Details

BASILISK (H.11)
Cdr. 11. Richmond, O. B.E. R.N.
31st May
Disembarked 420
338
357
}
troops
1st June
0815
Off La Panne. Dive bomb attack by 9
A/C. About 45 bombs dropped. All
engine room and boiler room
personnel killed. Bulkhead to No. 3
boiler room blown away; main and
auxiliary steam lines and main oil
fuel supply pierced; after magazine
and shell room flooded; upper deck
and sides of the ship cracked right
across in the vicinity of the main-
mast. Ship rendered immobile.
Torpedoes and depth charges were
jettisoned.
[A tug (1) which had been attending on
dr. Keith signalled Basilisk to sink
Keith, and then proceeded.
i? French]
0930ca
The Belgian F.V. La Jolie Mascotte
or DEED, was summoned to assist, and
a tow was passed.
0945ca
Level bombing attack by about 9 A/C.
No hits. A second attempt made to
tow the Basilisk clear.
1200ca
Attacked by a squadron of dive bombers.
Basilisk smothered by hits and near
misses, began to settle. Ship
abandoned.
La Jolie Mascotte picked up 6 officers
and 71 ratings. dr. Whitehall
picked up 2 officers and 52 ratings.
Other survivors got away in the
motor boat and a whaler.
1213
The Basilisk sank in approx. position
060°, 2.4 miles from 6 E occulting
buoy, with her upper deck awash.
hitehall fired guns and torpedoes at
her and the ship was left on fire
forward.
Total 1115
Authority - D.R. N.017681/40.
(1) Probably the Vincia.
86

Details

CERONS
French wetkins escort vessel
Ltd.)
See La Nantaise Left Dover, sailing Revelty
in tow, and the Earais Lowing
two seiling 183rk
in company.
0720
mile enot of Dunkirk pier, Revelty
being towed at full speed, alipped
tow, and beached herself head on, on
b
Malo beach.
Air attack. Nine bombo fell in a line
Cerons
P 2 10ng the starboard eide of dr.
Keith, which was outside Cervie.
Cervia got under way to avoid the
accxiciary Patrol Boat up crew and boat of Royalty
and twisting destroyer.
and also of 8/8 Duchess.
Entrigue 08000a de vaineau EVE una were going all the
Keith began to ist, and was again
time 80 she steemed round and round,
She then stopped and let go her
nchor. AS the crew began to abandon
400 troops Panded began machine to pick gunned up them.
in
cheroourg
survivore, and the tug St. Abbe got
Keith's bow. A
0100p(1) also went to her assistance.
Cervia turned round and picked up
soldiers from B. M/B.
At this time, the dr. Ivenhoe, to the
Note by Cdr. 0815cm Cras of French Historical seen to be disabled,
and B. "small tanker" [the N/S
Dept.
Skipjaok] astern of Vincia, went ap
in flames,
Cervia then took the sailing burge
Tellesbury, which had 200
hatches, in tow. The Orient
was edded to the tom, and Cervin
went of the pierhead, Typethoo and
proceeded down Jhon
to be in tow of the VALID and
Vincia, with of
passed the Cervis.
No.5 11. buoy, about 20
appeared. Ivenhoe a
DOODS sear B
however,
100
the the
In
169

Details

CERVIA
Tug (william
Watkins Ltd.)
W.H. Simmons, Master.
31st May
2145
Left in Dover, sailing barge Royalty
two tow, and the tug Persia towing
in company.
sailing barges Sark and Shetland]
1st June
0720
1 mile east of Dunkirk pier, Royalty
being towed at full speed, slipped the
tow, and beached herself head on, on
Malo beach.
Air attack. Nine bombs fell in a line
along the starboard side of dr.
Keith, which was outside Cervia.
Cervia got under way to avoid the
turning and twisting destroyer.
Picked up crew and boat of Royalty
and also of S/B Duchess.
0800ca
Keith began to list, and was again
bombed; her guns were going all the
time as she steamed round and round.
She then stopped and let go her
anchor. As the crew began to abandon
ship, the bombers machine gunned them.
The tug Vincia began to pick up
survivors, and the tug St. Abbs got
alongside Keith's starboard bow. A
sloop(1) also went to her assistance.
Cervia turned round and picked up
soldiers from a M/B.
0815ca
At this time, the dr. Ivanhoe, to the
westward, was seen to be disabled,
and a "small tanker" [the M/S
Skipjack] astern of Vincia, went up
in flames.
-
Cervia then took the sailing barge
Tollesbury, which had 200 troops under
hatches, in tow. The M.L.B. Orient IV
was added to the tow, and Cervia
proceeded down Dunkirk roads. When
west of the pierhead, Ivanhoe was
seen to be in tow of the Persia and
Vincia, with decks full of survivors,
At No.5 W. buoy, about 20 planes
passed the Cervia.
0900ca
appeared. Ivanhoe put up a smoke
screen, and 9 bombs fell near a
cross-channel boat which, however,
kept on Cervia's port bow, bomb
going. 5 bombs fell about lifting 100
feet tug cut of the water. A the
the between a sloop and towing
exploded destroyer she was
In disabled [M/8 the Downs Saltash Cervia towing to was dr. Ramsgate. met Havant] by the
Java brought about 230 troops( and
and ordered 2) all
"In tug
1500ca
Cervia Dunkirk, the Tollesbury and the crew
out crews of of Duchess and Royalty,
Orient IV."
(1) The sk. Hilda and that the M/S this the up survivors. troops in
(2)
It
1s
considered
Tollesbury.
170

Details

2
KEITH (continued)
31st May
2020/
(continued)
2310
Off Dunkirk, Braye and La Panne,
2400
Off La Panne. Lord Gort transferred
passing orders and marshalling boats.
to the Keith from the Hebe, in the
Bounty.
1st June
0015
Anchored off La Panne. A/A ammunition
now reduced to 2 rounds of 3-1nch
and 150 rounds of pom-pom per gun.
This shortage was represented to the
R.A. Dover.
0206
Off Braye.
0304
Lord Gort and General Leese, his C.S.O.,
proceeded in a "M.T.B." [this was
M.A/S.B.6 (q.v.)] for Dover. (1).
0510
Air (m.g.) attack.
0737
Dive bomb attack. All 3 inch ammunition
expended. A near miss damaged the
steering gear. Hand steering aft.
0805ca
Numerous dive bomb attacks. Ship
straddled. Hit in No.2 boiler room,
which was set on fire, flooded and
its crew killed. Heavy list to port,
upper deck touching the water.
Torpedoes and depth charges jettisoned
No steam. Ship anchored.
R.A. Dover and staff transferred to
a M.T.B. [i.e. M.T.B.102].
[They proceeded to Dunkirk; thence, at
0930, they proceeded to Dover.
Further dive bomb attacks on Keith.
Near misses. As the ship was settling
the order was given to abandon ship.
0830ca
The tug St. Abbs came alongside and
assisted by the tug Vincia took off
survivors and picked up others.
The sk. Hilda picked up 2 officers
and about 20 ratings and proceeded.
A grey schooner, or yacht, which
was picking up survivors was bombed
and sunk. The M/S Salamander picked
up seven ratings.
0849
The M/S Skipjack which had picked up
some survivors was bombed and sunk.
Signals were made to the Salamander
and the dr. Basilisk asking them to
sink Keith, but by now they themselves
had both been bombed, were out of
control and required assistance.
Salamander, however, fired 2 rounds
of S.A.P. at Keith's asdic dome.
Basilisk sank 3 hours later.]
0940ca
Keith was sunk in a salvo of bombs from
about 50 aircraft between La Panne
and Braye.
0950
The tug St. Abbs was bombed and sank
immediately.
(1) Keith says this was at about 0040/1.
109

Details

KEITH (continued).
May
1st (continued). June
Some of Keith's survivors reached the
wreck of the S.S. Clan Macalister
when they were taken off by a motor
lighter and transferred to the lighter
1110
Y.C.63, (which already had a full
load of soldiers). Survivors of
Keith thus reached England in the
1220
following ways:
1530
The Captain, 3 Officers and 13
ratings in Y.C.63;
1 Officer, 83 ratings and 10 officers
1830
of the Army H.Q. Staff in the
Vincia;
1950
2 Officers, and 20 ratings in the
Hilda;
7 ratings in the Salamander;
1 Officer swam to Dunkirk and took
passage in a M.A/S.B.
3 officers and 33 ratings were lost.
[the
St.
2100
2200
Left the Total 1,200
the
Gracie Fields [about 3 hours
the Gracis Fields had to be
Authority - M.017681/40.
T bucy].
30th
May
R.O.III. p.374.
Margate.
1020
Disembarked 550 (1)
1130
for Sheerness to
The following awards were made:
1600
Sailed for Bray beach.
D.S.C.
Lieut. C.P. Adams, R.N.
Arrived off Bray. The expected boats
had not arrived. A military officer
came aboard with 40 troops.
D.S.M.
0130
Lt. Odr. Craig embarked. Shelling of
Ch. Yeo.Sigs. F. Laister.
the
beach
commenced
and
continued.
Actg. P.O.
E.F. Standley. The troops could not be induced to
L/sea.
E.I.J.A.G. Joplin. off in the ship's
A.B.
E.B. Wilkinson. gun fire and shelling of
A.B.
G.E. Davies, R.F.R. beach.
to find troops
so
Mention in Despatches.
Capt.
E.L. Berthon, D.S.C., R.Noned by 3
Lieut.
R.W. Highes, R.N.
Lieut.
G.J.A. Lumsden, R.N. found the
Midshipman L/Tel.
H.B. Poustie, R.NeRtsod.
E.J.M. Beeley.
A.B.
T.F. Asprey.
A.B.
I.A. Nethercott.
A.B.
J. Wallis.
troops. for
A.B.
G.J. Woodger.
the
for
350 and
of
Wargate
a disembarkation
Le
110

