| Navy | The Royal Navy |
| Type | Corvette |
| Class | Flower |
| Pennant | K 77 |
| Built by | Henry Robb Ltd. (Leith, U.K.) : Ailsa Shipbuilding Company Ltd. (Troon, Scotland) |
| Ordered | 25 Jul 1939 |
| Laid down | 31 Oct 1939 |
| Launched | 6 Jun 1940 |
| Commissioned | 15 Nov 1940 |
| End service | |
| History | HMS Delphinium is not listed as active unit in the July 1945 Navy List Scrapped at Pembroke Dock in February 1949. |
Commands listed for HMS Delphinium (K 77)
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 | Cdr. (retired) Robert Lees Spalding, RN | 18 Sep 1940 | 27 Mar 1943 |
| 2 | Lt.Cdr. Vivian Funge Smith, DSO, RD, RNR | 27 Mar 1943 | Sep 1944 |
| 3 | T/Lt. Sidney Rule, RNVR | Sep 1944 | mid 1945 |
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Notable events involving Delphinium include:
4 Dec 1940
HrMs O 14 (Lt.Cdr. H. Tichelman, RNN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Hollyhock (Lt. T.E. Davies, OBE, RNR) and HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN). (1)
7 Dec 1940
HrMs O 14 (Lt.Cdr. H. Tichelman, RNN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Hollyhock (Lt. T.E. Davies, OBE, RNR) and HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN). (1)
10 Mar 1941
Around 1040A/10, HrMs O 23 (Lt.Cdr. G.B.M. van Erkel, RNN) arrived at Gibraltar. She is escorted in by the British corvette HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN) which had joined around 0720A/10. (2)
8 Oct 1941
Around 0145C/8, HMAS Vendetta (Lt.Cdr. C.J. Stephenson, RAN) departed Haifa for an A/S patrol.
Corvette HMS Peony (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) M.B. Sherwood, DSO and Bar, RN) had reported attacking a submarine contact in position 34°08'N, 35°21E. Destroyer HMAS Vendetta, corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN), HMS Hyacinth (T/Lt. F.C. Hopkins, DSC, RNR), HMS Salvia (Lt.Cdr. J.I. Miller, DSO, DSC, RD, RNR) and two A/S search aircraft joined, but no further contact was made with the reported submarine. (3)
3 Feb 1942
HMS Porpoise (Cdr. E.F. Pizey, DSO, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Alexandria together with HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN) and HMS Erica (Lt.Cdr. W.C. Riley, RNR). (4)
16 Mar 1942
HMS Otus (Lt. R.M. Favell, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Alexandria together with HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN) and HMS Hyacinth (T/A/Lt.Cdr. F.C. Hopkins, DSC, RNR). (5)
8 Apr 1942
HMS Otus (Lt. R.M. Favell, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Alexandria together with HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN). (6)
11 Jun 1942
Operation Vigorous.
Convoy MW 11 from ports in the Eastern Mediterranean to Malta.
Operation Vigorous in the Eastern Mediterranean took place at the same time of Operation Harpoon in the Western Mediterranean.
11 June 1942.
On 11 June 1942, a diversionary convoy, MW 11C, departed Port Said for Malta. It was made up of the following transports; Aagtekerk (Dutch, 6811 GRT, built 1934), Bhutan (British, 6104 GRT, built 1929), City of Calcutta (British, 8063 GRT, built 1940) and Rembrandt (Dutch, 8126 GRT, built 1941).
The convoy was escorted by the AA cruiser HMS Coventry (Capt. R.J.R. Dendy, RN) and the escort destroyers HMS Airedale (Lt.Cdr. A.G. Forman, DSC, RN), HMS Aldenham (Lt. H.A. Stuart-Menteth, RN), HMS Beaufort (Lt.Cdr. S.O’G Roche, RN), HMS Croome (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN), HMS Dulverton (Lt.Cdr. W.N. Petch, OBE, RN), HMS Eridge (Lt.Cdr. W.F.N. Gregory-Smith, DSC, RN) and HMS Hurworth (Lt.Cdr. J.T.B. Birch, RN).
The four transports all had an MTB in tow. These were HMS MTB 259, HMS MTB 261, HMS MTB 262 and HMS MTB 264.
The convoy proceeded eastwards and on 12 June the convoy was joined while near Alexandria by the escort destroyer HMS Exmoor (Lt.Cdr. L.StG. Rich, RN).
12 June 1942.
On 12 June 1942, convoy MW 11A departed Haifa for Malta. It was made up of the following transports; Ajax (British, 7540 GRT, built 1931), City of Edinburgh (British, 8036 GRT, built 1938), City of Lincoln (British, 8039 GRT, built 1938), City of Pretoria (British, 8049 GRT, built 1937), Elizabeth Bakke (British, 5450 GRT, built 1937) and Princess Marguerite (Canadian, 5875 GRT, built 1925).
On depature from Haifa this part of the convoy was escorted by the detroyers HMAS Napier (Capt. S.H.T. Arliss, DSO, RN), HMAS Nestor (Cdr. A.S. Rosenthal, DSO and Bar, RAN), HMAS Nizam (Lt.Cdr. M.J. Clark, DSC, RAN), HMAS Norman (Cdr. H.M. Burrell, RAN), HMS Inconstant (Lt.Cdr. W.S. Clouston, RN) and HMS Hotspur (Lt. T.D. Herrick, DSC and Bar, RN).
Also on 12 June 1942, convoy MW 11B departed Port Said to join up with convoy MW 11A. It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Bulkoil (American (tanker), 8071 GRT, built 1942) and Potaro (British, 5410, built 1940).
It was escorted by the destroyers HMS Pakenham (Capt. E.B.K. Stevens, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Paladin (Cdr. A.D. Pugsley, RN) and HMS Fortune (Lt.Cdr. R.D.H.S. Pankhurst, RN).
13 June 1942.
Convoy MW 11C turned back eastward after dark on the 12th and joined convoys MW 11A and MW 11B near Alexandria on the 13th. The Hunt-class escort destroyers escorting convoy MW 11C were sent to Alexandria to fuel.
The transport City of Calcutta had been damaged by a near miss at 2100C/12 while the convoy was still proceeding to the west. She had been detached and was now escorted to Tobruk by HMS Croome and HMS Exmoor. The four MTB's that were in tow of the four merchant ships of convoy MW 11C, were slipped and also sent to Tobruk due to the bad weather conditions. MTB 259 however was damaged and sunk.
The transport Elizabeth Bakke was unable to keep up with the convoy and was therefore detached from convoy MW 11A to return to Alexandria. The decoy ship Centurion joined the convoy from Alexandria. This ship was disguised as a battleship.
