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BLEI MOR (1.3126) 3126)
French M.F.V.
This ship is reported to have taken part in
Dynamo, but no details are available.
under
the
Captain
E.
Authority - inistere de la Marine Marchande, Paris.
2nd/3rd June
dr. Vivacious,
U.A/S.B.7.
M.T.B,107, and the
West Cove,
Blei mor AD 381
Edvard Nissen,
3rd/4th June
auxiliary mine Tweeper
and
the
blockshipa
of the Dunkerque
command
Pacifico
blockships were sunit on the way to the
harbour; was lost the Holland in a gale collision
the 27th of March 1940 to have been 8 the
and the evidently operation the did not was by than
take been part in Dynamo or 100 to 120
UBG left unobstructed on the of the
this gap, however, was of the
Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept.
bank.
The following the
Mention in Depostches.
Capt. E. R.N.
R.A.9. Homp, R.H.
(1)
106

Details

BLOCKSHIPS
Blocking of Dunkirk Inner Harbour.
This operation was carried out on 2 successive nights,
under the command of Captain E. Dangerfield R.N. The ships
employed were as follows:
2nd/3rd June
dr. Vivacious,
M.A/S.B.7.
M.T.B.107, and the blockships
West Cove,
Edvard Nissen,
Holland.
3rd/4th June
dr. Shikari,
M.A/S.B.10,
M.T.B.107, and the blockships
Gourko,
Moyle,
Pacifico.
Two of the blockships were sunk on the way to the
harbour; the Holland by collision with an unknown personnel
ship; the Gourko by what is said to have been a magnetic mine(1).
The blocking operation was made difficult by the ebb tide,
and the strength of the out-going current was greater than had
been expected. Consequently, a gap of about 100 to 120 feet
was left unobstructed on the west side of the channel; part of
this gap, however, was shoal water, because of the shelving
bank.
The following awards were made to the operation staff;
Mention in Despatches.
Capt. E. Dangerfield R.N.
Lieut. R.A.F. Heap, R.N.
(1) Gourko was de-gaussed, and had been wiped in Chatham
Dockyard on 31st May.
107

Details

2
CODRINGTON (continued)
31st May
2030
(continued).
Off Braye. Vivacious and other
destroyers present. (1)
1st June
0345
Still off Braye. Minesweepers embarking
troops from beaches.
0525
Secured alongside east pier, Dunkirk.
Embarked about 900 troops and
Maj. Gen. B.L. Montgomery, temporarily
commanding a corps. Low but inaccur-
b
ate air attacks. One A/C apparently
shot down by Codrington and another
destroyer [the Ivanhoe.
0730
To Dover by X route. Wide bombing
attacks on the way to Ruytingen shoal.
0950
Dover. Disembarked 746 troops, (2)
2030
To Dunkirk by route X.
2300
Secured to east pier Dunkirk.
2345
Sailed for Dover by route X with about
1,000 troops.
2nd June
0320
Dover. Disembarked 878 troops. (2)
2130
To Dunkirk by route X.
3rd June
0050
Stopped off Dunkirk harbour, on orders.
0250
To Dover by X route with 37 troops.
0510
Dover. Disembarked 44 troops. (2)
4th June
1130
Left Dover for Plymouth, dr. Shikari
in company.
Total 5,821
Authority - R.O.I. p.14.
The following awards were made:
Captain G.F. Stevens-Guille, D.S.O., O.B.E., R.N.
Bar to D.S.O.
Lieut. D.S.C. A.A.W. Pollard, R.N.
Bar to D.S.M.
L/Sea. D. Nicholas.
D.S.M.
A.B.
S.J. Williams
A.B.
F. Willcox,
A.B.
J. McDonald.
Seaman W. Beer, R.N.R.
(1) Ivanhoe and Worcester.
(2) D.R.
197

Details

D.C/M.B.
(H.M.S. Excellent's)
Lieut. E.F. Hamilton-
Meikle, R.N.
29th May
2100
Left staff Dover for Dunkirk (car. Cazalet,
of V.A. Dover and Lt. Cdr.
Dennis, board). S.O., M.T.B's Dover, on
2300
Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11
Engine breakdown.
survivors from the A.B/V. King Orry.
30th May
0200
Taken in tow by the dr. Vivacious.
One engine towed in and started.
0300
Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk
harbour.
0400
Embarked 15 Allied troops.
0415
Air attack.
0425
Proceeded for Dover, speed 8 knots.
0945
Dover. Disembarked 15 troops.
Boat's engines unsatisfactory.
Total 15(1)
Of the officers in D.C/M.B., Lieut. R.H. Mead
R.N.V.R. assumed command of the Walton and
Frinton life boat [E.M.E.D.]; Lieut. Hamilton-
Meikle assumed command of a 40 foot ship's fast
motor boat.
Authority - R.O.II, pp.484, 612.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
225

Details

EDVARD NISSEN
Blockship
Lt. E.J. King-Wood, R.N.R.
2nd June
2015
Sailed from the Downs in company with
Westcove and Holland, Vivacious
way. (with M.T.B.107 in tow) leading the
2117
M.A/S.B.7 L.V. joined company off S.Goodwin
3rd June
0215
Anchored off Dunkirk - less Holland,
which was somewhere astern.
0240
Weighed and proceeded.
0310
Passed Dunkirk outer breakwater 3 cables
astern of Westcove.
When a cable and a half past the
occulting light on the inner west
pier, Westcove rammed the pier
and swung athwart the Channel. The
out-flowing stream (about 2 knots),
however, reduced her athwartship
angle, so by arrangement with Westcove
the Nissen endeavoured to strike her
stern as she passed on her way to
ram the east breakwater.
The strength of the ebb stream was
however mis judged, and the Nissen
passing close under Westcove's stern,
rammed the east breakwater, abreast
of the Westcove. Nissen let go an
anchor and applied full port helm
and all engine power to increase the
blocking angle.
Westcove then "blew up and caught
fire aft", and it was seen that the
gap between the 2 ships' sterns had
increased from 20 feet to 80 feet,
owing to the current. The motor boat
ran a hawser to the Westcove's stern
and by heaving on this the gap was
reduced to 50 feet.
Nissen was then abandoned and the
scuttling charges fired from the boat.
0413
Edvard Nissen blew up and settled
rapidly. The crew were transferred
to M.A/S.B.7.
Authority - M.011431/40.
The following awards were made:
Mention in Despatches.
Lt. E.J. King-Wood, R.N.R.
S/Lieut. I.R. Griffiths, R.N.
C.P.O. H. Woods.
271

Details

GLALA
Yacht
S/Lt. J.A. DOW, R.N.V.R.
31st May
0800ca
The yacht Christobel II having broken
down some hours previously, the
Glagla left the Downs by X route
for Dunkirk, with the yachts
1130ca
Amulree and Caleta in company.
Arrived Dunkirk Roads.
1230ca
Towed two whalers full of troops to the
Sp. S/V Golden Eagle.
Off La Panne, towed boats for the drs.
Venomous and Vivacious.
Air attack. Capt. Howson in Yacht
No.1 [1.e. the Ankh ordered the
small ships to make for the open sea,
and all the smaller power craft
followed him out. Air attack; near
miss.
-
The Glagla was ordered to return for
repairs.
2130
Arrived Ramsgate harbour. Returned
to Sheerness for repairs.
2nd June
1430
Proceeded to Ramsgate. Arrived Ramsgate.
about 1845.
2045
Left Ramsgate by X route.
3rd June
0020
Off W buoy. Port engine out of action;
continued on one engine.
0315
Proceeded to Sheerness.
1030
Arrived Sheerness.
Nil
Authority - R.O.II, p.173.
(a)
das
376

Details

HOLLAND
Blockship
Lt.Cdr.E.C. Coats R.N.
2nd June
2010
Weighed and sailed from the Downs to
Dunkirk. In company were Vivacious
leading, and towing M.T.B.107;
the Westcove and the Edvard Nissen.
2117
M.A/S.B.7 joined the convoy off the 8.
Goodwin L.V. opposite Calais, Holland
was unable to maintain the 7½ knots
of the convoy and soon lost sight of
it.
Nearing Dunkirk, a tug(1) "towing
a very long line of boats" crossed
Hollands bows and further delayed her.
3rd June
0315ca
Asked M.A/S.B.7 to lead Holland into
Dunkirk. Shortly after, "a long
line of destroyers came out" of
Dunkirk. "Astern of them, there was
a gap of over a mile and then a
large and fast transport."
[Note: The following destroyers left Dunkirk for Dover
at the times stated in brackets: Vanquisher
(0230), Whitshed (0245), Malcolm (0248)
Codrington (0250), Express (0250).
The following transports left Dunkirk at the
times stated in brackets:
Newhaven
1,888 tons, 3 steam turbines
(0245)
Tynwald
2,376 tons, 4 steam turbines
0300)
Rouen
1,882 tons, 3 steam turbines
was in Dunkirk
in the early
hours of 3rd
June (see
Thomas Kirk
Wright, p.240))
Cote d'Argent [3,047 tons, 4 steam turbines) (landed
troops at Dover
on 3rd June)]
I.A/S.B.7 led Holland through the gap
etween the destroyer line and the
Note
Anceuse allution a
ransport. When the transport was
cables away, and steaming very
'ast with the first streaks of dawn
ehind her, the danger of collision
my abordage n'afparait
ecame apparent, and Holland sounded
ne blast and put the wheel hard to
daws Bizafforth du
tarboard. The transport, says
t. Cdr. Coats, "had then only to a/c
Newhaven / du Rown
to starboard to pass well clear....
owever she appeared to alter to
ort". She struck Holland hard on
et de Pa cote d Argent
he bridge and just before the boiler
Dom bulkhead. The transport "did
ot appear to sustain much damage,
be Rouen n'a pas appareises' de
acked out and carried on". As
olland had no buoyancy in hand, her
Dewkergue cette nuit la
aptain ordered "abandon ship" a
etant zaste' ichour a P 'oceast
W seconds before she was struck.
de Pa fatee' d' Embacquat age
feesgee are miliere de Pa fournea
due 3 freen
Foremost 87.
Note by Cdr. Cras of French Historical Dept.
37

Details

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

Details

ICARUS (continued)
31st May
1100
x route to Dunkirk. Collided with dr.
(continued)
Scimitar in the Goodwin Channel.
Only slight damage.
1400
Lay off Dunkirk harbour.
1615
Secured alongside eastern arm. dr.
Windsor and an "S" class(1) destroyer
berthed outside Icarus. Embarked
troops during air raid.
1800
To Dover by X route. Dive bomb attack
(1 A/C) en route.
2045
Dover. Disembarked 682 troops.
1st June
0130
To Dunkirk.
0415
Secured alongside the P/V Maid of
Orleans. (2) Embarked troops during
an air raid.
0530
dr. Vanquisher berthed outside Icarus.
Shortly after, Windsor berthed outside
Vanquisher.
0730
Proceeded to Dover.
1015
Dover. Disembarked 1,114 troops.
2030
To Dunkirk, Windsor in company.
2300
Secured alongside eastern arm, Dunkirk.
2nd June
0001
To Dover by X route.
Collided with a small trawler in
Dunkirk Channel. Damage to trawler
not known.
0400
Dover Disembarked 677 troops.
1830
Sailing orders cancelled on account
of slight damage.
4th June
1145
To Portsmouth, under orders of dr.
Vivacious.
Total 4,704
Authority - R.O.I. p.60.
(1) This is incorrect. No "S" class destroyer was inside the
harbour at this period.
(2) Icarus says "St. Hillier", meaning St. Helier; but St.
Helier did not enter Dunkirk until 1530/1.
51

Details

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

Details

LORD COLLINGWOOD
Drifter
Tx. Lt. J.A. Simson.
Indo Traviers
Proby. skipr.W. R.N.V.R.
See under Lord Rodney.
R.N.R.
CLYTHESON
as. A.B. Heckstall-Smith,
R.N.V.R.
Skipr. W.F. Salenius-
29th way
1615
Lord Grey left Dover for Dunkirk by X
2300
route, the tr. Clythness in company.
Both ships arrived Dunkirk herbour.
and then left the harbour and weited
2330
for traffic inside to clear.
Both ships re-entered harbour and tied
up alongside eastern jetty.
30th May
0210
Hearing cries for help outside the
harbour, both ships left to investi-
gate, and found that the A.B/V King
Orry had sunic on leaving the harbour.
Lord Grey resoued 10 mon, Clythness 4.
Lord Grey transferred her 10 to the
dr. Vivacious, and both the trawlers
0410.
returned to harbour.
Lord Grey embarked 350 troops,
Clythness 300, and both ships left
0515
harbour and transferred these troops
to the dr. Whitehall.
0605
Clythness's dynamo broke down, rendering
her D.G. gear uselsss.
g
0645
Both trawlers re-entered harbour, moored
alongside eastern jetty and embarked
d
troops.
0710
Clythness sailed for Dover with about
150 troops. (1)
0730
Lord Grey sailed for Dover with about
400 troops. (2)
Total 550
Authority - R.O.II, D.526.
The following awards were made:
Clythness
P.R.O. Skipry W.P. Balenium.
THE Lt. J.A. Simson, R.N.V.P.
D.O.M. Engineman O.A. Days
I.W. Lennox
Rention in Despatches
Freby, Skipr. W.J. Tiller.
(1) Not mentioned in Date
(2) D.R. states 123.
186

Details

LORD GREY
Ty. Lt. J.A. Simson,
L.L. Trawlers
R.N.V.R.
(Dover M/S Command)
Proby. Skipr.W. J. Tiller,
R.N.R.
CLYTHNESS
S/Lt. A.B. Heckstall-Smith,
R.N.V.R.
Skipr. W.F. Salenius.
29th May
1615
Lord Grey left Dover for Dunkirk by X
2300
route, the tr. Clythness in company.
Both ships arrived Dunkirk harbour,
and then left the harbour and waited
for traffic inside to clear.
2330
Both ships re-entered harbour and tied
up alongside eastern jetty.
30th May
0210
Hearing cries for help outside the
harbour, both ships left to investi-
gate, and found that the A.B/V King
Orry had sunk on leaving the harbour.
Lord Grey rescued 10 men, Clythness 4.
Lord Grey transferred her 10 to the
dr. Vivacious, and both the trawlers
0410.
returned to harbour.
Lord Grey embarked 350 troops,
Clythness 300, and both ships left
0515
harbour and transferred these troops
to the dr. Whitehall.
0605
Clythness's dynamo broke down, rendering
her D.G. gear useless.
0645
Both trawlers re-entered harbour, moored
alongside eastern jetty and embarked
troops.
0710
Clythness sailed for Dover with about
150 troops. (1)
0730
Lord Grey sailed for Dover with about
400 troops. (2)
Total 550
Authority - - R.O.II, p.526.
The following awards were made:
Clythness
Lord Grey
D.S.C.
D.S.C.
Skipr. W.F. Salenius.
Ty. Lt. J.A. Simson, R.N.V.R.
D.S.M.
D.S.M.
Engineman G.A. Day.
Engineman I.W. Lennox
Mention in Despatches
Proby. Skipr. W.J. Tiller.
(1) Not mentioned in D.R.
(2) D.R. states 123.
187

Details

M.A/S.B.7
89th A/S Group, Portland s/Lt. A. Ecclestone,
R.N.
27th May
1700
Arrived Dover from Felixstowe,
1952
M.A/S.B.6 in company.
Embarked the "Chef de Cabinet" and the
"Secretaire" of the King of Belgium;
also the "Ancien Ministere".
1955
Left Dover for Nieuport, M.T.B.107(1)
in company.
28th May
0300
Disembarked Belgian Ministers at
Nieuport jetty.
0315
Left Nieuport jetty, M.T.B's 107(1)
and 22 in company.
0330
Set course for Dover. The two M.T.B's
set course for Harwich.
0525
Arrived Dover.
30th May
0020
Left Dover for Dunkirk with 13 Military
Officers carrying secret messages.
0240
off Dunkirk. The military officers
were landed at the 3 beaches.
Entered harbour to deliver secret
message to S.N.O. Dunkirk. 38 French
troops embarked.
I
0725
Proceeded.
1035
Arrived Dover.
1100
Disembarked 38 French troops.
1135
Left Dover to rendezvous off Ramsgate
31st May
with M.A/S.B. No.6 to escort convoy
of small craft.
1147
Off Deal, developed a fire in port
1203
Fire engine. extinguished. M.A/S.B.7 taken in
tow by tug Doria.
1517
Arrived Dover for repairs.
1730
Repairs completed.
2nd June
2100
Left Dover.
2117
Joined 3 blockships, in convoy off
South Goodwin L.V.
3rd June
0200
Proceeded to lead the 3 blockships
Westcove, Edvard Nissen and Holland]
0230ca
The rear blockship Holland] was
into Dunkirk Channel.
"rammed and sunk by a troopship
this blockship to take off the C.O. to
leaving Dunkirk". Went alongside
and Vivacious]. Proceeded of
crew, who were transferred
a the
THE the
them
107 to brought off the crew
Left blockship. Dunkirk. 7 miles to lifeboat, the westward,
0400
picked down and on fire [the
up the crew of a Jane
Holland]. broken Abandoned the life boat.
0625
2100
Left Arrived for Dover. Dunkirk ]. escorting an R.A.F.
M/B [
(1) Error for M.T.B.67.
254

Details

M.T.B.16
1st M.T.B. Flotilla
Lieut. P.F.S.Gould, R.N,
28th May
0640
Left Dover for Dunkirk. M.T.B.68
left astern. shortly afterwards and formed
0830
[1130
Arrived Dunkirk.
M.T.B.68 proceeded to Dover with a
message from S.N.O.].
-
Off Bray Dunes. In seven trips,
ferried about 300 troops to waiting
1530ca
destroyers (notably the Vivacious).
Air attack. One plane brought down
off Bray by M.T.B.16(1)
2100
To Dunkirk (with centre engine out of
2230
action and no astern power).
Secured at Dunkirk.
2310
Left for Bray Dunes.
2350
Returned to Dunkirk and secured for the
night.
29th May
[0005
M.T.B.68 secured alongside with S.O.,
M.T.B's Dover (Lt. Cdr. S.H. Dennis,
R.N.) on board].
0550
Proceeded.
0845
Arrived Dover.
1005
Left Dover for Felixstowe for repairs.
En route, engine trouble developed
and M.T.B.16 was taken in tow by the
Trinity House vessel Vestal.
1640
Arrived Felixstowe.
Nil
[Ferried about 300 troops].
Authority R.O.II, p.450.
(1) D.R.
309

Details

by
OOEL
DEAL
boy date
M.T.B.102 (continued) M.T.D. Flotilla
Ment. J.Cameron, R.H.V.
May
0800
Authority - R.O.II, p.459.
Lofa Dover, Portsmouth for Felizatows via
DOS
28th May
1200
1830
Arrived Felixatowe.
Left Felixatove on patrol.
The following awards were made: to Felixatowe.
D.S.C. May
0600
Left Pelizatowe for Dover.
Lieut. C.W.S. Dreyer, 1745 R.N. Left Dover in company with N.R.B.67.
Off Dunkirk. M.T.B.67 closed dr.
D.S.M.
Keith (R.A. Dover on board) for
00
E.R.A.3rd Cl.
orders. Proceeded to La Panno with
G.W. Hymas.
M.T.B.67.
YOU tall
A.B.
A.R.C. Stephens. ed out various duties, including
some rescue work, and cruised in
company with M.T.B.67.
2100
Proceeded to Dover in company with
M.T.B.67=
2315
Arrived Dover.
1st June
1100
Left Dover with Odre. T.J. Hallett on
board. Patrolled route X.
1600
Proceeded to Dover.
east JBI
1830ca
Dover.
2nd June
1845
Left Dover for the Downa, where the
Captains of the blockships Westerve,
Edvard Niesen and Holland were
embarked and transferred to dr.
Vivacious.
2020
Proceeded in tow or Vivacious.
2230
Blipped tow) embarked Capt. Danger-
2330ca
field from Vivacious end set course
for Dunkirk, Arrived 233008.
Landed Capt. Dangerfield at Seet Pien
On his return left harbour to search
for blockships. Two only found,
[Westoove and Edvard Nissen}; the
third Holland had been Bunk in a
collision on the way.
enot brrs
3rd June
03200a
In harbour, embarked all the crew of
the 1st and part of the orer of the
and blockships, and transferred them
to the Vivacions which was lying
outside.
0345
Prodeeded, Vivagious and N.A.B.D.7
in company.
0630
Dover.
snot DIE
1735
Loft Dover. Rebarked the Captains or
the blockships Gourko, Novle and
Pacifico and transferred them to the
dr. Rhikari.
2030
Proceeded in tow of shimari, blockship
in company.
4th June
0245
Followed blockship dourko into Dunkirk
Heavy explosion in COMPRO 00 ane
smit and
entered the haroouts
(1) M.T.B.107 wes only received from the builders to stand on
23rd May 1940. she no
(1)
315316

Details

M.T.B.107(1)
10th M.T.B. Flotilla
Lieut. J.Cameron, R.N.V.R
27th May
0800
Left Dover. Portsmouth for Felixstowe via
28th May
1200
1830
Arrived Felixstowe.
Left Felixstowe on patrol.
29th May
0400
Retd. to Felixstowe.
31st May
0600
1600
Left Felixstowe for Dover.
1745
Left Dover in company with M.T.B.67.
Off Dunkirk. M.T.B.67 closed dr.
Keith (R.A. Dover on board) for
orders. Proceeded to La Panne with
M.T.B.67.
-
Carried out various duties, including
some rescue work, and cruised in
company with M.T.B.67.
2100
Proceeded to Dover in company with
M.T.B.67.
2315
Arrived Dover.
1st June
1100
Left Dover with Cdre. T.J. Hallett on
board. Patrolled route X.
1600
Proceeded to Dover.
1830ca
Dover.
2nd June
1845
Left Dover for the Downs, where the
Captains of the blockships Westcove,
Edvard Nissen and Holland were
embarked and transferred to dr.
Vivacious.
2020
Proceeded in tow of Vivacious.
2230
Slipped tow; embarked Capt. Danger-
2330ca
field from Vivacious and set course
for Dunkirk. Arrived 2330ca.
Landed Capt. Dangerfield at East Pier.
On his return left harbour to search
for blockships. Two only found
[Westcove and Edvard Nissen]; the
third [Holland] had been sunk in a
collision on the way.
3rd June
0320ca
In harbour, embarked all the crew of
the lst and part of the crew of the
2nd blockships, and transferred them
to the Vivacious which was lying
outside.
0345
Proceeded, Vivacious and M.A/S.B.7
in company.
0630
Dover.
1735
Left Dover. Embarked the Captains of
the blockships Gourko, Moyle and
Pacifico and transferred them to the
dr. Shikari.
2030
Proceeded in tow of Shikari, blockships
in company.
4th June
0245
Followed blockship Gourko into Dunkirk.
Heavy explosion in Gourko as she
entered the harbour.
(1) M.T.B.107 was only received from the builders by road on
23rd May 1940. She had no astern gear.
316

Details

SCIMITAR (continued)
1300ca
31st (contd.) May
(contd).
Vivacious and Shikari. Intermittent
evening, in company with the drs.
shelling and bombing. Having no
ship's boats, and no other boats
Embarkation appeared difficult on
coming near, unable to embark troops.
1700ca
account of choppy water.
One aircraft shot down - believed by
2030ca
the Scimitar's "A" gun.
The weather improved. Embarked troops,
principallyfrom the sk. Hilda.
2300ca
Sailed knots. with about 500 troops, at 8
-
A slight collision with an unknown
trawler. (1)
1st June
0600ca
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 584
troops. (2)
1000
Sailed for Dunkirk.
-
When near the N. Goodwin L.V., ordered
to return. Having sighted the P/V
Prague in difficulties, went to her
assistance. Went alongside her, and
while under way, took off 500 troops.
Escorted the Prague through the
Downs.
1530
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 376
troops. (2)
2nd June
To dockyard for repairs.
Total 2711
Authority - R.O.I., p.132.
The following awards were made:
D.S.C.
Midshipman M.J. Ball, R.N.R.
D.S.M.
A.B. G. Pasmore.
Sto. F.A. Tyler.
Mention in Despatches.
Lieut. R.D. Franks, O.B.E., R.N.
(1) The two F/B drifters Gervais Rentoul and Eileen Emma
returned to Dover on 1st June damaged and unseaworthy
after being involved in collisions.
(2) D.R.
102

Details

VANQUISHER (continued)
0530
(continuea)
(contã)
The pier was crowded and the greatest
possible number was embarked,
believed to be not less than 1,200.
Air raids during embarkation. 4
bombs seen to drop near dr.
Vivacious's bow. Vanquisher's
0630
aerials shot away by Icarus 0.5" m. g's
Sailed for Dover.
0930
Dover. Disembarked 1200 troops.
2nd June
1100ca
Lt. Cdr. Alers-Hankey resumed command.
[Lt. Cdr. Bushell was sent to assist
the master of the P/V. Tynwald].
2130
Sailed for Dunkirk.
3rd June
0030
Off Dunkirk harbour. Embarked 35
French troops from a small boat while
lying off.
0230
Ordered by dr. Codrington to return to
Dover.
When 3 miles off Dunkirk a transport(1)
was observed to collide
with a vessel understood to have been
1
a blockship 2).
0445
Dover. Disembarked 37 troops(3).
Lieut. R.N. Hankey R.N., (1st Lieut.)
was landed for rest.
2045
Sailed for Dunkirk.
2400
Arrived off Dunkirk.
4th June
0200
Berthed alongside Eastern Pier, Dunkirk.
Embarked troops.
0240
Proceeded.
0430
Anchored off N. Goodwin L.V. in thick
fog.
0615
Dover. Disembarked 414 troops.
Total 3941
Authority - R.O.I., pp. 20, 138, 143.
None of the P/V's leaving Dunkirk at that time mentions incident. the
S.S. Holland
D.R.
261

