Jack Gethin Hopkins, RN

Born  8 Oct 1908
Died  20 Jun 1967(58)

Ranks

1 Jan 1929 A/S.Lt.
16 Oct 1929 S.Lt.
1 Feb 1932 Lt.
1 Feb 1940 Lt.Cdr.
??? A/Cdr.

Retired: 8 Oct 1953


Decorations

Warship Commands listed for Jack Gethin Hopkins, RN


ShipRankTypeFromTo
HMS Porpoise (N 14)Lt.Cdr.Submarine22 Aug 194026 Sep 1941
HMS Taku (N 38)Lt.Cdr.Submarine8 Dec 194111 Oct 1942
HMS Truant (N 68)Lt.Cdr.Submarine22 Mar 194325 Nov 1943
HMS Thorough (P 324)Lt.Cdr.Submarine25 Nov 19431 Feb 1945
HMS Rover (N 62)Lt.Cdr.Submarine1 Feb 194515 Feb 1945
HMS Slinger (D 26)A/Cdr.Escort Carrier19 May 194527 Feb 1946

Career information

Jack Gethin Hopkins was born in Westbury On Trym, Bristol on 8 October 1908, son of Dr Francis and Marian Hopkins.

Jack joined the Royal Navy as a 17 year old Cadet in HMS Emperor of India on 15 January 1926. Over the ensuing four years his career advanced in various ships, shore establishments and training courses to Midshipman in 1926, Acting Sub Lt 1929 and Sub Lt 1930. During that year he undertook submarine training and joined HMS Regent when she was first commissioned and during his two years onboard received a watch keeper certificate and in 1932 was promoted to Lieutenant. Over the next seven pre-war years Jack’s service continued: in submarines interspaced with short term postings to General Service. After serving as 1st Lieutenant in four ships and submarines he successfully completed the Submarine Commanding Officer’s Qualifying Course (also known as ‘The Perisher’ due to its high rate of failure) following which he had his first command in submarine HMS L27.

On the outbreak of war Jack was in General Service onboard the battleship HMS Rodney, as a Divisional Officer & Officer of Quarters of a 16” Turret, and during this time he was promoted to Lieutenant Commander. He left her in May 1940 for the Commanding Officer’s Refresher Course and from 22 August 1940 for a year he was in command of the mine laying submarine HMS Porpoise serving in the Atlantic and English Channel. At the end of 1941 Jack took command of HMS Taku following her refit at Chatham and took her into the Mediterranean where she carried out five war patrols from Gibraltar, Alexandria, Haifa and Port Said.

During 1943 he commanded HMS Truant in the UK and then HMS Thorough from October to February 1945 – taking her from launch to the Far East as part of the 4th Submarine Flotilla's where in and around the Straits of Malacca and Sumatra she was depth charged and sank eight Japanese vessels. He was latterly Commanding Officer of the 'Lend Lease' Aircraft Carrier HMS Slinger in the Pacific, and post war returned her to the United States Navy in February 1946.

Jack, retired in 1953 after 32 years service, had married Florence Edwards in 1943 and died of cancer on 20 June 1967 aged just 58.

Events related to this officer

Submarine HMS Porpoise (N 14)


27 Aug 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Blyth to Rosyth. (1)

28 Aug 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Rosyth for Rothesay. She made the passage together with HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. V.J.H. Van der Byl, DSC, RN). (1)

31 Aug 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Rosyth. (1)

2 Sep 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Rothesay for her 8th war patrol. She was ordered to lay a minefield near La Rochelle, France and to patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Passage south through the Irish Sea was made together with HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. V.J.H. Van der Byl, DSC, RN). They were escorted by HMS Rosemary (Lt.(Retd.) H.V. Wheeler, RN).

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

(2)

13 Sep 1940 (position 46.25, -2.00)
Between 1140 and 1204 hours, HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) laid minefield FD 26 (48 mines) in the Bay of Biscay north-west of La Rochelle, France in position 46°25'N, 02°00'W.

Position of the first mine was 46°24'48"N, 01°59'45"W. Direction of the lay was 205°. The mines were spaced 150 feet apart. Apparently it yielded no result. (2)

16 Sep 1940 (position 47.28, 4.18)
At 0047 hours, HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) made a torpedo attack with six torpedoes on what was thought to be a surfaced U-boat south of the Penmarch peninsula in position 47°28'N, 04°18'W.

No German U-boats were in this area at this time, the target attacked was most likely a fishing vessel. (2)

20 Sep 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 8th war patrol at Falmouth. She departed later the same day for Holy Loch. Passage north through the Irish Sea was made together with HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. V.J.H. Van der Byl, DSC, RN). They were escorted by HMS Rosemary (Lt.(Retd.) H.V. Wheeler, RN). (2)

22 Sep 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch. (2)

6 Oct 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Holy Loch for her 9th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay. During her passage south through the Irish Sea Porpoise was escorted by HMS Jasper (T/Lt. G.T.S. Clampitt, RNR).