The destroyers HMS Jervis (Capt. A.L. Poland, CB, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN), HMS Javelin (Lt.Cdr. G.E. Fardell, RN), HMS Kelvin (Cdr. M.S. Townsend, OBE, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Sikh (Capt. St.J.A. Micklethwait, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Zulu (Cdr. R.T. White, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Hasty (Lt.Cdr. N.H.G. Austen, RN) and HMS Hero (Lt. W. Scott, RN) departed Alexandria in the afternoon to relieve all the fleet destroyers which were with the convoy at that time. The rescue ships Antwerp (British, 2957 GRT, built 1920) and Malines (British, 2969 GRT, built 1921) took passage to the convoy with these destroyers. The destroyers they were to relieve were then to proceed to Alexandria to fuel. The corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr.(Retd.) R.L. Spalding, RN), HMS Erica (Lt.Cdr. W.C. Riley, RNR), HMS Primula (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) J.H. Fuller, RNR) and HMS Snapdragon (T/Lt. P.H. Potter, RNR) also joined the convoy escort from Alexandria.
At 1730C/13 the Rear Admiral Commanding, Fifteenth Cruiser Squadron, which was in overal command, sailed from Alexandria in HMS Cleopatra (Capt. G. Grantham, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral P.L. Vian, KBE, DSO and 2 Bars, RN) with HMS Dido (Capt. H.W.U. McCall, RN), HMS Hermione (Capt. G.N. Oliver, DSO, RN), HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Newcastle (Capt. P.B.R.W. William-Powlett, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, RN), HMS Birmingham (Capt. H.B. Crane, RN) and HMS Arethusa (Capt. A.C. Chapman, RN). They were escorted by the destroyers: HMAS Napier, HMAS Nestor, HMAS Nizam, HMAS Norman, HMS Pakenham, HMS Paladin, HMS Inconstant, HMS Fortune, HMS Griffin (Lt.Cdr. A.N. Rowell, RN), HMS Hotspur and the escort destroyers HMS Dulverton, HMS Airedale, HMS Aldenham, HMS Beaufort, HMS Eridge, HMS Hurworth and HMS Tetcott (Lt. R.H. Rycroft, RN).
14 June 1942.
HMS Erica had to be detached to Mersa Matruh during night of 13th/14th due to defects.
The escort destroyers HMS Croome and HMS Exmoor rejoined the convoy at daylight coming from Tobruk.
The transport Aagtekerk was unable to keep up with the convoy and was ordered to proceed to Tobruk escorted by HMS Tetcott and HMS Primula. She was later attacked by aircraft, set on fire and had to be grounded near Tobruk. She was later declared a total loss.
The minesweepers HMS Boston (Lt. D.H.G. Coughlan, RNR) and HMS Seaham (Lt.Cdr. R.E. Brett, RNR) joined the convoy coming from Tobruk.
During the afternoon and evening the convoy and escort were heavily bombed. The transport Bhutan was hit and sank while the transport Potaro was damaged but she was able to remain with the convoy. The rescue ships picked up crew and passengers from the Bhutan following which they parted company with the convoy and proceeded to Tobruk.
In the early evening it was reported that Italian warships had left Taranto.
15 June 1942.
Rear-Admiral Vian ordered the convoy to turn back at 0145C/15 so that an air attack could launched on the enemy fleet before contact could be made. During the night of the 14th/15th the convoy was constantly illuminated by aircraft flares and was also attacked by E-Boats and submarines. HMS Newcastle was hit forward by an E boat (S 56) torpedo around 0300C/15, her speed being reduced to 24 knots and her forward turret was put out of action. HMS Hasty was torpedoed and damaged also byan E boat (S 55) at 0525C/15 and later had to be scuttled by HMS Hotspur which also rescued her crew, only 12 of the crew of HMS Hasty were lost.
At 0630C/15 the convoy turned west again, but had to turn back to the east at 0930C/15 when the enemy was only 100 miles to the west and air attacks had not developed. At 1115C/15 a Beaufort torpedo bomber striking force reported hits on the two Littorio battleships, and the Commander in Chief Mediterranean ordered the convoy to turn westward once again. However the enemy continued to proceed to the south-east, apparently not reduced in speed. Rear-Admiral Vian, therefore, maintained his course to the eastward.
There were heavy air attacks with mainly Ju-88's and Ju-87's throughout the day and torpedo bombers attacked at dusk. Both Centurion and HMS Birmingham were damaged, but were able to continue. HMS Airedale was hit and she was later scuttled by HMS Aldenham and HMS Hurworth, casualties were fortunately once again slight. HMAS Nestor was also hit and immobilized but she did not sink and taken in tow by HMS Javelin with HMS Beaufort and HMS Eridge escorting the tow.
By 1630C/15 it had been reported that the enemy fleet had turned northward and the Commander in Chief Mediterranean again ordered the convoy to turn to the westward if in any way possible. Shortage of fuel and ammunition, however, did not permit this, and Rear-Admiral Vian was instructed to return to Alexandria with his whole force.
Submarines then intercepted the enemy fleet, but a simultaneous air attack caused the enemy to alter course and unfortunately the attacks could not be pressed home. The heavy cruiser Trento was damaged by the air attack and later sunk by HMS P 35 (Lt. S.L.C. Maydon, RN) while making her way back to Italy. HMS P 35 also reported one torpedo hit on a Littorio-class battleship but this was not the cast, she had missed the Vittorio Veneto.
16 June 1942.
At 0126C/16 HMS Hermione was torpedoed by the German submarine U-205 and sank shortly afterwards taking 88 of her crew with her. HMS Aldenham, HMS Beaufort and HMS Exmoorrescued 498 of her crew.
The efforts to tow the damaged HMAS Nestor had to be abandoned at 0530C/16 and she was scuttled by HMS Javelin who then proceeded to rejoin the 15th Cruiser Squadron and its escort.
During the day several attacks on A/S contacts were carried out by the convoy escort, but there was no evidence of damage or a submarine sunk.
In the early evening ships started to arrive back at Alexandria and all the remaining ships arrived there during the evening except the merchant vessels Bulkoil and Ajax which went on to Port Said escorted by HMS Pakenham, HMS Inconstant, HMS Griffin and HMS Fortune. (7)
9 Jul 1943
The 1st and 2nd divisions of ' Force H ', the main cover force for Operation Husky, were operating in the area the south of Malta. They had met around dawn.
The ' 1st Division ', was at that time made up of the battleships HMS Nelson (Capt. G.H.E. Russell, RN, flying the flag of Vice-Admiral A.U. Willis, KCB, DSO, RN), HMS Rodney (Rear-Admiral. J.W. Rivett-Carnac, DSC, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Indomitable (Capt. G. Grantham, CB, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. S.H. Carlill, DSO, RN), HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN), HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN), HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN), HMS Offa (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Leonard, RN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) S.T. Dzienisiewicz).
The ' 2nd Division ' was at that time made up of the battleships HMS Warspite (Capt. H.A. Packer, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral A.W.LaT. Bisset, RN), HMS Valiant (Capt. L.H. Ashmore, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Formidable (Rear-Admiral A.G. Talbot, DSO, RN) and the destroyers HMS Faulknor (Capt. A.K. Scott-Moncrieff, DSO, RN), HMS Fury (Cdr. C.H. Campbell, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Echo (Lt. R.H.C. Wyld, RN), HMS Eclipse (Lt.Cdr. E. Mack, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, RN), HMS Ilex (Lt.Cdr. V.A. Wight-Boycott, OBE, RN), HMS Intrepid (Cdr. C.A.de W. Kitcat, RN), HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. K.W. Michell, RN) and RHS Vasilissa Olga (Lt.Cdr. G. Blessas).
