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Notable events involving Uganda include:

The page dealing with the wartime history of HMS Uganda was created in June 2023.

17 Dec 1942
At Newcastle-on-Tyne, Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is commissioned for trials. (1)

30 Dec 1942
Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) proceeded from the Tyne to Rosyth. (1)

31 Dec 1942
Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted trials off the Firth of Forth. (1)

3 Jan 1943
Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted acceptance trials off the Firth of Forth following which she was accepted from her builders. (2)

4 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted catapult trials in the Firth of Forth. (2)

6 Jan 1943
Around 2330A/6, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Rosyth for Scapa Flow where she arrived around 1100A/7. At Scapa Flow she is to commence a work-up programme. (2)

14 Jan 1943
HMS Sussex (Capt. W.Y.La R. Beverley, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (3)

15 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted trials and exercises at Scapa Flow. (2)

22 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted gunnery and torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow. (2)

23 Jan 1943
HMS Sussex (Capt. W.Y.La R. Beverley, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (3)

24 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (2)

25 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. Also a dummy torpedo attack on her was made by HMS Brecon (Lt.Cdr. T.D. Herrick, DSC and Bar, RN). (2)

26 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (2)

27 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted AA gunnery exercises at Scapa Flow. (2)

28 Jan 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted aircraft launching and recovering exercises at Scapa Flow. (2)

2 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted D/G trials at Scapa Flow. (4)

3 Feb 1943
In the morning, HMS Belfast (Capt. F.R. Parham, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral R.L. Burnett, CB, OBE, RN) conducted A/S exercises at Scapa Flow. This must have been with HMS P 225 (Lt. C.H. Rankin, RN).

In the afternoon HMS Belfast conducted exercises in the Pentland Firth together with HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) which was also out exercising on this day. (5)

4 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted gunnery and torpedo firing exercises off Scapa Flow. (4)

6 Feb 1943
In the afternoon, HMS Belfast (Capt. F.R. Parham, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral R.L. Burnett, CB, OBE, RN) conducted throw off shoot gunnery exercises in the Pentland Firth during HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) acted as target.

In the evening HMS Belfast conducted night encounter exercises with HMS Newfoundland (Capt. W.R. Slayter, DSC, RN). (6)

10 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted torpedo firing, A/S and underway refuelling exercises at Scapa Flow. The A/S exercises were with HMS P 31 (Lt. L.E. Herrick, DSC, RN) and the underway refuelling exercises with HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN). (4)

11 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (4)

17 Feb 1943
HMS Kenya (Capt. D.P. Evans, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises to the east of Scapa Flow. (7)

24 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted torpedo firing exercises and underway refuelling exercises at Scapa Flow. During the underway refuelling exercises HMS Uganda was fuelled by a tanker from the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. (4)

26 Feb 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (4)

4 Mar 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted gunnery exercises off Scapa Flow on completion of which she set course for Plymouth. (4)

6 Mar 1943
Around 1200A/6, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Plymouth from Scapa Flow. (4)

11 Mar 1943
Around 1400A/11, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Plymouth to patrol off the Bay of Biscay on anti-blockade breaker patrol. (8)

14 Mar 1943
Around 0800A/14, in position 48°51'N, 11°02'W, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is joined by HMS Meteor (Lt.Cdr. D.J.B. Jewitt, RN) and HMS Musketeer (Cdr. E.N.V. Currey, DSC, RN). They then set course to return to Plymouth arriving there around 2200A/14. (8)

15 Mar 1943
Around 1545A/15, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Plymouth for Freetown. She is to conduct an anti-blockade breaker patrol en-route. (8)

24 Mar 1943
Around 1820Z/24, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Freetown from patrol. (9)

30 Mar 1943
Around 1835Z/30, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Freetown to return to the U.K. patrolling for enemy blockade breakers en-route.

While en-route she was ordered to end her patrol at Gibraltar. (9)

7 Apr 1943
Around 1800A/7, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Gibraltar from Freetown / patrol. (10)

10 Apr 1943
Around 0530A/10, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Gibraltar for an anti-blockade runner patrol off the Bay of Biscay. (10)

14 Apr 1943
Around 1600B/14, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Plymouth from patrol. (10)

16 Apr 1943
Around 1745A/16, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and ORP Orkan (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.)) departed Plymouth for an anti-blockade breaker patrol off the Bay of Biscay. They were also to provide cover for convoys passing to the west of the Bay of Biscay.

Around 2100A/19, ORP Orkan parted company to return to Plymouth. (11)

23 Apr 1943
Around 1700B/23, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Plymouth from patrol. (10)

5 May 1943

Convoy TA 41B.

This convoy was only made up of one ship, the troopship Queen Mary (British, 81235 GRT, built 1936). She departed the Clyde on 5 May 1943 for New York and had on board about 5000 German POW's and also Prime Minister Churchill and his staff.

The AA cruiser HMS Scylla (Capt. I.A.P. Macintyre, CBE, DSO, RN) departed Scapa Flow on 4 May 1943 and provided close escort for the troopship.

On 5 May 1943, the light cruiser HMS Glasgow (Capt. E.M. Evans-Lombe, RN) departed Scapa Flow to provide cover. HMS Glasgow returned to Scapa Flow on 10 May apparently having turned back on 8 May.

Also on 5 May 1943, the aircraft carrier HMS Indomitable (Capt. G. Grantham, CB, DSO, RN) departed Greenock to provide air cover for the Queen Mary during the first part of her voyage. The carrier was escorted by the destroyers HMS Matchless (Lt.Cdr. J. Mowlam, DSO, RN), HMS Mahratta (Lt.Cdr. E.A.F. Drought, DSC, RN) and HMS Eclipse (Lt.Cdr. E. Mack, DSO, DSC, RN). They turned back very late on 6 May and HMS Indomitable and HMS Eclipse returned to the Clyde on the 8th. HMS Matchless and HMS Mahratta were detached on the 8th to proceed to Scapa Flow where they arrived later on the same day.

Also on 5 May 1943, around 0600B/5, the light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and AA cruiser HMS Charybdis (Capt. G.A.W. Voelcker, RN) departed Plymouth to make rendezvous with the Queen Mary. Rendezvous was effected on 7 May. Most likely HMS Scylla then parted company as she arrived at Plymouth on 8 May. HMS Charybdis parted company around 2100A/8 to return to Plymouth where she arrived on 10 May.

The Queen Mary then continued on escorted by HMS Uganda.

At 1345N/9, the heavy cruisers USS Tuscaloosa (Capt. J.B.W. Waller, USN), USS Augusta (Capt. G. Hutchins, USN) and the destroyers USS Fitch (T/Cdr. K.C. Walpole, USN), USS Corry (T/Cdr. L.B. Ensey, USN), USS Hobson (T/Lt.Cdr. K. Loveland, USN) and Murphy (T/Cdr. L.W. Bailey, USN) joined. They had departed Argentia, Newfoundland on 6 May. HMS Uganda parted company shortly afterwards and proceeded to Argentia, arriving there around 1045OP(+2.5)/11.