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

(2)

10 Oct 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was informed that a homeward U-boat was expected in Lorient the next day. The submarine cruised off this base but did not observe anything.

26 Oct 1940
At 0700 hours, HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), made rendez-vous with her escort HMS Surprise (Capt.(Retd.) E.Stubbs, RN). They then proceeded north through the Irish Sea towards the Clyde. (2)

27 Oct 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 9th war patrol at Holy Loch. (2)

1 Nov 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was docked at Ardrossan. (3)

15 Nov 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was undocked. (3)

21 Nov 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Ardrossan to Holy Loch. (3)

30 Nov 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)

For the daily positions of HMS Porpoise during this passage see the map below.
No positions are known for 3 to 6 December 1940.

(2)

30 Nov 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Holy Loch for Halifax, Canada. Porpoise was escorted until 1740/1 by HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). (2)

17 Dec 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Halifax. (2)

26 Dec 1940
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Halifax for her 10th war patrol. She was to provide escort to convoy HX 99.

For the daily positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

(4)

5 Jan 1941
At 1500 hours (zone +2) HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) left convoy HX 99 and set course to return to Halifax. (5)

13 Jan 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 10th war patrol at Halifax. (5)

24 Jan 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was docked at Halifax. (5)

25 Jan 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was undocked. (5)

26 Jan 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Halifax for her 11th war patrol. She was to provide escort to convoy HX 105.

For the daily positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

(2)

28 Jan 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) failed to make rendez-vous with convoy HX 105. She set off to search for it but the convoy in fact was never sighted. (2)

9 Feb 1941
At 1615 hours, HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), made rendez-vous with her escort towards Holy Loch, HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). (2)

10 Feb 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 11th war patrol at Holy Loch. (2)

3 Mar 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Holy Loch for Halifax, Canada. She was escorted by HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN) until 2050/4.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Porpoise during this passage see the map below.

(2)

7 Mar 1941 (position 57.50, -19.50)
While en route to Halifax, Canada, HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) makes a torpedo attack on ' what is identified as ' a submarine in the North Atlantic in position 57°50'N, 19°50'W. German U-boat U-A was operating in this area so the attack might have been against this submarine but she reported no attack.

(All times are GMT)
0250 hours - Sighted a U-boat in position 57°50'N, 19°50'W. Range 1 nautical mile. Enemy course 260°. Started attack. The U-boat later dived and Porpoise did the same.

0323 hours - Fired two torpedoes aimed by Asdic from a range of 3500 yards. No hits were obtained.

0410 hours - Surfaced. Proceeded. (2)

15 Mar 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Halifax. (2)

20 Mar 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Halifax for her 12th war patrol. She was ordered to provide escort for convoy SC 26.

For the daily positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

(2)

29 Mar 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) parted company with convoy SC 26 and set course to return to Halifax. (2)

3 Apr 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 12th war patrol at Halifax. (2)

11 Apr 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Halifax. (6)

19 Apr 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Halifax for her 13th war patrol. She was to escort convoy SC 29.

For the daily positions of HMS Porpoise during this patrol see the map below.

29 Apr 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) parted company with convoy SC 29. (6)

8 May 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 13th war patrol at Holy Loch. (7)

10 May 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Greenock. (7)

19 May 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) returned to Holy Loch. (7)

20 May 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shited from Holy Loch to Troon where she commenced a refit. (7)

1 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her refit at Troon. She conducted trials near Troon during the afternoon. (8)

4 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Troon to Holy Loch.

9 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Troon. (8)

19 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Troon to Holy Loch. (8)

21 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sailed to carry out gunnery and torpedo exercises with HMS La Capricieuse (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Dobson, RNR) in the Clyde area. During the firing of a six-torpedo salvo, two failed to leave the tubes and one had a hot run causing minor damage. (8)

22 Sep 1941
The exercises completed HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) returned to Holy Loch. (8)

24 Sep 1941
HMS Porpoise (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Govan where she was immediately docked in No.2 dock. (8)


Submarine HMS Taku (N 38)


19 Feb 1942
With her refit completed, HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), shifted from the Chatham Dockyard to Sheerness. (9)

21 Feb 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Sheerness for Holy Loch via the English Channel. (9)

23 Feb 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) made rendez-vous of Wolf Rock with HMS Petunia (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Rayner, RD, RNR). They then proceeded north through the Irish Sea towards Holy Loch. (9)

27 Feb 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo firing trials at Holy Loch. (9)

2 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo firing trials at Holy Loch. (10)

3 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (10)

4 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Arrochar where she was to conduct her torpedo firing trials. (10)

9 Mar 1942
With her torpedo firing trials completed HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Arrochar to Holy Loch. (10)

11 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in Loch Long. (10)

12 Mar 1942
During 12 and 13 March 1942, HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), conducted exercises in the Clyde area. These included night exercises. (10)

14 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Ardrossan where she was immediately docked in the graving dock. (10)

17 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) was undocked. She then proceeded from Ardrossan to Holy Loch. (10)

18 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in Loch Long. (10)

20 Mar 1942
After a short work-up and trial period in Scottish waters HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Holy Loch bound for Gibraltar.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this passage see the map below.