Also operating in the area was ' Force R ', the battlefleet oiling force, it was made up of the RFA tankers Pearleaf (5911 GRT, built 1917) [this tanker was apparently not present at the moment] and Cedardale (8132 GRT, built 1939). These tankers were escorted by the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), the A/S trawler HMS Wolborough (T/Lt. H.S. May, RNR), A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. G. Burn-Wood, SANF), HMSAS Southern Isles (Lt. M.R.T. Terry-Lloyd, SANF), HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt. W.L. Graham, SANF) and the M/S trawler HMS Romeo (T/S.Lt. G. Clixby, RNVR). During the day twelve destroyers were fuelled by this force which then proceeded to Benghazi.
The light cruisers HMS Aurora (Commodore W.G. Agnew, CB, RN), HMS Penelope (Capt. G.D. Belben, DSC, AM, RN) rejoined the ' 1st Division ' around 0900B/9 having been detached around 1100B/8 to refuel at Malta.
The light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Capt. J.F. Stevens, RN), HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) rejoined the ' 1st Division ' around 1140B/9 having been detached around 1450B/8 to refuel at Tripoli.
At 1255B/9, ' Force Q ', made up of HMS Aurora, HMS Penelope, HMS Inglefield and HMS Offa parted company to patrol to the east of the south-east tip of Sicily and for bombardment duties. (8)
10 Jul 1943
The 1st and 2nd divisions of ' Force H ', the main cover force for Operation Husky, were still operating in the area the south of Malta.
The ' 1st Division ', was made up of the battleships HMS Nelson (Capt. G.H.E. Russell, RN, flying the flag of Vice-Admiral A.U. Willis, KCB, DSO, RN), HMS Rodney (Rear-Admiral. J.W. Rivett-Carnac, DSC, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Indomitable (Capt. G. Grantham, CB, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN), light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Capt. J.F. Stevens, RN), HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. S.H. Carlill, DSO, RN), HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN), HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN), HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) S.T. Dzienisiewicz).
The ' 2nd Division ' was made up of the battleships HMS Warspite (Capt. H.A. Packer, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral A.W.LaT. Bisset, RN), HMS Valiant (Capt. L.H. Ashmore, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Formidable (Rear-Admiral A.G. Talbot, DSO, RN) and the destroyers HMS Faulknor (Capt. A.K. Scott-Moncrieff, DSO, RN), HMS Fury (Cdr. C.H. Campbell, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Echo (Lt. R.H.C. Wyld, RN), HMS Eclipse (Lt.Cdr. E. Mack, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Ilex (Lt.Cdr. V.A. Wight-Boycott, OBE, RN), HMS Intrepid (Cdr. C.A.de W. Kitcat, RN), HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. K.W. Michell, RN) and RHS Vasilissa Olga (Lt.Cdr. G. Blessas).
Around 0630B/10, ' Force Q ', made up of the light cruisers HMS Aurora (Commodore W.G. Agnew, CB, RN), HMS Penelope (Capt. G.D. Belben, DSC, AM, RN) and the destroyers HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, RN) and HMS Offa (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Leonard, RN) rejoined after patrol and bombardment duties during the night.
Around 1930B/10, ' Force Q ', now made up of the same light cruiser but now with the destroyers HMS Ilex and HMS Raider parted company to patrol the northern flank of the assault area. (8)
11 Jul 1943
The 1st and 2nd divisions of ' Force H ', the main cover force for Operation Husky, continue to operate in the Ionian Sea near Malta.
The ' 1st Division ', was made up of the battleships HMS Nelson (Capt. G.H.E. Russell, RN, flying the flag of Vice-Admiral A.U. Willis, KCB, DSO, RN), HMS Rodney (Rear-Admiral. J.W. Rivett-Carnac, DSC, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Indomitable (Capt. G. Grantham, CB, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral C. Moody, RN), light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Capt. J.F. Stevens, RN), HMS Euryalus (Capt. E.W. Bush, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, RN), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. C.W. Greening, RN), HMS Quilliam (Capt. S.H. Carlill, DSO, RN), HMS Quail (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Jenks, RN), HMS Queenborough (Cdr. E.P. Hinton, DSO and Bar, MVO, RN), HMS Petard (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Egan, RN), HMS Offa (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Leonard, RN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) S.T. Dzienisiewicz).
The ' 2nd Division ' was made up of the battleships HMS Warspite (Capt. H.A. Packer, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral A.W.LaT. Bisset, RN), HMS Valiant (Capt. L.H. Ashmore, RN), aircraft carrier HMS Formidable (Rear-Admiral A.G. Talbot, DSO, RN) and the destroyers HMS Faulknor (Capt. A.K. Scott-Moncrieff, DSO, RN), HMS Fury (Cdr. C.H. Campbell, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Echo (Lt. R.H.C. Wyld, RN), HMS Eclipse (Lt.Cdr. E. Mack, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, RN), HMS Intrepid (Cdr. C.A.de W. Kitcat, RN) and RHS Vasilissa Olga (Lt.Cdr. G. Blessas).
' Force R ', the battlefleet oiling force, departed Benghazi to rendezvous with ' Force H '. ' Force R ' was made up of the RFA tankers Pearleaf (5911 GRT, built 1917) and Cedardale (8132 GRT, built 1939). These tankers were escorted by the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), the A/S trawler HMS Wolborough (T/Lt. H.S. May, RNR), A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. G. Burn-Wood, SANF), HMSAS Southern Isles (Lt. M.R.T. Terry-Lloyd, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt. W.L. Graham, SANF).
Around 0700B/10, ' Force Q ', made up of the light cruisers HMS Aurora (Commodore W.G. Agnew, CB, RN), HMS Penelope (Capt. G.D. Belben, DSC, AM, RN) and the destroyers HMS Ilex (Lt.Cdr. V.A. Wight-Boycott, OBE, RN) and HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. K.W. Michell, RN) rejoined after a patrol to the east of Sicily.
At 0900B/11, HMS Aurora and HMS Penelope parted company to proceed to Malta to refuel. They rejoined around 2000B/11.
Around 1530B/11, HMS Petard which was required for other duties was relieved by the escort destroyer HMS Brecon (Lt.Cdr. T.D. Herrick, DSC and Bar, RN).
Around 1700B/11, ' Force Q ', now made up of the light cruisers HMS Cleopatra, HMS Euryalus and the destroyers HMS Ilex and HMS Echo parted company to patrol to the east of Sicily during the night. They were to proceed to Malta to refuel upon completion of their patrol.
' Force R ' departed Benghazi on this day to rejoin. (8)
24 Sep 1943
Convoy MKS 26.
