat)
QUEENSLAND
RDAN
RICAS
IGSGATE
ROBERT CLIFF
ROWAN (Smack)
BRASSEY (Resene ing)
ST. ABBS
SHEILA
ST. CLEARS
SOUTHBOROUGH (Hopper Bange)
# ST. FAGAN
VDANIA
ST OLAF
ROC
SAMBRA (M.B)
us
SAVIOUR
UISIANA ? Orusisana
SEINE
SHEFFIELD (m Bange)
ERRANT Marad Errant
SILICIA ( Coastin )
LDEN
SILVER BREEZE Schney Breye
ANNIE IV
# SILVER QUEEN rosemb
BOROUGH (WD craft)
SINGAPORE Card for
ARQUIS (Tug)
SMALL VIKING
ASSEY SHAW Fire Hoat)
SPEEDWELL renamed FRANCOLIN now JACKDA
YSPEA
SPRITE (Hanhour Lannch)
NWOOD
SULTAN
BOAT 42
SUN IV
-
27 27B. B.
SUN X
(Tugs)
:
43 (RAF)
SUN XI
--
101
..
SWALLOW
..
102
--
SO.ONE
- 243
,
- 270
"
TANGA (Tug)
- 275
TENIAS
THYFORSA
NETTE (M.L) Cand fw Nanette II
THYRA Renamed WRAN
ELSON (MB)
TUG XV TUG XVI
WHAVEN LIFEBOAT
37270
4
101
Hopper Banges
VINCIA (Tug)
102
WALMER CASTLE
BREEZE
FERIA offerma
WESSEX (highter)
WEST.COVE
IVIA
WEST GROVE
RIENT LINE (M.B)
WHITE HEATHER (M.B)
WOLFE (WD crap)
WOOTTON ( log W Ferry)
W 24 (Hopper Bange)
over

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Notor Barge Sherfield
1
#
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
185
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Dyram 189. 180
e
STATEMENT OF PATRICK THOMAS SULLIVAN, ABLE SEAMAN, C/JX,147897.
I am a survivor of the "SILVER QUISIDIV" that left Sheerness on
Wednesday 29th May, 1940, for Dunkirk. We stopped at Ramsgate for about
an hour, and then all the boats that WEBC capable put to sea at dusk, being
nine boats all told, on the way over one blew her engine, others dropped out,
and we finally reached Dunkirk at 0800 on Thursday.
We proceeded to ferry troops to H.M.S. "Esk" and then the German
artillery started shelling us, we carried on and after we had been working
for about two hours, the planes came over and started to bomb us, one coming
so close, it lifted us out of the water (roughly 25' off the starboard beem).
We managed to take about 1,000 troops to the big ships, and then on
our 10th or 11th trip, we had about 100 French soldiers on board, took them
to a Trweler, who told us to go to Dunkirk harbour for another ship.
We got there but found no ship, so we decided to come home. To had no
charts or compsss, but trusted to our sense of direction. Halfway over
we found a soldier's field compass and used that. Then we sighted land,
and thinking it was Ramsgate or some other Port, we turned towards it, and
got about half a mile off, when the Germans opened fire, then we discovered
it was Calais. They pounded away at us with six batteries for roughly 30
minutes, one round hitting us in the stern and another on the starboard
bow. The Yser, in company with us, was also hit and she started to draw
water badly.
She had a Verey's Light pistol and fired it, whereupon a
Destroyer came up and covered us.
We reached Ramsgate at 2100, managed to tie up and disembark the troops,
then she was slowly sinking. We lost everything we set out with, but we
were fitted out with clothes at the (word missing) and on H.M.S. PERVENT.
(sd) P.T. Sullivan.
Able Seaman, C/JX.147897.
ing
e

