Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

BRIGHTON BELLE
P.M/S (10th M.S.F.) Lieut. K.Perrin,
R.N.V.R.
2100ca
27th May
Sailed from the Downs in company with
the P.M/S's Sandown, Medway Queen
and Gracie Fields.
2300ca
Arrived Dunkirk. off the beach 3 miles east of
Embarked troops, with the assistance
of an ex-Belgian canal boat and a
small pulling boat.
28th May
0320
The dr. Vimy arrived and sent her boats
to assist in filling up the Brighton
Belle.
0445
The Vimy proceeded to Dunkirk but left
her boats with the Brighton Belle.
0715ca
The Brighton Belle sailed for Ramsgate
with about 350 B.E.F. on board. (1)
1230
While in company with the Sandown
and during an air attack, the
Brighton Belle struck a submerged
object 3 cables 183° from the Gull
Light Buoy.
The troops were transferred to the
Sandown, the Medway Queen and
the ex-Belgian canal boat Yser.
The Brighton Bellewas then taken
1300
in tow by an Examination tug, but her
efforts were unavailing, and the
ship sank.
N11
Authority - R.O.I, pp.156, 304, 364.
R.O.II, pp.136, 252.
M.017681/40, Ships Lost during op. Dynamo.
(1) D.R. states that the Brighton Belle disembarked 304 troops
Incidentally, the sk. Tiny the Brighton Belle. This appears she
on 28th May; this is evidently states an that error. she was towed from
was unlikely. The Southampton Tiny on 27th May, and after
to be 3 hours by gives no dates, except that
one commissioned trip, paid off at in the Surrey Docks at 1800, 5th 12 June.
While at La Panne, the Tiny was beached for over
hours to unload ammunition.

Details

BRIGHTON BELLE
P.M/S (10th M.S.F.) Lieut. L.K.Perrin,
R.N.V.R.
2100ca
27th May
Sailed from the Downs in company with
the P.M/S's Sandown, Medway Queen
and Gracie Fields.
2300ca
Arrived Dunkirk. off the beach 3 miles east of
Embarked troops, with the assistance
of an ex-Belgian canal boat and a
small pulling boat.
28th May
0320
The dr. Vimy arrived and sent her boats
to assist in filling up the Brighton
Belle.
0445
The Vimy proceeded to Dunkirk but left
her boats with the Brighton Belle.
0715ca
The Brighton Belle sailed for Ramsgate
with about 350 B.E.F. on board. (1)
1230
While in company with the Sandown
and during an air attack, the
Brighton Belle struck a submerged
object 3 cables 183° from the Gull
Light Buoy.
The troops were transferred to the
Sandown, the Medway Queen and
the ex-Belgian canal boat Yser.
The Brighton Bellewas then taken
1300
in tow by an Examination tug, but her
efforts were unavailing, and the
ship sank.
N11
Authority - R.O.I, pp.156, 304, 364.
R.O.II, pp. 136, 252.
M.017681/40, Ships Lost during op. Dynamo.
(1) D.R. states that the Brighton Belle disembarked 304 troops
on this is Tiny evidently states an that error. she was towed from
the sk. the Brighton Belle. This appears
was commissioned at Southampton on 27th May, and after
to be unlikely. 3 hours The Tiny by gives no dates, except that she
one trip, paid off in the Surrey Docks at 1800, 5th June.
While at La Panne, the Tiny was beached for over 12
hours to unload ammunition.
128

Details

CAIRNGORM
Gruiser M/B (Owner H.W. S. Wright)
May
Returned No other from details Dunkirk available. on lst June (see E.M.E.D)
Copt,
0125
Torpedo track crossing from port
0135
starboard missed ship 100 yarde n
M.T.B. heard and vaguely seen
Authority - T.0.9144/40.
green 60%
0248
No subsequent torpedo tracks seen.
Anchored off La Panne- Motor outser
and 2 wholere sent Into beach, to
forry to the P.M/S. Bandown
and Orania Pielie, The Gre. Graft
Greybound und Amolatve also
evacuating from this beach.
0615
Impulsive ordered to Dunishek 0401
0625
vacuation of beach completed.
grefton and Dreyhound proceeded.
Sandown and Gracie Pields
their 700 troops to Colcutta.
0715
Proceeded to Cheerness.
1215
Shoerness, Disembarked
1710
Smiled for La Panns.
2157
Arrived La Fanne. Sent boats in
shat beach as before. Only 1
the Reiger] to assist embarking
wounded.
29th May
0300
All sounded taken by the skoot and
ships bosts to Calcutta. The
with some wounded, sent back to
Regland.
0345
Boats sent in again. Mr. 7.3.
Gunner, the officer in charge of
contacted Lord Cort B miles im
DUE placed Galcusta at his
At this stage however, Lord Cort
not wish to be evocunted.
0430
One of Colonita's whalere lost,
0710
Extarkation continued.
0735
W/S Hatten alongside to transfer
proops to Calcutta.
0810
W/3 Balewander alongside for smon
1210
A purpose. partyof togs and drifters towing
oun boats, and proceeding homewan
full of troops, ordered to transit
them to Calcutta.
1227
TOR JAMES towing a launch. alongeid
to transfer troops.
1226
dfr. alongeide to
transfer troops.
1830
are. alongaide to trans
1837
are, sroops. Keith towing launch
to Troops.
1247
office Lerd vincent alongeide to
1250
cry, 1959 collinewood alongside to
transfer troops.
transfer troops.
(1) D.B.
(2)
150

Details

CALCUTTA
Cruiser (lst A/A Squadron)
Capt. D.M. Lees, R.N.
27th May
2310
Sailed from the Downs for La Panne.
28th May
0125
Torpedo track crossing from port to
0135
starboard missed ship 100 yards astern
M.T.B. heard and vaguely seen bearing
green 60°.
No subsequent torpedo tracks seen.
0248
Anchored off La Panne. Motor cutter
and 2 whalers sent into beach, to
ferry troops to the P.M/S. Sandown
and Gracie Fields. The drs. Grafton,
Greyhound and Impulsive also
evacuating from this beach.
0615
Impulsive ordered to Dunkirk east pier.
0625
Evacuation of beach completed.
Grafton and Greyhound proceeded.
Sandown and Gracie Fields transferred
their 700 troops to Calcutta.
0715
Proceeded to Sheerness.
1215
Sheerness. Disembarked 700/troops.(1)
1710
Sailed for La Panne.
2157
Arrived La Panne. Sent boats in to
same beach as before. Only 1 skoot
[the Reiger] to assist embarking 70
wounded.
29th May
0300
All wounded taken by the skoot and
ships boats to Calcutta. The skoot,
with some wounded, sent back to
England.
0345
Boats sent in again. Mr. F.J. March,
Gunner, the officer in charge of then,
contacted Lord Gort 8 miles inland
and placed Calcutta at his disposal.
At this stage however, Lord Gort did
not wish to be evacuated. (2)
0430
One of Calcutta's whalers lost.
0710
Embarkation continued.
0735
M/S Sutton alongside to transfer her
troops to Calcutta.
0810
M/S Salamander alongside for same
1210
A purpose. partyof tugs and drifters towing
own boats, and proceeding homewards
full of troops, ordered to transfer
them to Calcutta.
1227
Tug Java, towing a launch, alongside
to transfer troops.
1228
dfr. Golden Sunbeam alongside to
transfer troops.
1230
dfr. Lord Rodney alongside to transfer
dfr. troops. Lord Keith towing launch alongside
1237
to transfer troops.
1247
dfr. Lord St. Vincent alongside to
transfer troops.
1250
dfr. Lord Collingwood alongside to
transfer troops.
(1) D.R. gives 581.
(2) D.R. states that shortly efter midnight may, the Calcutta was
informed that the 3ʳᵈ Corps efthe B.E.F. and the C:-ai-C.
(1)
were all at La Panue.
151

Details

DORIA
Tug (W. Watkins Ltd).
A.W. Mastin, Master
30th May
1130
On Inspection duties until
the S.S. Shaftesbury was sighted
1210
aground on the S.W. Goodwins.
1545
Took Shaftesbury in tow.
Shaftesbury refloated. Doria returned
to her patrol. [See also Kenia]
31st May
0800
At Ramsgate. Ordered to take off troops
from the M/S Sandown, then off
Ramsgate. Did so, and landed 90
troops. [Lieut. D. van Gessel,
R.N.V.R. was on board this day].
0930
Left Ramsgate for Deal. En route,
spoke M.A/S.B.07.
1203
When this vessel started, her engines
they caught fire, but the fire was
put out.
1517
Towed M.A/S.B.07 to Dover.
-
Returned to Ramsgate.
1st June
0830
Left Ramsgate for Southern Inspection
duties. Spoke French trawler with
English naval ratings and Allied
troops on board from Dunkirk.
They required a pilot. Put Doria's
mate (A. Taylor) on board. He took
the trawler and 4 small French M/V's
into Ramsgate (but see Kenia).
2nd June
Doria remained on Inspection duties
until 2400. Various harbour duties,
and attendance on P/V Royal Daffodil.
3rd June
0410
Towed Royal Daffodil to Dover assisted
by salvage ship Forde.
1630
Arrived back at Ramsgate.
4th June
Northern Inspection duties.
Total 90
Authority - - W.W.
R.O.II, p.481.
R.O. III, p.268.
T.M. 6213/40, p.59.
245

Details

Flare burning drifters - Continued
30th May
a.m.
(contd.)
Contd.
The which had sunk on a French minefield.
at Dover.
3 other drifters landed 700 men
31st May
0130
Golden on Gift and Shipmates, with troops
board, ran aground on North
Goodwins. The P.M/S Sandown and the
assistance. tug Lady Brassey went to their
The Forecast (Lieut: T.P. Graham
R.N.R.) on return, reported difficult
conditions on the beaches owing to
swell and weather, a large number of
boats being wrecked and broken down.
1st June
All available drifters sailed for
Dunkirk, viz: Netsukis, Lord Howard,
Lord Howe, Golden Sunbeam, Midas,
Golden Gift, Girl Gladys, Forecast,
and Yorkshire Lass.
The Gervais Rentoul and Eileen Emma
returned to Dover damaged and un-
seaworthy after collisions.
2nd June
"Drifters returned to Dover landing
1800 men". They were all brought
to immediate notice for a further
1515ca
trip to Dunkirk, and Shipmates,
Lord Howard, Lord Howe, Golden
Sunbeam, Midas, Golden Gift, Girl
Gladys, Forecast and Yorkshire Lass,
sailed.
-
They went alongside the east pier,
filled up with (mostly) French troops
and sailed for Dover.
3rd June
0340
Yorkshire Lass, disabled and full of
troops, was taken in tow by the tug
Sun XV.
0437
Yorkshire Lass was able to proceed
under her own power for Dover.
-
Drifters landed approximately 1600
French troops at Dover.
p.m.
The following drifters sailed for
Dunkirk (see Appx. K, signals K.17a
and K.17b): Midas, Lord Howard,
Lord Howe, Ut Prosim, Forecast,
Netsukis, Shipmates, Young Mun, and
Torbay II.
All drifters returned from Dunkirk and
4th June
landed 1900 men at Dover, most of whom
were French.
Total 10,650.
Authority - R.O.II. p. 351
M.017681/40
323

Details

GRACIE FIELDS P.M/S 10th M.S.F.
TV.Lt. N. Larkin, R.N.R.
Ty.Lt. A.C.Weeks, R.N.V.R.
27th May
2100
Slipped, and proceeded in company
with the M/S's Sandown, Medway
Queen and Brighton Belle.
28th May
0300ca
Off La Panne. Embarked troops, assisted
0625
by boats of the cΓ. Calcutta.
Gracie Fields and Sandown transferred
their troops to the Calcutta.
0700ca
Gracie Fields sailed from La Panne.
1530.
Arrived Margate. Disembarked 281
troops. (1)
29th May
0530
Sailed for La Panne, in company with
Sandown.
1430
Off La Panne. Embarked troops.
1800ca
Proceeded, with 700/800 troops on
board. (2).
1830ca
Dive bomb attack off Middel Kerke buoy.
Hit amidships; engines damaged and
steering gear jammed. 3rd Engineer
killed, S/Lt. A.J. Glover R.N.V.R.,
missing. Exact casualties not
known. 80 troops transferred to the M/S
Pangbourne, which took the Gracie
Fields in tow and proceeded.
2200
The M/S Kellett, at request of Pangbourne
acted as escort.
30th May
0130
Gracie Fields sinking; her sponsons
under water. Crew transferred to
the Pangbourne. Gracie Fields
abandoned near T buoy.
Total 281
Authority. - R.O.I, pp.279, 304, 329, 364.
R.O.III, p.9.
M.017681/40.
(1) Margate report.
(2) Lt. Weeks' report.
402

Details

LADY BRASSEY
Rescue Tug
(Dover Harbour Board)
F.J. Hopgood, Master(1
27th May
1200
Assisted tug Simla to tow A.B/V.
Mona's Isle into Dover.
29th May
0030ca
Having embarked the Assistant Salvage
Officer, Lieut. G.M. Robinson R.N.R.,
left Dover to assist dr. Montrose.
which had been in collision with a
tug [the Sun v].
0300
Found Montrose about 1 mile W.S.W. of
No.2 Buoy. Towed her to Dover,
stern first, being assisted when off
the eastern entrance by the Simla
0630
Dover. Secured Montrose to No.8 buoy.
30th May
1100
Left Dover for Dunkirk, with the tug
Foremost 87 in company.
1830ca
Arrived Dunkirk Pier. Entered harbour.
2230ca
With assistance of Foremost 87, towed
the P/V Prague out of the harbour.
31st May
0030
Left Dunkirk for Dover, Foremost 87
in company.
0700
Diverted to N. Goodwin to assist the
dfrs. Golden Gift and Shipmates
which were aground. Foremost 87
continued on to Dover.
0810
Met Golden Gift, which had refloated.
No sign of Shipmates.
1015
Returned to Dover.
1st June
1200ca
Left Dover to assist Prague, which was
contacted off N.W. Goodwin.
1330
Took Prague in tow.
1630ca
Prague beached on Sandwich Flats.
2100ca
Towed Prague inshore east of Sandown
Castle.
2nd June
2000
Left Dover to assist the H/C Paris,
near W buoy, Dunkirk.
-
Passed Ramsgate tug Fabia, returning,
having been unable to find the Paris.
3rd June
0015
Arrived off W buoy.
0315
Sighted Paris 1 mile east of W buoy,
listing heavily, and settling fast.
She had been abandoned (see
Foremost 87)
0400
paris sank 4 mile east of W buoy in 17
fathoms.
0800
Arrived Dover.
Nil
Authority R.O.II, p.432.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Capt. F.J. Hopgood, Master.
(1) There Referred to in Supplement No. 34925 of London Gazette of
16th August 1940 as "F. J. Hopwood". 133

Details

Details

MEDWAY QUEEN - Continued.
0745
2nd (contd.) June
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 426 54
B.E.F. and 10 Spanish refugees. (1)
-
Sailed to Dover, where the commanding
officer of the M/S Sandown(2) and
volunteers from her crew, joined the
Medway Queen.
1800
Left Dover.
2300ca
Arrived Dunkirk, berthed alongside east
pier. Embarked 625 French troops.
3rd June
0030
Proceeded to Ramsgate.
0530
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 481
Allied troops. (3)
2000
Proceeded to Dunkirk.
4th June
0100ca
Arrived Dunkirk. Embarked 400 French
troops and proceeded.
0630
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 266
7
Allied troops. (4)
Total 3,064
Authority - R.O.I, p.304.
R.O.II, .217.
R.O.III, pp.484, 488-490, 494.
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Lieut. A.T. Cook, R.N.R.
S/Lt. J.D. Greaves, R.N.R.
D.S.M.
P.O. A.E. Crossley
P.O. H.J. McAllister
Sea. K.R. Olly, R.N.R.
in
DULLI.
Vention in Despatches
Second Engr. T. Irvin.
Fireman
J.D. Connell.
II
PD= 488
(1)
(1) (2) Ramagate The M/8 Sandown report and was D.R. not degaussed and was not allowed to
(3) sail. report, and D.R.
(4) Ramsgate Ramsgate report. D.R. gives 400.
266

Details

Details

GROG the
NAUTILUS
[feant
Danlaying trawler
(Dover M/S Command).
Lieut. W.E. Gelling, R.N.R.
Skipr. R. Maclean, R.N.R.
28th May
1700
[temus
Left Dover for La Panne, the tr.
Comfort in company.
29th May
0030ca
Near Kwinte Bank buoy, picked up 6
survivors from the dr. Wakeful.
(Comfort picked up 16, including the
-
Captain, Cdr. R.L. Fisher, R.N.)
Instructed Comfort to return to Dover.
0540
The Nautilus proceeded and
arrived at La Panne. Transferred
Wakeful's 6 survivors to the cr.
Calcutta.
Nautilus then proceeded closer
inshore and ferried troops to the
H.19 [1.e. the dr. Harvester]
1200
Harvester left La Panne, after which
Nautilus ferried troops to the dr.
Greyhound.
1630ca
Air attack on the Greyhound and the
P.M/S. Sandown - the Nautilus was
however straddled by near misses,
which put her engines and steering
gear out of action, and she began to
make water rapidly.
Nautilus managed to get alongside
Greyhound and transfer 150 B.E.F.troops
It was then decided to abandon ship,
and as she was a wooden ship, she was
set on fire.
1930
The Greyhound which had been damaged
proceeded to Dover in tow of a Polish
destroyer [the Blyskawica], and
arrived at 0430/30.
Two of Nautilus's crew were left
behind as crew of a large ship's
lifeboat which was working in
conjunction with a flat bottomed
motor punt.
Nautilus ferried about 750 troops
from the beach to destroyers.
Nil
Authority - M.017681/40.
324

Details

OCEAN BREEZE
Drifter
Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N.
Skipper Bailley (?)
30th May
1245
Sailed from Ramsgate with 2 whalers in
1920ca
tow, by X route for Dunkirk.
Arrived off Malo beach. Commenced
embarking troops. A motor boat,
manned by civilians, towed the Ocean
Breeze's boats to and from the beach
had been embarked.
until dark, by which time 170 troops
Contacted Lieut. McMullan in the Sk.
Twente.
2300
Turned over the 2 whalers to a tug.
Sailed for Ramsgate by X route.
31st May
0400
Arrived Ramagate. Disembarked 107
British and 2 French troops. (1)
0830
Sailed by route X for Dunkirk.
1340ca
Arrived off Malo beach. No boats
available.
1500
Was able to borrow a whaler. Air
attacks commenced and continued
almost without pause. Seven bombers
were brought down by gunfire.
1530
The whaler had by now made one trip.
Contacted S/Lt. Cornish in a N/B
[the Lansdowne] who was of great
assistance.
1700
Having embarked mostly French troops,
shifted to La Panne, with S/Lt.
Cornish and his M/B and embarked
British troops.
2030
Turned over the whaler to S/Lt. Cornish
and asked him to report to the sk.
Atlantic which needed boats.
Sailed by route X (during an air
attack) with about 150 troops on board
lst June
1600
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 150
troops. (2)
Total 259
[On 2nd June, Lieut. de Mauny went over in the
W.D/M.L. Haig].
Authority - R.O.II, p.547.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N.
(2)
(2)
(2) Estimated. Ramsgate report. Ramsgate report states "sandown, Ocean Breeze
(1)
and Jackeve, 564". 355

