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BEVERLEY
M/L (Owner, E. Thompson,
and G.D. Cordery)
29th May
1200ca
Left Sheerness with M/B Triton and 12
other launches en route for Ramsgate.
The Beverley did not arrive at Ramsgate
with the others.
There is no report on her movements,
but she did not return to her owners.
There is no evidence that she took
part in the Dunkirk evacuation.
by
Authority - TO.9436/40.
R.O.II, p.119.
- TN. 6213/40.
R.O.III, p.112.
The
99

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BOUNTY (No.4) Portsmouth Inner
Patrol Yacht
Lt. C.A. Lundy, R.N.V.R.
29th May
1800
Left the Hamble other for Dover in
(see Seriola) eight Inner patrol company yachts with
30th May
0930
2200
Arrived Dover.
Left the Dover for La Panne in with
Inner Patrol yacht flotilla. company
31st May
0530
0600
Arrived at beach off La Panne.
Cdr. G.O. Stephenson came on board
from the M/B Triton and indicated his
flagship. intention to use the Bounty as his
-
Proceeded alongside a paddle minesweeper (1)
which interview. the Commodore boarded for
0808ca
Proceeded alongside the dr. Keith and
embarked R.A. Dover, taking him close
inshore to inspect the beach.
0910ca
After about 3/4 hour, took the Admiral
back to the Keith.
-
Cdre. Stephenson taken to the P.M/S,
(which appeared to be aground) in
Bounty's M/L.
1030ca
Closed Keith and took a Captain R.N. (2)
from her to the M/S Hebe. Received
written orders for delivery to S.N.O.
Dunkirk. Proceeded to Dunkirk
accordingly.
1300ca
On return from Dunkirk, re-embarked
Cdre. Stephenson.
1800
The yachts Seriola and Ahola closed
the Bounty and Cdr. Stephenson
informed the 3 yachts that "the
final effort of the operation would
take place between 2100 May 31st and
0400 June 1st."
2100/
Ferried troops from the beach to
2400
destroyers.
2400ca
Took Lord Gort from the Hebe to the
Keith.
1st June
0100/
Ferried troops from beach to destroyers.
0830
While carrying 150 troops( fouled
port propeller. Cdre. Stephenson
signalled a destroyer for a tow. The
destroyer was however full of troops
and on the destroyer's captain's sug-
gestion the Seriola took Bounty in
0845
Cdre. tow. Stephenson and Lt. Lundy boarded
the Seriola, which took Bounty in
tow and proceeded with the yacht
Lahloo in company.
1430
Arrived Ramsgate in tow.
At the end of his report, Lt. Lundy of
of "the magnificent work
P.O./T. speaks Jones throughout operations".
N11.(4)
(1) Not probably the Devonia or Bush. the Oriole.
(2) Not identified, identified, but E.W.
(3) (4) These Ramsgate were report THE states <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< you the and disembarked
11 "gervion" B.E.F. [1.e. The Lahloo herself states that she
15.
117

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CALCUTTA (continued). Charbour patrol
cract)
The following awards were made:
Downs by ronte X for Le Panne,
Mention in Despatches.
Arrived Dunkirk,
Mr. F.J. March, Gunner, R.N. rived La Phnne. Sent Lannch in to
sig. H. Guy.
bench. It broke down.
1530
Robarked the C.O. and 0.709 of the
yacht Amulres which had grounded.
-
Renued Stephenson). by the yacht Posntz- (care,
1700
Disembarked 0.0. and orow of Amaires
which had now refloated.
17306a
Umbarked Captain and 202 of a
disabled H/B [the Triton).
1800ca
Embarked a padre and 34 troops from 128
disabled A,I,0,5, and took 18 is tools
Air attacks.
1900
Proceeded twice broke away
from tow.
1st June
0945
Arrived Sheerness. Disembarked 35
troops(1) (and 2 N.O's and 5 ratings
Total 35
Anthority - R.O.II, p.176.
(1) D.R. R. dates this 31.0% Mays and places the under
"drifters". 153 153

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CALETA
Yacht (Harbour
defence patrol
S/Lt. J.F. Dunning,
craft)
R.N.V.R.
31st May
0800
1145
Left Downs by route X for La Panne.
Arrived Dunkirk.
1245
Arrived La Panne. Sent launch in to
beach. It broke down.
1530
Embarked the C.O. and crew of the
yacht Amulree which had grounded.
-
Rammed by the yacht Bounty. (care.
Stephenson).
1700
Disembarked C.O. and rew of Amulree
which had now refloated.
1730ca
Embarked Captain and crew of a
disabled M/B [the Triton].
1800ca
Embarked a padre and 34 troops from the
disabled A.L.C.5, and took it in tow.
Air attacks.
1900
Proceeded A.L.C.5 twice broke away
from tow.
1st June
0945
Arrived Sheerness. Disembarked 35
troops(1) (and 2 N.O's and 6 ratings).
Total 35
Authority - R.O.II, p.176.
(1) D.R. dates this 31st May, and places the Caleta under
"drifters".
154

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NEW PRINCE OF WALES
M/V
(Southend
S/Lt. P.H.E. Bennett, R.N.
Motor Nav.
Co. Ltd.
30th May
a.m.
Arrived Ramsgate from Sheerness.
1630
Proceeded via route X to Dunkirk.
2230
Off the French coast, the starboard
engine failed.
31st May
0330ca
Arrived off Bray beach. Took off
troops from a grounded coastal
steamer.
-
Air attack.
0400ca
Transferred troops to a destroyer.
When returning to the beach,
both engines broke down; anchored.
Embarked troops from pulling boats.
0530ca
One engine restarted. Transferred
troops to a destroyer.
Continued to ferry troops.
1700ca
Fired at by a shore battery; a near
miss killed two A/B's and wounded 2
of the crew and S/Lt. Bennett.
Believed to be sinking, the
New Prince of Wales was abandoned,
and the crew transferred in the
dinghy to a motor launch [the Triton].
1800ca
The motor launch picked up some troops
from the sea, and transferred them
and the crew of the New Prince of
Wales to the G/B Mosquito.
N11
Authority - R.O.III, p.63.
(hot to be confused wich
Hms NEW PRINCE OF WALES I 1
See D/NHB/3/3/3/363 - Couresp. with
Mr M.H. whight, Feb 79)
339

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Skoot
PRINCESS JULIANA
Lt. Lt. R.H. Cdr. (1st
Did further not take than art. Lieut).
as she did
engine
the 31st vessel May went and was to remained Commodore-in-charge towed to on board until Triton. tug placed 8th
from
sheerness).
2200ca
Ferried propeller, troops but to could only
Engine
trouble.
Mosquito.
the
Noequito
and
0500ca Crew (in Hosquito) at Dover.
Mil
- R.O.II, P.225.
following agards were mode:
Imition In Despatches
institionary Temporary s/Lt. K.B.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.
(1) Shown
in D.R. as having taken part in Dynamo.

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SILVER QUEEN
M/L
S/Lt.
?
May
A.B. P.T. Sullivan,
C/JX.147897
2
29th May
-
Left Sheerness for Dunkirk.
2200
Sailed Stopped at Ramsgate for about 1 hour.
Triton and 6 M/L's.
in company with the M/B
p-
30th May
0500
Arrived La Panne.
Ferried others. troops to the dr. Esk and
Ferried, in all, about 1,000 troops
in about 11 trips.
Went to Dunkirk harbour and then
proceeded for Ramsgate without
charts or compass, with about 100
troops on board.
Blundered into Calais. Hit by shore
er
batteries, as was the ex-Belgian
boat Yser, which was in company.
2100
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100
troops.
The ship was then slowly sinking.
Total 100(1)
Authority - - R.O.II, pp.193, 199.
)
(1) Not mentioned in Ramsgate or Dover reports.
140

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SILVER QUEEN
M/L
S/Lt.
?
May
A.B. P.T. Sullivan,
C/JX. 147897
2
29th May
-
Left Sheerness for Dunkirk.
2200
Sailed Stopped at Ramsgate for about 1 hour.
Triton and 6 M/L's.
in company with the M/B
p-
30th May
0500
Arrived La Panne.
Ferried others. troops to the dr. Esk and
Ferried, in all, about 1,000 troops
in about 11 trips.
Went to Dunkirk harbour and then
proceeded for Ramsgate without
charts or compass, with about 100
troops on board.
Blundered into Calais. Hit by shore
er
batteries, as was the ex-Belgian
2100
boat Yser, which was in company.
Arrived Ramsgate. Disembarked 100
troops.
The ship was then slowly sinking.
Total 100(1)
L
Authority - R.O.II, pp.193, 199.
)
(1) Not mentioned in Ramsgate or Dover reports.
140

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TRITON
M/B (Owner, W.D. Wills)
Lieut. R.H. Irving,
R.N.R.
29th May
1200ca
Left Sheerness with 13 launches.
1930ca
Arrived Ramsgate, without the M/L
2200
Beverley, which failed to turn up.
Sailed from Ramsgate with the M/L
La Silver Queen and six other M/L's for
Panne, without navigating
instruments or current charts.
-
Off the N. Goodwin L.V. it was found
that 3 of the M/L's had had engine
trouble and had returned to harbour.
30th May
0420ca
Saw a cruiser[ loaded with troops.
She had been damaged aft by shell
fire.
-
One of the M/L's was damaged in
collision with the Triton at this
time. Except for that, "all five of
us had crossed safely".
0500
Arrived off beach near La Panne.
Commenced towing boat loads of
troops to trawlers and destroyers.
The Silver Queen distributed petrol
supplies.
1200ca
Commodore G.O. Stephenson came on
board.
-
The Commodore landed on the beach,
but returned after an hour.
1545ca
Went alongside a destroyer [the
Windsor and embarked R.A. Dover
and his Chief of Staff. Closed
the surf to land him by his
whaler which was in tow, but R.A.
Dover did not land. The Triton
took him back to the destroyer.
The Triton continued ferrying and
towing.
31st May
0100
Lieut. Irving rescued 7 soldiers from
drowning.
0200
The Triton went aground.
0400
Refloated.
0600
Cdre. Stephenson transferred to a
"M.T.B. " [the M/Y Bounty].
1300
Heavy shelling was taking place and
ships moved away from La Panne.
The Triton moved to Dunkirk with
a heavy boat load of troops in tow.
Heavy air attack. The M/V "Prince
of Wales" [i.e. the New Prince of
Wales] was hit. Embarked from her 2
wounded officers and 2 ratings.
She was sinking slowly and had 2
dead on board.
Picked up the troops from a heavily
1730ca
loaded boat which had capsized. A
rope fouled the Triton's rudder and
one propeller. Managed to get
alongside the G/B Mosquito, and
transferred the troops and wounded
to her. Could not clear the rope.
Taken in tow by the yacht Caleta,
but the tow parted and the Triton
was abandoned.
Nil
242

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Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
more same successful than other small craft working in
the areas. On the 31st May, when he was 8 hours the off
Displayed great devotion to duty under fire, and marked
coast, subjected to continuous air attack.
Senior Officers on more than one occasion.
initiative; and was favourably reported upon by the
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub.Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley. R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 19÷. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Recommendation.
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Took over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
to Ramsgate to Bray beach in the darkness with no navigating
instruments. From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked without help
ferrying off troops and co-ordinating the activities of
other power boats in the vicinity. His boat acted as
flagship of Commodore Stephenson in control of embarkation,
who, together with other senior officers, comments most
favourably on this officer's conduct. Under almost
continuous air bombardment and artillery fire in capsized
and swamped boats he was inderatigable in his efforts.
Directly responsible for the successful embarkation of
hundreds of troops. Set an excellent example of devotion
to duty and gallant conduct, and performed a remarkable feat
of endurance.
Recommended for decoration.

