(for more ship information, go to Naval History Homepage and type name in Site Search)

 

Other Home Fleet and Cruiser Operations in this period

	Areas of Operations (click to enlarge). Only some locations in text are shown

 

Click for Convoy Route Codes, Operation Code Names and Royal Navy  Minelaying

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Source: ADM 199/378

 

Anti Aircraft Ships, also known as CS 20, began in March 1940, but my holdings start with the May 1940 entries.  Vivian took command of Squadron 20 March and operated off Norway.  The log commencement coincides with his raising his flag in COVENTRY

 

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MOST SECRET

 

REAR ADMIRAL, ANTI AIRCRAFT SHIPS

 

DIARY OF EVENTS

 

6th – 15th May 1940

 

Monday, 6th May 1940
In accordance with instructions from the Commander in Chief, Home Fleet, I left Scapa at 1130 for London. Object, to inform Admiralty of tactics of enemy bombers and general conditions affecting antiaircraft defence of Norwegian Harbours and of convoy.
2000	Flag of Rear Admiral, Anti Aircraft ships struck in H.M.S. CARLISLE
Tuesday, 7th May 1940
	Flag of Rear Admiral, Anti Aircraft ships hoisted in H.M.S. COVENTRY at Rosyth.
2250	Left London for Rosyth.
Wednesday, 8th May 1940
0920	Embarked in H.M.S. COVENTRY at Rosyth
0950	Sailed for Sullom Voe. Ship ordered to proceed with moderate despatch through positions 63 degrees North, 5 degrees West; 66 degrees North, 2 degrees West; 68 degrees North, 8 degrees West, and thence as ordered by Flag Officer, Narvik, calling at Sollum Voe for fuel, and consequently to give anti aircraft protection to transport CHROBRY if met (Commander in Chief, Home Fleet 1620/6).
Noon	Position: 180 degrees May Island 4 miles; weather: wind – west, force 4; detached clouds, sea slight.
1400	Sighted H.M.S. BIRMINGHAM
1950	Sighted H.M. Ships KANDAHAR and HOSTILE
2000	Position: 58-08 degrees North, 1-38 degrees West. Weather: wind – west-south-west, force 4, overcast, visibility good, sea moderate.
Thursday, 9th May 1940
0145	Speed 21 knots while passing through Fair Island, North Channel.
0400	Position: 60-08 degrees North, 2-20 degrees West. Weather: wind – west-north-west, force 4; sky partly clouded, visibility good.
0820	Arrived SOLLUM VOE; oiled from WARNIZAM
1115	Sailed for Narvik area – 18 knots
NOON	Position: Entrance Sullom Voe . Weather: wind – west, force 4; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
2000	Position: 62-09 degrees North, 3-34 degrees West. Weather: wind – west-south-west, force 4; overcast, clouds and rain; sea moderate.
Friday, 10th May 1940
0400	Position: 63-03 degrees North, 3-58 degrees West. Weather: wind – west, force 2-3; sky partly cloudy; visibility 5 miles; sea moderate
NOON	Position: 66 degrees North, 2 degrees West. Weather: wind northwest, force 4; sky party cloudy; visibility very good; sea moderate.
2000	Position: 66-55 degrees North, 2-36 degrees East. Weather: wind – northwest, force 6; cloudy, snow squalls; good visibility; sea moderate
2050	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's 1401/1- ordering H.M.S. COVENTRY to proceed to Lavangs Fiord via Tjelsundet. It was assumed at this time that H.M.S. COVENTRY should proceed via Vest Fiord and that the minefield published in QZX27 between Baroy Island and Rovaer Island had not been laid.
Saturday, 11th May 1940
0400	Position: 67-56 degrees North, 7-36 degrees East. Weather: wind – northwest, force 6, overcast, snow squalls; sea rough.
1000	Sighted H.M.S. PENELOPE's convoy ahead with H.M.S. CALCUTTA escorting.
1025	H.M.S. CALCUTTA being shadowed. H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded at 23 knots to close convoy.
1038	Convoy attacked by 3 Heinkel III's. Ordered H.M.S. COVENTRY to turn and take station on convoy's starboard beam, H.M.S. CALCUTTA being on the port beam.
	H.M.S. COVENTRY having been ordered to Lavangs Fiord at moderate speed and there being no indication for what duty she was required, I considered my immediate object was to provide extra anti aircraft defence the H.M.S. PENELOPE's convoy. I therefore ordered H.M.S. COVENTRY to take station as convenient to do this, and informed Flag Officer, Narvik, requesting his further instructions.
NOON	Position: 61-15 degrees North, 11-50 degrees East, mean course 260 degrees, speed of advance 7 knots; convoy being shadowed. Weather: wind – northwest, force 6, overcast, snow squalls; visibility good; sea rough.
1716	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's 1445/11, ordering me to proceed with H.M.S. PENELOPE's convoy until relieved by 'French destroyer FOUGUEX.' I estimated that earliest that this destroyer was likely to relieve H.M.S. COVENTRY would be about 2300.
1722	Two Skua aircraft appeared.
2000	Position: 67-10 degrees North, 9-47 degrees East. Weather: wind – west, force 4, snow squalls; visibility good; sea moderate.
Sunday, 12th May 1940
0400	Position: 66-54 degrees North, 6-15 degrees East. Weather: wind: southwest, force 3; cloudy, snow squalls; visibility good; sea rough.
0850	It was found that a serious error had been made in deciphering Flag Officer, Narvik's 1445/11 and that, 'French destroyer FOUGUEUX' should have read CALCUTTA. Course was immediately altered for Vest Fiord, speed 18 knots. While in company with the convoy, ships were asked if mines had been laid in accordance with QZX27. All ships asked and those met later assumed that the mines had been laid. This put me at considerable difficulty and attempts were made to ask Flag Officer, Narvik, H.M.S. RESOLUTION, and H.M.S. ENTERPRISE whether the passage was clear. At 1845/12 Admiralty's 1538/12 was received cancelling part of QZX27 which referred to mines being laid of Rovaer Island.
NOON	Position: 67-05 degrees North, 7-56 degrees East. Weather: wind – west, force 1, sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
1630	Received orders for H.M.S. COVENTRY to join Flag Officer, Narvik, in Ofot Fiord. (Flag Officer, Narvik 0725/12).
	During the day wireless congestion and other causes rendered it almost impossible to get a signal through or to obtain an answer for six hours or more.
2000	Position: 67-26 degrees North, 12-30 degrees East. Weather: wind – north northeast, force 5; overcast; visibility good; sea slight.
Monday, 13th May 1940
0200	Entered Ofot Fiord
0400	Position: 68-02 degrees North, 16-01 degrees East. Weather: wind – north northeast, force 2; sky party cloudy; visibility good; sea smooth.
0800	Entered Skjel Fiord. A/S trawlers on continuous patrol at entrance to fiord. H.M.S. COVENTRY acted as anti aircraft protection for H.M.S. ESKIMO and remained under weigh, standing by the latter ship in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 2126/12.
1025	Commanding Officer, H.M.S. ESKIMO (Commander St. John Aldrich Micklethwait, D.S.O., Royal Navy) reported to me and stated that his officers and ship's company were all suffering severely from nervous strain due to constant bombing and that he had sent the following signal to Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'As a result of being torpedoed and constant bombing by day and work by night, the health of my ship's company has seriously deteriorated. Have cut off leading edge of wreckage and can be towed in fairly calm water. Can steam four knots in dead calm. Propose sailing with ANGLE, INDIAN STAR, and BERKSHIRE by 0700 tomorrow Monday. Request destination. NORTHERN GEM will coal and escort BALMAHA to new destination. T.O.O. 2230/12'
	It was evident that Commander Micklethwait himself was suffering from neurasthenia and from my previous knowledge of this officer I am sure he had not overdrawn the picture in his signal. I therefore sent the following signal to Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'IMMEDIATE. H.M.S. ESKIMO's 2230. After seeing Commanding Officer, H.M.S. ESKIMO, very strongly recommend H.M.S. ESKIMO and trawlers be moved as soon as possible. Officers and men suffering from great nervous strain. T.O.O. 1112/13.'
NOON	Position: Skjel Fiord. Weather: wind – light airs; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
1415	Norwegian motor boat came alongside with two R.A.F. officers whom I interviewed. These officers were surveying for sites for R D/F stations.
1600	H.M.S. ESKIMO reported that A/S trawler ANGLE had good submarine contact and was attacking. Contact not substantiated after ten mile area swept.
2000	Position: Skjel Fiord. Weather: wind – light airs; cloudy; visibility good.
2325	H.M.S. VINDICTIVE entered Skjel Fiord.
Tuesday, 14th May 1940
0001	H.M.S. COVENTRY at Skjel Fiord. Weather: light airs; clear and calm.
0002	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's 1123/13 from Captain A.R. Halfhide, Commanding Officer, H.M.S. VINDICTIVE. Gist of message as follows:
	VINDICTIVE to tow ESKIMO to Hol escorted by COVENTRY and two A/S trawlers. Collier BALMAHA also included in convoy.'
0130	Convoy proceeded.
0400	Position: 67-58 degrees North, 13-35 degrees East. Weather: wind – south southeast, force 4; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
0515	Opened fire on enemy aircraft approaching from northeasterly direction.
0517	Bombed with light bombs; height 15,000 feet.
0547	Attacked and bombed; two large bombs dropped to port wide; opened fire for two minutes.
0659 to 0701	A/S trawler INDIAN STAR carried out depth charge attacks (7 depth charges) on submarine contact. No result
0916 to 1020	Several enemy aircraft sighted and fired on. Bombed on two occasions. R D/F accurately on target before, during, and after attack.
NOON	Position: North Baroy Island, 68-02 degrees North, 16-01 degrees East. Weather: wind –light airs; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
1220	Off Lodingen. H.M.S. VINDICTIVE cast off H.M.S. ESKIMO and the INDIAN STAR took the latter in tow.
1430	Arrived Hol. Spoke H.M.S. RESOLUTION and H.M.S. GUARDIAN. Parted company with convoy and proceeded to Bogen to relieve H.M.S. AURORA in accordance with Flag Officer Narvik's 1123/13.
1545	Entered Ofot Fiord
1631 to 1645	Opened fire on 3 enemy aircraft attacking from westward; 4 large bombs dropped 2 to 3 cables astern. Height 16,000 feet
1640 to 1720	Entered and left Boden Fiord
1737	In Ofot Fiord; opened fire on 1 enemy aircraft.
1743	Sighted two of our own aircraft – Skuas.
1745	Spoke H.M.S. AURORA
1749	H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire on enemy aircraft; 5 large bombs dropped 2 cables from H.M.S. AURORA.
1750 ½	Proceeded eastwards with H.M.S. AURORA and remained under weigh in Ofot Fiord off Bogen
1820	Commanding Officer, H.M.S. AURORA, Captain Louis Henry Keppel Hamilton, D.S.O., Royal Navy, came onboard and turned over situation and duties of local Senior Officer to me.
2000	Position: Off Bogen, 68-27 degrees West, 16-58 degrees East. Weather: wind – light airs; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
2130	H.M.S. AURORA proceeded up Ofot Fiord. H.M.S. COVENTRY remained under weigh in Ofot Fiord off Bogen for the night.
Wednesday 15th May 1940
0000	H.M.S. COVENTRY under weigh in Ofot Fiord.
0400	Position: Off Bogen. Weather: wind – northeast, force 3; cloudy; visibility good.
0430	A/S Trawler ANGLE (Commander Sir Geoffrey C. Congreve, Royal Navy, Retired) closed H.M.S. COVENTRY for instructions. Ordered to organize patrols and then proceed to Harstad.
0847	Opened fire on two enemy aircraft; ceiling 12,000 feet.
0916	Sighted 7 own planes dive bombing to the south east, presumably on enemy planes or target near frozen lake.
0918	Off Narvik
1000	Spoke H.M. Ships WREN and WARWICK and Shore Signal Station, Andenes.
1020	Off Bogen
1145	H.M.S. WREN reported enemy aircraft bombing Herjans – Bjervkvik area.
1200	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: wind – northeast, force 3; cloudy, squally; visibility fairly good.
0937 to 1351	Opened fire on 10 separate occasions on enemy aircraft. Enemy invariably turned away, except at 1228 ½ when 2 heavy bombs fell at a distance approximately 2 ½ cables on starboard quarter.
1445	H.M.S. FAME (Commander Philip Norman Walter, Royal Navy) came alongside and was instructed to visit the military in Bjervik area and report situation.
1800	Opened fire on 3 bombers, starboard side, approaching from south.
1817	Flag Officer, Narvik, requested H.M.S. COVENTRY to give anti aircraft protection to puffers transporting troops from Ankenes to Harstad during the night.
1845	H.M.S. MATABELE arrived off Narvik.
1914	Flag Officer, Narvik, informed CS.20 that Narvik need not be watched so closely and ordered that 1 destroyer should patrol area Ankenes, 1 Boden to Ankenes, and 1 Boden to Tjelgoy.
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather; Calm; sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
2100	FAME closed and her Commanding Officer passed the following hand message regarding the situation ashore'
	'Landed 1645 at Bjervik. Royal Corps of Signals at Bjervik. Field W/T set. Are in direct touch with force headquarters at Harstad. Unable to get ISTO or DEMI at present. All local telephones broken except field telephones. N.D.O., Lieutenant Duff, R.N. considers while it is possible for him to inform F.O. Narvik of the latest troops positions by field W/T, they would be out of date by the time they reach F.O. Narvik, and thence R.A.A. Also, positions given to him usually very inaccurate. F.A.A. aircraft attacking troops asked to fire two Verys lights when French will show coloured tapes denoting most advanced positions. Not probably F.A.A. will make further attacks like this, being quite untrained for this. I don't think Navy can give any practicable help in this matter. Evacuation of casualties from Bjervik temporarily out of order; this is R.A.M.C. commitment. French only have a dressing station and wounded are taken to Taarstad in puffers. French very angry because only two puffers for them and men hit in air raid this morning still ashore at 1600. To preserved the entente I took 14 stretcher cases off in FAME and transferred them to puffer. Have asked force headquarters, through F.O.N. to send two more puffers. Hospital trawler can only get alongside pier at top high water. French dressing station hit by bomb, a.m. today, both doctors wounded. Lieutenant Duff informed by French, Polish troops arrive landing at Gjeisvik in Herjans Fiord tonight. Asked that destroyer in Rombaks Fiord watch any German activity north side of Rombaks Fiord towards Oyde Fiord to counter this landing which I will do. There is only a French cyclist post at Oyde Jord. 2025/15.'