(10)

27 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (10)

31 Mar 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Gibraltar. (10)

1 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Gibraltar. (11)

2 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Gibraltar for her 14th war patrol. This is a work-up patrol to the East of Gibraltar.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this patrol see the map below.

(11)

3 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is recalled to Gibraltar. (11)

6 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Gibraltar to resume her 14th war patrol. (11)

13 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 14th war patrol at Gibraltar. (11)

15 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is docked at Gibraltar. (11)

16 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is undocked. (11)

22 Apr 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Gibraltar for passage to Alexandria. (11)

8 May 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Alexandria. (12)

22 May 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Alexandria for her 15th war patrol. She is to patrol the approaches to Benghazi. Later she is used to give cover for operation Vigorous with several other submarines.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this patrol see the map below.

(13)

31 May 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) attacked a convoy and claims to have hit a merchant ship with a torpedo. Italian sources however makes no mention of this.

(All times are zone -3)
0425 hours - In position 33°34'N, 18°30'E sighted one destroyer and one large merchant ship bearing 230°, distance 5 nautical miles. The destroyer was zig-zagging widely across the bow of the merchant ship about 1 to 2 nautical miles ahead. Closed at full speed to attack.

0440 hours - Dived and proceeded at full speed.

0443 hours - Fired three torpedoes (four was intended but there was a problem with the firing valve of Nr. 6 torpedo tube) from 6000 yards (Taku was unable to get closed due to the destroyer).

0451 hours - On loud explosion was heard. Taku went deep as the destroyer had turned back. Upon coming to periscope depth sighted sparks and a small amount of flame bearing 130, the approximate bearing of the ship when the torpedoes were fired. Nothing further was seen through the periscope but very shortly after seeing these spars there was a terrific explosion that sounded very close. Though nothing had been seen of the destroyer it was felt that this might have been a depth charge. Taku went deep for 15 minutes.

0550 hours - Came to periscope depth. There was nothing in sight. Kept diving patrol towards Benghazi.

(It is not known for sure which ships were sighted and attacked by Taku but most likely it was the brand-new Italian transport Rosolino Pilo (8326 GR, built 1942) escorted by the destroyer Nicoloso da Recco). (13)

20 Jun 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 15th war patrol at Alexandria. (13)

30 Jun 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Alexandria for her 16th war patrol. She is to patrol along the coast of Cyrenaica, Libya.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this patrol see the map below.

(13)

11 Jul 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 16th war patrol at Haifa. (13)

31 Jul 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Haifa for her 17th war patrol. She is to patrol along the coast of Cyrenaica, Libya.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this patrol see the map below.

(14)

7 Aug 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) intends to attack a schooner with gunfire of Ras-el-Tin. The attack is spoiled at the last possible moment by patrolling aircraft.

(All times are zone -3)
0550 hours - Dived for patrol of Ras-el-Tin.

0920 hours - In position 32°21'N, 23°16'E sighted a two masted schooner in ballast close inshore. Decided to close and attack with the gun.

0945 hours - When just about to surface in a favourable position, sighted two aircraft patrolling along the coast. Reluctantly abandoned the idea of sinking the schooner with gunfire. (14)

13 Aug 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) attacks an enemy convoy. The attack fails as Taku is detected.

(All times are zone -3)
1230 hours - In position 32°30'N, 20°08'E sighted what is thought to be a Crotone-class sloop escorting 2 medium seized motor vessels with three aircraft overhead. Started an attack.

1251 hours - Fired three torpedoed at the rear ship. Sighted one of the aircraft coming straight toward. About 2 minutes after firing three bombs were dropped that were very close. All three navigation lights were broken. No hits were heard and it seems likely that the torpedoed could be avoided.

1320 hours - Came to periscope depth, nothing in sight. Resumed dived patrol to the Westward.

According to Italian sources the ships attacked were Italian merchants Sibilla (1077 GRT, built 1900) and Albachiara (1245 GRT, built 1904) escorted by the Italian torpedo boat Sagittario and submarine chaser Selve. (14)

15 Aug 1942 (position 33.16, 21.16)
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) attacked the German merchant Menes (5609 GRT, built 1926) with 4 torpedoed about 90 nautical miles north-east of Benghazi, Libya in position 33°16'N, 21°16'E. All 4 torpedoed fired missed their target.