This convoy departed Alexandria on 24 September 1943.
It was made up of the following ships; Badarpur (British, 8079 GRT, built 1922), Clan Murdoch (British, 5950 GRT, built 1919), Delane (British, 6054 GRT, built 1938), Diplodon (British (tanker), 8149 GRT, built 1941), Drammensfjord (Norwegian, 5339 GRT, built 1920), Empire Capulet (British, 7044 GRT, built 1943), Fort Cadotte (British, 7128 GRT, built 1943), Fort Frederick (British, 7135 GRT, built 1942), Fort George (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942), Fort Glenlyon (British, 7132 GRT, built 194), Fort Lawrence (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), George Gipp (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Glenogle (British, 9513 GRT, built 1920), Highland Prince (British, 7043 GRT, built 1942), R.C. Brennan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Talma (British, 10000 GRT, built 1923) and Thistlemuir (British, 7237 GRT, built 1942).
The convoy was escorted by the corvettes HMS Hyderabad (T/Lt. T. Cooper, RNR), HMS Spiraea (Lt. A.H. Pierce, OBE, RNR), HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR) and the minesweeper HMAS Gawler (Lt.Cdr.(Emgy.) W.J. Seymour, RAN). The corvettes HMS Oxlip (Lt. C.W. Leadbetter, RNR) and HMS Coltsfoot (T/Lt. G.W. Rayner, RNVR) were unable to depart on time due to defects. HMS Delphinium and HMAS Gawler were sailed in their place. Both corvettes were able to proceed after repairs to overtake and join the convoy relieving their substitutes which then returned to Alexandria.
On 28 September 1943, the following ships departed Malta to join the convoy; African Prince (British, 4653 GRT, built 1939), Benreoch (British, 5818 GRT, built 1921), Coxwold (British, 1124 GRT, built 1938), Derwenthall (British, 4934 GRT, built 1940), Duke of Athens (British, 5217 GRT, built 1940), Empire Nerissa (British, 7086 GRT, built 1943), Empire Rosalind (British, 7290 GRT, built 1943), Fort Augustus (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fort Charnisay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Fort Howe (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Fort Poplar (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Fort St. James (British, 7128 GRT, built 1942), Fort Stager (British, 7132 GRT, built 1943), Fort Walsh (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943), Gudrun Maersk (British, 2294 GRT, built 1937), Harpagus (British, 7172 GRT, built 1942), Ocean Valley (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942), Stanhill (British, 5969 GRT, built 1942), Ulla (British, 1575 GRT, built 1930) and Vittorino Zanibon (Italian (tanker), 1622 GRT, built 1943).
With them was also the damaged light cruiser HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN).
The Malta section was escorted by the escort destroyers HMS Eggesford (Lt.Cdr. D.W. Austin, RN), HMS Chiddingfold (Lt. T.M. Dorrien-Smith, RN) and the corvettes HMS Alisma (Lt. G. Lanning, RANVR), HMS Jonquil (T/Lt. R.W. Tretheway, RNR) and HMS Vetch (Lt. K.M.B. Menzies, RNR).
On these ships joining the convoy both escort destroyers returned to Malta taking the following ships of the convoy with them; Badarpur, Clan Murdoch, Diplodon, Empire Capulet, Fort Cadotte, Fort Frederick, Fort George, Fort Glenlyon, Fort Lawrence, Glenogle, Highland Prince and Talma.
HMS Jonquil and HMS Vetch proceeded to Tripoli taking the Thistlemuir with them.
HMS Alisma joined the main body of the convoy as additional escort towards Gibraltar.
On 29 September 1943, the Fanad Head (British, 5038 GRT, built 1941) joined the convoy coming from Tunis.
On 29 September 1943, the following ships parted company with the convoy and arrived at Bizerta; Empire Rosalind, Fort Walsh, Gudrun Maersk, John Howland and Ulla while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; Charles Goodyear (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Crista (British, 2590 GRT, built 1938), Empire Perdita (British, 7028 GRT, built 1943), Marigot (French, 4047 GRT, built 1932), Miriam (British, 1903 GRT, built 1912) and Richard Henry Lee (American, 7191 GRT, built 1941).
On 30 September 1943, the Empire Commerce (British, 3722 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy from Bone.
On 30 September 1943, the following ships were detached to Philippeville; Crista, Derwenthall, Empire Perdita and Fort Charnisay while the Henry Wynkoop (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942) joined the convoy coming from Philippeville.
Around midnight during the night of 30 September / 1 October 1943, the German submarine U-410 attacked the convoy sinking the Fort Howe and heavily damaging the Empire Commerce. The aft part of the latter ship sank while the front part was towed to Bone.
On 2 October 1943, the following ships of the convoy were detached to Algiers; Coxwold, Fort Stager, Marigot, Miriam, Vittorino Zanibon and HMS Alisma while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Abangarez (American, 4538 GRT, built 1909), Franka (Yugoslavian, 5273 GRT, built 1918) and Waipawa (British, 12436 GRT, built 1934). Also joining were the motor minesweepers HMS MMS 13 (T/Lt. A.E. Durham, RNVR) and HMS MMS 118 (A/Skr.Lt. J. Smith, DSC, RNR).
On 3 October 1943, the following ships of the convoy were detached to Oran; Abangarez, Charles Goodyear, George Gipp, Henry Wynkoop, John Howland, R.C. Brennan and Richard Henry Lee while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran; Dalemoor (British, 5835 GRT, built 1922), Empire Spey (British, 4292 GRT, built 1929), Kingsborough (British, 3368 GRT, built 1928) and Van Ostade (Dutch, 2890 GRT, built 1942).
The convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 4 October 1943.
29 Oct 1943
Convoy GUS 20.
This convoy departed Alexandria on 29 October 1943.
On departure from Alexandria the convoy was made up of the following ships; Billy Mitchell (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Binger Hermann (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Cape Howe (British, 6999 GRT, built 1943), Charles A. Warfield (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), City of Delhi (British, 7443 GRT, built 1925), City of Keelung (British, 5186 GRT, built 1919), Clan Murdoch (British, 5950 GRT, built 1919), Edward Canby (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Edward L. Grant (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Empire Adur (British, 1479 GRT, built 1920), Empire Stour (British, 4678 GRT, built 1930), Ephraim W. Baughman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Fort Carillon (British, 7129 GRT, built 1943), Fort Dease Lake (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943), Fort Erie (British, 7128 GRT, built 1943), Fort Fidler (British, 7127 GRT, built 1943), Fort Frederick (British, 7135 GRT, built 1942), Frontenac (British, 7148 GRT, built 1943), Hutchinson I Cone (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Shields (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John Hart (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Kaimata (British, 5269 GRT, built 1931), Oliver Wolcott (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Peebles (British, 4982 GRT, built 1936), President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935), Roger Sherman (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Samuel Seabury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Shirrabank (British, 7274 GRT, built 1940), Stephen T. Mather (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Tatra (Norwegian, 4766 GRT, built 1937), Thomas J. Jarvis (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Trevelyan (British, 7292 GRT, built 1943), Turkistan (British, 6935 GRT, built 1939), Washington Irving (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), William Grayson (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942) and William Tilghman (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942).
