Details

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Sun hisk inthdrawal
Summary in Roskill's "War at Sea vol I
13 pages (216-228) and / appendix (L)

Details

Admiral Superintendent Portsmouth's barge
Re
Bhrimpton,
See under Sun IV
R.V.V.R.(1)
lat June
Dath.
Toesd 198 by 6. drifter and spent the
night as the beaches.
On 5 Inter night, H/Lt. Shrimpton went
Into
[110 information 00 to shether this
vessel returned, or how 0/Lt.
Shrimpton got back)-
Authority - R.O.II, P= 393.
(1) Bbown in the August 1940 Havy List no B lieutenant,
centority 31/5/40. Not shown in the June 1940 Navy
List.
10

Details

BURTON
Sailing barge DA. Recess
See under Sun III
4d
1615
Left immage with 4 drifters of the
lot M/R flotilla, 7181 the Pidget,
Fisher DOZ. Jooketa and
2300
Entered DURKIPE harbour. MITER
Armitage R.N.V.E. who WAS temporarily
in command of the 1st M/R.P.(1) case
on board.
25300a
Recd. signal that the A.B/V King Oret
use in danger of foundering. Her
0.0., however, stated that he did not
propose to abandon her.
12th seall
003068
The Bystander went alongside the pier
and embarked, in all, 74 troops,
about 30 of whom were French. lisan-
while the King Orty had left her
berth and yes leaving the harbour.
0130
The Bystander was a cable esters of the
King Orry when she foundered.
The Bystander lovered her boat and
menned it with seaman-took Ja Biton
and seamen Iso Boott. Largely due to
the former's efforts, 25 officers
and mon were resoued.
The Bystander sailed.
0830
Arrived Ramagate, Disembarked 74
troops(2) STX ressued GROUP
1715
Chiled for Dunkirk in company with the
2830
Engine broke down. The Bratanier
lat M/R.F.
returned to Ramagate.
Total 74
Minustry - R.O.II, P.158.
R.O.III D.332.
the Pattering number were meder
CASE J.E.H. Bison.
(1) (2) 14, D.B. Cdr. - but A.J. not commanded repart. the let M/R.P.
136

Details

9
CALCUTTA (continued)
(continued) 29th May
1335
Captain (D) lst D/F, who was Senior
Officer at La Panne at this time,
informed that tugs and drifters
1350
were being sent in to load up again.
1357
Calcutta's Weighed. boats returned to ship.
1900
Arrived Sheerness. Disembarked 1200
troops. (1)
31st May
1940
Slipped from buoy at Sheerness.
2130.
Anchored off East Margate with corvettes
Mallard and Shearwater in company.
1st June
0315
Weighed and proceeded with Mallard and
Shearwater.
0500
Patrolled on X route between W and Y
buoys.
0938
Ordered to return to Sheerness.
1015
Fired on a Heinkel which had bombed
and damaged the G/B Mosquito. Shot
it down.
1018
Fired on 2 more Heinkels.
1024
Detached Shearwater to stand by
Mosquito.
1312
Anchored off Nore L.V.
2140
Anchored offEast Margate buoy. Mallard
and Shearwater in company.
2nd June
0245
Proceeded with Mallard and Shearwater.
0430
Patrolling in vicinity of W buoy.
The French destroyers Epervier and
Leopard at U and V buoys respectively.
0710
Last homeward bound ship passed W buoy.
1035
Attacked by 3 Ju.88 diving out of the
sun. 4 bombs very close on port
beam; 4 bombs very close on port
bow; 4 bombs missed well ahead.
The French destroyers left the patrol.
1050
Attacked by 1 Heinkel dive bomber. 4
bombs missed well out on starboard
1140
Machine beam. gunned by a Heinkel from 4,000
1155
Attacked feet. by 1 Ju.88. It would not
come through Calcutta's barrage and
dropped 4 bombs well astern.
1350
Ordered back to Sheerness.
1459
Mallard detached to stand by H/C
Worthing, which had been bombed and
1644
Anchored damaged. off Nore L.V. to make good
slight damage from near misses.
3rd June
0550
Sheerness for further repairs.
1856
Total
Authority - R.O.III, p.9.
(1) D.R.
152

Details

CARYANDA
Portsmouth Yacht Inner Patrol
Lt. D.A.L. Kings,
1743
R.N.V.R.
29th May
Left Hamble for Dover in company with
the 8 other yachts of the Inner
Patrol Flotilla (see Ankh).
30th May
0840
Arrived Dover.
1930
Sailed from Dover in company with the
Inner Patrol Flotilla.
31st May
0600
Arrived off Bray beach. The Caryanda
was ordered to proceed to La Panne
beach and ferry troops to off-lying
ships.
-
Thenordered by the Commodore [G.O.
Stephenson] in the yacht Bounty to
return to Bray(1) and try and get
small boats to ferry troops off
to the Caryanda. "Returned to Bray
with 3 small boats and proceeded
to embark [? ferry] troops."
1100
Ordered by the dr. Keith to proceed to
Outer Ruytingen Buoy to meet a tow
of small craft (2) coming over and
take them to the beaches.
1830
Arrived at the beaches with small craft.
Continued to embark [?ferry] troops.
2045
Ordered to stand off shore.
2100
Ordered to return to Dover.
1st June
0614
Arrived Dover.
Estimated number of troops ferried from
beaches to ship was 250.
N11
Authority - R.O.II, p.303
The following awards were made:
D.S.M.
Actg. P.O. H.H. Smith.
A.B.
T.W. Schofield.
(1) (2) The Lt. Kings says arrived off Dunkirk arrived about 1300 the with same
La Panne - evidently a miscript. at about
6 tug Ocean in town; Cock the tug Sun in VII tow.
time M/B's with 5 seaplane tenders
165

Details

CHALLENGE
Tug (Elliott Steam tug
Co. Ltd.)
Went to Dunkirk on the night of 1st/2nd June with
orders to pick up anything. In company were the
tug Sun XI, and 5 other tugs.
Nil
172

Details

CONTEST
Tug (Elliott Steam
Tug Co. Ltd.)
H.J. Bates, Master
31st May
1900
Picked up crew of a drifter sunk in
an air raid off Dunkirk (see Sun XI)
S/Lt. M.H.B. Solomon, R.N.V.R. states:
At Ramsgate, 1st June 1940.
1400
Commandeered tug "Contess" [?Contest]
but crew deliberately put tug aground
and made every possible obstruction
to impede the sailing of same.
1700
Although tug "Contess" [?Contest]
was afloat, engineer refused to put
the ship to sea, as he claimed his
I
filters would be blocked by sand.
Authority - - R.O.III, p.314.
206

Details

GREDO (D.G.924)
French M.F.V.
3rd June
0920
Disembarked at Ramsgate about 53 French
troops. (1)
ARED
and smiling Lork. barges Glenway, Searzeon
Anchored with Total 53
Obtes
1500
Processed to Ramagate and thence to
Dovor, with the barges.
May
0600
Left Dover, towing a lighter loaded
1230
fresh veter story and troops.
Arrived Dunkir's roads.
Anchored, with the lighter, about
Doet off the beach. The lighter
node her way to the beach.
13156a
Dent to the assistance of dr. Impolsive
which bad grounded on DD uncharted
rook, and took her in tow,
31:10
CASE off the tow. Escorted Impulsive
to Bunkink Fier heads, whence she
proceeded so Dover on one engine.
STARTAS Cook proceeded in company.
2000
MAST LOVER.
let June
2000
word to assistance of dr. 96 [1.0.
which bird been 10 collisit
with D/V Moid of Opionnal in Dover
cardoor. After assisting to rescue
Exerge in the soa, took Purcester
in sow, and aboiated by $00 togs
CANADA Cook, Challenge and Sun III,
berthed her,
EL3000
Than proconded towards Donkirk with
orders to pick up or reacue
(### Bun XI).
June
Unable to anything.
Authority
(1) Ramsgate report, which names the ship the "0.924".
214

Details

CRESTED COCK
Tug (Gamecock Steam
Towing Co. Ltd).
T. Hills, Master
29th May
1715
Left Gravesend for Tilbury, towing the
and Lark.
3 sailing barges Glenway, Spurgeon
2215
Anchored with barges at Southend.
30th May
0445
1500
Proceeded to Ramsgate and thence to
Dover, with the barges.
31st May
0400
Left Dover, towing a lighter loaded with
1230
fresh water etc., and troops.
Arrived Dunkirk roads.
Anchored, with the lighter, about 60
feet off the beach. The lighter
made her way to the beach.
1315ca
Went to the assistance of dr. Impulsive
which had grounded on an uncharted
rock, and took her in tow.
1410
Cast off the tow. Escorted Impulsive
to Dunkirk Pier heads, whence she
proceeded to Dover on one engine.
Crested Cock proceeded in company.
2000
Arrived Dover.
1st June
2000
Went to assistance of dr. 96 [i.e.
Worcester which had been in collision
with P/V Maid of Orleans] in Dover
harbour. After assisting to rescue
troops in the sea, took Worcester
in tow, and assisted by the tugs
Ocean Cock, Challenge, and Sun XII, and
Sun VII(1), berthed her.
2130ca
Then proceeded towards Dunkirk with
orders to pick up or rescue anything
(see Sun XI).
2nd June
0345
Unable to contact anything. Proceeded.
0800
Dover.
Authority - W.W.
(1) Sun mention this. The tug Foremost in collision 22 states
at that about she this time. Sun XI also
VII does assisted not two vessels which assisted. were
215

Details

DU GUESCLIN (D.G.910)
French M.F.V.
30th May
1030
The Du Guesclin and the Surcouf together
landed 35 troops in England.(1)
31st May
1335
Routed from the Downs to Dunkirk by
2000
the destroyer Leopard.
(see under Margaux (D.692)) left
1st June
0920
With 4 naval ratings 18 sailed
from Remagate, wi Total Princess,
both tugs towing the I.O.W. forry
boat Fishbourne.
1030ca
But the Duke's tow rope into the
Princess and went ahead.
[1120ca
The Princess's tow rope broke, She
got another connected.]
1250ca
The Commander on board the Fishbourne
ordered the Dute to contact the
tog Bun III and her 4 sailing barges.
Did DO, and took the 8/B Heate Away
from the Bun III.
Bed visibility, lost contact with
other tugs and the Fishbourne.
The B/B Ada Mary having twice broken
away from the Sun III. the Dake took
her in tow.
1440ca
Approx. 2 miles from Denkirk. Air raid
in progress. Picked up 20 soldiers
from n drifting life bost and left
20 others and 1 naval rating for the
Sun III to pick up.
1620es
Took from the dr. Basilisk's lifeboat
11 ratings and midshiman; their
lifeboat WILLS then put astern or the
2 sailing barges.
1705
Directed by 2 aircraft to net course
181508
south, and was led to two lifeboate.
The Sun III tock the larger; the
Duke took from the other, 13
Spaniards and 1 Canadian.
20200a
Another 8/B [the Bhannon) broke adrift
from the Sun III and the puke look
her in tow.
7x8 June
0600ca
Arrived Ramagate. Small craft were
sent out to take off the 44 survivors.
0730ea
The Duks left the 3 sailing barges off
the DOWNE, and went into harbour.
083000
Was sent out to retch the Fichbourgs
This was done- [See tog Primeral
into herbour, as she was diasbled,
Jane
0800(2)
Proceeded with the Log context to
Shosburyness.
7000140
Authority W.W.
(1) D.R., which records that "Sourcouf du Quesclin" lunded
the
35 troops. 1115.
258

Details

DUKE(1)
Tug (Saml. Williams &
Sons Ltd.)
B.P. Mansfield, Captain.
31st May
1030
Left Gravesend. Dagenham for Southend, via
Left Southend, for Ramsgate, towing
2000
the S/B Ashingdon.
Entered Ramsgate harbour having left
the barge in the Downs.
1st June
0920
With 4 naval ratings on board, sailed
from Ramsgate, with the tug Princess,
both tugs towing the I.O.W. ferry
boat Fishbourne.
1030ca
Put the Duke's tow rope into the
Princess and went ahead.
[1120ca
The Princess's tow rope broke. She
got another connected.]
1250ca
The Commander on board the Fishbourne
ordered the Duke to contact the
tug Sun III and her 4 sailing barges.
Did so, and took the S/B Haste Away
from the Sun III.
Bad visibility, lost contact with
other tugs and the Fishbourne.
-
The S/B Ada Mary having twice broken
away from the Sun III, the Duke took
her in tow.
1440ca
Approx. 2 miles from Dunkirk. Air raid
in progress. Picked up 20 soldiers
from a drifting life boat and left
20 others and 1 naval rating for the
Sun III to pick up.
1620ca
Took from the dr. Basilisk's lifeboat
11 ratings and 1 midshipman; their
lifeboat was then put astern of the
2 sailing barges.
1705
Directed by 2 aircraft to set course
1815ca
south, and was led to two lifeboats.
The Sun IIItook the larger; the
Duke took from the other, 11
Spaniards and 1 Canadian.
2020ca
Another S/B [the Shannon broke adrift
from the Sun III and the Duke took
her in tow.
2nd June
0600ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Small craft were
sent out to take off the 44 survivors.
0730ca
The Duke left the 3 sailing barges off
the Downs, and went into harbour.
0830ca
Was sent out to fetch the Fishbourne
This was done. [See tug Princess]
into harbour, as she was disabled.
3rd June
0800(2)
Proceeded with the tug Contest to
Shoeburyness.
Total 44
Authority W.W.
(1) (2) Not TugsPrince mentioned and in Princess D.R. state they left in company with the
Contest at 1115.
259

Details

EASTERN DISTRICT FISHING FLEET(1)
Ace* (L.N.27)
Amity* (L.N.47)
Malvina* (L.N.15)
Aunty Guss (L.N.29)
Narcissa* (L.T.58) (2)
Bessie* (L.N.16)
O.J. and J* (L.N.88)
Edna (Y.H. 119)
Rose (L.N.19)
Jane Hannah* (L.N.98)
Rose (L.N.76) *
Liberty II (Y.H. 104)
Seagull (L.N.203)
Little Admiral (L.N.85)
Tony (L.N.40)
Winston* (L.Y.142)
None of the above vessels took part in the
evacuation of the Allied armies from Dunkirk.
Eight of them carried out harbour duties on
4th follows:- June. The movements of the Fleet L/as
lare
1st June
1420
Left Lowestoft. Mr. T. Neilson (Tony)
was Chief Skipper.
2150
Moored in Harwich harbour.
2nd June
-
Several vessels had developed engine
defects and some were considered
unlikely to be suitable.
The nine vessels above, marked *, proceeded as
follows:
1255
Left Harwich harbour.
2010
Entered Ramsgate.
3rd June
-
On request, four of the vessels and
crews volunteered for service in
Cdr. Le Mesurier's operation
(see tug Sun IV) - but finally they
were not required.
4th June
0930
Eight of the vessels, and the fishing
vessel, Boy Fred, took part in landing
French soldiers from troopships at
anchor outside Ramsgate, in the fog;
they were apparently the Ace, Bessie,
(3)
Jane Hannah, Malvina, Narcissa,
Q.J. and J, Rose (L.N. 76) and Winston.
Except for this auxiliary service,
it cannot be said that any of the
vessels of the Eastern District
Fishing Fleet took part in Operation
Dynamo.
Authority - TO.9144.
(1) Including Wells, Blakeney, Brancaster, Sheringham and
(2) (3) See The Lowestoft. also separate vessel report Boy Fred under was Narcissa. at this stage attached
to fishing the Eastern District Fishing Fleet.
267

Details

Vessel,
Evacuation From
ELI ZABETH GREEN
M/B
S/Lt. E.T. Garside, R.N.V. R.
29th May
0600
Left Dover in company with 5 other
1500
yachts (see Viewfinder).
1900
Arrived La Panne. Ferried troops.
Embarked crew and C.O. (s/Lt. C.Minchin,
R.N.) of M/B Hanora (fouled screw),
Advance. and proceeded in company with the M/B
30th May
0530ca
Arrived Ramsgate.
[s/Lt. Garside then transferred to the
R.A.F. launch Andora and made a
trip to the beaches in her].
3rd June
S/Lt. Garside returned to the Elizabeth
1700
Green which left Ramsgate in tow of a
tug [the Sun IV]; 3 other M/B's were
in the tow.
2320ca
The tow was slipped in the vicinity of
the S.W. Ruytingen buoy.
4th June
-
Losing touch with the tug, the
Elizabeth Green returned under her
-
own power with a load of troops to
Ramsgate.
Total Troops Evacuated (Estimated) 10
Total (estimated) 10
Authority - R.O.II, p.393.
276

Details

EM
GERBERA
M/L's
WINDSORA
(Owner, Charles Hill & son, Windsor)
[+++
10% June
0715
Taken in tow by the are. Thettix.
Other ships in the top sere the N.L/Ba
These vessels were unsuitable and took no 1975,
part 0725 in Dynamo. d White Bear.
Moid
Left Dover.
1537
Net the Yvonne of Mombe (of Oravalines)
with 1 English soldier heading for
England - she turned and headed
towards Dunicise.
1615
Air attach Tow broken by blast.
Men thrown in water; all picked up.
About this time, the Yvonne 03 Nombe
was sunk by a direct hit.
1635
Air attack continues.
1652
Bombe heard dropping. Drifters heading
home without leaving orders. Some
small boats turn back.
1710
Abdy Beanclork, only, in company.
1718
The life boat "Hosa Bood" [1.00 the
ROBS good and Phyllis Lunn Joined
company. The None Wood and Phyllis
Lunn decided to return to Dover.
1740
Closed B. drifter.
1821
Air attack continues, The Abdy
Resueler's and the Rosa wood turn back.
1854
Lieut. Meed in the carried on
towards Dunkirk.
1926
The M/B Cairngory in reply to B query,
signalled "steer 0.55 E. for Dustirk".
2030ca
Joined company with the tog SUN IV .
2044
Arrived off Dunking vith son IV.
2100
Lt. Mond boarded the Sen IT-
2135
Dunkirk harbour. PASSION Eroope to the
M/S Nisst and other ships lying out-
side the harbour, shilst coming
alongside the towing a boat in
which was Bee Codet Jest, 31dmouth-
Willing), a sholl exploded nearby;
Lientenent Head WSS mortally wounded,
and died in 15 minutes.(1)
2nd June
0423
The left Dankirk in tow of the
1010
Arrived Bun IV.
1030
The Bun XY and the LEER together
disembarked 142 $20000. (See Qua IV)
3rd June
1026
Left Benagate.
1355
Arrived Dover-
Total S
Authority - R.O.II, D.230+
The following evards
Hentton in Degratches (Posthunous)
17, Linot. R.H. Head, B.S.V.R.
Brassen in Despatchee
A.D. Tol. Wells Gooley*
Mecksnus.
(1) Report by Burg. Lieut. 278 of EXHIR

Details

X
E.M.E.D.
Walton & Frinton
life boat
Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
[see Tel. W.H. Cooley.
1st June
0715
Taken in tow by the dfr. Thrifty.
Other ships in the tow were the M.L/Bs
Greater London, Abdy Beauclerk,
and the M/B's P.E.42 Summer Maid
and White Bear.
0725
Left Dover.
1537
Met the Yvonne et Moabe (of Gravelines)
with 1 English soldier heading for
England - she turned and headed
towards Dunkirk.
1615
Air attack. Tow broken by blast.
Men thrown in water; all picked up.
About this time, the Yvonne et Moabe
was sunk by a direct hit.
1635
Air attack continues.
1652
Bombs heard dropping. Drifters heading
home without leaving orders. Some
small boats turn back.
1710
Abdy Beauclerk, only, in company.
1718
The life boat'Rosa Wood" [i.e. the
Rosa Wood and Phyllis Lunn] joined
company. The Rosa Wood and Phyllis
Lunn decided to return to Dover.
1740
Closed a drifter.
1821
Air attack continues. The Abdy
Beauclerk and the Rosa Wood turn back.
1854
Lieut. Mead in the E.M.E.D. carried on
towards Dunkirk.
1926
The M/B Cairngorm in reply to a query,
signalled "steer S.55 E. for Dunkirk".
2030ca
Joined company with the tug Sun IV.
2044
Arrived off Dunkirk with Sun IV.
2100
Lt. Mead boarded the Sun IV.
2135
Dunkirk harbour. Ferried troops to the
M/S Niger and other ships lying out-
side the harbour. Whilst coming
alongside the Niger [towing a boat in
which was Sea Cadet Lieut. Sidmouth-
Willing], a shell exploded nearby;
Lieutenant Mead was mortally wounded,
and died in 15 minutes. (1)
2nd June
0423
The E.M.E.D. left Dunkirk in tow of the
Sun IV.
1010
Arrived Ramsgate.
1030
The Sun IV and the E.M.E.D. together
disembarked 142 troops. (See Sun IV)
3rd June
1026
Left Ramsgate.
1355
Arrived Dover.
Total 39
Authority - R.O.II, p.230.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches (Posthumous)
Ty. Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
Mention 1n Despatches
P.O. Tel. W.H. Cooley.
A.B.
J.L. MacManus.
(1) Report by Surg. Lieut. of Niger.
279

Details

ETHEL EVERARD
Sailing barge (F.T.
Everard & Sons Ltd.)
T. Willis, Master
31st May
1430
Left Dover loaded with ammunition and
stores, in tow of the tug Sun XII.
1st June
a.m.
Sailed on to the beach, east of Dunkirk.
The crew transferred to a "gun boat".
The Ethel Everard was abandoned and
blown up.
Authority - 0.9436/40.
Etoila Polaire AD 390
any M/S
Second Maike de managure
guenole
was in Ostend and sailed
the 28th of May with the
French Naval Party ostend.
Called in Folkestour the
Same day at 2000
Did not take part to Dysama
Note by Cras of
A NEW ETHEL EVERARD
27.9.49
MEMORY OF A SHIP LEFT AT
DUNKIRK
When the necessary formalities are com-
pleted the steamship Empire Newfoundland,
of 3,500 tons gross, hitherto owned by the
Ministry of Transport, is to be known as the
Ethel Everard in commemoration of a sail-
ing coaster which sailed with the fleet of
little ships to Dunkirk in 1940 but did not
return. Driven on to the beaches, she had
to be abandoned. At the time she was engaged
in carrying fresh water for the troops. Later a
book which the Germans distributed in prison
returning prisoner of war brought with him a
camps showing the Ethel Everard lying
beached. The founder of the firm of F. T. Everard
and Sons, Limited, who have acquired the
Empire Newfoundland, named his vessels after
three sons. A daughter of Mr. William
his daughter Ethel, who died this year, and his
Everard, a director of the company, is named
Ethel.
297

Details

0001
FAIRPLAY(1)
Tug (Managed by
W. Watkins Ltd.)
S. Wright and G. Finch
25th May
Towed the water boat Claude to Dunkirk.
31st May
1600
Left Dover, with barges in tow; tug
Sun XII in company.
2350
Arrived Dunkirk. Put barges on the
beach at Braye-Dunes.
Proceeded, in company with Sun XII,
to the eastward.
1st June
0400
Returned to Braye-Dunes. Proceeded.
1030
Arrived Dover.
2155ca
Left Dover for W buoy in company with
6 other tugs (See Sun XI).
2nd June
0920ca
Arrived back at Dover.
1530ca
Left Dover, in company with tugs Sun X,
Sun XI, and Foremost 87, for Dunkirk.
2215ca
Arrived Dunkirk.
-
Returned to Dover.
Nil
(1) This account of Fairplay tugs. I's activities is compiled from
Dive at
the reports of 309 other

Details

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

FOREMOST 22
Tug (s. Ry. Co.)
C. Fieldgate, Master.
F.M. Holden, Actg.Master
29th May
1850
Left Newhaven for Dover.
Capt. Holden as Master.
30th May
0415
Arrived Dover.
1335
Left Dover for Dunkirk as leader of
5 small vessels.
2030
Arrived off Dunkirk. Separated from the
5 vessels after arrival: proceeded
eastward along the coast and then back
to the harbour entrance.
2300ca
The sound of a heavy collision in
Dunkirk roads was heard. The P/V
St. Helier had been in collision with
the M/S Sharpshooter.
2320ca
Foremost 22 took Sharpshooter in tow
and St. Helier backed away and carried
on.
Proceeded with Sharpshooter in tow
stern first.
31st May
1035
Arrived off Dover. Cast off the tow.
The tug Empire Henchman now assisted,
1320
and Sharpshooter was moored to a buoy.
1st June
1630
Captain Fieldgate rejoined the ship from
the sick list.
2030
Assisted 2 vessels in collision in the
outer basin. (2)
2nd June
1700
Left for Dunkirk.
2300
Dunkirk harbour entrance. Ordered into
harbour to assist the P/V Newhaven ?]
aground. The tug ran aground herself
but managed to refloat. A tug Sun X
and Sun XI both failed to re-float
her] /01 less draft was then sent in.
2400ca
off the harbour entrance, M/B's came
alongside and unloaded French troops.
0100
Proceeded.
0630
Dover. Disembarked
troops. (1)
(number not stated).
1430
Ordered to stand-by to leave for
1830
"Stand Dunkirk. by" order cancelled "owing to some
members of the crew being sick."
3rd June
Standing by.
4th June
1525
Left Dover for Newhaven.
Total 8
(1) (2) Not dr. mentioned Worcester was in D.R. in collision with P/V Maid of Orleans at
this time.
329

Details

FORMIDABLE
Aircraft carrier
(under construction)
Cdr. E.K. Le Mesurier,
M.V.O., R.N.
1st
Shown in D.R. as having taken part in
Operation Dynamo.
Cdr. Le Mesurier went to Dunkirk in
the tugs Sun and Sun IV. He sent in
2nd June
his report, giving as his address
"H.M.S. Formidable, c/o G.P.O. London".
It is thought that this accounts for a
vessel named the Formidable having
found its way into the list of ships.
No other Formidable can be traced.
1930
the
Cantain
from the R/C Paris,
Picked up wounded from wreated 11.00
Authority - R.O.II, p.418.
boats. Picked up 6
took in tow.
2005
Picked up another life boat, the
occupante of which Spanish.
2100
Engines overheating owing to
of tow.
2115
Transferred all survivors to
clsss $08.(1)
motor boat making water
rapidly; the tug took her in tow.
2130
The crew transferred to the tug which
continued to tow the bost,
3rd June
0415
Arrived pover in tow.
N11
Authority - R.O.II, p.612.
(1) Not
334

Details

FORMIDABLE
Aircraft carrier
(under construction)
Cdr. E.K. Le Mesurier,
M.V.O., R.N.
Shown in D.R. as having taken part in
Operation Dynamo.
Cdr. Le Mesurier went to Dunkirk in
the tugs Sun and Sun IV. He sent in
June
his report, giving as his address
"H.M.S. Formidable, c/o G.P.O. London".
It is thought that this accounts for a
vessel named the Formidable having
found its way into the list of ships.
No other Formidable can be traced.
1930
Authority - R.O.II, p.418.
2005
(1)
Not
334

Details

"40 ft. Ship's fast motor boat"
[See E.M.E.D.]
Lt. E.F. Hamilton-Meikle,
R.N.
1st June
Assisted the M.T.B,107 (Commodore
Hallet) to regulate rescue traffic
between Dover and Dunkirk.
2nd June
Escorted the M.A.S.B.10 (Admiral
Somerville) towards Dunkirk, but
lost touch. Continued towards
Dunkirk.
1900
Sighted aircraft attacking à hospital
ship [the Paris].
1910
Air attack.
1930
Took off the Captain and some officers
from the H/C Paris.
Picked up wounded from wrecked life-
boats. Picked up 6 lifeboats and
took in tow.
2005
Picked up another life boat, the
occupants of which spoke Spanish.
2100
Engines overheating owing to weight
of tow.
2115
Transferred all survivors to a "Sun"
class tug. (1)
"40 ft. motor boat" making water
rapidly; the tug took her in tow.
2130
The crew transferred to the tug which
continued to tow the boat.
3rd June
0415
Arrived Dover in tow.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.612.
(1) Not identified.

Details

GUIDE OF DUNKIRK(1)
R.N.L.I. life boat
S/Lt.
[s/Lt. M/B Iote Amos and had S/Lt. already been to Dunkirk
Frinton.
1700 Wallace in M. L/B Orient in the IV]
3rd June
S/Lt. and Wallace sailed embarked in the
the tug Sun from XV. Ramsgate in V.L/B tow of
2200ca
The tow rope parted and fouled the
propeller. Signalled many ships but
0400ca
could get no reply.
S/Lts. Amos and Wallace went over the
side and made an unsuccessful
attempt to clear the screw with
knives. Blankets were then rigged
as sails in order to keep the vessel
away from the French coast.
1300
Cleared the propeller and set course
N.W. for England, having no charts
and not knowing the position.
4th June
2000
Contacted No.82 light-ship near
Harwich, and the M.L/B's complement
of 7, put up in her for the night.
5th June
0800
Left for Sheerness.
1130
Arrived Sheerness.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.391.
R.O.III, p.307.
Na Date William Lad
had
just ink she

Details

3
HILDA Continued
1st June
1130ca
picked up a few survivors. When
(contd.)
(contd.)
other ships arrived, she continued
her course to Ramsgate.
1730ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 530.(1)
1930
Sailed for Dover.
2200
Arrived Dover but was not allowed to
enter harbour. Anchored off the south
breakwater.
2nd June
0030ca
A magnetic mine dropped close astern.
Reported its position and shifted
berth.
0800
Sailed for Deal to disembark Capt.
Pim.
-
Sailed for Ramsgate.
1900
Embarked Sea Cadet Lieut. H. Sidmouth-
Willing as 1st Lieutenant, [ex. tug
Sun IV] and sailed for Dunkirk
with 2 boats in tow.
3rd June
0130ca
Arrived off Dunkirk and sent the boats
inshore under the command of the 1st
Lieut.
0330
Closed the Sk. Rika and there found
one of Hilda's boats. Cdre. Taylor
closed the ship in his launch [the
White wing], confirmed that there were
no troops on the beach and ordered
the Hilda to return to Ramsgate.
The Cdre. subsequently picked up
Hilda's other boat and 1st Lieut.
0900ca
The Hilda arrived Ramsgate.
Total 835.
Authority - R.O.II, p.63.
The following awards were made:
D.S.O.
Lieut. A. Gray, R.N.
D.S.C.
Sea Cadet Lieut. H. Sidmouth-Willing.
Bar to D.S.M.
Actg. P.O. L.C. Curd.
D.S.M.
A.B. G.L.E. Godfrey.
(1) D.R.
33

Details

HOLLAND
Blockship
Lt.Car.E.C. Coats R.N.
2nd June
2010
Weighed and sailed from the Downs to
Dunkirk. In company were Vivacious
leading, and towing M.T.B.107;
the Westcove and the Edvard Nissen.
2117
M.A/S.B.7 joined the convoy off the 8.
Goodwin L.V. opposite Calais, Holland
was unable to maintain the 7½ knots
of the convoy and soon lost sight of
it.
Nearing Dunkirk, a tug(1) "towing
a very long line of boats" crossed
Hollands bows and further delayed her.
3rd June
0315ca
Asked M.A/S.B.7 to lead Holland into
Dunkirk. Shortly after, "a long
line of destroyers came out" of
Dunkirk. "Astern of them, there was
a gap of over a mile and then a
large and fast transport."
[Note: The following destroyers left Dunkirk for Dover
at the times stated in brackets: Vanquisher
(0230), Whitshed (0245), Malcolm (0248),
Codrington (0250), Express (0250).
The following transports left Dunkirk at the
times stated in brackets:
Newhaven 1,888 tons, 3 steam turbines
(0245)
Tynwald
2,376 tons, 4 steam turbines
0300)
Rouen
1,882 tons, 3 steam turbines
was in Dunkirk
in the early
hours of 3rd
June (see
Thomas Kirk
Wright, p.240))
Cote d'Argent [3,047 tons, 4 steam turbines) (landed
troops at Dover
on 3rd June)]
M.A/S.B.7 led Holland through the gap
between the destroyer line and the
transport. When the transport was
6 cables away, and steaming very
fast with the first streaks of dawn
behind her, the danger of collision
became apparent, and Holland sounded
one blast and put the wheel hard to
starboard. The transport, says
Lt. Cdr. Coats, "had then only to a/c
5° to starboard to pass well clear....:
However she appeared to alter to
port". She struck Holland hard on
the bridge and just before the boiler
room bulkhead. The transport "did
not appear to sustain much damage,
backed out and carried on". As
Holland had no buoyancy in hand, her
captain ordered "abandon ship" a
few seconds before she was struck.
(1) Either Sun X, Sunk XI or Foremost 87.
37A

Details

JANE HOLLAND
R.N.L.I.
Sto. J. Strangeways.
(Eastbourne)
Sto. A.H. Shaw.
lifeboat.
S/Lt. E.R. Ponsonby,
R.N.V.R.
2nd June
1600
Left for Dunkirk in tow of the tug
Sun II. [1.e. the Sun XI ](1)
-
Cast off outside Dunkirk.
Rescued two French sailors in the
harbour and took them to a destroyer.
Went right up harbour. French troops
refused to embark.
3rd June
0330ca
Rejoined the tug outside harbour.
Ordered to collect beach masters from
B and C beaches. They had however,
left. Returned to Dunkirk. Found
all ships had gone.
0430ca
Proceeded. Engine broke down.
0500ca
Taken in tow by a M/B. Engines
re-started, cast off.
After about 4 miles the engine caught
fire. A "C.M.B." [evidently the
M.A/S.B. 7] came to the rescue.
Crew transferred. Life boat in flames
and abandoned.
[M.A/S.B.7 appears to have taken
the crew to Dover].
6th June
The Jane Holland was found drifting on
the English Channel. Her fore-end
box was stove in; she had over
500 bullet holes in her, and was
full of water.
She was brought in to Dover.
Authority - R.O.II, p.245.
R.O.III, p.529.
(1) It is probable that the Jane Holland was towed over Michael on 2nd
June by the Sun XI together with the life boat
Stephens.
79

Details

KING ORRY
A.B/V
Cdr. J. Elliott, R.D., R.N.R
26th May
0930
Left the Downs for Dunkirk.
27th May
0200
Off Dunkirk.
0439
Entered harbour.
0730
Embarked 1131 troops.
0803
Sailed for Dover.
0900 -
Between Gravelines and Calais, shelled
0920
by shore batteries. Two or three
shells hit the ship. Air attack at
the same time. Casualties were
caused, and damage to ship.
1100
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1131 troops.
29th May
p.m.
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1730
Arrived Dunkirk Roads.
Attacked by 1 dive bomber, 1/2 mile
west of the western pier head. Six
bombs shook the ship, but no damage.
Proceeded into Dunkirk harbour. Air
attack which put steering gear out of
action and shattered all instruments.
Ship secured alongside, but damaged
the pier in doing so.
Further air attack and near misses.
30th May
0030ca
Left the berth. When clear of the
harbour entrance, the King Orry
2000ca
foundered.
Several ships including the dr.
Vivacious and the tr. Lord Grey
picked up survivors. 11 were picked
up by D.C/M.B.
[on 2nd June Cdr. Elliott went out in
the tug Sun XV in search of the
disabled H/C Paris]
Total 1131
Authority - - M. 017681/40.
The following awards were made:
D.S.O.
Cdr. J. Elliott, R.D., R.N.R.
122

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

LADY CABLE
M/B (C.W. Mott)
Lieut. B.S. Fidler, R.N.V.R.
Actg. S/Lt. G.A. Cadell, R.N.
(Retd.)
1st June
1705
With Lieut. Fidler in command,
(assisted by Mr. F. Gooding and 2
naval ratings), left Dover in top of
the dfr. Golden Sunbeam.
2nd June
0030
Arrived Dunkirk beach. Ferried about
0305
560 troops, in 7 trips, to transports.
Sailed.
0815
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 40
troops. (1)
1130
Sailed for Dover.
On arrival, Lt. Fidler and Mr. Gooding
disembarked and S/Lt. Cadell took
command.
1530
Sailed from Dover, with 2 life-boats
and one other craft, in tow of the
tug"Sun VI" [there was no such tug -
it was probably the Sun XI].
2230
Entered Dunkirk harbour. Ferried about
200 French troops to tugs and
"H.M.S. Wishart" (2) in 4 trips.
3rd June
-
On the 5th trip, embarked 24 French
troops. When nearly outside the
harbour, the Lady Cable's engine
broke down.
Seing the W.D/M.L. Haig nearby with
her engines, running, S/Lt. Cadell and
0330ca
Cadet rating Price boarded her and
found her deserted. She had some
water forward, and extensive damage
on the port bow. The Lady Cable was
placed in tow of the Haig, which
proceeded. For several hours only
slow progress was made.
0730ca
One of the Haig's engines broke down;
but Lady Cable's engine having by
now been re-started, she proceeded
with the Haig in tow.
-
Contacted a four funnelled French
destroyer, believed to be the "X.440",
and the French soldiers were trans-
ferred to her.
Lady Cable proceeded with the Haig
in tow, which now proved so difficult
an operation that after several mis-
haps, it was decided to abandon the
Haig. [She was eventually brought
back by R.A.F. personnel].
Lady Cable's engine again broke down,
and the vessel drifted for several
Contacted hours. the P/V Rouen, loaded with
-
troops, and asked that the Lady
Cable's crew should be taken on board
but the Rouen refused, and steamed
The away. S.S. City of Christchurch which
was in sight, took the Lady Cable in
tow to the Downs.
(1) (2) There Not mentioned was vessel in Ramsgate of this report. name in Operation Dynamo.
no
134

Details

LETITIA
M/B (W. E. Browning)
S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyre, R.N.
3rd June
0945
At Ramsgate. S/Lt. MacIntyre (ex M/B
Santosy) took command.
1630
Left in tow of the tug Sun XV, 2 other
M/B's and a life boat also on the tow.
2300
Arrived off Dunkirk. Proceeded inside
harbour and took off troops by order
of Cdre. Taylor.
2400
Arrived alongside a gunboat [the Locust]
embarked a demolition party.
4th June
0045
Proceeded alongside the G/B Mosquito.
0145
Fixed demolition charges. Took the
demolition party back to the gunboat
[Locust].
0210
Left the gunboat.. One of Letitia's
engines running badly.
0230
Taken in tow by a P/S, which already
had a boat in tow.
0245
The P/S altered course to avoid a buoy
causing the other boat in tow to lose
2 men overboard.
0300
The Letitia picked up 1 man - a Dutch
smack rescued other man.
0330
Letitia only making 4½1/2 knote.
0345
Asked a tug for a tow.
Ordered to abandon ship.
0700
Letitia's crew arrived Ramsgate in the
tug.
Nil
Authority. R.O.II, p.550.
Navy
169

Details

MERMAIDEN
C.C.B., Weymouth
M/B (Owner,
Actg. S/Lt. C.E.S.Beale,
Lt.Com. P.M.Filleul,
R.N.
R.N.
P/O F.J. Norton, R.F.R.
29th May
1830
Left Weymouth, Lt. Martin R.N.R. in
command.
30th May
1500
Arrived Dover. Lt. Martin disembarked.
31st May
2300ca
Left Dover for Dunkirk, Pensioner P/O
F.J. Norton in command.
-
Air attack.
1st June
a.m.
Arrived La Panne. Ferried troops.
-
Air attack.
-
Picked up 24 British troops and 1
French officer from small boat.
-
Proceeded.
-
Air attacks. Making water. Engine
trouble.
1420
Ramegate, Disembarked 25 troops. (1)
Carried out repairs to engines.
3rd June
The crew not being willing to proceed,
with the exception of L/Sto. W.A.S.
Horne, they were relieved by
Actg. S/Lt. C.E.S. Beale, R.N. and 3
other volunteers. Commodore A.H.
Taylor was embarked.
1600
The Mermaiden left Ramsgate, in tow
of the tug Sun IV, one of a company
of 14 M/B's, in tow of the tugs
Sun IV, Sun XV, Tanga and Racia.
After passing "W" buoy, Cdre. Taylor
transferred to the W.D/M.L.
Marlborough.
In the neighbourhood of the S.W.
Ruytingen buoy, the tugs slipped the
tows.
2300
Arrived Dunkirk. Proceeded to Quai
Felix Faure. Ferried troops to
a "sloop" (2) outside the harbour and
assisted small boats.
4th June
0230
Proce ded to Ramsgate in company with
sun IV.
0340
Taken in tow by Sun IV.
0745
Arrived Ramsgate.
Total 25
Authority - R.O. II, pp. 364, 422, 588, 592, 595.
R.O.III. pp. 305, 488
(1) (2) Should Ramsgate report states 26 troops troops. to the G/B Locust, It anchored had
off been the arranged Mole but for she Locust to use a box lamp a group
have transferred could not be identified. with
of long flashes every 2 minutes.
267

Details

MICHAEL STEPHENS
R.N.L.I. (Lowestoft)
life boat
s/Lt. M.J.R. Yeatman,
R.N.V.R.
[Sub-Lieut. Skylark] Yeatman transferred from the M/B
2nd June
1500
Proceeded in tow of the tug Sun XI.
2230ca
Arrived Dunkirk. The Michael Stephens
entered harbour. Rammed by a M.T.B.
-
Went alongside east pier. Embarked
12 French troops.
-
Proceeded out of harbour to find the
tug; she had disappeared.
Transferred the troops to a trawler.
Returned to harbour. Rammed by
another M.T.B. Embarked 52 French
troops. After searching for the tug
for some time, and being hit by a
3rd June
0100
fishing boat, proceeded under own
power to Dover.
0710
Arrived Dover. Landed French troops.
Total 52
Authority - - R.O.II, p.223.
27122

Details

MONTAGUE WHALER
7th
(Owners, the 6th Ramsgate Scouts) PATIZ
27th
1535
Loft Hilford HAVED for Dover.
SEAR use
Did not return from Dunkirk.
to
Dunkirk.
0945
Reached Zuydcoote PROB. While making
for Dankirk pier, shouting was
Authority - TO.9144.
heard from a "mined" merchanten. (1)
TO.9436.
The an. BARRA which yes astern of
Montross und ordered to pick up
survivors.
1015
After waiting a short time for the an
Nackey to get clear, berthed alongside
seaward end of Dunkirk east pier,
with Sebre outside.
1120
The dre. Woreester and Anthony secored
ahead.
1134
Several aircraft attempted to bomb the
pier which was crammed with troope
but were driven off by guafire,
"Vest columns of smoke were drifting
westwards from the burning oil tanks
schore, and houses on the ses front
burst into flames from time to time*.
1240
Montrose and Sabre proceeded, full of
troops.
1430
Attacked by waves of bombers. One
bomber shot down.
1630/
Arrive Dover. Discubarked 925 troose.
1817
2230
Proceeded for Dunkirit.
NO By
0013
Ran into a patch of fog and collided
with the tog Sun V,
Montrose was towed back to Dover,
stern first, by the tug Lady Brasser.
1550
Arrived Dover.
Took no further part in Dynamo, (2)
Total 925
R.O.I. D.113.
the Clarabut was detailed from the HONOTORO on
y/v Queen 05 the Channel.
5.0, 287 Lieut. of the sk. Amazong.
300

Details

MONTROSE (D.01) 17th Destroyer Flotilla Cdr. C.R.L.Parry R.N.
27th May
1535
Left Milford Haven for Dover.
28th May
0515ca
Off Dunkirk. Dover, ordered to proceed to
0945
Reached Zuydcoote Pass. While making
for Dunkirk pier, shouting was
heard from a "mined" merchantman. (1)
The dr. Sabre which was astern of
Montrose was ordered to pick up
survivors.
1015
After waiting a short time for the dr.
Mackay to get clear, berthed alongside
seaward end of Dunkirk east pier,
with Sabre outside.
1120
The drs. Worcester and Anthony secured
ahead.
1134
Several aircraft attempted to bomb the
pier which was crammed with troops
but were driven off by gunfire.
"Vast columns of smoke were drifting
westwards from the burning oil tanks
ashore, and houses on the sea front
burst into flames from time to time".
1240
Montrose and Sabre proceeded, full of
troops.
1430
Attacked by waves of bombers. One
bomber shot down.
1630/
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 925 troops.
1817
2230
Proceeded for Dunkirk.
29th May
0013
Ran into a patch of fog and collided
with the tug Sun V.
Montrose was towed back to Dover,
stern first, by the tug Lady Brassey.
1550
Arrived Dover.
Took no further part in Dynamo. (2)
Total 925.
Authority R.O.I. p.113.
(1) (2) Probably S/Lt. G.S.C. the P/V Queen of detailed the Channel. from the Montrose on
29th May, as Clarabut 1st Lieut. was of the sk. Ama zone.
301

Details

E
EGI
ONLY
[Open] Motor life boat
-
S/Lt. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.I
S/Lt. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.
3rd June
1700
2300
Left Ramsgate in tow of the tug Sun XV.
Tow parted and fouled propeller.
Signalled many ships but could get
no reply.
4th June
1300
Propeller cleared. Set course N.W.
for England. No charts, and where-
abouts unknown.
2000
Contacted No.82 L.V. near Harwich.
10.2
Stayed on board the L.V. for the nigh
10.8
additional
5th June
1130
Arrived Sheerness.
Took no part in the evacuation.
1D 78
Authority - R.O.III, p.307.
)
Bourgain
any M/S
(hotoly form of
learn)
1
306

Details

NIGER (N.73)
4th M.S.F.
Cdr. St. J. Cronyn, R.N.
S.O., 4th M.S.F.
30th May
2145
On passage to N. Goodwin L.V. in
company with the M/S Dundalk,
received signal to carry out ferry
Panne. service between Sheerness and La
31st May
0700
Anchored 5 cables off La Panne. Sent
in both whalers and the M/B.
Considerable surf running. There was
no one 1n charge ashore, and as soon
as the boats arrived in they were
seized by soldiers. One was swamped,
the other overloaded and capsized.
Embarked troops from yachts.
1045
Sailed with over 200 troops for Dover
(being less distance than to
Sheerness). Lieut. R.P. Hichens,
R.N.V.R. was left behind. He moored
2 yachts as pontoons, secured grass
lines to the pier of lorries and
organised the boats "pulley-hauly"
on these lines, thereby increasing
the rate of embarkation and avoiding
the risk of capsizing boats.
1445
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 205 troops.
1715
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2240
Anchored off Braye-Dunes.
2315
A boat under oars came off with some
30 soldiers under the command of
S/Lt. R.H. Bygott, R.N.; the boat
had been towed by the tug Tanga.
S/Lt. Bygott reported that there were
150 troops abreast the ship. Niger's
boats were sent in, but finding no
troops, returned empty.
2350
A S/Lt. R.N.V.R. (name unknown) (1)
from the tug Sun VIII swam off from
the beach and reported that his
motor boat and a ship's boat were
aground with some 60 soldiers, that
he had got 30 off in another boat,
and that about 50 more were waiting.
Niger sent her boats in again, to
tow the boats off and fill up; by the
time they got in, the boats had got
off and left, and the troops had gone.
1st June
0100
A large shore boat 1/c of Lt. Cdr.
Craig came alongside with 40
and Towel. At this time, the Niger's
soldiers, including Brigadiers Robb
boats returned with troops and
continued to bring them off regularly
As dawn came, large numbers of Niger's troops
but slowly.
0330
were floats were pressed
seen on the beach and into
carley Lifebelts were also sent and in
service. some soldiers put these on low
and off. It was now nearly
swam Bray had been shelled from
Nieuport water. continuously throughout
the night.
(1) The speaks of a Lieut. Navy Puckley; List. there
was Sun no VIII's officer report of this name in the
343

Details

OCEAN COCK
Tug (Gamecock S.T. Co.
Ltd.)
A.V. Mastin, Master.
29th May
Towed 4 sailing(1) barges from Tilbury
ordered to Dover.
to Ramagate. on arrival at Ramagate,
30th May
1430ca
Arrived Dover with barges.
31st May
0500
Left tow. Dover for Dunkirk with 6 M/B's in
1300ca
Arrived Dunkirk beach. Cast off the
M/B's. Proceeded.
1700
Arrived Dover.
1st June(
2000
Saw the dr. Worcester and the P/V
Maid of Orleans in collision in Dover
harbour. Proceeded to assistance of
Worcester and assisted to tow her to
Prince of Wales pier, in company with
the tuge Crested Cock, Challenge,
Sun VII(3) and Sun XII (4)
2130
Proceeded to Dunkirk, with orders to
pick up anything that was damaged.
(see Sun XI). Zero hour 0300/2.
Later, ordered to return.
2nd June
0800
Dover. Awaited completion of minesweep-
ing operations.
0940
Entered harbour.
Nil
Authority - W.W.
(1) Actually there 3 sailing barges, and the A/B Pudge.
(2) According to Capt. were A.V. Mastin's report this should be
31st May - but all other reports indicate that it was
(3) Sun VII not mention this, but the tug Foremost in 22
lst June.
states does that she assisted 2 vessels in collision the
(4) Sun XI also assisted.
outer basin at this time.
356

Details

Hospital carrier
PARIS
S. Ry. Co.)
Capt. E.A. Biles, Master
1556
25th May
Left Dover for Dunkirk, the H/C
Isle of Thanet in company.
1815
Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed outside
the Isle of Thanet. Embarked wounded.
000lca
26th May
Left Dunkirk with wounded on board.
-
Arrived Dover. Disembarked wounded. (1)
28th May
1830
Left the Downs, the P/V's Manxman
and Prague in company.
2250
All 3 ships grounded on Smac Bank.
The Paris and Prague came off
immediately, but the Manxman remained
aground for some hours.
29th May
0355
The 3 ships proceeded to Dunkirk, after
which they acted independently.
The Paris embarked troops and sailed.
Disembarked 400 troops( 2) at a home
port.
30th/31st
-
The Paris again went to Dunkirk and
May
returned with 230 troops. (2)
2nd June
1648
Left the Downs for Dunkirk.
-
Between the N. Goodwin L.V. and W buoy,
1855ca
ran into thick fog. Near W buoy
the fog cleared. (3)
1900ca
About 15 miles N.W. of Dunkirk,
attacked by 2 aircraft. Severe
damage from near misses. Ship out
of control, all lights extinguished.
2000ca
Attacked by 3 aircraft. Further
damage to ship and her lifeboats.
A motor boat I see 40 foot ship's
fast motor boat. took Paris's boats
in tow. The Paris was abandoned.
-
All personnel transferred to the tug
Foremost 87, and the boats abandoned.
2311
The tug Sun XV sighted Paris listing
heavily to starboard; she made fast
a wire, but it parted.
3rd June
0100
The tug Sun IV arrived on the scene.
Air attack. It was decided by the
tugs that an escort would be necessary
-
The tug Lady Brassey sighted Paris
listing heavily and settling fast.
0400
The Paris sank 4 mile east of W buoy in
17 fathoms.
Total 630
Authority - T.M. 6213/40.
R.O.II, p.177
(2) 1) This was of Operation Dynamo.
(3) D.R. D.R., para. before the commencement near W buoy, was shelled
when off the 89 states, coast Engines put out be of action
a the but
French appears bombed. to
379

Details

QUISISANA
M/B (s. Eldridge)
S/Lt. A.J. Weaver,
R.N.V.R.
1st June
-
Went to Dunkirk.
-
Embarked 1 officer and 17 other ranks
(mostly Coldstream Guards) from beach.
-
Proceeded.
-
15 miles from Dunkirk, taken in tow by
the "Tug" [1.e. the drifter] Young Mun
2nd June
-
and towed to Dover.
[s/Lt. Weaver then went to the tug
Sun x]
Total 18
Authority - R.O.II, p.219, 393.
434

Details

RACIA
Tug (W. Watkins Ltd.)
A.C. Addison, Master.
30th May
2130
Left Tilbury with 12 lifeboats in tow.
Anchored off Chapmans Light at 2400.
31st May
0430
Proceeded to Southend and thence to
1330
Ramsgate.
1415
A naval commander came off with L.G's
and guns crews.
1440
Proceeded to Dunkirk.
2130
Arr
Dunkirk. Anchored off No. beach.
The lifeboats ferried troops to the
Racia.
1st June
0130
The 12 lifeboats were made fast astern
and Racia proceeded.
0700 Arr Ramsgate. Disembarked 50 (?) troops
(number not stated.)
the mg
[According to Sun, at 1730 1st June, Racia was
unwilling to sail again to Dunkirk. S/Lt. W.R.
Williams R.N. says "Took command of a tug, whose
master refused to go to Dunkirk again, and left
for Dunkirk".
S/Lt. Williams went over to Dunkirk; "loaded up"
with French troops and landed them at Ramsgate
at 0730(1) on 2nd June].
2nd June
Captain Addison says "lying off
Ramsgate with 17 lifeboats astern".
Capt. Addison continues:
3rd June
1430
"Passed lifeboats over to tug Sun.
Embarked a "Commander" [Lt. Cdr. J.I.
Miller, D.S.O., R.N.R. and a naval
crew [see Sun IV] and proceeded to
Dunkirk."
2145
Arrived Dunkirk. Berthed alongside Mole
Embarked French troops.
0230
Shifted berth to allow dr. Malcolm to
get alongside.
4th June
0245
Proceeded.
In the Dyck channel embarked the crew
and a wounded soldier from a M/L.
0650
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 123(2)
troops by motor boats.
Estimated Total 400. 423
Authority - W.W.
R.O.II, p.567.
(1) Ramsgate report states that at 0743, 2nd June, 250 Allied
troops were landed by the "Maysayer". No ship of this
name is known; it is probably a miscript for Racia.
(2) Capt. Addison does not state the number of troops.
Ramsgate report states that at 0715, 4th June a launch
landed 123 Allied troops.
(3) S/AV.Willium then took command 3 of the WD/ML. Swallow

Details

RUMMY II
M/B (A.G.
Sea Cadet Lieut. H. Sidmouth-
Smith).
Willing.
From a report in "The Navy" (TO.9144/41), S/C Lieut.
Sidmouth-Willing went to Dunkirk in the tug Sun IV
on 1st June, and in the Sk. Hilda on 2nd June.
There is no evidence that the Rummy II went to Dunkirk
at all, after S/C Lt. Sidmouth-Willing had brought her
from Walton to Ramsgate.
According to TO.9144/40, Rummy II was in the A.P.S.
1600
S/Lt.
bosts.
2300ga
The Morst was and
Ryseste II wee re-allocated to A.P.S., and
$
does not appear to have any further
part in Operation Dynamo.
1
s/Lt. Satterford says he arrived back at
Ramsgate [?Margate] at 0900(4) on 31st
May. Actually ne seems to have arrived
with It. Sargent of the Corvette
Guillemot on 1st June (See Guillemot and
Horst). He then took command 02 the M/B
E/S Quicksilver.
(1) to
(2) 8/L1.
B/L. 0.577 on
so

Details

ST. CLEARS,
Tug (Sheerness)
W.J. Penney, Master.
28th May
1205
Left Sheerness, (in company with tug
Sun v) towing 11 naval cutters, for
Dover. Commander Hayward R.N.R. (1)
in command.
-
Left Dover, Sun V in company.
29th May
0015
Sun V in collision with dr. Montrose,
in fog(2). St. Clears "searched
the vicinity for two hours, but
failed to locate" the Sun V. (3)
0215
Proceeded.
-
Passing Gravelines, came under shore
battery fire. Two cutters in tow
were sunk.
-
Arrived at T buoy, where the tr.
Blackburn Rovers was stationed.
-
Passing Nieuport, fired on by shore
batteries. Two cutters were sunk,
a third was cut adrift (it was
however picked up by the Sp. S/V
Crested Eagle, and towed to La Panne).
-
Proceeded with 6 remaining cutters and
anchored off La Panne. Embarked
troops. Continuous air attacks.
-
Proceeded to an unknown destroyer which
had been hit. St. Clears was not,
however, required.
2130ca
Transferred the cutters to the Sp. S/V
Golden Eagle and proceeded to assist
the S1. Bideford which was aground.
2215ca
Endeavoured to take Bideford in tow -
but tow parted. Belgian
-
Picked up 70 French troops from small
boats.
30th May
2220ca
Defect in main engines.
1100 ca
Proceeded at slow speed to Sheerness.
Belgian
Disembarked 70, troops.
Total 70.
Authority R.O.II, p.428.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Capt. W.J. Penney, Master. (4)
(1) The Navy List gives Cdr. C.J.L. Hayward, D.S.C., R.D., R.N.R.
(2) Montrose (Retd). was towed stern first to Dover by the tug Lady
(3) Sun Brassey. V took avoiding action and although severely damaged was
(4) London not sunk. 1940 (Supplement No. 34925) Transport states
59
that Long Capt. Gazette William of 16th Josiah Aug. "Penny" a was printer's Master error. of H.M.

