Allied Warships

HMS Battler (D 18)

Escort Carrier of the Attacker class

Navy	The Royal Navy
Type	Escort Carrier
Class	Attacker
Pennant	D 18
Built by	Ingalls Shipbuilding Corp. (Pascagoula, Mississippi, U.S.A.)
Ordered
Laid down	15 Apr 1941
Launched	4 Apr 1942
Commissioned	31 Oct 1942
End service	12 Feb 1946
History	Transferred to the Royal Navy under lend-lease. Returned to the United States Navy on 12 February 1946. Stricken by the United States Navy on 28 March 1946. Sold to be broken up for scrap on 14 May 1946.
Former name	USS Altamaha (i)

Commands listed for HMS Battler (D 18)

Please note that we're still working on this section
and that we only list Commanding Officers for the duration of the Second World War.

	Commander	From	To
1	A/Capt. Frank Michael Rokeby Stephenson, RN	Apr 1942	27 Oct 1944
2	A/Capt. Hilary Norman, RN	27 Oct 1944	Oct 1945 ?

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Notable events involving Battler include:

This page, displaying the wartime history of HMS Battler, was created in August 2024.

[Note: information regarding operations by the Fleet Air Arm (FAA) aircraft of HMS Battler is not complete on this page. Further research from first hand sources, read original documents from the National Archives, will have to be undertaken in the (far) future.]

31 Oct 1942
At 1500R/31, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is commissioned at Pascagoula, Mississippi, USA. (1)

9 Nov 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Pascagoula, Mississippi for New Orleans, Louisiana. She was escorted by the patrol vessels USCGC 83349 and USCGC 83351.

She arrived at New Orleans early the following day. (2)

11 Nov 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted compass adjustment and D/G trials at New Orleans. (1)

14 Nov 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted D/G trials at New Orleans. (1)

15 Nov 1942
Around 1515R/15, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed New Orleans for Norfolk, Virginia. She was escorted by aircraft. (1)

17 Nov 1942
Around 2030R/17, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Key West from New Orleans. She had suffered engine failure during the passage. (1)

18 Nov 1942
Around 0430Q/18, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Key West to continue her passage to Norfolk, Virginia. She joined convoy KN 209 for the passage.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy KN 209 ' for 18 November 1942.] (1)

18 Nov 1942

Convoy KN 209.

This convoy departed Key West on 18 November 1942.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Cacalilao (American (tanker), 7045 GRT, built 1919), Camaguey (Cuban, 1399 GRT, built 1931), Chirripo (Hunduran, 5357 GRT, built 1920), City of Philadelphia (American, 2674 GRT, built 1919), Daniel Boone (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Empire Gold (British (tanker), 8028 GRT, built 1941), Empire Opal (British (tanker), 9811 GRT, built 1941), Empire Porpoise (British, 7592 GRT, built 1918), Gulfmaid (American (tanker), 5225 GRT, built 1917), Gulfwing (American (tanker), 10217 GRT, built 1928), Henry M. Dawes (American (tanker), 4788 GRT, built 1916), Julian Alonso (Cuban, 1027 GRT, built 1908), Jurko Topic (Yugoslavian, 5202 GRT, built 1919), L. L. Abshire (American (tanker), 6785 GRT, built 1917), Pan-Georgia (American (tanker), 8197 GRT, built 1919), Polartank (Norwegian (tanker), 6356 GRT, built 1930), Schuylkill (British (tanker), 8965 GRT, built 1928), Solarium (British, 6239 GRT, built 1936), Watertown (American (tanker), 6408 GRT, built 1919) and William Penn (American (tanker), 8440 GRT, built 1921).

The new-built escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) was also taking passage in this convoy.

The convoy was escorted by the gunboat USS Plymouth (T/Cdr. F.W. Schmidt, USN), patrol vessels USS Calypso (?), USCGC Pandora (?), USS PC-546 (Lt. W.L. Dommerich, USNR) and USS PC-548 (Lt. D.C. Drinkwater, USNR).

The convoy arrived at New York on 23 November 1942. Some ships may have been detached from the convoy during the passage though. (3)

22 Nov 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived in Chesapeake Bay after having been detached from convoy KN 209. She proceeded to the Norfolk Navy Yard the following day. (1)

28 Nov 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is docked at the Norfolk Navy Yard. (1)

2 Dec 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is undocked. (4)

11 Dec 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted D/G trials in Chesapeake Bay. She was escorted by the patrol vessels USCGC 83319 and USCGC 83330. (1)

12 Dec 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in Chesapeake Bay. She was escorted by the patrol vessels USCGC 83319 and USCGC 83330. (1)

13 Dec 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted D/F calibration, RDF calibration and compass adjustment trials in Chesapeake Bay. Also some flying exercises were carried out. She was escorted by the patrol vessels USCGC 83319 and USCGC 83330. (1)

14 Dec 1942
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in Chesapeake Bay. She was escorted by the patrol vessels USCGC 83319 and USCGC 83330. (1)

17 Dec 1942
Around 1310Q/17, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Norfolk for New York. She was escorted by a USN blimp. On board were new aircraft which she was to transport to the U.K. (1)

18 Dec 1942
Around 1345Q/18, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at New York from Norfolk. (1)

21 Dec 1942

Convoy HX 220.

This convoy departed New York on 21 December 1942.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Abangarez (American, 4538 GRT, built 1909), Andrew Moore (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Baharistan (British, 5479 GRT, built 1928), Cairnesk (British, 5007 GRT, built 1926), Consuelo (British, 4847 GRT, built 1937), Cornelius Harnett (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), Delius (British, 6065 GRT, built 1937), Fort Hudson's Hope (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942), Fort Paskoyac (British, 7134 GRT, built 1934), Fort Slave (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fort Wedderburne (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fred W. Weller (Amrican (tanker) 10626 GRT, built 1917), Gulf of Venezuela (American, 6910 GRT, 1919), Henri Jaspar (Belgian, 5760 GRT, built 1929), John Carver (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Mokambo (British, 4996 GRT, built 1938), Mosli (Norwegian (tanker), 8291 GRT, built 1935), N. T. Nielsen-Alonso (Norwegian, 9214 GRT, built 1900), Nicania (British (tanker), 8179 GRT, built 1942), Nicholas Gilman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Noesaniwi (Dutch, 6737 GRT, built 1936), Pachesham (British, 6085 GRT, built 1920), Pan-Rhode Island (American (tanker), 7742 GRT, built 1941), Silverash (British, 7750 GRT, built 1926), Southern Sun (American (tanker), 8893 GRT, built 1931), Stad Vlaardingen (Dutch, 8501 GRT, built 1925), Stuart Prince (British, 1911 GRT, built 1940), Thurland Castle (British, 6372 GRT, built 1929), Voco (British (tanker), 5090 GRT, built 1925) and Wallace E. Pratt (American (tanker), 7991 GRT, built 1937).

The escort carrier (in an aircraft ferry role) HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) was also part of the convoy.

On departure from New York the convoy was escorted by the destroyer HMS Warwick (Cdr. Y.M. Cleeves, DSO, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Buttercup (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Dawson, RD, RNR), HMS Columbine T/Lt. A.L. Turner, RNR), HMCS Dunvegan (T/Lt. J.A. Tullis, RCNR), HMCS Fennel (T/Lt. R.B. Warwick, RCNVR), HMCS Hepatica (T/A/Lt.Cdr. T. Gilmour, RCNR and the minesweeper HMCS Cowichan (T/Skr.Lt. K.W.N. Hall, RCNR).

The merchant vessel Gulf of Venezuela returned to New York.

On 24 December 1942, the Fred W. Weller and Wallace E. Pratt arrived at Halifax after having detached from the convoy. They were escorted to Halifax by HMCS Dunvegan, HMCS Fennel, HMCS Hepatica and HMCS Cowichan.

The following merchant vessels joined the convoy on 24 December coming from Halifax; Empire Tide (British, 6978 GRT, built 1941), Gdynia (Swedish, 1636 GRT, built 1934), Mathew Luckenbach (American, 7551 GRT, built 1918), Moveria (British, 4867 GRT, built 1935), Skaraas (Norwegian (tanker), 9826 GRT, built 1936), Tropic Star (Norwegian, 5047 GRT, built 1926) and Vav (Norwegian (tanker), 6415 GRT, built 1931). They were escorted by the corvettes HMCS Arrowhead (Cdr. E.G. Skinner, RCNR), HMCS Chicoutimi (T/Lt. H.G. Dupont, RCNR) and the minesweeper HMCS Digby (T/Lt. S.W. Howell, RCNR). The corvettes joined the convoy while HMS Digby returned to Halifax.

At 1200Z/26, the merchant vessel Good Gulf (Panamanian (tanker), 7805 GRT, built 1938) departed St. Johns to join the convoy. She was escorted by the corvette HMS Clover (Lt.Cdr. F.A. Shaw, RNR). They were joined at daylight on the 27th by the destroyers HMS Beverley (Cdr. E.C.L. Day, RN), HMS Winchelsea (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Gregorie, RD, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Abelia (T/Lt. F. Ardern, RNR), HMS Anemone (Lt.Cdr. P.G.A. King, RD, RNR), HMS Asphodel (Lt. H.P. Carse, DSC, RNVR) and HMS Lavender ( Lt. L.G. Pilcher, RNR) which had departed St. Johns around 1330Z/26. They all joined convoy HX 220 around 1200Z/27 in position 48°07'N, 48°42'W. All current escorts then parted company to proceed to St. Johns where they arrived on the 28th.

During the night of 27/28 December 1942, the Mathew Luckenbach and Tropic Star straggled from the convoy and never rejoined. They proceeded independently to the U.K.

On 28 December 1942, the Andrew Moore and Parcheshamparted company with the convoy to proceed to St. Johns due to defects.

At 1600Z/3, HMS Clover took over as Senior Officer of the escort as HMS Beverley and HMS Winchelsea parted company to proceed to Hvalfjord, Iceland to fuel. Attempts to fuel at sea from the Mosli had been not very successful with only a very limited amount of fuel being transferred to either of the destroyers due to the bad weather conditions. They arrived at Hvalfjord around 0845Z/5.

On 5 January 1943, HMS Clover was able to fuel from the Mosli.

On 6 January 1943, HMS Anemone was able to fuel from the Mosli.

Around 1600Z/6, HMS Battler and the Noesaniwi parted company with the convoy to proceed ahead of the main convoy to the U.K. They were escorted by HMS Asphodel and HMS Lavender which were short of fuel.