In the morning of the 10th the four US destroyers were relieved by four other destroyers, these were USS Mervine (T/Cdr. S.D. Willingham, USN), USS Quick (T/Cdr. P.W. Cann, USN), USS Beatty (T/Cdr. F.C. Stelter, Jr., USN) and USS Tillman (T/Cdr. F.D. McCorkle, USN).

The Queen Mary and her USN escort arrived at New York on 11 May.

14 May 1943
Around 0800OP(+2.5)/14, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Argentia, Newfoundland and Labrador for Plymouth. (12)

20 May 1943
Around 1330B/20, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Plymouth from Argentia. (12)

22 May 1943
Around 0830B/22, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Plymouth for an anti-blockade breaker patrol off the Bay of Biscay.

She was recalled in the evening and ordered not to pass Lizard Head before 0400B23.

She returned to Plymouth around 0700B/23. (13)

23 May 1943
Around 1230B/23, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Plymouth for an anti-blockade breaker patrol off the Bay of Biscay. She was also to provide cover for convoys passing through the area to the west of the Bay of Biscay. (12)

30 May 1943
Around 1030B/30, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) returned to Plymouth from patrol. (12)

1 Jun 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is docked in No.9 Graving Dock at the Devonport Dockyard. (14)

7 Jun 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is undocked. (14)

9 Jun 1943
Around 1515B/9, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Plymouth for Greenock where she arrived around 1800B/10. Before departure from Plymouth D/G trials were carried out. (14)

12 Jun 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (14)

15 Jun 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (14)

20 Jun 1943

Combined convoy WS 31 / KMS 17.

This combined convoy was formed off Oversay on 20 June 1943. The convoy was divided into convoys WS 31 and KMS 17 at sea on 26 June 1943.

The combined convoy was made up of the following (troop) transports; Britannic (British, 26943 GRT, built 1930), City of Lincoln (British, 8039 GRT, built 1938), Clan Macarthur (British, 10528 GRT, built 1936), Clan Macaulay (British, 10492 GRT, built 1936), Cristobal (American, 10021 GRT, built 1939), General George W. Goethals (American, 12093 GRT, built 1942), John Ericsson (American, 16552 GRT, built 1928), J.W. McAndrew (American, 7997 GRT, built 1940), Largs Bay (British, 14182 GRT, built 192), Rangitiki (British, 16698 GRT, built 1928), Samaria (British, 19597 GRT, built 1921), Santa Rosa (American, 9135 GRT, built 1932), Silverteak (British, 6770 GRT, built 1930), Stratheden (British, 23722 GRT, built 1937) and Tamaroa (British, 12405 GRT, built 1922).

Also the netlayer HMS Guardian (Capt.(Retd.) H.A.C. Lane, OBE, RN) was part of the convoy.

After assembly of Oversay the convoy was escorted by the light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), destroyers HMS Arrow (Lt.Cdr. W.W. Fitzroy, RN), HMS Amazon (Lt.Cdr. D.H.P. Gardiner, DSC, RN), HMS Witherington (Lt.Cdr. R.B.S. Tennant, RN) and the escort destroyers HMS Viceroy (Lt. T.F. Hallifax, RN), HMS Wallace (Lt. D. Carson, RN), HMS Woolston (Lt. F.W. Hawkins, RN), HMS Hambledon (Lt.Cdr. G.W. McKendrick, RN), HMS Mendip (Capt. C.R.L. Parry, RN), HMS Blankney (Lt.Cdr. D.H.R. Bromley, RN), HMS Blencathra (Lt. E.G. Warren, RN), HMS Ledbury (Lt. D.R.N. Murdoch, RN), HMS Brecon (Lt.Cdr. T.D. Herrick, DSC and Bar, RN) and HMS Brissenden (Lt. D.C. Beatty, RN).

On 25 June HMS Arrow and HMS Amazon parted company with the combined convoy to proceed to Casablanca to fuel. They arrived at Casablanca around 1730A/25.

Around 1730B/25, the destroyers HMS Foxhound (Cdr. C.J. Wynne-Edwards, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Bulldog (Lt.Cdr. E.J. Lee, RN) and escort destroyer HMS Blackmore (Lt. H.T. Harrel, RN) were to join the combined convoy in position 36°05'N, 07°54'W. They had departed Gibraltar earlier on the 25th.

When these destroyers joined the destroyer HMS Witherington and escort destroyer HMS Ledbury were to proceed to Casablanca.

Also the convoy was to split. Convoy KMF 17, made up of the transports Britannic, Cristobal, J.W. McAndrew, Largs Bay, Samaria, Santa Rosa, Silverteak, Tamaroa and the netlayer HMS Guardian. They were escorted by the light cruiser HMS Uganada and the escort destroyers HMS Viceroy, HMS Wallace, HMS Woolston, HMS Hambledon, HMS Mendip, HMS Blankney, HMS Blencathra, HMS Brecon and HMS Brissenden proceeded towards the Mediterranean.

On the 26th, HMS Uganda, HMS Guardian, HMS Viceroy and one of the transports arrived at Gibraltar.

On the 27th, HMS Uganda, which had rejoined the convoy after a brief stopover at Gibraltar, 7 of the transports and HMS Wallace, HMS Woolston, HMS Hambledon, HMS Mendip, HMS Blankney, HMS Blencathra, HMS Brecon and HMS Brissenden arrived at Algiers.

Meanwhile Convoy WS 31, made up of the transports City of Lincoln, Clan Macarthur, Clan Macaulay, General George W. Goethals, John Ericsson, Stratheden and Tamaroa continued on to Freetown.

The convoy was now escorted by the destroyers HMS Foxhound, HMS Bulldog and the escort destroyer HMS Blackmore.

The destroyer HMS Amazon also rejoined after fuelling at Casablanca. It had originally been the intention that HMS Arrow was also to rejoin the convoy but while at Casablanca orders had been received that she was to proceed to Gibraltar instead.

On 1 July the French armed merchant cruiser Quercy joined the convoy.

Convoy WS 31 arrived at Freetown on 4 July 1943.

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Convoy WS 31 departed Freetown on 6 July 1943.

It was now made up of the transports City of Lincoln, Clan Macarthur, Clan Macaulay, General George W. Goethals, John Ericsson, Rangitiki, Stirling Castle (British, 25550 GRT, built 1936) and Stratheden.

The convoy was now escorted by the light cruiser HMS Despatch (Capt. W.R.C. Leggatt, RN), armed merchant cruisers HMS Corfu (Capt.(Retd.) C.C. Bell, DSO, RN), Quercy, destroyers HMS Foxhound, HMS Bulldog, HMS Wolverine (Lt. I.M. Clegg, RN) and the escort destroyer HMS Blackmore.

in the early afternoon of the 7th, in approximate position 03°15'N, 14°54'W the Rangitiki was to be detached to proceed independently to Montevideo.

HMS Despatch was to arrived at Takoradi late in the afternoon of the 9th to fuel and after completion of this on the 10th she was to rejoin the convoy. HMS Wolverine also made a short call at Takoradi on the 10th to fuel and then rejoin the convoy.

