Details

W.D./M.L.
E.L. Yealland, Mate.
PIGEON
S/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen,
R.N.
1900
Arrived Ramsgate from Grimsby.
31st May
-
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
1st June
-
Brought back "17 very badly wounded
men". (1)
-
S/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen (ex Vernon I)
2nd June
took command and sailed for Dunkirk.
He was accompanied by S/Lt. C.A.
Canham R.N.
-
Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops from
the piers to waiting ships between
midnight and dawn.
0430ca
Proceeded.
3rd June
0700
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 20
French troops. (1)
[s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen says:
"The Pigeon carried approx. 25 troops.
Between midnight and dawn each night
I made on an average 20 trips [ferrying]
arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m.
on the last lap with the Pigeon full of
troops. I continued this every night
until Monday [3rd June] when having ferried
all night ..... I waited alongside the pier
for Cdr. Troup (2)
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops.
-
4th June
0305ca
Came alongside the pier where
Cdr. H.R. Troup R.N. was superinten-
ding the embarkation of troops.
Embarked Cdr. Troup and a French
general and his staff.
Cdr. Troup says:
"About men stood to attention 4 deep
1,000 half-way along the pier, the and General
about staff about 30 feet away;
and his faced the troops, whose faces the
were them showing up their heels,
after indiscernable having in the dawn light, steel
helmets, saluted and the then turned about and came down
flames behind officers clicked their
to the boat with me....."
0320
0645
Arrived Proceeded. Ramsgate. Disembarked the French
general and his staff. (3)
Total 60 (ca)
(2) Not s/Ltentioned in Ramsgate only report made of or 2 D.R. 2nd/3rd trips to June Dunkirk and 3rd/4th in
3)
Ramsgate the nights Pigeon and a "Motor Boat" of the
& Wilson Ltd
Asst. between report them landed states 202 that Allied the troops. The "Returned report full
10000000
eaks". Dir. of Mil. Transport only says,
395

Details

W.D./M.L.
E.L. Yealland, Mate.
PIGEON
S/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen,
R.N.
1900
Arrived Ramsgate from Grimsby.
31st May
-
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
1st June
-
Brought back "17 very badly wounded
men". (1)
-
S/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen ( ex Vernon I)
2nd June
took command and sailed for Dunkirk.
He was accompanied by S/Lt. C.A.
Canham R.N.
Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops from
the piers to waiting ships between
midnight and dawn.
0430ca
Proceeded.
3rd June
0700
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 20
French troops. (1)
[s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen says:
"The Pigeon carried approx. 25 troops.
Between midnight and dawn each night
I made on an average 20 trips [ferrying]
arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m.
on the last lap with the Pigeon full of
troops. I continued this every night
until Monday [3rd June] when having ferried
all night
.....
I waited alongside the pier
for Cdr. Troup.
"](2)
-
Sailed for Dunkirk.
Arrived Dunkirk and ferried troops.
-
4th June
0305ca
Came alongside the pier where
Cdr. H.R. Troup R.N. was superinten-
Embarked Cdr. Troup and a French
ding the embarkation of troops.
general and his staff.
Cdr. Troup says:
"About stood to attention 4 deep
1,000 men along the pier, the General and
about half-way about 30 feet away;
and his staff faced the troops, whose faces the
were indiscernable behind them showing up their
after having in the dawn light, steel
flames officers clicked their heels, down
helmets, saluted and the then turned about and came
to the boat with me....."
0320
0645
Proceeded. Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked the French
general and his staff. (3)
Total 60 (ca)
(2) Not or D.R. Dunkirk in
(3) of 2 2nd/3rd trips to June and 3rd/4th
viz, on the nights and a "Motor Boat" of the
between Dirt them landed states 202 that Allied the Pigeon troops. The "Returned report full
leaks". of Mil. Transport only says,
395

Details

MORRIS
Authority - R.O.IIIII pp.492, p.490. 544, 369.
PIGEON - continued.
following awards were boats, made:
Motor
Boat
Vernon
I,
services Launch in "Ships Pigeon". Fast (c.w. 29685/40)].
D.S.C. Sub-Lieut. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
LCA & Wilson Lid