(All times are zone -3)
0729 hours - Sighted one merchant vessel, about 5000 tons, escorted by two Spica class torpedo boats (one ahead and one astern of the merchant) and one aircraft overhead bearing 185°, range 7 nautical miles. Went to 70 feet and closed at speed for 15 minutes.

0807 hours - Fired the first torpedo of a salvo of four. Immediately after firing this first torpedo the target changed course. Hold fire.

0810 hours - Fired three torpedoes. No hits. Taku went deep.

0833 hours - Depth charging commenced in patterns of six. All were astern and not close.

0915 hours - The last pattern of depth charges was dropped.

0930 hours - No HE was heard, came to periscope depth. Nothing in sight. Resumed dived patrol Eastwards. (14)

21 Aug 1942
Shortly before arriving at Beirut, where she ended her 17th war patrol, HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is depth charged in error by a British Wellington aircraft.

(All times are zone -3)
0510 hours - In position 33°59'N, 34°48'E sighted a Wellington aircraft. The light by then was good and the aircraft flew close on both sides until 0555 hours when it approached from the starboard quarter and released two depth charges which dropped 15 feet and 20 yards on the port bean and bow respectively. The first narrowly missed the periscope standards. None the less Taku suffered no damage.
(14)

2 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Beirut for Port Said. (15)

4 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Port Said. (15)

5 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is docked in the floating dock at Port Said. (15)

7 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is undocked. (15)

9 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Port Said for her 18th war patrol. She is to patrol along the coast of Cyrenaica, Libya.

For HMS Taku's daily positions during this patrol see the map below.

(14)

14 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) tries to land a party of four by folbots off Tobruk. The attempt is aborted due to the unfavourable weather conditions. This special operation was in conjunction with 'Operation Agreement'. (14)

18 Sep 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) attacks an enemy convoy in position 32°29'N, 23°34'E. Four torpedoes were fired and a sinking is claimed.

The convoy attacked was made up of the merchant Fougier (???? GRT, built ????), the Italian merchant Nerucci (1180 GRT, built 1892) and the German merchant Dora (795 GRT, built 1898). They were escorted by the Italian torpedo boats Sirio and Lupo. They had sailed on the 16th from Suda Bay and arrived at Tobruk on the 18th.

(All times are zone -3)
0303 hours - Sighted a darkened ship bearing 036°, distance 3 nautical miles. Identified as a destroyer.

0308 hours - Sighted two merchant ships bearing 030°, distance 3 nautical miles. Closed at speed to attack.

0320 hours - In position 32°29'N, 23°34'E fired four torpedoes at the leading ship. Dived.

0327 hours - Heard a loud explosion.

0336 hours - Heard another loud and prolonged explosion.

0345 hours - Periscope depth, nothing in sight.

0415 hours - Surfaced. Sighted a dark object in the vicinity of the attacking position and closed on main motors. The object was identified as a destroyer that was thought to be picking up survivors. Thought one ship to be hit and sunk.

0430 hours - Retired to the North. (14)

20 Sep 1942 (position 33.30, 21.10)
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) attacks an enemy convoy in position 33°30'N, 21°10'E. Three torpedoes were fired without result.

(All times are zone -3)
0900 hours - Sighted a convoy made up of two merchants and two destroyers with a whole lot of aircraft overhead. It's likely there were more ships but the periscope could only be put up for very brief moments. Commenced attack.

0925 hours - In position 33°30'N, 21°10'E fired three torpedoes at the port wing ship from 1500 yards. Went deep after firing as one of the destroyers was very close.

0930 hours - Heard one explosion, most likely a depth charge.

0932 hours - Heard two explosions, most likely depth charges.

1025 hours - Came to periscope depth, nothing in sight.

Italian sources give the following info regarding this attack: The convoy was made up of the Italian merchants Apuaniowa (7948 GRT, built 1942) and Monginevro (5324 GRT, built 1940) escorted by destroyer Freccia. Apuania reported missed by one torpedo and Monginevro missed by two. (14)

1 Oct 1942
HMS Taku (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 18th war patrol at Beirut. (14)


Submarine HMS Truant (N 68)


17 May 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her refit at Troon. She proceeded to Holy Loch to start a period of trials and training. (16)

20 May 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (16)

21 May 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (16)

22 May 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (16)

23 May 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from the Clyde area to Port HHX to participate in trials off that port. During her passage there she was escorted by HMS Jan van Gelder (Lt. P.D. O'Driscoll, RNR). (16)

2 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Port HHX for Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS Alecto (Lt.Cdr. H.A.L. Marsham, OBE, RN). (17)

3 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch. (17)

3 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area with HMS White Bear (Cdr. J.F. Drake, RNR). Upon completion of these exercises HMS Truant proceeded to Campbeltown. (17)

4 Jun 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Boarhound (Skr. A. Keable, RNR) and HMS Bedlington (Skr. A.W. Peak, RNR).