On the 10th HMS Bulldog and HMS Blackmore were detached to proceed to Lagos to fuel and then escort transports from there to join the convoy. HMS Corfu was also detached on the 10th to proceed to Ascencion after first calling at Takoradi.

The destroyer HMS Witch (Lt.Cdr. S.R.J. Woods, RNR) and corvette HMS Armeria (Lt. M. Todd, RNR) had joined the convoy on the 10th.

On the 11th the transports Arawa (British, 14462 GRT, built 1922), Highland Brigade (British, 14134 GRT, built 1929), Highland Monarch (British, 14139 GRT, built 1928) and Staffordshire (British, 10683 GRT, built 1929) joined the convoy coming from Lagos. They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Bulldog and the escort destroyer HMS Blackmore.

When these ships joined HMS Foxhound, HMS Witch and HMS Armeria then parted company and proceeded to Lagos arriving there also on the 11th.

HMS Despatch and HMS Rapid arrived at Pointe Noire to fuel at 0700Z/14. They departed again to rejoin the convoy at 1430Z/14.

Meanwhile the destroyers HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. W.H. Farrington, RN) and HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. N.E.G. Ropner, DSO, RN) had departed Pointe Noire at 0900Z/14 to join the convoy.

At 1800Z/14, the Quercy, HMS Bulldog and HMS Blackmore arrived at Pointe Noire.

At 0600Z/15, HMS Wolverine arrived at Pointe Noire.

The convoy arrived at Capetown on 21 July 1943. HMS Despatch, HMS Quadrant, HMS Rapid and HMS Redoubt then continued on to Simonstown arriving there later the same day.

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A much reduced convoy WS 31 departed Capetown on 26 July 1943. It was now made up of the transports Arawa, Highland Brigade, Highland Monarch, Staffordshire, Stirling Castle and Stratheden. The convoy was escorted by the light cruiser HMS Despatch and the destroyers HMS Quadrant and HMS Redoubt.

They were relieved near Mauritius on 4 August 1943 by the heavy cruiser HMS Frobisher (Capt. J.F.W. Mudford, RN) which took the convoy to Bombay where it arrived on 13 August 1943.

HMS Despatch, HMS Quadrant and HMS Redoubt arrived at Mauritius on 5 August 1943.

27 Jun 1943
Around 0800B/27, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Algiers with convoy KMS 17.

She departed for Malta around 1900B/27. (14)

28 Jun 1943
Around 2000B/28, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Malta from Algiers. (14)

1 Jul 1943
Around 0630B/1, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Algiers where they arrived around 0830B/2. (15)

3 Jul 1943
Around 1645B/3, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) departed Algiers for Malta where they arrived around 1715B/4. On board HMS Uganda was the Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean, Admiral of the Fleet Sir A.B. Cunningham, GCB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN and his staff. (15)

9 Jul 1943
Around 0845B/9, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), departed Malta for their part in operation ' Husky '. They were to escort convoy MWF 36 during it's final approach. They were also designated as ' Bombarding Group for the Acid areas '.

They joined the convoy around 1245B/9.

The destroyers HMS Eskimo (Capt. J.W.M. Eaton, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) and HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) which were also part of the ' Bombarding Group for the Acid areas ' were already with the convoy since the previous evening.

The convoy anchored around 0030B/10 when it was approaching the landing zone. The landings commenced about two hours later. (16)

10 Jul 1943
At 0640B/10, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) opened fire on a shore battery in the Acid landing zone. The results of the bombardment are not known.

At 0813B/10, HMS Uganda opened fire on a shore battery in the Acid landing zone which was believed to be engaging shipping to the northward of the beaches. The battery ceased fire temporarily.

At 0945B/10, HMS Uganda was engaged by a shore battery to the north of her. No shells landed nearer then 600 yards.

At 1045B/10, HMS Uganda opened fire on the same shore battery then had been engaged at 0813B/10. It was reported that under cover of the shoot infantry had reached a position close to this battery.

At 1550B/10, enemy aircraft conducted an air raid on the ' Acid beaches '.

At 1739B/10, HMS Uganda opened fire on enemy barracks and a shore battery. Contact with the forward observer was lost and the result of the bombardment is not known. Shorty afterwards another enemy air attack on the ' Acid area ' commenced.

At 1909B/10, HMS Uganda was narrowly missed by an enemy fighter bomber attack. Three of her crew sustained (minor) injuries due to splinters.

The air attacks continued and at 1930B/10, HMS Uganda was again near missed as was HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN).

Around 2200B/10, during another enemy air attack the hospital ship Talamba (British, 8018 GRT, built 1924) was bombed and sunk. HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN), HMS Carlisle (Capt. H.F. Nalder, RN) and HMS Uganda picked up survivors. (17)

11 Jul 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is still operating in the ' Acid area ' off Sicily.

Around 0200B/11, HMS Uganda completed picking up survivors from the Talamba (British, 8018 GRT, built 1924) which had been sunk the previous evening during an enemy air attack.

At 0425B/11, the enemy attacked again from the air. Near misses were observed on a destroyer. but no damage seems to have been inflicted.

At 0633B/11, a small scale air attack took place on the beaches and landing craft.

At 0637B/11, a hospital ship was sighted and HMS Uganda proceeded alongside to transfer the wounded survivors of the Talamba. Before this could be completed HMS Uganda was ordered to take up a bombardment position off Syracuse and await orders for bombardment there.

At 1236B/11, another enemy air raid took place. HMS Uganda claimed to have shot down one of the attackers.

At 1318B/11, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy shore battery. A forward observer reported the fire to be very effective.

At 1530B/11, HMS Uganda proceeded further northward to be in a position for further bombardment duties.

At 1542B/11, HMS Uganda opened fire on yet another shore battery. The forward observer reported that the area had been adequately covered.

At 1700B/11, HMS Uganda proceeded southward to put the remaining survivors of the Talamba on board the hospital ship Aba (British, 7374 GRT, built 1918). The remaining survivors were transferred between 1810B/11 and 1830B/11.

1830B/11, HMS Uganda proceeded northwards again to return to her bombardment area.

2130B/11, HMS Uganda returned to the ' Acid landing beaches ' and remained underway, patrolling of these beaches, during the night. (17)

12 Jul 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is still operating in the ' Acid area ' off Sicily.

Around 0430B/12, an enemy air attack took place on the convoy anchorage and the beaches. HMS Eskimo (Capt. J.W.M. Eaton, DSO, DSC, RN) was damaged off Capo Murro di Porco. HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) later towed the damaged ship to Malta.

At 0802B/12, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy position with obeservation from a forward observer but efore results came in fire was shifted to the town of Mellini.

At 1205B/12, HMS Uganda opened fire on enemy infantry under observation of a forward observer who later reported that an enemy tank was also present. No final report on the damage done was received but at least five salvoes had been reported to be within at least 10 yards from the target.