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DSC.
Lieutenant Alexander Harper Turner,
Skipper George Hattan, W.S.3022, REED.
Skipper William Francis
L Sub-Lieutenant John Kenneth Barton
Miles, R. R.V.R.,
Sub-Lieutenant Robert Walter Timbrell, R.C.N., H.M.M.M.M.
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R., TRITON.
Sub-Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-Mulhallen, E.M.B. R.N.,
Lieutenant Charles Waterland Read, R.N.R., VERNON Motor Boat I, etc.
BONNIE HEATHER.
Sub-Lieutenant William Ronald Williams, R.N., Motor Boat
Sub-Lieutenant John Cambridge Clarke, R.N.V.R., Etc. Motor
SWALLOW,
Captain Master, W. Thompson, S.S. DORIEN ROSE.
Boat RAPIDE.
Chief Engineer B. Murphy, S.S. DORIEN ROSE.
Ans kvimate, T.O. Hanlon S.S. DORIEN ROSE.
Captana Master, J. Freyer Tug FOREMOST Thames 87. Cockle Boat Flotilla.
Sub-Lieutenant Michael Herbert Bernard Soloman, R.N.V.R.,
&
Lieutenant Commander Stratford Hercules Dennis, R.N.,
Lieutenant Christopher William Stuart Dreyer, Base, R.N.,
Commanding M.T.B. Dover.
Lieutenant Donald Terry McBarnet, R.N., M..T.B. Dutch 102. Skoot
Sea Cadet Lieutenant Harry Sidmouth-Willing, H.M.S. DOGGERSBANK. Dutch Skoot
Lieutenant Frederick Thomas Renny, H.M.S. R.N.R., HILDA. Dutch Skoot
Engineer Mr. J. Crockett, - BIARRITZ.
H.M.S. HONDSRUG.
Captarize Master, Charles Archibald Hancock,
Captain Master, Ernest Leonard Hill, CANTERBURY.
Captain Master, Robert Mallum McLean, Hospital Personnel GUERNSEY. Carrier ISLE GEORGE OF
Captaus Master, Reginald Richard Pittman, Transport
Captained Master, William Oswald Young, H.M. Ship LEVENWOOD. KING
Second Second Officer Frank Edward Martin, - St. - ST. Helier. HELIER
xv Sub Acting Chief Able hightenant Seaman Engineer Officer Allan Seaman Watterson, Ronald Thirwall, - TYNWALD Medal. C/JX. H.M.S. - ROYAL 139421,
HARVESTER DAFFOD
(Cook) J.H. Elton, LT/JX.180250, H.M.S. MOSQUITO. R.N. Patro
Service,
H.M.Y. BYSTANDER

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Dynoms 182.
186
From ... Lieutenant R.H. Irving R.N.R. Motor Boat "TRITON".
Date ... 3rd June, 1940.
To ... Commodore Taylor, Sheerness.
Submitted,
with reference to the short report handed in on my
arrival at Sheerness, Saturday, 1st June, 1940, I shall now
endeavour to fill in details left out at that time, due to
inability to recollect everything and put it on record before
being refreshed and rested, after so many hours of exertion.
On Wednesday, the 29th May, 1940, while supervising
the cleaning and scrubbing of the Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA"
of which vessel I was 1st Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander
Gwinnir, R.N., who was C.O., instructed me, to report immediately
to Commander Troupe for orders.
I reported as instructed, and was ordered to take
command of thirteen launches and get them to Ramsgate.
I got clear of Sheerness with the launches about
1200 29/5/40, and arrived Ramsgate about 1930. I reported to
Commander Davies there, and explained to him what had been said
tome by Commodore L. Taylor regarding the launch "SILVER QUEHON
and "BEVERLEY". "BEVERLEY", however, failed to turn up at
Ramsgate although I had sent back my fastest boat from Margate to
look for her, and waited for one hour to allow him to catch up.
Commander Davies consulted the N.O.I.C. and it was decided that
in the "TRITON" I should endeavour to get "SILVER QUESION and
seven more launches to La Panne.
The other launches for various reasons could not
proceed until the morning. Commander Davies said he believed
East of La Panne was devoid of Allied troops, and as far as he
knew no troops on beaches West of Braye Duns.
This meant I had to make the Belgian coast within
a three-mile limit, rather difficult without navigating
instruments or current charts.
Nevertheless, I thought I could
do it, so at 2200 on Wednesday I left the harbour with eight
launches.
I waited outside and shouted to them to keep close
up and follow me.
I steered for N. Goodwin Light Vessel, and
stopped there to count my fleet, though it was very dark.
I
counted five and was informed the other three had put back to
Ramsgate with engine trouble.
I then order "SILVER QUEIN® to render every assistance
in keeping boats together (Sub.Lt. in command) in order that the
five of us might carry out a successful crossing.
Only the
Seaman Cox.J. Keith could steer on my boat; this meant I had to
relieve him myself. Two of the crew were already seasick, but
kept their feet and showed spirit.
From N. Goodwin I proceeded.
It was very dark, and
on and off I passed ships heading N.W. or S.E. About 0300
30/5/40 visibility was very poor, with heavy rain, no ships in
however, to get into a position 15 miles north of La Panne, and then
sight, and I was a little doubtful of my position.
I decided,
steer South (mag) to make the coast.
At 0400 turned south, strong
wind and following sea, boat steering wildly. Still no ships in
sight or land.
About 0420 saw a cruiser loaded with troops,
recognised her as British, and closed her.
She had received heavy
punishment aft from shellfire.
I made signs as to whether I should hold on my course,
and she answered in the affirmative. At this time one of my
boats very foolishly crossed my bow and received a blow which
damaged her.
I instructed one of the others to watch her, and

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-3-
to 188
At this time a terrific aerial battle was on, shells from
shore batteries were falling around and bombs dropping all over the
place in close proximity. As I was towing this boat I saw a bomb
hit the pleasure steamer "PRINCE OF WALES". I closed her and took
aboard two badly wounded Officers and two ratings.
I offered to
go aboard as she was sinking slowly, but was told only two dead
remained on board.
Just before this, ordinary seaman Purbrick fell overboard
from exhaustion and I picked him up somehow.
My Cox. was sleeping
on his feet on and off and the two others lay down and stood up as
strength permitted.
The C.O. of the "PRINCE OF WALES", although
covered in blood, offered to try and steer the boat.
I then saw a man swimming naked in the water.
Stopped
and got him.
Next a heavily loaded boat of soldiers turned right
over close inshore, and left the men struggling in the water. I
got down to them and rescued the lot personally hauling them aboard
with my crews feeble assistance.
While doing this, I got a rope
round my Starboard screw and fouled the rudder. I now had a full
load of soldiers on board (six wounded) a full boat load towing
and soldiers clinging to the stern.
With what I thought was the last of my strength, I got my
launch alongside a lifeboat and from there hauled her hand over hand,
by means of a grass rope, up to the sloop "MOSQUITO". I then
discovered the lifeboat's propeller was also fouled. Neither
I
nor my crew could clear the propeller, so I boarded "MOSQUITO" and
asked the 1st Lieutenant to send someone to do so.
Meanwhile,
I
went below for a cup of tea.
I came on deck in fifteen minutes,
but the rope could not be cleared I was told.
Air battle still in progress with bombs dropping all around.
I then with difficulty closed the yacht "GALETA" and asked her to take
me in tow.
The C.O.'s ship was in a very bad position with regard
to German shore batteries, nevertheless, he wanted another boat load
of troops before leaving and asked me to try and close the beach and
get one. I said I would, but asked him to watch out for me in case
I got ashore.
I proceeded towards the beach just then coincident with
an explosion of some kind.
The launch seemed to rise from the
water, fall back, rise again and fall back.
I could only move
slowly now and I saw the yacht was drawing the fire from shore. One
of the crew called out that the yacht was signalling me. I looked
round and saw she was signalling me. With great difficulty I got
alongside and made her fast for towing, then slumped on the yacht's
deck, stupified with exhaustion, want of sleep and food, I suppose.
Unfortunately the tow rope parted a few minutes later.
The C.O. of yacht objected and rightly so to going back to the shealed
area with his ships and troops on board.
So the "TRITON" was left
afloat with a rope round her screw and a badly damaged stem and stern.
I regret exceedingly that I did not get her home again for various
reasons.
It was about 1840 31st May, 1940, when my activities ceased.
I had been on my feet from 0700 29th May, to 1840 31st May, 1940, in
a small craft, without sleep and the only food eaten from 2000 29th
May to that time was one tin of herrings, ont tin of bully beef and
between five and two slices of bread each also four cups of tea without
sugar.
We simply had not time to eat.
A few more remarks and I finish. I was the only
Commissioned Officer (excluding Commodore Skippers) who was constantly
in the boats at La Panne.
I took off more troops than I can
remember there - scores and scores of boat loads and I venture to say
if my boat had not remained there to the last, hundreds would never
have got away.

Details

4-
MP 189
I was not instructed to proceed from La Panne to Dunkirk
by anyone.
saw three planes crash in the sea close to me near Dunkirk, and seven I
I did so on my own initiative to save troops.
Airmen descend by parachute.
Sunday, I noticed slight bruises on my left leg from blows probably. On
Although not wounded, splinters fell around me.
My arms feel as if they had been pulled from their sockets and my
back is sore. I lost my voice through hailing boats at La Panne -
it is now returning.
I am quôte rested and ready for action if required.
The crew sent with me knew nothing of making fast ropes
or steering, but under fire, in spite of great exhaustion, were A.I.
and exhibited on and off, great interest in all that was happening.
I respectfully subihit they are worthy of some recognition.
I have the honour to be, Sirs,
Your obedient servant,
(Sgd) R.H. Irving
lieutenant, R.N.R.
Crew of Motor Boat "TRITON".
S. KEITH
Sea. Cox.
J. STEVENS
Ord. Sea.
D. SIMPSON
E.R.A.
C. GLYN
Ord. Sea.
F.G. PURBRICK
Ord. Sea.
-II-
OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OPERATION
"DYNAMO"
SHEERNESS.
Forwarded.
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE,
4th June, 1940.
SHEERNESS