Details

L.N.E.Ry.Co.
PRAGUE (H.M.T.) 1830
Capt. Baxter, Master.
Left Manxman the Downs via route Y. P/V
28th May
2250ca
Grounded and H/C Paris in
came off on Smal Bank. Prague company. and Paris
remained aground for same hours.
immediately, but Manxman
Anchored near Nieuport Bank buoy.
0355
All 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk,
29th May
after which they acted independently.
-
Entered Dunkirk. Prague embarked troops.
0735
Left Dunkirk and proceeded by Y route.
1330
Folkestone. Disembarked 2,000 troops.
1700
To Dunkirk by X route, in company with
30th May
numerous craft, large and small,
naval and merchant.
2030
Berthed inside Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Ship grounded as tide went out.
Refloated, assisted by the tugs
Lady Brassey and Foremost 87.
2245
Proceeded.
Folkestone. Disembarked 1039 troops.
31st May
0648
1st June
0355
To Dunkirk by X route.
0700
In company with other craft, attacks from
the air.
0715
Entered Dunkirk. Embarked about 3,000
French troops.
0903
Proceeded down the Western Roads.
1009
Dive bomb attack between Buoy "W" (past
1025
the Ruytingen) and Buoy "V". Near
misses astern by 3 bombs. Severe
Starboard engine out of
red to Scimitar, (1) a sloop( 3)
action. damage. Majority of troops transfer- and
the P.M/S Queen of Thanet, (2) while
under in way. tow by the tug Lady Brassey. Deal.
1331
1730
Taken Ship beached off Sandown Castle,
Total 3039.
Authority - R.O.III, p. 177.
TM. 6213/40.
(1) Capt. Baxter this was the Shikari; but that destroyer
(2) Capt. Except was Baxter in that Dover it says says at the it not was time. the an Calcutta)
the "sloop" has was not yet
405

Details

PRAGUE (H.M.T.) 1830
L.N.E.Ry.Co.
28th May
Left Manxman the Downs and via route Y.
Capt. Baxter, Master.
2250ca
Grounded on Smal H/C Paris P/V
-
Anchored came remained off near aground immediately, Nieuport Bank. for same Bank but hours. Manxman buoy. Paris
0355
29th May
All after 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk,
-
Entered which they acted independently.
0735
Left Dunkirk. Prague embarked troops.
1330
Folkestone. Dunkirk and proceeded by Y
Disembarked 2,000 troops. route.
1700
30th May
To Dunkirk by X route, in company with
numerous craft, large and small,
naval and merchant.
2030
Berthed inside Dunkirk. Embarked troops.
Ship grounded as tide went out.
Refloated, assisted by the tugs
Lady Brassey and Foremost 87.
2245
Proceeded.
31st May
0648
Folkestone. Disembarked 1039 troops.
1st June
0355
To Dunkirk by X route.
0700
In company with other craft, attacks from
the air.
0715
Entered Dunkirk. Embarked about 3,000
French troops.
0903
Proceeded down the Western Roads.
1009
Dive bomb attack between Buoy "W" (past
1025
the Ruytingen) and Buoy "V". Near
misses astern by 3 bombs. Severe
damage. Starboard engine out of
action. Majority of troops transfer-
red to Scimitar, (1) a sloop( 3) and
the P. M/S Queen of Thanet, (2) while
under way.
1331
Taken in tow by the tug Lady Brassey.
1730
Ship beached off Sandown Castle, Deal.
Total 3039.
Authority - R.O.III. p. 177.
TM. 6213/40.
(1) Capt. Baxter Shikari; but that destroyer
(2) Capt. Except was Baxter in Dover says says at this the it was time. was an the Calcutta)
the "sloop" that it has was not not yet the
405

Details

ELIZABETH
(J.111)
P.M/S
PRINCESS
(10th M.S.F.)
Lt. C.J. Carp,
26th May 28th
At (see Dover, Sandown). in the Basin, boiler R.N.V.R. cleaning
p.m.
Undocked.
28th May
a.m.
29th May
1300
Swung Sailed for from compass adjustment for D.G.
2013
Arrived Dover for La Panne.
ship's off La Panne. Lowered
guns were boats. Until dark, the both
aircraft. constantly engaging enemy ship's
2103
Ordered by "M/S 10" [this was
Sandown to whose pendant was J.20] the
off assist the P.M/S Gracie Fields,
the Middel Kirk buoy.
On being informed by the Gracie Fields
that she had been taken in tow
[by the P.M/S Pangbourne], the
Princess Elizabeth returned to La
Panne and resumed embarkation.
S/Lt. J. Tomkin R.N.V.R. who was in
charge of the boats, rounded up 3
SCOWS and took them in tow, plying
between the ship and the shore.
30th May
0536
Weighed and proceeded to Margate with
about 450 troops.
1420
arrived Margate. Disembarked 460
troops. (1)
Embarked 4 small boats and 4 ratings
for beach work.
1518
Left Margate for La Panne.
2223
Anchored off La Panne. Sent boats
ashore and embarked troops.
A fleet minesweeper loaned a motor
boat which was manned by P.O. H.G.
Coalbran and Sto. G.E. Baker.
Towing small boats, they filled the
Princess Elizabeth.
31st May
"The situation ashore was now showing
signs of organisation, although our
embarkation was necessarily slow
owing to the majority of the troops
0645
Turned over the boats to the "Essex
being wounded".
Queen" (2) and sailed with about 400
Arrived Margate. Disembarked 374
troops for Margate.
1325
troops. (3)
1435
Sailed for Bray beach by X route.
1950
Arrived off Bray, being attacked by
aircraft
when
let June
Embarked of air attacks troops and,
ceaseless shell fire.
0115
Left Bray for Margate with about 400
(3) (1) There Margate Margate of troops. this name in Operation Dynamo.
report. D.R. the P.M/S gives Brighton 385 troops.
Queen.
Biley Dunn & Wilson Lad
411

Details

ST. PATRICK
Owner). M/B (W.B. Thompson,
Tempy. Lieut. R.R.H. Few, R.N.V.R. of the M/S
Sandown reports as follows:
Whilst loading up the ferry boat St. Patrick
alongside the pontoon at Braye-Dunes on 31st
her/ May, the engine seized up. The fully loaded
boat was pulled down the pontoon into deep
water, while Lieut. Few went in an army float
to search for a tow. He was however, unsuccess-
ful, and (the Sandown having sailed) he
eventually transferred to the Sk. Hilda, in
which he reached Ramsgate at about 1900 on 1st
June. The St. Patrick did not return from Dunkirk.
F41
Nil
£
Authority - - R.O.I, p. 368.
R.O.IV, p.128.
T.O. 9144. 100
T.O.9436.ino
: =
1
69

Details

SANDHIL( (1)
M/V (Tyne-Tees S.S.
Co. Ltd).
A. Wilson, Master.
2
24th May
Arrived 940 Dunkirk with a cargo of at about
The cargo was discharged by the X
tons of high explosives.
vessel's own gear, part of it
P
ordered to leave Dunkirk.
during air raids. She was finally
There is no record of her having
brought back any troops, nor is the
known. precise date of her leaving Dunkirk
The Sandhill did not take part in
operation Dynamo.
er
[About
an
hour
from La
£
1230
While
in
the
off
the
air
and
to
the
Sandown,
Queen and the ex-Belgion
W.J.
of
the
il
1430
1930
Returned to Dover-
0530
Slipped
Fields
to
1430
.ng
1)
way
10
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
88

Details

SANDOWN (J.20)
P.M/S (10th M.S.F.)
Actg. Cdr. K.M. Greig,
2100
R.N., S.O. 10th M.S.F.
27th May
Slipped, Gracie ships in company, the P.M/S's
2
Princess Fields, Medway
Belle. Elizabeth( 1) Queen, and Brighton
p.
28th May
0200
Passed Dunkirk - heavy bombing and
0315
Anchored off La Panne. Sent in
machine gunning in progress.
available boats with an ex-Belgian all
canal boat. [the YSERI
Assisted by the cr. Calcutta's boats,
attacks. embarked 600 B.E.F. Frequent air
0615
Proceeded alongside the cr. Calcutta
and transferred troops.
er
[About an hour later, the Sandown apparently
sailed from La Panne].
£
1230
While in company with the Sandown,
the Brighton Belle struck a wreck
off the Gull Light Buoy during an
air attack and sank. All the crew
and troops were rescued and trans-
ferred to the Sandown, the Medway
Queen and the ex-Belgian M/B Yser.
Paymaster S/Lt. W.J. Butler, R.N.V.R.
of the Sandown was killed and 2
:
ratings wounded.
All
1430
Arrived Margate. Disembarked 201
troops. (2)
1930
Returned to Dover.
29th May(3)
0530
Slipped and proceeded with the Gracie
Fields to La Panne.
1430
Anchored off La Panne. Sent in all
boats and embarked 800 troops during
1)
heavy bombing. Had to get under
way twice.
Gracie Fields reported sinking,
after an attack off Middel Kerke
Buoy.
2103
Dispatched the Princess Elizabeth to
stand by her [in the meantime,
however, the M/S Pangbourne had em-
barked the Gracie Fields' troops
and taken her in tow].
2150(4)
Proceeded with 800 British troops to
Ramsgate.
30th May
0500
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 860
troops. (5)
(1) According to the Captain of the Princess Elizabeth, that
vessel in the Basin undergoing boiler cleaning during
Medway Queen does not mention that the Princess Elizabeth
26th-28th was May and did not undock until p.m. 28th. The
(3) D.R. records report. 600 troops disembarked on 29th May. This
(2) Margate
was in company on 27th May.
(4) Sandown to be Sandown's report is in two-day periods;
appears incorrect.
(5) D.R., which times are on this confusing occasion includes Sandown among the
her says 1050. and sometimes inaccurate.
fleet minesweepers.
89

Details

2
SANDOWN - Continued.
0500
30th May
(contd.
(contd.)
Proceeded ammunition. to Dover for coal and
2100
Sailed from Dover.
0235
31st May
Anchored to off N. Goodwins in response
Gift which was aground with 250
an S o S from the dfr. Golden
troops on board.
0645
Took off the troops in the motor
boat (five trips) and returned to
Ramsgate to disembark them.
[The tug Doria reports that at 0800
she was ordered to take off troops
from a minesweeper off Ramsgate
(believed to be the Sandown). She
embarked about 120 troops, and
er
landed them at Ramsgate east pier.
Ramsgate report, however, states
&
that only 90 were landed].
1100
Proceeded to Bray. Shelled by Nieuport
batteries off Middel Kerke buoy.
1430
Anchored off Bray. Embarked 900
British troops. Heavy air attacks
and 6-inch shelling throughout the
afternoon. Had to shift billet
twice.
2330
Proceeded. Shaped course for N.
L
Goodwin L.V.
1st June
0500
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 494 800
troops. (1)
0800
Returned to Dover.
The Sandown was not degaussed and was
ordered to remain in harbour.
Volunteer officers and crew from the
Sandown assisted in the M/S Medway
1)
Queen.
Total 1,555 1861
Authority - R.O.I., pp.279, 329, 336, 364.
R.O.III, pp.484, 492.
The following made:
D.S.O
Actq.Cdr KM Greig, RN. (REA)
(1) Ramsgate report. D.R. states 800 494 troops.
90

Details

SUTTON (N.78)
4th M.S.F.
Actg. Cdr. G.M. Temple, R.N.
S.O. 4th M.S.F.
26th May
1900
Sailed from Grimsby, the M/S's
Salamander and Fitzroy in company.
1600
27th May
Anchored in Downs. The M/S's Skipjack
and Halcyon near by. Destroyers
full of troops continually passing
at high speed.
3
28th May
1545
Proceeded to Dunkirk, Fourth M.S.F.
in company, with the M/S's Salamander
and Skipjack, later joined by
Halcyon.
1730
Steering jammed; proceeded under
hand steering.
1750
Fifth M.S.F. coming up astern.
Sutton's steering repaired.
1825
Off Kwinte Bank buoy, a ship was seen
to be sinking. The Sutton rejoined
the 4th M.S.F. Hurricanes passed
overhead.
2030
More Hurricanes passed. Dunkirk
fires seen 10 miles away. Detached
the Fitzroy to investigate a boat.
2050
Turned towards the beaches and
proceeded eastward. Large numbers
of troops seen along Malo beach, with
more scattered and smaller groups
towards La Panne.
2125
Anchored off beach about 4 miles east
of Dunkirk [Bray]. M/B sent in to
contact troops.
2130
Commenced embarkation.
29th May
0200
103 troops embarked.
0300
Proceeded further eastward. Embarked
troops of the Leicester Regt.
0730
Went alongside the cr. Calcutta, some
miles off shore, and transferred
troops to her. The salamander
did the same.
0830
Returned to the beaches. Lack of
boats; rate of embarkation about 30
per hour, using ship's boats. 227
troops embarked.
Large masses of French troops
persistently attempted to intercept
boats and demand passage. Assisted
by British troops to head of
French swimmers by rifle fire from
50 yards further along the beach.
Dunkirk burning with much smoke.
No R.A.F. sighted all day.
1600
High level air attack on Sutton,
Salamander, the dr. Greyhound and a
A. salvo of bombs straddled Sutton.
paddle M/S the Sandown].
No hits. A dive bomb attack on
Sutton and Greyhound; the Greyhound
One line of 5 bombs close to G.H.Q.
set on fire by a near miss.
sea front; the last 2 of these
Small bombs were used, with several
on fell on either side of the Sutton.
incendiaries, one of which set on
fire a drifter, 2 cable from Sutton
[the tr. Nautilus (q.v.)].
Greyhound damaged by bombs.
199

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44
Page
45
Page
5
Slogan
Page
36
Sata
15
Sluga
Page
Rose
8
Saturn
Smeaton
13
22
Sublime
23
Page
Rosebud
Saucy
35
Tonny
28
8
Snaefell
7
Suilven
22
Topaze
18
Wardour
Roseden
12
Sawfly
30
Scalby Wyke
Snap
23
Sukha
35A
Torbay II
9
War Duke
Rose Emma
24
19
Solitaire
10
21
Sulara
5
Rose Haugh
Scawfell
Torch
Warland
15
7
Solomon
Sulla
35A
Rose Hilda
Touchstone
6
30
Sceptre
14
Warrior II
9
Solon
Schievan
16
Suma
15
Rose Valley
Tourmaline
5
War Star
24
37
Solstice
Sumba
35A
Trade Wind
25
Rosel
3
Scomber
15
Warwick Deeping
Rose Marie
22
Song
Summer Rose
23
Tranio
27
War Wing
10
Scotch Thistle
8
18
Sonnet
Sunbeam II
36A
Tranquil
13
Wastwater
Ross
27
Scotia II
12
Southcoates
Sunflower IV
14
12
T.R. Ferrens
36
Watchful
Ross Ard
31
15
Scott
Southern Breeze
Sunlight
15
Scottish
25
Tritonia
9
Waterfly
Rotha
17A
24
Sunnyside Girl
28
29
Rowan
Scourge
29
Southern Chief
36c
Triumph
Watermeyer
12
Superman
4
Waveflower
29
Rowan Tree
Scythe
13
Southern Field
35A
Trophy
36B
36B
Supporter
23
Troubadour
Wee Cumbrae
Roxano
Seabreeze
28
Southern Flower
35A
36
12A
Surly
7
Welcome Home
Royal Eagle
Seafarer
28
36c
Troup Ahead
Southern Foam
19
Wellard
14
Surprise
36
True Accord
Royallieu
Royalo
14
Seaflower
Southern Gem
35A
29
29
Susannah Jane
Wellsbach
2
Tumby
36c
23
Wengan
5
Seagull
29
Southern Pride
Susarion
36A
Tunisian
Ruby
17
Sea Holly
Southern Shore
36c
14
Westella
35
Sutton
16
Turcoman
Rugby
32
5
Sea King
16
36c
West Haven
Southern Spray
Svega
35A
Runswick Bay
Turquoise
13
Ryde
10
Sea Lord
11
36c
West Neuk
Southern Star
Swan II
36
Tuscarora
19
36c
Westlyn
16
Southern Wave
Sweet Promise
35A
Ryde (Special Service)
8
Sea Mist
Tweenways
14
Westward Ho
29
Southsea
36c
Sea Monarch
Swift Wing
15
Twinkling Star
20
Whirlpool
Seaman
17
Souvenir
23
Sycamore
24
Whitethorn
Secuta
Spaniard
13
5
Sylph
12A
Widgeon
S.
32
Sedulous
36B
Sylvana
21
Sparsholt
12
Selkirk
16
Spartiate
Syrian
17A
U.
Widgeon of Fearn
Sabra
35
Wigan
18
Syringa
24
Uberty
14
Wildfire
Sabreur
35
Semita
8
Speedwell
10
Uberus
19
Willa
Sailor King
22
Semnos
19
Speedy
29
Ugie Bray
24
William Brady
St. Abbs
9
Seriola
8
Sphene
13
Ullswater
25
William Caldwell
St. Achilleus
13
Servitor
14
Spina
T.
36
Unicity
14
William Cale
St. Adrian
5
Settsu
37
Spindrift
9
Taeping
22
Unicorn II
22
William Hannen
St. Apollo
36c
Sevra
35
Spinet
29
Taipo
16
Unitia
7
William Purdy
St. Cathan
25
Shako
14
Spitfire III
17
Tamarisk
12A
Utilise
19
Wm. Stephens
St. Celestin
29
Shandwick
5
Spranza
23
Tamora
15
Ut. Prosim
10
William Wesney
St. Cyrus
17
Sharpshooter
29
Sprig o' Heather
27
Taransay
15
Willing Boys
St. Dominica
5
Shearwater
31
Springdale
13
Tarret
10
Wilna
St. Donats
16
Sheen
28
Springtide
Tartan
13
Willow
St. Elstan
20
V.
25
Sheldon
4
Spurs
Tea Rose
28
Windermere
St. Fagan
10
9
Sheldrake
21
Tekoura
30
Vadne
8
Windward Ho
St. Katherine
31
Stafnes
12
Shemara
Terje I-V
36c
Valena
9
Wistaria
St. Kenan
9
Stalberg
37
25
Shera
Teroma
24
Valesca
35A
Witham
St. Loman
35
Stalwart
9
25
Shika
Tervani
17A
Vandyck
30
Withernsea
St. Magnus
35
Star of Deveron
12A
26
Shila
Tessie
36A
Varanga
29
Wolborough
St. Melante
36
12A
Star of Hope
28
Tewara
26
Varanis
35A
Wolves
Shiona
St. Mellons
6
Star of the Realm
37
30
36
Vascama
21
Shipmates
Thalia
Wyoming
St. Modwen
10
Star of Orkney
15
23
Velia
6
9
St. Nectan
Shower
Thames (Dutch Tug)
28
Star of the Wave
5
Thames Queen
23
Velmont
35A
36A
St. Olaves
Shusa
35
Starlight Ray
11
26
Ventsyssel
18
9
Thaw
X.
St. Olive
Sicyon
5
29
Staunch
35A
The Boys
10
Venture
22
St. Sunniva
Signa
36
Stefa
35A
15
Vernal
12A
Xmas Rose
St. Tudno
30
The Brit
Signet
21
Vernon II
8
15
12A
Silanion
29
Stella Canopus
Their Merit
St. Wistan
36A
Silja
37
Stella Capella
25
Thele
8
Victoria
9
17A
Thermopylae
Victorian
32
St. Zeno
Silva
35
Stella Carina
22
Y.
Salamander
36c
13
Victory
8
36
Stella Leonis
The Provost
28
Salpa
16
Silver Cloud
Victrix
7
Yarta
Saltash
2
Silver Crest
2
Stella Orion
24
The Roman
35A
37
Yehonala
15
Stella Pegassi
25
The Tower
36B
Vilda
10
Vine
36B
Yehonala II
Salvini
Silver Dawn
11
Stella Polaris
19
The Way
29
Salvo (Tug)
36B
22
Yesso
Silver Fox
13
Thirlmere
25
Viola
Salvo
14
Silver Grey
19
Stella Rigel
29
Yezo
33
26
Violet Flowers
Salvonia
35
Silver Line
4
Stella Sirius
Thomas Altoft
5
York City
35A
Thomas Conolly
12
Virginia
21
Yorkshire Belle
Sandown
3
Silver Queen
27
Stina
Thomas Leeds
13
Visenda
26
2
Yorkshire Lass
Sandringham
10
Silver Seas
11
Stoke City
26
11
Viva II
Thomsons
13
Young Alfred
Sangarius
8,16
Silver Sky
14
Stonefly
Thora
17
Viviana
Sanson
3
13
36c
Young Cliff
Sindonis
26
Stour
21
Vizalma
Saon
Sir John Baker
32
8
Thornwick Bay
Young Ernie
35
Strathcoe
14
Young Jacob
Sapphire
10
23
Three Kings
Sir John Lister
8
Sappho
Strathderry
Thrifty
9
W.
Young Mon
13
7
3
Sarah Hyde
Sir Richard Grenville
Strath Devon
Thunderstone
36B
5
3
Sir Sydney
2
Strathelliot
12A
Tiger
17
Wagtail
15
Sarah Sarba A. Purdy
14
29
Sir Siren Walter Raleigh
14
19
Tiger (tender)
18
Waldemar
Strathgarry
12A
z.
19
12A
Wallena
Sargasso
2
Strathmaree
24
12
Sirra
Sargon
2
5
Tilburyness
10
Sisapon
Strath Rannock
22
Tilly Duff
12A
Walnut
15
Zaza
35
Titan
14
Waltona
27
Zwartze Zee (Dutch)
Sarna
21
Skidaw
Strathspey
3
26
Walwyns Castle
4
333
Sarpedon
35
16
Strathugie
Token
Skipjack
21
14
Skirmisher
17
Tokyo II
35A
Wanderer II
17
Strive
10
Student Prince
4
22
Sturton
(C38230) 380 6/40