Details

2
M.T.B.68 - Continued. Flotting
Licut. C.M.O.Dreyers R.N.
Authority - R.O.II, pp.445, 465. Dover 10 sast for Dunkirk. pier, Denkirk harbour.
Ordered by B.N.O. Dunkirk to take
Handerson and M.O.D. Ellwood
to inspect La Panne beach. Attacked
The following awards were made: by 3 ed airoraft to Dunkirk, on passage, disemberked the
2 commanders, embarked 20 British
Mention in Despatches.
troops and proceeded.
Lieut. L/Sea. P. R.K.L. Ward. Walker, R.N.V.R. 10 Le Heaurier in the Stopped D.O. Mator by
miles S.E. of Dover.
A.B.
S.W. Davey.
Boat and took him back towards
Dunkirk to pass messages to 3 tuge
on their way to Dunkirk.
31st May
0030
Dover. Disembarked 20 troops.
1100
Proceeded to La Panne.
1240
orr Is Panne. Ambarked R.A. Dover from
the dr. Keith. Ho inspected
the beaches and was returned to Keith.
1530
Towed boatloads of troops to transports.
1640
Proceeded to Dover.
1800
Dover.
1st June
0600
Proceeded to Dunkirk.
0750
Arrived Dunkirk, (having passed the dr.
Ivanhos being bombed).
0800
Keith had just been bombeds appeared to
be not under control. went alongside
and took off R.A. Dover and Staff.
Ordered 2 tugs 18th Abbs and Vincia]
to assist Keith.
0805
Air attack.
0810
Keith again bombed and considerably
damaged.
0830
N.T.B.102 alongside Dunkirk.
0915
Proceeded to Dover with R.A, Dover and
staff on board.
1100
Dover.
2nd June
2035
To Dunkirk
2255
Alongside cast pier Denkirk herbour.
2310
Embarked B.N.O. Dunkirk, Capt.Tennent
Car. Ellwood, and Cdr. Banke and his
demolition party; also a Brigndierd
and one R.A.F. officer (dressed 00 a
Belgian peasant).
2315
Proceeded.
3rd June
0120
DOVOR-
2015
Proceeded to Dunkink with M.A. nover
and STATE on board.
2200
Arrived Dunkirs harbour. Proceeded
under orders OF THE Dover, who use
directing the outaristion of
soldiere.
4th June
0135
Large explosion just mat or the eact
0315
Operation pier. completed. Passed blockships
and sailed for Dover.
0505
Batled Daver. for portemouth-
1000
Total 20
(1) Bee M.A/S.B.10, 313 note (1)

Details

1
M.T.B.102
3rd M.T.B. Flotilla
Lieut. C.W.S.Dreyer, R.N.
30th May
1300
1430
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
Alongside east pier, Dunkirk harbour.
Ordered by S.N.O. Dunkirk to take
Cdrs. H.P. Henderson and M.O.D. Ellwood
to inspect La Panne beach. ttacked
2000
by 3 aircraft on passage.
Returned to Dunkirk, disembarked the
2 commanders, embarked 20 British
2115
troops and proceeded.
10 miles S.E. of Dover. Stopped by
Cdr. Le Mesurier in the D.C. Motor
Boat and took him back towards
Dunkirk to pass messages to 3 tugs
on their way to Dunkirk.
31st May
0030
Dover. Disembarked 20 troops.
1100
Proceeded to La Panne.
1240
Off La Panne. Embarked R.A. Dover from
the dr. Keith. He inspected
the beaches and was returned to Keith.
1530
Towed boatloads of troops to transports.
1640
Proceeded to Dover.
1800
Dover.
1st June
0600
Proceeded to Dunkirk.
0750
Arrived Dunkirk, (having passed the dr.
Ivanhoe being bombed).
0800
Keith had just been bombed; appeared to
be not under control. Went alongside
and took off R.A. Dover and Staff.
Ordered 2 tugs [st. Abbs and Vincia]
to assist Keith.
0805
Air attack.
0810
Keith again bombed and considerably
damaged.
0830
M.T.B.102 alongside Dunkirk.
0915
Proceeded to Dover with R.A. Dover and
staff on board.
1100
Dover.
2nd June
2035
To Dunkirk
2255
Alongside east pier Dunkirk harbour.
2310
Embarked S.N.O. Dunkirk, [Capt. Tennant]
Cdr. Ellwood, and Cdr. Banks and his
demolition party; also a Brigadier,(1)
and one R.A.F. officer (dressed as a
Belgian peasant).
2315
Proceeded.
3rd June
0120
Dover.
2015
Proceeded to Dunkirk with R.A. Dover
and staff on board.
2200
Arrived Dunkirk harbour. Proceeded
under orders of R.A. Dover, who was
directing the embarkation of French
soldiers.
4th June
0135
Large explosion just east of the east
0315
Operation pier. completed. Passed blockships
and sailed for Dover.
0505
Dover.
1000
Sailed for Portsmouth.
Total 20
(1) See M.A/S.B.10, footnote (1)
314-

Details

SABRE (continued)
29th May
1815ca
and a stoker from the dr. Grenade;
(contd.)
(contd.)
also some Frenchmen from a raft. Dive
bombed during these operations but
no damage.
-
Proceeded to Bray to land W/T set and
1900ca
telegraphists; requisitioned a small
M/L the Advance] for this purpose.
Continuous dive bombing attacks.
2000ca
The sl. Bideford and the dr. Saladin
seen to be hit; also 3 transports
[among them the Lorina and a trawler.
The Sabre was shaken by near misses.
2010
All ammunition expended. Destroyers
ordered to withdraw. Proceeded in
company with the drs. Verity and
Saladin which could only do 15 knots.
30th May
0515
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1200 troops.
0830
Proceeded, with a borrowed whaler, to
170
Dunkirk.
1145
Secured to east pier, Dunkirk, and
embarked troops.
-
Grounded when leaving the pier; slight
damage.
1530
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 500 troops.
1615
To Dunkirk by route Z.
-
Sank a drifting mine.
-
Shadowed by a reconnaissance aircraft;
XR
near No. 6 Calais buoy came under fire
from shore batteries. Several hits
on bridge and upper works; one through
the Master gyro compass. A splinter
penetrated the deck and admitted water
to No. 2 Oil fuel tank. D.G. cable
pierced, magnetic compass useless. (1)
Returned to Dover.
2030
Arrived Dover for repairs.
31st May
2120
Repairs completed, sailed for Dunkirk.
1st June
0115
Off the eastern beach. Sent in the
ship's M/B and motor skiff. No
troops found so proceeded further
east.
Went alongside a drifter [probably the
-
Fair Breeze] which was stranded on a
submerged wreck, and trook off the
crew and troops.
0400ca
Off Bray, embarked troops by ship's
boats. Other destroyers were there,
including the Shikari.
0530ca
Meanwhile on orders from R.A. Dover
(in dr. Keith), went alongside a
tug [ the Vincia], took off her
troops and sent her to tow offthe M/S
Speedwell. (2)
(1) Sabre's compass remained unreliable throughout the remainder
(2) The of the operation. does not mention this. The Speedwell Kellett says does she
was Vincia towed off by the M/S Kellett, but the
not mention the incident either.
53

