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Light cruiser HMS Mauritius (80)

23 Mar 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Adm. J.F. Somerville, KCB, KBE, DSO, RN, C-in-C Eastern Fleet) is docked at the Durban Dockyard. (1)

25 Mar 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Adm. J.F. Somerville, KCB, KBE, DSO, RN, C-in-C Eastern Fleet) is undocked. (1)

4 Apr 1943
Around 1000B/4, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Adm. J.F. Somerville, KCB, KBE, DSO, RN, C-in-C Eastern Fleet) departed Durban for Kilindini / Mombasa. (1)

8 Apr 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At Kilindini / Mombasa, the C-in-C Eastern Fleet, Adm. J.F. Somerville, KCB, KBE, DSO, RN, transferred his flag from HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) to HMS Resolution (Capt. J.W. Durnford, RN). (2)

27 Apr 1943
Around 0830C/27, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Manza Bay for Kilindini / Mombasa. On departure torpedo firing exercises were carried out during which HMAS Burnie (T/Lt. T. Christie, RANR(S)) acted as target.

While en-route to Kilindini / Mombasa full power trials were conducted as well as exercises with aircraft.

HMS Mauritius arrived at Kilindini / Mombasa around 1630C/27. (3)

23 May 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At Kilindini / Mombasa, Rear-Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, RN, hoisted his flag in HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN). (4)

29 May 1943
At Kilindini / Mombasa, At 1800C/29, Rear-Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, RN, hauled down his flag on board HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and then hoisted it in HMS Newcastle (Capt. P.B.R.W. William-Powlett, DSO, RN).

HMS Mauritius then left Kilindini / Mombasa for Aden around 1815C/29. (4)

1 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1000C/1, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Aden from Kilindini / Mombasa.

Around 1800C/1, she departed Aden for Suez. (5)

4 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived Suez from Aden. She then immediately commenced the northbound passage of the Suez Canal and arrived at Port Said later the same day.

After a short stop at Port Said she then left around 2200C/4, for Alexandria. (5)

5 Jun 1943
Around 0630C/5, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Alexandria from Port Said. She now joined the Mediterranean Fleet.

Around 2145C/5, she left Alexandria for Malta however at 2206C/5, while in the Great Pass proceeding at 10 knots she ran aground in position 31°09'53"N, 29°48'47"E. Ammunition and fuel had to be disembarked and with the assistance of tugs she was able to come off at 1230C/6. She was then able to enter harbour under her own power. An examination by divers showed that she was to be docked for repairs. (6)

7 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is docked for repairs in AFD 5 at Alexandria. (5)

10 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is undocked. (5)

11 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is docked again in AFD 5 at Alexandria. (5)

14 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is undocked. (5)

16 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1945C/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Alexandria for Port Said. (5)

17 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0630C/17, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Port Said. She then made a series of runs over the D/G range after which she entered the Suez Canal for passage southboud.

She arrived at Suez around 1600C/17. (5)

18 Jun 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted exercises in the Gulf of Suez. (5)

6 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0915C/6, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Alexandria for Malta. (7)

7 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 2015B/7, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Malta from Alexandria. (7)

10 Jul 1943
[We currently don't have the detailed report of HMS Mauritius during the landings in Sicily [to be found in ADM 199/943]. It is hoped this report can be photographed during the next visit (sheduled for October 2024) to the National Archives in London by the editor of the Allied Warships section.]

At 0600B/10, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) opened fire on a shore target.

Later that morning several targets ashore were taken under fire for brief moments.

At 1555B/10, HMS Mauritius was dive bombed by several Ju. 88 aircraft but no damage was sustained.

More dive bombing attacks were made at 1910B/10 and 1934B/10 but again no damage was sustained. (7)

11 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
[We currently don't have the detailed report of HMS Mauritius during the landings in Sicily [to be found in ADM 199/943]. It is hoped this report can be photographed during the next visit (sheduled for October 2024) to the National Archives in London by the editor of the Allied Warships section.]

At 0420B/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) was dive bombed but no damage was sustained.

At 1240B/11, a large air attack took place but HMS Mauritius sustained no damage.

At 1850B/11, HMS Mauritius commenced a bombardment of an enemy shore battery. The bombardment was completed at 1910B/11. (7)

12 Jul 1943
[We currently don't have the detailed report of HMS Mauritius during the landings in Sicily [to be found in ADM 199/943]. It is hoped this report can be photographed during the next visit (sheduled for October 2024) to the National Archives in London by the editor of the Allied Warships section.]

At 0447B/12, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) was attacked by dive bombers but no damage was sustained. The destroyer HMS Eskimo (Capt. J.W.M. Eaton, DSO, DSC, RN) which was nearby was damaged by near misses.

At 0540B/12, Rear-Admiral T.H. Troubridge and his staff came on board HMS Mauritius from HMS Eskimo. They were transferred to HMS Exmoor (Lt. D.T. McBarnet, RN).

Between 0851B/12 and 0947B/12, HMS Mauritius bombarded Melilli.

At 1115B/12, fire was opened on a battery of enemy field guns.

At 1213B/12, fire was again opened on Melilli. At 1254B/12, fire was shifted to a coastal battery north of Augusta.

At 1320B/12, fire was opened on enemy positions near Cape Santa Croce.

At 1530B/12, fire was opened on Augusta (town).

At 1830B/12, fire was again opened on Augusta.

At 2008B/12, fire was opened on a coastal battery near Augusta. (7)

18 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0515B/18, 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) departed Augusta to proceed to the north for a bombardment of Catania.

At 0705B/18, HMS Mauritius opened fire on Catania. Three minutes later fire was ceased. In the meantime a hit on the railway station had been observed.

At 0809B/18, they were ordered to return to Augusta due to the bad visibility in the area making spotting difficult.

They returned to Augusta around 0915B/18. (8)

20 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
During this day the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN) and HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN) conducted bombardment operations on the east coast of Sicily.

HMS Mauritius engaged enemy coastal batteries and troop concentrations near Catania. HMS Laforey engaged enemy coastal batteries near the mouth of the Simeto river. (9)

24 Jul 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At Malta, Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN, transferred his flag from the damaged HMS Newfoundland (Capt. W.R. Slayter, DSC, RN) to HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN). (9)

3 Aug 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0600B/3, the light cruisers HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) and HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) departed Malta for Augusta.

Around 0715B/3, they were joined by the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN) and HMS Echo (Lt.Cdr. R.H.C. Wyld, RN) coming from Augusta and night operations in the Catania area (no action had taken place).