On departure from Alexandria the convoy was escorted by the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), RHS Apostolis, RHS Sakhtouris, auxiliary A/S trawler HMS Wolborough (T/Lt. G.A. Hartnell, RNR) and the auxiliary A/S whaler HMS Klo (?).
On 2 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the convoy; Cape Howe, City of Delhi, Clan Murdoch, Fort Carillon, Fort Dease Lake, Fort Erie, Fort Fidler, Fort Frederick, Frontenac, President de Vogue and Trevelyan while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Augusta; Ambrose E. Burnside (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Antonia (Dutch (tanker), 3357 GRT, built 1938), Audun (Norwegian, 1304 GRT, built 1925), Danio (Norwegian, 3496 GRT, built 1924), Derwenthall (British, 4934 GRT, built 1940), Empire Rival (British, 7045 GRT, built 1943), Empire Usk (British, 3229 GRT, built 1918), Esso Charleston (American (tanker), 7949 GRT, built 1938), Fernmoor (), Fort Albany (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943), Fort Charnisay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Fort Maurepas (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Fort McPherson (British, 7132 GRT, built 1943), Gleniffer (British, 9559 GRT, built 1919), Henry Barnard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Howard A. Kelly (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943), Jacob H. Gallinger (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James M. Wayne (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James W. Fannin (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), John Clarke (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Josiah Bartlett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Lou Gehrig (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Petter (Norwegian (tanker), 9109 GRT, built 1935), Rallus (British, 1871 GRT, built 1922), Richard Bassett (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), Solomon Juneau (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Stephen A. Douglas (American, 7219 GRT, built 1942), Suncrest (British, 5117 GRT, built 1940), Thomas Hart Benton (American, 7187 GRT, built 1943) and William Few (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942).
On 3 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy; Empire Stour and Petter while the Empire Snipe (British, 2497 GRT, built 1919) joined the convoy coming from Malta.
On 4 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy; Antonia, Audun, Fort McPherson and Rallus while following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; Clark Mills (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Eli Whitney (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Elihu Yale (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Grenville M. Dodge (American, 7194 GRT, built 1942), Henry Ward Beecher (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), J.E.B. Stuart (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), John Sullivan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Jonathan Grout (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Joseph T. Robinson (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), Lesto (British, 1893 GRT, 1918), Louisa M. Alcott (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Macuba (Dutch (tanker), 8249 GRT, built 1931), Montebello (Italian, 570 GRT, built 1918), Moses Austin (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), Oliver Hazard Perry (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Paine Wingate (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Robert H. Harrison (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Smith Thompson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Thomas R. Mashall (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943), Torborg (Norwegian (tanker), 6042 GRT, built 1921) and West Durfee (American, 5522 GRT, built 1918). Also joining the convoy was the HMS LST 11 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. G.H. Hummel, RNR).
On 4 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy; Danio and Empire Rival while following ships joined the convoy coming from Bone; Empire Guinevere (British, 7072 GRT, built 1942), John Carver (American, 7176 GRT, 1942) and Thelma (Norwegian (tanker), 8297 GRT, built 1937).
On 4 November 1943, the Empire Guinevere arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the convoy.
On 5 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Bougie after having been detached from the convoy; Derwenthall, Fort Charnisay and Gleniffer.
On 5 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Algiers after having been detached from the convoy; Empire Snipe, Fernmoor, Lesto, Montebello and Thelma while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Baron Ruthven (British, 3178 GRT, built 1925), Bralanta (Norwegian (tanker), 9608 GRT, built 1936), Empire Cormotant (British, 5760 GRT, built 1942), Gulfhawk (American (tanker), 10217 GRT, built 1928), Marsa (British, 4405 GRT, built 1928), Memphis City (American, 5686 GRT, built 1921) and Pan Aruba (Norwegian, 9231 GRT, built 1931).
On 6 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Oran after having been detached from the convoy; Henry Barnard, James M. Wayne, James W. Fannin, Marsa and Thomas Hart Benton as well as HMS LST 11 while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran; Albert C. Ritchie (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Baron Napier (British, 3559 GRT, built 1930), Cleveland Abbe (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Gideon Welles (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), James McCosh (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James W. Nesmith (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Joseph H. Nicholson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Lambert Cadwallader (), Leiv Eiriksson (Norwegian (tanker), 9952 GRT, built 1936), Mount Baker (American, 6022 GRT, built 1940), Richard Jordan Gatling (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Thomas B. Robertson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Tide Water (American (tanker), 8886 GRT, built 1930) and Tristram Dalton (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942). Also the stores ship USS Merak (Lt.Cdr. J.W. Cawthon, USN) joined the convoy.
On 6 November 1943, the destroyer HMS Anthony (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Wallace, DSC, RN) departed Gibraltar to join the convoy while it was still in the Mediterranean.
On 7 November 1943, the Empire Cormorant arrived at Oran after after having straggled from the convoy.
On 7 November 1943, the following ships arrived at Gibraltar after having been detached from the convoy; Baron Ruthven, City of Keelung, Empire Usk, Fort Albany, Fort Maurepas, Kaimata, Peebles and Turkistan while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Gibraltar; Helen Hunt Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Matt W. Ransom (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Scottish Monarch (British, 7004 GRT, built 1943) and Wolverine (American, 4990 GRT, built 1919). Also joining from Gibraltar were the damaged light cruisers HMS Cleopatra (Cdr. M.J. Ross, DSC, RN) and HMS Uganda (Capt. W.G. Andrewes, RN) which were to take passage to the USA to undergo full repairs there.
Also the current escort; HMS Anthony, HMS Delphinium, RHS Apostolis, RHS Sakhtouris, HMS Wolborough and HMS Klo arrived at Gibraltar after having been relieved by the destroyers HMS Antelope (Cdr. J.G. Gould, RN), HMS Inglefield (Cdr. C.F.H. Churchill, DSC, RN), HMS Witherington (Lt.Cdr. R.B.S. Tennant, RN) and the armed yacht HMS Thalassa (T/A/Lt.Cdr. S.G. Barnes, RNR).
On 7 November 1943, the destroyers USS Baldwin (T/Cdr. G. Knuepfer, USN, with COMTASKFOR 66 / COMDESDIV 36, T/Capt. W.J. Marshall, USN, on board), USS Harding (T/Cdr. G.G. Palmer, USN), USS Satterlee (T/Lt.Cdr. J.F. Witherow, Jr., USN), USS Thompson (T/Cdr. L.A. Ellis, USN) and minesweepers USS Tide (Lt.Cdr. A. Robinson, USNR) and USS Threat (Lt.Cdr. H.E. Ferrill, USNR) departed Casablanca to make rendezvous with the convoy which was made on the 8th when they relieved the British escort which then parted company and proceeded to Gibraltar.