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44
45
Page
Page
Page
St. Apollo
36c
Semita
Page
6
Sutton
Page
9
9
St. Cathan
Semnos
8
Souvenir
32
Svana
16
Reighton Reigate Wyke
21
St. Celestin
29
Seriola
Trojan
Page
9
14B
Spaniard
12
Svega
35A
Relonzo
35
St. Claire
36
Servitor
Sparsholt
35A
Trophy
2
8
18
Swan II
17
Sethon
Remexo
12A
Spartiate
Troubadour
36B
17
St. Cyrus
13
Sweet Promise
36
Remillo
14
St. Dominica
5
Settsu
14
Speedwell
Troup Ahead
36
29
16
Sevra
Swift Wing
35A
True Accord
19
Renascent
20
St. Donats
37
Speedy
13
Swona
15
St. Elstan
9
Tumby
14A
Rennet
Shako
21
35A
Sphene
36
Sycamore
35A
Tunisian
17
St. George
5
Renzo
Shandwick
9
12A
Spina
9
Sylph
24
Turcoman
14
Resolve
St. Katherine
12
12A
Sharpshooter
5
Spindrift
29
Sylvana
12A
Turquoise
32
Resolvo
St. Kenan
25
8
Shearwater
29
36B
Spinet Spitfire III
17
Syrian
21
Tuscarora
13
Resparko
St. Loman
25
Sheen
31
36c
Syringa
17A
Tweenways
19
Restore
St. Magnus
26
9
Sheldon
28
Spoza
23
8
Trelawney
14
Restrivo
8
Sheldrake
27
21
St. Melante
4
Spranza Springdale Sprig o' Heather
27
Twinkling Star
Retako
35
St. Mellons
30
Shemara
31
20
12A
Revello
10
St. Modwen
9
Shera
9
20
Reverberation
18
St. Nectan
14
Sheraton
35A
Springtide
10
T.
Rezala
3
St. Olaves
9
Shika
14B
Spurs
21
Taeping
Rhodora
5
St. Olive
5
Shila
35A
Stafnes
22
U.
18
Richard Croft
Taipo
14
St. Sunniva
30
Shiona
36
Stalberg
16
9
Tamarisk
Uberty
14
Rig
15
St. Tudno
12A
Shipmates
6
Stalwart
12A
Uberus
36B
St. Wistan
17
Shova
Star of Deveron
8
Tamora
19
Righto
10
15
Rigoletto
36
Star of Hope
28
Taransay
Ugie Bray
24
15
Uiver
19
St. Zeno
36c
Shower
Star of Pentland
36
Tarret
36A
Rime
16
28
10
Ullswater
15
Shusa
25
Salamander
Star of the Realm
37
Tartan
Rinovia
35A
17
Umbriel
14A
8
Salpa
2
Sicyon
Star of Orkney
15
Tea Rose
Rion
29
28
Unicity
14
12
Saltash
16
Signa
Star of the Wave
5
Tehana
Ristango
13
Unicorn II
36B
36
22
River Annam
22
Salvini
Signet
12A
Starlight Ray
11
Tekoura
30
Unitia
29
7
River Esk
27
Salvo (Tug)
Silanion
Staunch
35A
Terje I-V
36c
Utilise
37
19
River Clyde
13
Salvo
35
Silja
14A
Teroma
24
Ut. Prosim
35A
Staunton
10
River Spey
14B
Salvonia
3
Silva
35A
Tervani
22
Utrecht
36A
36
Stefa
River Ytham
36A
Sandown
10
Silver Cloud
Stella Canopus
21
Tessie
36A
2
Riviere
36B
Sandringham
8,16
Silver Crest
15
Stella Capella
13
Tewara
35
Robert Hastie
14B
Sangarius
17
Silver Dawn
Stella Carina
17
Thalia
36
11
Robert Stroud
26
Sanson
35A
Silver Fox
Stella Leonis
13
Thames (Dutch Tug)
23
19
V.
Robin Hood
28
Saon
10
Silver Grey
4
Stella Orion
24
Thames Queen
23
Robina
7
Sapphire
13
Silver Line
27
Stella Pegassi
25
Thaw
26
Vadne
8
Rochebonne
19
11
Stella Polaris
19
The Boys
10
Valena
9
Sappho
3
Silver Queen
Sarah Hyde
Silver Seas
The Brit
15
Valesca
35A
Rodino
16
14
14
Stella Rigel
13
Rogate
Silver Sky
33
The Provost
Vandyck
30
28
9
Sarah A. Purdy
29
26
Stella Sirius
29
3
Sarba
14A
Stina
The Roman
35A
Varanga
Roger Beck
12
Simpson
35A
36B
Varanis
35A
Romany Rose
23
Sargasso
11
Sindonis
32
Stoke City
26
The Tower
29
Vascama
21
Rona
18
Sargon
21
Sir John Baker
8
Stonefly
26
The Way
15
Velia
14
Ronso
16
Sarna
35A
Sir John Lister
19
Stora
36c
Their Merit
35A
8
Velmont
Rooke
20
Saronta
14A
Sir Richard Grenville
2
Stour
13
Thele
18
22
Ventsyssel
Rosa
21
Sarpedon
11
Sir Sydney
14A
Strathcoe
8
Thermopylae
22
25
Venture
Thirlmere
14A
Rosebud
8
Sata
Sir Walter Raleigh
2
Strathderry
23
5
26
Vernal
14
2
Strath Devon
Thomas Altoft
8
Roseden
28
Saturn
Siren
3
12
Vernon II
Rose Emma
12
Saucy
22
Sirra
35A
Strathelliot
14A
Thomas Conolly
9
13
Victoria
32
Rose Haugh
Sawfly
8
Skidaw
21
Strathgarry
14B
Thomas Leeds
11
Victorian
24
8
Rose Hilda
15
Scalby Wyke
30
Skirmisher
4
Strathmaree
14B
Thomsons
17
Victory
7
Rose Valley
30
Scarron
Rosel
Skudd 3, 4, 5 & 6
35A
Strath Rannock
14B
Thora
21
Victrix
14
4
24
Scawfell
6
Strathspey
22
Thornwick Bay
14
Vidonia
36A
Rose Marie
10
Slogan
Viking Bank
3
Sceptre
35A
7
Sluga
Strathugie
3
Three Kings
35A
37
Ross
16
7
Strive
14
Thrifty
36B
Vilda
14A
Ross Ard
Schelde
6
Smeaton
Schievan
23
Student Prince
17
Thunderstone
17
Vindelicia
36B
27
Rotha
9
Snaefell
14B
21
Sturton
22
Tiger
18
Vine
22
Rotherslade
Scomber
37
Snap
Sublime
23
Tiger (tender)
12A
Viola
29
Rowan
23
Scotch Thistle
35A
22
Soika
12A
Tilburyness
14A
Violet Flowers
5
24
Scotia II
Suilven
22
Rowan Tree
18
Solitaire
35A
Tilly Duff
14
Virginia
21
14A
Scott
16
Sukha
Roxano
31
Solomon
Scottish
15
Sulara
5
26
Visenda
2,5
Titan
Royal Charter
36B
25
Solon
35A
35A
Viva II
13
8
Sulla
Token
Royal Eagle
17
Scourge
Viviana
36c
29
Solstice
Tokyo II
Royallieu
12A
12
Scythe
Suma
15
18
6
Tonny
9
Vizalma
14
Song
Seabreeze
35A
Sumba
Royalo
35A
28
8
Sotra
23
23
Topaze
10
Ruby
Seafarer
Summer Rose
28
Southcoates
Rugby
5
Seaflower
36c
Sunbeam II
36A
Torbay II
6
14A
29
Southern Breeze
Runswick Ryde Bay
Seagull
Sunflower IV
Torch
5
35A
14A
25
W.
Southern Chief
Touchstone
5
5
29
Sea Holly
35A
Sunlight
12A
10
35A
Southern Field
Sea King
36c
Tourmaline
27
Sunrise
13
Wagtail
15
37
16
Southern Flower
Sea Lord
35A
Sunnyside Girl
28
Trade Wind
Waldemar
21
11
Southern Foam
Sea Mist
36C
Superman
4
Tranio
19
Wallena
24
16
36C
Supporter
23
Tranquil
27
Southern Gem
Trelawney
9
Walnut
15
S.
Sea Monarch
27
Sabra
Seaman
29
Southern Pride
36C
Surly
7
Sabreur
35
17
Southern Shore
T. R. Ferrens
36A
Waltona Walwyns Castle
4
Secuta
36C
Surprise
36
Sailor King
Seddon
5
36C
Trevo Terceiro
29
Southern Spray
Wanderer II
35
4
Susannah Susarion Jane
2
12
I
St. Adrian
22
Sedulous
Southern Star
36C
17
Tritonia
5
Selkirk
36B
Southern Wave
23
Sutherness
4
Triumph
16
Southsea
(C38230)

Details

44
45
Page
Page
Page
St. Apollo
36c
Semita
Page
6
Sutton
Page
9
9
St. Cathan
Semnos
Souvenir
32
Svana
16
Reighton Reigate Wyke
21
8
Trojan
Page
St. Celestin
29
Seriola
9
36
Servitor
14B
Spaniard
12
Svega
35A
Trophy
2
St. Claire
8
Sparsholt
18
Swan II
35A
Relonzo
Troubadour
36B
35
17
Sethon
Spartiate
Sweet Promise
36
Troup Ahead
36
Remexo
17
St. Cyrus
Remillo
St. Dominica
5
12A
13
Settsu
Speedwell
29
Swift Wing
35A
True Accord
19
14
14
Renascent
20
St. Donats
16
Sevra
Speedy
13
Swona
15
Tumby
14A
37
Rennet
21
St. Elstan
9
Shako
35A
Sphene
36
Sycamore
35A
Tunisian
17
Renzo
St. George
5
9
Shandwick
12A
9
Sylph
24
Turcoman
14
Spina
12A
32
Resolve
St. Katherine
12
12A
Sharpshooter
5
Spindrift
29
Sylvana
Turquoise
St. Kenan
25
Shearwater
21
Resolvo
8
29
Spinet Spitfire III
17
Syrian
Tuscarora
13
Resparko
St. Loman
25
Sheen
17A
19
36B
31
36c
Syringa
Tweenways
9
26
8
14
Restore
St. Magnus
Sheldon
28
Spoza
23
Trelawney
27
Restrivo
21
St. Melante
8
Sheldrake
4
27
Twinkling Star
Spranza Springdale Sprig o' Heather
20
Retako
35
St. Mellons
30
Shemara
31
12A
Revello
10
St. Modwen
9
Shera
9
20
Reverberation
18
St. Nectan
14
Sheraton
35A
Springtide
10
T.
Rezala
3
St. Olaves
9
Shika
14B
Spurs
21
Taeping
Rhodora
22
U.
5
St. Olive
5
Shila
35A
Stafnes
18
Richard Croft
Taipo
16
St. Sunniva
30
Shiona
36
Stalberg
Uberty
14
14
9
Tamarisk
12A
Uberus
Rig
15
St. Tudno
12A
Shipmates
Stalwart
19
6
8
Tamora
Righto
St. Wistan
17
Shova
10
Star of Deveron
15
Ugie Bray
24
Rigoletto
36B
28
Taransay
15
Uiver
19
St. Zeno
36c
Shower
Star of Hope
36A
36
Salamander
Star of Pentland
36
Tarret
10
Ullswater
Rime
25
16
Rinovia
Shusa
28
15
35A
Star of the Realm
37
Tartan
17
Umbriel
14A
8
Salpa
2
Rion
Sicyon
Unicity
29
Star of Orkney
15
Tea Rose
28
14
12
Saltash
16
Signa
Star of the Wave
5
Tehana
13
Unicorn II
22
Ristango
River Annam
22
Salvini
36B
Signet
36
11
Tekoura
30
Unitia
7
River Esk
Silanion
29
27
Salvo (Tug)
12A
Starlight Ray
35A
Terje I-V
36c
Utilise
19
37
Staunch
Salvo
35
Silja
14A
Teroma
24
Ut. Prosim
10
River Clyde
13
35A
Staunton
River Spey
14B
Salvonia
3
Silva
35A
Tervani
22
Utrecht
36A
36
Stefa
River Ytham
36A
Sandown
10
Silver Cloud
Stella Canopus
21
Tessie
36A
2
Riviere
36B
Sandringham
8,16
Silver Crest
13
Tewara
35
15
Stella Capella
Robert Hastie
14B
Sangarius
17
Silver Dawn
17
Thalia
36
11
Stella Carina
Robert Stroud
26
Sanson
35A
Silver Fox
13
Thames (Dutch Tug)
23
V.
19
Stella Leonis
Robin Hood
28
Saon
10
Silver Grey
24
Thames Queen
23
4
Stella Orion
Vadne
8
Robina
7
13
Silver Line
Thaw
26
Sapphire
Stella Pegassi
25
10
Valena
9
27
Rochebonne
19
Sappho
3
Silver Queen
Stella Polaris
19
The Boys
11
15
Valesca
35A
Rodino
16
14
Silver Seas
13
The Brit
30
Sarah Hyde
14
Stella Rigel
The Provost
28
Vandyck
33
29
Rogate
9
Sarah A. Purdy
29
Silver Sky
26
Stella Sirius
35A
Varanga
Roger Beck
3
Sarba
12
Simpson
35A
The Roman
35A
14A
Stina
36B
Varanis
Romany Rose
23
Sargasso
11
26
The Tower
21
Sindonis
32
Stoke City
29
Vascama
Rona
18
Sargon
21
Sir John Baker
8
Stonefly
26
The Way
14
15
Velia
Ronso
Sarna
36c
Their Merit
35A
16
35A
Sir John Lister
19
Stora
8
Velmont
18
Rooke
20
Saronta
14A
Sir Richard Grenville
2
Stour
13
Thele
22
Ventsyssel
22
Rosa
21
Sarpedon
11
Sir Sydney
14A
Strathcoe
8
Thermopylae
25
Venture
14A
Rosebud
8
5
2
Strathderry
23
Thirlmere
Sir Walter Raleigh
26
Vernal
Sata
8
Roseden
28
Saturn
Siren
2
Strath Devon
3
Thomas Altoft
12
Vernon II
9
Rose Emma
14
Thomas Conolly
13
Victoria
12
Saucy
22
Sirra
35A
Strathelliot
14A
32
Rose Haugh
24
8
Strathgarry
14B
Thomas Leeds
11
Victorian
8
Rose Hilda
Sawfly
Skidaw
21
15
Scalby Wyke
4
14B
Thomsons
Strathmaree
17
Victory
7
Rose Valley
30
Skirmisher
30
14B
Thora
21
Victrix
14
Scarron
4
Skudd 3, 4, 5 & 6
35A
Strath Rannock
Rosel
24
Scawfell
6
Strathspey
22
Thornwick Bay
14
Vidonia
36A
Rose Marie
10
Slogan
Viking Bank
3
Ross
Sceptre
7
Sluga
35A
Strathugie
3
Three Kings
35A
37
7
Strive
14
Thrifty
36B
Vilda
14A
Ross Ard
16
Schelde
6
Smeaton
27
Schievan
17
Thunderstone
17
Vindelicia
36B
Rotha
23
9
Snaefell
Student Prince
18
Vine
22
14B
Scomber
21
Sturton
22
Rotherslade
Tiger Tiger (tender)
Viola
29
37
Snap
23
12A
Rowan
23
Scotch Thistle
35A
Sublime
Violet Flowers
5
22
Soika
24
22
Tilburyness
14A
Rowan Tree
Scotia II
12A
Suilven
18
Tilly Duff
14
Virginia
21
Solitaire
Roxano
14A
Scott
16
Sukha
35A
Visenda
2,5
36B
31
Solomon
15
Sulara
5
Titan
26
Scottish
17
Solon
35A
Viva II
13
Royal Charter
25
Scourge
8
Sulla
35A
Token
Viviana
36c
Royal Eagle
Tokyo II
18
12A
29
Solstice
Royallieu
Scythe
12
Suma
15
14
6
Song
35A
Sumba
35A
Tonny
9
Vizalma
Royalo
Seabreeze
8
28
Sotra
Ruby
Seafarer
Summer Rose
Topaze
10
23
23
Rugby
28
Southcoates
36C
36A
Torbay II
6
5
Seaflower
Sunbeam II
14A
Sunflower IV
14A
Torch
5
29
Southern Breeze
W.
Ryde Runswick Bay
Seagull
35A
29
Southern Chief
Touchstone
25
5
5
Sea Holly
35A
Sunlight
12A
10
35A
36C
Sunrise
37
Tourmaline Trade Wind
27
Southern Field
Wagtail
15
Sea King
13
Southern Flower
28
Waldemar
21
Sea Lord
16
35A
Sunnyside Girl
11
36C
Superman
4
Tranio
19
Wallena
24
Sea Mist
Southern Foam
S.
Southern Gem
23
Tranquil
27
Walnut
15
Sea Monarch
16
36C
Supporter
9
27
Sabra
Seaman
29
Southern Pride
36C
Surly
7
Trelawney
36A
Waltona Walwyns Castle
Sabreur
35
Secuta
17
Southern Shore
36C
Surprise
36
T. R. Ferrens
4
2
Trevo Terceiro
29
Wanderer II
Sailor King
35
Seddon
5
Southern Spray
36C
12
St. Adrian
22
Sedulous
4
Southern Star
36C
Susannah Susarion Jane
17
Tritonia
5
Selkirk
36B
Southern Wave
23
Sutherness
4
Triumph
16
Southsea
(C38230)