They all arrived at Augusta around 1100B/3. (10)

5 Aug 1943
[We currently don't have the detailed report of HMS Mauritius during the landings in Sicily [to be found in ADM 199/943]. It is hoped this report can be photographed during the next visit (sheduled for October 2024) to the National Archives in London by the editor of the Allied Warships section.]

Around 1005B/5, 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) departed Augusta for bombardment operations off the east coast of Sicily.

During the day she and HrMs Soemba (Cdr. J.J.M. Sterkenberg, RNN) engaged enemy position to the north-east of Catania. The targets of HMS Mauritius were Acireale and a crossroad at Giarre. Small calibre batteries replied intermittently and a shell hit HrMs Soemba killing her Commanding Officer. HrMs Soemba then returned to Augusta arriving around 1530B/5.

HMS Mautitius, HMS Tartar and HMS Nubian returned to Augusta around 1645B/5. (11)

8 Aug 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
[We currently don't have the detailed report of HMS Mauritius during the landings in Sicily [to be found in ADM 199/943]. It is hoped this report can be photographed during the next visit (sheduled for October 2024) to the National Archives in London by the editor of the Allied Warships section.]

Around 0920B/8, 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) departed Augusta for bombardment operations off the east coast of Sicily.

They carried out the following bombardments;
Around 1145B/8, crossroads at Giarre.
Around 1155B/8, Riposto town.
Around 1600B/8, Enemy mortars and batteries west of Acireale.

Enemy batteries replied with fairly accurate fire between 1215B/8 - 1220B/8.

Between 1720B/8 and 1815B/8, the same targets were bombarded again but now from a position a bit further to the north.

HMS Mauritius, HMS Tartar and HMS Nubian returned to Augusta around 1915B/8. (11)

19 Aug 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0945B/19, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Faulknor (Capt. A.K. Scott-Moncrieff, DSO, RN) and HMS Intrepid (Cdr. C.A.de W. Kitcat, RN) departed Augusta for Malta where they arrived around 1435B/19. (12)

26 Aug 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0845B/26, the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) departed Malta for Augusta.

Around 1000B/26, the destroyers HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN), HMS Nubian (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSC, RN) and HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN) joined.

Around 1315B/26, HMS Mauritius, HMS Tartar, HMS Nubian and HMS Tumult arrived at Augusta. (12)

3 Sep 1943

Operation Baytown.

Allied landing between Catona and Reggio Calabria.

The 5th Division, 13 Corps and the 1st Canadian Division were landed on three beaches between Catona and Reggio Calabria during the early hours of the morning. Troops and stores were ferried across the Straits of Messina in 22 LST's, 65 LCI(L)'s, 38 LCT's, 100 LCM's and 70 LCA's.

Support for the landing was provided by the light cruisers HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN), HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), monitors HMS Abercrombie (A/Capt. G.V.B. Faulkner, RN), HMS Roberts (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.E.C. Dunbar, RN), HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN), destroyers 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 Offa (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Leonard, RN), Loyal, HMS Loyal (Lt.Cdr. H.E.F. Tweedie, DSC, RN),ORP Piorun (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) S.T. Dzienisiewicz), monitors HMS Abercrombie (A/Capt. G.V.B. Faulkner, RN), HMS Roberts (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.E.C. Dunbar, RN), HMS Erebus (Cdr.(Retd.) H.W. D'Arcy-Evans, RN) and the (river) gunboats HMS Aphis (Lt.Cdr. F.Y. Bethell, RN) and HMS Scarab (T/Lt. E. Cameron, RNZNVR).

A heavy barrage by 8th Army artillery sited on Sicily preceded the landing and the first assault wave touched down at 0430B/3 and found very little opposition. By 0730B/19 advance elements of the Canadian Division were on the outskirts of Reggio Calabria and the aerodrome was captured during the morning. The 8th Army reached Cannitello during the day.

The population was reported as friendly. 2500 Prisoners were taken the majority being Italians.

By 1400B/3, a second flight was well under way, all first flights loads having been cleared well ahead of the planned programme.

The naval port party had entered Reggio Calabria at 0945B/3. In the harbour the outer breakwater was found to be undamaged, with bollards intactand wholly clear of underwater obstructions. Other quays have suffered damage through bombing but should be quickly repairable.

During the day the C-in-C, Mediterranean, Admiral of the Fleet Sir A.B. Cunningham, GCB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN, inspected the landing beaches from the destroyer HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN).

During the night three of the destroyers, HMS Quilliam, HMS Quail and HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN), patrolled south-east of the Straits of Messina and coastal forces north of Messina and off the south Calabrian coast to guard against interference with enemy surface forces. The two cruisers and the remaining destroyers patrolled north of Cape Santa Groce (near Augusta) and east of 16°E. The monitors and gunboats anchored south of Taormina during the night.

HMS Quilliam, HMS Quail and HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN) had been ordered to leave patrol around 0600B/4 and then proceed to Malta arriving there around 1030B/4.

HMS Mauritius, HMS Orion, HMS Offa, HMS Loyal and ORP Piorun returned to Augusta around 0800B/4.

HMS Erebus, HMS Aphis and HMS Scarab remained off the landing beaches to give fire support if required.

[The movements of HMS Abercrombie and HMS Robets are not clear and will have to be further reseached. It appears though that thy had already returned to Augusta on 3 September.] (13)

4 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) conducted 4" HA gunnery trials off Augusta as new gun barrels had been fitted. (14)

9 Sep 1943
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived in the Northern Attack Force Area with convoy TSF 1. She was assigned bombardment duties.

During the morning and first part of the afternoon several bombardments of land targets were carried out.

At 1510B/9, HMS Mauritius with HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN), HMS Tartar (Cdr. St.J.R.J. Tyrwhitt, DSC, RN) and HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN) left the landing area off Salerno to patrol in the Tyrrhenian Sea to the North of Naples. They returned to the beaches for fire support around 1000B/10. (15)

10 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Having returned from the patrol in the Tyrrhenian Sea around 1000B/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) remained off the landing beaches during the day.

At 1902B/10, HMS Mauritius opened fire on a rail junction near Cava de' Tirreni. Fire was ceased after 15 minutes.

At 1940B/10, HMS Mauritius dropped anchor in position 275° - Torre Tusciano - 1.5 nautical miles. (15)

11 Sep 1943
At 0800B/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 0825B/11, fire was opened on a shore target which was destroyed at 0850B/11 after 35 rounds of HE had been expended.