Around 1300B/12, an Italian submarine was seen to surface which was immediately engaged by minesweepers which were patrolling to the seaward of HMS Uganda and HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN). The submarine in question was the Bronzo and the minesweepers were the HMS Seaham (Lt.Cdr. R.E. Brett, RNR), HMS Boston (Lt. D.H.G. Coughlan, RNR), HMS Poole (Lt. W.L.G. Dutton, RNR) and HMS Cromarty (Lt.Cdr. C.G. Palmer, DSC, RNZNVR). After a short battle the submarine surrendered to HMS Seaham which then towed the submarine to Syracuse.

Between 1343B/12 and 1415B/12, first HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN) and then HMS Orion bombarded Mellini.

At 1420B/12, HMS Erebus reported seeing a white flag being hoisted near the lighthouse at Augusta. RHS Kanaris was then ordered to close and ascertain the situation.

At 1425B/12, the minesweepers were ordered to start sweeping an approach channel towards Augusta.

At 1440B/12, RHS Kanaris lowered a boat to pass the boom and find out the situation. HMS Uganda and HMS Orion stood by to bombard if necessary.

At 1503B/12, RHS Kanaris passed the boom at Augusta being the first Allied ship to do so.

At 1515B/12, RHS Kanaris was being fired upon. HMS Uganda and HMS Orion immediately opened fire and carried out a short bombardment of the town.

At 1528B/12, HMS Orion reported that a shore battery was continuing to fire at RHS Kanaris but that she kept it quiet with a round every half minute.

At 1546B/12, HMS Exmoor (Lt. D.T. McBarnet, RN) was ordered to support RHS Kanaris.

At 1630B/12, a small gun was reported to be still active in the town and was now being engaged by the two escort destroyers.

Around 1730B/12, HMS Brocklesby (Lt. K.R.S. Leadlay, RN) approached and then entered Augusta harbour.

At 1750B/12, the three escort destroyers departed the harbour and started laying smoke when they were engaged by a light shore battery.

At 1850B/12, the landing ship HMS Ulster Monarch (Lt.Cdr. N.A.F. Kingscote, RNR) arrived off Augusta but was advised not to enter. HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN), i>HMS Tetcott (Lt.Cdr. H.R. Rycroft, RN) and RHS Kanaris were ordered to give close support.

Around 1930B/12, HMS Ulster Monarch commenced to land Commandoes outside the harbour. Ten minutes later the destroyers engaged shore targets followed another ten minutes later by HMS Uganda.

At 2020B/12, HMS Ulster Monarch reported she had landed around 300 troops.'

At 2030B/13, the bombarding forces of the Acid and Bark area were ordered to join company. (17)

13 Jul 1943
The bombardment force of the Acid area; made up of the light cruisers HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN), HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and the destroyer HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) [the damaged destroyer HMS Eskimo (Capt. J.W.M. Eaton, DSO, DSC, RN) had been towed to Malta by her sister ship HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN)] and the bombardment force of the Bark area; the light cruisers HMS Newfoundland (Capt. W.R. Slayter, DSC, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN), HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN) and HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN) joined company [' Force K '].

Around 0500B/13, several enemy aircraft attacked ' Force K '. Bombs were dropped close to HMS Laforey but she sustained no damage.

During the day several bombardments were carried out. Around 0900B/13, HMS Mauritius commenced a bombardment of the towns of Lentini and Carlentini. She had to break off this bombardment at 0923B/13, when a heavy shore battery opened fire on her. This battery was then taken under fire between 0940B/13 and 1000B/13.

At 1000B/13 another coastal battery near Brucoli was then being fired upon briefly by HMS Newfoundland and all destroyers.

Also around this time HMS Orion, HMS Uganda and HMS Nubian parted company to proceed to Malta to load ammunition and fuel. They arrived at Malta around 1430B/13.

Around noon both HMS Loyal and HMS Mauritius reported being attacked by aircraft.

Around 1630B/13, HMS Loyal was detached to Malta.

Between 1700B/13 and 1724B/13, HMS Mauritius bombarded a target to the south of Catania. Coastal batteries opened fire on her and at 1724B/13 she was straddled and then withdrew out of range of the heavy coastal battery.

At 1705B/13, HMS Newfoundland briefly bombarded Lentini (only for 2 minutes).

Between 1745B/13 and 1800B/13, HMS Mauritius bombarded Lentini.

At 1950B/13, HMS Newfoundland, HMS Mauritius, HMS Laforey and HMS Lookout formed formation and retired to seaward for the night.

HMS Newfoundland had carried out two bombardments on this day and HMS Mauritius seven. The monitor HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN) was also operating in the area. (18)

14 Jul 1943
Around 0600B/14 the ships of ' Force K ' that were currently operating of the east coast of Sicily were once again ordered to act independently. These were HMS Newfoundland (Capt. W.R. Slayter, DSC, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN), HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN) and HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN).

During the day these ships were attacked several times by enemy aircraft but no damage was sustained.

At 0710B/14, HMS Mauritius and HMS Laforey opened fire on the town of Lentini. At 0730B/14, HMS Mauritius came under fire from shore batteries.

At 0839B/14, HMS Newfoundland opened fire on an enemy battery. Fire was ceased at 0916B/14 when the battery was reported to have been destroyed.

At 1110B/14, HMS Newfoundland opened fire on a machine gun nest. Fire was ceased at 1119B/14 when it was reported to have been destroyed.

Around 1150B/14, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) departed Malta to return to the bombardment area.

At 1450B/14, HMS Newfoundland opened fire on a shore target. Fire was ceased at 1525B/14 when it was reported to have been destroyed.

At 1705B/14, HMS Newfoundland opened fire on an enemy gun emplacement. Fire was ceased at 1735B/14 when the target was reported to have been destroyed. Heavy explosions were observed in the target area.

Around 1800B/14, HMS Newfoundland, HMS Mauritius, HMS Laforey and HMS Lookout departed the area to proceed to Malta to fuel and re-ammunition. They arrived at Malta around 2215B/14.

Around 2020B/14, both HMS Uganda and HMS Orion commenced a short bombardment of Catania. Fire was ceased after around ten minutes.

Around 2100B/14, HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN) commenced a bombardment of Catania.

Around 2130B/14, HMS Uganda, HMS Orion, HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN), HMS Nubian and HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN) retired to the south-east for the night. (19)

15 Jul 1943
Around 0100B/15, the ships of 'Force K' that were operating of Sicily at the time; HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN), HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) and HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN) were attacked by a single torpedo aircraft which dropped its load near HMS Tartar.

Around 0130B/15, HMS Tartar was detached to investigate the source of some red lights that were seen. These were later found out to be three German airmen from aircraft which had been shot down by night fighters. HMS Tartar rejoined the other ships around 0250B/15.

Around 0600B/15, 'Force K' arrived off Catania ready for bombardment if called upon.

At 1002B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy gun battery with a forward observer but visibility was bad and spotting was difficult.

At 1015B/15, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1216B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on another enemy gun battery which was subsequently reported as destroyed by the forward observer. A large explosion was seen from the ship.