 

 

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SECRET

 

REAR ADMIRAL, ANTI AIRCRAFT SHIPS

 

DIARY OF EVENTS

 

16th – 31st MAY 1940

 

 

Tuesday, 16th May 1940
	H.M.S. COVENTRY under way. In Ofot Fiord during night.
0043	Received message from Flag Officer, Narvik, informing me of movement of our own troops from Ankenes to Harstad from between 0800 and 1000 on 16th. French hope to advance along north shore of Rombaks Fiord within next 24 hours, and ask for a destroyer patrol to watch the north bank and prevent use of the railway route by the enemy.
0400	Position: off Narvik. Weather: calm; cloudy, visibility good.
0526	Ordered H.M.S. FAME to close and gave her the above message from Flag Officer, Narvik.
0800	Off Bogen. Proceeded to Lavang for fuel and ammunition and thence to Harstad in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 2101/21 and 2151/15.
1010	Off Hol. Spoke H.M.S. RESOLUTION.
1040	Entering Lavang.
1048	H.M.S. COVENTRY returned to Ofot Fiord, in accordance with orders received from Flag Officer, Narvik.
Noon	Position: Off Baroy Island. Weather, wind, light airs, blue sky, visibility excellent
1205	Opened fire at aircraft, height 13,500 feet.
1226	2 large and 1 small bomb fell 150 yards astern, aircraft not seen.
1229 to 1350	Opened fire on five occasions at aircraft.
1243 ½	13 bombs dropped close to starboard side in 2 clusters.
1343 ½	2 bombs fell 1 ½ to 2 cables on starboard quarter; aircraft not seen. The sky was unclouded but a slight haze made the detection of aircraft by lookouts extremely difficult. R/DF was of little value in these enclosed waters.
1402	Off eastern end of Bogen. Proceeded for Lavang.
1605	Secured alongside oiler BROOMDALE in Lavang Fiord.
1735	Cast off, owing to threatening air attack.
1737 to 1918	Almost continuous bombing attacks, oiler BROOMDALE being apparently the target. BROOMDALE was attacked by 4 dive bombers in quick succession, two very near misses holed her on the port side, though not severely. She was also machine gunned. It is believed these bombers were Junkers Ju.88's. BY this time, H.M.S. COVENTRY's ammunition was very nearly expended.
1937	I informed Flag Officer, Narvik, that in view of the appearance of dive bombers in this area, ships should remain under way and suggested that BROOMDALE with 90,000 gallons of aviation spirit onboard and ammunition ship HERON should be moved to some anchorage further north.
2000	Position: Lavang Fiord. Weather: wind, light airs, blue sky, visibility excellent. H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded alongside HERON and embarked 1650 rounds of Mark V ammunition, this being the total remaining in HERON.
2209	Walrus aircraft arrived and I embarked to proceed to Narvik to see Flag Officer Commanding.
2335	H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded for Harstad where I rejoined her at 0345/17.
2336 to 2359	H.M.S. COVENTRY engaging aircraft.
Friday, 17th May 1940
0001	Weather, clear, high ceiling, calm
0038	H.M.S. COVENTRY arrived Harstad and remained under way.
0131 to 0351	H.M.S. COVENTRY engaging aircraft attempting to approach from northward.
0400	Position: Harstad. Weather: calm, sky partly cloudy; visibility good.
	Sailed for Bodo escorting H.M.S. EFFINGHAM carrying one battalion of South Wales Borders and stores with H.M. ships CAIRO, MATABELE, and ECHO. Speed 20 knots. Courses as requisite through fiords.
0503	H.M.S. EFFINGHAM informed me that she would like to arrive off Svartoksen Light at 2000. Increased to 23 knots.
0910	Periscope reported one mile on starboard quarter. Altered course away for 15 minutes.
Noon	Position: 68-41 degrees North, 12-40 degrees East, mean course 190 degrees. Weather: wind south southwest force 4; sky party cloudy; visibility excellent; sea smooth.
1340	Shadower seen a long way away to the eastward. Informed R.A. (A).
1418	Ordered H.M.S. MATABELE to proceed to Silbasan, 66-19 degrees North, 13-08 degrees East to destroy armed transport in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 1245.
1422	H.M.S. RESOLUTION and 2 destroyers sighted on starboard bow steering opposite course.
1435	Mean course 170 degrees.
1515	H.M.S. MATABELE returned, Flag Officer, Narvik's 1245 having been cancelled.
1600	Mean course 150 degrees
1615	2 Skuas arrived and provided patrol until operation abandoned.
1645	Mean course 096 degrees
1945	Ordered H.M.S. EFFINGHAM to take H.M. Ships MATABELE and ECHO under his orders and to proceed independently to Bodo.
	H.M. Ships COVENTRY and CAIRO to follow in H.M.S. EFFINGHAM's wake through the channel, between Briksvaer and Terra Islands.
	(Note: The subsequent course of events in this operation formed the subject of my report dated 19th May 1940, No. A.A.S. 659, addressed to the Flag Officer, Narvik, a copy of which is attached.) (n.b. follows 16 – May 1940 section).
Saturday, 18th May 1940
0400	Position: Off Baroy (67-22 degrees North, 16-04 degrees East). Weather: wind southwest, force 1. Overcast and rain; fair visibility.
0600	Arrived Harstad, remained under way. I landed with Brigadier General Gammell to report to the Flag Officer, Narvik.
0800	Military and ship's company of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM landed.
0850	Reembarked in H.M.S. COVENTRY
0905	Sailed for Lavang
1100	Arrived Lavang and secured to oiler BROOMDALE. Ship's cargo 6,000 tons of oil fuel and 90,000 gallons of aviation petrol.
1135	Cast off from oiler due to threatened air attack.
Noon	Position: Lavang. Weather: southwest wind, force 1, overcast, fair visibility
1555	Proceeded alongside oiler again but cast off at once on aircraft appearing.
1715	Proceeded alongside oiler.
	It was found that only 6 of her crew, all officers, were on board. The Master and the remaining 35 officers and men were on shore and refused to return to the ship.
	Sent in Flag Officer Narvik's order to BROOMDALE to arrive at Harstad at 0500 at 0500 Monday, 20th May.
2000	Position: Lavang. Weather: light airs, calm, good visibility.
2100	Master of BROOMDALE and 30 officers and men returned to ship.
2105	Completed fuelling and sailed for Harstad.
2223	Arrived off Harstad and remained under way during the night as anti aircraft guard.
Sunday, 19th May 1940
0400	Position: Harstad. Weather: Light airs, overcast and rain, fair visibility.
Noon	Off Harstad. Weather: Light airs, sky partly cloudy; moderate visibility.
1940	Flag Officer, Narvik ordered H.M.S. COVENTRY to relieve H.M.S. AURORA at Skaanland. H.M.S. AURORA to anchor at Harstad on relief. H.M.S. COVENTRY sailed.
2203	H.M.S. COVENTRY arrived Skaanland; H.M.S. AURORA proceeded to Harstad. H.M.S. COVENTRY remained under way in Skaanland area for the night.
Monday, 20th May 1940
0220	Oiler BROOMDALE sailed from Lavang Fiord for Harstad.
0400	Position: Skaanland. Weather: wind south, southwest, force 4; cloudy; rain squalls, visibility fair. Clouds 10/tenths at 2000 feet; barometer steady.
0955 to 1251	Numerous aircraft sighted and reported.
1112	Reported to Admiralty, Commander in Chief, Home Fleet, and Flag Officer, Narvik: 'H.M.S. COVENTRY 'B1' boiler unfit for service. Tubes badly distorted and bulged. Repairs beyond capacity of ship's staff'
Noon	Position: Skaanland. Weather: wind light south,southwest; overcast and cloudy; cloud 7/10ths at 13,000; strato cumulus and cirro stratus.
1245	Flag Officer, Narvik, signalled: 'CAIRO has been sent to support destroyers in Ofot Fiord. Request you keep 1 Anti Aircraft cruiser permanently at Lavang, the other in Ofot Fiord as ships allow. Opportunity to be taken to engage target on shore at Narvik.'
1252	H.M.S. CAIRO passed proceeding in accordance was Flag Officer, Narvik's 1245/20 above.
1814 to 2017	Continuous bombing attacks. 1831 – dive bomber attack from ahead; 1835 – dive bomber attack from port beam. 2 bombs fell 1 cable off port quarter. After these attacks, the bombing was directed mainly on the supply ships lying in Skaanland Fiord, about 20 bombs being dropped in their vicinity. 37 aircraft were sighted in this period. H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire 16 times and expended 520 rounds of 4 inch Mark V.
2000	Position: Skaanland. Weather: wind south, force 4; cloudy with squalls, cloud 6/tenths at 10,000 feet, strato cumulus.
2150	H.M.S. HAVELOCK arrived Skaanland and returned northwards shortly after.