Details

VIVACIOUS (1) (D.36).
Lt. Cdr. F.R.W. Parish R.N.
Cdr. E.F.V. Dechaineux, R.A.N.
2200
27th May
From patrol to Dunkirk.
28th May
0030
Dunkirk beach. Air attacks. The
Polish aircraft. dr. Blyskawica shot down one
0330
To Dover with 353 troops.
-
1030(7)
Dover. Disembarked 302 troops (D.R.)
To Dunkirk by the eastern route.
-
broathing dropped
Heavy air attack off Dunkirk eastern
atteship.
entrance, Two aircraft shot down; (2)
the pilot of a third A/C baled out.
1230
Three miles east of Dunkirk.
1815
Assisted by ships boats, M.T.B. 16 and
a skoot, embarked about 553 troops.
1830
Proceeded in company with the drs.
Codrington and Javelin.
2200ca
Dover. Disembarked 359 troops (D.R.)
29th May
1100ca
Ordered to proceed to Sheerness with
the drs. Wolsey and Vimy.
1300
Arrived Sheerness for special service.
1800
Left Sheerness.
a
2100
Operation cancelled. Ordered to return
to Dover.
En route to Dover, ordered to Dunkirk.
30th May
0200ca(8) Dunkirk. Took in tow a broken down
"M.T.B." (3) which had been picking
up survivors of the .B/V. King Orry
(q.v.) which had sunk just about
that time. Vivacious sent a drifter
(evidently the Lord Grey) to pick
up survivors. Lord Grey transferred
the 10 she picked up to the
Vivacious. (5)
-
During the day 650 men were taken off
the beach.
-
On arrival at Dover, Lt. Cdr. Parish,
suffering from "overstrain", was
relieved by Cdr. Dechaineux.
650 troops were disembarked. (4)
31st May (6)
0530
Left Dover for Bray.
0700ca
Throughout Bray. the day sea and wind
see manuscript
conditions made embarkation difficult.
Air attacks were intermittent.
1500
Aircraft engagement. Two Spitfires
shot down and 2 enemy bombers. A
fifth plane was also shot down.
(1) Dates and times throughout Vivacious's report are mostly
(2) D.R. incorrect. states Vivacious shot down 2 A/C in Dunkirk roads on
(3) This was evidently D.C/M.B. (q.v.)
27th May.
(4)
D.R. gives 2 disembarkations on 30th, viz: 537 and 486.
(5)
See Lord Grey
(6)
Vivacious's report gives this as "30th May".
(7)
Vivacious's report gives this as "1030 on 27th May".
(8)
Vivacious's report states "Vivacious remained in Dover
Harbour until 0530 30th May".
285

Details

when in company with the drs Shikan and
Esk and the G.B. Mosquito a
VIVACIOUS (continued)
1700
By this time 175 British troops had
been evacuated.
1800
A
15 (including 3/00C)
/ She shore battery got Vivacious's range.
was hit and had/some casualties
and damage. She retired out of range.
31st/lst June
Throughout the night Vivacious
patrolled between La Panne and Bray.
1st June(1)
0530ca
R.A. Dover (in dr. Keith) ordered
Dunkirk. Vivacious to embark troops from
0610
Whilst waiting to enter the harbour
Vivacious was dive-bombed.
0630
Alongside Dunkirk.
0645
650 troops had been embarked. Proceeded
stet
HAT.
0915
Dover. Disembarked 650 troops. (2).
2nd June
1800
Left Dover with Capt. Dangerfield on
board to escort the 3 blockships
"Westgrove" (4), Edvard Nissen and
Holland.
2030
Vivacious leading the blockships, with
n
M.T.B.107 in tow, and M.A/S.B. No.
in company sai led from the Downs
and proceeded for Dunkirk by Z route.
3rd June
0220
Off Dunkirk.
0230
Capt. Dangerfield embarked in M.T.B.107
and proceeded to Dunkirk. The block-
ships were anchored.
0245
Blockships weighed and proceeded with
the intention of blocking the channel.
The Holland, lastin the line, was
rammed and sunk about 5 miles west
of Dunkirk. (3)
0300
Blockship Westcove entered Dunkirk.
0310
Edvard Nissen entered Dunkirk.
the block was not complete ...
[access] to the docks was still
possible" (5)
0320ca
M.A/S.B. No.7 and M.T.B.107 brought off
the crews of the blockships to
Vivacious, which had in the meantime
moved 3 miles to the westward.
0350
Shore batteries to the eastward open
fire on Vivacious. Proceeded.
0630
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 38 men. (6)
4th June
1145
Sailed for Portsmouth, dr. Icarus in
company. (7)
1830
Both ships arrived Portsmouth.
1999
Authority - R.O.I. p.161
Total 2206
(1) Vivacious's report gives this date as 31st May.
(2) D.R. gives 427 troops.
(3) Vivacious's report.
(4) Vivacious's report. This is an error for Westcove. A vessel
evidently an error derived from Vivacious's report; she
named "Westgrove" is included in D.R's list of ships,
is not in Lloyds Register.
(5) Vivacious's report.
(6) Evidently the blockship's crews. Recorded in D.R. as if
(7) D.R. states were that Vivacious disembarked 463 troops on 4th June.
they "troops".
(8) D.R. makes the total 2,612.
286

Details

VIVACIOUS (continued).
The following awards were made:
Lieut. F.P. Baker, R.N.
D.S.C.
D.S.M. P.O. E.R. Meredith.
sto. J.J. Williamson.
Mention in Despatches.
s/Lieut.
J.T. Gilhespy, R.N.
Commd. Engr.
J.G. Revolta, R.N.
Ch. Sto.
C. Tanner.
E.R.A.3rd Cl.
C.E. Strugnell.
P.O.
W. Flint.
P.O.
R. Ford.
Actg. Yeo.Sigs.
J.T. Loynes.
P.O.Tel.
A.W. Bennett.
S.B.A.
J.T. Tomlinson, R.N.A.S. B.R.
a
to
287

Details

Blockship
WESTCOVE
2010
Sailed and other from the Downs, Vivacious lead-
Ltd.Cdr. A.M. McKillop, R.N.
2nd June
blockships in company.
0215
3rd June
Anchored No. 16 W off buoy. Dunkirk to the west of
0240
0300
Weighed and proceeded.
Passed western between Dunkirk eastern
into the outer breakwater and proceeded. and
inner harbour.
channel leading to the
When in her allotted position,
Westcove put her wheel hard
astarboard, to ram the inner west
pier. Her bows struck mud about 50
feet from the pier, with the ship
about 30° across the channel. This
angle was increased to 50° by going
full ahead on the engines.
The Edvard Nissen which was following
with the intention of ramming the east
breakwater, endeavoured to strike
Westcove's stern a glancing blow so
as to increase her angle to the
Channel before she was scuttled. The
strength of the current was under-
estimated however, and the Nissen
passed close under Westcove's stern,
heading for the east breakwater.
Westcove then fired her scuttling
charges, which, probably owing to coal
gas in the bunkers, caused a large
column of flame and smoke to cover
the ship's stern. When this had
cleared, and the boat with the crew
on board had pulled clear, it was
seen that Westcove had slid off the
sloping bank of the channel; she was
lying on an even keel in the line of
causing a minimum of obstruction.
the piers, almost in midstream thus
The crew embarked in M.A/S.B.7.
Authority - M.011431/40.
The following awards were made:
Mention Lt. in Despatches.
C.E.R.A. W.H. Pryor.
Cdr. A.M. McKillop, R.N.
306

Details

WOLSEY
(L.02)
Attached Dover Command Lt. Cdr. C.H. Campbell,
31st
1930
26th May
Left link Dover ship. for Dunkirk to act as W/T R.N.
2350
Secured to Felix Faure jetty, Dunkirk.
0530
27th May
Shifted to berth to allow troop
anchorage. come alongside Wolsey under transports way in
0700
0930
Berthed alongside east pier.
Air raid, and water getting shallow, so
removed grounded. to anchorage; propellers
1030
Hauled off by French tug and proceeded
to anchorage, where Wolsey remained
for the rest of the day. She was
bombed 6 times.
1800
The dr. Wolfhound arrived and secured
alongside east quay of tidal harbour.
1910
Wolsey and Wolfhound subsequently
anchored as close to the eastern
beaches as possible and embarked
troops.
2005
S.N.O. Dunkirk reported to V.A. Dover
that the bombing made it impracticable
to use a destroyer as a W/T link.
28th May
0100
Both destroyers sailed for Dover.
0330
Arrived Dover. Wolsey disembarked
206 troops.
1850
Wolsey to Braye-Dunes by Y route.
2300
Braye-Dunes. Lowered boats and embarked
troops.
29th May
0400
Sailed for Dover with 500 troops.
-
Dover. Disembarked 500 troops. (1)
1100
Ordered, in company with the drs.
Vivacious and Vimy, to Sheerness.
1830
Sailed from Sheerness for "operation
F.D." Operation F.D. cancelled.
Wolsey returned to Dover.
30th May
0615
Left Dover for Dunkirk.
0915
Secured alongside east pier Dunkirk.
Returned to Dover. Disembarked 608
Embarked about 800 troops.
-
troops. (2)
1525
Sailed for Dunkirk.
1825ca
Arrived Dunkirk. Secured to east pier.
Arrived Dover. Disembarked 1065
Embarked 1060 troops.
2235
troops. (2)
31st May
0600
Left Dover for Braye-Dunes by route X,
0703
In carrying collision medical with the stores. P/V Roebuck, only
0930c
Proceeded slight dalongeide esst pier R.A.M.C. Dunkirk,
and disembarked
and the medical stores.
(1) Not mentioned however, troops, D.R. the latiptscript states
of that which Wolsey made in D.R. 3 is of probably
(2) D.R. for 400 and was should of "4 have been 29th.
333

Details

Page 34.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
O.M.S.
VIVACIOUS.
must Lieutenant-Commander Frank Reginald Woodbine
Parish, 27th - p.m. 29th May.
Commander Emile Frank Varlaine Dechaineux, R.A.N.
p.m. 29th and after.
VIVACIOUS made 4 trips to the beaches, remaining off
Bray for 24 hours on the 30th and 31st May and bringing hone
a total of 2381 troops. On the night of 2nd/3rd June she
crews. escorted the blockships to Dunkirk and brought back their
On the 27th May she was heavily attacked whilst on
passage by 25 aircraft, at least 100 bombs being dropped.
She avoided all these and brought down 2 bombers, a 3rd
being damaged but not seen to crash.
P.M. 29th Lieutenant Commander Parish was sent on sick
leave due to overstrain and was relieved by Commander
Dechaineux, R.A.N.
At 1800/30 a battery East of Bray, which had carried
out desultory and inaccurate fire on the anchorage all the
afternoon, commenced a controlled and accurate fire on
VIVACIOUS who was hit on the forecastle (3 killed and 12
wounded) and had many holes on the water line from shrapne..,
and Commander Dechaineux ordered a retirement of ship to
the westward out of range.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Francis Peter Baker. R.N.
Was wounded in the leg and in spite of wounds
carried on his duties as 1st Lieutenant and after
control officer for eight hours before being attended
to.
Recommended for decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Teague Gilhespy, R.N.
Carried out his duties of Gunnery Control officer
in a most efficient manner and succeeded in shooting
down three enemy planes.
Recommended for mention.
Mr. John George Revolta, Commissioned Engineer.
Throughout the whole operation kept his engine
room in an efficient state and was an example of how
an officer should behave under fire.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Petty Officer E. R. Meredith, P/J.95625.
During He acted in an outstanding under
the operations was Chief Bosun's Mate
manner and Director and was Layer. an example to all whilst severe
bombing attacks.
Recommended for decoration

Details

Page 35
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS (continued).
Stoker J. J. Williamson, P/KX.76409.
Took charge of a private boat and succeeded in
rescuing a large number of military personnel, showing
an example of coolness and initiative to all.
Recommended for decoration.
The following ratings were outstanding throughout
the operations for their initiative and zeal whilst
under very difficult conditions, due to air attack
and are -
Recommended for mention.
Petty Officer W. Flint, P/JX. 126621, Gunner's Mate.
E.R.A. C. E. Strugnell, P/MX.47645.
Chief Stoker Charles Tanner, P/K.58508.
Sick Berth Attendant J. T. Tomlinson, P/X.6941.
Acting Petty Officer Ronald Ford, P/J.106208.
Petty Officer Telegraphist A. Bennet, P/JX.126535.
Acting Yeoman J. T. Loynes, P/JX. 129983.

Details

Page 2.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'
DESTROYERS.
H.M.S. GRAFTON.
Officers:
Lieutenant Hugh Charles James McRea, R.N.
Lieutenant Leslie Edney Blackmore, R.N.
H.M.S. GRENADE.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Richard Courtney Boyle, R.N.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant John Bremer Richards Horne, R.N.
H.M.S. IMPULSIVE.
Officer.
Lieutenant Commander John David Lewis Williams, R.N.
H.M.S. JAGUAR.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander John Franklin William Hine, R.N.
H.M.S. JAVELIN.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Anthony Follett Pugsley, R.N.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant James Isaac Arthur Mitchell, R.N.
Ratings.
Leading Stoker Leslie A. F. Gollop, P/JX.136910
Acting Leading Stoker F. C. Smith, P/JX.138236.
Leading Stoker Robert Keith, P/K.57158.
Stoker Lawrence Robinson, (2nd Class) P/JX.27218.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Emile Frank Narlaine Deschaineux, R.A.N.
Officers.
Lieutenant Commander Frank Reginald Woodbine Parish, R.N.
Sub. Lieutenant Thomas Keath Metcalfe, R.N.R.
Midshipman Rupert Blackwood Hallowes, R.N.R.
H.MS. WAKEFUL

Details

(1977) (Wt. 26777/4432 50M 10/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
4
Register No.
DSC e
Minute Sheet No.
Lieutenant Jan Nagle Douglas Cox, R.N. (First Lieutenant),
H.M.S. MALCOLM.
Commissioned Engineer, Reginald Thomas Jones AR.N., H.M.S.
Midshipman Malcolm John Ball, R.N.R., H.M.S. SABRE. SCIMITAR.
Lieutenant Commander Hugh Nicholas Aubyn Richardson, R.N.,
H.M.S. SHIKARI.
Lieutenant Adrian Paul Wilbraham Northey, R.N., H.M.S. VIMY.
Lieutenant Francis Peter Baker, R.N., H.M.S. VIVACIOUS.
Lieutenant Commander William Alan Frank Hawkins, R.N.,
H.M.S. WINCHELSEA.
Mr. Frederick William Benoy, Gunner, R.N., H.M.S. WOLSEY.
Lieutenant Frederick Greville Woods, R.N., H.M.S. WORCESTER.
Lieutenant Commander Colin Henry Corbet-Singleton, R.N.,
H.M.S. ALBURY.
Midshipman Ian Kinloch Bryce, R.N.R., H.M.S. FITZROY.
Commander Michael Anthony Ormus Biddulph, R.N., H.M.S.
GLENGOWER.
Sub-Lieutenant John Francis Worthington, R.N.V.R.,
H.M.S. HALCYON.
x
Lieutenant Alfred Thomas Cook, R.N.R., H.M.S. MEDWAY QUEEN.
Sub-Lieutenant John David Greaves, R.N.R., H.M.S. MEDWAY
S
QUEEN.
Lieutenant Robert Peverell Hichens, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. NIGER.
Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. PRINCESS
ELIZABETH.
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant James Tomkin, R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
PRINCESS ELIZABETH.
Lieutenant Kenneth Arthur Gadd, R.N.R., H.M.S. ROSS.
Mm
Commissioned Engineer Thomas Kirby Reynolds R.N., H.M.S.
SALAMANDER.
S
Lieutenant Robert Archibald Vallings, R.N.R., H.M.S.
SPEEDWELL.
VX Sub-Lieutenant William Geoffrey Hewitt, R.N.V.R.,
H.M.S. SUTTON.
Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.N., H.M.S. BIDEFORD.
Commanded
Lieutenant,Ackroyd Norman Palliser Costobadie, R.N., H.M.S.
LOCUST.
X
Lieutenant Denis Harold Palmer Gardiner, R.N., H.M.S.
MOSQUITO.
X Probationary Sub-Lieutenant Eric Sidney Flint, R.N.R.,
H.M.S. MOSQUITO.
xSub-Lieutenant Thomas Ellison Godman, R.N.V.R., H.M.Y.
SERIOLA.
VX Skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., W.S.3319, H.M.Drifter THE BOYS.
XV Skipper Herbert Holden, R.N.R., W.S.3432, H.M.Drifter MIDAS.
Lieutenant Joseph Cox, R.N.R., Unit Officer of Drifters.
Lieutenant Tom Preston Graham, R.N.R., Unit Officer Drifters. of

Details

DSm
Stoker F. Tyler, P/K. 61614, H.M.S. SCIMITAR.
Leading Stoker Alfred Browne, D/KX. 81441,
vv
Ordinary Seaman George Park, D/JX.
Signalman William Hicks,
Chief Engine Room Artificer Francis
Leading Seaman James David Oliver Anderson, Paget, P/JX.
VLeading Petty Petty Officer Officer Seaman E.R. Frederick Meredith, Martindale, P/J.95625, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS VIMY
Stoker J.J. Williamson, P/KX.76409, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Leading
Petty Officer Seaman Cecil Walter Kenneth George Souster, Harold
/Engine Room Artificer 4th Class Joseph
57728,
Acting Leading Seaman Dennis Phillip Arthur Gilbert,
C/JX.151519, H.M.S. WOLSEY
Telegraphist Joseph Graham, P/SSX.17539, H.M.S. WOLSEY
/Electrical Leading Seaman Artificer John William Kenneth Simpson, C/MX.45564, H.M.S. WOLSEY
Flattery, P/JX.131896, H.M.S.
Chief Engine Room Artificer Sidney Arthur Wilkins, WORCESTER P/M.18465,
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, JX. 129206,
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Chief Petty Officer Frank Withington, J. 8739, H.M.S. WORCESTER
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Acting Leading Stoker F. Putt, 84370, H.M.S. ALBURY
Canteen Manager A. Harris, H.M.S. ALBURY
Able Seaman W.T. Elmslie, D/RHRY. 19014, H.M.S. DUNDALK
Signalman D. Minter, 155114, H.M.S. FITZROY
Signalman Frederick Froggatt, C/JX. 144084, H.M.S. FITZROY
Ordinary Seaman G.H. Hawkins, A.F.A., H.M.S. FITZROY
you
Stoker 1st Class W.A.W. Ward, C/KX. 97894, H.M.S. FITZROY
Able Seaman J. Fleming, D/JX.140199, H.M.S. GLENGOWER
Leading Seaman T. Neive, T.124, H.M.S. GLENGOWER
Assistant Cook (0) T.H. Ward, MX. 59579, H.M.S. GOSSAMER
Petty Officer Edward William Higgs, C/JX.133416, H.M.S.
Able Seaman Clarence Edward Jarmill, 95955,
GOSSAMER
Stoker Petty Officer John Henry Salmon, H.M.S. D/K. 66811, HALCYON H.M.S.
Chief Petty Officer Stanley Freeman Piggott, (O.B.E.), HALCYON
Chief Ordinary Seaman James Frederick P/J.15794, H.M.S. HEBE H.M.S. KELLET
Engine Room Artificer George Shirat, Bertram R.F.A., Head, P/M.34498,
Petty Petty Officer John Collins, H.M.S. LEDA
Petty Officer Henry McAllister, P/J.90457, H.M.S. LEDA
Officer Alfred Ernest Crossley, 23168, C/J.103237, H.M.S. H.M.S. MEDWAY QUER
Able Seaman Kenneth Roy Olly, R.N.R., C/X. 20348A,
MEDWAY QUEEN
Petty Leading Seaman Clive Frederick Maine Cooper, H.M.S. C/JX. MEDWAY 137062,
QUEE
Officer Henry George Coalbran, P/JX. H.M.S.
NIGER
Stoker Ernest Baker, T.124, H.M.S. H.M.S. PRINCESS PRINCESS 127274, PRINCESS ELIZABE ELIZABETH
Theo. Norman R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
Leading Engine Signalman Edward Charles Pasfield, Atkins, P/JX. H.M.S. 176952,
ROSS
Stoker Stoker Petty Room Artificer Officer T. C.H. Andrew, H.M.S. 152931, ROSSMAND SALAMA
Stoker 1st the H.M.S. H.M.S. SALAMANDER SALAMANDER H.M.S. SALTASH
Able Seaman H.J. D/JX. M.28768, 61034, H.M.S. H.M.S.

Details

iii) Wt. 20777/4432 50M 10/38 S.E.R. Ltd. Gp. 671.
Min Desp
Register No.
Minute Sheet No.
x
Ordinary Seaman Seaman Dominie Kenny, D/SSX.30221, H.M.S.
Ordinary William Lyons, D/SSX.30211, H.M.S. SHIKARI SHIKARI
Licutenant-Commander Conrad Byron Alers-Hankey, R.N.,
Lieutenant Reginald Noel Hankey, R.N., H.M.S. VANQUISHER
H.M.S. VANQUISHER
/Lieutenant Cecil William Clarence Checcucci, R.N.,
Chief Petty Officer Frederick Calvert, C/J.21929,
H.M.S. VANQUISHER
H.M.S. VANQUISHER
Stoker Petty Officer William King, C/K.53308, H.M.S. VANQUISHER
Petty Officer Charles Morrice, C/J.110582, H.M.S. VANQUISHER
Lieutenant-Commander John Edwin Home McBeath, R.N.,
H.M.S. VENOMOUS
Lieutenant Robert Andrew Morgan, R.N., H.M.S. VIMY
Leading Seaman Thomas Brewerton, P/JX.166128, H.M.S. VIMY
Leading Seaman Aubrey Robert Porter, P/J.64868, H.M.S. VIMY
Chief Stoker John Wattam, P/K.56834, H.M.S. VIMY
Stoker Joseph Samuel Comben, P/J.62149, H.M.S. VIMY
Sub-Lieutenant John Teague Gilhespy, R.N., H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Mr. John George Revolta, Commissioned Engineer,
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Petty Ufficer W. Flint, P/JX.126621, Gunners Mate,
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Engine Room Artificer C.E. Strugnell, P/MX.47645,
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Chief Stoker Charles Tanner, P/K.58508, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Sick Berth Attendant J.T. Tomlinson, P/X.6941, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Acting Petty Officer Ronald Ford, P/J.106208, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Petty Officer Telegraphist A. Bennet, P/JX.126535, H.M.S.
VIVACIOUS
Acting Yeoman J.T. Loynes, P/JX.129983, H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
Lieutenant-Commander Archibald Boyd Russell, R.N., H.M.S. WHITEHALI
Temporary Surgeon Lieutenant James Gorrie Brown, R.N.V.R.,
H.M.S. WHITEHALI
Chief Petty Officer Harold Methven Seabrook, D/J.43574,
H.M.S. WHITEHAL
/ Officers Steward, 1st Class William Smith, D/L.824,
H.M.S. WHITEHALL
1x
Chief Engine Room Artificer William Alfred Frederick Luke,
D/M.3704, H.M.S. WHITEHALL
Leading Telegraphist Wallace Eugene Breton, D/JX.135520,
H.M.S. WHITEHALL
Able Seaman George Frederick Sims, D/J.111898, H.M.S. WHITEHALL
Chief Petty Officer Rupert Armstrong, P/J.104917,
H.M.S. WINCHELSEA
Able Seaman Peter Frederick Byford, P/JX.135125,
H.M.S. WINCHELSEA
Chief Engine Room Artificer Cecil John Rhodes, P/M.28822,
H.M.S. WINCHELSEA
Lieut Commander Peter Douglas Herbert Raymond H.M.S. Pelly, WINDSOR R.N.,
Surgeon-Lieutenant Peter Neale Shutte, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. WINDSOR
Able Seaman Thomas William Neicho, C/SS.24676, H.M.S. H.M.S. WOLSEY
Able Fox, C/SSX.12148, H.M.S. WOLSEY
Leading Stoker Seaman Reginald Claude Gordon Jones, C/KX.92890, H.M.S. H.M.S. WOLSEY
Seaman George Leslie Williams, C/JX.128094, WOLSEY WOLSEY
Leading Seaman Cyril Frank Whitwell, R.N.V.R., P/MX.46507,
William Mackenzie, (LTO) C/J.101310, H.M.S. WORCESTER
Engine Surgeon Room Lieutenant Artificer 2nd Class Ronald W. Brenton, H.M.S. WORCESTER
VPetty Officer Lawrence Motteram, P/JX.129270, Gunner's H.M.S. Mate,
WORCESTER
*
Petty Officer Benjamin Matthews, J.3593, Coxswain, H.M.S.
WORCESTER