At 0924B/11, fire was opened on a road where enemy motor transport had been reported. Fire was ceased at 1000B/11 after 60 rounds of HE had been expended.

At 1043B/11, fire was opened on enemy tanks. Fire was ceased at 1110B/11 after a total of 63 rounds had been expended.

At 1115B/11, fire was opened on a road and rail junction. Fire was ceased at 1145B/11. 65 rounds were expended and the air observer reported that the target had been frequently hit.

At 1233B/11, fire was opened on a road with the aid of air spotting. Fire was ceased after 48 rounds had been fired for unknown results.

At 1315B/11, fire was opened on enemy motor transport carrying ammunition. A total of 127 rounds were fired. The enemy was on fire and reported to have been destroyed. A large column of smoke was sighted.

At 1437B/11, fire was opened enemy motor transport. After 70 rounds and 25 minutes the target was reported as destroyed.

At 1620B/11, fire was opened on a road between Cava de' Tirreni and Nocera. A total of 12 rounds were fired.

At 1650B/11, fire was opened on enemy guns. The target was reported destroyed after 72 rounds had been fired.

At 1815B/11, fire was opened on Battipaglia with the help of air spotting. 29 Rounds were fired and the shoot was reported as having been effective.

At 1930B/11, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 252° - Torre Tusciano - 2.5 nautical miles. (15)

12 Sep 1943
At 0730B/12, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 0824B/12, fire was opened on enemy guns. 16 rounds were fired for unknown results. The shoot was stopped due to the bad visibility.

At 0945B/12, fire was opened on enemy guns. 5 rounds were fired for unknown results. Again the shoot was stopped due to the bad visibility.

At 1225B/12, fire was opened on an ammunition dump and motor transport. The target was destroyed after 54 rounds. Direct hits on the ammunition dumb had been obtained.

At 1400B/12, fire was opened on enemy guns. The target was reported destroyed and six explosions were observed in the ammunition dump besides the guns. 110 rounds had been fired.

At 1614B/12, fire was opened on enemy guns. Results were unknown and the shoot was broken off by the forward observer after 13 salvoes had been fired in which a total of 62 rounds were expended.

At 1710B/12, fire was opened on a road south of Baronissi. Fire was ceased at 1820B/12.

At 1845B/12, fire was opened on enemy guns. The target was reported as having been destroyed after 52 rounds had been fired.

At 1925B/12, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 257° - Torre Tusciano - 1.8 nautical miles. (15)

13 Sep 1943
At 0600B/13, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 0630B/13, fire was opened on the road south of Baronissi. 36 rounds were fired for unknown results.

At 0915B/13, fire was opened on the village of Santa Lucia. 24 rounds were fired for unknown results.

At 1325B/13, fire was opened on the village of Cava de' Tirreni, 36 rounds were fired.

At 1910B/13, fire was opened on enemy guns. 6 rounds were fired before the action was broken off as observation was not possible.

At 1945B/13, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 255° - Torre Tusciano - 1.5 nautical miles. (15)

14 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0700B/14, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 1645B/14, fire was opened on enemy guns and troop concentrations. The target moved during the bombardment. 82 rounds were fired and all targets were destroyed.

At 1750B/14, fire was opened on a road. Only 5 rounds were fired for unknown results.

At 1820B/14, fire was opened on a road. 4 rounds were fired. Results were reported as satisfactory.

At 1900B/14, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 253° - Torre Tusciano - 1.5 nautical miles. (15)

15 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0720B/15, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 1315B/15, fire was opened on enemy troop concentrations. 15 rounds were fired and it was reproted that the area had been successfully covered.

At 1600B/15, fire was opened on a road. 10 rounds were fired and it was reported that the target had been destroyed.

At 1701B/15, fire was opened on enemy vehicles. The target was reported as having been destroyed after 59 rounds had been fired. Friendly aircraft also assisted in the destruction of this target.

At 1833B/15, fire was opened on enemy motor transport. 9 rounds were fired before fire was checked due to bad visibility. Results were unknown.

At 1910B/15, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 252° - Torre Tusciano - 1.3 nautical miles. (15)

16 Sep 1943
At 0625B/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 0703B/16, fire was opened on enemy tanks. 37 rounds were fired. The shoot was reported as having been effective.

At 1010B/16, fire was opened on enemy troop concentrations. 26 rounds were fired and the shoot was reported as having been effective.

At 1200B/16, fire was opened on enemy tanks. 17 rounds were fired. The shoot was reported as apparently having been effective.

At 1300B/16, fire was opened on enemy tanks. 55 rounds were fired. The shoot was reported as apparently having been effective.

At 1710B/16, fire was opened on enemy motor transport and troop concentrations. The shoot was reported as having been effective.

At 1905B/15, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night in position 244° - Torre Tusciano - 0.8 nautical miles. (15)

17 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0800B/17, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded back to the fire support area of the beaches.

At 1415B/17, fire was opened on an enemy headquarters and guns. 58 rounds were fired and the targets were reported as having been destroyed.

At 1710B/17, fire was opened on enemy motor transport. 41 rounds were fired. The shoot was reported as effective and destructive.

At 1730B/17, six German FW 190's dropped bombs of the port quarter of HMS Mauritius during a rocket bomb attack on the anchorage. a rocked bomb missed HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN).

At 1845B/17, HMS Mauritius and HMS Orion departed the operations area off Salerno for Malta. (15)

18 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0815B/18, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) and HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) arrived at Malta from the operations area off Salerno. (15)

13 Oct 1943
Four LCT's (HMS LCT 330, HMS LCT 420, HMS LCT 615 and HMS LCT 619) landed army tanks to the north of the River Volturno estuary. They had a close escort of two ML's (HMS ML 560 (T/Lt. R. Edelsten-Pope, RANVR) and ML 462 (T/S.Lt. J.W. Main, RNVR))

Close fire support was provided by the destroyers HMS Laforey (Capt. R.M.J. Hutton, DSO, RN), HMS Lookout (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN) and the gunboat (sloop) HMS Flores (Lt.Cdr. J.S. Bax, RNN).

Cover for the operation was provided by the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN).