Details

SANTOSY
Motor yacht
and
Owner L. Odell)
Actg. S/Lt. J.M.
H.M.S. Nelson's Picket boat
Chappell, R.N.
30th May
1730
S/Lt. Chappell arrived Ramsgate, from
Portsmouth on in Nelson's Picket boat,
2330
one engine.
The Picket boat left. for Dunkirk. Two
miles out, air attack.
31st May
0530ca
Arrived Dunkirk roads. Damaged by shell
fire. Loaded with troops and left.
1400
Making water slightly.
The picket boat arrived Ramsgate.
Disembarked 16 troops.
1st June
0830
Left for Dunkirk. Making water rapidly.
Bottom boat. damaged. Beached the picket
r
S/Lt. Chappell then took command of the
-
Santosy and left for Dunkirk.
Presumably reached Dunkirk].
-
On the return journey, the port engine
only was working. The Santosy was
towed by a trawler which ran on to a
wreck east of N. Goodwin L.V. and
turned over on top of the Santosy.
1 severe casualty.
-
The Santosy arrived Ramsgate on 1 engine.
2nd June
1900
Actg. S/Lt. B.D.O. MacIntyre R.N. (ex-
Encore) took out the Santosy. She
broke down; returned at 2000.
[s/Lt. MacIntyre then took over the
M/B Letitia
3rd June
1600
S/Lt. Chappell, in the Santosy left
Ramsgate for Dunkirk, towed by the
2130
tug Sun IV. The tow parted near W
buoy. The starboard engine failed. (1)
1)
The Santosy was abandoned. The crew
transferred to the Sun IV.
Total (Nelson's Picket boat) 16
Santosy)
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, pp. 421, 550.
R.O.III, pp. 278, 292.
(1) Some of the petrol cans used at Ramsgate were subsequently
found to contain water.
91

Details

Seaplane Tenders
Seaplane Tenders of the
Marine Section, R.A.F. Station, Calshot. (1)
P
30th May
0430
Seaplane Tenders 243, (2) 254, (3)
276, (4) 291,(3) and A.M.C.3, (3)
under the command of Pilot Officer
C. Collings, R.A.F. (in S.T.243)
left Calshot, in company, for Dover.
[Pinnace No. 32 proceeded to Ramsgate
independently and then to Dunkirk.
En route, she fouled her propeller,
and returned to Ramsgate without
taking any part in the evacuation].
en
31st May
0500
S.T's 243, 254, 276, 291 and A.M.C.3
left Dover for Dunkirk in tow of
a tug [viz: Sun VII].
-
Owing to rough weather, the tow had
to be cast off, and the S.T's
proceeded to Dunkirk under their own
power. (See Sun VII).
-
Dunkirk. The S.T's ferried about 500
troops to ships. During this work
S.T.254 was lost through overcrowding;
A.M.C.3 ran aground after damaging
:
her propellers.
1
-
S.T's 243, 276 and 291 returned to
Dover with the crews of the lost
S.T's.
S.T.291 was damaged and took no
further part in Dynamo.
2nd June
1500
S.T's 243 and 276 sailed for Dunkirk;
en route, S.T.243 was bombed and
sunk. (For detailed reports see
under these two vessels' names in
1)
alphabetical record).
3rd June
-
High Speed Launch 120(3) (Pilot
Officer G.R. Spencer R.A.F.) left
Calshot for Dover.
-
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
(No details available).
4th June
-
High Speed Launch 120 returned to
Calshot.
(1) Report by Commanding Officer, R.A.F. Station, Calshot.
Referred to in D.R. as "Motor Boat 243 (R.A.F.)".
(1) Referred to in D.R. as "Motor Boat 270 (R.A.F.)".
Not mentioned in D.R.
112

Details

Details

SKYLARK III(1)
Open M/B
Sto. G. Bramhall
[This vessel had apparently already made
trip to Dunkirk, but no details are available]. one
2nd June
1430ca
Left Dover with 2 other boats in tow of
2215ca
the tug Sun x.
Slipped tow outside Dunkirk harbour "and
went into pier". Embarked French
20 soldiers and ferried them to the tug;
to 25 soldiers each trip.
3rd June
0400ca
Left Dunkirk in tow of tug Sun XI.
-
Started shipping water, so transferred
0900
the occupants to the tug.
Arrived Dover in tow.
(1) Sto. Bramhall calls it the "Skylark".
15152

Details

SOUTHERN QUEEN
M/B(1)
S/Lt. B.G.P. de Mattos,
1100
R.N.V.R.
31st Ma.
Left of Dover, the with 3 other boats, tow
sk. Vrede. 2 miles in
Dover, the Vrede broke down. outside The
M/B's returned to Dover.
1st June
0700
Left Dover with 3 other boats, in tow
of the sk. Rika.
1300
Arrived Dunkirk roads.
1400
The Rika proceeded to Ramsgate with
survivors from a French destroyer.
The Southern Queen was sent back
under own power to Dover.
2200ca
Arrived Dover.
2nd June
1500
2245
Towed to Dunkirk by the tug Sun XI.
Arrived Dunkirk. Ferried about 200
troops; 2 loads from east pier, 2
from west pier.
3rd June
-
Sailed for Dover under own power.
0600ca
Halfway across, was taken in tow by
the tug Sun X.
0900
Arrived in tow at Dover.
Nil.
Authority - R.O.II, p.224.
(1) If this was "Southern Queen (F.E.154)", the owner was
Mr. G. Mockridge.
163

Details

SUN
Alexander Towage Co. Ltd.
(Tilbury)
Cdr.E.K. Le Mesurier,
M.V.O., R.N.
H.R. Cole, Master.
1st June
1500ca
The Sun arrived at Ramsgate from
(inc signal G.69)
/
1730
Tilbury, with 20 pulling boats in tow.
Sailed for Dunkirk, Cdr. Le Mesurier in
command, assisted by Lieut. J.V.
Wilkinson R.N., and Lieut. R.E.
Lloyd, R.N. A motor boat and 5
pulling boats were in tow. (1)
[The tug Tanga (Lt. Cdr. R.E. Sherwood, R.N.R.) with 2 pulling
boats [4 in tow(2) sailed about the same time. The
tug Racia, evidently unwilling to sail, was left behind. (3)
The tug Sun IV (Cdr. Tyler R.N.) (4) had sailed at 1515 with
two boats in tow.]
On passage, three of Sun's pulling
boats were swamped and were abandoned.
2330ca
Arrived Dunkirk. The Tanga had arrived
a little earlier.
Sun and Tanga anchored about 3/4 mile
east of Dunkirk Mole. Using her boats,
Sun embarked about 45 British troops.
She then went alongside and embarked
about 50 French troops, and picked up
28 French and 4 British ratings from
a broken down M/B; then returned to
anchorage.
2nd June
0245ca
[The Tanga proceeded. Her M/B was left
stranded on the beach].
0300ca
The Sun embarked 50 British troops from
her own boats.
0315ca
Sun proceeded with about 175 British
and French troops, and 28 naval
officers and ratings. One pulling
boat was swamped on passage.
0815ca
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 175
troops. (5)
3rd June
1230
Sun left for Tilbury, towing 6 boats.
[Cdr. Le Mesurier took command of tug
Sun IV]
Total 175
Authority R.O.II, p.418/9.
A.T.C.
& Capt. Cole "a launch and 2 life boats in tow."
Tanga states says, she had 4 boats in tow, and they were apparently
(3) It M/Bs. seems however, that S/Lt. W.R. Williams R.N., took her
(5) Not mentioned in Dover or Ramagate reports.
The Navy List night gives Cdr. T. St. V. Tyler, R.N. (Retd.)
over that (see under Racia)
182

Details

SUN III
Tug H. J. Alexander & Co. Ltd)
F.W. Russell,
Master.
1200ca
31st May
Left Southend with the 4 S/B's
Haste Away, Ada Mary, Burton
Haste Shannon in tow. Off Broadstairs, and
but Away and Ada Mary broke adrift,
1715
were picked up.
Arrived Ramsgate with barges.
1st June
0915ca
Left Ramsgate with the 4 barges in tow,
and proceeded astern of a car ferry
[the Fishbourne] which was en route
for Dunkirk.
1030ca
The 2 sternmost barges broke adrift,
but were picked up. Abreast the
South Falls, the sternmost barge
(Haste Away), broke adrift and was
taken in tow by the tug Duke, which
was in company. The Fishbourne
was now out of sight.
1200ca
The sternmost barge (Ada Mary) broke
adrift and was taken in tow by Duke.
1230ca
The tow rope broke, but tow was
reconnected. Approaching the Outer
5
Ruytingen, embarked some 20 soldiers
from a lifeboat.
1700ca
Directed by a plane to 2 boats full of
soldiers near Whistle buoy on the Le
Dyck [ease Gravel One load
taken by Sun III, the other by Duke.
Sun III then had about 148 men on
board.
2130
Decided to return. Off Broadstairs
Shannon broke adrift but was picked
up.
2nd June
0600
Arrived Ramsgate. 148 troops landed in
launches.
3rd June
1200ca
Ordered to Southend.
1940
Southend.
Total 148
Authority - W.W.
A.T.C.
(1) St. Clears states that she searched for 2 hours, but failed
Montrose states Sun there V. was fog; St. Clears does not,
to locate the
however, mention this. It is clear that visibility
was restricted.
183

Details

SUN IV
Tug (Alexander Towage
Co. Ltd.)
Mr. C.G. Alexander,
Lt. J.E.L. Master. Martin, R.N.
0200
31st May
Slipped from Tilbury Docks with 12
Sun IV was Mr. C.G. Alexander,
lifeboats in tow. The Master of the
Managing Director of the Alexander
Towage Co. Ltd.
A Trinity House pilot, Mr. Glasboro
was embarked and remained in the tug
throughout the operation.
1145ca
Arrived Ramsgate.
1330
Embarked Cdr. Tyler [?Cdr. T.St. V.
Tyler, R.N. (Retd. )], Lieut. J.V.
1430
Wilkinson, R.N., and a naval party.
Sailed for Dunkirk, towing 9 boats.
1915
Air attack. Two sailors overboard by
wash of a dèstroyer. Cast off tow.
1 man rescued, 1 lost. Picked up
tow and proceeded.
ml
2230
Anchored off beach above harbour.
The boats were sent in with Lieut.
Wilkinson and Lieut. Fletcher R.N.R.
in charge. 82 B.E.F. embarked
during night.
bn
1st June
0315ca
Left Dunkirk with 3 boats in tow.
0445
One boat swamped, by a destroyer
manoeuvring in an air attack, was
cut adrift and abandoned.
0800
Another boat swamped and abandoned.
0945
Ramsgate. At 1100, 82 troops landed
by tender. (1)
1515
To Dunkirk with 2 boats in tow. [Sea
Cadet Sidmouth-Willing appears to
have been on board for this trip].
1645
South of N. Goodwin L.V., a small
trawler was seen to strike a mine.
1730
Air attack. 3 bombers, 10 bombs, no
hits.
1800
Spoke the M.L.B. E.M.E.D. Piloted
her to Dunkirk.
2100
Cdr. Tyler, proceeded to Dunkirk
harbour in E.M.E.D.
2130
Sun IV arrived Dunkirk. Shifted billet
from time to time during the night.
[Lieut. R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
commanding E.M.E.D. was killed about
2200 whilst alongside M/S Niger].
2nd June
0340
Left Dunkirk (at low water) with 112
B.E.F. on board and E.M.E.D.
(with 39 troops) and a lifeboat in
tow. The tug grounded on the way out
of the harbour but refloated after
about 10/15 minutes.
0930
Arrived Ramsgate. 142 troops landed
by tender. (1) Cdr. Tyler disembarked.
2045
Proceeded to search for H/C Paris.
3rd June
0100
Located Paris; she was abandoned.
Air attack. Decided (with Sun XV)
that Paris being heavily down by the
stern, would require an escort.
Proceeded homeward.
(1) Not mentioned in Dover Report.
184

Details

SUN VI (continued).
0515
3rd June)
Arrived Ramsgate.
0700
1600
At Towed Sun XV off Quern Bank.
Mesurier, 4 M.L's. M.V.O., R.N. Took in Le tow
Ramsgate. Embarked Cdr. E.K.
1700
Sun R.E. IV, and the tugs Tanga (Lt.
R.N. R. Sherwood, R.N.R.), Sun XV Cdr. (two
J.I. officers) and Racia (Lt. Cdr.
between Miller, D.S.O., R.N.R. towing
for Dunkirk. Commodore A.H. Taylor
them 14 motor boats, sailed
O.B.E., took passage in the leading
motor boat, Mermaiden; half way
Marlborough. across he transferred to the W.D/M.L.
The following boats were abandoned on
passage or at Dunkirk:
M.B. Thark, was abandoned half way
(foul propeller and rudder).
ml
M/B Santosy was abandoned near W buoy
(water in petrol).
M/B Diana Mary( 2) was abandoned at
Dunkirk (engine trouble).
Admiral Superintendents barge
3
(Portsmouth) piled up on some sub-
merged masonry in Dunkirk harbour and
was abandoned.
2320ca
The convoy arrived at Dunkirk, most of
the towed boats having been slipped
in the vicinity of the S.W.
Ruytingen buoy.
2330
Sun IV picked up 12 French troops from
an open boat at the entrance of the
harbour, and anchored east of the
entrance.
4th June
0115
One of the M/B's [Mermaiden] returned
and reported "no more troops at
Quai Felix Faure", and that Commodore
Taylor had left the Quai.
0200
Followed dr. Malcolm into the harbour,
with the tug Racia.
0230ca
Sun IV proceeded, picked up the waiting
M/B, Mermaiden] which was slightly
damaged, and sailed for Ramsgate.
(Sun XV picked up another vessel
half way across and towed it home).
0340
Took Mermaiden in tow.
of the 14 M/B's which started for
Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be abandoned.
The remainder found their way back
to Ramsgate.
0746
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 12
troops, (1) by launch.
[In his report Cdr. Le Mesurier says: "The
spirit of the Masters and crews of the
.....
tugs (especially the Sun tugs) was excellent"
and refers to the fact that the "owner of the
Alexander tug Company" was himself the Captain
of the Sun IV].
Authority R.O.II, pp. 406, 420.
Total 236(1)
W.W.
(1) (2) Not mentioned in
Diana Mary returned D.R. to Dover with 28 troops.
185

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander &
SUN v(1)
Co. Ltd.)
W.H. Mastin, Master
1205
28th May
Left each Sheerness, towing 11 naval cutters
proceeded to Dover.
manned by 7 naval ratings, and
-
In the Downs, reported to the Southern
Inspection vessel; instructed to
proceed to Dunkirk.
-
Hailed by the tug St. Clears and
advised to transfer the ratings from
the cutters to the Sun V.
-
Sun Clears. V then followed astern of St.
2330
Fog.
2400ca
Visibility improved.
29th May
0017ca
Abaft the beam, 300 ft. away "the
huge bow wave of a warship"
[the dr. Montrose] was seen heading
for Sun V's port side. No ships
ml
were showing lights.
The Sun V's wheel was put hard to
starboard to alter the angle at which
the other ship was heading for her.
The Montrose struck the Sun V a
3
severe glancing blow, causing Sun V
to list heavily to starboard.
[The Master of the St. Clears states
that he searched the vicinity for 2
hours but failed to locate the Sun v]
Sun V put back to the Downs.
0230ca
Anchored in the Downs.
Nil
Authority - A.T.C.
W.W.
R.O.II pp.428, 432.
R.O.III p.261.
(1) The dates given in Capt. Mastin's report are 1 day ahead
C.O. of the dr. Montrose, the masters of the tugs St.
of the correct dates, as given in the reports of the
Clears and Lady Brassey, and Cdr. A.J. Hayward R.N.R.
(who was in the St. Clears). Capt. Mastin's dates have
been amended accordingly.
186

Details

SUN VII
Tug (W.H.J. Alexander &
Co. Ltd).
G. Cawsey, Master.
0500
31st May
Left Dover, towing 5 R. A.F. motor
boats, (1) for Dunkirk. On the
over the boats broke adrift on way six
occasions, but were picked up and
eventually arrived at their destina-
tion. Sun VII then returned.
-
1st June
Arrived Dover.
2200
Left Dover for Dunkirk with six other
tugs( 2) (see Sun XI) with orders to
give assistance to any craft in need
of it. Waited off Dunkirk for some
considerable time.
-
Ordered to return.
2nd June
1000
Arrived Dover.
ml
Nil
3
Authority - W.W.
A.T.C.
(1) These were the Seaplane Tenders 243, 254, 276, 291 and
(2) Capt. A.M.C.3. Cawsey says "with seven other tugs".
187

Details

SUN VIII
Tug (W.H.J. Ltd.) Alexander & Co.
S. Smith, Master
2130ca
30th May
Left for Tilbury with 12 lifeboats in tow
Ramsgate.
-
31st May
At Ramsgate "Lieut Puckley"(1) joined
the Sun VIII.
1330ca
Joined a convoy of tugs and trawlers
bound for Dunkirk, with orders not
to arrive there before dark.
About 20 miles from Dunkirk, air
attacks commenced.
2130ca
Entered Dunkirk roads.
2230ca
Arrived Bray-Dunes. The lifeboats went
into the beach. Sun VIII anchored
in 3 fathoms - 2 hours before L.W.
The boats ferried troops to ships
and also to Sun VIII
1st June
0030
Shifted to seaward because of falling
ml
tide.
0430ca
Ordered to leave. Passed 9 lifeboats
to a "Sloop's" motor boat and
abandoned 3 others. Proceeded with
about 120 troops.
3
0930
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 120
troops. (+) (2)
Total 120
Authority - W.W.
A.T.C.
(1) (2) There is no officer of this name in the Navy List.
Not mentioned in Dover Report.
188

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
SUN X
and Co. Ltd.
W.A. Fothergill, Master.
S/Lt. A.J. Weaver, R.N.V.R.
1515ca
2nd June
Left them Dover with 4 boats. in tow [one of
was the Skylark III (1)], in
Arrived off Dunkirk. "The town
Fairplay I and Foremost 87.
company with 3 other tugs [Sun XI,
2215
burning furiously, shells and was bombs
exploding all over the place and a
pall of black smoke blowing gently
to the westward, blotting out the
2300ca
coast line". Cast off the tow.
Sun X entered the harbour to assist a
grounded transport [
]
which was full of troops. Found
there was insufficient depth of water.
Picked up several boats loaded with
men from the transport and proceeded
outside the harbour to pick up Sun X's
boats. Embarked troops from small
boats.
3rd June
-
After embarking about 300 troops, re-
entered the harbour to assist berthing
of transports.
0400ca
In the meantime Sun X's boats had
disappeared. Ordered to proceed to
Dover.
-
Half way across took 2 boats in tow.
0900
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 211
troops. (2)
Total 211
Authority - R.O.II, pp.219, 393.
W.W.
(1) S/Lt. "3.30 A.J. Weaver sent states: to tug Sun X (Lieut. Philpotts) which
towed p.m. 3 boats was to Dunkirk. (At destination Lt. Philpotts
left tug to act as beach master and did not return).
Boats loaded tug to capcity with French troops, and tug
(2) D.R. entered Dover at 8.30 a.m."
189

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
SUN XI
& Co., Ltd.)
J.R. Lukes, Master.
2330
30th May
Left for Tilbury, Ramsgate. towing 3 sailing barges
1300
31st May
1530
Arrived Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dover.
Dover with barges.
Sailed with a lighter, loaded with
1730
Arrived Dunkirk. A M/B took over the
stores and cans of water, in tow.
1800
Proceeded. lighter and beached her.
1900
Air attack. A drifter was sunk; the
1930
tug Contest picked up her crew.
Passed the tugs Sun XV, Sun VIII and
Sun IV going in.
2300
"Sorry for them, glad to get out".
Arrived North Goodwin. Anchored
inside S. Brake at 2400.
1st June
2130
Berthed a destroyer [the Worcester]
which had been in collision inside
Dover harbour.
2155ca
Ordered to proceed to Dunkirk and pick
up anything.
2400
Off North Goodwin, there were seven
tugs, in single line ahead, viz. the
Challenge, Ocean Cock, Crested Cock,
Fairplay I, Sun VII, Sun XI, Sun XII.
2nd June
0200
Sighted small lights. Found a large
Govt. lighter Y.C.63 broken down
and full of wounded and troops.
Among them was "Captain (D) of the
19th Flotilla whose destroyer
[ the Keith had blown up".
0230
Took Y.C.63 in tow.
0630
Arrived Dover. Berthed lighter.
1400
Captain Fraser R.N. came on board.
1500ca
Left Dover, towing 4 boats, (1)
followed by tugs Sun X, Fairplay I and
Foremost 87.
[2115ca]
Foremost 87 picked up 6 life boats full
of wounded and survivors [from H/C
Paris] and turned back.
2245
Anchored west of Dunkirk Mole. Sun x
alongside. Embarked troops from M/B's
2330
Ordered inside the harbour to refloat
a grounded transport. Too shallow.
Transferred her troops by M/B's.
3rd June
0245
Went inside harbour again to assist a
sloop. Low water, went aground. Had
to back out.
0330
Daybreak. Full of troops, proceeded,
with a large life boat full of troops
in tow and also one small one
[the M/B Skylark III]
0900
Arrived Dover. Unloaded 188 troops.
Total 188
Authority W.W.
(1) One of which was the M. L/B Michael Stephens [and probably
the Southern Queen, and Jane Holland].
190

Details

Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
Sun XII
and Co. Ltd.)
A.V. Mee, Master.
B.R. Mastin, Navigating
Master
2300ca
29th May
Left Tilbury Docks for Ramsgate, towing
H.A.C. and Beatrice Maud.
the A/B Thyra and the S/B's Royalty,
1210
30th May
Arrived Ramsgate. Ordered to Dover.
1500
Arrived Dover with the 4 barges.
1600
31st May
Left Dover for Dunkirk towing the S/B's
Ethel Everard and Tollesbury loaded
with water and provisions for
Dunkirk; tug Fairplay I, also towing
barges, in company. Air attack en
route.
2350
Arrived Dunkirk. Both tugs put their
barges ashore at Braye-Dunes.
Both tugs proceeded 3 to 4 miles to
the east to collect troops, but none
were available.
1st June
0400
Returned to Braye-Dunes. Proceeded to
Dover.
0410ca
Off Dunkirk. Air attack.
1030
Arrived Dover.
2030
Sun XII assisted dr. Worcester which
had been in collision with P/V Maid
of Orleans.
2155
Left Dover for W buoy.
Off the North Goodwin, Sun XII was
one of 7 tugs steaming in single
line ahead (see Sun XI)
2nd June
0300
Arrived W buoy. Ordered to return.
0920
Arrived Dover.
Nil
Authority. A.T.C.
W.W.
191

Details

SUN XV
Tug (W.H.J. Alexander
& Co. Ltd.)
J.J. Belton, Master
31st May
0015
Left with Tilbury 12 for Southend and Ramsgate
1150
1430
Arrived Ramsgate.
life boats in tow.
Left tow. for Dunkirk with 6 life boatsin
1930
2215
Air attack by 28 bombers.
Off Dunkirk pier head. Proceeded to
La Panne.
2400
Anchored off La Panne.
1st June
0005
The life boats proceeded into the
beach 50 yards distant, and ferried
70/80 troops to the tug. Five of the
boats were lost in this operation.
-
0200
Proceeded with the 6th life boat in tow.
The life boat sank and was cut adrift.
0430
4 miles west of Ruytingen buoy took in
tow the disabled lighter Y.C.72
which had been towing the lighter
Y.C.71. Both were full of troops.
0900
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 75
troops by small craft.
2nd June
2100
Proceeded in search of the H/C Paris,
with Cdr. J. Elliott, R.D., R.N.R.
on board and tug Sun IV in company.
3rd June
0100ca
Sighted the Paris, which had a bad list
to starboard. Made fast a wire, but
it parted. Air attack. The tow
was abandoned, because it was
decided an escort would be necessary.
-
Ordered to proceed to the west, and
cruised around.
0340
Sighted the dfr. Yorkshire Lass
disabled and full of troops. Took
her in tow.
0437
The Yorkshire Lass asked to be cast
off as her engines were repaired.
0745
The Sun XV arrived at Ramsgate.
1700
Left for Dunkirk, Lieut. T. Galloway,
R.N.R. and another R.N.R. officer on
board and towing 4 M/B's one of which
was the M. L/B Guide of Dunkirk. (3)
2235
Arrived Dunkirk pier head.
2315
Commenced embarking troops.
4th June
0200
Went alongside the eastern arm.
Practically all troops had gone.
0230
Proceeded.
0320
Air attack.
0420
Took in tow the disabled H.M. drifter
0815(1)
Arrived L.H.W.D. Ramsgate. Disembarked 31
troops. (2)
Total 106
Authority - W.W.
R.O.III, p. 307.
R.O.IV, p.71.
(1) Ramsgate times L.H.W.D. 's arrival as 0900.
(2) A launch landed 31 troops at Ramsgate at 0820. These may
(3) Guide of Dunkirk broke away from the tow before reaching
be assumed to have come from Sun XV,
Dunkirk.
192

Details

TANGA
Tug (William Watkins Ltd.)
H.P. Gouge, Master.
29th May
Towed to the barges Snowdon and Saladin
Ramsgate, where they remained.
1000ca
31st May
Anchored off Ramsgate.
1400
Embarked 4 Lewis guns and 2 gunners
-
also a Lt. Cdr. (1) and a Lt. R.N.R.
Proceeded with 6 boats (one of them a
M.L/B) in tow, towards Dunkirk.
Skpr. A. Gardner, R.N.R. took
passage in the Tanga.
1930
Air misses. attack when nearing Dunkirk. Near
2040
Off Dunkirk harbour. Proceeded 6 miles
further east. Slipped boats and
hung off. [Skpr. Gardner, helped to
ferry troops in the M. L/B, which,
however, broke down and was abandoned.
Skpr. Gardner returned on 1st June
in with the M/S Leda].
1st June
0350ca
Some of the boats returned with about
160 troops. Abandoned all but 1
motor boat "and had to run for it".
When abreast of Dunkirk harbour,
picked up 6 men from a small boat -
survivors from the tug St. Fagan.
A mile further on, picked up the A/B
Pudge with 4 men on board. Took her
in tow.
0900
Anchored off Ramsgate. Motor boats
came off and landed 160 troops. (2)
1600
Proceeded, towing 4 boats, to Dunkirk.
2230ca
Arrived off Dunkirk. Slipped the tow,
and "paddled about outside".
2nd June
0330
"Ordered to clear out and run for it".
None of the 4 boats had returned.
Other boats had brought the Tanga
about 90 British and 80 French troops.
Proceeded, towing a disabled M/B.
0800
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 170
troops. (2)
3rd June
1630
Left Ramsgate towing 4 M/B's(3)
2300
Arrived off Dunkirk. Slipped the tow,
and waited as before.
4th June
0200ca
The tugs Sun IV, Sun XV, Racia and
Tanga were ordered to go alongside the
pier and get as many troops as
The possible. Tanga embarked 37 troops.
"Ordered to clear out". None of the
4 boats towed over had returned.
[See Madame Sans Gene].
0235ca
Cleared the pierhead. Air attack.
Claimed to have shot down a plane.
Off N. Goodwin L.V. took in tow a
-
French fishing lugger with crew of
three.
(1) On 3rd June, Lt. Cdr. Sherwood R.N.R. was in command of
(2) Not mentioned Ramsgate or Dover Reports.
Tanga.
(3) The Madame Sans in Gene, a life boat and 3 other boats.
210

Details

THANK
Thames Local Defence Flotilla
Ambler,
[s/ the (See Special Service vessels).
in
1st June
1500
Loft of Sheerness for Reservato in charge
a convoy or 12 W/B's.
On arrival at kamagate, S/Lt. Carew-
Marlborough. Hunt transferred to the W.D/M.L.
June
1700
With Its. Ambler on board [report by
B/Lt. Carew-Hunt), the Thark left
Remegate for Dunkirk in tow of a
tog [the Sun IV].
Half wey across, rype fouled and #
Thark's propeller and rudder, and
she was abondoned.
Apparently much damaged, the Thank was
subsequently returned to her owner
N11
importy - R.O.III, D.329.
70.9436/40.
216

Details

M/B (Owner, C.G.
THARK
Thompson)
Mr. Ambler, Coxswain.
S/Lt. A. Carew-Hunt, R.N.
[s/Lt. Carew-Hunt had previously been in
the Liebestraum]
1st June
1500
Left of Sheerness for Ramsgate in charge
a convoy of 12 M/B's.
-
On arrival at Ramsgate, S/Lt. Carew-
Marlborough. Hunt transferred to the W. D/M.L.
3rd June
1700
With Mr. Ambler on board [report by
S/Lt. Carew-Hunt], the Thark left
Ramsgate for Dunkirk in tow of a
tug [the Sun IV].
Half way across, rppe fouled and the
Thark's propeller and rudder, and
she was abandoned.
Apparently much damaged, the Thark was
subsequently returned to her owner.
Nil
Authority - R.O.III, p.329.
TO.9436/40.
217

Details

Auxy. Barge (Lond. &
THYRA
Rochester Trading Co. Ltd.)
Mr. E.W. Filley,
Master.
2330
29th May
Requisitioned at Millwall and towed
Sun XII with other barges, to
to Tilbury. Towed by the tug
Southend. Thence ordered to Ramsgate
and thence to
30th May
1430
Dover harbour.
31st May
-
Proceeded outside breakwater with S/B
H.A.C. in tow. The Thyra and H.A.C.
were taken in tow by the tug St. Abbs.
1st June
0500
Arrived Dunkirk. "Shot off" by the tug
at the Pierhead and told to beach
barges.
0630ca
Towed the H.A.C. into the beach, and
embarked 11 French troops. Picked
up (off the beach) the crews of the
S/B's Glenway and Lark; also 8
British troops that were aboard them.
Including the crew of the H.A.C.
the Thyra now had 28 men on board.
1400ca
Proceeded. Half way across, was picked
up by the tug Empire Henchman.
2345
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 19 troops(1)
Total 19
Authority - R.O.II, p.618
(1) D.R. gives June 2nd as date of disembarkation.
232

Details

TOLLESBURY
Sailing barge
R. Webb, Master
(R. & W. Paul, Ltd.)
1600
31st May
Left Dover for Dunkirk in tow of the
tug Sun XII.
2350
Arrived off Bray beach.
The ashore. Tollesbury's crew rowed the barge
1st June
Embarked about 200 troops and set sail.
Wind anchor. and tide too strong. Had to
0730ca
0830ca
Air attacks. "Two destroyers sunk". (1)
Tollesbury taken in tow by tug Cervia,
but the windlass pulled out. Another
wire was put on board.
1500ca
Arrived Ramsgate in tow. Disembarked
200 troops. (2)
Total 200.
Authority - P.L.A. Monthly.
T.M. 6213/40.
W.W.
S.T.N.4B (D.af Sea Transport).
(1) The Keith was sunk, the Ivanhoe disabled.
(2) Not mentioned in Ramsgate report.
238

Details

Details

TUGS
THE FOLLOWING TUGS TOOK PART
IN OPERATION DYNAMO:
William Watkins Ltd.
Cervia
Kenia
Doria
Persia
Fabia
Racia
Fairplay I(1)
Tanga
Foremost 87(1)
Vincia
Java
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd.
Sun
Sun VIII
Sun III
Sun X
Sun IV
Sun XI
Sun V
Sun XII
Sun VII
Sun XV
The Gamecock Steam Towing Co.
Crested Cock
Ocean Cock.
Gaselee and Son Ltd.
Fossa
Saml. Williams and Sons Ltd.
Duke
[Marquis] (2)
Prince
Princess
Elliot Steam Tug Co. Ltd.
Challenge
Contest
United Towing Co. Ltd.
Empire Henchman
Southern Railway Co. Ltd.
Foremost 22
(1) Managed by W. Watkins Ltd.
(2) Left Ostend at 2200 on 26th May. There is no record of
her having taken part in Dynamo.
244

Details

Details

YORKSHIRE LASS
F/B drifter
S/Lt. M.A.A. Chodzko,
27th May -
1st June
See under "Flare burning drifters". R.N.V.R.
2nd June( 1)
-
1515ca
S/Lt. Left as skipper. Chodzko (ex M/B Aura)
-
Off Dover for embarked
Prior, the S. R.N. Foreland Dunkirk.
the dfr. (Retd.)
Lass. Ut Prosim Yorkshire from
3rd June
0000
0025ca
Arrived off Dunkirk.
Alongside Another embarking French
Yorkshire drifter arrived troops.
troops Lass which transferred alongside
loading. to the newcomer and carried her on
0130
0300
Proceeded, "practically full".
0340
Developed the a hot bearing. Signalled
This was done.
tug Sun XV(2) to be taken in tow.
0425ca
0830
Repairs effected, slipped the tow.
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 103
troops. (3)
Total (28th May - 3rd June) 469
Authority - R.O.II, p.217.
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Lt. Cdr. R.M. Prior R.N. (Booralse H.M.S. Lynx)
D.S.H.
Sto. J.J. Collins.
Sea. S.W.G. Bauldry.
Mention in
S/Lt. M.A.A. Despatches. Chodzko, R.N.V.R. (See also M/B Aura)
(1) S/Lt. Chodzko says this was "Sunday 4th June". Actually
3) S/Lt. Sunday Chodzko was 2nd says June. Sun XI
D.R. says "25".
Duran & Wilson Ltd
352

Details

Details

Details

Details

42
43
Page
Page
Page
37
M/S Groups-contd
Page
37
Mary White
46
Ocean Gain
Page
6
23
M.A.S.B. 1, 4 & 5
30
Ocean Guide
Polly Johnston
Page
Lord Gainford
13
9
49
23
Popinjay
11
Rime
19
Lord Grey
2
M.A.S.B. 6 & 7
29
50-51
9
Ocean Lifebuoy
5
Powis Castle
22
Rinovia
23
Masona
23
52-53
11
Ocean Lux
16
Ocean Retriever
Preston North End
27
Rion
Lord Hailsham
8
15
26
Lord Hood
Master John
28
54
2
36
Prince Leo
River Annam
22
32
10
7
23
Ocean Scout
36A
36B
Lord Hotham
Mayflower
Ocean Spray
Princess Elizabeth
River Clyde
55
13
Lord Howard
10
May II
10
24
23
10
Princess Mary
River Spey
5
60
Lord Howe
Medway Queen
18
20
Ocean Sunlight
M/S Training Flotilla
9
15
Princessa
River Ytham
36A
15
Lord Inchcape
16
20
Ocean Swell
8
27
Riviere
Principal
36B
Melora
27
Muria
Ocean Toiler
27
Lord Irwin
36
Robert Hastie
11
Mentor
3
14
Myris
Proserpine
5
Ocean Treasure
28
Robert Stroud
36
26
Lord Keith
25
Merbreeze
19
12
Lord Lloyd
Myrtle
Prospect Ahead
Ocean View
29
Robin Hood
Mercury
2
28
13
14
12A
Providence
Ocean Vim
6
Robina
7
Lord Melchet
19
Mewslade
5
Ptarmigan
16
Ode
9
Rochebonne
2
Lord Middleton
12
Puffin
36B
M. H. Stephens
N.
5
31
Rodino
Lord Northcliffe
Ohm
16
Michael Griffiths
26
Nab Wyke
Punnet
19
18
Lord Nuffield
10
Okino
Rogate
9
27
25
Midas
37
Nairnside
Pyramus
30
Lord Plender
21
Oku
Roger Beck
3
3
24
11
Migrante
Lord Rodney
Nancy Hague
Pyrope
12A
Milford Duchess
37
Olivae
Romany Rose
23
8
14
2
Naneta
Rona
18
Lord Snowden
20
Olive Tree
Milford Duke
8
28
Ronso
Lord St. Vincent
11
Nautilus
16
2
Milford Earl
26
11
Olvina
9
Rooke
20
Lord Stamp
11
Navicula
Milford King
8
Olympia
35
2
Q.
Rosa
22
Lord Stanhope
12A
Negro
16
Ombra
17
Lord Stonehaven
2
Milford Prince
Milford Princess
Neil Mackay
3
Queen Empress
Rose
36
15
One Accord
13
28
Queen of Kent
Rosebud
8
Lord Wakefield
3
Neil Smith
Onetos
21
13
Roseden
20
Milford Queen
15
9
Queen of Thanet
28
30
Netsukis
Oracle
21
Lorinda
Lormont
11
Minna
10
3
Queen of the South I
Rose Emma
12
12
New Comet
13
23
Oriole
13
Queen of the South II
Rose Haugh
24
12
Lorna Doone
Mine Recovery Flotillas-
Newhaven N.B.
5
Orlando
18
Queen Worth
Rose Hilda
15
14
8
Lowther
Newland
28
36A
Orvicto
35A
Quest
Rose Valley
30
1
11
6
Loyal Friend
New Pride of Essex
Osako
14
Rosel
24
Lucifer
3
2
22
11
Quiet Waters
28
New Prince of Wales I
Osta
11
Rose Marie
3
Luda Lady
35
Minicoy
4
12
Our Bairns
11
Ross
10
Luda Lord
21
Minona
6
Newspray
12
28
Niger
Our Kate
12
Ross Ard
27
Lunar Bow
Mirabelle
3
16
Overfall
14
Rotha
15
30
Mirage
Night Hawk
28
R.
Lune
6
Oystermouth Castle
17
Rowan
24
Mireille
11
Night Raider
37
Racer
7
Lydd
10
Rowan Tree
29
28
Nimrod
19
Rachael Flett
26
Lydd II
30
Mist
Roxano
36B
Lydia Long
27
Mistletoe
22
Nirvana
2
P.
Radiant
36B
Royal Eagle
12A
32
9
Nobles
4
Pangbourne
10
Radnor Castle
2
Lydiard
M.L. 100
Royallieu
14
Lynx
10
Moed-en-Werk
36
Nodzu
23
Paragon
24
Rambler Rose
30
Royalo
14
Paramount
3
Raymont
35
Mollusc
16
Nogi
15
Ruby
5
Noontide
28
Pathway
11
Reaper
7
Monarch
Rugby
17
9
M.
Norbreeze
Patti
17
Reboundo
23
Runswick Bay
5
Monarda
12A
27
M.1
Paul Rykens
28
Rebuff
29
8
11
Nordland
37
Ryde
10
Mona's Isle
M.2
29
Paxton
10
Norina
Receptive
36
Monimia
16
37
16
S.
M.3
Paynter
7
Recono
8
Moonstone
32
Norlan
29
36
Red Gauntlet
3
Sabra
35
M.A. West
11
Moorgate
12
Norna
36A
Peacemaker
5
Red Sky
16
Sabreur
35
Madden
15
5
Norman Wilson
20
Pearl
Madeline
Moray
Pecheur
27
Reed
15
Sailor King
22
13
Magnolia
Morgan Jones
17
Norse
12A
29
Refraction
8
St. Abbs
9
8
29
Peggy Nutten
St. Achilleus
13
Maid Marion
Mount Ard
29
Northcoates
Pelagos
5
Refundo
8
2
Majesta
Mount Keen
Northern Chief
30
24
Pellag II
9
Regal
2S
St. Adrian
5
12
Northern Dawn
25
15
Regardo
13
St. Apollo
31
Majesty
22
Pelton
M/S Flotillas
Northern Duke
30
Ma Joie II
Pembroke
12
Regwa
15
St. Cathan
25
12
Northern Foam
30
Malacolite
30
Reids
36
St. Celestin
29
35
1
29
Pentland Firth
9
St. Cyrus
17
Mallard
Northern Gem
25
Perilia
16
Reigate
31
4
16
Northern Gift
30
Mangrove
Peter Carey
21
Reighton Wyke
21
St. Dominica
5
24
5
10
Manor
30
28
Relonzo
11
St. Donats
16
2
6
Northern Isles
Peter Hendriks
16
St. Elstan
25
Manora
10
Northern Pride
25
4
7
Peter Nell
29
Remexo
21
Remillo
35A
St. Fagan
9
Man-o'-War
30
30
25
8
Northern Princess
Phase
14
St. Katherine
12
Manx Prince
23
Northern Reward
30
34
Renascent
35
10
Philante
20
St. Kenan
25
Marano
10
30
35A
Rennet
11
Northern Sky
Philippe
23
St. Loman
25
Marauder
35
19
25
36
Renzo
Marcia
3
12
Northern Spray
Phyllis Rose
9
St. Magnus
26
13
Northern Sun
30
37
Resolve
Phyllisia
23
St. Melante
12A
Marconi
23
25
14
M/S Groups-
Phineas Beard
26
Resolvo
Northern Wave
14
St. Mellons
30
Mare
20
32
Resparko
14
Northlyn
Pict
21
St. Modwen
9
Maretta
1
24
North Ness
17
24
Restrivo
Picton Castle
7
St. Nectan
36A
Margaret Hyde
11
2,3
14
31
Retako
15
12A
Northward Ho
Pintail
8
St. Olaves
9
Margaret Rose
4-6
9
29
Returno
Marina
Northwind
Plantagenet
35
St. Olive
5
37
10-12
13
19
11
Revello
10
St. Sunniva
26
Marinus
9
16-20
15
Norwich City
Playmates
19
21
Reverberation
18
St. Tudno
12A
Marion
12
22-26
16
Notts County
Plinlimon
12A
Rezala
4
24
23
3
St. Wistan
17
Mariout
28,29
Nyula
Plumer
8
Rhodora
5
St. Zeno
31
Marmion
35
30-32
23
Poinavon
36
Richard Croft
Salamander
16
14
Marsoma
13
34
21
O.
Pointer
24
Rig
23
Salpa
2
Martinet
27
37-38
22
Oak
26
Pointz Castle
35
Righto
36B
Saltash
10
Mary A. Purdy
20
40-41
26
Oaklea
28
Polar V
35
Rigoletto
Mary Sturgeon
29
43
26
Ocean Breeze
11
Polar VI
28
44-45
27
Ocean Brine
22
29
Ocean Eddy
37

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Details

36c
37
VESSELS FITTING OUT FOR VARIOUS SERVICES-continted.
VESSELS REQUISITIONED AND UNDER CONVERSION AS BOOM
A/S VESSELS. (Whalers.)
Completes.
BUT NOT YET ALLOCATED TO COMMANDS.
-
Southern Gem A
f.o. Blyth.
25 July. To work
1
August. Campbeltown then to Belfast. up
Ship.
Fitting out at
Ship.
Southern Pride A
-
Fittin
-
f.o. North Shields.
17 July.
Helier II A
-
Astros
:
Sunderland.
:
Mary White
:
Sun
-
22 July.
Terje IA
-
Collena
: .
:
Liverpool.
-
-
30 July.
Nancy Hague
:
Gla
Terje II A
f.o. Hull.
6 August.
Consbro
:
:
Immingham.
.
Terje III A
-
-
Night Raider
:
1
25 July.
Dorileen
South Shields.
..
:
Terje IV A
-
-
Nordland
:
:
Gl
Terje VA
-
-
f.o. Grimsby.
Mid August.
Sunrise
Milford Haven.
:
:
Southern Flower A
-
f.o. Grimsby.
7 August.
Ocean Eddy
Sout
Fleetwood.
:
Erna
..
Southern Shore A
-
28 August.
George Bligh
Milford.
Okino
:
:
Gi
: .
Southern Wave A
-
f.o. Hebburn.
17 August.
Girard
Port Glasgow.
Scomber
Li
:
:
Southern Spray A
-
5 August.
James Barrie
South Shields.
Southern Star A
-
9 August.
Settsu
Milf
:
:
Southern Breeze A
-
12 August.
John Fitzgerald
South Shields.
..
f.o. S. Shields.
Silanion
Sou
:
:
Stora
-
-
-
Loch Long
Dundee.
: .
:
Sposa
Star of the Realm
Sou
:
-
-
-
Lord Gainford
Ardrossan.
: .
Margaret Rose
Wyre
Por
:
:
: .
A/S TRAWLERS.
Recoil A
-
-
f.o. North Shields.
1 August.
SUMMARY OF RESCUE TUGS. (See also Pink List and under P
Vizalma A
-
-
Building, Beverley.
17 August
St. Zeno A
-
25 July
}
To Campbeltown then work up at
-
Building, Beverley.
H.M.S. Brigand D.
S/S *Englishman D.
to Belfast.
*Hendon D.
Haarlem
Caroline Moller D.
=
-
"
-
-
*Lady Brassey D.
Erin
f.o. Wallsend.
"
Coringa D.
=
-
#
-
*Muria. D.
"
D.
"
Lady Rosemary D
Seaman D.
-
f.o. Port Talbot.
"
Resolve D.
"
Cape Mariato
Superman D. (Defensively
-
"
St. Cyms D.
=
-
f.o. Port Talbot.
Zwarte Zee D.
Stella Polaris
"
St. Mellons D.
=
-
-
f.o. Govan.
Witte Zee D.
St. Olaves D.
"
"
Schelde D.
Dutch.
"
"
Salvonia D.
Thames D.
:
"
Saucy D.
Amsterdam D.
"
"
Stalwart D.
"
Watermeyer D.
* Not armed.

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30
ORKNEYS AND SHETLANDS COMMANDS-continued.
30A
KIRKWALL.
KIRKWALL
Base Ship.-Pyramus,
Armed (Trawlers.) Boarding Vessels.
SUMMARY OF MINOR FRENCH VESSELS.
Ship.
Type.
Crew.
Proposed
Service.
Ship.
Type.
Crew.
Proposed
[34] D Aquamarine A-
Service.
24th A/S Group (Trawlers).
[34] D Kingston Beryl D
At Portsmouth.
At Plymouth-contd.
Kirkwall.
[34] D Kingston
[34] Pentland Firth (S.O.) A D
Jacinth D
Chevxeuil A
-
Mine-
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
Pedrant
-
-
Trawler
British
sweeper
Portsmouth.
L/L Sweep.
[34] Arctic Explorer AD
Aberdeen.
Gaston Riviere
-
[34] D Kingston Onyx
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
La Capricieuse A
Mine-
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
[34] Hugh Walpole A D
Left Scapa 17 July.
A
sweeper
Portsmouth.
Andree et Louis -
Trawler
British
[34] P Kingston Peridot
L/L Sweep.
-
[34] Scalby Wyke A D
Aberdeen.
Patrol
British
D
Auxiliary Patiol,
Arras
Pessac
-
-
Boat
Portsmouth.
Auxiliary
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
[34] P Kingston
Portsmouth.
[34] Tekoura A D
-
Aberdeen.
Sapphire D
-
-
Patrol
British
Epinal
Auxiliary Patrol,
[34] P Kingston Topaz
Boat
Portsmouth.
Sauterne -
-
Auxiliary
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
Portsmouth.
D
[34] P Kingston
Diligente
-
Patrol
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
Boat
Portsmouth.
Turquoise D
Lucien Gougy
-
Auxiliary
-
Conversion
Under Pink.C.NorthernPat
W.L/L.
See
Amiens
-
Patrol
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
M/S Trawler (Ungrouped).
[34] D Northern Chief D
Boat
Portsmouth.
Groeland
-
Auxiliary
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
[34] Lune X D
-
Aberdeen. Repairs. Date
Lucienne Jean
-
Trawler
French
M/S Nore.
W.A.
uncertain.
[34] D Northern Duke
(L/L)
AD
Trawler
French
M/S Nore.
Poulmic
-
Auxiliary
1
[34] D Northern Foam D
Congre
-
-
1
Mine Watching,
(L/L)
Plymouth.
Beaulne-Verneuil
Boom
No
Asie A
-
-
Trawler
British
A/S trials,
[34] D Northern Gift D
Portsmouth.
Vessel
decision
La Frene
1
-
Tug
Contraband Control Service.
[34] D Northern Isles A D
Reine des Flots A
Trawler
British
A/S trials,
Portsmouth.
Peuplier - -
Tug
(Vessels of C.C. are being considered for reallocation to
other services.)
[34] P Northern
Quentin Roosevelt
Trawler
French
Auxiliary Patrol,
No
Princess A
Portsmouth.
Caporal Peugeot
Tug
decision
[34] P Northern Reward
Pierre Audre
-
Trawler
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
No. 4
1
-
Tug
Portsmouth.
[34] P Northern Sky A D
No. 5
-
Tug
La Nantaise A
-
Trawler
British
27 A/S Group.
C.C.S. Drifters.
[34] P Northern Sun A D
Phase
-
Marie Elena
-
Drifter
British
L/L Sweep.
At Falmouth.
Kirkwall
Rose Valley
Port Duties.
-
Lydd II D -
-
Kirkwall.
Commandant
Mine-
French
Nore.
At Plymouth.
Domine
sweeper
La Moqueuse
-
Mine-
French
Nore.
Rescue Tug.
Commandant
Mine-
French
Nore.
sweeper
Duboc
Conquerante
Patrol
British
Falmouth.
sweeper
-
Auxiliary Patrol,
St. Mellons D
-
Examination Vessels.
Coucy
Patrol
-
No decision.
Boat
W.A.
-
mood
Boat
Belle o' Moray
Belfort
Patrol
-
No decision.
Jaques Morgan
-
Trawler
British
Auxiliary Patrol,
-
-
W.A.
-
Boat
Beryl II - -
LERWICK.
Pomerol
-
-
Patrol
Polish
Tyne.
Nadine
-
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
Boat
Rambler Rose
Kirkwall.
Drifter.
Medoc
-
-
Patrol
Polish
Tyne.
Autioche
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep,
-
[33] Seabreeze
Boat
Strenuous
Listrac A
-
Trawler
British
A/S trials,
Dutch
-
(Flag F.O.I.C
Lerwick.
Jean Frederick
Trawler
Holyhead,
Plymouth.
Lemnos
Shetland)
L'Atlantique A
Trawler
British
A/S trials,
Notre Dame
Trawler
Dutch
Holyhead,
-
Aberdeen.
-
-
Repairs.
uncertain.
Date
Examination Service.
Plymouth.
De france
Jeanne Antoine
Trawler
No
Fear Not
Ambrose Pase A
Trawler
British
A/S trials,
decision
-
Lerwick.
Plymouth.
La Belle Poule
-
Schooner
No
decision
Heather Belle
-
Aiglon
-
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
-
L'Etoile
-
Schooner
No
decision
[34] St. Sunniva
Accommodation Ship.
Roche Velen
-
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
President T.
Survey
French
Nore.
Aberdeen.
Tissier
Ship
SULLOM VOE.
Louis et Marie
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
Notre Dame
f
Drifter
de Lourdes
No
Base Ship-Fox.
Nazareth
-
Trawler
British
L/I. Sweep.
decision
Armed Boarding Vessel.
Harbour Defence Patrol Craft.
Cambre
-
Drifter
Monique Audrer
Trawler
British
L/L Sweep.
[34] P Discovery II Under See Pink V.A.C. List. Northern Patrol.
[23] Aliped VF
-
Sullom Voe.
[23] Learig F
-
-
(C38488)

Details

42
43
Page
Page
Page
Lord Wakefield
3
Merbreeze
Page
21
Groups-continued
Northward Ho
Page
16
Mercury
M/S
27
Northwind
14A
27
Lorinda
Mewslade
3
Phase
Page
Laurel
11
43
29
Lormont
10
44-45
Norwich City
9
Lavatera
Philante
30
12
13
M. H. Stephens
14A
15
46
Notts County
19
Lavinia L
23
Lorna Doone
Philippe
34
4
Michael Griffiths
9
Nyula
19
Laws
30
Lorraine
17
14B
Louis Botha
17
Midas
49
10
23
Learig
16
5
Phineas Phrontes Beard
17
50-51
24
Migrante
2
Leda
4
Lovania
10
Phyllis Rose
5
28
Lowther
14A
Milford Duchess
52-53
Leeds United
23
3
Phyllisia
12
Leeward
28
Milford Duke
54
26
Loyal Friend
8
8
0.
Pict
37
Leicester City
3
Milford Earl
55
13
Oak
Picton Castle
32
S
Lucifer
20
Luda Lady
16
Milford King
56
19
Oaklea
26
Pintail
24
Lephreto
8
24
Luda Lord
2
Milford Prince
57
8
13
Ocean Breeze
28
Plantagenet
31
Leprechaun
25
Le Tiger
Lunar Bow
28
Milford Princess
58
12A
20
Ocean Brine
11
Playmates
29
8
Letna
32
Lune
30
Milford Queen
60
10
Ocean Eddy
22
Plinlimon
11
15
M/S 61 Training Flotilla
37
Plumer
21
Leyland
Lydd
16
35
Millwater
15
20
Ocean Gain
23
Libra
30
Minna
36A
9
Poinavon
12A
36A
Lydd II
Ocean Guide
Murama
23
35
Lydia Long
30
14
Ocean Lifebuoy
Pointer
8
Libra (Dutch)
27
5
36
Libyan
32
Mine Recovery Flotillas-
Muria
4
Ocean Lux
Pointz Castle
14A
Lydiard
Murmansk
35A
24
Polar V
Lichen
Lynx
10
12
Ocean Retriever
35
17
1
12
Polar VI
Liddoch
12
2
11
Myris
Ocean Scout
35
20
Lyric
36A
Poolzee
Liffey
Minicoy
Ocean Spray
36A
24
22
N.
23
Popinjay
Lilac
M.
Minona
35
Ocean Sunlight
22
Lily Oak
28
4
Nab Wyke
9
Powis Castle
Lincoln City
26
M.1
9
Mirabelle
6
14
Ocean Swell
27
Nairnside
27
Preston North End
26
19
M.2
29
Mirage
17
7
Ocean Toiler
12
Prince Leo
Lincolnshire
Namur
36B
M.3
9
6
37
Ocean Treasure
24
Mireille
Nancy Hague
12
Princess Beatrix
36A
Lizzie Birrel
M.A.C. 1 & 2
36
11
8
Ocean View
Llanthony
8
Mist
19
Princess Elizabeth
Naneta
10
Loch Aline
18
M.A.C. 6 & 7
36
28
12
Ocean Vim
5
Mistletoe
Natal II
Princess Mary
15
M.A.C. 5
14
22
8
Ode
12
Princessa
8
Loch Alsh
16
Mitres
Navicula
16
Ogano
3
Principal
27
Loch Buie
15
M.A. West
11
M.L. 100
14A
Negro
Loch Eribol
16
Madden
15
14
28
Ohm
26
Proserpine
28
M.L. 101, 102
Neil Mackay
Madeline
13
9
9
Okino
37
Prospect Ahead
29
Loch Hope
23
M.L. 107
Neil Smith
26
10
Oku
24
Providence
6
Lochinvar
20
Magnolia
8,19
Moed-en-Werk
Netsukis
36
23
Olivae
14
Provider
26
Loch Inver
14
Mahela
14A
Mollusc
New Comet
16
Newhaven N.B.
5
Olive
24
Ptarmigan
9
Loch Laggan
12
Maid Marion
2
Monarch
9
36A
Olive Tree
28
Puffin
31
Loch Leven
16
Majesta
12
Monarda
Newland
11
Olvina
9
Punnet
18
14A
Loch Long
37
Majesty
21
Mona's Isle
New Pride of Essex
11
New Prince of Wales I
Olympia
35
12
Pyramus
30
Loch Melfort
32
Ma Joie II
12
Monimia
Ombra
16
12
Pyrope
12A
16
Loch Moidart
17
Malacolite
35
Montano
Newspray
4
14B
One Accord
3
Loch Monteith
9
Mallard
31
Niblick
Moonstone
32
16
Onetos
14
Loch Oskaig
25
Mangrove
24
Moorgate
Niger
12
4
Night Hawk (Trawler)
4
Onward
9
Q.
Loch Park
Manor
2
3
Moravia
14
28
Oracle
13
Loch Rannock
5
Manora
4
Night Hawk
13
Queen Empress
Moray
14B
37
Oriole
Loch Tulla
28
Man-o'-War
18
Queen of Kent
21
25
Night Raider
Morgan Jones
23
19
Orlando
Lois
Nimrod
Queen of Thanet
21
10
Manx Prince
17
35
Mount Ard
29
Lombard
2
Orvicto
4
Nirvana
Queen of the South I
12
Marano
14A
35
Mount Keen
24
Nobles
4
Osako
London Pride
8
Queen of the South II
12
13
Marauder
9
3
29
Marcia
Moyle
8
Loon
Nodzu
23
Osta
4
Queen Worth
6
23
Oswaldian
Lord Ashfield
Nogi
15
17A
Quest
28
26
Marconi
Lord Austin
14A
M/S Flotillas-
Noontide
28
Othello
8
Quiet Waters
19
Mare
Lord Barham
14
27
Our Bairns
1
29
Norbreeze
12
14A
Maretta
Lord Beaconsfield
10
4
16
Nordhav I
14B
Our Kate
14A
26
Lord Collingwood
Margaret Hyde
15
5
16
Nordland
37
Overfall
14A
R.
11
Margaret Rose
37
13
Norina
37
Oystermouth Castle
7
Lord Essenden
19
Lord Gainford
Maria Joao
6
9
29
Racer
26
7
21
Norlan
37
Marie
Rachael Flett
Lord Grey
18
8
23
Norland
19
36c
11
Lord Hailsham
Marina
36A
P.
Radiant
2
9
10
Norna
2
Marinus
10
16
Radnor Castle
4
Lord Hood
12
10
Norman Wilson
20
Lord Hotham
14A
Marion
11
4
13
Norse
12A
Pangbourne
24, 36A
Raetia
30
Lord Howard
32
Mariout
12
Rambler Rose
35
Northcoates
29
Paragon
3
35
Lord Howe
10
Marmion
Northern Chief
30
Paramount
Raymont
7
11
13
Lord Inchcape
10
Marsoma
Pathway
Reaper
15
M/S Groups-
25
17
27
Northern Dawn
2
Martello
14A
30
Patti
28
Reboundo
29
Lord Irwin
24
1
Northern Duke
Martinet
Paul Rykens
Rebuff
12
Lord Keith
14
12A
7
20
2,3
30
Receptive
36c
Lord Lloyd
13
Northern Foam
11
Mary A. Purdy
Paynter
12
29
4-6
Northern Gem
25
25
14A
5
Recoil
16
Lord Melchet
Mary Sturgeon
28
Northern Gift
30
Peacemaker
Lord Middleton
13
Mary White
7
15
37
Northern Isles
30
Pearl
Recono Red Gauntlet
13
27
17
Lord Northcliffe
19
M.A.S.B. 1, 4 & 5
10-12
15
Pecheur
29
Lord Nuffield
9
14
Northern Light
26
16
14A
Red Sky
14A
36B
M.A.S.B. 6-10
Peggy Nutten
8
Northern Pride
25
15
Reed
Lord Plender
19
1st M.A.S.B. Flotilla
14
16-20
24
15
Northern Princess
30
Pelagos
12
Refraction
14
Lord Rodney
25
9
22-26
2nd Masona M.A.S.B. Flotilla
14
28-29
Northern Reward
30
Pelton
Refundo
28
30
Lord Selborne
11
12A
17
Master John
29
30
Northern Sky
30
Pembroke Pentland Firth
17
Regal
S
Lord Snowden
16
25
12A
Regardo
14B
Lord St. Vincent
2
Mayflower
23
31
Northern Spray
Perilia
14A
21
Lord Stamp
11
28
Northern Sun
30
Peter Carey
28
Regwa
May II
32
22
Lord Stanhope
2
7
34
Northern Wave
25
29
Reids
Medway Queen
26
Melora
16
Northlyn
29
Peter Hendriks
Lord Stonehaven
2
10
37-38
North Ness
23
Peter Nell
2
Mentor
18
40
24
27
41

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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

First Lord
I agree with Second Sea Lord that the Awards
Committee have had a very difficult time and I think their
proposals are very satisfactory and reasonable.
I do not think the numbers of proposed
Decorations and "Mention in Despatches" are in any way
excessive considering the large numbers of officers and men
who took part in the Dunkirk Withdrawal. I entirely
endorse the Second Sea Lord's remarks as to the devotion
to duty and the spirit of the officers and men who took
part in this operation.
I find some difficulty in agreeing to the
recommendation of Second Sea Lord that Admiral Somerville
should receive a Bar to his D.S.O.
In the remarks at
"A" of Mr. Gleadowe's minute it is stated that Captain
Morgan is not entitled to a C.B. or D.S.O. as his services
were not in action. Hence, I think it would be unfair to
Captain Morgan to only Mention him in Despatches and to
give Admiral Somerville a bar to his D.S.O.. In fact,
as Captain Morgan is not eligible for a C.B. or D.S.O.
I do not consider that Admiral Somerville is e ligible
for a bar to his D.S.O.
I propose, therefore, that Admiral Somerville
should be Mentioned in Despatches and that the action
proposed regarding recommending Captain Morgan for a C.B.
in the New Year's Honours List should be approved.
I entirely agree with the action proposed
as regards Captain Lambart.
had approved
as
and Coment with M Sun Lard
23rd July, 1940.
AV.A.
43/4.

Details

h
-2-
uo
Small boats put alongside Trans-
port. several casualties in
Sk
small boats.
20
Entered Dunquerque and proceeded
Sun
to train Ferry Loch.
OF
40
Air Raid. Vessel in action. Dive
bombing attack on vessel 2 bombs
dropping close to ship. One plane..
shattered by direct hit from 12
pounder; another set on fire by
In
fire of Bren gun Quay and ship
a
machine-gunned.
al
Ga
1.56
Massed raid. Innumerable aircraft
mass attack on boarding steamer
a
e
"Lady of Man" then on "Gava".
th
Several planes down out of control
t)
over boarding steamer and one shot v
down on low dive on "Gava" and
he
two dropped in harbour close to
un
her, out of control. Concentrated rc
machine and Bren gun fire on same
and Enemy Agents on quay and
approach. All destroyed.
P.M.
ic
12.14.
Cease fire ordered. R.A.F. up.
Resumed embarkation.
12.30
Cleared harbour. Spent shell hit
octurned damage 362 troops.
port bow, not exploding. Slight

Details

COPY TRANSLATION.
D. GESELLE.
Belgian Telegraphist,
G.1. Mess.
R.N. Barracks.
Devonport.
19th May 1942.
Dear Madam,
TRANSLATION.
Th. Everaert.
address and I sun sending
Dutch Naval Base.
ps
Milford Haven.
a to you.
a
Belge
I
10th May 1942.
not
know,
1
the took
c, bu!
To the Editor of the "MARINE"
it at
Newlyn, I am writing you on the subject of Mr. Georges
the
Ragaert.
board the same ship, young and as I am his best friend, I
As this man has always sailed with should me on
pres
very much like to know how he has obtained the D.S.C.
lish
ths;
L.
regarding the for a long compensation while I am now now in I have for the loss Royal been of Nethorlands a effects, I was working with
in
come
Ragaert. Netherlands the Z.50, Belgian owner: The Government flag, latter Prosper I should has but, Everaert, often be seeing grateful advised where that to me the you to 2.50 apply if was you to under could the
We
:hre
give me helpful advice.
en
any for more obtain further details Ragaert about which and myself,
or If you wish to let you have them, relevant as papers
I about the boat, I can nearly on account
are, of managed his as you to doubtless bring away enbolled know, in as will engineer.
ent
having I been thank you pupil in advance this that of saying you that
re
give I am me very good pleased advice; with I the take journal
113
Your obedient Servant,
(signed) T. Everaert.
LYDIESUZANNE
4
on

Details

Details

Details

Details

Details

Dynam. #1235.
H.M.S. MONA'S ISLE. A.B.V. Report of events covering period
Sun, 26th May to 28th May. To Dunkirk and back.
B14/0/1120
58
52
26th May.
2000. anchored off Deal.
2116. proceeded towards Dunkirk via route past Calais. fine and clear.
27th May.
0115. off entrance to Dunkirk. signalled, no response. Being ignorant of
conditions and harbour, attempted to enter slowly. Star engine failed
owing to wire round propellor. Considered entrance might be fouled so
backed out. Propellor cleared itself.
0130. Proceeded down channel to interrogate several French craft as to
position inside harbour, pilots etc. No satisfaction.
0250. Signalled V.A.D. for instructions. HM.S. KING ORRY in similar position.
0321. Orders to enter at daylight.
0416. Entered and made contact with S.T.O. No tugs available, so swung ship
and berthed at Quai Felix Faure, with all guns firing on enemy aircraft.
0530 Alongside. commenced embarking. about 1500 men, approx.
0704. Proceeded out of harbour.
BODD Off Gravelines, observed several British small craft and Hospital
0730
ship being shelled some distance ahead.
0750. Heavily shelled and straddled by several ? guns, approx 12pdr, firing
shrapnell. Several hits of sorts and casualities.
0805. Considered it worth the risk of turning to N.W, being at the moment ogf
Dunkirk A.W. buoy. Apparently got out of range.
0825. Six Messerschmitt appeared. Opened fire with 4" and 2 lewis guns. 12par
boapp) Aircraft carried out about four attacks, from the sun, invisible to us.
from astern. "errific machine gun fire, a great deal of which missed
ahead, but many direct hits with cannon, especially around after 12 pdr,
whose crew under Sub Lt A.E. Neave R.N.R. stood up to it extremely
well, but sustained casualties, including the sub lteutanant.
The packed troops on the open deck suffered badly; had the shooting
been acurate the losses would have been very much greater.
0835. Aircraft apparently out of ammunition and sheered off.
D.G. gear: W/T set; 10" signal lamp; steering gear; out of action. speed main-
tained. Steered West to Outer Ruytingen Buoy No 7. by engines.
0900. Called H.M.S. WINDSOR. ( well to S.W. of us.) asked her to report our
condition to V.A.D.
Steered W.N.W. approx.

Details

60
H.M.S MONA'S ISLE. A.B.V. Report of events covering period
Sat, 1st June to Sun 2nd June. To Dunkirk and back.
54
**********
1st June. Sat. Ship in Granville dock. "epaired and ready for service.
0909. Left Dock and proceeded to Dunkirk. by " X " route.
1305. Observed wreck of " Scotia " and another vessel, apparently on Dyck
Bank, with H.M.S. H. 15 alongside wreck taking off survivors.
Closed as requested by H. 15, in company with a great number of small
craft proceeding to Dunkirk.
Lowered 3 boats, manned by various ratings of all departments, and
picked up a few survivors. All other craft doing likewise. Took
some survivors from other craft.
1422 When no more could be dona, proceeded towards Dunkirk. H.15 had left
for Dover, crowded. Scotia was on fire aft and it was apparent that
no more men were on the wreck itself, and very few alive in the water.
1448. Passed No 5 buoy. Heavily shelled and straddled by small calibre guns.
No hits after about 4 salvoes.
1505. Between Nos 11 and 13 bouys, was straddled by two salvoes from Dive
bombers. Bombe were very close, deluging the entire ship with water,
but apparently no damage, though ship was badly shaken.
1540. B erthed at inside berth, Eastern arm, Dunkirk. S.N.O wished me to go
to Western arm, but tide being low there was insufficeent water.
1550. Com'ced to embark British troops, and numerous stretcher cases.
1730. Ship full and very congested with about 1500 men. Advised S.N.O I could
not safely take more, being considerably worried about stability.
S.N.O strongly advised me to wait, under cover of the shore guns, until
2100. when it was high water and getting dark for the passage across.
This I agreed with; During this wait of nearly 4 hours, several dive
bombing attacks were made by flights of aircraft on two wrecks outside
the harbour, which seemed to indicate that they were anxious to get
rid of their bombs on anything which did not fire back. as an intense
fire was maintained on them from our 8 Lewis guns and several Bren guns
which the soldiers had rigged up in various places and worked for us.
Several flights of aircraft passed overhead, apparently bombers, but
whilst the R.A.F. were about there was peace.
This long wait was trying to all concerned.

Details

H.M.S. MONA'S ISLE. ( Report Confinued.)
61
:::::::
55
A British Spitfire crashed outside the Harbour; the pilot rescued and put on
board us where his coolness and help in identifying the aircraft was most
useful.
Both ships and shore batteries opened fire on R.A.F. machines
more than once when recognition was difficult.
2100. Proceeded; a sunken trawler just inside the entrance made approach to
the wharf difficult which must have been much more so after dark for the ships
which came in after us.
The enemy were apparently shelling the dock entrance from some distance
whilst we lay there, but nothing came close to us.
2300 Passed North Goodwin L.V. The darkness was not deep enough to prevent
ships seeing each other at some distance, or to pick up the wreck of the Scotia
were she lay practically in the channel down to the No 5 buoy.
I consider the navigation of all the numerous small craft to have been
of the highest order, all things considered.
June 2nd Sun. 0150. Reported arrival off Dover entrance to V.A.D.
0300. Berthed at Admiralty Pier and Com'ced discharging.
Ship was then found to be making water in No 2 hold; stokehold. is The main steam
pipes joints were leaking in three places, and fracture was suspected. The
L.P. turbine rings collapsed; the base of a bilge pump suspected fracture.
The maintaining of a fairly good speed and working in the engine room on the
passage back, with the escape of steam due to these defects was very
creditable work.
On this occasion as before the behaviour of the ships company was most
praiseworthy; ppp the conduct and courage of all ranks of the military was
all of the very highest order and an inspiration to all connected with them
theoughout these grievous times.
J.C.K.Drodung
Comdr R.N.R.

Details

NAVAL OFFICER IN GIVE
<60
ad
278
256
From:- Act. Sub. Lieut. J.M. Chappell, R.N.
Date:- 7th June, 1940.
To:- Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
29th May.
30th May.
2200 Left Portsmouth in H.M.S. Nelson's picket boat.
a.m. Sighted submarine and warned a French convoy.
Port engine bearings ran out.
1730 Arrived Ramsgate on one engine.
2330 Left for Dunkirk, machine-gunned from the air
two miles out of Ramsgate.
31st May.
Dawn Arrived Dunkirk Roads. Funnel carried away by
shell-fire. Making water slightly; loaded
with troops and left.
1400 Arrived Ramsgate.
1st June.
0830 Left for Dunkirk. Making water rapidly. Beached
the boat; found bottom damaged by enemy fire.
Took command M.Y. Santosy and left for Dunkirk.
On return journey filled up with petrol; found
too late that one can contained water. Proceeded
on port engine only; towed by trawler. Trawler
ran on to wreck East of N. Goodwin L/V and turned
over on top of "Santosy". Cabin smashed; civilian
volunteer Barrington severely injured.
Arrived Ramsgate on one engine. Discharged
Barrington to Deal Hospital; sent crew ashore for
rest.
3rd June.
1600 Engines repaired. Left for Dunkirk with civilian
volunteer J.W.S. Gilbert as engineer. Towed by
tug Sun IV. Tow parted off Dunkirk; proceeded
under own power. Starboard engines failed again.
Sea rising. Hailed Sun IV and on her commander's
orders abandoned Santosy and boarded Sun VI with
my crew.
REPORT: New gas used by enemy. Shells and bombs
bursting near gave off white cloud which hung
suspended in air. From burns on bodies in water
gathered it to be of acid nature.