Details

SWALLOW - Continued
2130ca
(contd.)
Arrived from Dunkirk. Embarked 15 troops
a full cutter in tow.
inner harbour and proceeded with
3rd June
0700
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 15
troops. (1)
Subsequent reported movements of the Swallow
are conflicting, thus:
S/Lt. Williams reports as follows:
3rd June
After-
Left for Dunkirk in the afternoon.
noon
Entered inner harbour. Ordered to
embark some French staff but could
find none; loaded with French and
British troops. The furthest end of
harbour was now in German hands
[see Marlborough]. Proceeded.
[4th June]
-
Arrived Ramsgate. (2)
Cdr. H.R. Troup, R.N. reports as follows:
3rd June
2000
Left Ramsgate in the Swallow.
2230
Arrived Dunkirk. Landed at centre pier
and ordered the Swallow to carry on
ferrying and to return to centre
pier at 0330/4.
Cdr. Troup then says that the
Swallow subsequently borke down
and did not return to the centre
pier. [cdr. Troup subsequently
left in the W.D/M.L. Pigeon].
Asst. Dr. of Mil. Transport reports as follows:
On the "4th [and last] trip (night) Engr.
Cherry and A/B Hay steamed up and down shore
2 hours, but could not find anybody.
Returned [4th June] full of leaks". (2)
Total 68
Authority - R.O.II,pp.492, 567, 369.
R.O.II, pp. 462, 490.
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Sub. Lieut. W.R. Williams, R.N. (3)
(1) Not mentioned in or Ramsgate report. According to
Captain Duka, representing D.R. the Asst. Dir. of Mil.
(2) Ramsgate report Swallow records a disembarkation for Swallow of 23
Transport, returned empty.
(3) For French serivces troops in at the 0720 lighter on 4th X. 209, June. a tug [probably the
Racia] and the Swallow. (C.W.29685/40).
204

Details

M/B
VERNON I
S/Lt. G.A. Gabbett-Mulhallen,
R.N.
1100
1st June
Having arrived back from Dunkirk in
p.m.
the sk. Atlantic, S/Lt. Gabbett-
Mulhallen assumed command of the
Vernon I.
-
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk.
-
Arrived Dunkirk. Ferried troops from
the piers to destroyers and transports
2nd June
0400ca
The starboard engine "fell to pieces".
Full of troops, the Vernon I was
-
towed to Ramsgate.
Total 25(1) 1)
[s/Lt. Gabbett-Mulhallen then embarked in the
W.D./M.L. Pigeon]
1
Authority. - R.O.II, II, p.544.
For awards, see under W.D/M.L. Pigean.
(1) Estimated.
273

Details

Page 106,
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
85 foot Motor Boats PAULETEER and MARASOLE. - Stoker D. T. Banks,
Recommendations.
KX/86174.
RATINGS:
Stoker D. T. Banks, KX/86174.
Lewis gun and a compass he did not know how to gun,
With crew of two Ordinary Seamen, a Bren a
boats. Brought back more than 400 troops to England.
completed seven or eight trips in one or other use, of these
Was sunk with his crew in MARASOLE, undeterred resumed
duty with PAULETEER. Endured frequent machine gunning
from the air. During six days' work off the coast his
idea of relaxation was to take "a run ashore" in Dunkirk
with his crew, this town burning furiously and under
bombardment at the time. Displayed remarkable
leadership, initiative and courage under fire.
Recommended for decoration and
early advancement.
Shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood P/M.8899.
Indefatigable in preparing Portsmouth small
craft for the operation. As a volunteer proceeded to
Dunkirk beaches to effect repairs to boats there.
Served in Yacht ERICA and H. M. Drifter ROBERT CLIFF,
exceptional devotion to duty.
off the beaches assisting in evacuation work. Displayed
Recommended for mention.
Ships Boats, Fast Motor Boat VERNON I, W.D. Fast Launch PIGEON.
(Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.)
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
This enterprising and determined officer commanded
in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from
the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four
successive days and nights. Brought off almost the
last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under
fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Details

Details

) 2 (
548
DYNAMO OPERATION - DISTRIBUTION OF LEWIS GUNS
JANE HANNAH
SUN VIII
NARCISSA
ROSE
ACE
BETTY
CLACTON LIFE-
WINSTON
RACIA
MATILDA
BOAT
MERMAID
ADMIRALS BARGE LURNILYNE
MISS MING
MADAME SANGENE
HALCYONE
ELIZABETH OREEN
LETITIA
M.B. 1711
PIGEON
M.B. 37270
HAIG.
M.B. 74
WORF
4. Other smaller craft were also fitted with guns when these
became available duo to the vessels proviously fitted being
no longer required or unable to continue the operation. In
addition magazines were refilled and spare ammunition was
supplied as it became necessary.
5. A number of Lewis guns were transferred from ship to
ship by the various officers when they changed their
commands, and of these we have no record.
6. Four Q.0's for overhauling, and twelve ratings were
sent from Chatham and they assisted in the above work.
LEWIS GUNNERS. /
7. All the 23 Lewis gunners sent from London were
embarked for the operation, together with those from
Ramagate, most of them making several crossings, and all
showed groat keenness in performing their duties.
8. All have returned to Ramsgate with the exception of
Cyril Head
)
J.S. Parker
)
Tug "SUN IV" (sent to Dover)
R. Jewitt
)
Tug "SUN XV" (sent to London)
Loslie Reed )
C.DRichards.
Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
For D.E.M.S. Staff officer,
Ramsgate.