On 8 January 1943, the convoy arrived in U.K. waters and was divided in several sections which then proceeded to their respective destinations. (5)

8 Jan 1943
Around 1520A/8, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Campbeltown. (6)

9 Jan 1943
Around 1410A/9, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Campbeltown for Liverpool. (6)

10 Jan 1943
Around 1110A/10, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Liverpool from Campbeltown. (6)

12 Jan 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is taken in hand by the Harland & Wolff shipyard at Liverpool to suit her for RN requirements. (6)

3 Apr 1943
Around 1550A/3, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Liverpool for Greenock. (7)

4 Apr 1943
Around 1005A/4, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Greenock from Liverpool. (7)

6 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted compass adjustment trials at Greenock. (7)

8 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

9 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

10 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

12 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

13 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. Also full power and D/F calibration trials were carried out. (7)

14 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

15 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

16 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

17 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

18 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

19 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

20 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

21 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

22 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

23 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

24 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

27 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

28 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

29 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

30 Apr 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (7)

3 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

4 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

5 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

6 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. Also D/F calibration trails were carried out. (8)

7 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. Also D/F calibration trails were carried out. (8)

14 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying trials / exercises in the Clyde area. Also D/F calibration trails were carried out. (8)

15 May 1943
Around 2230B/15, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Greenock for Belfast. (8)

16 May 1943
Around 1100B/16, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Belfast from Greenock. (8)

27 May 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted D/G and compass adjustment trials in Bangor Bay. (8)

28 May 1943
Around 0455B/28, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Bangor Bay for Greenock where she arrived around 1150B/28. (8)

3 Jun 1943
Around 0450B/3, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Greenock for Belfast where she arrived around 1330B/3.

At Belfast, 22 fighter aircraft were embarked which she was to ferry to Gibraltar. Also on board were 7 Swordfish of FAA 835 Squadron and 4 Seafires of FAA 808 Squadron. These aircraft could be operated for convoy defence. (8)

5 Jun 1943
Around 1430B/5, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Belfast to join the combined convoy OS 49 / KMS 16G at sea. On leaving Bangor Bay she was joined by the destroyers HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN) and HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN).

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Combined convoy OS 49 / KMS 16G ' for 5 June 1943.] (9)

5 Jun 1943

Combined convoy OS 49 / KMS 16G.

This convoy was assembled off Oversay on 5 June 1943.

On assembly the convoy was made up of the following merchant vessels; Arlesford (British, 2472 GRT, built 1922), Antonio (British, 5225 GRT, built 1918), Armadale (British, 5066 GRT, built 1929), Bactria (British, 2407 GRT, built 1928), Baron Forbes (British, 3061 GRT, built 1915), Beaconsfield (British, 4635 GRT, built 1938), Belgian Airman (Belgian, 6960 GRT, built 1942), Biafra (British, 5405 GRT, built 1933), Briarwood (British, 4019 GRT, built 1930), Bruce M. (British, 1887 GRT, built 1927), Canara (British, 7024 GRT, built 1942), Cape Wrath (British, 4512 GRT, built 1940), Celtic Monarch (British, 5824 GRT, built 1929), Charlton Hall (British, 5200 GRT, built 1940), Clan Cameron (British, 7243 GRT, built 1937), Clan Campbell (British, 9545 GRT, built 1943), Clearpool (British, 5405 GRT, built 1935), Congonian (British, 5065 GRT, built 1936), Corvus (Norwegian, 1317 GRT, built 1921), Crackshot (British, 2379 GRT, built 1924), Dago (British, 1993 GRT, built 1917), Dan-Y-Bryn (British, 5117 GRT, built 1940), De la Salle (French, 8400 GRT, built 1921), Dunster Grange (British, 9494 GRT, built 1928), Eastern City (British, 5185 GRT, built 1941), Eastgate (British, 5032 GRT, built 1940), Elg (Norwegian, 4014 GRT, built 1930), Empire Baxter (British, 7024 GRT, built 1941), Empire Friendship (British, 7058 GRT, built 1943), Empire Gat (British, 871 GRT, built 1941), Empire Moon (British, 7472 GRT, built 1941), Empire Ortolan (British, 4970 GRT, built 1919), Empire Simba (British, 5691 GRT, built 1919), Empire Spinney (British, 871 GRT, built 1941), Empire Stalwart (British, 7045 GRT, built 1943), Empire Thackeray (British, 2865 GRT, built 1942), Empire Valour (British, 1906 GRT, built 1943), Empire Wolfe (British, 2888 GRT, built 1941), Fort Chipewyan (British, 7136 GRT, built 1942), Fort Louisbourg (British, 7130 GRT, built 1942), Gerard Dou (Dutch, 7242 GRT, built 1941), Helmwood (British, 2156 GRT, built 1923), Iddesleigh (British, 5205 GRT, built 1927), Ingleton (British, 7203 GRT, built 1942), Jan (Norwegain, 1946 GRT, built 1920), King Stephen (British, 5274 GRT, built 1928), Lesto (British, 1893 GRT, 1918), Lycaon (British, 7552 GRT, built 1913), Makedonia (Greek, 7044 GRT, built 1942), Makefjell (Norwegian, 1567 GRT, built 1932), Mathurda (British, 8890 GRT, built 1920), Meerkerk (Dutch, 7995 GRT, built 1916), Nebraska (British, 8261 GRT, built 1920), Nyanza (British, 4974 GRT, built 1928), Peebles (British, 4982 GRT, built 1936), Penrith Castle (British, 6369 GRT, built 1929), Princ Andrej (Yugoslavian, 5041 GRT, built 193), Princesa (British, 8731 GRT, built 1918), Rancher (British, 5882 GRT, built 1927), Salland (Dutch, 6447 GRT, built 1920), Sandown Castle (British, 7607 GRT, built 1921), Schiaffino (French, 3236 GRT, built 1920), Silverguava (British, 5305 GRT, built 1927), Somerville (Norwegian, 4265 GRT, built 1929), Speedfast (British, 1898 GRT, built 1924), St. Clears (British, 4312 GRT, built 1936), Sydland (Swedish, 5134 GRT, built 1920), Tahsinia (British, 7267 GRT, 1942), Testbank (British, 5083 GRT, built 1937), Theseus (British, 6527 GRT, built 1908), Urbino (British, 5198 GRT, built 1918), Vernon City (British, 4748 GRT, built 1929), Vinriver (British, 3881 GRT, built 1917) and Wearwood (British, 4597 GRT, built 1930).

The salvage vessel Salveda was also with the convoy as was the escort oiler / RFA tanker Oligargh (6897 GRT, built 1918).

On assembly off Oversay the convoy was escorted by the destroyer ORP Burza (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) F. Pitulko, ORP), sloop HMS Flores (Lt.Cdr. J.S. Bax, RNN), corvettes HMS Orchis (T/Lt. E.D.A. Dyer, RCNVR), HMS Narcissus (Lt. W.G.H. Bolton, RNR), FFS Aconit, FFS Lobelia, FFS Renoncule, FFS Roselys and the A/S trawler HMS Sapper (T/Lt. R.C. Lees, RNR).

The destroyer HMS Keppel (Cdr. M.J. Evans, OBE, RN) (Cdr. Evans was the Senior Officer of the escort) was unable to join on assembly due to water in her fuel oil, joined at 2030Z/5 in position 55°24'N, 08°12'W.

At 0400Z6, in position 55°07'N, 09°43'W, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and the destroyers HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN) and HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN) joined coming from Bangor Bay (Belfast).

At 2000Z/7, the Makefjell straggled from the convoy but she was soon able to rejoin.

On 8 June 1943, HMS Keppel, ORP Burza and HMS Tumult refuelled from the Oligargh taking 134, 61 and 120 tons respectively. At daylight on the 9th, HMS Tyrian also refuelled also taking 120 tons just like her sister ship had done the previous day.

At 1300Z/9, the light cruiser HMS Gambia (Capt. M.J. Mansergh, CBE, RN) was sighted which subsequently took up a position 35 miles to the eastward of the convoy.

At 0949Z/10, HMS Gambia reported that an enemy flying boat was approaching the convoy. This aircraft almost certainly sighted and reported the convoy. HMS Battler then launched two Seafires but unfortunately they hunted a friendly Whitley aircraft and the German aircraft was able to get away unmolested.

The following day, two seafires from HMS Battler almost attacked an aircraft that did not show IFF but was at the last moment seen to be a Catalina that had been sent for convoy protection from Gibraltar without the convoy being aware of this.

During 11 and 12 June 1943, all escorts, except FFS Renoncule and FFS Roselys were topped off with fuel by the Oligargh.

At 1910Z/12, in position 37°58'N, 12°02'W, the escort destroyer HMS Atherstone (Lt. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR) joined as additional escort.

At 2000Z/12, the merchant vessels Baron Forbes and Clearpool parted company with the convoy to proceed to Lisbon. They took HrMs Flores and FFS Roselys with them as escorts.

At 1300Z/13, in position 36°21'N, 10°26'W, the convoy split up into convoy OS 49 which was to proceed to Freetown and convoy KMS 16G which was to proceed to Gibraltar / enter the Meditteranean.

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Convoy OS 49 was made up of the following merchant vessels; Bactria, Briarwood, Celtic Monarch, Congonian, Dan-Y-Bryn, De la Salle, Dunster Grange, Elg, Empire Simba, Fort Louisbourg, Ingleton, Lycaon, Makedonia, Meerkerk, Nebraska, Penrith Castle, Princ Andrej, Princesa, Salland, Sandown Castle, Schiaffino, Silverguard, Sydland, Theseus, Urbino, Vernon City and Wearwood.

Of the escorts HMS Keppel, ORP Burza, HMS Orchis, HMS Narcissus, FFS Aconit and FFS Lobelia remained with convoy OS 49.

At 2125Z/13, in position 34°26'N, 10°10'W, the Silverguava was forced to stop to make engine repairs. She rejoined the convoy around noon on the 15th.

At 0800Z/14, in position 33°26'N, 9°49'W, the Gibraltar and Casablanca sections joined convoy OS 49.

The Gibraltar section, made up of the merchant vessels City of Auckland (British, 8336 GRT, built 1914), Clan MacBean (British, 5000 GRT, built 1918), Collegian (British, 7886 GRT, built 1923), Daldorch (British, 5571 GRT, built 1930), Manchester Citizen (British, 5343 GRT, built 1925) and Ocean Vanity (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942) had departed Gibraltar on 12 June and was escorted by the destroyer HMS Active (Lt.Cdr. P.G. Merriman, RN) and the A/S trawler HMS Foxtrot (T/Lt. J.B. Bald, RNVR).

The Casablanca section, made up of the merchant vessels Chelma (French, 4968 GRT, built 1920), Fort Jemseg (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), Fort Steele (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Grand Quevilly (French, 2844 GRT, built 1914) and Medie II (French, 5078 GRT, built 1922) had departed Casablanca on 13 June 1943 escorted by the patrol vessels USS PC-480 (Lt.(jg) F.W. Meyers, Jr., USNR) and USS PC-481 (Lt. D.R. Stoneleigh, USNR).

These patrol vessels then returned to Casablanca arriving on the 14th, taking the merchant vessels Dan-Y-Bryn and Ingleton with them.