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_203
LAUNCH "TRITON"
for 190
Lieutenant R.H. INVING, R.N.R.
3, KNITH. Sea. Cox.
J.STEPHENS. Ord.Sea.
D. SIMPSON. B.R.A. (utterly useless)
0. GLYNN. Ord.Sea.
F.G. PURBRICK. Ord.Sea. (fell overboard and had to put him on "MOSQUITO"
suffering from cold and shook).
I was at Sheerness as No.1 of Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA"
Wednesday 20th May 1940, was instructed to proceed from Sheernoss to
Ramsgate in charge of 13 Launches, various kinds and speeds - handed over
12. Left Sheerness about noon Wednesday, 29th May.
Arrived Ramagate about 1930
Left Remagate about 2150
for Cuploa near La Penne with 9 launches.
Very vague instructions about La Panne and was not definitely
informed whether British troops were actually there. Had bad visibility
and did not know exact position but made Cuploa 0500, Thursday morning -
only 5 launches arrived in company, others broke down and returned to
Ransgate. Launch "SILVER QUEEN" was of great assistance.
From 0500, Thursday, 30th May to about 1700 Friday, 31st May
I towed or picked up hundreds of troops and transferred them to destroyers,
scoots etc. Launches not equipped with proper towing topes and crew very
unsemanlike. Had to steer and make fast myself. Commodore Stephens used
my launch and participated in taking off troops, no one at Cuploa to give to
instructions.
I worked all Thursday night and carried on until 1330 when ship
was shelled heavily and all ships proceeded towards Dunquarque and I was
last to leave Cuploa under heavy shell fire.
I proceeded towards Dunquerque along the beach and on arriving
at extreme west end of Dunquerque beach a heavy air attack and fire from
shore batteries was falling all round. I took the most westerly boat in
tow and when looking round to find a near ship, saw the large launch "PRINCE
OF WALES" struck by a bomb, I proceeded with the boat I had in tow towards
her and found 4 survivors very bedly wounded ready to take off. Two others
were dead on board. On the way to the sloop "MOSQUITO" with survivors I
resoued soldiers from drowing whose boat had sunic close ashore. While
doing this my starbcard propeller get fouled and I had a terrible job to
get to the sloop "MOSQUITO" with troops and wounded from "PRINCE OF MALZES".
All this time bombing and shelling was going on. I landed all on the
"HOSQUITO" and then asked the "MOSQUITO" to tay and clear ay propeller,
they tried but could not do so. I them consulted the First Lieutement and
he suggested that I get a tow home. I spproached the yacht "CALSTA",
the C.O. immediately asked me to get him troops but I told him I would
attempt it with one engine although I could not handle her. I got near
the west beach and immediately came under shore fire and no boats being
ready to come off "GALETA" signelled me to return as he was being shelled
and had to get out of it. I got back and made the launch fast for towing-
under fire, but the tow rope broke and the Launch being in the hotly
peppered area and close to the surf the C.O. of "CALETA" and myself thought
it would endanger his vessel to remain there to try and pick up again so
chose inshore.
Neither I or the arew had any sleep or proper food from Wednesday
morning until the launch was abandoned at 1640 Friday. All of us were
stupid with exhaustion.
I took off more troops at Cuploa than anyone else.
I have lost my voice meantime through constant hailing of boats
and giving orders. The "TRITON" was damaged badly in the stern and bow
through going alongaide ships so frequently in a very heavy swell. I have
lost my uniform cap and raincoat, rasor and other items.
My information on sailing from Ramsgate was - "No troops east of
La Panne or west of Braye Duns", the first item was correct byrb the second
quite wrong.

Details

Dynama 173.
389
366
Admiralty House,
C-in-C Nore.
Sheerness.
with "Dynamo".
List of Officers deserving special mention in connection
1
H.M.S. "wildfire". The work of providing the stores
of all kinds required by the boats sent from Sheerness and
accommodating a constant flow of Officers, men and
volunteers placed a heavy strain on the establishment
resources. In addition I observed the admirable work
done in receiving the British and French troops landed
at Sheerness. From Captain Coleridge downwards all did
their best, but Commander V.P. Freeman and Paymester
Captain E.C.Annaheim deserve special mention.
2.
Sheerness Dockyard. The tug Clears" towed 20
cutters with half crews over to the beaches for 22 hours
under considerable bombing. The Master Penny and
the helmsman Arthur Chawnce A.B. deserve special mention.
All departments of the yard put out their best
efforts; the heavier work fell on the Naval Store Department.
Mr.A.Paterson.
The Chief Constructor, Mr.S.R.Tickner, designed and
built a large number of rafts, not too big to he manhandled.
3.
Stoker Petty Officer T. Test, Off.No.C/HX 87588.
This Petty Officer sent as boat's crew, was taken
out to assist in getting boats ready for sea. lie showed
great energy, driving power and resource in dealing with
many difficulties that arose. He accompanied one to
Ramsgate on Sunday 2nd.June in hopes of a trip to the
beaches, but took on a boat whose engines were giving
trouble and was unable to get there.
4.
Officers in charge of boats. The following Officers
showed particular energy in getting the boats away. Their
work on the beaches did not come under my personal
observation, but I draw attention to their names in case
they have not been mentioned by Officers on the spot :-
Sub. Lieut. Dann, R.N.V.R., took the lead in getting
away the first group 01 boats on Vednesday 29th. May and
conducted them to Dover. Having had his first boat
swamped, returned to Sheerness and got away another
group.
Lieut. Irving. R.N.R., got away the second group
of boats and led them to the beaches in M.V. "Triton".
This Officer WAS a volunteer from the Schuit "Princess
Juliana which was broken down. He is believed to have
done very good work on the beaches.
initiative The and resource in getting their boats away,
Acting Sub. Lieutenants R.N., as a whole showed but
it would be difficult to discriminate.
yacht "Constant Nymph" which he finally lost after bringing
Smith, a volunteer who brought his own
off some 900 troops.
eficers came under my observation
during 5. The following the noght 2nd.-3rd, and of Motor 3rd.-4th.
1 sailed on to
R.N.B., in charge 2nd.-3rd. I
Yacht struck by the he had taken acqueint of
was much navigational details, the instruction volunteer
himself with and his boat. He had a 1 should with
him, like to have with me again on a similar job.
his Bren Mr.Devine, Gunners, and they were a fine couple who

Details

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

Details

Lieutenant Derek Peel Willan, Royal Navy,
Lieutenant H.M.S. Icarus. Frederick Worcester. Greville Woods, Royal
Captain John Henry Wh
Transport Tynwald.
Lieutenant Navy, H.M.S. Alfred Thomas Cook, R.N.R.,
Mr. Terence O' Hanlon, :
Dorrien Rose.
H.M.S. Medway Queen.
Lieutenant Lieutenant Kenneth Arthur Gadd, R.N.R.,
Joseph Cox, R.N.R.
Mr. Hubert Donald F1
H.M. Hospital Carrier
Mr. Arthur Patrick Jo
Lieutenant Tom Preston Graham, R.N.R.
H.M.S. Ross.
Officer, H.M. Transpo
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.,
Mr. Frank Edward M
Lieutenant Frederick Thomas Renny, R.N.R.,
Motor Boat Triton.
H.M. Hospital Carrier
Mr. Allan Watterson,
H.M. Skoot Hondsrug.
Transport Tynwald.
Lieutenant Robert Archibald Vallings, R.N.R.,
Mr. Joseph Wilfred Coul
Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
H.M.S. Speedwell.
H.M. Transport Royal
Mr. William McGregor,
Princess Elizabeth.
Lieutenant Robert Peverell Hichens,
Transport King Georg
Mr. Bernard Murphy,
R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Niger.
Lieutenant Alexander Harper Turner,
Transport Dorrien Ro
R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Watchful.
Mr. Walter Ernest Oxer
Sea Cadet Lieutenant Harry Sidmouth-Willing,
H.M. Transport Prag
H.M. Skoot Hilda.
Mr. David Douglas R
Surgeon Lieutenant Joseph Wishart Shield,
H.M. Hospital Carrie
M.B., B.Ch., R.N.V.R., H.M.S. Grafton.
Mr. Andrew Sinclair,
Sub-Lieutenant Edmund Charles Croswell,
Transport Royal Sove
Royal Navy, H.M.S. Harvester.
Mr. George Frederick To
Sub-Lieutenant George Arthur Gabbett-
H.M. Transport Maid
Mulhallen, Royal Navy.
Mr. James Lang Croc
Sub-Lieutenant William Ronald Williams,
Transport Biarritz.
Royal Navy, Motor Boat Swallow.
Mr. Charles Powell Maso
Sub-Lieutenant Eric Sidney Flint, R.N.R.,
Transport Tvnwald.
H.M.S. Mosquito.
Sub-Lieutenant John David Greaves, R.N.R.,
H.M.S. Medway Queen.
Sub-Lieutenant John Cambridge Clarke,
R.N.V.R., Motor Boat Rapide.
+
Sub-Lieutenant Thomas Ellison Godman,
R.N.V.R., H.M.Y. Seriola.
Sub-Lieutenant R.N.V.R., H.M.S. William Sutton. Geoffrey Hewitt,
Sub-Lieatenant R.N.V.R., H.M. John Grive. Kenneth Barton Miles,
Herbert Bernhard
H
TOTAL
H.M.S.
John Ball, R.N.R.,
Bryce, R.N.R.,
Jones, Royal Engineer Navy, Engineer H.M.S. Reginald Sabre. Thomas
Gunner Reynolds, Royal Navy, H.M.S.Salamandr.
Gunner H.M.S. Frederick Wolsey. William Benoy, Royal
Skipper Navy, (T) H.M.S. Reginald Grenade. William Clare, Navy,
Skipper Drifter Andrew The Boys. Buchan, R.N.R., Royal
Skipper Reed. George Hattan, R.N.R., H.M. H.M.
Drifter Midas. Herbert Holden, R.N.R., Drifter
Skipper Captain H.M. Reynolds, R.N.R., H.M.
Captain Captain Card CANADA Captain Captain H.M. most Scotia. H.M. 87. Transport James Transport Robert Fryer, McCallum Prague. Rowland Master, Hughes, Baxter, H.M. Master, Tug Master, Master, Master, Fore- H.M. S.S.
Pitman, Master, H.M.
Master, Master, H.M.

Details

Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
OCEAN BREEZE, HAIG
& PASCHOLL (cont).
more same successful than other small craft working in the
the areas, On the 31st May, when he was 8 hours off
coast, subjected to continuous air
Displayed great devotion to duty under attack. fire, and marked
Senior Officers on more than one occasion.
initiative; and was favourably reported upon by the
M.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A.Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley. R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
1
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 191. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
M
during
Recommended for mention.
istered
vivors
was
whom
dotor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
m
Recommendation.
&
i:
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Took over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
to Ramsgate to Bray beach in the darkness with no navigating
instruments. From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked without help
3
ferrying off troops and co-ordinating the activities of
other power boats in the vicinity. His boat acted as
in
flagship of Commodore Stephenson in control of embarkation,
r
per
who, together with other senior officers, comments most
an
favourably on this officer's conduct. Under almost
10
continuous air bombardment and artillery fire in capsized
1
and swamped boats he was inderatigable in his efforts.
of
Directly responsible for the successful embarkation of
hundreds of troops. Set an excellent example of devotion
to duty and gallant conduct, and performed a remarkable feat
of endurance.
DSC
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Page 102.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Displayed more same the coast, areas, successful great subjected On devotion than the 31st other to continuous May, small when craft air he attack, was working 8 hours in the off
Senior initiative; Officers and on was more favourably than to duty one reported under occasion. fire, upon and by marked the
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat PRINCESS LILLY. - Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A.Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Recommendations.
Sub. Lieutenant K.E.A. Bayley, R.N.V.R.
Left Sheerness with 19 other small boats,
escorted by a trawler as guide, as most of the boats
had no compass. Half way across the trawler left
them. Succeeded in making Dunkirk after giving
assistance and many tows to motor-boats which broke
down. Spent nearly 30 hours ferrying troops from
Dunkirk and La Panne beaches, displaying considerable
ingenuity in working small boats in conjunction with
his own craft on a lee shore, under fire from bombing,
machine-gunning and German artillery. Had a crew of
two civilians and one Naval rating aged 191. Displayed
determination and leadership of a high order.
Recommended for mention.
Motor Boat TRITON: - Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
Recommendation.
Lieutenant Robert Hunter Irving, R.N.R.
over a flotilla of launches from Sheerness
Took to Bray beach in the darkness with without no navigating help
to Ramsgate From 0500/30 to 1830/31 worked activities of
instruments. ferrying off troops and co-ordinating His the boat acted as
Directly who, continuous other favourably flagship and swamped together power responsible of on air Commodore boats with in other the for Stephenson vicinity: senior conduct. excellent officers, in control in example Under embarkation fire comments his of remarkable almost efforts, in of embarkation, most capsized devotion of feat
hundreds to duty and of gallant troops. conduct, Set an and performed a
of endurance.
Recommended for decoration.