Tuesday, 21st May 1940
0400	Position: Skaanland. Weather: light airs, sky partly clouded, clouds 7/10th at 7000 feet, cumulus
1010	Attacked and bombed by 2 enemy aircraft, probably Junkers 88. 4 bombs miss on starboard quarter 1 ½ cables and a further 4 on port beam also 1 ½ cables.
1040	3 enemy aircraft passed overhead. Enemy aircraft being constantly picked up by R D/F until 1235 but not sighted from ship due to low cloud layers.
1058	7 bombs fell between merchant ships at anchor and Skaanland Pier. No hits.
NOON	Position: Skaanland. Weather: wind south by west, force 2. Cloudy; cloud base 3,000 feet. Small patches of blue sky; otherwise sky covered with strato cumulus.
1341	H.M.S. CAIRO reported that B1 and B4 boilers were out of action due to the collapse of brickwork, and that the distilling plant was unable to maintain supply feet and drinking water.
1436	Proposed to Flag Officer Narvik that H.M.S. CAIRO returns forthwith to U.K. Dockyard, assistance being essential for renewal of brickwork.
1600	H.M.S. CAIRO reported that she could carry on at duties in the fiords until a relief was available, but was dangerously unreliable due to other defects of which a report had been forwarded.
2000	Position: Skaanland. Weather: light airs, overcast; cloud 10/tenths stratus 4000 feet.
Wednesday 22nd May 1940
0400	Position: Skaanland. Weather: west wind force 1, overcast, clouds and fog. Cloud 10/tenths at 4000 feet; stratus fog.
Noon	Position: Skaanland. Weather: light airs, sky blue; 2/tenths cirro stratus, high bright sun.
1242 to 1305	Attacked by enemy aircraft. Opened fire five times. 1243 bombed. Approximately 12 bombs fell. Some ½ cable off starboard bow and remainder off starboard quarter. 1249 bombed. About 10 bombs fell, 1 cable off starboard beam. 1252 dive bombed, 2 bombs fell 100 feet off port quarter. 21 enemy aircraft sighted during this period.
1345 to 1805	9 enemy aircraft sighted during this period.
1929	Received from F.O. Narvik: 'H.M.S. CURLEW on arrival will join you for orders. On her arrival, H.M.S. CAIRO is to proceed to Harstad.: (T.O.O. 1811/22)
2000	Position: Skaanland. Weather: northwest wind, force 2, sky partly clouded; cloud 3/tenths cumulus stratus at 5000 feet.
2116	Opened fire at 1 enemy aircraft
2230	Ordered H.M.S. CURLEW to relieve H.M.S. COVENTRY at Lavang.
Thursday, 23rd May 1940
0225	H.M.S. COVENTRY sailed from Lavang for Harstad to ammunition on relief by H.M.S. CURLEW.
0320	Arrived Harstad
0400	Position: Harstad. Weather: light airs. Complete cover of low fog at 2000 feet.
0840	I went ashore and handed H.M.S. CAIRO's report on defects in Engine Room Department, to Flag Officer, Narvik.
1100	Returned on board.
1200	Position: Harstad. Weather: light airs, sky partly cloudy, 1/tenths strato cumulus at 10,000 feet.
1400	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's 1048/23 instructing H.M. Ships CAIRO, COVENTRY, AURORA, D 9, HAVELOCK, DELIGHT, FAME WHIRLWIND, and FIREDRAKE to rendezvous with H.M.S. CAIRO, flying Flag Officer, Narvik's flag in position 68-02 degrees North, 16-02 degrees East at 2100 24th May.
1641	Proceeded to Vaasgs Fiord remaining in vicinity of Harstad.
1646 to 1733	18 enemy aircraft sighted. H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire six times. Bombing directed mainly at vessels in Harstad. i.e. H.M.S. VINDICTIVE, MASHOBRA (supply vessel hit and run ashore). 1659 approximately 10 anti personnel bombs fell 1 cable off port beam of H.M.S. COVENTRY. Approximately 26 bombs of various sizes were dropped in these attacks.
1758	Re entered Harstad harbour.
1816	Sailed for Ofot Fiord. 1915 passed H.M.S. CURLEW at Lavang.
1915 to 1931	Passed H.M.S. CAIRO passed en route for Harstad.
2000	Position: Off Baroy Island. Weather: calm, no cloud.
2048 to 2324	Off Narvik. H.M.S. HAVELOCK and DELIGHT patrolling in vicinity. 14 enemy aircraft sighted. 2312 H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire. 2324 H.M.S. DELIGHT patrolling off Rombaks Fiord attacked. 4 bombs dropped and missed well astern of H.M.S. COVENTRY.
Friday, 24th May 1940
0108	Received R.A. Narvik's 2002/23: 'LASSOO operation postponed. LASSOO to land communications ratings retaining stores in board.'
0400	Position: Ofot Fiord off Narvik. Weather: wind east northeast force 2-3; blue sky, cloud 20,000 feet
0618 to 0808	11 enemy aircraft sighted. H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire six times. 0716 approximately 12 bombs fell about 1 cable distant from H.M.S. COVENTRY, 4 on each bow and the remainder abaft port beam. 0746 8 anti personnel bombs fell 75 yards on port quarter of H.M.S. COVENTRY – splinters hit the after superstructure and the Blacksmith's shop. H.M.S. HAVELOCK and H.M.S. DELIGHT were also attacked during this period.
1004	From Flag Officer, Narvik 'Cancel my 1048/23 (see diary for 23rd May).
1001 to 1024	A total of 8 enemy aircraft, including 2 four engined aircraft, probably Kondors, sighted in this period. H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire twice.
Noon	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 2; sky partly cloudy, 6/tenths veil high cirrus.
1210 to 1730	5 enemy aircraft sighted.
1540	Covered H.M.S. HAVELOCK while she transferred troops from Bogen to Skjomnes and also when she carried out bombardment of Ankenes at request of the French Army.
1840	Bombardment concluded.
1918 to 1939	3 enemy aircraft sighted, H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fir six times. Bomb attack on H.M.S. HAVELOCK.
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: north east wind, force 3, cloudy, complete covering of stratus at 8000 feet.
2136	6 enemy aircraft sighted.
2152	Reported to Flag Officer, Narvik: 6 aircraft reported apparently parachuting or attacking troops 10 miles northeast of Narvik.
Saturday, 25th May 1940
0400	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 3, cloudy, 8/tenths cirro cumulus.
0610	1 enemy aircraft sighted.
0946	Unsighted aircraft attacked patrol destroyer. Bombs fell wide.
0955 to 1158	Opened fire at Kondor aircraft. Destroyers which were flank marking for H.M.S. COVENTRY reported that aircraft was constantly straddled. He turned away and was probably hit as he dropped his bombs in the hills.
	During this period, 11 enemy aircraft were sighted.
Noon	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 4; blue sky, trace cirrus.
1202 to 1323	14 enemy aircraft sighted. 1239 H.M.S. COVENTRY attacked and five bombs fell well astern. 1321, 4 bombs fell ½ mile astern. Neither aircraft was seen, probably over 20,000 feet; slight haze in the sky made sighted of aircraft extremely difficult.
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 3; blue sky, cloudless.
Sunday, 26th May 1940
0400	Weather: East northeast wind, force 4, blue sky, no cloud.
Noon	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 3; blue sky, no cloud.
1335	Captain D 9 reported that the explosion heard in Rombaks Fiord this morning was a German bomber crashing.
1456	Opened fire on enemy aircraft, 8 bombs fell approximately 1 ½ cables to port.
1554	2 bombs fell 1 ½ cables on starboard bow, attacking aircraft not seen.
1720	Captain D 9, Captain Bondfield, Liaison Officer with Polish Brigade, and Lieutenant Duff, R.N. N.D.O. came on board to discuss operations.
1746	Opened fire on enemy aircraft.
1840	Captain D 9, Captain Bondfield, and Lieutenant Duff left.
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: calm, overcast, cirro cumulus
2007	Signal intercepted confirming that H.M.S. CURLEW had been sunk in Lavang Fiord by enemy aircraft.
2030	H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded to Skaanland in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 1245/20 requesting C.S. 20 to keep 1 antiaircraft cruiser permanently at Lavang.
Monday, 27th May 1940
0050	Arrived Skaanland. Remained under way, circling in fiord.
0400	Position: Skaanland. Weather; South southwest wind, force 2; cloudy, 9/tenths strata cumulus at 10,000 feet.
0715	1 enemy aircraft sighted.
0835	4 bombs fell 100 feet off starboard bow. Attacking aircraft was no seen.
1120	H.M.S. WALKER came alongside and passed Operation Orders from Flag Officer, Narvik.
1139	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's signal 0917 as follows'