On 19 June 1943, in position 19°15'N, 18°00'W, the merchant vessel Palacio (British, 1346 GRT, built 1927) and two ML's (unidentified) joined the convoy coming from Port Etienne.

At 2330Z/19, ORP Burza was detached to fuel at Dakar. She rejoined at 1300Z/20. HMS Keppel then left the convoy to also fuel at Dakar. The commanding officer of ORP Burza was then temporary the senior officer of the escort. HMS Keppel rejoined around 2100Z/20.

Around 1630Z/20, the following merchant vessels parted company to proceed to Dakar; Chelma, Fort Jemseg, Fort Steele, Grand Quevilly, Medie II and Palacio. They were escorted by the two (unidentified) ML's.

At 2000Z/20, in position 14°15'N, 17°53'W, with some delay, the following merchant vessels joined the convoy coming from Dakar; Fort Douglas (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942), Johilla (British, 4042 GRT, built 1937), Liss (Norwegian (tanker), 5932 GRT, built 1921) and Santa Margarita (American, 6507 GRT, built 1942). They were escorted by the corvettes HMS Snowdrop (T/Lt. W.A. Burnett, RNVR) and Commandant d'Estienne d'Orves which also joined the convoy.

At 0700Z/21, the corvette HMS Bellwort (A/Lt.Cdr. N.F.R. Gill, RNR) joined the convoy.

At 1000Z/21, in position 12°25'N, 17°38'W, the following merchant vessels joined the convoy coming from Bathurst; Empire Barrie (British, 7168 GRT, built 1942) and Empire Cougar (British, 5758 GRT, built 1919). They were escorted by the A/S trawler HMS Inkpen (T/Lt. H. Vernon, RNR) and three (unidentified) ML's. The Bactria was detached to Bathurst.

Starting at daylight on the 21st, some merchant vessels of the convoy were detached to proceed independently to their destinations.

On 23 June 1943 the remaining 16 ships of the convoy and the escort arrived at Freetown.

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Convoy KMS 16G was made up of the following merchant vessels; Arlesford, Antonio, Armadale, Beaconsfield, Belgian Airman, Biafra, Bruce M., Canara, Cape Wrath, Charlton Hall, Clan Cameron, Clan Campbell, Corvus, Crackshot, Dago, Eastern City, Eastgate, Empire Baxter, Empire Friendship, Empire Gat, Empire Moon, Empire Ortolan, Empire Spinney, Empire Stalwart, Empire Thackeray, Empire Valour, Empire Wolfe, Fort Chipewyan, Gerard Dou, Helmwood, Iddesleigh, Jan, King Stephen, Lesto, Makefjell, Mathurda, Nyanza, Peebles, Rancher, Somerville, Speedfast, St. Clears, Tahsinia, Testbank and Vinriver.

The Salveda and Oligrargh were also part of convoy KMS 16G.

Of the escorts HMS Battler, HMS Tyrian, HMS Tuscan, HMS Atherstone, FFS Renoncule and HMS Sapper remained with convoy KMS 16G.

At 1930Z/13, the destroyer HMS Velox (Lt. G.B. Barstow, RN) joined coming from Gibraltar followed at 2130Z/13 by the escort destroyer HMS Melbreak (Lt. G.E.C.G. Baines, RN).

At 1000Z/14, HMS Battler parted company with the convoy to proceed ahead of it to Gibraltar. She took HMS Tyrian and HMS Tumult with her as escorts. HMS Battler arrived at Gibraltar around 1730Z/14. Both destroyers then rejoined the convoy which arrived at Gibraltar around midnight during the night of 14/15 June. (10)

14 Jun 1943
Around 1730Z/14, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Gibraltar from convoy escort duty. (11)

22 Jun 1943

Convoy XK 9.

This convoy departed Gibraltar on 22 June 1943 for the U.K.

It was made up of the following transports; Glenartney (British, 9795 GRT, built 1940), Highland Princess (British, 14133 GRT, built 1930), Malakand (British, 7649 GRT, built 1919), Martand (British, 7967 GRT, built 1925) and Orduna (British, 15507 GRT, built 1914).

The convoy was escorted by the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyer HMS Malcolm (Cdr. J.M. Money, RN) and the escort destroyers HMS Bicester (Lt.Cdr. S.W.F. Bennetts, DSC, RN) and HMS Melbreak (Lt. G.E.C.G. Baines, RN). The destroyer HMS Boreas (Lt.Cdr. E.L. Jones, DSC, RN) was local escort, she was detached at 2000B/25 and returned to Gibraltar on 28 June.

The AA cruiser HMS Charybdis (Capt. G.A.W. Voelcker, RN) and destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. W.B.L. Holms, RCN) and ORP Orkan (Cdr. S. Hryniewiecki) provided cover for part of the voyage.

The convoy arrived in the U.K. on 28 June 1943.

28 Jun 1943
Around 2330B/28, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Greenock from convoy escort duty. (11)

12 Jul 1943
Around 0400B/12, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Greenock for Moville where she arrived around 1300B/12. (12)

13 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

14 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

15 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

16 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

17 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

30 Jul 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (12)

3 Aug 1943
Around 1400B/3, the battleship HMS Ramillies (Cdr. G.V.M. Dolphin, RN) and the escort carriers HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN) departed Greenock for Gibraltar / Casablanca.

They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN), HMS Inconstant (Lt.Cdr J.H. Eaden, DSC, RN), HMS Brilliant (Lt. J. Smallwood, RN) and the frigate HMS Plym (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A. Foxall, RNR).

Around 2130B/3, they were joined by the frigates HMS Helford (Cdr. C.G. Cuthbertson, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Lt.Cdr. T. Taylor, DSC, RN).

Heavy weather was encountered during the night of 4/5 August 1943 and around 1145B/5, HMS Hunter parted company to return to the Clyde with damage. She arrived at Liverpool around 0845B/7.

The remainder of the force hove too to avoid further damage. HMS Brilliant had lost touch with the force in the bad weather.

Around 0050B/7, the destroyers HMS Warwick (Cdr. Y.M. Cleeves, DSO, DSC, RD, RNR) and HMS Vimy (Lt.Cdr. J.N.K. Knight, RN) joined coming from Plymouth.

Around 2300B/8, the destroyer HMS Witherington (Lt.Cdr. R.B.S. Tennant, RN) joined coming from Gibraltar.

Around 0600B/9, HMS Ramillies parted company with the force to proceed to Casablanca. She took HMS Quality, HMS Inconstant and HMS Brilliant with her. They arrived at Casablanca around 1330B/9.

The remainder of the force arrived at Gibraltar around 2200B/9 except for HMS Warwick which continued on to Algiers where she arrived on 10 August. (13)

14 Aug 1943
HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Gibraltar.

[No details available on their escort.] (14)

15 Aug 1943
HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Gibraltar.

Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN, was on board HMS Battler during these exercises.

[No details available on their escort.] (14)

17 Aug 1943
HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Gibraltar.

Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN, was on board HMS Stalker during these exercises.

[No details available on their escort.] (14)

19 Aug 1943
HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Gibraltar.

Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN, was on board HMS Stalker during these exercises.

[No details available on their escort.] (14)

21 Aug 1943

Convoy UGF 10.

This convoy departed Hampton Roads on 21 August 1943.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels / (troop) transports; Edmund B. Alexander (American, 21329 GRT, built 1905), General George W. Goethals (American, 12093 GRT, built 1942), Hawaiian Shipper (American, 7775 GRT, built 1941), Henry Gibbons (American, 12097 GRT, built 1943), J.W. McAndrew (American, 7997 GRT, built 1940), James Parker (American, 10021 GRT, built 1939), Lakehurst (American, 8108 GRT, built 1940), Monterey (American, 18017 GRT, built 1932), Santa Elena (American, 9135 GRT, built 1933), Santa Rosa (American, 9135 GRT, built 1932), Seatrain Texas (American, 8108 GRT, built 1940), Siboney (American, 6938 GRT, built 1918), Sloterdijk (Dutch, 9230 GRT, built 1940) and Thomas H. Barry (American, 11250 GRT, built 1930).

The naval tanker USS Chicopee (T/Cdr. B.F. Brandt, USN) was also part of the convoy as were the naval troopship USS Monticello (T/Capt. B.H. Colyear, USN), naval transports USS Dorothea L. Dix (T/Capt. L.B. Schulten, USN), USS Florence Nightingale (T/Capt. J.W. McColl, Jr., USN), USS Susan B. Anthony (Cdr. T.L. Gray, USNR), USS Anne Arundel (T/Capt. L.Y. Mason, Jr., USN), Thurston (T/Cdr. R.B. Vanasse, USN) and the naval stores ship USS Tarazed (Cdr. R.W. Chambers, USNR).

On departure the convoy was escorted by the battleship USS Texas (Capt. R. Pfaff, USN) and the destroyers USS Mervine (T/Cdr. D.R. Frakes, USN, with COMDESRON 15, T/Capt. C.C. Hartman, USN on board), USS Quick (T/Cdr. P.W. Cann, USN), USS Davison (T/Cdr. J.D. Collett, USN), USS Beatty (T/Cdr. W. Outerson, USN), USS Tillman (T/Cdr. C.S. Hutchings, USN), USS Parker (T/Cdr. J.W. Bays, USN, with COMDESRON 16, T/Capt. T.L. Wattles, USN on board), USS Boyle (T/Cdr. B.P. Field, Jr., USN), USS Champlin (T/Cdr. C.L. Melson, USN, with COMDESDIV 32, T/Capt. J.C. Sowell, USN on board), USS Kendick ( T/Cdr. C.T. Caufield, USN), USS Laub (T/Lt.Cdr. A.G. Hay, USN), USS Mackenzie (T/Cdr. D.B. Miller, USN), USS McLanahan (T/Lt.Cdr. N.C. Johnson, USN), USS Nields (T/Cdr. A.R. Heckey, USN) and USS Ordronaux (T/Cdr. R. Brodie, Jr., USN).

At 1500Q/22, USS Quick parted company with the convoy to proceed to New York.

On 25 August 1943, the destroyers fuelled from USS Chicopee.

On 30 August 1943, the the destroyers of DesRon 15 fuelled from USS Chicopee. These were USS Mervine, USS Davison, USS Beatty and USS Tillman. Also USS Kendrick from DesRon 16 was fuelled. These destroyers were to escort the Bizerta section of the convoy. Also USS Boyle received some fuel.

Around 2100Z/31, the (troop) transports Banfora (British, 9472 GRT, built 1914) and Rhona (British, 8602 GRT, built 1926) escorted by the destroyers HMS Antelope (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, RN) and HMS Active (Lt.Cdr. P.G. Merriman, RN) joined the convoy coming from Casablanca. The patrol boats USS PC-471 (Lt. G. Washburn, USNR) and USS PC-482 (Lt. N.P. Hallowell, Jr., USNR) had also been with them as escorts but they did not join the convoy but returned to Casablanca.