Details

Details

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

Details

14
i
18
Friday 31st May. The following signals were mades-
0320. "Request more shipsto load Dunkirk."
0445. "Every available ship will be required at Dunkirk
during the next two hours to evacuate rest of
army.
0605. "Imbarkation proceeding satisfactorily in spite
of bonbardment. I would again stress the need
for more ships and constant fighter protection
0638. "Am now receiving a number of Frenchmen. I have
raised no objection to their embarking in British
ships and an allowing then to do 80.
0940. "Request you will inform me whether troops are
now being ordered to earch to Dunkirk from the
beaches.
0945. "Sun is now coming through and I have a big
target of ships in harbour. Request special air
protection for next two hours.
0957. "Lord Gort has agreed that 5,000 Frehe troops
should be embarked here this evening after dark
in British vessels. Request necessary ships may
be sent to arrive at dusk.
1044. "We have been continually heavily bonbarded and
they are gradually finding the range of our loading
berth. I would rather only enter ships as
necessary for the flow of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the morning, but the
evacuation proceeded fairly speedily. At last ships were
arriving in large numbers and strong a 2. protection kept
bomeing attack away. The only thing necessary was tostop the
shelling. At 1200 B signal was received from the Air Linison
Officer at Dover asking for position of energy battery. This
was not known with any certainty as the battery was probably
mobile, but it was in the district of Loon Plage Brouge Kerk
Soch. A reply was made to this effect. The bombardment,
novertheless, become more intense and a great deal more accurate.
Very heavy attacks were delivered during the evening but were
concentrated chiefly upon derelict ships in the roads. Dive
bombing attacks were carried out on the ships loading but without
success. The embarkation proceeded smoothly.

Details

44
Political pressure was now being brought to bear
Triday
The
on the C.in C. that the evacuation must be on a fifty-fifty
load
basis with the French. My only stipulation was that at all
costs we should be allowed free use of the Eastern arm while
the French used the port, outer harbour and beaches.
0605.
I made a signal to Commander Maund at Dunkirk to
for
provide personnel ships for General Laurencie's troops
(some 5,000 in number) at C.in C's. request. I also asked
Admiral Wake-Walker to keep Dunkirk going at 100%..
0940,
you
Little progress could be made off the beaches owing
to the surf.
0945, "Sun 1s BOV coning through have
G.H.Q. informed 100 that a plan was being worked out
for
hours
for naval co-operation to bombard advancing German tanks in
"Lord Goart
the later stages. This, however, was never necessary, as
far as / am aware. versels. dusk.
Request
necessary
ships
my
1004. "Wo have been continually heavily boxibarded and
they are gradually finding the range of our leading
berth, would only enter ships 88
necessary for the flow or treops,
Continuous and beary shelling all the morning, but the
evamition proceeded fairly speedily. At Last ships were
arriving in Large numbers and strong a * protection kept
bonging attack away. The only thing necessary use to scop the
shelling. At 1800 a signed was received from the Air Lisison
Officer at Dover asking for position of energy battary, This
was not known with any certainty as the lettery vas probably
mobile, but it vos in the district of Loon Plage larguage Kark
regly use and to this affect, The bechardsent,
nevertheless, become more intense and a great deal more securate.
Very heavy attacks 1820 delivered during the ovening but were
concentrated shiefly upon develist ships in the reads. Dive
hombing attacks here carried out 00 the ships loading but without
sussess. The embarkation processed easethly.

Details

45
49
Friday 31st May. The following signals were made:-
0320. "Request more shipsto load Dunkirk."
0445. "Every available ship will be required at Dunkirk
during the next two hours to evacuate rest of
army.
0605. "Embarkation proceeding satisfactorily in spite
of bombardment. 1 would again stress the need
for more ships and constant fighter protection
0638. "Am now receiving a number of Frenchmen. I have
raised no objection to their embarking in British
ships and am allowing them to do so.
0940. "Request you will inform me whether troops are
now being ordered to march to Dunkirk from the
beaches.
0945. "Sun is now coming through and I have a big
target of ships in harbour. Request special air
protection for next two hours.
0957. "Lord Gort has agreed that 5,000 Freinh troops
should be ambarked here this evening after dark
in British vessels. Request necessary ships may
be sent to arrive at dusk.
1044. We have been continually heavily bombarded and
they are gradually finding the range of our loading
berth. I would rather only enter ships as
necessary for the flow of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the morning, but the
evacuation proceeded fairly speedily. At last ships were
arriving in large numbers and strong a r protection kept
bomging attack away. The only thing necessary was tostop the
shelling. At 1200 a signal was received from the Air Liaison
Officer at Dover asking for position of enemy battery. This
was not known with any certainty as the battery was probably
mobile, but it was in the district of Loon Plage Brouge Kerk
Soch. A reply was made to this effect. The bombardment,
nevertheless, become more intense and a great deal more accurate.
Very heavy attacks were delivered during the evening but were
concentrated chiefly upon derelict ships in the roads. Dive
bombing attacks were carried out on the ships loading but without
success. The embarkation proceeded smoothly.

Details

53
Ratings in the ampinal % 57
draps from Chatham
PENDIX III.
LIST OF FATINGS AT DUNKINK 1350 PERFORMED
VALUARIN SERVICE.
Last to Syacunto.
Yoo. of Sign.
Piper
A.B.
Cox
#
Rose
*
Burrown
#
Funner
#
others morthy of Mention.
Signal staff.
Signalman
Waters
If
Jones
*
Milhoron
#
Binands
Pier Party.
P.O.
Topledgh (Toplay)
A.D.
Hoore
SEX.22139.
L.B.
A/P.O.
B.W. Sydekett
JX.12546
JX.152505
1,3.
A.B.
J.W.Sun.es C.A. Hall (J.43b42)
3.21047
Signature
E.Robincon
ESD.1704
JX.129630
A.D.
R.Lancaster
A.B.
C.L.Fletcher
D.941
1.3.
T.D.D. Bones
JX.145092
Ord.Sea.
F.V. GARROTT
JX.172487
L.Sea.
H.J.Spanton
J.114468
A.B.
John Doig
SSX.20706
R.Fletcher (J.99712)3.25221
A.B.
Benches.
1.3.
C.Fonter
D.112
4
0.3. Mixon
25222
18
R.W
JX.144642
J.L.Francer
88/X.24037
#
S.L.Parker
P.O. 3.84930
P.O.
sto.
9.Coltmnn
KX.88357
Headoughters, Degnatah Riders. etc.
1.B.
Owen
J.L. Turner
Hiller.
Commidors ano; these will possibly be already covered in the
Gosto and surteen rocommendations yet to
above list.

Details

78
Page 4.
10.A.B. hitmore and Merryweather
lut canvas cover over top and smashed Hels
on top, Transmission panel and power supply, enstated
with jottisoning torpodoes. unashed table after firing
terporios, and depth charges.
Torpolors Galia gave onler to Grash table.
Madala Rogers.
In for 1st. attack. Starped there mt11 finished
firing 11.70
In between attacks jettisoning heavy gear
accomodation Inddors and everthing heavy TO could
got hold of. Potwern was working 1th Donts
alongetile sun-lying geen ml dropping bonts estern and
heisting out inrloy floats.
12. Street.
1st. attack at the shoe) earrying out help
and teletoph orders. tayed up there untill no further
use navigationally Inched wheel hard a Fort.
ent round eas deck, everything in darkness
down there for 2nd. attack. Cook over supply party from
L/S. and supplied Delaire to guns and FormDom
ammition
Helped to put 1.B. Riddle in Feil Robertson and
saw 1st. Meut. about putting him in R.B. and R.Davies
Tont aft to obey pipe 13. Volunteero to street from aft
lay net in
Cleared tiller flat : l'aveton, Frost )took cover
for final attack and theirabandened ship L/S helan
exceptionally good with anyly parties. No lights all
done with torches.
token Harcer worked very wall with supply parties
A.B. passed up amitition from shall POOR.

Details

159
3
164
Engineer left. Officer. There was very little H.A. ammunition
t.June. 10. Immediately were dischar ed at Margate I
sailed again for Dunkerque. On the way there I passed
H.M.S.HAVANT, in distress behind Dyke Shoal. "HAVANT"
was on fire for'd SO I jettisoned my depth charges, placed
ARGATE
my stern under her bows and took er in to: on my sweep
wires. Only very slow speed could be made as her helm
UNKERQUE.
WAS over and she paravaned over to the side and pulled
my stern over. During this time the ship was subject
to frequent and savy bombing and machine gun attacks -
at one time there very 40 aircraft OV rhead. Many salvoes
of bombs fell near to the shipp mostly on the starboard
quarter and port bom, some were within 30 feet of the
M.S.
ship. Most of the bombs were small but some were large.
AVANT.
Splinters from the bonbs and sprayfrom their splach fell
on board fret uently. It Was very nociteable that nearly
all the splinters were very small and far too light to do
damage, although the force of the explosion burst open
the wheelhouse doors and shattered the windows which are
protected by splinter mats. I believe most of the larger
splint THE passed ever the ship, there trajectory
presumeably being nearly vertical on bursting, them
fanning out and coins further than the light ones. This
Dombing completely upsat ay compass. Machine run attacks
Mere also experienced, also from the starboard quarter
and port bow. These were attempts to rake the ship fore
and aft, but were all aimed too hi h; very faw bullets
were found on board fterwards, all being ni ses over.
The enemy made three mistakes during each attack.
1. He estimated the course Oil & line through "HAVANT"
and "SALTASH". Actually "HAVAME" was abo 10°
on the quarter.
2. its over estimated the speed.
3. He over estimated the hight of our decks above
water.
Had he been correct in 1. he would a Ve scored nany hits
with bombs, and if correct in 8. would have caused many
casualties on deck. No casualties were xperienced and
no major damage was done. During this time I believe
the "HAVANT" was also subjected to attack. I had now
only two round of H.A. high explosive left, a few shrapnel
and six pans of lewin gun ammunition. 4 in. L.A. sun
was used against low flying aircraft, but without any
noticeable affect. 12 pdr. and levis gun seemed to
disturb the enemy.
11.
Later the Commanding Officer of H.M.S.HAVANT decided
to abandon ship, as sue appeared to be codus to turn over
at any moment. In my judgment, also, she was bound to
had several large holes in her side near the deak level.
capsize shortly and then would inevitably sink, as she
channel and sink in a dangerous position, or, more
As, after capsimin and micht possibly drift towards the

Details

SECRET
231
246
3.
Report on operations in correction with the evacuation of
the B.B.F. from the Dunletive aron. (Continued)
1312
2015
Weighed. Anchored off Horo Light Vessel.
2140
Anchored off East Margato Duoy, "Mallard" and
"shaerwater" in company.
Sunday 2nd June 1040.
0245
0430
Weighed and proceeded with "Mallard" and "shecruntor".
Commenced patrolling in vicinity of.II buoy.
French destroyers "Egervier" and "Leopard" at U and
V bucys respectively.
0710
Last homeward bound ship passed If buoy.
1035
Attacked by 3 J U 88 diving from out of the sun .
4 bombs very close on part bean.
4 bombles vary close on port bow.
4 bombs missed well ahoad.
French destroyers loft patrol.
1050
Attacked by 1 Hednkel dive bombing. 4 bombs missed
woll out on starboard board
1140
Attacked by 1 Heinkel with machine gun from 4,000 ft.
1155
Attacked by 1 J U 88 who would not doos through
"Caloutta's" barrage and dropped 4 bombe woll astern.
1350
Orders received to return to Sheerness.
1450
"Mallard" detached to stand by Hospital ship
"Northing" who had been bombed and damaged.
1044
Anohored off Horo Might vessel to malto good confensor
trouble and alight damage from near misses.
Monday 3rd June
0510
0550
Weighod. Secured to buoy at shoorness. Discovered further
condenser trouble and serious cloud In all reserve
food tanks.
All defects made good by 1400 on Tuesday 4th June.
3. During the period at LA Parmo, "Culcutta" had to lie
too far from the beach to be of any use for direct embarisation
of troops so the principle adopted was to order any smll
into "Caloutta" and roturn close inshore for another load,
ships alongaide when they ware full, disembark their troops
de In the two salvoes each of 4 bombs which foll
very close to Calcutta" on Sunday 2nd June it appeared and
that one bonb in each salvo had a dolay action three buret buret
somo way under the unter whereas the other on
impact.
and of the military forces ovnounted has exemplary
5. The conduct and behaviour of my been ship's company
throughout.
VICE ADMIRAL
(sgnd.) D. M. LEES.
1940
#
CAPTAIN
DOVER

Details

Hello TUG "ST. CLEARS"
Dynams 147. 258
SHEERNESS.
- 274
10s KING'S HARBOUR MASTER
7th June, 1940
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of H.H.
Tug "ST. CLEARS" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The tug "ST. CLEARS" under my command left Sheerness, in company
with "SUN V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70 naval ratings
under Commander Hayward,R.N.R. on board at 1805 on 98th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by -
instian the in South Danna and both turn proceeded and at 0015
25/273
- 2 -
2. 2nd Hand James Cowie X.57 SoCo
: 8 HoMaDa the Renascent who showed great bravery in survivors
Ordo Sea.Ronald Labbo HoOo
Dede 30a Ernest Mc.Xay HoCo
eavy smoke. yecht Grieve under difficult conditions of resouring darkness and
hip 3. Leonard So Brown the
safely throughout H.O. the of operation H.M.D. during Renascent onessy for attacks, steering
140 or Sub, Lieutenant Strathelliot
aking off soldiers devotion from Dunkorque. to duty
his courage and Waltor Edward Nereer in face R.B.V.R of attack of whilat
for 5.
thin. under Percy fire Smith and for Chaplin his careful of R.M.P. handling Strathellist of his
'O' the 6. 7. Ordinary crowdravery Joaman under Ernest fire and Lloyd cheerful Houre example HaO. of 102573 R.M.T. to the of rest Strathelliot S.M.T. of
William James No.leod M/KX his engines in
his devotion to during duty the in keeping whole operation,
on Uuba Lt. efficiency in E.N.Y. Alonatte II
his courego Reginald and devotion Edward to Lee duty Unit in officer the face of heavy may fire.
9a 3. of S.H.Y. Alomatic II for his
efficient and hard work. or He the was shipe
care Nessling Enginemen HaOe greatly responsible for the
g
to was running 188753 who kept continous vatch
2nd in Hand the oxecution of da duties under extremely
5
conditions.
to.
CAPTAIN.
Rells

Details

H.llo TUG "ST. CLEARS"
Dynams 147. 258
SHEERNESS.
- 274
KING'S HARBOUR MASTER
7th June, 1940
I submit the following report and the movements of Hello
8 "ST. CLEARS" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The tug "ST. CLEARS" under my command left Sheerness, in company
th "SUN V", towing eleven naval cutters and with 70 naval ratings
der Commander Hayward, on board at 1805 on 28th May.
After arriving at Dover route instructions were issued by -
nation tug in South Downs and both tugs proceeded and at 0015
a 29th May, "SUN V" was involved in collision with H.N.S.
MONTROSE". I scarched the vioinity for two hours but failed to
ocate name. I then proceeded as instructed by "MONTROSE". then
assing Gravelines we were surprised by fire from a shore battery
n a position bearing 022 degrees from Dunkerque Calla buoy. de
ontinued on our course for a short time until the firing become
ntensified shells falling very close to our stem some of which
coled and mank two cutters in tow. I then ordered the helmssan to
lter course to bring the battery astern of us, finally steering a
course of 080 degrees till out of range of guns. The wireless
operator was maintaining continuous eatch 80 1 we able to make in
THE the attack which I considered urgent in view of
THE whole of this time the conduct of my officers and
small craft following the same route, This
imediately re-broadcast by North Foreland
men was admirable. that of Able Seeman Arthur Chawner
who was at the whell, particularly he steared the ship with great precision and
Trawler "BLACKBURN ROVERS" was stationed. After some delay 1 pro-
on the course 020 degrees until se arrived at Position 2 shere 11.11.
altered course efficiently when ordered to do 80. De then proceeded
ceeded Northern route instructed by travler. then passing Sesport,
battery was again opened Destroyers, but two outters sere lost
shore batteries as firs, shells falling very close, this
up I by H.M.S. "CRESTED and a third out and adrift, towed so my position off La Fanne.
in this action silenced by French this outter was later picked
Commander with six remaining cutters to the bench of La Panno
proceeded EAGLE" cutters and anchored off La Panne.
Hayward disputched the immediately. During the shole of
and his La embarking Panne acrial troops attacks courage were continuous. and endurance Communder in working
outters, continually men showed transporting great troops.
one
of
WELB carried I Our anchor. not gun that 8 orew I were came muchine proceeded ammunition the when of manned, within crew outters, ordered gunning behaved to by range the unknown by navel the foremost attack. no. particularly excellently after ratings. destroyer to During assist Lewis by Under a - taking naval at No gun H.M.S. which these bombing one fired by shelter rating machine very had myself, "BIDEFORD" both to been raid exceptional assist. gune in being which hit 1 alleyways have ashore, at but any
During At signalled "HERE" transferred 8200 this required. Engineer to period "BIDEFORD" outters reported I I picked was to who signalled "GOLDEN defect a sked up 70 to EAGLE no French main to STATE PART and proceeded small local boats.
back to I Sheerness closed "HEEN" at slow and speed made due to defect.
(Sgd) W.J. Penney
MASTER
H.M. Tug "ST. CLEARS"

Details

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

Details

317
- 323
- 4
Proceedings by H.M.S. SABRE for the period 27th May to 5th June.
buoy, came under fire from shore batteries. Speed was increased
to "Full" and the wheel put over it each sungflash, keeping them
book between 20 and 70 degrees abaft the boar. The range was
quickly found, however, and several hits stistained on the bridge
and upperworks. Course was therefore altered to the northward,
smoke was made, and the ship continued to status AS such as
possible without showing herself clear of the smoke. Just before
turning away however, 3 shell passed through the Petty Officer's
messdeck. It did not exploite, but it passed through the Master Gyn
conpass, and a splinter from it penetrated the deck and SO
admitted water to No.2 O.LL Fuel tank.With this tank out of action
there was insufficient all fuel remaining for the round trip to be
completed. The D.C. cable had been pierced in four places and the
magnetic compass vis therefore practically useless. The ship's was
therefore teered by the sun(fortunpately visible) will traffic
on route "X" was Liscerned. Thereafter it was possible to 80 from
buoy to bucy. Sandhurst's lar vis severely riddled with shell
splinters but the damage to the ship (except for the cyΓo compass
and oil fuel tank) was only superficial and not a pan was touched.
Arrive: it Dover it 2030.
Defects vare taken in hand forthwith, and at noon
on the 31st "SABRE" proceeded alongaide eastern are to facilitate
the work. Nothing could be done about the gyro compass in the
time available, but the D.C. cable MLS repaired and a great deal
of other repair work WAS done by Sundhurst, of whose services I
should Like to express My apprediation. A 16 it motor skiff was
borrowed in lieu of the damaged whaler, and Sabre's own motor boat
was recovered having been repaired.
ALL hands had been utterly exhausted and the day
and night in harbour give them a may lasse of life.
At 2180/31, having completed with oil, "SABRE"

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dynamso ds. 356
October, 1935.)
te
ECRE
$5
10
55
1
An
Dynam
349
lasman
60
355
65
TER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
DNI
n
70
7010
3347
4
during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with
an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the
boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might
be the boat for which we were searching. To make sure we
proceeded to Dunkirk where two open boats and a Thames
barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from
the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spaniards,
the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French and
English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at
approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 320
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and
various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England
but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor
motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charts on board. The air compressor motor was
made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left 1st Lieut., Leiut. Dehammel with instructions
opened the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
to sail the my barge to Dover; and proceeded along the coast having
About two up miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to within
of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter
approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward
could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course
was set to intercept the Thames barge.
by approximately eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 were the dropped
At 1720 when out of sight of land bombs we were attacked
The fell at to attack in pairs out dive of the sun
and eight six distances or varying from 10 to 50 yards of and ship.
having bombers appeared their bombs continued their endeavour firing to machine- miss
guns. the Course was appeared to explode after entering water,
released altered frequently in an the
some bombs. Some the surface and & certain number appeared ahead and not the to
explode at all. the splash. A certain amount who were exposed was
on striking One exploded under the bow right of discomfort ship
passed through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to
experienced the by eyes for the next twelve manning
Able-Seaman Power of the soldiers in the fore to peak. return to Dover now had
splash in the was wounded in the leg when As I the port
wounded on board ask for assistance for barge sailing
turret also one I considered it advisable the barge. A tug was
forthwith and approximately to 2100 and found the Deut. Dehammel well
sent out at from Dover. I consider Sub. bombing to
performed a very subjected had caused leaks for that night's the
about 10 miles creditable operation. The to the hull which and
petrol the ship tank had and been the ship was not used again
operation.

Details

that .A.V.N.E ean M.D.T Important gotto
-enut did
132
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for five hours under heavy bombardments both from th
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Details

CONFIDENTIAL
320c. (For use with S. 1320b).
NAVAL MESSAGE.
(Revised Dyrams. & S. 356
October, 1935.)
te
ECRE
$5
100
55
1
An
Dynam
355
349
Ahel Tasman. 60
65
TTER OF PROCEEDINGS - EVACUATION.
a
70
353
during daylight. About half-way across a French trawler with
an open boat in tow was hailed. He reported having picked the
boat up with soldiers off Dunkirk and it was thought this might
be the boat for 14 ich we were searching. To make sure we
proceeded to Dunkirk where - two open boats and & Thames
barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from
the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards,
the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French
and English. No then went alongside the Thanes barge at
approximately 1330.
This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and
various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England
but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, ⑉ note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new platon to the air compressor
motor while the let.Lieut. and myself trimed the sails.
They had no charge on board. The air compressor motor was
made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my 1st,Lieut., SublLient. Delhamel with instructions
to sail the barge to Dover, and proceeded along the coast having
opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing
approximately three miles of the coast alightly to the eastward
of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter
could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course
was set to intercept the Thanes barge.
by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bomba were dropped
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attached
The bombers at appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and
and fell distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine- to
guns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour miss
the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water,
at on striking exploded under the box right discomfort
a ome the surface and a certain,appeared ahead and not the to ship explode
passed all. One the splash* A certain amount who of were exposed was
the experienced by the x eyes for the next twelve manning the
through myself and members of the crew hours or 80. to
splash in wounded in the leg when part
Able-Seaman Power of was the soldiers in the fore to peak. return As to Dover I now had
wounded on board ask for assistance for the the barge. barge sailing well was
turrets also one I considered it advisable A tug
sent forthwith out and to 8100 and I consider found Sub.Lieut, Delfammel
about performed 10 a very creditable subjected had operation. caused leaks The for to bombing the that bull night's to which and the
the petrol ship tank had and been the ship was not used again
operation.

Details

10
There were several Killed Army Fred casualities K. and the following Naval Casualties from
mohine gunning. Brown A.B.
/ounded Lieut Comdr. Crick R.H. Lieut. Griffiths R.N.V.R. Licut Griffiths
10
ias since died of wounds. All were from Abel Tasman.
The two wounded officers were very efficiently dealt with and taken to the first
aid post by W.C. Harding P.O. the Coxswain and E.R.A. Shorthose the E.R.A. of
Abel Tasman At this time I was still ashore with the Colonel of bitte R.A.S.C.
and lieut. Stater. I sew Lieut. Comdr. Crick and took command of the three
ships. I appointed myself to Abel Tasman and told Lieut. Slater to appoint his
First Licut. Lieut. Wykeham-Martin as C.O. of Kaap Falga. Lieut. Slater then
down to the beach to Bray with the adjutant R.A.S.C. to arrange about
mloading Kaap Falga and Alice here.
The embarkation started at 15.30 with tide rising fast. At 17.00 Kaap Falga
and Alice floated and got under way. I hailed Alice and passed a Grass for
im to tow my stern off. There were no anchors laid out from Abel Tasman and I
ad no hands to lay them out at the time. viz. H.W. 17.45. Alice then broke down
and I removed my grass. By this time I was manouverin, the engines and the ship
78.S becoming water borne. The next time I had a moment to spare I saw Alice's
crew in her boats rowing over to Kaap Falga who was about eight cables to Seaward
The hove to. We hailed them and tried to signal but no notice was taken. I was
then hailed byb Lieut. Slater and took him on board.
The ship was by now (17.45) but bumping and being driven inshore by the shore
vind. I managed to get the stern clear by putting troops forward and then the bows
y moving them aft. We then went ahead and after grounding heavily twice got took into
leep water. As the German Aircraft were still present we took advantgage X2
of a rain squall and sailed immediately. Kaap Falga had by now sailed on a
0700 Wed, 29th. Arrived Dover and landed troops approximately 200 R.A.S.C Units
Vesterley course accross the Banks.
22.00 Wed. Sailed for Newhaven to disembark ammunition remaining about ammunition 200 tons
lso about 20 French Staff Officers.
08.00 Thurs. 30th. Arrived Newhaven completed to full stowage of
03.00 12.00 Fri. 31st. Arrived Dover roads anchored and myself to Examination far as
Fri. 31st, Sailed to Dover for orders.
vessel, At midnight the roads were cleared and I proceeded westwards as
Dungeness returning to anchor.
Sat.lst. June June at Entered 05.00 submarine basin at 08.00 and secured alongside to discharge Sandhurst
from Sun. whom 2nd. we took in lubricating oil. 10.15. Proceeded to Newhaven
18.30 Arrived Newhaven.
ionday 3rd. June. Discharged at Newhaven
Tues. 4th. June Compketed discharging
Ved. 5th. 0615 Sailed for Poole.
L8.00 wish Arrived to draw Poole. attention to the admirable work done by the
W. C. Harding PO DJX149987
R. Shortose E.R.A. DMX64780
J.J. Iyall O.D. DJX 184099
9
4
II.
To. 1476/07.
'he Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
FLAGICEPPICER-IN-CHARGE.
Portland.
Oth June, 1940.
12JUN 1940
*
R E DO

Details

I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
Adminalty Pier
23
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered
prt
H.H.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Doms at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirk from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported
to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and sailed for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order
to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the
evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship
broke down again and was successfully towed by H.H.S. Pascholl.
Signed H.R.Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. R.N.V.R. made two successful trips to Dunkirk beach and was able
to evacuate 1008 officers and men. Although under continual fire from shore
batteries and dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel
or
crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
B.
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with
ships boats only until 04.00
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft of water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air
compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ransgate
19.00 30th.
May 31st. June 1st.
Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles
to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment with
ships boats only until midnight.
Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked
ship sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
Ships Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
L.S. A.J.M. Upton P/SSX 13505
A.B. W.H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B. H.B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
"PASCHOLL"
B.
This ship was only taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain
having returned to his proper duties at Ramagate. I proceeded to Ramagate
arriving there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor
until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond flying
his flag in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty at
23.00 and embarked ap roximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 Tuesday
June 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions sailed at 05.30
Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having taken
H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday
6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th. June
entered Poole Harbour.
Signed Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS"
I have the honour ? to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
I
Dynamo in diary form.
25th. May Joined at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 p.m. approx cast off and
proceeded to anchor off Portsmouth. 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off Yarmouth.
26th, May. 5.10 a.m. ordered to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship
3.0 p.m. Ordered to proceed Portsmouth.
6.0 p.m. Arrived Portsmo th. Recive fuel water and stores and ordered to broken proceed
Spithead to swing for deviation. Discharged Dutch engineer. Note compass
and steering compass damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable deviation card
10.30 Proceed in company for Newhaven.
27th. May Dawn arrived off Newhaven and anchoved. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec. gear stores
rope etc. Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship
9.0 approx. Proceeded in company for Dover.
28th. p.m. Dawn arrived off Dover 9.30 approx berthed alongside "Ruja" at West bad Quay,
Enemy render independance p.m. of navigation impossible we follow rest ahead. gunfire
May air raid 1.0 approx. Proceed in company for Dunking. Compass Considerable so as to
etc. all night.

Details

I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
Adminalty Pier
23
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered
escort
H.M.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Downs at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirl from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported
to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order
to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the
evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship
broke down again and was successfully towed by H.M.S. Pascholl.
Signed Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. Ward R.N.V.R. made two Although successful under trips continual to Dunkirk fire beach from and shore was able
batteries to evacuate and 1008 dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel
officers
and
men.
or crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Licut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft or water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air
ships boats only until 04.00
compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ramsgate
19.00 30th.
May 31st. June 1st.
Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles with
to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment
Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked
ships boats only until midnight.
sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
Ships ship Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
L.S. A.J.M. Upton SSX 13505
A.B. W. H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B. .B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
This "PASCHOLL" ship was only B. taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain
having there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor
returned to his proper duties at Ramsgate. I proceeded to Ramsgate
arriving until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond at flying
his in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty
flag and embarked approximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 05.30 Tuesday
June 23.00 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions taken sailed at
Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having
H.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday June
6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th.
entered Poole Harbour.
Signed J.N.Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS" I have the honour to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
Dynamo 25th. in diary Joined form. at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 Dalla approx cast Yarmouth. off and
26th. proceeded May. to 5.10 anchor a.m. off ordered Portsmouth. to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship
May 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off
3.0 p.m. Ordered Portsmo to proceed th. Portsmouth. Recived fuel water and stores and ordered to proceed broken
6.0 p.m. Arrived deviation. Discharged Dutoh engineer. Note compass deviation
Spithead and steering to swing compass for damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable card
10.30 Proceed Dawn in arrived company off for Newhaven Newhaven. and anchored. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec gear stores
27th. rope etc. May Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship
9.0 28th. p.m. May approx. Dawn arrived Proceeded off Dover in company 9.30 approx for Dover. berthed for alongside "Ruja" Compass at so West bad Quay. as to
Enemy render air independance raid 1.0 p.m. of navigation approx. Proceed impossible in company 49 rest shead. Considerable fofolComt gunfire
etc. all night.
so
folonsidat
ores
ost to
el gunfire
Duto.

Details

First Lieut. then abandoned Alice and took his crew and Major De Haviland (wounded)
25
and 4. soldiers to Kaap Falga where 1st. Lieut. Alice took command. Major De.
Havilland of G.H.Q came on board with instructions for Kaap Falga to go to sea
25
and try and intercept a destroyer so that he could report by m/t to the War Office
the seriousness of the situation. No. Destroyer would stop so Kaap Falga returned
to the Downs and reported arrival. Then to Dover where stores were cleared by 09.00
1st. Kaap Falga's engines were badly coked up and in attempting to return to
Dunkirk at 22.00 1st. they overheated to such an extent that the Ship could not
make suffient speed to reach Dunkirk by 03.00 2nd. the latest hour that ships had been
ordered to stay off Dunkirk.
Due to the possibility of this defect Kaap Falga was not used on the night of June 2nd.
the last night of the evacuation.
Sailed for Poole 14.30/3 arrived 12.00/5
PACIFIC
A
Lieut. Comdr. .Skrine R.N. Lieut. Triscott R.N.R.
Sat.25th. May Crews for Dutch Skoots proceeded from ortsmouth to Poole where
they arrived about noon and were detached for these vessels.
Pacific proceeded at 14.00 leaving discharged dutch crew at Brownses Island. Was
ordered to anchor at Yarmouth for the night.
Sun. 26th. May. Weighed at 0.430 and proceeded for Portsmouth Harbour at 09.3.0
Being Senior officer of the Party I went ashore and arranged for stores and swinging
etc. No sailing orders were obtainable until about 19.00 when we were ordered
to complete swinging as soon as possible and sail at once for Newhaven. Accordingly
sailed at dark with Amazone Atlantic Zeus & Pascholl in company (wega and San Antonio)
has broken down)
Monday 27th. May. Arrived off Newhaven at 04.00 and was ordered to anchor outside
Lay at anchor all day awaiting orders. At dark received orders to sail for downs
in company with a party of skoots that had previously arruved Newhaven. Weighed and
Proceeded
Tues. 28th. May Arrived Dover about 08.00 and berthed alongside 09.00. Went ashore
and having ascertained the possible nature of the operation made arrangements for
sandbags first aid outfits etc., to be supplied to my party of Skoots by noon
However an air raid warning intervened and none of these stores had been received
13.00 received orders to sail forthwith. Sailed about 13.00 and took over a large
lifeboat at sea from one of the slower skoots who was dropping behind. Pacific
gradually overhauled the other four skoots and I think was the first of this party
to reach La Panne.
From No. 6 E Buoy we proceeded at slow speed 180 straight for the beach where in
answer to our hail a shout was raised by the soldiers on the beach. The intention
waswas to turn to Port and anchor off. However partly due to the fact that the
larger ships were closer in than I anticipated but mainly due to my leadsman failing
to obtain any sounding at all we grounded on a bank of sand before we had turned
90° This occured at 23.00 We sent the large Lifeboat ashore with 3 of our 5 hands and
instructed them to take off men to other ships as with the wind blowing inshore it was
not certain that we should get off, With the remaining two hands we laid out a kedge
on our Port quarter. By going full astern and heaving on the kedge we got afloat
when the tide rose at 02.00
29th. May. The ships lifeboat and skiff was then sent inshore and 1 officer and
7 men were brought off to Pacific before the boats lost touch with her in the dark
They did howver bring several par ies off to other ships. Verbal orders had been
received before leaving Dover to leave shore before03.3 being anxious to recover
boats and men Pacific remained inshore till daylight finally sailing at 04.30
when it seemed liekly that the boats and crews had been embarked by other ships.
Rerurned to Dover by route Y arriviving about 16.30 and disembarked troops. No
orders were immediately available but verbal orders were subsequently received
to embark water and provisions and sail about 22.00 Application was made for the
balance of complument and I was informed that I should be sent 3 hnds from
Montvera. These did not arrive until 02.40 at which time Pacific sailed for Dunitirk.
30th. May. The morning of 30th May was misty at about 08.20 when crossing Le Dyck bank
there was a violent underwater explosion about two cables on the Starboard bow
No aircraft was about and it is supposed that it was a torpedo which had exploded
on the Bank. No vessel was in sight Arrived off the beach 09.00 about 1 mile E
of Dunkirk and anchored close in. We had no boat of our own but collected two from
a skoot that was just leaving, conditions as regards surf were pretty good but boats
very waterlogged and no boat was obtainable all day. By 16.00 my crew were exhausted
by pulling those boats in and out from the hore all as I had 30 Officers and 620
men aboard I decided to sail. We might have had many more in half the time
if a motor boat had been available. Accordingly sailed at 16.00 When crossing the
Inner Ratel Bank attacked by by two of a flight of three fighters with machine
guns. They scored was & few hits on the ship and injured noñody. Had nothing but a pistol
with which to reply.

Details

(5)
35
I
92
On the return voyage, after passing Nieuport Bank
Buoy, we saw two ships ahead of us bombed, one with 8 bombs,
the other with sixteen bombs.
There was no indication that either had been hit,
but as we drew nearer it could be seen that one was in
difficulties, and in reply to a signal we went alongside.
This ship was the GRACIE FIELDS, and while she continued to
steam round in a circle, we took off troops, a number
seriously wounded.
After about 45 minutes when this was almost
completed ( another dynamo ship was taking off troops on her
starboard side ) a destroyer indicated that she wanted to come
alongside and at 2130 we proceeded, passing through the Downs
29/-
in an early morning fog, up the Ramsgate Channel and into
harbour.
30/4
As soon as the troops were disembarked, preparation
was made for the next trip. Army provisions were put aboard
and two Lewis guns mounted.
For the next trip, officers and men ( not engine
room men who could work in three watches ) were relieved to
get some sleep.
I understand that on that trip of the 30th/31st,
JUTLAND brought off troops from the beaches to the East of
Dunkirk Pier.
On her return it was reported that she required
fuel and that fact and the state of the tide kept her in
harbour that day.
With the original crew, I took over again from the
relief crew, and on the 1st June was at anchor in the
Ramsgate Road, standing by for further orders; but I
understand that the ship's speed was not considered suitable
for taking part in the final operations, and after standing
by for a further period. JUTLAND was ordered to return to
London where, after reporting to F. O. 1. C., I handed over
the ship to the Chief Dock Master, Surrey Commercial Dock,
obtaining a detailed receipt.
from - Mum SRA Who we aribbing ashin,
and Pacific being Kair then luch of
View was is : believed about the have
skast of this party 0 sun at he Pause.
Proceded at How spend have the White they
dirict for the beach Were is auouns 4 our
hail are Guld has Ideas Thenking.
I/c nituition see is line as Rrt 9 auchor.
Here the Then was a think

Details

129
-4-
Having reported to H.M.S. "LYNX" was ordered to
remain ready at short notice, but received no further
instructions until the evening of Sunday June 2nd, when
under the orders of Captain G. Fraser returned in the tug
Sun X' to assist disembarking French troops. I was discharged
to Admiralty P.M. Tuesday, 4th June.
A verbal report was given to H.M.S. "LYNX" of proceedings
during the operations "Dynamo" and delay in forwarding this
report is regretted but had no immediate access to P.G.O's.
I have the honour,
to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant,
LIEUTENANT, R.N.,
Vice Admiral Dover.
VICE ADMIRAL
25 JUN 1940
A

Details

Dynam 232
205
192
LOG of H.M. Motor Boat LADY CABLE of Torquay
during operations carried out June 2md
and 3rd, 1940.
In command: Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N.
Cadet Rating G.R. Price
Stoke Worsall
Able Seaman or Ordinary Seaman Smith
from Newfoundland,
Sunday, June 2nd, 1940.
Took over boat during forenoon from Mr. Gooding who
operates boat for owner at Torquay. She had done one trip
to the beaches near Dunkirk. Took on provisions, water,
petrol, etc. Mr. Gooding showed Stoker Worsall the working
of the engines Cylinder Atlantic - running on petrol.
At about 1500 went over to Prince of Wales Pier and was
then taken in tow by SUN VI, together with two life-boats
and one other craft. Started for Dunkirk at approximately
1530, having been handed previously copy of Sailing
Instructions to Drifters, together with rough sketch map
of course to follow. After uneventful trip arrived off
Dunkirk harbour at about 2230 and received orders to
proceed in harbour and go a long way up the Mole to embark
soldiers - fill up and return to tug, then go in for
further loads. At times had difficulty in persuading
French troops to embark in LADY CABLE, the reason apparently
being reluctance to break their units or to act without
definite orders from their officer who was probably still
in the town of Dunkirk. However, we took four boat loads
off - each load containing between 40 and 50 soldiers.
Three loads I took to tugs and one to H.M.S. WISHART when
tug was not in usual position. Spoke to tug after fourth
trip and was informed that it would soon be light and that
she could'nt wait much longer. In reply to a question if
any British officers were still left on the Mole, I replied
that on earlier trips I had seen one who had asked me not
to leave him behind. This officer was engaged in helping
the embarkation of the troops. I had not seen him on my
last trip but told tug I would make another trip to see if
he was there. Informed tug would be as quick as possible
and if tug could not wait, would return to England under
own power. Tug said she could only wait a short while.
On going in for fifth time engines began to go badly
and stopped altogether before reaching point of embarkation.
Engines got going again and we went alongside and collected
about 24 more French soldiers. There was no sign of British
officer and Price reported to me that French on the Mole told
him he had gone. I sent Price up on to the Mole to make
enquiries. Owing to the improbability of tug waiting for
us, I only took 24 soldiers as a greater number would have
made trip back to England under own power too hazardous. Just
after passing lighthouse at end of harbour, engines stopped
again. Noticed we were close to W.D. craft (later found to
be HAIG) who I imagined from her position was watching us and
would/

Details

212
199
Page 2
TO ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
The only other person that I saw who was aboard the boat
when we were fired on was a Frenchman and he was not
interested as he had passed over the border.
Able Seaman Strand reported himself and me by phone on
arrival at Margate.
2nd. Reported to the Officer i/c and was given warrants for
transfer to Littlehampton. Left A.M. and arrived at
Littlehampton P.M. reported to Camp on arrival.
(SIGNED)
A. BENHAM , STOKER.
shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually
repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw
all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if
ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility
to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk
packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers
came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank
within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours,
naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked
up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer i/c decided to make back
to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was
being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. 4 hour saw three trawlers,
2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal
and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for
torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or
was disregarded. Shot fired across bows, but still steaming
fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and
myself went over the side. Firing eased a little so I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly see they
were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after
chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O.
Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2)
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred
us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports,
if any, had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Sun. 2nd.
Stoker Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders
to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed
rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

Details

212A
ENCLOSURE II. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.4
200
REPORT BY ABLE SEAMAN NO.275. L.F. STRAND - CREW OF MOTOR BOAT
P.M. 29th. Left Littlehampton. Got permission, after much trouble
to enter and stay night in Newhaven.
A.M. 30th. Left Newhaven for Ramsgate and arrived P.M. - refuelled
and awaited orders.
A.M. 31st. At 4.30 A.M. ordered to leave Ramsgate independently, for
Dunkirk. C.P.O. Leighton i/c, Stoker Benham and Able
Seaman Strand. Outside harbour picked up convoy of small
boats. 3 hours out approx. developed leak in Port
Stern Gland. C.P.O. Lighton ordered me (Strand) to turn
ship and return to Ramsgate. Arrived back in Ramsgate P.M.
and had Gland repacked.
A.M. 1st. 4.30 again ordered to Dunkirk. Before leaving & Sub-
Lieutenants (R.N.V.R. volunteered to join boat as their
engine had given them trouble. Got charts etc., and got under
way. No convoy. Near Dunkirk, boat struck obstacle or
shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually
repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw
all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if
ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility
to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk
packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers
came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank
within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours,
naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked
up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer 1/c decided to make back
to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was
being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. $ hour saw three trawlers,
2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal
and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for
torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or
was disregarded. Shot fired across bowa, but still steaming
fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and
myself went over the side. Firing eased a little ao I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly are they
were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after
chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O.
Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2)
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports,
if had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Sun. 2nd.
Stoker any, Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders
to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed
rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

Details

217
205
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 3
B
SHIP:-
M.D.
AURA
OFFICER:- SUB. LIEUT. M.A. CHODZKO, R.N.V.R.
REPORT I.
Sr
On Saturday, June 3rd, I received instructions to take charge
of the Motor Launch AURA and proceed to a beach East of Dunkirk Harbour.
Left Dover Harbour towed by drifter GIRL GLADYS at 15.30.
Before leaving it had been reported to me that the AURA'S engine was not
operating successfully, in as much that she would not come astern. As
the weather appeared to be favourable there seemed no reason why the
operation could not be carried out.
X
We shipped from GIRL GLADYS in the proximity of 5W Buoy and
proceeded Eastwards. I was able to tow cutters from one of the Paddle
Steamers to the beach on this first trip inwards. The time was 0100 -
About 100 British troops were transferred from the shore to various
vessels. The engine was giving considerable trouble so that shortly
after 0215, June 4th, it failed completely.
The launch was then manoeuvred towards some Thames Sailing
Barges, and we endeavoured to repair the engine. On examination we
found that a defective dynamo was causing the trouble, and as operations
were ordered to cease at 0300, I decided to abandon AURA at 0245. I
transferred the crew to a dinghy which we found, and then managed to
get aboard a "paddle steamer" which was getting under way. All members
of my crew behaved excellently throughout the twelve hours.
REPORT II.
2nd
On Sunday, June 4th, I repaired aboard the drifter YORKSHIRE
LASS in the capacity of Skipper. I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk
Harbour. Leaving Dover at about 1515, we arrived off Dunkirk at 0000.
Off the S. Foreland Ljeutenant Commander Prior, Royal Navy, was transferred
from the drifter .UTPROSIM aboard the YORKSHIRE LASS.
There was little delay in arriving alongside and we started
embarking French troops before 0030. Another drifter arrived alongside
our vessel so we transferred our troops and carried on loading. By 00115
we seemed to be practically full. There appeared to be no more troops
on our portion of the jetty and I dispatched a soldier to see if we could
collect another 50 men. Other ships were arriving alongside, so by 0130
we were steaming out of the Harbour.
During the whole operation, and during the passage, the troops
behaved in an orderly manner. During the homeward passage the vessel
developed a hot bearing, and as it was just daybreak, I signalled SUN XI of
to take us in tow until repairs were effected. Within three quarters
an hour we proceeded under our own power and arrived in Harbour at 0830
Monday, June 5th.
The whole ships company were highly efficient in their duty,
and on investigation 100 French troops and 3 British Tommies had been
transported.
The British Tommies reported as having lost their division,
and had only arrived in Dunkirk on Saturday.
Report ends.

Details

219
207
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 5.
SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "CAVERSHAM".
MOTOR BOAT "QUISISTANA".
TUG "SUN X".
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. A.V. WEAVER.
Left H.M.S. KING ALFRED 29th May for Sheerness, whence
took Motor Boat "Caversham" to Ramsgate. (Faulty engine caught
fire during night.)
2.
31st May. "Caversham" acted as tender to Schuyts,
then set off for Dunkirk, but sprang serious leak, and, pumps
not working, returned to Ramsgate following morning.
3.
1st June. Took Motor Boat "Quisisiana" to Dunicirk
loaded her with 1 Army Officer and 17 other ranks from beach.
Fifteen miles from Dunkirk accepted tow from tug "Young Mun",
and, being unable to restart engines off Brake buoy, was towed
into Dover.
4.
3.30 p.m. was sent to tug "Sun X" (Ideut. Philpotts)
which towed three boats to Dunkirk. (At destination Lieut.
Philpotts left tug to act as beach master, and did not return
to tug.) Boats loaded tug to capacity with French troops, and
tug entered Dover at 8.30 a.m.
5.
Please note that Motor Boat's crew worked admirably
in very trying circumstances. Their names are -
J. Clarke
L. Seaman
DJ.87012
W.C. Morgan
Sto. I
KX.88644
D. Soully
0/Seaman
JX.175384
J. Curran
0/Seaman
JX.176599
J. Hill
0/Seaman
No number
They are part of a special DRAKE party. Morgan is now in Deal
Hospital with swollen ankles, the others went to Dover Transit
Camp.

Details

223
OPERATION DYNAMO
*
ENCLOSURE NO.8
211
SHIP:- M.B. SKYLARK
MICHAEL STEVENS 4B.
OFFICER:- SUB.LIEUTENANT M.J.R. YEATMAN, R.N.V.R.
Friday, 31st May. Took charge of M/B. SKYLARK, overhauled engine,
proceeded under tow of VRDEDA. Tow broke down - returned to port.
Overhauled engines of one or two other M/B's.
Saturday, 1st June.M/B. SKYLARK. Towed by RIGA to near Dunkirk.
Transferred survivors to RIGA from French Destroyer, who had picked
them up from torpedoed ship.
RIGA returned to Dover, and I returned under own
power by Kellet cut to Dover by about 10.0 p.m. Reported at CAMBER
and returned to Granville Steps.
Sunday, 2nd June. Transferred in charge of MICHAEL STEPHINS
Lowestoft Lifeboat - 2 Stokers and 1 A.B. from Transit Camp for crew.
Overhauled engines, fuelled and provisioned - proceeded under tow of
Tug SUN XI. Arrived Dunkirk, after dark about 2230 hours. Entered
harbour and went toward Eastern Mole. Rammed by M.T.B. without much
damage. Went alongside Eastern Mole. With difficulty got 12 French
soldiers aboard. Proceeded out to find tug which had disappeared,
landed troops on trawler. Returned to harbour, being rammed by
another M.T.B. on the way. Found Sloop (identification letters S.G.
or s.c.). Owing to swish of tide she could not come alongside, so
with the big engines of the lifeboat I pushed her alongside and went
aboard to help make fast. Climbed on to Mole, which was being shelled,
and by means of some forceful language and a rifle butt, Induced the
French troops who were lying on the Mole to start down on to the
Sloop. Once a few had started they all began to go down. Got 52
into the lifeboat and cast off to try and find tug. After searching
for some time, and being hit again by a fishing boat, I decided at
0100 to return under my own power to Dover.
Reported a floating mine by morse to a destroyer about
6 miles E.S.E. of N. Goodwin Light Vessel.
Reached Dover and landed French troops at 0710.
Returned lifeboat and reported at Submarine Camber
at 0730.
Shrapnel on Eastern Mole was mostly at first confined
to outer end of Mole until the Sloop drew alongside. Then the
range shortened, I got the definite impression that someone had been
spotting for the guns, as the direction of fire shortened very
rapidly and accurately. Suffered no casualties though among my
contingent. In fact, I found considerably greater risk from the
movements of allied craft then from Nazi shelling. There seemed to
be no attempt to keep any rule of the road. Outside the Harbour
had one attack from a Nazi plane. No hits, but she may just have
been having a blind shot at four of us who were altogether.
(Sgd)
MARWOOD J. B. YEATMAN.
Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
H.M.S. KING ALFRED.

Details

224
OPERATION DYNAMO
212
ENCLOSURE No.9.
SHIP: Motor Boat SOUTHERN QUEEN.
Officer Reporting: SUB.-LIEUT. DEMATTOS.
Went with Sun XI. Picked up about 200. All
French and women and children. 2 Loads from East Mole,
2 from small West Mole. Back 10 miles under own power,
then tow by Sun X.
Suggest Officers speaking French to send Frenchmen
into boats, as they refuse to go in small boats.
First trip towed by VREDE, broke down and we towed
her clear of shipping and returned.
Second trip towed by RIKA, sent back under own power
from 2 miles off Dunkirk.

Details

1710 Only one boat in company (Abdy Beau Clark
Aldeburgh lifeboat).
1718 Life-boat "Rosa Wood" Shoreham joined
company. One drifter ahead.
1726 To drifter "what are your intentions".
1730 To drifter "Stop". "Rosa Wood" and "Phyllis
Lunn" informs us he intends returning Dover.
1736 Three British planes over.
1740 Closed drifter. Hang on in position until
last, most other boats and one drifter out of
sight. Speed boat informs us soldiers still
ashore but refuses to come aboard.
1821 Planes attacking with bombs.
1837 To trawler "Have you had any reply". From
trawler "No".
1838 Planes still bombing. 1 ship damaged not
our fleet. Captain decided to try on his
own to reach Dunkirk. The two life-boats in
company turned back. Bombs still dropping.
Being machine-gunned 1849. last and stays
hit.
1854 Captain carrying on to Dunkirk single-handed.
1859 24 fighters overhead.
1908 I have been deserted please stand by no.
To Motor Boat with Liteut.Commander on board.
Put us on our course.
1926 Covered white conspicuous parts of ship with
oilskins. From Cairmoorn I.B. "Steer S.558
for Dunkirk". S.S. "Sun 4" Duniciric 2012.
2023 One friendly plane overhead.
2044 Proceeding to Dunkirk beach. Arrived Duniciple
with "Sun 4". Message from M.B. "Inadvisable
to go in". Captain boarded "Sun 4" 2100.
2108 Proceeding to Dunkirk. Arrived Dunicive
harbour 2135. No one on piers. Picked up
"Sun 4" one rowing boat to go to beach.
Lieut. Mead billed. Boats in beach taking
ratings from shore all night (run aground).
0423 2nd June Sunday left Dunkirk. (Scored out in
log 'believed to be last boat in
Life-boat in tow of "Sun 4%
0450 "Sun 4" ran aground.
0456 Under way. Rope round starboard propellor of
life-boat.
0923 Passed S. Goodwins.
1010 Arrived Ramagate - "Sun 4ª anchored, Life-
boat secured astern.
1030 (approx.) Soldiers landed.
1310 Left anchorage for Ramagate Harbour S.B. and
secured alongside "Princess London"
at 1325.
1412 1424 Arrived and secured to "Sun 4" off Ramagate.
Left P.L. Steamboat.
2023 Left anchorage Ramsgate Harbour and secured
Collected all spare ammunition laying.
alongside H.M.S. DWARF 2035.
Monday 3rd June
0930
Reported to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate for permission Told
sail to Dover. Permission granted. to
Commander by Cook, Piermaster prior to sailing. inform
to Naval Officer-in-Charge to report
Dover. Sailed from Ramsgate 1026 an
Informed Condr. Cook and asked him to route
1112 Dover. Passed Occ. fog bell.
1157 1354 To examination steamer off Dover. "Walton
Passed South break.
1355 Told to proceed. Arrived Dover and secured
Life-boat. May I enter".
alongside.

Details

FROM
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
233
DATE
15th June 1940.
25
TO
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT.
Lieutenant R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
I regret who to report the death of Lieutenant
Mead, R.N.V.R. 1940, at 2108, was killed in action at Dunkirk on R.H. Saturday,
1st June or was wounded and died later.
2.
H.M. D/C to the M.B. had been reported out of action
31st May 1940, and Duty Staff Officer, Staff of Flag p.m. Officer
commanding Dover, the Commanding Officer and Lieutenant
Mead were ordered to find themselves boats if possible, and to
assume command.
3.
Lieutenant Mead had assumed command of R.N.L.B.
WALTON AND FRINTON, and having been towed across to near Dun-
I.B.
kirk with other small boats, had pressed on to Dunkirk, unaccom-
panied except by one other boat, the remainder of the small
boats having turned back. This can be clearly seen from the
extracts of the log kept in the boat, a copy of which has
already been forwarded to the Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover,
through the Officer Commanding Rescue Boats.
an
4.
While in the harbour itself, a shrapnel shell burst
on the water nearby, killing Lieutenant Mead. The remainder
ope
of the life-boat's crew, under a Lieutenant R.N.R. from the
Tug SUN IV continued ferrying soldiers to larger ships until
tian
0423, when Tug SUN IV towed the boat back to Ramsgate.
5.
The two members of my crew who accompanied Lieutenant
led
Mead, Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley and Able Seaman MacManus,
have informed me that the "determination and guts" of Lieutenant
Mead in persisting in his efforts to rally the smaller boats
and to push on to Dunkirk, were outstanding. This was reported
by me to the Staff Officer of the Rescue boats at Dover, who
interviewed the crew, and has a copy of the log of the life-boat.
ced
6.
I understand that the boat underwent many air attacks
ops
from the time that the tow came within about 20 miles of the
it.
coast.
7.
This report is submitted in order to confirm that the
ant
gallantry of Lieutenant R.H. Mead, (as previously reported by me,
pa,
ade
P.T.O.
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia being 18 was
working with Sport engine only - which, owing to were
overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 beach. troops
carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and
proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 1145) Entered batteries. Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

Details

,
OPERATION
231
NO. 20
SHIP:- LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne).
STATEMENT BY $
Name
Service
Sunday 2nd
Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II.
Lifeboat "JANS HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). Cast
$
Sto. J. Strangeways
off outside and told to go to a landing right
PKX 95036.
up the other and of the harbour. Found they
0
Sto. A.H. Shaw
were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck
PKX 94553. E.R.PONSON@Y
the tug or drifter they were going alongside
One Sub.Lieut, R.N.V.R.
so they wont on up harbour. 31g enough hote
One A.B.
in the lifeboat bows to crawl through. Drenohed
One O.S.
with spray caused by shrapnel. Às proceeding
also there.
up harbour sear a destroyer out & small rowing
All came back.
boat down with two Fyench sailors in 11. They
took these to the first destroyer. Tent right
up harbour: saw Fyench troops but they refused
to be taken off. So they came back out of the
harbour to tug anchored outside. Then they
were told to collect troops from anywhere.
Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour.
Nearly every boat had gone by then. So they
got up sail and tried to get out of harbour.
Several destroyers passed, they waved and
destroyers waved back: one hour after dawn
when they were just about giving up hopes &
M.T.B. came. Towed them out, engine started,
then they were alipped and after about 4 miles
the engine began to smoke and she caught fire.
No one in sight and two M.T.B's came along to
resque. Took them aboard. Lifeboat in l'lames,
returned a.m. 31at.

Details

249
235
OPERATION
NO.23
SHIP:- M/B. SKYLARK
STATEMENT BY $
Crew
Service
0
Sto.
G.Bramhall 2nd Time. Left Dover about 14.30 with an 0.5. in
PKX 88343
SKYLARK - a small open M/B. Towed across by SUN I
Ord. Sea.
with two other boats (? TCM DISDIN). Slipped low
2ndgime 1530ca
just outside harbour and went into pier. Shipped
French soldiers from pier ladders and took them
to the SUN I, which was lying off. Some big
ships alongside. 20/25 soldiers sach trip. left
under tow from SUN # about laylight. & little
shrapnel, bombing over the town. Started shipping
water and transferred boatload to tuge

Details

Details

Dynom. 120,
363
Admiralty House,
341
Sheerness.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that on Monday 27th May,
after getting final instructions from the Vice Admiral,
Dover, I proceeded to Sheerness and commenced duty as
"Dynamo" Maintenance Officer; my staff consisted of
Commander H.R. Troup, R.N,, who accompanied me from
Economic Warfare Division, and Lieutenant Commander D.E.
Holland-Martin, R.N. We had the invaluable assistance of
the Fleet Engineer Officer, Captain T.E. Docksey. Lieutenant
Commander Guinner, R.N. in command of the Schuit "Princess
Juliana" which had broken down, helped for the first day,
he then left to join N.O.I.C. Ramsgate whose need was
greater. Lieutenant Commander Filleul, R.N., from Weymouth
Contraband Base, also joined but was sent away in charge of
a lighter with petrol cans of water and subsequently joined
N.O.I.C. Margate. Lieutenant R.S. Hellby R.N.R. who came from
Weymouth Contraband Base, but was not fit enough to go to
sea, took his place.
2. Officers, ratings, volunteers and boats commenced to
arrive on Tuesday, and the work of preparing boats for
service occupied the whole of daylight hours for the remainder
of the week.
3. The first group consisting of 20 cutters with half crews
sailed for Dover on Tuesday in tow of the"st. Clears" and
"Sun V". The first group of motor boats sailed for Dover on
Wednesday. Subsequent groups were sent either to Ramsgate or
direct to the beaches, as directed by the Vice Admiral, Dover.
When there were insufficient Officers available, boats were
sailed in groups with at least one Officer trained in
navigation in each. Lighters were as far as possible given
motor boats to attend them.
4. Officers and Coxswains were given broad instructions that
failing orders and guidance from Officers on the spot they
were to find the places where troops were waiting, ferry them
off to the ships off shore, and continue the work as long as
possible, retaining enough fuel in reserve to get back to
Ramsgate. As far as I have been able to judge, good use was
made of the wide discretion given.
5. Requests were made from time to time for rafts, ladders,
lifebuoys and water. These and all the other demands were
met wholeheartedly by the Dockyard and H.M.S. "Wildfire".
6. Most of the owners and crews who brought boats
volunteered to serve in them; more would have done so had
what they were wanted to do. Many volunteers who had
it been possible to tell them before sailing for Sheerness
commitments went away to clear themselves and came back to
who lost their boats joined others at Dover and Ramsgate,
join, although their own boats had already sailed. Crews
or back to Sheerness to find another. There were I
am came glad to be able to say, very few exceptions to the general
at In Dardanelles, did all he could to get away and induce
enthusiasm. X213 the Master, a man of 60 years who had served
his the to take her. They went away to Chatham. S,N.S.O on
me and I suggest that the Dockyard would be well
sent drivers them back. They made a most unfavourable impression advised to
get rid of them. I feel sure that they could not be relied
on in any emergency and would have a bad effect on others.
One I regret to add, is an ex-service man.

Details

Dyrom 391
il
368
June 5th, 1940.
1.
Lieut. A.J. Davies, R.N.V.R. -"Java" never got over the
other side and was finally towed to Sheerness by "Gorecht"
2.
Lieut. A.N. Blundell, R.N.R. - "Bornrif" did three. trips
between Ramsgate and beaches at Dunkirk. "King Orry" was
sighted sunk off Dunkirk.
3.
Sub Lieut. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.R. - "Iote" was beached and
abandoned after she had damaged her rudder while rescuing
two of her crew, who had fallen overboard on the morning
of Saturday June 1st. On night of Monday, June 3rd, Sub Lieut
Amos, R.N.V.R. and Sub Lieut. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. were in
a new but unnamed power life boat which was towed over to
SUN
Dunkirk by Tug XV "About ..... (A).
On the 30th May D.S. "Horst" was known to have been abandoned.
4.
Sub Lieut. D.C. Williams, R.N.V.R. - left Ramsgate on the
night of Su day, June 2nd in the "Kiteat". On the way over
he became separated from the rest of the convoy. After
doing some work the other side he towed the "Singapore" back
to Dover and then on to Ramsgate on Monday, June 3rd.
5.
Lieut. R.W. Thomson, R.N.V.R. - After being discharged from
the "AEGer", where he had proved lacking in experience, did
4 trips in the "DABB II", two of which were unsuccessful.
6.
Sub Lieut. C. Minchin, R.N. - Went to the beached in the
"LYDD" where he ferried until the boat broke down. She was
abandoned and Minchin returned to Ramsgate in the "Lydd".
On Monday, against orders he tried to go over in the "Hel-
frinore" but she broke down.
7.
Sub Lieut. E.S. Foreman, R.N.V.R. - In the"Princess Freda"
he ferried from the beaches for a destroyer. He then
worked for the Dutch "Besta" --?, who finally towed him
back to Ramsgate.
8.
Sub Lieut. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. - Started in the "Minikoi"
but she was rammed and sunk by "MASB 6" off the downs at
0250 on Wed, May 29th. He next went over in the "Ambleve",
which with the "Sambre" was towed over by the "Skipjack",
for whom he ferried from the beaches. A crew from the
Skipjack releived his crew for 'stand-easy' and ran the
"Ambleve" aground. He and his crew returned in the
Skipjack. On Saturday, June 1st, he went over in a power
life boat. She was damaged by near bombs but the engines
continued to run.
9.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Pratt, R.N.V.R. - Ran aground in the
"Singapore" on beach at 0130 on Sunday June 2nd. She
rfloated at 0800 and he left with three French Officers.
On the way he picked up two British soldiers who were
French Officers' water bottles. He passed the "Mosquito"
floating around'. These were revived with wine from the
which was still afloat but had been deserted. In mid
channel he found three life boats which he took in tow
until his engines gave out and he was taken in tow by
the "Kitkat".
10.
Sub Lieut. I.F. Smith, R.N.V.R. - In "Jong" helped to
ferry home he sighted the "Iote" drifting round empty and
troops from the beaches on Friday, May 31st. On
way the "White Heather" empty but at anchor.