Upon completion of these exercises HMS Truant proceeded to Larne. (17)

5 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials at Loch Goil. (17)

7 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area. HMS Otus (Lt.Cdr. W.N. Eade, RNR) served as target during one of the runs. (17)

8 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne with HMS Philante (Capt. A.J. Baker-Cresswell, DSO, RN) and an Escort Group. (17)

10 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Arrochar. (17)

11 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo firing trials off Arrochar. (17)

12 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo firing trials off Arrochar. Upon completion of these HMS Truant proceeded to Holy Loch. (17)

14 Jun 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Holy Loch for Scapa Flow where she is to participate in A/S exercises. She made the passage together with HMS Ultimatum (Lt. W.H. Kett, RNR). They were escorted by HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN). (17)

15 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne with HMS Philante (Capt. A.J. Baker-Cresswell, DSO, RN) and other A/S vessels. (17)

16 Jun 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow. (17)

17 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMIS Narbada (Lt.Cdr. A.W. Beeton, RIN) and HMS Newark (Lt.Cdr. D.F. Townsend, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Grenville (Lt.Cdr. R.P. Hill, DSO, RN) and HMS Obedient (Lt.Cdr. H. Unwin, DSC and Bar, RN). (17)

18 Jun 1943
During the morning HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) carries out A/S exercises with HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN) and HMCS Athabascan (Cdr. G.R. Miles, DSO, OBE, RCN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN). (17)

19 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Grenville (Lt.Cdr. R.P. Hill, DSO, RN) and HMS Obedient (Lt.Cdr. H. Unwin, DSC and Bar, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Savage (Cdr. R.C. Gordon, DSO, RN) and HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN). (17)

21 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Savage (Cdr. R.C. Gordon, DSO, RN) and HMS Talybont (Lt. E.F. Baines, DSO, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN). (17)

22 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Grenville (Lt.Cdr. R.P. Hill, DSO, RN) and HMIS Narbada (Lt.Cdr. A.W. Beeton, RIN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Milne (Capt. I.M.R. Campbell, DSO, RN) and HMS Musketeer (Cdr. E.N.V. Currey, DSC, RN). (17)

23 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Beagle (Lt.Cdr. N.R. Murch, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMIS Narbada (Lt.Cdr. A.W. Beeton, RIN). (17)

24 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Opportune (Cdr. J. Lee-Barber, DSO and Bar, RN) and HMS Obdurate (Lt.Cdr. C.E.L. Sclater, DSO and Bar, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN). (17)

25 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), carries out A/S exercises with HMS Grenville (Lt.Cdr. R.P. Hill, DSO, RN) and HMS Savage (Cdr. R.C. Gordon, DSO, RN).

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with local small craft. (17)

26 Jun 1943
During the morning, HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), A/S exercises were carried out with local small craft.

During the afternoon A/S exercises were carried out with HMS Milne (Capt. I.M.R. Campbell, DSO, RN) and HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN). (17)

27 Jun 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Scapa Flow for Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS Alecto (Lt.Cdr. H.A.L. Marsham, OBE, RN). (18)

29 Jun 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch. (17)

1 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Holy Loch for exercises in Bute Sound. She makes several practice attacks on HMS Douglas (Lt.Cdr. K.H.J.L. Phibbs, RN) during the day before returning to Holy Loch.

During the next weeks more exercises followed with ships and aircraft. (19)

5 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) participated in A/S exercises off Larne together with aircraft. (19)

9 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (19)

12 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMS Hesperus (Cdr. D.G.F.W. MacIntyre, DSO and Bar, RN) and HMS Mourne (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Holland, RD, RNR). (17)

13 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted convoy attack exercises off Larne. (19)

13 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted convoy attack exercises off Larne.

14 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMS Vesper (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Rodgers, RN), HMS Clematis (T/Lt. R.H. Farrands, DSC, RNR) and later with HMS Warwick (Cdr. Y.M. Cleeves, DSO, DSC, RD, RNR) and HMS Godetia (T/Lt. M.A.F. Larose, RNR). (19)

16 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Larne to Holy Loch. (19)

17 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is docked in floating dock AFD 7 at Holy Loch. (19)

19 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is undocked. (19)

25 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials at Loch Goil. (19)

28 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Holy Loch bound for Lerwick. She was escorted by HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). (19)

30 Jul 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Lerwick. After topping off with fuel she departed from on her 26th war patrol. This is a work-up patrol in the Norwegian Sea.

No logbook is available for this period and the patrol report does not mentioned noon positions. Therefore no map can be displayed. (20)

17 Aug 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 26th war patrol at Lerwick. (20)

18 Aug 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Lerwick for Holy Loch. She made the passage together with HMS Thrasher (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN). They were escorted by HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). (18)

20 Aug 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch. She departed from again later this day for Portsmouth where she is to embark a new battery.