Details

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

Details

4
VIMY - Continued
Authority - R.O.I., p.155.
Left
Remagete
1900
towing
3
orr
Bandettis
1930
who had
the
The following awards were made: the or.
troops 00111 0300,
and all ships
ore Grays Cont 18 the
D.S.C.
Lieut. A.P.W. Northey, R.N.
Red 200/300 troops on board.
In the roads, stopped by the Gr.
D.S.M. P.O. J.O. Paget. 0530ca
Keith and ordered to transfer the
L/Sea. F. Martindale.
treops to another destroyer, [the
Sabrel and to remain at Bray,
Saw the Keith hit by several bombas :
Went to her aid. goith sinking:
Mention in Despatches
crew jumping overposed. Research
Lieut.
R.A. Morgan, R.N. (1) ficers and ratings, some French
Ch. Sto.
J. Wattam.
L/Sea.
T.F. Brewerton.
staff. G.H.Q. staff and cose Britleh G.M.Q.
L/Sea.
A.R. Porter.
During these operations air attacks
Sto. 1st Cl. J.S. Comben.
were continuous.
1
Not far from the Vincia another one
of H.V. ships was blown to pieces
[the M/S Skinjack].
0930
Proceeded. Air attacks between Dunkin
roads and Sandettie buoy,
1430
Arrived Margate. Disembarked 1 office
and 83 ratings from the Keith and 24
members of the British and French
H.Q. staff. Later, returned to
Ramsgate.
Total 24
Authority - R.O.II, ₽4552.
R.O.III, D.495.
W.W.
(1) Supplement No. 34925 to London Gazette of 16th Aug. 1940,
states "Sub.Lieut. R.A. Morgan". Lieut. Morgan's
seniority was, however, 1st March 1940.
281

Details

VINCIA
Tug (William Watkins Ltd.)
A.V. Hoiles, Master.
1450
31st May
Left Ramsgate for Dunkirk towing 3
1900
civilian-manned life boats.
Off Sandettie buoy rescued an R.A.F.
1930
gunner who had parachuted.
Transferred the wounded R.A.F. gunner
to the dr. Venomous.
2100
Anchored off Bray. Sent in the life
boats and all ships boats. Embarked
troops until 0300.
1st June
0300
Had 200/300 troops on board. Proceeded.
In the roads, stopped by the dr.
Keith and ordered to transfer the
0530ca
troops to another destroyer, [the
Sabre] and to remain at Bray.
0815ca
Saw the Keith hit by several bombs.
Went to her aid. Keith sinking;
crew jumping overboard. Rescued 108
officers and ratings, some French
G.H.Q. staff and some British G.H.Q.
staff.
During these operations air attacks
were continuous.
Not far from the Vincia another one
of H.M. ships was blown to pieces
[the M/S Skipjack].
0930
Proceeded. Air attacks between Dunkirk
roads and Sandettie buoy.
1430
Arrived Margate. Disembarked 1 officer
and 83 ratings from the Keith and 24
members of the British and French
H.Q. staff. Later, returned to
Ramsgate.
Total 24
Authority - R.O.II, p.552.
R.O.III, p.496.
W.W.
282

Details

472 H9P
Margete
SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE, 1940.
0005.
"QUEEN OF THANET".
850.
0130.
"KINGFISHER".
157.
0400.
"ORANJE".
100.
0500.
"GOLDEN EAGLE".
1250.
0415.
"MOTOR BOAT".
23.
0510.
"SALTASH".
400.
0600.
"WESTWARD HO".
720.
x
900
0610.
"ROYAL EAGLE".
1250.
0630.
"ROYAL SOVEREIGN".
47.
0830.
"LADY SOUTHBORO".
350.
0950.
"PRINCESS ELIZABETH".
510.
0950.
"GALLEONS REACH"
123.
*
1
Alien Postal
worker French.
J
1045.
"QUEENS CHANNEL".
52.
1145.
"WHIPPINGHAM".
2500.
1215.
"DUNDALK".
280.
"FOREMOST".
200.
1345.
1420.
"ORIEL".
470. + 1. Pathe Gazette
Man.
"AEGIR".
130.
1650.
1450.
"VINCIA".
108.
1600.
"KINGFISHER".
210. + 2 Belgian Airman,
supposed to have
escaped from Germans.
"QUEEN OF THANET".
1500.
1650.
"K.G.V."
700.
1740.
x
243
1740.
"HALCYON".
58.
"SALTASH".
350.
1830.
"WESTWARD HO".
918. + 1 Alien under arrest
2030.
2100.
"ANTJE".
150.
"RAPID I".
25.
2100.
"HOPPER 24".
580.
2215.
TOTAL.
14011.

Details

477 501
Total.
Carried Forward. 33107.
"DUNDALL".
730.
450. 280.
"TWENTE".
350.
"ANTJE".
450.
300. 150.
"BRIGHTON QUEEN".
160.
"LADY SOUTHBORO".
350.
"GALLEONS REACH".
123.
PLIMIMMON
"PHINLIMON".
900.
"QUEEN OF THANET". 2500.
850. 1500. 150.
5000
MOTOR BOAT.
23.
"SALTASH".
750.
"WESTWARD HO".
1686.
720.
918.
48.
3372
"VINCIA".
108.
"HALCYON".
58.
"QUEENS CHANNEL".
52.
"WHIPPINGHAM".
2500.
"FOREMOST".
200.
"ORIEL".
2020.
470.
750.
750.
50.
4040
"RAPID I".
25.
"OFFENIA".
50.
"TANGELLE MARIE".
25.
"GUILLEMOT".
460.
L2 TRAWLER.
85.
AD.389 TRAWLER.
60.
46722.
TOTAL.

Details

538
Good
522
Maulesden,
NAVAL OFFICER
BRECHIN.
508
eth
*
D
Angue.
DEPARTMENT RAWS DEPARTMENT
ORANGE
6th. June 1940.
*
by Vincia
Sir,
4 at
I have the honour to enclose the reort which
Commander Duffet instructed me to send to you.
I have the honour to be
517
Sir,
512
Your Obedient Servant,
X Sublieut. RN.
ITE
R.W.D.Don
R
already OSE
ief
agret
G. A. Gabbett- Mulhallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Details

REPORT
539
522
ON THE OPPERATIONS OF THE MOTOR LAUNCHES "YSER" AND
"MALBOROUGH DURING THE EVAQUATION OF THE BRITISH &
509
7
FRENCH FORCES.
Yug Vincia
The Hopper no.95, which I had been ordered to take
h
round to Ramsgate, anchored early last Wednesday evening,
and Commander Duffet gave me the Belgian ferry boat "Yser".
We started in 8 convoy of eighteen other small
motor craft at about 0100 on Thursday. Shortly after daylight
512
the escorting drifter had to turn back with two of the small
512
boats, and with our much greater speed we soon left the
remainder of the launches well astern.
VI940
Owing to the fact that the "Yser" was not fitted
with a compass we deviated from our course, making a landfall
8 few miles to the westward of the town. We arrived off the
beaches at about 0900, and ran aground in our attempts to
approach close enough to the sands for the men to wade out to
us. There was no anchor in the boat, but we salvaged two of
the plowshare type from other abandoned boats, and laid them
out at low tide in order to kedge her off.
During the afternoon and dog-watches we were able to
be of some use by acting as a liason link between the boats
and the officers of the embarking troops. The Frenchmen were
very reluctant to wade in deeper than their waists, and
Petty Officer Clarke (Chatham Division) spent approximately
five hours, with water up to his neck, helping the soldiers
ief
into the small boats.
agret
I should like to take this oppotunity to recommend
Petty Officer Clarke for his cheerfulness, vigour, and valuable
advice offered on this occasion and later in the WD boat
"Malborough". I understand that Captain Lord Louis Mount-
batten mentioned Petty Officer Clarke in his despatches
following the torpedoing and bombing of HMS "Kelly".
Our efforts to refloat the "yser" were without
success, and having waited for high tide we took passage home
G. Gabbett- Mulhallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
6n Imday the 31" M May, we the s. Jug Vincia
left Ramagati in taw of three skiffs for & which at
2.45 2.45pm. pm.
542
Good
NAVAL
OFFICER
512
Yer
*
SE
Ashton Lodge,
STATE
TE
Petitor Road,
TORQUAY.
% June. 1940.
On
on
Fridge
Sir,
from
I have the honour to submit the following brief
report of By operations off Dunkirk, and which I regret
I was unable to forward sooner.
On
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
G. A. Gabbett- Mulkallen.
Sub. Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C.B.O.
Sir,
7
6n Imday the 31" M May. we the s. Jug. Vincia
left Ramagate in taw of three skiffs for Duskin at
2.45 2.45pm.
543
513
This
too
On arriving at Dover on Friday morning
31st May, orders were issued to me regarding the
embarkation of troops from Dunkirk by lifeboats. I then
proceeded by motorcoach to Ramsgate where I was alloted
4 lifeboats, one of which had an engine. To sailed at
noon for Dunkirk in the tow of the trawler "FAIRBREEZE".
On approaching Dunkirk we were heavily
bombed by enemy Aircraft, one bomb landing on our starboard
side not 50yds away which, luckily, did not explode. We
proceeded inshore to my alloted position and cast away from
the trawler. With the three lifeboats in tow I made for the
beach which, to my disgust, I found was almost deserted,
then, on account of the surf and so few troops, I left
one lifeboat and proceeded with the other two along towards
La Panne where a number of troops were congregated. I
waded ashore to discover, to my surprise, that the troops
refused to wade out. By a little 'gentle persuasion'
1
however, I succeeded in filling two lifeboats and returned
to collect the one left earlier before proceeding out to
the waiting trawler.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincen: (Re, Dunkish
C. B.O.
522
Sir,
7
Gn Imday the 31" M May, we the S.Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkinh at
2.45pm. 2.45
546
516
4
over a far-flung area with the ebbing tide.
However, all went well, but for bumping twice
just outside the breakwater. We made Ramsgate Harbour
at 0745 Tuesday.
Sub Lieutenant CA CANHAM. Royal Navy. was with
me in all these operations.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincen: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
Gn Imday the 31° M May. are the S.Jay Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dunkinh at
2.45pm.
at 7pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohn
I
Yes.
From:- Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N.
See
1
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
$
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
that
30th May.
1245
Proceeded from Ramsgate in drifter Ocean Breeze"
(Skipper Bailley) with 2 whalers in tow.
14.00
Passed N. Goodwin L/V and proceeded by Route X
to Dunkirk Roads.
1915
Arrived off Dunkirk East Pier. Proceeded forthwith
to position 1½ miles east of Pier and commenced
embarking troops. Whalers were used for taking
troops off beach - naval crew in 1 whalerand
and
drifter's crew in other.
Found motor boat with civilian crew and coxswain
continued to tow our boats to and from shore to
"Ocean Breeze" until dark having embarked 170
(approx) British troops. Contacted Lieut.
McMullan in Schoot "Twente", turned whalers over
to officer in charge of a tug as I realised that,
without small boats, tugs and drifters etc.
could not operate.
2300
Left Dunkirk Roads by Route X and arrived Ramagate
0400 on 31st May and discharged troops.
31st May.
0830
Proceeded in "Ocean Breeze" by Route X to Dunkirk
1330
Arrived Roads. off Dunkirk East Pier: proceeded to point
1½ miles east of Dunkirk Pier and owing to
absence of small boats and inability to contact
any power driven craft of shallow draft I was
not able to embark any troops until
1500
When I succeeded in borrowing a whaler from tug
to which I had turned mine over on previous day.
Effected one trip ashore with whaler under oars
but owing to surf and tide this operation took
over half an hour. Then was fortunate in
contacting Sub. Lt. Cornish R.N.V.R. in motor
boat. This officer assisted me greatly by
towing my whaler as far in shore as possible and
hauling her off again by means of a warp for
which we utilised the Dan mooring which happened
to be in "Ocean Breeze". Without this officer's
assistance I should not have been able to embark
any troops that day.