Details

3.
370
22.
Skipper beaches A. Gardner, at 2200 R.N.R. - Went in Tug "Tanga" arrived
bombed machine-gunned throughout the night, while
at the and on Friday, May 31st. They were
lying off an life inprovised boat jetty. He helped to ferry troops
life boat.
down and he returned on Saturday in "Leda", leaving the
in a power which "Tanga" had towed. This broke
23.
Sub Lieut. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. - Went to Le Panne in
"Elizabeth Green" and ferried for larger craft. He
sighted "Viewfinder" on the beach. He got back to
Ramsgate on Thursday May 30th, transferred to the R.F.A.
launch "Andora II" and returned to beaches where he ferried
for a bit and then brought back 23 French. Arrived
Ramsgate on Friday. On Monday night he was towed over in
the "Elizabeth Green" by a tug, which he could not after-
wards find and so he brought his load home.
24. Sub Lieut. R. Shrimpton, R.N.V.R. - In an Admiralty, open
36 ft. launch he was towed over by a drifter and pent
Saturday night at the beaches. On a later night he went
into Dunkirk.
25. Sub Lieut. S.C. Allen, R.N.V.R. - Went over to Le Panne
in the "Frightened Lady" which was beached after fouling
the screw. He reported to an Admiral with side whiskers
who was escorting Gort. He was told to help some soldiers
getting abandoned pinnaces away. He also assisted to
build a jetty with trailers etc. Left the beaches in the
"Horst".
26. Sub Lieut. A.V. Weaver, R.N.V.R. - Went over in "Quijijana"
and brought back a party of 18 troops mostly Coldstream
Guards. He went over again in "Sun X".
27.
Sub Lieut. W.G.H. Bonham, R.N. went over in "BOBELI"
in the first batch and ferried until about midnight on
Wednesday night. His boat was broken up by a destroyer
which went full ahead while he was alongside. He went
on ferrying for a bit but had to abandon the "Bobeli" and
returned to Margate in the "Albury". He then went over
in the "Horst" which had to be abandoned owing to engine
trouble and a near miss.
28.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Culham, R.N. - in "Smolt" which broke
down on way over and was towed back by "Midas" ?. Went
over in "Glitter II" to the beaches about 6m East of
Dunkirk arrived at 1600 on Wed. 29th. Stayed ferrying
until 0200 on Thursday when she lost her rudder on some
wreckage and was towed back to Dover by a drifter. The
"Black Arrow" was seen aground at Dunkirk.
29. Sub Lieut. R.A.W. Pool, R.N. - Took lighter X.817 to
Dunkirk and then back to Ramsgate. He went over again
on last night to Dunkirk in the M.T.B. "Marlborough".
Mares
30.
Sub Lieut. E.G.B. Enxnish, R.N.V.R. - in "Skylark" but
she sank on the way over. He also saw "Mary Rose" sink
in mid ocean and the "Ellen Mary" run down by a life
boat and abandoned.
31,
Sub Lieut. E.A.E. Cornish, R.N.V.R. - was in the
"Lansdowne" which slipped her tow outside Dunkirk.

Details

(2)
above aircraft, us at working one moment in conjunction but by with M.T.B's two right
3:22
we actually evidently observed. escaped torpedoing. twisting No surface and turning rapidly was
Daylight was welcomed by craft all.
400.
was Keep rather calling worried "St. Achilleus" by R/T and "W/T no
event of about her as we had arranged answer
at S. Buoy. losing each other during the night to rendezvous in the
.000.
Came to to conclusion "Arctic that "St. Achilleus" had gone,
been group mainly all because of W/T watches, our operator had already
gone Pioneer" and asked permission to join reported her
on night and couldn't carry on indefinitely.
315.
Whilst heading from T.Buoy towards Dunkirk in answer
to S.S. "Pragg's" S.O.S., received signal from Arctic
Pioneer that M.T.B. was approaching, we cleared for action
challenged her five times, no distinguishing mark or ensign
was shown, also she approached us zig-zagging. Fire was
opened with four inch, Pom Pom and Lewis guns, all three
ships heading straight for her firing; one four inch
from "Arctic Pioneer" struck her superstructure and she
then stopped and layto. On approach a white ensign was
observed being waved. Fire ceased and boats were lowered.
We went alongside M.T.B. took survivors and casualties off.
Report of action has been given to F.O.I.C. Harwich also
with report for Commanding Officer of M.T.B. Casualties
1 killed and five wounded. Transferred all to H.M.S.
"Saltash" who also took charge of M.T.B.
175
2100.
Received instructions to take charge of Group consisting
of "Sphene" and"Lord Melchett" and patrol between S.Buoy
and West Hinder.
e 2. 0509. Contacted "Lord Melchett" she joined us, proceeded
Eastward.
0711.
Stopped and Picked up 12 Refugees from small boat, boat
not worth keeping so cast it adrift and proceeded.
0729.
Signalled by aircraft (Hudson) piloted by Pilot Officer
Elworthy of Detling and asked to follow him. He
repeatedly circled around us and eventually said carry on
as you are going and you'll meet and open boat full of
people.
0740.
Met small boat, took refugees onboard, made boat fast
astern and proceeded on patrol.
0955.
Attacked by enemy dive bombers first one dived and
machine gunned us, the second one dropped bombs, not both
rame out on us. They dived to within a hundred exhausted, feet,
of sun, could be heard distinctly but seen
until almost fire was maintained until ammunition dropped
continual continuously. 15 bombs were Bombs
ship zig-zagged during the course of three attacks. thought
altogether 20 feet of ship both sides and setting one fire
fell within fell in bulwarks forward, also blew base
to be incendiary unprimed D/Cs and deck and bulwarks and
to two spare bar one arm supported, port by explosion but D.G.
of mast away Engines were stopped done to
gear dismantled. believed considerable numerous damage minor
carried on ship again, badly strained, deck besides hose.
engine defects. and Fire was put out by

Details

404
(
382
TUGS
and
SUN N
C.11.
c.q.
FORMIDABLE.
Sr, CHEARS.
LADY GRASSEY
FOREMOST By
Sr. OLAP
T

Details

SECRET
Dyram 35,4
406
Jug Sun IV
H.M.S. Pelican,
384
C/o G.P.O.
18th June, 1940.
Sir,
and to submit I have the the following honour narrative to refer to of Nore events General :- Order 448/40
(Master Mr. Alexander, 12 Manager of the firm), slipped from Tilbury IV
At 0200 Friday, 31st May, 1940, the London tug Sun
Docks with lifeboats in tow. A London Pilot was embarked and
lifeboats were manned by half naval and half volunteer crews.
remained in the tug until the evacuation was completed. Ships"
anchored. Provisions were embarked for boats" crews and the
2. Southend pier was hailed at 0415/31 May, 1940, and the tug
opportunity was taken to allow boats" crews a hot cup of tea in the
tug.
3. At 0445 anchow was weighed and the tug proceeded to
Ramsgate arriving at 1115, where she was armed with two pairs of
Lewis guns mounted either side of the wheel house.
4.
The tugs were sailed for Dunkirk at 1330. Commander
Tyler came onboard as his tug had run out of coal and water.
Lieutenant Wilkinson and a further party of seamen were also
embarked.
5. At 1915 a high level bombing attack took place, but bombs
all fell a long way from the tug.
6. A boat was capsized when the tug met a destroyer's wake
and it is regretted that one Stoker was drowned. This casualty was
reported on arrival in harbour by Commander Tyler.
of Dunkirk 7. by verbal orders from a motor mile torpedo from boat. the shore By 2300 and
At 2230 the tug was ordered to a position one mile east
the
boats dropped the and R.N.R., French tug one 8. were and was bomb in about At sent British, charge. anchored 0315/1 from 100 in an yards with June, the From three aircraft, Lieutenant from tug 2300 1940, quarters weighed the which to having tug. but 0300 Wilkinson of anchor. was the embarked a there engaged remainder was and Only 88 by periodic Lieutenant soldiers three Lewis of the boats shelling guns, boats" both Fletcher, Ramsgate. had was
been able to get back onboard to our or were tug, towed back by drifters to with water;
crews were either adrift as it was filling rapidly and was
while At 0445 this one was boat being was done set a German fighter flew towards us
engaged with Lewis guns.
9. 0830/1 June, 1940, arrived at Ramsgate. Commander Tyler
went inshore for orders.
in tow. 10. A Anchor small was trawler weighed was at seen 1615 to and hit tug a mine proceeded south with of the two North boats
Goodwin Light vessel at 1645.
11. Three German bombers

Details

SECRET
- 2 -
407
1830 11. from Three about astern. German 8000 British feet. bombers Ten carried bombs out were a dropped level bombing falling attack 385 at
hour 250 yards later as three transports fighters passed. appeared about a quarter about of an
12. the At way 2030 into the Dunkirk. motor lifeboat E.M.M.D. hailed us and
be shown of the night. The This boat remained with us for asked the to
remainder killed Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in command
by Commander arrival at Ramsgate.
unfortunately Tyler on by shrapnel during the night. This was was reported
13.
At 2100 a small motor boat informed us that there were
troops left in Dunkirk. Commander Tyler disregarded this and went no
into the harbour in the motor lifeboat with Lieutenant Fletcher.
14. At 2130 the tug was hailed by a motor torpedo boat and
orders were received to use the boats to fill up minesweepers which
were to arrive later.
15. At 2145 the motor lifeboat and one boat were sent in shore.
The tug then towed the remaining boat as near in shore as possible.
This boat then pulled shore. The tug was then anchored about
three quarters of a mile from the Eastern breakwater.
16. The pulling boat returned with the news that there were no
soldiers ashore at 2230, and said that she had not seen the other
boats.
17. 2300 - 0100/2 June, 1940, fairly heavy firing over and short,
chiefly shrapnel, All hands kept under cover, until the motor
lifeboat returned at 0130. The tug then weighed and proceeded to
Ramsgate.
18. At 0140 an M.T.B. again hailed us and weewere sent back to
fill up with soldiers, and anchored in position again at 0215.
further in shore to pick them up, but ran aground about a quarter of
After waiting till 0330 for the boats the tug weighed and went
a mile off shore. The flooding tide and the use of engines astern
meanwhile had been secured. We then proceeded to Ramsgate
together with physical jerks by the soldiers refloated her. with Boats
142 soldiers on board and in the motor lifeboat, which we towed.
of the 19. At 0415 we but ran managed to get off after ten minutes. at 07451 A slight
aground for the second time one mile west
haze gave breakwater, us a peaceful passage home arriving at Ramsgate
left us A.M. and we were told the tug ordered would
20. Commander Tyler night, but at 2000/2 June, 1940, we to were salvage
not the to weigh be Hospital required and proceeded Ship that Paris. to a At position 0100 we onboard, near eventually position attempted located to her tow and her. the
We tug lay Sun off XV with until a she Commander had got R.N.R., secured, later but a German unfortunately machine dived her first down
wire both ordered had and Both in about machine asked parted. the the by ratings Tugmaster five us the gunned what fathoms Commander About on we us. and the two thought of I guns an minutes We water considered R.N.R., escort. engaged of getting and the in the that in It bursts. aircraft would tug if Sun we be XV with very she We to down to were hospital was Lewis leave slow get by already then her work after guns; the ship back stern. to he was tow
her safely as we she would was a require twin screw ship. tell.
I The think tug that arrived back at Ramsgate
aground. but it was hard to
0645/3 June, 1940.
21. At 1130 we

Details

418
CONFIDENTIAL
394
The Formideble
, 12/6/40.
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
Carrer
030/48/40.
C/o G.P.O.)
Noh Dunknik
Sir,
Le mesures Jug SPOUL
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise 2 convoy of motor and nulling boats. tn he towed over
CONFIDENTIAL.
Jug
a
393
ats
F
mesurer Tui Sun
From...The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Formidable", C/o G.P.O.J
Date...12th. June, 1940.
Ref. No.030/48/40.
(d)
To.....The Naval Officer-in-Charge, Ramsgate, Kent.
as
J
Subject...Report of Minor Operations Carried Out Off Dunkirk.
r
VAL OFFICER 3207 IN CHARGE
to
15JUN1940
*
1 her
212
Submitted.
AMSGAT
Herewith are forwarded two copies of my
nt
report on Minor operations carried out off Dunkirk on 1st./2nd. last.
)
and 3rd. June, 1940.
ts
I understand that such reports are required and
à
2.
this is forwarded for transmission to the appropriate authority. ble 1
khurumia
rs,
igin-
ach
Commander.
2
The
ia
a
at

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formidable
9 12/6/40.
Carm
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
030/48/40.
Comherston
C/o G.P.O.
Noh
Sir,
Le mesures
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over
to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not
all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on
the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats
in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury
with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my
orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the
most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants JJVJ WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same
le difficulty in obtaining
393A
CIA was quite evidently
is left behing, The tug
LER, R.N. sailed earlier
1.
18 boats were swamped -
3 in a hurry to get over to
red at Dunkirk at about
Forwarded in continuation of my 3172/212 of 11.6.40
Naval Officer in Charge.
ge; the tug "TANGA" with her
anchored at a point about
akirk, and sent in the
little further to the East.
CAPTAIN R.N.,
take off troops from the
nole joined; on the first
to the tug. While these
on an officer ina fast
proceed alongside the mole
fore they went in again,
r ships and that I would
eet them again. I then
about 50 French soldiers,
ii.
en and 4 English naval
then returned to the origin-
way. The boats returned
monstrance from the French
r about an hour. During
Flag Officer Commanding Dover.
I (having done one or two
ad East by lighter guns. The
from the West by what
nearer G down the mole, At and a
be the mole, and towards
No. 3207/212.
to
appendix 3.
e
Ramsgate.
15.6.40.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formideble
D 12/6/40.
Graft
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
030/48/40.
Comherston
C/o GIP.O.)
Noh Dunknik
Sir,
Le mesures
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over
to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not
all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on
the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats
in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury
with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my
orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the
most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants J.V. WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same
time with two pulling boats. I had had some difficulty in obtaining
another tug, and the master of the tug "RACIA" was quite evidently
most unwilling to sail, and this vessel was left behing. The tug
"SUN IV" under the command of Commander TYLER, R.N.: sailed earlier
independently with either one or two boats.
3. On the way to Dunkirk, three of the pulling boats were swamped
probably through towing too fast, as I was in a hurry to get over to
Dunkirk - and had to be abandoned. I arrived at Dunkirk at about
2330, after an otherwise uneventful passage; the tug "TANGA" with her
boats arrived a little earlier. Both tugs anchored at a point about
1/2 % mile East of the Eastern Mole at Dunkirk, and sent in the
boats; the tug "SUN IV" was, I believe, a little further to the East.
4.
The boats from my tug "SUN" proceeded to take off troops from the
East mole at a point where the beach and mole joined; on the first
trip they brought about 45 British troops to the tug. While these
were being embarked, I received orders from an officer ina fast
motor boat (possibly Commander MAVND) to proceed alongside the mole
and embark troops, so I told my boats, before they went in again,
to carry on taking troops off to the other ships and that I would
return to the position I was then in to meet them again. I then
proceeded alongside the mole and embarked about 50 French soldiers,
subsequently embarking another 28 Frenchmen and 4 English naval
ratings from a broken down motor boat. I then returned to the origin-
al anchorage, and waited for the boats for about an hour. During
this time there was a slight amount of remonstrance from the French
troops on board who were anxious to get away. The boats returned
about 0300 with another 50 British troops (having done one or two
trips in the meantime to other ships.)
5.
During the night Dunkirk was being shelled from the West by what
seemed to be a heavy battery, and from the East by lighter guns. The
lighter shells appeared to be directed at the mole, and towards
0300 the shelling was coming nearer and nearer down the mole, and a
fire was started either on the mole or just to the Westward. At
about 0300 there was an outburst of rifle fire apparently just on
the mole where the boats had been embarking troops, and Lieutenant

Details

3. 396
work getting a line ashore from the barges to the beach by
the pulling the boats hauled off to the barges, the troops then which being
ferried by fire-float to the waiting ships.
Lieutenant WALKER left at 0335 (2nd. June), the fire-float
being then just aground (low water 0400 approx). He had to leave
the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk. At 0345 there were no
about 150 men on the barges, but there were no troops visible on
troops visible on the mole, and a paddle minesweeper was just
leaving. An anonymous Brigadier who boarded WALKER's craft, said
that at about 0200 there would be 1000 - 1500 British (2) troops
still to come.
At this stage, it was the unamizous opinion of all the officers
named above that small slow motior boats and pulling boats would
be of no further use on the beaches. It might have been worth while
trying to reach the barges 1 mile East of Dunkirk with fast
shallow draught craft at about 2200 (2nd. June).
It is worthy of remark that these wrecked barges made excellent
piers for motor boats to use, pulling boats working between them
and the beach with a line to haul themselves off. Three barges were
afloat at any state of the tide and two others were aground about
an hour before low water. M.T.B.S could go alongside the barges 3
hours either side of H.W.I and shallow draught boats for longer.
Beach parties, eventually, were not required on the night of
Sunday 2nd. June, and everybody was able to get some much needed
rest and food.
Monday 3rd. June - Tuesday 4th. June.
A further operation for these nights was organised from
RAMSGATE, a copy of the orders being attached herewith. I organis-
ed the following tugs to tow:-
SUN IV - Commander Le MESURIER, Lieut. MARTIN R.N.J Lieut.
FLETCHER, R.N.R.
TANGA - Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R.
SUN XV Two R.N.R. Officers.
RACIA : Lieut. Commander MILLER, D.S.O. RINdRd, Lieut.
WALKER, R.N.V.R.
Each tug was to take 4 motor boats in tow, with orders to work
from the Nouveau Avant Port and from any point of the East mole
which they could reach, and to ferry troops down to the ships along-
side or to the transport LOCUST. The tugs had no specific orders,
and I instructed the Officers in the tugs that they should wait just
outside the entrance to Dunkirk, keeping clear of ships going in and
out (of which I understood there were to be a good many) and to be
ready to go alongside to pick up troops as opportunity offered or to
assist as required.
The convoy left a little after 1700 with 14 motor boats in all,
two having failed (one with engine trouble, one was aground in
RAMSGATE). The passage across was uneventful, save for a certain
amount of trouble with the tows, and the encountering of two mines
in the neighbourhood of W. buoy which were dealt with by mine-
sweepers. Commodore H.) TAYLOR, R.N.R. took passage with me, but about
halfway Dunkirk. across was picked up by a Motor Torpedo Boat and went on to

Details

4. 397
The for the following reasons boats given were below:- abandoned either on passage or at Dunkirk,
(a) THARK. Rope foul of propeller and rudder. Abandoned half way.
(b) SANTOSY. point arose Petrol here. failure. Abandoned near W. buoy. An interesting
had been The Sub-Lieutenant in command said that he
officer told him which cans to take was dressed as a Lieut.
certain who cans which were subsequently found to contain water. The
instructed to fill up with petrol at RAMSGATE from
Commander (E) RINI When this was discussed, the Sub- Lieutenant
reported this to the Engineer Captain (or Commander) at
RAMSGATE, who said that there was no Lieut. Commander (E) at
RAMSGATE, at any rate on the staff. I do not know if this offic-
er could be, or ever was, traced and identified.
(c) DIANA MARY. Engine trouble and damage to propeller. Abandoned
at Dunkirk.
(d) ADMIRAL SUPERINTENDENT&S BARGE (Portsmouth).
Ran on a pile of submerged masonry in Dunkirk and abandoned.
The officer in this boat (Sub-Lieutenant BIGGS, R.N.,VeR.) left
his charts on board. I should have sent him back for them, but
did not do so as it was near the time ordered for laeving, and
I thought he only had charts from RAMSGATE which gave no useful
information to the enemy. Subsequently reflections made ne think
he might have had a chart from Portsmouth, SO I went in to
S.O.(1) office at Portsmouth on 6th. June and reported the
circumstances, leaving S.0.(1) to pursue the matter further.
to The convoy arrived at Dunkirk between 2300 and 2345, having beende-
layed by trouble with the tows. Most of the boats had been slipped
in the neighbourhood of the S.W. RUYTINGEN buoy and sent on. The
other three tugs proceeded to the East of the entrance: SUN IV at
first stayed just to the West of the wreck outside the entrance, and
in this position picked up an open boat with a dozen French soldiers
and an officer, who had been isolated and escaped. From the officer
it was learnt that the Germans had possession of MARDYCK fort about
3 miles West of Dunkirk.
5. The motor boats carried on with their work, and SUN IV proceeded just
to the Eastward of the entrance, having a look to see if there was
any work to be done while passing. All appeared to be going well, all
berths at the East mole were occupied and there were one or two ships
lying off ready to berth.
6. At about 0115 (4th. June) one of my motor boats returned, and told
me that there were no more French troops at the QUAI FELIX FUARE,
and that Commander TAYLOR had left the QUAL. This boat was slightly
damaged and so I left her in company.
7. At about 0200 the two end berths on the East mole were clear. H.M.S.
"MALCOLM" went alongside and I fallowed in SUN IV, as also did the
tug RACIA, to see if there were any more French troops. There were
only a few, who embarked in "MALCOIM", this ship asked me to push
her stern in to the jetty, which I did.
sailed RAMSGATE; the return passage was uneventful. I was passed
I left at 0230, approximately, picked up the waiting motor boat, and
by two or for three destroyers and a minesweeper. Tug SUN XV towed home
another vessel one picked up halfway.
8.
Out 14 boats which started for Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be
abandoned of the for one reason or another, but the crews were recovered
safely. The remainder found their own way back to RAMSGATE, with the

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398
5.
exception of the one I towed back (MERMAIDEN).
(a) As during regards these recommendations for officers and ratings who did
well: but I am operations, unable the following officers known to me well did
others who must of to say whether they did better than
time to collect necessity remain anomymous, since there many
ion, spirit, both of young officers and ratings was
the names. I can only say that, frompersonal observat- was no
ient. One had only to ask for volunteers for crews to receive magnific- more
applications than were necessary.
(b) Officers names.
Lieutenant J.V. WILKINSON R.N.J
Lieutenant R.E. LLOYD R.IN.
Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.O. R.N.R.J
Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD R.N.R.J
Lieutenant WALKER R.IN.V.R.
Lieutenant J.E.L. MARTIN R.N. (late "Pelican")
Lieutenant FLETCHER R.N.R. (late at Invergordon)
(a) I also respectfully submit for Their Lordships consideration that
letters of appreciation might be written as follows:-
To The London Fire Brigade
.) for the services of their
fire-float LADY MASSEY (?)
The Alexander Towage Company ) for the services of their
H.J. Alexander Ltd St John: Wharf- Wapping- E.I. tugs SUN, SUN IV, & SUN IV.
The Watkins Tug & Towage Company) for the services of their
Natkurs Ltd 112 Funchusch st- London E.C.S.
tug
TANGA.
(b) As regards the tug RACIA of the Watkins Company, the master of this
vessel was obviously unwilling to go over to Dunkirk, although he
did actually go on the nights of 31st. May and 3rd. June. On the 3rd
of June he was under the orders of Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.JO.
R.N.R.
(c) The spirit of the masters and crews of the other tugs (especially
the SUN tugs) was excellent. The owner of the Alexander Tug
Company was himself the captain of the tug SUN IV, and a young
Trinity House pilot volunteered to navigate this tug throughout.
Unfortunately I cannot remember his name.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient servant,
Managina to inectes
Edward. K.
Commander R.N.)

Details

Dyram. 147 428
401
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of H.M.
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness,
in company with "Sun V". towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
Думашь 147.--
427 1
403 by
From: COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD. SHEERNESS.
Date: 7th June, 1940.
No: 2707.
id
id
nk
To:
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE.
20°
go
The attached report from the Master, H.M.
eired
Tug "St. Clears" is submitted in accordance with your
le,
1608 of 4th June. I consider "St. Clears" did very well.
eel,
Both Master and Crew seem to have displayed energy and
se
courage, and Mr. William Josiah Penney, Master, and Able
te
gain
Seaman Arthur Chawner are worthy of special mention.
sted
rd
COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD.
La
any
11
ways
it
ore,
oats.

Details

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

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- 4
472
an open with soldiers off hailed. He reported having picked with the
during daylight. boat in tow was About half-way across a French trawler
boat up boat for in ich Dunkirk and it was thought this might
be the we were searching. To make sure we
barge with sail set were found approximately three miles from
proceeded to Dunkirk where хихаря two open boats and a Thames
the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards,
the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French
and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at
approximately 1330. This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and
various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England
but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor
motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charys on board.
The air compressor motor was
made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my lst.Lieut., SublLieut. Dehammel with instructions
to sail the barge to Dover,and proceeded along the coast having
opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing
approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward
of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter
could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course
was set to intercept the Thames barge.
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attacked
by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bombs were dropped
and fell at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
The bombers appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and
having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine-
guns. Course was altered frequently in an endeavour to miss
the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water,
some on striking the surface and a certain appeared not to explode
at all. One exploded under the bow right ahead and the ship
passed through the splash. A certain amount of discomfort was
experienced by myself and members of the crew who were exposed. to
the splash in the M eyes for the next twelve hours or 30.
Able-Seaman Power was wounded in the leg when manning the port
turrett also one of the soldiers in the fore peak. As I now had
wounded on board I considered it advisable to return to Dover
forthwith and to ask for assistance for the barge. A tug was
sent out at approximately 2100 and found the barge sailing well
about 10 miles from Dover.
I consider Sub ,Lieut, Dehammel
performed a very creditable operation. The bombing to which
the ship had been subjected had caused leaks to the hull and the
petrol tank and the ship was not used again for that night's
operation.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.

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561
6
I
531
sold not take Embarkation
Pat the Patria and medway Queen
res slow and so J ran along
he mole and hastened the
arims groups of troops along
of the Rarhour when I was
Patria towed my vessel out
full of troops and at about
0330 on 29/5/40 cleared the
sun kirk hasbour and proceeded
followed under my own "Patria". power to damogate
the time by we had been in During harbour
was the sound of gun fire and explosions
We was no skelling of the harbour but
these more or less incessant
845 arrived on back 29/5/40. at Ramsgate at
seven and trips to Dunkink beaches made
In all the TILLY
quantity of troops
back and brought a vast
Commanding officer of the school
On the 30/5/40 I relieved the
ora June
tow.
inner harbour. Ordered
the
staff but could find none; loaded with
and French troops. Furtheat end of harbour now
in German hands.
Returned Ramsgate.
Completed 5 journeys in all.

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6.6
LOG of the m.v., "SEINE" Official No.160693 of Roohester.
580
Crow
Master - G.V. Cogger.
Mate - H.L. Stafford.
Engineer L. Godden,
Deck Hands J. Lawson and J. Kirby.
Tednesday May 22nd 1940 Sailed from Rochester at 7. 0 a.m. for S.R.D. Jetty,
Deptford, for stores for North France; arrived
579
614
Disnom 399
578
FROM
CAPTAIN OF DOCKYARD, CHATHAM.
DATE
17th June, 1940.
TO
ADMIRAL UPERINTENDENT, CHATHAM.
CONFIDENTIAL.
577
Page 2 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated
14th June, 1940.
2115. Transferred all survivors to a SUN class tug. 40 ft.
motor boat making water and liable to sink. SUN tug took motor
boat in tow hoping that self-bales would keep boat afloat.
2130. Abandoned 40 ft. motor boat in tow.
Monday, 3rd.
0415. Arrived Dover in tow. Secured. 0700 motor
boat awash, due to leaks. 0800. Hoisted motor boat out. Crew
returned to D/C motor boat.
should like to bring to notice the coolness calm and of Patty
Officer J. during the extremely difficult 2nd period June, Glso at boat
I Luckins in obeying my helm orders with when the
was Dunkirk being on heavily 29th/30th May his coolness was also
promptitude attacked. on Sunday, noticeable.
The enemy aircraft with the stripped Sunday, 2nd June. gun, was
accurate shooting and calamess of A.B. Lewis Cole who
hit very at praiseworthy least one during the air attack on
15.6 D/C.

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618
I, E.W. Filley am Master of the auxiliary barge "THYRA"
582
6
We were requisitioned on the 29th May at Millwall 11.30 p.m.,
towed to Tilbury where three days rations were put aboard.
Proceeded in tow of Tug "SUN 12" with other barges, to Southend,
thence ordered to Remsgate and thenoe to Dover Harbour, arriving
2.30 p.m. on the 30th May and lying at Prince of Wales Pier.
May 31st. Volunteers were called for to go to Dunkirk and all
the barges crews offered their services.
We proceeded outside breakwater with barge "H.A.C." in tow.
We were both taken in tow by tug "ST. ABBS" and proceeded to
Dunkirk, arriving there at 5.0 a.m. on Saturday June 1st.
We were shot off by the tug at Dunkirk Pier Head and told to
beach barges. Towed "H.A.C. with me into beach and with their
assistance we got eleven French Soldiers off the beach on to our
barge. Other groups of Soldiers refused to come as they wanted to
di
go to France and not to England.
ed
At that time bombing was very bad and we had no protection of any
kind, not even helmets and we went into the beach as close as
possible and picked up the crews of the barge "GLENWAY" and the
barge "LARK", also eight British Soldiers that were aboard them
as they had been left on the beach with 8 tor in for the Frenchmer
to get when the tide went out, and the crews had been told to get
out of it. Including "H.A.C." crew, we had 28 men aboard.
As the tugs had disappeared, the only thing I could do was to
proceed with what I had got and come away to England. I sailed
half way across and was picked up by the tug "EMPIRE HENCHMAN"
arriving at Dover 11.45 p.m. on June lst.

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216
SECRET.
218
Appendix to Report of sinking of GRENADE.
List of Material Damage lone by Bombs.
MAY29
15.00 attack. Two near misses on Starboard Bow.
(A) Damaged A sun and put it out of action.
(B) Splinters penetrated ship's side above the
water line.
(c) Splinters cut steam pipe to capstan.
18.00 attack. Bomb No. I fell close to Starboard Side:-
(D) Started a fire at the after end of the
Fore Mess Deck.
Bomb No. II, which fell simultaneously with
bomb No. I, hit the ship near the Sick
Bay and penetrated nearly to the bottom
of the ship before exploding; it did
the following damage:-
(E) Caused a serious fire in the Canteen Flat.
(F) Blew out the bottom and side of the ship
in vicinity of No. I. Boiler Room.
(G) Damaged No. I Boiler, filling Boiler Room
with steam and smoke, making it
impossible to enter.
(H) Flooded No.2 Boiler Room above floor
plates.
(I) Set fire to Bridge.
(J) Put both .5" machine guns out of action.
(K) Caused all steam in the ship to be lost.
Bomb No. III, near miss Port Side aft.
(L) Caused fire near Ward Room.
(II) Blew in side near Port Gland Space.
(N) Parted all GRENADE'S stern wires.
(c) Damaged pier and transport FINELLA.
Bomb No. IV.
Although I have no definite record of a
fourth bomb I think that there may have been
another near miss about amidships, possibly
the other one of the pair to No. III. I
consider this possible as when I walked
aft I noticed that the Upper Deck was badly
corrugated round the fore end of the Engine
Room and the after end of No. II Boiler Room.

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

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822/ 1110 13"2
253
255
No. 3102/212.
FROM:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
DATE:-
4th June 1940.
TO:-
Flag Officer Commanding Dover.
73
LOSS OF H.M.S. "KING ORRY"
In forwarding the attached report by Commander
a
J. Elliott RD., R.N.R., Commanding Officer of H.M.S.
"KING ORRY", I desire to bring to your notice that
Commander Elliott landed here on 30th May, after his vessel
had been sunk at Dunkirk.
2.
He then expressed a desire to assist at this Base.
After 24 hours stand-off he turned to on Pier duty on the
East Pier, assisting in the handling of craft as they came
alongside with troops.
3.
When the hospital ship "PARIS" was damaged, he
proceeded out in charge of the two tugs "SUN IV" and "SUN XV
to render assistance. "PARIS" was found without crew and a
line was put on board. Both tugs were subjected to machine
gun fire. At about 0200 on 3rd June, the tow was abandoned
and both tugs returned to this Base at 0600.
4.
Commander Elliott has now been sent on leave p.m.
4th June - to his home address.
VICE ADMIRAL
5- JUN T 1940
#
CAPTAIN.
DOVER
R
NAVAL OFFICER IN CHARGE
RAMSGATE.
my kings my :- one V.U and + seamen wounded
history
:- 4 here killed / Officer and
nt men wounded.
tomage of was rus tained as follows
/. 55. coils severed
2. Two life loats badly holed
3- Boat back meried Parside
4. are questilator holed and Auady
minor depects to wining etc

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#.7%
278
SECRET
MOSQUITO 275
1/6
was that other men
more seriously wounded should be treated first and?
had to five him a direct order to lake his shirt off so
that he could be xanined; he had two holes in either
side of his body, a wound in a foot and another in the
armpit. Confirmation of Thenwill's actions can 96
probably be obtained prom acting Petty officer Telegraphist
Riddell who was uninjured and saw most of what
went on at the pom porn from outside the wireless 1/6
office until I fave the order to abandon ship when he
in mediately brown ght down all his books for distruction
The ship was likerally envelops by this Salvo of bounks
and immediately started taking up a heavy list toport.
I know that I certainly th right that the ship was foring
straight down or to turn over and this must also
have been in the mind of Thenwill as well as able
Seaman Hirsh field whose conduct also with Scoumend.
Hirschfield was the Kainer of the forward 0.5 MultiplaM.
and was in change of is. Throughout all these operations
in
Hischfield showed himself toke the best lookers
I have ever met He frequently signted darkened slips
nd
and busys at hight before usself or the office of the
watch and whenever aircraft was sejured, somehow is
ns
always seemed to de by Auselifield. His speed ingetting
his sun onto tarjets could not have keen bettered and
he was showed great powers of leadership over his guns even
when the Sales his us, be was not injured, but hissun
was out of action. Hirschfield on his own initiat in
proceded age, found the after 0.5 crew wounded

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341
- 33 -
2/6
Markness looking out to seaward, and lendward dark silhouotton showing against
the stoady glow of fires and the occasional flash of hombs. To 20y the
ships visible as dark blurs only, waiting off the harbour entrance for thoir turn
to como in to the piers, 100ming up largo and distinct 0.13 they drow near. Rooking
shoreward the whole town and harbour were shut in by a. poll of smoke overhead,
which was 110 up by the glare of fires in soveral places inland. Againmt the
glare the piers, harbour and town were sharply silhoustied, and on the piors and
quays an endloss line of helmotted mon in servied ranks, sometimes moving, some-
timon stationary. The funnels and masts of ships showed clear DD they lay along-
side or went in and out of harbour, their hullo hiddon and dark and invisible,
There was not a great amount of noise, syrens hooted occasionally when ships
moved, shells bursting with sharp cracks, distant crashes of hombo, machine-
gun fire faintly heard and nearby at times when someone fived at a plane over-
hood, engines throbbing as D. destroyer moved past, occasional orders and hailing
of boats.
The French T.B.S had an A.A. machino gun that fired à stream of bullots
with coloured tracers, these and the ordinary tracers filled the sky with
firework exhibitions in lovely curves of light.
2/6
The return to Dover gave me the chance to sleep but soon ve blinged into
the harbour and made fast alongside - broad daylight and a silent town alleep but
the welcome sight of a car waiting for us. Up to the Offices for a few words
with Somerville and thon to the Admiral's house and a couple of hours on
Somerville's bed. It WAS very conveniont to have him on duty at that time QS'
day leaving a vacant bed. I slept heavily and woke suddenly as two fellows
came into my room - it HGS Berthon, Captain of the "KETTH," and his First
Licutenant. They were black with oil fuol and in the clothes tikey had boon
resoued the day before but they had come to lot EC know they were sofe. I
looked at them only half conscious and dropped off to sleep again at once, with
D. feeling of thankfulness.
After in bath and breakfast and a for momento in the sun outside I Colt fit
for anything and made my way to the dungeon 011100 again to discuss the noxt
night's operation. There were still 5,000 of the B.E.F. to como thousand. and an unknown
number of French, which was thought to be from thirty to forty

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343
340
- 35 -
2/6
boat wore not soon egain und X had to nend the survivor book on 10 hed only
one engine and was too badly damaged to be of use.
We got over about 2030 and went in and picked up Gonoral Aloxander and
his staff. I transferred them to a destroyer shortly after, and in her
General Mansergh was later killed by a machino-sun bullet from 0. pl: no then
close to Dover. Tennant and the last of his party loft in on M.T.B. as soon
as the last of the British troops had gono.
The outer part of the East Fier was not built solid but was of concrete
piles through which the Westgoing tide set. This, coupled with a fresh
Eastorly wind, made it very difficult for ships to got alongside until the tido
turned about 2300. We used the M.A.S.B. to push one destroyer in and tried to
get other small craft to do likewise. By this time the French had come to life
and a large number of their small craft of overy sort, size and description filled
the narrow harbour. To make matters môre complicated the M.A.S.B.'s clutch
went wrong and she could not go astern. Turning in that harbour became most
dangerous in consequence as hoats of all sorts boro down on us from both directions.
By 2200, however, in spite of the tide and wind, 1/- destroyers hed got any and the
last of the B.E.F. was clear soon after.
Then there was a long pause. The French should have followed OU2* men on
the East Pier but they did not appear. I could see crowds of beholmetted
figures at the West quay and there seemed a scareity of French ships, 30 I sent
two personnel ships in there, One was the "ROYAL SOVERSION" who vas handled
magnificently, turning and going alongaide bown out. Another was the "ROUEN,"
Q. French cross-channel steamer. I don't know what happened to her but in gotting
away she got broadside on to the wind and grounded just to the Westward of the
quay; there she lay showing up clearly against on oil fuel five bohind hor.
The tide was falling and I had visions of her still there in daylight - Sull of
men and a sitting target for bombers. I went outside the herbour and cont in
a tug to try and help her but the tug drew too much water and could not got
near. I also sent a lifeboat to her to try and get the mon away. The men, I
think, were got away, but she remained there until she florted off with the
next tide in daylight and then returned in safety.

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

Details

ieutenant Derek Peel Willan
you publication in next
authorised for press
ant
H
1
H
/
Cn
admiralty
REGISTRY
15, Sunningdale Drive, whic
S.W.1. 1.
Oakwood
h Aug
he Scretamy of the admirally.
Sun. Salford Oct13/40
Dear Sir
I big to acknowledge receive with
thanks, for the Copy of The Incond supplement to The
which I am listed for The granting of my award-
don Mazette of Fruday the 16 angus /40 m
Opologismi for the delay in acknowledging same as I
have only just returned from sea.
fours Raythfully
b. Imason
Radio officer
LATHON
not
only
his employment but also his reputation. It is hoped that
Lord Granville will now use his great influence in the Isle
of Man to help restore Captain Cowley's good name.
12th May, 1941.
Captain
Lieutenant Arthur Alan Whitshed Pollard,
Transport
Levenwood. Royal Navy, H.M.S. Codrington.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
MESSAGE 0746/3rd June
OUT.
To. V.A. Dover, 438.
Date 3.6.40
Repeated C. in C. Nore. 922.
20
C. in C. Portsmouth. 245,
F.O. 1/c London.
Commodore 1/c Sheerness. 618.
F.O.1/c Portland. 567.
N.O.i/c Ramegate.
N.O.1/c Newhaven.
War Office.
P/L BY T/P
From Admiralty.
IMPORTANT.
Reference Admiralty mesuage 2321/1,
instructions regarding disposal of tugs and lighters
should be amended as follows so far as craft named
are concerned:-
(1) Following London tugs which were requisitioned
specially for Operation should be returned to
CHALLENGE, CONTEST, PERSIA, RACIA, CERVIA, TANGA
Gravesend - -
HIBERNIA, CRESTED COCK, OCEAN COCK, WATERCOCK,
They should be utilised as fully as possible
SUN, SUN X, SUN XI, SUN XII, BETTY.
for towage of craft or boats to be returned to
the Thames or elsewhere en route.
(ii) Under-mentioned tugs which are under orders of
D. of S.T. should proceed as follows:-
(a) EMPIRE HENCHMAN to Portsmonth with barges
SNOWDON and SALADIN for N.S.O. These carges were
left at Ramsgate by tug TANGA on 29th May.
pair of barges from those mentioned in (v) Below
(b) FOREMOST 37 to Weymouth with any convenient
sufficiently seaworthy, for towage as in (1)
(c) FAIRPLAY I to Gravesend being used, if
above. (d) GONDIA to Fishguard with barges SARK and
SHETLAND. These barges ware left at Dover on
20th May by FOREMOST 87.
(iii) Tugs SUN VII and FOREMOST 23 should return to
station at Southend and Newhaven respectively
taking any convenient tow.
(iv) If any of the tuge named above are required to
assist in other more urgent towages arrangementa
should be made by you direct with D. of S.T.
Crews of EMPIRE HENCHMAN, GONDIA and FOREMOST 87
may be given at your discretion up to 24 hours
standeasy before proceeding Westward.
(v) The barges JAPAN, KENYA, EGYPT, APRICA, LONDON
and SCOTLAND which arrived Dover from Tilbury
on 2nd June should not repetition not be
returned/....

Details

27
MESSAGE
To O. in C Portsmouth
0120/14th Juno
OUT
Repeated C. in C Western Approaches
c. in C Nore
Date 14/6/40
Seatrans, Newhaven
Seatrans, Plymouth
Seatrans, Falmouth
Commodore in Charge Sheerness
Seatrans, Littlehampton
Divisional Transport Southsmpton
N.O. 1/c Ramagate.
P/L by T/P
From D of S.I.
The following craft when no longer required for
Operation Cycle should be directed as follows. Tugs PERSIA
and TANGA proceed to Plymouth as Boon as possible and report
to S.T.O. on arrival. Both tugs should be kept at Plymouth
b
ready to sail at short notice. Instructions to S.T.O. will
follow. Tugs CONTEST and QUEENS CROSS tow barges WESTOLIFF
WOKING BRENTLAND and LINCOLN from Newhaven to Felmouth
reporting to S.T.O. on arrival. Tug FOREMOST 87 tow barges
VARSITY and VIGIL from Littlehnmpton to Falmouth. Tug
KROOMAN tow barge SERLO from Southampton to Falmouth. Tug
HEADWAN tow S.B. DORRIEN ROSE from Newhaven to Orchard
Drydock, Blackwall, London and return to Sheerness to tow
barges JULIA and CHARLES I from Shoorness to Scapa. Tug
FAIRPLAY ONE proceed to Sheornese and tow barges BASKET and
CHEEKIE from Sheerness to Portsmouth for dolivery to N.S.O.
Tug WATERCOOK proceed to Falmouth. Tuge SUN XI and CRESTED
COOK proceed to Ramsgate for orders.
0120/14.
for D. of S.T.
D of P (3)
C.O.R.T.
M. (3)
D of S.T.
D.T.D. (2)
D.T.D. (Basement)
D.S.V.P.
Msl
68

Details

ENCLOSURE -
TO DOVER LETTER OF 10 July 19to
CRAFT.
RANK.
NUMBER.
ADDRESS.
-
WHITE HEATHER
A.B.
JX/144554
20, Filder St., Fulham, London.
Jenicins, G.C.
#
#
L/Sea.
D-1370
28, Cranbrook, Whitton, Mddx.
Robbins, 7.
A.B.
JX/140086
111, Cam'nethan St, Stoneham,
Mardrops T.C.
Lanarkshire.
.
B.R.A.
N.K.
6, Perrie Street, Dundee.
Scott, As
Wendley, J.
SKYLARK I
A.B.
D.761
78, Geneva Bill, Darlington, Durham.
#
P.O.
P.22415
1, Westland Ave, Harrogate.
Smith Re
#
B.R.A.
NX.50923
101, Bellingsmy, Welling.
Crothers, l/fe
to
A.B.
SSX.23894
The Knoll, Glay, Norfolk.
Mergan, H.
SKYTARK II
C.P.O.
P.2 3961
80, Dane Valley M, Margate, Kent.
Sliney, Half-
*
to
A.B.
3.17787
14g Colmall Ave, Hill.
Lloyd, D.E.
:
E.B.A.
J.Z.
16, Morgeth M, S.Hackney, E.9.
Tootel, Re
*
to
A.B.
J+92240
141, Fairmed Ave, Westcliff-on-Sea
Read, JoH.
*
A.B.
JX-150690
65, Onered Ri., Priory m, Hall.
enter, D.
THAT
Harris, R.
SOUTHEND
P.O.
C/J 104931
BRITANNIA
1.3.
C/JX132162
Bullock, G.
A.B.
C/JX155195
Feel, G.
A.B.
C/SSX29209
Coacher, R.
Ch.Stoker 0/158317
S.Gower
dirtes, (H.O.)
Stoker
above the following ratings supplied SUN from 7, Belle Chathers on 28.5.40+ were not
employed on In this addition operation to the and were returned to Chathern in Dag
40, Churchill Ave, Coventry.
BaRaha
Aston, H.R.
YXX
Hay, 4a
Stoker (H.O.)
Bayock,R.
Stoker 394T
James C.
Stoker (H.O.)
Carver W.
Stoker X3979T.
ENOW

Details

SECRET
14
3.
Report on operations in connection with the evacuation of
the B.E.F. from the Dunkirk area. (Continued)
1312
Anchored off Nore Light Vessel.
2015
Weighed.
2140
Anchored off East Margate Buoy, "Mallard" and
"Sheerwater" in company.
Sunday 2nd June 1940.
0245
Weighed and proceeded with "Mallard" and "Sheerwater".
0430
Commenced patrolling in vicinity of.W buoy.
French destroyers "Epervier" and "Leopard" at U and
V buoys respectively.
0710
Last homeward bound ship passed W buoy.
1035
Attacked by 3 J U 88 diving from out of the sun .
4 bombs very close on port beam.
4 bombles very close on port bow.
4 bombs missed well ahead.
French destroyers left patrol.
1050
Attacked by 1 Heinkel dive bombing. 4 bombs missed
well out on starboard beam.
1140
Attacked by 1 Heinkel with machine gun from 4,000 ft.
1155
Attacked by 1 J U 88 who would not come through
"Calcutta's" barrage and dropped 4 bombs well astern.
1350
Orders received to return to Sheerness.
1459
"Mallard" detached to stand by Hospital Ship
"Worthing" who had been bombed and damaged.
1644
Anchored off Nore Light vessel to make good condenser
trouble and slight damage from near misses.
Monday 3rd June
0510
0550
Weighed. Secured to buoy at Sheerness. Discovered further
condenser trouble and serious cloud in all reserve
feed tanks.
All defects made good by 1400 on Tuesday 4th June.
3. During the period at La Panne, "Calcutta" had to lie
too far from the beach to be of any use for direct embarkation
of troops so the principle adopted was to order any small
ships alongside when they were full, disembark their troops
into "Calcutta" and return close inshore for another load.
4.
In the two salvoes each of 4 bombs which fell
very close to "Calcutta" on Sunday 2nd June it appeared
that one bomb in each salvo had at delay action and burst
some way under the water whereas the other three burst on
impact.
5. The conduct and behaviour of my ship's company
and of the military forces evacuated has been exemplary
throughout.
VIOE ADMIRA
D.M.dees D.rr.
10JUN 1940
*
POVER
CAPTAIN

Details

Dynam. #35.
58
H.M.S. MONA'S ISLE. A.B.V. Report of events covering pperiod
B14/
Sun, 26th May to 28th May. To Dunkirk and back.
52
###########
26th May.
2000. anchored off Deal.
2116. proceeded towards Dunkirk via route past Calais. fine and clear.
27th May.
0115. off entrance to Dunkirk. signalled, no response. Being ignorant of
conditions and harbour, attempted to enter slowly. Star engine failed
owing to wire round propellor. Considered entrance might be fouled so
backed out. Propellor cleared itself.
0130. Proceeded down channel to interrogate several French craft as to
position inside harbour, pilots etc. No satisfaction.
0250. Signalled V.A.D. for instructions. HM.S. KING CRRY in similar position.
0321. Orders to enter at daylight.
0416. Entered and made contact with S.T.O. No tugs available, so swang ship
and berthed at Quai Felix Faure, with all guns firing on enemy aircraft.
0530 Alongside. commenced embarking. about 1500 men, approx.
0704. Proceeded out of harbour.
Off Gravelines, observed several British small craft and Hospital
0730
ship being shelled some distance ahead.
0750. Heavily shelled and straddled by several ? guns, approx 12ydr, firing
shrapnell. Several hits of sorts and casualities.
0805. Considered it worth the risk of turning to N.W, being at the moment ogf
Dunkirk A.W. buoy. Apparently got out of range.
0825. Six Messerschmitt appeared. Opened fire with 4" and 2 lewis guns. 12par
boago) Airoraft carried out about four attacks, from the sun, invisible to us.
from astern. "errific machine gun fire, a great deal of which missed
ahead, but many direct hits with cannon, especially around after 12 pdr,
whose crew under Sub Lt A.B. Neave R.N.R. stood up to it extremely
wall, but sustained casualties, including the sub
The packed troopa on the open deck suffered badly; had the shooting
been acurate the losses would have been very much greater.
0835. Aircraft apparently out of ammunition and sheared off.
9. gear W/T sat; 10" signal lamp; stearing gear; out of action. speed main-
tained. Steered Test to Outer Ruytingen Buoy No 7. by engines.
0900. Called H.M.S. WINDSOR. ( well to S.W. of us.) asked her to report our
condition to V.A.D.
Steered W.N.W. approx.

Details

H.M.S MONA'S ISLE. A.B.V. Report of events covering period
Sat, 1st June to Sun 2nd June. To Dunkirk and back.
54
1st June, Sat. Ship in Granville dook. "spaired and ready for service.
00909. Left Dock and proceeded to Dunkirk. by If I * route.
1305. Observed wreck of * Scotia If and another vessel, apparently on Dyck
Bank, with H.M.S. H. 15 alongside wreck taking off survivors.
Closed as requested by H. 15, in company with a great number of small
craft proceeding to Dunkirk.
Lowered 3 boats, manned by various ratings of all departments, and
picked up a few survivors. All other craft doing likewise. Took
some survivors from other craft.
1422 When no more could be dona, proceeded towards Dunkirk. H.15 had left
for Dover, crowded. Scotia was on fire aft and it was apparent that
no more men were on the wreck itself, and very for alive in the water.
1448. Passed No 5 buoy. Heavily shelled and straddled by small calibre guns,
No hits after about 4 salvoes.
1505. Between Nos 11 and 13 bouys, was straddled by two salvoes from Dive
bombers. Bombe were very close, deluging the antire ship with water,
but apparently no damage, though ship was badly shaken.
1540. 3 arthed at inside barth, Eastern am, Dunkirk. S.N.O wished as to go
to Western arm, but tide being low there was insufficent mter.
1550. Comfood to embark British troops, and miserous stretcher cases.
1730. Ship full and very congested with about 1500 non. Advised S.N.O I could
not safaly take more, being considerably worried about stability.
S.N.O strongly advised no to wait, under cover of the shore guns, until
2100. when it was high water and getting dark for the passage across.
This I agreed with; During this wait of nearly 4 hours, several dive
bombing attacks were made by flights of airoraft on two wrecks outside
the harbour, which seemed to indicate that they were anxious to get
rid of their bomba on anything which did not fire back. as an intense
fire WELLS maintained on them from our 8 Lewis guns and several Bren guns
which the soldiers had rigged up in various places and worked for us.
Several flighta of aircraft passed overhead, apparantly bombars, but
whilst the R.A.F. ware about there was peace.
This long wait WELL trying to all concerned.

Details

H.M.S. MONA'S ISLE. ( Report ConFinued.)
55
*******
A. British Spitfire crashed outside the Harbour; the pilot resoued and put on
board us where his coolness and help in identifying the airoraft was most
useful.
Both ships and shore batteries opened fire on R.A.F. machines
more than once when recognition was difficult.
2100. Proceeded; a sunken trawler just inside the entrance made approach to
the wharf difficult which must have been much more so after dark for the ships
which came in after us.
The enemy were apparently shelling the dook entrance from some distance
whilst NO lay there, but nothing came close to us.
2300 Passed North Goodwin L.V. The darkness was not deep enough to prevent
ships seeing each other at some distance, or to pick up the wreck of the Scotia
were she lay practically in the channel down to the No 5 buoy.
I consider the navigation of all the immerous small craft to have been
of the highest order, all things considered.
June 2nd Sun. 0150. Reported arrival off Dover entrance to T.A.D.
0300. Berthed at Admiralty Pier and Comfood discharging.
Ship was than found to be making water in No 2 hold; stokehold. is the main steam
pipes joints were leaking in three places, and fracture was suspected. the
L.P. turbine rings collapsed; the base of a bilge pump suspected fracture.
The maintaining of a fairly good speed and working in the angine room on the
passage back, with the escape of steam due to these defects was vary
creditable work.
On this occasion as before the behaviour of the ships company was most
praiseworthy; and the conduct and courage of all ranks of the military was
all of the very highest order and an inspiration to all connected with them
theoughout these grievous times.
Comdr R.V.B.

Details

June 1st, 1940.
1. -
62
Departure from Sheerness after coaling, to rendervous at the Beaches
23 miles East of Dunkerque bronkmter at 2200.
During voyage area engaged in associage work. "Durs" H. A. Gun
rigged. All white ventilators covered with brown and black canvas.
Compase and whool house protected with orgok and cork lifejnckets. Crew
exercised in "lation Stations", No armont the carried, the only wurlike
equipment being tin hate.
R.A.P. Patrol Aircraft encountered along the entire route to 3. G. Bucy.
Abore of Dunkorque Dreamster.
Hailed by M.T.B. and instructed where to proceed.
"Slowed" to flood strees and dropped enchor. Stiled bench, upon
receiving no regly my 1st Lieutenant vent ashore in dingly with two ratings
for'd of the stern, the nost to part but in line. DU this time all ships
to investigate. Then the "Sun" correnced. the first salvo Landed 10 feet
have in and proceeded to mve to 3 cables shand, nuxt salvo Landed that feet no
the harbour ware illuminated by the inform of the oil durp. Inchor 50
astern. troups ware in evidence astore. le proceeded tomada corpelled the breakmter to pull inside out
up by 1st Lieutenant returned shortly after this to report
By however, pulling owing the this shipping, to or time CARD shells being to the if to possensed Landing our bombardment draft towal ship. nahore being uncomfortably two ma 15 I only and IDS that continuous. hailed serven informed diaghyst near, fest, them. where that but to Teighed On each 90 ware - their again ship a anchor number return had dropped Hall and to of journey do large proceeded enchor. with its bonts om two none,
forrying. - Lowered other diaght in charge of pensioner Commin one dirchy
ratings dropped other in charge of if 1st Moutenant. this Who stone just the
inshore - mobor on bottom. three trips was mile the by its Last trip, and
weight and party landed on the part spronson. to tribute to
four by of the 15 millen soldiers proved too much and she smok Height a anchor and
processed "mose dve retings P.O. 2. Design and stoker P.O. an 9. As position, also
after the area on" to the beach. Here : should like pay Harel,
Landing Dowey signature taking 2. conductent soundings with the in hard may Load senso and of the ward sole
three of my Tent. the two furner was in exposed Incl in
although charge of an E.R. rating. Zent at orders the sheel for believed - hour and a half be managed
for'd, the anchor proving himelf 8 "seemen" like ID experienced
halman, nover the stateiding ship nose a on single to the wind, after the abb which had I ast wished in with to Heaven full uo
to missours palmen. Y this time starboard pedile. force,
had the had ship independent sudienly owinging and gettling on the
It is 2003 difficult on such 1087 occasions the Captein na cocasions of this, a ship but when a to call law the ship for shout every grounded. good ounce on dom of E.R.A. power in
White was the answered engine and J. Huspinden, on this and together too other with 4 stokers (to of whom ware insuperienced
boys) were responsible.
this, when towins our other director the under round astern. in order to "nose
up" once shortly again natur to the tite it was blown out of
who gave Inglishmus. was a During responsible this about this time It 500 hour is it and with for was pluged and answering regret 0500 a half and any that I at to If in there notice 2ast his call that cod. name there form inform that for is "I the uninown. the one wast and a herbour - lull din, a thousand in in like a was that large one a mn". blasted true motor mass of He boat
0530 orf a word half the barrage again. three Another of my wooden raits. the only addrift. mão very one
barrage. by to steared submarged round outder again got churned small under misr the part boat with paille. a
went trip, engine - the tide volunteered was too strongs to tow and on the account trip she out them
At

Details

98
88
6
Wednesday Stopped 5th. Left Margate 3.20 a.m. for
until at 5 a.m. by Naval Control and told we Portsmouth.
0's 1700 & 1723. VESSELS TAKING PART IN OPERATION LTD. STEAM DYNAMO.
7 a.m. Hove up. at 7.15 a.m. and proceeded. could not
TILBURY CONTRACTING & DREDGING CO.
-
about arrived 10 off the Sovereign Lightship, I saw a French When
HOPPER "FOREMOST 101"
REPORT OF MASTER.
tow-rope on board and took him in tow for so I
miles off, flying 'out-of-control' signals steam
off take there the vessel about in 10 tow, p.m. then I signalled I anchored to for the Newhaven, the shore night. for arrivi the to Dover On the for night orders. of 29th May, 1940, the above vessel was ordered
left for Dover at 3.50 a.m. of 30th May, received arriving to after
Thursday in tow. June Her 6th. number 9 was a.m. L.4058. a tug At came 10 out a.m. and a took the 1 an uneventful We which trip was at 6.40 reached p.m. at Orders 9.20 p.m. were a wonderful All sorts sight. and proceed sizes
took us in as we were very short of water and food. pilot Made came of to Ramsgate, vessels were anchored there, presenting
Newhaven Harbour 11 a.m. At 7 p.m. I received orders the
could proceed at 7 a.m.
Naval officer came aboard with charts and confidential
instructions, A andorders to make for Dunkirk.
Friday June 7th. 8 a.m. waiting for the water to flow.
left Newhaven for Portsmouth on Admiralty route, passing Ov
out in company with the "Lady Southborough" cleared at 5.40a.m. the
Lightship at 1.15 p.m. Arrived Portsmouth 4 p.m. and made
of the We 31st set May. A brilliant sun was shining as we
to the Buoys.
Goodwins, visibility being good.
dropped anchor off Dunkirk beach, and Independ- many
(Sd.) J. Mason,
At 12.55 p.m. we standing in and near the water. lifeboats
Master.
ant action the heavy swell running making up a terrific
soldiers were was observed clearly indicated so at 2.15 p.m. the the operations two aerial
were difficult. launched, During this period the enemy kept near, being and
One salvo of bombs was uncomfortably we were not hit,
bombardment. yards away. However, brought down.
only a matter of a few seeing several German aircraft damage.
Quite had the a bit pleasure of shrapnel of fell on the ship but did no
embarking The boats French then soldiers. proceeded I to regret ply between to say the the number ship and is shore, unknown.
During one of these lifted trips, right when out a bomb of the fell water went close spilling on. to the At the
boats, one of them was nobody was hurt and the job Dunkirk which we
about occupants. 8.30 Happily a M.T.B. ordered us to we leave left & small dinghy
proceeded rowed by five to p.m. do French at 8.55 soldiers p.m. with Just pieces as of wood - there being
no oars - was sighted and rescued.
hot tea and bread dried. and cheese, also
they were The soldiers made warm were whilst given their clothes were
P.T.O.

Details

-2-
202
181
"Blved 108" .0.H
185
ЛОВ ols
June 1st.
ship's port quarter, causing damage
(Contd.)
to port engine shaft and other machinery,
21
JUST
also multiple damage to fittings,
compasses etc. Port engine reported by
1
Engineers to be out of action. Made
contact with Naval authorities at Dover,
and instructions received to proceed
to Southampton for repairs.
avneve to ovidevism of
and amtrevoo 'Tensey sids
9.0 pm. Hove up and proceeded for Southampton.
14t
altegob of
Found compasses practically useless,
no
showing deviations of 16 degrees on
.TOVOL 101 nevsdven .NOOR
standard, and 30 degrees on steering
3
compass, and changing rapidly with
set Todors or спарто bevieeen -ATCH 04.8 80.8
FIRT
every alteration of course. Decided
to return to Dover to obtain compass
OBI
anwo de
adjuster.
10
June 2nd. 3.10 am.Anchored in Downs.
1077
of Dessora OJ are Bito bevieesh .100 08.8
7.8 am. Weighed anchor, and proceed to Dover.
The
.0 gesedors JOSE 38.8
Requested adjuster.
124
- CA.P
3.30 .Adjuster on board. Unable to repair
.781° eblagnole UBST ebell THE 8.8
damage owing to injury to springs etc.
JN mot no
Bearings of sun taken all day on courses
TO сдешаб oil
required. Decided to leave in evening if
weather clear.
admotted PAT .zeveu
7.32 pm.Left Dovel for Southampton.
Difficulties with compasses experienced,
based DO
also steering owing to port engine out
TOVOL T10
of action.
neveriment besport &debro Бетесоей .mo08.91
of Dre -SIT 88.4
bast
June 3rd. 6.5 am. Off Received Nab Tower, orders Southampton. to anchor, Port closed.
4.7 pm. Received word, Port open, proceeded
thos
to
towards Docks.
6.52pm. Made fast alongside.
of covisivell 3264 ALS 8.2
où Decease od croivoundent 220 - 68.8 4.1
add that the Officers and difficult Crew behaved voyage. with
you Tedia TODA 0410
splendid I can only coolness throughout this very
the - SM.D
Reflex 110 .DU 81.8
Respectfully yours,
.of
Tennov and EA.9
B. Mendul
vd become and
Master.
Mer
cor
CosseV to brown
DO
VS obto
THE
unit
dud
berieve
of behbadre attend
of or
PO Scadnoo 09.
03 had
swote to
of Na 1000
Coob
Principal Sea Transport Officer,
To/ The Commodore, R.N.
00
Lord Warden Hotel,
DOVER.
T10
LEASE

Details

278
256
From:- Act. Sub. Lieut. Jallo Chappell, R.N.
Date:- 7th June, 1940.
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
29th May.
2200 Left Portsmouth in H.M.S. Nelson's picket boat.
30th May.
a.m. Sighted submarine and warned & French convoy.
Port engine bearings ran out.
1730 Arrived Ramsgate on one engine.
2330 Left for Dunkirk, machine-gunned from the air
two miles out of Ramsgate.
31st May.
Dawn Arrived Dunkirk Roads. Funnel carried away by
shell-fire. Making water slightly; loaded
with troops and left.
1400 Arrived Ramsgate.
1st June.
0830 Left for Dunkirk. Making water rapidly. fire. Beached
the boat; found bottom damaged by for enemy Dunkirk.
On Took too return late command engine that journey N.Y. one only; filled can Santosy contained towed up and by with left trawler. water. petrol; Proceeded Trawler found turned
on port to wreck East of N. Goodwin L/V and
ran on on top of "Santosy". Cabin smashed; civilian
Arrived Ramagate on one engine. Discharged
over volunteer Barrington severely injured.
Barrington to Deal Hospital; sent crew ashore for
rest.
3rd
June. 1600 Engines repaired. Left for Dunkirk with civilian Towed by
J.W.S. Gilbert as engineer. proceeded
volunteer tug Sun IV. Tow parted Starboard off Dunkirk: engines failed commander's again.
under own power. Hailed Sun IV and on her VI with
orders Sea rising. abandoned Santosy and boarded Sun
my crew.
New gas used by enemy. Shells and bomba
REPORT: near gave off white cloud which hung
bursting suspended in air. From burns on bodies in water
gathered it to be of acid nature.