During the operation HMS Laforey and HMS Lookout were attacked by enemy fighter bombers and near missed. HMS Laforey suffered two killed and ten wounded. HMS Lookout faired better with one wounded. (16)

15 Oct 1943
Around 1650A/15, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) departed Naples for Malta. (17)

16 Oct 1943
Around 0815A/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived at Naples from Malta. (17)

20 Oct 1943
Around 1400A/20, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) departed Malta for Taranto. On departure gunnery exercises were carried out. (17)

21 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0915A/21, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived at Taranto from Malta. (17)

25 Nov 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0800A/25, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived at Malta from Taranto. (18)

4 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1700A/4, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) departed Malta for Taranto. (19)

5 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0815A/5, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived at Taranto from Malta. (19)

10 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0915A/10, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) and HMS Orion (Capt. G.C.P. Menzies, RN) conducted exercises off Taranto.

Around 1700A/10, HMS Orion parted company to proceed to Naples.

HMS Mauritius returned to Taranto around 2030A/10. (20)

23 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0915A/23, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN) arrived at Malta from Taranto. (19)

24 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 1400A/24, at Malta, Rear-Admiral C.H.J. Harcourt, CBE, RN, struck his flag in HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN).

HMS Mauritius then left Malta for Gibraltar around 1715A/24. (19)

26 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 1230A/26, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Gibraltar from Malta. She arrived at Gibraltar which boiler defects which were then taken in hand for repairs. (19)

28 Dec 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0915A/28, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Gibraltar to patrol in the North Atlantic on an anti-blockade breaker patrol.

[For more info see the event ' Attempted interception, as part of Operation Stonewall, of the German blockade breaker Osorno, interception of the German blockade breaker Alsterufer and subsequent action on 28 December 1943, between HMS Glasgow and HMS Enterprise and German destroyers and torpedo boats ' for 23 December 1943.] (19)

2 Jan 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 1115A/2, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Plymouth from anti-blockade breaker patrol. (21)

9 Jan 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted D/G trials at Plymouth.

She then departed Plymouth for Gibraltar around 1845A/15. (21)

13 Jan 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0845A/13, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Gibraltar from Plymouth. (21)

18 Jan 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0100A/18, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) anchored in Gibraltar Bay.

She entered harbour around 0900A/18. (21)

19 Jan 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1800A/19, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Gibraltar for Malta. (21)

21 Jan 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1630A/21, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Malta from Gibraltar. (21)

23 Jan 1944
Around 1715A/23, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Malta for Naples where she arrived around 0750A/24. (21)

24 Jan 1944
Around 1440A/24, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operation zone to the south of Anzio.

At 1730A/24, fire was opened on a coastal road near Terracina. Fire was ceased at 1742A/24.

At 2108A/24, fire was again opened on a coastal road near Terracina. Fire was ceased at 2130A/24.

At 2300A/24, fire was again opened on a coastal road near Terracina. Fire was ceased at 2320A/24.

At 0347A/25, fire was again opened on a coastal road near Terracina. Fire was ceased at 0408A/25.

At 0615A/25, HMS Mauritius was joined by HMS Inglefield (A/Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, DSC, RN) which had also been operating and bombarding in the area having also arrived on the 24th from Naples.

At 0908A/25, fire was again opened on a coastal road near Terracina. Intermittent bombardment was carried out on this target throughout the entire forenoon. Fire was ceased at 1204A/25 and HMS Mauritius proceeded to seaward to return to Naples.

Around 1625A/25, HMS Mauritius anchored in Naples Bay. HMS Inglefield also returned to Naples in the afternoon of the 25th. (21)

27 Jan 1944
Around 0400A/27, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operation zone off Formia.

Around 0700A/27, she was joined by HMS Kempenfelt (Lt.Cdr. J.B. Marjoribanks, RN).

Around 0810A/27, HMS Kempenfelt was ordered to act independently.

At 1040A/27, fire was opened on a crossroads east of Formia. Fire was ceased at 1115A/27. Direct hits had been reported by the forward conroller.

At 1150A/27, fire was opened on enemy mechanised infantery on a road near Formia. Fire was ceased after 12 minutes.

At 1335A/27, fire was opened on Formia. Fire on this target was checked at 1340A/27 when fire was shifted to a coastal battery near Gaeta. Fire was checked on 1500A/27.

At 1520A/27, fire was opened on enemy motor transport. Fire was checked 40 minutes later.

At 1645A/27, fire was opened on enemy gun positions near Formia. Fire was ceased at 1656A/27 after which HMS Mauritius retired to seaward.

At 0135A/28, HMS Mauritius returned to the vicinity of Formia.

At 0310A/28, fire was opened on a crossroad near Formia. Fire was ceased after 15 minutes.

At 0425A/28, fire was opened on a village. Fire was checked at 0453A/28.

At 0445A/28, fire was re-opened on the crossroad near Formia which had already been bombarded earlier that morning. Fire was checked aftr four minutes.

At 0500A/28, fire was opened on Formia. Fire was ceased at 0505A/28.

At 0510A/28, HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

Around 0715A/28, HMS Mauritius was joined by HMS Inglefield (A/Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, DSC, RN).

At 0825A/28, HMS Mauritius arrived back off Formia.

At 0950A/28, fire was opened on enemy gun positions near Gaeta. Such targets were now carried out intermittently during thee forenoon. Fire was ceased at 1225A/28.

At 1335A/28, fire was opened on enemy motor transport on the Formia - Gaeta road. Fire was checked at 1358A/28.

At 1407A/28, Fire was opened on enemy gun positions near Formia. At 1418A/28, an enemy shell landed close to HMS Mauritius. Fire was ceased at 1438A/28.

At 1559A/28, Fire was opened on Castellonorato. Fire was ceased after 31 minutes.

At 1720A/28, HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

At 0250A/29, arrived back off the coast near Castellonorato. Fire was opened on this place at 0312A/29 but fire was checked after 3 minutes.

At 0317A/29, fire was opened on a crossroads. Fire was ceased after 5 minutes.

At 0330A/29, HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward to return to Naples.

Around 1245A/29, HMS Mauritius anchored in Naples Bay. (21)

5 Feb 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0545A/5, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples Bay for the operation zone off Formia.

At 1035A/5, fire was opened on enemy batteries near Gaeta. Fire was ceased after 13 minutes.

At 1110A/5, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was ceased at 1135A/5.

At 1158A/5, fire was opened on enemy motor transport near Formia. Fire was ceased after 16 minutes.

At 1330A/5, HMS Mauritius was taken under fire by German shore batteries thought to be of 6" in calibre. All shells fell short.

At 1400A/5, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was ceased at 1445A/5. This bombardment was resumed at 1626A/5. Fire was ceased at 1706A/5.