Later on 8 November 1944, the following ships joined the convoy coming from Casablanca which they had departed earlier in the day; Fort la Maune (British, 7130 GRT, built 1942), George W. Woodward (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Gunn (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943), John M. Morehead (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Peter J. McGuire (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942). With them was also the naval tanker USS Chepachet (Cdr. H.R. Adams, USNR). They were escorted by the destroyers USS McCormick (T/Lt.Cdr. F.A. Brock, USN, USS Broome (T/Lt. C.S. Arthur, Jr., USN) and the patrol vessel USS PC-481 (Lt. N.W Roeder, USNR). The destroyers then joined the convoy while the patrol vessel set course to return to Casablanca taking the Baron Napier with her.
On 11 November 1943, USS Chepachet fuelled all six destroyers of the escort.
On 13 November 1943, two ships joined coming from the Azores, these were the following; Cape Clear (British, 5085 GRT, built 1939) and Empire Outpost (British, 6978 GRT, built 1943). Their trawler escort did not join the convoy.
On 17 November 1943, USS Chepachet fuelled all six destroyers of the escort.
On 21 November 1943, USS Chepachet was detached to the Azores. To escort her there the destroyer escorts USS Ricketts (Lt.Cdr. G.L. Rollins, USCG) and USS Harveson (Lt.Cdr. P.L. Stinson, USCG) had arrived on the scene.
On 22 November 1943, the convoy split up into the ' Hapton Roads, Baltimore and Philadelphia Section ' escorted by USS Harding, USS Satterlee, USS Tide and USS Threat and the ' New York Section ' with the remainder of the escorts.
The sections arrived at their destinations on 24 November 1943.
4 Jan 1944
Combined convoy OS 64 / KMS 38.
This combined convoy was assembled off Oversay on 4 January 1944.
It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Anna N. Goulandris (Greek, 4358 GRT, built 1921), Antilochus (British, 9082 GRT, built 1906), Atlantic City (British, 5133 GRT, built 1941), Baron Douglas (British, 3899 GRT, built 1932), Biafra (British, 5405 GRT, built 1933), Bosphorus (Norwegian, 2111 GRT, built 1934), City of Leicester (British, 3351 GRT, built 1926), Coulbeg (British, 5237 GRT, built 1940), Danae II (British, 2660 GRT, built 1936), Edam (Dutch, 8871 GRT, built 1921), Empire Caxton (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942), Empire Cormorant (British, 5760 GRT, built 1918), Empire Geraint (British, 6991 GRT, built 1942), Empire Grange (British, 6981 GRT, built 1943), Empire Melody (British, 2283 GRT, built 1942), Empire Opossum (British, 5644 GRT, built 1918), Empire Peacock (British, 6098 GRT, built 1919), Empire Stronghold (British, 7064 GRT, built 1943), Empire Thackeray (British, 2865 GRT, built 1942), Empire Wolfe (British, 2888 GRT, built 1941), Eskdalegate (British, 4250 GRT, built 1930), Fort Norman (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Governor (British, 5571 GRT, built 1918), Hartbridge (British, 5080 GRT, built 1927), Kyklades (Greek, 7157 GRT, built 1941), Laguna (British, 6466 GRT, built 1923), Lornaston (British, 4934 GRT, built 1925), Manchester Exporter (British, 5277 GRT, built 1918), Marsdale (British, 4890 GRT, built 1940), Merchant Royal (British, 5008 GRT, built 1928), North Devon (British, 3658 GRT, built 1924), Ocean Gallant (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Ocean Vulcan (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942), Palacio (British, 1346 GRT, built 1927), Port Melbourne (British, 9142 GRT, built 1914), Scottish American (British (tanker / escort oiler), 6999 GRT, built 1920), Sreca (Yugoslavian, 5248 GRT, built 1918), Telesfora de Larrinaga (British, 5780 GRT, built 1920), Theomitor (Greek, 4427 GRT, built 1910) and Van Honthorst (Dutch, 6140 GRT, built 1943).
The rescue ship Copeland (British, 1526 GRT, built 1923) was also with the convoy as was the Greek LST RHS Chios.
Of the transports the following had to return after departure; Empire Cormorant, Empire Thackeray- and Merchant Royal.
On assembly off Oversay the convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMS Winchelsea (Lt. C.T. Shuttleworth, RNVR), frigates HMS Bayntun (Lt.Cdr. L.P. Bourke, RNZNR), HMS Helmsdale (Cdr. C.W. McMullen, RN), corvettes HMS Abelia (A/Lt.Cdr. O.G. Stuart, RCNVR), HMS Asphodel (Lt.Cdr. H.P. Carse, DSC, RNVR), HMS Burdock (T/Lt. F.R.M. Greasley, RNR), HMS Clover (Lt. T.E. Fanshawe, DSC, RNR), HMS Crocus (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A.R. Mackay, RNZNVR) and A/S trawler HMS Vizalma (T/Lt. B. James, RNVR). The rescue tug HMRT Stormking was also with the convoy.
On 6 January 1944, the frigate HMS Foley (A/Lt.Cdr. C.A.H. Bird, RNVR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy. She had been unable to departed earlier as her new Commanding Officer had not yet arrived to take over command.
On 6/7 January 1944, the frigate HMCS Waskesiu (T/A/Cdr. J.H.S. MacDonald, RCNR) and the corvettes HMCS Camrose (T/A/Lt.Cdr. L.R. Pavillard, RCNR), HMCS Edmundston (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R.D. Barrett, RCNR), HMCS Lunenburg (T/Lt. D.L. Miller, RCNVR) and HMCS Snowberry (T/Lt. J.A. Dunn, RCNVR) joined from convoy SL 143. They parted company on 12 January 1944 to join northbound convoy SL 144.
On 7 January 1944, the frigate HMS Avon (Lt.Cdr. P.G.A. King, DSC, RD, RNR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy. She had been unable to departed earlier due to defects.
In the evening of 8 January 1944, HMS Bayntun and HMCS Camrose sank the German submarine U-757 in position 50°33'N, 18°03'W.
On 9 January 1944, the corvette HMS Abelia sustained damage to her rudder. The damage was possibly due to a T-5 acoustic torpedo fired by a German submarine but might also have been inflicted due to one of her own depth charges exploding prematurely. She was able to steam under her own power but could not steer. HMRT Stormking then took her in tow towards Cardiff where they arrived on 13 January 1944. They had been escorted by HMS Vizalma which subsequently proceeded to Liverpool arriving on the 14th.
On 11 January 1944, the destroyers HMS Wanderer (Lt.Cdr. R.F. Whinney, RN), HMS Watchman (Lt.Cdr. G.H.D. Williams, RN), sloop HMS Woodpecker (Cdr. H.L. Pryse, RNR) and frigates HMS Glenarm (Lt.Cdr. W.R.B. Noall, DSO, RNR) joined from convoy SL 144. They parted company again the following day to rejoin convoy SL 144 taking HMS Burdock also with them.