	'Cruise for day where you will have the ability to manoeuvre then proceed independently to be in station ordered in my O.P. 007 paragraph 13 without attracting undue attention. I shall leave Tjelsundet at about 2130/27 May in H.M.S. CAIRO.'
Noon	Position: Off Hol. Proceeding southwards down Tjelsundet Fiord. Weather: calm, blue sky, slight cumulus.
1310	Proceeded to Narvik area.
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: east northeast wind, force 3, clear sky.
2330	Following ships in station off Narvik in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's Operational Order O.P. 007: H.M. Ships CAIRO, COVENTRY, SOUTHAMPTON, HAVELOCK, WHIRLWIND, WALKER, STORK, FIREDRAKE, and BEAGLE.
2336	H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire and carried out systemic bombardment of Fraunnesodden to Lillevik. 0015 ceased fire.
Tuesday, 28th May 1940
0400	Position: Off Narvik in station for continuation of bombardment if required. Weather: light airs, sky partly clouded, 2/tenths cirro cumulus, sky very hazy due to the heavy pall of smoke spreading from fires in and around Narvik.
0426 to 0619	Naval Force under continual bombing attacks.
	H.M.S. COVENTRY was dive bombed at 0424. 2 bombs 20 yards astern. Bombing carried out from 19-22,000 feet. Approximately 35 enemy aircraft sighted during this period. H.M.S. COVENTRY had over 20 bombs aimed at her during these attacks.
0632	Following received from Flag Officer, Narvik (0612) 'H.M.S. COVENTRY and 2 destroyers to be detailed by D 9 to remain off Narvik assist French Army as required. Remainder withdraw to the westward and return to Harstad.
0640	Parted company accordingly.
0646	D 9 detailed H.M.S. FIREDRAKE and H.M.S. BEAGLE to remain under my orders.
0703	From Flag Officer, Narvik to C.S. 20 'My S.O.O. is ashore with French General. Request you will keep me informed of situation ashore and let me know if further assistance is necessary.
0719	Ordered H.M.S. FIREDRAKE to keep in touch with French H.Q. at Seignes and report their requirements to me.
0847	H.M.S. BEAGLE from C.S. 20 'Bombard northwest face of hill, map reference 075975, for ten minutes. Despatch is necessary.
0901	Flag Officer Narvik from C.S. 20 'French hold Ornest against strong German counter attack from East. Germans over 1,000 strong. Second battalion being transported now.'
0920	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE from C.S. 20: 'Am sending S.O.O. and signalmen to you. Landed them at Seignes and keep in V/S touch with them.'
0937	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE from C.S. 20 'If French want bombardment let me know, but if very urgent carry it out yourself.'
0940	Flag Officer, Narvik from C.S. 20 IMPORTANT 'Your 0703 have seen S.O.O. who reports French will almost certainly require more bombardment. H.M.S. FIREDRAKE has no H.E. left, H.M.S. BEAGLE now bombarding.'
1140	Hurricanes shot down Heinkel bomber which crashed some way ahead of ship.
1147	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE from C.S. 20 'Inform French that Poles have recaptured Hill 295 and gap is closed. Eganes and Nyborg still in enemy hands.
Noon	Position: At Narvik. Weather: west wind, force 3, blue sky, small trace cumulus.
1318	3 enemy aircraft sighted flying low round Narvik.
1358	C.S. 18 (R) C.S. 20 from Flag Officer, Narvik: IMPORTANT 'H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON is to proceed to Hol anchorage in readiness to relieve C.S. 20.
1441	H.M.S. DELIGHT and H.M.S. ECHO joined me off Narvik. H.M.S. DELIGHT from C.S. 20 'Flag Officer, Narvik's S.O.O. is at Seignes with signalmen and aldis lamp, keep V/S touch with them and inform me of the French situation. If French require bombardment endeavour to comply, using destroyers as necessary, provided no air raid is on.'
1600 to 1938	French being bombed by low flying aircraft. 1640 H.M.S. COVENTRY bombed, 2 bombs fell on starboard beam 1 cable. 1654 attacked, 3 bombs close to port. 1929 5 bombs close on starboard bow. 1934 2 bombs on port beam 100 yards. 1938 several bombs 100 yards on starboard bow. H.M.S. COVENTRY opened fire 3 times during this period. Enemy aircraft attacking at 22,000 feet approximately, and frequently impossible to sea.
1646	R.A. 18 from C.S. 20 'H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON may find it necessary to proceed as far west as Bogen to maintain W/T communication with Flag Officer, Narvik.
1752	Flag Officer, Narvik, from C.S. 20: N.D.O. with French colonel to eastward of Taralsvil states fighter aircraft all too low. N.D.O. suggests your S.O.O. could now be embarked as former has signal staff with him. Contact was made with Poles at 1500 and there is no change in situation that side.'
2000	Position: Off Narvik. Weather: wind west, force 3; blue sky trace of strato culumus.
2020	Closed H.M.S. BEAGLE to receive information and appreciation of the military situation.
2120	Sailed for Harstad
2300	In Tjelsundet Fiord (South) closed H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON and passed secret message informing R.A. 18 C.S. of the situation at Narvik.
Wednesday, 29th May 1940
0120	Arrived Harstad and proceeded alongside oiler.
0400	Position: Harstad. Weather: light airs, sky partly cloudy, strato cumulus
0720	Completed fuelling, cast off from oiler and M.V. JACINTH came alongside with ammunition.
0850	I went ashore to see Flag Officer, Narvik.
0945	Returned to ship.
0956	Enemy aircraft sighted. Cast off from ammunition ship and H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded to manoeuvre in Vaags Fiord in vicinity of Harstad.
0958	8 bombs fell on beach to southward.
1125	Returned to Harstad to complete ammunitioning.
Noon	Position: Harstad. Weather: light airs, sky partly cloudy, strato cumulus.
1533	Enemy aircraft sighted. H.M.S. COVENTRY cast off ammunition ship and proceeded to Vaags Fiord.
1538	Opened fire. 10 bombs fell about 4 cables on starboard quarter.
1740	Proceeded to Harstad Harbour, completed ammunitioning.
2000	Position: Harstad. Weather: northwest wind, force 3, sky partly clouded, 5/tenths cirrus.
2034	Aircraft alarm. Proceeded to Vaags Fiord, several bombs fell near shore at Harstad.
2200	Formed convoy for 3 merchant ships with 2 A/S trawlers as escorted and sailed in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 1740/29 to C.S. 20 as follows:
	H.M.S. COVENTRY is to protect convoy sailing at 2200 today until 40 miles clear of coast. Then return towards Harstad. Should no further instructions be received when position 20 miles from Andales is reached, H.M.S. COVENTRY proceed to position 71 degrees North, 14 degrees East and remain at sea clear of coast returning to arrive Harstad 0600 1st June. Acknowledge.'
Thursday, 30th May 1940
0400	Position: 69-20 degrees North, 16-16 degrees East. Weather: west northwest wind force 2 overcast 10/tenths nimbus, 1,000 feet; sea smooth.
0500	Spoke H.M.S. BEAGLE and FIREDRAKE
0855	Parted company from convoy and proceeded in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's 1740/29 (reference diary 29th May 1940)
Noon	Position: 70-08 degrees North, 15-08 degrees East. Weather: northeast wind, force 4, sky partly clouded, 8/tenths cirrus at 16,000 feet; moderate sea and swell.
2000	Position: 71-00 degrees North, 16-54 degrees East. Weather: northeast wind, force 4, overcast and squally, slight swell. Sky wholly covered, nimbus 15, 000 feet.
Friday, 31st May 1940
0400	Position: 71-00 degrees North, 14-00 degrees East. Weather: northeast wind, force 3, overcast, moderate swell, 10/tenths cumulus at 6000 feet.
1138	Following signal received from Flag Officer, Narvik to C.S. 20:
	'ROYAL SCOTSMAN expected to sail for U.K. 0200 tomorrow Saturday. D 9 detail 1 destroyer H.M.S. WHIRLWIND if 16 knots can be maintained as escort. H.M.S. COVENTRY is to rendezvous with SCOTSMAN at 0500 and give her protection until 50 miles from coast. Further signal will be made when time of departure if definite. 1138/31'
Noon	Position: 71-08 degrees North, 14-04 degrees East. Weather: southwest wind, force 3, cloudy slight sea, 10/tenths cumulus 12, 000 feet.
2000	Position: 71-00 degrees North, 16-50 degrees East. Weather: southwest wind, force 3, cloudy, slight sea, 10/tenths cumulus at 8,000 feet.
2130	H.M.S. COVENTRY proceeded for Andenes to rendezvous with convoy.
2251	Received from Flag Officer, Narvik (reference 1138/31): 'Sailing of ROYAL SCOTSMAN delayed until 0400 1st June.'