Around 1630A/1, USS Texas and USS Chicopee parted company to enter Gibraltar. They took HMS Antelope and HMS Active with them as escorts.

Around 1900A/1, the escort carriers HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) joined the convoy coming from Gibraltar. They were escorted by the escort destroyers HMS Farndale (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN) and HMS Haydon (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) which also joined the convoy.

Around 1130A/2, the Oran section of the convoy parted company and entered that port. It was made up of the following ships; Edmund B. Alexander, General George W. Goethals, Hawaiian Shipper, Henry Gibbons, J.W. McAndrew, James Parker, Lakehust, Monterey, Santa Rosa, Seatrain Texas, USS Anne Arundel, USS Dorothea L. Dix, USS Florence Nightingale, USS Monticello, USS Tarazed and USS Thurston. With them the destroyers USS Parker, USS Boyle, USS Champlin, USS Laub, USS MacKenzie, USS McLanahan, USS Nields, USS Ordronaux also entered Oran (Mers-el-Kebir).

The remaining ships continued on towards the east.

Around 2106A/2, the first air attack by enemy aircraft was made on the convoy.

Around 0700A/3, the Algiers section was detached. This was made up of the Banfora, Rhona and USS Susan B. Anthony. Around the same time the destroyer HMS Wishart (Lt. J.A. Holdsworth, RN) joined the convoy coming from Algiers.

At 0730B/4, HMS Stalker and HMS Batter were detached to proceed to Malta. They took HMS Farndale and HMS Haydon with them as escorts. The destroyers HMS Ilex (Lt.Cdr. V.A. Wight-Boycott, OBE, RN) and HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN) had just joined as additional escorts. Around 1115B/4, they were joined by yet another additional escort, the destroyer RHS Vasilissa Olga (Lt.Cdr. G. Blessas).

The remaining ships of the convoy arrived at Bizerta on 4 September 1943.

23 Aug 1943
The aircraft carrier HMS Unicorn (Capt. Q.D. Graham, CBE, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), AA cruiser, HMS Scylla (Capt. I.A.P. Macintyre, CBE, DSO, RN) and several destroyers (inluding HMS Witherington (Lt.Cdr. R.B.S. Tennant, RN), HMS Active (Lt.Cdr. P.G. Merriman, DSC, RN) and HMS Inconstant (Lt.Cdr J.H. Eaden, DSC, RN) conducted exercises to the east of Gibraltar. They all returned to Gibraltar in the evening except HMS Scylla which was detached to Algiers where she arrived the following day. (15)

27 Aug 1943
The aircraft carrier HMS Unicorn (Capt. Q.D. Graham, CBE, DSO, RN) and the escort carrier HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN) conducted flying exercises to the east of Gibraltar. [No details available on their escort.]

Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN, was not on board HMS Unicorn during the exercises, he had boarded HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) in the morning. He later proceeded to Malta by air and hoisted his flag in HMS Illustrious (Capt. R.L.B. Cunliffe, RN) on 31 August. (16)

29 Aug 1943
Ships from the newly formed ' Force V ' for the upcoming landings at Salerno conducted exercises off Gibraltar. The ships participating in the exercises were the aircraft carrier HMS Unicorn (Capt. Q.D. Graham, CBE, DSO, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), light cruiser HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral P.L. Vian, KBE, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), AA cruiser, HMS Scylla (Capt. I.A.P. Macintyre, CBE, DSO, RN) and ten (?) destroyers / escort destroyers [unable to establish their precise identity for the moment.] (17)

1 Sep 1943
Around 1700A/1, HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Farndale (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN) and HMS Haydon (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) departed Gibraltar to join convoy UGF 10.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy UGF 10 ' for 21 August 1943.] (18)

5 Sep 1943
Around 0800B/5, HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Ilex (Lt.Cdr. V.A. Wight-Boycott, OBE, RN), HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN), RHS Vasilissa Olga (Lt.Cdr. G. Blessas), HMS Farndale (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN) and HMS Haydon (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) arrived at Malta. (18)

8 Sep 1943

Operations of ' Force V ' during operation Avalanche.

Around 1100B/8, ' Force V ' departed Malta for the Tyrrhenian sea. ' Force V ' was made up of the HMS Unicorn (Capt. Q.D. Graham, CBE, DSO, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. W.W.P. Shirley-Rollison, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker ( Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), light cruiser HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral P.L. Vian, KBE, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), AA cruisers HMS Charybdis (Capt. G.A.W. Voelcker, RN), HMS Scylla (Capt. I.A.P. Macintyre, CBE, DSO, RN) and the escort destroyers HMS Atherstone (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR), HMS Calpe (Lt.Cdr. H. Kirkwood, DSC, RN), HMS Catterick (Lt.Cdr. A. Tyson, RN), HMS Cleveland (Lt. J.K. Hamilton, RN), HMS Farndale (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN), HMS Haydon (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN), HMS Holcombe (Lt. F.M. Graves, RN), HMS Liddesdale (Lt.Cdr. A.A. Mackenzie, RNR), ORP Slazak (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) R. Nalecz-Tyminski) and ORP Krakowiak (Kpt.mar. (Lt.Cdr.) W. Maracewicz).

They passed through the Messina Strait during the night of 8/9 September. At dawn on the 9th ' Force V ' arrived in the assault area. The first sortie was flown off at 0615B/9 and subsequently at hourly intervals. The aircraft maintained patrols of 80 minutes until 1930B/9 when the last aircraft landed on.

' Force V ' operated in an area 30 miles square, to the southward of the assault area, approaching the island of Capri from time to time in order to obtain accurate fixes. Three types of patrol were flown;
a) A standing patrol south and east of Capri by seafires from the escort carriers.
b) A high patrol over the beaches from about sunrise until 0745 hours and from 1810 hours until just before sunset by seafires from HMS Unicorn. This was during the period that fighter cover was not provided from Sicilian airfields.
c) A standing high patrol over the low patrol in the Capri area during the remainder of the day by Seafires from HMS Unicorn.

A total of 265 sorties were flown on the first day. Cover over ' Force V ' was maintained by aircraft from the fleet carriers of ' Force H '. During the dark hours the force was withdrawn to the southward and operated to the east of a line joining Salerno and Palermo so as to keep clear of the convoy routes, returning to the flying-off area at dawn.

During 10 September the flying programme was repeated and 232 sorties were flown.

It had been hoped that ' Force V ' could be withdrawn on the 10th and that Montecorvino airfield could be used. The airfield had indeed been captured as planned but it remained under heavy enemy artillery fire and could only be used for forced landings. ' Force V ' therefore had to remain in the assault area, though its flying efficieny had decreased and the fuel situation of the escort destroyers was becoming difficult.

On 11 September the number of sorties flown decreased to 160. At 1900B/11, ' Force H ' on leaving for Malta flew 17 aircraft over to join ' Force V ', which now had to provide its own fighter cover. Montecorvino was still under fire and patrols were again flows off at dawn on 12 September. The total number of sorties flown on 12 September was 56.

A landing strip had been laid out at Paestrum and orders were received that all available fighters should land ashore and that ' Force V ' could then withdraw. This signal, though sent at 0909 hours was not received until 1230 hours. 26 Seafires were then flown off and ' Force V ' then withdrew arriving at Palermo around 1930B/12.

' Force V ' departed from Palermo around 0600B/13 for Bizerta arriving there around 1830B/13. (19)

16 Sep 1943

Convoy KMF 24.

This convoy was formed off Oversay on 16 September 1943. The convoy was made up of the following (troop) transports; Almanzora (British, 15551 GRT, built 1914), Athlone Castle (British, 25564 GRT, built 1936), Bergensfjord (Norwegian, 11015 GRT, built 1913), Cameronia (British, 16297 GRT, built 1920), Dunnottar Castle (British, 15007 GRT, built 1936), Empire Viceroy (British, 7803 GRT, built 1943), Highland Princess (British, 14133 GRT, built 1930), Llangibby Castle (British, 11951 GRT, built 1929), Mooltan (British, 20952 GRT, built 1923), Reina del Pacifico (British, 17702 GRT, built 1931) and Volendam (Dutch, 15434 GRT, built 1922).

On assembly the convoy was escorted by the sloop HMS Pelican (Cdr. J.S. Dalison, DSO, RN) and the frigates HMS Evenlode (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A.L. Turner, RNR), HMS Rother (Lt.Cdr. W.R. Hickey, RNR), HMS Spey (Lt.Cdr. B.A. Rogers, RD, RNR) and HMS Wear (Cdr. E. Wheeler, RD, RNR). Additional escorts were the destroyer HMS Malcolm (Lt. I.M. Clegg, RN) and the escort destroyers HMS Chiddingfold (Lt. T.M. Dorrien-Smith, RN), HMS Zetland (Lt.Cdr. J.V. Wilkinson, DSC, RN)and RHS Themistocles (?).

On 17 September 1943, the frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Freaker, DSO and Bar, RD, RNR) departed Liverpool to overtake and join the convoy at sea.

On 21 September 1943, the destroyers HMS Antelope (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, RN) and HMS Active (Lt.Cdr. P.G. Merriman, RN) conducted an A/S sweep in the vicinity of the convoy.

On 22 September 1943, the Empire Viceroy and Highland Princess arrived at Gibraltar after having parted company with the convoy as did HMS Malcolm, HMS Chiddingfold, HMS Zetland, RHS Themistocles and HMS Rother.

Joining the convoy from Gibraltar were the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and AA cruiser HMS Carlisle (Capt. H.F. Nalder, RN). The escort destroyer HMS Oakley (Lt.Cdr. T.A. Pack-Beresford, RN) also sailed later from Gibraltar to overtake and join the convoy.

Also rejoining the convoy from Gibraltar were HMS Chiddingfold, HMS Zetland, RHS Themistocles and HMS Rother.

On 23 September 1943, the following vessels arrived at Algiers after having detached from the convoy; Almanzora, Athlone Castle and Cameronia. HMS Pelican, HMS Evenlode, HMS Jed, HMS Rother, HMS Spey and HMS Wear also parted company with the convoy.

The escort destroyers HMS Aldenham (Lt.Cdr. H.A. Stuart-Menteth, RN), HMS Rockwood (Lt. S.R. Le H. Lombard-Hobson, RN), RHS Kanaris (?) and RHS Miaoulis (?) joined the convoy.

Early on 24 September 1943, the Bergensfjord and Volendam were detached to Philippeville escorted by HMS Rockwood and RHS Miaoulis which later rejoined the convoy.

At 1625B/24, HMS Oakley and HMS Zetland were detached from the convoy to proceed to Augusta.