Details

Name of Vessel
Date
Cause and Position
Remarks
PRINCESS LILY
OWNER
31/5/40
REMARKS
Unknown
LOST
approx.
OUR BOYS (Boat)
"
11
RENOWN (Cockle Boat)
"
Lifebont
11
Dutah
Mined and sunk with
"
"
Duton
all hands.
ROBERTA
Unknown
"
ROSABELLE
"
Dutch
"
ST. PATRICK
"
Dutch
ASSUMED LOST
"
SANTOSY
"
Dutch
LOST
11
"
SARAH & EMILY
"
11
"
SEA FALCON (Boat)
11
Dutch
Abandoned - Dunkirk
"
SHAMROCK
11
Dutch
"
"
17
SKYLARK 3. (SM281)
"
Dutch
11
Dutch
Unknown
19
SCENESHIFTER
11
"
SONIA
"
"
"
SKYLARK 2.
"
Duton
"
11
SKYLARK 3.
11
Dutals
"
"
SOUTHERN QUEEN
11
Dutan
"
"
STONEHAVEN
"
"
"
SUNSHINE
"
Dutch
"
"
SUE SUE (Rowboat)
"
Dutor
11
11
THETIS
If
Lost while being towed
"
from Dunkirk
TRITON
11
Unknown
"
TWO RIVERS
"
"
If
VIEWFINDER
"
"
11
VIKING 3.
"
"
12
VANITEE
11
"
"
WARRIOR
"
Abandoned off Dunkirk
"
WAVE QUEEN
"
Unknown
11
COMMODORE
"
"
11
WESTERLEY
"
On fire and abandoned -
If
Dunkirk
GRACE DARLING
If
Unknown
ASSUMED LOST
QUEEN OF ENGLAND
"
Sunk in collision with
LOST
S.S. TILLY.
MARY SPEARING
"
Unknown
"
"
"
"
CANVEY QUEEN
"
HAZARD
Did not return from
Dunkirk
PREVIOUSLY
MISS JOSEPHONE I.
11
Do.
REQUISITIONED
If
"
MOSS ROSE
AND ON NAVAL
"
11
SERVICE BUT
PELLAG 2.
11
If
UTILISED FOR
SEAMEW
"DYNAMO".

Details

VESSEDNHAMER
OWNERS
REMARKS
SKYLARK VI
Bolsons Co.
SKYLARK IX
T.98. Returned to Owners.
-do-
SKYLARK X
Mr. Jackson
T.98. Returned to Owners 17.6.
SKYLARK
Returned to owner.
eddas T.B. Brookman
Returned to Owners.
SMOLT SMILING THROUGH H. Gartridge:
OJA.,W. Williams
T.98. Returned to Owners 5.6.40.10 II
SMUGGLER
T.98. Re-allocated to A.P.S.
G.D. Leyte
SNOW BUNTING
Returned to owner.
Mr. Wray
SONIA
Re-allocated A.P.S.
Loft, West Ltd.
No report received from List of
atenwo 03
Missing Vessels.
SOUTHERN QUEEN C.H. Harvey
No information of return from
PL.17
Dunkirk T.98.
SOUTH RAY
P.
Shore
Returned to owner.
SPINAWAY
B.
Figg
T.98. Returned to owner 19.6.
SPINDRIFT 20 Hewitt
Returned to owner.
STARFISH
T. Brown
T.98. Returned to owner 5.6.40.
STONEHAVEN W.H. Stonehouse
T.98. No report received from List
.begemed
of Missing Vessels.
SUMMER MAID
F.M.
Brown
A.P.S.
SUNDOWNER
Cdr.C.H. Lightoller Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SUNSHINE R.13) J. Berrion No information of return from Dunkirk.
SURREY
s.B.T. Thomas
Returned to owner.
SYLVIA
Toughs
A.P.Sallos
011.8
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA Southend
III
05 Jon Britannia Co.
Returned to owners.
SUFFOLK'S ROSE Jubilee Fishing Co.
Re-allocated to Special Admiralty
of
Service (6A).
SEA AIR .03 Jon O.H. Anderson
Prepared for Dynamo but did not go.
SKIPJACK
W.H. Ringer
Damaged. Returned to owner.
SOUTHERN QUEEN
C. Mockridge & Exrs.
of E. Saunders
Returned to owner.
230
benobuedA
florish .H.D
TANKERTON TOWERS S. Howden
Returned to owner.
TARPON
Mrs. Spragge
T.98. Returned to owners.
THARK
c/o Toughs
Taken by owners.
THETIS
H.F. Eaton
Lost while being towed from Dunkirk.
THE ANGLER Mr. Colding
Returned -sunsuitable.
THELMA
J.T. Phelps
Returned to owner prepared did not go.
THURN
Schofield
A.P.S.
THYME
Ramsgate Diesel
Released 1.6.40 Allocated to Special
Trawlers
Admiralty Service. 6A.
THREE BROTHERS C.F. Grant
Returned 3.6.40.
TIGRIS ONE
H. Hastings
Damaged. Returned to owner.
TOM HILL
T. Hill
Re-allocated Special Admiralty Service
to
(6A)
TRILLENE
Dr.
E.
Williams
T.98. Returned to owner 19.6.
TRITON
OJ
W.D. Wills
T.98. No report received to List of
Missing Vessels.
TWO SISTERS
R. Hayes
T.98. Returned to owner.
TWO RIVERS
F.E. Fothergill
No report received from List of Missing
Vessels.
TORTOISE
Held at Tough Bros. Owner unknown.
TREASURE
S. Rowden
Not required.
TONY LN.40
T. Neilson
Returned to owner.

Details

WEDNESDAY, 29TH MAY
CHAP. VI
M/B Sceneshifter swamped and lost
The M/B Silver Moon, from Ramsgate, arrived off the beaches at 0800 and
ferried troops to ships at anchor. Without charts or compass she returned to
Ramsgate that night. The M/B Sceneshifter, on arrival, was rushed by French
troops, swamped, and became a total loss.
M/B Viewfinder dragged aground and lost
The six motor yachts, Advance, Bobeli, Elizabeth Green, Hanora, Reda and
Viewfinder sailed from Dover for La Panne beach and were machine-gunned
from the air off Gravelines. They arrived off La Panne beach at about
1500/29, and at once began towing whalers full of troops to off-lying ships.
At 1830, the Viewfinder was dragged aground by Belgian soldiers and became
a total loss.
M/B's Hanora and Bobeli abandoned
At 1900, the Hanora fouled her propeller and was abandoned; her crew
transferred to the Elizabeth Green and thence to the minesweeper Lydd. At
1900 also, the dr. Sabre requisitioned the Advance and embarked in her a W/T
transmitter and 2 operators for transportation to G.H.Q. at La Panne. The
Reda, having ferried troops, sailed for Ramsgate at 2200 with 21 troops on
board. The Bobeli having received some damage while alongside a destroyer
which suddenly went full ahead on account of an air attack, subsequently
fouled her screw and rudder; she made fast. to the minesweeper Albury, but
was abandoned when the Albury departed and became stranded on the beach.
The Elizabeth Green and Advance sailed in company that night for Ramsgate.
M/B Glitter II brings drinking water
The Glitter II arrived off Bray beach at 1600 on the 29th May, loaded with
tins of fresh water. She then ferried troops. Next day she lost her rudder and
was towed to Dover by a drifter.
M/B Queen of England sunk
A number of other small motor craft left Southend, Sheerness or Dover for
the beaches on the 29th May, but did not arrive until 30th May. Among them
was the Shamrock, and in company with her were the Princess Maud, Canvey
Queen and Queen of England. On the way over on the night of the 29th/30th
May the Queen of England was rammed amidships by the skoot Tilly and sank
immediately ; her crew were picked up by the Shamrock and transferred to
the Tilly1. The remaining three motor boats were all abandoned and lost next
day after ferrying troops to various destroyers, among them the Anthony;
the Canvey Queen and Shamrock fouled their propellers, and the Princess Maud
went aground.
The Mirasol², alongside Dunkirk mole, was damaged by a near miss. She
was taken in tow by a trawler, but later sank.
Other M/B's that sailed for the beaches on 29th May
The Triton and Silver Queen, with 6 motor launches in company, sailed for
La Panne at 2200. Three of the motor launches broke down on the way over
I Shamrock's report, unconfirmed. The name of the vessel is in doubt; the matter is
not referred to in Tilly's report.
2 Commonly, but erroneously referred to in reports as the " Marasole."
53

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VII
heavy craft, nor even by small craft similar in a pier lop, was it was invaluable
ing troops into small boats. A was completed and commenced in use on the morning of later for embark-
the 30th May at La Panne, and by the the same day the the same same d the morning day the morning day
(See p. 47).
2 or 3 motor yachts and paddlers to
Bray; none proceeded east of the Bray pier, where the
Captain Howson goes on to say that arrived in the and afternoon anchored one Fortwo skoots and the weskoots and
waited many hours patiently. One tried or two without destroyers or sloops passed from had
the westward to La Panne, and he he success with a lamp to
Admiral Wake-Walker asking him to arrange for this. Captain Howson also
them to anchor off the pier. Eventually managed to get a signal to Rear- tell
sent an officer to Dunkirk to represent learned the urgent need for destroyers off Bray.
It was not until 2 days later that he that all the destroyers, etc., had
been given specific instructions as to which beach they were to anchor off.
Later a certain number of destroyers, sloops and skoots anchored off Bray and
the embarkation proceeded satisfactorily. Unfortunately, time after time,
owing to a lack of naval ratings, he saw a procession of boats going off loaded
with troops, only to be cast adrift and left floating empty out to seaward¹.
Later that evening Captain Howson got in touch with Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker, then in the Worcester, and obtained permission to embark the following
day in a motor boat off the beaches SO as to prevent a recurrence of this waste
of beaching craft².
In spite of the difficulties and shortcomings emphasised in the above reports
great progress was being made. In fact, beach evacuation reached its peak
on this day; 29,500 troops were lifted from the beaches (as against 24,300
from the harbour) ; and some 50 ships, including destroyers, minesweepers,
skoots, trawlers, drifters, personnel and special service vessels, were engaged
continuously in the arduous work.
The armada grows, but service of ships to Dunkirk is slowed up
Meanwhile the build-up of ships continued, and some 31 additional craft
reached of Dunkirk and the beaches this day. They included two minesweepers
of the 8th M.S.F.³, the Fleet Air Arm training vessel Grive, 4 yachts and a drifter
the Dover M/S Command4, the corvette Kingfisher, (with the ex-Belgian
canal the boat Sambre in tow), the Yarmouth Examination Service yacht Laroc,
and M/V Scottish Co-operator, the S/M tender Dwarf, the drifters Fair Breeze
minesweeper barge Skipjack), the motor coasters Seine and Sheila, (in the coasting
Ocean Breeze, the ex-Belgian canal boats Ambleve and Escaut tow of the
the Viking, the ex-Dutch eel-boat Johanna (in tow Lady of the skoot Jutland),
water, and (R.N.L.I.) lifeboat Prudential (towing barges 7 Sark and with fresh
Ramsgate sailing barge Beatrice Maud, and the dumb Shetland. hopper The
the oyster dredging smacks Seasalter and Vanguard, the steam W.24,
borough, the punt Carama), and the Margate wherries loaded Lord South-
wherries. were The manned by their own crews, but (R.N.L.I.) naval lifeboat manned the
appeared on the scene. and picked up 244 troops. Another A/S patrol, to
Bray beach in error trawler Olvina, which should have been on ratings went
I At long last a dozen of the long awaited important motor contingent boats
R.O.III, p.396.
2 R.O.III, p.397.
4 3 The The Glen Avon and Glen Gower.
and 5 The the danlaying danlaying Constant yachts drifter Gulzar and Sargasso, the echo and Conidaw
Triton, Silver Pauleter Adventuress, and sounding Ma Black Joie. yachts Arrow, Chico Sunshine, Reda,
60