  

 

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A.A.S. 659

 

THE FLAG OFFICER NARVIK - 19th May 1940

 

Subject: LOSS OF H.M.S. EFFINGHAM

 

            With reference to your signal times 1245 of 19th May 1940, the report that follows is confined to the circumstances attending the loss of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM and consequent abandonment of the operation of disembarking the South Wales Borders, ancillary units, equipment, etc, at Bodo.

 

            2. In compliance with the instructions contained in your messages times 2025/16th May and 2325/16th May, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM, escorted by H.M.S. COVENTRY, wearing my Flag, H.M.S. CAIRO, H.M.S. MATABELE and H.M.S. ECHO left Harstad at 0400 on Friday, 17th May 1940, adjusting course and speed as requisite, so as to arrived off Svartoksen Light at 2000 that day.

 

            3. Apart from a report by H.M.S. COVENTRY of the sighting of a periscope at 0910, the forenoon passed uneventfully, and opportunity was taken to exchange signals with H.M.S. EFFINGHAM concerning the details of the approach to and withdrawal from Bodo. At 1034, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM suggested to me that, in view of the possible submarine danger in the main approach to Bodo, the force should proceeded between Briksvaer and Terra Islands, stating that a large scale Norwegian Chart, No. 65, was held onboard.

 

            Chart No. 65 as not available in my Flagship, but it appears in the Index of the Norwegian folio issued by the Admiralty, and I therefore assumed that H.M.S. EFFINGHAM had received it before H.M.S. COVENTRY.

 

            4. There had, at various times, been reports of submarines off Bodo, and at 1401, I asked H.M.S. EFFINGHAM if any recent reliable information was available about submarines off Bodo. At 1443, he replied “Nothing reliable.”

 

            5. At 149, I asked H.M.S. EFFINGHAM if he had considered the possibility of the proposed channel being mined and he replied to the effect that this was most unlikely.

 

            6. At this time I had reason to believe that the force had not been sighted, and addition to the avoidance of possible submarine attack, an unexpected direction of approach to Bodo was very desirable. I therefore decided to implement H.M.S. EFFINGHAM’s suggestion.

 

            7. I informed H.M.S. EFFINGHAM accordingly, stating he would be ordered to lead the force in , preceded by H.M. Ships MATABELE and ECHO as A/S screen, and that he should make the necessary course signals.

 

            8. At 1922, I made the signal “Proceed in execution of previous orders” which I had already arranged to be the execution signal for the following general signal made at 1555:

 

“When ordered to proceed in execution of previous orders at about 1945 today, Friday, EFFINGHAM is to take MATABELE and ECHO under his orders and proceed to Bodo. MATABELE is to provide close A.A. support during the disembarkation. EFFINGHAM is to leave Bodo not later than 0001/18. COVENTRY is to patrol northwest of Bodo, CAIRO north side of Saltfjorden to the south of Bodo. A.A. ships are to take A/S precautions while patrolling. Unless otherwise stated, all ships are to rendezvous with my Flag off Svartoksen Light by 0030/18.”

 

This was amplified in a signal to H.M.S. EFFINGHAM informing him that H.M.S. COVENTRY and H.M.S. CAIRO would follow in H.M.S. EFFINGHAM’s wake until clear of channel.

 

9. At 1912, the force then being in position 67-13N, 13-28E, I ordered H.M.S. EFFINGHAM and H.M.S. COVENTRY to exchange stations in the line, thus making the order of sailing, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM, H.M.S. COVENTRY, H.M.S. CAIRO, with H.M.S. MATABELE and H.M.S. ECHO as a submarine screen.

 

10. At 1923, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM altered course to 080 degrees and disposed destroyers H.M.S. MATABELE ahead and H.M.S. ECHO close on her starboard bow. Speed was then 23 knots and ships in open order.

 

11. At 1947, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM took the ground in what was apparently from the chart, very deep water. I immediately directed H.M.S. MATABELE to attempt to tow her off and told H.M.S. ECHO to act as A/S screen, but H.M.S. MATABELE informed me that she had also been aground and later she reported her starboard “A” bracket and propeller damaged and spirit room making water slightly.

 

12. I ordered H.M.S. CAIRO to proceed with all despatch to Bodo and send out all puffers and trawlers which were available with the object of transferring the stores and military personnel to Bodo in this manner. Shortly after this it became obvious that H.M.S. EFFINGHAM had been refloated but was rapidly sinking and she had ordered H.M.S. ECHO to close to take off personnel.

 

13. At 1951, I informed Flag Officer, Narvik, repeated Admiralty, that H.M.S. EFFINGHAM had grounded. At 2044, I made an amplifying signal stating that H.M.S. EFFINGHAM would become a total loss and that H.M.S. MATABELE was damaged.

 

14. At 2004, I ordered H.M.S. EFFINGHAM to destroy all secret documents. At 2034, she informed me that all S.P.’s and important C.B.’s had been transferred to H.M.S. ECHO and that the latter ship was trying to tow her into shallow water. At 2040, I suggested to the Commanding Officer, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM that it would be better to let the ship sink in deep water. I did not want to give him an order to do this as I was not sure how long the ship would float and it was necessary to make certain that she was totally abandoned before she sank.

 

15. H.M.S. ECHO embarked the South Wales Borderers and one watch of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM ship’s company and transferred them to H.M.S. COVENTRY at 2105. I asked the Commanding Officer, H.M.S. ECHO, how long he though H.M.S. EFFINGHAM would float and he informed me that the Commanding Officer, H.M.S. EFFINGHAM, was getting worried about saving the rest of the ship’s company.

 

16. After H.M.S. ECHO had embarked the first load of survivors in H.M.S. COVENTRY, she returned to H.M.S. EFFINGHAM to take off the remainder.

 

17. At 2234 H.M.S. CAIRO reported five steamers and thirteen puffers proceeding to H.M.S. EFFINGHAM.

 

18. At 2242, H.M.S. ECHO came alongside with the remainder of the personnel of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM, including her Commanding Officer, Captain J.M. Howson, Royal Navy. I discussed the situation with Captain Howson. He informed me that the quarter deck was then under water and there was little or no hope of salving any stores; that the ship was touching forward but her stern was in deep water. Captain Howson said that if the ship was not too heavy he thought two trawlers could tow her into deep water, but in any event, if she was torpedoed where she then was she would turn over on her beam ends.

 

19. H.M.S. CAIRO at this time was closing H.M.S. COVENTRY. I ordered H.M.S. ECHO to transfer the remainder of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM’s ship company to H.M.S. CAIRO as H.M.S. COVENTRY could take no more, and then to take Captain Howson back to H.M.S. EFFINGHAM, by which time the trawlers should have arrived. I ordered Captain Howson to do his best to tow the ship into deep water with the trawlers and if this could not be done to torpedo her where she was; that no risks were to be taken with the safely of H.M.S. ECHO.

 

20. H.M.S. MATABELE was then clear and reported to me that she could steam at 20 knots on one engine.

 

21. I had discussed with Brigadier Gammel and the Colonel of the South Wales Borderers the possibility of landing one company of troops at Bodo, but they were still short of some essential fighting equipment which was still in H.M.S. EFFINGHAM. In view of Captain Howson’s report that the quarter deck of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM was under water when he left her, I came to the conclusion that the possibility of getting those stores was very remote and in any event would take considerable time; further, I considered that air attack might develop very shortly, as news of the grounding must be known in Bodo.

 

22. I considered that my object was now to get the personnel back to Harstad in safety and that by sailing at once, H.M.S. COVENTRY and probably H.M.S. CAIRO could arrive before the usual morning air attacks.

 

23. At 2305, I ordered H.M.S. COVENTRY to proceed at 23 knots and H.M.S. CAIRO to escort H.M.S. MATABELE to Harstad at H.M.S. MATABELE’s best speed.

 

24. At the same time I informed Flag Officer, Narvik repeated R.A.A. and ECHO that the operation was abandoned and requested air protection for H.M.S. ECHO until the sinking of H.M.S. EFFINGHAM had been completed. At 2309, I ordered H.M.S. ECHO to inform R.A.A., when air protection was no longer required.

 

25. At 0545, Saturday, 18th May 1940, H.M.S. COVENTRY arrived at Harstad and disembarked military and naval stores.

 

26. Having had an opportunity to examine Norwegian Chart No. 65 and noted that there is apparently a deep channel with over 100 fathoms running between the two islands, I consider that Captain Howson was fully justified in making his suggestion to me that the squadron should use this channel.

 

                                                                                                (sgd) G. VIVIAN

                                                                                                Rear Admiral

                                                                                                Anti Aircraft ships

H.M.S. COVENTRY

19th May 1940

 

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MOST SECRET

REAR ADMIRAL, ANTI AIRCRAFT SHIPS

 

DIARY OF EVENTS

 

1st TO 12th JUNE 1940

 

 