Details

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

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
6x Imday the 31" M May. we the S.Jug Vincia
left Ramagate in taw of three skiffs for Duskinh at
2.45pm.
544
2
514
This operation of holding the bifeboats end on to the beach,
combined with the continuous bombing from the air, proved
too difficult a task for the crews. After doing it twice
I had only one lifeboat remaining, the others having broached
to and swamped themselves. Also, there was continuous
shelling from the batteries from the Western side. So the
only alternative left to me was to ferry troops from the
piers to the trawler.
Atlantic
With the trawler filled we set out for home
but we had not been under way long before the trawler struck
a wreck. I sent out an S-0-S on the siren. It was quickly
answered by a Dutch 'scoot which came to our rescue, took
off our troops and leaving the trawler "FAIRBREEZE" to sink,
landed us back at Ramsgate at about 7.30am.
That night I comandeered a fast motorboat
"VERNON 1" and set out again for Dunkirk to ferry troops
off the piers out to the Destroyers and waiting transports.
I continued this operation until dawn when the starboard
engine of the launch fell to peices and I had to be towed
home to Ramsgate rull of troops.
The next boat I got was the "PIGEON" one of the
War Dept. boats which continued to run magnificently for the
remainder of the operations. From now on I did not try the
beaches any more but ferried troops from the piers to the
waiting transports outside Dunkirk. This seemed my best

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
C.B.O.
522
Sir,
7
6n I mday the 31" M May. we the s.Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkinh at
2.45pm.
545
-
3
515
courseas, for one thing, I was now aquainted with the
majority of the wrecks in the vicinity of the piers and the
entrance of the harbour and was able to quide in the
arriving transports on each of my return journeys.
The "PIGEON" carried approx. 25 troops. Between
midnight and dawn each night I made on an average 20 trips,
arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m. on the last lap
with the PIGEON full of troops.
I continued this every night until Monday when
3.4 having ferried all night when having forried
all night, and the last transport had sailed with approx.
3,500 troops aboard I waited alongside the pier for
Commander Troupe (2 spelling) who was on the pier
embarking the men into the ships. Eventually he came
aboard with the French General and his staff (very relieved
at the coming I was to, for having heard the Jerries had
arrived in the town, the wait and the time they took
to get down the ladder from the pier(being low tide) seemed
interminable. It was about 3.45 a.m. when we finally cast
off and made for theentrance of the harbour. With such &
important personages abound, my one mortal fear, considering
there was not another craft to come to my assistance in the
harbour or outside, all having left previously, was losing
the three propellers in the tremendous amount of wreckage
and floating baulks of timberete. which had now spread out

Details

Page 106
e
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
n.
85 foot Motor Boats PAULETEER and MARASOLE. - Stoker D. T. Banks,
KX/86174.
7
Recommendations.
N
RATINGS:
Stoker D. T. Banks, KX/86174.
With crew of two Ordinary Seamen, a Bren gun, a
Lewis gun and a compase he did not know how to use,
completed seven or eight trips in one or other of these
boats. Brought back more than 400 troops to England.
Was sunk with his crew in MARASOLE, undeterred resumed
duty with PAULETEER. Endured frequent machine gunning
from the air. During six days' work off the coast his
idea of relaxation was to take "a run ashore" in Dunkirk ar,
with his crew, this town burning furiously and under
bombardment at the time. Displayed remarkable
leadership, initiative and courage under fire.
D.S.M.
Recommended for decoration and
early advancement.
Shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood P/M.8899.
Indefatigable in preparing Portsmouth small
craft for the operation. As a volunteer proceeded to
Dunkirk beaches to effect repairs to boats there.
Served in Yacht ERICA and H. M. Drifter ROBERT CLIFF,
off the beaches assisting in evacuation work. Displayed
M
exceptional devotion to auty.
Recommended for mention.
during
;istered
vivors
Ships Boats, Fast Motor Boat VERNON I, W.D. Fast Launch PIGEON.
was
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.)
whom
d
Recommendations.
en
m
4
rk
1:
OFFICER:
as
Sub. Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
en
This enterprising and determined officer commanded
3
in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troope from
in
the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four
*
successive days and nights. Brought off almost the
ar
last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under
10
fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order.
1
of
D.S.C
Recommended for decoration.