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. VHI
Isabelle The French carrying trawlers food, also Marie went hit and to and Dunkirk. Pierre exploded carrying While and unloading munitions, under and shell the Ste.
was the Pierre's still on fire munitions when her were consorts left Dunkirk at 1100. the ship caught fire. She fire
Captain Howson returns to Dover
about 1930 some 30 others bombed the and
Meanwhile the having enemy been made made the last at 1415-1500 of his three major air of
the other two bombers escorted by fighters
small went on craft². to bomb Dunkirk, and
likely to up the 'rough treatment", Captain Howson decided un-
also through stand the stern to further glands. Being opinion that the would be
received some damage of making
The yacht Ankh, which from a Captain near miss Howson and started was using as his headquarters,
some to Rear-Admiral seaward, failing light Captain Howson was then
return 2 to Dover, 3 miles ordering to in yacht the Amulree to keep company. Being to
to signal to closed the Wake-Walker in the Keith. The yachts Eilla unable II
Caryandra the latter that Ankh the former reported that she was short of fuel and
in she was damaged and short of lubricating oil, so they returned and
company with the Ankh to Dover.
reduced to of the Vivacious from the beach) found that her tiller wire by
It tow was the at boats about this time, 2000, that the yacht Glagla (which was standing
shelling R.N. in which had been going on continuously, became intense. A Captain and
to a single strand. Her Commanding Officer said, The bombing was
ordered yacht No. 1 of the Solent Patrol [i.e. Captain Howson in the Ankh],
us to make for the open sea, and all the smaller craft followed him out.
It was in the above circumstances that a number of power boats started
withdrawal Walker to Dover, and that at 0611 on the 1st June Rear-Admiral Wake- a
boats had found it necessary to report to V.A. Dover that all craft used for towing
left during the night, and to urge that they be sent back³.
Ankh, was rammed and sunk by the Vimy in the vicinity of the Gull. Her crew
At about 0145 on the 1st June the yacht Amulree, which was escorting the
were R.N., picked up. The Commodore-in-Charge, Sheerness, Captain H. R. Marrack,
she this vessel [the Amulree] was diverted from the valuable work regret which
that D.S.C., in a report to V.A., Dover, says that it was a matter for
seemingly rammed minor administrative duty which indirectly resulted in carry her being
was performing in towing out pontoons from the very beaches, to out a
The and sunk by a British destroyer in the Downs".
Ankh arrived at Dover at 0815 on the 1st June.
Casualties to towing craft
Commodore Of the motor boats lost this day, 2 lost action. The M/B
machine ferried troops to the Worcester were off by enemy eventually
bourne gunned, holed and abandoned. Her Malo. She was East-
shore Queen. The M/B New Prince of Wales crew was embarked in the a shell M/B from a
crew of the crew were wounded. killed, The vessel and S/Lt. was abandoned P. H. E. and the
R.N. and battery. 2 Two able-seamen were damaged by Bennett,
embarked in the M/B Triton.
I 2 R.A.F. Narrative, p.336.
3 4 Captain Appendix Howson's H.26. Report (R.O.IV, p.119).
R.O.III, p.551.
74

Details

FRIDAY, 31ST MAY
CHAP. VIII
At least fourteen other motor boats¹ were lost by misadventure, e.g. engine
failure, grounding, swamping, damaging rudders and/or propellers on floating
or submerged wreckage, or breaking adrift and being lost when on tow. The
seaplane tender No. 291 managed to get back to England in spite of the damage
she had sustained, but was unable to take any further part in "Dynamo".
Conflicting news of La Panne
Meanwhile, as the tows of boats (which Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker now
saw for the first time at 1900 on the 31st May), arrived off Dunkirk they were
directed to the beaches by Lt. Cdr. Wynne-Edwards, first from M.T.B.68 and
later at about 2100, from M.A/S.B. 6. It was found, however, that in the
growing darkness, and with no lights to help them, there was a tendency for
the boats to stop at the first place they came to where other craft were assembled.
At about 1930 the Codrington, then off, Bray, was warned by Rear-Admiral
Wake-Walker to send on the boats detailed for La Panne, but the bulk of them
did not get further than Bray.
The night was dark, and Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker stayed off La Panne,
"wondering how things were going. Everything was black, ships and boats
and shore showed no lights", although arrangements had been made for a light
to be shown to seaward to guide boats inshore. Shelling was continuous and
seemed to be falling among the ships at the anchorage. News was conflicting;
a message from the shore said that thousands of men were waiting but there
were no boats, while messages came from ships that their boats could find no
one on the beach. the ships and the boats were there, and the troops
ashore, and one could do no more.
I do not know to this day", says Rear-
Admiral Wake-Walker, what really took place there".
La Panne beach 31st May/1st June
It is not easy to discover what happened at La Panne, but the following
account, based on a report by Lt. Cdr. J. W. McClelland, R.N., who with a
party of signalmen reached La Panne in the minesweeper Gossamer at 1930 on
the 30th May, gives the main course of events. He was S.N.O., La Panne, for
the seven hours prior to its abandonment as a place of embarkation at about
0200 on the 1st June.
About 1600 on May 31st Captain Tennant, who had been visiting Lord Gort
at La Panne, decided to return to Dunkirk, but he first instructed Lt. Cdr.
McClelland to arrange for the evacuation of Lord Gort and his staff, to carry
out the duties of S.N.O., La Panne³, and to join Major General B. L. Mont-
gomery, then in command of 2nd Corps.
At that time, says Lt. Cdr. McClelland, an enemy battery near Nieuport,
assisted by 2 kite balloons, had found the range of the beach and the off lying-
ships, which had accordingly withdrawn to the westward. Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker asked for the balloons to be shot down, and aircraft came over for that
purpose; at times the balloons were hauled down-but they always re-ap-
peared.
I A.L.C.8, A.L.C.15, Enterprise, Excellent's 35 ft. M|B, Excellent's A/A M|B, Golden
Spray II, Princess Lily, St. Patrick, and the Seaplane tender 243 and A.M.C.3; the Sea
Falcon, Sunshine, Triton and the Two Rivers.
2 M.017978/41, p.21.
3 Lt. Cdr. McClelland speaks of the final evacuation of A, B and C beaches La Panne,
but this is evidently an error as the beaches were lettered from West to East (See Plan 3)
and must therefore have been M, N and O Beaches.
M.017978/41, p.16.
75

Details

LIST OF BRITISH SHIPS
APPENDIX A
TROOPS
TRANSPORTED
MOTOR BOATS, LAUNCHES AND VESSELS (contd.)
Sea Falcon'
-
(L/Sea. A. Westbrook)
Scencshifter1
-
Sea Foam
-
Seamew
-
Sea Roamer
2
(Lieut. J. Bald, R.N.V.R.)
Seasalter
70
(L. W. Salmon, Skipper)
Semois 2
-
Shamrock
-
(A. Barrell, Owner, Skipper)
Silicia
314
Silver Foam
-
Silver Moon
-
(Actg. S/Lt. B. D. O. MacIntyre, R.N.)
Silver Queen1
100
(S/Lt. ?)
(A.B. P. T. Sullivan, C/JX 147897)
Silvery Breeze
-
Singapore
5
(S/Lt. J. W. Pratt, R.N.V.R.)
Singapore II
-
(S/Lt. F. E. Greenfell, R.N.V.R.)
Skylark I
-
(S/Lt. E. C. B. Mares, R.N.V.R.)
(S/Lt. H. McClelland, R.N.V.R.)
Skylark II
—
Skylark III¹
-
Skylark III
-
(Sto. G. Bramhall)
Skylark LL. III¹
-
Skylark III(S.M.281.11)
-
Skylark 6
-
(Cadet Rating, G. R. Prince)
Skylark (Southend)
50
(P.O. R.A. Smith, R.F.R. and crew of 5)
Skylark
-
(S/Lt. M. J. R. Yeatman, R.N.V.R.)
Small Viking
62
Southend Britannia
-
(Lieut. G.L. Norton, R.N.V.R.)
Southern Queen
I
(S/Lt. B.G.P. de Mattos, R.N.V.R.)
Southern Queen (P.L.17)
-
Spinaway
-
Stonehaven¹
-
Summer Maid (P.E. 42)
-
Sundowner
122
(Cdr. G. H. Lightoller, D.S.C., R.N.R., (Retd.) owner-Skipper)
Sunshine
/
Survey
-
Tenias
100
Thark
I
(S/Lt. A. Carew-Hunt, R.N.)
Thetis
-
(T. Towndrow, Scoutmaster, Mortlake Sea Scouts)
Thorneycroft M/B
Not known
Thyforsa
66
Tigris I
-
(H. Hastings, Owner, Skipper)
Triton
-
(Lient. R. H. Irving, R.N.R.)
I Lost.
2 Ex-Belgian canal boat.
151

Details

Details

INDEX
I, 72n. small craft, 61.
29n, 53 (rams and sinks Queen of England).
Tilly Tolly, 71n.
Torbay 23n.
53, 60n, 74, 75n.
Tugs, Troup, use as transports, 41.
Triton, Cdr. H. R., 21, 118, 86. 128.
Twente, 20n, 24, 29n,
Two Rivers, 75n.
Tynwald, 29n, 54n, 64n, 107n, 109, 112n, 114n, 118 (record lift).
U-boats, see Submarines.
Ut Prosim, 23n, 63, 107n.
V.A. Dover, see Ramsay, Vice-Admiral B. H.
Vanguard, 60.
Vanquisher, 37-8, 54n, 55, 61, 62 (make two trips on 30th May), 87, 107n, 108 (sent back
empty), 112n, 114n, 118.
Vavasour, Lt. G. W., 79-81.
Vega, 34, 42, 69.
Venetia, at Boulogne, 9-10.
Venomous, at Boulogne, 9-10; in Dynamo, 61, 101, 107-8, 114n, 118.
Vénus, sunk, 93.
Verity, at Calais, 10; in Dynamo, 13, 19, 28n, 32, 43-4, 49, 51 (reports on Dunkirk),
54n, 55.
Victor-Erna, 73n.
Viewfinder, sunk by Belgian troops, 53.
Viking, 60.
Vimiera, at Boulogne, 9-10.
Vimy, at Boulogne, 8-9; in Dynamo, 20, 23, 27-8, 62 (makes two trips on 30th May), 64n,
69 (hunts S/M.), 74 (rams and sinks Amulree), 95.
Vivacious, 23, 27-8, 45, 61 (calls for more ships and boats), 74 ( -boats), 83 (damaged),
Vincia, 71n, 90.
87, 111-2 (in Operation CK), 127.
V.T.B.25, 116 (evacuates Admiral Abrial), 120 (towed to Dover).
Vulture, 72n.
W.24, 60.
W.26, 72n.
Wakeful, 20n, 23, 24n, 27, 32, 36 (sunk), 37, 85.
Wake-Walker, Rear-Adm. W.F. (R.A. Dover) Apptd. S.N.O. Afloat, 49, 50 ; takes over
duties, 58; tranships four times in 24 hours, 59; general policy, 71; urges M.B's. to
be sent back, 74; investigates position E. of Dunkirk, 85-6; transfers to M.T.B.102,
90 clears Dunkirk of ships, 103; activities night 2/3 June, 108; on the final night,
115; effect of his arrival, 126.
Walker I, 32n.
Walker II, 32n, 114n.
Wardrop, Lt. Cdr. R. G., R.N.R., 49.
Warren, Lt. Cdr. G. H., 88.
Water supply, shortage at Dunkirk and beaches, 26, 31, 62.
Wave Queen, 72n.
Waverley, 28n, 42 (sunk), 47n.
Weather, affects boat work, 36, 48.
Weddle, S/Lt. J. S., R.N.R., 85.
Wells, Lt. J. G., 79-82.
Welman, Lt. Cdr. A. E. P., 8, 9.
Westcove, 111-2, 120.
Westella, 34n, 38 (sinking of), 69 (hunts S/M.), 110 (sunk).
Westerley, 72n.
Westward-Ho, 89 (damaged), 107n.
Weygand, General, 5, 10 (Plan), 11, 27, 96.
Whalley, Lt. 49.
Whippingham, overloaded, 87.
Whitehall, 55, 83 (damaged), 84 (shoots down bomber), 91.
White Heather, 72n.
Whitfield, Col., 22.
207