At 1714A/5, HMS Mauritius retired to seaward to return to Naples Bay.

At 1915A/5, HMS Mauritius dropped anchor in Pozzuoli Bay. (22)

6 Feb 1944
Around 0620A/6, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Pozzuoli Bay for the operation zone off Formia.

At 1004A/6, fire was opened on an enemy battery near Formia. Fire was ceased after 16 minutes.

At 1058A/6, fire was opened on enemy guns near Formia. Fire was ceased after 17 minutes.

At 1249A/6, fire was opened on an enemy gun positions near Formia. Fire was checked at 1305A/6 and fire was shifted to an adjacent battery and re-opened fire at 1318A/6. Fire was ceased at 1345A/6.

At 1330A/6, HMS Mauritius came under fire from enemy batteries. By 1352A/6, the enemy had found the range so HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

At 1525A/6, HMS Mauritius retook position to resume her bombardment duties.

At 1530A/6, fire was opened on enemy gun positions. Fire was ceased after 10 minutes.

At 1543A/6, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was checked at 1554A/6.

At 1558A/6, fire was opened on an enemy battery. Fire was ceased after 12 minutes.

At 1700A/6, HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

At 2116A/6, HMS Mauritius retook position to resume her bombardment duties.

At 2125A/6, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was checked at 2140A/6.

At 2230A/6, fire was opened on Formia. Fire was checked at 2240A/6.

At 2352A/6, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was checked after three minutes to shift fire to the town of Formia on which fire was opened on immediately afterwards. Fire was checked at 2358A/6 after which HMS Mauritius set course to proceed to Pozzuoli Bay where she dropped anchor around 0200A/7. (22)

7 Feb 1944
Around 0645A/7, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Pozzuoli Bay for the operation zone off Formia.

At 0950A/7, fire was opened on enemy motor transport and troop concentrations near Gaeta. Fire was ceased at 1025A/7.

At 1130A/7, fire was opened on enemy gun positions with the aid of air spotting. Fire was ceased at 1150A/7.

At 1145A/7, HMS Mauritius came under fire from enemy shore batteries thought to be 8" in calibre. After fire had been ceased at 1150A/7 HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

At 1400A/7, HMS Mauritius retook position for bombardment duties.

At 1405A/7, fire was opened on an enemy battery near Gaeta.

At 1420A/7, HMS Mauritius came under fire from enemy shore batteries. Enemy fire was very accurate so at 1425A/7, HMS Mauritius ceased firing and withdrew to seaward.

At 2155A/7, HMS Mauritius retook position for bombardment duties.

At 2210A/7, fire was opened on a crossroads near Formia. Fire was ceased after 32 minutes.

At 2245A/7, fire was opened on the town of Formia. Fire was ceased after 20 minutes.

At 2310A/7, HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward to proceed to Naples where she arrived around 0115A/8. (22)

10 Feb 1944
Around HMS Dido (Capt. J. Terry, RN) and HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operations area near Anzio.

At 1015A/10, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy batteries. Fire was ceased after 15 minutes as poor visibility made observation difficult.

At 1100A/10, HMS Mauritius came under fire from enemy shore batteries and she withdrew to seaward.

At 1305A/10, HMS Mauritius commenced to close the land to take up a position for bombardment duties.

Between 1315A/10 and 1505A/10, HMS Dido conducted two bombardments (area shoots).

At 1320A/10, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy troop concentrations. Fire was ceased after 15 minutes.

At 1444A/10, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy gun positions. Fire was ceased after 8 minutes.

At 1455A/10, HMS Mauritius proceeded to seaward where she, shortly afterwards, took station astern of HMS Dido and they then set course to return to Naples where they arrived around 1915A/10. (23)

16 Feb 1944
Around 0600A/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operation zone off Formia.

At 0830A/16, she arrived in the operations area.

At 0920A/16, fire was opened on enemy gun positions near Formia.

At 1002A/16, HMS Mauritius came under fire from an enemy shore battery. Fire was then ceased and HMS Mauritius retired to seaward while making smoke.

At 1105A/16, HMS Mauritius took position to resume bombardment duties.

At 1115A/16, fire was opened on enemy gun positions with the aid of air spotting. Fire was ceased at 1238A/16.

At 1240A/16, HMS Mauritius came under fire from enemy batteries. Shells landed close by. HMS Mauritius withdrew to seaward.

At 1335A/16, HMS Mauritius closed the land to resume a position for bombardment duties.

At 1355A/16, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy motor transport on the coastal road to the east of Formia. Fire was ceased at 1435A/16.

At 1443A/16, HMS Mauritius again came under fire by an enemy shore battery but the ememy failed to get the range.

At 1538A/16, fire was opened on enemy gun positions near Gaeta. At 1620A/16, fire was ceased.

At 1645A/16, HMS Mauritius proceeded to seaward to proceed to Pozzuoli Bay where she dropped anchor shortly before 1830A/16. She proceeded to Naples the following day. (22)

18 Feb 1944
Around 0555A/18, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operation zone off Formia.

At 0758A/18, she arrived in the operations area.

At 0950A/18, she opened fire on enemy gun positions near Formia.

At 1015A/18, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) came under fairly accurate enemy fire from a shore battery and she withdrew to seaward.

At 1105A/18, the bombardment was resumed for 10 minutes. On completion of this bombardment course was set for Anzio.

At 1128A/18, an enemy battery opened fire but it failed to find the range.

At 1615A/18, HMS Mauritius opened fire on a building in Anzio suspected of being a German headquarters. Fire was ceased after 20 minutes. The forward observer had reported direct hits on the target.

At 1640A/18, HMS Mauritius withdrew from the Anzio area.

At 1800A/18, HMS Grenville (Capt. H.P. Henderson, RN) and HMS Inglefield (A/Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, DSC, RN) joined company for an anti-shipping sweep to the northward of 41°30'N but they sighted nothing.

At 0815A/19, the destroyers parted company with the cruiser.

HMS Mauritius dropped anchor in Naples Bay at 0915A/19. (22)

3 Mar 1944
Around 0430A/3, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for the operation zone off Anzio.

At 0535A/3, HMS Mauritius was joined by HMS Atherstone (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR) and HMS Exmoor (Lt. D.D. Howson, RN) and formed a screen.

At 0630A/3, USS Hilary P. Jones (T/Cdr. F.M. Stiesberg, USN) joined the screen.