Details

Statement from S.J. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C.B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May. are the J.Juy Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skelfs for Durkish at
2.45pm.
at 4pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohen
548
eport by Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (contd)
-
518
1500
From 1500 onwards we were subject to almost
continuous attack by enemy aircraft and had the
satisfaction of seeing 7 bombers brought down by
destroyers' and shore batteries' anti-sireraft
fire. Two enemy pilots escaped by parachute.
Majority of troops embarked at this point were
French.
1700
On hearing that there were a number of British
troops on the beach near La Panne proceeded
there with Sub. Lt. Cornish and his motor boat
and succeeded in embarking a number of British.
Total number embarked was not recorded by ne
but was approximately 150 altogether.
2030
Having valuable cargo aboard and observing that
there were a number of schoots and other craft
who, owing to the absence of small power driven
craft, were unable to get any troops. I decided
to return to Base with my load and turned over
my whaler to Sub. Lt. Cornish and asked him to
report to the Schoot "Atlantic", the Commanding
Officer of which told me that he had been there
all day without being able to get a single man
on board for reasons explained above.
Proceeded by route X in company with other drifters,
troop ships, tugs, etc. and were attacked by
enemy aircraft until past No 6 W Buoy, when they
were driven off by anti-aircraft fire from
British destroyers.
1st June.
1430
Arrived N. Goodwin L/V and anchored owing to
insufficient water in Ramagate.
1600
Weighed and proceeded in to Ramagate and discharged
That troops. evening was ordered to return to Dunkirk in
"Ocean Breeze" but order was cancelled as we
could not reach destination by 2130.
2nd June.
Ordered to proceed in Power Boat "Haig" with Lt. in
McMullan R.N.R. and Sub. Lt. Hollingshead
company with Marlborough, Kestrel and Swallow. Cmdr.
2100
Proceeded with Marlborough in company with with one
Troop R.N. in command of "Haig" and
lifeboat in tow.
3rd June.
0030
Approached Dunkirk; obliged to out lifeboat adrift
she became full of water and was hampering bollard.
Entered Dunkirk Harbour and proceeded alongside
speed as of "Haig" and damaging towing

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May. in the Jug. Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Durkich at
2.45pm.
at 4pm see were off the Sandettee Bany, other
549
Report by Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (contd).
- 519
centre jetty and embarked French troops (approx
50 in number). Discharged troops to steamer
lying outside and returned for further load.
Were informed that there were 700 troops aboard &
steamer aground off Nouveau Avant Port so
proceeded alongside and took off 39 French troops.
As it was approaching daylight Cormdr. Troop
decided to return to base with load.
0200
Off entrance of harbour we were struck on portside
by two French motor vessels in rapid succession
and holed on port side amidships and portside
for'd. Forepeak rapidly filled with water so
we proceeded alongside paddle sweeper "Westward
Ho" which was on point of leaving.
As "Westward HO" already had her engines moving
and wash from her paddles was causing "Haig" to
fill rapidly, speedy abandonment was necessary
and all hands and troops boarded "Weatward Ho"
by port paddle-box door.
3rd June.
0700 Landed Margate.
ben June.
1530 Having been asked by Commander Hammond, D.S.O.,
D.S.C., R.N. to come as his navigating officer,
boarded schoot "Pascholl" (Lt. Wise R.N.V.R.)
and proceeded (Cmmdr. Hammond in command) with
"Lena", "Hondsrug" and another in company with
orders toreach Dunkirk No. 12 W buoy at 2300.
Courses and speed as requisite for Dunkirk.
2300
On arrival at Dunkirk entered harbour and
endeavoured to find Jetty in Nouveau Avant Port.
This was not practicable owing to insufficient
water so proceeded alongside centre jetty (East
side) and embarked 255 French troops. During
embarkation enemy action was conspicuous by its
absence and all was quiet.
th June.
0200
Left Jetty in order to allow other vessels to come
alongside and set course and speed as requisite
for Ramsgate. Left by X route and arrived off
N. Goodwin L/V at 0630. Owing to insufficient
water in Ramsgate and inability to anchor,
Channel and up Ramsgate Channel, arriving in time
proceeded to Downs by Gull Stream and Downs
to enter harbour at 0815. Discharged troops.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May. we the s. Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Duskinh at
2.45pm.
at 7pm see were off the Sandethe Bany, who
551
Report by Act. Sub. Lieut. MacIntyre. (contd)
-
521
4th June.
0045
Proceeded alongside H.M.S. Mosquito.
0145
Fixed charges; returned to gunboat and left
demolition party.
0210
Left gun boat; one engine running badly.
0230
Given tow by paddle steamer.
0245
Paddle steamer altered course to avoid buoy. Other
boat in tow lost two men overboard.
0300
Picked up one man (Dutch fishing smack rescued other).
0330
Starboard engine giving trouble. Speed 4½ knots.
0345
Asked tug for tow. Ordered to abandon ship.
0700
Arrived Ramsgate in tug.
1700
Given command of Amazone.
2300
Proceeded out of harbour and anchored. B.R.A.
reported engine clutch red hot - must be sand in it.
ad
5th June.
0900
Reported to Cmdr. Davies and Engineer Captain. Ordered
to proceed inside inner harbour by fish market.
1045
Weighed and proceeded inside.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
%
522
C. B.O.
you
Sir,
6, I mday the 31" M May. we the S. Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for D which at
2.45pm.
at 4pm see were off the Sandethe Bany, who
is saw a para charted describing: We went and "
from A fell into the sea, of saved the astmon, who
noved to be a Brited gammer, of who had her badly
runded: as 7.30 p.m. we transferred him to a
strayer. named, Venomous; afterwand continuing a
journey
We arreved at Dankin about + wes
'en given orders G praceed east, to 4 place called
rays. This we did, of anchored; d then and the
u/fo ashare to embark the soldies:
We mene day this until daylight next morning
was then told to transfer trank to a destanges. +
the .Y.Yma, to remain at Brays, in each of
"g required by any of H. m. Ships
about 8.15 An, during a leavy bombing attach, are
the H M.S. Nuth got hit, d her China all in the
We went to had, of researed 1.8 Officer of Ratings,
tadly wounded, of being heavily hombed the whole
of doing so:
We left this scent after searng all as sw