In the late afternoon of 11 January 1944, the German submarine U-953 attacked the corvette HMCS Lunenburg with a T-5 homing torpedo but it missed. The submarine was then hunted for hours by the Lunenburg herself as well as HMS Foley, HMCS Waskesiu and HMCS Edmundston. The U-boat was damaged but was able to remain on patrol.
On 17 January 1944, the convoy split into convoy OS 64 and KMS 38.
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Convoy OS 64, towards Freetown, was made up of the following merchant vessels; Biafra, Bosphorus, Danae II, Empire Geraint and Port Melboune.
On 15 January 1944, the frigate HMS Ballinderry (Lt.Cdr. E.F. Aikman, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Aubretia (Lt. G.D. Fowler, RNR) and HMS Cyclamen (T/Lt. W.S. Joliffe, RNR) had departed Gibraltar escorting convoy OS 64G (the Gibraltar section of convoy OS 64) which was made up of the following transports; Afghanistan (British, 6992 GRT, built 1940), Dalhanna (British, 5571 GRT, built 1930), Empire Meteor (British, 7457 GRT, built 1940), Empire Newton (British, 7037 GRT, built 1942), Empire Sunbeam (British, 6711 GRT, built 1941), Fort Lac la Ronge (British, 7131 GRT, built 1942), Fort McLoughlin (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942), Houston City (British, 7262 GRT, built 1942), Nairung (British, 5414 GRT, built 1942), Nyanza (British, 4974 GRT, built 1928), Tiba (Dutch, 5239 GRT, built 1938), Vera Radcliffe (British, 5587 GRT, built 1925) and Vinriver (British, 3881 GRT, built 1917).
On these ships arriving at the rendezvous on the 17th the convoy split. The original escort of the combined convoy then proceeded with convoy KMS 38 towards the Mediterranean.
On 16 January 1944, the transport/ tanker Hoggar (French, 5146 GRT, built 1923) and Ninella (British (tanker), 8134 GRT, built 1943) had departed Casablanca to join the convoy. They were escorted to the rendezvous by the corvette Commandant Detroyant and the patrol vessel / sloop Amiral Mouchez. These escorts did not join the convoy but returned to Casablanca on the 17th.
On 23 January 1944, the and arrived at Dakar after having been detached from the convoy while the transport Arcturus (French, 2514 GRT, built 1914) joined the convoy coming from Dakar.
Convoy OS 64 arrived at Freetown 26 January 1944. Some ships from the convoy did not enter Freetown but continued on to their destinations independently.
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Convoy KMS 38, made up of the remaining ships, proceeded towards the Mediterranean with the original escort of the combined convoy.
On 17 January 1944, the following transports / tanker arrived at Gibraltar; City of Leicester, Copeland, Empire Caxton, Empire Melody, Empire Wolfe, Laguna, North Devon and Scottish American. The Greek LST RHS Chios also arrived at Gibraltar.
The original escort, made up of HMS Helmsdale, HMS Bayntun, HMS Avon, HMS Foley, HMS Winchelsea, HMS Asphodel, HMS Clover and HMS Crocus also arrived at Gibraltar.
On the convoy passing Gibraltar on the 17th, the transports Cragpool (British 5133 GRT, built 1928) and Empire Daring (British 7059 GRT, built 1943) joined.
Also a new escort joined, this was made up of the AA cruiser HMS Colombo (Capt. H.W. Williams, RN), frigate HMS Inver (Lt.Cdr. F.H. Gray, RNR), corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), RHS Sakhtouris, RHS Apostolis, A/S whaler HMSAS Southern Sea and the M/S trawler HMS Filla (T/Lt. G.H. Syrett, RNVR).
The submarines HMS Tantivy (Cdr. M.G. Rimington, DSO, RN) and HrMs K XIV (Lt.Cdr. J.F. Drijfhout Van Hooff, RNN) also joined the convoy for passage to Port Said.
On 18 January 1944, the transport Lornaston was detached to Oran while the following transports joined the convoy coming from Oran; Cartago (American, 4732 GRT, built 1908), Empire Harbour (British (tanker), 797 GRT, built 1943), George G. Meade (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Irvin MacDowell (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), James R. Randall (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John P. Mitchell (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John S. Pillsbury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Joseph E. Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Mount Othrys (Greek, 6527 GRT, built 1919), P.L.M. 13 (British, 3754 GRT, built 1921), Tabitha Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Ville de Djidjelli (French, 1132 GRT, built 1907) and William Mulholland (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).
On 19 January 1944, the transports / tanker Atlantic City, Baron Douglas, Hartbridge, Mount Othrys, Ocean Gallant and Telesfora de Larrinaga were detached to Algiers as was the M/S trawler HMS Filla while the following transports joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Amberton (British, 5377 GRT, built 1928), Djebel Aures (French, 2835 GRT, built 1929), Edward P. Costigan (American, 7194, built 1943), Fort Fairford (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), Fort Reliance (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Gouverneur General Lepine (French, 3509 GRT, built 1923), Guinean (British, 5205 GRT, built 1936), Joseph N. Teal (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Pan-Maryland (American (tanker), 7701 GRT, built 1938), Silvester Gardiner (American, 7176, built 1943), Srbin (Yugoslavian, 928 GRT, built 1913), Temple Inn (British, 5218 GRT, built 1940) and Thomas Pickney (American, 7177, built 1942).
On 20 January 1944, the transport Benjamin Tay (British, 1814 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy coming from Bougie.
On 20 January 1944, the transport Ville de Djidjelli arrived at Philippeville after having been detached from the convoy.
On 20 January 1944, the transports / tanker , Anna N. Goulandris, Empire Harbour, George G. Meade, Gouverneur General Lepine and Srbin arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy while the following transports joined the convoy coming from Bone; Brighton (British, 7345 GRT, built 1943), Cyrus H.K. Curtis (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Destro (British, 3553 GRT, built 1920), Dornoch (British, 5186 GRT, built 1939), Dux (Norwegian, 1590 GRT, built 1934), Empire Brook (British, 2852 GRT, built 1941) and Senga (Yugoslavian, 5140 GRT, built 1913). The RFA tanker Prestol (2629 GRT, built 1917) also joined the convoy.
On 21 January 1944, the transports Cartago, James R. Randall, Senga, Sreca, Theomitor and the RFA tanker Prestol arrived at Bizerta after having parted company with the convoy while the following transports joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; George Matthews (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), George W. McCrary (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942) and John A. Campbell (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943). HMS Colombo also arrived at Bizerta after having been detached from the convoy.
On 21 January 1944, the transports Eskdalegate and Joseph N. Teal arrived at Tunis after having been detached from the convoy.