Details

OF SHIPPING,
VESSEL
OWNERS
ROSELYNE
ROSE MARIE
RUMMY II
ROYAL THAMES
Capt. C. Dines
F. Upton
REMARKS
J. Mears
RAPID RYEGATE II
A.G. Smith
Returned Released 1.6.40
REMARKS
A.E. Ryland
OWNERS
RUBY
P.G. Broom
Prepared Re-allocated A.P.S. Returned for to to Owner. Owner. Owner. 'to
SSEL
J.F. Caine
Returned to Owners.
RK VI
Bolsons Co.
T.98. T.98. Returned to Owners 17.6.
ROSE LNN.19 ROSABELLE
-do-
ARK IX
Returned to owner.
J.C. Wood
ARK X
Mr. Jackson
A. Large
Returned Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
to Owners.
T.B. Brookman
SCARBOROUGH
ARK
G. Alexander
Vessel Returned Prepared No trace did to but Owner Owner. did Dynamo not 7.6.40. TA but
ING THROUGH
H. Cartridge
T.98. T.98. Re-allocated to A.P.S.
A.W. Williams
Returned Returned to to of Owner return from GLER I
Returned to owner.
G.D. Leyte
Re-allocated A.P.S.
ST.
BUNTING
Mr. Wray
No report received from List of
Loft, West Ltd.
Missing Vessels.
W.B. Thompson
Allen
No information of return from
was
SALVAGE FORTH SALLY
THERN QUEEN
C.H. Harvey.
Dunkirk T.98.
SANTOSY ?4B
LAUNCH
Dr.,Purvis
PL.17
Returned to owner.
Released Returned to T.98. of No 1.6.40.r. report Vessels."eceived not 7.6.40.
P. Shore
T.98. Returned to owner 19.6.
TH RAY
SATYR
L.
S. Figg
Returned Returned to owner 5.6.40.
to owner.
in
NAWAY
A. Hewitt
INDRIFT
T.98. T.98. No report received from List
DS
SCENE SHIFTER
T. Brown
tis
SCHEDAR
B.E. Longman
C.H. Masters
RFISH
W.H. Stonehouse
of Missing Vessels.
ONEHAVEN
SEA FALCON
E.C. Wood
MAID
F.M. Brown
T.98. of to Ondowner MMER JRREY
Cdr.C.H. Lightoller
A.P.S. Re-allocated No information to of A.P.S. return from Dunkirk.
SEAGUAM
W.H. Elce
NSHINE R.13)
A.J. Berrion
Returned to owner.
E.T. Thomas
A.P.S.
SEASALTER
E.G. King
W.T. Cayton
c/o Toughs
Mr.
Returned Listened Dover to and A.P.S.
OUTHEND BRITANNIA Southend
Britannia Co.
Returned Re-allocated to Special Admiralty
to owners.
SEASCHOOL
ROSE
Jubilee Fishing Co.
Returned to
Service Prepared for Dynamo but owner. did not go.
(6A).
SHAMROCK SEASWALLOW CASTLE
Returned Reted Returned to to owner.P.S. Owner. Owner Owner.
C.H. Anderson
Damaged. Returned to
18.6.
EA AIR
W.H. Ringer
SOUTHERN KIPJACK QUEEN
C. Mockridge & Exrs.
Returned to owner.
R.
A. Bart Steam
of E. Saunders
SHELDRAKE
Did
Mr. Peters
Boat
Co.
Returned to owner.
Per H.J. Davis
S.
Howden
SILVER SPRAY
FOAM
TANKERTON TOWERS
T.98. Returned to owners.
Mrs. Spragge
W.T. J. Crouch Eng. Co.
c/o Toughs
Taken Lost while being towed from Dunkirk.
by owners.
SINBAD SILVERY BREEZE
TARPON
A.W. werley
Colleton
TOTAL THE
THARK
H.F. Eaton
SILVER SPRAY
THETIS
Mr. Colding
Returned Returned - to unsuitable. owner prepared did not go.
THE ANGLER
J.T. Phelps
SKYLARK II.230 W.A.
Hare
THELMA
THURN
Schofield Ramsgate Diesel
A.P.S. Released 1.6.40 Allocated to Special
Admiralty Service. 6A
SUCCESS SARAH & EMILY SM.281 J. F.T. Toddlins Begless
A.P.S. Returned to Owner. Owner 19.6.
THYME
Trawlers
Returned 3.6.40.
THREE BROTHERS
C.F. Grant
H. Hastings
Damaged. Re-allocated Returned Special to Admiralty owner. Service
M. Leadley
Returned to Owner.
TIGRIS. ONE
T. Hill
TOM HILL
(6A). Returned to owner 19.6.
Presumed
Dr. E. Williams
T.98. T.98. No report received to List of
SKYLARK SKYLARK SKYLARK I (SM. 5) F.T. Myellostock Ltd.
TRILLENE
W.D. Wills
Missing Vessels.
BE OF DE
TRITON
from
R. Hayes
T.98. No report Returned received to owner. from List of Missing
III
SM.
SKYLARK SKYLARK III II
F.T. (w. (N.E. Collinsond Collins Knight
not go to List Dunkirk. of
TWO SISTERS
F.E. Fothergill
TWO RIVERS
Vessels. Held at Tough Bros. Owner unknown.
391
Not required.
TORTOISE
S. Rowden
Returned to owner.
Myalls Ltd.
Coisan
Reported (6A). Service to Special to owners.
TREASURE TONY LN.40
T. Neilson
lost
of release Office

Details

07
Owner.
UMO
6.40
aumo
&0.
REMARKS
OF SHIPPING, croup,
er.
A.P.S.
but
VESSEL
OWNERS
REMARKS
.08 fou PIP
SKYLARK VI
SKYLARK IX
Bolsons Co.
SKYLARK X
-do-
T.98. Returned to Owners.
SKYLARK
Mr. Jackson
T.98. Returned to Owners 17.6.
T.B. Brookman
Returned to owner.
SMILING THROUGH
H. Cartridge
Returned to Owners.
SMOLT
SMUGGLER
A.W. Williams
T.98. Returned to Owners 5.6.40.
SNOW BUNTING
G.D. Leyte
T.98. Re-allocated to A.P.S.
Mr. Wray
Returned to owner.
SONIA
Loft, West Ltd.
Re-allocated A.P.S.
SOUTHERN QUEEN
No report received from List of
C.H. Harvey.
Missing Vessels.
PL.17
SOUTH RAY
No information of return from
oug
SPINAWAY
P. Shore
Dunkirk T.98.
SPINDRIFT
S. Figg
Returned.to.owner.
unti
STARFISH
A. Hewitt
T.98. Returned to owner 19.6.
was
T. Brown
Returned to owner.
STONEHAVEN
W.H. Stonehouse
T.98. Returned to owner 5.6.40.
SUMMER MAID
T.98. No report received from List
SUNDOWNER
F.M. Brown
A.P.S. of Missing Vessels.
in
SUNSHINE SURREY R.13)
Cdr.C.H. Lightoller
A.J. Berrion
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
PS tis a
SYLVIA
E.T. Thomas
No information of return from Dunkirk.
c/o Toughs
Returned to owner.
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA Southend
A.P.S.
SUFFOLK'S ROSE
Britannia Co.
Jubilee Fishing Co.
Returned to owners.
SEA AIR
Re-allocated to Special Admiralty
SKIPJACK
C.H. Anderson
Service (6A).
SOUTHERN QUEEN
W.H. Ringer
Prepared for Dynamo but did not go.
C. Mockridge & Exrs.
Damaged. Returned to owner.
of E. Saunders
Returned to owner.
TANKERTON TARPON TOWERS S. Howden
Mrs. Spragge
Returned to owner.
THARK
THETIS
c/o Toughs
T.98. Returned to owners.
THE ANGLER
H.F. Eaton
Taken by owners.
THELMA
Mr. Colding
THURN
J.T. Phelps
Lost Returned while being towed from Dunkirk.
- unsuitable.
Schofield
THYME
Ramsgate Diesel
Returned A.P.S. to owner prepared did not go.
Trawlers
THREE BROTHERS
C.F. Grant
Released Admiralty 1.6.40 Service. Allocated 6A to Special
TIGRIS. ONE
H. Hastings.
Returned 3.6.40.
TOM HILL
T. Hill
Damaged. Returned to
TRILLENE
TRITON
Dr. E. Williams
Re-allocated (6A). Special Admiralty owner. Service
W.D. Wills
T.98. T.98. Returned to owner
TWO SISTERS
R. Hayes
Missing No Vessels. report received 19.6. to List of
TWO RIVERS
F.E. Fothergill
T.98. No Returned to owner.
TORTOISE
TREASURE
Vessels. report received from List of Missing
S. Rowden
TONY LN.40
T. Neilson
Held Not required. at Tough Bros. Owner unknown.
Returned to owner.

Details

Empire Hotel
Horrist
CS.-
me of Vessel
Date
Cause and Position
Remarks
PRINCESS LILY
31/5/40
Unknown
LOST
approx.
"
OUR BOYS (Boat)
11
"
"
RENOWN (Cockle Boat)
"
Mined and sunk with
all hands.
"
"
ROBERTA
Unknown
N.
ROSABELLE
"
"
ASSUMED LOST
"
"
LOST
ST. PATRICK
"
"
"
SANTOSY
"
"
"
SARAH & EMILY
ough
"
SEA FALCON (Boat)
"
Abandoned - Dunkirk
"
"
"
"
SHAMROCK
untit
"
SKYLARK 3. (SM281)
"
Unknown
was
"
"
"
SCENESHIFTER
"
"
"
SONIA
"
"
11
SKYLARK 2.
"
"
ff
SKYLARK 3.
in
"
"
"
SOUTHERN QUEEN
"
OS as
"
"
STONEHAVEN
"
tish
"
"
SUNSHINE
"
SUE SUE (Rowboat)
"
"
"
"
Lost while being towed
e
THETIS
from Dunkirk
"
"
TRITON
Unknown
"
"
"
TWO RIVERS
"
"
"
VIEWFINDER
11
"
"
VIKING 3.
"
"
"
VANITEE
"
"
Abandoned off Dunkirk
is
WARRIOR
"
"
WAVE QUEEN
Unknown
"
"
"
1
COMMODORE
"
"
On fire and abandoned -
WESTERLEY
Dunkirk
17
Unknown
ASSUMED LOST
GRACE DARLING
"
QUEEN OF ENGLAND
Sunk in collision with
LOST
S.S. TILLY.
3)
"
"
MARY SPEARING
Unknown
"
"
"
CANVEY QUEEN
"
Did not return from
HAZARD
Dunkirk
PREVIOUSLY
"
Do.
REQUISITIONED
MISS JOSEPHONE I.
"
11
AND ON NAVAL
MOSS ROSE
"
"
SERVICE BUT
PELLAG 2.
"
"
UTILISED FOR
SEAMEW
"DYNAMO".