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Motor Barge Sherfield
1
M
185
Ex-idghter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Sub Dr. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
we were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was Just as well. brought us to a buny round which was painted -"Ostend". This
Dyroms 188 181
REPORT.
SUB LIEUT. P. SNOW. R,N.
Motor Boat "REDA" - 12 ton - speed 8 knots.
Left Sheerness at approx. 1900 on Tuesday
28th. Made first crossing to Dunkirk on Wednesday 29th
Ity
leaving Ramsgate at 1000. Arrived in company with five
other small boats at 1700. Whilst proceeding up Dunkirk
roads towards the beaches we were machine-gunned by Low
flying aircraft. Bullet stuck in deck-head having failed
to penetrate. Embarked soldiers on destroyers and sloops
for 3 hours under continual bombardment from the air.
Headed for Ramsgate at 2200 with a party of 21 English
soldiers on board. Whilst leaving were deliberately
bomhed one salvo falling within 30 yards of the boat.
Loosened several planks but no material damage sustained.
Arrived Ramsgate approx. 0600 Thursday.
Left on second trip at 1100 on Friday 31st,
arriving at Dunkirk at 1730. Took off about 50 Frenchmen
to waiting ships and left for Ramsgate with 23 Frenchmen
on board. Heavy bombers were bombing the beaches when we
left at 2015.
Anchored off N. Goodwin for the night and
proceeded into harbour at 0530.
Crew for 1st trip :-
R.W. Rawlings (P.O Motorman)
1 Civilian Volunteer
Crew for 2nd trip :-
R.W. Rawlings
1. Leading Seaman
1. A.B.
All times are approximate.
(Signed) P.Snow
Sub. Lieut, R,N.

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Motor Barge Sherfield
1 # 185
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Fist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
we were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, panic! Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was Just as well. brought us to a busy round which was painted -"Ostend". This
*
182
19t.
REPORT OF "SKYLARK" - S/L. MARES R.N.V.B.
Abandoned in Mid Channel and crew taken on board
Ity
"Strathelliott". S/L Mares was left behind at Dunkirk.
2
(Crew came back on Trawler).

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynams 188.
Motor Barge Sherfield
1
# 185
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub it J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
we were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniol Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted - -"Ostend". This
Dynam 193 " 183 196
:
REPORT OF "MARY ROSE" - S/I H. Mc.Clelland R.N.V.B.
Ity
Engines failed on way over. Ship taken in cow, began
2
making water fast and became unmanageable and was
abandoned in Mid Channel where she sank. Crew taken on
board the Trawler "Strathelliott" where they helped to
take off troops from the beach at Dunkirk.
Journey back made in trawler. No injuries to anyone.
8
dng
if
-

Details

MOTOR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
Notor Barge Sherfield
&
Ex-Lighter Y.O. 63.
185
Ex-Lighter X.95.
Motor Launch Nanette II.
Sub Lt. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, we
received command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
we were under way heading out to sea.
from the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
although we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniol Where were we? The one and
decidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never knew, which perhaps
was just as well, brought us to a busy round which was painted -"Ostend". This
Synamotique
184
REPORT OF "SINGAPORE" B/L.F.E. R.N.V.R.
Ity
No personal injury to self or crew. Engine failed
in North Sea and return had to take tow, Owing to heavy
swell sudden strain was put on to tow and the winch was torn
taking with it part of the fore deck, the anchor, cable
and all ropes.
Managed to repair ngine temporarily and returned to
Remagate.
e
our a
too
du
the

Details

OR CONVOY.
6/6/40. Dynamo 188.
or Barge Sherfield
M
185
Lighter Y.O. 63.
Lighter X.95.
Sub Dr. J.D.F. Kealy, R.N.
or Launch Nanette II.
On arriving at Sheerness Motor Boat Dook on Friday, Sist May, 1940, -
ceived command of the above convoy with instructions to pick up British Troops
om the shores round Dunkirk as soon as possible. This was at 2 p.m; by 2.15 p.m.
were under way heading out to sea.
Good progress was made until later that night we lost contact with lighter X.95
though we spent some time in trying to locate her without success.
At 11 a.m. 1st June land was sighted, peniot Where were we? The one and
cidedly irregular compass, the Deviation of which we never know, which perhaps
B just as well, brought us to a buny round which was painted - -"Ostend". This
a a most salutary effect on us and putting the wheel to starboard we headed for
e battle. The succession of sunken ships with the oil saturated water covered.
th junk and garbage of all sorts began to have a dampening effect on everybody.
wever, we fortified ourselves with large helpings of Mr. Machonicie's Irish Stew.
Continuing on passed Nieuport we found ourselves between two destroyers and
shore battery in action;during this one of the destroyers was hit and the super-
tructure burst into flames. On closing in it was obvious that there was no one
board and we drew away a magazine explosion. Shells then began to drop round us
rom the remaining destroyer and to further our consternation at this moment a
orpedo passed under the "Sherfield", disappearing up the beach; whether fired by
submarine or the other destroyer is not known.
Next thing on the programs was the finding of a whole lot of chaps who had
een in the oil-covered water for a considerable time and we experienced dirfi ulty
n getting them aboard as there were several wounded amongst them. These - were
ostly off destroyers sunk during the day. During this interlule soldiers were
een gathering on the foreshore, and owing to ebbing tide it was impossible to
each the lighters and the motor boat. commenced to collect the soldiers and take
them to the lighters at twenty at a time. One young Army officer to whom great
redit is due came along with a motor boat full of wounded, and after putting them
board helped with the embarkation.
In the meantime one lighter continued to fish people out of the water and the
ther went alongside the wrecked "Clan MacAlister" and took off 15 wounded
survivors of the "Keith" and other ships.
All was going well when a number of enemy planes started to machine gun the
beach and bombard the vicinity. It would be as well to mention that there were
no other British ships or planes in sight, and being completely unarmed except for
one Boer War rifle, we couldn't do much against them. As the last load was being
gathered it appeared that the enemy were using Trench Mortars and machine guns from
begind the Dunes.
During a lull the second lighter and motor boat made for the open sea; while
the motor barge was receiving her last load of wounded enemy planes started paying
further attention to her. She stopped all movement and drifted about for the next
three quarters of an hour, hoping to be taken for a derelect, which thank God she
wast At length the planes eased off and she made a dash (at 6 knots) for the open
sea, large quantities of tea being consumed. Peace reigned, but not for long;
the familiar whine of a power bomber was heard, followed by a pattern of bombo
exploding round the barge and a nice little machine gun attack followed.
The remainder of the trip was quite uneventful, entering Dover at 7 a.m. on
Sunday morning.
Too much praise cannot be given to the Civilian members of the crews, all being
volunteers and the youngest being 17. A fine example was set by the fortitude of
the Troops waiting on the shore and in the water. All Naval members of the orews
acted as expected.
On returning to Sheerness we found the third member of our convoy, whan - had
missed during the first night, had managed to get to Dunkirk and had had her full
share of excitement.