Details

Statement of the S.S. Harcular
554
524
C.B.O. O.
Sir.
On Thursday the 6". 4 June. su left Ramegato
about at 12.45 for duties on the Month Patrat
6n our way ant. we saw a ship maned the
S. Harcula. in deffeculties, a being tawed by the 1. Laga
Ka. gava, of Fabia
We, the S.Y. Vincia, went to the ship, of wes
mediately engaged.
Wea passed and lawing howev abound X was made
last on the S.S. Hancula part how. d by 13.25 4
une towing Full speed in company with the the
ugo
as 13.55 the tug Lady Brancy arrived, & he
he was engaged of made fast - the "If Harcula
20ml quarter. cL assested in the tawing from the
owns Channel to the n. Brake bands. where the
lb grounded at 14.15 p in a sunking condition,
meny to being mined in the Laway
Due to the prompt executance given by the
ugs. I think we saved the its. Harcula from
being a wreck in the Dawn Channel & a danger
to navigation
your a.V.Hails Chadianthy (Manto of ft Ymair

Details

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

Details

224
"
Page 5.
OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS FOR
PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40)
Junel
51. As the ship was getting lower the order to abandon
ship was given and the majority of men, who were able to find
some timber to hold on to or to find a place in the floats,
left the ship. At this moment the enemy launched a further
dive bombing attack and a bomb struck our exposed starboard
side in the engine room, making a large hole. Several bombs
fell very close to and one fell among the men who had
abandoned ship. The aircraft were engaged by pom poms and
lewis guns.
52. Some twnety minutes later the tug "St. Abbe" was
sighted and eventually came alongside to take men off the ship.
This she did with the exception of volunteers who remained or.
board. She was ordered to go and pick up "Keith's" men in the
water.
In this she was assisted by the tug "Vincia" which
took back to Margate: Lieutenant Beauchamp, 83 ratings from
"Keith" and about ten of the General Headquarters Staff,
together with six seriously injured ratings.
A grey scoob also assisted and recovered Lieutenant
Verney, Pay. Sub. Lieutenant Craig-Waller, P.N.V.R., and about
four of "Keith's" men. Having a full load of soldiers, she
returned to England.
53. "Keith" was again bombed by dive bombers at this time.
54. After an interval, in which a search was made for
wounded and any confidential matter remaining, the tug "St.
Abbs" returned and, the ship now being not only immoveable
but without H.A. ammunition and sinking slowly, the remaining
men left the ship in her at about 0840.
1/6
55. Signals were made to "Salamander" and to "Basilisk"
asking them to sink "Keith" finally but both replied that they
were out of control and required tug assistance. The minesweep
er however proceeded westwardsand shelled "Keith" in vicinity
of Asdic cabinet.
ed
56. "St. Abbs" proceed/to the recovery of a number of men
in the water and on a wreck
of the "Skipjack"
which had been sunk during, it 1s believed, the last attack on
"Keith".
57. After recovering all these men and a number of
soldiers from a ship's lifeboat, the "St. Abbe" was attacked
by part of a large formation of enemy aircraft but without
result.
58. However, somewhat later, another extremely large
formation was sighted consisting mainly of high level bombers.
These did not attack the "St. Abbs" but proceeded to destroy
the "Keith" and attacked "Basilisk" some miles to the East.
"Keith" sank in a heavy salvo of bombs at about 0915.
59. A single, high flying twin-engined bomber was then
seen returning from Dunkirk. Again the "St. Abbs" circled as
fast as she could but this time a single bomb hit her
amidships and she sank very rapidly in about 30 seconds and
with her many wounded survivors at about 1000.

Details

225
223
Page 6
OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS FOR
PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40)
59 continued.
All who had reached the water swam for the shore and a
1/6
number reached the wreck of the "Clan MacAlister" which was
resting on her stern after being sunk in one the of the above
raids. They were later taken off by a lighter and transferred
to Sheerness Yard Craft No.63 then loaded with troops from the
beach.
60. Survivors from "Keith" thus reached England in the
following ways:-
Rear Admiral Dover and his Staff by M.T.B.
1 Officer and 88 ratings by tug "Vincia": also
H.Q. Staff.
2 Officers and 4 ratings by a scoot.
Captain, 3 Officers and 13 men, some of whom
were wounded, in Yard Craft 63.
1 Officer and an II.A.S.B. from Dunkirk, after
swimming ashore from "St. Abbs".
7 ratings by "Salanander".
D.Jon. Barthan D.jon.
CAPTAIN.
P.S. In continuation of paragraph 40:-
Lord Gort came onboard "Keith", had about 25
minutes conference with Rear Admiral Dover, and then
proceeded in a British M.T.B., accompanied by his Chief
Staff Officer, for Dover.
VICE AD MIRAL
#
DO
O
Tu
O
S

Details

SECRET
PAGE 7.
22?
H.M.S. "KEITH" - FINAL REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS 30th MAY - 1st
229
JUNE, 1940, WITH HER EVENTUAL DESTRUCTION.
(Captain Berthon's No.31 of 1st July, 1940 to V.A. Dover.)
62. At about 0950 a single high flying twin-engine
bomber was seen returning from Dunkirk. Again"St. Abbs"
circled as fast as she could but this time a single bomb
hit her amidships and she sank very rapidly, (in about 30
seconds), with her many wounded survivors. The "Keith's"
medical officer Surgeon Lieutenant R.H.A.Turner Royal Navy,
Ret'd, who was attending to wounded below and the Gunner (T)
Mr.Gedric James Brown Rpyal Navy, were both lost.
63.
All who had reached the surface of the water swam
to the shore and a number reached the wreck of the "Clan
MacAlister", which was now resting on her step off Braye after
being sunk in one of the above raids. They were later taken off
by a motor lighter and transferred to Yard Craft 63 which with
a full load of soldiers proceeded for England and after further
trials by bombing on passage landed at Dover at 0800 Sunday,
2nd June. One officer swam to the shore and returned via
Dunkirk in a M.A.S.B.
64.
Survivors from "Keith" thus reached England in the
Following ways:-
Rear Admiral Dover and his staff by M.T.B.
Captain, 3 officers and 13 men by yard craft 63.
1 officer and 83 ratings by tug "Vincia": also
H.Q. staff.
2 officers and 20 ratings by scoot "Hilda"
About 7 ratings by "Salamander"
1 officer by M.A.S.B. from Dunkirk after swimming
ashore.
There are 3 officers and 33 men lost.
65.
The discipline and cheerfulness of the ship's company
was most marked and I consider was due to the personality of my
predecessor the late Captain David Simpson R.N. who lost his life
while in command of "Keith" about ten days previously, and to all
the officers. No credit for this high morale can be attributed
to myself as my active command of "Keith" amounted to 48 hours
only.
66.
The cause of "Keith's" loss was the heavy enemy dive
bombing attacks carried out when the ship's movements were very
restricted owing to shoals, magnetic mines and wrecks and to the
lack of effective A.A. fire owing to H.A. ammunition having been
expended. The conduct of all officers and men was exempliary
but it is desired to bring certain officers and men to your
notice who from my personal observations were outstandingly
forward in the execution of their duty in action under very
trying conditions. Recommendations of these officers and
ratings are being made in a separate letter.
VICE ADMIRAL
JUL 1940
D
CAPTAIN.
for Dover uy zuyuevote rass and North channel. The night was

Details

Details

(Revised
Page 21B
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Able Seaman George E. Davis C/J 86552 (wounded)
Able Seaman George J. Woodger, C/J 45802. P.N. 22573.
Both these ratings fought their Lewis Guns courageously
until the ship sank.
Recommended for decoration.
Leading Telegraphist Ernest J. N. Beeley C/JX 141015
By his devotion to duty repaired main aerials three
times whilst ship was being bombed. Later he manned the
Lewis Guns in the St. Abbs although he had never fired one
before.
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman Daniel Fossey. C/JX 148554.
Sick Berth Attendant Robert Brown, S.R. 16465
Both these ratings did valuable work to the numerous
wounded in the Tug Vincia.
Recommended for mention
Leading Seaman Elric I.J.A.G. Joplin C/JX1 38400
Although wounded showed great courage and was forward
in every duty including the destruction of secret matter.
After the order "Abandon Ship" volunteered to remain on board
sustained. in order to make a careful investigation of the damage
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman Thoman F. Osprey. C/J 114945,
Showed great courage in manning Pom-Pom Guns until
finally ordered to leave.
Recommended for mention
(Is being recommended for decoration on account of
service at Boulogne on 23rd May, just prior to
Operation "Dynamo")

Details

Details

Page 22,
Page 21B
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Able Able Seaman Seaman George George E. Davis C/J 86552 (wounded)
J. Woodger, C/J 45802. P.N. 22573.
until
Both the these ship ratings sank. fought their Lewis Guns courageously
Recommended for decoration.
Leading Telegraphist Ernest J. N. Beeley C/JX 141015
By his devotion to duty repaired main aerials
M.
times whilst ship was being bombed. Later he manned three
before. Lewis Guns in the St. Abbs although he had never fired the one
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman Daniel Fossey. C/JX 148554.
Sick Berth Attendant Robert Brown, S.R. 16465
Both these ratings did valuable work to the numerous
wounded in the Tug Vincia.
Recommended for mention
Leading Seaman Elric I.J.A.G. Joplin C/JX1 38400
Although wounded showed great courage and was forward
in every duty including the destruction of secret matter.
After the order 'Abandon Ship" volunteered to remain on board
in order to make a careful investigation of the damage
sustained.
Recommended for decoration.
Able Seaman Thoman F. Osprey. C/J 114945.
S
Showed great courage in manning Pom-Pom Guns until
finally ordered to leave.
Recommended for mention
(Is being recommended for decoration on account of
service at Boulogne on 23rd May, just prior to
Operation "Dynamo")
OF