Around 1130B/25, in position 36°52'N, 15°46'E, the (troop) transport Derbyshire (British, 11660 GRT, built 1935) and escort destroyer HMS Hursley (Lt.Cdr. W.J.P. Church, DSC and Bar, RN) joined coming from Taranto. Also joining around the same time were the (troop) transports Aronda (British, 9031 GRT, built 1941), Egra (British, 5108 GRT, built 1911), Empire Trooper (British, 14106 GRT, built 1922) and Karoa (British, 7009 GRT, built 1915) coming from Augusta. With them the escort destroyers HMS Belvoir (Lt. J.F.D. Bush, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Oakley and HMS Zetland also (re)joined.

At 1230B/25, HMS Chiddingfold, HMS Oakley and HMS Zetland were detached to Malta.

Around 0325C/28, HMS Carlisle, HMS Belvoir and RHS Kanaris parted company to proceed to Alexandria where they arrived around 0730C/28.

The remainder of the convoy arrived at Port Said in afternoon of 28 September 1943.

18 Sep 1943
Around 1200B/18, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Bizerta for Gibraltar. She is escorted by the destroyer HMS Isis (Cdr. B. Jones, DSC, RN) and the escort destroyer HMS Oakley (Lt.Cdr. T.A. Pack-Beresford, RN).

A few hours later they were joined by the escort destroyer ORP Krakowiak (Kpt.mar. (Lt.Cdr.) W. Maracewicz).

They arrived at Gibraltar around 1030B/20. (20)

28 Sep 1943
Around 1500C/28, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Port Said. (21)

29 Sep 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) transited the Suez Canal southbound and anchored off Suez. (21)

1 Oct 1943
Around 0730C/1, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Suez for Aden. She was escorted by HMS Landguard (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) T.S.L. Fox-Pitt, RN) and HMS Sennen (Lt.Cdr. F.H. Thornton, DSC, RNR) but these parted company around 1000C/1. (22)

4 Oct 1943
Around 1730C/4, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) arrived at Aden from Suez. She then commenced boiler cleaning. Part of her air group had been flown off to operate on A/S patrols from land bases during this time. (22)

17 Oct 1943
Around 0600C/17, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Aden for Bombay. She was escorted by the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN) and HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN). (23)

26 Oct 1943
Around 1200FG/26, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN) and HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN) arrived at Bombay from Aden. (23)

2 Nov 1943

Convoy AB 18A.

This convoy departed Aden on 2 November 1943.

It was made up of the following LST's;
HMS LST 180 (?), HMS LST 215 (Cdr.(Retd.) G.H.F. Owles, RN), USS LST 17 (Lt. H.B. Gallagher, USCGR), USS LST 21 (Cdr. T.W. Greene, USN), USS LST 25 (Lt. E.F. Macellus, USNR), USS LST 72 (Lt. J.A. Lombard, USNR), USS LST 175 (Lt. E.J. Fitzgerald, USNR), USS LST 176 (Lt.(jg) J.A. Salt, USNR), USS LST 208 (Lt. A. Strickland, USNR), USS LST 209 (Lt. F.T. Ratchford, USNR) and USS LST 261 (Lt. L.I. Reilley, USCG).

On departure from Aden the convoy was escorted by the corvette HMS Aster (Lt. W.L. Smith, RNR) and the minesweeper HMAS Lismore (T/Lt. L.C.G. Lever, RANR(S)).

Around 1500FG/6, the convoy was joined by the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and the destroyers HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN) and HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN) which came from Bombay.

The convoy arrived at Bombay around 1230FG/9. (24)

4 Nov 1943
Around 1100FG/4, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and the destroyers HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN) and HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN) departed Bombay to make rendezvous with convoy AB 18A1.

Rendezvous was affected around 1500FG/6.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AB 18A ' for 2 November 1943.] (25)

9 Nov 1943
Around 1230FG/9, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN) and HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN), HMS Aster (Lt. W.L. Smith, RNR) and HMAS Lismore (T/Lt. L.C.G. Lever, RANR(S)) arrived at Bombay with convoy AB 18A (26)

10 Nov 1943

Combined convoys AB 20(F) / AB 20(S) / AP 52.

They departed Aden on 10 November 1943.

Convoy AP 52.

This convoy was made up of the following tankers / transports;
Aedanus Burke (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943), American Press (American, 6778 GRT, built 1941), Corilla (Dutch (tanker), 8096 GRT, built 1939), Diplodon (British (tanker), 8149 GRT, built 1041), Empire Envoy (British, 7046 GRT, built 1942), Empire Miranda (British, 7054 GRT, built 1943), Empire Symbol (British, 7027 GRT, built 1943), Ena (Dutch (tanker), 6229 GRT, built 1936), (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Good Gulf (Panamanian (tanker), 7805 GRT, built 1938), Hawkins Fudske (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Heywood Broun (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Homer Lea (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Janet Lord Roper (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John W. Garrett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Matheran (British, 8007 GRT, built 1942), Northern Sun (American (tanker), 8865 GRT, built 1931), Sambrian (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Stanlodge (British, 5977 GRT, built 1943), Walker Tylor (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943) and Winslow Homer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).

Convoy AP 52 was escorted by the minesweepers HMAS Geraldton (Cdr.(Retd.) H.M. Harris, RNR) and HMIS Bengal (T/Lt. U.J.S. Chopra, RINR).

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Convoy AB 20F (fast).

This convoy was made up of the following (troop) transports;
Bergensfjord (Norwegian, 11015 GRT, built 1913), City of Agra (British, 6361 GRT, built 1936), City of Dieppe (British, 7958 GRT, built 1929), Mooltan (British, 20952 GRT, built 1923), Sobieski (Polish, 11030 GRT, built 1939) and Volendam (Dutch, 15434 GRT, built 1922).

The landing ship HMS Glengyle (A/Capt. E.C.L. Turner, RN) was also part of this convoy.

Convoy AB 20F was escorted by the destroyer HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN).

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Convoy AB 20S (slow).

This convoy was made up of the following transports;
Historian (British, 5074 GRT, built 1924), Lafonataine Park (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943), Markhor (British, 7917 GRT, built 1928) and Samarkand (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943).

The USS LST 73 (Lt. H.M. Crossan, USNR) and HMS LST 239 (T/Lt. F. Dyer, RNR) were also part of the convoy as was the landing craft repair ships (former LST) USS Achelous (Lt. W. Ringies, USNR).

Convoy AB 20S was escorted by the frigate HMS Trent (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.G. Rankin, DSC, RNR), corvette HMS Nigella (T/Lt. C.L.L. Davies, RNVR) and minesweeper HMAS Ipswich (T/Lt.Cdr. J.S. McBryde, RANR(S)).

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These convoys remained in company with each other until around 0630DE/14 when convoy AP 52 parted company to proceed to the Persian Gulf where it arrived on 17 November.

Around 0930DE/14, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.J. Buchanan DSO, RAN) and HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) joined in position 16°44'N, 57°04'E and parted company half an hour later taking convoy AB 20F with them to proceed to Bombay where it arrived on 17 November.

Convoy AB 20S arrived at Bombay on 19 November 1943.

11 Nov 1943
Around 1100FG/11, the the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.J. Buchanan DSO, RAN) and HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) departed Bombay to make rendezvous with convoy AB 20.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Combined convoys AB 20(F) / AB 20(S) / AP 52 ' for 10 November 1943.] (27)

17 Nov 1943
Around 1300FG/17, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN), HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.J. Buchanan DSO, RAN) and HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) arrived at Bombay with convoy AB 20F. (28)

3 Dec 1943
In the morning, the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN) and HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.J. Buchanan DSO, RAN) joined the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) which had came out of Bombay for exercises.

On completion of the exercises they all entered Bombay around 1800FG/3. (29)

10 Dec 1943
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying and gunnery exercises off Bombay.

[No details available on possible escort vessels.] (30)

12 Dec 1943
Around 1430FG/12, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) and the frigate HMS Plym (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A. Foxall, RNR) departed Bombay to make rendezvous with convoy AB 24 coming from Aden.

Around 1415DE/15, the destroyer HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN) joined coming from Colombo. By that time HMAS Nepal had already parted company to proceed ahead to make rendezvous with the convoy ahead of the other ships.

Around 1700DE/15, HMS Battler, HMS Rotherham, HMS Rapid and HMS Plym made rendezvous with convoy AB 24.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AB 24 ' for 13 December 1943.] (30)

13 Dec 1943

Convoy AB 24.

This convoy departed Aden on 13 December 1943.

[The exact composition of this convoy is not clear to us for the moment and will require furter research.]

The repair ship HMS Resource (Capt.(Retd.) D.B. O’Connell, RN), tank landing ship Boxer (Lt.Cdr. G.B Herbert-Jones, RNR) and the tug HMS Aimwell were also part of this convoy.

On departure from Aden this convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN), HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN), HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Farnfield, DSO, RN) and the frigates HMS Derg (Lt. E.J. Binfield, DSC, RNR) and HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR).

Around 1200DE/15, the destroyer HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) joined and commenced fuelling from HMS Recource.

Around 1700DE/15, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN) and frigate HMS Plym (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A. Foxall, RNR) made rendezvous with the convoy. They came from Bombay which they had departed, together with HMAS Nepal around 1500FG/12. HMS Rapid had joined the Battler group around 1415DE/15 having departed Colombo on 12 December 1943. HMS Plym actually did not join the convoy but proceeded independently to Aden where she arrived on 17 December 1943. HMAS Nepal proceeded to Kilindini where she arrived on 19 December 1943 escorting the troop transport Arundel Castle (British, 19118 GRT, built 1921) which she must have picked up at some point. HMS Battler, HMS Rotherham, HMS Rapid, HMS Roebuck, HMS Derg and HMS Kale arrived at Bombay with part of the convoy on 19 December 1943.

Around 1715DE/15, HMS Rescourse and the transport City of Lincoln (British, 8039 GRT, built 1938) and the destroyers HMAS Quiberon and HMS Quality parted company with the convoy. The City of Lincoln parted company with these ships around 1400FG/20 to proceed to Colombo where she arrived on 21 December 1943. HMS Rescource, HMAS Quiberon and HMS Quality arrived at Trincomalee around 1200FG/22.

19 Dec 1943
Early in the afternoon, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN), HMS Derg (Lt. E.J. Binfield, DSC, RNR) and HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) arrived at Bombay with the Bombay section of convoy AB 24. (30)

26 Dec 1943
Around 1730FG/26, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and the frigates HMS Derg (Lt. E.J. Binfield, DSC, RNR) and HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) departed Bombay for Aden.

They were escorting 'Force G' which was made up of the landing ship headquarters HMS Bulolo (Capt.(Retd.) C.A. Kershaw, RN), landing ship HMS Glengyle (A/Capt. E.C.L. Turner, RN) and the troop transports Ascania (British, 14013 GRT, built 1925), Circassia (British, 11136 GRT, built 1937), Derbyshire (British, 11660 GRT, built 1935), Sobieski (Polish, 11030 GRT, built 1939) and Winchester Castle (British, 20012 GRT, built 1930). (31)

1 Jan 1944
Around 1000C/1, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. F.S.W. de Winton, RN), HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and the frigates HMS Derg (Lt. E.J. Binfield, DSC, RNR) and HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) arrived at Aden from Bombay.