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

43
Page
Page
Page
O.
M/S Groups-contd.
44
Mine Recovery Flotillas-
57
19
Oak
26
1
11
58
13
Oaklea
28
Pict
Page
2
22
59
21
Ocean Breeze
11
Picton Castle
32
Reilvo
Page
4
20
Ocean Brine
Minicoy
60
22
Pintail
24
Reparko
12A
St. Katherin
21
10
Ocean Eddy
Minna
61
37
Plantagenet
31
Reore
8
St. Kenan
23
Minona
21
Ocean Fisher
62
28
Playmates
29
Rerivo
36B
St. Loman
Minos
14B
M/S Training Flotilla
20
Ocean Gain
23
Plinlimon
11
Rako
5
St. Magnus
Mirabelle
17
Muria
14
Ocean Guide
23
Plumer
21
Rello
21
St. Melante
6
Mirage
Myris
12
Ocean Lifebuoy
35A
Poinavon
12A
Rverberation
35
St. Mellons
Ocean Lux
Pointer
9
Rala
10
St. Modwen
Mireille
11
28
Myvera III
9A
35A
Mist
Ocean Retriever
Pointz Castle
36
12
Rodora
18
St. Nectan
Mistletoe
22
Ocean Scout
36A
Polar V
24
Rhard Croft
3
St. Olaves
Mitres
14A
Ocean Spray
23
Polar VI
35
Rg
5
St. Olive
N.
Poolzee
35
14
M.L. 100
14
Nab Wyke
35
Ocean Swell
27
Fghto
St. Silio
36A
8
9A
Ocean Toiler
Popinjay
igoletto
St. Sunniva
M.L. 101, 102
Nairnside
14
12
2
7
Ocean Treasure
12
Powis Castle
22
36B
lime
St. Tudno
M.L. 107
Namur
27
inovia
19
1st Motor Launch Flotilla
2
Nancy Hague
37
Ocean View
Preston-North End
St. Wistan
19
Prince Leo
26
lion
8
St. Zeno
Moed-en-Werk
36
Naneta
S
Ocean Vim
5
36B
8
8
Princess Beatrix
distango
Salamander
Mollusc
Natal II
12
Ode
12
36A
12
9A
Princess Elizabeth
River Annam
Salpa
Monarch
Navicula
8
Ogano
3
10
22
River Esk
Saltash
14A
Princess Mary
Monarda
16
Ohm
15
27
26
Salvini
Negro
Princessa
River Clyde
Mona's Isle
11
Neil Mackay
28
9
13
Okino
37
Principal
River Garry
Salvo (Tug)
Neil Smith
Oku
27
27
Salvo
Monimia
16
9A
10
Proserpine
River Spey
28
14B
Salvonia
Montano
4
Memo
14A
Olivae
14
Prospect Ahead
Riviere
29
36B
Sandown
Moonrise
35
Netsukis
10
Olive
24
Providence
R. Levin
11
17
Moonstone
32
New Comet
23
Olive Tree
28
Provider
Robert Hastie
Sandringham
17
17
12
Robert Stroud
Sangarius
Moorgate
Newhaven N.B.
21
Olvina
9A
Ptarmigan
26
9A
Sanson
Moravia
14
11
Puffin
Robin Hood
Olympia
35
28
Saon
New Pride of Essex
31
Morama
Punnet
Robina
9A
New Prince of Wales I
16
7
12
Ombra
18
Rochebonne
Sapphire
Moray
14B
12
Onaway
Pyramus
19
Newspray
29
30
Sappho
Rodino
Morgan Jones
23
One Accord
3
Pyrope
11
New World
12A
Sarah Hyde
12
Rogate
9
Mount Ard
29
Sarah A. Pure
Niblick
14B
Onetos
11
Roger Beck
3
Sarba
Mount Keen
10
16
Onward
9A
Q.
Niger
Rolls Royce
35
Moyle
Night Hawk (Trawler)
4
Oracle
3
Queen Empress
Sargasso
8
1:
Romany Rose
23
Queen of Kent
Sargon
7
13
2
Oriole
Rona
18
Sarna
M/S Flotillas
Night Hawk
Queen of Thanet
18
2
Ronso
Night Raider
37
Orlando
16
Saronta
1
29
Queen of the Fleet
1l
Rooke
4
16
Nimrod
35
20
19
Orpheus
Queen of the South I
Sarpedon
12
Rosa
17
21
Sasebo
Nirvana
2
Orvicto
16
Queen of the South II
12
5
Rosebud
8
Sata
Nobles
4
Osako
14A
6
13
Queen Worth
9
Roseden
28
Saturn
7
21
Nodzu
23
Osta
9A
Quest
6
Rose Emma
12
Saucy
Nogi
15
Oswaldian
4
Quiet Waters
28
23
Rose Haugh
24
8
Sawfly
Othello
17A
Rose Hilda
Scalby Wyke
10
10
Noontide
28
15
11
8
Norbreeze
27
Our Bairns
8
Rose Valley
30
Scarron
Nordhav
36A
Our Kate
12
R.
Rosel
24
Scawfell
12
13
Nordhav I
Overfall
14A
Racer
7
Rose Marie
3
14
Sceptre
14A
Rachael Flett
26
Ross
16
Schelde
M/S Groups-
Nordland
37
Oystermouth Castle
Radiant
36c
Ross Ard
27
Schievan
1
24
Norina
27
Radnor Castle
2
Rotha
14B
Scomber
2,3
12A
Norlan
29
P.
Raetia
4
Rotherslade
23
Scotch Thistl
4-6
13
Norland
19
Pangbourne
16
Rambler Rose
30
Rowan
24
Scotia II
7
14A
Norna
21
Paragon
24, 36A
Raymont
35
Rowan Tree
14A
Scott
10-12
15
Norman Wilson
20
Paramount
3
Reaper
7
Roxano
36B
Scottish
13
15
Norse
12A
Pathway
11
Reboundo
S
Royal Charter
17
Scourge
14
15
Northcoates
29
Patti
17
Rebuff
29
Royal Eagle
12A
Scythe
16-20
16
Northern Chief
30
Paul Rykens
28
Receptive
12
Royallieu
35
Seabreeze
22
10
Northern Dawn
25
Paynter
7
Recoil
36c
Royalo
S
Seafarer
23, 24
Northern Duke
Peacemaker
12
Recono
16
Ruby
5
Seaflower
24
30
5
Red Gauntlet
13
Rugby
14A
Seagull
25
10
Northern Foam
30
Pearl
26
24
Northern Gem
25
Pecheur
27
Red Sky
17
Runswick Bay
5
Sea Holly
8
Northern Gift
30
Peggy Nutten
29
Reed
14A
Ryde
10
Sea King
28-29
30
12A
Northern Isles
Refraction
8
Sea Lord
30
Peken
35
Refundo
14
S.
Sea Mist
31
15
Northern Light
26
Pelagos
14A
28
Sabra
35,
Sea Monarch
32-33
21
Northern Pride
16,25
Pelton
15
Regal
8
Sabreur
35
Seaman
34
22
Northern Princess
30
Pembroke
12
Regardo
14B
Sailor King
22
Secuta
37-38
26
Northern Reward
30
Pentland Firth
30
Regwa
St. Adrian
5
Seddon
14A
40
16
Northern Sky
30
Perilia
17
Reids
9
St. Apollo
36c
Sedulous
41
24
Northern Spray
12A
Reigate
25
St. Cathan
9A
Selkirk
Peter Carey
Reighton Wyke
21
29
Semita
43
27
Northern Sun
30
Peter Hendriks
28
5
St. Celestin
Relonzo
36
Semnos
44-45
29
Northern Wave
25
Peter Nell
29
16
St. Claire
46
15
Northlyn
30
Remexo
17
Seriola
29
17
St. Cyrus
Phase
49
Remillo
5
Servitor
9A
North Ness
34
14A
St. Dominica
23
Philante
16
Sethon
50-51
10
14A
14B
Renascent
Northward Ho
20
St. Donats
Philippe
9A
Settsu
52
2
Northwind
9
Phineas Beard
24
Rennet
21
St. Elstan
5
Sevra
54
23
Norwich City
5
Renzo
9
St. George
19
55
Phrontes
8
Notts County
12
Resolve
56
19
13
Nyula
Phyllis Rose
20
23
Phyllisia

Details

SECRET
Dynam. 130.
B14/0/1119
9
12
Subject : Report on Operations in connection with the
evacuation of the B.E.F. from the Dunkirk area.
From
:. The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Calcutta".
Date
:. 6th June 1940.
No. 061/28
To
: . The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copies to:- The Commander in Chief, Nore.
The Flag Officer, 20th Cruiser Squadron
The following report on the minor part played
by H.M.S. "Calcutta" in the evacuation of the B.E.F. from
the Dunkirk area is submitted.
2.
In view of the vast number of reports which you
will receive, it has been made as brief as possible in the
form of a chronological time table of events with covering
remarks at the end.
Monday 27th May
23L0
Sailed from Trinity Bay, The Downs for La Panne.
Tuesday 28th May
0115
Loud explosion about 5 cables on starboard beam
probably from torpedo fired by ehemy submarine
or M.T.B.
0125
Torpedo track crossing from port to starboard
missed ship about 100 yards astern.
0135
M.T.B. heard and vaguely sighted bearing Green 60°.
Ship manoeuvred under large helm. No subsequent
torpedo tracks or explosions seen or heard.
0248
Anchored in position 005° La Panne, air light, 310
Motor Cutter and both whalers sent in to beach
to commence evacuation into paddle steamers
mine sweepers "Sandown" and "Gracie Fields" who
were much closer inshore. "Grafton", 'Greyhound"
and "Impulsive" also evacuating from. this beach.
0500
Opened fire on one Heinkel.
0523
Opened fire on one J U 88.
0615
Impulsive ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and go
alongside East pier.
0621
Opened fire on 3 Heikels.
0625
Evacuation of beach completed. "Grafton" and
"Greyhound" proceeded. Paddle Minesweepers
"Sandown" and "Gracie Fields" ordered alongside
to disembark their 700 troops into "Calcutta".
0641
Opened fire on 1 Heinkel.
0715
Weighed and proceeded to Sheerness.
1215
Arrived Sheerness, disembarked 700 troops and
completed with oil fuel and provisions.
1710
Slipped from buoy and proceeded to La Panne.
2157
Anchored in position 01410 La Panne Air Light 2"
Boats sent in to the same beach as had been used
previously. Heavy surf running and conditions
for embarking troops extremely difficult. Only
one Schoot to assist in embarkation of about 70
wounded.
Wednesday 29th May

Details

Details

468
Murgali
TUESDAY, 28TH MAY, 1940.
1430. "SANDOWN"
201.
1530. "GRACIE FIELDS".
281.
Total.
482.
===

Details

476
500
Margate
Total.
"SANDOWN".
201.
"GRACIE FIELDS".
281.
"ROSS".
:
683.
383. 300.
"LEDA".
2218.
301. 500. 537. 380. 500.
"PANGBOURNE".
400.
"KELLETT".
1052.
472. 550. 30.
"ROYAL SOVEREIGN".
6370.
1173. 1200. 1100. 47. 1500. 1350.
"ALBURY".
1136.
161. 445. 130. 400.
"PATRIA".
1400.
200. 1200.
"CARIBIA".
300.
"DEUS".
200.
"HORST".
1150.
350. 800.
"ROYAL DAFFODIL".
3203.
1703. 1500.
"K.G.V."
3578.
853. 500. 700. 1460. 65.
"GOLDEN EAGLE".
1750.
500. 1250.
"ROYAL EAGLE".
2058.
808. 1250.
"LYDD".
850.
200. 450. 200.
"PRINC. ELIZABETH".
1344.
460. 374. 510.
"AEGIS".
835.
355. 350. 130.
"MEDWAY QUEEN".
450.
"ORANJE".
600.
500. 100.
"DELLA".
203.
"DOGGERS BANK".
708.
308. 400.
"HOPPER V24".
980.
400. 580.
"WOLVES".
50.
"ADVENTURESS".
85.
"STELLA DURADO".
22.
"KING FISHER".
458.
91. 157. 210.
"LIFEBOAT".
17.
"SCOTTISH OP".
525.
33107.
TOTAL.

Details

SECRET
Dynami 130.
220
Sea
1179
a
214
Subject ** Report on Operations in connection with the
evacuation of the D.B.F. from the Dunitivis aroa.
From
** The Commanding Officer, "Caloutta".
Date
** 6th June 1940.
No. 001/20
To
** The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copies to:- The Commander in Chief, Hore.
The Plag Officer, 20th Cruiser Squadred
The following report on the minor part played
by H.M.S. "Calcutta" in the evacuation of the D.B.F. from
the Dunkirk area 1a submitted.
2.
In view of the vast number of reports which you
will receive, It has been made as brief as possible in the
form of a chronological time table of events with covering
remarks at the ond.
Monday 27th Hay
2320
Sailed from Trinity Day, The Downs for La Panno.
Tuesday 20th Hay
0110
Loud explosion about 8 cables on starboard boxes
probably from torpedo fired by cheery submarine
or N.T.D.
0225
Torpodo track crossing from part to starboard
missed ship about 100 yards astern.
0235
N.T.B. heard and vaguely sighted bearing Croon 609
ship manoeuvred under Large holm. No subsequent
torpedo tracits or explosions soon or hoard.
0248
Anchored in position 005° La Panno, air light, 310
Notor Cubtor and both wholore sent in to beach
to commonce ovacuation into puddle stoamers
mine sweepers "Sandown" and "Cracio Fields" who
ware much closer inshore.
and "Inpulsive" also evacuating from this boach.
0500
Opened fire on one Hointol.
0525
Opened fire on one J U 00.
0615
Impulsive ordered to proceed to Duniciris and go
alongaide East pior.
0621
0625
Evacuation of beach completed. "Crafton" and
Opened fire on S Hottols.
"sandown" and "Cracio Flolds" ordered alongaido
"Creyhound" proceeded. Paddle llinesweopers
to discmbark their 700 troops into "Colcutta".
0041
0715
Weighed and proceeded to Sheerness.
Opened fire on 1 Heintal.
1015
Arrived Shoorness, disemberited 700 troops and
slipped from buoy and proceeded to La Punno.
completed with oil fuel and provisions.
1710
Anchored in position 02430 La Penno had Air boon Mght used 2".0,
8157
Boats sent in to the BOIDO beach as conditions
proviously. Heavy surf running and
one Schoot to assist in embariation of about 70
for embarking troops extremely difficult. only
wounded.
Wednesday 20th May....

Details

77
76
-5-
31. Owing to the swell a number of boats capsized in the
surf, which gradually subsided with continued good weather.
The swell on the 31st had calmed down considerably by the
morning of the 1st June.
32. The marksmanship of the A.A. machine-gunners in HILDA
seemed to be very accurate, and they realised that it was
essential to fire at bombers before they got into their dive.
The dive bombers seemed to be extremely accurate in their aim.
33. Messrs. Hammond of Deal, who act as Admiralty agents,
were most helpful in every way in finding suitable motor boats
and lifeboats, in arranging requisitioning, and obtaining
spare supplies of petrol at short notice.
34. I was much impressed by the good-nature of the ship's
company in handing to all those who lost their clothing or
were in sad condition owing to being covered in oil, any parts
of their uniform or private possessions not in use. This
applied equally to the soldiers, who were most generous in
sharing their clothing of all sorts.
35. I must record the assistance given me by Lieut.Few, R.N.V.R
of H.M.S. SANDOWN, in bringing the troops from one of the piers.
He made a great number of trips in a most expeditious manner,
and his cheerfulness was a decided asset.
36. I should like to bring under notice the efficient manner
in which the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. HILDA, Lieut. Gray,
and the coxswain, Petty Officer Curd, carried out their duties,
and this applies equally to the whole ship's company. Many
seriously wounded men were on board, and each of these received
such careful attention as was possible.
37. I was much struck by the efficient manner in which
H.M.S. HILDA was handled while rescuing survivors and also in
avoiding dive bombing operations.
VICE ADMIRAL
CAPTAIN, R.N.V.R.
2nd June, 1940.
JUN 1940
*
DOVER

Details

216
204
OPERATION DYNAMO.
22
ENCLOSURE NO. 17.
SHIP: BLUE BIRD - Motor Boat.
OFFICER REPORTING: G.B. EYRE, SUB-LINUTENANT, R.N.V.R.
On Saturday 1st June I received orders to
proceed with Motor Boat BLUE BIRD to the M/S SANDOWN
to be towed to Dunkirk. M/S SANDOWN was relieved by
M/S EMPEROR OF INDIA and accordingly I changed to her.
2.
On reaching Dunkirk it was found impossible
to start engines of BLUE BIRD so she was not used and
came back to Dover in tow.
3. The Lifeboat MARY SCOTT was working in
conjunction with BLUE BIRD, but remained behind in
Dunkirk to pick up EMPEROR OF INDIA's 1st Lieutenant
who was on the pier, organising the troops to be
embarked.
Note: This officer was previously in command of
A.L.C. No. 15, and had been employed
ferrying troops off from Dunkirk beach for
one day. When 8.9. CLAN MACALISTER
(A.L.C. parent ship) was bombed and set
on fire he returned to Dover in company
with A.L.Cs. 3 and 8 to refuel and
proceeded to the beaches on completion.
A.L.C. No. 15 was driven on to the beach by
the wash of a passing destroyer and as
there was no hope of getting off,
Sub-Lieutenant Eyre set fire to her and
returned to Dover in due course in
See ROIII, 12509
A.L.C. No. 3 and was then given Motor
Boat BLUE BIRD.

Details

Dynama 10, Alulo
FROM.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
1st June, 1940.
263 274
DATE
TO
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, THE NORE.
(through and EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERINES).
PROCEEDINGS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - A/A SHIPS. PERIOD
Submi Submitted.
27/31st May, 1940.
were proceed full speed to a position 9 miles East of
anchored to the at outer estuary a signal was received that/ships
During in the night of 27th-28th May when all ships were
Dunkirk and embark troops. All ships were underweigh within a
few minutes of the signal being decoded and proceeded towards
the North Goodwin. The passage through the Edinburgh Channels
under dark night conditions was not easy and I consider credit
is due to the Commanding Officers of the ships for the way in
which they were handled. The signal was cancelled before ships
reached North Goodwin and they returned to normal duties. Early
on 28th May ships were ordered to return to Sheerness forthwith
and land surplas crew not required for embarking troops.
I had previously issued a memorandum on the steps to be
taken if ships were used as troop carriers so that ships were
ready with the necessary organisation and special arrangements.
Later only two ships were stated to be required and I
detailed "Royal Eagle" and "Crested Eagle" and myself decided to
go to the "Royal Eagle".
Ships sailed from Sheerness at 1400 and were ordered to
proceed to the Downs. On arrival at the Downs I reported the
arrival of both ships to the Vice Admiral, Dover and also
endeavoured to find out from every ship visible in the Downs if
there were any orders for me. There were a number of troopers and
hospital ships present so I put ships to short notice for steam
and anchored for the night. There was considerable activity amongst
the transports during the early morning so that I again asked for
instructions and was then told to proceed to Dunkirk by route "y"
(Goodwin to West Hinder). I stationed "Crested Eagle" astern and
proceeded at 1030 high speed. On approaching the Belgian Coast
I noticed a few rounds from Shore Batteries falling round ships
ahead of me but the firing was not at all intense. On approaching
Dunkirk I saw a large number of men on the-beaches as far as La
Panne so not being able to get any instructions from anyone
proceeded to the spot where British Troops appeared thickest and
anchored at about 1530 close inshore to embark them. I sent
"Crested Eagle" to Dunkirk as I felt that on account of my original
re-appeared and anchored about 2 miles East of me and contenced
instructions ships might have been wanted there - however she soon
embarking troops. At about 1630 German planes were sighted and
bombing attack on ships and beaches. The "Royal Eagle" was only
"Royal Eagle" opened a heavy fire - the plane carried out a high
hit but a Drifter near was set on fire and HaMaSa
proceeded her own steam. A number of casualties occurred
"Greyhound" by splinters appeared to receive severe damage - although she later
the crews Lieutenant of H.M.S. "Sandown" who hours WEB a
to boats under and soldiers and were taken in board - amongst in them
volunteer Paymaster and I regret to say died some noticed later.
Although boats crew explosive bomba were used on ships the I line of a
beach. of what appeared proceeded slowly chiefly ow!ng to the for the
line only high to be incendiary bombs along lack of the
power Embarkation and the fact that few seamen were available
boats which boats were left with an insufficient Military crew.