Details

4.
I
.
37194
33.
back R.N.R. to Weymouth. - Took "Filleul" yacht
/.
MB
34.
Lieut. J.S. Seal, R.N.R. - in "Queen Boadicea
Dunkirk picked up three seamen survivors from' Janis"? II"
R.N.V.R.? and a stoker had been killed outright
Pier. The latter's Captain Sub Lieut. off Bell
by a bomb on Friday may 31. The survivors were
landed at Ramsgate.
35,
Mr. C.V. Cogger - signed in "Seine" at Rochester.
Left her on Wednesday full of water for the beaches
( Lieut. Cdr Filluel in command). Brought hack
350 British and French troops to Ramsgate. Sailed
again for Dunkirk and brought back 300 troops.
36.
Sub Lieut. W.E. Mercer, R.N.V.R. of "Strathelliot" -
saw the Mary Rose" and "Skylark" sink in mid ocean,
crew all brought back. Following were seen abandoned
as Dunkirk :- "Malden" "Annie IV" and "Empress".
The former was used as a pier.
37.
"Scene Shifter" was swamped by French troops on
Wed. June 29th. "Triton" was cast off while in
tow with foul screw.
38.
Lieut. W.B. Whitworth, R.N. did 6 trips in "Aeger".
39.
Mr. R. Brown - went over in "Madame Sansgene" on
night of Monday June 3rd. Elgar H. Jefferey and his
brother were also in the boat. Towed over by "Tanjar"
(Tug) with another Motor boat. On way back boats
fouled a rope, which had been veered by the "Tanjar"
to stutch it as it was new, and the boats had to be
abandoned. The "Madame Sansgene" claimed to have
shot down a bomber.
40.
P.O. E. Wells, R.N.R. - went over in "Nanette II",
who had a Lieut. R.N.V.R. in charge. They went to
Ostende an then to Dunkirk and brought back mostly
French troops, some of whom had been in the water
for 12 hours. "Nanette" was finally returned to
41.
Dover.
Sub Lieut.
Church, R.N.R. - In "Portsdown"
see separate report.
42.
Coxn. George Senior, O.N. 239990 - In YC 73
(Lieut. Mortimer R.N.R. 1/c). Left Sheerness on
Wed, May 29th for Ramsgate. Sailed from Ramsgate at
2245 on Thursday night and arrived at Dunkirk at
1100 on Friday. The only soldiers on the beaches
there, 45 of them, were ferried off in the vessels
skiff. They left Dunkirk about 1830 towing YC 71
and a Thornycroft motor boat. The YC 72 broke down
herself about midnight and anchored. H wever, the
Thornycroft boat managed to start up again and must
have informed Ramsgate for a tug came out about 0700
and towed YO 78 and YC 71 back to Ramsgate.