'Force G' which they had been escorting continued on towards Aden. (32)

5 Jan 1944

Convoy AP 57.

This convoy departed Aden on 5 January 1944.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Beacon (American (tanker), 10388 GRT, built 1921), British Justice (British (tanker), 6932 GRT, built 1928), British Sincerity (British (tanker), 8538 GRT, built 1939), Charles S. Jones (American (tanker), 8111 GRT, built 1941), Reginald A. Fessenden (American, 7213 GRT, built 1943) and Rizwani (British, 5448 GRT, built 1930).

On departure from Aden the convoy was escorted by the frigate HMS Derg (Lt. E.J. Binfield, DSC, RNR) and the corvette HMS Tulip (T/Lt. L.H. Harvey, RNR).

Around 1130D/8, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyer HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and the frigate HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) arrived near the convoy to provide additional A/S cover.

They left the vicinity of the convoy in the afternoon of 10 January 1944 on it's entering the Gulf of Oman.

The convoy arrived in the Persian Gulf (Khor Kuwai) on 12 January 1944 where it was dissolved. (33)

6 Jan 1944
Around 1615C/6, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyer HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) and the frigate HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) departed Aden to overtake and then provide cover for convoy AP 57.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AP 57 ' for 5 January 1944.]

Later they joined convoy AB 27A.

[For morre info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AB 27A ' for 8 January 1944.] (32)

8 Jan 1944

Convoy AB 27A.

This convoy departed Aden on 8 January 1944.

It was made up of the troop transports;
Dunnottar Castle (British, 15007 GRT, built 1936) and Strathaird (British, 22281 GRT, built 1932).

On departure from Aden, around 1500C/8, the convoy was escorted by the destroyer HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. G.S. Stewart, RAN).

Around 1800C/8, the destroyer HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.J. Buchanan DSO, RAN) joined coming from Aden having overtaken the convoy. She had departed around an hour after the convoy had departed.

Around 0800E/11, the frigate HMS Bann (Lt.Cdr. F.A. Shaw, RD, RNR) joined coming from Bombay. HMAS Norman then parted company to return to Aden.

Around 0815E/12, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyer HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. N.E.G. Ropner, DSO, RN) and frigate HMS Kale (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Houchen, OBE, RD, RNR) joined.

Around 1200E/12, HMS Battler and HMS Bann parted company to proceed to Port Victoria, Seychelles.

Around 1030FG/14, the convoy arrived at Bombay. (34)

16 Jan 1944
Around 0945D/16, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Bann (Lt.Cdr. F.A. Shaw, RD, RNR) arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles from convoy escort duty.

They departed for Mauritius around 1415D/16. (32)

19 Jan 1944
Around 0700E/19, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Bann (Lt.Cdr. F.A. Shaw, RD, RNR) arrived at Mauritius from Port Victoria, Seychelles. (32)

19 Jan 1944

Operation Thwart.

Attempt to intercept the German supply tanker Charlotte Schliemann.

The light cruiser HMS Newcastle (Capt. P.B.R.W. William-Powlett, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral A.D. Read, CB, RN) and the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Mauritius to patrol an area roughly near position 30°00'S, 68°00'E. A German supply vessel (Charlotte Schliemann (7747 GRT, built 1928) is suspected to be operating in that area to resupply U-boats operating in the Indian Ocean.

On 21 January 1944, the heavy cruiser HMS Suffolk (Rear-Admiral R. Shelley, CBE, RN) and the frigate HMS Bann (Lt.Cdr. F.A. Shaw, RD, RNR) also departed Mauritius to join HMS Newcastle and HMS Battler.

HMS Suffolk, joined HMS Newcastle and HMS Battler around dawn on the 24th.

In the morning of the 26th HMS Suffolk fuelled HMS Bann.

Around noon on the 29th, HMS Newcastle parted company with HMS Suffolk and HMS Battler to return to Mauritius.

In the evening of the 30th, HMS Suffolk and HMS Battler set course to proceed to the westwards to pastrol their way towards Durban.

HMS Newcastle arrived at Mauritius on 31 January 1944.

HMS Bann arrived at Mauritius on 2 February 1944 [Her exact movements during this patrol are unknown to us.]

HMS Suffolk and HMS Battler arrived at Durban on 4 February 1944.

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Also on 21 January 1944, the light cruiser HMS Kenya (Capt. C.L. Robertson, RN) and the destroyer HMAS Nepal (Cdr. F.B. Morris, RAN) departed Mauritius to patrol to patrol an area roughly near position 25°00'S, 65°00'E.

HMS Nepal returned to Mauritius on 28 January 1944.

HMS Kenya returned to Mauritius on 1 February 1944.

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The armed merchant cruiser HMS Canton (Capt. J.J.E. Barclay, RNR) also departed Mauritius for the operation. She arrived at Durban from patrol around 1400C on 2 February. (35)

11 Feb 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is docked at Durban. (36)

12 Feb 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is undocked. (36)

13 Feb 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted D/G trials at Durban. Also flying operations were carried out. (36)

20 Feb 1944
Around 0815C/20, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. W.H. Farrington, RN) departed Durban for Kilindini / Mombasa.

Late in the evening they were ordered to proceed to Mauritius instead. (37)

24 Feb 1944
Around 1830D/24, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. W.H. Farrington, RN) arrived at Mauritius from Durban. (37)

5 Mar 1944

Operation Covered.

Attempt to intercept the German supply tanker Brake.

Around 0630D/5, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Mauritius escorted by the destroyer HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. W.H. Farrington, RN).

Around 1030D/5, the light cruiser HMS Newcastle (Capt. P.B.R.W. William-Powlett, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral A.D. Read, CB, RN) and heavy cruiser HMS Suffolk (A/Capt. W.F.H.C. Rutherford, RN) departed Mauritius to overtake the escort carrier which they did around 1400D/5.

They then proceeded in company to the east-south-east to the area the German supply vessel was suspected.

Between 0815F/8 and 0943F/8, HMS Suffolk fuelled HMS Quadrant, 200 tons of fuel oil was passed.

Around 0700FG/10, the destroyer HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN), which had departed Mauritius on 6 March, joined HMS Suffolk, which at that moment was detached from the other ships. Suffolk then attempted to fuel the destroyer but it was not possible due to the weather conditions. Later, between 1649FG/10 and 1829FG/10, another succesful attempt to fuel HMS Roebuck was made during which 210 tons of fuel oil were passed.

At 1440FG/10, a Swordfish from HMS Battler crashed into the sea. HMS Quadrant picked up the crew.

Around 0915FG/11, HMS Suffolk and HMS Roebuck joined HMS Newcastle, HMS Battler and HMS Quadrant.

Around 2200F/11, HMS Quadrant was detached for Mauritius where she arrived on the 14th.

At 1610F/12, a patrolling Swordfish from HMS Battler reported the sighting of an enemy supply vessel with two submarines alongside. This was the supply vessel Brake (9925 GRT, built 1937). Actually three German submarines were near the tanker, these were U-168, U-188 and U-532.

At 1623F/12, HMS Roebuck was detached to attack the tanker followed at 1640F/12 by HMS Newcastle which was to provide distant cover for HMS Roebuck.

HMS Roebuck sighted the enemy tanker at 1711F/12 and engaged it with torpedoes and gunfire from 15800 yards at 1726F/12. HMS Roebuck did not close too much due to the presence of the enemy submarines. She ceased fire at 1812F/12. The tanker was seen to sink shortly afterwards. It was thought three torpedo hits had been obtained.

HMS Battler meanwhile flew off aircraft to attack the submarines. One of which attacked U-168 with rockets.

The crew of the tanker was picked up by U-168 which took them to Batavia.

At 1210F/13, HMS Roebuck rejoined the other ships but HMS Suffolk then parted company followed shortly afterwards by HMS Newcastle.

HMS Suffolk arrived at Mauritius around 0800D/15 followed by HMS Newcastle around 1315D/15.

HMS Battler and HMS Roebuck arrived at Mauritius around 0730D/16. (38)

17 Mar 1944
Around 1015D/17, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) departed Mauritius for Durban.

Around 1600D/17, they were joined by HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. W.H. Farrington, RN) which apparently had left Mauritius later then the other two ships.

Around 2045D/19, HMS Quadrant was detached for other escort duty. (39)

21 Mar 1944
Around 1300C/21, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and HMS Roebuck (Cdr. J.T. Lean, DSO, RN) arrived at Durban from Mauritius. (39)

25 Mar 1944
Having completed de-ammunitioning and de-fuelling, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is taken in hand for refit at the Durban Dockyard. (40)

6 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is docked at the Durban Dockyard. (41)

13 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is undocked. She then conducted D/G trials and gunnery exercises at Durban. (41)

14 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) is fumigated at Durban. The ships company is housed ashore and only returned to the ship in the 16th. (41)

24 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted compass adjustment and HF/DF calibration trials at Durban. (41)

25 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted RDF calibration trials at Durban. (41)

26 Jun 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted HF/DF calibration trials at Durban. (41)

28 Jun 1944

Convoy CM 55.

This convoy departed Durban on 28 June 1944.

The convoy was made up only one troop transport; Nea Hellas (British, 16991 GRT, built 1922).

On departure from Durban the convoy was escorted by the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), destroyer HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. N.E.G. Ropner, DSO, RN) and frigate HMS Trent (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.G. Rankin, DSC, RNR).

The convoy arrived at Kilindini / Mombasa on 4 July 1944. (42)

11 Jul 1944

Convoy KR 11.

This convoy departed Kilindini / Mombasa on 11 July 1944.

It was made up of the following (troop) transports; Aronda (British, 9031 GRT, built 1941), City of Paris (British, 10902 GRT, built 1922), Kosciuszko (Polish, 6852 GRT, built 1915) and Llanstephan Castle (British, 11340 GRT, built 1914).

On departure from Kilindini / Mombasa the convoy was escorted by HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) [which was also ferrying aircraft], destroyers HMS Pathfinder (Lt.Cdr. T.F. Hallifax, RN) and HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. N.E.G. Ropner, DSO, RN), sloop HMS Shoreham (Lt.Cdr. L.M. Carter, RNR), frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR), minelayer / sloop HrMs Willem van der Zaan (Lt.Cdr. G.P. Küller, RNN) and minesweeper / corvette HMAS Cessnock (Lt. E.J.T. Sweetman, RANR(S)).

The convoy made a short stop at Port Victoria, Seychelles in the afternoon of 15 July 1944 where some of the escorts fuelled.