Details

472 496
Margote
SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE, 1940.
0005.
"QUEEN OF THANET".
850.
0130.
"KINGFISHER".
157.
0400.
"ORANJE".
100.
0500.
"GOLDEN EAGLE".
1250.
0415.
"MOTOR BOAT".
23.
0510.
"SALTASH".
400.
"WESTWARD HO".
720.
0600.
"ROYAL EAGLE".
1250.
0610.
"ROYAL SOVEREIGN".
47.
0630.
0830.
"LADY SOUTHBORO".
350.
0950.
"PRINCESS ELIZABETH".
510.
0950.
"GALLEONS REACH"
123.
.
1 Alien Postal
worker French.
1045.
"QUEENS CHANNEL".
52.
"WHIPPINGHAM".
2500.
1145.
280.
1215.
"DUNDALK".
200.
1345.
"FORENOST".
1420.
"ORTEL".
470. * 1 Pathe Man. Gazette
130.
1650.
"AEGIR".
108.
1450.
"VINCIA".
210. + 2 Belgian Airman,
1600.
"KINGFISHER".
supposed to have
escaped from Germans.
1650.
"QUEEN OF THANST".
1500.
700.
1740.
"K.G.V."
58.
"HALCYON".
1740.
350.
"SALTASH".
1830.
918. + 1 Alien under arrest
"WESTWARD HO".
2030.
150.
2100.
"ANTJE".
25.
"RAPID I".
2100.
580.
"HOPPER 24".
2215.
-
14011.
TOTAL.

Details

Total.
Carried Forward. 33107.
"DUNDALL".
730.
450. 280.
"TWENTE".
350.
"ANTJE".
450.
300. 150.
"BRIGHTON QUEEN".
160.
"LADY SOUTHBORO". 350.
"GALLEONS REACH".
123.
permimmere
"PHINLIMON".
900.
"QUEEN OF THANET". 2500.
850. 1500. 150.
MOTOR BOAT.
23.
"SALTASH".
750.
"WESTWARD HO".
1686.
720. 918.
48.
"VINCIA".
108.
"HALCYON".
58.
"QUEENS CHANNEL".
52.
2500.
"FOREMOST".
200.
470.
750.
750.
50.
"ORIEL".
2020.
"RAPID I".
25.
"OFFENIA".
50.
"TANGELLE MARIE".
25.
"GUILLEMOT".
460.
L2 TRAWLER.
85.
AD.389 TRAWLER.
60.
46722.
TOTAL.

Details

2264
Page 5.
OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS FOR
PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
(Commanding Officer, H.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40)
51. As the ship was getting lower the order to abandon
ship was given and the majority of nen, who were able to find
some timber to hold on to or to find & place in the floats,
left the ship. At this moment the enemy launched a further
dive bombing attack and a bomb struck our exposed starboard
side in the engine room, making a large hole. Several bonks
fell very close to and one fell among the nen who had
abandoned ship. The aircraft were engaged by pom poms and
lewis guns.
52. Some twnety minutes later the tug "St. Abbs" was
sighted and eventually came alongside to take men off the ship.
This she did with the exception of volunteers who remained or.
board. She was ordered to go and pick up "Keith's" men in the
water.
In this she was assisted by the tug "Vincia" which
took back to Margate: Lieutenant Beauchamp, 88 ratings from
"Keith" and about ten of the General Headquarters Staff,
together with six seriously injured ratings.
A grey accor also assisted and recovered Lieutenant
Verney, Pay. Sub. Lieutenant Craig-Waller, R.N.V.R., and about
four of "Keith's" men. Having a full load of soldiers, she
returned to England.
53. "Keith" was again bombed by dive bombers at this time.
54. After an interval, in which a search was made for
wounded and any confidential matter remaining, the tug "St.
Abbs" returned and, the ship now being not only immoveable
but without H.A. ammunition and sinking slowly, the remaining
men left the ship in her at about 0840.
55. Signals were made to "Salamander" and to "Basilisk"
asking of control and required tug assistance. "Keith" minesweep
them to sink "Keith" finally but both replied The that they
were or however out proceeded westwardsand ed shelled in vicinity
of Asdic cabirat
56. "gt. Abbs" proceed/to the recovery of a number of men
which the had been sunk during, it 18 believed, the last attack on
in water and on thewreck
of the "Skipjack"
"Keith".
57. After from a ship's lifeboat, the aircraft but was without attacked
recovering all these men "St. and Abbe" a number of
by soldiers part of a large formation of enemy
result.
58. sighted consisting but proceeded to bombers.
However, somewhat later, mainly another of extremely high level large
formation not was attack the "St. Aboa" some miles to the destroy East.
These did and attacked "Basilisk" bomba at about 0915.
"Keith" the "Keith" sank in a heavy salvo of
59. A from Dunkirk. Again bomb hit her as
single, high flying twin-engined the "St. bomber Abba" was circled then
fast as she and she sank very rapidly about 1000. seconds and
seen returning could but this time a single in about 30
with amidships her many wounded survivors at

Details

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

Details

CHAP. IX
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
side by two further hits, within a few inches of the to port, which the
bomb hit. It seems probable for the that ship serious took a damage heavy list was now caused to
until the upper deck was with one anchor down. water. Steam was increased
lost and the ship stopped, depth charges set to safe and Torpedoes were gradually
no range on and all were jettisoned.
As the ship was now settling, the order Rear-Admiral to abandon Wake-Walker transferred
the Keith to M.T.B. 102 this moment a further series ship was given, and from
shook the ship with near misses amongst the men in the water.
the men left her. At which landed of dive bombing most attacks of
took off survivors and picked up men water. The skoot Hilda
About 0830 the tug St. Abbs came alongside in the and assisted by the tug Vincia
was bombed and sunk. As late as 1100 men were still struggling in the oil
rescued 7 ratings. An unidentified grey yacht which was picking up survivors
Lt. Gen. Laidsell, 2 officers, and 20 ratings. The minesweeper Salamander rescued
slick, and the motor barge Sherfield, which had arrived off the coast with a small
convoy of 2 X lighters and a motor launch, rescued 15.
At about 0940 aircraft again appeared, and the Keith was sunk in a salvo of
bombs from about 50 of the enemy. Three officers and 33 men were reported
lost.
Ten minutes later the St. Abbs, by this time off Dunkirk, was hit by bombs
and sank in 45 seconds. Of the 135 officers, ratings and trcops on board, 30
were left swimming in the water, including the Captain of the Keith, Capt. E. L.
Berthon, D.S.C., R.N., who was saved.
Meanwhile the Skipjack, which had been busy off Malo embarking troops
and fighting off continuous air attacks from 0530 which had reduced her
ammunition supply to about 12 rounds a gun, was dive-bombed at 0845 by 10
aircraft and hit by 2 bombs. A minute later 3 more bombs hit her. She
turned turtle and floated bottom upwards for about 2 minutes before finally
sinking. A few survivors were picked up by the Hilda and the St. Abbs. Nearly
all the 275 troops on board were below decks and had no chance to escape.
Enemy aircraft machine-gunned men in the water.
Ivanhoe damaged, Basilisk sunk.
Already, by this time, another destroyer had been put out of action. At
0800 off Dunkirk harbour, the Ivanhoe, with 1,000 troops on board which she
had embarked from La Panne, was dive-bombed and hit amidships. Damage
was severe and she had 26 killed and 30 wounded. The troops and wounded the
were transferred to the Havant, the Speedwell and the yacht Grive; and
proceeded to Sheerness. tug While within radius of 1 mile of No. 6 W buoy,
Ivanhoe, assisted by the Persia and escorted by the War Dept. M. L. Haig, 3
waves (each of 21 bombers) attacked the a Ivanhoe and other vessels in that area
for half an hour, but the Ivanhoe received no further damage.
and Dunkirk, the Basilisk the also Keith and bombed off La Panne. Three room,
At about the time that Ivanhoe were under attack off attacks Bray
were made. In the first was being exploded in No. 3 boiler out of
action; six other bombs auxiliary exploded steam underneath lines the ship, causing the upper
cutting the main and attack one bomb and putting all machinery deck
and the ship's sides to buckle.
Torpedoes and depth charges were jettisoned and at 0845 the ship was
floating on an even keel.
An hour later, while efforts were being made by the French trawler Jolie
90