Details

shipwright 2nd Class Indefatigable (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood
craft As Portsmouth
for beaches the operation. in preparing P/M.8899. small
Dunkirk Served the in beaches Yacht ERICA to effect and H. repairs tunteer M. a to boats proceeded there. to
exceptional off devotion assisting to duty. in evacuation Drifter ROBERT work. Displayed CLIFF,
Recommended for mention.
DS
Sub.Lieutenant Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.)
Boats, Fast Motor George Boat VERNON I, W.D.Fast Launch PIGEON.
Recommendations,
ICER:
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
This enterprising and determined officer commanded
in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from
the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four
successive days and nights. Brought off almost the
last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under
fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order.
Recommended for decoration.
Recommendation.
Sub, Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N.
Commanded in succession a motor lighter, a tug and
motor boat SWALLOW. Completed five round trips between
p.m. 30/5 and a.m. 4/6. on first trip made beach German between
Gravelines Calais, landed, encountered two
On all well using pulling boats as 4/6 when
soldiers, shot and both, re-embarked and proceeded to Dunkirk, well as
his own trips craft. did very Finally left Dunkirk harbour on
German troops penetrated into the harbour area.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

shipwright 2nd Class (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood P/M.8899.
Indefatigable for the in preparing Portsmouth
Dunkirk in Yacht ERICA repairs to boats
craft beaches operation. to effect As a volunteer proceeded small to
exceptional off harches. to evacuation work. Displayed CLIFF,
Served the and H. M. Drifter ROBERT there.
Recommended for mention.
ships Boats, Fast Motor Boat VERNON I, W.D. Fast Launch PIGEON.
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
Recommendations.
OFFICER:
Sub.Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
This enterprising and determined officer commanded
in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from
aches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four
sive days and nights. Brought off almost the
art from Dunkirk in the PIGEON. Frequently under
displayed courage and leadership of high order.
Recommended for decoration.
Page 106
JSC
Personnel.
Stoker D. T. Banks,
KX/86174.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of
Recommendation.
85 foot Motor Boats PAULETEER and MARASOLE. -
Recommendations.
William Ronald Williams, R.N.
succession a motor lighter, a tug between and
manded at in Completed five round trips beach between
and a.m.
SWALLOW. on first trip made two German
es and boats to Dunkirk, well as
, shot did very pulling harbour on as 4/6 when
rips Finally left Dunkirk area.
roops craft. penetrated into the harbour
Recommended for decoration.
RATINGS:

Details

shipwright 2nd Class Indefatigable (Pensioner) Charles Greenwood
Dunkirk Served craft for in beaches Yacht the operation. ERICA to effect in and preparing H. repairs As a volunteer Portsmouth to boats P/M.8899. proceeded small to
off the beaches assisting M. Drifter there,
exceptional devotion to duty. in evacuation ROBERT work, Displayed CLIFF,
Recommended for mention.
hips
Boats, Fast Motor George Boat Arthur VERNON I, W.D.Fast Fast Launch PIGEON.
Sub.Lieutenant Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
Recommendations,
FICER:
,Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, R.N.
This enterprising and determined officer commanded
in succession a number of small craft working from
Ramsgate and ferried off a large number of troops from
the beaches, in surf, and from Dunkirk harbour, on four
successive days and nights. Brought off almost the
last part from Dunkirk in the PIGEON, Frequently under
fire, displayed courage and leadership of high order.
Recommended for decoration.
PSC
Recommendation.
Sub. Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N.
succession a motor lighter, a tug between and
motor boat SWALLOW. 4/6. on first trip made two German
Commanded in Completed five round trips beach between
Gravelines shot and Calais, both, re-embarked and proceeded boats to as Dunkirk, well as
p.m. 30/5 and a.m. landed, encountered
On soldiers, all trips did very well using Dunkirk pulling harbour on 4/6 when
his German own troops craft. penetrated Finally left into the harbour area.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