The convoy arrived at Colombo on 22 July 1944. (43)

24 Jul 1944
Around 0900FG/24, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) [in an aircraft ferry role] departed Colombo for Cochin. She was escorted by the sloop HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and minelayer / sloop HrMs Willem van der Zaan (Lt.Cdr. G.P. Küller, RNN). (44)

25 Jul 1944
Around 1800FG/25, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and HrMs Willem van der Zaan (Lt.Cdr. G.P. Küller, RNN) arrived at Cochin from Colombo. (44)

28 Jul 1944
Around 0715FG/28, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and HrMs Willem van der Zaan (Lt.Cdr. G.P. Küller, RNN) departed Cochin for Colombo. (44)

29 Jul 1944
Around 1400FG/29, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and HrMs Willem van der Zaan (Lt.Cdr. G.P. Küller, RNN) arrived at Colombo from Cochin. (44)

8 Aug 1944
During 8/9 august 1944, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. These included night exercises. She was escorted by the sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN).

HMS Narbada parted company around 0310FG/9 before the exercises were completed.

Around 0800FG/9, the sloop HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) joined.

Also on the 9th underway refuelling exercises were carried out by HMS Battler during first HMIS Sutlej and then HMS Flamingo was refuelled. (45)

11 Aug 1944
During 11/12 August 1944, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. These included night exercises.

[She does not seem to have been escorted.] (45)

17 Aug 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo.

[She does not seem to have been escorted.] (45)

22 Aug 1944
The escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Colombo.

They departed Colombo the following day for A/S operations in the Arabian Sea. Through code breaking the Allies were aware that enemy submarines were operating in the Arabian Sea which had also become clear when shipping was attacked with some success.

[No further details available for the moment, further research is required but it is possible the reports has not survived.] (45)

7 Sep 1944
Around 1400F/7, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) and sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) arrived at Addu Atoll from A/S operations. (46)

8 Sep 1944
Around 0730FG/8, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Addu Atoll to resume A/S operations in the Arabian Sea with her A/S group. On departure from Addu Atoll she was escorted by the destroyers HMS Whelp (Cdr. G.A.F. Norfolk, RN) and HMS Wager (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) but these soon parted company to proceed to Colombo. (46)

10 Sep 1944
Around 0845FG/10, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) arrived at Addu Atoll from A/S operations in the Arabian Sea. (46)

13 Sep 1944
Around 0800FG/13, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) departed Addu Atoll for an A/S search to the south-east of Addu Atoll. (46)

14 Sep 1944
Around 1600FG/14, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) returned to Addu Atoll from the A/S search. (46)

15 Sep 1944
Around 1700FG/15, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMIS Sutlej (A/Cdr. J.E. Cornish, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) departed Addu Atoll for A/S operations in the Arabian Sea. (46)

22 Sep 1944
Around 0830FG/22, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), sloops HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN), HMS Flamingo (Lt.Cdr. T.H.B. Pounds, RN) and the frigates HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) arrived at Colombo from A/S operations in the Arabian Sea. (46)

24 Sep 1944
Around 1015FG/24, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Colombo for Cochin. She is escorted by the sloop HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and the frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR). (46)

25 Sep 1944
Around 1530FG/25, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) arrived at Cochin from Colombo. (46)

5 Oct 1944
Around 1215FG/5, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN) departed Cochin for Trincomalee. She is escorted by the sloop HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and the frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR). (47)

7 Oct 1944
Around 1930FG/7, HMS Battler (A/Capt. F.M.R. Stephenson, RN), HMIS Narbada (A/Capt. M.H.S. Nott, OBE, RIN) and HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) arrived at Trincomalee from Cochin. (47)

1 Nov 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. She was escorted by HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Cartwright, DSC, RN) and HMS Relentless (Lt.Cdr. G.B. Barstow, RN). (48)

2 Nov 1944
From 2 to 6 November 1944, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee. On departure, she was, most likely escorted by HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Cartwright, DSC, RN) and HMS Relentless (Lt.Cdr. G.B. Barstow, RN). HMS Raider seems to have been replaced by HMS Rapid (Lt.Cdr. M.W. Tomkinson, DSC and Bar, RN) on the 3rd.

Around 1700FG/5, HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN) replaced HMS Relentless.

They returned to harbour in the afternoon of the 6th. (48)

7 Nov 1944
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Trincomalee for the U.K. via the Mediterranean. The first leg of the trip is to Suez.

On departure from Trincomalee she is escorted by HMS Wessex (Lt.Cdr. R. Horncastle, RN) and HMS Teviot (Cdr.(Retd.) T. Taylor, DSC, RN).

Late in the morning of 8 November 1944 the arrived off Colombo where the escorts parted company and a new escort joined, the sloop Dumont d'Urville. Sh however developed engine defects that evening and had to part company after HMS Battler continued her passage unescorted. (48)

18 Nov 1944
Shortly after 0800B/18, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) arrived at Suez from Trincomalee.

It had meanwhile been decided to employ HMS Battler to ferry aircraft to Australia and then return to the U.K. via the Panama Canal afterwards. (48)

23 Nov 1944
After having embarked aircraft, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Suez around 0900B/23 for Aden but while en-route she was ordered to proceed to Cochin. (48)

2 Dec 1944
Around 1030FG/2, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) arrived at Cochin from Suez. (49)

6 Dec 1944
Around 0900FG/6, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Cochin for Colombo. She was escorted by HMS Whelp (Cdr. G.A.F. Norfolk, RN). (49)

7 Dec 1944
Around 1230FG/7, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) and HMS Whelp (Cdr. G.A.F. Norfolk, RN) arrived at Colombo from Cochin. (49)

8 Dec 1944
The escort carrier HMS Atheling (A/Cdr. H.L. Oliver, RN) and the destroyer HMS Wager (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) departed Cochin to proceed to the Colombo area to make rendezvous with the light cruiser HMNZS Achilles (Capt. F.J. Butler, CBE, RN), escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) and the destroyer HMS Whelp (Cdr. G.A.F. Norfolk, RN) which had departed Colombo on the 9th.

Also on the 9th the light cruiser HMS Swiftsure (Capt. R.D. Oliver, CBE, DSC, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral E.J.P. Brind, CBE, CB, RN), escort carriers HMS Fencer (A/Capt. W.W.R. Bentinck, OBE, RN), HMS Striker (Capt. W.P. Carne, RN) and the destroyers HMS Kempenfelt (Capt. E.G. McGregor, DSO, RN), HMS Wakeful (Lt.Cdr. G.D. Pound, DSC, RN) and HMS Wessex (Lt.Cdr. R. Horncastle, RN) departed Trincomalee.

In the morning of 10 December 1944, these ships made rendezvous and course was set for Australia.

The destroyers parted company in the early evening of the 11th to return to Ceylon.

In the early evening of the 16th, the cruisers parted company with the carriers to proceed to Fremantle. (50)

18 Dec 1944
Around 1040I/18, the destroyers HMS Quilliam (Capt. R.G. Onslow, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. the Viscount Jocelyn, RN), HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. P.C. Hopkins, RN) and HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. W.H. Harrington, DSO, RAN), coming from Albany, made rendezvous with the escort carriers HMS Atheling (A/Cdr. H.L. Oliver, RN), HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN), HMS Fencer (A/Capt. W.W.R. Bentinck, OBE, RN) and HMS Striker (Capt. W.P. Carne, RN) coming from Ceylon. Course was then set to the eastwards.

The destroyers had been delayed due to the heavy weather conditions they had encountered on passage to the rendezvous. (51)

21 Dec 1944
Around 0500K/21, HMS Atheling (A/Cdr. H.L. Oliver, RN) and HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) parted company with HMS Fencer (A/Capt. W.W.R. Bentinck, OBE, RN), HMS Striker (Capt. W.P. Carne, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. R.G. Onslow, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), HMS Quality (Lt.Cdr. the Viscount Jocelyn, RN), HMS Quadrant (Lt.Cdr. P.C. Hopkins, RN) and HMAS Quiberon (Cdr. W.H. Harrington, DSO, RAN).

HMS Atheling and HMS Battler continued on to Sydney where they arrived around 1215K/25.

HMS Fencer, HMS Striker, HMS Quilliam, HMS Quality, HMS Quadrant and HMAS Quiberon meanwhile set course for Port Phillip. Around 2035K/22, the destroyers parted company and arrived at Williamstown very early on 23 December. The escort carriers arriving at Melbourne later the same morning. (52)

2 Jan 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) is docked at the Cockatoo Dockyard at Sydney. (53)

4 Jan 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) is undocked. (53)

12 Jan 1945
Around 1645K/12, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Sydney for Balboa. (53)

1 Feb 1945
Around 1030R/1, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) arrived at Balboa from Sydney. (54)

2 Feb 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) made the eastbound passage of the Panama Canal. (54)

3 Feb 1945
Around 0845R/3, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Cristobal for Norfolk, Virginia. She was escorted by the destroyer USS Barker (Lt. H. Smith, USNR). (54)

8 Feb 1945
In the afternoon, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) and USS Barker (Lt. H. Smith, USNR) arrived at Norfolk, Virginia from Cristobal, Panama Canal Zone. (54)

13 Feb 1945
Around 1100Q/13, the escort carrier HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Norfolk, Virginia for New York. She was escorted by USS Moberly (?). (54)

14 Feb 1945
Around 1230Q/14, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) and USS Moberly (?) arrived at New York from Norfolk. (54)

19 Feb 1945

Convoy CU 59.

This convoy departed New York on 19 February 1945.

On departure it was made up of the following ships (New York Section);
Allatoona (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1945), Briar Creek (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Cape Avinof (American, 5124 GRT, built 1945), Cape Diamond (American, 5124 GRT, built 1944), Churubusco (American (tanker), 10195 GRT, built 1943), Crow Wing (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Edge Hill (American (tanker), 10296 GRT, built 1944), Empire Bounty (British (tanker), 12000 GRT, built 1944), Fort Ridgley (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), French Creek (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1944), James Lykes (American, 6760 GRT, built 1940), Lightning (American, 8591 GRT, built 1942), Marine Devil (American, 11757 GRT, built 1944), Marine Raven (American, 11757 GRT, built 1943), Marine Wolf (American, 11757 GRT, built 1944), Noonday (), Ocean Mail (), Paulus Hook (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Pine Bluff (American (tanker), 10296 GRT, built 1944), Queenston Heights (American (tanker), 10448 GRT, built 1943), Robin Locksley (American, 7101 GRT, built 1941), Salmon Falls (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1945), Scotts Bluff (American (tanker), 10448 GRT, built 1945), Sea Nymph (American, 8258 GRT, built 1944), Sea Robin (American, 7886 GRT, built 1944), Sea Serpent (American, 8591 GRT, built 1942), Surprise (American, 8591 GRT, built 1942), Towanda Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1944), Waxhaws (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1944), Woodstock Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1944) and Yaka (American, 6165 GRT, built 1944).