At 1045A/3, HMS Mauritius commenced a bombardment of an enemy ammunition dump. USS Hilary P. Jones and HMS Atherstone covered the cruiser with smoke while HMS Exmoor conducted A/S patrol on the seaward side.

At 1110A/3, HMS Mauritius ceased fire.

At 1120A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy gun positions. Fire was ceased after 12 minutes.

At 1140A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on other enemy gun positions. Fire was ceased after 8 minutes.

At 1158A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on an enemy shore battery. Fire was ceased after 12 minutes.

At 1414A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on enemy gun positions. Fire was ceased after 14 minutes.

At 1437A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on an enemy shore battery. Fire was ceased after 16 minutes.

At 1500A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on the town of Ardea. Fire was ceased after 18 minutes.

At 1526A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on an enemy troop concentration. Fire was ceased after 22 minutes.

At 1555A/3, HMS Mauritius opened fire on an enemy gun position. Fire was ceased after 10 minutes.

At 1609A/3, HMS Mauritius came under inaccurate enemy fire from the shore.

At 1622A/3, HMS Mauritius and her screening destroyers retired to seaward after which course was set for Naples where they arrived shortly before 2230A/3. (24)

11 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1830A/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Naples for Malta. (24)

12 Mar 1944
Around 0950A/12, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Malta from Naples. On arrival she immediately entered No.4 graving dock at the Malta Dockyard. She was docked down the following day. (24)

28 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is undocked. (24)

30 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0545A/30, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Malta for Algiers.

HMS Mauritius is to proceed to the U.K. for a short refit during which the main focus was to be to update her radar outfit. (24)

31 Mar 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1000A/31, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Algiers from Malta. (24)

1 Apr 1944
Around 0005A/1, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Algiers for Gibraltar where she arrived around 2135A/1. (25)

2 Apr 1944
Around 0130A/2, the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Gibraltar for Sheerness proceeding through the Irish Sea, Minches and then down the east coast of thee U.K.

Around 0600B/7, she was joined by the escort destroyer HMS Cattistock (Lt. R.G.D. Keddie, DSC, RN).

Around 0930B/7, HMS Cattistock developed engine trouble. She came alongside half an hour later to transfer some officers and then parted company.

Around 1500B/7, the destroyer HMS Windsor (Lt. L.R.P. Lawford, DSC, RN) joined company.

Around 1520B/7, HMS Windsor parted company.

Around 1630B/7, HMS Mauritius arrived at Sheerness. (25)

9 Apr 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) proceeded from Sheerness to the Chatham Dockyard where she was taken in hand for a short refit the following day. (25)

11 May 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
With her short refit completed HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) proceeded from the Chatham Dockyard to Sheerness. (26)

12 May 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0530B/12, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Sheerness for Scapa Flow. She is escorted until 1745A/12 by HMS Fernie (Lt. J.A. Tricker, RN).

HMS Mauritius arrived at Scapa Flow the following morning and then carried out gunnery exercises in the flow on completion of which she immediately departed for Greenock. (26)

14 May 1944
Around 1045B/14, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Greenock. On arrival D/G trials were carried out off Helensburg.

On the arrival of HMS Mauritius, Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN, transferred his flag from HMS Warspite (Capt. M.H.A. Kelsey, DSC, RN) to HMS Mauritius. (26)

16 May 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) conducted bombardment exercises in the Clyde area. (26)

17 May 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) conducted bombardment exercises in the Clyde area. (26)

18 May 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) conducted bombardment exercises in the Clyde area on completion of which she set course for Scapa Flow. (26)

19 May 1944
Around 1745B/19, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow from the Clyde. Before entering AA gunnery exercises were carried out. (26)

20 May 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) conducted exercises at and later off Scapa Flow. (26)

21 May 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1625A/21, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) departed Scapa Flow for Greenock. (26)

22 May 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0950A/22, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) arrived at Greenock from Scapa Flow. (26)

6 Jun 1944
Around 0515B/6, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) arrived in her assigned position just to the east of Sword Beach.

Shortly after arrival enemy ships were seen to the eastward and at 0530B/6, HMS Mauritius opened fire on them. This were the German torpedo boats T 28, Möwe and Jaguar which had fired torpedoes into the operations area. They later returned to Le Havre.

At 0818B/6, fire was opened on enemy infantry. A total of 11 rounds were fired.

At 0904B/6, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 42 rounds were fired.

At 1730B/6, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 26 rounds were fired.

At 1944B/6, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 150 rounds were fired.

At 2136B/6, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 84 rounds were fired.

At 2235B/6, HMS Mauritius anchored for the night. (27)

7 Jun 1944
Around 0555B/7, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor and got underway for bombardment duties in the Sword area.

Around 1110B/7, HMS Mauritius anchored in the Sword Area.

At 1541B/7, fire was opened on a shore target. A total of 38 rounds were fired.

At 1611B/7, fire was opened on a shore target. A total of 4 rounds were fired.

At 1626B/7, fire was opened on a shore target. A total of 42 rounds were fired.

At 1731B/7, fire was opened on a shore target. A total of 11 rounds were fired.

At 1800B/7, fire was opened on a shore target. A total of 15 rounds were fired.

At 2025B/7, fire was opened on a shore target (machine gun nests). A total of 114 rounds were fired.

At 2107B/7, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 41 rounds were fired.

At 2115B/7, anchor was weighed and HMS Mauritius proceeded to her night anchorage in the Sword Area where she dropped anchor at 2140B/7.

At 2247B/7, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 37 rounds were fired. (28)

8 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0955B/8, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed one anchor and pointed the ship for bombardment duties in the Sword area.

At 1130B/8, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 19 rounds were fired.

At 1200B/8, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 118 rounds were fired.

At 1317B/8, fire was opened on enemy infantry and machine gun nests. A total of 21 rounds were fired.

At 1710B/8, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and got underway to provide cover for minesweepers operating near Le Havre. German shore batteries did not open fire.

At 2057B/8, anchored for the night in the Sword Area. (28)

9 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0835B/9, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor and got underway to take up another position in the Sword Area. She anchored in this new position at 0850B/9.

At 0856B/9, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 42 rounds were fired.

At 0904B/9, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 42 rounds were fired.

At 0913B/9, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 42 rounds were fired.

At 1150B/9, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 21 rounds were fired.

At 1157B/9, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 26 rounds were fired.

At 1439B/9, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 22 rounds were fired.