sa
548
) 2 (
DYNAMO OPERATION - DISTRIBUTION OF LEWIS GUIS
JANE HANNAH
SUN VIII
ROSE
BETTY
NARCISSA
ACE
WINSTON
MATILDA
CLACTON LIFE-
RACIA
ADMIRALS BARGE
LURNILYNE
BOAT
MERMAID
MADAME SANGENE
ELIZABETH GREEN EN
MISS MING
HALCYONE
N.B. 1711
M.B. 37270
LETITIA
PIGEON
M.B. 74
WOEP
HAIG.
4. available duo to the vessels previously fitted being In
Other smaller craft were also fitted with guns when these
no addition longer magazines were refilled and spare ammunition
became required or unable to continue the operation. was
supplied as It became necessary.
to
number of Lewis guns were transferred from their ship to
ship commands, and of these we have no
5. A by the various officers when record. they changed
II
for overhauling, and twelve above ratings work. were
8
6. sent Four from Chatham Q.0's and they assisted in the
OF
I
LEWIS GUNNERS.
8
All the 23 Lewis gunners together sent from with London those were from
7. embarked for the of operation them making several their crossings, duties. and all
Ramagate, showed great most keenness in performing
All have returned to Ramsgate with the exception of
S.C.
8.
Cyril Head
This "SUN IV" (sent to Dover)
J.S. Parker
)
Tug "SUN XV (sent to London)
R. Jowitt
Leslie Reed
)
C.Olichards.
Portanant,
Ramagate.

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
CHAP. XI
The Admiralty had already continued (2312/2) for the undertaken evacuation that ships would be
night the evacuation 3rd to 4th on June, this and night. they To this the French agreed. complete on the
vided and air protection now urged the French of Admiralty trops pro-
Plan for the night
embarkation, the hours of 2230/3 and with such ships for
For this last and night the maximum it was decided effort to was cut to down be made, by one hour the time
mained available, between to be made by personnel 0230/4. From the as re-
Pier, liftings were to be sent to the entire vessels, destroyers, and East
minesweepers; be ships received, were and it was estimated that length of the pier as paddle
as they could Drifters and fast
thus be provided and for docks 14,000 of men. the inner harbour. small craft were to go would
up to the quays be French ships, for which right
latter pier the remaining would also lift ships (minesweepers the other than paddle, the
beach, the Quai Félix Faure, British Avant Port (West Pier) ; from
numbers could be estimated, were and the to New responsible for evacuation from Malo no
boats. Locust was to remain loads ferried out to her by small
vettes and skoots) outside and troops, receive to number of 5,000. The gunboat cor-
It was intended to employ on the work a force of 9 personnel vessels, 9
destroyers (all that were available), 4 paddle minesweepers, 7 fleet minesweepers,
9 drifters, the Locust, 2 corvettes, 4 French torpedo boats, and a number of
organised motor boats flotillas including lifeboats from Ramsgate and Dover,
together with a large number of French and Belgian fishing vessels. Eleven
small French ships and 3 small tugs left Cherbourg for Dover on the night
2nd-3rd June ; Le Havre was scheduled to send 8 trawlers, 2 minesweepers,
1 tug, and 20 small dinghies ; and Fécamp sent 14 trawlers.
During the afternoon of the 3rd the French authorities transmitted the figure
of French troops still remaining in Dunkirk. This was about 30,000, a pro-
portion of whom belonged to other than combatant units. The total capacity
of the lifting force, if used to the full, was 30,000, but this was about 5,000 more
than the facilities within the port would permit of being embarked in 4 hours,
even if the French troops moved with the greatest rapidity at all points of
embarkation. On previous occasions there had been some instances of difficulty
in persuading French troops to embark otherwise than as complete units.
Vice-Admiral Ramsay consequently impressed on the French liaison officers
the necessity of speed, and he added a number of French officers and ratings
to the augmented pier parties which were despatched to Dunkirk at 2200, in
I The following ships landed troops in England on 4th June (numbers landed in brackets)
British - destroyers Express (611), Malcolm (736), Sabre (592), Shikari (383), Vanquisher
Minesweepers Albury (400), Halcyon (501), Kellett (30), Leda (500), Medway Queen (266),
ferred to trawler off Dunkirk on account of collision damage) Gunboat Locust (196)
(414), Venomous (1200), Whitshed (444); Corvettes Guillemot (460), Kingfisher (200, trans-
Princess Elizabeth (329), Queen of Thanet (150), Speedwell (396) Trawler Saturn (418)
Drifters Forecast (123), "L.H.W.D." (90) Skoots Bornrif (96), Hondsrug (308), Pascholl
(255), Ruja (300) ; Yacht Gulzar (140) ; Personnel vessels Autocarrier (712), Canterbury
Princess (659), Côte d'Argent (1349), King George V (817), Lady of Mann (1244), Newhaven (729),
(1350), Tynwald (3000) ; Tugs Racia (123), Sun XV (37) War Dept. M.Ls.
Maud (1270), Royal Sovereign (took the place of Manxman which refused to sail)
Pigeon (23), Swallow (23) ; Sailing Barge Beatrice Maud (31), Tanga not reach England until 5th
and June) launches (260) ; R.N.L.I. lifeboats Edward Z. Dresden (50), Greater (did London (48) ; Motor boats
Nayland Bonny Heather (210), Diana Mary (28), Elizabeth Green (10), Meuse (50),
Coliath trawlers (355), 3 patrol vessels (836), 13 trawlers and M.F.Vs. (1416), 1104. Belgian Tug
3 M/S (55), Walker II (76). French 5 Torpedo boats 2 S/M chasers (127),
(183), 5 trawlers (554).
114