Details

354
328
329
Political My, The pressure was now being brought to bear
on the C.in C. that the evacuation must be on a fifty-fifty
"Request load Ducidek,
basis with the "Story French. My only stipulation was that at all
costs we should be allowed free use of the Eastern arm while
the French 0506, used the port, outer harbour and beaches.
I mde a signal provesting to Commander Maund at Dunkirk to
for
provide personnel ships for General constant Laurencie's troops
"An
(some 5,000 in number) at C.in c's. request. I also asked
and
Admiral Wake-Walker to keep Dunkirk going at 100%
0940, you Inform
Little progress could be made off the beaches owing
benefits.
to the surf.
C945, "Sun is now doming through
G.H.Q. informed no that a plan was being worked out
for naval co-operation to bombard the advancing German tanks in
protection
E
part
0957. "Lard Goart has agreed that 5,000 Project froms
the later stages. This, however, was never necessary, as
in British versels. Request meessanry shipe may
far as /am aware at duck.
1044, *We have boon continually hearily Instituted and
they are gradually finding the range of our loading
barth. 1 reald rether only enter ships 8a
necessary for the flaw of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the serving) but the
avocuntion proceeded fairly speedily. At last stdge vere
arriving in Isrge numbers met strong # protection kept
humbre oftsck any. The only thing necessary une tostep the
shelling. At 1200 a signal DOB reserved Cris the Ate Maisen
at Dover adding car position of essay bettery, This
was not known with sugr certainly as En battery ass probably
modile, but is NAB in the district M Laon Plage Becaus Kurk
both. reply YOU rade se this The comminement,
opvertheless, because wire Inserve MM a great deal while securite.
Texy heavy abroads uses Charking the resulty but vere
educty upsa ships in the boods, Dive
housing assistion various corried est - the Leading but without
I The seauthly.

Details

355
329
Friday 31st May.
The following signals were made:-
0320, "Request more shipsto load Dunkirk."
0445. "Every available ship will be required at Dunkirk
during the next two hours to evacuate rest of
army.
0605. "Embarkation proceeding satisfactorily in spite
of bombardment. I would again stress the need
for more ships and constant fighter protection
0638. "Am now receiving a number of Frenchmen. I have
raised no objection to their embarking in British
ships and am allowing them to do so.
0940. "Request you will inform me whether troops are
now being ordered to march to Dunkirk from the
beaches.
0945.
"Sun is now coming through and I have a big
target of ships in harbour. Request special air
protection for next two hours.
0957. "Lord Gort has agreed that 5,000 Freich troops
should be embarked here this evening after dark
in British vessels. Request necessary ships may
be sent to arrive at dusk.
1044. "We have been continually heavily bombarded and
they are gradually finding the range of our as loading
I would rather only enter ships
necessary berth. for the flow of troops.
Continuous and heavy shelling all the morning, but the
evacuation proceeded fairly speedily. At last ships were
arriving in large numbers and strong a 1. protection kept
bomeing attack away. The only thing necessary was to tostop the
shelling. At 1200 a signal was received from the Air Liaison
Officer at Dover asking for position of enemy battery. This
was not known with any certainty as the battery was probably
mobile, but it was in the district of Loon Plage Brouge Kerk
Soch. A reply was made to this effect. The bombardment,
nevertheless, become more intense and a great deal more accurate.
Very heavy attacks were delivered during the evening but were Dive
concentrated chiefly upon derelict ships in the roads.
bombing attacks were carried out on the ships loading but without
success. The embarkation proceeded smoothly.

Details

501470
1 Sick Quarters at Ramsgate 4 SION HILL
June 7th
19 40
To NAVAL OF FICER IN CHARGE
RAMSGATE
Submitted
Report on the Medical Organisation at Ramsgate Naval
Base during the evacuation of the B.E.F. from the
French coast.
In such an emergency a basis of procedure had to
be rapidly improvised and modified according to
circumstances. Collaboration between the Naval. medical
personnel and the RAMC was essential and after the first
day was found to be working smoothly and efficiently.
The suggestion that the floor of the Merrie England
base should be used as & Clearing Station was supported
by the NOIC, and traffic from the eastern pier head
ATO
was so organised. Very little delay was found in
rapidly clearing the wounded from ships as they berthed.
tels
Smaller boats were dealt with at the Dover steps further
down. A naval and military doctor was always available
at the pier head for some time before and after high
led
tide at which time many of the larger vessels entered
the harbour. A pier head rallying point was
established for medical personnel, and here stocks of
dressings, stretchers and medical essentials were kept.
Transport in the form of ambulances Military, ARP, and
St.John's was always available and ample. I would
RILEA
United
JUTLAND
FREDANJA
TYCAP
CRASTS
JAJA
FOAM QUEEN
PACIFIC
BORNRIO
PASCHOLL
REIGER
SUN IV
LINIRED STAR
PATRIA
QUEEN
BRANDARIS
TANIA
RUJA
RESTREL
DELFUSE
SUN XV
HOPPER-
HANDBRUG
BARGE 24
(INO GEORGE y
SWALLOW
DWARP
CAVA
GROUSE
BOURNRIFT
ROYAL DAFFODIL
FABIA
PRINCE OF WALES
CARISTA
BAN
CELLETT
BOX FRED
ROYAL SOVERSION
LENA
VIRINO
SALVINA
DUCHESS OF FIFE ORIOLE

Details

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

Details

Dynamo 252 -
888
LOG of H.M. Motor Boat LADY CABLE of Torquay
during operations carried out June 2nd
and 3rd, 1940.
In command: Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N.
Cadet Rating G.R. Price
Stokev Worsall
Able Seaman or Ordinary Seaman Smith
from Newfoundland.
Sunday, June 2nd, 1940.
Took over boat during forenoon from Mr. Gooding who
operates boat for owner at Torquay. She had done one trip
to the beaches near Dunkirk. Took on provisions, water,
petrol, etc. Mr. Gooding showed Stoker Norsall the working
of the engines Cylinder Atlantic - running CD petrol.
At about 1500 went over to Prince of Wales Pier and was
then taken in tow by SUN VI, together with two life-boats
and one other craft. Started for Dunkirk at approximately
1530, having been handed previously copy of Sailing
Instructions to Drifters, together with rough sketch map
of course to follow. After uneventful trip arrived off
Dunkirk harbour at about 2230 and received orders to
proceed in harbour and go a long way up the Mole to embark
soldiers - fill up and return to tug, then go in for
further loads. At times had difficulty in persuading
French troops to embark in LADY CABLE, the reason apparently
being reluctance to break their units or to act without
definite orders from their officer who was probably still
in the town of Dunkirk. However, we took four boat loads
off - each load containing between 40 and 50 soldiers.
Three loads I took to tugs - and one to H.M.S. WISHART when
tug was not in usual position. Spoke to tug after fourth
trip and was informed that it would soon be light and that
she could'nt wait much longer. In reply to a question if
any British officers were still left on the Mole, I replied
that on earlier trips I had seen one who had asked me not
to leave him behind. This officer was engaged in helping
the embarkation of the troops. 1 had not seen him on my
last trip but told tug I would make another trip to see if
he was there. Informed tug would be as quick as possible
and if tug could not wait, would return to England under
own power. Tug said she could only wait a short while.
On going in for fifth time engines began to go badly
and stopped altogether before reaching point of embarkation.
Engines got going again and we went alongside and collected
about 24 more French soldiers. There was no sign of British
officer and Price reported to me that French on the Mole told
him he had gone. I sent Price up on to the Mole to make
enquiries. Owing to the improbability or tug waiting for
us, I only took 24 soldiers as a greater number would have
made trip back to England under own power too hazardous. Just
after passing lighthouse at end of harbour, engines stopped
again. Noticed we were close to W.D. sraft (later found to
be HAIG) who 1 imagined from her position was witching us and
would/

Details

106
-:-
soldicus, anno 370 montly Spench 1020 discribezing with
considerable difficulty. No envived without
incident no Emagate 2019 mornings
I returned Street Remarite to Vercate and continued
to enstates. You Monitiment Consention Givinnor, little
On Homely ovening 00 1000 called 1a
Dop the hell no's proviously book over
nA DD écoloma on Havigo 2020 To rivelved 00 the Reviewe
onligance où climit 2330 on 0213 for
risking 8 Clossing nine id treat the liest Hold
and exclusived 400 201 # without
On OUR votion we 2018 into 200 as the less buay
before the Goodwin and procession as alow spoot Hish
visibility about c cable. To trade the Notable Controls and
set course for the elbow not Earth Fevoland address being
unable to find them mo, anchoroù billths fog listal, when
NO found the North Foreland may a quality mile on the
Stevenced Sorm: TO not secure for Legato play the sare
seemit ship alongaide.
RUE mush SEAL not X
the curise sea closen 02 whats I
regorted first to Remageto as material of their so Sedernood
tinally & receding do lanvo that aventing.
any Phroughous the evacuation 1 ves involved by the
necessity ou sealing In boots only service W 20703 satings
to the beach, or botter sun sending An posez Scale of
shallow draught, not nonsessily powerfully engined; savy
10 any of this of Book TAB Seling mail
& laws the honous so So
Siz
THE obsetions amount
(Sgd.) The Botto
S/D, L.

Details

16157
CONFIDENTIAL.
H.M.S. "Formidable",
12/6/40.
C/o G.P.O.
030/48/40.
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over
to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not
all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on
the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats
in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUII" arrived from Tilbury
with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my
orders, and sailed about 1750 with one motor boat and five of the
most suitable pulling boats in tow.
I took with ne Lieutenants J.V. WILKINSON and R.E. LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R. sailed about the same
time with two pulling boats. I had had some difficulty in obtaining
another tug, and the master of the tug "RACIA" was quite evidently
most unwilling to sail, and this vessel was left behing. The tug
"SUN IV" under the command of Commander TYLER, R.N. sailed earlier
independently with either one or two boats.
On the way to Dunkirk, three of the pulling boats were swamped -
Dunkirk and had to be abandoned. I arrived at Dunkirk at about
probably through towing too fast, as I was in a burry to get over to
boats arrived a little earlier. Both tugs anchored at a point about
2330, after - an otherwise uneventful passage; the tug "TANGA" with her
boats; the tug "SUN IV" was, I believe, a little further to the East.
1 - of mile East of the Eastern Mole at Dunkirk, and sent in the
The boats from my tug "SUN" proceeded to take off troops from the
East mole at a point where the beach and mole joined; on the first
motor being beat (possibly Commander MAVID) to proceed alongaide the mole
were embarked, I received orders from an officer ina fast
trip they brought about 45 British troops to the tug. While these
to embark on taking troops off to the other ships and that I would
and troops, so I told my boats, before they went in again,
return carry the position I was then in to meet them again. I then
proceeded to alongside the mole and embarked about 50 French soldiers,
this anchorage, was a slight amount of The French
ratings al from a and waited for the boats remonstrance for about an hour. from the During
subsequently broken down motor boat. I origin-
embarking another 28 Frenchmen then and returned 4 English to naval the
troops about on with another 50 British troops or two
time board there who were anxious to get away. (having done boats one returned
trips in 0300 the meantime to other ships.)
During the night heavy battery, and from at the the mole, and towards guns. The
Dunkirk was being shelled East from by the lighter West by what
0300 lighter shells was coming nearer and just nearer to the Westward, mole, At and a
seemed to be a appeared to be directed down the
about fire was started was an outburst of troops, apparently and just on
the shelling either on the mole or rifle fire
the mole 0300 where there the boats had been embarking Lieutenant

Details

/6159
3.
work getting a line ashore from the barges to the beach by which
the pulling boats hauled off to the barges, the troops then being
ferried by the fire-float to the waiting ships.
Lieutenant WALKER left at 0535 (2nd. June), the fire-float
being then just aground (low water 0400 approx). He had to leave
about 150 men on the barges, but there were no troops visible on
the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk. At 0545 there were no
troops visible on the mole, and a paddle minesweeper was just
leaving. An anonymous Brigadier who boarded WALKER's craft, said
that at about 0200 there would be 1000 - 1500 British (?) troops
still to come.
At this stage, it was the un hinous opinion of all the officers
named above that small slow notier boats and pulling boats would
be of no further use on the beaches. It night have been worth while
trying to reach the barges 1 mile East of Dunkirk with fast
shallow draught craft at about 2200 (2nd. June).
It is worthy of remark that these wrecked barges made excellent
piers for motor boats to use, pulling boats briding between them
and the beach with a line to haul themselves off. Three barges were
afloat at any state of the tide and two others were aground about
an hour before low water. M.T.B.S could 89 alongside the barges 3
hours either side of H.W. and shallow draught boats for longer.
Beach parties, eventually, were not re uired on the night of
Sunday 2nd. June, and everybody was able to get some much needed
rest and food.
Monday 3rd. June - Tuesday 4th. June.
RAMSGATE, a copy of the orders being attached herewith. I organis-
A further operation for these nights was organised from
ed the following tugs to tow:-
SUN IV - Commander Le MESURIER, Lieut. MARTIN R.N. Lieut.
FLETCHER, R.N.R.
TANGA - Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R.
SUN XV - Two R.N.R. Officers.
RACIA - Lieut. Commander MILLER, D.S.O. R.N.R., Lieut.
WALKER, R.N.V.R.
from the Nouveau reach, and to ferry troops Dad no specific orders, along-
Each tug Avant port and (rom any point down to the ships
WAS to take 4 motor boats in tow, with of the orders East to mole work
which they could transport LOCUST. The tugs that they should wait
outside the entrance understood there were to opportunity offered or
and I instructed to Dunkirk, keeping be a good many) and to be
side or to the the Officers in the tugs clear of ships going in just and
out ready (of to which go alongside I to pick up troops as to
assist as required.
left a little after 1700 trouble, with one 14 motor was aground boats in in all,
two The having convoy failed (one across with engine was uneventful, the encountering save for of a two certain
RAMSGATE). The passage the tows, and dealt mines
in the neighbourhood H. TAYLOR, R.N.R. Torpedo passage Boat and me, went but about to
mount of trouble with of 11. buoy which took were with with by mine-
balfway sweepers. aoross Commodore was picked up by a Motor on
Dunkirk.

Details

160
The following boats were abandoned either on passage or at Dunkirk,
for the reasons given below:-
(a) THARK. Rope foul of propeller and rudder. Abandoned half way.
(b) SANTOSY. Petrol failure. Abandoned near 11. bucy. An interesting
point arose here. The Sub-Lieutenant in command said that he
had been instructed to fill up with petrol : RAMSGATE from
certain cans which were subsequently found tc contain water. The
officer who told him which cans to take was dressed as a Lieut.
Commander (E) R.N. When this was discussed, the Sub- Lieutenant
reported this to the Engineer Captain (or Commander) at
RAMSGATE, who said that there was no Lieut. Commander (E) at
RAMSGATE, it any rate on the st If. I do not know if this offic-
er could be, or ever W.S, traced and identified.
(c) DIAHA MARY. Engine trouble and to propeller. Abandoned
Dunkirk.
(d) ADMIRAL SUPERIMENDENT'S BARGE (Portsmouth).
Ran on a pile of submerged nasonry in Dunkirk and abandoned.
The officer in this boat (Sub-Lieutenant BIGGS, R.N.V.R.) left
his charts on board. I should have sent him back for them, but
did not do SO as it was near the time ordered for laeving, and
I thought he only had charts from RAMSGATE which gave no useful
information to the enemy. Subsequently reflections made ne think
he might have had a chart from Portsmouth, 80 I went in to
circumstances, leaving S.0.(1) to pursue the matter further.
S.0.(1) office at Portsmouth on 6th. June and reported the
The arrived at Dunkirk between 2300 and 2345, having beende-
layed convoy by trouble with the tows. liost of the boats had been slipped
other three tugs proceeded to the East of the entrance: SUN IV at
in the neighbourhood of the S.W. RUYTINGEN bucy and sent on. The
in this picked up an open boat with a dozen French soldiers
first stayed just to the West of the wreck outside the antrance, and
it was an learnt that the Germans had possession of MARDYCK fort about
and officer, position who had been isolated and escaped. From the officer
3 miles West of Dunkirk.
to motor Eastward boats of the entrance, having a look to see if there was
The carried on with their work, and SUN IV proceeded just
the done while passing. All appeared to be going well, all
berths any work at to the be East mole were occupied and there were one or two ships
lying off ready to borth.
me about 0115 no more French troops at QUAI
At (4th. June) one of my motor boats the returned, FELIX and FUARE, told
and that that there Commission were TAYLOR had left the QUAI. This boat was slightly
damaged and 80 I left her in convany.
At two end berths on the East mole were also clear. did H.M.S. the
tug "MALCOLM" went see if there were any more this ship troops. asked no to push were
about 0200 the alongside and I followed in French SUN IV, as There
only RACIA, few, to who embarked in "MALCOLM"; I did.
her stern a in to the jetty, which picked up the waiting Motor boat, and
I left at 0230, approximately, the return passage was uneventful, Tug SUN XV I towed was passed home
by sailed for RAMSGATS; destroyers and a minesweeper.
another two or vessel three ОДЭ picked up halfway.
Out boats which started for but Dunkirk, the crews 8 or wore 9 had recovered to be
safely. abandoned The for remainder one found their own way RAMSGATE, with the
of the 14 reason or another, back to

Details

1615
5.
exception of the one I towed back (MERMAIDEN).
a) As regards recommendations for officers and ratings who did well
during these operations, the following officers known to me did
well: but I am unable to say whether they did better than many
others who must of necessity renain anceynous, since there was no
time to collect names, I can only say that, frompersonal observat-
ion, the spirit, both of young officers and ratingsm was magnific-
ient. One had only to ask for volunteers for crews to receive more
applications than were necessary.
b) Officers names.
Lieutenant J.V. WILKINSON R.H.
Lieutenant R.E. LLOYD R.N.
Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.O. R.N.JR.
Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD R.N.R.
Lieutenant WALKER R.N.V.R.
Lieuten nt J.E.L. MARTIN R.N. (late *Pelican*) 152
Lieutenant FLETCHER R.H.R. (late at Invergordon)
a) I Iso respectfully submit for Their Lordships consideration that
letters of appreciation might be written S follows:-
To - The London Fire Brigade
) for the services of their
fire-float LADY MASSEY (?)
The Alexander Tow ge Company
) for the services of their
.I. Alexander Ltd- I Iohns Whart- Wapping E.I. tugs SUN, SUN IV, & SUN XV.
v. Walkins 42 - 112 Feuchwock st London EC3 tug TANGA.
The Watkins Tug & Towage Company) for the services of their
(b) As the tug RACIA of the Watkins Company, the master although of this he
vessel was on the nights of 31st. May and 3rd. June. MILLER D.S.O. 3rd.
regards obviously unwilling to 80 over to Dunkirk, On the
of did June actually be was go under the orders of Lieut. Commander
R.H.R.
(c) the masters and crews of the the other Alexander tugs (especially Tug
the SUN tugs) himself the captain of the tug this tug young
The spirit of was excellent, The owner of SUN IV, and a
Trinity Company House was pilot volunteered his to navis name. do throughout.
Unfortunately I cannot remember
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient servant,
Edward. K. Lehnesmit
Commander R.N.

Details

818
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Details

247
252
Page 8
to ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
The only other person that I saw who was aboard the boat
when we were fired on was a Frenchman and he was not
interested as he had passed over the border.
Able Seaman Strand reported himself and me by phone on
arrival at Margate.
Sun.
2nd. Reported to the Officer 1/c and was given warrants for
transfer to Littlehampton. Left Aello and arrived at
Littlehampton Pallo reported to Camp on arrival.
(SIGNED)
A. BENHAM STOKER.
warres
ute.,
and
got
under
way. No convoy. Hear Dunkirk, boat struck obstacle or
shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually
repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw
all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if
ordered so our Officer 1/c decided on own responsibility
to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning snw 8 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk
packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers
came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank
within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours,
naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. Te picked
up 10 and as bimbs fell, Officer 1/c decided to make back
to Ramagate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was
being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. 1 hour saw three trawlers,
8 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal
and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for
torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or
was disregarded. Shot fired noross bows, but still steaming
fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
myself our ensign and waved it as I trawler plainly sent boat see they
1,600 went over the side. Firing eased could & 80 I
yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. little Officers and
were our in water, got our boat alongside. 1 dead Officers, (perhaps 9) C.P.O.
grabbed own chaps. Firing ceased, Both after
Lighton chaps and several survivors wounded,
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
Later minesweeper which eventually us of what Ramsgate.
took our boat in for (massed up took a bit) and into transferred
us to a our boat at Pier and being ignorant by wire, which reports, I
I moored had been sent decided to report to N.O.i/c. Got order did,
2nd.
Stoker boat where it was, would On be arrival P.M. after,
if any, Benham and self reported again looked handed
rail to leave warrant for Littlehampton. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

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

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-3-
250
sailing barges "Glenway", "Lark" and "Spurgeon" similarly loaded
were towed over by the tugs "Persia" and "Cervia".
Lt. Comdr. R.G. Wardrop and Lieut. F.H. Whalley R.N.R. returned from
Dunkirk and reported back for duty on the Commodore's staff.
JUNE 1st, The C in C of the B.E.F. Lord Gort arrived at Admiralty
Pier at 0605.
The tugs "SunX1", "Sun X11", "Sun V11", 'Océan Cock", "Challenge"
"Crested Cock", and "Fairplay 17 with one sailing barge in tow left
for Dunkirk. The tugs were intended to assist disabled craft and
carried out this duty off the Belgian coast until they were forced
back by heavy air attack.
Numerous motor boats left the Prince of Wales Pier for Dunkirk beaches
in tow of drifters.
H.M.S. "Harvester" and "Salamander" arrived with extensive damage
sustained during the night operations and repairs were at once carried
out by H.M.S. "Sandhurst". At midnight enemy air craft attempted
to lay magnetic mines off the Harbour. Mines were laid outside
before the raiders were driven off by anti-aircraft fire. The
mines were swept up during the morning.
At 2130 the troops transport "Maid of Orleans" was badly damaged
by collision in the Harbour. Several of the troops were thrown into
the water but all were rescued by the tugs who happened to be in the
vicinity.
JUNE 2nd. The tug "Sun X1" towed in the self-propelled lighters
Sherfield" and "YeC. 63" with troops on board. At 1430 the tugs
coastal 87", and five motor-bosts in tow for the Dunkirk beaches.
"Foremost "Sun X", 'Sun X1", and "Fairplay 1" sailed with six
The tug life-boats Brassey" proceeded to the assistance of H.M.S. The "Mona's
Isle" "Lady received severe damage from enemy bombs. tug
X11", and "Ocean 22" Cock" refused to go owing to their lack of protection.
"Foremost which had sailed at 2000 for Dunkirk. The tugs "Sun V11", "Sun
JUNE the day troops were arriving in "Glenway" the Harbour returned in all
from of craft. beaches filled with soldiers, in the got channel.
kinds 3rd. During The sailing barges "H.A.C." and who had them off
and sailed the Dunkirk them until they were picked boats. up by tug
Some No troops came in Belgian to the fishing Dunkirk beaches on account Base made of a the
quantity of brows "Halcyon", "Speedwell", brows were used with
strong easterly wind. and ladders which were put "Vega", "Princess "Venimous",
boats could be sent During the day the Repair aboard H.M.S.
"Vanquisher", "Express", and "Malcolm". The numbers of troops
Elixabeth", splendid effect "Sutton" at Dunkirk Mole and large were
brought off during the night.
JUNE 4TH. Tugs "Sun V11", and "Sun X11" left towing H.M.S. "Bideford"
On completion of the up for the passage and following to days every
to Portsmouth for repairs. operation of disembarking their troops Home from Ports Dunkirk and
destroyers were patched During this day small craft, barges,
endeavour subsequently was sailed. made to return the numerous lighters
and tugs to their Ports.
NOTES.
ASUALTIES.
During the this H.M.S.
10th to Port, June of 4th whom a "Sandhurst" total of
dealt.wistely 6,880 wounded were and over 60 suffering from shock and
50 dead.
EFECTS.
The 26 Repair Base and H.M.S. "Sandhurst" by bomb and holes splinters temporarily rigging. in them and ai a
suffered repaired craft cannon. damage also the

Details

OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS Page FOR 4.
(Commanding Officer, H.H.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40
PERIOD 30TH HAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
41. During the hours between 2200 and midnight, several
magnetic mines to the Test of La Panne and off Braye.
enemy aircraft passed overhead and, as reported later, dropped
La Panne anchorage was under shell fire from Nieuport of La
Caxide and this became more accurate as time passed.
"Vivacious" as hit twice and proceeded to the Testward.
42. At 0030/1 June, "Keith" weighed anchor and proceeded
at slow speed towards Braye, which the enemy artillery were
now reaching. At 0206, the ship was off Brays.
43. At 0510 ten enemy fighters fired on the shore
beaches and on "Keith" and other ships with bursts of machine
sun fire, which was inaccurate.
44. At 0520 shelle from shore batteries again fell closs
to the ship off Braye.
45. At 0565 onemy bomber aircraft were engaged with 4.7"
barrage and pom pom fire. Only two rounds of E.A. ammunition
now remained and about 100 rounds of pom pom.
46. At 0630 "Keith" was standing off between Braye and
La Panne superintending the departure of ships with men
collected from the beaches during the night.
47. At 0737, & very large number of enemy dive bombing,
heavy bombing and fighter aircraft were aighted approaching.
"Keith", circling repidly round a wreck, was attacked by
Junker 87 dive bombers which carried out extremely vertical
dives and released five bombs each. The ship however was not
hit but a near miss, probably of a delayed sction bamb,
Jammed the steering gear.
The enemy were engaged with pom pom and lewis guns.
was under control in hand steering aft.
The ship manoeuvred by engines until shortly afterwards she
"Keith" continued to circle at apeed as enemy aircraf
were continually in sight.
NOTE: Times from now forward cannot be vouched for.
took place on No.2 boiler room on fire and Havy, severe
48. At "Keith", a salvo of which caused ship.
about 0805, further numerous straddled dive bombing the attacks
One bomb set Lieutenant (3) Kenward, Royal and the
boiler list heavily room's to port until eventually upper was touch:
flooding there. crew perished in this fire. her The ship deck began to
ing the
water. torpedoes were fired with no range overboard on and depth
The set to safe and thrown attacks. or fired The ship due had to
charges the danger were from further aircraft now
no steam and had anchored.
49. An M.T.B. came alongside and took off Rear Admiral
Dover and his Staff.
undamaged
Port whaler, the only/boat remaining, considerable was lowered
of and timber all carley was collected and thrown
50. The floats secured to it. overboard. A quantity

Details

SECRET
Dywams 354
,2777
H.M.S. Pelican,
C/O G.P.O.
18th June, 1940.
I have the honour to refer to More General Order 448/40
d to submit the following narrative of events :-
At 0200 Friday, 31st May, 1940, the London tug Sun IV
Master Mr. Alexander, Manager of the fini), slipped from Tilbury
cks with 12 lifeboats in tow. A London Pilot was embarked and
mained in the tug until the evacuation was completed. Ships'
feboats were manned by half naval and half volunteer crews.
chored. 2. Provisions were embarked for boats" crews and the
Southend pier was hailed at 0415/31 May, 1940, and the tug
portunity was taken to allow boats" crews a not cup of tea in the
&
amsgate 5. arriving at 1115, where she was armed with two pairs of
At 0445 anchow was wedghed and the tug proceeded to
ewis guns mounted either side of the wheel house.
yler 4. onboard his tug had run out of coal and water. also
The tugs were sailed for Dunkirk at 1330. Commander
tenant came Wilkinson as and a further party of seamen wre
mbarked.
11 fell 5. a long way from the tug.
At 1915 a high level bonding attack took place, but boabs
eported and it 6. is on regretted A boat arrival was in that capsi harbour one zed Stoker when by Commander the was tug dromed. position net Tyler. a destroyer's This one mile casualty east wake ty the was
of the Dunkirk tug 7. At by anchored 2230 verbal the orders three tug was quarters from ordered a motor Wilkinson of to a mile a torpedo and from Lieutenant Doat. the shore By Fletcher, 2300 and
boats were was sent in with Lieutenant 2300 to 0500 there was periodic Lewis shelling gins, was
and R.N. one in charge. from an From aircraft, which was engaged by
dropped bomb about 100 yards from the tug.
At 0315/1 June, 1940, weighed having suchor. embarked Only 88 soldiers three boats both had
been French crews 8. able were and to either British, get back onboard the to 218 our or were tug, as but towed it was the back filling remainder by drifters rapidly of the us to with boats' and Ramsgate. was water;
while At 0445 this one was boat being was done set adrift a German fighter flew towards
engaged Lewis guns.
9. with 0830/1 June, 1940, arrived at Ramsgate. Commander Tyler
went inshore for orders.
with
two
boats
in tow.
10. Anchor small was trawler weighed was at seen 1615 to and hit tug a mine proceeded south of the North
Goodwin Light A vessel at 1645.
11. Three German bombers

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SECRET
- 2
2298
11. Three German bombers carried out a level bombing attack at
from about 8000 feet. Ten Dombs were dropped falling about
yards astem. British fighters appeared about a quarter of an
later as three transports passed.
12. At 2030 the motor lifeboat B.N.L.D. hailed us and asked to
shown the way into Dunkirk. This boat remained with us for the
ainder of the night. The Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in command was
ortunately killed by shrapnel during the night. This was reported
Commander Tyler on arrival at Bansgate.
ODS IS. left in Dunkirk. Commander Tyler disregarded this and went
At 2100 a small motor boat informed us that there were no
o the harbour in the motor lifeboat with Lieutenant Fletcher.
14, At 2130 the tug was hailed by a motor torpedo boat and
ders were received to use the boats to fill up minesweepers which
e to arrive later.
is boat then pulled for/shore. The tug was then anchored about
tug 15. then towed the remaining boat as near in shore as possible.
At 2145 the motor lifeboat and one boat were sent in shore.
ree quarters of a mile from the Bastern breakwater.
ldiers 16. ashore at 2230, and said that she had not seen
The pulling boat returned with the news that there the other were no
ats.
17. 2300 All hands kept under cover, and proceeded
0100/2 June, 1940, fairly heavy until firing the over motor and short,
defly feboat shrapnel, returned at 0130. The tug than wedghed to
amsgate.
M.T.B. again hailed us and werere again at sent 0215. back to
111 18. At 0140 an and anchored in position weighed and went
iter urther up waiting in with shore soldiers, till to 0330 pick for them the up, boats but the and ran aground the big use of about engines & quarter astern of
ogether mile OII with shore. physical The jerks flooding by lb the then tide soldiers proceeded refloated to which Ramsgate 18 her. towed. with Boats
eanwhile 42 soldiers had on been board secured. and in the motor lifeboat,
19. At 0415 18 ran aground to for get the off second after time ten minutes. one mile at 0745 west A slight
laze : the breakwater, peaceful but managed passage home arriving at Ransgate
20. gave us Commander a Tyler left but us at A.M. 2000/2 and June, we were 1940, R told 18 to the were salvage tug ordered would
to be required proceeded to & position 0.100 18 eventually located her tow her. the
ot that night, near position and
the tug weigh Hospital and Ship Paris. Commander At R.N.B., secured, but to her first down
We lay Sun off XV until with a she had two minutes got later & aircraft Cerman machine with Lewis dived gims;
wire parted. About us. 10 ongaged the in bursts. lb were then
both and machine the ratings gunned on the guns R.N.R., getting in situation. the tug Sun XV The to hospital leave after ship be
ordered had asked by the what Commander we thought water of and the was very heavily down to get by her the back stern. was
Both in about five us fathoms and of I considered that It would if we be were very slow already work to
tow
safely the Tuguaster would require an escort. ship.)
I think that she was
her we a twin screw tell.
The tug arrived back at Ramsgate
aground, as she but was it was hard to
0645/3 June, 1940.
21. At 1150 18

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5
283
.0's 1700 & 1723 ESSELS TAKING PART III OPERATION DYNANO.
TILBURY CONTRACTING & DREDGING CO. IND. STEAM
HOPPER "FORENOST 101"
-
REPORT OF MASTER.
On the night of 29th May, 1940, the above vessel was orddred
to Dover for orders.
We left for Dover at 3.50 came of 30th May, arriving after
an uneventful trip at 6.40 Dalla Orders were received to proceed
to Ramsgate, which was reached at 9.20 p.m. All sorts and sizes
of vessels were anchored there, presenting a wonderful sight.
A Naval officer came aboard with charts and confidential
instructions, andorders to make for Dunkirk.
We set out in company with the "Lady Southborough" at 5.40a.m.
of the 31st May. A brilliant sun was shining as we cleared the
Goodwins, visibility being good.
At 12.55 p.m. TO dropped anchor off Dunkirk beach, and many
soldiers were observed standing in and near the water. Independ-
ant action was clearly indicated 80 at 2.15 p.m. the two lifeboats
were launched, the heavy swell running miding the operations
difficult. During this period the enemy kept up a terrific accial
bombardment. salvo of bombs was uncomfortably near, being
had the matter pleasure of of a seeing several German aircraft brought down.
only & One few yards away. However, we were not hit, and
Quite a bit of shrapnel fell on the ship but did no damage.
embarking boats French then soldiers. I regret to say the unknown.
The proceeded to ply between the number ship and is shore,
boats,During one of lifted right out of the went spilling on. At the
these trips, when a bonb full water close to the
to
about Happily at N.T.B. ordered us to we leave left a small dinghy we
occupants. of them was nobody was hurt and the job Dunkirk which
Towed by five to do French at soldiers with pieces of - being
proceeded 8.30 palla 8.55 Dalla Just as wood there
no cars - was sighted and resoued.
given not tea and breadnand defed. cheese, also
they The were soldiers made warm were whilst their clothes were
P.P.O.
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 efficiency.
Strongly recommended for a decoration.
(4) Surgeon Lieut. William Macfarlane Davidison, 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

Dynom 376 302
308%
J .6633,
0/0 Messrs. White & Co.
This method was found successful and two trips were
Cowes, Isle of White,
carried out in issue manner. for the 20th June, 1940.
larger oraft being in the intentions
"VANQUISHER" laft for Regland, and DD
close Sir, n, fill to capacity and towards La Trims, to
transfer troops if
I have the honour to submit the following report of
proceedings during operation "DYNAMO" in accordance with P. G. O.
1700/6/6/40. in re-floating,
Portsmouth, I assumed command of His Majesty Ship "SURSHM"
In accordance with orders from Commander-in-Chief,
CORDA", (Ex Dutch Skoot) at Poole, P.N. Friday 24th May, 1940, In
sailing for Portsmouth at 1600 arriving at 2130. tide being
carried.
"SURSUM_CORDA" remained in company with other Skoots
under the orders of Lieutenant Commander Stuart in H.M.S
"PREDANJA" until P.M. 28th May, 1940, when ship was sailed for
Dunkirk from Dover at 1400 by order of Vice Admiral Dover, for
the evacuation of troops via North Goodwin and Middle Kirke.
On arrival off beaches at Dunkirk at approximately the
2230, decided to enter harbour traight away having sighted
large number of soldiers on mole, but apparently no other ships
in the harbour though & transport and other skoots were lying
I
CONFIDENTIAL
300
301
Page 2 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated
14th June, 1940.
boat in tow hoping that self-bales would keep boat afloat.
motor boat making water and liable to sink. SUN tug took motor
2115. Transferred all survivors to a sur class tug. 40 ft.
2130. Abandoned 40 ft. motor boat in tow.
Monday, 3rd.
boat awash, due to leaks. 0800. Hoisted Crew
0415. Arrived Dover in tom. Secured. motor boat 0700 out. motor
returned to D/C motor boat.
Officer J. during the extremely Sunday, 2nd June, also at boat
I Luckins in obeying my helm difficult orders period when the
should like to bring to notice the with coolness calm and of Petty
was promptitude Dunkirk being on heavily 29th/30th attacked. May his coolness a was also noticeable.
The enemy aircraft with the Sunday, 2nd June. gun, was
accurate shooting and calmess stripped of A.B. Lawis Cole who
very hit at praiseworthy least one during the air attack on
50 01088 the beach my while bows. the tide was flooding
and AUGUS, endeavour DU 0001000 to embark troops over

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310
305
+
Having reported to H.M.S. "LYNK" was ordered to
remain ready at short notice, but received no further
instructions until the evening of Sunday June 2nd, when
under the orders of Captain G. Praser returned in the tug
Sun X to assist disembarking French troops. I was discharged
to Admiralty P.M. Tuesday, 4th June.
A verbal report was given to H.M.S. "LYNX" of proceedings
during the operations Dynamo" and delay in forwarding this
report is regretted but had no immediate access to P.G.O's.
I have the honour,
to be
Sir
Your obsdient Servent,
LISUTENANT, R.N.,
VICE ADMIRAL DOVER.
VICE AD MIRAL
D

Details

3309
OPERATION DYNAMO
SICLOSURE NO. 1
SHIP:- N.E. AURA
Av
OFFICER:- SUB. LISUY. Made CHOCERO, R.N.V.R.
REPORT I.
On Saturday, June Jrd, I received instructions to take charge
of the Motor Launch AURA and proceed to a beach East of Dunkirk Harbour.
Left Dovor Harbour towed y drifter GIRL GLAINS at 15.30.
Before leaving it had been reported to DD that the AURA'S engine was not
operating successfully, in as such that she would not come astorn. is
the weather appeared to be favourable there seened no reason why the
operation could not be carried out.
No shipped from GIRL GLASTS in the precinity of 50 Dury and
proceeded Eastwards. I was able to for outters from one of the Public
Steamers to the beach on this first trip imaris. The time was 0100 -
About 100 British troops were transforred from the shore to various
vessels. The engine was giving considerable trouble so that shortly
after 0215, June 4th, it fuiled completely.
The launch was than manocurred towards sono Tymes Sailing
Darges, and 10 endoavoured to repair the engine. On manination DO
found that a defective dynamo vas causing the trouble, and as operations
were ordered to cease at 0300, I decided to abandon AURA at 0245. I
transforred the arew to & Hinghy which 10 found, and then managed to
get aboard a "paddle steamer" which ma getting under my. All senbers
of my arew behaved excellently throughout the twelve hours.
REPORT II.
Think
LASS in the capacity Dover at about 1515,00 arrived Dunicirit was
On of Shippers I received orders off to procest at 0000. Dunkink a
Sunday, June 4th, I repaired aboard the drifter TORKSHIRE to
Harbour. Leaving Foreland Ideutenant Commander Prior, Reyal May, transforred
are from the the S. drifter UTPROSIS aboard the TOWNSHIRE LASS,
embarking French no trunsferred our troops and on to be no nore troops
There troops before 0030. mother curried loading. by alongside 01/15
was little delay in arriving alongaide drifter arrived and - started
we seemed to be of the jetty and I dispatched arriving a alongzide, 000 DO by we 0130 could
oursessed so punctically full. There appeared soldier to if
we were steaming out of the Narbour+
on collect our portion another 50 none Other ahipa ware
the whole operation, and honsward during the passage, the vessel the troops
behaved in an boarding, and as it was affected. just daybreak, lightin three quarters XI of
During orderly name: During the passage I signalled SUN
developed a hot until repairs wase arrived in Hurbour at 0830
an to hour take we us proceeded in tow under our own power and
Monday, June 5th.
ships company were highly British efficient Termies in their had been duty,
and on investigation The whole 100 Punch troops and 3
transported.
British Tematos reported Saturday. as having loat their division,
and had only The arrived in Donicirit on
Report ends.

Details

316.
311
OPERATION IDWO
MINISTRE ID. 5.
SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "CAVERSING".
MOTOR DATE
TOG "SUP If.
BV
OFFICE REPORTING: SIB. LDIT. date
Left HAS IIIII AND 29th my for Showness, whence
took Hotor Bost "Corershan" to Imagato. (Fanity engine enight
fire during night.)
2.
31at leg. "Caroroban" acted a tender to Schurts,
than set off for Donkirit, but sureng serious look, and, pumps
not working, returned to Imagnto following morning,
3.
fat June, Took Notor Dont "Vulatadina" to Deside
loaded her with 1 Any Officer and 17 other rents from Deach.
Pifteen ulles from Dunkirit accepted tou from but "Toung Its:",
and, being unable to restart engines off Trake bugy, wa towal
into Doror.
&
3030 Date - and to tog "Sun 15 (Ident. Hillpotts)
which towed three boats to Dunidrity (At destination Ident.
hillpotte left by to not as bench marter, and did not return
to tog.) Boats louisi tog to capacity with Brench troops, and
tug entered Dovor at 8.30 Calls
5.
Please note that Hotor Dont's orea vorbod attirably
in way trying thate - are -
de Maris
3. Seream
DJ.87012
7.0. Horgan
Sto. I
XX,88644
De Soully
0/Seasen
JX.175304
Ja Curren
JX.176599
Ja 1831
No unber
they are part of a agental DRAKE party. Morgan is now in Doal
Hospital with swollen ankles, the others went to Dower Transit
Comp.

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3150
OPERATION DEHAND
STATES 10.8
SHIP:- H.D. SKYLARK
OFFICER:-
name, R.F.Y.L.
Friday, Slat Have Took charge of I/B SKYLARK, overhealed engine,
proceeded under tow of VIRIDA. for broke down . returned to yort.
Overhauled engines of one or too other 11/3's
Saturday, 1st June,11/B. SETLAIE. Towed by RIGA to mar Dunicizione
Tyansferred survivors to RIGA from 7yench Costroyer, the had pdaked
than up from torpodood ships
RIGA returned to Dover, and I returned under own
power by Kollet out to Dover by about 10.0 Date Reported at CAMBER
and returned to Granville Steps.
Sunday, 2nd June Synnaferred in charge of insures -
Lowester't Lifeboas - 2 Stokers and 1 1434 from Trensit Carp for area.
Overhauled engines, fuelled and provisioned - processed under tow of
Tug SUN XIs Arrived Dunicire, after dark about 2330 hours. latered
harbour and went toward System Ibles Rumand by MA without much
damage. Tent alongaide Statem Inlo. 11th difficulty got 12 7yench
soldiers abound. Proceeded out to find tug which had Haspeared,
landed troops on treator. Returned to harbour, being runnal by
another MA on the my. Found Bloop (identification letters S.O.
or S.C.). Dring to sadsh of tide ahe could not 0000 alongadde, 30
with the big engines of the lireboat I pushed her alongadda and went
aboard to help nake fast. Climbed on to Hole, which was being shalled,
and by noans of some forceful Language and & rifle butt, induced the
French troops who vare lying on the Vols to start down on to the
into the lifeboat and cust off to try and find me letse searching
Sloop. Case a for had started they all begin to & down. Cot 52
for none timeyand beding hit again by & Mahing last, 2 decided at
0100 to return under a am your to Cover.
Reported & Cleating nine by norvo to a instruyer about
6 niles E.S.A. of 3a. Cooducin 14ght Yourile
Reached Down and Landed Pyench tronpa at 0710,
Naturnal Hisboat and reported at Submarine Camber
at 0730.
to outer 1 got the definite Impression fire shortened amoone had boen
and of Vole until the Bloop drow alongaide. that Then
Shrapmal on Sestem Hola aux nostly at first confined the
range shortened, for the - as the direction ao quanalties of though mong very
contingent. allied cruft then from read. Outside the Harbour to
rapidly and In facts I found considerably Hand shalling. There seemed the
spotting accurately. Suffared greater risk from my
movements of to keep any rule of the hits, but ahe may Just have
been had one having attack a blind should at four of -
be no advenpt from a Hand plans+ No who ware altegrther.
(Sgd)
MARROOD J. 3. TUTUR.
Sub.Idoutsment, R.N.V.R.
H.M.S. KING ALFRED.

Details

3162
OPERATION DYNANO
ENCLOSURE No.9.
SHIP: Motor Boat SOUTHERN OUTSIN,
Officer Reporting: SUB.-LIEUT. DESAPTOS.
Went with Sun II. Picked up about 200. All
French and women and children. 2 Loads from East Hole,
2 from small Test Hole. Back 10 miles under own power,
then tow by Sun X.
Suggest Officers speaking French to send Frenchmen
into boats, as they refuse to go in small boats.
First trip towed by VRSDE, broke down and 00 towed
her clear of shipping and returned.
Second trip towed Dec: RISA, sent back under own power
from 2 miles off Dunkirk.

Details

329
OPERATION HOUR
EXCLOSIS 10. 15.
SHIP: "CORDELIA". MOTOR BOAT.
OFFICER REPORTING: sun. LIMIT. Code R.N.V.R.
ROUGH LOG (ALL THINGS ARE APPROXIDATE).
CREST: Sade HADE
hade VEASE Ratings.
J. JARVIE
civilian
Tednesday 29.5.10.
1100 Took over from civilian the brought the above 143,
round from theomes.
1400) Stand M Fuelling and
1700)
provision.
1705 Processed to submitte base to collect three
Belgion vessels (Incry Smire and another).
1745 Returned to Prince of Value Picr.
1800 Proceeded out of Donner in rear of above 3 Belgion
bosts which sero loing towal by the drifter
Gela1740, 000 shales in too,
1815 Propellors of one Delgin boat fouled by tow rogo
(this reasel returned to Dover).
1830 Proceeded in company with 0.2.1740 and two Delgion
boots.
2000 Destroyer taken 000 Delgin bont in too,
2010 Tital a astem of receiving pontoon and proceeded -
towal by 0,2,1740.
2530 Machine an fire in produity.
Thursday 30,5,100
0530 Houring the bench to the wert of la Tune,
0545 Complete Purguason oszo on board and commond
directing operations for the evecuation of troops
from beach to writing destroyers etc.
0800 Consolore Purguasan trunsferred to mother craft.
0800⑉ Coungded in furrying boats containing troge
1030 between the beach and writing vensels. Attendent
whaler unred by two atobers and givilian the
occupied in going inshare to load up with troops,
than taking than out to writing vessels.
1045 Starboard propoler fouled by roye not alengaide
destroyer willo Manbericing troups.
Purther operations informible.
oursied by "Cordella" and shaler from the banch.
overwarked, seined 100 that 300 troops was
working with part engine only - which, owing being
During the above operations the Cordelia to . was
1100 Taban in too by the 0.R.1740 (drifter) and
proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by share
2050 Intered Dower Harbour and tial up at Prince of
1145) batteries.
vales Pier (Inner Hurbour).
2100 Reported to WIX office.
Priday/

Details

330
OPERATION
NO.20
SHIP:-
LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND* (Eastbourne).
STATEMENT BY di
Name
Service
Sunday 2nd
Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II.
Lifeboat *JANS HOLLOND* (Masthoume). Cast
$
Sto. J. Strangeways
off outside and told to go to & landing right
PKX 95036.
up the other end of the harbour. Found they
ó
Sto. Aella Shaw
were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck
PKX 94553.
the tug or drifter they vero goding alongside
One Sub.Ideut., R.N.V.R.
so they sent on up harbour. Mc enough hole
One A.B.
in the lifeboat bows to crawl through. Drenched
One 0.S.
with spray caused by shrupnels is proceeding
also there.
up harbour saar a destroyer out a mall rowing
boat down with two Fyench sailors in it. They
All came back.
took these to the first destroyer. light right
harbour: - Trench troops but they refused
up to be taken off. So they owne back out of the
harbour to tug anahored outsdde. Then they
were told to collect troops from anywhere.
Nearly every boat had gone by them. So they
Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour.
Several got destroyers passed, they vaved
up sail and tried to get out of harbour. and
destroyars naved backs one hour after dawn
when cards Towed them out, engine started,
they ware just about giving up hopes a
N.T.B. they vara alipped and after about 4 ailes fire.
the in sight and two E.T.3's - along
then engine began to moke and she daught to
No resease one Took than aboard. Edfeboat in flames,
returned bells 11st.

Details

33338
OPERATION
NO.23
SHIP:- M/B. SKYLARK
STATEMENT BY di
Crew
Service
$
Sto.
G.Bramhall 2nd Time. Left Dovor about 1430 with an 0.S. in
PKX 88343
SKYLARK - & mall open I/Le Towed scross by sur I
Ord. Sea.
with two other boats (9 2011 DIESCIN). Slipped tow
just outside harbour and want into pier. Shipped
Prench soldiers from pier Ladders and took the
to the SUN I, uldoh we lying off. Sexe big
ships alongside. 20/25 soldiers each trip. Left
under tow from sux XI about daylight. À little
shrapmel, beabing over the tom. Started shipping
water and transforred boatload to tage

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. V
and Hilda), two power boats and Kellett a tow and pulling Leda, but boats ; the(Doggersbank
with the Calcutta¹, the Gallant, Wakeful, of Verity, two skoots
was joined by the minesweepers the number there were insufficient
boats and motor launches to cope with of troops on the beach.
Calcutta had already lost one of her two whalers2.
70 wounded (cot cases) ; heavy embarkation difficult and the
Off La Panne, at 2157, the Calcutta, surf assisted made by the skoot Reiger, embarked
By the 28th May beach evacuation had become a vitally essential part
complete lack of small beaching craft, other than ships' boats - aftermath
Operation Dynamo". It was, however, severely restricted by the almost of
the wish, already noticed, to prevent early information of the operation be- of
coming known to the enemy; and an urgent and persistent cry for boats arose
from the ships off the beaches.³
Beach craft are sailed for Dunkirk
Steps had already been taken, however, to begin the provision of small boats.
At 0800 on the 28th May, 8 motor boats were sailed from the Thames for the
South Downs. At noon the tug Sun V with 8 cutters and 2 whalers in tow,
and the tug St. Clears with 11 cutters in tow, left Sheerness for Ramsgate, and
both tugs sailed for Dunkirk late in the evening. Of these two tows, however,
only 7 cutters reached the beaches, the remainder being lost en route.4
At 1500 the tug Java left Ramsgate for Dunkirk, in company with four
drifters⁵ and 5 motor launches⁶. They arrived off Bray at 0100 on 29th May,
and were the first arrivals of small motor craft off the beaches. With them,
at 1500 on the 28th May, 5 drifters of the 1st Mine Recovery Flotilla left Rams-
gate for Dunkirk⁷, and at 1845, 18 motor boats with 17 whalers left Sheerness
for Dover.⁸
Supply of small craft is accelerated
These supplied only a portion of what was required. There was still a lack
of small craft, and at 2002 V.A. Dover asked that every available shallow draft
power boat should be sent to the beaches⁹. The Admiralty's vigorous reaction
to this request became fully evident on the following day, the 29th May, when
the Portsmouth and Nore Commands, the Thames estuary and the Port of
London Authority were combed for motor boats, lighters and barges¹⁰. To
accelerate the journey arrangements were made to route them direct to the
beaches, provided they had charts, food, fuel etc.¹¹, though some difficulty was
experienced in providing the large number of charts required. Indeed, on the
road map" to navigate on.
31st May the Master of the coaster Hythe states that he was given an army
I 2 The Calcutta reported she was off La Panne.
Appendix H.2.
3 Appendices H.1 and H.2.
Five gunfire from Clears' cutters were lost en morning route to Dunkirk a collision with the destroyer the result of enemy
4 The of the Sun St. V's tow was lost early next in Montrose.
up 5 by The the Sp. Gravelines Serv./V. Crested and Nieuport; Eagle. one of the 5 was, next however, day, as subsequently picked
6 The Lord Walker Rodney, I, Lord Keith, Lord Collingwood
7 8 9 The Appendix Lord Cavan, G.6. Walker Fidget, II, Jacketa, New Britannic, Silver Dawn Nayland, and and Fisher and Lord Angler Boy St. Vincent. (Appendix II. G.5).
Appendix G.7.
II 10 Appendices G.13 to G.18.
Appendix G.9.
32

Details

CHAP, VI
THE EVACUATION FROM
end Buoy, of the Zuydcoote destroyer Pass. Montrose, Eight minutes later, DUNKIRK about
collided narrowly Montrose put her helm with had escaped the hard to tug sinking; to Sun starboard, V, the which en but route 11 was cutters she to towing received Dunkirk, were 11 a ran 1 into mile W.S.W. of
Neither part The in Harvester the the evacuation. Mackay, reached the Bray Montrose nor the to tug Dover were by able the to take any Brassey. The
be towed, stern-first, lost XXXX
awaiting the charge of embarkation. Sub-Lieut. of E. C. There Croswell, beach was a at R.N., strong 0050, who cross and found sent in her further
managed launching to evacuate boats about difficult. During the course of sea the and the the
however, the supply of boats 700 for which embarkation included some 100 wounded. Harvester
siderable as moved the embarkation to wastage La Panne.¹ of beach boats extended through overcrowding, for over one ceased. mile. which was At There 0500, difficult had the been to Harvester At control 0400, con-
Wakeful sunk
against beach with about destroyers. The destroyer Wakeful, returning from successes
In the British meantime, at 0045, there occurred the only two E-boat
when 2 650 troops on board, was 1/4 mile west of Kwint Whistle Bray
150 yards away on the starboard bow.
parallel torpedo tracks about 30 yards apart were seen approaching, buoy
Avoiding action was taken, and one torpedo missed ahead, but the other his
the Wakeful in the forward boiler room. The Wakeful broke in half and the
two portions sank within about 15 seconds, each portion remaining upright
with the bow and stern standing about 60 feet above the water.
Most of the guns' crews floated clear, 30 men and an officer remaining on
the stern portion. All the troops were asleep below, and all except one went
down with the ship. All the Wakeful's engine room department, except one
or two, were lost. The Captain, Cdr. R. L. Fisher, R.N., floated clear of the
bridge.
After about half an hour, the danlayers Nautilus and Comfort, which were
en route to La Panne, arrived and began to pick up those still swimming. The the
minesweeper Gossamer, up returning from Dunkirk harbour with 420 troops,
Nautilus picked 6 and the Comfort 16, including Cdr. Fisher. Then
arrived, lowered her boats, and picked up a further 15 survivors.
directed the Comfort to go alongside the wreck and take La Panne, off the
men Cdr. clinging Fisher to the stern. The Nautilus continued on her way to
where she was lost during the afternoon in an air attack.
Grafton
torpedoed Lydd arrived on the scene she bringing sighted
300 troops from Dunkirk harbour. of the Wakeful By the light with men an clinging to out her Aldis
It was now 0220, and the minesweeper of Aldis lamp, them. The
the Lydd bow lowered and stern her boats, portions but was ordered latter by order the could Gossamer not, to however, put be carried report,
lamp Except I Sub-Lieut. and during drop Croswell, the a depth first who day charge remained of evacuation, the at La the Panne bearing until of 1st the June, B.E.F. says at La in Panne his was
magnificent." (C.W.23187/40).
36

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Ships lost or damaged on 29th May
H.M. SHIPS SUNK
The destroyers Wakeful, Grafton and Grenade.
The armed boarding vessel King Orrry
The Special Service Vessel Crested Eagle.
The Paddle Minesweepers Waverley and Gracie Fields.¹
The Personnel Vessels Normania,1 Lorina, Fenella and Mona's Queen.
The trawlers Polly Johnson and Calvi.
The danlayers Comfort and Nautilus.
The drifter Girl Pamela².
H.M. SHIPS DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION.
The destroyers Saladin, Greyhound, Intrepid, Montrose, Mackay, Gallant
and Jaguar.
The sloop Bideford.
The minesweeper Pangbourne (required dockyard repairs).
The personnel vessel Canterbury.
The hospital carrier Isle of Guernsey.
OTHER VESSELS
SUNK A.L.C.16, the S.S. Clan Macalister (6,900 tons), the M/B's Minikoi,
Viewfinder, Bobeli, Hanora, Sceneshifter and Queen of England.
DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION The tug Sun V.
Destroyers of the "H," "I" and "J" Classes withdrawn
As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst the destroyer force,
particularly the misfortunes which befell those of the larger and more modern
types, a consultation was held between the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral,
Dover, on 29th May, which led to a decision to withdraw the 7 destroyers of
the "H", "I" and "J" Classes from "Dynamo"3; they were the only
modern destroyers remaining with Vice-Admiral, Dover. All destroyers of
the "G" class⁴ were already out of action.
There remained available for "Dynamo" 15 destroyers : :-
Esk
Malcolm
Verity
Express
Whitehall
Vanquisher
Anthony
Winchelsea
Sabre
Keith
Worcester
Scimitar
Codrington
Windsor
Shikari
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be expected to
maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the coast and would lift 17,000
troops in 24 hours⁵. It is noteworthy that in spite of their unsuitability for
the work of troop carrying, the 39 destroyers so employed in Dynamo"
brought off more troops-96,000-than any other type of ship (see Table 1).
The 45 personnel vessels brought off 87,000; the 36 minesweepers 46,000;
the 39 skoots 22,000 ; and among the smaller vessels, the 51 drifters brought
off 12,000.
I Actually sank on 30th May, as a result of damage received on 29th May.
2 In collision with the Lydd off Dunkirk harbour on the night of 28th/29th May.
3 The Icarus, Impulsive, Intrepid, Ivanhoe, Harvester, Havant and Javelin.
4 The Gallant, Grafton, Grenade and Greyhound.
5 D.R. p.11, para. 37.
55

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
Ships lost or damaged on 29th May
H.M. SHIPS SUNK
The destroyers Wakeful, Grafton and Grenade.
The armed boarding vessel King Orrry
The Special Service Vessel Crested Eagle.
The Paddle Minesweepers Waverley and Gracie Fields.¹
The Personnel Vessels Normania,1 Lorina, Fenella and Mona's Queen.
The trawlers Polly Johnson and Calvi.
The danlayers Comfort and Nautilus.
The drifter Girl Pamela².
H.M. SHIPS DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION.
The destroyers Saladin, Greyhound, Intrepid, Montrose, Mackay, Gallant
and Jaguar.
The sloop Bideford.
The minesweeper Pangbourne (required dockyard repairs).
The personnel vessel Canterbury.
The hospital carrier Isle of Guernsey.
OTHER VESSELS
SUNK A.L.C.16, the S.S. Clan Macalister (6,900 tons), the M/B's Minikoi,
Viewfinder, Bobeli, Hanora, Sceneshifter and Queen of England.
DAMAGED AND PUT OUT OF ACTION The tug Sun V.
Destroyers of the "H," "I" and "J" Classes withdrawn
As a result of the heavy casualties and losses amongst the destroyer force,
particularly the misfortunes which befell those of the larger and more modern
types, a consultation was held between the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral,
Dover, on 29th May, which led to a decision to withdraw the 7 destroyers of
the "H", "I" and "J" Classes from "Dynamo"3; they were the only
modern destroyers remaining with Vice-Admiral, Dover. All destroyers of
the "G" class4 were already out of action.
There remained available for "Dynamo" 15 destroyers :-
Esk
Malcolm
Verity
Express
Whitehall
Vanquisher
Anthony
Winchelsea
Sabre
Keith
Worcester
Scimitar
Codrington
Windsor
Shikari
Excluding any casualties, this number of destroyers might be expected to
maintain a flow of one destroyer per hour to the coast and would lift 17,000
troops in 24 hours⁵. It is noteworthy that in spite of their unsuitability for
the work of troop carrying, the 39 destroyers so employed in ' Dynamo "
brought off more troops-96,000-than any other type of ship (see Table 1).
The 45 personnel vessels brought off 87,000; the 36 minesweepers 46,000 ;
the 39 skoots 22,000 ; and among the smaller vessels, the 51 drifters brought
off 12,000.
I Actually sank on 30th May, as a result of damage received on 29th May.
2 In collision with the Lydd off Dunkirk harbour on the night of 28th/29th May.
3 The Icarus, Impulsive, Intrepid, Ivanhoe, Harvester, Havant and Javelin.
4 The Gallant, Grafton, Grenade and Greyhound.
5 D.R. p.11, para. 37.
55

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
in the Bray and Malo sectors were being thinned out by movements westward
towards Dunkirk iteslf. This change of plan involved concentrating the special
tows and the minesweepers to which they were to transfer the troops, into the
stretch opposite the beach between Zuydcoote Sanatorium and one mile east
of La Panne¹, and also advancing the commencement of the operation by one
hour².
A risk was involved in this change of plan as the boat tows were not in com-
munication with the Vice-Admiral, and it would therefore be necessary for
minesweepers to see that the escorting M.A./S.B.'s shepherded the tows to the
new positions It had been explained to the Naval officers in each tow that
the minesweepers would be anchored so as to serve as guiding marks³.
" It was always impossible for me to do more than deal with the situation of
the moment", says Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker. "I did not know what ships
were coming or when-except for the pre-arranged plan of the sloops. Nor
was it possible for Dover to give me much information. Ships got back there,
unloaded, and were off again, the stream was constant but irregular and it was
not possible to see any way ahead. My policy was always to keep only sufficient
ships off the beaches and send all the others into Dunkirk, but the situation
changed continually."4
Small craft arrive in hundreds
It was in such circumstances that, at about 1900, Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker had proceeded to Dunkirk in the Keith to see how the boat situation
was getting on. There he saw for the first time that strange procession of
craft of all kinds the story of which was to become famous-tugs, towing
dinghies, life-boats and all manner of pulling boats5-small motor yachts,
motor launches, drifters, Dutch skoots, Thames barges, fishing boats, pleasure
steamers⁶. This was indeed the first time that the small craft had come over
in hundreds⁷. Since noon Lt. Cdr. C. J. Wynne-Edwards, R.N. (of R.-A.
Dunkirk's staff), embarked in M.T.B.68, had been directing the tows to the
various beaches.
I See Appendix Q.18, observing that D.R. p.20, para. 61 says the beach between Bray
and 1 mile east of La Panne."
2 Appendix Q.19.
3 D.R. p.20, para. 61.
4 M.017978/41, p.17.
5 The following 14 tugs (their tows are shown in brackets) reached Dunkirk that evening:
The Racia (12 life-boats), Sun VIII (12 life-boats), Sun XV (6 life-boats), Vincia (3 life-
boats), Sun IV (9 boats), Tanga (6 boats), Ocean Cock (6 M/B's), Sun VII (seaplane tenders
243, 254, 276, 291 and A.M.C.3), Foremost 87 (two sailing barges), Fairplay I (sailing barge
Barbara Jean), Empire Henchman (sailing barge Aidie), Crested Cock (a lighter), Sun XI (a
lighter), and the Sun XII (sailing barges Tollesbury and Ethel Everard).
In the early hours of 1st June 4 other tugs arrived. The St. Fagan (auxiliary barges
Pudge and Lady Rosebery, and the sailing barge Doris), St. Abbs (auxiliary barge Thyra
and sailing barges H.A.C. and Duchess), Cervia (sailing barge Royalty), and the Persia
(sailing barge Glenway and Lark).
6 M.017978/41, p.19.
7 New arrivals off Dunkirk and the beaches on 31st May included the following The
yachts Amulree, Aronia, Glagla, Caleta, Christobel II and Llanthony, the nine yachts of the
Portsmouth Inner Patrol, viz the Ahola, Ankh, Bounty, Caryandra, Eilla II, Lahloo,
Noneta, Seriola and Thele and from the R.N. Air Station, Ford, the yacht Andora.
The drifters Ben and Lucy (towing 4 boats), Dorienta (towing boats), Monarda, Renas-
cent and the 13 drifters of the Yarmouth Base, viz Alcmaria, Feasible, Genius, Gula,
Jeannie MacIntosh, John and Norah, Lord Barham, Lord Hood, Overfalls, Reed, Rewga,
Swift Wing and Taransay. The drifters Fair Breeze and Ocean Breeze were again over,
the former towing a motor life-boat and 3 life-boats.
The steam hopper barges Foremost 102 (towing the Excellent's 35 ft. fast motor boat and
71