Passage south through the Irish Sea was made together with HMS Ultimatum (Lt. W.H. Kett, DSC, RNR), FFS Curie (Lt. P.M. Sonneville) and FFS Minerve (Lt. H.F.D. Simon-Dubuisson). They were escorted by HMS Kingston Amber (T/Lt. Richard Adams, RNR). (18)

23 Aug 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Portland. (12)

24 Aug 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Portland for Portsmouth where she arrived later this day. She made the passage together with FFS Minerve (Lt. H.F.D. Simon-Dubuisson). (18)

17 Oct 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Portsmouth for Plymouth where she arrived later this day. (21)

18 Oct 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Plymouth for Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS Sardonyx (T/A/Lt.Cdr. E. Playne, RNVR). (21)

20 Oct 1943
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch for another period of trials, training and exercises. (21)

24 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Larne. (21)

25 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted practice off Larne with HMS Philante (Capt. A.J. Baker-Cresswell, DSO, RN) serving as target. This ship was escorted by eight A/S ships. (21)

26 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Larne to Holy Loch. (21)

28 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) returned to Holy Loch upon completion of exercises. (21)

29 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (21)

30 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials at Loch Goil. (21)

31 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials at Loch Goil. (21)

11 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

12 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

13 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

14 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

15 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

18 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

21 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Truant (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted A/S exercises in the Clyde area with HMS Portchester Castle (Lt. A.G. Scott, RNR). (22)


Submarine HMS Thorough (P 324)


28 Feb 1944
Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) and Virtue (Lt. R.D. Cairns, DSC. RN) both departed from their builders yard at Barrow for Holy Loch. They were escorted by HMS Quadrille (T/Lt. G.A. Peat, RNVR). (23)

29 Feb 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Holy Loch to begin a period of trials and training. (23)

1 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted full power trials on the Arran measured mile. (24)

4 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted trials and exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

5 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

6 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

11 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) both conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Sheffield (Cdr. G.M. Sladen, DSO, DSC, RN) served as the target. These included night exercises. (24)

12 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) proceeded to Holy Loch on completion of last night exercises. (24)

13 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Loch Goil. (24)

14 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials in Loch Goil. HMS Thorough then proceeded to Holy Loch on completion. (24)

17 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) both conducted A/S and attack exercises in the Clyde area with HMS Westcott (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) H. Lambton, RN) and HMS Inconstant (Lt.Cdr J.H. Eaden, DSC and Bar, RN). These included night exercises. (24)

18 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) proceeded to Holy Loch on completion of last night exercises. (24)

20 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Arrochar where she was to conduct her torpedo discharge trials. (24)

21 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

22 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

23 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

24 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

25 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

26 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

27 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

28 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

29 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

30 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

31 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (24)

1 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Having completed her torpedo discharge trial programme, HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), shifted from Arrochar to Holy Loch. (25)

3 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted trials in the Clyde area. (25)

4 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed the Clyde area for Larne. She was escorted by HMS ML 115 (T/Lt. O.B. Deiter, RNVR). (25)

6 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

7 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

8 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

9 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

10 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

11 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

14 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

15 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

16 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Larne. (25)

18 Apr 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) shifted from Larne to Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS ML 225 (T/Lt. D. Kaye, RNVR). (25)

21 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Vindex (Capt. H.T.T. Bayliss, RN) served as target. HMS Thorough proceeded to Campbeltown upon completion of these exercises. (25)

22 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Vindex (Capt. H.T.T. Bayliss, RN) served as target. These included night exercises. (25)

23 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) proceeded to Holy Loch on completion of last night exercises. (25)

25 Apr 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Glasgow (Capt. C.P. Clarke, DSO, RN) served as the target. (25)

26 Apr 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area with HMS Ambuscade (Lt. H. Hutchinson, RN). (25)

27 Apr 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted S.T.U. (mine detection) trials off Fairlie.

[No logs are available for HMS Thorough for the months of May and June 1944, so no further details can be provided for these months other then the events curently listed.] (25)

16 May 1944
After a period of trials and training off the Scottish West coast, HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN), departed from Holy Loch for the Far East. The first leg of the trip is to Gibraltar. Passage south through the Irish Sea was made together with HMS HMS Tudor (Lt. S.A. Porter, DSC, RN) and HrMs Zwaardvisch (Lt.Cdr. H.A.W. Goossens, RNN). They were escorted by HMS La Capricieuse (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) C.M. Norman, RN).

No positions are noted in the ships logs so no map of this passage can be displayed. (12)

29 May 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (12)

11 Jun 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Malta. (12)

21 Jun 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Malta for Port Said. (12)

26 Jun 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Port Said. (12)

28 Jun 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Suez for Aden. (12)

3 Jul 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Aden. (26)

6 Jul 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Aden bound for Trincomalee. (26)

16 Jul 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Trincomalee. (26)

30 Jul 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 1st war patrol. She is to patrol in the Andaman Sea, first off the Mergui Archipelago (Forrest Passage) and later of Port Blair.