Details

Details

INDEX
Phillips, Vice-Admiral T.S. V., 16.
Phipps, L/St. M., 81.
Pickford & Co., 72n.
Pierre, set on fire, 74.
Pierre et Marie, 73.
Piers (beach) built at La Panne, 47, 60, 76; of barges impracticable, 49; built at Bray,
59, 82.
Pigeon, 72n, 114n.
Pim, Capt. R., R.N.V.R., 78.
Playmates, 13n.
Polly Johnson, 13n, 39, 40 (damaged), 43, 44 (sunk).
Pool, S/Lt. R. A. W., 72.
Port of London Authority, 32.
Porter, Col., 47.
Portsdown, 100, 103.
Portsmouth, C. in C.: sends destroyers, 20; provision of boats, 51 Inner Patrol yachts,
71 A.S.'s. barge, 117 (abandoned).
Pownall, Lt. Gen. H. R., 4.
Prague, 29n, 54n, 64n, 91 (damaged).
Président Briand, 93.
Preston, Vice-Adm. Sir L. (D.S.V.P.), 21.
Princess Elizabeth, 47n, 89, 114n.
Princess Lily, 75n.
Princess Maud, 48n, 53 (goes aground), 62 (damaged), 114n, 118.
Prudential, 60.
Pudge, 71s.
Queen of England, sunk, 53.
Queen of Thanet, 91, 114m.
Queen of the Channel, 22, 24, 29 (sunk).
Queen's Channel, 72n.
Racia, 71n, 114я, 117.
R.A. Dover, see Wake-Walker, Rear Admiral W.F.
Ramsay, Vice-Adm. Sir B. (V.A. Dover) : to control evacuation, 4; to arrange air cover,
5 ; asks for more destroyers, 20; driving force, 23, 33 ; promulgates disembarkation
ports, 25 ; efforts to increase supply of small craft, 23, 32; plan for night 29/30th
May, 50; orders all ships to beaches, 51; concern at losses of destroyers, 94; calls
for volunteers, 105; reports exhaustion of crews, 113.
Ramsgate, N.O.I.C. Administers in shore flotilla, 21, 94; services skoots, 30.
Raphael-Raymonde, 73n.
Rapid I, 72, 92.
Reda, 53, 60n.
Reed, 7ln.
Refugees, 37, 100-1, 119.
Reiger, 32, 47m, 64, 101-2, 116.
Reine des Flots, 102, 107n, 109.
Reliance, 73n.
Renascent, 71n.
Renown, 73, 93 (sunk).
Resolute, 73n.
Revoir, Capt. de, 115.
Rewga, 71n.
Reynaud, M., 10, 11.
Richardson, Cdr. H. du P., 80n, 82, 83n.
Riggs, Mr. H. C., 21.
Rika, 41.
Rina, 117.
Robinson, Cdr. C. E. C., killed, 37.
Roebuck, in collision, 83.
Rope for towing, 61.
Rose Marie, 72n.
Ross, 28n, 44, 97.
Rouen, 94, 107n, 108 (goes aground), 109, 112n, 120 (aground).
Route, X prepared, 20; mined, 38; tested by destroyers, 39 taken into use, 48; last
route to come under fire, 96-7 ; traffic suspended, 98.
Route, Y adopted, 20, 29 ; under fire, 48; E-boats, on 85; in use, 93 ; mines on, 110.
Route, Z under fire, 20, 48; to be used in darkness, 29, 48.
204