Details

Name of Vessel
Date
Cause and Position
Remarks
PRINCESS LILY
31.5.40
Unknown.
LOST
approx.
OUR BOYS (Boat)
"
"
"
RENOWN (Cockle Boat)
"
Mined & sunk with
"
all hands.
ROBERTA
"
Unknown.
"
ROSABELLE
"
If
ASSUMED LOST.
ST. PATRICK
"
"
LOST.
SANTOSY
"
"
"
SARAH & EMILY
If
11
"
SEA FALCON (Boat)
"
Abandoned - Dunkirk
11
SHAMROCK
"
"
"
If
SKYLARK 3. (SM281)
If
Unknown
"
SCENESHIFTER
If
"
"
SONIA
"
"
12
SKYLARK 2.
II
If
"
SKYLARK 3.
"
"
"
SOUTHERN QUEEN
"
11
"
STONEHAVEN.
"
11
"
SUNSHINE
"
"
"
SUE SUE (Rowboat)
11
11
"
THETIS
"
Lost while being towed
"
from Dunkirk.
TRITON
11
Unknown.
"
TWO RIVERS
11
It
11
VIEWFINDER
11
11
"
VIKING 3.
=
11
"
VANITEE
11
11
11
WARRIOR
11
Abandoned off Dunkirk.
11
WAVE QUEEN
"
Unknown.
11
COMMODORE
"
11
"
WESTERLEY
11
On fire & abandoned -
"
Dunkirk.
-7-

Details

VESSEL
OWNERS
REMARKS
SKYLARK VI
Bolsons Co.
T.98 Returned to Owner
SKYLARK IX
do
T.98 Returned to Owners 17/6
SKYLARK X
Mr.Jackson
Returned to Owners
SKYLARK
T.E. Brockman
Returned to Owners.
SMILING THROUGH
H.Cartridge
T.98 Returned to Owners 5.6.40
SMOLT
A.W. Williams
T.98 Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SMUGGLER
G.D. Layte
Returned to Owners.
SNOW BUNTING
Mr. Wray
Re-allocated A.P.S.
SONIA
Loft, West Ltd,
No report received from list
of Missing Vessels.
SONNY
No report received from list of
Missing Vessels.
SOUTHERN QUEEN
C.H.Harvey
No information of return from
P.L.17
Dunkirk T.98
SOUTH RAY
F.Shore
Returned to Owners.
SPINAWAY
S.Figg
T.98 Returned to Owners 19/6
SPINDRIFT
A.Hewitt
Returned to Owner
STARFISH
T.Brown
DNG
T.98 Returned to Owners 5.6.40
STONEHAVEN
W.H.Stonehouse
T.98 No report received from List
of Missing Vessels.
SUMMER MAID
F.M. Brown
A.P.S.
SUNDOWNER
Cdr.C.H.Lightoller
Re-allocated to A.P.S.
SUNSHINE (R.13)
A.J.Verrion
No information of return from
Dunkirk
SURREY
E.T. Thomas
Returned to Owners.
X VIA
C/o Toughs
A.P.S.
SOUTHEND BRITANNIA
Southend Britennia Co.
Returned to Owners.
SUFFOLK'S ROSE
Jubilee Fishing Co.
Re-allocated to Sp.Admy See.
(6A)
SVANA
No report received from lists of
Missing Vessels.
SEA AIR
G.H. Anderson
Prepared for Dynamo but did not g
SKIPJACK
W.W. Ringer
Damaged. Returned to owners
SOUTHERN QUEEN
.Mockridge & Exrs.
Returned to Owners.
of E. Saunders
SILVER CLOUD. (11+5)
C.G BRINKLEY
RETURNED TO OWNER
SUE SUE (Rowboat)
E.C.WILSON.
LOST
SHRIMP. (Skiff)
H.E. PARKER
RETA. To OWNER- DAMAGED.
TALLYHO (Rowbarl)
F.C.WILSON.
Rela Damaged
TANKERTON TOWERS
S.Rowden
Returned to owner.
TARPON
Mrs.Spraggs
T.98 Returned to owners.
THARK
c/o. Toughs
Taken by owners
THETIS
H.F.Baton
Lost while being towed from
Dunkirk
THE ANGLER
Mr.Golding
RETURNED - UNSUITABLE
THELMA
Phelps
Returned to owner prepared did
not go
THURN
Schofield
A.P.S. PRESUMED LOST.
THYME
Ramsgate Diesel
Released 1.6.40 Allocated to
Trawlers
SP. ADMY. SCE. (6A)
THREE BROTHERS
C.F. Grant
Returned 3.6.40
TIGRIS ONE
H.Hastings
Damaged. Returned to owners
TOM HILL
T.Hill
Re-allocated SPL.ADMY SCE. (6A)
TRILLENE
Dr.E. Williams
T.98 Returned to owners 19/6
TRITON
W.D.Wills
T.98 No report received to list
of Missing Vessels.
TWO SISTERS
R.Hayes
T.98 Returned to owners.
TWO RIVERS
F.E. Fothergill
No report received from list
of Missing Vessels.
TORTOISE
?
Held at Tough Bros. Owner unknown.
TREASURE
S.Rowden
Not reqd.
TONY LN40
T.Neilson
Returned to owner

Details

Details

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

Details

1
TO DOVER LETTER OF 6 ans. 19to
ENCLOSURE No
- 2 -
VI Yachts and Small Craft. (Continued).
Pioneer.
Chelsea.
Two Rivers.
Charlotte.
Unique.
Diana Mary. - DOVER
Eothen.
Cuisisana.
Ramagete 18/6
Princess Lily.
/
The King.
Count Dracula.
Royal Thames.
Gayfly.
Formosa.
Sallyforth.
Margherita.
Kayell.
Maldon Annie.
Anthony.
Canvey Queen.
Imshi.
Miss Ming.
Sinbad II.
Princess Maud.
Curlew.
Empress.
Skylark.
Faversham.
Bream.
Queen Boadicea.
Pike.
Queen Boadicea. II.
Windsor Castle.
Vera.
Omega.
Daphne.
Tinker.
Kingwood.
Black Arrow.
Hurlingham.
Thetis.
The Viscount.
Aljanor.
His Majesty.
Silvery Breeze.
The Marchioness.
Rummy II.
Mutt.
Thark. ih,Dovier 18/6
Jeff.
Thurne.
Beverley.
Fleetwing.
St. Patrick.
Miss Modesty.
Skylark. (whech of may ?)
Gay Venture.
Spinaway.
Westerly.
Mary Rose.
Sylvia.
Advance.
Lorna Doone.
Hanora.
Hazard.
Maid of Honour.
Tigris I.
Cordelia.
Iote.
View Finder.
Shamrock.
Karina.
Queen of England.
Triton.
Wolsey.
Stonehaven.
X
Sceneshifter.
1 name unknown (Thames Conservancy).
1 Seaschool Yacht (Shipping Federation, Cmdr. Cavill).
VII Power Driven Lifeboats.
26 out of 27 have not been returned. It is
understood that 3 are still at Ramsgate.
VIII Ordinary Lifeboats.
34 out of 87 have not been returned.

Details

DUNKIRK COMMITTEE.
Meeting held at 11.a.m. on Wednesday 23rd October, 1940 at the
Ministry of Shipping. Room No. 8021.A.
Present:
MR. ALLEN (Chairman)
" MOORE
"
RIDDELL
"
WAND
1. Minutes of Meeting held on 26th September were agreed.
2. Matters arising were discussed.
(a) "Sceneshifter" Agreed to refer the case to Mr. Barnett of
Watson & Co.Glasgow.
(b) "Brywyn"
Agreed to maintain committee's attitude unless
owner produces evidence of loss or value.
(c) "Vanitee"
Agreed to offer £700 which is sum stated by
owner on T619 to be acceptable.
(a) "Stonehaven"
Agreed to offer £500 in full settlement.
(e) "Bullpup"
Agreed to offer £450 - the insured value.
(f) "Rosabelle"
Agreed to offer £75 in full settlement.
3. Report of Payments for period ending 22nd October amounting to
£5,834.15.8d was presented and passed.
4. The following cases were discussed:-
(a) TOTAL LOSS:
"Thetis" Agreed to offer £225 in full settlement.
"Moss Rose" Agreed to make comparison with other Deal Boats
"Maid of Honour" Agreed to offer £425 (Tough's valuation)
( in full settlement.
"Minikoi" Agreed to require Letters of Administration in
favour of the widow before opening negotiations.
"Princess Lily"
}
Agreed to forward forms T619 and at the
"Court Belle II"
same time to offer, if required, advances
on account of 2/3rds of insured values.
"Hanora"
Agreed to offer £565 in full settlement.
"Miranda"
Agreed to settle at owners claim of £20. 1
"Triton"
Agreed to settle at owners claim of £1,500
"Two Rivers"
Agreed to offer £370 in full settlement.
"Sarah & Emily"
Agreed to settle at owners claim of £30,
if, after enquiry, boat had not returned.
à
"Wolsey"
0 2
Agreed to offer £250 which is sum stated
by owner on T619 to be acceptable.
Barges (8)
hings
Agreed to negotiate settlements up to
the valuation figures.
(b) Repairs & Replacements:
)
"Mare Nostrum" : Agreed to pay the repair bill as
recommended on survey report, to refer
to P.CO(S.T) for valuation of missing
of
articles and to take no action on
expenses claim, until reasonably
presented.
lle"
"Kit Cat" :
Agreed to settle claim at £12.
6/11/40

Details

Details

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

Details

Details

Dynams 182.
-
186
From ... Lieutenant R.H. Irving R.N.R. Motor Boat "TRITON".
Date 3rd June, 1940.
To ... Commodore Taylor, Sheerness.
Submitted,
with reference to the short report handed in on my
arrival at Sheerness, Saturday, 1st June, 1940, I shall now
endeavour to fill in details left out at that time, due to
inability to recollect everything and put it on record before
being refreshed and rested, after so many hours of exertion.
On Wednesday, the 29th May, 1940, while supervising
the cleaning and scrubbing of the Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA"
of which vessel I was 1st Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander
Gwinnir, R.N., who was C.O., instructed me, to report immediately
to Commander Troupe for orders.
I reported as instructed, and was ordered to take
command of thirteen launches and get them to Ramsgate.
I got clear of Sheerness with the launches about
1200 29/5/40, and arrived Ramsgate about 1930. I reported to
Commander Davies there, and explained to him what had been said
tome by Commodore L. Taylor regarding the launch "SILVER QUEHON
and "BEVERLEY".
"BEVERLEY", however, failed to turn up at
Ramsgate although I had sent back my fastest boat from Margate to
look for her, and waited for one hour to allow him to catch up.
Commander Davies consulted the N.O.I.C. and it was decided that
in the "TRITON" I should endeavour to get "SILVER QUESION and
seven more launches to La Panne.
The other launches for various reasons could not
proceed until the morning. Commander Davies said he believed
East of La Panne was devoid of Allied troops, and as far as he
knew no troops on beaches West of Braye Duns.
This meant I had to make the Belgian coast within
a three-mile limit, rather difficult without navigating
instruments or current charts.
Nevertheless, I thought I could
do it, so at 2200 on Wednesday I left the harbour with eight
launches.
I waited outside and shouted to them to keep close
up and follow me.
I steered for N. Goodwin Light Vessel, and
stopped there to count my fleet, though it was very dark.
I
counted five and was informed the other three had put back to
Ramsgate with engine trouble.
I then order "SILVER QUEHON to render every assistance
in keeping boats together (Sub.Lt. in command) in order that the
five of us might carry out a successful crossing.
Only the
Seaman Cox.J. Keith could steer on my boat; this meant I had to
relieve him myself. Two of the crew were already seasick, but
kept their feet and showed spirit.
From N. Goodwin I proceeded.
It was very dark, and
on and off I passed ships heading N.W. or S.E.
About 0300
30/5/40 visibility was very poor, with heavy rain, no ships in
sight, and I was a little doubtful of my position.
I decided,
however, to get into a position 15 miles north of La Panne, and then
steer South (mag) to make the coast.
At 0400 turned south, strong
wind and following sea, boat steering wildly.
Still no ships in
sight or land.
About 0420 saw a cruiser loaded with troops,
recognised her as British, and closed her.
She had received heavy
punishment aft from shellfire.
I made signs as to whether I should hold on my course,
and she answered in the affirmative. At this time one of my
boats very foolishly crossed my bow and received a blow which
damaged her.
I instructed one of the others to watch her, and