Details

DUSK TO DUSK, IST-2ND JUNE
CHAP. X
Dunkirk and entered harbour at 1530 on 1st June. Whilst there, she was
twice hit by shore batteries, though damage was slight and there was only one
and troops and finally proceeded at 2230.
light casualty. The ship lay alongside for 7 hours, embarking stretcher cases
Amongst the various classes of ships none had suffered proportionately
heavier losses than the personnel vessels to which Vice-Admiral Dover referred
in his message to the Admiralty. Their crews had been doing magnificent
work in the face of nerve-racking experiences. Up to date 8 of these ships had
been sunk and 4 disabled. It was arranged that during this night's evacuation
personnel ships in addition to destroyers were to berth at the East Pier in Dun-
kirk where they were to be given priority.
The danger of sending these valuable ships in to Dunkirk in daylight was too
great, and after the 1st of June they were sent in only under cover of darkness,
with a naval Ljeutenant-Commander or Commander on board each ship as
adviser to the Master and with crews stiffened by 10 seamen for handling the
wires and going alongside under fire. It was hoped by these means not only to
get the ships to sail to time but also to ensure that they would enter Dunkirk
harbour and not linger outside awaiting a quiet interval, or return empty.
To their credit it must be recorded that not all the personnel ships needed the
moral support of naval ratings.
Air Operations, morning of 2nd June
The batteries which had brought Route X under fire were between Le
Clipont, near Pointe de Gravelines (see Plan 3), and Les Huttes, about a mile
north east of Gravelines ; they were attacked by the R.A.F. in 24 Blenheim
sorties between first light and 0745 on the 2nd, the object of spreading the attack
in this manner being to neutralise the batteries during the period of daylight
evacuation. The Blenheims encountered much anti-aircraft fire, and though
no aircraft were lost some were damaged and afterwards crash-landed on their
airfields.
The Air Ministry were asked to provide strong continuous patrols over
Dunkirk and the beaches from 0430 to 0830 on the 2nd June, with night fighter
patrols during the hours of darkness. It was arranged that the fighter patrols
should go out over the routes in use by our ships, and on the return journey fly
low on the routes to give maximum protection to ships against low flying bomb
and machine gun attacks. The concentration of fighter patrols in the dawn
and dusk periods resulted in a great decrease in the total number of flying
hours on the 2nd June (See Appendix C.)
The early morning was hazy, and the first two main R.A.F. patrols, both at
four squadron strength, encountered no enemy aircraft and no ships reported
being attacked during this period. The third patrol, the strongest yet flown,
consisting of five full squadrons, which was over the Dunkirk area from 0745-
0845, encountered very considerable enemy forces, and claimed to have shot
down 18 enemy bombers and 10 fighters, themselves losing 7 Spitfires. Again,
no reports of attacks came from the ships; and as far as can be ascertained no
attacks occurred until the Calcutta, patrolling near W buoy with the Mallard
and Shearwater, was attacked at 1035 by 3 Ju. 88 which dived out of the sun
and bombed her, causing slight damage from near misses. A Coastal patrol
witnessed the incident and drove off the enemy. The French light cruiser
Epérvier and destroyer Léopard were also on the patrol line, but they apparently
left the patrol when bombing began at 1035 and up to 1442 when the Calcutta
returned to Sheerness by orders of Vice-Admiral Dover, nothing more was seen
99

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. X
clearly marked as hospital ships. Neither of the two ever reached Dunkirk.
were despatched from Dover, the Worthing at 1255 and the Paris at 1648, both
we should scrupulously observe the Two hospital carriers part
en clair asking for hospital ships to be Geneva sent across Convention. and stating that for our
At 1433 the A/S trawler Grimsby Town, on patrol on Route X, reported that
had bombed a hospital ship. This was Worthing. Visibility was good.
12 aircraft bearing 90° South Foreland 27 the miles (between V and W buoys)
Nine bombs were dropped and the the Calcutta ship was sent machine the gunned, she was slightly
damaged by near misses and corvette Mallard to stand by
her. The Worthing returned to harbour.
near W buoy, when two aircraft attacked her, near misses putting out of action
The Paris, after running into thick fog, was in clear visibility at about 1900,
her engines and extinguishing all lights. About an hour later the ship was
attacked again by 3 aircraft, and received further damage. She was abandoned
by all but the Captain and some of the officers, who were shortly afterwards
taken off by a fast motor boat which also rescued men from some of the Paris's
lifeboats that had been wrecked by bombing. Three tugs, the Sun XV, Sun IV
and Lady Brassey attempted to tow the ship; but at 0400 on 3rd June, after
a further air attack, the Paris sank 1 mile east of W. buoy.
Evacuation figures, 2nd June
A total of 26,256 men were landed in England on 2nd June, 19,561 from
Dunkirk harbour and 6,695 from the beaches. Of these totals, French ships
working only from the harbour carried 1634, and Belgian trawlers carried 313.
The accumulated total of men evacuated to this date was 285,305.
104

Details

THE NIGHT 2ND-3RD JUNE
CHAP. XI
Teteghem, the event this was postponed 2000 and when it took place some
on a front of two miles. The until French intended to counter-attack at
There was no movement in the port. Later Admiral
was in the hands of the enemy, but they had not
advanced beyond. Further attacks were expected by the French this day,
when the situation regarding munitions might become critical.
Sailing of the night flight from England
The movement from England towards Dunkirk commenced at 1700. The
armada consisted of 13 personnel vessels, 2 large store carriers, 11 destroyers,
5 paddle minesweepers, 9 fleet sweepers, 1 special service vessel, 9 drifters,
6 skoots, 2 armed yachts, 1 gunboat, a large number of tugs, lifeboats, etc.,
formed either in organised tows or proceeding individually. For various
reasons, however, not all of these ships evacuated troops.¹
The composition of the French contingent was not known at Dover. Actually,
3 French torpedo boats, two minesweeping trawlers, two patrol vessels, and
17 trawlers and motor fishing vessels landed troops in England on the 3rd June.
One Belgian patrol boat and 16 or 17 trawlers brought troops.
B.E.F. evacuated, 2330/2
The first destroyers to reach Dunkirk were the Sabre and Shikari, which
sailed together from Dover at 1845. As the latter ship rounded No. 6 W buoy
enemy shore batteries opened fire, but caused no damage. Berthing was
carried out by an officer with a loud speaker at the pier head. Both destroyers
sailed again at 2200, the Sabre with 500 and the Shikari with 700 troops. The
Venomous, which arrived at 2150, had difficulty in going alongside the East Pier.
This was not a solid jetty, but was built of concrete piles through which the
west-going tide set. This, coupled with a fresh easterly wind, made it very
I The following ships (other than those on patrol which picked up survivors and landed
them) landed troops in England on 3rd June, (numbers in brackets) :-
BRITISH Destroyers - Codrington (44), Esk (500), Sabre (500), Shikari (700), Vanquisher (37),
Venomous (1500), Whitshed (82), Winchelsea (152), Windsor (1022) ;
Gunboat Locust (800)
Minesweepers - Albury (200), Duchess of Fife (300), Dundalk (399), Gossamer (490),
Halcyon (416), Kellett (364), Marmion (198), Medway Queen (481), Niger (430),
Oriole (750), Pangbourne (47), Speedwell (300), Westward-Ho (48) ;
Special Service Ship Golden Eagle (1);
Drifters - Forecast (108), Golden Sunbeam (163), Lord Howard (100), Midas (43),
Netsukis (119), Starlight Rays (319), Ut Prosim (49), Yorkshire Lass (103)
Trawler Cayton Wyke (300) ;
Skoot Doggersbank (50) ;
Yacht Sargasso (252) ;
Personnel ships - Côte d'Argent (955), King George V (1460), Newhaven (396),
Lady of Mann (18), Rouen (1286), Royal Sovereign (1500), St. Helier (2000),
Tynwald (1200) H.M.S. Nelson's M.B. (27)
Tugs - St. Olaves (200), Sun X (211), Sun XI (188), War Dept. M.Ls. (69)
Sailing barge Glenway (213)
R.N.L.I. Lifeboats Cecil & Lilian Philpot (51), Michael Stephens (52) :
3 motor boats and launches (300).
FRENCH Torpedo boats - Bouclier (340), La Flore (410) ;
Destroyer Léopard (19) ;
S/M Chaser 6 (50, apparently disembarked at Havre) ;
M/S trawlers - Ste. Bernadette de Lourdes (79), Ste. Denise Louise (78) ;
Patrol vessels - Lucien Gougy (78), Reine des Flots (500) ;
17 trawlers and M.F.V's. (1663).
BELGIAN Patrol boat A.5 (229) ;
17 trawlers (1583).
107

Details

THE NIGHT 2ND-3RD JUNE
CHAP. XI
to were seen and no ships Dunkirk of No. 604
2120 on the 2nd June, to clear reported the air being for the attacked. night's work. Blenheims No enemy air-
craft Squadron then continued to patrol singly over throughout the night.
reported, and R.A.F. fighters intercepted successfully 3rd on three.
Only on three occasions during the 2nd June were enemy all aircraft formations
evacuation effort. Eighteen Blenheims a level (1,000-3,000
series of attacks on the batteries near bombed Gravelines, from low to coincide with the
During the early morning hours of Pointe the de June the R.A.F. carried out a
feet), but were unable to observe results.
By night, the policy was continued of directing a small proportion of our
effort to targets near the battlefront and the main weight against Germany ;
and air in conformity with this policy twelve Wellingtons attacked Bergues.
Blocking of Dunkirk Inner Harbour (Operation C.K.) (See Plan 4 and
Appendix Z)
The blocking of the inner harbour at Dunkirk was under the command of
Captain E. Dangerfield, R.N., and was carried out on two successive nights.
The operation was first timed to be carried out on the night 1st-2nd June, but
at 1808 on the 31st the Admiralty ordered its postponement.
On each night three blockships, escorted by a destroyer, an MA/S.B. and an
M.T.B., were employed. The blockships assembled in the Downs, and (as
usual) they were such crocks that one, the French built Emerald Wings (Govern-
ment Yard, Cherbourg, 1920) broke down soon after leaving Portsmouth for
the Downs and had to be towed back to harbour; a second could not keep up
with the convoy; and a third, the Moyle, developed defects which, however,
by dint of working on her all night, were remedied in time.
The ships finally employed on the night 2nd-3rd June were as follows :-
Vivacious (destroyer)
M.A/S.B. 7
M.T.B. 107
Blockships Westcove 2734 tons, built 1912
Edvard Nissen 2062 tons, built 1921.
Holland Dutch M.V. 895 tons, built 1923.
Early on the 2nd of June Admiral Nord asked that the blockships might be
sent over to arrive at the entrance to Dunkirk harbour at 0300 on the 3rd, the
latest hour at which they could enter on that night, by which time it was hoped
the evacuation would have been completed. During the afternoon of the 2nd
however, the Admiralty received a message from the Admiral postponing the
operation because the evacuation would not be completed that night. However,
the Admiralty still hoped to complete the evacuation and ordered the block-
ships to sail.
At 2030 on the 2nd the Vivacious, with Captain Dangerfield on board and
with M.T.B. 107 in tow and M.A/S.B. 7 in company, sailed from the Downs,
leading the three blockships, and proceeded to Dunkirk by Route Z. The
Holland, unable to maintain the 71 knots speed of the convoy, was soon lost
to sight astern. Nearing Dunkirk a tug (either the Sun X, Sun XI or Foremost
87), towing a very long line of boats, crossed her bows and still further delayed
her, but she eventually made contact with M.A/S.B. 7 and asked to be led
into the harbour. The other two blockships had anchored at 0230, and a
1 This is her correct name
111

Details

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

Details

THE FINAL NIGHT, 3RD-4TH JUNE
CHAP. XII
on motor boats, sailed the Thark with the motor boats,
the 3rd the tugs Sun from IV, Tanga, Ramsgate Sun to XV, Dunkirk. and Racia, Two towing of between them
were on account of water trouble petrol; the Diana Mary was
14 abandoned on the way across: in the while foul propeller and rudder,
mouth, to piled up 28 Dunkirk troops), on some with and submerged engine the barge masonry of the (though Admiral in Dunkirk she Superintendent, eventually harbour and returned Ports- was
abandoned. After waiting off Dunkirk since 2300 on the 3rd, the four tugs
ordered at about 0200 on the 4th to go alongside the (East) Pier and
embark were as many troops as possible, and by the time they were ordered to
out they had collected 203 between them. Of the 14 motor boats which
started clear from Ramsgate with the tugs only 5 or 6 found their way back ; all
the remainder were abandoned for one reason or another.
Embarkations at the West Pier (see Plan 4)
Owing to confusion of nomenclature it is impossible in every case to specify
definitely at which of the west piers or jetties the ships (other than destroyers
and personnel vessels which berthed at the east pier) embarked their troops.
In the western part of the port, reading from west to east, were (1) the West
Pier (termed western jetty in the Sailing Directions), (2) the West Quay or
Guiding Jetty, and (3) the Inner Western Pier (the inner or old western jetty
of the Sailing Directions). Of the other three skoots that came over with the
Lena, the Bornrif stated that she embarked 96 troops at the West Mole"
between 2230 on the 3rd and 0100 on the 4th, and the Hondsrug 308 at the
"West Pier' between 2245 and 0000; while the Pascholl, which had been
commanded by four different captains in 8 days, does not specify from which
part of the port she lifted the 255 troops with which she sailed at 0030. Another
skoot, the Rina, which had spent 24 hours at Dunkirk, sailed about this time
with 300 troops.
The corvette Guillemot, which had come over with the Kingfisher, went to
the Western mole" and secured ahead of the minesweeper Speedwell at 2355,
leaving again at 0154 with French troops embarked to capacity" (460).
This was her first and only trip, her previous service having been as base ship
at Margate. The Speedwell which had berthed nearly an hour earlier than the
Guillemot, took off 396 French troops, and the Halcyon, which had sailed from
Dover in her company, 501.
The minesweeper Kellett grounded forward against the western breakwater
on a falling tide when she attempted to go alongside at 0100. It was an
anxious moment, for almost simultaneously there same a report that 6 enemy
T.B.Ds. were proceeding south-westward from off Ostend ; but the motor
lifeboat Greater London towed the Kellett's stern away from the wall and enabled
her to back away. She embarked a few troops from motor boats and sailed
for Margate at 0220 by orders of Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker, for the West
Pier was occupied and it would be some time before she could be loaded, and
the Rear-Admiral feared that so slow a ship might not be able to reach England
while our fighter patrols were operating. Two of the personnel ships were sent
by Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker to the West Pier instead of to the East Pier,
since the former was continuously crowded with French troops, whereas at
the East Pier there were gaps in the flow of men. One of the two, the Royal
Sovereign, embarked 1,350 men and sailed overladen half an hour after
she should have been clear.
Among the many ships and craft of which few or no details are recorded
117

Details

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX R
still remains evacuation will recommence 1700 evening. If so, strong continuous
Last boat in the morning will leave Dunkirk in the before 0700 hours. If part of garrison
patrols should be carried out over area from to 2100 hours, when operations
hours of darkness. Fighter patrols out over area in area during
will terminate night 1st/2nd June. should Night fighters be routed should patrol same
ships are working between N. Foreland and Dunkirk, and on return journey should
fly low on the same routeing to give vessels maximum protection against low flying
bomb and machine gun attack.
1930/1
15. ADMIRALTY to REAR-ADMIRAL, DOVER STRAITS, S.N.O. DUNKIRK (R) V.A. Dover
(A) Should there be a channel which it is possible to use during daylight hours,
from 2130 tonight Saturday until 0700 tomorrow Sunday.
it is intended that evacuation from Dunkirk should proceed continuously
(B) Continuous air protection will be provided from daylight tomorrow Sunday
until 0830 by fighters, and from 0830 until 1100 by Coastal Command.
(C) It will be decided tomorrow Sunday forenoon in the light of the naval and
night. military situation as to whether evacuation is to continue tomorrow Sunday
(D) It may also be necessary to carry out evacuation from 1730 tomorrow Sun-
day until dark, should evacuation in daylight still be possible.
(E) From the above it will be seen that there will be no ships proceeding to Dun-
kirk between 0700 and 1730 tomorrow Sunday.
(F) Request you will inform Admiral Abrial and General Alexander of the above
arrangements.
(G) Should it be impossible to use any of the 3 Channels from Dunkirk owing to
shell (R) shell fire from coast batteries you are to inform Admiralty
....
T.O.D. 2021/1
16. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
(a) Embarkation of troops from Dunkirk is to proceed continuously from 2130
today Saturday until 0700 tomorrow Sunday.
(b) Strong and continuous fighter protection will be provided from 0430 until
0830 tomorrow Sunday.
(c) Protection by Coastal Command will be provided from 0830 until 1100.
(d) It is hoped that the evacuation may be completed tonight but should this not
be night. possible, you should be prepared for further evacuation tomorrow Sunday
(e) It may be necessary to carry out evacuation from 1730 tomorrow Sunday
in addition to the night evacuation.
(f) Should it be decided that the conditions are such that evacuation cannot be
carried out between 0300 tomorrow Sunday and 0700 tomorrow Sunday,
you will be informed.
T.O.D. 2025/1
T.O.R. 2044/1
17. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to S.N.O. DUNKIRK
cease at 0300.
Evacuation tonight Saturday from west end of beach and from harbour only, to
destroyers will enter harbour.
Can embark about 9,000 from beach if weather remains calm. Lighters and
2045/1
184

Details

INDEX
Silver Moon, crosses to France without charts or compass, 53.
Silver Queen, 53, 60n.
Simpson, Ch. Skpr. D. W. L., R.N.R., lost, 34.
Simson, Capt. D. J. R., Capt. D. (19), killed, 9.
Siroco, 39, 43, 62n, 69 (sunk), 85.
Skipjack, 20, 28n, 31, 60, 86, 90 (sunk).
Skipwith, Cdr. L. P., handling of Royal Sovereign, 108.
Skoots: Commissioned, 7; return to Downs in error, 20; reach Dunkirk and beaches, 29;
continuous service, 30.
Skylark, sunk, 72.
Small craft: provision of 5, 15, 17, 21, 32, 51 manning difficulty, 17; sent to Dover,
in error, 21, 22; shortage of, 24-5, 32-3, 61, 76, 80-82, 127 losses of 32, 36; difficulties
due to weather, 36, 48, 69-70; overcrowding, 36; supply increases, 51, 61, 71
ordered to move towards Dunkirk, 86-7; return empty to England, 100.
broached to and stranded, 58, 69-70; cast adrift and lost, 60; all vanished, 86;
Snaefell, 100-1.
S.N.O. Afloat, see Bush, Capt, E. W. and Wake-Walker, Rear-Adm. W. F.
S.N.O. Dunkirk, see Tennant, Capt. W. G.
Solomon, S/Lt. M. B. H., R.N.V.R., 73n.
Spanish refugees, 100-1.
Speedwell, 86, 90, 107n, 109, 114n, 117.
Spurs, 32n, 69 (hunts S/M.), 110 (damaged).
Starlight Rays, 60n, 107n, 108.
Stella Dorado, 34n, 69, 85 (sunk).
Stella Reigel, 85.
Stephenson, Vice-Adm. G. O., 49 (act. Cdre.), 58 (takes charge off La Panne), 66-7, 79,
83; effect of his arrival, 126.
Strathelliot, 72, 101.
Stubbs, Lt., 81.
Submarine Chaser 6, 107n.
Submarines (German): believed minelaying, 38; sighted, 69.
Sunshine, 60n, 75n.
Sun IV, 71n, 104n, 117.
Sun V, 32, 36 (put out of action).
Sun VII, 71n.
Sun VIII, 71n.
Sun X, 107n, 111.
Sun XI, 71n, 107n, 111.
Sun XII, 71n.
Sun XV, 71a, 104, 114n, 117.
Sunny Isle, lost, 110.
Surcouf, 62n.
Sursum Corda, 29n.
Survivors, machine gunned, 44, 90, 92.
Sutton, 28n, 31, 42, 47, 86 (attacked), 101.
Swallow, 69-70, 72n, 114n.
Swift Wing, 7In.
Tanga, 71n, 88, 114n, 117.
Tanks, British worn out, 6.
Taransay, 71n.
Taylor, Rear-Adm. (act. Cdre.), A. H., (Dynamo Maintenance Officer), 21, 97.
Tennant, Capt. W. G., 16, 50 (appointed S.N.O. Dunkirk); 21-22 (assumes duty)
22 (sends dramatic signal) 24, 48 (asks for all ships to be sent to Dunkirk) ; 50 (res-
ponsible England). under R.A. Dover) ; 50n (false report sent in his absence) ; 108 (embarks for
Thark, lost, 117.
Thele, 71n.
Thérèse Compas, 73.
Thérèse Louis, 62n.
Thirlwall, A/Ldg. Sea. R., 93.
Thomas Bartlett, sunk, 34.
Thornton, Lt. Cdr. M., 47n.
Thuringia, sunk, 34, 38.
Thurston, Lt. N., mortally wounded, 86.
Thyra, 71n.
Tibbits, Lieut., 79.
206

Details

Details

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screw 20-tonner, with forecastle-mid-ship
covered steering cock-pit; aft of that came a. galley to starboard,
and single sþeeping cabin to port, and then a saldon; there was
a small after cock-pit. She was a fine ship, whose only draw-
back was the difficulty of making anybody get the name right.
In accordance with instructions, the owner had stripped her of
a
masts and putting on quay and flxing
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to P.
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Moored Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.

Details

SEPTEM
156, Earl's Court Road,
London, S.W.5,
ed for crews when on Thursday,
10/1/41.
at he would not be able to
Dear Sir,
as he had been asked to keep
I enclose a description of my
er, that it might be worth my
part in the Dunkirk operation, a part
his River Emergency Service
neither glorious, nor even helpful,
or two false alarms I received
but it has a slight interest in that
Office on Saturday, 1st June,
it was the last night of the operation.
umbrella to go home at 1310.
One small point which I did not put in,
330 to take delivery of the
but which may be useful as adding colour
ould receive further instruc-
to your story was that, as we were
ere Reginald Brown, who knew
going along past Broadstairs on our
and picked SE up some
way to Ramsgate, I remembered that
at exactly that time last year (the
but the yacht was nearly two
first Sunday of June) and only about
owner and builder, Mr Guy
three hours earlier, I had been sailing
ate enough, as I had only my
the identical waters at the beginning
1 very old pair of out-size
is to proceed immediately to
Gravesend, where we were to report to "Eternal Wave", so we set
off downstream tidying up as we went along. "Madame Sans Gêne"
was a fairly new twin-screw 20-tonner, with forecastley mid-ship
covered steering cock-pit; aft of that came a. galley to starboard,
and single speeping cabin to port, and then a saldon; there was
a small after cock-pit. She was a fine ship, whose only draw-
back was the difficulty of making anybody get the name right.
In accordance with instructions, the owner had stripped her of
masts a machine and 5 putting on quay and fixing
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make at swell. half-speed fast The tow to ease ropes the of strain two of of the the yachts tow Arrived ropes. broke and off Slight they
told to proceed on under own power.
Dunkiy
were at 11.30 and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
the Mole, p.m. and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

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DUNKIRK
It
I only heard casually of the need for crews when on Thursday,
the 30th May, Denis Dalby told me that he would not be able to
come sailing with me that week-end, as he had been asked to keep
himself free. He suggested, moreover, that it might be worth my
ch
while getting in tough with Quill at his River Emergency Service
station. This I did, and after one or two false alarms I received
a telephone message at the Dominions Office on Saturday, 1st June,
just as I was picking up my hat and umbrella to go home at 1310.
"Could I be at Westminster Pier at 1330 to take delivery of the
motor yacht 'Madame Sans Gene'? I would receive further instruc-
tions on the Pier, and would meet there Reginald Brown, who knew
all about engines." I said, "Yes", and picked SE up some
sandwiches and beer on my way.
Brown was to time at the Pier, but the yacht was nearly two
hours late. We took over from the owner and builder, Mr Guy
Shelley of Gosport, and I was fortunate enough, as I had only my
Office clothes, to borrow from him a very old pair of out-size
dungarees. We received instructions to proceed immediately to
Gravesend, where we were to report to "Eternal Wave", so we set
off downstream tidying up as we went along. "Madame Sans Gêne"
was a fairly new twin-screw 20-tonner, with forecastley mid-ship
covered steering cock-pit; aft of that came a. galley to starboard,
and single sheeping cabin to port, and then a saldon; there was
a small after cock-pit. She was a fine ship, whose only draw-
back was the difficulty of making anybody get the name right.
In accordance with instructions, the owner had stripped her of
masts and putting on quay and fixing
a machine gun and
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. and Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke off they
told to proceed on under own power. Arrived Dunkir Dunkiy
were at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Moored
past alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops Frenchmen. on
the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40

Details

2
all gear except, fortunately, the galley stove, and one or two
lates and cups and one knife. Life, therefore, was to be very
simple.
We arrived at Gravesend at about 1800, and on finding
"Eternal Wave" deserted, reported to the Naval Control Office
immediately above where she was moored. We were sent across the
river to wait for instructions at the River Emergency Service,
where we were given a warm welcome by the two Jeffreys brothers
in the motor yacht to which they were attabhed. Our principal
need was tea, which they satisfied nobly. Shortly afterwards we
received instructions to collect petrol from the River Emergency
Service stores, and then hold ourselves in readiness. As there
was no accommodation on board, we were to stay at the Tilbury
Hotel.
Sunday, 2nd June There we remained until the following mornining
until, just as we were about to sit down to lunch, we were given
instructions to take on board necessary provisions, and proceed
immediately to Sheerness. The Jeffreys brothers had fortunately
been allowed to join us. We crossed over to X Gravesend, took
on provisions (for which we had been given a voucher) and our
duties were detailed by the officer in charge of the Pier: the
elder Jeffreys (they always addressed one another as Jeff, so I
never learnt their names) as Skipper, the other as Mate, Brown
as Engineer, and myself as cook and deck-hand.
We set off at about 1400 with a strong tide under us
against a fresh North Easterly wind. In spite of the unpleasant
chop, the vessel behaved extremely well, and we made excellent
progress to Sheerness, which we reached at about tea-time. There
a machine gun and ammuni tion -
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceea
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

Free
STATE
BITO
and
SHIS
BITS
SEW
3B
STOLB
and
DOVINGS
GITUB
bng
uses
From
Landa
MILE
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we signed a 3x12* T.124 agreement, drew tin hats and service gas
blon
in
DOBUTA
MUTOR
ABOUP
ox
masks, and took on board two sacks of bully beef, bread, biscuits,
FIred
F667
MOTOR
OF
MILOTO
START
butter, tea and sugar, and enough petrol for about 140 miles'
TO
DUS
notd
9.00
steaming. By that time Sheerness had been denuded of most of the
BBW
STATE
IL
stores that we most needed in the way of blankets and clothes,
86000180
Used
but an officer took pity on my lack of clothes , and found me
MOLO
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OF
so
BOXAT
a battle-dress tunic and anti-gas oilskin. We were also given
aus
rather small-scale charts of the lower part of the Thames Estuary
03
1982
and of the passage across the Channel, and it was explained to us
or
that the whole route from Ramsgate to Dunkirk had been buoyed at
5-mile intervals.
At about 1800, as soon as we had taken aboard our stores,
DEGD
we left for Ramsgate, and had an uneventful passage. The tide
GIFTED
OF
was turning against us, but the wind was dying, and we entered
offer
Ramsgate at about midnight, having passed through what seemed like
Teven
hundreds of small coasting vessels, anchored all along the coast
from Margate to the Downs. It was at the beginning of this pas-
sage that we were joined by the most useless person it has ever
been my fate to meet on any yacht (with the sole exception of a
photographic model the length of whale whose nails always pre-
cluded her from doing any manual work). We had been asked to
deliver him to another yacht, but meanwhile he was not only in-
capable of any seamanship, but proved even unable to open a tin.
Most of his time was spent in telling us how he was a "key man"
in the Board of Inalnd Revenue, so, when we could not find him
his ship, we managed to play sufficiently on his sense of his own
a machine gun and ammunition
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceea
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

pass
DOBIG
2003
4
importance to get rid of him early the following morning. Doubt-
Less his colleagues have heard more about Dunkirk than the First
Lord himself.
FOLLOW
Ramsgate Harbour was packed many vessels deep with tugs,
DITE
motor yachts, old converted oyster smacks, R.A.F. and W.D. lauches
(aristocrats in that somewhat motley gathering) and former yachts
STO
taken over by the Admiralty, and now painted a war-time grey.
COURT
We moored against the outside of these, and it took us nearly
five minutes in the dark clambering from vessel to vessel before
we reached the quay-side. We reported to the Naval Control
Officer, snd were told that there was nothing for us for the time
being. When we explained that we had no bedding, we were told
to go to "Merrie Englande". This sounded most comforting, but
in fact at this point the war really began to show itself.
"Merrie Englande", formerly a fun-fair, contained on the ground floor
a number of bad stretcher cases lying about and breathing heavily,
with nurses sitting in deck chairs beside them. All round were
mounds of dirty clothes and mattresses. Upstairs, in the ball-
room, was the sleeping accommodation. All the places where
hammocks could be slung were already occupied, and the whole
ball-room floor was vovered with men lying ,some on chairs and
some on the bare boards, and packed so tightly that we could not
five
find room for the funx of us to sleep. We returned downstairs
and found some palliasses, which we laid on the floor blood-stained
side downwards, and spent a somewhat uneasy three or four hours.
Monday, 3rd June. We rose early the following morning and got
some food from a canteen run by volunteers, and then cleaned our-
a machine gun and ammunition Van
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine o-
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir Dunkin
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.

Details

5
selves and the boat as best we could and breakfasted at a restaurant
at which I had often called in the past when sailing round the
coast. On further application at the Naval Control Office we
were told that if our services were wanted, the flag would be
hoisted, and until then we could do what we wished. We shopped,
I
and I bought myself some workmen's trousers, a persey and plimsolls,
in order to produce a more nautical effect than that of my outsize
dungarees; these clothes, combined with a battle dress tunic,
made a combination that sh ocked naval ratings, but seemed fitting
for such an amphibios expedition.
At about 1100 the X flag went up, and we were told that
a convoy would set off at 1600. We were to commandeer the
necessary petrol, if we had not already got enough for the double
journey, lifebelts, and two long ladders. As we were to be
towed over, we were also instructed to obtain appropriate
lines. Whilst we were busy doing this, a Lieutenat Atterbuy
Atterbury, R.N.V.R., asked us whether we were going over and received
permission to join us. He was able to help us in getting stores,
including the much-needed blankets, and a Lewis gunner with his
gun, which was lashed in the after cock-pit. As soon as the
gunner had done that, he lay down in the cabin and slept for
several hours without taking any notice of the noises going on
round him: he had been over the previous night. Our preparations,
and getting a meal, took up most of the remaining time.
Just before we were due to leave, Lieut. Atterbury went
ashore to received sailing instructions, but as I was not present
speaking
I never heard the exact details. Broadly/ however, we were to
a machine gun and ammuni tion Van
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceea
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

/
BOITG
3912
COUNTRY
STATE
Are
DEPARTMENT
DUE
SEALT
bruop
Emilo
Form
DEFT
Good
SECURI
Consis
STREET
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OGZES
be towed over, and cast off just outside the harbour. We were to
FIRES
proceed up to the quay, put our ladders alongside, take off such
988113
men as we could, and transfer them to larger vessels outside. At
DICTOR
0230 we must leave the harbour without fail, and proceed home
under our own power, taking with us any men we might have aboard.
Joa
BIGGS
Dugs
At 1600 we left Ramsgate Harbour, and assembled outisde,
Someon
DIUOW
for
with some six or seven motor yachts and a life boat, all to be
TONSOO
taken in tow by a large sea-going tug. The difficulties of
/
passing lines to so many veseels were considerable, and it was
T970
1700 beforez the whole tow was pr operly assembled. We then set
nhot
FORGO
off at about 8 knots astern of the tug. It was a brilliantly
sunny afternoon, with a smoothe sea and a North-Easterly (beam)
and
wind. The whole KE sea was alive with vessels of all sizes:
BEIGB
tugs, R.A.F. laugnhes, and a few motor yachts. One or two
110718
THIS
destroyers passed, returning at full speed. There were noz
signs of enemy planes, and our only interest was ticking off the
buoys, as we came up to them, one after the other. A short way
Long
out our Lewis gunner was roused and took his post by his gun;
birb
he was a nice lad, who had joined up early in the war, and admitted
that his seamanship was limited to one day's instruction in knots.
The remainder of the crew took it in turns to get a little sleep
on the berthsnow made comparatively comfortable by our blankets.
When some three hours on our way, the crew of the tug
decided to straighten out a new warp by trailing it astern.
They tried to trail it from one quarter, to avoid the properlers
of the vessels towing astern, but as these were sheering about a
it was not long before the warp fouled one of our propellers, and
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun
a machine gun and ammunition On
all harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
across fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were at 11.30 and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Moored Dunkir
told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir
past alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
the Mole, p.m. and up the Canal for about 2 miles.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

she
OACE
OF
DELIOD
a
Famor
Janef
OF
lood
7
OR
and the propeller and rudder of the motor yacht astern of us. As
OF
OHIO
SEAL
Tennu
OFSO
Che vessel astern was entirely unmanageable, she was abandoned,
and the crew went aboard the tug (in fact, as I subsequently
heard, one of her crew was left aboard asleep, and woke up to
DATE
find himself in a deserted and helpless motor yacht in the
middle of the North Sea. Fortunately, he managed to attract
the attention of a passing vessel, and was taken off) As one
of our propellers was still running, though somewhat jerkily,
it was hoped that we would still be able to handle her. The
convoy then continued. By now Dunkirk was distinguishable in
the distance by the immense grey cloud hanging over the sky
to its South; as we came nearer, the cloud turned a dense
black. The firing, which we had heard faintly in Ramsgate,
increased all the time in intensity. My own troubles, however,
were of a more intimate character, for the towing motion was most
disturbing, and I could regognise all the symptoms, that I knew
so well of old, of approaching sea-sickness. The occasional
need for action inatting away the tow-line saved my face.
Dusk had fallen before we approached the harbour, marked
only by one green flashing buoy. The tow was now broken and the
various vessels went off as intructed. When, how ever, we started
up, the propeller, which had al ready been working very irregularly
stopped completely, and it was obvious that we should not be able
to use the vessel at all. Meanwhile, one of our towing lines had
chafed through, and the other was beginning to chafe, so the tug
f
passed us two very heavy warps, and an old piece of cavas for
parcelling them. As soon as the warps were passed, the tug
a machine gun and ammunition on
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

STATE
DITA
anw
SELLE
17879A
OF
WOTD
Lodaey
SETS
8
University
DUG
proceeded slowly into the harbour, and anchored just outside the
OF
intrance.
BEDRID
batz
The scene was then most theatrical in appearance. As
ship
a backcloth there was a semi-cimrcle of blazing town, with here
and there flames of burning oil towering fifty or a hundred feet
into the air, and silhouetting the buildings, the lightnouse,
and the piers, on which the figures of the men running backwards
and forwards were plainly visible. Now and then parachute flares
or flaming onions would light up a portion of the scene, and in
the foreground vessels of every possible shape and size were
moving without lights in all directions, suggesting a nightmare
of a cadet about to take an examination in the rule of the
road, "Now, which vessel has right of way?"
Whilst we were anchored, a destroyer manoeuvering just
ahead of us, drove baak broadside onto the bow of the tug,
thrusting her back onto us, but fortunately without doing any
damage, as the tug's counter was lifting at the moment she struck.
Tuesday, 4th Junes At about 0200 it was decided to take the tug
up to the quay. We were ordered aboard, and scrambled onto the
tug, bringing the Lewis gun with us, but leaving all our gear
behind? We also had the presence of mind to bring with us a
bottle of wine, and a cold pie whic h we had treasured throughout
the journey. We proceeded slowly into the harbour, threading our
way in between the vessels going in and out, passing close to the
worecks of some of the old pleasure steamers that had suck in the
previous days. Just as we approached the pier, a destroyer
ahead of us reversed out, and collided with our starboard quarter.
a machine gun and ammunition on
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

9
No damage was done, but we gazed up the side of a seemingly endless
estroyer, reaching quzxfxz 10 or 15 fifteen feet above us, and
saw vaguely the figures of ratings rather helplessly waving
collision mats. We went up to the side of the pier, and ran our
ladders alongside, taking off some 150 or 200 French soldiers.
Our own particular job, however, was limited to tending the two
warps of our motor yacht, to prevent them fouling the tug's
propellers. We were only beside the pier two or three minutes,
and then turned round and made for home at full speed. Unfor-
žunez tunately, it was not possible to tow the motor yacht at
this pace, and she was finally cut adrist, carrying with her,
amongst other things, my best black hat and umbrella, and office
suit.
Just at dawn there was a sudden scare when an aeroplane
was sighted. The the Lewis guns from our own, and two other,
vessels were immediately brought to bear on her, and as tracer
bullets were being used it was easy to see the cone of fire all
I
concentrated on the one target. As a scuttered for cover, I felt
a patter of metal on to my back, and thought for a second that my
last hour was come, until I realised that it was the empties
falling onto me from one of the guns. After firing for only a
few seconds, the aeroplane crashed into the sea astern, and we
continued on our way unmolested. Much of the return journey
I spent drinking tea in the galley (a broiling hell, whose presiding
demon was a small and helpful boy of about 14) and sleeping in the
forecastle of the tug, whose crew was most kind to us. We
the a machine in gun and of ammunition ease on at with 4 us, quay 2.30 p.m. the other under p.m. to strain the yachts.35 of Tug of "SUN Three p.m. tow ropes. gun broke to other to Engines proceed be towed and yachts Slight running they
tow ropes of under two own the yachts Arrived in off 1 1
swell. were at 11.30 told p.m. Mole, to off from Tug. for to on about take board troops Frenchmen. 2 board.
past Could find the the no

Details

10
anchored off Ramsgate at about 0730, and went ashore with our
soldiers in motor launches. When we had reported, we cleaned
ourselves up at "Merrie Englande", and had breakfast in the
ratings mess, finding the ratings most friendly and helpful to
us, as none of us, of course, had anything but what we stood up
in. We were then given railway and food vouchers and told to
report at Sheerness, where we would be signed off. I arrived
there at about 1230, and after waiting for about an hour and a
half, whilst, we were told, the Commander was listening to the
wireless, we received a medical examination, and our discharge,
with three days' leave. I then returned to London, whilst
Brown, who was in any case due to join the Navy shortly, joined
up as an engineer in the freshly formed coastal patrol.
G. KIMBER
Dominions office,
Downing S⁺ stil.
#
W
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Or
ie
wh
S.
a machine gun and ammunition on board.
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on deck -
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

COPY
act of letter from Lieut. Charles Waterland Read, R.N.
dated 11th Sept.1940.
" I was sent to Ramsgate for the Evacuation, and selected the BONNY
HEATHER myself as a leader of a Convoy of motor boats for the Beach
work, and believe me the choice was justified, as of the whole lot
attached to the Convoy we were the only one to finish the course
throughout.
I'm afraid I am rather bad at descriptive accounts, but perhaps
one day I may have the pleasure of meeting you and then probably
be able to tell you more about the affair. This I can tell you, the
BONNY HEATHER behaved like a perfect lady in spite of theunusual
treatment she received, and stood up to it like a trojan and never
let us down - 7 complete round trips Ramsgate/Dunkirk after filling up
Transports (lying off) from the Beaches.
You say you heard third hand that we carried 80 men. I
don't know, of course, who told you that, but it was true on the last
trip, but normally about 60. On one trip that we picked up survivors
from the S.S. "Scotia" which was sunk by bombs, when full of French
Colonial tropps, we picked up the Chief Steward and 40 soldiers out
of the water and with our own crew a total of 45 wet sodden men, some
all in and they were lying about and not standing as soldiers were
in goodish condition, so you can imagine what your little vessel had
to put up with.
We tried to keep her in as good condition as possible under
the circumstances from sheer admiration of the gallant little ship,
which in my opinion deserves to carry the .C.colours.
I can't even begin to describe the Hell under which the
operations were carried out - bombed, machine gunned, shelled, caught
in parachute flares and bombed. - that little ship was certainly built
И
in a lucky zone, and dodging and twisting never once let us down,
f
loaded as she was.
V
dt
Trusting I have not bored you with this account, which I
tl
regret to say does not do justice to your famous little vessel. "
no
We
Th
on
iel
ne
I S
is
inf
whi
S.V
a machine gun and ammunition on board.
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on deck -
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

ommanding Officer of H.M.Y "Christabel" II.
ne 2nd 1940.
Extended Defence Officer,
Admiralty House, Sheerness.
arrative of Events from first signal to arriving at Sheerness.
Sir,
I beg to submit the following report:-
On receipt of your signal passed to me by H.M.Y. "Calatea," I proceeded
to Outer Bar Buoy and met H.M.Y. "Calatea, "Amalree," and "Glala," I was
handed your letter by "Glala," instructing me to take these yachts to the
North Goodwin light vessel, there to close the examination vessel for
further instructions. We proceeded in line ahead led by "Xaleta," as Sub-
Lieut, Dunning knew the channel, owing to non-appearance of examination
vessel I decided to anchor my ships for the night, at 04.00 I ordegered
my engines to be started and to go and see if I could find the examination
vessel, as it was now dawn, at 05.00 my engineman reported a defect, I
gave orders for remainder of yachts to close examination vessel at 06.00
and proceed according to instructions they received.
We ven eventually got one engine running, and I decided to proceed to
Ramsgate for repairs, which I reported to the examination vessel. Just
before arriving at Ramsgate at I0.00 my engineman reported that he had
the Port engine running, I anchored off Ramsgate pier and immediately pro-
ceeded ashore in ship's dinghy for my routing instructions. These I was
given without any delay, and at I0.15 we were under way for Dunkirk.
When in position approximately 5I-I2' N. 2-28'E, we were attacked by a
Junkers 87 and machine gunned, his burst of fire fell all round the ship,
I gave orders to my gun layer not to open fire on him until he was well
within range, as I did not think he would be able to see our Lewis gun at
his height, immediately we opened fire he sheered off.
f
V
I anchored off the Casino at Dunkirk at 15.30, as I saw a lot of troops
1
waiting to be embarked, I went off in the ship's dinghy to see how I could
the
get some of these troops on board, there was too much surf running to land,
I was also informed that these troops were French and would crowd the boat
no
so much, that she would be swamped, I learnt that a prty of about & 50
We
British troops would arrive at about 17.00 at that part of the beach, I
returned to the ship and decided to cruise about to see if I could find a
The
boat of some description to embark these men, I went as far as La Panne
and was there spoken by a sloop who asked me to take his boat and try and
on
ier
get troops off to him from that part of the beach, we were being contin-
ually shelled and bombed, at about this time a salvo of bombs fell across
I s]
our stern, the last bomb falling about 30ft away, the only effect was to
infa
drag our stern down a few feet in the water. We opened fire on this aero-
whic
plane which was a heavy bomber type Sornier I7. We registered a direct
hit with our Lewis gun and his starboard engine burst into flames, and he
crashed into the sea, as other ships were also firing I cannot claim this
S.V.
aeroplane definitely.
to get more
manner in which he engaged the
a machine gun and ammunition on board.
outside ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to on
masts all and putting on quay and fixing machine gun deck -
make fast in company with other yachts. Three other towed
across harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to proceed be
swell. to ease the strain of the tow ropes. running
at half-speed astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines yachts
were told The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and Slight
at 11.30 to proceed on under own power. Arrived off they
past the p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir Dunkin
Could alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

of
STREET
DEPARTMENT
Linex
gone
OACI
THE
HOUSEY
190
3
SUIT
is
sald
Streets
STATES
2.
ate
Jindua
had promised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I steamed back at
TO
sible speed hoping to find a boat to bring them off, we were fortu-
te you finding a whaler adrift which we managed to pick up with our dinghy
2018
of
immediately zsent these two boats ashore, and started to embark troops
THERE
DIS
YOUR
move
sad
t approximately 17.50 this was very difficult as the beach is very flat
and there was a surf running, and as soon as a few men got into the whaler,
Todays
STATE
TS
WD
STOUB
&
she grounded, two of my crew with the assistance of some of the troops, by
wading up to their armpits managed to get her afloat in deep enough water
ox
THE
DEW
THON
To
ASSTD
to float with I6 mem and two of my crew on board and also four men and two
of my crew in the dinghy, the la whaler was got alongside after a great
struggle as there were only three oars in it, as soon as these men were got
Bluer
on board I sent the whaler and dinghy ashore for another load, the dinghy
of
arrived back with I Officer and four soldiers, getting her off the beach
TOP
earl
she capsized in the surf, but fortunately she was righted, as these men
in
they
were being got on board we were heavily bombed, so I stood out to sea to
wait for a lull, one bomber sighted us and followed us out bombing us, but
107
DEOGBOST
THE
they fell very wide of the mark, aa soon as I deemed it advisable I steamed
THE
back to the beach, I saw the whaler heading out to us, they had a great
difficulty in getting off and could only bring nine men off, as it was now
BIAGU FUE STEPORT KORE SIGNATURE
STUD
21.15 and the bombing had restarted I thought it advisable to get under way.
I had been afraid to stop engines all day as I knew it would be almost im-
possible to re-start as our air compressor engine had given out, one engine
actually stopped, but was got going again after a short while. I had the
whaler cast adrift as I knew it would drift ashore and some more men would
7
be able to get off to the ships that were waiting to take th m off, my only
regret was being unable to embark the remaining I4 men from this party.
standary
STA8
USIVE
I got under way at 21,45 with my own dinghy in tow as I did not want to
Y
waste time getting her hoisted, as soon as were clear of the bombing out-
2
in
side Dunkirk roads I stopped the ship and hoisted the dinghy which was by
now almost full of water.
I
When in position approximately 5I-15 N. I-55'E at 23.00 a bomber flew very
low over us. I did not open fire as I did not want to give away our posi-
tion, soon after this, I reduced speed so as not to close the North Goodwin
light vessel much before dawn. I did not wish to anchor as my windlass
would not work, also I had to keep the engines running, at 04.30 I got away
from the North Goodwin light vessel and proceeded yr the Nore and closed
V.B.IO to report to Sheerness, just about this time mya engineman reported
the-oil that he would have to stop the Starboard engine as it had water in
the oil and he was afraid it would seize up, also that the Port engine was
not running too well.
We tied up in Sheerness at 08.25.
The whole of my crew behaved in an exemplary manner, they were continually
on duty during the whole period, gave over their accomodation to the sold-
iers, and fitted them out in dry clothes and did what they could for them.
I should like to mention specially O.S. John Philip Charles Mead, for his
unfailing help during the whole time and the cool and efficient may in
which he emabr- ambarked the troops.
S.V.G.L. Cyril George Dunley for the cool manner in which he engaged the
to a machine get and more gun putting and ammunition on quay and on fixing board. Orders machine came gun to proceed on deck towed -
masts all ready harbour to sail at at 4 2.30 p.m. p.m. to yachts. the Tug "SUN Three XV" other to be yachts
outside across fast in company astern of with us, other under strain way of 6.35 the p.m. tow ropes. Engines and Slight running they
make at swell. half-speed The tow to ease ropes on the of under two of own the power. yachts Proceeded Arrived broke into off Dunkir Dunkiy
were at 11.30 told the p.m. Mole, to proceed and and cast up the off proceeded Canal from Tug. for to about take troops 2 miles. on board. Moored
past alongside Could find the no Englishmen quay and so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

sal
LOTOR
the
3
STATE
aeroplanes which attacked us,
Shout
agen
newan James William Damerell for not leaving the engine-room from the
e we left the North Goodwin light vessel, back to Sheerness and in mana-
ng to keep the engines running.
OBP
in
Lieut. R.N.V.R.
If the We Letter OF the
I should be glad 1f you a notice
Carewell, K.C., of 2 NOTES Court 3.0.6.
Le sexious for information about the work of
Re hall a notice in the Plane
December is it is hoped is a being dealing
the yeahtman's side of the question For the of a
sherity if can get were
He particularly wants time) of
disensions of the boabs and any
to their expariences, number OF
emoge brought off.
1 NEW going to mention this to
had been no the Show, because
of mine, we W-YYO at School togethere west
ISSUE are the Truatees of the Punds at
Actually I have not seen him for
friend who ealled my attention to
knowing me WS a Donkirk motor birth non,
that 1 Occessil. Since then
and be particularly
of the Clubs.
IN show
sincerely,
to get and ammunition on board. Taking deck ship's
more fuel on board and alongside another out
masts to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to be
a machine and gun putting on quay and fixing machine gun to proceed on -
all ready harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" other yachts towed
outside company with other yachts. Three
across in astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines Slight running
make fast to ease the strain of the tow ropes. broke and they
at half-speed tow ropes of two of the yachts off
were told to and cast off from Tug. Proceeded miles. Moored
swell. The proceed on under own power. Arrived into Dunkir Dunkiy
at 11.30 p.m. and up the Canal for about 2 board.
past the Mole, the quay and proceeded to take troops 40 Frenchmen. on
Could alongside find no Englishmen so took on board

Details

LEWI
Flue
good
GG & SMITH.
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS.
GROVELAND HOUSE,
BOW LANE,
FRANCIS LEGG.F.O.A.
BASIL A.SMITH,LLD,FQA.
FO.S.LONDON,F.C.A.
LONDON, E.C.4.
TELEPHONE: CITY 4301 (2 LINES)
TELEGRAMS: ACCOLEGITH,PHONE,LONDON.
23rd December 1940.
CABLES: ACCOLEGITH,LONDON.
A.E.Scrace Esq.,
251 Upper Richmond Road,
Putney, S.W.15.
Dear Scrace,
Little Ship Club.
If the War News Letter of the Club has not yet gone
to press I should be glad if you could include a notice
that .Casswell, K.C., of 2 Mitre Court Buildings, E.C.4.
is anxious for information about the work of motor boats at
Dunkirk. He had a notice in the Times somewhere about the
5th December as it is hoped to publish a book dealing with
the yachtman's side of the question for the benefit of a
charity if he can get enough matter from those who were
engaged.
He particularly wants names of persons and boats with
dimensions of the boats and any information he can get as
to their experiences, number of trips made and number of
troops brought off.
I was going to mention this to you on Friday if you
had been at the Show, because Casswell is a very old friend
of mine, we were at School together and he and I and another
man are the Trustees of the Funds of the Old Boys' Club.
Actually I have not seen him for some months and it was a
friend who called my attention to the notice in the Times,
knowing me as a Dunkirk motor boat man, but not realising
that I know Casswell. Since then I have been in touch with
Casswell and he particularly wants to get this brought to the
notice of the Clubs.
It was a very good show on Friday night, though a
very small one, I think those who were there enjoyed themselves.
he
0
Yours sincerely, Mind
to more fuel on board and alongside ano
machine get gun and ammunition on board. Taking out deck ship's
masts a and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on -
all harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make across fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir Dunkin
were at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Moored
past alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on
the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

DUNKIRK
MAY/JUNE 1940
LOG OF "LETITIA"
"LETITIA" was an ex-naval harbour launch conversion, 52-ft.
long, 12-ft. beam and 4-ft.9-ins. draught, schooner rigged, fitted
with twin screws driven by Thornycroft R.A.4 petrol-paraffin engine.
She attended the Pavillon d'Or Rally at Liege, Belgium, in
July 1939 her number being 73. After the Rally she returned to
her moorings in Chichester Canal just before war broke out and was
laid up there until requisitioned by the Ministry of Shipping on
the 30th of May 1940 for the Dunkirk Evacuation.
EXTRACT FROM LOG:
"Friday - 31st May 1940. In Chichester Canal, painting
yacht grey, preparing for sea and getting crew together.
h.
Saturday - 1st June 1940. Filling up tanks with petrol
and paraffin. Orders came through at 6 p.m. to proceed
to Ramsgate. Waiting tide until 10 p.m. when locked out
d
of Canal and proceeded to moorings outside awaiting day-
light. Went ashore for final orders.
er-
Sunday - 2nd June 1940. Left moorings at 6 a.m. and pro-
ceeded down Harbour in company of yachts "FALCON", "WARRIOR"
and "IDAHO". Clear of Chichester Harbour at 7.15 a.m.,
proceeding up Channel, Owers Light Vessel abeam at 10 a.m.
-
Beachy Head abeam 3.45 p.m. Wind strong from the east with
some swell. "ROYAL SOVEREIGN" abeam 5 p.m. Swell getting
h
worse. Noticed some trouble on board "IDAHO" and nearly
rammed by same. "WARRIOR" standing by "IDAHO" at 5.15 p.m.
age
"FALCON" came alongside and gave us instructions to proceed
.ved
on passage at 5.30 p.m. "IDAHO" in tow of "WARRIOR" 6 p.m.
Lost sight of them at 6.30 p.m. Lost sight of "FALCON" at
the
7.15 p.m. Proceeded on passage alone. Ship dipping nose
40 p.m
under swells with smart breeze. Dungeness abeam 9 p.m.
Darkness came on; we went in close to the coast and anchored
in 10 fathoms of water off Hythe at 10.15 p.m.
Monday - 3rd June 1940. Hove up anchor at 4 a.m. and pro-
ceeded on passage. Wind and swell abated in the night.
Dover abeam at 6.35 # a.m. Reported to the Admiralty the
arrival of the "LETITIA". Sub-Lieutenant and three sailors
came on board and took over. Proceeded alongside oil wharf
to get more fuel on board and alongside another wharf to get
a machine gun and ammunition on board. Taking out ship's
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on deck - -
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkin
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

DUNKIRK
MAY/JUNE 1940
LOG OF "LETITIA"
"LETITIA" was an ex-naval harbour launch conversion, 52-ft.
long, 12-ft. beam and 4-ft.9-ins. draught, schooner rigged, fitted
with twin screws driven by Thornycroft R.A.4 petrol-paraffin engine.
She attended the Pavillon d'Or Rally at Liege, Belgium, in
July 1939 her number being 73. After the Rally she returned to
her moorings in Chichester Canal just before war broke out and was
$
laid up there until requisitioned by the Ministry of Shipping on
the 30th of May 1940 for the Dunkirk Evacuation.
EXTRACT FROM LOG:
r
"Friday - 31st May 1940. In Chichester Canal, painting
yacht grey, preparing for sea and getting crew together.
ch.
k
Saturday - 1st June 1940. Filling up tanks with petrol
and paraffin. Orders came through at 6 p.m. to proceed
ed
to Ramsgate. Waiting tide until 10 p.m. when locked out
of Canal and proceeded to moorings outside awaiting day-
rer-
light. Went ashore for final orders.
Sunday - 2nd June 1940. Left moorings at 6 a.m. and pro-
ceeded down Harbour in company of yachts "FALCON", "WARRIOR"
and "IDAHO". Clear of Chichester Harbour at 7.15 a.m.,
S-
proceeding up Channel, Owers Light Vessel abeam at 10 a.m.
Beachy Head abeam 3.45 p.m. Wind strong from the east with
th
some swell. "ROYAL SOVEREIGN" abeam 5 p.m. Swell getting
worse. Noticed some trouble on board "IDAHO" and nearly
sage
rammed by same. "WARRIOR" standing by "IDAHO" at 5.15 p.m.
ived
"FALCON" came alongside and gave us instructions to proceed
on passage at 5.30 p.m. "IDAHO" in tow of "WARRIOR" 6 p.m.
t the
Lost sight of them at 6.30 p.m. Lost sight of "FALCON" at
6.40 p.
7.15 p.m. Proceeded on passage alone. Ship dipping nose
under swells with smart breeze. Dungeness abeam 9 p.m.
Darkness came on; we went in close to the coast and anchored
in 10 fathoms of water off Hythe at 10.15 p.m.
Monday - 3rd June 1940. Hove up anchor at 4 a.m. and pro-
ceeded on passage. Wind and swell abated in the night.
Dover abeam at 6.35 # a.m. Reported to the Admiralty the
arrival of the "LETITIA". Sub-Lieutenant and three sailors
came on board and took over. Proceeded alongside oil wharf
to get more fuel on board and alongside another wharf to get
a machine gun and ammunition on board. Taking out ship's
masts and putting on quay and fixing machine gun on deck -
all ready to sail at 2.30 p.m. Orders came to proceed
outside harbour at 4 p.m. to the Tug "SUN XV" to be towed
across in company with other yachts. Three other yachts
make fast astern of us, under way 6.35 p.m. Engines running
at half-speed to ease the strain of the tow ropes. Slight
swell. The tow ropes of two of the yachts broke and they
were told to proceed on under own power. Arrived off Dunkir
at 11.30 p.m. and cast off from Tug. Proceeded into Dunkir
past the Mole, and up the Canal for about 2 miles. Moored
alongside the quay and proceeded to take troops on board.
Could find no Englishmen so took on board 40 Frenchmen.

Details

ETTER
OUGU
0.88
Lossey
ORLY
S.V.P.
1.6B.
11 oct the
STATES
Dear Riggs,
AVARD
OF
I thrugh you would like to
SOUTH
THE
have the attached hit which we
produced after for through you Dentink
Are
it
hit: you may be glad I the in can
STATE
smith turn up late. / an not
the
Sun that all were actually at Demkrih, to
histance I ORANA was used at Newhown
e
ch
for that operation And she may hour Come n
from Rainspat aft Denkish but lan who sur.
whit waig was at Ramyat Y what to Newhar
vessel
L and
This list may he Usepel to keep a a
sition,
standh.
yr
on.
E Hoharth'
very port
sed in
ole a
entailed
ation, and,
OI
these
n been
service little There prior information vessels, were also which was a number received may be of in and their this possession. has been A
els were not
uently our
themselves
few known Briefly to us to are "Dunkirk" shown separately, which were vessels utilised already and on noted. not th ose ed.
e a list of
hereabouts
then the summary is as follows:- 1
at
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and.
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a
uth, and
val Officer
1/

Details

WASSERE 189 1/40 3000 pads MeO N T5913.
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING.
MESSAGE. 1259/15th June.
OUN
No. 272.
DATE
RECEIVED
From Y.A. Dover.
Sheerness
DATE 15/6/40.
Pass to D. of S.T.
SENT
TIME 1310.
Addressed
ADMIRALTY. For D. of S.T. N.O.I.C. Southend.
Dover 15th June. Departure Tug CRESTED COCK with
SKYLARK (L0243) in tow at 1230 for Southend. Expected time
of arrival 1900. Request owners take delivery of SKYLARK on
arrival. CRESTED COCK will then proceed to Gravesend.
Departure Tug SUN XI for Gravesend at 1226.
Sea
= 1259/15 2142/13
Advance copy sent OPS C.C.R.T.
Ops (4).
M. of S.I.
B. O.D.S.
D. of S.T. S.T.
D. D.D.P.(3).
Mr D.H. Edwards.
O.I.C. (2).
Mr Avida Moore.
D.S.D.9.
C.C.R.T.
S.T.N.4B.
D.. of S.T.
S.T.N.6B.
P.
Extra Copy.
RECD. 1913/15. 6. 40.JT.
W.L.H.
-
(Signed) B.H. RAMSAY.
1842.
VICE ADMIRAL.
192
P
PVR.
ed
n

Details

rata
MINISTRY OF SHIPPING.
CONFIDENTIAL
MESSAGE.
0748/3rd June
OUT
COSPIDENTIAL
286
To V.A.Dover, 488
& 4 OF THEM STATE 1
DATE 5.6.40
Repeated 0. in C. Nore. 982
Rejoy 0. in O. Portsmouth 245.
P.O. 1/c London.
0
Commodore 1/c Sheerness 618.
SENT
Cortland 567.
616
N.O. 1/c Ramagate.
COME
N.O. 1/c Newhaven
War Office.
P.O.
2/0
(282)
Y.O.
i/c
2/6 By T/2
From Admiralty.
RES
&
IMPORTANT. 1/0 Crimsby.
1/6 Yarmouth.
Reference Admiralty message 2321/1.
instructions regarding disposal of tuge and lighters
should be amended as follows 80 far as craft named
are concernedi-co
(1) Following London tugs which were requisitioned
specially for Operation should be returned to
Gravesend -
GHALLENGE, CONTEST, PERSIA, RACIA, CERVIA, TANGA,
HIBERNIA, CRESTED COOK, OCEAN COCK, WATERCOOK,
GUN, SUN X, SUN XI, SUN XII, BETTY.
They should be utilised as fully as possible for
towage of craft or boats to be returned to the
Thames or elsewhere en route.
off
(11) Under-mentioned tugs which are under orders of
be Date of B, 7. should proceed as follows:-
(a) EMPIRE HENGHMAN to Portsmouth with barges
(84324C) Wt 84295/31 200 Pads 11/39 H,J,R&L,Ld Gp 684
SNOUDON and SALADIN for N.S.O. These barges were
left at Ramsgate by tug TANOA on 29th May.
(b) FOREMOST 87 to Weymouth with any convenient
pair of barges from those mentioned in (v) below.
(c) PAIRPLAY I to Gravesend being used, if sufficiently
seaworthy, for towage as in (1) above.
(d) GONDIA to Fishguard with barges BARK and SHETLAND.
These barges were left at Dover on 20th Bay by
FOREMOST 87.
OD.
(8)
(111) Tugs SUN VII and FOREMOST 22 should return to station
at Southend and Newhaven respectively taking any
convenient tow.
(iv)
If any of the tugs named above are required to
assist in other more urgent towages arrangements
should be made by you direct with D. of S.T.
Crews of EMPIRE HENOHMAN, GONDIA and FOREMOST 87
may be given at your discretion up to 94 hours
standessy before proceeding Westward.
(v)
The barges JAPAN, KENYA, EGYPT, AFRICA, LONDON
and SCOTLAND which arrived Dover from Tilbury
on 2nd June should not repetition not be returned
to Themes but will be allocated, if still seaworthy
to West Coast. FOREMOST 87 should take one pair to
Teymouth. Instructions for disposal of this pair
and of remainder will follow later.
0748/3
For D. of S.T.
V.O.N.S.
N.(2)
Sir J.Foley
A.O.N.S.(H)
S.T.N.4.
D. of (3)
D. of S.T.
A.C.N.S.(T)
C.C.R.T.
S.T.N.6A.
Mr.Justice
0.0.(8)
D. of S.T.
S.T.N.63:
W.P.L.
Mr.D.H.Ndwards
Dps. (4)
Mr.F.V.Cross
Nr.Bellamy
Capt.Fisher
Extra

Details

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

3.
"ADVANCE"
Preliminary.
and leaving the boats to be taken over by Naval or other crews.
The (Trades Union ?) crew of the passenger launch 'Queen Boadicea'
took advantage of this offer (apparently being more concerned with
their 'dues' than with their duty).
NOTE:
The remaining boats which had left Sheerness with us, and had
dropped out during the night, arrived at intervals during the
morning; except one which had been sunk in collision; her crew,
however, had been picked up and were redistributed.
0645 hrs. Fine clear morning, no wind. Slipped and proceeded
29/5
in company with other boats, again following Leader as No. Two.
Led Convoy for a short time, while Leader was investigating a
straggler with carburettor trouble.
9
Nothing else of note, so we were able to get a little sleep on
turns, and dry clothing in the sun.
0900 hrs. Found old hacksaw blade in a locker and so were able
to open tin of beef, and make sandwiches.
"ADVANCE"
DUNKIRK.
29 May. 1130 hrs. Realised that cloud-bank observed ahead was actually
smoke from burning town.
1200 hrs. Fairly close in, turned East, parallel with Coast
line.
1230 hrs. Approaching Dunkirk. Two enemy aircraft believed to
be J.U.87's dived on convoy and machine gunned it. No casualties
or important damage noticed, but 'Advance' signal mast carried away.
(Apparently by under-carriage of second machine).
NOTE:
A good deal of wreckage about, also sunken ships and crashed
aeroplanes. A lot of firing going on. Passed a moored hulk, flying
French flag and mounting several AA-guns, firing a good deal at no
very apparent target.
Saw aeroplane (unidentified) dive into sea and explode, some
distance out.
Saw what appeared to be several fires on the beach. (Was later
told that they were exhausts of torpedoes from a British Destroyer,
set on fire during the morning.)
in their pockets was
The
medical 120 men, whom they transferred **** to a
on
attention.
lcue
or
a that day's day, so they Daylight returned prevented to England, them reaching Dunkirk
but were rest. Following this they again and were allowed
to and England. bombing, unable there to were remove none any on troops the beach, as, owing went so they to to shelling Dunkirk returned

Details

Braddens Bradcot, Hill Rd, w,
Torquay, Devon
0.91.44/STH. 6B.
Dear Sir
of the B.E.F. from Dunkirk. bable
Re your letter in of
I sent Lady
immediately, knew, boats Sun in
remained for in boak, when
reseue of men at she
with naval afficer in charge and
Saturday 12k June 1940, she
about 11Pm of made of trips
to vessels lying off rescue
there. men of then afterwards lef it
men, 9 proceeded hamsga
she afterwards left
where the Lorquay man
inany way wished to le
returned home. naval y
of fuelled 9 left Dover continued im
re- the Lady bable
&
up on the Dunkirk Sands ful
impossible on account of the draft of
more, the Life-boat set off for Margat
activities were close to Neiuport (?)