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

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Details

COPY OF STATEMENT.
(2)
155
HMS keith
Steam and smoke were coming away from the Destroyer, and she
n to take a list. I began to run towards her, as also did the Tug
ABBS", but the planes were bombing her again, intent on finishing
off, so we had to sheer away from her. Her guns were going all
time as she steamed round and round, but she stopped as she must
re been hit again. She let go her anchor and swing round to head
the tide, as the crew began to take to the boats and rafts we made
r her again. As the bombers came over and machine-gunned the crew
3 they were all jumping overboard and the Tug "VINCIA", which was
oming in the Bast end of the Roads began to pick them up, and the
'ST. ABBS" had got alongside her starboard bow and the sloop was also
going to their assistance, so I turned rouried to a motor boat full of
soldiers and picked them up.
lvanhoe
At this time I could see that another Destroyer had been dis-
abled to the West of the Harbour, and a 'plane had just dropped a bomb
on a small oil tanker astern of the "VINCIA" which went up in flames.
A direct hit on the stern of the sinking Destroyer blew up her depth
charges and we made to the sailing barge #TOLLESBURY" which was sig-
nalling us. We went alongside of her and were requested to tow her
out of it as she had over two hundred soldiers under her main hatch.
We passed the motore lifeboat "ORIENT IV" on to her stern and began to
tow her down the Dunkirk Roads.
A Cross-Channel boat was backing out of the Harbour full of
troops, and no more troops were to be seen on the Pierhead, when,
West of the Pierhead we saw that the "PERSIA" had the other disabled
Destroyer in tow and he was blowing for us. But we could not catch
him as the Destroyer had one engine going as well.
The "VINCIA" by this time, was passing us with her decks
laden with survivors of the sunken Destroyer, and as we all came to
No. 5 W. Buoy to turn out to sea, here the gun fire from shore batteries
and Destroyers and trawlers was terrific as about 20 planes flew towards
us to try and stop us getting away. The "PERSIA's" Destroyer put up a
smoke screen, and we watched nine bombs fall from a plane and drop
right alongside a Cross-channel boat that was bound in, but she kept
going. Then a plane over us released five bombs and we watched them
fall and they dropped in to the sea about 100 feet on our port bow,
lifting the Tug bodily out of the water. Another bomb was aimed at
the "PERSIA" which missed and must have put water on her deck, and yet
another was aimed at the "VINCIA" which also missed. The Lewis gun
on our barge was going all the time with ours.
A squadron of our planes was coming over and the Enemy 'planes
began to turn away. A bomb exploded between a Sloop towing a disabled
Destroyer, and I think it must have parted the towrope as I could see
they were trying to get connected again soon afterwards. The "PERSIA"
and Destroyer began to draw away from us, also the "VINCIA", and we
continued on our tow.
A mine was exploded near us by a navy motor boat and when we
arrived in the Downs we were met by the examination Tug "JAVA" about
3-0 p.m. and were ordered to Ramsgate. "e hove barge up alongside and
anchored at Quern Buoy 4-45 p.m. where a motor boat launch came off
and took ashore about 100 troops and returned for the others, with orders
for us to tow barge to Gravesend.
In all, we brought about 230 troops out of Dunkirk, the Barge
"TOLLESBURY" and crew, and crew of "DUCHESS" and crew and Soldier steve-
dores of "ROYALTY" and Motor boat "ORIENT IV". We andored at Southend
10-0 p.m. and proceeded to Gravesend at 7-0 a.m. on Sunday 2nd June,
arriving at Lobster Buoy with "TOLLESBURY" 9-30 a.m. Went to Pier and
handed "ORIENT IV" over to Custom House,
(Signed) W.H. Simmons.
Master of Tug "CERVIA".

Details

538
Good
522
Maulesden,
NAVAL OFFICER
BRECHIN.
508
eth
*
D
Angue.
DEPARTMENT RAWS DEPARTMENT
ORANGE
6th. June 1940.
*
by Vincia
Sir,
4 at
I have the honour to enclose the reort which
Commander Duffet instructed me to send to you.
I have the honour to be
517
Sir,
512
Your Obedient Servant,
X Sublieut. RN.
ITE
R.W.D.Don
R
already OSE
ief
agret
G. A. Gabbett- Mulhallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Details

REPORT
539
522
ON THE OPPERATIONS OF THE MOTOR LAUNCHES "YSER" AND
"MALBOROUGH DURING THE EVAQUATION OF THE BRITISH &
509
FRENCH FORCES.
Yug Vincia
The Hopper no.95, which I had been ordered to take
round to Ramsgate, anchored early last Wednesday evening,
and Commander Duffet gave me the Belgian ferry boat "Yser".
We started in a convoy of eighteen other small
motor craft at about 0100 on Thursday. Shortly after daylight
the escorting drifter had to turn back with two of the small
512
boats, and with our much greater speed we soon left the
remainder of the launches well astern.
VI940
Owing to the fact that the "Yser" was not fitted
with a compass we deviated from our course, making & landfall
8 few miles to the westward of the town. We arrived off the
beaches at about 0900, and ran aground in our attempts to
approach close enough to the sands for the men to wade out to
us. There was no anchor in the boat, but we salvaged two of
the plowshare type from other abandoned boats, and laid them
out at low tide in order to kedge her off.
During the afternoon and dog-watches we were able to
be of some use by acting as a liason link between the boats
and the officers of the embarking troops. The Frenchmen were
very reluctant to wade in deeper than their waists, and
Petty Officer Clarke (Chatham Division) spent approximately
five hours, with water up to his neck, helping the soldiers
ief
into the small boats.
agret
I should like to take this oppotunity to recommend
Petty Officer Clarke for his cheerfulness, vigour, and valuable
advice offered on this occasion and later in the WD boat
"Malborough". I understand that Captain Lord Louis Mount-
batten mentioned Petty Officer Glarke in his despatches
following the torpedoing and bombing of HMS "Kelly".
Our efforts to refloat the "yser" were without
success, and having waited for high tide we took passage home
A. Gabbett- Mulhallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.

Details

3.
541
we struck one of the very
511
522
wreckage, doing so lost the use of
both our rudders. For several anscious
minutes we visualised ourselves fighting 8 little rearguerd,
7
action of our own, but after several vain calls on the charity
of France, we were rescued by an MTB, which passed our tow
to a large motor yacht when we reached the outer herbour.
Yug Vincia
Except for the fact that a stray enemy sircraft drop-
ped two flares near us, our journey to Dover was uneventful,
to
and after placing the "Malborough" in the charge of the King's
Harbour Master, we returned to Ramsgate by lorry.
I would like to dra your attention to the excellent
coxing and seamanship displayed by Sublicutenant Pool, who
had no previous experience of bosts of the "Malborough's"
512
type, yet who manoevered her under exceedingly difficult and
exiting conditions in confined waters strewn with debris, much
of which, though harmless to the other launches, meant certain
N1940
destruction to the vunerable underwater fittings of the
hydroplane. His task was made particularly difficult by the
fact that these boats have a minimum speed of eight knote
under power.
-o0o-
Sublieut. RN.
ief
agret
G. A. Gabbett- Mulkallen.
Sub.Lieutenant Royal Navy.
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
RAMSGATE.
by the
ight knots
SecretEN

Details

Statement from S.Y Vincea: (Re, Dinkish
522
0 C. B.O.
Sir,
7
6n Imday the 31" M May, we the S. Jug Vincia
left Ramagati in taw of three skiffs for & which at
2.45pm. 2.45
1
542
Good
NAVAL
STATE
512
Yer
*
USE
Ashton Lodge,
STATE
THE
Petitor Road,
TORQUAY.
% June. 1940.
On
:
Sir,
I have the honour to submit the following brief
report of my operations off Dunkirk, and which I regret
I was unable to forward sooner.
in
toy
On
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient servant,
G. A. Gabbett- Mulkallen.
Sub. Lieutenant Royal Navy.
2
The Captain's Secretary.
H.M.S. FERVENT.
2.4
4
RAMSGATE.
GRAMSGATE.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
6n Imday the 31" M May. we the Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Duskinh at
2.45pm.
543
513
On arriving at Dover on Friday morning
31st May, orders were issued to me regarding the
embarkation of troops from Dunkirk by lifeboats. I then
proceeded by motorcoach to Ramsgate where I was alloted
4 lifeboats, one of which had an engine. To sailed at
noon for Dunkirk in the tow of the trawler "FAIRBREEZE".
On approaching Dunkirk we were heavily
bombed by enemy Aircraft, one bomb landing on our starboard
side not 50yds away which, luckily, did not explode. Ye
proceeded inshore to my alloted position and cast away from
the trawler. With the three lifeboats in tow I made for the
beach which, to my disgust, I found was almost deserted,
then, on account of the surf and so few troops, I left
one lifeboat and proceeded with the other two along towards
La Panne where a number of troops were congregated. I
waded ashore to discover, to my surprise, that the troops
refused to wade out. By a little 'gentle persuasion'
1
however, I succeeded in filling two lifeboats and returned
to collect the one left earlier before proceeding out to
the waiting trawler.