Saturday, 1st June 1940
0400	Position: 69-37 degrees North, 16-06 degrees East. Weather: Southwest wind, force 4, moderate swell, cloud 10/10ths at 6,000 feet.
	H.M.S. COVENTRY at Andales awaiting convoy.
0730	Escorting H.M.S. WHIRLWIND and S.S. ROYAL SCOTSMAN to westward.
1025	Parted company with the ROYAL SCOTSMAN and H.M.S. WHIRLWIND.
1034	Escorting the MONARCH OF BERMUDA, LANCASTRIA, FRANCONIA, and GEORGIC to eastward.
Noon	Position: 69-38 degrees North, 15-45 degrees East. Weather: southwest wind, force 4, cloud 10/10th at 6,000 feet.
1645	Parted company with MONARCH OF BERMUDA and convoy and sailed for Harstad in accordance with Flag Officer, Narvik's instructions.
2000	Position: 68-57 degrees North, 15-06 degrees East. Weather: west wind, force 4, cloud 10/10th at 6,000 feet.
2115	Escorted S.S. WALLINGTON COURT to Harstad.
Sunday, 2nd June 1940
0020	Arrived Harstad to take in fuel and stores.
0400	Position: Harstad. Weather: calm, cloud 10/10th at 5,000 feet.
0835	I went ashore to see Flag Officer, Narvik, and received orders for Operation ALPHABET, evacuation of Norway.
1040	Returned to COVENTRY. Sailed for rendezvous with convoy at 270 degrees X 60 miles.
1051	Following signal received from Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'Operation O.A. postponed 24 hours please inform Group I and II.'
Noon	Position: 68-59 degrees North, 16-75 degrees East. Weather: north wind, force 1, cloud 8/10th at 6,000.
1735	Met transports of Group I, MONARCH OF BERMUDA, LANCASTRIA, GEORGIC, SOBRIESKY, BATORY, and FRANCONIA and distributed orders for 'O.A.'
1947	H.M. Ships COVENTRY, ARROW, and VANOC escorting MONARCH OF BERMUDA, GEORGIC, and LANCASTRIA towards position 'B'.
1949	Ordered the BATORY, SOBRIESKY, and FRANCONIA to proceed towards position 'B'. FRANCONIA to remain to westward and be at rendezvous 'Z' at 0001/6. BATORY and SOBRIESKY to be at rendezvous 'Y' at 0001 on 5th.
2000	Position: 69-57 degrees North, 13-22 degrees East. Weather: south wind, calm, slight swell, cloud 9/10ths at 1000 feet.
Monday, 3rd June 1940
0400	Position: 70-05 degrees North, 9-56 degrees East. Weather: wind west by south, force 4, moderate swell, cloud 10/10ths at 2500 feet.
1002	From Flag Officer, Narvik, as follows:
	'Operation ALPHABET is to start tonight, Monday, without further orders.'
Noon	Position: 69-54 degrees North, 09-04 degrees East. Weather: wind west, force 2, sky partly clouded, strato cumulus at 5,000 feet, moderate swell.
1745	Decided it was impracticable to transfer troops at Position 'X' on account of swell.
2000	Position: 69-58 degrees North, 13-48 degrees East. Weather: wind south, force 3, moderate swell, cloud 9/10ths at 1000 feet.
2119	Informed destroyers and authorities concerned that rendezvous 'C' (Ers Fiord) would be used for transfer of troops Tuesday.
2230	H.M.S. VANOC and the GEORGIC parted company and were instructed to proceed to the westward and to be at rendezvous 'C' at 0845/4.
Tuesday, 4th June 1940
0020	H.M.S. CAMPBELL joined convoy.
0300	Entered Ers Fiord, rendezvous 'C'; ordered anti submarine patrol of destroyers outside entrance.
0320	Transports anchored, destroyers commenced transfer of troops to the MONARCH OF BERMUDA and LANCASTRIA.
0400	Position: Ers Fiord. Weather: wind west, force 2, overcast, rain slight swell, 10/10th cumulus at 4000 feet.
0451	H.M.S. FAME arrived with troops for GEORGIC; ordered her to secure alongside H.M.S. COVENTRY and transfer troops.
0550	H.M.S. FAME cast off.
0645	The first transfer of the troops to the transports was completed.
0705	The OIL PIONEER escorted by A/S trawler arrived and secured alongside LANCASTRIA.
0752	GEORGIC arrived at Ers Fiord.
0800	H.M.S. ARROW secured to H.M.S. COVENTRY and transferred troops to GEORGIC.
1006	Received the following signal from Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'When visibility and weather conditions are as at present have no hesitation in using Risoy Sund, taking all submarine precautions.'
Noon	Position: Ers Fiord. Weather: wind northwest, force 3, overcast, and rain, slight swell, cloud nimbus at 2000 feet, 10/10ths cumulus at 3000 feet.
1335	LANCASTRIA completed fuelling. OIL PIONEER left for Harstad.
1425	Second transfer of troops from destroyers to transports completed. Transports weighed, convoy sailed towards rendezvous 'B'.
1453	Informed Flag Officer, Narvik, and Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers, that the convoy had sailed for rendezvous 'C'.
1928	Considered that embarkation at 'Y' position was impracticable on account of swell.
1940	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE investigated submarine contact. 3 depth charges were dropped; no further incident.
2000	Position: 69-36 degrees North, 14-10 degrees East. Weather: wind southwest, force 4, moderate swell, cloud 7/10ths at 3000 feet.
	GEORGIC and LANCASTRIA parted company and proceeded towards rendezvous 'B'. MONARCH OF BERMUDA, H.M. Ships FIREDRAKE, DELIGHT, and WALKER sailed for Rendezvous 'Y'.
2330	Sighted H.M.S. ARK ROYAL.
2335	BATORY and SOBRIESKY joined convoy. Informed ships and authorities concerned that rendezvous for Wednesday would be Risoy Sund.
Wednesday, 5th June 1940
0400	Position: And Fiord. Weather: southwest wind, force 3, rain, slight swell, cloud 10/10ths at 1000 feet.
0551	Convoy anchored in Risoy Sund. Commenced transfer of troops from destroyers to transports. Ordered spare destroyers to carry out A/S patrol.
0727	Made the following signal to Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers:
	'No fighters over Risoy Sund yet.'
0910	Reply from Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers:
	'Your 0727 last patrol left Risoy at 0300. Conditions since then unsuitable. Report cloud conditions at Risoy every hour.'
0915	Transports weighed and remained hove to.
Noon	Position: Risoy Sund. Weather: south wind, force 4, drizzle, sky 10/10ths at 4000 feet.
1254	Embarkation completed and convoy sailed for rendezvous 'B'.
2000	Position: 69-31 degrees North, 14-05 East. Weather: wind west, force 5, moderate swell, cloud 1/10th at 6000 feet.
2015	MONARCH OF BERMUDA, BATORY, and SOBRIESKY parted company.
2118	Closed H.M.S. VINDICTIVE, GEORGIC, and FRANCONIA and formed escort.
2231	Informed ships and authorities concerned that Risoy Sund was to be the rendezvous for tomorrow, Thursday, 6th June 1940.
Thursday, 6th June 1940
0400	Position: And Fiord. Weather: south, southwest wind, force 4, smooth, cloud 10/10ths at 5000 feet.
0450	Passed operation orders for Group II 'OA' to H.M.S. VINDICTIVE by boat. Convoy stopped Risoy Sund and remained hove to. Embarkation of troops from destroyers commenced. Escort of destroyers forming A/S patrol.
0510	Sailed for Harstad to fuel.
0635	Arrived at Harstad and secured to oiler CONCH.
0750	Chief of Staff to Flag Officer, Narvik came on board to see me.
0922	Sailed for Risoy Sund.
1003	Ordered H.M.S. VINDICTIVE, GEORGIC, and FRANCONIA to proceed on completion of the embarkation of troops to join the remainder of Group I at rendezvous 'B' and thence to U.K.
1045	H.M.S. VINDICTIVE returned operation orders 'O.A.' to me.
1055	Sailed independently to rendezvous with Group II.
Noon	Position: And Fiord. Weather: west southwest force 3, overcast, slight swell, cloud 10/10ths cumulus nimbus
1813	Met ORANSAY, ORMONDE, ORAMA, ARANDORA STAR, DUCHESS OF YORK, ULSTER PRINCE, ULSTER MONARCH, ROYAL ULSTERMAN, and VANDYCK. Position 70-06 degrees North, 11-56 degrees East. Weather being unsuitable for transporting written orders all transports were given the positions of rendezvous 'A', 'B', 'X', 'Y', and 'Z' by signal and other information which it was necessary for them to have.
1841	Directed ORAMA, ARANDORA STAR, and DUCHESS OF YORK to proceed and be at rendezvous 'Y' at 0001 Saturday, 9th June.
1927	VANDYCK ordered to proceed and remain in the vicinity of 320 Y 10 and await orders. If no orders are received by 0900 8th June, she was to proceed to rendezvous 'A' arriving there by 0300 9th June. VANDYCK repeated back positions and times correctly.
1933	ORAMA reported:
	'Oil position is serious shall want at least 530 tons, water scarce.'
1957	Sent the following signal to Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'DUCHESS OF YORK accommodation 2430 now with ORAMA and ARANDORA STAR. ORAMA must have fuel 500 tons short, also 300 tons of water short. Propose ORAMA be ordered to U.K. now, leaving VANDYCK spare.'
	Reply:
	'Your 1957/6 June. Direct serials 016 to 021 inclusive to embark in DUCHESS OF YORK. Approve ORAMA return U.K. if high speed can be maintained in home waters.'
2000	Position: 70-10 degrees North, 13-00 degrees East. Weather: west southwest wind, force 3, moderate swell, cloud 9/10ths at 5000 feet.
	Escorting ORANSAY, ORMONDE, ULSTER PRINCE, and ULSTER MONARCH.
2058	Informed ships and authorities of rendezvous for Friday 7th June to be Risoy Sund.
2200	H.M.S. VINDICTIVE joined me.
2215	H.M.S. HAVELOCK, ECHO, and WALKER joined and formed A/S screen.
Friday, 7th June 1940
0214	Convoy at RIsoy Sund remained hove to.
	Escort of destroyers on A/S patrol. The embarked of troops from destroyers commenced.
0216	The following message was received from Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'On completion of 'OA' take Group II H.M. Ships HAVELOCK, FAME, BEAGLE, DELIGHT and ECHO under your orders and proceed through positions 66 degrees North, 01 degrees West and 63 degrees North degrees West, thence to Clyde after escorting Group I to 61 degrees North, H.M.S. VALIANT will join Group II.'
0400	Position: Risoy Sund. Weather: wind west northwest
0540	Received Flag Officer, Narvik's T.O.O. 0054/7 (see 1957/6)
0650	ROYAL ULSTERMAN arrived from Harstad and remained hove to in company.
1052	Embarkation completed and convoy sailed towards rendezvous 'A' escorted by H.M. ships HAVELOCK, ARROW, and WALKER. ULSTER PRINCE and ULSTER MONARCH sailed for Harstad escorted by H.M. Ships DELIGHT, BEAGLE, and CAMPBELL.
Noon	Position: 69-18 degrees North, 16-28 degrees East. Weather: west southwest wind, force 2, slight swell, cloud 5/10ths at 5000 feet.