Details

436
was stold that they found they could
the water 2 that she must be beached
turned the vessel interwards the Conspirate We
r grounded her on Sandwrih Flats are
We then received a signal Lr to return off Dea
the Solvage Officer Commander Laloe.
received instructions about
Dunturity by signal Laloe com
board Informed him we should like
the Dynams before leaving. He agreed r.sen
messays to that effect to V.A.D 2 whilst Loe
anchor he would proced to the Prague by
boar this would now be about 5.40 pm On
returns the Solvage Officer we reported the
appeared satisfactory breathe engeneer cruld
make a very good eacam on accounty the steam
H Commandes Laloe then told me that we should
to tow the Prague further in share r that he in
so on shore to report. ar 8. 15.PM we have
anchor V got fast to the Prague V towed 9.
in shore East of Sandown Castte as
about 9. 30 Rm we anchored the tuy for furt
sunday 2nd Hove anchor, Y. 45. am.. r sport telp
instructions from Salvage Officer.
Lr Cormandes Laloe up who was required on the
ashare V who was on the Dapper... We wental sign
of Dopper brought sahage Officer off the boxt,
station when he was londed by motor the
8.45 am Ireceived from
Officer to return Drues r
his as 10.15.am.. Toohs on board Coal,
overhauled Dynamo.
yo
yours forthjs
K.H.M.
Signed Tuesday Jeene

Details

149
147
14536
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 26
Operation "DYNAMO" - arrative of Events,
1/6
Saturday 1st June (continued).
Personnel vessel PRAGUE attacked by enemy aircraft
when on return from Dunkirk in position 2 miles 315° from V.
Buoy loaded with troops. She was eventually taken in tow and
beached in the Downs opposite Sandown Castle.
Destroyer HAVANT attacked by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk, hit by bombs and sank.
Personnel vessel SCOTIA attacked by aircraft on way
back from Dunkirk loaded with troops, Ship sank but crew and
troops mostly picked up, the majority being taken by the ESK.
Gunboat MOSQUITO attacked by enemy aircraft at about
1200 and sunk.
Trawler WESTWARD HO. Slight damage by near misses
from aircraft.
Destroyer WORCESTER at 1630 - 1700 damaged by enemy
bombing attack on leaving Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dover under
own steam.
Corvette KINGFISHER damaged by enemy bombing attack
and rendered unseaworthy in rough weather.
Minesweeper SANDOWN damaged by shell fire in boiler
room.
Destroyer IVANHOE damaged by aircraft bombing attack.
Taken in tow and proceeded to Sheerness.
Destroyer VIVACIOUS damaged by aircraft bombing attack
returned to Dover under own steam.
Bearing
Personnel vessel MONA'S ISLE. On way to Dunkirk
straddled by enemy shore batteries at No.5 Buoy and subsequent-
ly attacked by dive bombers - all near misses. Ship proceeded
to Dunkirk - embarked troops. Advised by Senior Naval Officer,
Dunkirk, to wait until high water as ship was fully loaded and
returned at 0400, arriving Dover on June 2nd at 0150. Ship
was found to be making water in No.2 stokehold and steam pipes
to be leaking.
F.A.A. Training Yacht GRIVE after leaving Dunkirk,
was blown up by a mine.
Minesweeper SKIPJACK was off La Panne engaged in
embarking troops. Continuous air attacks were made on the ship
from 0530. No fighters were seen except for about 5 minutes.
250 - 300 troops had been embarked by 0845 when ship was hit
several times. Orders were given to abandon ship and within
about 2 minutes she turned turtle. Most of the troops were
lost, having been put below. Those in the water were machine-
gunned.
Destroyer BASILISK was embarking troops off La Panne
and

Details

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

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

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

Details

Dynam 208.
B22/1111
CONFIDENTIAL
236
237
FROM: COMMANDING OFFICER, H.M.S. "BRIGHTON BELLE".
238
0
DATE: 28th May 1940.
39
TO : SENIOR OFFICER, 10TH M/S FLOTILLA.
BRIGHTON Bei
LOSS OF H.M.S. "BRIGHTON BELIE"
56
I regret to inform you that H,M.S. "Brighton Belle"
sank at 1300 on 28th May 1940 in a position South of the Gull
Buoy off Ramsgate as a result of damage caused by stricking
a submerged object 3 cables 183° from the Gull Buoy at 1230.
The ship was taken in tow by an Examination Tug after
the troops had been transferred to other vessels but the effort
to save her was futile
"Brighton Belle" was returning from the French Coast
in your company and had on board approximately 350 officers and
men from the British Army evacuated earlier in the day.
At the time of the accident I was closing Ramsgate for
orders re disembarkation of the troops, and as an air attack was
like
in progress was concerned about the number of army people about
the upper deck. This caused relaxation on my part in the conning
of the ship, the loss of which I can only state was due to an
error of judgement.
Pame
There were no casualties.
LIEUT. R.N.V.R.
I.
H.M.S. "SANDOWN. "
4/6/40.
y
VICE ADMIRAL DOVER.
Y
Forwar ded.
is
K.m.frees
on
new
VICE ADMIRAL
COMMANDER.
6- JUN 1940
*
relieved
DOVER

Details

Dynams 46.
N°.4.
253
H.M.S. "LYNX".
251
31st May, 1940.
The Commander M/S,
Dover.
ze NAUTILUS
Sir,
I have the honour to make the following report:-
71
At 1700 on Tuesday 28th May H.M.T. "Nautilus" and "Comfort"
left Dover under my directions en route for La Panne.
At 0030 the 29th May in vicinity of Kwinte Bank Buoy we
heard cries for help and "Nautilus" picked up six survivors from
Destroyer "Wakeful" which had been torpedoed. "Comfort" picked up
sixteen, including her Captain.
I instructed "Comfort" to return to Dover and land survivors.
Was unable to transfer any of the survivors to "Comfort" owing to
weather conditions.
"Nautilus" proceeded to La Panne arriving there at 0540.
Closed "Calcutta" and transferred "Wakeful's" survivors to
her.
29/5
"Nautilus" then proceeded closer in shore and started
ferrying soldiers to the H.19 and when she left at noon we ferried
them to H.05 ("Greyhound").
Panne
At 1630 with 150 B.E.F. on board German bombers came along
and in the endeavour to hit "Sandown" and "Greyhound" straddled the
"Nautilus". Although not actually hit the engines and steering
gear of "Nautilus" were put completely out of action and the vessel
began making water rapidly.
"Nautilus" managed to get alongside Destroyer "Greyhound"
and embark troops. In the middle of this the "Greyhound" was
damaged by a bomb and her Captain decided to weigh anchor and proceed
towards Dover.
Decided on consulting Skipper of "Nautilus" and Captain
of "Greyhound" to abandon "Nautilus".
The Skipper poured petrol on C.B's and set them on fire.
He then set his bunk on fire pouring more petrol on same endeavouring
to set "Nautilus" completely on fire, as being a very stoutly built
wooden ship she would not sink.
About ten soldiers were wounded by bombs falling around
"Nautilus" but none fatally. None of the crew were injured.
Two of "Nautilus" crew were left behind as crew of a
large ship's lifeboat which was working in conjunction with a flat
bottomed motor punt.
The "Nautilus" transferred between 700 and 800 B.E.F. to
the two destroyers.
The crew of the "Nautilus" were grand, in particular the us
Skipper, 2nd engineer, and the cook.
(Continued over).

Details

CENTRA
AUG 194
74
CONFIDENTIAL.
c/o OFFICE OF
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING
DOVER.
N.L.
10167
28th August, 1940.
No. 13/12.AB/40
1940
Sir,
Enquiry into Loss of H.M. Danlayer "Nautilus"
in Operation "Dynamo".
With reference to Admiralty Letter N.L. 6245/40 dated
1st August, 1940, be pleased to lay before Their Lordships
the following report resulting from an Enquiry into the
loss of H.M. Danlayer "Nautilus" on 29th May, 1940.
2.- Acting Skipper R. MacLean, R.N.R. the senior surviving
officer who was in command of the vessel was examined on
28th August, 1940.
3.- Whilst going alongside "Greyhound" during heavy
bombing attack to transfer soldiers an explosion from a
near miss about 6 feet off caused "Nautilus" to lift out of
the water. Engine was put out of action, steering gear
jambed and ship started making water rapidly.
4.- Soldiers and crew were transferred to "Greyhound"
and by the time this operation was completed she was about
6 feet down in the water and sinking.
Later "Sandown"
fired a few rounds to ensure her sinking as soon as possible
and to clear the fairway.
5.- S.P's and confidential matter on board were destroyed by
fire. In this connection I would like to draw attention
to the very commendable action taken by Skipper MacLean.
After transfer of all personnel to "Greyhound" and when water
had risen nearly to the level of his bunk he remained on
board, and in order to prevent the books sinking in shallow
water he made a pile on his bunk, soaked it in petrol and
set fire to it thus ensuring their destruction.
6.- The loss of this vessel reveals, in the circumstances,
no information of value as to material.
7.- I was assisted in my Enquiry by Lieutenant Commander
(E) Weston Smith, R.N.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
aBedford
VICE ADMIRAL.
The Secretary
of the Admiralty,
Whitehall, S.W.1.

Details

-
80
CONFIDENTIAL.
N.L.
10932
No.16/15.AB/40
Harwich.
1940
3rd September, 1940.
Sir,
Enquiry into the loss of .Paddle Minesweeper
"BRIGHTON BELLE" in operation "Dynamo".
With reference to Admiralty Letter N.L. 6245/40 dated bst
August, 1940, be pleased to lay before Their Lordships the following
report resulting from an Enquiry into the loss of .Paddle Minesweeper
"BRIGHTON BELLE" on the 28th May, 1940:-
2.
Temporary Acting Lieutenant Commander L.K.Perrin, R.N.V.R.
who was in command of "BRIGHTON BELLE" was examined on 3rd September, 1940.
3.
At about 1300 on 28th May, the ship with about 350 troops
on board was closing the Examination Vessel off Ramsgate for instructions
when the Commanding Officer saw ahead what he thought to be shoal water
or a submerged object and as he had been previously warned that there were
in this vicinity two or three uncharted wrecks, he stopped engines
immediately, ordered full speed astern, and as the ship was nearly stopped
the stern struck a submerged object and the after part of the ship flooded
rapidly.
4.
About 7 minutes later the engine room bulkend gave and the
engine room was flooded. Engines were stopped and all troops and crew
were transferred to "SANDOWN" and other craft. "SANDOWN" took "BRIGHTON
BELLE" in towbut had not proceeded more than about a quarter of a mile when the
tow was cut off and the latter ship sank in 3 to 4 fathoms, the Commanding
Officer, First Lieutenant and two men being picked up by "SANDOWN".
5.
At the time the ship was holed aft there was an air battle
in progress and bombs were-dropping all around her though none fell near
enough to cause any damage. The ship was zigzagging before engines were
stopped and her stern was still swinging when she was damaged.
6.
There is no evidence of any explosion and it seems almost
certain that the loss of this ship was due to damage caused by striking
a submerged object.
7.
All loose Books and Charts were brought ashore but Books in
the Steel Chest went down in the ship.
8.
I was assisted in my Enquiry by Commander H.J.Cubison, D.S.C.,
R.N. and Lieutenant Commander (E) W.G.H.Nicholson, R.N.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
seening (above) 1's 6246/40 for report
aBeatorg VICE ADMIRAL.
The Secretary
of the Admiralty.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 26
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Saturday 1st June (continued).
Personnel vessel PRAGUE attacked by enemy aircraft
when on return from Dunkirk in position 2 miles 315° from V.
Buoy loaded with troops. She was eventually taken in tow and
beached in the Downs opposite Sandown Castle.
Destroyer HAVANT attacked by enemy aircraft off
Dunkirk, hit by bombs and sank.
Personnel vessel SCOTIA attacked by aircraft on way
back from Dunkirk loaded with troops. Ship sank but crew and
troops mostly picked up, the majority being taken by the ESK.
Gunboat MOSQUITO attacked by enemy aircraft at about
1200 and sunk.
Trawler WESTWARD HO. Slight damage by near misses
from aircraft.
Destroyer WORCESTER at 1630 - 1700 damaged by enemy
bombing attack on leaving Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dover under
own steam.
Corvette KINGFISHER damaged by enemy bombing attack
and rendered unseaworthy in rough weather.
Minesweeper SANDOWN damaged by shell fire in boiler
room.
Destroyer IVANHOE damaged by aircraft bombing attack.
Taken in tow and proceeded to Sheerness.
Destroyer VIVACIOUS damaged by aircraft bombing attack
returned to Dover under own steam.
Personnel vessel MONA'S ISLE. On way to Dunkirk
straddled by enemy shore batteries at No.5 Buoy and subsequent-
ly attacked by dive bombers - all near misses, Ship proceeded
to Dunkirk - embarked troops. Advised by Senior Naval Officer,
Dunkirk, to wait until high water as ship was fully loaded and
returned at 0400, arriving Dover on June 2nd at 0150. Ship
was found to be making water in No.2 stokehold and steam pipes
to be leaking.
F.A.A. Training Yacht GRIVE after leaving Dunkirk,
was blown up by a mine.
Minesweeper SKIPJACK was off La Panne engaged in
embarking troops. Continuous air attacks were made on the ship
from 0530. No fighters were seen except for about 5 minutes.
250 - 300 troops had been embarked by 0845 when ship was hit
several times. Orders were given to abandon ship and within
about 2 minutes she turned turtle. Most of the troops were
lost, having been put below. Those in the water were machine-
gunned.
Destroyer BASILISK was embarking troops off La Panne
and/
daylight/

Details

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

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

(1952) Wt. 20906/9711 40M 8/89 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671
Case 6801
Voll
Register No.
Minute Sheet No.
RECOMMENDATIONS OF OFFICERS FOR SERVICES IN CONNECTION
WITH THE EVACUATION OF THE ALLIED FORCES FROM DUNKERQUE.
The Honours and Awards Committee met this morning
to consider on receipt the attached recommendations from th
Flag Officer Commanding, Dover, for immediate recognition
for services in the evacuation of the Allied Armies from
Dunkerque, and submit the following Awards as appropriate
for publication in the London Gazette as soon as approved.
The Committee suggest that the Gazette notice should make
it quite clear that this is only a short preliminary list
of Awards for this operation, and that further recognition
will be awarded and published as soon as possible.
Knight Commander of the Bath,
(Military)
Vice-Admiral Bertram Home Ramsay, M.V.O.,
Flag Officer Commanding, Dover.
Companion of the Bath,
(Military)
Rear-Admiral William Frederick Wake-Walker, O.B.E.,
Captain William George Tennant, M.V.O., R.N.
Captain Michael Maynard Denny, R.N.
(Captain Denny's Honour would be Gazetted
as for distinguished service as Senior
Naval Officer at Andaalsnes, as well as
for his work on the evacuation).
Distinguished Service Order
Commander Guy Oakley Maund, R.N. (Retired)
Commander Renfrew Gotto, R.N.
X
Commander Villiers Nicholas Surtees, R.N.
X
Captain Thomas Edgar Halsey, R.N., H.M.S. MALCOLM.
Captain George Frederick Stevens-Guille, D.S.O., O.B.E.,
R.N., H.M.S. CODRINGTON. (Bar).
X
Commander Ralph Lindsay Fisher, R.N., H.M.S. WAKEFUL.
X
Commander John Hamilton Allison, R.N., H.M.S. WORCESTER.
X
Commander Richard Cyril Vesy Ross, R.N., H.M.S. GOSSAMER
X
Acting Commander Kenneth Morland Greig, R.N. (Retired),
H.M.S. SANDOWN.
Commander Brian Dean, R.N. (Retired), H.M.S. SABRE.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

NOT
KOSHLUGH
So.
thom
ЯНИГО
REMARKS
VESSEL
OWNERS
БУМДОКУ
of
Released 1.6.40.
ОТНАЯ
ROSELYNE
Capt. C. Dines
ROSE MARIE
F. Upton
Returned to Owner.
ROYAL THAMES
J. Mears
Returned to Owner.
RUMMY II
A.G. Smith
A.P.S
A.E. Rylend
Re-allocated to A.P.B.
RYEGATE II
P.G. Broom
Returned to Owner.
RAPID
RUBY
J.F. Caine
Prepared for Dynamo but did not go.
of
ton
ROSABELLE
J.C. Wood
No trace of return from Dynamo.
ROSE LN.19
A. Large
Returned to Owner 7.6.40.
G. Alexander 82.2
Returned to Owner.
SANDOWN
SCARBOROUGH
FISHING VESSELS vessels,
Prepared but did not go.
SEAGULL LN 203 C. Loose
Returned to Owner 7.6.40. 10
ST. DENIS
P.C. Allen
Vessel did not go.
ST. PATRICK
W.B. Thompson
T.98. No report received from List
of Missing Vessels.
SALLY FORTH
Dr. Purvis
Returned to Owner.
CUAM
SALVAGE LAUNCH RIZDON BEASLEY
Released
1.6.40.
SANTOSY 74B
L. Odell
T.98. No report received from List
of Missing Vessels.
SATYR
C.H. Masters
T.98. Returned to Owner.
SCENE SHIFTER
B.E. Longman
T.98. No report received from List
of Missing Vessels.
Jon
SCHEDAR
Wood
Re-allocated to
SEA FALCON
W.H. Elce
Abandoned Dover and Littlehampton
Lists.
SEA FOAM
W.T. Cayton
Returned to Owner.
SEAGULL
E.G. King
Returned to Owner 18.6.
SEA HAWK
Mr. May
Returned to Owner.
SEA ROAMER
Mr. Wheatley
Re-allocated to .P.S.
SEASALTER
(Seasalter & Ham
Returned to Owner.
(Cyster Fishing Co.
SEASCHOOL
Shipping Federation
Did not go.
SEASWALLOW
Capt. R. Drake
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SEYMOUR CASTLE
R. Dart Steam Boat Co.
Returned to Owners 19/6-
A. Barrel
Abandoned off Dunkirk.
SHAMROCK
Mr. Peters
Returned to Owner - damaged.
SHANNON
H.J. Davis
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SHELDRAKE
SHUNESTA
Per Crouch Eng. Co.
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SILVER FOAM
W.T. Ceyton
Returned to owner 18.6.
SILVER SPRAY
J. Collet
T.98. Returned to Owner 19.6.
SILVERY BREEZE
A. Verley
A.P.S.
SINBAD II
H.W. Hare
Returned to Owner.
SILVER SPRAY
LI.230 W.A. Begless
Returned to Owner.
SKYLARK II
SM.281 F.T. Collins
Presumed lost.
SARAH & EMILY J. Todd
No report received from List of
Missing Vessels.
SUCCESS (WY.12) M. Leadley
Prepared but did not go to Dunkirk.
SINGAPORE I
D.F. Bostock
T.98, A.P.S.
SINGAPORE II+
-do-
T.98. A.P.B.
SKYLARK
Myalls Ltd.
to owners.
SKYLARK (BM. 5)IV F.T. Collins
Special Service (6A).
SKYLARK I
(N.E. Knight and
Re-allocated to Special Admiralty
(We Stephenson
Service (6A).
SKYLARK III BM. F.T. Collins
Reported lost per Fishery Office
391
No confirmation.
SKYLARK II
Myalls Ltd.
Returned to owners.
SKYLARK III
W.F. Coisan
T.98. No information of release
from Dynamo.