The escort carrier, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) [in an aircraft ferry role] and troop transport USS Monticello (Capt. L. Frisco, USNR) were also part of the convoy as was the RFA tanker Wave Empreror (8196 GRT, built 1944),

On departure from New York the convoy was escorted by the destroyer USS Winslow (T/Cdr. W.T. Samuels, USN, with T/Capt. W.L. Benson, USN on board (Commander Task Group 61.1)) and the destroyer escorts USS Thomas W. Gary (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Ayer, USNR, with Cdr. T.G. Murrell, USCG on board (Commander Escort Division 57)), USS Brister (Lt.Cdr. R.D Tucker, USNR), USS Finch (Lt.Cdr. C.D. LeHardy, USNR), USS Mills (Lt.Cdr. V. Pfeiffer, USCG) and USS Richey (Lt. R.J. Auge, USCG).

At 0720Q/20, the Woodstock Victory had to stop due to engine trouble. USS Richey was detailed to escort her. They rejoined the convoy around 1930Q/20.

Around 1830Q/20, the Boston section of the convoy joined. This had departed Boston on the 19th and was made up of the following ships Bienville (American, 7626 GRT, built 1943), Hastings (American, 6065 GRT, built 1944), John Ericsson (American, 16552 GRT, built 1928), Edmund B. Alexander (American, 21329 GRT, built 1905) and USS Lejeune (T/Capt. F.W. MacDonald, USN).

On departure from Boston this section was escorted by the escort destroyers USS Sellstrom (Lt.Cdr. W.L. Morrison, USCG with Cdr. J.H. Forney, USCG on board (Commander Escort Division 23)), USS Ramsden (Lt.Cdr. S.T. Baketel, USCGR), USS Rhodes (Lt. A.C. Wagner, USCG) and USS Savage (Lt.Cdr. J.A. Norton, USCGR).

At 0530O/24, the Cape Diamond had to stop due to engine trouble. USS Ramsden was detailed to escort her. They rejoined the convoy around 1800N/25.

At 0730N/26, in approximate position 47°49'N, 22°45'W, the Irish Sea section of the convoy parted company. It was made up of the following ships; Allatoona, Briar Creek, Churubusco, Empire Bounty, Fort Ridgley, French Creek, Paulus Hook, Wave Emperor and HMS Battler. USS Thomas W. Gary, USS Brister and USS Savage went with them as escorts.

At 1100A/28, to the west of Brest, the escort of the Channel section was reinforced by the destroyer HMCS Iroquois (Capt. K.F. Adams, RCN) and the escort destroyers HMS Tanatside (Cdr. B.J. de St. Croix, DSC, RN) and HMS Brissenden (Lt. D.D.E. Vivian, DSC, RN).

At 0030A/1, HMCS Iroquois was detached.

At 0045A/1, the escort of the Channel section was further reinforced by the frigates HMCS New Waterford (T/A/Cdr. W.E.S. Briggs, DSC, RCNR), HMCS Teme (T/Lt. D.P. Harvey, RCNVR), HMCS Loch Achanalt (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R.W. Hart, RCNVR), HMCS Loch Morlich (T/Lt. G.F. Crosby, RCNVR) and HMS Hotham (A/Lt.Cdr. S. Ayles, RNR).

At 0145A/1, the Pine Bluff and Sea Serpent were detached to Cherbourg escorted by HMCS New Waterford, HMCS Loch Achanalt and HMS Hotham.

At 0500A/1, the Edge Hill was detached to Southampton. Apparently unescorted.

At 0800A/1, the Cape Avinoff, Crow Wing, James Lykes, Lightning, Ocean Mail, Queenston Heights, Salmon Falls, Scotts Bluff and Waxhaws were detached to proceed to ports on the east coast of the U.K / Antwerp. They were escorted by HMS Tanatside and HMS Brissenden.

The remainder of the convoy arrived in Le Havre roads around 1330A/1. HMCS Teme and HMCS Loch Morlich were detached.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Irish Sea section had meanwhile proceeded towards the North Channel and was joined at 1635A/28, to the north of Ireland, in position 56°14'N, 07°59'W, by Force 33, which was made up of 4 corvettes of the 30th Escort Group; HMS Pevensey Castle (Cdr. E. Hewitt, RD, RNR), HMS Caistor Castle (A/Lt.Cdr. H. Hutchinson, RN), HMS Kenilworth Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.J. Allon, RNR) and HMS Launceston Castle (Lt. R.M. Roberts, RNR).

At 2345A/28, in position 55°08'N, 05°50'W the Empire Bounty was detached to Belfast escorted by USS Savage.

At 0500A/1, west of the Isle of Man, in position 54°04'N, 05°06'W the British support group Force 33 parted company.

At 0605A/1, in position 53°45'N, 05°08'W the Barry Roads section of the convoy was detached escorted by USS Brister. It arrived in the Bristol Channel late on the 1st.

USS Thomas W. Gary meanwhile continued with the Liverpool section, which included HMS Battler. The Liverpool section arrived at its destination in the afternoon of the 1st.

4 Mar 1945
Around 1700A/4, HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Liverpool for Greenock where arrived around 1115A/5. She was escorted by HMS Lotus (T/Lt. T.S. Cox, RNVR).

HMS Battler was to join the carrier training group based in the Clyde area. (55)

24 Apr 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted D/G trials off Helensburg. (56)

30 Apr 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (56)

1 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

2 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

4 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

5 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

9 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

10 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

11 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

12 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

13 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

14 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

17 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

19 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

20 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

21 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

22 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

24 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

25 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

26 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

27 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde area. (57)

28 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises in the Clyde / North Channel area. She ended the day at Belfast Lough. (57)

29 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Belfast Lough. (57)

30 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Belfast Lough. (57)

31 May 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Belfast Lough to Rothesay.

[No logbook of HMS Battler is available for the month of June 1945, therefore no details for this month can be given.]

She left Rothesay on 2 June 1945 for Methil where she arrived on 4 June 1945. Flying training then continued in that area. (58)

2 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

3 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

4 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

5 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

7 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Methil to Rosyth. (59)

9 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to Methil. (59)

10 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

12 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

14 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Methil to Rosyth. (59)

16 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to the Methil area where flying exercises were carried out. (59)

17 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

18 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

19 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

20 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

21 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Methil to Rosyth. (59)

23 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to the Methil area where flying exercises were carried out. (59)

24 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil on completion of which she proceeded to Rosyth. (59)

26 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to the Methil area where flying exercises were carried out. (59)

27 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

28 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

29 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Methil to Rosyth. (59)

30 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to the Methil area where flying exercises were carried out. (59)

31 Jul 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (59)

1 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

2 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Methil to Rosyth. (60)

6 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) proceeded from Rosyth to Methil where flying exercises were carried out. (60)

7 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

8 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

10 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

11 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

12 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil. (60)

13 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil on completion of which course was set for Greenock. (60)

15 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) arrived at Greenock from Methil. (60)

28 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) departed Greenock for Methil. (60)

30 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) arrived at Methil from Greenock. She then carried out flying exercises. (60)

31 Aug 1945
HMS Battler (A/Capt. H. Norman, RN) conducted flying training exercises off Methil.

[HMS Battler continued flying training duties for almost the remainder of the year.] (60)

Sources

ADM 53/115415
ADM 53/115415 + War diary Commander Gulf Sea Frontier for November 1942
ADM 53/115415 + War diary Commander Gulf Sea Frontier for November 1942 + Convoyweb.org.uk (website)
ADM 53/115416
ADM 199/576 + ADM 199/717 + ADM 199/2100
ADM 53/116997
ADM 53/117000
ADM 53/117001
ADM 53/117002 + ADM 199/963
ADM 199/963 + ADM 199/2101
ADM 53/117002
ADM 53/117003
ADM 53/117004 + ADM 53/117648 + ADM 53/118403 + ADM 53/118573 + ADM 199/2273
ADM 53/117004 + ADM 53/118573
ADM 53/117004 + ADM 53/118573 + ADM 53/118663
ADM 53/117648 + ADM 53/118663
ADM 53/117004 + ADM 53/117494+ ADM 53/117648 + ADM 53/118510 + ADM 53/118573 + ADM 53/118663
ADM 53/117005 + ADM 53/117074
ADM 53/117495 + ADM 53/118664 + ADM 199/641 + ADM 234/358
ADM 53/117005 + ADM 199/641 + ADM 199/2277
ADM 53/117005
ADM 53/117006
ADM 53/117006 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Quiberon for October 1943
War diary of USS LST 21 for November 1943
ADM 53/117007 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Quiberon for November 1943
ADM 53/117006 + ADM 199/643
ADM 53/117007 + ADM 199/643 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Norman for November 1943
ADM 53/117007 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Norman for November 1943
ADM 53/117008 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Norman for December 1943
ADM 53/117008
ADM 53/117008 + ADM 199/643
ADM 53/118946 + ADM 199/1388
ADM 53/118946 + ADM 199/1388 + Convoyweb.org.uk (website)
Report of proceedings of HMAS Quiberon for January 1944
ADM 53/118946 + ADM 53/118947 + ADM 53/120136 + ADM 53/120137 + ADM 53/120568
ADM 53/118947
ADM 53/118947 + ADM 199/1388
ADM 53/118948 + ADM 53/120138 + ADM 53/120570 + ADM 199/2291
ADM 53/118948 + ADM 199/1388
ADM 53/118948 + ADM 199/2547
ADM 53/118951
ADM 53/118951 + ADM 53/118952 + ADM 199/1388 + BT/389/21/257
ADM 53/118952 + ADM 199/1388 + Convoyweb.org.uk (website)
ADM 53/118952 + ADM 199/1388
ADM 53/118953
ADM 53/118954 + ADM 199/1388
ADM 53/118955
ADM 53/118956
ADM 53/118957
ADM 53/118758 + ADM 53/118910 + ADM 53/118957 + ADM 53/119430 + ADM 53/120566 + ADM 53/120605
ADM 53/119430 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Quiberon for December 1944
ADM 53/118957 + ADM 53/119430 + Report of proceedings of HMAS Quiberon for December 1944
ADM 53/120937
ADM 53/120938
ADM 53/120939 + ADM 199/1443
ADM 53/120940
ADM 53/120941
ADM 53/120941 + ADM 199/2547
ADM 53/120942
ADM 53/120943

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

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Allies in WWII

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Allied events

Allied Warships

HMS Battler (D 18)

Escort Carrier of the Attacker class

Commands listed for HMS Battler (D 18)

Notable events involving Battler include:

Convoy KN 209.

Convoy HX 220.

Combined convoy OS 49 / KMS 16G.

Convoy XK 9.

Convoy UGF 10.

Operations of ' Force V ' during operation Avalanche.

Convoy KMF 24.

Convoy AB 18A.

Combined convoys AB 20(F) / AB 20(S) / AP 52.

Convoy AB 24.

Convoy AP 57.

Convoy AB 27A.

Operation Thwart.

Operation Covered.

Convoy CM 55.

Convoy KR 11.

Convoy CU 59.

Return to the Allied Warships section