At 1310B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on Catania. Targets were enemy barracks.

At 1320B/15, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1335B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on Misterbianco and the road leading to Catania.

At 1415B/15, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1445B/15, HMS Orion again opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1518B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on the main crossroads to the west of Catania.

At 1729B/15, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1732B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on another road junction and road.

At 2000B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on Misterbianco.

At 2005B/15, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 2035B/15, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy defended post and gun. Visibility was bad and only three salvoes were fired.

At 2100B/15, HMS Uganda, HMS Orion, HMS Nubian, HMS Tartar and HMS Loyal retired to the south-eastward for the night. (20)

16 Jul 1943
At 0524B/16, HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) was detached to join ' Force H '.

Around 0530B/16, the ships of 'Force K' that were operating of Sicily at the time; HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) and HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN) arrived off Augusta.

At 0630B/16, HMS Loyal was detached to escort HMS Roberts (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.E.C. Dunbar, RN) to Malta.

At 0835B/16, HMS Uganda opened fire on a road in the Augusta area. At 0855B/16, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

At 1014B/16, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy position. At 1042B/16, the target was reported to have been destroyed.

At 1130B/16, the other ships of ' Force K ' arrived as relief.

At 1200B/16, HMS Nubian was detached to rescue the crew of a crashed allied aircraft. They were able to rescue the entire crew. HMS Nubian then rejoined the cruisers.

At 1256B/16, HMS Uganda opened fire on an enemy shore battery.

At 1329B/16, HMS Orion opened fire on a target in the Catania area.

Around 1800B/16, HMS Uganda, HMS Orion and HMS Nubian set course to proceed to Malta where they arrived around 2330B/16. (20)

23 Jul 1943
Around 0730B/23, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Augusta where they arrived around 1200B/23. (21)

29 Jul 1943
Around 1215B/29, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) departed Augusta for Malta where they arrived around 1645B/29. (21)

9 Aug 1943
Around 0800B/9, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, RN) departed Malta for Augusta where they arrived around 1445B/9. (22)

10 Aug 1943
Around 1545B/10, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Augusta to bombard enemy positions to the north of Riposto, Sicily. She returned to Augusta around 1945B/10. While at sea she was escorted by HMS Easton (Lt.Cdr. C.W. Malins, DSC and Bar, RN). (23)

11 Aug 1943
During the day HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Roberts (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.E.C. Dunbar, RN) and HrMs Soemba (Lt.Cdr. A. van Miert, RNethN) gave fire support to the Army engaging enemy troop concentrations near Riposto, Sicily. Destroyers were also present to screen these ships. (23)

12 Aug 1943
Around 1900B/12, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Augusta and then joined HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) which were already at sea. These ships then patrolled during the night of 12/13 August between Cape Rizutto and Alice Point on the Calabrian coast.

On completion of their patrol, which was uneventful, they proceeded to Augusta arriving shortly before 1000B/13. (24)

14 Aug 1943
Around 1125B/14, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) departed Augusta for Malta where they arrived around 1600B/14. (22)

20 Aug 1943
Around 1345B/20, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Malta for Augusta where she arrived around 1750B/20. It appears she was not escorted. (22)

28 Aug 1943
Around 1345B/28, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. S.H. Carlill, DSO, RN) and HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN) departed Augusta for bombardment operations off the Calabrian coast.

In the afternoon, HMS Uganda bombarded Melito firing 30 rounds. HMS Quilliam bombarded a shore battery at Punta Pellaro firing 56 rounds. HMS Uganda then also bombarded this battery.

They returned to Augusta around 1900B/28. (23)

30 Aug 1943

Operation Hammer.

Bombardment of the coastal batteries on the Calabrian coast adjacent to the Straits of Messina.

The battleships HMS Nelson (Capt. G.H.E. Russell, RN, flying the flag of Vice-Admiral A.U. Willis, KCB, DSO, RN), HMS Rodney (Rear-Admiral. J.W. Rivett-Carnac, DSC, RN), light cruiser HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. S.H. Carlill, DSO, RN), HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN), HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN), HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN), HMS Offa (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Leonard, RN), ORP Piorun (Cdr. S.T. Dzienisiewicz) and HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) departed Malta around 1945B/30 for operation Hammer.

Before the bombardment was carried out the destroyers HMS Quilliam, HMS Quail and HMS Queenborough conducted a sweep in the Gulf of Squillace.

Bombardments were carried out during the morning of August 31st after which they returned to Malta in the early evening. In the afternoon of 31 August, after the bombardment had been completed, the light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) joined coming from Augusta. She parted company again around 1630B/31 and then proceeded independently to Malta. (25)

31 Aug 1943
Around 1300B/31, HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Augusta for Malta. On leaving she joined the force returning from operation Hammer. Around 1630B/31, she parted company with these ships and proceeded independently to Malta where she arrived around 1900B/31. (22)

5 Sep 1943
Around 0215B/5, the light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) and the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN), HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN) and HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Augusta where they arrived around 0800B/5. (26)

6 Sep 1943

Convoy TSF 1.

This convoy departed Tripoli around 1700B/6 for Salerno Bay to participate in Operation Avalanche, the landings there.

It was made up of the following ships; Headquarters ship HMS Hilary (Capt.(Retd.) J.F. Paget, RN, flying the broad pendant of Commodore G.N. Oliver, DSO, RN), landing ships glengyle, HMS Princess Beatrix (Cdr.(Retd.) T.B. Brunton, DSC, RN), HMS Princess Astrid (T/A/Lt.Cdr. (Retd.) C.E. Hall, RNR), HMS Princess Josephine Charlotte (Lt. J.E. Bromley, RNR), HMS Royal Scotsman (Lt.Cdr.(Emgy.) R.C. Gervers, RN), HMS Royal Ulsterman (Lt.Cdr. W.R.K. Clark, DSC, RD RNR, with Capt. N.V. Dickinson, DSO, DSC, RN on board) and HMS Ulster Monarch (Lt.Cdr. N.A.F. Kingscote, RNR). Also part of the convoy were the troop transports Devonshire (British, 11275 GRT, built 1939) and Sobieski (Polish, 11030 GRT, built 1939).

On departure from Tripoli the convoy was escorted by the AA cruiser HMS Delhi (Capt. A.T.G.C. Peachey, RN), escort destroyers HMS Dulverton (Cdr. S.A. Buss, MVO, RN), HMS Tetcott (Lt.Cdr. H.R. Rycroft, RN), HMS Belvoir (Lt. J.F.D. Bush, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Beaufort (Lt. J.R.L. Moore, RN), HMS Exmoor (Lt.Cdr. D.T. McBarnet, RN), RHS Pindos and the minesweepers HMS Fly (Capt. J.W. Boutwood, RN), HMS Circe (Lt.Cdr. J.H.M. Malcolm, RN), HMS Cadmus (Lt.Cdr. (Retd.) J.S. Landers, RNR), HMS Acute (A/Cdr. J.B.G. Temple, DSC, RN) and HMS Rothesay (Cdr. A.A. Martin, DSC, RD, RNR).