Details

163
SCIMITAR REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS
168
PAGE 2
*
The reasons for this collision and as report on the damage
sustained have been more fully reported to Capatin (D) 16.
8. I arrived at Dunkirk at about 1300/31 and was
ordered to go to Bray beaches. I spent this afternoon and evening
in company with "Vivacious" and "Shikari" off Bray under inter-
mittent bombardment and bombing during which no damage was
sustained. During one bombing attack at sbout 1700(?) an aircraft
was shot down; it is thought that this was from "Scimitar's" A
gun. I myself was watching A gun bursts, which appeared close to
the target and at the moment the aircraft caught fire a burst
from A gun appeared nearly in line. The aircraft fell in the sea
and was obviously a total loss. During this period no troops
were embarked as I had no boats and no other boats come near.
There seemed to be trouble in embarking due to choppy water.
9. At nightfall/31 the weather improved and troops
were very quickly embarked, principally from the "skoot" "Hilda"
which was doing excellent work. I sailed at about 2300 with
500 troops, proceeding at 8 knots. During the passage numerous
aircraft were heard but no attacks were made. A slight collision
occurred with an unknown trawler, in which my port propellor
guard was damaged. I arrived at Dover at about 0600/1 and after
disembarking troops proceeded to oil. A further examination of
the damage was made.
100 At 1000/1 I was ready and was orderedato proceer
to Dunkirk again, but when near the North Goodwin L.V. I was
ordered to return. At this time I had just sighted Prague in
difficulties 80 I went to his assistance. Re asked me to take
some of his troops 80 I went alongside while under way and
embarked 500. I then stood by while he proceede through the Downs
and at about 1530/1 I arrived at Dover and disembarked troops
subsequently proceeding to a buoy.
11. At 0600/2 I proceeded to Sheerneas to
disembark ammunition, thence to London for repairs by Messrs
Harland and Wolff. Repairs are expected to take 14 days.
12. "Soimitar" being short handed compared to other
destroyers, all ratings had to work very hard and it was noteworthy
that Engine room ratings not only steamed the ship with full
also assisted on deak in embarkation etc. Nearly all seamen took
efficiency and took their place at ammunition supply parties, but
part as boat's crews at one time or another, using skill and
determintion inxtrying conditions. The following are considered
Midshipman M.J.BALL R.N.R.,.for taking adminate charge with of the boats
particularly worthy of mention or award.
in bombing etc. for & day ship
absent.
A.B.
P/J
96339.
for taking charge of his gun's crew
G.PASMORE
well, and skill in shooting down an enemy
P/K 61614 aircraft For long and untiring it work as driver
Stoker in TYLER the motor and keeping running nearly
continuously for 3 days.
I have the honour to be
Sir
The Vice Admiral
your obedient servent
DOVER
Two copies to
Strants
The Captain (D)
16th D.F.
Lieutenant in Command
ADMIRAL
9-JUN 1940
DOVER

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
Dyramo 140. 2535
269 2
6th June, 1040.
252
CONFIDENTIAL
Dynama,
FROM
shalls Comminding Officer
The Extended Defences Officer,
Hreating his ship unice
Sheerness.
DATE
7th June 1940.
MAIN For coolness
Insurancive energy and
SECRET
Drynams 13%
965
COMMANDING OFFICER,
DEFENCES OFFICER,
H.M.Y. GLALA.
ADMIRALTY SHEERNESS. HOUSE,
4th June, 1940.
Siro
I have the honour to report that having received orders, I
proceeded from Sheerness in conjunction with three other Yeahte:
at 1930 on Thursday 30th May, 1940.
Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North
Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable to contact the
Examination Tug the Yacht "ChristobellII", the senior ship
ordered us to anchor. ,
At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer I weighed that and he
was closed to and entered Amulree" unable at Shortly the Dunkirk Tugo to before and proceed 'Roads' Having "Caleta" eleven owing received about and the to 11300 we French engine proceeded orders anchored No Coast trouble, from steamed by off was her route so the eighted along I beach delivered "X", the and 3 coast miles we tow then
East of about 1230, "Golden Bagle" to us to close She asked when us to this
WBC halers which were full 02 could be of assistance, but
wo Dunkirk, signalled soldiers alongaide and she
replied completed that she we was asked alright if we and that we could be of more use
further alongo
Off "Venomous" called us up and alose informed to the us
her motor La boat Panne had H.M.S. broken down inshore. transports, No went and having
49
piero We contacted As securing were allowed all 01 then she towing but ready which was went them alongside the now to nam was back way to boat go getting back constructed drift inshore. and to were took when we the to underway were informed it beach the filled. in we of beach left tow took Агщу and we completely that with At and and closed them this this returned abe anchored a as time single point had H.M.S. new close took three wird to with strand. our as "Vivacious" out the boats possible, steering and the on her destroyer. at intention It whaler. which that was and ropes
ly
moment impossible to Sclent continuously the bombing became repair and intense. it shelling without make A which Captain for the had RaNa open been in sea going Yacht and No.1 all the 05
the
smaller Patrol power ordered lowed craft him outo

Details

rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
-
Page
3
401
kships and transferred to H:M. 2020 proceeded in two tow
.M. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
B., 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
rnand her large turning circle.
ay, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S.
KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
bed tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her
nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ct.
H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S.
rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had
eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107
ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in
ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
busly and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was
rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of
wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and
of accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S.
KARI" any M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining
t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover
ship had or already been observed, and it was now practically broad day-
pendently to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved no
at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered in and, the
vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having the sands faith
7 The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
he compass. North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
lay, 4th June.
At Dover.
esday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
B. 102.
eeded
ined
B.
107
was
ing a
were engaged 11 and P
busly
sep clear. After S"SHI
rieno
received crew frooz compa vrem
outside, thereafter takin We
bloor of the second ttendeafter
A/S. IVACIOUS" and Averir Dover
in oor
V wasriencedilty was experiesuvring
awckag, hech heavy wrecksility to June.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
COMMANDING OFFICER,
H.M.Y. "AMULREE"
137.
Extended Defences
OMMANDING OFFICER,
173
Officer,
2nd June, 1940.
GLALA.
164
Sheerhess.
Dynamd 138 163
June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that
Ereing in all respects ready for sea and
to engage the enemy we sailed fróm
g received orders, I
Sheerness at 1930 30th May, 1940 and
in three other Yachts
proceeded to the Downs for orders. We
anchored off North Goodwin Light Vessel
at about 0030 31st May and received
vicinity of the North
to contact the
routeing instructions at about 0530
when we proceeded by "X" route to La
the senior ship
Panne arriving about 1200. On arrival
we began to pick up and to tow out
Senior Officer that he
pontoons containing soldiers from the
ble, so I weighed and
beach to various destroyers and merchant
om her I delivered them
ships.
by route "X".
At 1500 when making fast two
It was sighted and we
pontoons in 2 fathoms the enemy began
teamed along the coast
shelling the beach and one shell burst
off the beach 3 miles
approximately 50 yards ahead distracting
She asked us to tow
the attention of the leadsman and
longside and when this
causing the ship to ground. We re-
assistance, but she
floated at 1700 and again got underway
could be of more use
under heavy gunfire. In all we towed
out 11 pontoons up to 1900.
a us up and informed us
At this time we received a signal
We went close to the
from Captain Howson R.N. (S.N.O.
ports, and having
Beaches) directing operation from No.
urned to the destroyer.
Yacht attached to Inner Hamble Patrol,
Lme took out her whaler.
to stand by him as his ship was making
H.M.S. "Vivacious" and
water through the stern gland.
had three boats which
close as possible,
chored with the intention
point our steering ropes
1 as
single strand. It was
t with ir it without completely new wire and at that
shell
and shelling which had been going on
tense. hie intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the
us to stored us to make for the open sea and all the
'ollowed t followed him out.
out 1
loated
nder he
of bombs 8'Q of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb fall
11
the only V, the only effect was to drag our stern down a few
he opened fife opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy
ier 17 *iy nier 17 we registered a direct hit with OUD Lewis gu
engine fird engine buret into flames and he crashed into the
ere also refere also firing I cannot claim this seroplane
nomise
iromised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
opened
all possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring to
17 we
bortunate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magaged
engine urst isur dinghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashore
also embark troops at approximately at 1750, this was ve
continued over.

Details

SECRET Дупашь COMMANDING 137.
EXTENDED ADMIRALITY DEFENCES HOUSE, OFFICER
OFFICER,
173
H.M.Y.
GLALA.
164
178.
SHEERNESS
4th June, 1940.
167
sir,
I have the honour to report that, having received orders, I
from Sheerness in conjunction th three other Yachts
Thursday 30th May, 1940.
Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North
Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable. to contact the
Examination to Tug anchor. , the Yacht "ChristobelkII", the senior ship
ordered
us
At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer that he
was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and
e
closed the Tug. Having received orders from her I delivered them
to "Amulree" and "Caleta" and we proceeded by, route "X".
Shortly before eleven the French Coast was sighted and we
my
d
entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast
and at about 1230, "Golden Eagle" anchored off the beach 3 miles
East of Dunkirk, signalled to us to close. She asked us to tow
d.
two whalers which were full of soldiers alongside and when this
was completed we asked if we could be of assistance, but she
replied that she was alright and that we could be of more use
to
further along.
he
Off La Panne H.M.S. "Venomous" called us up and informed us
her motor boat had broken down inshore. We went close to the
pier, which was constructed of Army transports, and having
irk.
contacted the boat took it in tow and returned to the destroyer.
We then went back to the beach and this time took out her whaler.
grees
As she was now getting underway we closed H.M.S. "Vivacious" and
st
securing alongside were informed that she had three boats which
to
were to inshore. We took them as close as possible,
he
allowed ready them to go drift to the beach and anchored with the intention
of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering It was ropes
all but and we were left with a single strand. that
impossible gave to way repair it without completely new wire and on at
of
and shelling which had been going
see
Moment the bombing became intense. À Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 all the of the
surf
Solent continuously Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and
and
that
smaller power craft followed him out.
hat
out
men,
d
art
ut
bombs fell across our stern the stern last down oomo a ralling few feet
about in the 30 water. ft away, We the opened only fire on this aeroplane direct hit which with was OUD Lewis
this time a salvo of effect was to drag our a heavy gun
bomber type Dornier 17 we burst registered into flames a and he this crashed aeroplane into the sea,
and as other his Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim
definitely. As I had promised to embark speed the hoping British to adrift troops find a which boat at Dunkirk we to magaged bring I them to
steamed off, we were back at fortunate all possible in finding immediately a Whaler sent these two boats this ashore was very
pick and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops I at approximately at 1750,
continued over

Details

- 2 -
39375
and troops owing owing to to the fact that the weather ship was conditions almost full, for small and boats, to 31/5
At the 1100, adverse I decided to discontinue embarking
proceed to Dover.
and at 1120, "Olvina" was under way.
"Sabre's" motorboat was handed over to "Vivacious"
Vessel, the "Viking", a diesel engined Thames barge, with 70
When between Dunkirk and North Goodwin Light
troops aboard, was taken in tow from "Dwarf" and brought into
Dover. Owing to delay outside the harbour, the troops were
not disembarked until 2200.
"Olvina" was revictualled and berthed alongside
Prince of Wales Pier by 0100/1 June.
On proceeding to the office of Captain Auxiliary
Patrol, I was informed that "Olvina" should not have gone to
Dunkirk, but should have been on A/S patrol. Accordingly, at
0820/1 June, "Olvina" proceeded to a patrol station 17 miles
NNW of Dunkirk, which was reached at 1125. At 1500, 70
survivors from "Basilisk" came alongside in a French fishing
boat, and at 1917 we went alongside "Whitehall" in Dover
harbour and disembarked them.
"Olvina" was in harbour during 2nd and 3rd June,
and on 4th June escorted "Bideford" to Portsmouth thout
incident.
I have the honour to be
Sir,
Your obedient servant
Sub Lt. R.N.V.R.
-II-
No. 1594/07.
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
P.R.T.S.
VICE ADMIRAL.
Portland.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
18th June, 1940
VICE ADMIRAL
20 JUN 1940
*
DOVER

Details

421
Note of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107.
31/V.
Left Felixstowe for Dover in company with 67 at
0500 arrived Dover a.m. Proceeded with 67, 1600,
for Dunkirk and La Panne to bring off Lord Gort.
On passage shelled by battery near Gravelines -
shooting not very accurate. Met "KEITH" near Dunkirk
RAD?
with V.A.D. on board, about 1800. Received order to
proceed to La Panne to ensure embarkation of naval
Ratings from shore. At La Panne recovered 3 ratings
from sea. Considerable shellfire at La Panne, some
being uncomfortably close. Continuous bombing of
beaches. Returned to Dover arriving about 2000 -
again shelled by Gravelines Battery 4d insccurate
in dusk.
I/VI.
Embarked Admiral Hallet proceeded 1100 to patrol
transport line on Route from N. Goodwin L.V. to
Dunkirk. Relieved 1800 (approx.).
2/VI.
Proceeded with blocking expedition to Dunkirk leaving
at approx. 1900. In tow of "VIVACIOUS" until 2230
when tow slipped and embarked Capt. Dangerfield.
Proceeded to Dunkirk - entered harbour and proceeded
to Inner Harbour. Landed Capt. Dangerfield and
secured alongside E. Pier. Much shelling and bombing.
Re-embarked Capt. Dangerfield and left harbour,
thereafter searched for and found block-ships, giving
them instructions. Followed block-ships in after
all transports had left, at about 0330. Took off
crew of 1st Hockship and transferred to "VIVACIOUS"
lying west of harbour. Returned to harbour and
picked up remainder of crew of 2nd block-ship and
transferred to "VIVACIOUS". Thereafter proceeded
in company with "VIVACIOUS" to M.A.S.B. '07' to Dover.

Details

ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
457
Page
2
429
ckships "VIVACIOUS". and transferred 2230 to "VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru
om H. M. S. difficult by proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
H. S. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N. tow
rendered which had spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on
compass and never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
entered harbour cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. fter closing the block ships
llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
Cornand her large turning circle.
nday, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S.
SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
lipped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship S.S. Gourko to follow her
n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ffect. H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S.
Gourko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
nd secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
mbarked part of her ship's company. NXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107
reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had
emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in
etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being was
eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty of
xperienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence M.T.B.
or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and
07. wreck of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
he "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of
ack H.M.S. "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining
lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover
SHIKARI" of any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad day-
ight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and,
ndependently wing at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith
the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the
oodwins. a my I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
to regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands
rthe compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
uesday, 4th June.
At Dover.
ednesday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
.T.B. 102.

Details

Dynams so. O.D.
526
TO:
COMMANDER M/S.
N°6. 497
DATE: 6TH JUNE, 1940.
FROM: LIEUTENANT J.A. SIMSON R.N.V.R., H.M.S. "LORD GREY".
carried 29th/30th out May, 1940, at Dunkirk. under my command during the night of
I have by the the ships honour to report as follows on the operations
for Dunkirk orders to report on arrival to Captain Tennant. at 1615
H.M.T's with "Lord Grey" and "Clythness" left Dover
instead. signalled S. Foreland P.W.S.S. to use route "X" both we ways, were
Instructions from were to proceed by route "Y", but
We therefore proceeded by route "X" and arrived off
Dunkirk at 2300. The harbour was found on entering to be very
congested as a number of drifters were manoeuvring in the fair-
way and it was decided to lay off the entrance until it was
clear to proceed alongside the quay.
At 2330 we again entered the harbour and tied up along-
side the Eastern Jetty. Sub. Lieutenant Heckstall-Smith (Clythness)
and myself went along the quay in an effort to ascertain the
whereabouts of Captain Tennant, and the state of affairs inside
the harbour. It was impossible to get far owing to the damaged
condition of the jetty and we therefore returned.
Considerable air activity and continuous bombing was
going on over the town, which was ablaze.
It was decided to keep the ships moored alongside in such
a way that they could slip at a moment's notice, and to await dawn
before going further in to the harbour.
A number of rifles and a Bren gun found on the quay were
put aboard "Lord Grey".
At 0210 on the 30th May, cries for help were heard out-
side the harbour and both ships instantly left to investigate. It
was found that H.M.S. "King Orry" had sunk on leaving the harbour.
Ships' boats were launched and "Lord Grey" rescued ten men,
"Clythness" four. "Lord Grey" transferred her survivors to H.M.S.
"Vivacious", and was ordered by the Commander to return to harbour,
and if possible embark troops for transfer to his ship. "Clythness"
was signalled accordingly and both ships proceeded back to Dunkirk
harbour, and as it was now light it was possible to reach the
Southern end of the quay.
On arrival 0410 - I reported to S.N.O - Captain Tennant
was not then available - and was ordered to embark troops for
transfer to a destroyer and then to carry out "LL" sweep in a
N. Easterly direction from the harbour.
Troops were accordingly embarked - "Clythness" 300 (approx)
"Lord Grey" 350 - and were transferred at 0515 to the destroyer
"Whitehall".
"Clythness" signalled that her dynamo In was these not
working circumstances and her a signal was passed to S.N.O. and
At 0605 D/G gear was consequently useless. fresh orders
requested.
(Contd. over).

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkirs approximately by shortest
Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Candr. Dennis Canalet. staff of
Cleared ORRY. Fouled perews on submerged up 11
from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked S.O.N.T.B's, survisors
0300. from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine Thursday, towed in 30th, and started.
accepted screws. tow Engines wouldwetart. 0200, wreekage.
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. 0100. Completed
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunision
Engines most unsatisfactory
Tel. Hii. 3211 306 Broan Rill Road 7
Calford, 571
X
12-6-40
London S.E.G.
Dear Sity Herewite a rough report of part
them by "ot Fagur in evacuating time of Dunkish
not much I'm afraid but you will note that
had did bring back the Company
1- think this is what in callul for by
C.P.G.O. 1700 Could you please have + typet
and made to look presentable
EXCELLENT
your
JUN 1940
NHALE IRLAND
It. Ch.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
6
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. (Commander Low water Dunkirk approximately by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff of
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
Engines most ungeti
H. M.S. EXCELLENT 608
PORTSMOUTH
12-6-40572
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
have the know to render the following report, in
accurdance with Confidential Portsmouth General Order ho.1700,
of first taken by H.h. Tug "SiFagan" in evacuation of BEF.
0708 (APPROX) FRIDAY "MAY - Orders received from P.A. Donn to take
from Dunkish.
three Thomes Saiting Barges in togo and proceed a to Duratish
stretch of heach east of Sunkirk where Barges were to he
beached to act as embarRation Pontouns for BEF.
Two suffied these Darges undere filted with ausectling engines.
taking they in low.
instructed to proceed actside Harbuur to facilitate
I them them with necessary towing Rawson and this
0830 (APPROX.) the 1 Procuded outside hurhum and took Banges in
third tow length of tow from how of stragan" to stery
to the Bange being approve 200 fathous, 1 Rausess of Rad
1000 Sands. an Processed speed with tow vip channel through Gooduria
not (APRROX) strong secured enough to for masts towing of Banges as other fittings were
1115 channel opprose. by as (APPROX.) tar Destroyers at Rad average arrived to. and to 12 be W then at Bary nursed "w" vissels of Bury as 5 constantly Kurts instructed passing and mg Course at through a Could high was 4 speed. the set made wash to good enter caused
the some the essential, marks mumeries mish Hrikension after High that dark, sandbanks faccepted Water sheed draught was Junkiok an felt north it of of was en ship of not this being date affreace. was distance and that at the 14feet, 2105 on of luck 7₫ one and meles but of of
300 directive owing (APPROX) to turnerds - amind Dumkish in was Channel reduced / could and recognised, on proceeded nearing proced in the an at stad Easterly was
defficulty of avoiding the memoran only whichs slow with sheed the

Details

CONFIDENCIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
$
H.M. D/C motor OPERATIONAL boat under DYNAMO.
Wednesday, possible route 29th over May, shallow 1940. At 2100 my sailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkir's approximately by shortest
Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Commar. Casalet. staff of
from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked Dennis 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
Cleared screws. ORRY. Fouled porews on submerged up
accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, weekage. 30th,
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed In and started.
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots the to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat
of Flag Officer, Dover for
Engines most
609
lay withs tow were and fould the in numerous the 2 darkness Jush on having three in occasions, the Channel, and 573
the must of third lighter was camisdaway.
30 Saturday "June- Harbour alroam, further Cantine Rad
to be exercised as no chart uses mailable for Channel East
of Dunkink, direction being obtained by haiting following
passing Vessels.
(affrom) Received
0230 (approse.) 1 my Coeswain Petty officer BASTABLE- volunteered
to take the shiff ashare, taking ABLE SEAMAN NEALE, to
this I shiff was lumored and sent in.
investigate suitable hosition for hearting the Banges, and
0300 Capture.) - Received signal from Beach requesting boat to
take off British Soldiers, and decided to heart the &
Barger using one with awaithing enginer to fatch of the
to Lightermen and as many troops as we Could camey and
small engines- - the Lighterman to return in own
on finally its own beach third tighter Barge by sending it in
was Thingly my estimated position at this time
3 mids East of Dunkish.
Banges to the were Lightermen. hanled claim to shih and instructions given
0340 without (apparme) - Barger slipped, and am with took the are
bow engain in - heard tow and went a head engines to hass rund
1355 (approse.) sunk I with Aircraft in a By very ese plasion short and hund, occurred / found and the myself ship callupsed in the water and mg
one of which my and Telegraph near the two
P.H& was and suring the sinday slowly, Barge 1 these out were reached Barges with
contacted my Criswain in the skiff Rad adrift landed
officer sent a party two of British Trans whose and
Corporals with him Quanding to organing

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
8
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived Dunkirk at Dover Deme
possible least depth over shallow minefield. Low water by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Commdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
0100, over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, approximately staff of
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled porews on suimerged wreokage.
Cleared screws. Engines Wouldwetart. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towad In and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. ohoo. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
574610 610
Engines most
thin disposition and 3 to me guide that the he Banges. had amroal occumed, appose. also
of Operamin later informed the ship when the explosion and that
that bout eschlosion affeared to 8° drawn the Funnel of shih.
venty yards from was Caused by a bouth from aircraft, He then
of woulded the twenty. officir and Ships Company, two officis and
to pick up survivors,
the ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown Boats:
and an stoker were wounded.
In addition to the seventeen maral ratings lat them was one
initian who had Come on board from one of the Barges.
a complete list of survivors and ratings lost, including this
when together with the two Antorals, were later friked hh
Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste
by I & passing hig filled with troops and landed at Ramsgutes
Bastable Consider the murked zeal and initiating of Patty officer
worthy of special commundation
I have the hunnur * h
your Obedint Servant
il Coptain
H.m.S Emallent
Luit. Canth
Portsmonth

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
H.M. D/C motor boat under
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
8
Wednesday, possible route 29th May, 1940. At 2100 my sailed command arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over over shallow minefield. Low for Dunkirk by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, mines 6 feet. (Commander water approximately
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dover and Dunkirk. Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Casalet, S.O.M.T.B's, staff or
from Cleared H.M.S. screws. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged Picked up 11 survisors
accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. in Completed and started.
Proceeded H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed 30th,
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low
bombing casualties. attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, level
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunsire
Engines most unsatisfactory.
LD
574 610
thin disposition and 3 to guide the Banges.
of Occarin later informed me that he had amount approve.
venty yards from the ship when the exchlosion occurred. also
that escplosion was Caused by a bouth from aircraft and that
the brub affeared to 80 down the Funnel of shih. He then
worlded to pick up survivors,
of the twenty-f officis and Ships Company, two offices and
bese ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown
and are stoker were wounded.
In initian addition to the seventeen maral ratings last them was one
a who had Come on board from one of the Banges.
whom, together with the two Cartorals, were later fried hh
Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste
complete list of surverois and ratings lost, including this
by & passing tig filled with troops and landed at Ramsynts
Bastable worthy of special commundation
I Consider the musked zeal and initiation of Patty officer
I have the honour * &
your Obedint Servant
The Captain
Luit. Cand
ces
H.m.S Emallent
Portsmouth

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Page 1 of
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
H.M. D/C motor boat under my command arrived at Dover p.m.
Wednesday, 29th May, 1940. At 2100 sailed for Dunkirk by shortest
over shallow minefield. Low water approximately
over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously
on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to
harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still
unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat
should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received
to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for
duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
CONFIDENTIAL.
575
Subject.
OPERATIONS OFF THE BELGIAN COAST.
From.
The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
Date.
14th June, 1940.
as
To
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
a
In accordance with C.P.G.O. 1700, the report on
operation DYNAMO is forwarded.
)
lle)
Lieutenant in Command.
ted
utes
ans
ficer
from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 lifeboats survivors spoke tow.
(hospital ship). Picked up wounded and took men in from
wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow.
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to
(Continued.
)
psh.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m.
possible 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 Low water Dunkirk by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, feet. (Commander approximately
Cleared screws. Fouled screws on submerged
from Dover H.M.S. KING ORRY. Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
on board). 2300 Dover and Lieut. Crundr. Dennis Casalet, staff of
accepted Proceeded to H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in 30th, and started.
tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage,
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously
on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to
harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still
unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat
should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received
to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for
duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle assumed command of 40 ft.
ships fast motor boat and manned it with:-
Petty Officer John Luckins. P/J 103170, coxswain of the D/C
motor boat (as coxswain).
A.B. Alfred J. Cole P/JX 129800 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT) (as Lewis
Gunner).
and Stoker W.M. Wells R.F.R. P/85.125744 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT).
These men all volunteered to accompany Lieutenant
Hamilton Meikle, and it was with difficulty that he could persuade
them that orders were necessary before proceeding immediately to
Dunkirk. The boat was capable of 20 knots and one stripped Lewis
gun was transferred to her from H.M. D/C(boat, MORE the other gun being
in Lieutenant Mead's lifeboat.
Saturday, 1st June.
40 ft. motor boat assisted M.T.B. 107 (Commodore Hallet)
in regulating rescue traffic to and from Dunkirk.
Sunday, 2nd June.
motor boat escorted M.A.S.B. Continued 10 (Admiral towards Somerville)
but 40 ft. due to discrepancy in speed. 1900.
Dunkirk to see aircraft attacking hospital approximately 12
lost touch if boat was required for any purpose. ship. Proceeded Sighted
formation of enemy 1910 Air attack. Duration All petrol minutes. cans
87215 to assistance. dive-bombing and machine günning. Between spare 30-40 M/G
pierced and near 1930. Took offices
JU 97's and miss bomb strained boat. off Captain and some
from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 survivors tow.
bullet holes, no (hospital casualties. ship). Picked lifeboats up wounded and took men in from
wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow. spoke
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to
(Continued

Details

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

Details

APPENDIX I.
160
to
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
162
LIST OF H.M. SHIPS, PERSONNEL SHIPS AND HOSPITAL CARRIERS
TAKING. PART.
A.A. CRUISER: CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS:
ANTHONY HARVESTER MALCOLM VIVACIOUS
161
159
CONFIDENTIAL.
Page 40
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
Inshore Flotillas and Naval Shore Parties (continued).
June 1st, noon. Dunkirk East Beach.
"Conditions other than state of the sea, which was
good, were shocking. The German planes were flying low and
using machine guns. Operation delayed as great difficulty
was experienced persuading some of the French to embark.
So far as I could understand their units were incomplete,
and they were unwilling that part of a unit should embark
without the rest. At one point on the beach there were
at least 2,000 men, none of whom would embark."
Monday, 3rd June. Dunkirk East Pier. 0045.
"There were no troops on the jetty so I went to the
inner end. There I found a French Colonel with about 3,000
men waiting to be told where to go. I had to stand at the
end telling them that their Colonel was in my ship before
they would follow."
ARTLETT
LA DORADO
RINGIA
STELLA
OLVES
OLVINA
ffice of
Flag Officer Commanding,
MIN
SILVER DAWN
Dover.
DRI
June, 1940.