For the daily positions of HMS Thorough during this patrol see the map below.

(27)

23 Aug 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 1st war patrol at Trincomalee. (27)

7 Sep 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. These included an A/S exercise and practice attacks on HMS Cumberland (Capt. P.K. Enright, RN) which was also conducting AA gunnery exercises. (28)

9 Sep 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 2nd war patrol. She is to carry out two special operations. She is also to patrol off the West coast of Siam and the Northern end of the Malacca Straits.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Thorough during this patrol see the map below.

(27)

15 Sep 1944
During 15, 17 and 18 September HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) carries out Special operation Balmoral. In the end this special operation had to be abandoned, (details to follow). (27)

16 Sep 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) successfully carries out Special operation Barnowl, (details to follow). (27)

23 Sep 1944 (position 6.23, 99.19)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sights 'what is thought to be' a German U-boat North-West of Penang in position 06°23'N, 99°19'E. Thorough is not able to reach a favourable attack position due to the bad weather conditions.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1001 hours - HE was reported bearing 101°. Commenced retiring turn to starboard as nothing was visible through the periscope in heavy rain. Steadied on 90°.

1010 hours - Sighted large submarine (thought to be German) bearing 250°. Range was 4000 to 5000 yards. Visibility was still very bad due to the heavy rain.

1011 hours - A brief glimpse of the target gave and estimated course of 160°. After this nothing further could be seen. Firing on Asdic was also out of the question due to own propeller noises and the noise of heavy rain. The attack was abandoned soon after (27)

27 Sep 1944 (position 5.34, 95.16)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank a coaster north of Sumatra near Kuta Raja (now called Banda Aceh).

(All times are zone -6.5)
1530 hours - Inspected the anchorage. Sighted a coaster and a barge to the eastward of Tuan Island. Several landing craft moored at the jetty together with two other small craft. A Motor Launch and a small drifter were anchored about 800 yards east of the jetty. A gun emplacement was also sighted on the shore.

1555 hours - Surfaced in position 05°34'N, 95°16'E for gun action against the coaster and barge. 17 Rounds were fired for at least 11 hits. Meanwhile the shore gun had opened fire and was rapidly finding the range. It was also seen that the ML was now underway. The action had to be broken off. The target meanwhile was listing heavily and on fire.

1558 hours - Dived to 80 feet.

1616 hours - One depth charge was dropped close. 4 Others followed. The third of these was very close. Thorough retired to seaward. (27)

3 Oct 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 2nd war patrol at Trincomalee. (27)

25 Oct 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is docked at Trincomalee. (29)

31 Oct 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is undocked. (29)

1 Nov 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. These included practice attack on HMS Newcastle (Capt. J.G. Roper, OBE, RN) and HMS Tudor (Lt. S.A. Porter, DSC, RN). (30)

4 Nov 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 3rd war patrol. She is to patrol in the Malacca Straits. Also she is to lay a minefield there.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Thorough during this patrol see the map below.

(27)

11 Nov 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is grounded. She was unable to back off so had to surface to break free compromising her patrol position. As this was in the area where she is to lay mines Lt.Cdr. Hopkins decides to postpone her mine laying operation for a few days. (27)

13 Nov 1944 (position 4.07, 100.14)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank a sailing vessel with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0400 hours - Sighted a dark object with lights. Worked round it to get to Westward and silhouette it against morning twilight.

0435 hours - Dived in position 04°07'N, 100°11'E and closed the vessel.

0530 hours - The vessel was identified as a Twakow. Surfaced in position 04°07'N, 100°14'E and after a burst with the Oerlikon the crew began to abandon ship. Sank the Twakow with 7 rounds of 4". Took the crew of 3 on board. The Twakow came from Penang and was carrying tobacco.

0555 hours - Dived in position 04°06'N, 100°15'E. (27)

14 Nov 1944 (position 3.54, 100.37)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank two coasters and damaged another with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1245 hours - Sighted masts and bridges of 3 coasters to the South.

1300 hours - Surfaced in position 03°54'N, 100°37'E and engaged the leading coaster with 4" gunfire. He was observed to be hit 5 or 6 times and it was thought he was beaching so shifted target to the 2nd coaster. The crew quickly abandoned ship while steering for the beach. This coaster eventually beached and rolled over to Starboard. Now the 3rd coaster was engaged. This one was soon on fire and down by the bow. Her crew beached her and abandoned ship. The 1st coaster meanwhile had fled the scene. It was decided to leave her and completed the destruction of the 2nd coaster, which by now had stopped burning. Another 10 rounds were fired at her rendering her a total loss.

1325 hours - Dived to 60 feet and retired from the scene. (27)

19 Nov 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) lays mines in the Strait of Malacca near position 03°20'N, 99°38'E.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1810 hours - Surfaced and proceeded towards the intended position for the minefield.