At 2107B/9, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and got underway for a new position in the Caen Roads where she anchored around 2122B/9. (28)

10 Jun 1944
Around 0950B/10, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor and got underway to take up another position in the Sword Area. She anchored in this new position at 1005B/10.

No bombardments were carried out during the day.

At 2010B/10, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and shifted position. She anchored in this new position at 2028B/10.

At 2215B/10, HMS Mauritius went to action stations and one minute later she weighed anchor and got underway to intercept two enemy destroyers reported to have left Le Havre. No contact was however made and it was thought that the enemy had returned to Le Havre. [no enemy destroyers / torpedo boats were however in the area at this time.] Enemy motor torpedo boats did depart Le Havre that evening but only later.

At 2350B/10, HMS Mauritius anchored again in the anchorage in the Sword Area. (28)

11 Jun 1944
Around 0815B/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor and got underway to take up another position in the Sword Area. She anchored in this new position at 0827B/11.

At 1900B/11, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 25 rounds were fired.

At 2030B/11, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and got underway for a new position in the Sword Area where she anchored at 2045B/11. HMS Mauritius remained in this position on the 12th which was a quiet day during which no bombardments were carried out. (28)

13 Jun 1944
At 0025B/13, a lone enemy aircraft dropped a stick of bombs near HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN). Some superficial damage was sustained from splinters. At 1109B/13, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 17 rounds were fired.

At 1140B/13, fire was opened on enemy infantry. A total of 47 rounds were fired.

At 1519B/13, fire was opened on an enemy building. A total of 67 rounds were fired.

At 1657B/13, fire was opened on enemy infantry. A total of 18 rounds were fired.

At 1913B/13, fire was opened on an enemy building. A total of 46 rounds were fired.

At 2018B/13, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 42 rounds were fired. (28)

14 Jun 1944
At 1139B/14, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) opened fire on an enemy building. A total of 22 rounds were fired.

At 1227B/14, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 16 rounds were fired.

At 1614B/14, fire was opened on an enemy building. A total of 32 rounds were fired.

At 1649B/14, fire was opened on enemy buildings, guns and mortars. A total of 15 rounds were fired.

At 1750B/14, fire was opened on enemy buildings, guns and mortars. A total of 15 rounds were fired.

At 1825B/14, fire was opened on an enemy headquarters. A total of 22 rounds were fired.

At 1841B/14, fire was opened on an enemy headquarters. A total of 34 rounds were fired.

At 1951B/14, fire was opened on a crossroads. A total of 8 rounds were fired.

At 2003B/14, fire was opened on a village. A total of 7 rounds were fired.

At 2053B/14, fire was opened on an enemy headquarters. A total of 15 rounds were fired.

At 2123B/14, fire was opened on an enemy headquarters. A total of 9 rounds were fired.

At 2240B/14, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and got underway for the Juno area where she anchored around 2330B/14. (28)

15 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0020B/15, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor to return to the Sword Area where she anchored around 0140B/15.

At 1021B/15, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 31 rounds were fired.

At 1205B/15, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 36 rounds were fired.

At 1345B/15, Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN, temporary transferred to HMS Ajax (Capt. J.J. Weld, MVO, RN).

At 1400B/15, HMS Mauritius departed the Sword Area for Spithead where she arrived around 1830B/15 to re-ammunition which was completed by 0700B/16. She also fuelled. (28)

16 Jun 1944
Around 1445B/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for the Sword Area.

Around 1905B/16, HMS Mauritius anchored in the Sword Area.

Around 2000B/16, Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN, transferred from HMS Ajax (Capt. J.J. Weld, MVO, RN) to HMS Mauritius. (28)

17 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 1225B/17, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) opened fire on enemy guns. A total of 8 rounds were fired.

At 1516B/17, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 19 rounds were fired.

At 1704B/17, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 35 rounds were fired.

At 1748B/17, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 46 rounds were fired.

At 1818B/17, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 41 rounds were fired. (28)

18 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0755B/18, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) weighed anchor and proceeded to a position off Ouistreham where she dropped anchor around 0844B/18.

At 0921B/18, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 15 rounds were fired.

At 1030B/18, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 20 rounds were fired.

At 1225B/18, fire was opened. This was an area bombardment in which 28 rounds were fired.

At 1350B/18, fire was opened on enemy troops. A total of 18 rounds were fired.

At 1438B/18, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 17 rounds were fired.

At 1513B/18, fire was opened on enemy guns. A total of 25 rounds were fired.

Around 1950B/18, HMS Mauritius weighed anchor and got underway to proceed to the Juno Area.

Around 2055B/18, HMS Mauritius dropped anchor in the Juno Area. (28)

21 Jun 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1215B/21, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN) and HMS Ajax (Capt. J.J. Weld, MVO, RN) departed the operations area for Spithead where they arrived shortly after 1700B/21.

At 1800B/21, Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN, struck his flag and he and his staff then left HMS Mauritius. (28)

18 Jul 1944
Around 0200B/18, HMS Enterprise (Capt. A.T.G.C. Peachey, DSO, RN) and HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for the coastal area near Caen. Apparently HNoMS Stord (Lt.Cdr. H. Øi), which had completed repairs at Portsmouth, was in company.

Shortly before noon the cruisers, together with HMS Roberts (A/Capt.(Retd.) R.E.C. Dunbar, RN) and LCI(G)'s opened fire on enemy targets in the Caen area in support of the army.

Support was given throughout the day in various bombardments. (29)

19 Jul 1944
In the evening, HMS Enterprise (Capt. A.T.G.C. Peachey, DSO, RN) and HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) carried out bombardments of enemy targets in the Caen area in support of the army.

On completion of her bombardment duties HMS Mauritius departed the area to proceed to Spithead where she arrived around 0610B/20. (29)

26 Jul 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0840B/26, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for Portland where she arrived around 1615B/26. En-route full power trials and 4" HA gunnery exercises had been carried out. (30)

27 Jul 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted gunnery exercises off Portland. (30)

28 Jul 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1530B/28, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Portland for Spithead where she arrived around 1850B/28. En-route and anti E-boat exercise was carried out. (30)

2 Aug 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0830B/2, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for Portland where she arrived around 1600B/2. Before entering harbour gunnery exercises were carried out. (31)

3 Aug 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted 4" HA gunnery and torpedo firing exercises off Portland. (31)

4 Aug 1944
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted 4" HA gunnery exercises off Portland on completion of which she proceeded to Spithead where she arrived around 1430B/4. (31)

11 Aug 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1625B/11, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for Plymouth where she arrived around 2230B/11. (31)

13 Aug 1944
Around 1100B/13, Force 27, made up of the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and the destroyers HMS Ursa (Cdr. D.B. Wyburd, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth for patrol in the Bay of Biscay along the French coast from Chausse de Sein reef (near Brest) to the Gironde.