Details

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

Details

Details

Details

Details

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

Details

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
APPENDIX. VI.
179
to
Operation "DYNAMO" - Narrative of Events.
177
5
Enemy aircraft destroyed by ships' fire.
Ship.
Locality.
Time.
Polish T.B.D. BLYSKAWICA
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
0315/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS
1130/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.S. WOLFHOUND
1140/27
Dunkirk Roads.
H.M.P.M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
1500/27
North Goodwin.
HcM.Sc MONTROSE
Dawn/28
Near Kwinte Buoy.
M.T.B. 16
1500/28
Bray.
1530/28
H.M.S. SABRE and other ships
Dunkirk Harbour.
1630/29
H.M.S. BIDEFORD
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. EXPRESS
Dunkirk Roads.
1700/29
H.M.S. MOSQUITO
Bray.
1900/29
S.S. LEVENWOOD (Store ship}
Bray.
S.S. LEVENWOOD ( - do
1210/31
Bray.
1220/31
H.M. Skoot AMAZONE
Dunkirk Roads.
1440/31
H.M.S. HEBE
La Panne.
1700/31
af
H.M.S. SCIMITAR and other
ships
Bray.
1700/31
S.S. LADY OF MAN (Trassport) Dunkirk Roads.
1700/31
nd
H.M.Y. ARONIA
La Panne.
1830/31
H.M.S. WHITSHED
Dunkirk Roads.
1930/31
H.M.S. SALTASH
Bray.
2000/31
S.S. NEPHRITE (Store ship)
On Route X.
2030/31
H.M.Y. GRIVE
Dunkirk Roads.
2030/31
H.M.Y. ARONIA
Dunkirk Harbour.
0500/1
H.M.S. IVANHOE
La Panne.
0530/1
is
H.M.S. LYDD
Bray.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER
Dunkirk Harbour.
0600/1
H.M.S. HARVESTER and
other ships
Dunkirk Roads.
0610/1
H.M.Ships CODRINGTON,
3
HARVESTER and others
Off Gravelines.
0750/1
S
H.M.S. SKIPJACK
La Panne.
0900/1
H.M.S. MALLARD
On Route X.
1015/1
H.M.S. CALCUTTA
Between W and Y Buoys.
1020/1
H.M.P. M/S MEDWAY QUEEN
West of Dunkirk.
1600/1
H.M.Y. ALOUETTE
Off Gravelines.
1700/1
H.M.Y. CRISTOBEL II and
other ships
La Panne.
1730/1.
H.M.S. WORCESTER
Dunkirk Roads.
2000/1
TOTAL: 35 enemy aircraft definitely destroyed by ships'
gun fire between 0300/27 and 2000/1.
ery
In addition over the same period 21 others were heavily
damaged by ships' fire (and seen in distress but
NOT seen to crash definitely) of H.M. Ships HARVESTI
IVANHOE, VIVACIOUS, WINCHELSEA, WOLFHOUND, SABRE,
LOCUST, FITZROY, LYDD, MALLARD, MOSQUITO, WOLSEY,
EXPRESS, JAGUAR, GLEN AVON, ORIOLE, H.N.Y. ARONIA,
as
Storeship NEPHRITE and French M.T.B.24.
)p]
Note: On 30th May flying conditions were bad and few
enemy aircraft operated. After the 1st June
operations proceeded only between dusk and day.
i

Details

223
221
OPERATION "DYNAMO" - PRELIMINARY REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS FOR
Page 4.
PERIOD 30TH MAY - 1ST JUNE, 1940.
(Commandi ng Officer, H.M.S. "Keith's" No.4/32 of 15th June '40
41. During the hours between 2200 and midnight, several
enemy aircraft passed overhead and, as reported later, dropped
magnetic mines to the West of La Panne and off Braye.
La Panne anchorage was under shell fire from Nieuport of La
Caxide and this became more accurate as time passed.
"Vivacious" vas hit twice and proceeded to the Westward.
42. At 0030/1 June, "Kei th" weighed anchor and proceeded 1/6
at slow speed towards Braye, which the enemy artillery were
now reaching. At 0206, the ship was off Braye.
43. At 0510 ten enemy fighters fired on the shore
beaches and on "Keith" and other ships with bursts of machine
gun fire, which was inaccurate.
44. At 0520 shells from shore batteries again fell close
to the ship off Braye.
June
45. At 0555 onemy bomber aircraft were engaged with 4.7"
X
barrage and pom pom fire. Only two rounds of H.A. ammunition
now remained and about 100 rounds of pom pom.
46. At 0630 "Keith" was standing off between Braye and
La Panne superintending the departure of ships with men
collected from the beaches during the night.
47. At 0737, a very large number of enemy dive bombing,
heavy bombing and fighter aircraft were sighted approaching.
"Keith", circling rapidly round a wreck, was attacked by
Junker 87 dive bombers which carried out extremely vertical
dives and released five bombs each. The ship however was not
hit but a near miss, probably of a delayed action bomb,
jammed the steering gear.
The enemy were engaged with pom pom and lewis guns.
The ship manoeuvred by engines until shortly afterwards she
was under control in hand steering aft.
"Keith" continued to circle at speed as enemy aircraf
were continually in sight.
1/6, 0805
NOTE: Times from now forward cannot be vouched for.
48. At about 0805, further numerous dive bombing attacks
took place on "Keith", a salvo of which straddled the ship.
One bomb set No.2 boiler room on fire and caused severe
flooding there. Lieutenant (E) Kenward, Royal Navy, and the
boiler room's crew perished in this fire. The ship began to
list heavily to port until eventually her upper deck was touch:
ing the water.
The torpedoes were fired with no range on and depth
charges were set to safe and thrown or fired overboard due to
the danger from further aircraft attacks. The ship now had
no steam and had anchored.
49. An M.T.B. came alongside and took off Rear Admiral
Dover and his Staff.
undamaged
50. The Port whaler, the only/boat remaining, was lowered
and all carley floats secured to it. A considerable quantity
of timber was collected and thrown overboard.

Details

SECRET
34.
La
Panne
anchorage
was
Nieuport passed or La until Caxide the and town this and became under more shell fire
under time continuous shell and machine beach at
withdrawn from this gun
hit and proceeded to the westward.
troops were area. "Vivacious
proceeded now reaching. Braye, which the anch
35. At at 0030 slow speed on 1st towards June "Keith" weighed
at artillery 0206. were The ship arrived of
36. As dawn broke ships embarking men from
weighed anchor, the beach being clear to the eastwa th
before returning to England.
the ships proceeded towards Dunkirk to fill up with
37. At 0510 ten enemy fighters attacked the
"Keith" and other ships with bursts of machine gun
which were inaccurate but might have caused serious
to bridge personnel if pressed home.
38. Shells, apparently fired from shore batter
the eastward, again fell close to the ship at 0520
off Braye.
4.7" 39. barrage and pom-pom fire. This barrage was eff
At 0555 enemy bomber aircraft were engaged
and split the formation. A fuze setting of 18=4000
considered to be the shortest practical setting
than firing this be used the aircraft are above the
was at formations of aircraft. If a shorter elevation setti
the guns before they get into range.
0630 "Keith" was standing off between ships with
and collected La from the beaches during the night.
40. Panne From superintending the departure of
At 0737 a very large number dive
heavy 41. bomber and fighter round aircraft were vertical
"Keith" bombers circling which rapidly carried out extremely a no doubt that at the
releasing dive five as bombs 80° and each. that the There bombs is good are released as no with mass tar
was 900 is as feet. offered steep The and each flying pilot was delivered extremely was attack
able skill ammunition and dash. was The exhausted, enemy
normal. attack. effect effective gunners gun 42. until in All keeping The addition 3" 3" H.A.gun ammunition the to attackers the proved hit ship's was in this attack a beating but lineaused there
action several jamb 43. of bombs the steering very "Keith" eteering.gearterwards.com near across was misses the not after and one part of of these, the Fore as enemy was manoeuvrentro for
hand ship engines continued steering aft to by circle at high vouched
were in
(NOTE: continually Times from sight. now forward cannot .44. be At about

Details

259
131
- 4
King Ony
I found, however, that she was not at all handy on her
256
propellers, and whilst endeavouring to point her for the
channel she began to develop a list to starboard which
developed seriously. Water was reported entering the
stokehold and I sent the First Lieutenant to investigate.
Almost immediately, however, it became obvious that the
ship was sinking, and I ordered abandonment. Ship was
77
now clear of entrance over towards North side of channel.
Our one remaining available boat on starboard side
was turned out previous to this but was submerged as
ship heeled over. As we had two Carley floats and a
large number of rafts this was not a serious loss.
30/5
At about 0200, or shortly before, the ship foundered.
I was on the bridge and was joined by the Chief
Engineer, Mr. Cowley (Temp. Lieut. Engineer). The First
Lieutenant, Lieut. J. Lee, R.N.R., was attending to
abandonment generally.
The ship turned completely on her starboard side.
and I stepped into the water, being afloat near the
forward starboard hoat, now submerged. The Chief Engineer
was with me.
After and during the following hour several ships,
including H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and H.M. Drifter "LORD GREY",
picked up survivors, but I regret to report that two
Engineer Officers, T.124, and seven other ratings were
lost.
A complete readiness to carry out all orders was
shown throughout by all officers and ratings. Steam was
maintained in the engine room, and everything done to
find some means to repair the steering gear.
Fire from the 12 Pdr. H.A. gun and Lewis guns was
I
kept up throughout all attacks, and from my own
observation, one aircraft was damaged - a piece seeming
11-
to fall off.
As I was required for duty at Ramsgate on the
31st May and subsequent days, I have not been able to
Ph
report
thes:-
my king my :- one V.U and 4 Scandar wounded
hilditary
:- 4 knew killed / Officer and
nt men wounded.
tomage to the of was rus tained as follows
/. 55. coils severed
2. Two life loats badly holed
3- Boar back piered
4. are rentilator holed and Away
minor depects to wining etc

Details

8
300
KEITH'S I learnt boats he sent in, but Gort was not in 207 and
No one his staff: heavy air attack trips necessary time.
to bring off was in HEBE already. Three first boat
(21)
ships and was hit, though narrow escapes. Many during this on
increase beaches; HEBE shot down a Heinkel. attacks
(19)
of shell fire off Braye, where CLAN Great
was and a valuable decoy: she was hit and bombed MACALLISTER several times
blindly into this area, as shells fell near CLAN MACALLIS-
started burning again. Enemy guns seemed to be firing
TER but not among ships loading which were some inshore
of her. Later, these ships did come under fire, way and
VIVACIOUS was hit twice and had 11 casualties - 2-300
troops on board. Ordered her to go into Dunkerque and
fill up there.
Lees was Senior Staff Officer of H. Q. Staff, and I thought
it would be a good education for him to see something of
what the naval problem was, so I kept him on the bridge
with me. As Gort was in HEBE I felt he was safe, and as
HEBE was doing good work embarking troops I did not send
her back to Dover with him at once. Therein, perhaps, I
was wrong, as I had not realized the anxiety of Government
to have him safe and sound at home, but felt he would
1st
sooner the ship helped to bring off more men than he should
land a few hours earlier in England.
During the day made signal to all ships with instructions
for supporting fire against enemy tanks and lorries on the
beach. Critical place likely to be at La Panne after the
line was evacuated; intended to be there myself in KEITH
at daybreak next morning. Also kept BASILISK free of
(22) troops for same purpose.
1700
Weather improved gradually. Signal = "Weather off beaches
now good: many more boats should come into use again as
tide rises. General movement of troops westward towards
Dunkerque. No petrol supply yet and many boats getting
short off La Panne and Braye. Movement from Dunkerque
continues. Great air activity. "
1815
Drifters with petrol arrived.
After embarking H. Q. Staff I returned to Dunkerque and
found Wynne-Edwards had been doing good work. Saw for the
first time that strange procession of craft of all kinds
that has become famous - small motor yachts, motor launches
drifters, Dutch schuyts, Thames barges, fishing boats,
pleasure steamers, tugs towing dinghies, lifeboats and all
manner of pulling boats.
(20)
As tows of boats appeared they were told to which beach be
they should go; particularly anxious there should
sufficient at La Panne which was farthest off. Directed 10
miles up the coast; and as light was beginning the remaining to fail,
several tows to go on to La Panne, telling them it was
Motor I left and Wynne-Edwards went on up to in La a MA/SB Panne myself. to direct Off Panne Braye were I saw
tows I had feared - that tows ordered to La
stopping what at Braye: got there just in farther time to on. warn
CODRINGTON (off Braye) to send them
out to Lees how easy it was to talk about ten-mile distribu-
Pointed boats and craft at certain places along different a
ting of coast, but that it was a very craft which thing
stretch it done in practice, in the dark, by to help
to get not been there before and with no lights the first place them. they
had inevitable tendency was to stop assembled. at
The where other craft were
In the (on a his return to me at about off was La Panne.
came to end pretty fair distribution was 2230) made, and able Wynne- to
Edwards report that it was there this were evening a number that of I boats saw 2 would transports be bombed. go into
Dunkerque and out was just as it was getting from dark, that direction.
I think very nervous that they and shortly
They moved heard very heavy bombing aircraft attacking off
Actually, afterwards bombing was from our NOW own dark and I remained
batteries La Panne in down company the coast. with HEBE and several other Stayed ships.

Details

327
321
- 19 -
31/5
and bombed several times and started burning again. I got the impression
that these guns were firing blindly into this area, as sholls foll near the
Olan Macallistor" and over her but not among the ships loading which were
some way inshore of her. Later, however, these chips did COMO under fire,
and "VIVACIOUS" reported she had been hit twice and had eleven casualties,
and two or three hundrod troops on board, I ordered her to 80 into Dunkirk
and fill up there.
General Lees 172.S the Senior Officer of the H.Q. Staff and I thought it
2
would be a good education for him to see something of what the naval problem
was, so I kept him on the bridge with ICC. As Lord Gort was in the "EdEE"
I felt that he WGB safe, and as the "HEBE" was doing good work caberking
troops I did not send her back to Dover with him at once. Thorein perhaps
I was wrong, as I had not realized the anxiety of the Government to have
him safe and sound at home but had felt he would soonor the ship helped to
bring off more men rather than that he should land a few hours carlier in
England.
During the day I made a signal to all ships with instructions for
supporting fire against enemy tanks and lorries on the boach. The critical
place was likely to be at La Panne after the line was evacuated, and I intended
to be there myself in "KETTH" at deybreak the noxt morning. I also kopt
"BASTLISK" free of troops for the same purpose.
The weather improved gradually and at 1700 I was able to signal:-
" Weather off beaches now good. Many more boats should come into use again
Q.B tido rises. General movement of troops westward towards Dunkirk. No
petrol supply yet and many basts are getting short off La Panno and Braye,
Movement from Dunkirk continuos. Great air activity."
Actually drifters with petrol arrived not long after at 1815.
31/5
After embarking the Headquarters Staff I returned to Dunkirk to DOG
how the boat situation was getting on. There I found Wynne-Invardo who had
been doing good work, and I saw for the first time that strange procession
of craft of all kinds that has become Pamous - tuge towing dinghise, life-
boats and all manner of pulling boats - small motor yachts, motor Isunchos,
drifters, Dutch scoots, Thames barges, fishing boats, pleasure ateamoro,

Details

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

Details

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

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Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List E
DESTROYERS
H.M.S. GRAFTON.
Officers:
Lieutenant Hugh Charles James McRea, R.N.
Lieutenant Leslie Edney Blackmore, R.N.
H.M.S. GRENADE.
Commanding Officer.
DSC
Commander Richard Courtney Boyle, R.N.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant John Bremer Richards Horne, R.N.
H.M.S. IMPULSIVE.
Officer.
Lieutenant Commander John David Lewis Williams, R.N.
H.M.S. JAGUAR.
Commanding Officer.
1
Lieutenant Commander John Franklin William Hine, R.N.
H.M.S. JAVELIN.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Anthony Follett Pugsley, R.N.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant James Isaac Arthur Mitchell, R.N.
Ratings.
Leading Stoker Leslie A. F. Gollop, P/JX.136910
Acting Leading Stoker F. C. Smith, P/JX.138236.
Leading Stoker Robert Keith, P/K.57158.
Stoker Lawrence Robinson, (2nd Class) P/JX.27218.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS.
Commending Officer.
Commander Emile Frank Narlaine Deschaineux, R.A.N.
Officers.
Lieutenant Commander Frank Reginald Woodbine Parish, R.N.
Sub.Lieutenant Thomas Keath Metcalfe, R.N.R.
Midshipman Rupert Blackwood Hallowes, R.N.R.
H.MS. WAKEFUL/

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19.
5.
petty Officer Edward William Higgs, C/JX.133416, H.M.S. Gossamer.
Petty Officer Walter Alfred Reginald Hooper, D/JX.142642,
Petty Officer Henry Joseph McAllister, C/J.16046, Pensioner 23168,
H.M.S. Malcolm.
Petty Officer Ernest Richard Meredith, P/J.95625, H.M.S.
H.M.S. Medway Queen.
OWE
Petty Officer$ James Owen Paget, .129854, H.M.S. Vivacious. Vimy.
Petty Officer Frederick William Parker, C/J.84930.
Petty Officer James Potts, D/J.92186, H.M.Skoot Hondsrug.
7.
Petty Officer Cecil Kenneth Souster, D/J.102935, H.M.S. Whitehall,
Petty Officer Joseph William Frederick Tibbles, P/J.108799,
H.M.S. Icarus.
Petty Officer Leonard Bertram Kearley-Pope, R.N.R., D.5762, H.M.S.
Mona's Isle.
re
ACting Petty Officer Leonard Charles/ Purd, C/JX.155644, H.M.Skoot S.
Hilda.
e.
Acting Petty Officer Herbert Henry Smith, P/JX.145044, H.M.Y.
Bounty.
Se.
Acting Petty Officer Ernest Wilfred Spickett, JX.128246.
Acting Petty Officer Ernest Francis Standley, C/JX.137068, H.M.S.
of Signals James Collins, C/J.69665, H.M.S.Lynx. keith.
Yeoman of Signals Alfred Charles Halls, C/JX.129457, H.M.S.
Malcolm.
Stoker Petty Officer George Albert Aitchison, C/K.61056, H.M.S.
Sabre.
Stoker Petty Officer Charles William Donnelly, D/K.59925, H.M.S.
Bideford.
Stoker Petty Officer Thomas Rochford, D/K.61034, H.M.S. Salamander
Stoker Petty Officer John Henry Salmon, D/K.66881, H.M.S. Hal cyon
la
Stoker Petty Officer William Edward White, C/K.64353, H.M.S.
Mosquito.
Acting Stoker Petty Officer James William Carr, D/K.63042, H.M.S.
Jaguar.
Acting Stoker Petty Officer Albert George Dollery, P/KX.80017,
#
H.M.S. Sutton.
r.
Petty Officer Steward John Lysaght, D/L.13388, H.M.S. Havant.
Leading Seaman David Anderson, 0/J.107567, H.M.S. Vanquisher.
Leading Seaman Oliver Frederick Mane Cooper, C/JX.137062, Niger. H.MS.
Leading Seaman John William Flattery, PYJX.131896, H.M.S.
Worcester.
Leading Seaman Arthur Charles Godden, P/JX.129206, H.M.S. Worceste. on. &4
e
Leading Seaman Willie Hagger, P/J.95873, H.M.Skoot Patria.
Leading Seaman Stanley Robert Holden, C/J.106164, H.M.S. Speedwell
.
Leading Seaman Eldric Ivan John Alfrd Gent Joplin, 138400,
H.M.S. Keith.
Leading Seaman Walter George Harold Last, P/JX.132139, Winchelsea. H.M.S.
41.
Leading Seaman Reginald William Legg, D/J.107221, H.M.Skoot Twente
.S.
C.
Leading Seaman Frederick Martindale, P/JX.136855, H.M.S. Vimy.
Leading Seaman Douglas Nicholas, D/JX.137869, H.M.S. Codrington..
11".
Leading Seaman James Sowerby, C/JX.109521, R.F.R. B.24793, Malcolm. H.M.S
4.
Leading Seaman Hugh James Spanton, C/J.114468.
Shaw
Leading Seaman Murdo Macleod, R.N.R., 5849D, H.M.S. Skipjack. are

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17.
'Dell
Leonard Travers,
Able Seaman a D/JX.133219, H.MS. Glengowe
Able Seaman James Wallis, C/SSX.27313, H.M.S. Keith.
Able Seaman Edwin George Webster, C/JX.142167, H.M.S. Kingfisher.
Able Seaman George John Woodger, C/J.45802, H.M.S. Keith.
Able Seaman Frederick William Jacobs, C/J.100758, R.F.R., B.23901,
H.M.S. Malcolm.
Able Seaman James Kidd, R.F.R., D/SSX.13321, H.M.S. Jaguar.
Able Seaman Frederick James Slack, C/J.93546, R.F.R., B.21781, H.M.S.
Crested Eagle.
Able Seaman George Tilbury, c/ss.7850, R.F.R., B.17336, H.M.S.
Crested Eagle.
Able Peaman Richard Philip Smith, R.N.V.R., БЕЗДХХЗЛАЙ MD/X.1950,
H.M.S. Codrington.
Signalman Harold Oscar Carter, C/SSX.17317, H.M.S. Locust.
Signalman Charles Raymond Craig, D/JX.141848, H.M.S. Bideford.
Signalman Harry Guy, C/JX.150713, H.M.S. Calcutta.
Signalman Eric Ernest Roden, C/J.103654, H.M.S. Locust.
Signalman Stanley Thompson, C/JX.133505, H.M.S. Kingfisher.
Signalman Leslie David Ball, R.M.V.R.? LD5/X.3548, H.M.S. Codrington.
Signalman James Stanley Duffy, R.N.N.R.A,C/TDX.1412,
Signalman Ronald Henry Walters, R.N.V.R., C/LDX.4178.
queen of Thanet.
Signalman John Albert Williamson, R.NV.R., LD/X.4036, H.M.S. Glenaven
Stoker First Class Jack Chadwick, D/KX.81834, HLM.S. Jaguar.
Stoker First Class Samuel Comben, P/K.62179, H.M.S. Vimy.
Stoker First Class Charles Irvine, C/KX.86537, H.M.S. Sabre.
Stoker First Class William Reginald Gordon Jones, C/KX.92890, H.M.S.
Wolsey.
Stoker First Class Percy William Spray, P/KX.87052, Newhaven Rosa Life Boa
Sick Berth Attendant Eric James Littlewood Gibson, D/MX.56025, Ivanhoe. H.M.S.
Sick Berth Attendant (R) Alfred Bassford, c/x.8080, R.N.A.S.B.R.
Sick Berth Attendant Albert William Keller, R.N.A.S.B.R., D/X.6785,
H.M.S. Havant.
Sick Berth Attendant James Timothy Tomlinson, R.N.A.S.B.R.? P/X.6941.
H.M.S. Vivacious.
Sick Berth Attendant Edward Welch, R.N.A.S.B.R., P/SBR/X.7341, H.M.S. Esk.
Sick Berth Attendant John Yeoman, R.N.A.S.B.R., P/X.7093, H.M.S. Express.
Ordinary Seaman Noel Edward Holmes Berry, D/JX.158456, H.M.S. Jaguar.
Ordinary Seaman Arthur Thomas Burton, P/JX.182142, H.M.S. Portsdown.
Ordinary Seaman Dominic Kenny, D/SSX.30221, H.M.S. Shikari.
Shaw
Ordinary Seaman William Lyons, D/SSX.30211, H.M.S. Shikari. are
Brigana aire