1314	Reported being shadowed
1315	Opened fire at a KONDOR aircraft, shadowing.
1715	Parted company with ORONSAY, ORMONDE, and ROYAL ULSTERMAN directed to remain on a line of bearing near rendezvous 'A' 320 degrees returning to 'A' at 0300 and 1500 daily, and to rendezvous with me at 0300/9, if H.M.S. COVENTRY is late to steer 110 degrees, speed 14 knots.
1809	Ordered ORAMA to proceed to U.K. independently and informed Commander in Chief Rosyth and authorities concerned.
1916	Escorting ARANDORA STAR and DUCHESS OF YORK towards rendezvous ^.
2000	Position: 69-09 degrees North, 13-54 degrees East. Weather: northwest wind force 4, cloud 9/10ths at 6,000.
2054	Informed ships and authorities rendezvous for 8th June, Risoy Sund.
2310	Sighted H.M.S. GLORIOUS and ARK ROYAL.
Saturday 8th June 1940
0220	Joined H.M. Ships HAVELOCK and DELIGHT, formed escort.
0305	Passed store ship convoy from Harstad proceeding to U.K. escorted by A/S trawlers.
0400	Position: And Fiord. Weather: northwest wind force 3, slight swell, cloud 9/10ths at 6000.
0526	Arrived at Risoy Sund, stopped and remained hove to. Transfer of troops to transports commenced. Escort destroyers forming A/S patrol.
0620	ULSTER MONARCH and ULSTER PRINCE arrived from Harstad and remained in company, hove to.
0640	Flag Officer, Narvik arrived in H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON and remained hove to with convoy.
0827	Received the following signal from Flag Officer, Narvik:
	'I wish you to make all necessary signals to convoy. SOUTHAMPTON will remain in close support for present, but I do not intend to take any active part.'
0935	Enemy aircraft sighted.
1005	Final embarkation of troops completed, H.M.S. CAMPBELL transferred troops to H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON to minimize delay in sailing. Convoy sailed for rendezvous 'A' to join the remainder of Group II, escorted by H.M. Ships HAVELOCK (D 9), FAME, DELIGHT, BEAGLE, ECHO, FIREDRAKE, VANOC, VETERAN, SOUTHAMPTON, and COVENTRY.
Noon	Position: 69-32 degrees North, 16-08 degrees East. Weather: north northwest wind force 4, overcast and squally, moderate swell, cloud 5/10ths at 6,000 feet.
1217	Made the following signal to Commander in Chief, Rosyth, H.M.S. VALIANT (R) Commander in Chief, Home Fleet, Admiralty, Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Flag Officer Narvik:
	'Group II leaves rendezvous 'A' at 0200 Sunday, 9th, speed of advance 14 knots passing through positions 66 degrees North, 01 degrees West and 63 degrees North and 4 degrees West, thence to Clyde.'
1324	Ordered H.M.S. VETERAN and H.M.S. VANOC to proceed to rendezvous H.M.S. DEVONSHIRE.
1540	Enemy aircraft shadowing.
1542	Reported being shadowed.
2000	Position: 70 degrees North, 11-32 degrees East. Weather: north by west wind force 3, moderate swell, cloud 9/10ths at 6000 feet.
2358	Sighted H.M.S. ARK ROYAL
Sunday 9th June 1940
0230	ORONSAY, ORMONDE, ROYAL ULSTERMAN joined convoy. VANDYCK failed to make rendezvous.
0310	Ordered D 9 to despatch 2 destroyers to search for VANDYCK. If VANDYCK is not found in one hour one destroyer to continue search, the other to rejoin convoy. H.M. Ships DELIGHT and FIREDRAKE detailed.
0400	Position: 70-11 degrees North, 7-20 degrees East. Weather: northwest wind force 4, slight swell, cloud 8/10ths at 6,000 feet.
	Ships in company H.M.S. SOUTHAMPTON, flying flag of Admiral of the Fleet, Lord Cork and Orrery, ORONSAY, ORMONDE, ROYAL ULSTERMAN, ULSTER MONARCH, ULSTER PRINCE, DUCHESS OF YORK, and ARANDORA STAR, escorting destroyers HAVELOCK, BEAGLE, ECHO, and FAME. H.M.S. ARK ROYAL providing air security and fighter patrol, H.M.S. DIANA and H.M.S. ACHERON screening destroyers.
0431	Sent following signal to Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers (R) H.M.S. DELIGHT:
	'Request air search for S.S. VANDYCK two masts one funnel painted hull black, upper works grey, which should have made rendezvous 'A' at 0300 on approximate course 250 degrees. If located request H.M.S. DELIGHT and H.M.S. FIREDRAKE be informed.'
0750	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE rejoined having failed to locate VANDYCK.
0810	Following received from VANDYCK (R) DELIGHT and FIREDRAKE:
	'Am at rendezvous 'X''
0843	Instructed H.M.S. DELIGHT to order VANDYCK to steer 270 degrees.
0847	Instructed H.M.S. DELIGHT to bring VANDYCK on and inform Commander in Chief Rosyth and authorities concerned of expected time of arrival in position 63-00 degrees North, 04-00 degrees East.
0901	First intimation received of enemy surface ship activity in Area 'A'.
1020	Received following message from Commander in Chief, Home Fleet:
	'VALIANT make all possible speed to join Group 2.' T.O.O. 1020/9
1031	Received further information that enemy battle cruiser; 2 destroyers and aircraft were at sea in Northern waters.
1136	Received following message from Commander in Chief, Home Fleet:
	'Troop convoy left position 70-30 degrees North, 7-20 degrees East, 1230 9th June steering for position 66 degrees North, 1 degree East and then for 63 degrees North, 4 degrees West. COVENTRY and SOUTHAMPTON in company. Speed may not exceed 12 knots. Endeavour to make contact with convoy and then cover them to Butt of Lewis. Return Scapa on completion. (Signal to: REPULSE, NEWCASTLE, SUSSEX (R) SHIPS AND AUTHORITIES IN ORKNEYS AND SHETLAND AREA).
1141	Passed signal to Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers by means of Skua aircraft, requesting security search.
Noon	Position: 68-42 degrees North, 3-50 degrees East. Weather: northwest wind force 4, slight swell, cloud 7/10ths at 7000 feet.
1735	Received following from Flag Officer, Narvik (R) Vice Admiral Aircraft Carriers:
	'Alter course of convoy to 270 degrees at 1800 until 2200 then through position 63 degrees North, 8 degrees West.'
2000	Position: 67-36 degrees North, 00-14 degrees East. Weather: west wind, smooth sea, cloud 9/10ths at 8000 feet.
2115	H.M. Ships VALIANT, MASHONA, TARTAR, BEDOUIN, and ASHANTI joined convoy, ordered H.M.S. VALIANT to take station 5 miles ahead.
2310	Enemy aircraft Dornier Flying Boat and Heinkel shadowing. H.M.S. VALIANT was attacked and opened fire, H.M.S. ARK ROYAL opened fire.
2325	Ordered H.M.S. VALIANT in support H.M.S. ARK ROYAL.
Monday 10th June 1940
0144	H.M.S. VALIANT informed me that a trawler to the southeast was firing star shell and three friendly aircraft were investigating. No further incident.
0400	Position: 67-48 degrees North, 5-02 degrees West. Weather: east southeast wind, force 2, cloud 9/10ths at 6000 feet.
0512	Sighted H.M.S. SUSSEX
0518	H.M.S. NEWCASTLE joined. Stationed her 1 mile on starboard quarter of convoy to provide A.A. defence on that flank.
0532	H.M.S. SUSSEX joined. Ordered her to provide A.A. protection for H.M.S. ARK ROYAL
0709	Ordered H.M.S. NEWCASTLE to join Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers, to provide A.A. protection.
0800	Vice Admiral, Aircraft Carriers, ordered H.M.S. SUSSEX and H.M.S. NEWCASTLE to part company and support store convoy in approximately position 67-35 degrees North, 4-18 degrees West.
0857	H.M.S. REPULSE joined. Ordered her to take H.M.S. VALIANT under her orders. These ships and screening destroyers to be designated Force 'A'/
0951	H.M.S. ARK ROYAL informed convoy that her aircraft had destroyed a Heinkel 111 and damaged several others on the evening of 9th June 1940.
1041	Detailed H.M.S. ECHO to proceed towards Sollum Voe at 25 knots and to signal H.M.S. REPULSE's position, course, and speed to H.M.S. MAORI if she had not met her by 1700. BY this time H.M.S. ECHO would be 70 miles from the convoy. To oil at Sollum Voe and rejoin convoy.
1120	H.M.S. ARK ROYAL parted company to join Commander in Chief, Home Fleet.
Noon	Position: 53-56 degrees North, 06-00 degrees West. Weather: southeasterly wind, force 4, overcast, cloud 6/10th at 8000 feet.
1514	H.M.S. REPULSE reported sighting enemy aircraft. This was a Dornier flying boat which shadowed convoy for a few minutes and then disappeared to the eastward.
1701	H.M.S. ECHO signalled H.M.S. REPULSE's position to H.M.S. MAORI not having met her.
2000	Position: 64-07 degrees North, 6 degrees West. Weather: southeast wind, force 4, overcast, cloud 6/10ths at 8000 feet.
Tuesday 11th June 1940
0240	H.M. Ships MAORI, FORESTER, and FOXHOUND rejoined H.M.S. REPULSE.
0400	Position: 62-31 degrees North, 5-39 degrees West. Weather: southeast wind, force 4, moderate swell, cloud 8/10ths at 8000 feet. Course west 175 degrees, speed 14 knots.
Noon	Position: 60-36 degrees North, Weather: south by west wind, force 4, moderate swell, cloud 7/10ths at 12,000 feet. Course 180 degrees, speed 14 knots.
	H.M.S. REPULSE and H.M.S. VALIANT parted company in accordance with CinC, H.F.'s orders to return to Scapa on reaching 59-30 degrees North.
1625	Convoy streamed paravanes.
1645	H.M.S. HAVELOCK investigated trawler; proved to be British.
2000	Position 58-59 degrees North, 5-01 degrees West. Weather: south wind, force 4, overcast, slight swell, 10/10ths at 8000 feet.
2040	H.M.S. ECHO rejoined convoy.
2219	Made signal of expected time of arrival to Naval Officer in Charge, Greenock – 2100/12th June 1940.
Wednesday 12th June 1940
0400	Position: 57-49 degrees North, 6-10 degrees West. Weather: southwest wind, force 4, rain, smooth, cloud 9/10ths at 4000 feet. Course 247 degrees, 14 knots.
0735	Passed trawler CAPE PORTLAND escorting oilers BRITISH PRUDENCE and WINAMACH.
1143	Passed H.M.S. VOLUNTEER
1200	Position: 57-10 degrees North, 7-17 degrees West. Weather: southwest wind, force 3, moderate swell, cloud 3/10ths at 12,000 feet. Course 194, speed 14.
1216	D IA investigated drifting lifeboat marked Belfast No. 4.
1236	H.M.S. FIREDRAKE investigated 2 drifting lifeboats which proved to be from S.S. EROS.
2000	Position: 55-20 degrees North, 4-57 degrees West. Weather: west wind, force 3, smooth, cloud 6/10ths at 9000 feet. Course at requisite for proceeding up the Clyde, speed 17 knots.
2045	H.M.S. COVENTRY and escorting destroyers proceeded to Greenock.
2258	H.M.S. COVENTRY anchored off Greenock in B.3 berth