Details

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

Details

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

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincen: (Re, Dunkish
5
C. B.O.
Sir,
7
On Imday the 31" M May, we the S.Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for Dankinh at
2.45pm. 2.45
546
516
4
over a far-flung area with the ebbing tide.
However, all went well, but for bumping twice
just outside the breakwater. We made Ramsgate Harbour
at 0745 Tuesday.
Sub Lieutenant CA CANHAM. Royal Navy. was with
me in all these operations.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
C.B.O.
Sir,
7
On Imday the 31° M May, are the S.Jay Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for which at
2.45pm. 2.45
at 4pm see were off the Sandetha Bany, ohn
Yes.
From:- Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N.
Date:- 5th June, 1940.
See & 4
To:-
Naval Officer in Charge, Ramsgate.
that
30th May.
1245
Proceeded from Ramsgate in drifter Ocean Breeze"
(Skipper Bailley) with 2 whalers in tow.
14.00
Passed N. Goodwin L/V and proceeded by Route X
to Dunkirk Roads.
1915 Arrived off Dunkirk East Pier. Proceeded forthwith
to position 1½ miles east of Pier and commenced
embarking troops. Whalers were used for taking
troops off beach - naval crew in 1 whalerend
drifter's crew in other.
Found motor boat with civilian crew and coxswain
continued to tow our boats to and from shore to
"Ocean Breeze" until dark having embarked 170
(approx) British troops. Contacted Lieut.
McMullan in Schoot "Twente", turned whalere over
to officer in charge of a tug as I realised that,
without small boats, tugs and drifters etc.
could not operate.
2300
Left Dunkirk Roads by Route X and arrived Ramagate
0400 on 31st May and discharged troops.
31st May.
0830
Proceeded in "Ocean Breeze" by Route X to Dunkirk
Roads.
1330
Arrived off Dunkirk East Pier: proceeded to point
1½ miles east of Dunkirk Pier and owing to
absence of small boats and inability to contact
any power driven craft of shallow draft I was
not able to embark any troops until -
1500
When I succeeded in borrowing a whaler from tug
to which I had turned mine over on previous day.
Effected one trip ashore with whaler under oars
but owing to surf and tide this operation took
over half an hour. Then was fortunate in
contacting Sub. Lt. Cornish R.N.V.R. in motor
boat. This officer assisted me greatly by
towing my whaler as far in shore as possible and
hauling her off again by means of a warp for
which we utilised the Dan mooring which happened
to be in "Ocean Breeze". Without this officer's
assistance I should not have been able to embark
any troops that day.

Details

Statement from S.Y Vincea: (Re, Dankish
522
C. B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May, are the Jug Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skelfs for Durkich at
2.45pm.
at 4Pm see were off the Sandethe Bany, who
548
eport by Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (contd).
- 518
1500
From 1500 onwards we were subject to almost
continuous attack by enemy aircraft and had the
satisfaction of seeing 7 bombers brought down by
destroyers' and shore batteries' anti-sireraft
fire. Two enemy pilots escaped by parachute.
Majority of troops embarked at this point were
French.
1700
On hearing that there were a number of British
troops on the beach near La Panne proceeded
there with Sub. Lt. Cornish and his motor boat
and succeeded in embarking a number of British.
Total number embarked was not recorded by no
but was approximately 150 altogether.
2030
Having valuable cargo aboard and observing that
there were a number of schoots and other craft
who, owing to the absence of small power driven
craft, were unable to get any troops. I decided
to return to Base with my load and turned over
my whaler to Sub. Lt. Cornish and asked him to
report to the Schoot "Atlantic", the Commanding
Officer of which told me that he had been there
all day without being able to get a single man
on board for reasons explained above.
Proceeded by route X in company with other drifters,
troop ships, tugs, etc. and were attacked by
enemy aircraft until past No 6 W Buoy, when they
were driven off by anti-aircraft fire from
British destroyers.
1st June.
1430
Arrived N. Goodwin L/V and anchored owing to
insufficient water in Ramagate.
1600
Weighed and proceeded in to Ramagate and discharged
That troops. evening was ordered to return to Dunkirk in
"Ocean Breeze" but order was cancelled as we
could not reach destination by 2130.
2nd June.
Ordered to proceed in Power Boat "Haig" with Lt. in
McMullan R.N.R. and Sub. Lt. Hollingshead
Proceeded with Marlborough in company with
company with Marlborough, Kestrel and Swallow. Cmdr.
2100
Troop R.N. in command of "Haig" and with one
lifeboat in tow.
3rd June.
0030
Approached Dunkirk; obliged to out lifeboat adrift
she became full of water and was hampering bollard.
Entered speed Dunkirk Harbour and proceeded alongside
as of "Haig" and damaging towing

Details

522
C.B.O.
Sir,
6x Imday the 31" M May, are the S.Jug. Vincia
left Ramagah in tan of three skiffs for Dunkish at
2.45pm.
as 4pm see were off the Sandetter Bany, old
Report by Lieut. V.A. de Mauny, R.N. (contd).
5+9
-
519
centre jetty and embarked French troops (approx
50 in number). Discharged troops to steamer
lying outside and returned for further load.
Were informed that there were 700 troops aboard &
steamer aground off Nouveau Avant Port so
proceeded alongside and took off 39 French troops.
As it was approaching daylight Cormdr. Troop
decided to return to base with load.
0200
Off entrance of harbour we were struck on portside
by two French motor vessels in rapid succession
and holed on port side amidships and portside
for'd. Forepeak rapidly filled with water so
we proceeded alongside paddle sweeper "Westward
Ho" which was on point of leaving.
As "Westward HO" already had her engines moving
and wash from her paddles was causing "Haig" to
fill rapidly, speedy abandonment was necessary
and all hands and troops boarded "Weatward Ho"
by port paddle-box door.
3rd June.
0700 Landed Margate.
ben June.
1530 Having been asked by Commander Hammond, D.S.O.,
D.S.C., R.N. to come as his navigating officer,
boarded schoot "Pascholl" (Lt. Wise R.N.V.R.)
and proceeded (Cmmdr. Hammond in command) with
"Lena", "Hondsrug" and another in company with
orders toreach Dunkirk No. 12 W buoy at 2300.
Courses and speed as requisite for Dunkirk.
2300
On arrival at Dunkirk entered harbour and
endeavoured to find Jetty in Nouveau Avant Port.
This was not practicable owing to insufficient
water so proceeded alongside centre jetty (East
side) and embarked 255 French troops. During
embarkation enemy action was conspicuous by its
absence and all was quiet.
th June.
0200
Left Jetty in order to allow other vessels to come
alongside and set course and speed as requisite
for Ramsgate. Left by X route and arrived off
N. Goodwin L/V at 0630. Owing to insufficient
water in Ramsgate and inability to anchor,
proceeded to Downs by Gull Stream and Downs
Channel and up Ramsgate Channel, arriving in time
to enter harbour at 0815. Discharged troops.

Details

Statement from S.Y. Vincea: (Re, Dankish
%
522
0
C. B.O.
Sir,
6, Imday the 31" M May. we the S. Jug. Vincia
left Ramagah in taw of three skiffs for D which at
2.45 2.45pm.
at 4pm see were off the Sandethe Bany, when
is saw a para charted describing: We went and G
form A fell into the sea, of saved the action, who
noved to be a Brited ganner, d who had her badly
runded: as 4.30 p.m. we transferred him to a
strayer. named, Venomous; afterwand continuing a
w journey
We arread at Dunkins about 8.40 pm. + was
'en given orders G praceed east, to 4 place called
rays. This we did, of anchored; d then and the
ulto ashare to embark the soldies:
We were day this until daylight next morning
was then told to transfer trank to a destanges. +
the s.y. Yoncia, to remain at Brays, in each of
is required by any of #. m. Ships
about 8.15 An, during a leavy bombing attach are
the H M.S. Keith got hit, d her can all in the
We went to her, of researed 1.8 Coffeen of Ratings,
of
tadly wounded, of being heavily hombed the whole
of doing so:
We left this scent after searng all as sw

Details

Statement of the S.S. Hareulan
554
524
C.B.O.
Sir.
On Thursday the 6". 4 June. see left Ramegato
about at 12.45 for duties on the Month Patrat
6n our way out. we saw a ship mained the
s Harcula. in deffeculties, a being towed by the 1. Jaga
ma. fava, of Fabia
We, the S.J. Vincia, went to the ship, of wes
mediately engaged.
Wea passed and lawing have abound X was made
last on the S.S. Hancula part how. d by 13.25 4
une towing full speed in company with the other
upo
as 13.55 the tug Lady Brancy arrived, & he
he was engaged of made fast - the "If Harcula
20ml quarter. cL assested in the tawing from the
awns Channel to the n. Brake bands. where the
lb grounded at 14.15 p in a sunking condition,
meny to being mined in the Farway
Due to the prompt executance given by the
up. I think we saved the its. Harcula from
being a wreck in the Dawn Channel & a danger
to navigation
your a.V.Hails Chedianthy (Wanto of ft Ymair