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ICW19295
d'enner
Lieutenant Jan Nagle Douglas Cox, R.N. (First Lieutenant),
H.M.S. MALCOLN.
Commi sei oned Engineer Reginald Thomas Jones, R.B., H.M.S.
Midshipman Balcolm John Ball, R.M.R., H.M.S. SABRE. SCIMITAR.
Lieutenant Commander Hugh Nicholas Aubyn Richardson, R.B.,
H.M.S. SHIKART.
Lioutenant Adrian Paul Wilbraham Northey, R.N., H.M.S. VIMY.
Lieutenant Francis Peter Baker, R.N., H.M.S. VIVACIOUS.
Lieutenant Commander William Alan Frank Hawkins, R.M.,
H.M.S. WIRCHALSEA.
Mr. Frederick William Benoy, Gunner, R.N., H.M.S. WOLSEY.
Lieutenant Frederick Greville Woods, R.N., H.H.S. WORCESTER.
Lieutenant Commander Colin Henry Corbet-Singleton, R.N.,
H.M.S. ALBURY.
Midshipman Ian Kinloch Bryce, R.N.R., H.M.S. FITEROY.
Commander Michael Anthony Crame Biddulph, R.N., H.M.S.
GLENGOWER.
Sub-Lieutenant John Francis Worthington, B.N.V.R.,
H.M.S. HALCYON.
tooda Lieutenant Alfred Thomas Cook, R.N.R., H.M.S. MEDWAY QUENN.
Sub-Li sutenant John David Greaves, R.N.R., H.M.S. MEDWAY
QUEEN.
Lieutenant Robert Peverell Hichens, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. NIGER.
Lieutenant Cecil John Carp, R.N.V.R., H.M.S. PRINCESS
ELIZABETH.
Temporary Sub-Lieutenant James Tomkin, R.N.V.R., H.M.S.
PRINCESS ELIZABETH.
Lieutenant Kenneth Arthur Gadd, R.N.R., H.M.S. ROSS.
Commissioned Engineer Thomas Kirby Reynolds, R.N., H.M.S.
SALAMANDER.
Lieutenant Robert Archibald Vallings, R.N.R., H.M.S.
SPEEDWELL.
Sub-Lieutenant William Geoffrey Hewitt, R.N. Valing
H.H.S. SUTTON
Lieutenant Commander John Hugh Lewes, R.H., H.M.S. BIDEFORD.
Lieutenant Ackroyd Norman Palliser Costobadie, R.N., M.M.S.
LOCUST.
Lieutenant JAYOR Denis Harold Palmer Gardiner,
bittle
MOSQUITO.
Probationary Sub-Lieutenant Eric Sidney Flint, N.N.R.,
H.M.S. MOSQUITO.
Sub-Lieutenant Thomas Ellison Godman, R.M.V.R., SERIOLA. H.M.Y.
skipper Andrew Buchan, R.N.R., W.S.3319, H.M.Drifter THE BOYS
Holden, R.N.R., W.S.3452, H.M.Drifter MIDAS.
Lieutenant Joseph Cox, R.N.R., Unit Officer to Drifters.
78.
Lieutenant Tom Preston Graham, R.N.N., Unit officer of

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

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Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
Page 34.
VIVACIOUS.
-
Lieutenant-Commander Parish, 27th - p.m. Frank 29th Reginald May. Woodbine
Commander Emile p.m. Frank 29th Varlaine,Dechaineux, R.A.N.
Bray a total VIVACIOUS for of 24 2381 hours made troops. on 4 the trips 30th On to the the and night beaches, 31st May remaining and bringing off home
crews. escorted the blockships to Dunkirk and brought of 2nd/3rd back June their she
passage avoided all aircraft, these at least 100 bombs being whilst on
On by the 25 27th May she was heavily attacked
She damaged but not and brought down 2 bombers, dropped. a 3rd
being seen to crash.
leave and was relieved by Commander on
P.M. due 29th to overstrain Lieutenant Commander Parish was sent sick
Dechaineux, R.A.N.
out afternoon, desultory commenced inaccurate fire on the anchorage carried all the
At 1800/30 and a battery East of Bray, which had
VIVACIOUS who was hit on the forecastle (3 killed and on
a controlled and accurate fire
wounded) and Commander and had many holes on the water line from shrapnel, 12
the westward out of range.
Dechaineux ordered a retirement of ship to
? Mention Parish.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Francis Peter Baker, R.N.
Was wounded in the leg and in spite of wounds
carried on his duties as 1st Lieutenant and after
control to. officer for eight hours before being attended
D.S.C.
Recommended for decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Teague Gilhespy, R.N.
ing
ered
Carried out his duties of Gunnery Control officer
ors
in a most efficient manner and succeeded in shooting
down three enemy planes.
IS
10m
Recommended for mention.
Mr. John George Revolta, Commissioned Engineer.
Throughout the whole operation kept his engine
room in an efficient state and was an example of how
an officer should behave under fire.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Petty Officer E. R. Meredith, P/J.95625.
and He acted in an outstanding
During the operations was Chief Bosun's Mate
manner Director and was Layer. an example to all whilst under severe
bombing attacks.
D.S.M
Recommended for decoration

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Page 35.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
VIVACIOUS (continued).
Stoker J. J. Williamson, P/KX.76409.
Took charge of a private boat and succeeded in
rescuing a large number of military personnel, showing
an example of coolness and initiative to all.
Recommended for decoration.
The following ratings were outstanding throughout
the operations for their initiative and zeal whilst
under very difficult conditions, due to air attack
and are -
Recommended for mention.
Petty Officer W. Flint, P/JX. 126621, Gunner's Mate.
E.R.A. C. E. Strugnell, P/MX.47645.
Chief Stoker Charles Tanner, 58508.
Sick Berth A ttendant J. T. Tomlinson, P/X.6941.
Acting Petty Officer Ronald Ford, P/J.106208.
Petty Officer Telegraphist A. Bennet, P/JX.126535.
Acting Yeoman J. T. Loynes, P/JX.129983.
DE
nu

Details

Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel - List 'B'.
DESTROYERS.
H.M.S. GRAFTON.
Officers:
Lieutenant Hugh Charles James McRea, R.N.
Lieutenant Leslie Edney Blackmore, R.N.
H.M.S. GRENADE.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Richard Courtney Boyle, R.N.
Officer.
Sub. Lieutenant John Bremer Richards Horne, R.N.
H.M.S. IMPULSIVE.
Officer.
Lieutenant Commander John David Lewis Williams, R.N.
H.M.S. JAGUAR.
Commanding Officer.
Lieutenant Commander John Franklin William Hine, R.N.
H.M.S. JAVELIN.
Commanding Officer.
Commander Anthony Follett Pugsley, R.N.
Officer.
Sub.Lieutenant James Isaac Arthur Mitchell, R.N.
Ratings.
Leading Stoker Leslie A. F. Gollop, P/JX.136910
Acting Leading Stoker F. C. Smith, 138236.
Leading Stoker Robert Keith, P/K.57158.
Stoker Lawrence Robinson, (2nd Class) P/JX.27218.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS.
Commending Officer.
Commander Emile Frank Narlaine Deschaineux, R.A.N.
Officers.
Lieutenant Commander Frank Reginald Woodbine Parish, R.N.
Sub. Lieutenant Thomas Keath Metcalfe, R.N.R.
Midshipman Rupert Blackwood Hallowes, R.N.R.
H.MS. WAKEFUL

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Page 34.
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
M.M.S. VIVACIOUS. - Lieutenant-Commander Frank Reginald Woodbine
Parish. 27th p.m. 29th May.
Commander Emile Frank Varlaine Dechaineux, R.A.N.
p.m. 29th and after.
VIVACIOUS made 4 trips to the beaches, remaining off
Bray for 24 hours on the 30th and 31st May and bringing home
a total of 2381 troops. On the night of 2nd/3rd June she
escorted the blockships to Dunkirk and brought back their
crews.
On the 27th May she was heavily attacked whilst on
passage by 25 aircraft, at least 100 bombs being dropped.
She avoided all these and brought down 2 bombers, a 3rd
being damaged but not seen to crash.
P.M. 29th Lieutenant Commander Parish was sent on sick
leave due to overstrain and was relieved by Commander
Dechaineux, R.A.N.
At 1800/30 a battery East of Bray, which had carried
out desultory and inaccurate fire on the anchorage all the
afternoon, commenced a controlled and accurate fire on
VIVACIOUS who was hit on the forecastle (3 killed and 12
wounded) and had many holes on the water line from shrapnel,
and Commander Dechaineux ordered a retirement of ship to
the westward out of range.
Recommendations.
OFFICERS:
Lieutenant Francis Peter Baker. R.N.
Was wounded in the leg and in spite of wounds
carried on his duties as 1st Lieutenant and after
control officer for eight hours before being attended
to.
DSC
Recommended for decoration.
Sub. -Lieutenant John Teague Gilhespy, R.N.
Carried out his duties of Gunnery Control officer
in a most efficient manner and succeeded in shooting
M
down three enemy planes.
Recommended for mention.
Mr. John George Revolta, Commissioned Engineer.
Throughout the whole operation kept his engine
M
room in an efficient state and was an example of how
an officer should behave under fire.
Recommended for mention.
RATINGS:
Petty Officer E. R. Meredith, P/J.95625.
During the operations was Chief Bosun's Mate
and Director Layer. He acted in an outstanding
manner and was an example to all whilst under severe
DSM
bombing attacks.
Recommended for decoration

Details

Page 35
Operation "DYNAMO" - Recommendations of Personnel.
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS (continued).
stoker J. J. Williamson, P/KX.76409.
Took charge of a private boat and succeeded in
rescuing a large number of military personnel, showing
an example of coolness and initiative to all.
DSM
Recommended for decoration.
The following ratings were outstanding throughout
the operations for their initiative and zeal whilst
under very difficult conditions, due to air attack
and are -
Recommended for mention.
Petty Officer W. Flint, P/JX. 126621, Gunner's Mate.
E.R.A. C. E. Strugnell, P/MX.47645.
Chief Stoker Charles Tanner, P/K. 58508.
Sick Berth Attendant J. T. Tomlinson, P/X.6941.
Acting Petty Officer Ronald Ford, P/J.106208.
Petty Officer Telegraphist A. Bennet, P/JX.126535.
Acting Yeoman J. T. Loynes, P/JX.129983.

Details

SECRET
0114.M.
H.M.S. "Vivacious"
c/o. G.P.O.
18th June 1940
Sir,
I have the honour to forward the report of proceedings
of H.M.Ship under my command for the period 15th June to 18th
June 1940.
2.-
In accordance with instructions from the Commander
in Chief, Portsmouth, H.M.S. "Vivaclous" slipped and proceeded
to sea from Portsmouth at 1610 on 15th June 1940.A/S patrol was
carried out on the Cherbourg - - St Catherines route for the
evacuation of the British Expeditionery Force. About twenty
Northbound transports were sighted during the period 15th
to 17th June. Three single Junkers aircraft were sighted in
the Channel. NO bombs were dropped, but searchlights and
a heavy explosion were observed in the direction of Portsmouth.
3.-
The ship was relieved on patrol by H.M.S. swild Swan"
at 1745 on Monday 17th June and proceeded to Sheerness.
4.-
The following-is the sequense of events of the night
17th - 18th June.
2349 When 210° 8 miles from Dungeness Low Light House
sighted Motor Torpedo Boat on Starboard Bow
about 11 miles.
2350 Sighted torpedo running on the surface. Altered
course to starboard and went full astern on both
engines. The torpedo passed about 15 - - 20 yards
ahead of the ship.
Proceeded to chase the E-Boat which retired at high
speed and touch was lost.
0105/18 Signted E.BOat and pursued.
0115 Opened fire with 4" 9. 12pounder, and pon-pon.
E-Boat retired under cover of smoke.
0135
H.M.S. "Vesper" joined and took charge of operations.
0137
Both ships opened 1 Heavy fire on an E-Boat,
which again retired under smoke and was lost from
view at 0150.
0155
Carried out search under the orders of "Vesper".
0355 Parted company with "Vesper "and proceeded to
Sheerness.
0805 Secured alongside oiler "Alheganny" at Sheereess.
5.- Remarks.

Details

Fire was opened and was effective in preventing further
On arrival at Dunkirk It was low water and only the outer
Other fighters approached later and were identified as Spi at
at the east pior could be used. That nearest the shore was
alroady occupied by "ICARUS", and "VANQUISHER" was berthed
ue
alongaide her. Shortly afterwards "WINDSOR" berthed outside
"VANQUISHER". Mess tables were rigged across "B" Gundecks 0
inside ships and troops were hurried across to outside ship
all despatch. "VANQUISHER*s" electrical hailing equipment
great value here, as all the troops were French and variou
exhortations in that language backed by ample powerz produc
a marked effect. The pier was crowded and every effort was 18
to embark the greatest possible number which is believed to
been not less than 1200,
During the proceedings onemy aircraft were such in evidence
5/44
Bombs were dropped to the eastward of the pier, apparently
"ane
simed at one of the numerous wrecks. Both barrage and close
five were frequently opened, and one bomber, despite heavy 12
pressed home his attack and dropped a salvo of 4 bombs which
fell near "VIVACIOUS" port how.
The sky was cloudy and bombers were several times seen dimly
through the oloud directly overhead at 1500 to 2000 feet.
Fortunately they dropped no bombs. "VANQUISHER"S" aerials wer
10
shot away by "ICARDS" 0.5" machine gan.
Troops were disembarked on return to Dover and samunition to
Date
complete was requested.
de
Meanwhile it was clear that "VANQUISHER*s" Ship's Company had
reached a state of exhaustion which made it most undesirable
take them to sea again without rest. This was reported to the
Vice Admiral's Office and the ship accordingly reverted to 2
hours notice.
The following day Sunday and June, orders were received at 043
to raise steam for full speed with all despatch, but later
reverted to * hours notice.
I had now decided that there was no longer any reason to
Lieutenant Harbottle in "VANQUISHER". Be vas anxious not 1
leave while operations were still not complete, but he wast
need of leave and 1 also falt 1t desirable that he should 3
available to handle "WITERN's" refit in case By absence been
protracted. I therefore discharged him Selle Sunday 2nd June
requested the Vice Admiral's Staff that 1f not urgently regil
elsewhere he might be sent on leave. & for hours later the
Commanding Officer of "VANQUISHER" rejoined and took over
I reported to Vice Admiral Dover and vas instructed to proceed
Folkstone with 1 Leading hand and 8 1,3's and 80 on Soard the
transport "TYNTALD". It was emphasised that 1 was not to sons
myself in command or the ship but to employ all possible mean
get her to sail for Dunkirk as a number of the officers and 0
were apparantly unwilling to do 30. Owing to the efforts of 18
company which owne the ship, and their agent in Folkestone, 1
presented no difficulty whatsoever.
The Chief Officer - Ne Thiteaway - had been recalled from les
and relieved the Master: the Second Officer because the Chief
Officer with & now Second, the Chief Engineer and several
Ingineers were relieved, and all sen unwilling to sail had bear
replaced by others sent down from London by bus. These were no
only willing but sager to sail.
Naval and Wilitary Lewis and Bren and grown were barried,
were in charge of the Military Liason Officer, Captain
Hicholson, who was of the greatest assistance throughout.
The ship left Folkestone at 2115/2nd June and borthed at he
outer and of Dunkirk east pier at about 0100/3rd June, This
presented some difficulty as the Master was clearly new to ship
handling and there WILD no one on the pier to take lines. This WV
done by Captain Nicholson and a rating who jumped for it.
Another transport was struck once and the pior twice before
borthing was completed.

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Confidential
Two
150
71
to
145
6. During the morning of 28th May "WOLSEY" oiled and ammunitioned
ship. At 1850 "WOLSEY" proceed to Bray beach by route 'Y' arriving
there at 2300. Boats were immediately lowered and embarkation
of troops began. "WOLSEY" sailed at 0400 for Dover with 500 troops
on board. At 1100/29 "WOLSEY" was ordered in company with
"VIVACIOUS" and "VIMY" to proceed to Sheerness. Ship sailed from
Sheerness at 1830 for operation F.D. this operation was cancelled
by Admiralty and "WOLSEY" returned to Dover. Ship remainede
alongside while one rating injured by berthing wire was discharged
to Hospital and proceeded to Dunkirk at 0615/30. "WOLSEY" secured
alongside East Pier Dunkirk at 0915 and embarked approximately 800
troops. "WOLSEY" returned to Dover disembarked troops, and again
proceeded to Dunkirk at 1525. "WOLSEY" again secured to East Pier
and embarked 1060 troops returning to Dover at 2235. Troops disembarked
"WOLSEY" oiled and proceeded to Bray beach at 0600. Colonel Blake
R.A.M.C. and Medical Stores were emLarked before proceeding. At 0703
'WOLSEY" was in collision with S.S. "ROEBUCK" (Already reported).
Blake and stores and then proceeded to Bray beach. After being there
'WOLSEY" proceeded alongside East Pier Dunkirk, disembarked Colonel
two hours and embarking 40 troops I was ordered by "CODRINGTON" to
proced alongside. Secured alongside, embarked 500 troops, returned
to Dover at 18 knots, disembarked troops, and at 1830 slipped from
Harbour and proceeding alongside East Pier "WOLSEY'S" D.G. Coil
Admiralty Pier and returned to Dunkirk. Whilst inside Dunkirk
Fused and caught fire, This may have been caused by a shell splinter
as embarked was electric light party endeavoured to repair the
Dunkirk being shelled at the time. While 600 troops D.G. were coil. being
the 2330 the 30 cent efficient. I considered the risk Either justifiable
it the B.A. reported to me that he had done all he could and that
the having condition was efficient against Magnetic The
and coil was announced per repairs completed, sailed for Dover. lines or
nce was lucky noticable and 8 veral aircraft were half.
"WOLSEY" coil in the that and the passage was made safely. heard, Phosphoresce so
"WOLSEY" proceeded alongside Admiralty Wharf 0425 and D.G. disembarked coil. At troops,
"WOLSEY" was extremely at 12 knots for the first hour and a
1300 subsequentyly "WOLSEY" reported ready for sea and a 1600 ordered
secured securing to buoy to effect repairs to "WOLSEY" was
to proceed to Portsmouth for repairs.
I Have the Honour to be,
Sir,
Your Obedient Servant.
Colampber
LISUTENANT-COMMANDER, R.N.
FLAG OFFICER COMMANDING,
DOVER.

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SECRET
Dynoms 299
/17
.0110.H.
H.V.S. "Vivacious"
c/o. G.P.O.
12th June 1940
Sir,
I have the honour to forward the following report of
proceedings for the H.M.S. "Vivacious" for the period 86th May
intil 4th June 1940 inclusive.
proceeded 2.- to rend zvous with Admiral Commanding 2nd Cruiser Squadron
"vivacious" left Dasingham at 2200 on 26th May 1940 and
in H.H.S. "Glattax Galatoa" in position 181 at 1215.C.S.2. Parted
company at 1800 and orders were received to patrol in company.
with "Gallant" ant the Polish Destroyer "Blyskawica" betw en North
Goodwin Light and "I" buoy.
Dunkirk 5.- to evacuate the B.E.F. nd arrived at 0030. The town was
At 2200 ships were ordered to a position one mile Best of
and oil fuel depots reached two to three thousand feet. During these
undergoing continual combardment and na anes from amunition dumps
raids whistling 'bombs were heard, their noise being similar to
that of a siren.
attacked 4.- the ships with machine guns. The "Blyskawica" shot down one
Two enemy airer It came through the thick smoke cloud and
of these in the harbour,
with 5.- aid of drifters and the whaler, and a report having been
"Vivacious" section of the be ch was cleared at 0330
received the from a personel boat that the last Jetty had been cleared,
the ship returned to Dower with 353 military personel.
proceeding 6.- by the Eastern Route.
The ship sailed again for Dunkirk at 1030 on 27th
machines was machines were shot down crashed (Two the beach, one
7.- Intense encountered off the $ stern Entrance Junkers 88 and SHEXX
aircraft attack by about twenty- and five 110 enemy EXE
another was not seen with to the crash but the pilot was seen
Heinkel 111). one port engine on fire crashed to leave sea. the plane third
жини three enemy burst into flames and into on the The and
by parachute.
8.- Arrival at and three quarter hours Scoot. some The return journey were was
point three miles East of Dunkirk 553 military was made at
by 1830 ships and boats, after five M.T.B.16 and a Dutch
made in company

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II
-118
wasmade in company with "Codrington" and "Javelin" as all A.A.
amunition had been experenmied.
9.-
Orders were received to proceed to Sheerness with
Woolsey and Vimy to arrive at 1300 for special service. Operation
⑇D' was commenced at 1800 This was cancelled at 2100 and the
ships were ordered to return to Dover.
sollapsed 10.- oring to injuries and strain and Has relieved by $
While at Sheerness Surgeon Lieutenant S. Grice V.R.
Surgeon Lieutenant P.A.Smyth R.I.V.P.
return 11.- to Dunkirk arriving at 0300 , using the Western Route, the
Before reaching Dover "Vivacious" was ordered to
orders being to evacuate troops one mile East Of the town.
picking 12.- up the survivors of the "King Orry" was taken in tow
On arrival XXXXXXX a broken down n M.T.B., which had been
until repaired.
with the operation. A drifter however, was sent to rescue as many
nen 13.- in the water but these had to be left in order to carry on
It was most distressing to hear the cries of a few
as pe sible and it is believed that most of these men were picked
up.
the day low misty weather made aircraft conditions
difficult 14.- and During 650 men were taken off the beach with hardly any
embarassment from the air.
arrival at Dover I was relieved by Commander E.F.V.
Deare 15.- Dechaineux on R.A.N. by order of V.A.Dover.
the 16.- rem ining The part report of the operation is
of proceedings of attached Commander herewith. Dechaineux for
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF COMMANDER B.F.V. DECHAINEUX.
1.- Commander H.M.S. Dechaineux "Vivacious" R.A.N. overstrain in place was of ordered was Lieutenant granted by V.A.Dover
to Commander assume command F.R.Parish of R.N. who, due to
sick leave.
30th 2.- May Bray in Dover on the Harbour Belgian until Coast, 0530 arriving on
at about 18 0700.
vas to embark army as many ashore. troops as possible and
3.- to provide supporting fire to the
4.- Throughout the day.

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III
15419
4.-
Throughout the day a fresh breeze was blowing from the
East North East causing in the shallow shore a line of breakers
extending about fifty yards of EXE shore These conditions made
embarkation difficult and together with the small number of
suit ble boats caused the evacuation to be very slow.
5.-
By 1700, 175 British troops had been evacuated.
6.- company were bombed. At 1500 a very thrilling dog-fight between
Intermitently throughout the day the ship and those in
nine spitfires and a larger number of Messershmits and various types
of German bombers XEXE shar was witnessed. Two spitfires were
shot down and two enemy bombers A fifths unaccounted plane was
was also shot down. Most of the enemy aircraft attacks were
high level bombing from over 10000 feet.
of 7.- troops assembling on the beach, which in the circumstances
It was particularly distressing to sea an increasing number
revailing gave me a feeling of impotence. Towards late afternoon a g
general movementMestward to Dunkirk was apparent.
8.- and later four 4" guns situated on the coast to the
Throughout the afternoon a shore battery believed to be
two Bastwardshad 9 carried out disultary and inaccuratefire on the
anchorage, the principal target appearing to be san abandonned
aerchant ship at anchor in the roadstead.
9.- fire #vivacious" At who was under weigh and pointed along assembled the line
1800 this battery commenced a controlled and accurate
of fire. on When it was obvious that the target was the to
the ships Westard. "Vivacious" ous" was hit on the Foxle by and is
(Shikari, Esk, and Mosquito" I orered a retirement what
Delied casulaities to a to the troops on the upper ness deck. waterline near
******* be 4ᵗʰ graze fuze shell, causing three deaths Two
welve about forty small shrapnell holes on the These
abreast No. XXXX two fuel tanks rendering lubricating
misses caused the ngineroom and the after toypedo them tubes. unfit for use. near
The central store punctured and the De-Gaus ing two mile movemnet
is e punctured was flooded partially antx, circuits the were cut pipe in to
the ight stern places. was The batteries were outranged by a to
the Wesnaxdtward.
10.- a Panne and Bray Br but no noteworthy incident
Throughout the night "viv clous' patrolled occured. between
about 1900 on 30th May "Codrington" had returned to Bray
11.- nd took over at the senior officers duties.
12.- .M.S. "Keith" At about ordered "Vivacious" to prodeed embark
0530 on 31st my Rear Admiral to Dunkirk Wake Walker to in
roops.
13.-

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155
IV.
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150
Dunkirk 13.- the ship was attcked by a Junker 89 in a dive attack.
At about 0610 on 31st whilst waiting to enter
Five 250 or 500 1b bombs were released from 1000 feet but
fortunately missed the ship by about 20feet. No Damage was
caused.
during 14.- an air attack. 650 troops were embarked by 0645 and the
A difficult alongside was made successfully at 0630
ship sailed arriving at Dover id thoutincident, except for slight
and inaccurate enemy gunfire at ITc.6 buoy.
"Vivacious" arrived at Dov I at 0915 on 31st May remainin
there 15.- until 1800 on 2nd June.
At 1800 a 2nd June "Vivacious" sailed after embarking
object was to block Dunkirk Harbour. A conference of Captains S.S.
Captain 16.- Dangerfield R.I. to escort three block ships whose
of Holland) and of the M.T.BS of the blocking force was held T.B. the
the Blockships ( S.S. Westgrove, S.S.Bdward Missen and in
Downs. in and M.A.S. 07 in company moved off from the
At 2030 "Vivacious "leading the blockships, with M. Downsat
7 Captain knots D ngerfieldembarked in M.T.B.107 at 8230 and proce ded
107 tow, through ''' route arriving off Dunkirk at 022450.
to Dunkirk.
17.- ordered On to weigh and proceed to block last the in the
arrival off Dunkirkthe Block ships were channel. anchored
line, It had been rammed about five miles west
and subsequently at 0245 transpired that S.S.Holland, of the Dunkirk.
18.- Dunkirk at 0300
The block210 respectively. and Edward Nissen entered
19.- navgation It is in the approach brought channel off to the docks crews is of
unfortunate that the blockshing the was not
completeand and M.T.B.107 had fortunate by to this the that Bastward time this moved however movement opened three was a miles well the to
was made as at the the crews Weswxkitward
almost aimed fire complete on and to
without damage.
20.- "Vivacious" crew were landed
arrived at Dover at 0630 on 3rd June.
with Two the
At 1145 on the4th
31.J