Details

Page 6.
r OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
MINORU II (M.B.)
#
RENOWN
MINWOOD
RESOLUTE
MONARCH
RICAS
MOTOR-BOAT 42
ROBERT CLIFF
MOTOR-BOAT 27 B
ROSA WOOD AND PHYLLIS LUND
MOTOR-BOAT 43 (R.A.F.
ROWAN (Smack)
MOTOR-BOAT 101 (R.A.F.
RYGATE II (Yacht)
MOTOR-BOAT 102 (R.A.F.
ST. ABBS
MOTOR-BOAT 243 (R.A.F.
ST. CLEARS
MOTOR-BOAT 270 (R.A.F.
#
ST FAGAN
MOTOR-BOAT 275
ST OLAF
M.L. 8 (W.D. Craft)
SAMBRA (M.B.)
MURIOUS
SAVIOUR
NANETTE (M.L.)
SCENE SHIFTER
NELSON (M.B.)
SCOTTISH CO-OPERATOR
NEMO IV
SEA FALCON
NEWHAVEN LIFE-BOAT
SEA FOAM
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
SEASALTER
No. 4
SEINE
No. 101
(Hopper Barges)
SHAMROCK
No. 102
SHEFFIELD (M. Barge)
OCEAN BREEZE
SILICIA (Coaster)
OFFERIA
SILVA FOAM
OLIVIA
SILVER BREEZE
ORIENT LINE (M.B.)
PAULETEER
SILVER QUEEN (M.B.)
SINGAPORE
PEGGY IV
PELLAG II
SYKLARK (Abandoned)
PERSIA (Tug)
SKYLARK I
PIGEON (W.D. Craft)
SKYLARK II
PIONEER
SKYLARK VI
PRIMA (Tug)
SMALL VIKING
PRINCE OF WALES
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA
PRINCESS FREDA
SPEEDWELL Renumed FRANCOLIN NOWJACKDAN
PRINCESS LILY
SPRITE (Harbour Launch)
PUDGE
SULTAN
QUEEN
SUN IV
QUEEN ALEXANDRA
SUN x
(Tugs)
QUEEN BOADICEA II
SUN XI
QUEEN'S CHANNEL
SWALLOW
(Hopper Barge)
S.O. ONE
QUEENSLAND
TANGA (Tug)
QUICKSILVER
THARK
QUI SI SANA (M.B.)
TENIAS
RAMSGATE LIFE-BOAT
THYFORSA
THYRA
RAPIDE
REDA (M.B.)
TONY
TRITON
RELIANCE
Renamed Wranglu.
TUG XV
# Sunk
(Continued)

Details

indicates Card for read and visal on newser driving
It.
NELSON (MB)
VINCIA. (Tug)
NEWHAVEN LIFEBOAT.
No 4
WALMER CASTLE
No 101
Hopper barges.
WESSEX (Lighter)
No 102
WEST. COVE
WEST GROVE
ORIENT LINE (M.B)
WOLFE (WD wap)
WOOTTON (J-g-w Fevry)
PERSIA (Tug)
W24 (Hopper Barge)
PIGEON (WD Crap.)
PRIMA (Tug)
X 95
PUDGE
X 134
(Lighters)
x 209
QUEEN'S CHANNEL (Hopper Baye)
QUEENSLAND
YC 63
YC 71
(highten)
RICAS
yc 72
ROBERT CLIFF
ROWAN (Smack)
ST.ABBS
ST. CLEARS
# ST. FAGAN
Dialy 'Lhila (T.M.1899/UND)
ST. OLAF
SAMBRA (M.B)
SAVIOUR
Claim all
SEINE
SHEFFIELD (M.Bmge)
SILICIA (Coaster)
SINGAPORE
SMALL VIKING
SPEEDWELL renamed FRANCOLIN
now JACKDAW.
SPRITE (Harborn Camch)
SULTAN
SUN IV
SUN X
(Tugs)
SUN XI
SWALLOW
S.O. ONE
TANGA (Tug)
TENIAS
THYFORSA
THYRA renamed WRANGLER
TUG XV
37270.
# Smith