 

---

 

 

MOST SECRET

 

Enclosure No. 2 With R.A.A/A. Ships War Diary for period 1st to 12th June 1940 (No. 77/A.A.S. of 14th June 1940)

 

Officer of Flag Officer, Narvik

                                                                                                            Harstad

 

No. O.P. 008    

 

MEMORANDUM                                                                                    31st May 1940

 

OPERATION ALPHABET

 

(Short Title – “O.A.”)

 

                        Appendices       No. I     Destroyer Ferry Service

                                                No. II     List of Rendezvous

                                                No. III    Allocation of destroyers

 

Time                 The first day of the operation (D 1) begins 2000 on the 2nd of June

 

 

INFORMATION

 

The following transports are arriving off the coast 2nd and 5th June.

		Carrying capacity
GROUP I	MONARCH OF BERMUDA	2560
	BATORY	2420
	SOBIESKI	1600
	FRANCONIA	2880
	LANCASTRIA	2600
	GEORGIC	2600
GROUP II	ORONSAY	2600
	ORAMA	2600
	ORMONDE	2600
	VANDYCK	1500
	ARANDORA STAR	2000
	ROYAL ULSTERMAN	900
	ULSTER PRINCE	900
	ULSTER MONARCH	900
In addition, VINDICTIVE will arrive about 3 June. She will act as a transport attached to Group I		1000
		_____
		29660

2. The total number to be embarked is 24,569.

 

METHOD OF EXECUTION

 

3. The troops will embark into destroyers from the quays at Harstad and by puffers, small steamers, M.L.C.s and A.L.C.s from other embarkation places. The destroyer will ferry the troops to the transports at sea or outlying anchorages as indicated by the Destroyer Ferry Table, Appendix I.

 

Embarkation from the shore begins at 2200/2nd June and the last destroyer should leave the shore at 0500/7th June.

 

4. At present the only orders given the transfers is that Group I is to go to rendezvous “B” as given in Appendix II, and that they are to be in position 60 miles, 270 degrees, from rendezvous “X” by 1900 on the 2nd June.

 

Group 2 has been told to go to rendezvous “A” and then to be 60 miles 280 degrees from rendezvous “X” by 1900 on 5th June. The Commodores of both groups have instructions to arrange contact watch on 500 kcs. Commodores of both groups hold the Auxiliary Code and Recoding Table. All merchant ships hold the Merchant Navy Code.

 

5. COVENTRY is to meet both groups in positions 60 miles to the west of rendezvous “X” and is to give them their instructions. STORK and 2 or 4 destroyers (n.b. pen and ink correction: STORK and 2 or 4 destroyers crossed out, VANOC added), as indicated in Appendix III, will join C.S. 20 at 0001 on the 3rd June at rendezvous “X” and will give the transports protection while they are near the coast.

 

6. Should weather conditions not be suitable for destroyers to go alongside transports at sea it will be for C.S. 20 to direct the transports and ferrying destroyers to go to the selected alternative embarkation rendezvous and to inform Flag Officer, Narvik.

 

GROUP I

 

(a). At 1900/2nd June LANCASTRIA, MONARCH OF BERMUDA, and GEORGIC to reach rendezvous “X” by 0001/3rd June and start embarking as follows:

           

Transport	Destroyer	Approx times	Troops
LANCASTRIA	HAVELOCK	0300 – 1300	2640
	ECHO
	WALKER
MONARCH OF BERMUDA	DELIGHT	0400 – 1200	1500
	BEAGLE
GEORGIC	FAME	0900	480
	FIREDRAKE

 

(b). Should weather conditions be unsuitable embarkation is to take place at Rendezvous “C”.

 

(c). Remainder of Group I are to proceed in company to rendezvous “B”. BATORY and MONARCH OF BERMUDA, and SOBIESKI are to be told to reach rendezvous “Y” by 0001/4th June, and embarkation from the following destroyers will begin at 0300/4th June

 

Transport	Destroyer	Approx times	Troops
BATORY	HAVELOCK	0300 – 1300	2480
	VOLUNTEER
	BEAGLE
MONARCH OF BERMUDA	ECHO	0400 – 1200	875
SOBIESKI	ARROW	0700 – 1000	1680
	VETERAN
	VANOC
	FAME

 

 

(d). Should weather conditions be unsuitable for embarkation is to take placed at rendezvous “E”.

 

(e). FRANCONIA and GEORGIC are told to reach rendezvous “Z” by 0001/5th June and embarkation from the following destroyers will begin at 0300/5th June.

 

Transport	Destroyer	Approx times	Troops
FRANCONIA	HAVELOCK	0300 – 1300	2770
	DELIGHT
	VOLUNTEER
GEORGIC	ARROW	0300 – 1200	2500
	VANOC
	VETERAN
	FIREDRAKE
	ECHO

 

(f). Should weather conditions be unsuitable embarkation is to take place at rendezvous “F”.

 

8. When the loading of transports is completed each day, they are to be sailed under escort of the protecting ships toward rendezvous “B”. Those whose loading is completed are to proceed to rendezvous “B”; those who have yet to load are to return as directed in the preceding paragraph.

 

The ships giving protection are to act as considered advisable by C.S. 20, the destroyers being released to fuel and carry out their ferry duties as necessary.

 

9. Ships detached to rendezvous “B” are to remain in company and on a line 320 degrees from the rendezvous and are to reach that rendezvous at 0300 and 1500 daily.

 

10. The instructions for Group II which may have to be passed by STORK if COVENTRY is still with ships of Group I, are to be as follows:

 

On reaching a position 60 miles west of rendezvous “X” at 900 on 5th June:

 

(a). ORONSAY, ROYAL ULSTERMAN, and ORMONDE are to be told to be at rendezvous “X” by 0001/6th June and when they will embark troops as follows.

 

Transport	Destroyer	Time	Troops
ORONSAY	DELIGHT	0300 - 1300	2800
	VOLUNTEER
	BEAGLE
ROYAL ULSTERMAN	FAME	0500	480
ORMONDE	ARROW	0700 - 1200	1860
	FIREDRAKE
	VETERAN
	VANOC

 

(b). Should weather conditions not be suitable for loading at sea rendezvous “E” should be used.

 

(c). The remainder of Group II are to be told to proceed in company towards rendezvous “A”. ULSTER PRINCE and ULSTER MONARCH are to be told to arrive Harstad by 2200/6th June unless otherwise ordered. They should be escorted in by STORK. (n.b. They should be escorted in by STORK marked out in pen and ink correction).

 

(d). ORAMA and ARANDORA STAR are to arrive at rendezvous “Y” at 0001/7th June to embark troops was follows:

 

Transport	Destroyer	Time	Troops
ORAMA	FAME	0800 -  1200	2600
	FIREDRAKE
	ECHO
	VETERAN
	VOLUNTEER
	VANOC
ARANDORA STAR	HAVELOCK	0300	1946
	DELIGHT
	ARROW
	WALKER
	BEAGLE

 

(e). Should weather conditions be suitable for embarking troops at sea, ORAMA and ARANDORA STAR are to proceed 60 miles 270 degrees from rendezvous “Y” to embark troops. If the weather is unsuitable rendezvous “E” is again to be used.

 

EMBARKATION FACILITIES

 

11. When the transports are met on 2nd and 5th June they are to be told to embark troops from destroyers both sides simultaneously. Programme depends on transfer being completed as rapidly as possible.

 

FUEL

 

12. Tankers will be at Harstad. Destroyers on Ofot service are to oil every 24 hours on their return journey from the transports to Ofot. Destroyers on ferry service other than Ofot are to fuel every alternate day as opportunity offers.

 

MOVEMENT TO UNITED KINGDOM

 

13. When ships have embarked the troops allotted to them, ships of Group I will proceed to rendezvous “B” and ships of Group II to rendezvous “A”. Group I should be at rendezvous “B” and wait for her escort from 0100/8th June onwards. Group II from 0300/8th June.

 

Escorts will be as follows:

 

            With Group I

                        SOUTHAMPTON

                        VINDICTIVE

                        HAVELOCK

                        FAME

                        FIREDRAKE

                        BEAGLE

 

            With Group II

                        COVENTRY

                        DELIGHT

                        ECHO

                        WALKER

                        VOLUNTEER

 

14. ARROW, VANOC, VETERAN, with STORK (n.b. pen and ink correction, STORK crossed off) will escort the fleet auxiliaries and transports remaining at Harstad. This convoy will probably sail about 2200/6th June initially under the escort of trawlers, the destroyers, and STORK (n.b. pen and ink correction, STORK crossed off) joining the convoy as soon as they can be spared from their previous duties.

 

15. Routeing Instructions

 

On sailing for the United Kingdom, Groups I and II and Storeship Convoy are to proceed through position B 069-30 degrees North, 006-40 degrees East, 66-04 degrees North, 063 North, 005 degrees West and then as ordered by the Commander in Chief, Rosyth.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

 

16. Destroyers are to inform Flag Officer, Narvik, when they leave their embarkation places and again when they have completed disembarkation at their transport. Damage or failure to adhere to the programme are to be reported.

 

17. W/T Watch

Destroyers and STORK	425 kcs
COVENTRY	425 and 3700 kcs
VINDICTIVE	3700 kcs
SOUTHAMPTON	3700 kcs, W/T Guard on 500 kcs
HAVELOCK	3700 kcs, W/T Guard on 425 kcs.

18. All ships read their own H.D. broadcasts unless otherwise ordered. Small ships should set additional watch on (n.b. pen and ink “set additional watch on” scored out; “shift to” inserted) 3700 kcs if necessary to transmit a message when in the vicinity of the convoy.

 

                                                                                                CORK & ORRERY

 

ADMIRAL OF THE FLEET

 

 

 

DISTRIBUTION:

 

Flag Officer, Narvik (6);

Rear Admiral, Narvik (3);

Rear Admiral, 20th Cruiser Squadron (3);

Force Headquarters (6);

Rear Admiral, 18th Cruiser Squadron (2);

Commanding Officers, H.M. Ships:

            SOUTHAMPTON, COVENTRY, VINDICTIVE, HAVELOCK, FAME, FIREDRAKE,

            BEAGLE, DELIGHT, ECHO, WALKER, VOLUNTEER, ARROW, VANOC, VETERAN,

            STORK

Transports (14).