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7.
- 151
156
21.-
At 1145 on 4th "Vivacious" sailed with "Icarus" in
company for Portsmouth. "Esk" had been ordered to join but owing to
fog had failed to join. "Vivacious" and "Icarus "arrived Portsmouth
at 1830.
(Sd) .F.V.Dechaineux
COMANDER. Royal Australian Navy.
Remairs
of 1.- "Vivacious" during the operationsoff the Dutch Coast and
I beg to submit that the behaviour of all officers and men
during the period under port has been magnificent.
the 2.- following 0 ficers who did particularly good work:-
I submit for your consideration specially the names of
spite of his woundscarried on with his duties as First
the leg before entering Dunkirk on 27th May and in
(a) Lieutenant F.P.Baker B.N. who was wounded in
Lieutenant an After Control Officer foreight hours
before being atteded to.He is now in hospital.
(b) whole operation kept his engineroom officershould in an
Mr. Revolta, Commissioned Engineer, who efficient throughout
**** the state and was an example of how an
behave under fire.
(c) of Gunnery Control Officer three efficient enemy
Sub-Lieutenant J.T.Gilhespy R.N. in who a most carried out
manner the duties and succeded in shooting down some
aircraft on the Dunkirk Coast.
(d) who his showed age and when was
ready to take on any odd operation,
required/. (e) Sub-Lieutenant Maxtexiuties of T.K.Netcalfe, Navigating manner.. Officer R.N.R. in who most carried
difficult out the conditions in an arduos
3.- the following I would ratings who were
also submit for outstanding. your consideration the names of
(a) Petty Officer Meredith

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211
Page Be
07SO. Slipped and proceeded to Dover's AB ships proceeding
down the channel between Dunkirk and BY buy had been
fired at by shore batterios, a smoke flost use burit on
the forecastle and funnel moke 108 also rade. The wind
was exactly right to afford the maximum protection from
the forecastle smoke float, but whether 18 was due to
this protection or due to the energr guns having coved on,
it is impossible to sey, but fire was not opened on
"Iearus" during this passage.
1015. Arrived Dover and disectioned troops.
1300. Secured to H0.1 Buby, ship's staff and deckyard fitters
sorking on the 3.0.0011.
2030. Slipped and proceeded to Dunking "Windsor" in company.
"Icnsus" ISS late proceeding owing to not receiving the
signal giving order of leaving herbour until 3030.
asco
Secured in Dunitirk harbour on liastern Am
Saturday 2nd June.
0001.
Slipped and proceeded to Davez by "X" route.
has in collision with a small travler shile proceeding
vestuard down the channel: the visibility use extremely
bad owing to the moke from the burning oil fuel take
at Dunkirk and 1 spite 05 as having a lookout on the
forecentle, there was ao the for if order of full entern
to take effect before hit:ing. I was unable to alter
away to port ao I was already just outside the charted
channel to part to avoid the sagnatic nines, which had
been loid in the channel. Do usjor lacage was sustained
but the hael fitting of the P.V.boom use fractured. It
is not known shot damage use sustained bythe trauler.
0030.
Received a signal : an V.I.Dover informing ships that
magnetic nines had been laid indiscriminately around
Fede bucy. AB if D.O.0011 insulation was extremely Low
and had been giving continuous trouble, : decided to avoid
F.I. buby and return by another youte.
There appeared to be a navigational dangers between
8a buay and the swept channel on a course of 323 digrees,
but there remained the question of our own minefields. I
therefore inforged V.A.Dover that I intended to proceed on
a course 05 310 from BW buay outing to the laying of
magnetic mines at 7.0.buay and at the see time saked if
there were any British minarields on this course. I judged
that the uinefield, if says would be 1614 in the channel
to the northanrd and therefore adjusted as apeed so an to
give at least helf an hour in which to get an number to
my signal before entering this channels Ky signal was
passed by 0045 and as no answer van received by 0115 it
appeared that this course use a safe one] at 0130 honover,
1 received a signal saying that the course was useless.
It use too late as X this time I use back in the number
0400.
"&" route channels
0500*
Secured at Adadrolity Pier and diserbarked troups.
1830.
slipped and proceeded to 50.7 Buoy.
"Icarus" sailing for Duskirk cancelled oving to having only
one dynamo and one steering motor 1a action.
Honday 4th June
1145.
Slipped and proceeded under orders of "Vivacious" to
1830.
Secured Fortsmouth alongaide Fitch House Jetty.
3.
During all

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SECRET
218
Page 5.
0730s slipped and proceeded to Dover. AB ships proceeding
down the channel between Dunkirk and 60 busy had been
fired at by shore batteries, a smoke flost 500 burnt on
the forecastle and funnel moke 100 also cade. The wind
use exactly right to afford the maximum protection from
the forecastle smoke float, but whether it was due to
this protection or due to the ecery gime having moved on,
it is impossible to say, but fire was not opened on
"Icarus" during this passage.
1015. Arrived Dover and disemberked troops.
1300. Secured to No.1 Buoy, ship's staff and dockyard fitters
working on the D.G.coil.
2050. Slipped and proceeded to Dunkirk, "Hindsor" in company.
"Icarus" was late proceeding owing to not receiving the
signal giving order of leaving harbour until 2000.
2300
Secured in Dunkirk harbour on Hastern Arth
Saturday 3rd June.
0001. Slipped and proceeded to Dover by "X" route.
Has in collision with a small travler while proceeding
restward-down the channel: the visibility use extremely
bad owing to the smoke from the burning oil fuel tanks
at Dunkirk and 1 spite of my having a lookout on the
forecentle, there we no time for if order of full astern
to take effect before hissing. I van unable to alter
away to port an I was already just outside the charted
channel to part to avoid the engastic nines, which had
been loid in the channel. No asjor damage use sustained
but the heel fitting of the P.V.boom vas fractured. It
is not known what damage use sustained bythe trauler.
0030.
Received a signal 2 on V.A.Dover informing ships that
magnetic mines had been laid indiscriminately around
F.O. bucy. AB my D.G.0011 insulation was extremely low
and had been giving continuous trouble, I decided to avoid
F.O. buay and return by another route.
There appeared to be no assigational dangers between
BW buay and the swept channel on a course of 315 digrees,
but there remined the question of our own minefielde. 1
therefore inforged V.A.Dover that I intended to proceed on
a course of 310 from on busy owing to the laying of
magnatic mines at P.O.budy and at the sexe time anked if
there were any British minefields on this course. I judged
that the minefield, if any, would be loid in the channel
passed signal 0068 and as no enswer was received by it
my before entering this channel. Ky signal 0118
give at least half an hour in which to get an answer was to
to the northanrd and therefore adjusted my speed BO an to
oppeared I signal saying that the course was the
by that this course use a safe one) at 0130 useless. however,
It received was too a late as by this time I was back in normal
0400.
Secured at Admiralty Fier and disembarked troups.
"X" route channel.
0500 1830.
Slipped sailing for Dunkirk cancelled owing to having only
and proceeded to 110.7 Buoy.
one "Icarus" dynamo and one steering notor in notion.
gonday 4th June
1140.
Slipped and proceeded under orders of "Vivacious" to
1830.
Secured Fortsmouths alongaide Fitch House Jetty.
Se
turing all

Details

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

Details

Copy.
Dynams 353
2116.
FROM: Unit Officer, 40th A.S. Group, H.M.S. "Olvina".
DATE: 17th June, 1940.
TO:
Flag Officer i/c Portland.
In accordance with your Memo. No.2912 of 6th June, 1940,
I have the honour to submit the following narrative.
On Wednesday 29th May, at 1700, "Olvina" proceeded to
Dover in company with "Topaze". During the night she became
detached and reached Dover independently at 1045/30 May. The
Examination Vessel was hailed for instructions, and at 1230
orders were received to proceed to the Downs, where the
Examination Vessel would have our sailing orders. This ship,
which was engaged in towing a steamer off the Goodwins,
directed us to the Examination Tug at the North Goodwin Light
Vessel, where we anchored at 1545 to await instructions from
the shore, since the Tug had no orders for us. At 1810 orders
were received to proceed to Bray beaches, 6 miles east of
Dunkirk, to pick up troops.
At 2210 the anchor was dropped 1 mile to east of Dunkirk
when visibility was very low owing to smoke clouds. Orders
were then received from a destroyer to investigate a reported
enemy M.T.B. 2 miles to eastward. Anchor was weighed at 2221,
and we steamed to Bray beaches without encountering the M.T.B.
Pilotage was somewhat hazardous in the intense darkness, owing
to wrecks obstructing the channel, and at 2345 the anchor was
dropped as close inshore as possible.
The ship's boat was taken away soon after midnight, and
brought off two loads of troops totalling 32, including one
stretcher which was put aboard a destroyer. Owing to
deterioration case, of conditions, no more troops were embarked until
daylight, when the boat was pulled ashore on two more occasions.
provide proceed to "Sabre's" motorboat and use it for embarking
to At about England, so it was arranged that "Olvina" should
0500/31 May, "Sabre" was full of troops and ready
troops. a crew for after refilling with petrol from "Icarus", boats
the Accordingly, manned and proceeded to tow off ships' to vessels
and motorboat Engineer's was pontoon floats from the lorries pier driven
anchored the off. The having planks lashed to 3/4 at Owing
Royal pier consisted of motor the roofs. into
to sea at low water, breeze, which freshened be used, to force and some 1100,
a northwesterly pier could boats.
in handling the Probably of
300 to 350 removed in this manner, which
240 were put aboard "Olvina".
by enemy action was experienced fired at, during and the
shrapnel embarkation, was observed to burst on the
No interference although enemy aircraft were sand being dunes.
At 1100, I conditions for proceed to Dover. to
decided to discontinue small embarking boats, troops and owing owing
the to the fact adverse that the weather ship was almost full, and to
"Sabre's" motorboat was handed over to "Vivacious" and at
1120, "Olvina" was under way.

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
30300
Page 1 of
inclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 1940.
OPERATION DYNAMO.
Wednesday, 29th May, 1940. At 2100 sailed for Dunkirk by shortest p.m.
H.M. D/C motor boat under my command arrived at Dover
possible route over shallow minefield. Low water approximately
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Candr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
0100, least depth over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, staff of
Cleared screws. Engines would.start. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to recommoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.L. department worked continuously
on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to
harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still
unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat
should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received
duty. to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in R letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle assumed commend of 40 ft.
ships fast motor boat and manned it with:-
Petty Officer John Luckins. P/J 103170, coxswain of the D/C
motor boat (as coxswain).
A.B. Alfred J. Cole P/JX 129800 (H.N.S. EXCELLENT) (as Gunner). Lewis
and Stoker W.M. Wells R.F.R. P/85.125744 (H.N.S. EXCELLENT).
These men all volunteered to accompany Lieutenant
Hamilton Meikle, and it was with difficulty that he could persuade
Dunkirk. that orders boat was capable of 20 knots and one stripped Lewis
them were necessary before proceeding imediately to
gun was transferred The to her from H.M.AD/C boat, the other gun being
in Lieutenant Mead's lifeboat.
Saturday, 1st June.
in regulating rescue traffic to and from
40 ft. motor boat assisted M.T.B. Dunkirk. 107 (Commodore Hallet)
Sunday, 2nd June.
but 40 ft. due to discrepancy in speed. 1900.
motor boat escorted M.A.L.B. Continued 10 (Admiral towards Somerville)
formation of enemy Air attack. Duration approximately 12 minutes.
Dunkirk to see if aircraft attacking hospital ship. Proceeded
lost touch boat was required for any purpose. Sighted
15 to assistance. 1910 and machine gunning. boat. All Between spare 30-40 petrol M/G cans
bullet holes, THE up wounded and took men in from
JU 97's strained
pierced and near off Captain and some officers
wreckage of further lifeboat - ship to weight of tow. spoke
from S.S. PARIS. 6 unknown, survivors tow.
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due
surce
ght of
(Contimued.
poke
Oa

Details

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

Details

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

Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
CHAP. V
off Dunkirk at 1315. They had picked up that morning from arrived
The destroyers Codrington, Jaguar and Javelin, 33 survivors diverted from patrol,
S.S. Abukir, which had been torpedoed by United an E-boat while returning the
about 200 evacuees from Ostend to Grenade the which Kingdom; these survivors with
Javelin Dunkirk. were transferred using The their Codrington to own the boats, destroyer went embarked into Dunkirk troops harbour, from subsequently Bray while beach. the went Jaguar At on 1730 and to
the Grenade left Dunkirk with 1,000 troops on board.
skoot Lena. The Vimy also made a second
359 troops from Zuydcoote, assisted by ships' a the second.t.Bip,embarked
Between 1230 and 1815 the Vivacious, a her
Dunkirk harbour.
More ships were on the way. From 1230 onwards 19 minesweepers were
sailed from Harwich, from Dover and the Downs, for Dunkirk and the beaches.
By 2130 five of them had arrived off Bray beach I, and four off La Panne²;
three reached Dunkirk by 2140³.
Four other minesweepers arrived off the beaches late on the night of
28th/29th May4, and two more reached the beaches at 0600/29⁵.
Early on the 28th May the eight ships of the 7th and 8th minesweeping
flotillas had been ordered from Rosyth to Harwich, to work under the orders
of the Vice-Admiral, Dover⁶; they could not, however, reach the beaches
until about 72 hours later.
During the forenoon and afternoon of the 28th May the call went out for
more and more destroyers, and seven reached the evacuation area next day⁷.
In the signals from the Admiralty and the Vice-Admiral, Dover, summoning
them there sounds the same note of extreme urgency, traceable to S.N.O.
Dunkirk's message⁸ declaring that evacuation on the night of 28th/29th May
was problematical. "If the older class destroyers and other vessels cannot
compete with the situation signalled the Admiralty, destroyers of all classes
are to be used for bringing men off'.9 Every available destroyer" in the
Western Approaches and Portsmouth Commands was to be sailed to Dover.
Destroyers on patrol or on escort duty were to be diverted to Dunkirk or the
beaches.¹¹
Vulnerability of personnel vessels
The vulnerability of the personnel vessels, with their large troop-carrying
capacity, was a cause of anxiety. On the 27th May the Biarritz and Archangel,
the Mona's Queen, King Orry, Sequacity, Yewdale, and the Isle of Thanet12,
I The Albury, Gossamer, Leda, Kellett and Sutton.
2 The Salamander, Halcyon, Skipjack and Waverley.
3 The Ross, Pangbourne and Lydd.
4 The Hebe, Sharpshooter, Duchess of Fife snd Emperor of India.
5 The Oriole and Marmion.
6
A.M.0163/28.
7 The Verity, Harvester, Esk, Malcolm, Express, Shikari and Scimitar.
8 Appendix M.4.
9 A.M.0754/28.
10 A.M.1229/28.
11 Appendices D.4, D.5 and D.7.
collided with the Examination Service Vessel leaving Ocean Reward, which sank
12 At 0254, on 28th May, shortly after Dover for Newhaven, the Isle of Thanet
Assisted by the tug Lady Brassey, a search was made for survivors, but none was found.
28

Details

TUESDAY, 28TH MAY
CHAP. VI
return to Dover at 15 knots, and could take no further part in "Dynamo."
The personnel vessel Lorina was bombed and sunk at about this period, but
no details are forthcoming.
Icarus damaged
The destroyer Icarus, which had been embarking troops off Zuydcoote, and
in addition had embarked about 470 from the skoot Doggersbank, was attacked
by 10 dive bombers at 1830. She received only slight damage from near
misses but had 1 killed and 25 wounded.
King Orry sunk
The armed boarding vessel King Orry arrived at Dunkirk harbour at about
1900, to find it apparently occupied only by burning and sinking ships. She
herself was immediately subjected to a bombing attack which put her steering
gear out of action and shattered all her instruments. Further air attacks,
and damage by near misses ensued. Realising the risk of the ship blocking
the channel, S.N.O. Dunkirk instructed her Captain, shortly after midnight,
to take her out of harbour. She struggled out at 0230/30, but when clear of the
harbour entrance the King Orry foundered. Several ships, including the drifter
Vivacious, the trawler Lord Grey, and a D.C./M.B., picked up survivors.
Isle of Guernsey deliberately bombed
At about the same time that the King Orry was being bombed, the M/S
Halcyon witnessed the deliberate bombing of the hospital carrier Isle of
Guernsey. She was bombed by 10 planes off Dunkirk harbour while attempting
to pick up an airman. The airman was subsequently picked up by the Halcyon.
Although damaged by near misses, the Isle of Guernsey entered the harbour
after dark and embarked 490 wounded in the early hours of 30th May. She
then proceeded to Newhaven, but was not repaired in time to make another
trip to Dunkirk.
Bideford's stern blown off
The air onslaught had not yet, however, come to an end. The sloop Bideford
had arrived off Bray beach at 1730. At 1750 the first boat loads of troops
(mostly French) came alongside. 'The boats," says her Captain, Lt. Cdr.
J. H. Lewes, R.N., were dangerously overcrowded and several swamped on
the way off from the shore. On arrival alongside, the men would all jump on
board and let their boats drift off on the tide. Paddles were lost overboard,
rendering the boats useless. Bideford's M/B was lowered and ordered to
collect and tow inshore any empty boats. The whaler was lowered and 2
officers and a signalman were sent in to endeavour to take charge on the
beach
this was next to impossible. The men rushed the boats and capsized
them in shallow water, and then left the boats without making any attempt
to right them and use them again. There were only 2 motor landing craft in
the vicinity. One [A.L.C.17] had one engine out of action; the other
[A.L.C.16] was blown up subsequently when lying alongside the ship."
Dive-bombing attacks commenced on the Bideford at about 1915. She was
then machine-gunned by low flying aircraft. At 2007 four bombs were
dropped; one landed 30 yards away one hit the quarter deck; and one hit
or near missed the stern, detonating a depth charge. About 40 feet of the
Bideford's stern was blown away completely; a further 40 feet was reduced
to a tangled mass of metal; the mainmast fell in 3 pieces on the searchlight
45

Details

THURSDAY, 30TH MAY
CHAP. VII
reached the beaches, and by retrieving the abandoned and drifting pulling boats
they were able to do much to increase the rate of lifting¹.
Many more were on the way. The destroyers Basilisk and Venomous from
the Western Approaches Command were making for Dover, and the mine
sweepers Niger and Dundalk were coming down from the Humber. The
attempt to maintain an adequate rate of lift with only the older destroyers
soon proved unavailing, and all the modern destroyers of the H, I and J classes
which had been withdrawn on the 29th May were ordered back to Dunkirk
on the 30th².
Small craft were hastening up from Portsmouth, Newhaven and Sheerness;
six tugs were plodding along from Tilbury (towing 23 motor and 46 rowing
lifeboats), and five others had left Gravesend (towing barges). Yachts, drifters
and trawlers; launches, lighters and steam hopper barges; car ferries, coasters
and cockle boats; train ferries, speed boats and picket boats; seaplane
tenders, fishing craft and pleasure craft; steam pinnaces, sailing craft and a
Thames fire float-a host of vessels-were heading in ever-increasing numbers³,
for Dover, the Downs, or Dunkirk direct, while the cry more ships, more
boats", still went up off. the French coast.⁴
Set-backs were inevitable, but this concourse of ships, big and little, fast
and slow, manned by willing and eager crews fired by one purpose of saving
the British Expeditionary Force, continued to grow until it assumed the pro-
portions of an armada.
Late on the previous evening the Bideford had sent a call for large quantities
of rope for towing to be sent, and within a few hours 9 coils (1080 fathoms)
of 4-inch grass hawser were speeding by lorry from Chatham dockyard to
Ramsgate to help the skoots to haul boats off the beaches, thus speeding up
the boat work and compensating for the shortage of boats, 'which would
continue", says Vice-Admiral, Dover for at least another 24 hours "5.
Undoubtedly as a result of the messages and signals received on the 29th
May by V.A. Dover with regard to the harbour at Dunkirk, the number of
ships sent there on the 30th May was curtailed, with a corresponding reduction
in the volume of embarkation. After V.A. Dover's signal to Admiral Abrial
late on the 29th May, asking whether it was possible for transports to berth
alongside, further signals to the same effect were sent to the Vanquisher and
the Codrington and to Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker. Finally, at 1020, the
Wolsey was called upon for a detailed report of conditions alongside the east
pier; and by 1524 V.A. Dover was able to inform destroyers that a good
berth with bollards exists 400 yards from end of east
pier".
In the meantime signals were coming in from Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker
and from the Vivacious stating that the beaches were filling up rapidly and
more ships and boats were urgently required there.⁶ Although it was known
that the destroyers could use Dunkirk, it appeared, says V.A. Dover, that the
best division of transport was to send the great majority of destroyers to the
beaches, where urgent demands could not be ignored, and the personnel vessels
to Dunkirk harbour, only an occasional destroyer being sent to Dunkirk from
the reduced number available.⁷
I D.R. p.15, para. 49.
Javelin. 2 Appendices D.9, D.10. Except the Intrepid and Jaguar (in need of repairs) and the
3 Appendices G.20, G.27, G.28.
4 Appendices H.7 to H.10.
5 D.R. p.13, para. 41.
6 Appendices H.7, H.9 and G.22.
7 D.R. p.13, para. 43.
61

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
After about an hour the Margate life-boat, the Lord Southborough, appeared.
All destroyers were now under way, and as the life-boat was returning to Margate
the party went back in her¹. She reached Margate at 1450 on May 31st.
Thus, by about 0830 on the 31st May all the beach parties of which there are
any records had returned or were on their way to England.
Devonia is beached
At 1035 Rear-Admiral Wake-Walker had informed V.A. Dover that he would
beach a ship in the hope of improving conditions for boat work, which was then
being made difficult by a lop and he instructed Cdre. Stephenson accordingly.
Cdre. Stephenson, then in the yacht Bounty off. La Panne, boarded the
minesweeper Devonia at 1600 and gave orders to beach the ship. The
Devonia, already much damaged by near misses at 1230, was beached at
full speed off La Panne, and at 1930, on account of the shelling and bombing,
she was abandoned. Fortunately by 1700 the weather off the beaches had
much improved.
Casualties to H.M. Ships
With the exception of the Devonia none of H.M. ships was lost on this day,
but the following were slightly damaged : the Vivacious was damaged by a
shell hit and had 3 dead and 12 wounded; the Hebe received slight damage
from a near miss; the Wolsey was in collision with the P/V Roebuck; the
Impulsive damaged a propeller on uncharted wreckage; the Malcolm was in
collision with Dunkirk pier; and the Scimitar was in collision with the Icarus
and later with a drifter².
Air patrols
During the 31st May Fighter Command carried out patrols, as on the 30th
May, at an average strength of three to four squadrons. Eight patrols in all
were flown, involving 289 sorties. The periods in the day when the Dunkirk
area was not covered were 0620-0800, 0830-1110, 1510-1615, and 1745-1915³.
Coastal Command patrolled the line North Goodwins-Gravelines-Ostend
throughout the day, patrols being of one section strength, involving in all
37 sorties⁴.
Shortly before 0930 the Air Ministry intercepted a meassage indicating that
the enemy air force had been ordered not to attack the town or harbour of
Dunkirk but to concentrate attacks on shipping at sea, or leaving the coast³.
It was at about 1230 that, off La Panne, the Devonia received extensive
damage to her hull from 4 near misses, but the first major attack on our ships
occurred about 1415-1430 when one of our squadrons estimated the enemy
strength as about 100 aircraft (bombers and fighters). Rear-Admiral Wake-
Walker says, "a terrific air battle took place overhead and it seemed to go
against us". Actually, we lost 9 aircraft and claimed 7 enemy shot down.6
Air attacks then followed at half-hourly intervals between 1530 and 1730,
and at about 1717 the Ivanhoe, Whitehall and Express off Dunkirk harbour
were attacked by about 50 bombers. The Whitehall received some damage
and the Express slight damage from near misses. At this time also the Hebe
was attacked off La Panne by 4 bombers and was damaged by near misses ;
I Cdr. Richardson's report (R.O.III, p.370).
2 Probably either the Gervais Rentoul or the Eileen Emma which both returned damaged
as the result of collisions.
3 R.A.F. Narrative, p.334.
4 R.A.F. Narrative, p.336.
5 M.017978/41, p.17.
6 R.A.F. Narrative, p.335.
83

Details

SATURDAY, 1ST JUNE
CHAP. IX
move westward with boats in tow in the direction of Dunkirk, towards which
the troops were now marching from La Panne.
The first loaded ship to leave Dunkirk seems to have been the Whippingham,
in time of peace an Isle of Wight paddle ferry boat belonging to the Southern
Railway. She had been embarking troops alongside the mole since 2200 on
the previous day, and when she cast off at 0130 on 1st with 2,700 troops on
board she was overladen and her sponsons were only about a foot above water.
Disaster nearly overwhelmed her at the start, when she was straddled by shell
fire and the troops rushed over to the port side, causing the ship to list 20°.
Fortunately, the sea was calm. The chief mechanician (Ch. Mech. 2nd C1.
F. A. Ford) checked the rush, moved the troops back to starboard, and thereby
probably saved the ship.
Another early sailer was the personnel vessel Lady of Mann, who proceeded
at 0430 for Dover, with 1500 casualties. The hospital carriers St. Andrew and
St. Julien disembarked in England this day 130 and 287 wounded, respectively,
after which no more hospital ships brought wounded from Dunkirk. Space
alongside the large-ship berths was too valuable to be occupied by hospital
ships, and walking wounded went with the troops, whilst those that could not
walk had to be left behind.
The personnel ship Maid of Orleans berthed at the East Mole at about 0330
and for 6 hours, most of the time under air attack, she acted as a floating
stage for the embarkation of troops on board the destroyers Icarus, Vanquisher
and Windsor, whose upper decks were far below the top of the mole. The
pier was crowded and as many troops as possible were embarked over mess
tables rigged across the "B" gun decks of inside ships to the outside vessel.
The Vanquisher was the first of the three to leave, at 0630 with 1200 troops.
An hour later the Icarus and Windsor sailed in company, with 1,114 and 493
troops respectively. Finally, at about 0900 the Maid of Orleans herself pro-
ceeded, during an air attack, with 1,856 troops, which, like the destroyers, she
disembarked at Dover. In six trips, once being diverted without completing
the trip and once returning on account of collision, the Maid of Orleans had
transported in all 5,461 men; but this was her last crossing, for when leaving
Dover again for Dunkirk at 2030 that day she was rammed amidships by the
destroyer Worcester returning from Dunkirk with manoeuvrability impaired
through damage to propellers and rudder, caused by air attack at 1630 in
which she had 6 men killed and 40 wounded, and shot down two enemy air-
craft. No lives were lost in the collision, but the Maid of Orleans was too
badly damaged to continue her voyage. For the Worcester, too, this was
the final crossing she had evacuated 4,545 troops in 6 trips.
Other destroyers were embarking troops at the same time alongside Dunkirk
pier. The Vivacious, after being dive-bombed whilst waiting to enter harbour,
went alongside at 0630, embarked 475 troops in a quarter of an hour, and
sailed again for Dover at 0645. The Winchelsea was bombed at 0745 and again
at 0830, but was not damaged, and she sailed at 0830 with 1150 troops on
board.
Despite vicious air attacks, the embarkation of troops continued. The
gunboat Locust, after embarking troops for four hours from Malo beach in her
whalers, having no power boat, moved to Dunkirk at 0415 and took on board
a further 500 at the east pier under air attack before sailing for Dover at 0610.
The corvette Kingfisher left the east pier at 1130 with 210 troops and some
wounded, embarked under almost continuous high level bombing.
There were times, however, during the day when the harbour was deserted.
87