Around 0545B/8, ' Force K ' made up of the light cruisers HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN), HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN), HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) joined the convoy. On Force ' K ' joining the Hunt class escort destroyer parted company and proceeded to Palermo to refuel and then rejoin the convoy later in the day.

Also joining on 8 September were the motor launches ML 121 (T/Lt. R.G. Bell, RNVR) and ML 126 (T/Lt. G.W. Stead, RCNVR). These two motor launches were fitted for minesweeping.

Around 1710B/8, HMS Mauritius, HMS Orion, HMS Tartar and HMS Nubian parted company with the convoy and proceeded independently to act as a strike force in case the enemy would interfere with surface ships.

The convoy arrived in the landing zone in the early hours of 9 September. (27)

7 Sep 1943
Around 1815B/7, ' Force K ' made up of the light cruisers HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN), HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN), HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) departed Augusta to proceed through the Messina Strait to the Gulf of Salerno as part of the cover forces for the landing there (Operation Avalanche).

Around 0545B/8, they joined convoy TSF 1 to provide additional escort / cover for this convoy during its passage northwards. [For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy TSF 1 ' for 6 September 1943.] (28)

9 Sep 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived in the Northern Attack Force Area with convoy TSF 1. She was assigned bombardment duties.

During the morning several bombardments of land targets were carried out.

HMS Uganda remained close to the landing beaches during the night of 9/10 September in case heavy fire support would be needed.

Around 2150B/9, HMS Uganda and HMS Delhi (Capt. A.T.G.C. Peachey, RN) collided during an air raid during which a smoke screen had been laid. Neither ship was badly damaged though. (29)

10 Sep 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) was still off the beaches in the Northern Attack Force Area on bombardment duties.

The first bombardment of the day commenced at 0623B/10 with the last bombardment ending shortly before 1400B/10. (30)

11 Sep 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) was still off the beaches in the Northern Attack Force Area on bombardment duties.

The first bombardment of the day commenced at 1029B/11 with the last bombardment ending at 1700B/11. (30)

12 Sep 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) was still off the beaches in the Northern Attack Force Area on bombardment duties.

The first bombardment of the day commenced at 1024B/12 with the last bombardment ending at 1923B/12. (30)

13 Sep 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) was still off the beaches in the Northern Attack Force Area on bombardment duties.

The first bombardment of the day commenced at 0827B/13.

At 1450B/13, without any previous warning, a German radio guided bomb hit the ship. Damage was heavy and 1 officer and 15 men were killed and 7 were wounded. The bomb hit the ship on the starboard side aft and went through seven decks and the ship's bottom before it exploded. The ship was unable to steam under her own power and was taken in tow USS Narragansett (Lt. C.J. Wichmann, USN). (30)

14 Sep 1943
Around 0700B/14, the heavily damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed the Salerno area for Malta. She was being towed by USS Narragansett (Lt. C.J. Wichmann, USN). Escort was provided by HMS Whaddon (Lt.Cdr. J.B. Palmer, RN), HMS Lauderdale (Lt. G.D. Pound, DSC, RN) and HMS Lamerton (Lt.Cdr. C.R. Purse, DSC and Bar, RN).

The tow arrived at Malta late in the afternoon of 15 September 1943. (31)

24 Sep 1943

Convoy MKS 26.

This convoy departed Alexandria on 24 September 1943.

It was made up of the following ships; Badarpur (British, 8079 GRT, built 1922), Clan Murdoch (British, 5950 GRT, built 1919), Delane (British, 6054 GRT, built 1938), Diplodon (British (tanker), 8149 GRT, built 1941), Drammensfjord (Norwegian, 5339 GRT, built 1920), Empire Capulet (British, 7044 GRT, built 1943), Fort Cadotte (British, 7128 GRT, built 1943), Fort Frederick (British, 7135 GRT, built 1942), Fort George (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942), Fort Glenlyon (British, 7132 GRT, built 194), Fort Lawrence (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), George Gipp (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Glenogle (British, 9513 GRT, built 1920), Highland Prince (British, 7043 GRT, built 1942), R.C. Brennan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Talma (British, 10000 GRT, built 1923) and Thistlemuir (British, 7237 GRT, built 1942).

The convoy was escorted by the corvettes HMS Hyderabad (T/Lt. T. Cooper, RNR), HMS Spiraea (Lt. A.H. Pierce, OBE, RNR), HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR) and the minesweeper HMAS Gawler (Lt.Cdr.(Emgy.) W.J. Seymour, RAN). The corvettes HMS Oxlip (Lt. C.W. Leadbetter, RNR) and HMS Coltsfoot (T/Lt. G.W. Rayner, RNVR) were unable to depart on time due to defects. HMS Delphinium and HMAS Gawler were sailed in their place. Both corvettes were able to proceed after repairs to overtake and join the convoy relieving their substitutes which then returned to Alexandria.

On 28 September 1943, the following ships departed Malta to join the convoy; African Prince (British, 4653 GRT, built 1939), Benreoch (British, 5818 GRT, built 1921), Coxwold (British, 1124 GRT, built 1938), Derwenthall (British, 4934 GRT, built 1940), Duke of Athens (British, 5217 GRT, built 1940), Empire Nerissa (British, 7086 GRT, built 1943), Empire Rosalind (British, 7290 GRT, built 1943), Fort Augustus (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fort Charnisay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Fort Howe (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Fort Poplar (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fort St. James (British, 7128 GRT, built 1942), Fort Stager (British, 7132 GRT, built 1943), Fort Walsh (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943), Gudrun Maersk (British, 2294 GRT, built 1937), Harpagus (British, 7172 GRT, built 1942), Ocean Valley (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942), Stanhill (British, 5969 GRT, built 1942), Ulla (British, 1575 GRT, built 1930) and Vittorino Zanibon (Italian (tanker), 1622 GRT, built 1943).

With them was also the damaged light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN).

The Malta section was escorted by the escort destroyers HMS Eggesford (Lt.Cdr. D.W. Austin, RN), HMS Chiddingfold (Lt. T.M. Dorrien-Smith, RN) and the corvettes HMS Alisma (Lt. G. Lanning, RANVR), HMS Jonquil (T/Lt. R.W. Tretheway, RNR) and HMS Vetch (Lt. K.M.B. Menzies, RNR).

On these ships joining the convoy both escort destroyers returned to Malta taking the following ships of the convoy with them; Badarpur, Clan Murdoch, Diplodon, Empire Capulet, Fort Cadotte, Fort Frederick, Fort George, Fort Glenlyon, Fort Lawrence, Glenogle, Highland Prince and Talma.

HMS Jonquil and HMS Vetch proceeded to Tripoli taking the Thistlemuir with them.

HMS Alisma joined the main body of the convoy as additional escort towards Gibraltar.

On 29 September 1943, the Fanad Head (British, 5038 GRT, built 1941) joined the convoy coming from Tunis.