Details

SECRET
Dynam 130.
I
12
Subject ** Report on Operations in connection with the
evacuation of the B.E.F. from the Dunkirk area.
From
** The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Calcutta".
Date
** 6th June 1940.
No. 061/28
To
** The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copies to:- The Commander in Chief, Nore.
The Plag Officer, 20th Cruiser Squadren
The following report on the minor part played
by H.M.S. "Caloutta" in the evacuation of the 3.2.7. from
the Dunkirk area is submitted.
2.
In view of the vast number of reports which you
will receive, It has been made as orief as possible in the
form of & chronological time table of events with covering
remarks at the and.
Monday 27th May
2310
Sailed from Trinity Bay, The Downs for La Panne.
Tuesday 28th May
0115
Loud explosion about 5 cables on starboard bean
probably from torpedo fired by etherty submarine
or N.T.B.
0125
Torpedo track crossing from part to starboard
missed ship about 100 yards astern.
0135
N.T.B. heard and vaguely sighted bearing Green 60°.
Ship manosuvred under large haim, No subsequent
torpedo tracks or explosions seen or heard.
0248
Anchored in position 005 La Panne, air light, 310
Motor Cutter and both whalers sent in to beach
to commence evacuation into paddle about
mine sweepers "Sandown" and *Gracio Fields" who
were much closer inshore. "Grafton" "Greyhound"
and "Impulsive" also avacuating from this beach.
0500
Opened fire on one Heinkel.
0523
Opened fire on one J U 39,
0615
Impulsive ordered to proceed to Dunistrk and go
alongside East pier.
0621
Opened fire on 3 Heikals,
0625
Evacuation of beach completed. "Grafton" and
"Grayhound" proceeded. Padale Minesweepers
"Sandown" and "Gracia Halds* ordered alongside
to disembark their 700 troops into "Calcutis".
0641
Opened fire on 1 Heinkel.
0715
Weighed and proceeded to Shearness,
1315
Arrived Shearness, disembarked 700 troops and
completed with all fual and provisions.
1710
Slipped from buoy and proceeded to La Panne.
2157
Ancijored in position 0145° La Panne Air Light 2ª
Boats sent in to the same beach as had been used
previously. Heavy surf running and conditions
for embarking troops extremely difficult. Only
one Schoot to assist in embarkation of about 70
wounded,
Wednesday 29th May

Details

SECRET
Dynam. 130.
B14/0/1179
9
-
12
Subject .. Report on Operations in connection with the
evacuation of the B.E.F. from the Dunkirk area.
From
.. The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Calcutta".
Date
** 6th June 1940.
No. 061/28
To
.. The Vice-Admiral, Dover.
(Copies to:- The Commander in Chief, Nore.
The Flag Officer, 20th Cruiser Squadron
The following report on the minor part played
by H.M.S. "Calcutta" in the evacuation of the B.E.F. from
the Dunkirk area is submitted.
2.
In view of the vast number of reports which you
will receive, it has been made as brief as possible in the
form of a chronological time table of events with covering
remarks at the end.
Monday 27th May
23L0
Sailed from Trinity Bay, The Downs for La Panne.
Tuesday 28th May
0115
Loud explosion about 5 cables on starboard beam
probably from torpedo fired by ehemy submarine
or M.T.B.
0125
Torpedo track crossing from port to starboard
missed ship about 100 yards astern.
0135
M.T.B. heard and vaguely sighted bearing Green 60°.
Ship manoeuvred under large helm. No subsequent
torpedo tracks or explosions seen or heard.
0248
Anchored in position 005° La Panne, air light, 310
Motor Cutter and both whalers sent in to beach
to commence evacuation into paddle aboumer's
mine sweepers "Sandown" and "Gracie Fields" who
were much closer inshore. "Grafton, "Greyhound"
and "Impulsive" also evacuating from. this beach.
0500
Opened fire on one Heinkel.
0523
Opened fire on one J U 88.
0615
Impulsive ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and go
alongside East pier.
0621
Opened fire on 3 Heikels.
0625
Evacuation of beach completed. "Grafton" and
"Greyhound" proceeded. Paddle Minesweepers
"Sandown" and "Gracie Fields" ordered alongside
to disembark their 700 troops into "Calcutta".
0641
Opened fire on 1 Heinkel.
0715
Weighed and proceeded to Sheerness.
1215
Arrived Sheerness, disembarked 700 troops and
completed with oil fuel and provisions.
1710
2157
Anchored in position 01410 La Panne Air Light 2'.6
Slipped from buoy and proceeded to La Panne.
Boats sent in to the same beach as had been used
previously. Heavy surf running and conditions
for embarking troops extremely difficult. Only
one Schoot to assist in embarkation of about 70
wounded.
Wednesday 29th May

Details

Dyscum 259.
170
invistiones arian innon due
THE GENERAL
21.
1624
in an 07 Rub in
M/V S.S. Royal Dover Doffodil
5.6.40
Deliveria 268.
163
.S teeds
163
Sheet 3.
Centred 5NB berete bre Date 0021 before Vd beforet Jessey BBW trog Date dolda these aircraft (estimated to number about half & dozen) out and of the the ship
edd essyov aidt abusger as
Louds continuously directly overhead, and swinging round, height, "Prague"
gainst under helm. Suddenly an aircraft appeared dived on the
TO asw stedt эло anixage off
almost three bombs together while still at 8 considerable and
he aircraft close to the stern of the ship which terrific, was and
Redeasing escaped without coming into effective machine gun swinging range,
t10 essurions Tis Vd of qida bebeesorg ent noqu Hostts toorth 3811
girls
edit
0051
he bombs round fell to starboard. very The force of the explosion water. was the
drive avebto sittw
hip seemed to be actually lifted almost hit it out was of evident the that the ship starboard was very engine badly
VASQUIO mistreD mi "X" STUOT Insident Vd Tribuit of Бебеесот ml, amaged aft. immediately as the shaft was bumping accordance
Although The not stern settled down considerably and the round in the stern
ivitts odt to "erger" tisth ent Drts Vd VISRESSII Texaels his Horm ебва Isven BISW etror very to badly. be stopped The procedure, watertight but doors the force were closed of the at explosion the time the had in after evidently engine made
951aymls TOJUO ent ebiani brta Ilow entt
VINO asw Tetsw woll
Iselo of as 08 vietsibemmi Sextedne
room bulkhead leakage into the engine room through rising water
them considerably and the water rose to the level of the the bulkhead, was
1th wartime distorted, as the ship filled up to maindeck. There
Lisa of убяет reserve agoort to beol Hith ent
but certain the ship's amount pumps of managed to slow down the rate of the to
owt 20 ajroite edt xoof +1 503
a reasonable
amount. casualties to personnel were one fireman missing, in the
NE misss TOT tiel Tewor qlda
doinw tsolis Tile ent t93 of Utit to
The only presumable overboard. Two French soldiers were their also seen direction,
presumed to be small blown naval auxiliaries were seen making in in up to
deetory Isleves Date exitileda to throms
.gida gift по Hostts ON tud vinitoriv
water it is and hoped as that they were picked up, but no reports have come
S twode телям ont mt Jawd 5x8
date. From the time possible of to do on the port engine which several was naval one
the explosion, 1025, the ship was kept going the only ahead
est 10 tisq niedsew gift gools Load
of Бетебто B.SW eda tall daw and no
gide ent Intinevent eatwredge fird Beera
as fast as it was in the vicinity were warned and progressed
left auxiliaries in service, craft to stand by us and the ship slowly and such measures homewards.
EQUOTT Ten bite 8Ad0 JB
asw eldsteblanoo earor
as getting of as many the ship were giving only temporary respite, was still so under
It was evident troops as possible forward to ease the it was
agreed however that the water was gaining, weight on the
algina and of belivary equi 8 20
after part and transfer the troops while the ship "Shikari", and way, a
Isels ST9W .taed agoots e'gine erit ned add 0080 woled поті TST
decided to try little time as possible. Destroyer to obtain came
so as to lose as minesweeper whose names we were unable all except 8
essyov txen 9dt TOT has
sloop and a paddle skilfully managed to transfer possible towards hand the
need snived beesomy of атабтО 2120 120
alongside in turn while and the very ship was steaming as fast as all efforts on
Vd Arburt of bebescoto DNE CCRO
Downs. This the ship being by getting into as shallow water of water. as possible
full of troops completed it was possible to concentrate before we
Brie *tsto Tedjo Httw Vasamoo at
esta абтенно ooro toods moT .erro
saving found ourselves unable was to well control inside the the inflow Downs and the Tag anchor "lady Brassey" in the
svenedw mg HOTE one Brea was niwel 9110
By 1331 Dover the was ship signalled and orders were received the Small to Downs and XX
made Downs. fast. On receipt of these the ship proceeded to
agide. M.H Shoms Devisado SIGNST stew STOM
entered Channel.
edd SHOTOS anittida Total Bres ,The
edT ,nottoents about set antnogged
Having arrived North of at Deal, & the ship was gently beached, an ceased anchor by 1730
the Ramsgate spot alightly North of the ruins of Sandown laid Castle, out
saole Twodman TOJUO odd to este
about and all & mile active participation in the evacuation of Dunkirk
account doney't basamont sendt trode Dool of
June
orig anthool
offt JA absoll mistesh
Of by the the ensuing Admiralty Salvage Officer first thing low next water.
lst. period there is little to say except that morning the ship and the was
trotem taety enT exoria office VOUE.
SAW qtris out self W.d.om 20
boarded ship examined as thoroughly as possible the next
To two beased OW , Idde and SERVES
Tetts bre most the 9,50 m
attaogge 9113 no BU agive
SAW megativent daed text valid
Ln Teritons "V" Voul Deswement
Vd partego BBW exts abrawor evself etwar .bagoleves

Details

Details

468
Margate
TUESDAY. 28TH MAY, 1940.
1430. "SANDOWN"
201.
1530.
"GRACIE FIELDS".
281.
-
Total.
482.
I

Details

454
COPY.
Rescue Tug "LADY BRASSEY".
Saturday, 1st June, 1940.
Sir,
I, Frederick John Hopgood, was in charge of the tug
"LADY BRASSEY" when at 10.40 Selle Lt.-Commander Laloe WAS
put on board the Hospital ship "ST. DAVID" lying at anchor
off the detached Mole with engine trouble. He then told me
to 80 back into harbour and see if S.S. "ROEBUCK" lying at
the Admiralty Pier was ready to be assisted off. We had
just left the Hospital ship about 11.30 SeMe when we
received instructions from the examination steamer to proceed
to the assistance of Transport "PRAGUS", "SALAMANDER" and
"IVANHOE" and to instruct Salvage vessel "FORDE" to proceed
that was lying at anchor in the Downs. We left Dover about
noon and spoke the "FORDE" off Deal about 1 p.m. and
proceeded on course when nearing the Fork buoy I could see a
craft that appeared to be the "PRAGUE" off the N. W. Goodwin
buoy. I spoke the Master who requested me to make fast, and
also what was his position. I told him he was close to the
Fork buoy. We got fast at 1.20 p.m. and towing at 1.30 p.m.
About 1.45 Dalla we eased towing for the pilot to get on board.
I had asked the Master if he could hold the water in the ship
and replied yes, and draught 25 feet. We then proceeded
on passage to Dover. When nearing the Port we received
instructions to anchor "PRAGUE" in the Downs at about 2.30 p.m.
We turned around and proceeded back to the Downs. During
this time the En ineer reported Dynamo trouble. Whilst
passing through the Downs and off Walmer we were hailed that
we had better take the ship to anchor in Ramsgate Channel
and on closing Ramagate channel we were told to ground the
vessel. I then hailed them asking why they wished to beach
the vessel and was told that they found they could not hold
the water and that she must be beached. We then turned the
vessel in towards the Conspicuous House and grounded her on
Sandwich Flats at 11.30 Date We then received a signal to
return off Deal for the Salvage Officer Lt. Commander Laloe.
We then received instructions about proceeding to Dunkirk
by signal. Lt. Commander Laloe came on board and I
informed him we should like to inspect the Dynamo before
leaving. He agreed and sent a message to that effect to
V.A.D. and whilst we were at anchor he would proceed to the
"PRAGUE" by motor boat this would now be about 5.40 p.m.
On the return of the Salvage Officer we reported the
Dynamo appeared satisfactory, but the engineer could not make
a very good exam on account of the steam. Lt. Commander
Laloe then told me that we should have to tow the "PRAGUE"
further in shore and that he would go on shore to report.
At 8.15 Dalla we have up anchor and got fast to the "PRAGUE"
and towed her in shore Sast of Sandown Castle at 9 p.m.
About 9.30 Dame we anchored the tug for further instructions
from Salvage Officer.
Sunday, 2nd. Hove up anchor 7.45 a.m. and spoke to
Lt. Commander Laloe who was required on the telephone ashore
and who was on the Dapper. We went alongside of Dapper and
Brought Salvage Officer off the signal station when he was
landed by Motor Boat. At 8.45 n.m. I received instructions
from the Salvage Officers to return Dover and arrived along-
side the Pier at 10.15 Bettle Took on board coal, and
engineer overhauled Dynamo.
Yours faithfully,
(SGD.) F. J. HOPGOOD.
To K.H.M.
Master.
Signed Tuesday, 11th June.

Details

Dynoms 360
-
285
FROM:- SENIOR OFFICER 10th M/S. PLOTILLA.
DATE:- 21st JUNE 1940.
TO :- VICE ADMIRAL DOVER.
Following recommendations for decorations and mentions in
dispatches during Dunkirk evacuation are submitted.
General deportment of the officers and drews under heavy
shelling and bombing was splendid, and it has been difficult to
make selections.
(1) Lieut. Richard Ronald Hamilton Faw,R.N.V.R. (Temp.).
This officer was in charge of boats on the basches, and
carried out his duties in a splendid nanner.
He was left 34 hours at Bray owning to "Sandown" leaving,
and was largely responsible for picking up "Xeith's" and "Shipjack's"
survivors.
Strongly recommended for & decoration.
(2) Ideut.William Herbert St.Johm Wallis,R.N.V.R. (Temp.)
This officer is first lieutenant of "Sandown", and carried out
his duties in a most efficient manner, under very trying circumstances.
"Sandown" on one trip carried 900 troops and equipment,
which would only have been possible by the most careful disposition
of troops, which Lieut. Wallis was responsible for.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.
(3) Eng. Sub.Lt.George William Alfred Neal,R.N.V.R. (T.124)
Chief Engineer of "Sandown". This officer was in engine room
all the time troops were being carried, and the extra speed obtained
on the return trips is largely attributed to his devotion to duty
and efficiancy.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.
(4) Surgeon Lieut. William Macrarlane Davidison, Royal Navy.
This medical officer displayed great seal and devotion
to duty caring for the wounded under heavy bombing and shelling
throughtout operations.
strongly recommended for & decoration.

Details

2862
PAGE I I.
(5) Eng. Sub Lt. Cyril Collop,R.N.V.R. (T.124)
SECOND Engineer of "Sandown". This officer was of great
assistance in keeping the motor boats engines running.He was
frequently away under heavy bombing and gunfire, and gave other
vessels' motor boats assistance with their engines.
(8) Able Recommended for a mention in dispatches.
CREW.
(1) Chief Petty Officer (Pensioner) Ivan Stanley Millard P/J 41361.
This Chief Petty Officer8s untiring efforts were largely
responsible for the safe landing of troops. His general cheerful
conduct and efficiency was & splendid example to the ship's company.
Strongly recomended for a decoration.
(2) Ldg.Tel. (Pensioner) Frank Villiam Hargreaves 23818 R.P.R. (B).
His excellent work in charge of flotilla vireless was of
great assistance during operations. in
(8) Patte He operated two Bren guns outside V/t office whenever possibl e
and was largely responsible for bringing down a Heinkel off Bray.
I personally saw two direct hits from his firing.
Strongly recommended for & decoration.
(3) Off. Steward Frank Barter 1184,
This steward is a trained Lewis gunner and manned the after
twin Lewis guns constantly during evacuation operations.
His excellent marksmanship and alertness are considered to
have destroyed one German bomber.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.
(4) Able Seaman (Fensioner) George Afford P/J 154730.
This able saaman was an inspiration to the younger men in
the example he set as a member of the gun's crews, and also in berthing
boats during heavy gunrire.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.

Details

287
Page III.
(5) Fireman John Richardson. 2 #24.
This fireman was always first to volunteer for any extra
assistance with the boats and gun drews, and proved himself most
reliable and courageous under gunfire.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.
(6) Able Seamen William Waller Sinclair R.N.R. (H.O.)
This able seaman displayed great dourage and seammship
in boats from La Panne beach,during which he vas severely wounded by
bombing and discharged to Hosiptal.
Strongly recommended for & decoration.
(7) Ship's Cook Oliver Arthur Swalton Dodd 2 124.
This rating was invaluable in supplying troops with beverages
and food on embarkation, and also proved himself a first class Lewis
gun marksman.
Strongly recommended for at sention in dispatches.
(8) Petty Officer Alfred John Knight P/J 103498
Tas at the wheel as coxswain during all operations and
displayed great courage and efficiency under gunfire.
Strongly recommended for a mention in dispatches.
(9) Able Seaman Robin George Hughes P/JX 149852.
This able seaman displayed great courage whilst may in
boats during heavy bombing at La Panne and Dray.
Strongly recommended for mention in dispatches.
(10) Fireman Richard Hilton * 124
This fireman volunteered in the boats when off duty below
and displayed untiring Zeal and devotion to duty.
Strongly recommended for a mention.
(11) Officer's Steward Alfred John Colman Turner T124
This steward was a volunteer in the boats ,and did
excellent work.When the boat be was in was sunk by banbing,he was ashore
24 hours at Bray,and then joined "Sandown" at Ramagate in a small
motor boat he helped work over.
Strongly recommended for a mention.