Details

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

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CHAP. XI
THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
quarter of an hour later they all three proceeded, with the Holland last in the
line, to carry out their part in blocking the port. As they neared Dunkirk a
"long line of destroyers came out of the harbour. " Astern of them", stated
the Holland, there was a gap of over a mile and then a large and fast trans-
port". M.A/S.B. 7 led the Holland through the gap between the destroyer
line and the transport. When the latter was 6 cables away, and steaming very
fast with the first streaks of dawn behind her, the danger of collision became
apparent, SO the Holland sounded one blast and put her wheel hard astarboard.
Lieutenant-Commander E. C. Coats, R.N., captain of the blockship, reported
that the transport had then only to alter course 5° to starboard to pass well
clear. However, she appeared to alter to port", with the result that she struck
the Holland hard on the bridge and just before the boiler room bulkhead. The
transport, which did not appear to have sustained much damage, backed out
and carried on her way. The Holland had no buoyancy in hand, and, a few
seconds before she was struck, her captain ordered abandon ship", seeing
that it was inevitable she would be rammed. The bows sunk at once and rested
on the bottom, there being apparently only 8 feet of water under her keel;
the stern remained above water. Two seamen were crushed and seriously
injured in the collision. M.A/S.B.7 took off the crew and transferred them to
the Vivacious. The wreck of the Holland came within an ace of being rammed
a second time, for two more ships, reported to be destroyers, passed and missed
the Holland's stern by no more than a few feet.
At 0300 the blockship Westcove entered Dunkirk, followed ten minutes later
by the Edvard Nissen. Both ships proceeded into the channel leading to the
inner harbour. When in her allotted position the Westcove put her wheel hard
astarboard to ram the Inner Western Jetty, but her bows struck mud about
50 feet from the pier, with the ship at an angle of about 30° across the channel.
By going full speed ahead on the engines, the athwartship's angle was increased
to 50°.
As the Edvard Nissen came in with the intention of ramming the East Pier
she endeavoured to strike the Westcove's stern a glancing blow in order to in-
crease her angle to the channel before scuttling herself; but underestimating
the strength of the ebb stream she passed close under the Westcove's stern, and
rammed the East Pier abreast of the latter. Letting go an anchor, she applied
full port helm with all engine power to increase the blocking angle. The
Westcove now fired her scuttling charges, which probably owing to coal gas in
the bunkers, caused a large column of flame and smoke to envelop the ship's
stern. When this had dissipated, the crew, who had pulled clear in their boat,
saw that the Westcove had slid off the sloping bank of the channel and was
lying on an even keel in the line of the piers, almost in mid stream, thus causing
a minimum of obstruction. Between the sterns of the two ships there was
now a gap of 80 feet which was reduced to 50 feet by heaving on a hawser run
by the Edvard Nissen's motor boat from the ship's stern to the Westcove. No
more could be done and the Edvard Nissen abandoned ship and fired her
scuttling charges from the boat. M.A/S.B. 7 took out both ship's crews to
the Vivacious.
1 No transport reported being in collision at this time and it has not been possible to
identify any of the vessels concerned. The following destroyers and transports sailed from
Dunkirk at the times given destroyers - Vanquisher 0230, Whitshed 2045, Malcolm 0248,
Codrington 0250 and Express 0250; transports Newhaven (French 1,888 tons) 0245,
Tynwald (British 2,376 tons) 0300, Rouen (French, 1,882 tons time not known but ship
was in Dunkirk in the early hours of 3rd June), and Côte Argent (French 3,047 tons, time
not known but ship landed troops at Dover on 3rd June.)
112

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ANALYSIS OF THE OPERATION
CHAP. XIII,
1ST JUNE. Beaches. The climax of boat shortage occurred on this day, and
" increasing enemy air attack caused continual interruptions of embarkation
on the beaches and in Dunkirk ' (D.R. P. 25). The disastrous figures reflect
the serious situation that developed on the beaches about 2030 on the 31st
May, when the rate of embarkation fell to about 150 an hour owing to shortage
of boats.
Harbour. The interruptions caused by air attacks and shelling undoubtedly
accounted partly for the poor rate of lift. A further factor was the berthing of
destroyers two or three deep at the East Pier. It is true that some destroyers
filled up in less than an hour the Vivacious, for example, out of 35 minutes
spent in Dunkirk, was alongside the East Pier for only 15 minutes, during which
time she took on board 475 men; and the Shikari needed only 20 minutes to
embark 623 troops. On the other hand, owing to the state of the tide, the
personnel vessel Maid of Orleans spent 51 hours at the East Pier acting as a
floating pontoon for destroyers, while the outermost destroyer, the Windsor,
spent nearly 15 hours alongside.
2ND JUNE. No daylight evacuations took place after the 1st June, all took
place at night.
Beaches. The average lift and waiting time were both much below normal.
There were more ships lying off the beaches than could be loaded by the boats
available; consequently, scarcely a single ship left with a full load of troops.
The rate of lift, however, was average.
Harbour. The night of the Ist-2nd June saw the introduction of planned
arrival and berthing of ships at Dunkirk. This resulted in a marked improve-
ment in the average lift, which was almost the best of the entire operation.
3RD JUNE. The increase in average time spent at Dunkirk during the night
of the 2nd-3rd June over the previous night was probably accounted for by
the difficulties experienced by ships in going alongside the East Pier. The
figure was worsened by the fact that, owing to the cessation of the flow of
French troops to the East Pier after the embarkation of the British rear-
guard at 2330 on the 2nd, five destroyers had to be sent back to England
practically empty.
4th JUNE. Owing to chaotic conditions in Dunkirk harbour time waiting to
berth averaged no less than 100 minutes. Pauses in the flow of French troops
to the piers, and the impossibility of inducing them to embark in quick and
orderly manner (which latter factor had also operated on the previous night)
sufficed to depress the rate of lift from the high averages of the two previous
nights, to the norm for the operation.
Discipline
No instances of naval indiscipline came to light. But in an operation where
the level of initiative was very high an unaccountably heavy wastage of small
boats occurred from lack of boatkeepers. There were undoubtedly instances
where small boats which were brought off from shore to ship manned only by
troops, drifted away and were lost after the troops climbed out of them, owing
to the omission to put boatkeepers into them.
The state of discipline of the troops had a direct bearing on the rate of
embarkation. In the early stages of the operation the troops on the beaches
were mainly rear units and indiscipline occurred. The arrival of combatant
127

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Details

THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX D
APPENDIX D
SIGNALS RE BUILD-UP OF DESTROYERS
BETWEEN 27th MAY AND 1st JUNE
Note (i)
The 213 signals in Appendices D to Z have been collated from the
some 370 which 2,500 accompanies Dynamo Admiralty signals in Record Admiralty Office Record Case 5458. Office Enclosure copies Box No. of
Note
(ii)
Command, 10 British destroyers-were employed of the Dover Command,
15 destroyers from from the the Portsmouth Nore Command, Command, 10 from and 6 the Western Approaches
total of 41 in Operation Dynamo.
Monday, 27th May
1. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to ADMIRALTY (R) C.-in-C. Nore
but not at the expense of Nore Command.
Request Dover Forces may be strengthened forthwith by six additional destroyers
1036/27
2. ADMIRALTY to C.-in-C. WESTERN APPROACHES, C.-in-C. PORTSMOUTH (R) Vice-
Dover. Admiral Dover, C.-in-C. Nore, C.-in-C. Home Fleet, F.O.I.C. Humber, R.A
Request four destroyers from Western Approaches and two from Portsmouth be
sailed for Dover as soon as possible.
1317/27
3. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Grafton (R) S.O. 10th M.S.F., Greyhound, Calcutta.
Close beach in vicinity of La Panne at 0100 and send in boats for British troops.
You should withdraw at your discretion and anyhow not later than 0330. Paddle
minesweepers and small craft will be in vicinity. Acknowledge.
2054/27
[V.A. Dover informed (between 2015 and 2055/27) that embarkation was only
possible from the beaches, and that evacuation on the night of 28th-29th May
was problematical (see Apps. M.3 and M.4) ].
4. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to Grafton, Greyhound, Blyskawica (R) S.O. 10th M.S.F.
Close the beach at La Panne at 0100 tomorrow Tuesday and embark all possible
British troops using your boats. This is our last chance of saving them.
2127/27
4a.
2242/27 : I The Polish destroyer Blyskawica was not in company but she replied at
We have two pulling boats only. Can accommodate 3 in each
Monday, 27th May
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, Impulsive. DOVER to Gallant, Vivacious, Windsor, Vimy, Calcutta, Anthony.
all them. possible British troops using boats. last chance of saving
Close beaches one to three miles east of Dunkirk with utmost despatch and embark
Maid of Orleans, Lormont, your 17 drifters own and other This craft is our will be operating. 2142/27
6. VICE-ADMIRAL, 17 drifters DOVER to Wolfhound, Wolsey.
Direct arriving Dunkirk tonight
to beaches as necessary.
2158/27
7. VICE-ADMIRAL, Close DOVER to Vimy.
and embark the beaches one to three miles Tuesday
saving them. all possible British troops using east of your Dunkirk boats. at This 0100 is tomorrow our last chance of
2238/27
162

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SIGNALS
APPENDIX T
3. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to DESTROYERS AND MINESWEEPERS
The final evacuation is staged for tonight, and the Nation looks to the Navy to
see this through.
I want every ship to report as soon as possible whether she is fit to meet the call
which has been made on our courage and endurance.
1052/2
4. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to DESTROYERS, PADDLE SWEEPERS, PERSONNEL VESSELS (R)
S.N.O. Dunkirk
Evacuation tonight 2nd June will be from Dunkirk harbour, ships berthing on
east pier.
Following berths established if required (?) from north to south:
Berth A : from lighthouse to trawler wreck.
B: from wreck to gap in pier.
"
C : from gap in wall to hut at end of pier.
"
Berths
D&E: smaller berths extending to the inner end of pier.
In addition, berth on east side of east pier. This berth will not normally be used
unless all inside berths are occupied.
Pier master will direct berthing from cast pier, and ships entering will be guided
by a motor boat.
Ships are to work special brows and ladders which will be supplied at Dover, and
have boxes ready to form steps
Intention is to keep berths A to E constantly
filled.
1430/2
5. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to DESTROYERS
My 1430/2. Destroyers are to sail to arrive at Dunkirk as follows:
2100-Shikari and Sabre.
2130-Venomous.
2200-Windsor.
2230-Icarus.
2300-Winchelsea.
2330-Esk.
2400-Vanquisher.
0030-Codrington.
0100-Express.
0130-Vivacious¹.
0200-Whitshed.
0230-Malcolm.
Acknowledge.
1715/2
SIGNALS RE THE EVACUATION OF THE BRITISH REAR GUARD ON NIGHT
2ND/3RD JUNE
Sunday, 2nd June-contd.
6. VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER to MINESWEEPERS (R) C.-in-C. Nore, F.O.I.C. Harwich, Cdre.
i/c Sheerness
Ships evacuating tonight Sunday are to sail to arrive off Dunkirk as follows:
From Margate: 2100 to 2230.
From Sheerness 2230 to 2359.
From Dover : 0001 to 0130.
From Harwich 0130 to 0200.
I Vivacious had, however, been detailed to take part in a blocking operation.
187

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THE EVACUATION FROM DUNKIRK
APPENDIX Z
APPENDIX Z
SIGNALS RE OPERATION C.K.
THE BLOCKING OF DUNKIRK INNER HARBOUR
Sunday, 2nd June
1. S.N.O. DUNKIRK to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
night. He will signal if their placing to postponed.
Admiral Nord requests that blockships is will be arrive at entrance at 0300 tomorrow
0405/2
2. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER, REAR-ADMIRAL, DOVER STRAITS, S.N.O.
DUNKIRK
My 1600/31st May, not to S.N.O. Dunkirk. Operation is to be carried
forces sailing from the Downs about 1900 today Sunday. E.T.A. Dunkirk roads out,
0200 3rd June.
Final order to block is to be given by Captain Dangerfield who will enter Dunkirk
ahead of forces and consult with Admiral Nord as necessary.
Owing to the tide, blockships cannot enter Dunkirk harbour after 0300 on night
2nd/3rd June.
1300/2
3. ADMIRALTY to S.N.O. DUNKIRK (R) V.A. Dover, R.A. Dover Straits
French now state that following has been received from Admiral Nord.
"Evacuation will not be completed during the night of 2nd/3rd. Blocking of
Dunkirk must not take place for the moment".
We hope, however, to complete evacuation tonight and blockships are being
sent. Captain Dangerfield has orders to proceed to Dunkirk in advance of block-
ships and get in touch with Admiral Nord and arrange time of blocking with him.
1552/2
[Here see Appendix Y.15].
Monday, 3rd June
4. Vivacious to ADMIRALTY (R) VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER
Operation C.K. completed. Two blockships¹ sunk between breakwater, but
regret obstruction of channel not achieved.
T.O.R. 0445/3
I The two blockships were the Westcove and Edvard Nissen. The third block-
ship, the Holland, was lost en route.
5. ADMIRALTY to VICE-ADMIRAL, DOVER, REAR-ADMIRAL, DOVER STRAITS
My 1300/2 [Appx. Z.2]. Operation is to be repeated tonight June 3rd, forces
sailing from the downs about 2000 today Monday. E.T.A. Dunkirk roads 1158/3 0130/4.
RESTRICTED
194

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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

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4
kets etc. The first streak of dawn was now appearing and a Destroyer
who had also picked up some of King Orry's crew was dodging off the Har-
bour. Lord Grey hailed her & asked her to take those we had picked up.
She was the Vivacious and hove to while we transferred the survivors.
The Captain asked if we could go in & fetch troops off for him as he wan-
ted to fill up & be off as soon as possible. I explained to him as pol-
itely as I could that we were here for minesweeping, and there were other
ships engaged on ferrying. However as I was going back to the Harbour I
would report & do my best. He was not impressed - and I didn't blame him-
with my reference to minesweepingm I was frankly gravely worried as the
actual gear streaming 500 yards astern of the ships with everybody, Des-
troyers, schoots, M.T.B.s, rowing-boats & paddle steamers dashing about
at full speed, would have presented a serious hazard to the hard job in
hand. Besides, in a mined area the gear is far more dangerous to a de-
gaussed ship than a mine.
We then proceeded back to harbour intent on finding Capt. Tennant, & went
as far along the Eastern mole as we could, dodging the various wrecks. As
soon as we were fast again I got ashore & started walking down the quay
against a steady stream of Tommies and a few officers. At last I reached
the end of the quay where a number of naval Officers sat. Their uniforms
were covered in dust and they all looked extremely tired. They were quite
indifferent to the proximity of bombs and the itermittent spatter of ma-
chine fun bulletsm an indifference which I did my best to share, though I
am certain I failed to disguise my nervous & profound anxiety. The senior
officer was a Commander and to his silent enquiry I replied: "Unit offi-
cer of Lord Grey & Clythness to report to Capt. Turner, Sir." "What have
you come for?" Here we were, having come over minefields & through a reg-
ular deluge of bombs, and our arrival was apparently of no consequence!
Capt. Tennant it appeared was not available.
s/o/
8/10
7,186
6/4

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5
I explained that we were magnetic M/S and had come to clear the harbour.
or so I supposed. The 4 or 5 officers present looked sleepily at each
other & then at me, and relapsed again into silence as though they were
too weary to try & raise their voices above the chaotic din of aerial
bombardment. Something I felt should be done so I told of my encounter
with "Vivacious" and said he wanted troops brought outr. For various rea-
sons already outlined I did not wish to press the minesweeping business,
as I could not but think it would seriously hamper the already colossal
task of getting the troops away. However it seemed we should have to do
our best, for the Commander asked everyone in general: "Where did those
mines drop?" The small assembly of 5 or 6 each indicated a slightly
different direction and the Commander - striking the mean - pointed
North-east & said: "You better sweep out by that wreck"(5 wrecks in
sight on line of bearing indicated) "I fancy there were some dropped
there." It would have been unkind apart from insubordinate to explain
that we were not fitted with wheels, and mines where he indicated could
not possibly have troubled anything larger than a rowing boat. I asked
if we should take troops out on our way and transfer them to destroyers.
To this suggestion the Commander agreed and with a smart "Aye, aye Sir"
I saluted and with a relief which I did my best to conceal, I again set
off for the ship.
I found both ships already practically full of troops and after outlining
Smith
the situation to Heckstall- and another Commander who was on the quay in
charge of embarkation, we let go and sailed.
It is of course unnecessary to say that despite continuous activity in te
the air there was no suggestion of disorder. The embarkation was carried
out smoothly & quickly and the naval officers and ratings who were on the
quay and actually assisted in making fast the ships, letting go ropes &
putting ladders aboard etc. were amongst the best chaps I ever wish to
s/o/
8/10
1186
6/4

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6
most. Hungry, tired & constantly under fire, they had a cheery confidence
and the ratings an endless flow of repartee which I shall never forget..
Though probably at that time slightly more than half the final number
had left, there was always the possibility that the weather or something
else would prevent the task being completed.
Off the harbour there were two British destroyers visible, one of which a
was our old friend Vivacious. I signalled him that I wished to transfer
troops and to my intense annoyance he replied that he had all he could
take. Fortunately Whitehall, the other destroyer, was empty and Lord
Grey & 6lythness went alongside each side & in an amazingly short time
had transferred 900 troops to her.
I confess my previous doubts about the minesweeping had grown to such an
extent that I was really at a loss to know exactly how to begin. One
point which troubled me a lot was the destruction of the ship & gear if
by any chance we grounded, as I felt certain one of us would. The mines -
if they existed at all - were in very shallow water and the tide was now
ebbing. It was just when my doubts were darkest that Clythness signalled
that her dynamo had packed up & she was therefore not degaussed and could
not sweep. What a relief! The fact that she was hovering about with no
protection against magnetic mones caused me, I must admit, no anxiety at
all. I signalled the shore station that she was out of action & asked for
instructions. In due course both ships were ordered to return alongside
the quay. The signal was passed to Clythness and the two ships headed
again for the harbour. As we went in a bomber released a stick of bombs
at Clythness just as she was in the harbour mouth. Out of 5 bombs she was
straddled by numbers three & four and had they been any closer they would
have done her no good, and if she had been hit it would successfully have
bothled up the ships in the harbour at a most awkward moment. However she
wasn't so we did not worry. We went as far along the quay as we could &
8/10
1156
186
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LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATION "DYNAMO" - 26TH MAY - 4TH JUNE, 1940
PART I - BRITISH SHIPS.
A.A. CRUISER.
CALCUTTA
DESTROYERS.
ANTHONY
INTREPID
VENOMOUS
BASILISK
IVANHOE
VERITY
CODRINGTON
JAGUAR
VIMY
ESK
JAVELIN
VIVACIOUS
EXPRESS
KEITH
WAKEFUL
GALLANT
MACKAY
WHITEHALL
GRAFTON
MALCOLM
WHITSHED
GRENADE
MONTROSE
WINCHELSEA
GREYHOUND
SABRE
WINDSOR
HARVESTER
SALADIN
WOLFHOUND
HAVANT
SCIMITAR
WOLSEY
ICARUS
SHIKARI
WORCESTER
IMPULSIVE
VANQUISHER
SLOOP.
BIDEFORD
CORVETTES.
GUILLEMOT
MALLARD
SHELDRAKE
KINGFISHER
SHEARWATER
WIDGEON
GUNBOATS.
LOCUST
MOSQUITO
MINESWEEPERS.
ALBURY
HEBE
ROSS
BRIGHTON BELLE
KELLETT
SALAMANDER
BRIGHTON QUEEN
LEDA
SALTASH
DEVONIA
LYDD
SANDOWN
DUCHESS OF FIFE
MARMION
SHARPSHOOTER
DUNDALK
MEDWAY QUEEN
SKIPJACK
EMPEROR OF INDIA
NIGER
SNAEFELL
FITZROY
ORIOLE
SPEEDWELL
GLENAVON
PANGBOURNE
SUTTON
GLENGOWER
PLINLIMMON
WAVERLEY
GOSSAMER
PORTSDOWN
WESTWARD HO
GRACIE FIELDS
PRINCESS ELIZABETH
WHIPPINGHAM
HALCYON
QUEEN OF THANET
Sunk.
(Continued)

Details

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

Details

rt of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
Page 3
401
kships and transferred to H:M. S"VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in two tow
M.S. "VIVACIOUS". 2230 Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown doviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
icularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
and Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
kships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
e French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
er unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
owed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
ing up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and 1.A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour, of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
rnand her large turning circle.
ay, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
sfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in the two tow of H.M.S.
KARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
ped tos and empboyed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
hing at about 0245 attended leading blockshep S.S. Gourko to follow her
nd take off crew. During watting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
ct. Heavy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As Hall.S.
rko" was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
rked part of her ship's company. XXXXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
king one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As N.A/S.B. 10 had
eeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship N.T.B. 107
ined to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"S crew who had not succeeded in
ing away. 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
busly and 4 less seritously injured. Very considerable difficulty was
rienced in doing this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence of
wreck of S.S. "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
When satisfied that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
H.M.S. "SHIKARI" to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat and
of any accommodation made this highly desirable. Aa no sign of H.M.S.
KARI" or M.A/S.B. 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the remaining
ship had already been observed, and it was now practically broad day-
t, the time being between 0350 and 0400, I decided to make for Dover
pendently at utmost speed. On passage thick fog was encountered and,
bn to regretted error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became involved in the
vins. I thereupon anchored until the weather cleared, having no faith
/ compass. The fog rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across the sands
he North Goodwin buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730, 4th June.
lay, 4th June.
At Dover.
esday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
B. 102.
Po
DO
servacus
rk closing
from her boat
aufter going
coecond blocksu,
Sand A/S.age the
sexperienn, M.T.B.
rkea Util the weat]
in
king ceared, and I
eeded to Dover, arriv

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
COMMANDING OFFICER,
H.M.Y. "AMULREE"
137.
Extended Defences
OMMANDING OFFICER,
173
Officer,
2nd June, 1940.
.M.Y. GLALA.
164
Sheerhess.
Dynamd 138
163
June, 1940.
Sir,
I have the honour to report that
Ereing in all respects ready for sea and
to engage the enemy we sailed fróm
g received orders, I
Sheerness at 1930 30th May, 1940 and
in three other Yachts
proceeded to the Downs for orders. We
anchored off North Goodwin Light Vessel
at about 0030 31st May and received
vicipity of the North
routeing instructions at about 0530
to contact the
when we proceeded by "X" route to La
the senior ship
Panne arriving about 1200. On arrival
we began to pick up and to tow out
Senior Officer that he
pontoons containing soldiers from the
ble, so I weighed and
beach to various destroyers and merchant
om her I delivered them
ships.
by route "X".
At 1500 when making fast two
was sighted and we
pontoons in 2 fathoms the enemy began
teamed along the coast
shelling the beach and one shell burst
off the beach 3 miles
approximately 50 yards ahead distracting
She asked us to tow
the attention of the leadsman and
longside and when this
causing the ship to ground. We re-
assistance, but she
floated at 1700 and again got underway
could be of more use
under heavy gunfire. In all we towed
out 11 pontoons up to 1900.
a us up and informed us
At this time we received a signal
We went close to the
from Captain Howson R.N. (S.N.O.
ports, and having
Beaches) directing operation from No.1
urned to the destroyer.
Yacht attached to Inner Hamble Patrol,
Lme took out her whaler.
to stand by him as his ship was making
H.M.S. "Vivacious" and
water through the stern gland.
had three boats which
close as possible,
chored with the intention
point our steering ropes
At 1500
single strand. It was
ons in 2 R.
it without completely new wire and at that
shemling theg ope witnd shelling which had been going on
approximateo Inneshelintense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the
the attentias his iored us to make for the open sea and all the
causing the stern g followed him out.
floated at
under hway
out 11 wed
At
from Cap
Beaches of bombs feld of bombs fell across our stern the last bomb fal
Yacht a the only óint the only effect was to drag our stern down a fer
to at popened fingle opened fire on this aeroplane which was a heavy
water 17 engine liber 17 we registered a direct hit with oub Lewis
buret lso immengine buret into flames and he crashed into the
firing I troops use also firing I cannot claim this seroplane
clsed to tised to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
mbs fell to emb
only effessible
possib possible speed hoping to find a boat to bring
iate in inate in finding a Whaler adrift which we magage
ed we fire registe on n ne fi bure re nghy, I inghy, I immediately sent these two boats ashor
e buret intso firing troopark troops at approximately at 1750, this was
30 firing I or
continued ove