Details

a
188
At this time a terrific aerial battle was on, shells from
shore batteries were falling around and bombs dropping all over the
place in close proximity. As I was towing this boat I saw a bomb
hit the pleasure steamer "PRINCE OF WALES". I closed her and took
aboard two badly wounded Officers and two ratings.
I offered to
go aboard as she was sinking slowly, but was told only two dead
remained on board.
Just before this, ordinary seaman Purbrick fell overboard
from exhaustion and I picked him up somehow.
My Cox. was sleeping
on his feet on and off and the two others lay down and stood up as
strength permitted. The C.O. of the "PRINCE OF WALES", although
covered in blood, offered to try and steer the boat.
I then saw a man swimming naked in the water.
Stopped
and got him.
Next a heavily loaded boat of soldiers turned right
over close inshore, and left the men struggling in the water. I
got down to them and rescued the lot personally hauling them aboard
with my crews feeble assistance.
While doing this, I got a rope
round my Starboard screw and fouled the rudder. I now had a full
load of soldiers on board (six wounded) a full boat load towing
and soldiers clinging to the stern.
With what I thought was the last of my strength, I got my
launch alongside a lifeboat and from there hauled her hand over hand,
by means of a grass rope, up to the sloop "MOSQUITO". I then
discovered the lifeboat's propeller was also fouled.
Neither
I
nor my crew could clear the propeller, so I boarded "MOSQUITO" and
asked the 1st Lieutenant to send someone to do so.
Meanwhile,
I
went below for a cup of tea. I came on deck in fifteen minutes,
but the rope could not be cleared I was told.
Air battle still in progress with bombs dropping all around.
I then with difficulty closed the yacht "GALETA" and asked her to take
me in tow. The C.O.'s ship was in a very bad position with regard
to German shore batteries, nevertheless, he wanted another boat load
of troops before leaving and asked me to try and close the beach and
get one.
I said I would, but asked him to watch out for me in case
I got ashore.
I proceeded towards the beach just then coincident with
an explosion of some kind.
The launch seemed to rise from the
water, fall back, rise again and fall back.
I could only move
slowly now and I saw the yacht was drawing the fire from shore. One
of the crew called out that the yacht was signalling me. I looked
round and saw she was signalling me.
With great difficulty I got
alongside and made her fast for towing, then slumped on the yacht's
deck, stupified with exhaustion, want of sleep and food, I suppose.
Unfortunately the tow rope parted a few minutes later.
The C.O. of yacht objected and rightly so to going back to the shealed
area with his ships and troops on board.
So the "TRITON" was left
afloat with a rope round her screw and a badly damaged stem and stern.
I regret exceedingly that I did not get her home again for various
reasons.
It was about 1840 31st May, 1940, when my activities ceased.
I had been on my feet from 0700 29th May, to 1840 31st May, 1940, in
a small craft, without sleep and the only food eaten from 2000 29th
May to that time was one tin of herrings, ont tin of bully beef and
between five and two slices of bread each also four cups of tea without
sugar.
We simply had not time to eat.
A few more remarks and I finish.
I was the only
Commissioned Officer (excluding Commodore Skippers) who was constantly
in the boats at La Panne.
I took off more troops than I can
remember there - scores and scores of boat loads and I venture to say
if my boat had not remained there to the last, hundreds would never
have got away.

Details

4-
- 189
I was not instructed to proceed from La Panne to Dunkirk
by anyone.
saw three planes crash in the sea close to me near Dunkirk, and seven I
I did so on my own initiative to save troops.
Airmen descend by parachute.
Although not wounded, splinters fell around me.
On
Sunday, I noticed slight bruises on my left leg from blows probably.
My arms feel as if they had been pulled from their sockets and my
back is sore. I lost my voice through hailing boats at La Panne -
it is now returning.
I am quôte rested and ready for action if required.
The crew sent with me knew nothing of making fast ropes
or steering, but under fire, in spite of great exhaustion, were A.I.
and exhibited on and off, great interest in all that was happening.
I respectfully subihit they are worthy of some recognition.
I have the honour to be, Sirs,
Your obedient servant,
(Sgd) R.H. Irving
lieutenant, R.N.R.
Crew of Motor Boat "TRITON".
S. KEITH
Sea. Cox.
J. STEVENS
Ord. Sea.
D. SIMPSON
E.R.A.
C. GLYN
Ord. Sea.
F.G. PURBRICK
Ord. Sea.
-II-
OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OPERATION
"DYNAMO"
SHEERNESS.
Forwarded.
4th June, 1940.
COMMODORE-IN-CHARGE,
SHEERNESS

Details

_203
LAUNCH "TRITON"
à
190
Lieutenant R.H. INVING, R.N.R.
3, KNITH. Sea. Cox.
J.STEPHENS. Ord.Sea.
D. STMPSON. B.R.A. (uttorly useless)
0. GLYNN. Ord.Sea.
F.G. PURBRICK. Ord.Sea. (fell overboard and had to put him on "MOSQUITO"
suffering from cold and shook).
I was at Sheerness as No.1 of Dutch Scoot "PRINCESS JULIANA"
Wednesday 20th May 1940, was instructed to proceed from Sheamess to
Ramsgate in charge of 13 Launches, various kinds and speeds - handed over
12. Left Sheerness about noon Wednesday, 29th May.
Arrived Remagate about 1930
Left Remagate about 2150
for Cuploa near La Panne with 9 Launches.
Very vague instructions about La Panne and was not definitely
informed whether British troops were actually there. Had bad visibility
and did not know exact position but made Cuploa 0500, Thursday norning
only 5 launches arrived in company, others broke down and returned to
Ransgate. Launch "SILVER QUEEN" was of great assistance.
From 0500, Thursday, 30th May to about 1700 Friday, 31st May
I towed or picked up hundreds of troops and transferred them to destroyers,
scoots etc. Launches not equipped with proper towing topes and crew very
unsemanlike. Had to steer and make fast myself. Commodore Stephens used
my launch and participated in taking off troops, no one at Cuplos to give to
instructions.
I worked all Thursday night and carried on until 1330 when ship
was shelled heavily and all ships proceeded towards Dunquarque and I was
last to leave Cuploa under heavy shell fire.
I proceeded towards Dunquerque along the beach and on arriving
at extreme west end of Dunquerque beach a heavy air attack and fire from
shore batteries was falling all round. I took the most westerly boat in
tow and when looking round to find a near ship, saw the large launch "PRINCE
OF WALES" struck by a bomb, I proceeded with the boat I had in tow towards
her and found 4 survivors very bedly wounded ready to take off. Two others
were dead on board. On the way to the sloop "MOSQUXTO" with survivors I
resoued soldiers from drowing whose boat had sunic close ashore. While
doing this my starbcard propeller get fouled and I had a terrible job to
get to the sloop "MOSQUITO" with troops and wounded from "PRINCE OF MALZES".
All this time bombing and shelling was going on. I landed all on the
"HOSQUITO" and then asked the "MOSQUITO" to tay and clear ay propeller,
they tried but could not do so. I them consulted the Piret Lieutenant and
he suggested that I get a tow home. I spproached the yacht "CALNTA",
the C.O. immediately asked me to get him troops but I told him I would
attempt it with one engine although I could not handle her. I got near
the west beach and immediately came under shore fire and no boats being
ready to come off "CALETA" signelled me to return as he was being shelled
and had to get out of it. I got back and made the launch fast for towing-
under fire, but the tow rope broke and the Launch being still in the hotly
peppered area and close to the surf the C.O. of "CALETA" and myself thought
it would endanger his vessel to remain there to try and pick up again so
chose inshore.
Neither I or the arew had any sleep or proper food from Wednesday
morning until the launch was abandoned at 1640 Friday. All of us were
stupid with exhaustion.
I took off more troops at Cuploa than anyone else.
I have lost my voice meantime through constant hailing of boats
and giving orders. The "TRITON" was damaged badly in the stern and bow
through going alongaide ships so frequently in a very heavy swell. I have
lost my uniform cap and raincoat, rasor and other items.
My information on sailing from Ramsgate was - "No troops east of
La Panne or west of Braye Duns", the first item was correct byrb the second
quite wrong.

Details

Dynamo. 193.
389
366
Admiralty House,
C-in-C Nore.
Sheerness.
with "Dynamo".
List of Officers deserving special mention in connection
1
H.M.S. "wildfire". The work of providing the stores
of all kinds required by the boats sent from Sheerness and
accommodating a constant flow of Officers, men and
volunteers placed a heavy strain on the establishment
resources. In addition I observed the admirable work
done in receiving the British and French troops landed
at Sheerness. From Captain Coleridge downwards all did
their best, but Commander V.P. Freeman and Paymester
Captain E.C.Annaheim deserve special mention.
2.
Sheerness Dockyard. The tug "St. Clears" tower 20
cutters with half crews over to the beaches for 22 hours
under considerable bombing. The Master Penny and
the helmsman Arthur Chawnce A.B. deserve special mention.
All departments of the yard put out their best
efforts; the heavier work fell on the Naval Store Department.
Mr.A. Paterson.
The Chief Constructor, Tickner, designed and
built a large number of rafts, not too big to he manhandled.
3.
Stoker Petty Officer T. West, Cff.No.C/KX 87588.
This Petty Officer sent as boat's crew, was taken
out to assist in getting boats ready for sea. lie showed
great energy, driving power and resource in dealing with
many difficulties that arose. He accompanied one to
Ramsgate on Sunday 2nd. June in hopes of a trip to the
beaches, but took on a boat whose engines were giving
trouble and was unable to get there.
4.
Officers in charge of boats. The following Officers
showed particular energy in getting the boats away. Their
work on the beaches did not come under my personal
observation, but I draw attention to their names in case
they have not been mentioned by Officers on the spot :-
Sub. Lieut. R.N.V.R., took the lead in getting
away the first group 01 boats on Wednesday 29th. May and
conducted them to Dover. Having had his first boat
swamped, returned to Sheerness and got away another
group.
Lieut. Irving, R.N.R., got away the second group
of boats and led them to the beaches in M.V. "Triton".
This Officer WAS a volunteer from the Schuit "Princess
Juliana which was broken down. He is believed to have
done very good work on the beaches.
The Acting Sub. Lieutenants R.N., as a whole showed
initiative and resource in getting their boats away, but
it would be difficult to discriminate.
Mr.B.A.Smith, a volunteer who brought his own
yacht "Constant Nymph" which he finally lost after bringing
off some 900 troops.
5. The following eficers came under my observation
during the operations on the noght 2nd.-3rd, and 3rd.-4th.
Sub. Lieut. Mullins R.N.S., in charge of Motor
Yacht "White Wings in which I sailed on 2nd.-3rd. I
was much struck by the trouble he had taken to aoq int
himself with navigational details, the instruction of
his Bren Gunners, and his boat. He had a volunteer with
him, Mr.Devine, and they were a fine couple who I should
like to have with me again on a similar job.

Details

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