During the night of 13/14 August, Force 27 carried out a sweep from Belle Ile to Les Sables-d'Olonne. Only one fishing vessel was encountered. At daylight they altered their patrol to between position 47°00'N, 03°20'W and Roche Bonne. By 2300B/14, Force 27 had closed the Gironde estuary, sweeping towards Ile d'Yeu during the night.

At 0245B/15, an enemy convoy, made up of one destroyer or torpedo boat, one medium sized merchant ship, one small merchant ship and possibly one minesweeper was engaged to the south of Les Sables-d'Olonne. One merchant ship was driven ashore but the remainder of the convoy, though well shot up, escaped into La Pallice. [The logbook of HMS Mauritius mentions that at this time two ships were engaged.]

When both inside and outside the Pertius Breton, Force 27, came under continuous and fairly accurate fire from a coastal battery.

At 0510B/15, another ship described as a small tanker was heavily damaged and driven ashore just north of Les Sables-d'Olonne.

About an hour and a half later Force 27 engaged a convoy made up of a Sperrbrecher, a medium sized merchant ship and two M-class minesweepers.

The action lasted until 0750B/15 at which time some of the enemy had been driven ashore and all were on fire.

Force 27 continued to patrol throughout the day between Ile d'Yeu and Ile de Glenan subsequently searching the area from Penmarch to Ile d'Yeu during the night but nothing was sighted.

At 1047B/16, Force 27 reported having seen nothing during their night patrol between Belle Ile and Ile d'Yeu. a small calibre coast battery had been engaged at 1000B/16 and return fire was silenced.

At 1100B/16, Force 27 left patrol to return to Plymouth where they arrived around 0630B/17.

The ships encountered at 0245B/15 were the German torpedo boat T 24 and the seaplane tender Richthofen which escaped with damage.

The ships encountered around 0700B/15 were the minesweepers M 275, M 385, Sperrbrecher 157. During the action M 385 was sunk and Sperrbrecher 157 was beached. M 275 escaped with damage. (32)

20 Aug 1944
Around 1600B/20, Force 27, made up of the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and the destroyers HMS Ursa (Cdr. D.B. Wyburd, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth for patrol in the Bay of Biscay along the French coast from Ile d'Yeu to the Gironde.

During 21 August 1944, Force 27 extended their patrol as far south as Arcachon (Cap Ferret) in the hope of intercepting shipping between the Gironde and Bayonne but they sighted nothing. In the evening when they were back north a small calibre shore battery near Les Sables-d'Olonne opened up an ineffective fire on them.

On 22 August 1944, Force 27 continued their patrol passing through position 47°48'N, 04°32'W at 2200B/22 and then proceeded on a sweep in Audierne Bay until daylight on 23 August 1944.

During the sweep, at 0205B/23, they encountered enemy vessels thought to be a flak ship, a M-class minesweeper and a small merchant vessel. They were all sunk.

By 0310B/23, more ships had been encountered and it was thought one medium and one small merchant ship had been sunk as well as a minesweeper and two flak ships.

During the engagement Force 27 had also been fired upon by enemy shore batteries but no damage was done to any of HM ships.

The ships engaged by Force 27 were seven auxiliary patrol vessels from the 7th VP Flotilla on passage from Brest to the southwards. All were sunk (or beached ?) during the engagement, the ships in question were; V 702, V 714, V 717, V 720, V 721, V 729 and V 730.

At 1615B/23, HMS Ursa, which had on board 12 POW's as well as captured charts and other documents was detached to Plymouth where she arrived around 2215B/23.

The remainder of Force 27 (HMS Mauritius and HMCS Iroquois) then resumed patrol in Audierne Bay but by 1915B/23 they had seen nothing and course was set to return to Plymouth where they arrived at 0630B/24. (32)

25 Aug 1944
Around 2030B/25, Force 27, made up of the light cruiser HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) and the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard DSC, RCN) and HMS Kelvin (Lt.Cdr. R.M.W. MacFarlan, RN) departed Plymouth for patrol in the Bay of Biscay between Arcachon and 47°00'N.

During the night of 25/26 August they encountered nothing between Ile d'Yeu and the Gironde. From daylight they swept northward from Cap Ferret, again finding no sign of the enemy. A shore battery (from approximate position 45°25'N, 01°09'W) fired on them but no damage was sustained.

At 1400B/26, they closed Ile d'Yeu to find French flags flying from all buildings. Force 27 investigated and found out that the German garrison of about 600 strong had been evacuated the previous day. A small party with a W/T set was then landed by HMCS Iroquois.

The area between Ile d'Yeu and the Gironde was patrolled during the forenoon. Again nothing was sighted from the enemy. During the night of 26/27 Force 27 patrolled between Ile d'Yeu and Les Sables-d'Olonne after which they proceeded to patrol in / off Audierne Bay where they also patrolled during the night of 28/29 August. Again nothing was sighted and course was set for Plymouth at daylight on the 29th.

Force 27 arrived at Plymouth around 1430B/29. (32)

30 Aug 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1015B/30, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Plymouth for Spithead where she arrived around 1645B/30. (31)

31 Aug 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Rear-Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, RN, hoisted his flag in HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN). (31)

5 Sep 1944
Rear-Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, RN, struck his flag no board HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN). (33)

6 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0045B/6, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Spithead for Plymouth where she arrived around 0930B/6. (34)

11 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is docked at the Devonport Dockyard. (34)

14 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) is undocked. (34)

20 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted gunnery and torpedo firing exercises off Plymouth. (34)

21 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted 4" HA and close range AA gunnery as well as torpedo firing exercises off Plymouth. (34)

27 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted gunnery exercises off Plymouth. (34)

28 Sep 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted 4" HA and close range AA gunnery exercises off Plymouth. (34)

4 Oct 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted gunnery and torpedo firing exercises off Plymouth. (35)

12 Oct 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
During 12/13 October 1944, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) conducted gexercises off Plymouth with destroyers. (35)

16 Oct 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0840A/16, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) departed Plymouth for Scapa Flow. (35)

17 Oct 1944 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 1430A/17, HMS Mauritius (Capt. W.W. Davis, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Plymouth. (35)

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