Details

SECRET Dynams 137.
EXTENDED
DEFENCES
OFFICER
H.M.Y. COMMANDING OFFICER,
173
ADMIRALITY
HOUSE,
GLALA.
164
178
SHEERNESS
June, 1940.
167
sir,
I have from the Sheerness honour to report that, having received orders, I
proceeded in conjunction with three other Yachts
Thursday 30th May, 1940.
\
Shortly after midnight we were in the vicinity of the North
Goodwin Light Vessel, and as we were unable. to contact the
Examination to Tug anchor. , the Yacht "ChristobelkII", the senior ship
ordered
us
At dawn I received a signal from the Senior Officer that he
d
was unable to proceed owing to engine trouble, SO I weighed and
closed the Tug. Having received orders from her I delivered them
to "Amulree" and "Caleta" and we proceeded by route "X".
Shortly before eleven the French Coast was sighted and we
my
entered Dunkirk 'Roads' about 1130. We steamed along the coast
d
and at about 1230, "Golden Eagle" anchored off the beach 3 miles
East of Dunkirk, signalled to us to close. She asked us to tow
d
two whalers which were full of soldiers alongside and when this
was completed we asked if we could be of assistance, but she
replied that she was alright and that we could be of more use
to
further
along.
he
Off La Panne H.M.S. "Venomous" called us up and informed us
her motor boat had broken down inshore. We went close to the
S
pier, which was constructed of Army transports, and having
irk.
contacted the boat took it in tow and returned to the destroyer.
We then went back to the beach and this time took out her whaler.
grees
As she was now getting underway we closed H.M.S. "Vivacious" and
st
securing alongside were informed that she had three boats which
to
were ready to go inshore. We took them as close as possible,
he
allowed them to drift to the beach and anchored with the intention
of towing them back when filled. At this point our steering ropes
all but gave way and we were left with a single strand. It was
impossible to repair it without completely new wire and at that
of
Homent the bombing and shelling which had been going on
see
continuously became intense. A Captain R.N. in Yacht No.1 of the
surf
Solent Patrol ordered us to make for the open sea and all the
and
smaller power craft followed him out.
that
hat
out
men,
d
art
ut
fell across our stern the last DOMO railing few feet
about this time 30 ft a salvo of the bombs only effect was to drag our stern down a heavy a
bomber the water. We opened we registered a direct hit with OUD into the gun
in away, fire on this aeroplane which was Lewis
and his type Dornier 17 burst into flames and he crashed aeroplane sea,
as other Starboard ships were engine also firing I cannot claim this
definitely.
steamed back at all possible in finding a Whaler adrift two boats ashore
As I had promised speed hoping to find a which boat we to magaged bring them to
to embark the British troops at Dunkirk I
off, pick we were fortunate I immediately sent these this was
and started up with to our embark dinghy, troops at approximately at 1750, very
continued over

Details

- 2 -
39375
and troops owing owing to to the fact that the weather ship was conditions almost full, for small and boats, to 31/5
At the 1100, adverse I decided to discontinue embarking
proceed to Dover.
and at 1120, "Olvina" was under way.
"Sabre's" motorboat was handed over to "Vivacious"
Vessel, the "Viking", a diesel engined Thames barge, with 70
When between Dunkirk and North Goodwin Light
troops aboard, was taken in tow from "Dwarf" and brought into
Dover. Owing to delay outside the harbour, the troops were
not disembarked until 2200.
"Olvina" was revictualled and berthed alongside
Prince of Wales Pier by 0100/1 June.
On proceeding to the office of Captain Auxiliary
Patrol, I was informed that "Olvina" should not have gone to
Dunkirk, but should have been on A/S patrol. Accordingly, at
0820/1 June, "Olvina" proceeded to a patrol station 17 miles
NNW of Dunkirk, which was reached at 1125. At 1500, 70
survivors from "Basilisk" came alongside in a French fishing
boat, and at 1917 we went alongside "Whitehall" in Dover
harbour and disembarked them.
"Olvina" was in harbour during 2nd and 3rd June,
and on 4th June escorted "Bideford" to Portsmouth without
incident.
I have the honour to be
Sir,
Your obedient servant
Sub Lt. R.N.V.R.
-II-
No. 1594/07.
Vice Admiral, Dover.
Forwarded.
P.R.T.S.
VICE ADMIRAL.
Portland.
FLAG OFFICER-IN-CHARGE.
18th June, 1940
VICE ADMIRAL
20 JUN 1940
*
DOVER

Details

they
-
421
Note of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107.
31/V.
Left Felixstowe for Dover in company with 67 at
0500 arrived Dover a.m. Proceeded with 67, 1600,
for Dunkirk and La Panne to bring off Lord Gort.
On passage shelled by battery near Gravelines -
shooting not very accurate. Met "KEITH" near Dunkirk
RAD?
with V.A.D. on board, about 1800. Received order to
proceed to La Panne to ensure embarkation of naval
Ratings from shore. At La Panne recovered 3 ratings
from sea. Considerable shellfire at La Panne, some
being uncomfortably close. Continuous bombing of
beaches. Returned to Dover arriving about 2000 -
again shelled by Gravelines Battery 4d. insccurate
in dusk.
I/VI.
Embarked Admiral Hallet proceeded 1100 to patrol
transport line on Route from N. Goodwin L.V. to
Dunkirk. Relieved 1800 (approx.).
2/VI.
Proceeded with blocking expedition to Dunkirk leaving
at approx. 1900. In tow of "VIVACIOUS" until 2230
when tow slipped and embarked Capt. Dangerfield.
Proceeded to Dunkirk - entered harbour and proceeded
to Inner Harbour. Landed Capt. Dangerfield and
secured alongside E. Pier. Much shelling and bombing.
Re-embarked Capt. Dangerfield and left harbour,
thereafter searched for and found block-ships, giving
them instructions. Followed block-ships in after
all transports had left, at about 0330. Took off
crew of 1st Hockship and transferred to "VIVACIOUS"
lying west of harbour. Returned to harbour and
picked up remainder of crew of 2nd block-ship and
transferred to "VIVACIOUS". Thereafter proceeded
in company with "VIVACIOUS" to M.A.S.B. '07' to Dover.

Details

ort of Proceedings of M.T.B. 107
Page
2
429
to H&M. SM"VIVACIOUS". 2020 proceeded in tru tow
om M. S. proceeded to Dunkirk imdependently. Navigation
H. "VIVACIOUS" and Slipped tow and embarked Captain Dangerfield R.N.
rendered difficult by spray obscuring vision and by unknown deviation on
compass which had never been swung. 2330 (approx:) Arrived off Dunkirk
entered harbour and cruised there. Considerable shelling in progress,
rticularly in vicinity of East Pier, alongside which M.T.B. 107 secured
land Captain Dangerfield. On his return left harbour and searched for
ockships, two only being found, the third having been sunk in collision on
way. During this period M.T.B. 107 was alongside, she was crushed by
rge 0 French fishing craft which were engaged in evacuating troops and were
ther unable or unwilling to keep clear. After closing the block ships
llowed first into harbour and received crew from her boat and transferred
em to H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" lying outside, thereafter going in again and
cking up the remainder of the crew of the second blockship. Thereafter
ft Dunkirk at 0345 with H.M.S. "VIVACIOUS" and M. A/S.B 07 arriving Dover
30 3rd June. Considerable difficulty was experienced in manoeuvring
T.B. 107 in Dunkirkk harbour of much heavy wreckage, her inability to go
Fornand her large turning circle.
onday, 2nd June
Left Dover 1735 and proceeded to embark Captains of blockships,
ransfering them to H.M. S"SHIKARI". 2030 Proceeded in two two tow of H.M.S.
SHIKARI" to Dunkirk inz company of blockships. On arrival off Dunkirk
lipped tos and employed taking messages to blockships. On blockships
eighing at about 0245 attended leading blockship Gourko to follow her
n and take off crew. During waiting period H.M.S. "SHIKARI" bombed without
Gourko" ffect. was proceeding to enter heavy explosion was observed on board
H avy shelling rifle and machine gun fire observed. As HmM.S.
er from mine, torpedo or bomb. At once closed her to render assistance
ns secured alongside. At about same time M.A/S.B. 10 did the same and
mbarked part of her ship's company. MXMXXX S.S. "GOURKO" sank rapidly
reaking one of M.T.B's 107's lines in so doing. As M.A/S.B. 10 had
roceeded into harbour to follow the remaining blockship M.T.B. 107
emained to rescue more of S.S. "GOURKO"s crew who had not succeeded in
etting 8 were rescued, including the commanding officer, 3 being
eriously away. and 4 less seriously injured. Very considerable difficulty was of
xperienced in this owing to much heavy wreckage, the presence
he wreck doing "KING ORRY" and the lack of manoeuvring power of M.T.B.
or When satisfied to transfer survivors, as the small size of the boat H.M.S. and
07. of S.S. that no-one remained in the water proceeded to search
ack H.M.S. of "SHIKARI" accommodation made this highly desirable. As no sign of remaining
lockship or M.A/S.B. been observed, and it was now practically for Dover
SHIKARI" any 10 could be found, and the blowing up of the broad day-
ight, had already between 0350 and 0400, I decided to encountered make and,
ndependently wing to at utmost error in navigation, M.T.B. 107 became having no faith
the time being speed. On passage thick fog was involved in the
oodwins. regretted anchored until the weather cleared, the sands
namy I thereupon rapidly cleared, and I proceeded across 4th June.
the compass. North Goodwin The fog buoy, thence to Dover, arriving 0730,
uesday, 4th June.
At Dover.
ednesday, 5th June.
Proceeded from Dover to Portsmouth in company with D/C Boat and
.T.B. 102.

Details

484
Resume of work done at Dover - D/C M.B.
il
455
Wednesday, 29th May. Arrived Dover and proceeded to Dunkirk
with Lieutenant Commander Dennis and
Commander Cazalet.
S.S. "King Orry" was sunk by bombing
attack, 14 survivors being picked up.
Struck submerged wreckage which disabled
the boat. Taken in tow by H.M.S.
vivacious/
"Vigilant" and after effecting temporary
repairs returned to Dover at 8 knots.
Thursday, 30th May.
Ferried an Officer to Downs with
sailing orders for Convoy.
Friday, 3lst May.
Returned to Dover at 0400.
D/C M.B. being completely out 01 action
commandeered Lifeboat and 40 ft. motor
boat.
Saturday, 1st June.
Took Admiral Hallet to Downs in 40 ft.
motor boat giving orders to Convoy.
Sunday, 2nd June.
Lifeboat towed back to Dunkirk with
body of Lieutenant Mead R.N.V.R. who
was killed by shrapnel while evacuating
troops from beaches.
Proceeded in 40 ft. motor boat escorting
Admiral Somerville in M.A.S.B. 10 but
lost contact.
Picked up survivors of Hospital Ship
"Paris".
Monday, 3rd June.
0500 arrived Dover.
Tuesday, 4th June.
0900 hoisted D/C M.B. out of water.
Effecting temporary repairs on D/C M.B.
Wednesday, 5th June. 1000 sailed for Portsmouth in company
with M.T.B.'s 102 and 107.

Details

Dynams so. O.D.
526
TO:
COMMANDER M/S.
497
DATE: 6TH JUNE, 1940.
7
FROM: LIEUTENANT J.A. SIMSON R.N.V.R., H.M.S. "LORD GREY".
29th/30th May, 1940, at Dunkirk.
carried out ships under my command during the night of
I have by the the honour to report as follows on the operations
H.M.T's "Lord Grey" and "Clythness" left Dover at
for Dunkirk with orders to report on arrival to Captain Tennant. 1615
instead. signalled S. Foreland P.W.S.S. to use route "X" both ways, were
Instructions from were to proceed by route "Y", but we
We therefore proceeded by route "X" and arrived off
Dunkirk at 2300. The harbour was found on entering to be
congested as a number of drifters were manoeuvring in the fair- very
way and it was decided to lay off the entrance until it was
clear to proceed alongside the quay.
side the Eastern Jetty. Sub. Lieutenant Heckstall-Smith (Clythness)
At 2330 we again entered the harbour and tied up along-
and myself went along the quay in an effort to ascertain the
whereabouts of Captain Tennant, and the state of affairs inside
condition of the jetty and we therefore returned.
the harbour. It was impossible to get far owing to the damaged
going on over the town, which was ablaze.
Considerable air activity and continuous bombing was
It was decided to keep the ships moored alongside in such
before going further in to the harbour.
a way that they could slip at a moment's notice, and to await dawn
put aboard "Lord Grey".
A number of rifles and a Bren gun found on the quay were
At 0210 on the 30th May, cries for help were heard out-
side the harbour and both ships instantly left to investigate. It
was found that H.M.S. "King Orry" had sunk on leaving the harbour.
Ships' boats were launched and "Lord Grey" rescued ten men,
"Clythness" four. "Lord Grey" transferred her survivors to H.M.S.
"Vivacious", and was ordered by the Commander to return to harbour,
and if possible embark troops for transfer to his ship. "Clythness"
was signalled accordingly and both ships proceeded back to Dunkirk
harbour, and as it was now light it was possible to reach the
Southern end of the quay.
On arrival 0410 - I reported to S.N.O - Captain Tennant
was not then available - and was ordered to embark troops for
transfer to a destroyer and then to carry out "LL" sweep in a
N. Easterly direction from the harbour.
were accordingly embarked - "Clythness" 300 (approx)
350 - and were transferred at 0515 to the destroyer
At 0605 "Clythness" signalled that her dynamo was not
working and her D/G gear was consequently useless. In these
circumstances requested. a signal was passed to S.N.O. and fresh orders
(Contd. over).

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Flag 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 feet. (Commander Low water Dunkirs approximately by shortest
Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. Coundr. Dennis Casalet. staff of
Cleared screws. ORRY. Fouled porews on submerged up 11
from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked S.O.N.T.B's, survisors
0300. H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed In started.
accepted tow from Engines wouldwetart. 0200, Thursday, freekage. 30th,
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. 0400. Completed and
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunidipt
Engines most
Tel. Hii. 3211 306 Broam Rill Road 7
Calford, 571
X
12-6-40
London S.E.G.
Dear Sity Herewite a rough report of part
them by "Is Fagur in evacuating of Dunkish
not much I'm afraid but you will note that
we did bring back the
1- think this is what is callul for by
C.P.G.O. 1700, Could you flears have + typet
and mach to look presentable
EXCELLENT
your
J3JUN 1940
NHALE INLAND
It. @

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Page 1
5
Wednesday, possible 0100, least route over shallow 1940. minefield. At 2100 sailed Low for water Dunkirk at by Dover shortest p.m.
H.M. 29th D/C May, motor boat under my command arrived
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cumdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's, staff of
depth over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, approximately
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor bont was used
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
Engines most
H. M.S. EXCELLENT 608
PORTSMOUTH
12-6-40572
REPORT ON EVACUATION OF B.E.F.
the Rmour to render the following report, in
accurdance have with Confidential Portsmouth General Order 1700,
of first taken by H.h. Tug "SiFagan" in evacuation of BEF.
0708 (APPROX) FRIDAY 31 "MAY - Orders received from P.A. Donn to take
from Dunkish.
three Thomes Saiting Barges in togo and proced a to
stretch of heach east of Sunkirk where Barges were to he
beached to act as embarRation Pontouns for BEF.
Two of these Darges undere filted with ausectling engines.
I supplied them with necessary towing Rawson and this
taking they in low.
instructed them to proceed atside Harburr to facilitate
0830 (APPROX.) 1 Procuded outside hurbum and took Banges in
third tow the length of tow from how of stragan" to stems of
to be Bange being approve 200 fathers, and Rausers had
not (APRROX) strong secured enough to for masts towing. of Banges as other fittings were
1000 Sands. Processed with tow vip channel through Gooduria
as tar an Rad average to be speed nursed of Kurts mg Could 4 made good
1115 channel By opprose. (APPROX.) Destroyers at High arrived to. and Water 12 w then at Bary Junkisk vessels Bury as constantly instructed passing and this Course at through a high distance was speed. the set of wash to 71 enter caused miles
300 the the some essential, marks directive (APPROX)' mumeries rish Hrikension after twards - was that amind dark, sanotbanks faccepted sheed Dunkish in draught was wast Channel as felt north it reduced / of of could was en ship and of not recognised, on proceeded being date nearing affreace. was and in that at the an the 14feet, 2105 on stad lack one and was but of of
owing to dfficialty of avoiding the medican only pareed whichs at Easterly slow with sheed the

Details

CONFIDENCIAL
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer Page D/C 1 Unit's of letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
$
H.M. D/C motor OPERATIONAL boat under DYNAMO.
Wednesday, possible route 29th over May, shallow 1940. At 2100 my sailed dommand for arrived at Dover p.m.
0100, least depth over mines minefield. 6 feet. Low water Dunkir's approximately by shortest
Flag Dover Officer-in-Charge, on board). Dover and Lieut. (Commander Commar. Casalet. staff of
from H.M.S. KING 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked Dennis 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
Cleared screws. ORRY. Fouled porews on submerged up
accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, weekage. 30th,
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed In and started.
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots the to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat
of Flag Officer, Dover for
Engines most
609
lay withs tow were and fould the in numerous the 2 darkness Jush on having three in occasions, the Channel, and 573
the must of third lighter was camisdaway.
30 Saturday "June- Harbour alroam, further Cantine Rad
to be exercised as no chart uses mailable for Channel East
of Dunkink, direction being obtained by haiting following
passing Vessels.
(affrom) Received
0230 (approse.) 1 my Coeswain Petty officer BASTABLE- volunteered
to take the shiff ashare, taking ABLE SEAMAN NEALE, to
this I shiff was lumored and sent in.
investigate suitable hosition for hearting the Banges, and
0300 Capture.) - Received signal from Beach requesting boat to
take off British Soldiers, and decided to heart the &
Barger using one with awaithing enginer to fatch of the
to Lightermen and as many troops as we Could camey and
small engines- - the Lighterman to return in own
on finally its own beach third tighter Barge by sending it in
was Thingly my estimated position at this time
3 mids East of Dunkish.
Banges to the were Lightermen. hanled claim to shih and instructions given
0340 without (apparme) - Barger slipped, and am with took the are
bow engain in - heard tow and went a head engines to hass rund
1355 (approse.) sunk I with Aircraft in a By very ese plasion short and hund, occurred / found and the myself ship callupsed in the water and mg
one of which my and Telegraph near the two
P.H& was and suring the sinday slowly, Barge 1 these out were reached Barges with
contacted my Criswain in the skiff Rad adrift landed
officer sent a party two of British Trans whose and
Corporals with him Quanding to organing

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
8
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my dailed dommand for arrived Dunkirk at Dover Deme
possible least depth over shallow minefield. Low water by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Commdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
0100, over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, approximately staff of
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled porews on suimerged wreokage.
Cleared screws. Engines Wouldwetart. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towad In and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk hardour. ohoo. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing
574610 610
Engines most
thin disposition and 3 to me guide that the he Banges. had amroal occumed, appose. also
of Operamin later informed the ship when the explosion and that
that bout eschlosion affeared to 8° drawn the Funnel of shih.
venty yards from was Caused by a bouth from aircraft, He then
of woulded the twenty. officir and Ships Company, two officis and
to pick up survivors,
the ratings were saved, one officer - the D.G. Brown Boats:
and an stoker were wounded.
In addition to the seventeen maral ratings lat them was one
initian who had Come on board from one of the Barges.
a complete list of survivors and ratings lost, including this
when together with the two Antorals, were later friked hh
Civilians, was given to the Captain in Charge at Ramsgoste
by I & passing hig filled with troops and landed at Ramsgutes
Bastable Consider the murked zeal and initiating of Patty officer
worthy of special commundation
I have the hunnur * h
your Obedint Servant
il Coptain
H.m.S Emallent
Luit. Canth
Portsmonth

Details

CONFIDENTIAL
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
1
8
Wednesday, possible route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor shallow 1940. boat minefield. At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived Dunkirk at by Dover 9.m.
Flag 0100, officer-in-Charge, least depth over mines 6 feet. (Commander Low water approximately shortest
Dover on board). 2300 Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis Cazalet, staff of
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Arrived Dunkirk. Picked S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
Cleared screws. Fouled screws on submerged up 11
accepted tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. Proceeded to H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in 30th, started.
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage,
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed and
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 mots due no to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunsire
Engines most unsatisfactory.
574 610
of Oserwin later informed me that he amount approve.
thin disposition and 3 to guide the Banges. had
venty yards from the ship when the explosion occumed, also
that escplosion was Caused by a bouth from aircraft, and that
the hand afterred to 8° drun the Funnel of shih. He then
proceeded to pick up survivors,
of the twenty-five officis and Ships Company, two officers and
bise ratings were saved, one officer the D.G. Brown Boats:-
and are stoker were wounded.
In addition to the seventeen maral ratings last them was one
civilian who had Come on board from one of the Banges.
whom, together with the two Antorals, were later pripad hh
Civilians, was given to the Captaine in Charge at Ramsgote
a complete list of surverois and ratings lost, including this
by & passing tig filled with troops and landed at Ramsynts
Bastable worthy of special communition.
I Consider the musked zeal and initiation of Patty officer
I have the honour th &
your Obedint Servant
The Captain
Luit. Cand
Hhr S Emallent
Portsmouth

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
Page 1 of
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route 1940. At 2100 sailed for Dunkirk by shortest p.m.
H.M. 29th D/C May, motor boat under my command arrived at Dover
possible over shallow minefield. Low water approximately
0100, least depth over mines 6 feet. (Commander Casalet, staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover and Lieut. Cmmdr. Dennis S.O.M.T.B's,
Dover on board). 2300 Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 survisors
from H.M.S. KING ORRY. Fouled screws on submerged wreckage.
Cleared screws. Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, 30th,
accepted tow from H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in and started.
0300. Proceeded to reconnoitre Dunkirk harhour. 0400. Completed
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage, no
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously
on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to
harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still
unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat
should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received
to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for
duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
CONFIDENTIAL.
575
Subject.
OPERATIONS OFF THE BELGIAN COAST.
From... The Commanding Officer, D/C Unit.
Date..
14th June, 1940.
To.....
The Captain, H.M.S. EXCELLENT, Portsmouth.
a
In accordance with C.P.G.O. 1700, the report on
operation DYNAMO is forwarded.
)
11e)
Lieutenant in Command.
ted
utes
ans
ricer
from S.S. PARIS. (hospital Picked ship). up 6 Picked lifeboats up wounded and survivors took men in from tow.
wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, to weight of tow. spoke
Spanish. 2005. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due
(Continued
)

Details

CONFIDENTIAL.
612
Page 1 of
Enclosure to Commanding Officer D/C Unit's letter dated 14th June, 576 1940.
OPERATIONAL DYNAMO.
Wednesday, route H.M. 29th D/C over May, motor 1940. boat At under 2100 my sailed command for arrived at Dover p.m.
possible 0100, least depth over shallow mines minefield. 6 Low water Dunkirk by shortest
Flag Officer-in-Charge, feet. (Commander approximately
Cleared screws. Fouled screws on submerged
from Dover H.M.S. KING ORRY. Arrived Dunkirk. Picked up 11 S.O.M.T.B's, survisors
on board). 2300 Dover and Lieut. Crundr. Dennis Casalet, staff of
accepted Proceeded to H.M.S. VIVACIOUS. One engine towed in 30th, and started.
tow from Engines would/start. 0200, Thursday, wreckage.
0300. reconnoitre Dunkirk harbour. 0400. Completed
bombing attack. 7 bombs 150 yards away, no visible damage,
reconnaissance, embarked 15 allied soldiers. 0415. Low level
casualties. 0425. Proceeded for Dover. Speed 8 knots due no to engine
defects. 0945. Arrived Dover. D/C motor boat was used by staff
of Flag Officer, Dover for routeing merchant ships to Dunkirk.
Engines most unsatisfactory. E.R. department worked continuously
on both engines to diagnose faults and to remedy. Returned to
harbour 0400/31.
Friday, 31st.
D/C motor boat again used for routeing. Engines still
unsatisfactory, and at 1630 I suggested to Duty Officer on staff of
Flag Officer-in-Charge, Dover that the officers and men of the boat
should make themselves useful elsewhere. Permission was received
to commandeer any available boats, to assume command and report for
duty.
Lieutenant Mead, as reported in my letter dated 12th
June, 1940, assumed command of R.N.L.B. WALTON & FRINTON.
Lieutenant Hamilton Meikle assumed command of 40 ft.
ships fast motor boat and manned it with:-
Petty Officer John Luckins. P/J 103170, coxswain of the D/C
motor boat (as coxswain).
A.B. Alfred J. Cole P/JX 129800 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT) (as Lewis
Gunner).
and Stoker W.M. Wells R.F.R. P/85.125744 (H.M.S. EXCELLENT).
These men all volunteered to accompany Lieutenant
Hamilton Meikle, and it was with difficulty that he could persuade
them that orders were necessary before proceeding immediately to
Dunkirk. The boat was capable of 20 knots and one stripped Lewis
gun was transferred to her from H.M. D/C(boat, MORE the other gun being
in Lieutenant Mead's lifeboat.
Saturday, 1st June.
40 ft. motor boat assisted M.T.B. 107 (Commodore Hallet)
in regulating rescue traffic to and from Dunkirk.
Sunday, 2nd June.
motor boat escorted M.A.S.B. Continued 10 (Admiral towards Somerville)
but 40 ft. due to discrepancy in speed. 1900.
Dunkirk to see aircraft attacking hospital approximately 12
lost touch if boat was required for any purpose. ship. Proceeded Sighted
formation of enemy 1910 Air attack. Duration All petrol minutes. cans
87215 to assistance. dive-bombing and machine günning. Between spare 30-40 M/G
pierced and near 1930. Took offices
JU 97's and miss bomb strained boat. off Captain and some
from S.S. PARIS. Picked up 6 survivors tow.
bullet holes, no (hospital casualties. ship). Picked lifeboats up wounded and took men in from
wreckage of lifeboats. further lifeboat - ship unknown, weight of tow. spoke
2005. Spanish. Picked 2100. up Engines overheated due to
(Continued