1825 hours - Laid the 1st string of 4 mines 600 feet apart on a course of 195° from position 03°20'2"N, 99°38'2"E.

1905 hours - Laid the 2nd string of 4 mines 500 feet apart on a course of 275° from position 03°19'8"N, 99°38'E.

2006 hours - Laid the 3rd and last string of 4 mines 600 feet apart on a course of 220°from position 03°20'N, 99°37'8"E.

2010 hours - Completed the mine lay and withdrew to seaward. (27)

22 Nov 1944 (position 3.21, 100.37)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank a sailing vessel with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1145 hours - Sighted a sailing vessel bearing 075°, range 4 nautical miles. Also sighted a Japanese Jake aircraft bearing 060°, range about 5 nautical miles.

1345 hours - Surfaced in position 03°21'N, 100°37'E and sank the sailing vessel, a Twakow, with 7 rounds of 4". The crew of 5 had abandoned ship and were taken aboard. The Twakow came from Penang and was carrying tobacco.

Dived in position 03°22'N, 100°37'E and proceeded to the East. (27)

29 Nov 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 3rd war patrol at Trincomalee. (27)

16 Dec 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 4th war patrol. She is to patrol in off the West coast of Siam. Also she is to lay a minefield there. At the ended of the patrol she proceed to the North-West coast of Sumatra for air-sea rescue duties.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Thorough during this patrol see the map below.

(27)

23 Dec 1944 (position 6.48, 99.39)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) lays mines in the Strait of Malacca near position 06°48'N, 99°39'E.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1835 hours - Surfaced in position 06°46'N, 99°39'E and made preparations for the mine lay.

1846 hours - Commenced laying the 1st row of mines, 600 feet apart, bearing 050°.

1910 hours - Commenced laying the 2nd row of mines, 600 feet apart, bearing 025°.

1935 hours - Commenced laying the 3rd and last row of mines, 600 feet apart, bearing 270°.

1940 hours - Completed mine laying. Proceeded to the South-West (27)

29 Dec 1944 (position 8.10, 98.14)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank two sailing vessels of the west coast of Siam.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1600 hours - Sighted two Chinese trading junks to the South-South-West and altered course to close.

1750 hours - Surfaced in position 08°10'N, 98°14'E and closed the 1st junk.

1800 hours - Fired 12 rounds of 4" for 8 hits before the gun jammed with a projectile in the breech. Fired bursts of Oerlikon and Vickers which started a small fire. It was noticed she was holed forward and would certainly sink. Turned towards the other junk, its crew was already abandoning ship. Boarded her and placed a demolition charge, however the charge misfired. Boarded her again and replaced the demolition charge.

1945 hours - Both junks were seen to sink. Proceeded to the North-West to clear the area. (27)

1 Jan 1945 (position 8.12, 98.16)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) sank a sailing vessel with gunfire of the west coast of Siam.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1800 hours - Surfaced in position 08°12'N, 98°16'E and opened fire on a junk sighted earlier. 19 Rounds were fired for 7 hits resulting in a fire aboard the junk. Due to the fading light and shallow water the action was now broken off. It was considered most likely that this junk was destroyed and beyond salvage. Retired to the South-East.
(27)

8 Jan 1945
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) ended her 4th war patrol at Trincomalee. (27)

24 Jan 1945
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is docked at Trincomalee. (31)

27 Jan 1945
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) is undocked. (31)

30 Jan 1945 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) conducted noise trials and exercises off Trincomalee. (31)


Submarine HMS Rover (N 62)


2 Feb 1945
HMS Rover (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) departed Trincomalee for Bombay.

For the daily positions of HMS Rover during this passage see the map below.

(32)

8 Feb 1945
HMS Rover (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) arrived at Bombay where she was to aid in A/S training. (32)

Sources

  1. ADM 199/373
  2. ADM 199/1877
  3. ADM 173/16440
  4. ADM 173/16441
  5. ADM 173/16901
  6. ADM 173/16904
  7. ADM 173/16905
  8. ADM 173/16909
  9. ADM 173/17584
  10. ADM 173/17585
  11. ADM 173/17586
  12. ADM 199/2572
  13. ADM 199/1218
  14. ADM 199/1220
  15. ADM 173/17590
  16. ADM 173/18283
  17. ADM 173/18284
  18. ADM 199/627
  19. ADM 173/18285
  20. ADM 199/1861
  21. ADM 173/18286
  22. ADM 173/18287
  23. ADM 173/19006
  24. ADM 173/19007
  25. ADM 173/19008
  26. ADM 173/19009
  27. ADM 199/1867
  28. ADM 53/119176 + ADM 173/19011
  29. ADM 173/19012
  30. ADM 173/19013
  31. ADM 173/19901
  32. ADM 173/19524

ADM numbers indicate documents at the British National Archives at Kew, London.


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