Details

MONDAY, 27TH MAY
CHAP. IV
meantime at 2025, the Vice-Admiral, Dover, received another signal sent only
a few minutes later :
" Port continuously bombed all day and on fire. Embarkation possible only
from beaches east of harbour A.B.C.D.¹ Send all ships and passenger ships
there to anchor. Am ordering Wolfhound to load there and sail. T.O.O.2005."
To the Vice-Admiral, Dover, the situation must have appeared critical
when, later that evening, he received a report from two military officers from
G.H.Q., that the plight of the B.E.F. was precarious and that the enemy might,
indeed, succeed in cutting it off from Dunkirk.²
All ships diverted to the beaches
Such was the grim picture presenting itself to the Vice-Admiral, Dover, that
night - the B.E.F. in grave and very real danger of being cut off altogether from
Dunkirk, and possibly only a bare 24 hours available for its evacuation. Admiral
Ramsay reacted to these dire tidings with characteristic drive and energy,
and a period of intense activity ensued. Every effort was concentrated on
sending as many craft as possible to the beaches without delay². Order
followed order in rapid succession. Personnel ships were diverted to the
beach, code letters A, B, C and D (i.e. Malo beach). Four paddle minesweepers³
were sailed from the Downs to La Panne beach. Destroyers were rushed to the
beaches and urged to embark as many British troops as possible, as this was
the last chance of saving them "; the Gallant, and Vivacious, then on patrol,
the Windsor, Vimy, Anthony, Impulsive, Sabre and the cruiser Calcutta, were
all ordered to proceed with the utmost despatch to the beach at Malo-les-Bains
and the beach at Zuydcoote, just east of it; the Grafton and Greyhound, on
patrol between Fairy Bank and Kwint Bank buoys, and the Wakeful, just
arrived at Dover from Plymouth, were hurried to the beach at La Panne.
The wording of some of the signals4 conveying these orders reflects the
desperation felt that night, a desperation which, in spite of the course of sub-
sequent events, was at the time only too well-founded. " Had the situation
appeared less critical," observes Admiral Ramsay, an organised flow of large
and small craft, working in reliefs, would have been arranged."⁵
Yet a further batch of vessels arrived off the beaches that evening; the
17 available flare-burning drifters of the Dover Auxiliary Patrol⁶ had sailed
for Dunkirk during the afternoon, and on arriving were diverted to the beaches
by the Wolfhound, in accordance with a signal from the Vice-Admiral, Dover⁷,
and anchored close inshore. The boats from the Wolfhound and Wolsey, and
I These letters refer to an arrangement, whereby at the commencement of Dynamo'
the Dunkirk beaches were described by a letter code referring to Map G.S.G.S. 4040,
Sheet 29, 1/50,000. The lengths of beach lying in each 1000 metre map square were
lettered, west to east, commencing with "A" at square 2686 in sequence to "0" at
square 3990. (Appx. N. 10). Under this arrangement, A.B.C.D. actually refers to the
beach at Malo-les-Bains.
This arrangement appears to have fallen into disuse on and after 29th May, when the
stretch of beach, one mile east of Dunkirk to one mile east of La Panne, was divided into
3 equal parts, referred to as La Panne, Bray and Malo, from east to west, with a mile gap
between each part. (Appendix O. 11).
2 D.R. page 3, para. 8.
3
The Sandown, Medway Queen, Brighton Belle and Gracie Fields.
4 See Appendices D. 3, D. 4, D. 5, D. 7, and D. 8.
5 D.R., p.3, para. 38.
6 They were the Netsukis, Lord Howard, Lord Howe, Golden Sunbeam, Midas, Golden
Gift, Girl Pamela, Paxton, Boy Roy, Eileen Emma, Girl Gladys, Forecast, Ut Prosim, York-
shire Lass, Young Mun, Shipmates and Torbay II.
7 Appendix D.6.
23

Details

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

Details

TUESDAY, 28TH MAY
CHAP. V
Boy Roy and Paxton damaged and beached
At 1215 German fighters in strength were encountered by our fighter patrols;
during the rest of the day there was no further air fighting¹, but the mine-
sweeper Sandown was bombed off the Gull Light buoy at 1230, and Bray beach
was bombed at 1420². In an air raid off Dunkirk channel at about 1800, the
prifters Boy Roy and Paxton were damaged by near misses and had to be
beached; there were, however, no casualties.
Difficulty of synchronising arrival of ships with flow of troops
Meanwhile, at 0935, 2,000 troops were on Malo beach and 7,000 more were
on the sand dunes, waiting anxiously for ships to come³. An hour after mid-
day, 6,000 troops were reported to be on Bray beach, 7 miles east of Dunkirk
pier, and 4 minesweepers were sailed from the Downs to embark them. When
they arrived at 2130, however, conditions had changed, and three of them,
the Salamander, Fitzroy and Skipjack, went to La Panne ; the fourth, the
Sutton, went to the beach at Zuydcoote 4 miles east of Dunkirk4. Throughout
the whole operation it was never found possible to adjust the arrival of ships,
either at Dunkirk or opposite the beaches, to synchronise with the ebb and
flow of troop concentrations.
Shortage of drinking water.
At this time the troops were sorely in need of drinking water; joint naval⁵
and military measures were taken to provide it in tanks and cans, and ships
off the beaches were directed to do what they could from their own resources.
There was, however, inevitably some delay before all requirements could be
met, and as late as the 30th May no water or food had yet reached Malo beach⁶.
Brighton Belle sunk
Meanwhile, at 1230, the Brighton Belle, returning to Ramsgate with the 350
troops she had picked up from the beach at Zuydcoote, struck a submerged
wreck off the Gull Light buoy during an air attack and sank. All the crew
and troops were transferred to the Sandown, Medway Queen, and Yser. Pay-
master Sub.-Lieut. W. J. Butler, R.N.V.R., of the Sandown was killed and
2 ratings were wounded.
Shortage of boats
At 1420, when Bray beach was bombed, S.N.O., Dunkirk, ordered some of
the troops there to march to Dunkirk in spite of the congestion in the port.
By 1830, however, there were still several thousand troops at Bray and more
were arriving. At this time the Grafton reported that she was off Bray beach
I R.A.F. Narrative, P. 323.
2 Report by S.N.O. Dunkirk, (R.O. III p. 346).
3 Appendix N.2.
4 It is not always possible to record precisely the beaches off which ships were lying.
The 10-miles stretch of beach had arbitrarily been divided up into 3 sections, Malo, Bray
and La Panne. In the confusion of the times, and particularly in the darkness of the
night, it is not surprising that ships in company sometimes gave different names to the
particular section of beach off which they were lying.
5 The Maid of Orleans had landed 6,000 two-gallon cans of water at Dunkirk on the
26th May. The motor boat Glitter II went over with water for the beaches on the 29th
May and the lighter Seine took 5,000 cans of it ; the Friso and the Mona's Queen also
went over on the 29th with water, but the latter was mined and sunk before she could
unload it.
' Appendix P.1.
31

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VI
and abandoned her.
The Pangbourne slipped the tow, Fields' ship's company
Fields (in approx. position 51° 20' N., took 02° off 05' the E) Gracie reported that she was sinking.
Grenade damaged
the Express (with 500 troops she and embark picked more up Bray beach) entered
Meanwhile, at about the time that had the Jaguar from had left Dunkirk harbour,
so, to berth however, alongside near-missed the previously the Grenade ahead mentioned and astern. second Only air troops. splinters attack took Before place, she could and the do it
Express, but the Grenade was damaged harbour. some casualties. The Express
Express was and had came on board the
thereupon cleared out of the
Greyhound severely damaged, Nautilus sunk
Anthony, which left La Panne for Dover at 1525 with 550 troops, was bombed
The bombing between 1530 and 1600 was widespread¹. The destroyer
at 1555 (and 1645), but the bombs fell wide. Off La Panne, at about 1600,
high level bombing attack was made on the destroyer Greyhound, on the mine- a
sweepers Sutton and Salamander, and on the paddle-minesweeper Sandown.
The Sutton was straddled but no damage was done. In the dive-bomb attack
which followed, however, the Greyhound was severely damaged by 2 near
misses, and had 90 casualties, 20 of which were fatal. The Sp. S/V
Royal Eagle, which was assisting in rescue work, escaped damage, but the
trawler Nautilus, which had already ferried some 600 troops from the beach,
was straddled by bombs and had her engines and steering gear put out of action.
Making water rapidly, she managed to get alongside the Greyhound and transfer
to her the 150 troops she was carrying. The Nautilus, already 6 feet down in
the water and sinking, was then abandoned and set on fire.
The Greyhound limped back to Dover carrying 506 troops, but for 4 hours
of the passage she was in tow of the Polish destroyer Blyskawica which had
been on patrol with the destroyer Vega in the vicinity of the West Hinder buoy.
The Greyhound took no further part in "Dynamo."
Waverley sunk
Meanwhile, at about 1630, the Cyclone left the harbour with 500 troops on
board en route for Dover. Near Kwint Bank buoy she saw the minesweeper
through her bottom, leaving a hole about 6 feet in diameter. Four of the 600
Waverley sinking; a bomb had struck her on the port quarter and passed right
troops she had embarked from La Panne beach were killed and a number
wounded. When the Waverley sank, many of her troops were left swimming or
trying to keep afloat, but the numbers thinned out considerably within 15/20
minutes². Golden The Cyclone picked up 158. About hour later the Sp. S/V
picked up a few more.
Eagle picked up 285 and, guided by a plane, an the tug Java and 2 drifters
Canterbury damaged
1,960 While these air attacks had been going on the had embarked
troops from the east pier. During a brief lull Canterbury in the bombing, at about
hours, 1" From to the the effect vessels that off-shore there came a series of 1545 and 1555
attacks (R.A.F. 2 seem Narrative, to have p.327). begun the at anchorages about 1430 at Bray when and none La Panne of signals, our were aircraft between being were bombed. on the line. These
Report by the Captain of the Waverley.
42

Details

SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE
CHAP. IX
Mascotte to tow the Basilisk, the enemy returned to the attack but made no
hits. The French trawler slipped the tow and moved off to a safer distance.
At noon bombers returned for a third time, diving to about 400 feet.
Smothered by hits and near misses the Basilisk shuddered and heeled to star-
board, righted herself momentarily, but sank in about 3 minutes, settling on
the bottom on an even keel in some 4 fathoms. As soon as she was abandoned
the Whitehall completed her destruction by gunfire and torpedoes.
The Jolie Mascotte picked up 6 officers and 71 ratings, the Whitehall 2 officers
and 52 ratings. Other survivors got away in the motor boat and a whaler.
Second air attack, 0906 : sinking of the Havant
Meanwhile the Havant, after transferring 500 troops from the damaged
Ivanhoe, proceeded down Dunkirk Channel. At 0906, at the western end of
the channel, she was hit by 2 bombs which entered the starboard side of the
engine room killing every one in it. A third bomb dropped 50 yards ahead and
exploded as the Havant passed over it. Out of control and listing to port, the
ship continued to steam ahead towards the sandbanks opposite Dunkirk. The
engine room and No. 2 boiler room were on fire, there was a heavy escape of
steam and all auxiliary machinery was out of action, resulting in a failure of
the electric supply. It was impossible to enter the engine room, but Chief
Stoker M. Gallon, in spite of the fire, let the steam out of the boilers and the
ship was brought up in 4 fathoms by the starboard anchor.
The Saltash and Grive came alongside and the Havant's troops were trans-
ferred during almost continuous bombing. The Saltash took the Havant in
tow, but further concussion from near misses increased considerably the des-
troyer's list to port, so the majority of her ship's company were transferred to
the skoot Aegir. A bomb fell between the Havant and the Saltash followed by
another close to the Havant's port quarter. By 1000 the list had increased and
the decks were almost awash. 'Abandon ship" was ordered, the tow was
slipped and the remainder of the ship's company were transferred to the Aegir.
At 1015 the Havant rolled over and sank. 1 officer and 7 men were killed,
25 wounded.
Third air attack, 1009. Prague damaged
The enemy air attacks had not been confined to ships off the beaches. At
1009 the personnel vessel Prague, which had embarked about 3000 French
troops from Dunkirk harbour, was attacked by dive-bombers between W and V
buoys and suffered severe damage astern from 3 near misses which put the
starboard engine out of action.
The majority of the troops were transferred, whilst the ship continued to go
ahead on the port engine, to the Scimitar, the minesweeper Halcyon and the
paddle minesweeper Queen of Thanet, the later taking on board no less than
1,500 and the Scimitar 376; and at 1331 the tug Lady Brassey took the Prague
in tow to the Downs, where the remaining troops were transferred to the trawlers
Olvina and Lady Philomena. The Prague had ended her service in Operation
' Dynamo", for to save her from sinking she was beached off Sandown Castle,
Deal, at 1730 that day. In three trips, she had taken out from Dunkirk over
6,000 men.
Sinking of the Foudroyant
Before the morning was out yet a fourth destroyer, the French Foudroyant,
was sunk by air attack. The ship had sailed from England at 0800. She
91

Details

CHAPTER XI
THE NIGHT 2ND 3RD JUNE
B.E.F. EVACUATED 2330/2
Plan for the night 2nd-3rd June
During the forenoon of the 2nd June considerable doubt existed at Dover
to the numbers remaining to be evacuated from Dunkirk. Captain Tennant
thought as that about 5,000 British and 30,000 French remained, but it was
estimated at Dover, that in addition to the rearguard of 4,000, (who had been
withdrawn according to plan, from the front line), a further 2,000 British
troops might be found in Dunkirk; while the estimated number of French
troops remaining increased during the forenoon from 25,000 quoted on the
previous evening to figures in the region of 50,000 to 60,000. Admiral Nord
himself estimated the French remaining to number 65,000 of which he hoped
that 30,000 might be evacuated on the night 2nd-3rd and the remaining 35,000,
who were holding the bridgeheads, on the following night.
Major-General Alexander intended that all British troops should be
evacuated by 2400 on 2nd, and Captain Tennant asked for the maximum
number of transports to be sent over. During the forenoon of the 2nd a joint
Naval and Military conference was held at Dover, attended by Rear-Admiral
Wake-Walker who came over from Dunkirk in the early hours, and by Com-
mander J. C. Clouston, Pier Master at the East Pier, to devise a plan to accom-
plish this. The French Admiralty wished daylight evacuation to be resumed,
but Vice-Admiral Ramsay refused to countenance it. The suspension of traffic
in daylight hours had the advantage of enabling all transport resources to
accumulate during the day and to be held available for a massed descent"
upon Dunkirk harbour during the night. By making provision for increased
pier and berthing parties and control of traffic in the harbour channels by
motor boats, it was hoped to berth all craft that were available between the
hours of 2100 on 2nd and 0300 on 3rd.
At 1052 Vice-Admiral Dover made a signal to the destroyers and mine-
sweepers, which practically amounted to a call for volunteers for the night's
work (Appendix T.3) :-
"The final evacuation is staged for tonight, and the Nation looks to the Navy to
see this through.
I want every ship to report as soon as possible whether she is fit to meet the call
which has been made on our courage and endurance".
The replies showed that there was no lack of willing spirit. Ships were fit
and ready", ready and anxious to carry out your orders", ship unfit but
...
officers and ship's company are willing to serve in any capacity : so the replies
came in. Only the paddle minesweeper Medway Queen, which had returned
to Ramsgate three hours earlier on her fifth evacuation trip, was unable to sail
owing to the exhaustion of her crew, and was sent on to Dover where additional
officers and crew were lent from the Sandown, which, like the destroyer Javelin,
was not degaussed and was consequently forbidden to sail.
It was hoped to avoid on this night the situation which occurred on the
previous night, when more ships could have used the pier had they been avail-
able, by working out a programme whereby personnel ships, destroyers, fleet
105

Details

Details

SIGNALS
APPENDIX R
18. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY, S.N.O. C.-IN-C. NORTHERN NAVAL FORCES
GENERAL ALEXANDER, DUNKIRK
My 1609/1 [Appx. R.8] and S.N.O. Dunkirk 1754/1 [Appx. R.11] :
Casualties to shipping are now being caused by heavy artillery. All shipping
has been ordered to withdraw before daylight tomorrow Sunday.
2214/1
19. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY
A.M. 2025/1 [Appx. R.16] paras. (a) to (f), S.N.O. Dunkirk 1754/1 stating
General concurs that evacuation for transports is to cease at 0300 :
Channels to Dunkirk now all under fire of German batteries. New battery came
into action this evening, suspending traffic on only remaining daylight route,
namely X, maintaining heavy barrage, sinking transports Mona's Queen and
Brighton Queen1 and a trawler in the fairway near No. 5 buoy.
French destroyer nearby turned back Royal Daffodil and " Royal Scot' [?Royal
Sovereign]. Eight transports have now been lost and eight disabled. Crews of
others difficult to keep on service.
The above facts coupled with recent naval losses and also military losses by
drowning have convinced me that any attempt to continue evacuation during the
day is unwise. Permission is therefore requested in accordance with A.M. 2021/1
[Appx. R.15] para. (G) to withdraw all forces at 0300 until the following 2329/1 night.
Sunday, 2nd June
20. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to S.N.O. DUNKIRK
Admiralty has directed that evacuation by personnel steamers from Dunkirk
pier shall continue until 0700.
0055/2
21. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER (R) R.A. Dover Straits, S.N.O. Dunkirk
Your 2329/1
(a) Evacuation up to 0700 in accordance with Admiralty telegram 2025/1 to
V.A. Dover, and 2021/1 to R.A. Dover Straits and S.N.O. Dunkirk, is to be
carried out using destroyers only.
(b) Destroyers to be ready to open fire on any batteries.
(c) If further experience shows that the channel is prohibitively dangerous due
to gunfire, evacuation by day is to cease and Admiralty informed immediately.
0115/2
22. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to FORCE K
Evacuation by destroyers is to continue until 0700 from Dunkirk harbour. Trans-
ports are to leave Dunkirk at 0300. Destroyers inform transports. Fire of shore
batteries should be returned.
0125/2
23. Winchelsea to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
Your 0055 and your 1729/1 not passed to S.N.O. Dunkirk.
0416/2
24. S.N.O. DUNKIRK to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER (R) Admiralty, War Office
Your 1609/1/6 [Appendix R.8] not received until 0430. Large proportion naval
personnel evacuated. Estimated approximately 20,000 British and French evacu-
ated, greater (proportion ?) being French.
I No transports were sunk by gunfire on 1st June. The Mona's Queen was sunk
by magnetic mine on 29th May the A.B/V Mona's Isle was straddled by shore
guns on 1st June and sustained some damage. The minesweeper Brighton Queen
was sunk by aircraft on 1st June. The minesweeper Sandown came under fire of
Nieuport guns on 31st May.
185