Details

the rescue
to carry on
work until
LET
truly sorry unable of to wacuation the
authentic detailed
Hairlight (
RECEIVED 26 R SEP P.M. 21 P.M.
Billet I
done you after leaving account give you of
Leigh
Essea :
from may the be able to Dover Sun
B
III
or
officer in
get
the
charge
Dear Sirs.
to your letter inquired loat
credit
number
was
to
the Dunkisk the -
In Teply evactuation. events. and res set or
due
Yours very sincerely Manal office
same. so helow members is of his Boat crew - R
oraling
and told with by him in the wike jobs,
agirt
b.w.mott
Dunkisk being on five may31st. other done, and vessels. and all at stowed Endecuous. about "Renown preliminary tow away, 10:45 by at "Relian in we Relia the the le
ath
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alexar
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another
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unani
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Enclosure
RECEIVEN 25 PTRY 18
PS
ablod
bellew
Sar
what
l
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but
impossible activities
6 Neiupor the dra

Details

Details

Details

jain
not
go
I am
I
to
am
be
15to is to 25 mils 15 melo
with
PEGGY
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Mary
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board 00 full that after the hs aba
boat was the Instei Boah they had Beach
the on board Pessy and the was Ceft at quis park lowe
form sincerely Bridge
1
havae
/

Details

DUEST
P33
S.T. "PRINCE"
10th June, 1940.
Sirs,
On Friday, 31st May we 10 left Dagenham at about 10 a.m., for
Gravesend and arrived at 11.15 a.m. We picked up a pilot and then
proceeded to Southend where we arrived at about 12.30 p.m. Instruc-
tions were received to tow the sailing barge "Bassildon", to Ramsgate.
Leaving Southend 1.30 p.m., we arrived at Ramsgate Harbour at
about 6.30 p.m. Orders were given by the Naval Officer to take her
off in the Downs, drop anchor and leave her, and proceed in harbour
for further orders. We assisted craft in the Harbour - trawlers,
etc., and shifted stores and barge. We had to stay on board while
in the Harbour and wait for orders.
by
at
At 5 a.m. on Saturday, 1st June, I had orders to get stores and
gear abaord, together with two naval ratings, and to assist tow
the "Fishbourne" - a Portsmouth (Isle of Wight) ferryboard - over
to Dunkirk. Taking the "Fishbourne" in tow, we left Ramsgate
Harbour about 9. 30 a.m. We towed her until 11 p.m., when we were
2 miles offDunkirk. Her Commander then told us to turn roun and
get away home as soon as possible as enemy aircraft were about.
We arrived off Ramsgate Harbour at about 7.30 a.m. on Sunday, 2nd
June, and proceeded into Harbour to await orders. I had instruc-
tions to stand by, as they expected we were going over to Dunkirk
again. and cook our place.
On Monday, 3rd June, steam was ordered for 6.a.m. and we
told to stand by. After shifting sailing barges, etc. in Harbour,
we received orders to proceed home. We left Ramsgate Harbour Sticeep
about 11.15 a.m., and proceeded to the downs. We picked up the
Gravesend tug #Contest* who escorted us up to Southend. After
9.30 clearing at Southend III I proceeded up to Dagenham, arriving at CO
you
bed p.m. and the difficulty in the Sailing Barges in
tow, we lost contact with our other and the Ferry Bost.
the Mary" had the "Sun 1714, I
decided to keep her my COW, H. Mansfield. Mate.
in Signed ) Capt. J. Benson. with
two barges each.
G. Young.
H. Mansfield. Hands
Dunkirk (socording to the reckoning W. Mance. of the S.T. "Sun
At about 2.40 p.m., when approxim
board side, during which our own George. shlit up the
WO Cound a violent air raid in progr J. Hardy. Stokers. our
enemy craft. At the same time we sighted a life boat adrift with
about 40 English soldiers aboard and one Navel rating. We picked to
20 soldiers and left the rest aboard the S.T. *Sun III". Things
Looking very bad, and upon the advice of an officer in charge of the
soldiers, and owing to the fact that us did not know the executive
shereabouts of our destination having lost contact with our
Commander who VIRB abroad the Ferry Bost, we steamed about for an
hour and then followed the "Sun III". About 4.20 R.M. 10
sighted smother life boat which turned out to be from the destroyer
"Hasilisa" which had been sunk in an air raid off Dunicine
There WILLIAM 12 survivors aboard 11 sailors and 1 interesta
rat
We took abroad. Their boat was then put adtorn or suffing anst.
r C
ed
We sysin proceeded on our sourse, and at 5+5 two British
aircraft circled come us and mighalled CLS to wes not course for
Bouth. This 410, AND the followed. After
fo
for about TO minutes, was with of the accordes,
ke
two life busts, und X the of the to the
in
we book Fena who 14 Canadian
te:
ein

Details

(34
S.T. "DUKE"
VETO
Sirs,
We left Dagenham at 10.30 a.m., May 31st, arriving at
Gravesend at 11.10 a.m. where we picked up as Pilot. We then
proceeded to Southend, arriving there at 12.30 p.m.
Acting on orders from the Admiralty, we put two hands aboard
the Sailing Barge "Ashingdon" and took her in tow, and proceeded
to Ramsgate Harbour, arriving off the Harbour about 6.40 p.m.
Acting upon instructions received from the authorities, we left
the S.B. "Ashi ngdon" at anchor in the downs below the Harbour, and
took the tug into the Harbour about 8 p.m. to await further orders.
On Saturday morning, 1st June, we had orders to stand by at
daylight, and received further orders to take stores, water and
armoury together with some amunition, aboard, and stand by to tow
the Ferry Boat ishbourne' to Dunkirk. We had four Naval ratings
put aboard and at 9.20 a.m., together with the S.T. "Princess",
we took the F.B. "Fishbourne" in tow. After towing for about 70
minutes, we put our rope into the S.T. "Princess" and then went
ahead of the S.T. Princess with our two ropes in her head. About
11.20 a.m., owing to the starboard rope of the S.T. Princess"
breaking, we were forced to slip our rope to enable them to get
another rope aboard the Ferry Boat; the S.T. Princess" then came
alongside and took our place.
After steaming for about 12 hours, we were ordered up alongside
the Ferry Boat where the Commander gave us orders to turn back and
find the Steam Tug "Sun III" and four Sailing Barges, and also keep
in contact with him. We sighted the Steam Tug and Sailing Barges
off our starboard bow, and went over and took the S.B. "Haste-Away"
ying
from S.T. "Sun III" and left him with the other three. Owing to
bad visability and the difficulty in keeping the Sailing Barges in
tow, we lost contact with our other gugs and the Ferry Boat. After
the S.B. "Ada Mary" had broken adrift twice from the "Sun III", I
decided to keep her in my tow, proceeding to our destination with
two barges each.
Firemen
At. about 2.40 p.m., when approximately 2 miles north of
Dunkirk (according to the reckoning of the Master of the S.T. "Sun III)
we found a violent air raid in progress, with bombing off our star-
board side, during which our own fighting aircraft split up the
enemy craft. At the same time we sighted a life boat adrift with
about 40 English soldiers aboard and one Naval rating. We picked up
20 soldiers and left the rest aboard the S.T. "Sun III". Things were
looking very bad, and upon the advice of an officer in charge of the
soldiers, and owing to the fact that we did not know the exact
whereabouts of our destination - having lost contact with our
Commander who was abroad the Ferry Boat, we steamed about for an
hour and then followed the S.T. "Sun III". About 4.20 p.m. we
sighted amother life boat which turned out to be from the destroyer
"Basilisk" which had been sunk in an air raid off Dunkirk Harbour.
There were 12 survivors aboard - 11 sailors and 1 midshipmany whom
rated
we took abroad. Their boat was then put astern of sailing craft.
r our
ed
We again proceeded on our course, and at 5.5 p.m. two British
aircraft circled round us and signalled us to set our course for
South. This we did, and the +Sun III" followed. After steaming
for a
for about 70 minutes, and with the help of the aircraft, we sighted
ke a
two life boats, and leaving the larger of the two to the S.T. "Sun III'
in the
we took from the other 11 Spaniards and 1 Canadian soldier.
ter
eing/

Details

QUEST
135
-2-
Again we went on our original course, and after approximately
11 hour steaming, another sailing barge broke adrift from #Sun III"
which I also took in tow, arriving off Ramsgate Harbour about 6 a.m.
on the 2nd June.
We signalled the authorities, and were told to lay off and
small craft would be sent out for the survivors.
At about 7.30 a.m. I left the three sailing barges off the
Downs and proceeded into the Harbour and awaited orders. At about
8.30 a.m., I was sent out to fetch the Ferry Boat into Harbour as she
was disabled. This I did, then tied up andawaited further orders.
At 10.30 a.m. we received orders to stand by to coal and take
stores aboard ready for another journey to Dunkirk, but these
orders were later cancelled.
We stood by until 8 o'clock on Monday morning, 3rd June, and
then received orders to proceed together with the S.T. "CONTEST",
acting as Pilot on an Admiralty course to Shoeburyness, arriving
there at 6.30 p.m. We received instructions from the Naval Patrol
Boat to proceed to Dagenham Dock, arriving at 9.15 p.m., and after
putting gear into Stores I tied up at 9.45 p.m.
( Signed )
Capt. B.P. Mansfield.
) H. Willis (Junr.)
Crewe
C. Sweetlove.
my my
)
A. Campbell.
Driver
W. Nye.
from
Firemen
of
rated
r our
wed
, for a
ke a
in the
fter
eing/

Details

to
SW
eds
2018
aNeq
OU
(2)
140
88
We found great difficulty in keeping "Quest" to a true course
waked
GQ
Иалат
at such speed and feared the steering gear might give way.
NEB
With the assistance of a temporary tiller and Ted Avery holding
fast to the wheel we made Tower Bridge without mishap.
We cast off from the Pinnace and proceeded unaccompanied
downstream with the parting warning to stop if challenged by
the Naval Authorities. We expected many such challenges but
received none throughout the journey. With navigation lights
burming dim and engine working smoothly we made good progress.
Off Barking we were hailed by another small vessel bent
upon the same errand but whose crew, were in the darkness,
finding themselves in strange waters. Although making for the
same port they were travelling the wrong course, upstream.
They asked if they might tuck in behind, we of course agreed.
The absence of any land lights and marks being unrecognisable
in the inky blackness made navigation a tedious business
necessitating a continuous look out.
We reached the waters of, and were logged as sighted, by
the Naval Control Station, Southend Pier, at 3.40 a.m. We
tied up at the Jetty at 4 a.m. We waited here while the
Officer on duty sought instructions for our destination. We
received instructions to proceed to Sheerness, O.C. H.M.S.
Wildfire. It was very noticeable to see so many craft in
these waters. Vessels of all tonnage and shapes apparently
awaiting orders. We saw two "Sun" Tugs going out each having
in tow ten small craft, also the arrival from the Oxford
district of a number of small flat bottom up-river craft.
We cast off from Southend Pier and were amazed to find the
hundreds of vessels lying off to have vanished from sight.
We arrived at Sheerness at approx. 5 a.m. where civilian
mechanics came aboard to try the engine, locate petrol,
Water etc., We handed over to the Officer on duty being
given a receipt for the vessel. Returning to "Quest" we found
signs that a naval crew had taken possession, their arms and
ammunition being aboard.
Whilst at Sheerness we witnessed the arrival of several
shiploads, including one or two paddle steamers from home
waters, of our forces from Dunkirk.
Before saying "Goodbye old girl, do your stuff" we nailed
the club burgee to the mast stepping. We left Sheerness
having been given free travel warrants back to London, we being
termed as Motor Boat ratings.
The last seen of "Quest" was by a rating on board H.M.S.
Galatia when, to use his words," she was proudly flying the
White Ensign with a machine gun mounted on her foredeck."
over with them to Dunkirk. He returned on Tuesday amu we
to C.O. Davies who informed us that as the weather had deteriorated
no more small boats would be used and he had no further use for our
services. We obtained our clearance paper and, with a borrowed
chart and compass started for London.
Here began one of the worst experiences of the whole job for a
heavy sea was running and our little boat was tossed about like in a
cork but we made it and at 10 p.m. Tuesday night we anchored the
Swale. An early start was made on Wednesday morning and, after being/

Details

under only setiefied the Still cost coller all the with said what and we had done
ondon the cleared about rudder As we by moored 4.30 this the p.m. when Naval happening up at we Cadogen Control reflect with done ted Pier at trol that it on Holehaven, was end sea the steering retions, running, seas great off experience cable we it Margate made Hours) and Sir, we
we
2161
Spanish marinese that agents and 3rd January, 1941
and 0.9144 STN
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and
your letner to a cimowledge
152
d the Admiralty the Admiralty
ng n, outbrea
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and antivity
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operations. I be am, on these reports each ders stood a pair example of / of 900 These Diesel en her Glen Th he of
sir,
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A.
for Director of the the Sea
by rail said that heard from
out
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thibol
sia. was
and
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THE about
THE
the
met
aft at the time. This
bow. put out with
lighthouses, code and They with visits the
Dunkirk
suggestion ecognition in
Mr. V. W. her thousand a motor eeks few in war, have ctivities would no
for a MacAndrewsts. and other
Dunkirk, joui
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the the the
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THE
was
is to crew the
the
Navy. a
Whilst these operations were being car

Details

(3)
(67
Bombs were falling rather thick and heavy making Vivid
reen flashes and showers of sparks which must be seen to be
elieved.
Our search for the other two convoy mates continued, we
found the Canvey Queen only and took her in tow, her engine had
stopped. I came close to a burning troop ship and dropped Anchor
thinking the bonbers would not trouble to bomb her again, I was
right but the continuous explosions on board made rather an
uncomfortable shelter.
Dawn soon came we stared and stared at what looked like
thousands of sticks on the beach and were amazed to see them turn
into moving masses of humanity. I thought quickly of going in
picking up 70 to 80 and clearing off, with the sun behind me I
calculated I should find some East Coast town. We got our freight
so did the Canvey Queen when I realised it would be selfish to clear
off when several destroyers and large vessels were waiting in deep
water to be fed by small craft, so I decided what our job was to be.
We could seat 60 men and with those standing we had about
80 weary and starving British Troops some without boots some only
in their pants but enough life left in them to clamber on board the
Destroyers with the kind hand of every available seaman.
Again and again we brought our cargo to this ship until
she was full, the Canvey Queen and the Maud were doing likewise.
The Destroyers moved off whilst we were still made fast
and we were carried to a very awkward position under her stern
and saved from anything more serious by the quick work of an A.B.
who set us adrift.
By this time I was numb to anything else that was taking
place, Aeroplanes, Guns, and flames it was not bravery but just a
will to snatch those boys away from the hell which might overtake
them at any time.
Our next Load nearly all north county lads had an officer
a captain I believe, who demanded that his men be taken to a
Destroyer and not a Troopship as I had been ordered. I regret having
to tell him to shut up but having done so the whole crowd were
silent and well behaved and were put aboard the Troopship.
Navigation was extreemly difficult owing to the various
wreckage upturned boats floating Torpedos and soldiers in the water
trying to be sailors for the first time, they paddled their
collapsable little boats out to me with the Butts of thrir rifles and
many shouted that they were sinking, we could not help them, I was
in shore as close as I dare, stop shouting and save your breath and
bail out with your steel helmets was the only command suitable for
the occasion scores offered me cash and personal belongings which I
refused saying my name is Barrell Canvey Island send me a poatcard
La runna
Owing to the engines failing we had to leave with only a few troop
WE and proceeded back to Dunkirk W here we took five more loads off
the shore which we were now able to do owing to the rising tide.
Whilst these operations were being carried out we were being

Details

will - WOODAS
SUN
ti at &
6.1
LETTER SENT
. 1940
172
this 3 on I subse 90 officed mas alone my mill m the
5 ft draft
ASERTIONINA POST
4/S.T.N.6B
14th November, 171 1940
ing a speed
OF
Us
Scout (Ger
a free flath my 30 may.
of
Lacht Basi
:0 instructions
been my 3 crop our friend went as skipper
the and which
irst of a
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< supply.
public that. over the and on mdde had heard Mal.
1 hope taken lab's also Latie had I over makowen hit
took part thank you Operations the report up the on drafted these final out ept a 16th to story wher, in and compa was
Servant, Sund
arts wer
I Your obedient
rounge
presente
(Sgd) A.H. DRUERY
be
ing
12
you
the You Yours mile W. is Coallain the how Palier.
for Director of have sea Transport.
Sixty
P.S.
nt. tother aid do
The
fail me 4 not.
Arthur
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mo
Ta 1 luin sland was East fully kun.
to someone better equipped. aircraft, A few three minute figh
to
Tass my G
as
had our first they could be offensive, them a British off. At 2 25 P.M
introduction to enemy Destroye
first introduc
r
Before they
overhauled ONE
and things
high. I think . Before - overhauled us Motor and drove Cruiser "Westerly"; broken ratings a
and closed the 25 ft of two (plus three naval quickly - S
a
osed the
on fire. As the crew wished to abandon ship - and additional
a
things
up side in Dunkirk) and took them aboard giving them the pl
La runna
Willing the engines failing we had here to I with
Owing and to back to Dunkirk W to
proceeded which we were now able being
the Whilst shore these operations were

Details

91.
R
the
/ MOOORS
6
3
SUN
3
Who
9
32
yes
S.
LETTER SENT
1930
172
4/S.T.N.6B
14th November, 1940
5 ft draft
3
the
ing a speed
,ir,
Scout (Gera
6313
33
your enclosing I letter have
to OF OF
acht Basin
:0 instruc
insofar as in
R.S.
1331
G
took part for the to supply.
irst of a
my
thank you been Dated you It will report 18 anticipated be which of value will in that be enough compiling drawn this up report the on these final ept a story 16th
in compa
Nab 3 3 Yaur 2 237 Cand
Mal
operations.
to
and was
I am, Your Sir, obedient Servant,
wner,
,
arts wer
X18
STATE OMA Kaun STORE Fand Indiana Hidap OF
rounge
3.3
Paint.
(Sgd) A.H. DRUERY
presente
for Director of Sea Transport. be
ing
Arthur Verley Esq.,
60 Cheval Place,
have
to
Brompton Road,
nt.
aid do
S.W.1.
letter on the Bre
sing
ar part as the for the enough to
.N.R. (Ret)n, bu
9.
we ha
anticipated that thi
to someone better equipped. A few minute
be of value in compi
rt which will be dre
ations.
the
had our first introduction to enemy aircraft, three figh
high. . Before they could be offensive, a British Destroye
under
which
case
mon
that
I think - overhauled us and drove them off. At 2 25 P.M
for
sons
and closed the 25 ft Motor Cruiser Westerly"; broken a
on fire. As the crew of two (plus three naval ratings S
up in Dunkirk) wished to abandon ship - and quickly - I
side and took them aboard giving them the additional pl
La runna
Owing to the engines failing we had to 1,
WE proceeded back to Dunkirk W here we
and the shore which we were now able to do
being 08

Details

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

Details

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

Details

with Drunkisk
8
file please Ptd
8th August, 1940. 1940
abost Margarets
71
on
ingusts
110 Bexley Road 70
my
Evith Kent
Dear
sir, reference to your letter, a letter
1/8/40
with pleasure in enclosing sent to
letter which
I have to that previously by of
vessel
similar in respect of the previously. that the
moments
you "OCEAN ter COCK" at Dunkirk.
he s/y Sun XV
whi
to Yours thi faithfully,
Yours
tibury with
H. KEENE YSIDE
May.
as
acuation
of
Private Secretary.
made or
on
Private
ded with
tro
at the
vist
wlens
troop and Captain A.V Mastin.
with
to R
0
them safely back
Jul Sir as for as I am concerned
that was U just a job of work, and I am pleased
to he able to think that I was able to be
ild
of some service to my country.
6213 1401 request
Y
The
master of Ing Gcean Cook

Details

with Dunkisk
8
file please Ptd
abs St Margarets
11
8th August, 1940.
410 Bexley Road
my Erith Kent
Dear sir,
: 16/8/40
1940,
With reference to your letter
letter which
for
6th August, I have pleasure by the
l vessel
of the enclosing a letter signed to that
Semoments
-
in of Shipping similar
No
Minister which was forwarded to you previously.
the 5/y Sun XV
Yours faithfully,
Tilbury with
d
May.
as
took
vacuation
as
bo
made or
I 6 of the Private Secretary. 'oaded
with
I stopped my ting and tow at the
and of deing booked 2 Trawlers
and & Government Lighters l with
troo Captain J. Belton. time brong them safely back
to emogate. But ser as for as I am concerned
that was just a job of work, and I am pleased
to he able to think that I was able to be
ild
of some service to my country.
6213/40, require
There
1
master of Ing Gcean Cock

Details

n /
like 64
with Drunkisk
S
Glwards file please 11 Ptd
This Sir, is what condined abs St Margarets
letter of Thanks was 110 Bexley Road 70
each Master He hystotowing to me being on my Evith Kent
1940.
I Sir been unable to obtain my letter which
transferred from the % Sun XV to 06/8/40
is I James Francis Beltonlum XV which versel
hawas Master of the 5/y Sun IV and at a moments
hanotice I was asked to take charge of the 5/y Sun XV
Liwhich I did and the s/y Sun XV left Tilbury with
talifeboats in tow for Ramsgate on 30rd May.
The 5/y Sun XV then took a part in the evacuation
of the B.E.F from Dunkisk 3 Trips were made or
on each of the return journeys although loaded with
troops I stopped my tug and took in tow at the
risk of being bombed & machinegunned, 2 Trawlers
and 2 Government Lighters also crowded with
troops and each time brought them safely back
to Ramsgate. But Sir as for as I am concerned
that was just a job of work, and I am pleased
ild
to he able to think that I was able to be
of some service to my country.
a 6213 1401 results
Y
There
and
master of Ing Gcean Cock

Details

S
Ptd
This Sir is what I feel concerned about a fine
letter of b ongratulation d Thanks was issued to
70
each Master but owing to me being on my return
transferred from the 5/3 Sun XV to the % Sun IV
1940,
I have been unable to obtain my letter which
is now on board the s/s Sun XV which vessel
has gone away for duration and the crew
have decided to keep it on board. Theirfore
Sir as an officer of the Mercantile Marine I am
taking the Liberty of asking you if it is
possible that I might have another letter of
b ongratulation + Thanks for myself which
I can assure you will he greatly heasured by
me hoping that this meets with your kind
approval I am Sins
mine has been JYB-ellon
Yours Faithfully
he forms
Master
lld
Trusting you
& Obtige
6213 1401 result
There
States
master of Ing Gcean Cock

Details

Tm4324pl p
a
Tugs :
Telephone Nos.:
SUNRISE "
ROYAL
Avail
II"
"SUNSHINE "
General
Office
6921
fo
N III "
"SUNFISH :
(4 lines)
Nig
ar
JN IV "SUNBIRD "
Towage
5325
Sur
SUN V"
Office
lines)
u
"SUN VI"
"SUN VII "
City Office:
"SUN VIII "
MANSION HOUSE
"SUN IX
GRAVESEND 66,
"SUN X"
Telegrams and Radio
"SUN XI"
Telegrams :
"SUN XII "
"SKIFFS, PHONE
"SUN XV"
LONDON "
S.S. CARINTHIA' 20,000 tons gross. Approaching King George V Dock. Towed by "SUN" Tugs
City Office :
COMMERCIAL SALE ROOMS
W. H. J. ALEXANDER, LTD.
ST. JOHN'S WHARF
WAPPING
24, MARK LANE, E.C.3
DIRECTORS: W. P. ALEXANDER. G. F. ALEXANDER. C.G. ALEXANDER
London, E.1 20th July 1940 19
The Minister of Shipping
Ministry of Shipping
Berkeley Square House W.1.
Sir,
We beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 19th instant, covering
your letter to the Master and crew of our s.t. "SUN XII" engaged in the recent
evacuation, which we have passed on to our Master and it is much appreciated.
We are, Sir,
Your obedient Servants
W. H. J. ALEXANDER LTD.
9.7.alumuncker
Director

Details

55
Tug "SUN XII".
56
A minor difficulty has arisen in
Telephone Nos.
this case (see enclosed 54). Her
ROYAL
Ava
General
London Master, A.V. Mee, is not a
Office
6921
fo
(4 lines)
NI
Navigator. Consequently we arranged
for Captain B. Mastin, an employee of
Towage
5325
Sur
Office
(2 lines)
SU
Wm. Watkins Ltd. to take over the
command. It appears however that
City Office :
SU
Mee remained in his tug, acting in
MANSION HOUSE 4.
SUI
GRAVESEND 66, 19
effect as Towing Master, while Mastin
acted as Navigating Master.
Telegrams and Radio
Telegrams :
"SKIFFS, PHONE,
The letter in this case was sent
LONDON
to Mastin c/o Wm. Watkins Ltd. I
sent to Mee as Towing Master, care of
suggest that another letter might be
his Owners, W.H.J. Alexander Ltd.
Dock. Towed by "SUN" Tugs
2
C
ER, LTD.
ST. JOHN'S WHARF
27/6/40.
WAPPING
c. G. ALEXANDER
Director.
invidenlyside
n, E.1 21st June 1940 19
Lr. sent. 19/7
BILL
Paper only
reached me today
use W.1.
WK 19/7
wledge receipt of your letter 1 of the
=
rs addressed to the Masters of nine of
our "SUN" tugs engaged in the recent evacuation of Dunkirk, which are much
appreciated.
Our s.t."SUN XII", Master A.V.Mee, was also engaged;
we understand a letter was made out for this tug, B. R. Mastin Master. He
was only on board temporarily as navigating master, and We shall be obliged
if you will let us have a letter in the name of A. V. Mee, Master, he and the
crew of the tug having been on board during the whole of the operations.
We are, Right Honourable Sir,
Yours faithfully
W. H. J. ALEXANDER LTD.
Director

Details

Time
4342
e
plpwpp
3
56
Telephone Nos.
im Tugs :
ROYAL
Ava
"SUNRISE"
General
6921
fo
Office
"SUNSHINE'
(4 lines)
NI
III" "SUNFISH"
Towage
5325
Sur
IV" "SUNBIRD"
Office
lines)
JN V"
UN VI"
City Office :
SUN VII"
MANSION HOUSE 4.
"SUN VIII "
GRAVESEND 66, 19
"SUN IX"
Telegrams and Radio
'SUN X"
Telegrams :
"SUN XI"
"SKIFFS, PHONE,
"SUN XII "
LONDON
"SUN XV"
S.S. CARINTHIA" 20,000 tons gross. Approaching King George V Dock. Towed by "SUN" Tugs
City Office :
W.H.J. ALEXANDER,LTD.
ST. JOHN'S WHARF
COMMERCIAL SALE ROOMS
WAPPING
24, MARK LANE, E.C.3
DIRECTORS: W.P. ALEXANDER. G.F. ALEXANDER. C.G. ALEXANDER
London, E.1 21st June 1940 19
The Minister of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping
Berkeley Square House W.1.
A
Right Honourable Sir,
X
We have to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the
19th instant, and thank you for letters addressed to the Masters of nine of
our "SUN" tugs engaged in the recent evacuation of Dunkirk, which are much
appreciated.
Our s.t."SUN XII", Master A.V.Mee, was also engaged;
we understand a letter was made out for this tug, B. R. Mastin Master. He
was only on board temporarily as navigating master, and We shall be obliged
if you will let us have a letter in the name of A. V. Mee, Master, he and the
crew of the tug having been on board during the whole of the operations.
We are, Right Honourable Sir,
Yours faithfully
W. H. J. ALEXANDER LTD.
Director
th
er
"1
1y
g
of the
shore now
the naval
rized.
In/

Details

20
21
TELEGRAMS:
TELEPHONE:
SALVATOWA. STOCK, LONDON
AVENUE 5757 (2 LINES)
N: SALVATOWA, LONDON.
BENTLEY'S CODE.
GAMECOCK STEAM TOWING Co., 38
LTD.
Riverside Office
Head Office:-
TERRACE PIER, GRAVESEND.
48-50 ST. MARY AXE,
TELEGRAMS: GAMECOCK, GRAVESEND.
TELEPHONE: 216 GRAVESEND
LONDON, 21st June 19 40.
(DAY AND NIGHT.)
Ref. No. 456.CV.
E.C.3.
DIRECTORS :
W. c. SARGENT.
L.H. G. WALFORD. (Chairman.
J.E. EMLYN-JONES.
T. H. WAGSTAFF.
F.H. Keenlyside Esq,
Private Secretary to the
Minister of Shipping,
Ministry of Shipping,
Berkeley Square House. W.L.
Dear Sir,
DUNKIRK OPERATIONS.
We beg to acknowledge with thanks receipt of your
letter of the 19th inst, together with letters signed by the
Minister of Shipping to
Capt. T. Hills -
CRESTED COCK
"
A.V. Mastin -
OCEAN COCK.
"
Fothergill -
SUN Xl.
We are transmitting the former two letters to our
Superintendent in order that he may hand same to the Masters
concerned, and in respect of Capt. Fothergill, we have passed
this on to Messrs. W.H.J. Alexander Ltd., who are Owners of
the SUN X1.
Yours faithfully,
GAMECOCK STEAM Rin TOWING CO.LTD.
SECRETARY.
All work undertaken by us is subject to the United Kingdom Standard Towage Conditions.
apt R.
th
er
1y
of the
shore now
the naval
In/
rized.

Details

ING
PART
VF ELS TAKING PART IN THE DUNKIR
QUA
Master
Owners.
Tug
SUN"
H. Cole
x
W.H.J. Alexander & Co. Ltd
1019128
"SUN III"
F. Russell
X
do
"SUN IV"
C. ALexander
X
do
"SUN V
W. Mastin
X
do
"SUN VII"
G. Cawsey
do
"SUN VIII"
S. Smith
do
"SUX X"
W. Fothergill
Latter is. Gamern
do
Stm Tommis Co.
SUN XI"
J. Lukes
x
do
X.
"SUN XII"
(Mee) B. Mastin X Litter to Was washin, na)
do
Actician
"SUN XV"
mate,
J. Belton
X
do
XX08SAXX
XXXXXXXX
Elliot Steam Tug Co., Ltd
"CONTEST"
H. Bates
x
/
"CHALLENGE"
C. Parker
x
do
or
"FOSSA"
G. Finch
x
Gaselee & Son, Ltd.
"BETTY"
G. Leeks
X
do
nsit
rk's
ials
"CRESTED COCK"
T. Hills
X
The Gamecock Steam Tow
"OCEAN COCK"
A.V. Mastin
x
do
my
WATERCOCK
W. Fothergill (This Tug went to do Dover only
FOREMOST 87"
J. Fryer
Managed by W. Watkins, Lt.
"FAIRPLAY ONE"
S. Wright & G. Finch
do
(1084
"CERVIA"
W. Simmonds
William Watkins, td.
992,000
Gpt
"DORIA"
(REG
A. Mastin
do
"FABIA"
F. Smith
do
"GONDIA"
C. Pratt
do
"HIBERNIA"
B. Youseman
X
do
"JAVA"
W. Jones
X
do
For
(Continued)

Details

- 3 -
37
code is Doe to
The tide was low, and falling, and we had to wait our turn in the offing.
The channel was narrow and shallow. My ship was very slow to respond to the
helm in such shallow water. The current was fairly strong and sweeping us
or
STORE BALL CBP & STATE STATES ROZ
in a westerly direction. I was greatly concerned as to whether there was
sufficient water alongside the Breakwater for the "LOCHGARRY" as we were
drawing 16 ft. of water by the stern, and if there was a possibility of
JBP
sticking in the entrance to the Breakwater, for if the vessel grounded in that
particular part not only would I have to wait till she floated again, but the
entire traffic to the Breakwater, in and out, would be suspended. This would
be disastrous when every moment counted a day. There were much larger vessels
than the "LOCHGARRY" at the Breakwater, but they were shallow drafts. But
the "KILLARNEY" was in and out, and there was not much difference between our
drafts. A shallow draft vessel which was in the offing with us quickly
OF
manoeuvred and nipped into the "KILLARNEY'S" berth which should have been ours
1991
by turn. The next available berth I could see was well up the Breakwater
e.b.e.
where the water was even more shallow, so we slipped into it without any
mishap and immediately commenced embarking troops on three gangways which were
used
rigged up temporarily fore and aft.
know
There we met two very brave and cheerful men - the Commander and the
Lieutenant Commander, who were carrying on their work and directing operations
as if no danger existed. There was no bustle or commotion, but everything
was orderly and well regulated. The Jerry shells were dropping in the
Harbour about 50 yards from the bow of the "LOCHGARRY" at 11.25 a.m. when we
were fixed in our berth, but they did not appear to explode, and all of them
could be heard coming, screaming through the air, through the smoke and haze,
and dropping in the very centre of the harbour. They had the range perfectly.
Well, it was all right so long as they did not alter it a degree the one way
or the other. There was nothing but thick black smoke and fire everywhere
round the harbour, and parts of several sunken vessels were projecting in the
inner harbour at low water.
A destroyer came alongside of us and loaded his complement over our
vessel. While this was taking place we had our first sample of an air raid,
as the pall of haze to the westward had now cleared up and the sun was breaking
through the clouds, and the day generally was brightening up and getting warm.
The Jerry planes we saw as mere specks in the sky, working sunwards to get in
a straight line between us and the sun, then swinging round and,
"Ere he pounces in the ring,
Selects the object of his spring".
When they started on the dive, down sun, you could hear the death zoom
getting clearer and clearer, down and down they came, the A.A. guns on the
destroyers going like electric sewing machines. In a fraction of a second,
about the time the bombs were due to arrive, there was a mighty roar and a
blast of hot air which nearly carried us off our feet. The destroyer had
fired one of his heavy guns which burst a shell in front of the enemy and
shattered him and his bombs to matchwood. I don't think that pilot had time
to jump in his parachute at least I did not see him!
The next wave came along shortly after, and the tactics on both sides
were somewhat similar to the first. Then the embarking went on as before.
I had hoped to count the exact number that came on board, and told the Mate
to place a man at each gangway to count. The man who was placed at the
forward gangway had a yarn with every one that came on and soon forgot the
count. The man at No. 2. gangway, which was constructed of oars across the
lifeboat, told me when I asked him for the count, that it took him all his
time to keep the men from falling in the water, far less count them. The
man at No. 3. gangway did not know he was supposed to count until nearly
half the troops were on board; and then what about the ones that were passing
through to the destroyer? It was hopeless! However, the estimated number
on board the "LOCHGARRY" was about 2,500, and we cast off the Breakwater at
2.00 p.m.

Details

71a
2
BRITISH
SHIP
ADOPTION
3 TO THE
IT is, my opinion, more than ever to
Message in from the President of the Board SOCIETY of Education
NATION'S DEBT NAVY
be desired that the links between the
schools and our Merchant Navy, so happily
work the enterprise them. For that
Adoption Society, should now be strength-
forged in peace-time by the British Ship
Society of the
I am in issuing a British Ship
ened and not allowed to break. We all
of us recognise the debt which we owe
[Reprinted Minister from The Journal Ronald of Commerce which in Telegro
of Shipping's and Shipping Appeal
is
rupted admirable
their anxious, to
to our sailors, and the least we can do
that the by the and I
schools
is to try to keep alive the interest of
the schools in our ships and the men who
conditions overcoming the difficulties their
Shipping, Sir Mr. Douglas
of to the peace sea
RAMSBOTHAM. create. (Signed) HERS
of those who down down that term of it office will
seewners, that th
THE
DUNKIRK
An Epic WITHDRAWAL Story
the when he chairman, was received Mr.
is the story, in his own words,
Watts, secretary before the our conclusion London for his
men- as get a a square deal.
and
INCREASED INTEREST
"City this of Dieppe" concerning the part which
of a fireman in the Ellerman steamer
of We equipment gave and assisting
of vessel played during the withdrawal
the chief them coffee and injured
Mr. this see something
work Mr. of the over articles
Cross showed keen Navy's interest an
the British Expeditionary Force
well
Thelegraph. privileged ork that isComfort
the His many of distributions
Dunkirk, tion given in the course of from
The supply
as
the send for stores, Navy. receiving
There were a number of us in
when he called at our headquarters:- conversa-
than sleeves more like
of done the
men of the offices,
by
donkeyman came in and asked us to the
inn in Plymouth-when the bo'sun and a small
the Finally, our human freight in
a doctor-he was covered a
Service Avenue. was at Astarted of by which the has in in linking recent
aboard, we knew not what for, nor did go
ahead, engine-room telegraph rang was
that reason why. The watches were set we
was everyone was pleased that full
this Adoptione STATE
the B.E.F. homeward bound with a the
so of freely the able to Holn ob
and of which I was a member went down and
hoped who had done their portion
I to see
raised steam. After four hours at
sea, at the end of my watch, I found
four to go back and do more. bit
were bound for Dunkirk to bring back we
very journeys altogether, the last We made
many later as possible of the B.E.F. Two hours as
lying journey a hospital ship first 0
to of for of was convince the the which me this than and service of the set excellence up.
THE the the the this wond wond ful impressionised is
the last much a repetition of the thre
carried on. were in room on
Bombs we were attacked by
hitting the water than the vessels.
dropped in all directions, aeroplanes. more
Cross paid no attention to sunk The
Germans near us was bombed and which WAS
ships which could be plainly seen. the Re
us great more, Merchant is the debt Navy, we owe and
Our boats were swung out and
one to small craft sank a lifeboat was lowered as
under included, but we managed to ours
were bombed indiscriminately, Other
our would tion like to the repayment
occasion just Cross to There come been of THE many <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< THE American pa
were pick up the survivors. Volunteers
manned asked to man the boat. It
the our own steam. Eight get home
had obliged to sleep on deck as their crew were
crew were wounded and the members of
I to THE THE CANADA Service
cost by the 100 pullovers, garments the interes
with the by two A.B.s and three firemen, was
have
were struggling in the water. Eleven of them
pulled to the assistance of those We
second officer in command.
820 journey 760 men were brought back first and
been bombed out. On the quarters
Navy's Avenue, Merchant be grateful to broad- the
each time afterwards.
Comforts Service was hymn the offices a fe
on board the City of Dieppe.' The taken
pulled on to the lifeboat and
so on duty could not raise sufficient watch
the is a story of courage and heroism
In told this simple, straightforward language
was our back watch went down to assist. steam, Steam
to 120 lbs., when 240 is
sprit endures our race is unconquerable.
brotherhood of the sea. While such and
has Minister evacuation the the work The every reason of of the the to British stirred His recent Expeditionary the
Polish days later officer was who very visited glad to get for h
crew. recently wa
of Dunkirk general public number Before of between parcels
asked Quite to 120 provide men from The the service pro fo
pressure cleaned needed for emergencies. Having the
was board obtained and we were ready to
several fires the necessary steam
Honour for Ship's Officer
tion broadcast, each the day amounted to following
Mr. Schools will be delighted to learn that
received 30 and 35. the receive
for for vided over Northern a pullover waters. and a pair of socks in
on us the soldiers who were coming take
every man. work is not carried are encouraged on an
reach the quayside small craft and to
on floats. As we were not able to
has Creser, of adopted ship HJC/2la,
to boats brought the men out. They motor-
attempts Society's medal for particularly Humane gallant
been awarded the Royal
day, an Almost average the has, parcelsintment as
impersonal to This enclose way. with their Donors gifts their name
wounded, others were carrying two loads
be dead tired-some were slightly seemed
bitterest at rescue during of the
winter, storms in the Atlantic one last
Minister tunity Mr. Cross of of testifying to the
later
the
Bombs
assis
hitting
pressu
in the water.
Our
cleaned ied on to the life
one small 0
was obta the City of Dieppe.
to
on board ould not raise suffi
pick up us on floach went down to learn th
were
asked reach the qua 120 lbs. ship HJC/21
with manned the by boats brought for 0 Royal Huane
is
pulled
to be dead 1 fire particularly giane
strugglir
wounded, and during one of
the
could
Atlantic
was ebb, it being about poremost 2½ hours after the
so our watch went
was back to 120
pressure needed fc
cleaned several fire
was obtained and
tide number When of other I arrived vessels in Dunkerque Roads, bo
WO board the soldie
gling
floats.
As
pulled
th
pre clea so our watch
was back to
from the There shore was and some the confusion activity owing to the sound
W
pressure neede
ba
cleaned several
after 11 vesel.ard the O
was obtained
W board the
collision Just close to
on floats.
the

Details

ALSO AT: LONDON, MIDDLESBROUGH. STOCKTON, SUNDERLAND & SCARBOROUGH
ESTABLISHED 1864
TYNE-TEES STEAM SHIPPING COMPANY LTD.
HEAD OFFICE:
77
25, KING STREET,
ALL LETTERS TO
TELEGRAMS
BE ADDRESSED TO
"TYNETEES" NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE
THE COMPANY.
NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE,1.
TELEPHONE
NEWCASTLE 23111
12th June 1940.
NOTES FOR THE CHAIRMAN, SIR ARTHUR M. SUTHERLAND, BART. K.B.E.
m.v. "BEAL"
This vessel made one trip assisting in the Dunkirk evacuation.
Crew list attached. She brought back a full load of troops. An A.B.,
A.D.C.Hall of 33, Normount Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, swam a considerable
distance to the shore with a line attached to his body in order to make
arrangements for towing off boats. The Bo'sun, .Storey of 12, Ransome
Crescent, Macton Estate, Ipswich, and the 2nd Engineer, W.G. Shaw, 77
Farndale Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, made many trips in the ship's life-boat
doing valuable service.
m.v. "SANDHILL"
This vessel arrived at Dunkirk on Friday, 24th May, with a cargo
of about 940 tons of high explosives. There were no electric cranes
available and the vessel had to discharge with her own gear. A large
proportion of the cargo was discharged under heavy air raids before the
vessel was finally ordered to leave Dunkirk. The whole crew behaved
splendidly and the Captain especially mentioned the Chief Officer, Mr D.K.
Wright, whose address is c/o Mrs Relf, 30, South Road, Newhaven, Sussex. Crew
list attached.
The draft of the "Foremost 22" is 13 feet aft. and the
tide was ebb, it being about 2½ hours after high water.
When I arrived in Dunkerque Roads there were a large
number of other vessels in the vicinity, both large and small.
There was some confusion owing to the heavy bombardment
from the shore and the activity of hostile aircraft.
Just after 11 p.m. I heard the sound of a heavy
collision close to my vessel.
-1-
P.T.O

Details

79
1 ml
EN LINE STEAMERS
1940.
TRACT OF LETTER FROM CAPTAIN EDGAR JONES, S.S. "YEWDALE", SHEERNESS,
UNDER DATE 2nd JUNE, 1940.
128
There is a great deal of damage to this ship, caused by
shrapnel from bombs. These have penetrated through the ship's side
into holds, bunkers and engine room, also Mate's room has been badly
damaged shrapnel having penetrated through about 14" of steel at
doubling plate and has damaged cabin and Master's room. The Wheelhouse
is badly damaged and compass completely wrecked.
There are several burst pipes and defects in engine room.
The shrapnel that penetrated stokehold has also damaged boiler but we
do not think that marks on boiler are very deep.
We broughtabout 900 men across, 7 of whom were killed and
77 injured. Mate who was in Wheelhouse with Bo'sun and myself was
struck below the knee by shrapnel and is in grave danger of losing his
leg. I have not been able to find out what hospital he is in, but he
is neither at Ramsgate or Deal. I have written to his wife and
forwarded his wages.
We obtained some satisfaction in these raids however, as we
brought down one enemy bomber which we Saw plunging headlong into the
sea half a mile ahead of us. When we arrived at the spot we could see
nothing but oil.
dd
The great
TWIS
a bi., varge
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.
(Continued)

Details

68
70
H.M.T. "DORRIEN ROSE" CARDIFF.
148
On the 22nd May, 1940 the above vessel was in the Downs
loaded to with Army stores awaiting orders. She was instructed next day
proceed to Dunkirk, but on approaching observed it to be in
flames, and the "DORRIEN ROSE" passed three vessels outward bound,
one of which signalled that it was unsafe to approach Dunkirk, so
the Master reversed course and proceeded slowly outwards.
At 3-0a.m. on the 28th as dawn was approaching he decided
to approach Dunkirk in daylight so he set a course for Middlekerke
Buoy. At 4-25a.m. on nearing the Buoy enemy aircraft suddenly
attacked, several bombs were dropped and the "DORRIEN ROSE" retaliated
with machine-gun fire.
At 5.05 after the bombs had fallen it was observed that the
M.V. "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" was sinking, so he proceeded to her assis-
tance and was requested by the O.C. to take off troups and ship's
complement, whilst the troups were being transferred the Germans
repeatedly attempted to renew the attack, but were prevented from
doing any further damage by bursts of fire from our machine-guns. At
5-25 all the troups and the crew of the "QUEEN OF THE CHANNEL" were
safely on board the "DORRIEN ROSE" and she then proceeded to Dover
where she arrived at 2-20p.m.
The operation of transferring the troups was carried out
expeditiously under the efficient direction of Commander M.L. Musson
R.N.R. and during the passage to Dover the Commander was of great
assistance in attending to the signals, spotting enemy planes and
controlling the troups.
On the 29th May the "DORRIEN ROSE" again proceeded towards
Dunkirk and was attacked next morning at 3a.m. by two enemy motor-craft
which circled the ship and sprayed her with machine-gun fire the
"DORRIEN ROSE" gave as good as she received and the "E" boats ceased
&
I
their attack and the vessel continued her passage to Dunkirk were she
I
arrived at 6-50a.m. She then despatched as much food stuff as
possible for the rear-guard troups and left again at 12-25p.m. with
o
t
590 troups on board for Folkestone, she arrived at Folkestone at
8-45p.m. the same night.
W
d
During all these aperations all the officers and members of the
O
crew carried out their various duties in a cool and efficient manner, in
particular Gunner .W.Watson, Bo'sun .McFadden and A.B.John Upperton
who were on the bridge under enemy fire.
p
al
De
jo
of
th
twisting as I could and see we were likely up to our get anchor run down and whilst kept the the Tug underweigh
were as off see our crew of the barge and the soldier the
a bit, I could turning to clear the bombs. I paddled in towards destroyers were shore
and rowing of in their boat towards us. I picked them stevedores also
e t
next crew barge "DUCHESS" that had anchored in the Roads, up, and then boat the
wave of bombers were overhead.
(Continued)

Details

COPY.
63
THE DUNKIRK EVACUATION.
s.t. "TANGA".
158
May 30th.
At 9-15 p.m. left Tilbury Landing Stage towing 12 ships
lifeboats anchored off Southend 11-0 p.m.
May 31st.
At 1-40 a.m. received orders to get underway at 4-0 a.m.
and tow boats to Ramsgate. Anchored off Ramsgat about 10 a.m.
At 2-0 p.m. four Lewis guns and two gunners came on board, also
Liut. Com. and Lieut. R.N.R. We then took six boats in tow and
proceeded towards Dunkirk.
About 7-30 p.m., when nearing Dunkirk, German 'planes
started bombing and machine-gunning. When the bombs exploded it
seemed to lift us up out of the sea. We arrived off Dunkirk Harbour
about 8-40 p.m. but had to go 6 miles further on tb the beaches.
We sipped our boats and hung off. Our boats had to fill up and
take the troops to the larger vessels.
1st June.
About 3-50 a.m. some of our boats returned to us with about
16° troops. We took them on board, abandoned all but one motor boat
and had to run for it. When abreast of Dunkirk Harbour we fell in
with a small boat with 6 men in it. We stopped and picked the up
and they were the sole survivors of 25 from the H.M. Tug "ST. FAGAN",
which had been bombed with her tow of three Thames barges, two of the
barges were also blown up. A mile further on we picked up Barge
"PUDGE" with four men on board, two badly wounded. So we towed her
back to Ramsgate where we anchored off at 9-0 a.m. Motor boats came
off and landed our troops. At 4-0 p.m. we hove up, towing four boats
and proceeded again to Dunkirk, arrived off about 10-30 p.m., slipped
our boats as before and we paddled about outside.
2nd June.
At 3-30 a.m. we were ordered to clear out and run for it.
Not one of our boats had returned to us. Othe r boats had brought
us about 90 British and 8° French troops to us, so we proceeded back
to Ramsgate, towing one disabled motor boat, arriving back at 8-0 a.m.
3rd June.
At 4-30 p.m. we left Ramsgate once again towing 4 motor boats.
Arrived off unkirk at 11- p.m. Slipped our boats and awaited as before.
4th June.
About 2-° a.m., Tugs "SUN IV,XV", "RACIA" and "TANGA" were
ordered to go alongside Pierhead inside and get as many troops as possible
We all went in, no sooner had we got alongside the ladders when we were
ordered to clear out as fast as possible. We only managed to get
37 French toops, not any of our boats returned to us. We cleased
the Pier head about 2-35 a.m., when a German plane started bombing.
Our Lieut. Com. gave orders to fire our guns. We were firing 5
Lewis and 3 Bren guns. There were about 50 men on our deck aft and
they all say that our Lewis gunner aft with twin Lewis guns brought
the 'plane down. We saw the 'plane crash from our bridge and we were
alll happy about it. About 3 miles from the North Goodwin Lightship
we fell in with a French fishing Lugger with a crew of three on board,
as they did not appear to know where they were ge took them in tow and
anchored them off Ramsgate about 7-30 a.m.
(Signed) H.P. Gouge.
Master of Tug "TANGA".

Details

10
There were several Killed Army Fred casualities K. and the following Naval Casualties from
mohine gunning. Brown A.B.
[ounded Lieut Comdr. Crick R.H. Lieut. Griffiths R.N.V.R. Lieut Griffiths
10
has since died of wounds. All were from Abel Tasman.
The two wounded officers were very efficiently dealt with and taken to the first
aid post by W.C. Harding P.O. the Coxswain and E.R.A. Shorthose the E.R.A. of
Abel Tasman At this time I was still ashore with the Colonel of title R.A.S.C.
and lieut. Stater. I saw Lieut. Comdr. Crick and took command of the three
ships. I appointed myself to Abel Tasman and told Lieut. Slater to appoint his
First Licut. Lieut. Wykeham-Martin as C.O. of Kaap Falga. Lieut. Slater then
down to the beach to Bray with the adjutant R.A.S.C. to arrange about
mloading Kaap Falga and Alice here.
The embarkation started at 15.30 with tide rising fast. At 17.00 Kaap Falga
and Alice floated and got under way. I hailed Alice and passed a Grass for
im to tow my stern off. There were no anchors laid out from Abel Tasman and I
ad no hands to lay them out at the time. viz. H.W. 17.45. Alice then broke down
nd I removed my grass. By this time I was manouverin, the engines and the ship
78.S becoming water borne. The next time I had a moment to spare I saw Alice's
crew in her boats rowing over to Kaap Falga who was about eight cables to Seaward
Wome hove to. We hailed them and tried to signal but no notice was taken. I was
then hailed byb Lieut. Slater and took him on board.
'he ship was by now (17.45) but bumping and being driven inshore by the shore
vind. I managed to get the stern clear by putting troops forward and then the bows
moving them aft. We then went ahead and after grounding heavily twice X got took into
y leep water. As the German Aircraft were still present we took advantgage a
of a rain squall and sailed immediately. Kaap Falga had by now sailed on
0700 Wed, 29th. Arrived Dover and landed troops approximately 200 R.A.S.C Units
Vesterley course accross the Banks.
22.00 Wed. Sailed for Newhaven to disembark ammunition remaining about ammunition 200 tons
lso about 20 French Staff Officers.
08.00 Thurs. 30th. Arrived Newhaven completed to full stowage of
03.00 12.00 Fri. 31st. Arrived Dover roads anchored and reported myself to Examination far as
Fri. 31st, Sailed to Dover for orders.
vessel, At midnight the roads were cleared and I proceeded westwards as
Dungeness returning to anchor.
Sat.lst. June June at Entered 05.00 submarine basin at 08.00 and secured alongside to discharge Sandhurst
Sun. from whom 2nd. we took in lubricating oil. 10.15. Proceeded to Newhaven
18.30 Arrive Newhaven.
ionday 3rd. June. Discharged at Newhaven
Pues. 4th. June Compketed discharging
ed.5th. 0615 Sailed for Poole.
L8.00. wish Arrived to draw Poole. attention to the admirable work done by the
W. C. Harding PO DJX149987
R. Shortose E.R.A. DMX64780
Iyall O.D. DJX 184099
OFFICER-IN-CB
9
4
II.
To. 1476/07.
'he Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
Portland.
Oth June, 1940.
12JUN 1940
R
*
DOVE
E

Details

Adminalty Pier
I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered
23
H.M.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Doms at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
cort
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirk from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towed back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported
to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and sailed for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order
to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the
evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship
broke down again and was successfully towed by H.H.S. Pascholl.
Signed H.R.Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. G.V.Ward R.N.V.R. made two successful trips to Dunkirk beach and was able
to evacuate 1008 officers and men. Although under continual fire from shore
batteries and dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel
or crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
B.
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with
ships boats only until 04.00
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft or water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air
compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ransgate
19.00 30th.
May 31st. June 1st.
Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles
to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment with
ships boats only until midnight.
Ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked
ship sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
Ships Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
L.S. A.J.M. Upton P/SSX 13505
A.B. W. H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B. H.B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. S.A.Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
"PASCHOLL"
B.
This ship was only taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain
having returned to his proper duties at Ramagate. I proceeded to Ramagate
arriving there 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain at anchor
until further orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Hammond flying
his flag in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour Jetty at
23.00 and embarked ap roximately 300 troops and after some delay left at 00.30 Tuesday
June 4th, arriving Ramsgate approximately 08:30 On instructions sailed at 05.30
Wednesday 5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having taken
N.M.S.Ruja in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 Thursday
6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately 21.00.7th. June
entered Poole Harbour.
Signed J.N.Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS"
I have the honour to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
Dynamo in diary form.
25th. May Joined at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 p.m. approx cast off and
proceeded to anchor off Portsmouth. 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off Yarmouth.
26th. May, 5.10 a.m. ordered to remain at anchor until further orders. Hands cleaning ship
3.0 p.m. Ordered to proceed Portsmouth.
6.0 Arrived Portsmo th. Recive fuel water and stores and ordered to proceed broken
Spithead p.m. to swing for deviation. Dischar ed Dutch engineer. Note compass
and steering compass damaged. Results of swinging give very unreliable deviation card
10.30 27th. May Proceed Dawn in arrived company off for Newhaven Newhaven. and anchored. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec gear stores
rope etc. Hands employed rope etc. Hands employed cleaning ship
9.0 p.m. approx. Dawn arrived off Dover 9.30 approx berthed alongside "Ruja" at so West bad Quay, as
Proceeded in company for Dover.
Enemy render air independance p.m. of navigation impossible we follow rest ahead. gunfire
28th. May raid 1.0 approx. Proceed in company for Dunking. Compass Considerable to
etc. all night.

Details

I arrived at Dover at 16.00 and disembarked the prisoners alongside
Adminalty Pier
23
After obtaining fuel I remained at Dover until ordered
to
escort
H.M.S.Kaap Falga to Poole, leaving Downs at 09.20 on Tuesday 4th. June 1940
23
"RUJA"
B
H.M.S. RUJA sailed for Dunkirl from Dover and on first attempt broke down in the
Downs. The ship was towel back to Dover and repaired by Sandhurst and then I reported
to N.O.I.C. Ramsgate and sailed for Dunkirk and remained there for 24 hours in order
to collect about 300 soldiers off the Beach East of Dunkirk and later on in the
evening off the barracades east of La. Panne. On the way back to Poole the ship
broke down again and was successfully towed by H.M.S. Pascholl.
Signed Webber (Lieut R.N.)
"FRISO"
A
This vessel under the command of Licut. G.O. Symonds R.N. and subsequently under
Sun. Lieut. R.N.V.R. made two Although successful under trips continual to Dunkirk fire beach from and shore was able
batteries to evacuate and 1008 dive bombers the operation was carried out without mishap to vessel
officers
and
men.
or crew.
Signed. G.V.Ward (Sub. Licut. R.N.V.R.)
"DESPATCH II"
May 29th & 30th.
To West of La Pain. Arrived La Pain 20.00 29th. and embarked 267 French with
At 04.00/30 discovered 2 ft oz water in E.R. no air bottles and belt to air
ships boats only until 04.00
compressor broken. Managed to get under way 10.00/30th and returned to Ramsgate
19.00 30th.
May Arrived Dunkirk 18.00/51 Air compressor not working and insufficient air in bottles with
31st. June 1st.
to restart motors if they stopped. Embarked 160 mostly Middlesex Regiment
Ships ships company were then exhausted with boat work and all Middlesex Regiment embarked
boats only until midnight.
Ships ship Company acted very well. Besides my Lst. Lieut. Lt. Miller I wish to mention
sailed for Ramsgate arriving 07.30/1.
L.S. A.J.M. Upton P/SSX 13505
A.B. W. H. Dibben P/JX 148504
A.B. .B.Ketchley PJ109346
O.S. Greenwood P/JX 130093
Signed J.E. Whitwell, Lt. Comdr.
This "PASCHOLL" ship was only B. taken over by me on Sunday June 2nd., the previous Captain
having 23.00 Instructions received ashore at 23.30 were to remain Hammond at anchor
returned to his proper duties at Ramsgate. I proceeded to Ramsgate
arriving further there orders. At 15.00 Monday 3rd. June we sailed with Commander Jetty at flying
his flag embarked roximately 300 troops and after some delay left at at 05.30 Tuesday
until in the ship in Command of 5 skoots. We arrived Dunkirk Harbour 00.30
June 23.00 4th, and arriving Ramsgate approximately 08-30 On instructions taken sailed
Wednesday in tow at approximately 10.00 Sailed from Newhaven at 18.00 21.00.7th. Thursday June
5th. June for Poole. arrived Newhaven at 21.00 having
H.M.S.Ruja 6th. June Ruja still in tow arriving Studland Bay approximately
entered Poole Harbour.
Signed Wise Lieut. R.N.V.R.
"ZEUS" I have the honour to Report the following of my vessels activity in operation
Dynamo in diary Joined form. at Poole. P.M. Vessel wiped 5.0 Palla approx cast Yarmouth. off and
25th. May 9.0 p.m. ordered to anchor off Hands
26th. proceeded May. to 5.10 anchor a.m. off ordered Portsmouth. to remain at anchor until further orders. cleaning shij
3.0 p.m. Ordered to proceed Portsmouth. Recived fuel water and stores and ordered to broken proceed
6.0 p.m. Arrived Portsmo for deviation. th. Discharged Dutch engineer. unreliable Note compass deviation
Spithead and steering to swing compass damaged. Results of swinging give very card
10.30 Proceed in company for Newhaven. and enchored. Note. Ship very and short overhauling of dec. gear stores
27th. rope etc. May Hands Dawn arrived employed off rope Newhaven etc. Mands employed Dover. cleaning ship
9.0 Enemy 28th. p.m. May air approx. Dawn raid arrived 1.0 Proceeded p.m. off navigation approx. Dover in company Proceed 9.30 impossible approx for in company WG berthed follow for alongside rest unicint. "Ruja" Compass Considerable at so West bad Quay. as gunfire to
render
independance
of
etc. all night.
msianole

Details

25
First Lieut. then abandoned Alice and took his crew and Major De Haviland (wounded)
and 4. soldiers to Kaap Falga where 1st. Lieut. Alice took command. Major De.
Havilland of G.H.Q came on board with instructions for Kaap Falga to go to sea
25
and try and intercept a destroyer so that he could report by m/t to the War Office
the seriousness of the situation. No. Destroyer would stop so Kaap Falga returned
to the Downs and reported arrival. Then to Dover where stores were cleared by 09.00
1st. Kaap Falga's engines were badly coked up and in attempting to return to
Dunkirk at 22.00 1st. they overheated to such an extent that the Ship could not
make suffient speed to reach Dunkirk by 03.00 2nd. the latest hour that ships had been
ordered to stay off Dunkirk.
Due to the possibility of this defect Kaap Falga was not used on the night of June 2nd.
the last night of the evacuation.
Sailed for Poole 14.30/3 arrived 12.00/5
PACIFIC
A
Lieut.Comdr. C.J.Skrine R.N. Lieut. Triscott R.N.R.
Sat.25th. May Crews for Dutch Skoots proceeded from ortsmouth to Poole where
they arrived about noon and were detached for these vessels.
Pacific proceeded at 14.00 leaving discharged dutch crew at Brownses Island. Was
ordered to anchor at Yarmouth for the night.
Sun. 26th. May. Weighed at 0.430 and proceeded for Portsmouth Harbour at 09.3.0
Being Senior officer of the Party I went ashore and arranged for stores and swinging
etc. No sailing orders were obtainable until about 19.00 when we were ordered
to complete swinging as soon as possible and sail at once for Newhaven. Accordingly
sailed at dark with Amazone Atlantic Zeus & Pascholl in company (wega and San Antonio)
has broken down)
Monday 27th. May. Arrived off Newhaven at 04.00 and was ordered to anchor outside
Lay at anchor all day awaiting orders. At dark received orders to sail for downs
in company with a party of skoots that had previously arruved Newhaven. Weighed and
Proceeded
Tues. 28th. May Arrived Dover about 08.00 and berthed alongside 09.00. Went ashore
and having ascertained the possible nature of the operation made arrangements for
sandbags first aid outfits etc., to be supplied to my party of Skoots by noon
However an air raid warning intervened and none of these stores had been received
13.00 received orders to sail forthwith. Sailed about 13.00 and took over a large
lifeboat at sea from one of the slower skoots who was dropping behind. Pacific
gradually overhauled the other four skoots and I think was the first of this party
to reach La Panne.
From No. 6 E Buoy we proceeded at slow speed 180° straight for the beach where in
answer to our hail a shout was raised by the soldiers on the beach. The intention
waswas to turn to Port and anchor off. However partly due to the fact that the
larger ships were closer in than I anticipated but mainly due to my leadsman failing
to obtain any sounding at all we grounded on a bank of sand before we had turned
90° This occured at 23.00 We sent the large Lifeboat ashore with 3 of our 5 hands and
instructed them to take off men to other ships as with the wind blowing inshore it was
not certain that we should get off, With the remaining two hands we laid out a kedge
on our Port quarter. By going full astern and heaving on the kedge we got afloat
when the tide rose at 02.00
29th. May. The ships lifeboat and skiff was then sent inshore and 1 officer and
7 men were brought off to Pacific before the boats lost touch with her in the dark
They did howver bring several par ies off to other ships. Verbal orders had been
received before leaving Dover to leave shore before03.30 being anxious to recover
boats and men Pacific remained inshore till daylight finally sailing at 04.30
when it seemed liekly that the boats and crews had been embarked by other ships.
Rerurned to Dover by route Y arriviving about 16.30 and disembarked troops. No
orders were immediately available but verbal orders were subsequently received
to embark water and provisions and sail about 22.00 Application was made for the
balance of complument and I was informed that I should be sent 3 hnds from
Montvera. These did not arrive until 02.40 at which time Pacific sailed for Dunitirk.
30th. May. The morning of 30th May was misty at about 08.20 when crossing Le Dyck bank
there was a violent underwater explosion about two cables on the Starboard bow
No aircraft was about and it is supposed that it was a torpedo which had exploded
on the Bank. No vessel was in sight Arrived off the beach 09.00 about 1 mile E
of Dunkirk and anchored close in. We had no boat of our own but collected two from
a skoot that was just leaving, conditions as regards surf were pretty good but boats
very waterlogged and no boat was obtainable all day. By 16.00 my crew were exhausted
by pulling those boats in and out from the hore all as I had 30 Officers and 620
men aboard I decided to sail. We might have had many more in half the time
if a motor boat had been available. Accordingly sailed at 16.00 When crossing the
Inner Ratel Bank was attacked by by two of a flight of three fighters with machine
guns. They scored a few hits on the ship and injured nobody. Had nothing but a pistol
with which to reply.

