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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

) 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

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

Details

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

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

/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

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

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

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

Details

Details

INDEX
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

add
Hous
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FOX
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can't One STATE
July S.41
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would not be able to
ad been asked to keep
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L.S.C
ver Emergency Service
false alarms I received
on Saturday, 1st June,
Dear Sir
a to go home at 1310.
The encloses
ake delivery of the
S the los of my bons
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"Madame Sans Gene"
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

p
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1981
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Bends the Owner
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
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and
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we signed a 3x12* T.124 agreement, drew tin hats and service gas
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DOBUTA
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FIred
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butter, tea and sugar, and enough petrol for about 140 miles'
TO
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steaming. By that time Sheerness had been denuded of most of the
BBW
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stores that we most needed in the way of blankets and clothes,
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a battle-dress tunic and anti-gas oilskin. We were also given
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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

/
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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

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
T
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

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

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

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

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

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

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