Details

INDEX
Royal Air Command, 64, 83-4, 4, 88 (evacuated (fired from France), 17, 20, 30,
(attacks 38 all that was asked of them, concentrated 123. at dawn and dusk): 100,
(patrols Stren batteries) ; 99 (patrols on by own ships), 89, 93, 99
Royal Daffodil, 20, 25, 100-1. 29, 54n, 62, 102, 110 (damaged).
110-111, 115; did
Royal Royal Sovereign, 29n, 54n, 64n, 107n, 108-9, 114n, 115, 117.
Eagle, 42, 81,
95 (sunk).
Royally,114n,
Sabre, 23, 27, 44, 47n, 49 (takes across with beach parties), 53, 54n, 55, 62n, 64 (damaged), 86,
97, 101, 107, 114n, 118 (crosses compass damaged).
St. Abbs, 71n, 90 (sunk).
Achilleus, sunk, 93.
St. St. Andrew, Shelled, 18: bombed, 20 ; last trip, 87.
Ste. Bernadette de Lourdes, 107n.
St. Clears, 32, 46.
St. David, damaged, 38, 95.
Ste. Denise Louise, 107n.
St. Fagan, 71n, 88 (sunk).
St. Helier, 20, 25, 64n, 94, 98-9, 108-9.
Ste. Isabelle, 74.
St. Julien, shelled, 17 bombed, 20, 43; crew supplemented, 48n; last trip, 87.
St. Olaves, 107n.
St. Patrick, 75n.
St. Seiriol, 22, 24, 29, 43, 48 (damaged).
Saladin, 44-5 (damaged).
Salamander, 28n, 31, 42, 47, 86 (damaged), 89-90.
Saltash, 91-2.
Sambre, 60.
Sandown, 23n, 27, 31, 42, 105 (forbidden to sail).
Santosy, lost, 117.
Saon, 34n, 110.
Sargasso, 60n, 107n, 108.
Sark, 60.
Saturn, 114n, 118.
S.C.6 (French), 107n.
Sceneshifter, rushed and sunk by French troops, 53.
Schuyts. see skoots.
Scimitar, 20n, 28n, 54n, 55, 62n, 91.
Scotia, 29n, 54n, 83 (in collision), 92 (sunk), 118 (record lift).
Scottish Co-operator, 60.
Sea Falcon, 75n.
Seaplane Tender 243, 71n, 75n, 110 (sunk).
Seaplane Tender 254, 71n.
Seaplane Tender 276, 71n, 110.
Seaplane Tender 291, 71n, 75 (damaged).
Seasalter, 60.
Sea Transport Officials, serve in personnel ships, 48; in Dynamo Room, 74.
Secrecy, effect on supply of small craft, 15.
Seine, 31n, 60, 102.
Sequacity, 19, 28.
Seriola, 71n.
Shamrock, lost, 53.
Sharpshooter, 28n, 54n, 97.
Shearwater, 34, 88, 99.
Sheldvake, 34, 37n, 69 (hunts S/M.), 93.
Shell fire (German) : causes serious interruption to shipping, 19; Route Y under fire, 48;
La Panne beach shelled, 60, 76; interrupts sailings of personal ships, 70; danger of,
magnified at Dover, 98.
Sherfield, 72n, 90.
Shelland, 60.
Shikari, 20n, 28n, 47n, 54n, 55, 97, 102, 107, 114n, 119-20 (in Operation CK), 127.
Shipmates, 23n.
Signalling, see Communications.
Silver Dawn, 32n, 51n.
205

Details

VESSEL
OWNERS
REMARKS
RIVER TOY
G.U.ELKINGTON
OWNER CLAIMS USED AT DUNKIRK
ROSELYNE
Capt.C.Dines
Released 1.6.40
ROSE MARIE
F.Upton
Returned to Owner
ROYAL THAMES
J.Mears
Returned to Owners
RUMMY II
A.G.Smith
A.P.S.
RYEGATE II
A.E.Ryland
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
RAPID
P.G.Broom
Returned to Owners
RUBY
J.F.Caine
Prepared for Dynamo but did
not go.
ROSABELLE
J.C.Wood
No trace of return from Dynamo
ROSE LN.19
A.Large
Returned to Owner 7.6.40
SANDOWN
G.Alexander
Returned to Owner.
SCARBOROUGH FISHING
(9 Vessels)
Prepared but did not go.
VESSELS
SEAGULL LN 203
C.Loose
Returned to Owner 7.6.40.
ST.DENIS
P.C.Allen
Vessel did not go.
ST.PATRICK
W.B.Thompson
T.98 No report received from
List of Missing essels.
SALLY FORTH
Dr.Purvis
Returned to Owners.
SALVAGE LAUNCH
RISDON BEAZLEY
Released 1.6.40
SAMBING
Liogo Janal Boat
Returned to Owners 19/6
SANTOSY 74B
L.Odell
T.98 No report received from
list of Mis sing Vessels.
SATYR
C.H.Masters
T.98 "eturned to Owners
SCENE SHIFTER
S.E.Longman
T.98 No report received from
List of Mising Vessels.
SCHEDAR
E.C.Wood
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
FALCON
W.H.Elce
Abandoned Dover & Littlehampton
Lists.
SEA FOAM
W.T.Cayton
Returned to Owners
SEAGULL
E.G.King
Returned to Owners 18.6.
SEA HAWK
Mr.May
Returned to Owner.
SEA ROAMER
Mr.Wheatley
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SEASALTER
(Seasalter & Ham
Returned to Owners
(Oyster Fishing Co.
SEASCHOOL
Shipping Federation
No information from list of
Missing Yessels. DIDNOTGO To DUNKI
SEASWALLOW
Capt.R.Drake
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SEYMOUR CASTLE
R. Dart Steam Boat Co.
Returned to Owners 19/6
SHAMROCK
A.Barral
Abendoned of f Dunkirk
*
SHANNON
Mr.Peters
Returned to Owner - Damaged.
SHELDRAKE
H.J.Davis
Re-allocatad to A.P.S.
SHUNESTA
Per Crouch Eng.Co.
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SILVER FOAM
W.T. Cayton
Returned to owner 18/6
SILVER SPRAY
J.Collet
T.98 returned to Owners 19/6.
SILVERY BREEZE
A.Verley
A.P.S.
SINBAD II
E.W.Hare
Returned to Owners.
SILVER SPRAY LI.230
W.A.Ragless
Returned to Owner.
SKYLARKVIV SM 281
F.T.Collins
Presumed lost.
SARAH & EMILY
J.Todd
No report received from list
of issing Vessels.
SUCCESS (WY 12)
M.Leadley
Prepared but did not go to
Dunkirk.
SINGAPORE I
F.Bostock
T.98 A.P.S.
S INGAPORE II
do
T.98 A.P.S.
SKYLARK
Myalls Ltd.
Returned to Owners.
SKYLARK (S.M.5) IT
F.T.Collins
Special Service (6A)
SKYLARK I
Knight &
Re-allocated to Special Admy.
(W.Stephenson
Service (6A)
SKYLARK III S.M.391
F.T.Collins
Reported lost per Fishery
Office. No confirmation.
SKYLARK II
Myalls Ltd.
Returned to Owners.
SKYLARK III
W.F.Coisan
T.98 No information of return
SHEILA (Dingay) (TM16-199)
from Dynamo.
Retirned to owner
claim received for low 7gan)

Details

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

Details

Vessel
Repairs. and Replacements. S. d.
Total
L
Type
Claimant
Paper No.
Hire & Exs.
£.
£.
S.
d.
27.
4.
9.
"SKYLARK IV"
F.V.
(S.M.5)
F.P. Collins
Tm4796/40
44.
16.
O.
375.
0.
0.
"SKYLARK VI"
M.V.
J. Bolson & Son
TO 9198/40
17.
0.
O.
25.
0.
0.
"SKYLARK IX"
75.
O.
O.
M.V.
Pascall Atkey & Son
TO 9198/40
2.
3.
9.
D. Hillyard
2.
9.
6.
54.
10.
O.
"SKYLARK X"
M.V.
TO 9154/40
160.
7.
2.
"SEAGULL"
M.B.
C.E. Loose
TM 6099/40
7.
19.
5.
L.N.203
"SOUTHERN QUEEN"
500.
0.
O.
M.B.
C.H. HARVEY
TO 9271/40
5.
13.
6.
"SOUTH RAY"
M.Y.
S. Burch
TM 3790/40
12.
0.
A.G. Bruce
4.
3.
3.
27.
5.
0.
"SPINDRIFT"
A.N. Hewett
TM 3930/40
5.
15.
O.
"STONEHAVEN"
500.
0.
0.
M.V.
W.H. Stonehaven
TO 9181/40
"SURREY"
M.V.
Thomas Bros.
TM 3763/40
11.
4.
8.
5.
O.
0.
219.
0.
"SOUTHEND
P.M.B.
Southend Britannia
TM 3888/40
0.
0.
0.
75.
BRITANNIA"
Co.Ltd.
35.
0.
0.
"SUFFOLK'S ROSE"
M.V.
Jubilee Fish Co.Ltd.
TO 9564/40
29.
1.
0.
Re-allocated to
Special Admiralty
"SILVER SPRAY
M.V.
W.A. Ragless
TM 4924/40
29.
9.
7.
42.
12.
6.
Service.
"SUNSHINE"
R.13
TM 4783/40
203.
10.
A.T. Verrion
0.
"SUE SUE"
row
F.C. Wilson
TM 9567/40
20.
0.
0.
bt.
"SPURGEON"
S.BGE.
H.W. Harvey
TO 9297/40
15.
10.
6.
19.
15.
0.
"SKIPJACK"
M.B.
W.W.Ringer
TM 4749/40
31.
0.
0.
133.
16.
8.
6.
9.
0.
"SOUTHERN QUEEN"
M.B.
G. Mockridge
TM 4776/40
10.
O.
0.
Salvage Diving Tende:
F.E. 154
"SARAH & EMILY"
TM 5093/40
30.
0.
J. Todd
0.
"SEA BELLE"
M.B.
S.G. Odam
TM 5238/40
7.
15.
0.
"SANDOWN"
M.F.B.
G. Alexander
TM 6464/40
3.
4.
0.
24.
O.
O.
3.
12.
11.
"SERB" & "STONE"
S.BGE.
R & W Paul Ltd.
TO 9296/40
49.
11.
5.
Harrison (Lan.) Ltd.
5.
0.
0.
"SALTCOTE BELLE"
S.Bge.
Francis Gilders Ltd.
TO 9300/40
1.
15.
11.
Andrews & Ellis
TO 9303/40
See
"SUNBEAM"
S.Bge.
under
"Leslie"
If
"
TO 9303/40
It
11
"SIDWELL"
S.Bge.
11
.S.S.
Gen. Steam Nav.
TO 4270/40
116.
8.
11.
"SWIFT"
Co. Ltd.
"SHERFIELD"
M.BGE.
J.J. Prior (Transport)
Ltd.,
TO 9423/40
60.
17.
7.
Not completed.
"
If
If
If
30.
6.
"SHAWFORD"
M.BGE
7.
Not completed.

Details

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

Details

DITATE
7,000 pads of 250
LONDON & NORTH EASTERN RAILWAY
B 1152
LONDON DEPARTMENT & NORTH To
144
DEPARTMENT STATION
To
Oit
tod
STATION193
UR REFERENCE
TELEPHONE
YOUR REFERENCE
.0.5°
turn and very skilfully managed to transfer all except a handful of troops
Last at OF STATE STORE THE SECURITY
while the ship was steaming as fast as possible towards the Downs. This
being completed it was possible to concentrate all efforts on saving the
gota
"PRAGUE" by getting into as shallow water as possible before we found
Tew
Id
ourselves unable to control the inflow of water.
of
By 1331 the ship was well inside the Downs and the Tug "LADY BRASSEY"
SOTO? eng that tuo
made fast. Dover was signalled and orders were received to anchor in the
Downs. On receipt of these the ship proceeded to the Small Downs and
Tat Sw add
entered the Ramsgate Channel.
Having arrived at a spot slightly North of the ruins of Sandown Castle,
beganam
about a mile North of Deal, the ship was gently beached, port anchor laid
out and all active participation in the evacuation of Dunkirk ceased by
SNT
1730 June 1st.
OTH
of the ensuing period there is little to say except that the ship was
boarded by the Admiralty Salvage Officer first thing next morning and the
ship examined as thoroughly as possible the next low water.
Each time the after part of the ship drained out with the tide, all the
visible leaks both in the shell plating and in the bulkheads were stopped
as effectively as possible with the materials at hand, three salvage pumps
were rigged in the after 'tween deeks to deal with whatever water which
leaked past the plugs.
These operations were in progress until Friday June 7th. when we were
towed off the beach by Tug "LADY BRASSEY" and afterwards with the
assistance of two tugs towed to London finally arriving at SW India Dock
at 6 R.M.
wisting and turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards the shore
th
of
the
S.N.T.
a bit, as I could see our crew of the barge and the soldier stevedores
It 1 7
to
as gentin
were rowing off in their boat towards us. I picked them up, also boat
and crew of barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, and then the
next wave of bombers were overhead.
il Fri
SEY"
(Continued)
fi

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77
76
-5-
31. Owing to the swell a number of boats capsized in the
surf, which gradually subsided with continued good weather.
The swell on the 31st had calmed down considerably by the
morning of the 1st June.
32. The marksmanship of the A.A. machine-gunners in HILDA
seemed to be very accurate, and they realised that it was
essential to fire at bombers before they got into their dive.
The dive bombers seemed to be extremely accurate in their aim.
33. Messrs. Hammond of Deal, who act as Admiralty agents,
were most helpful in every way in finding suitable motor boats
and lifeboats, in arranging requisitioning, and obtaining
spare supplies of petrol at short notice.
34. I was much impressed by the good-nature of the ship's
company in handing to all those who lost their clothing or
were in sad condition owing to being covered in oil, any parts
of their uniform or private possessions not in use. This
applied equally to the soldiers, who were most generous in
sharing their clothing of all sorts.
35. I must record the assistance given me by Lieut.Few, R.N.V.R
of H.M.S. SANDOWN, in bringing the troops from one of the piers.
He made a great number of trips in a most expeditious manner,
and his cheerfulness was a decided asset.
36. I should like to bring under notice the efficient manner
in which the Commanding Officer of H.M.S. HILDA, Lieut. Gray,
and the coxswain, Petty Officer Curd, carried out their duties,
and this applies equally to the whole ship's company. Many
seriously wounded men were on board, and each of these received
such careful attention as was possible.
37. I was much struck by the efficient manner in which
H.M.S. HILDA was handled while rescuing survivors and also in
avoiding dive bombing operations.
VIOE AD MIRAL
CAPTAIN, R.N.V.R.
2nd June, 1940.
*
DOVER

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204
OPERATION DYNAMO.
22
ENCLOSURE NO. 17.
SHIP: BLUE BIRD - Motor Boat.
OFFICER REPORTING: G.B. EYRE, SUB-LINUTENANT, R.N.V.R.
On Saturday 1st June I received orders to
proceed with Motor Boat BLUE BIRD to the M/S SANDOWN
to be towed to Dunkirk. M/S SANDOWN was relieved by
M/S EMPEROR OF INDIA and accordingly I changed to her.
2.
On reaching Dunkirk it was found impossible
to start engines of BLUE BIRD so she was not used and
came back to Dover in tow.
3.
The Lifeboat MARY SCOTT was working in
conjunction with BLUE BIRD, but remained behind in
Dunkirk to pick up EMPEROR OF INDIA's 1st Lieutenant
who was on the pier, organising the troops to be
embarked.
Note: This officer was previously in command of
A.L.C. No. 15, and had been employed
ferrying troops off from Dunkirk beach for
one day. When 8.8. CLAN MACALISTER
(A.L.C. parent ship) was bombed and set
on fire he returned to Dover in company
with A.L.Cs. 3 and 8 to refuel and
proceeded to the beaches on completion.
A.L.C. No. 15 was driven on to the beach by
the wash of a passing destroyer and as
there was no hope of getting off,
Sub-Lieutenant Eyre set fire to her and
returned to Dover in due course in
A.L.C. No. 3 and was then given Motor
Boat BLUE BIRD.
See

Details

FROM.
SENIOR OFFICER, THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA,
Dynama 10, 263 Aveley
DATE
1st June, 1940.
274
TO
COMMANDER IN CHIEF, THE NORE.
(through and EXTENDED DEFENCES OFFICER, SHEERNESS
COMMODORE IN CHARGE, SHEERINES).
PROCEEDINGS OF THAMES LOCAL DEFENCE FLOTILLA - A/A SHIPS. PERIOD
Submitted.
27/31st May, 1940.
were and full speed to & position 9 miles East
anchored to proceed at outer estuary a signal was received that/ships were
During in the the night of 27th-28th May when all ships
Dunkirk minutes embark troops. All ships were underweigh within of a
few of the signal being decoded and proceeded towards
under dark night conditions was not easy and I consider credit
the North Goodwin. The passage through the Edinburgh Channels
is due to the Commanding Officers of the ships for the way in
which they were handled. The signal was cancelled before ships
reached North Goodwin and they returned to normal duties. Early
on 28th May ships were ordered to return to Sheerness forthwith
and land surplas crew not required for embarking troops.
I had previously issued a memorandum on the steps to be
taken if ships were used as troop carriers so that ships were
ready with the necessary organisation and special arrangements.
Later only two ships were stated to be required and I
detailed "Royal Eagle" and "Crested Eagle" and myself decided to
go to the "Royal Eagle".
Ships sailed from Sheerness at 1400 and were ordered to
proceed to the Downs. On arrival at the Downs I reported the
arrival of both ships to the Vice Admiral, Dover and also
endeavoured to find out from every ship visible in the Downs if
there were any orders for me. There were a number of troopers and
hospital ships present so I put ships to short notice for steam
and anchored for the night. There was considerable activity amongst
the transports during the early morning so that I again asked for
instructions and was then told to proceed to Dunkirk by route "y"
(Goodwin to West Hinder). I stationed "Crested Eagle" astern and
proceeded at 1030 high speed. On approaching the Belgian Coast
I noticed a few rounds from Shore Batteries falling round ships
ahead of me but the firing was not at all intense. On approaching
Dunkirk I saw a large number of men on the-beaches as far as La
Panne so not being able to get any instructions from anyone
proceeded to the spot where British Troops appeared thickest and
anchored at about 1530 close inshore to embark them. I sent
"Crested Eagle" to Dunkirk as I felt that on account of my original
instructions ships might have been wanted there - however she soon
re-appeared and anchored about 2 miles East of me and contenced
embarking troops. At about 1630 German planes were sighted and
"Royal Eagle" opened a heavy fire - the plane carried out a high
bombing attack on ships and beaches. The "Royal Eagle" was only
hit by splinters but a Drifter near was set on fire and H.M.S.
proceeded under her own steam. A number of casualties occurred
"Greyhound" appeared to receive severe damage - although she later
to boats and soldiers and were taken in board - amongst them
volunteer crew and I regret to say died some hours later.
the Paymaster crews Subo Lieutenant of H.M.S. "Sandown" who W&B in a
Although boats explosive bomba were used on ships I noticed a
line only high to be incendiary bombs along the line of the
beach. of Embarkation what appeared proceeded slowly chiefly owing to the lack the of
power boats and the fact that few seamen were available for
boats which were left with an insufficient Military crew.

Details

436
was told that they found they could
the water 2 that she must be beached not
turned the vessel into wards the Conspiral We
r grounded her on Sandwrih Flats
We them received a signal to return off ax Dear
the Solvage Officer Dr Commander Laloe.
Dunturity by signal Commander Laloe come
received instructions about proceding
board Informed him we should like
the Dynams before leaving. He agreed r.sen
message to that effect to V.A.D 2 whilst Love
anchor he would proced to the Prague by
boat this would now be about 5.40 pm On
returnif the Solvage Officer we reported the
appeared. satisfactory breathe engeneer cruld
make a very good earn on accounty the steam
H Commandes Laloe then told me that we should
to tow the Prague further in share r that he m
so on shore to report. ar 8. 15.PM we have
anchor V got fast to the Prague V towed 9.
in shore East 7 Sandown Castte as
about 9. 30 Rm we anchored the tuy for furt
Sunday 2nd Hove anchor, 4. 45. am.. spr
instructions from Salvage Officer.
Lt Commandes Laloe up who was required on the
ashare V who was on the Dapper... We wental
of Dopper brought sahage Officer off the boxt.
station when he was londed by motor the
Officer to return Drues r arrived longoids
8.45.am Greceived instructions from
his as am... Toohs on board Coal,
overhauled Dynamo.
yo
yours forty
K.H.M.
Signed Tuesday 11 June