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

Page 6.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940.
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
OTHER BRITISH SHIPS (continued)
MINORU II (M.B.)
# RENOWN
MINWOOD
RESOLUTE
MONARCH
RICAS
MOTOR-BOAT 42
ROBERT CLIFF
MOTOR-BOAT 27 B
ROSA WOOD AND PHYLLIS LUND
MOTOR-BOAT 43 (R.A.F.)
ROWAN (Smack)
MOTOR-BOAT 101 (R.A.F.
RYGATE II (Yacht)
MOTOR-BOAT 102 (R.A.F.
ST. ABBS
#
MOTOR-BOAT 243 (R.A.F.
ST. CLEARS
MOTOR-BOAT 270 (R.A.F.)
#
ST FAGAN
MOTOR-BOAT 275
ST OLAF
M.L. 8 (W.D. Craft)
SAMBRA (M.B.)
MURIOUS
SAVIOUR
NANETTE (M.L.)
SCENE SHIFTER
NELSON (M.B.)
SCOTTISH CO-OPERATOR
NEMO IV
SEA FALCON
NEWHAVEN LIFE-BOAT
SEA FOAM
NEW PRINCE OF WALES
SEASALTER
No. 4
in
SEINE
No. 101
(Hopper Barges)
SHAMROCK
No. 102
)
SHEFFIELD (M. Barge)
OCEAN BREEZE
SILICIA (Coaster)
OFFERIA
SILVA FOAM
OLIVIA
SILVER BREEZE
ORIENT LINE (M.B.)
#
SILVER QUEEN (M.B.)
PAULETEER
SINGAPORE
PEGGY IV
SYKLARK (Abandoned)
PELLAG II
PERSIA (Tug)
SKYLARK I
PIGEON (W.D. Craft)
SKYLARK II
PIONEER
SKYLARK VI
PRIMA (Tug)
SMALL VIKING
PRINCE OF WALES
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA
PRINCESS FREDA
SPEEDWELL
PRINCESS LILY
SPRITE (Harbour Launch)
PUDGE
SULTAN
QUEEN
SUN IV
QUEEN ALEXANDRA
SUN X
SUN XI
~~~
(Tugs)
QUEEN BOADICEA II
QUEEN'S CHANNEL
SWALLOW
(Hopper Barge)
S.O. ONE
QUEENSLAND
TANGA (Tug)
QUICKSILVER
THARK
QUI SI SANA (M.B.)
TENIAS
RAMSGATE LIFE-BOAT
THYFORSA
THYRA
RAPIDE
REDA (M.B.)
TONY
TRITON
RELIANCE
TUG XV
# Sunk
(Continued)

Details

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

Details

522
C.B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May. are the S. Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Duskin at
2.45pm.
544
2
514
This operation of holding the bifeboats end on to the beach,
combined with the continuous bombing from the air, proved
too difficult a task for the crews. After doing it twice
I had only one lifeboat remaining, the others having broached
to and swamped themselves. Also, there was continuous
shelling from the batteries from the Western side. So the
only alternative left to me was to ferry troops from the
piers to the trawler.
Atlantic
With the trawler filled we set out for home
but we had not been under way long before the trawler struck
a wreck. I sent out an S-0-S on the siren. It was quickly
answered by a Dutch 'scoot' which came to our rescue, took
off our troops and leaving the trawler "FAIRBREEZE" to sink,
landed us back at Ramsgate at about 7.30am.
That night I comandeered a fast motorboat
"VERNON 1" and set out again for Dunkirk to ferry troops
off the piers out to the Destroyers and waiting transports.
I continued this operation until dawn when the starboard
engine or the launch fell to peices and I had to be towed
home to Ramsgate rull of troops.
The next boat I got was the "PIGEON" one of the
War Dept. boats which continued to run magnificently for the
remainder of the operations. From now on I did not try the
beaches any more but ferried troops from the piers to the
waiting transports outside Dunkirk. This seemed my best

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
C. B.O.
522
Sir,
7
6n I mday the 31" M May. we the S.Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkich at
2.45 2.45pm.
545
-
3
515
courseas, for one thing, I was now aquainted with the
majority of the wrecks in the vicinity of the piers and the
entrance of the harbour and was able to quide in the
arriving transports on each of my return journeys.
The "PIGEON" carried approx. 25 troops. Between
midnight and dawn each night I made on an average 20 trips,
arriving at Ramsgate usually at 7.30 a.m. on the last lap
with the PIGEON full of troops.
I continued this every night until Monday when
3.4 having ferried all night Monday when having forried
all night, and the last transport had sailed with approx.
3,500 troops aboard I waited alongside the pier for
Commander Troupe (8 spelling) who was on the pier
embarking the men into the ships. Eventually he came
aboard with the French General and his staff (very relieved
at the coming I was to, for having heard the Jerries had
arrived in the town, the wait and the time they took
to get down the ladder from the pier(being low tide) seemed
interminable. It was about 3.45 a.m. when we finally cast
off and made for theentrance of the harbour. With such &
important personages abound, my one mortal fear, considering
there was not another craft to come to my assistance in the
harbour or outside, all having left previously, was losing
the three propellers in the tremendous amount of wreckage
and floating baulks of timberete. which had now spread out