On 29 September 1943, the following ships parted company with the convoy and arrived at Bizerta; Empire Rosalind, Fort Walsh, Gudrun Maersk, John Howland and Ulla while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; Charles Goodyear (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Crista (British, 2590 GRT, built 1938), Empire Perdita (British, 7028 GRT, built 1943), Marigot (French, 4047 GRT, built 1932), Miriam (British, 1903 GRT, built 1912) and Richard Henry Lee (American, 7191 GRT, built 1941).

On 30 September 1943, the Empire Commerce (British, 3722 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy from Bone.

On 30 September 1943, the following ships were detached to Philippeville; Crista, Derwenthall, Empire Perdita and Fort Charnisay while the Henry Wynkoop (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942) joined the convoy coming from Philippeville.

Around midnight during the night of 30 September / 1 October 1943, the German submarine U-410 attacked the convoy sinking the Fort Howe and heavily damaging the Empire Commerce. The aft part of the latter ship sank while the front part was towed to Bone.

On 2 October 1943, the following ships of the convoy were detached to Algiers; Coxwold, Fort Stager, Marigot, Miriam, Vittorino Zanibon and HMS Alisma while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Abangarez (American, 4538 GRT, built 1909), Franka (Yugoslavian, 5273 GRT, built 1918) and Waipawa (British, 12436 GRT, built 1934). Also joining were the motor minesweepers HMS MMS 13 (T/Lt. A.E. Durham, RNVR) and HMS MMS 118 (A/Skr.Lt. J. Smith, DSC, RNR).

On 3 October 1943, the following ships of the convoy were detached to Oran; Abangarez, Charles Goodyear, George Gipp, Henry Wynkoop, John Howland, R.C. Brennan and Richard Henry Lee while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran; Dalemoor (British, 5835 GRT, built 1922), Empire Spey (British, 4292 GRT, built 1929), Kingsborough (British, 3368 GRT, built 1928) and Van Ostade (Dutch, 2890 GRT, built 1942).

The convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 4 October 1943.

28 Sep 1943
The damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Malta for Gibraltar. She is to join convoy MKS 26 for the passage.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy MKS 26 ' for 24 September 1943.] (30)

6 Oct 1943
The heavily damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is docked in No.2 Graving Dock at the Gibraltar Dockyard to make her fit for crossing the Atlantic as full repairs were to be undertaken in the USA. (32)

29 Oct 1943

Convoy GUS 20.

This convoy departed Alexandria on 29 October 1943.

On departure from Alexandria the convoy was made up of the following ships; Billy Mitchell (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Binger Hermann (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Cape Howe (British, 6999 GRT, built 1943), Charles A. Warfield (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), City of Delhi (British, 7443 GRT, built 1925), City of Keelung (British, 5186 GRT, built 1919), Clan Murdoch (British, 5950 GRT, built 1919), Edward Canby (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Edward L. Grant (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Empire Adur (British, 1479 GRT, built 1920), Empire Stour (British, 4678 GRT, built 1930), Ephraim W. Baughman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Fort Carillon (British, 7129 GRT, built 1943), Fort Dease Lake (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943), Fort Erie (British, 7128 GRT, built 1943), Fort Fidler (British, 7127 GRT, built 1943), Fort Frederick (British, 7135 GRT, built 1942), Frontenac (British, 7148 GRT, built 1943), Hutchinson I Cone (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Shields (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John Hart (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Kaimata (British, 5269 GRT, built 1931), Oliver Wolcott (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Peebles (British, 4982 GRT, built 1936), President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935), Roger Sherman (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Samuel Seabury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Shirrabank (British, 7274 GRT, built 1940), Stephen T. Mather (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Tatra (Norwegian, 4766 GRT, built 1937), Thomas J. Jarvis (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Trevelyan (British, 7292 GRT, built 1943), Turkistan (British, 6935 GRT, built 1939), Washington Irving (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), William Grayson (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942) and William Tilghman (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942).

On departure from Alexandria the convoy was escorted by the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), RHS Apostolis, RHS Sakhtouris, auxiliary A/S trawler HMS Wolborough (T/Lt. G.A. Hartnell, RNR) and the auxiliary A/S whaler HMS Klo (?).

On 2 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the convoy; Cape Howe, City of Delhi, Clan Murdoch, Fort Carillon, Fort Dease Lake, Fort Erie, Fort Fidler, Fort Frederick, Frontenac, President de Vogue and Trevelyan while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Augusta; Ambrose E. Burnside (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Antonia (Dutch (tanker), 3357 GRT, built 1938), Audun (Norwegian, 1304 GRT, built 1925), Danio (Norwegian, 3496 GRT, built 1924), Derwenthall (British, 4934 GRT, built 1940), Empire Rival (British, 7045 GRT, built 1943), Empire Usk (British, 3229 GRT, built 1918), Esso Charleston (American (tanker), 7949 GRT, built 1938), Fernmoor (), Fort Albany (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943), Fort Charnisay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Fort Maurepas (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Fort McPherson (British, 7132 GRT, built 1943), Gleniffer (British, 9559 GRT, built 1919), Henry Barnard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Howard A. Kelly (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943), Jacob H. Gallinger (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James M. Wayne (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James W. Fannin (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), John Clarke (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Josiah Bartlett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Lou Gehrig (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Petter (Norwegian (tanker), 9109 GRT, built 1935), Rallus (Norwegian, 1871 GRT, built 1922), Richard Bassett (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), Solomon Juneau (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Stephen A. Douglas (American, 7219 GRT, built 1942), Suncrest (British, 5117 GRT, built 1940), Thomas Hart Benton (American, 7187 GRT, built 1943) and William Few (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942).

On 3 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy; Empire Stour and Petter while the Empire Snipe (British, 2497 GRT, built 1919) joined the convoy coming from Malta.

On 4 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy; Antonia, Audun, Fort McPherson and Rallus while following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; Clark Mills (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Eli Whitney (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Elihu Yale (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Grenville M. Dodge (American, 7194 GRT, built 1942), Henry Ward Beecher (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), J.E.B. Stuart (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), John Sullivan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Jonathan Grout (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Joseph T. Robinson (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), Lesto (British, 1893 GRT, 1918), Louisa M. Alcott (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Macuba (Dutch (tanker), 8249 GRT, built 1931), Montebello (Italian, 570 GRT, built 1918), Moses Austin (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), Oliver Hazard Perry (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Paine Wingate (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Robert H. Harrison (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Smith Thompson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Thomas R. Mashall (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943), Torborg (British (tanker), 6042 GRT, built 1921) and West Durfee (American, 5522 GRT, built 1918). Also joining the convoy was the HMS LST 11 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. G.H. Hummel, RNR).

On 4 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy; Danio and Empire Rival while following ships joined the convoy coming from Bone; Empire Guinevere (British, 7072 GRT, built 1942), John Carver (American, 7176 GRT, 1942) and Thelma (Norwegian (tanker), 8297 GRT, built 1937).

On 4 November 1943, the Empire Guinevere arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the convoy.

On 5 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Bougie after having been detached from the convoy; Derwenthall, Fort Charnisay and Gleniffer.