Details

129
-4-
Having reported to H.M.S. "LYNX" was ordered to
remain ready at short notice, but received no further
instructions until the evening of Sunday June 2nd, when
under the orders of Captain G. Fraser returned in the tug
Sun X' to assist disembarking French troops. I was discharged
to Admiralty P.M. Tuesday, 4th June.
A verbal report was given to H.M.S. "LYNX" of proceedings
during the operations "Dynamo" and delay in forwarding this
report is regretted but had no immediate access to P.G.O's.
I have the honour,
to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant,
LIEUTENANT, R.N.,
Vice Admiral Dover.
VICE ADMIRAL
25 JUN 1940
COVER

Details

Dynams 232
205
192
LOG of H.M. Motor Boat LADY CABLE of Torquay
during operations carried out June 2md
and 3rd, 1940.
In command: Acting Sub-Lieutenant G.A. Cadell, R.N.
Cadet Rating G.R. Price
Stoke Worsall
Able Seaman or Ordinary Seaman Smith
from Newfoundland,
Sunday, June 2nd, 1940.
Took over boat during forenoon from Mr. Gooding who
operates boat for owner at Torquay. She had done one trip
to the beaches near Dunkirk. Took on provisions, water,
petrol, etc. Mr. Gooding showed Stoker Worsall the working
of the engines Cylinder Atlantic running on petrol.
At about 1500 went over to Prince of Wales Pier and was
then taken in tow by SUN VI, together with two life-boats
and one other craft. Started for Dunkirk at approximately
1530, having been handed previously copy of Sailing
Instructions to Drifters, together with rough sketch map
of course to follow. After uneventful trip arrived off
Dunkirk harbour at about 2230 and received orders to
proceed in harbour and go a long way up the Mole to embark
soldiers - fill up and return to tug, then go in for
further loads. At times had difficulty in persuading
French troops to embark in LADY CABLE, the reason apparently
being reluctance to break their units or to act without
definite orders from their officer who was probably still
in the town of Dunkirk. However, we took four boat loads
off - each load containing between 40 and 50 soldiers.
Three loads I took to tugs and one to H.M.S. WISHART when
tug was not in usual position. Spoke to tug after fourth
trip and was informed that it would soon be light and that
she could'nt wait much longer. In reply to a question if
any British officers were still left on the Mole, I replied
that on earlier trips I had seen one who had asked me not
to leave him behind. This officer was engaged in helping
the embarkation of the troops. I had not seen him on my
last trip but told tug I would make another trip to see if
he was there. Informed tug would be as quick as possible
and if tug could not wait, would return to England under
own power. Tug said she could only wait a short while.
On going in for fifth time engines began to go badly
and stopped altogether before reaching point of embarkation.
Engines got going again and we went alongside and collected
about 24 more French soldiers. There was no sign of British
officer and Price reported to me that French on the Mole told
him he had gone. I sent Price up on to the Mole to make
enquiries. Owing to the improbability of tug waiting for
us, I only took 24 soldiers as a greater number would have
made trip back to England under own power too hazardous. Just
after passing lighthouse at end of harbour, engines stopped
again. Noticed we were close to W.D. craft (later found to
be HAIG) who I imagined from her position was watching us and
would/

Details

212
199
Page 2
TO ENCLOSURE I. TO FORD'S LETTER NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
The only other person that I saw who was aboard the boat
when we were fired on was a Frenchman and he was not
interested as he had passed over the border.
Able Seaman Strand reported himself and me by phone on
arrival at Margate.
in.
2nd. Reported to the Officer i/c and was given warrants for
transfer to Littlehampton. Left A.M. and arrived at
Littlehampton P.M. reported to Camp on arrival.
(SIGNED)
A. BENHAM STOKER.
shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually
repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw
all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if
ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility
to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk
packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers
came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank
within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours,
naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked
up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer i/c decided to make back
to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was
being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. % hour saw three trawlers,
2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal
and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for
torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or
was disregarded. Shot fired across bows, but still steaming
fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and
myself went over the side. Firing eased a little so I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly see they
were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after
chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O.
Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2)
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred
us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports,
Sun. 2nd.
if any, had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Stoker Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders
to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed
rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

Details

212A
ENCLOSURE II. TO FORD'S NO. 541 of 17th. JUNE, 1940.
200
REPORT BY ABLE SEAMAN NO.275. L.P. STRAND - CREW OF MOTOR BOAT
P.M. 29th. Left Littlehampton. Got permission, after much trouble
to enter and stay night in Newhaven.
A.M. 30th. Left Newhaven for Ramsgate and arrived P.M. - refuelled
and awaited orders.
A.M. 31st. At 4.30 A.M. ordered to leave Ramsgate independently, for
Dunkirk. C.P.O. Leighton i/c, Stoker Benham and Able
Seaman Strand. Outside harbour picked up convoy of small
boats.
3 hours out approx. developed leak in Port
Stern Gland. C.P.O. Lighton ordered me (Strand) to turn
ship and return to Ramsgate. Arrived back in Ramsgate P.M.
and had Gland repacked.
A.M. 1st. 4.30 again ordered to Dunkirk. Before leaving 8 Sub-
Lieutenants (R.N.V.R. volunteered to join boat as their
engine had given them trouble. Got charts etc., and got under
way. No convoy. Near Dunkirk, boat struck obstacle or
shook from bomb explosion. Warships in vicinity continually
repelling air attacks. Just off shore at Dunkirk we saw
all small boats suddenly turn about and leave, as if
ordered so our Officer i/c decided on own responsibility
to do likewise. No ship near to give a general order.
On turning saw 2 large ships steaming away from Dunkirk
packed with soldiers. Suddenly a crowd of German bombers
came out of the clouds, dropped their bombs and disappeared.
Direct hits were registered on both big ships which sank
within 20 minutes. All small boats, including ours,
naturally steamed all out to pick up survivors. We picked
up 10 and as bombs fell, Officer 1/c decided to make back
to Ramsgate. Large destroyer on the scene of resume was
being bombed but kept raiders off.
After steaming back for approx. $ hour saw three trawlers,
2 on Stb. hand and 1 on Port. I saw one making morse signal
and shouted to C.P.O. on wheel to stop engines and asked for
torch to try and answer signal, but could not be heard or
was disregarded. Shot fired across bowa, but still steaming
fast towards trawlers. Next thing, very heavy firing from I
think, all 3 trawlers, our boat being the target at about
1,600 yards. All hands except both R.N.V.R. Officers and
myself went over the side. Firing eased a little so I
grabbed our ensign and waved it as I could plainly ace they
were our own chaps. Firing ceased, trawler sent boat after
chaps in water, got our boat alongside. Both Officers, C.P.O.
Lighton and several survivors wounded, 1 dead (perhaps 2)
belonging to crew of sunk transport.
Later took our boat in tow (messed up a bit) and transferred
us to a minesweeper which eventually took us into Ramagate.
I moored our boat at Pier and being ignorant of what reports,
if any, had been sent decided to report by wire, which I did,
Sun. 2nd.
Stoker Benham and self reported again to N.O.i/c. Got orders
to leave boat where it was, would be looked after, handed
rail warrant for Littlehampton. On arrival P.M. reported to
Commander personally.
(SIGNED) L.F. STRAND.

Details

217
205
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 3
B
SHIP:-
M.D.
AURA
OFFICER:- SUB. LIEUT. M.A. CHODZKO, R.N.V.R.
REPORT I.
1st
On Saturday, June 3rd, I received instructions to take charge
of the Motor Launch AURA and proceed to a beach East of Dunkirk Harbour.
Left Dover Harbour towed by drifter GIRL GLADYS at 15.30.
Before leaving it had been reported to me that the AURA'S engine was not
operating successfully, in as much that she would not come astern. As
the weather appeared to be favourable there seemed no reason why the
operation could not be carried out.
X
We shipped from GIRL GLADYS in the proximity of 5W Buoy and
proceeded Eastwards. I was able to tow cutters from one of the Paddle
Steamers to the beach on this first trip inwards. The time was 0100 -
About 100 British troops were transferred from the shore to various
vessels. The engine was giving considerable trouble so that shortly
after 0215, June 4th, it failed completely.
The launch was then manoeuvred towards some Thames Sailing
Barges, and we endeavoured to repair the engine. On examination we
found that a defective dynamo was causing the trouble, and as operations
were ordered to cease at 0300, I decided to abandon AURA at 0245. I
transferred the crew to a dinghy which we found, and then managed to
get aboard a "paddle steamer" which was getting under way. All members
of my crew behaved excellently throughout the twelve hours.
REPORT II.
2nd
On Sunday, June 4th, I repaired aboard the drifter YORKSHIRE
LASS in the capacity of Skipper. I received orders to proceed to Dunkirk
Harbour. Leaving Dover at about 1515, we arrived off Dunkirk at 0000.
Off the S. Foreland Lieutenant Commander Prior, Royal Navy, was transferred
from the drifter U.UTPROSIM aboard the YORKSHIRE LASS.
There was little delay in arriving alongside and we started
embarking French troops before 0030. Another drifter arrived alongside
our vessel so we transferred our troops and carried on loading. By 00115
we seemed to be practically full. There appeared to be no more troops
on our portion of the jetty and I dispatched a soldier to see if we could
collect another 50 men. Other ships were arriving alongside, so by 0130
we were steaming out of the Harbour.
During the whole operation, and during the passage, the troops
behaved in an orderly manner. During the homeward passage the vessel
developed a hot bearing, and as it was just daybreak, I signalled SUN XI
to take us in tow until repairs were effected. Within three quarters of
an hour we proceeded under our own power and arrived in Harbour at 0830
Monday, June 5th.
The whole ships company were highly efficient in their duty,
and on investigation 100 French troops and 3 British Tommies had been
transported.
The British Tommies reported as having lost their division,
and had only arrived in Dunkirk on Saturday.
Report ends.

Details

219
207
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO. 5.
SHIP: MOTOR BOAT "CAVERSHAM".
MOTOR BOAT "QUISISTANA".
TUG "SUN X".
OFFICER REPORTING: SUB. LIEUT. A.V. WEAVER.
Left H.M.S. KING ALFRED 29th May for Sheerness, whence
took Motor Boat "Caversham" to Ramsgate. (Faulty engine caught
fire during night.)
2.
31st May. "Caversham" acted as tender to Schuyts,
then set off for Dunkirk, but sprang serious leak, and, pumps
not working, returned to Ramsgate following morning.
3.
1st June. Took Motor Boat "Quisisiana" to Dunicirk
loaded her with 1 Army Officer and 17 other ranks from beach.
Fifteen miles from Dunkirk accepted tow from tug "Young Mun",
and, being unable to restart engines off Brake bucy, was towed
into Dover.
4.
3.30 p.m. was sent to tug "Sun X" (Ateut. Philpotts)
which towed three boats to Dunkirk. (At destination Lieut.
Philpotts left tug to act as beach master, and did not return
to tug.) Boats loaded tug to capacity with French troops, and
tug entered Dover at 8.30 a.m.
5.
Please note that Motor Boat's crew worked admirably
in very trying circumstances. Their names are -
J. Clarke
L. Seaman
DJ.87012
W.C. Morgan
Sto. I
KX.88644
D. Soully
0/Seaman
JX.175384
J. Curran
0/Seaman
JX.176599
J. Hill
0/Seaman
No number
They are part of a special DRAKE party. Morgan is now in Deal
Hospital with swollen ankles, the others went to Dover Transit
Camp.

Details

223
OPERATION DYNAMO
ENCLOSURE NO.8
211
SHIP:- M.B. SKYLARK
MICHAEL STEVENS 4B.
OFFICER:- SUB.LIEUTENANT M.J.R. YEATMAN, R.N.V.R.
Friday, 31st May. Took charge of M/B. SKYLARK, overhauled engine,
proceeded under tow of VROIDA. Tow broke down - - returned to port.
Overhauled engines of one or two other M/B's.
Saturday, 1st June.M/B. SKYLARK. Towed by RIGA to near Dunkirk.
Transferred survivors to RIGA from French Destroyer, who had picked
them up from torpedoed ship.
RIGA returned to Dover, and I returned under own
power by Kellet cut to Dover by about 10.0 p.m. Reported at CAMBER
and returned to Granville Steps.
Sunday, 2nd June. Transferred in charge of MICHAEL STEPHINS
Lowestoft Lifeboat - 2 Stokers and 1 A.B. from Transit Camp for crew.
Overhauled engines, fuelled and provisioned - proceeded under tow of
Tug SUN XI. Arrived Dunkirk, after dark about 2230 hours. Entered
harbour and went toward Eastern Mole. Rammed by M.T.B. without much
damage. Went alongside Eastern Mole. With difficulty got 12 Fyench
soldiers aboard. Proceeded out to find tug which had disappeared,
landed troops on trawler. Returned to harbour, being rammed by
another M.T.B. on the way. Found Sloop (identification letters S.G.
or S.C.). Owing to swish of tide she could not come alongside, so
with the big engines of the lifeboat I pushed her alongside and went
aboard to help make fast. Climbed on to Mole, which was being shelled,
and by means of some forceful language and a rifle butt, Induced the
French troops who were lying on the Mole to start down on to the
Sloop. Once a few had started they all began to go down. Got 52
into the lifeboat and cast off to try and find tug. After searching
for some time, and being hit again by a fishing boat, I decided at
0100 to return under my own power to Dover.
Reported a floating mine by morse to a destroyer about
6 miles E.S.E. of N. Goodwin Light Vessel.
Reached Dover and landed French troops at 0710.
Returned lifeboat and reported at Submarine Camber
at 0730.
Shrapnel on Eastern Mole was mostly at first confined
to outer end of Mole until the Sloop drew alongaide. Then the
range shortened, I got the definite impression that someone had been
spotting for the guns, as the direction of fire shortened very
rapidly and accurately. Suffered no casualties though among my
contingent. In fact, I found considerably greater risk from the
movements of allied craft then from Nazi shelling. There seemed to
be no attempt to keep any rule of the road. Outside the Harbour
had one attack from a Nazi plane. No hits, but she may just have
been having a blind shot at four of us who were altogether.
(Sgd)
MARWOOD J. B. YEATMAN.
Sub.Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.
H.M.S. KING ALFRED.

Details

224
OPERATION DYNAMO
212
ENCLOSURE No.9.
SHIP: Motor Boat SOUTHERN QUEEN.
Officer Reporting: SUB.-LIEUT. DEMATTOS.
Went with Sun XI. Picked up about 200. All
French and women and children. 2 Loads from East Mole,
2 from small West Mole. Back 10 miles under own power,
then tow by Sun X.
Suggest Officers speaking French to send Frenchmen
into boats, as they refuse to go in small boats.
First trip towed by VREDE, broke down and we towed
her clear of shipping and returned.
by
Second trip towed RIKA, sent back under own power
from 2 miles off Dunkirk.

Details

1710 Only one boat in company (Abdy Beau Clark
Aldeburgh lifeboat).
1718 Life-boat "Rosa Wood" Shoreham joined
company. One drifter ahead.
1726 To drifter "what are your intentions".
1730 To drifter "Stop". "Rosa Wood" and "Phyllis
Lunn" informs us he intends returning Dover.
1736 Three British planes over.
1740 Closed drifter. Hang on in position until
last, most other boats and one drifter out of
sight. Speed boat informs us soldiers still
ashore but refuses to come aboard.
1821 Planes attacking with bombs.
1837 To trawler "Have you had any reply". From
trawler "No".
1838 Planes still bombing. 1 ship damaged not
our fleet. Captain decided to try on his
own to reach Dunkirk. The two life-boats in
company turned back. Bombs still dropping.
Being machine-gunned 1849. last and stays
hit.
1854 Captain carrying on to Dunkirk single-handed.
1859 24 fighters overhead.
1908 I have been deserted please stand by no.
To Motor Boat with Liteut.Commander on board.
Put us on our course.
1926 Covered white conspicuous parts of ship with
oilskins. From Cairnoorn I.E. "Steer S.558
for Dunkirk". S.S. "Sun 4" Duniciple 2012.
2023 One friendly plane overhead.
2044 Proceeding to Dunicirk beach. Arrived Dunicize
with "Sun 4". Message from I.E. "Inadvisable
to go in". Captain boarded "Sun 4" 2100.
2108 Proceeding to Dunkirk. Arrived Dunicive
harbour 2135. No one on piers. Picked up
"Sun 4" one rowing boat to go to beach.
Lieut. Mead billed. Boats in beach taking
ratings from shore all night (run aground).
0423 2nd June Sunday left Dunkirk. (Scored out in
log 'believed to be last boat in Dunlefric').
Life-boat in tow of "Sun 4".
0450 0456 Under way. Rope round starboard propellor of
"Sun 4" ran aground.
life-boat.
0923 Passed S. Goodwins.
1010 Arrived Ramagate - "Sun 4ª anchored, life-
boat secured astern.
1030 (approx.) Soldiers landed.
1310 Left anchorage for Ramagate Harbour and
secured alongside "Princess London" S.B.
at 1325.
1412 Left P.L. Steamboat.
1424 Arrived and secured to "Sun 4" off Ramagate.
Collected all spare ammunition laying.
2023 Left anchorage Ramagate Harbour and secured
alongside H.M.S. DWARF 2035.
Monday 3rd June
0930 Reported to N.O.I.C. Ramagate for permission
to sail to Dover. Permission granted. Told
Commander Cook, Piermaster prior to sailing.
by Naval Officer-in-Charge to report to
Informed Condr. Cook and asked him to inform
Dover. Sailed from Ramsgate 1026 an route
Dover.
1112 Passed Occ. fog bell.
1157 Passed South break.
1354 To examination steamer off Dover. "Walton
Life-boat. May I enter".
1355 Told to proceed. Arrived Dover and secured
alongside.

Details

FROM
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
233
DATE
15th June 1940.
25
TO
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT.
Lieutenant R.H. Mead, R.N.V.R.
I regret who to report the death of Lieutenant R.H.
Mead, R.N.V.R. 1940, at 2108, was killed in action at Dunkirk on Saturday,
1st June or was wounded and died later.
2.
H.M. D/C to the M.B. had been reported out of action
31st May 1940, and Duty Staff Officer, Staff of Flag p.m. Officer
commanding Dover, the Commanding Officer and Lieutenant
Mead were ordered to find themselves boats if possible, and to
assume command.
3. Lieutenant Mead had assumed command of R.N.L.B.
WALTON AND FRINTON, and having been towed across to near Dun-
I.B.
kirk with other small boats, had pressed on to Dunkirk, unaccom-
panied except by one other boat, the remainder of the small
boats having turned back. This can be clearly seen from the
extracts of the log kept in the boat, a copy of which has
already been forwarded to the Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover,
through the Officer Commanding Rescue Boats.
an
4. While in the harbour itself, a shrapnel shell burst
on the water nearby, killing Lieutenant Mead. The remainder
ope
of the life-boat's crew, under a Lieutenant R.N.R. from the
Tug SUN IV continued ferrying soldiers to larger ships until
clan
0423, when Tug SUN IV towed the boat back to Ramsgate.
5.
The two members of my crew who accompanied Lieutenant
led
Mead, Petty Officer Telegraphist Cooley and Able Seaman MacManus,
have informed me that the "determination and guts" of Lieutenant
Mead in persisting in his efforts to rally the smaller boats
and to push on to Dunkirk, were outstanding. This was reported
by me to the Staff Officer of the Rescue boats at Dover, who
interviewed the crew, and has a copy of the log of the life-boat.
ced
6.
I understand that the boat underwent many air attacks
ops
from the time that the tow came within about 20 miles of the
coast.
it.
7.
This report is submitted in order to confirm that the
ant
gallantry of Lieutenant R.H. Mead, (as previously reported by me,
ps,
ade
P.T.O.
Note:- During the above operations the "Cordelia was
working with Sport engine only which, owing to being
overworked, seized up. Estimated that 300 troops were
carried by "Cordelia" and whaler from the beach.
1100 Taken in tow by the G.R.1740 (drifter) and
proceeded towards Dover.
1130) Shelled by shore
2030 Entered Dover Harbour and tied up at Prince of
1145) batteries.
Wales Pier (Inner Harbour).
2100 Reported to LYNX office.
Friday/

Details

OPERATION
231
NO. 20
SHIP:- LIFEBOAT, "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne).
STATEMENT BY $
Name
Service
Sunday 2nd
Started off in a lifeboat towed by SUN II.
Lifeboat "JANE HOLLAND" (Sastbourne). Cast
$
Sto. J. Strangeways
off outside and told to go to & landing right
PKX 95036.
up the other and of the harbour. Found they
$
Sto. A.H. Shaw
were under fire in the harbour. Shell struck
PKX 94553. E.R.PONSONBY
the tug or drifter they were going alongaide
One Sub.Lieut, R.N.V.R.
so they went on up harbour. 31g enough hote
One A.B.
in the lifeboat bows to crawl. through. Drenohed
One O.S.
with spray caused by shrapnel. Às proceeding
also there.
up harbour saw a destroyer out & small rowing
All came back.
boat down with two Fyench sailors in 11. they
took these to the first destroyer. Tent right
up harbour: saw Fyench troops but they refused
to be taken off. So they came back out of the
harbour to tug anchored outside. Then they
were told to collect troops from anywhere.
Engine stopped just before dawn inside harbour.
Nearly every boat had gone by then. So they
got up sail and tried to get out of harbour.
Several destroyers passed, they waved and
destroyers waved back: one hour after dawn
when they were just about giving up hopes &
M.T.B. came. Towed them out, engine started,
then they were alipped and after about 4 ailes
the engine began to smoke and she caught fire.
No one in sight and two M.T.B's came along to
resume. Took them aboard. Lifeboat in l'lames,
returned a.m. 31at.

Details

249
235
OPERATION
NO.23
SHIP:- M/B. SKYLARK
STATEMENT BY $
Crew
Service
06
Sto.
G.Bramhall 2nd Time. Left Dover about 14.50 with an 0.5. in
PKX 88343
SKYLARK - A small open M/S. Towed across by SUN I
Ord. Sea.
with two other boats (? TCM DISDIN). Slipped tow
2ndgime gime 1530ca
just outside harbour and went into pier. Shipped
French soldiers from pier ladders and took them
to the SUN I, which was lying off. Some big
ships alongside. 20/25 soldiers sach trip. Left
under tow from SUN # about daylight. & little
shrapnel, bombing over the town. Started shipping
water and transferred boatload to tuge

Details

Details

Dynom. 120,
363
Admiralty House,
341
Sheerness.
8th June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that on Monday 27th May,
after getting final instructions from the Vice Admiral,
Dover, I proceeded to Sheerness and commenced duty as
"Dynamo" Maintenance Officer; my staff consisted of
Commander H.R. Troup, R.N,, who accompanied me from
Economic Warfare Division, and Lieutenant Commander D.E.
Holland-Martin, R.N. We had the invaluable assistance of
the Fleet Engineer Officer, Captain T.E. Docksey. Lieutenant
Commander Guinner, R.N. in command of the Schuit "Princess
Juliana" which had broken down, helped for the first day,
he then left to join N.O.I.C. Ramsgate whose need was
greater. Lieutenant Commander Filleul, R.N., from Weymouth
Contraband Base, also joined but was sent away in charge of
a lighter with petrol cans of water and subsequently joined
N.O.I.C. Margate. Lieutenant R.S. Hellby R.N.R. who came from
Weymouth Contraband Base, but was not fit enough to go to
sea, took his place.
2. Officers, ratings, volunteers and boats commenced to
arrive on Tuesday, and the work of preparing boats for
service occupied the whole of daylight hours for the remainder
of the week.
3. The first group consisting of 20 cutters with half crews
sailed for Dover on Tuesday in tow of the"st. Clears" and
"Sun V". The first group of motor boats sailed for Dover on
Wednesday. Subsequent groups were sent either to Ramsgate or
direct to the beaches, as directed by the Vice Admiral, Dover.
When there were insufficient Officers available, boats were
sailed in groups with at least one Officer trained in
navigation in each. Lighters were as far as possible given
motor boats to attend them.
4. Officers and Coxswains were given broad instructions that
failing orders and guidance from Officers on the spot they
were to find the places where troops were waiting, ferry them
off to the ships off shore, and continue the work as long as
possible, retaining enough fuel in reserve to get back to
Ramsgate. As far as I have been able to judge, good use was
made of the wide discretion given.
5. Requests were made from time to time for rafts, ladders,
lifebuoys and water. These and all the other demands were
met wholeheartedly by the Dockyard and H.M.S. "Wildfire".
6. Most of the owners and crews who brought boats
volunteered to serve in them; more would have done so had
what they were wanted to do. Many volunteers who had
it been possible to tell them before sailing for Sheerness
commitments went away to clear themselves and came back to
who lost their boats joined others at Dover and Ramsgate,
join, although their own boats had already sailed. Crews
or back to Sheerness to find another. There were I
am came glad to be able to say, very few exceptions to the general
at the In Dardanelles, did all he could to get away and induce
enthusiasm. X213 the Master, a man of 60 years who had served
his to take her. They went away to Chatham. S,N.S.O on
me sent and I suggest that the Dockyard would be well
drivers them back. They made a most unfavourable impression advised to
get rid of them. I feel sure that they could not be relied
on in any emergency and would have a bad effect on others.
One I regret to add, is an ex-service man.

Details

Dyrom P2 391
-
368
June 5th, 1940.
1.
Lieut. A.J. Davies, R.N.V.R. -"Java" never got over the
other side and was finally towed to Sheerness by "Gorecht"
2.
Lieut. A.N. Blundell, R.N.R. - "Bornrif" did three. trips
between Ramsgate and beaches at Dunkirk. "King Orry" was
sighted sunk off Dunkirk.
3.
Sub Lieut. R.H.C. Amos, R.N.V.R. - "Iote" was beached and
abandoned after she had damaged her rudder while rescuing
two of her crew, who had fallen overboard on the morning
of Saturday June 1st. On night of Monday, June 3rd, Sub Lieut
Amos, R.N.V.R. and Sub Lieut. R.H. Wallace, R.N.V.R. were in
a new but unnamed power life boat which was towed over to
SUN
Dunkirk by Tug "About
.....
(A).
On the 30th May D.S. "Horst" was known to have been abandoned.
4.
Sub Lieut. D.C. Williams, R.N.V.R. - left Ramsgate on the
night of Su day, June 2nd in the "Kitcat". On the way over
he became separated from the rest of the convoy. After
doing some work the other side he towed the "Singapore" back
to Dover and then on to Ramsgate on Monday, June 3rd.
5.
Lieut. R.W. Thomson, R.N.V.R. - After being discharged from
the "AEGer", where he had proved lacking in experience, did
4 trips in the "DABB II", two of which were unsuccessful.
6.
Sub Lieut. C. Minchin, R.N. - Went to the beached in the
"LYDD" where he ferried until the boat broke down. She was
abandoned and Minchin returned to Ramsgate in the "Lydd".
On Monday, against orders he tried to go over in the "Hel-
frinore" but she broke down.
7.
Sub Lieut. E.S. Foreman, R.N.V.R. - In the"Princess Freda"
he ferried from the beaches for a destroyer. He then
worked for the Dutch "Besta" --?, who finally towed him
back to Ramsgate.
8.
Sub Lieut. R.E. Blows, R.N.V.R. - Started in the "Minikoi"
but she was rammed and sunk by "MASB 6" off the downs at
0230 on Wed, May 29th. He next went over in the "Ambleve",
which with the "Sambre" was towed over by the "Skipjack",
for whom he ferried from the beaches. A crew from the
Skipjack releived his crew for a'stand-easy' and ran the
"Ambleve" aground. He and his crew returned in the
Skipjack. On Saturday, June 1st, he went over in a power
life boat. She was damaged by near bombs but the engines
continued to run.
9.
Sub Lieut. J.W. Pratt, R.N.V.R. - Ran aground in the
"Singapore" on beach at 0130 on Sunday June 2nd. She
rfloated at 0800 and he left with three French Officers.
On the way he picked up two British soldiers who were
floating around'. These were revived with wine from the
French Officers' water bottles. He passed the "Mosquito"
which was still afloat but had been deserted. In mid
channel he found three life boats which he took in tow
intil his engines gave out and he was taken in tow by
the "Kitkat".
10.
Sub Lieut. I.F. Smith, R.N.V.R. - In "Jong" helped to
ferry troops from the beaches on Friday, May 31st. On
way home he sighted the "Iote" drifting round empty and
the "White Heather" empty but at anchor.

Details

3.
370
22.
Skipper A. Gardner, R.N.R. - Went in Tug "Tanga" arrived
at the beaches at 2200 on Friday, May 31st. They were
bombed and machine-gunned throughout the night, while
lying off an inprovised jetty. He helped to ferry troops
in a power life boat which "Tanga" had towed. This broke
down and he returned on Saturday in "Leda", leaving the
life boat.
23. Sub Lieut. E.T. Garside, R.N.V.R. - Went to Le Panne in
"Elizabeth Green" and ferried for larger craft. He
sighted "Viewfinder" on the beach. He got back to
Ramsgate on Thursday May 30th, transferred to the R.F.A.
launch "Andora II" and returned to beaches where he ferried
for a bit and then brought back 23 French. Arrived
Ramsgate on Friday. On Monday night he was towed over in
the "Elizabeth Green" by a tug, which he could not after-
wards find and so he brought his load home.
24. Sub Lieut. R. Shrimpton, R.N.V.R.- In an Admiralty, open
36 ft. launch he was towed over by a drifter and pent
Saturday night at the beaches. On a later night he went
into Dunkirk.
25. Sub Lieut. S.C. Allen, R.N.V.R. Went over to Le Panne
in the "Frightened Lady" which was beached after fouling
the screw. He reported to an Admiral with side whiskers
who was escorting Gort. He was told to help some soldiers
getting abandoned pinnaces away. He also assisted to
build a jetty with trailers etc. Left the beaches in the
"Horst".
26. Sub Lieut. A.V. Weaver, R.N.V.R. Went over in "Quijijana"
and brought back a party of 18 troops mostly Coldstream
Guards. He went over again in "Sun X".
27. Sub Lieut. W.G.H. Bonham, R.N. - went over in "BOBELI"
in the first batch and ferried until about midni on
Wednesday night. His boat was broken up by a destroyer
which went full ahead while he was alongside. He went
on ferrying for a bit but had to abandon the "Bobeli" and
returned to Margate in the "Albury". He then went over
in the "Horst" which had to be abandoned owing to engine
trouble and a near miss.
28. Sub Lieut. J.W. Culham, R.N. - in "Smolt" which broke
down on way over and was towed back by "Midas" ?. Went
over in "Glitter II" to the beaches about 6m East of
Dunkirk arrived at 1600 on Wed. 29th. Stayed ferrying
until 0200 on Thursday when she lost her rudder on some
wreckage and was towed back to Dover by a drifter. The
"Black Arrow" was seen aground at Dunkirk.
29. Sub Lieut. R.A.W. Pool, R.N. - Took lighter X.817 to
Dunkirk and then back to Ramsgate. He went over again
on last night to Dunkirk in the M.T.B. "Marlborough".
Mares
30.
Sub Lieut. E.G.B. R.N.V.R. - in "Skylark" but
she sank on the way over. He also saw "Mary Rose" sink
in mid ocean and the "Ellen Mary" run down by a life
boat and abandoned.
31,
Sub Lieut. E.A.E. Cornish, R.N.V.R. - was in the
"Lansdowne" which slipped her tow outside Dunkirk.

Details

(2)
above aircraft, us at working in conjunction with M.T.B's
3892
we evidently observed. one escaped moment torpedoing. but by twisting No surface and turning two right was rapidly
actually Daylight was welcomed by craft all.
400.
Keep rather calling "St. Achilleus" by R/T and "W/T no
was of worried about her as we had arranged in answer
at event S. Buoy. losing each other during the night to rendezvous the
.000.
Came to to "Arctic conclusion that "St. Achilleus" had gone, reported
gone Pioneer" and asked permission to join her
been group mainly all because of W/T watches, our operator had already
on night and couldn't carry on indefinitely.
315.
Whilst heading from .Buoy towards Dunkirk in answer
to S.S. "Pragg's" S.O.S., received signal from Arctic
Pioneer that M.T.B. was approaching, we cleared for action
challenged her five times, no distinguishing mark or ensign
was shown, also she approached us zig-zagging. Fire was
opened with four inch, Pom Pom and Lewis guns, all three
ships heading straight for her firing; one four inch
from "Arctic Pioneer" struck her superstructure and she
then stopped and layto. On approach a white ensign was
observed being waved. Fire ceased and boats were lowered.
We went alongside M.T.B. took survivors and casualties off.
Report of action has been given to F.O.I.C. Harwich also
with report for Commanding Officer of M.T.B. Casualties
1 killed and five wounded. Transferred all to H.M.S.
"Saltash" who also took charge of M.T.B.
175
2100.
Received instructions to take charge of Group consisting
of "Sphene" and"Lord Melchett" and patrol between S.Buoy
and West Hinder.
2. 0509. Contacted "Lord Melchett" she joined us, proceeded
Eastward.
0711.
Stopped and Picked up 12 Refugees from small boat, boat
not worth keeping so cast it adrift and proceeded.
0729.
Signalled by aircraft (Hudson) piloted by Pilot Officer
Elworthy of Detling and asked to follow him. He
repeatedly circled around us and eventually said carry on
as you are going and you'll meet and open boat full of
people.
0740.
Met small boat, took refugees onboard, made boat fast
astern and proceeded on patrol.
0955.
Attacked by enemy dive bombers first one dived and
machine gunned us, the second one dropped bombs, both
rame out of sun, could be heard distinctly but not seen
until almost on us. They dived to within a hundred feet,
continual fire was maintained until ammunition exhausted,
ship zig-zagged continuously. 15 bombs were dropped
altogether during the course of three attacks. Bombs
fell within 20 feet of ship both sides and one thought
to be incendiary fell in bulwarks forward, setting fire
of mast away bar one arm supported, port bulwarks and but D.G.
to two spare unprimed D/Cs and deck and also blew base
gear carried on again, believed considerable damage minor
dismantled. Engines were stopped by explosion done to
engine and ship badly strained, besides numerous
defects. Fire was put out by deck hose.

Details

404
(
382
TUGS
EL
SUN N
C.11.
c.9.
FORMIDABLE.
Sr, CHEARS.
LADY GRASSEY
FOREMOST BY
Sr. OLAP
T
(

Details

SECRET
Dyram 35,4
406
Jug Sun IV
H.M.S. Pelican,
384
C/o G.P.O.
18th June, 1940.
Sir,
and to submit following narrative of events :-
I have the the honour to refer to Nore General Order 448/40
(Master Mr. Alexander, 12 Manager of the firm), slipped from Tilbury
At 0200 Friday, 31st May, 1940, the London tug Sun IV
Docks with lifeboats in tow. A London Pilot was embarked and
remained in the tug until the evacuation was completed. Ships"
lifeboats were manned by half naval and half volunteer crews.
anchored. Provisions were embarked for boats" crews and the
2. Southend pier was hailed at 0415/31 May, 1940, and the tug
opportunity was taken to allow boats" crews a hot cup of tea in the
tug.
3. At 0445 anchow was weighed and the tug proceeded to
Ramsgate arriving at 1115, where she was armed with two pairs of
Lewis guns mounted either side of the wheel house.
4. The tugs were sailed for Dunkirk at 1330. Commander
Tyler came onboard as his tug had run out of coal and water.
Lieutenant Wilkinson and a further party of seamen were also
embarked.
5. At 1915 a high level bombing attack took place, but bombs
all fell a long way from the tug.
6. A boat was capsized when the tug met a destroyer's wake
and it is regretted that one Stoker was drowned. This casualty was
reported on arrival in harbour by Commander Tyler.
7. At 2230 the tug was ordered to a position one mile east
of Dunkirk by verbal orders from a motor torpedo boat. By 2300
the tug was anchored three quarters of a mile from the shore and the
boats were sent in with Lieutenant Wilkinson and Lieutenant Fletcher,
R.N.R., in charge. From 2300 to 0300 there was periodic shelling
and one bomb from an aircraft, which was engaged by Lewis guns, was
dropped about 100 yards from the tug.
been able to British, back to our tug, but the remainder of the boats"
French 8. and the tug weighed anchor. Only three boats had
At 0315/1 June, 1940, having embarked 88 soldiers both
crews were either get onboard or were towed back by drifters to Ramsgate.
while this one was boat being was done a German fighter flew towards us and was
At 0445 set adrift as it was filling rapidly with water;
engaged with Lewis guns.
9. 0830/1 June, 1940, arrived at Ramsgate. Commander Tyler
went inshore for orders.
10. weighed at 1615 and tug proceeded with the two North boats
in
tow.
A Anchor small was trawler was seen to hit a mine south of
Goodwin Light vessel at 1645.
11. Three German bombers

Details

SECRET
- 2 -
407
11.
Three
German
bombers
1830 yards from about astern. 8000 British feet. fighters Ten carried bombs were out a dropped level bombing falling attack 385 at
hour 250 later as three transports Passed. appeared about a quarter about of an
be shown of the night. The This boat remained with us asked the
12. the At way 2030 into the motor Dunkirk. lifeboat E.M.M.D. hailed us and to
remainder killed by Lieutenant R.N.V.R. in command for
by at Ramsgate.
unfortunately Commander Tyler on arrival shrapnel during the night. This was was reported
troops in the Commander Tyler disregarded this and were went no
13. left At in 2100 Dunkirk. a small motor boat informed us that there
into the harbour motor lifeboat with Lieutenant Fletcher.
14. At 2130 the tug was hailed by a motor torpedo boat and
orders were received to use the boats to fill up minesweepers which
were to arrive later.
15. At 2145 the motor lifeboat and one boat were sent in shore.
The tug then towed the remaining boat as near in shore as possible.
This boat then pulled for , shore. The tug was then anchored about
three quarters of a mile from the Eastern breakwater.
16. The pulling boat returned with the news that there were no
soldiers ashore at 2230, and said that she had not seen the other
boats.
17. 2300 - 0100/2 June, 1940, fairly heavy firing over and short,
chiefly shrapnel, All hands kept under cover, until the motor
lifeboat returned at 0130. The tug then weighed and proceeded to
Ramsgate.
18. At 0140 an M.T.B. again hailed us and weewere sent back to
fill up with soldiers, and anchored in position again at 0215.
After waiting till 0330 for the boats the tug weighed and went
further in shore to pick them up, but ran aground about a quarter of
a mile off shore. The flooding tide and the use of engines astern
together with physical jerks by the soldiers refloated her. Boats
meanwhile had been secured. We then proceeded to Ramsgate with
142 soldiers on board and in the motor lifeboat, which we towed.
19. At 0415 we ran aground for the second time one mile west
haze gave us a peaceful passage home arriving at Ramsgate at 07451
of the breakwater, but managed to get off after ten minutes. A slight
20. Commander Tyler left us A.M. and we were told the tug would
not be required that night, but at 2000/2 June, 1940, we were ordered
the Hospital Paris. At 0100 we eventually located her and the
to weigh and proceeded to a position near position wire to salvage
We lay with a got secured, but unfortunately her first
tug Sun XV Ship Commander R.N.R., onboard, attempted to tow her.
wire parted. off until About she had two minutes later a German machine Lewis dived down
both the gunned us. the guns getting in bursts. We were leave
and machine We engaged the aircraft with then guns;
ordered ratings on R.N.R., in the tug Sun XV to after ship he
had by the Commander thought of the situation. The hospital by the stern. was
Both about the five fathoms and I considered that if we be were very slow work to
in asked us what we of water and was very heavily down to get her back
safely we Tugmaster would require an escort. I It think would that she was already tow
her as she was a twin screw ship.
aground. but it was hard to tell.
The tug arrived back at Ramsgate
0645/3 June, 1940.
21. At 130 we

Details

411
419
/
389
412
390
0 Captai.. of "Vernon".
Tug 0.9
6th June 1940.
9 Bg
iro
on the 1st June as Master of Tug C.9 I was at Dunkirk
hen two destroyers were bombed and having received orders
il from
0 assist to tow one and then ordered to go to the other
elioved to be the "Keith" which was sunk after the crew
18 bombing was BO severe that I witnessed the destruction
ad been ta en off by H.M.S. Sloop. I was on resoue duty
four ships, namely H.M.S. "BRIGHTON QUEEN", H.M.S. "SCOBIA"
ring these operations a bomb bursting (approx.) 30 ft.
M.S. "KEITH" which had just left Dunkirk full of troops.
erations whether on the Bridge with a rifle trying to
tern of the Tug lifting stern in the air. All through the
46422 SGOE
pot down enemy planes or rescuing troops over the side to
be 15 yoh
lp the wounded P.O. Steward and P.O.
loaned to us
m H.M.S. "VERNON" were models of coolness, courage and
easing effort. Their discipline and obedience to
at to
lers at all times was exemplary and I feel that I should
neglecting my duty if I fail to convey to you, Sir, as
.r Commanding Officer my sincere admiration of their
yei
eptional conduct.
of
I am, Sir,
a
Yours obediently,
& been
(sd) J. TRELEAVEN.
Bed on
Master Tug C.9.
ken off
Portsmouth Dock-ard.
by
tack again
the leaving the leaving Dunkirk full of
shifes HMS ships HMS Brighton Luen and
by off Boal by Officer in motor Boal to
hs
include rescures of to sure of Survivors, of said
lem
reserving Survivori Onemy
Offices in sppriers) 18m number dropping
c of 69 French destroyer which was
of Office) 18 Surviviven B9 and HMS Esk.
Officer mbr, baplain of HMS Esk to proced to
French an Survivor
e of of lane of hat Swowors y had owing Survivors
e) using 18m was sun y inco an the attack. bapitain Having a first Offiere 30 of
French Sumander I was able, to proceed
B9 as, surrighton Lucen, and a with army

Details

418
CONFIDENTIAL.
#
394
The Formideble
9 12/6/40.
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
Graft Carrer
030/48/40.
Construction
C/o G.P.O.
Noh 41 Dunknik
Sir,
mesuries Commanderm Jug SPINGE
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd, and
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise 2 convoy of motor and nulling hoats. tn he towed over
CONFIDENTIAL.
Jug
- 393 ats
ry
mesuries in Jug Sun
From...The Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Formidable", C/o G.P.O.J
Date...12th. June, 1940.
Ref. No.030/48/40.
To.....The Naval Officer-in-Charge, Ramsgate, Kent.
ng
J
Subject...Report of Minor Operations Carried Out Off Dunkirk.
r
VAL OFFICER 3207 IN CHARGE
15JUN1940
to
*
212
AMSGAT
Submitted.
1 her
Herewith are forwarded two copies of my
nt
report on Minor operations carried out off Dunkirk on 1st./2nd. last.
and 3rd. June, 1940.
-
#
2.
I understand that such reports are required and
à
this is forwarded for transmission to the appropriate authority. ble
1
khurumis
rs,
igin-
Commander.
ach
2
The
1 a
a
at

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formideble
9 12/6/40.
Geft Carm
H.M.S.J "Formidable",
030/48/40.
Comherston
C/o G.P.O.
Noh
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over
to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not
all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on
the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats
in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury
with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my
orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the
most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants JIVI WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same
e difficulty in obtaining
393A
CIA was quite evidently
A
IS left behing, The tug
LER, R.N.J sailed earlier
1.
18 boats were swamped -
3 in a hurry to get over to
red at Dunkirk at about
Forwarded in continuation of my 3172/212 of 11.6.40
Naval Officer in Charge.
ge; the tug "TANGA" with her
anchored at a point about
akirk, and sent in the
little further to the East.
CAPTAIN R.N.,.
take off troops from the
nole joined; on the first
to the tug. While these
om an officer ina fast
proceed alongside the mole
r ships and that I would
fore they went in again,
eet them again. I then
about 50 French soldiers,
ii.
en and 4 English naval
then returned to the origin-
monstrance r from the French
about an hour. During
No. 3207/212.
Flag Officer Commanding Dover.
way. The boats returned
$ (having done one or two
ad East by lighter guns. The
from the West by what
nearer G down the mole, At and a
be the mole, and towards
to
appendix 3.
e
Ramsgate.
15.6.40.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
394
The Formideble
D 12/6/40.
Graft
H.M.S. "Formidable",
030/48/40.
comherston
C/o GJP.O.)
Noh Dunknik
Sir,
Le mesures
I have the honour to submit the following report of
certain minor duties carried out during the evacuation of the
June 3rd./4th. 1940.
British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk on June 1st./2nd. and
to organise a convoy of motor and pulling boats, to be towed over
I arrived at Ramsgate about noon on the 1st. June with orders
to Dunkirk that night by tugs, the convoy to sail about 1400. Not
all the pulling boats then at Ramsgate were suitable for work on
the beaches, being too large and heavy, nor were all the motor boats
in running order. At about 1530, the tug "SUN" arrived from Tilbury
with some 20 more pulling boats in tow. I took this tug under my
orders, and sailed about 1730 with one motor boat and five of the
most suitable pulling boats in tow.
2.
I took with me Lieutenants J.VI WILKINSON and R.E.J LLOYD (R.N.)
who had had previous experience on the beaches. The Tug "TANGA"
under Lieutenant Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.JRJ sailed about the same
time with two pulling boats. I had had some difficulty in obtaining
another tug, and the master of the tug "RACIA" was quite evidently
most unwilling to sail, and this vessel was left behing. The tug
"SUN IV" under the command of Commander TYLER, R.N. sailed earlier
independently with either one or two boats.
3. On the way to Dunkirk, three of the pulling boats were swamped -
probably through towing too fast, as I was in a hurry to get over to
Dunkirk - and had to be abandoned. I arrived at Dunkirk at about
2330, after an otherwise uneventful passage; the tug "TANGA" with her
boats arrived a little earlier. Both tugs anchored at a point about
} % mile East of the Eastern Mole at Dunkirk, and sent in the
boats; the tug "SUN IV" was, I believe, a little further to the East.
4.
The boats from my tug "SUN" proceeded to take off troops from the
East mole at a point where the beach and mole joined; on the first
trip they brought about 45 British troops to the tug. While these
were being embarked, I received orders from an officer ina fast
motor boat (possibly Commander MAVND) to proceed alongside the mole
and embark troops, so I told my boats, before they went in again,
to carry on taking troops off to the other ships and that I would
return to the position I was then in to meet them again. I then
proceeded alongside the mole and embarked about 50 French soldiers,
subsequently embarking another 28 Frenchmen and 4 English naval
ratings from a broken down motor boat. I then returned to the origin-
al anchorage, and waited for the boats for about an hour. During
this time there was a slight amount of remonstrance from the French
troops on board who were anxious to get away. The boats returned
about 0300 with another 50 British troops (having done one or two
trips in the meantime to other ships.)
5.
During the night Dunkirk was being shelled from the West by what
seemed to be a heavy battery, and from the East by lighter guns. The
lighter shells appeared to be directed at the mole, and towards
0300 the shelling was coming nearer and nearer down the mole, and a
fire was started either on the mole or just to the Westward. At
about 0300 there was an outburst of rifle fire apparently just on
the mole where the boats had been embarking troops, and Lieutenant

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3. 396
the pulling the boats hauled off to the barges, the troops then being
work getting a line ashore from the barges to the beach by which
ferried by fire-float to the waiting ships.
Lieutenant WALKER left at 0335 (2nd. June), the fire-float
being then just aground (low water 0400 approx). He had to leave
about 150 men on the barges, but there were no troops visible on
the beach up to 1 mile East of Dunkirk. At 0345 there were no
troops visible on the mole, and a paddle minesweeper was just
leaving. An anonymous Brigadier who boarded WALKER's craft, said
that at about 0200 there would be 1000 - 1500 British (2) troops
still to come.
At this stage, it was the unamizous opinion of all the officers
named above that small slow motior boats and pulling boats would
be of no further use on the beaches. It might have been worth while
trying to reach the barges 1 mile East of Dunkirk with fast
shallow draught craft at about 2200 (2nd. June).
It is worthy of remark that these wrecked barges made excellent
piers for motor boats to use, pulling boats working between them
and the beach with a line to haul themselves off. Three barges were
afloat at any state of the tide and two others were aground about
an hour before low water. M.T.B.s could go alongside the barges 3
hours either side of H.W.I and shallow draught boats for longer.
Beach parties, eventually, were not required on the night of
Sunday 2nd. June, and everybody was able to get some much needed
rest and food.
Monday 3rd. June Tuesday 4th. June.
A further operation for these nights was organised from
RAMSGATE, a copy of the orders being attached herewith. I organis-
ed the following tugs to tow:-
SUN IV Commander Le MESURIER, Lieut. MARTIN R.N.J Lieut.
FLETCHER, R.N.R.
TANGA Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD, R.N.R.
SUN
XV
Two R.N.R. Officers.
RACIA Lieut. Commander MILLER, D.S.O. R.N.R., Lieut.
WALKER, R.N.V.R.
Each tug was to take 4 motor boats in tow, with orders to work
from the Nouveau Avant Port and from any point of the East mole
which they could reach, and to ferry troops down to the ships along-
side or to the transport LOCUST. The tugs dad no specific orders,
and I instructed the Officers in the tugs that they should wait just
outside the entrance to Dunkirk, keeping clear of ships going in and
out (of which I understood there were to be a good many) and to be
ready to go alongside to pick up troops as opportunity offered or to
assist as required.
The convoy left a little after 1700 with 14 motor boats in all,
two having failed (one with engine trouble, one was aground in
RAMSGATE). The passage across was uneventful, save for a certain
amount of trouble with the tows, and the encountering of two mines
in the neighbourhood of W. buoy which were dealt with by mine-
sweepers. Commodore H.) TAYLOR, RNRI took passage with me, but about
halfway Dunkirk. across was picked up by a Motor Torpedo Boat and went on to

Details

4. 397
The for the following reasons boats given were below:- abandoned either on passage or at Dunkirk,
(a) THARK. Rope foul of propeller and rudder. Abandoned half way.
(b) SANTOSY. Petrol failure. Abandoned near W. buoy. An interesting
point arose here. The Sub-Lieutenant in command said that he
had been instructed to fill up with petrol at RAMSGATE from
officer who told him which cans to take was dressed as a Lieut.
certain cans which were subsequently found to contain water. The
Commander (E) RINI When this was discussed, the Sub- Lieutenant
reported this to the Engineer Captain (or Commander) at
RAMSGATE, who said that there was no Lieut. Commander (E) at
RAMSGATE, at any rate on the staff. I do not know if this offic-
er could be, or ever was, traced and identified.
(c) DIANA MARY. Engine trouble and damage to propeller. Abandoned
at Dunkirk.
(d) ADMIRAL SUPERINTENDENT&S BARGE (Portsmouth).
Ran on a pile of submerged masonry in Dunkirk and abandoned.
The officer in this boat (Sub-Lieutenant BIGGS, R.IN.V.R.) left
his charts on board. I should have sent him back for them, but
did not do so as it was near the time ordered for laeving, and
I thought he only had charts from RAMSGATE which gave no useful
information to the enemy. Subsequently reflections made ne think
he might have had a chart from Portsmouth, SO I went in to
S.O.(1) office at Portsmouth on 6th. June and reported the
circumstances, leaving S.0.(1) to pursue the matter further.
to The convoy arrived at Dunkirk between 2300 and 2345, having beende-
layed by trouble with the tows. Most of the boats had been slipped
in the neighbourhood of the S.W. RUYTINGEN bucy and sent on. The
other three tugs proceeded to the East of the entrance: SUN IV at
first stayed just to the West of the wreck outside the entrance, and
in this position picked up an open boat with a dozen French soldiers
and an officer, who had been isolated and escaped. From the officer
it was learnt that the Germans had possession of MARDYCK fort about
3 miles West of Dunkirk.
5. The motor boats carried on with their work, and SUN IV proceeded just
to the Eastward of the entrance, having a look to see if there was
any work to be done while passing. All appeared to be going well, all
berths at the East mole were occupied and there were one or two ships
lying off ready to berth.
6. At about 0115 (4th. June) one of my motor boats returned, and told
me that there were no more French troops at the QUAI FELIX FUARE,
and that Commander TAYLOR had left the QUAL. This boat was slightly
damaged and so I left her in company.
7. At about 0200 the two end berths on the East mole were clear. H.M.S.)
"MALCOLM" went alongside and I followed in SUN IV, as also did the
tug RACIA, to see if there were any more French troops. There were
only a few, who embarked in "MALCOLM", this ship asked me to push
her stern in to the jetty, which I did.
sailed at 0230, RAMSGATE; the return passage was uneventful. I was passed
I left approximately, picked up the waiting motor boat, and
by two or for three destroyers and a minesweeper. Tug SUN XV towed home
another vessel one picked up halfway.
8.
Out boats which started for Dunkirk, 8 or 9 had to be
abandoned of the 14 one reason or another, but the crews were recovered
safely. The for remainder found their own way back to RAMSGATE, with the

Details

398
5.
exception of the one I towed back (MERMAIDEN).
(a) As regards recommendations for officers and ratings who did well
during these operations, the following officers known to me did
well: but I am unable to say whether they did better than many
others who must of necessity remain anomymous, since there was no
time to collect names. I can only say that, frompersonal observat-
ion, the spirit, both of young officers and ratings was magnific-
ient. One had only to ask for volunteers for crews to receive more
applications than were necessary.
(b) Officers names.
Lieutenant J.V. WILKINSON R.N.J
Lieutenant R.E. LLOYD R.IN.
Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.O. R.N.R.J
Lieut. Commander SHERWOOD R.N.R.J
Lieutenant WALKER R.N.V.R.:
Lieutenant J.E.L. MARTIN R.N. (late "Pelican")
Lieutenant FLETCHER R.N.R. (late at Invergordon)
(a) I also respectfully submit for Their Lordships consideration that
letters of appreciation might be written as follows:-
To The London Fire Brigade
.) for the services of their
fire-float LADY MASSEY (?)
The Alexander Towage Company
) for the services of their
H.J. Alexander the St John: Wharf- Wapping E.I. tugs SUN, SUN IV, & SUN IV.
The Watkins Tug & Towage Company) for the services of their
Natkurs Ltd 112 Funchusch st- London E.C.S.
tug TANGA.
(b) As regards the tug RACIA of the Watkins Company, the master of this
vessel was obviously unwilling to go over to Dunkirk, although he
did actually go on the nights of 31st. May and 3rd. June. On the 3rd
of June he was under the orders of Lieut. Commander MILLER D.S.JO.
R.N.R.
(c) The spirit of the masters and crews of the other tugs (especially
the SUN tugs) was excellent. The owner of the Alexander Tug
Company was himself the captain of the tug SUN IV, and a young
Trinity House pilot volunteered to navigate this tug throughout.
Unfortunately I cannot remember his name.
I have the honour to be
Sir
Your obedient servant,
Managina to inector
Edward. K.
Commander R.N.)

Details

Dyram. 147 428
404
H.M. Tug "St. Clears",
Sheerness.
TO: KING'S HARBOUR MASTER.
7th June, 1940.
Sir,
I submit the following report and the movements of H.M.
Tug "St. Clears" during the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk area.
The Tug "St. Clears" under my command left Sheerness,
in company with "Sun V". towing eleven naval cutters and with 70
427 1
Dynamo 147.
403 by
From: COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD. SHEERNESS.
Date: 7th June, 1940.
No: 2707.
id
id
nk
To:
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE.
20°
g
The attached report from the Master, H.M.
eired
Tug "St. Clears" is submitted in accordance with your
le,
1608 of 4th June. I consider "St. Clears" did very well.
eel,
Both Master and Crew seem to have displayed energy and
se
courage, and Mr. William Josiah Penney, Master, and Able
te
gain
Seaman Arthur Chawner are worthy of special mention.
sted
rd
COMMANDER OF DOCKYARD.
La
any
11
ways
it
ore,
oats.

Details

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

Details

- 4
472
an open with soldiers was off hailed. He reported having picked with
during daylight. boat in tow About half-way across a French trawler
boat up for h ich Dunkirk and it was thought this might the
be the boat we were searching. To make sure we
barge with set were found approximately three miles from
proceeded to sail Dunkirk where хихария two open boats and a Thames
the coast. The first open boat yielded five Spanieards,
the second one about 6 soldiers, Belgian, French
and English. We then went alongside the Thames barge at
approximately 1330.
This was found to contain about 220
soldiers including two Colonels and a Major of Artillery, and
various wounded. They were endeavouring to sail to England
but had made approximately three miles in 10 hours, see note below.
Motor-mechanic Whittaker fitted a new piston to the air compressor
motor while the 1st Lieut. and myself trimmed the sails.
They had no charts on board. The air compressor motor was
made to run but all efforts to start the diesel failed.
I then left my lst.Lieut., SublLieut. Dehammel with instructions
to sail the barge to Dover,and proceeded along the coast having
opened up the distance to search for the "Girl Gladys".
About two miles to the east I found an open boat containing 18
soldiers who were embarked, after which we approached to withing
approximately three miles of the coast slightly to the eastward
of La Panne. Visibility was good and no sign of the drifter
could be seen, the search was therefore abandoned and course
was set to intercept the Thames barge.
At approximately 1720 when out of sight of land we were attacked
by eight six or eight dive-bombers, 20 to 30 bombs were dropped
and fell at distances varying from 10 to 50 yards of the ship.
The bombers appeared to attack in pairs out of the sun and
having released their bombs continued their dive firing machine-
guns.
Course was altered frequently in an endeavour to miss
the bombs.
Some appeared to explode after entering the water,
some on striking the surface and a certain appeared not to explode
at all.
One exploded under the bow right ahead and the ship
passed through the splash. A certain amount of discomfort was
experienced by myself and members of the crew who were exposed. to
the splash in the x eyes for the next twelve hours or 30.
Able-Seaman Power was wounded in the leg when manning the port
turrett also one of the soldiers in the fore peak. As I now had
wounded on board I considered it advisable to return to Dover
forthwith and to ask for assistance for the barge. A tug was
sent out at approximately 2100 and found the barge sailing well
about 10 miles from Dover. I consider Sub Lieut, DeHammel
performed a very creditable operation. The bombing to which
the ship had been subjected had caused leaks to the hull and the
petrol tank and the ship was not used again for that night's
operation.
on passage to Dunkirk.
0115 Arrived Dunkirk and embarked C.O's
of block-ships and Captain Dangerfield.
Carried out reconnaissance of the harbour.

Details

561
6
I
531
sold not take Embarkation
Pat the Patria and medway Queen
res slow and so J ran along
he mole and hastened the
arims groups of troops along
of the Rarhour when I was
Patria towed my vessel out
full of troops and at about
0330 on 29/5/40 cleared the
sun kirk hasbour and proceeded
followed under my own "Patria". power to damogate
the time by we had been in During harbour
was the sound of gun fire and explosions
We was no skelling of the harbour but
these more or less incessant
845 arrived on back 29/5/40. at Ramsgate at
seven and trips to Dunkink beaches made
In all the TILLY
quantity of troops
back and brought a vast
Commanding officer of the school
On the 30/5/40 I relieved the
ora June
tow.
inner harbour. Ordered
the
staff but could find none; loaded with
and French troops. Furtheat end of harbour now
in German hands.
Returned Ramsgate.
Completed 5 journeys in all.

Details

6.6
LOG of the m.v., "SEINE" Official .160693 of Roohester.
580
Crow :-
Master - C.V. Cogger.
j
Mate - H.L. stafford.
Engineer L., Godden,
Deck Hands J. Lawson and J. Kirby.
Tednesday Sailed from Rochester at 7. 0 a.m. for S.R.O. Jetty,
May 22nd 1940
Deptford, for stores for North France; arrived
579
614
Dynam 399 578
FROM
CAPTAIN OF DOCKYARD, CHATHAM.
DATE
17th June, 1940.
TO
ADMIRAL SUPERINTENDENT, CHATHAM.
CONFIDENTIAL.
577
Page 2 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated
14th June, 1940.
2115. Transferred all survivors to a SUN class tug. 40 ft.
motor boat making water and liable to sink. SUN tug took motor
boat in tow hoping that self-bales would keep boat afloat.
2130. Abandoned 40 ft. motor boat in tow.
Monday, 3rd.
0415. Arrived Dover in tow. Secured. 0700 motor
boat awash, due to leaks. 0800. Hoisted motor boat out. Crew
returned to D/C motor boat.
I should like to bring to notice the coolness of Patty
Officer J. Luckins in obeying my helm orders with calm and
promptitude during the extremely difficult period when the boat
was being heavily attacked. on Sunday, 2nd June, Also at
Dunkirk on 29th/30th May his coolness was also noticeable.
The accurate shooting and calmmess of A.B. Cole who
hit at least one enemy aircraft with the stripped Lewis gun, was
very praiseworthy during the air attack on Sunday, 2nd June.
D/C.
III

Details

618
I, E.W. Filley am Master of the auxiliary barge "THYRA"
582
6
We were requisitioned on the 29th May at Millwall 11.30 p.m.,
towed to Tilbury where three days rations were put aboard.
Proceeded in tow of Tug "SUN 12" with other barges, to Southend,
thence ordered to Remsgate and thenoe to Dover Harbour, arriving
2.30 p.m. on the 30th May and lying at Prince of Wales Pier.
May 31st. Volunteers were called for to go to Dunkirk and all
the barges crews offered their services.
We proceeded outside breakwater with barge "H.A.C." in tow.
We were both taken in tow by tug "ST. ABBS" and proceeded to
Dunkirk, arriving there at 5.0 a.m. on Saturday June 1st.
We were shot off by the tug at Dunkirk Pier Head and told to
beach barges. Towed "H.A.C. with me into beach and with their
assistance we got eleven French Soldiers off the beach on to our
barge. Other groups of Soldiers refused to come as they wanted to di
go to France and not to England.
ed
At that time bombing was very bad and we had no protection of any
kind, not even helmets and we went into the beach as close as
possible and picked up the crews of the barge "GLENWAY" and the
barge "LARK", also eight British Soldiers that were aboard them
as they had been left on the beach with 8 in for the Frenchmer
to get when the tide went out, and the crews had been told to get
out of it. Including "H.A.C." crew, we had 28 men aboard.
As the tugs had disappeared, the only thing I could do was to
proceed with what I had got and come away to England. I sailed
half way across and was picked up by the tug "EMPIRE HENCHMAN"
arriving at Dover 11.45 p.m. on June lst.