On 5 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Algiers after having been detached from the convoy; Empire Snipe, Fernmoor, Lesto, Montebello and Thelma while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Baron Ruthven (British, 3178 GRT, built 1925), Bralanta (Norwegian (tanker), 9608 GRT, built 1936), Empire Cormotant (British, 5760 GRT, built 1942), Gulfhawk (American (tanker), 10217 GRT, built 1928), Marsa (British, 4405 GRT, built 1928), Memphis City (American, 5686 GRT, built 1921) and Pan Aruba (Norwegian, 9231 GRT, built 1931).

On 6 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Oran after having been detached from the convoy; Henry Barnard, James M. Wayne, James W. Fannin, Marsa and Thomas Hart Benton as well as HMS LST 11 while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran; Albert C. Ritchie (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Baron Napier (British, 3559 GRT, built 1930), Cleveland Abbe (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Gideon Welles (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), James McCosh (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James W. Nesmith (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Joseph H. Nicholson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Lambert Cadwallader (), Leiv Eiriksson (Norwegian (tanker), 9952 GRT, built 1936), Mount Baker (American, 6022 GRT, built 1940), Richard Jordan Gatling (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Thomas B. Robertson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Tide Water (American (tanker), 8886 GRT, built 1930) and Tristram Dalton (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942). Also the stores ship USS Merak (Lt.Cdr. J.W. Cawthon, USN) joined the convoy.

On 6 November 1943, the destroyer HMS Anthony (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Wallace, DSC, RN) departed Gibraltar to join the convoy while it was still in the Mediterranean.

On 7 November 1943, the Empire Cormorant arrived at Oran after after having straggled from the convoy.

On 7 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Gibraltar after having been detached from the convoy; Baron Ruthven, City of Keelung, Empire Usk, Fort Albany, Fort Maurepas, Kaimata, Peebles and Turkistan while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Gibraltar; Helen Hunt Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Matt W. Ransom (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Scottish Monarch (British, 7004 GRT, built 1943) and Wolverine (American, 4990 GRT, built 1919). Also joining from Gibraltar were the damaged light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Cdr. M.J. Ross, DSC, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) which were to take passage to the USA to undergo full repairs there.

Also the current escort; HMS Anthony, HMS Delphinium, RHS Apostolis, RHS Sakhtouris, HMS Wolborough and HMS Klo arrived at Gibraltar after having been relieved by the destroyers HMS Antelope (Cdr. J.G. Gould, RN), HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, DSC, RN), HMS Witherington (Lt.Cdr. R.B.S. Tennant, RN) and the armed yacht HMS Thalassa (T/A/Lt.Cdr. S.G. Barnes, RNR).

On 7 November 1943, the destroyers USS Baldwin (T/Cdr. G. Knuepfer, USN, with COMTASKFOR 66 / COMDESDIV 36, T/Capt. W.J. Marshall, USN, on board), USS Harding (T/Cdr. G.G. Palmer, USN), USS Satterlee (T/Lt.Cdr. J.F. Witherow, Jr., USN), USS Thompson (T/Cdr. L.A. Ellis, USN) and minesweepers USS Tide (Lt.Cdr. A. Robinson, USNR) and USS Threat (Lt.Cdr. H.E. Ferrill, USNR) departed Casablanca to make rendezvous with the convoy which was made on the 8th when they relieved the British escort which then parted company and proceeded to Gibraltar.

Later on 8 November 1944, the following ships joined the convoy coming from Casablanca which they had departed earlier in the day; Fort la Maune (British, 7130 GRT, built 1942), George W. Woodward (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Gunn (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943), John M. Morehead (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Peter J. McGuire (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942). With them was also the naval tanker USS Chepachet (Cdr. H.R. Adams, USNR). They were escorted by the destroyers USS McCormick (T/Lt.Cdr. F.A. Brock, USN, USS Broome (T/Lt. C.S. Arthur, Jr., USN) and the patrol vessel USS PC-481 (Lt. N.W Roeder, USNR). The destroyers then joined the convoy while the patrol vessel set course to return to Casablanca taking the Baron Napier with her.

On 11 November 1943, USS Chepachet fuelled all six destroyers of the escort.

On 13 November 1943, two ships joined coming from the Azores, these were the following; Cape Clear (British, 5085 GRT, built 1939) and Empire Outpost (British, 6978 GRT, built 1943). Their trawler escort did not join the convoy.

On 17 November 1943, USS Chepachet fuelled all six destroyers of the escort.

On 21 November 1943, USS Chepachet was detached to the Azores. To escort her there the destroyer escorts USS Ricketts (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Rollins, USCG) and USS Harveson (Lt.Cdr. P.L. Stinson, USCG) had arrived on the scene.

On 22 November 1943, the convoy split up into the ' Hapton Roads, Baltimore and Philadelphia Section ' escorted by USS Harding, USS Satterlee, USS Tide and USS Threat and the ' New York Section ' with the remainder of the escorts.

The sections arrived at their destinations on 24 November 1943.

30 Oct 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is undocked. (32)

1 Nov 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) conducted D/G and compass swing trials off Gibraltar. (33)

7 Nov 1943
The damaged light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Cdr. M.J. Ross, DSC, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Gibraltar and joined convoy GUS 20 for passage to the USA where they were to undergo repairs to their battle damage.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy GUS 20 ' for 29 October 1943.] (34)

24 Nov 1943
The damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Norfolk, Virginia from Gibraltar having made the Atlantic crossing in convoy GUS 20. (33)

25 Nov 1943
The damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) departed Norfolk, Virginia for Charleston, South Carolina. She was escorted by an American patrol vessel [so far unidentified]. (33)

27 Nov 1943
The damaged HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) arrived at Charleston, South Carolina from Norfolk, Virginia. at Charleston she is to be taken in hand for battle damage repairs at the Navy Yard. (33)

1 Dec 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is docked in No.2 Dock at the Charleston Navy Yard. (35)

6 Dec 1943
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) is undocked. (35)

21 Jan 1944
HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN or Cdr. D.L. Johnston, RN) is docked in No.2 Dock at the Charleston Navy Yard. (35)

20 Mar 1944
HMS Uganda (Cdr. D.L. Johnston, RN) is undocked. (35)

10 Jun 1944
HMS Uganda (Cdr. D.L. Johnston, RN) is docked at the Charleston Dockyard. [Date of undocking not known as no logs are available for July to September 1944.] (35)

11 Oct 1944
HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) conducted D/G and compass swing trials off Charleston. (35)

14 Oct 1944
From 14 to 16 October HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) conducted post-repair trials off Charleston. (35)

17 Oct 1944
HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) is docked in No.2 Dock at the Charleston Navy Yard. (35)

18 Oct 1944
HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) is undocked. She departed Charleston for trials later the same day. (35)

20 Oct 1944
HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) returned to Charleston from trials. (35)

21 Oct 1944
At the Charleston Navy Yard HMS Uganda (Capt. E.R. Mainguy, OBE, RCN) is decommissioned as a Royal Navy ship and commissioned as a Royal Canadian Navy ship. (35)

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