On 22 January 1944, the following transports / tankers departed Augusta to join the convoy; Anglo-African (British, 5601 GRT, built 1929), Blairclova (British, 5083 GRT, built 1938), Comliebank (British, 5149 GRT, built 1924), Empire Ballad (British, 6700 GRT, built 1942), Empire Cedar (British (tug), 129 GRT, built 1941), Empire Daring (British, 7059 GRT, built 1943), Empire Raja (British, 6224 GRT, built 1922), Empire Rock (British, 7061 GRT, built 1943), Fort Capot River (British, 7128 GRT, built 1943), Fort Clatsop (British, 7157 GRT, built 1943), Fort Nashwaak (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), Fort St. Francois (British, 7125 GRT, built 1942), Lublin (Polish, 1409 GRT, built 1932), Nolisement (British, 5084 GRT, built 1928), Ocean Trader (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Samaritan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samnebra (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samsylvan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Tide Water (American (tanker), 8886 GRT, built 1930) and Trevelyan (British, 7292 GRT, built 1943).
On 23 January 1944, the transports Amberton, Benjamin Tay, Brighton, Coulbeg, Craigpool, Cyrus H.K. Curtis, Destro, Djebel Aures, Dornoch, Dux, Edward P. Costigan, Empire Brook, Empire Grange, Empire Opossum, Empire Peacock, Empire Stronghold, Fort Fairford, Fort Norman, Fort Reliance, George Matthews, George W. McCrary, Guinean, Irvin MacDowell, John A. Campbell, John P. Mitchell, John S. Pillsbury, Joseph E. Brown , Kyklades, Manchester Exporter, Ocean Vulcan, P.L.M. 13, Pan-Maryland , Silvester Gardiner, Tabitha Brown, Temple Inn, Thomas Pinckney, Van Honthorst and William Mulholland arrived at Tunis after having been detached from the convoy.
On 26 January 1944, the following transports arrived at Alexandria after having parted company with the convoy. Blairclova, Edam, Fort Capot River, Fort Nashwaak, Fort St. Francois, Lublin, Marsdale, Ocean Trader, Samaritan, Samnebra, Samsylvan and Trevelyan. Also the following escort vessels arrived at Alexandria; HMS Inver, HMS Delphinium and RHS Apostolis.
On 27 January 1944, the following transports / tankers arrived at Port Said; Anglo-African, Antilochus, Comliebank, Empire Ballad, Empire Cedar, Empire Daring, Empire Raja, Empire Rock, Fort Clatsop, Governor, Nolisement and Tide Water. Also the following escort vessels arrived at Port Said; RHS Sakhtouris, HMSAS Southern Sea
10 Mar 1944
Convoy MKS 43.
This convoy departed Port Said on 10 March 1944.
On departure from Port Said the convoy was made up of the following merchant vessels; Balfe (British, 5369 GRT, built 1920), British Aviator (British (tanker), 6998 GRT, built 1924), British Chemist (British (tanker), 6997 GRT, built 1925), Buccinum (British (tanker), 5237 GRT, built 1910), Cape Hawke (British, 5081 GRT, built 1941), Egero (Norwegian (tanker), 7590 GRT, built 1929), Empire Baron (British, 5894 GRT, built 1926), Glenogle (British, 9513 GRT, built 1920), Mactra (British (tanker), 6193 GRT, built 1936), Samdel (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samneva (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943) and Tide Water (American (tanker), 8886 GRT, built 1930).
The armed merchant cruiser HMS Alaunia (A/Cdr.(Retd.) A.C.G. Jolley, RN) and auxiliary minelayer HMS Teviotbank (Cdr.(Retd.) R.D. King-Harman, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN) were also part of the convoy.
On departure from Port Said the convoy was escorted by the frigate HMS Inver (Lt.Cdr. F.H. Gray, RNR) and corvette RHS Apostolis.
Around 1700B/10, the Alexandria section of the convoy joined. This section was made up of the following merchant vessels; Belgian Veteran (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942), City of Lincoln (British, 8039 GRT, built 1938), Empire Tristram (British, 7167 GRT, built 1942), Fort Gloucester (British, 7127 GRT, built 1943), Fort St. Paul (British, 7137 GRT, built 1943), Hugh McCulloch (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Maihar (British, 7563 GRT, built 1917), Mandalay (British, 5529 GRT, built 1911), Pegu (British, 7838 GRT, built 1943), Samarina (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Sambrake (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Sampa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samphill (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samsylvan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Sutherland (British, 5170 GRT, built 1940) and Wiley Post (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943).
They were escorted by the corvette HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), A/S whaler HMSAS Southern Sea and the patrol vessel RHS Vasilefs Georgios II.
Around 0900A/16, in position 35°55'N, 15°46'E, the following ships were detached to Augusta; Balfe, Belgian Veteran, British Aviator, British Chemist, Buccinum, Cape Hawke, Empire Tristram, Fort Gloucester, Fort St. Paul, Hugh McCulloch, Mactra, Maihar, Samarina, Sambrake, Sampa, Samsylvan, Tidewater and Wiley Post. Also HMS Teviotbank was detached.
Around 1000A/16, in position 36°00'N, 15°39'E, the following merchant ships joined coming from Augusta; British Chancellor (British (tanker), 7085 GRT, built 1921), British Vigour (British (tanker), 5844 GRT, built 1943), Christopher Gadsden (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), Daniel H. Lownsdale (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Emma Willard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Empire Stour (British, 4678 GRT, built 1930), English Monarch (British, 4557 GRT, built 1924), Felix Grundy (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Fort Chesterfield (British, 7100 GRT, built 1943), Fort Frontenac (British, 7148 GRT, built 1943), Fort Grant (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Frances E. Willard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), George F. Patten (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Glenpark (British, 5136 GRT, built 1939), Hannis Taylor (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Horace H. Lurton (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Iceland (British, 1236 GRT, built 1914), James M. Wayne (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Turner (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), John C. Fremont (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), John Murray Forbes (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Joseph Warren (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Kobad (French (tanker), 7329 GRT, built 1930), Leland Stanford (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Louis McLane (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Nicholas Gilman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Norholm (Norwegian (tanker), 9813 GRT, built 1941), Odysseus (Dutch, 1057 GRT, 1922), Pio Pico (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), R.C. Brennan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Ralph Waldo Emerson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Salawati (Dutch, 6643 GRT, built 1920), Samothrace (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samtampa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Serula (British, 2187 GRT, built 1918), Slemmestad (Norwegian, 4258 GRT, built 1928), Thomas Stone (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), Will R. Wood (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), William R. Davie (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942) and Winslow Homer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942). The boom defence vessel HMS Barova (T/Lt. J.R. Radley, RNR) and Royal Fleet Auxiliary salvage vessel King Salvor (1111 GRT, built 1942) also joined the convoy with this section.
Around 1700A/16, in position 36°26'N, 14°48'E, the following merchant vessels were detached to Malta; Egero and Glenogle while the following merchant vessels joined coming from Malta; Forest (British, 4998 GRT, built 1937), Nordlys (British, 3726 GRT, built 1916) and Rhea (French (tanker), 7813 GRT, built 1928). Also joining from Malta was the submarine FFS Curie (Lt. P.J. Chailley).
Around 1345A/17, in position 36°55'N, 11°55'E, the merchant vessel Corstar (British, 2337 GRT, built 1918) joined. She should have joined with the Augusta section but had sailed late.
Around 1600A/17, in position 36°58'N, 11°34'E, the merchant vessel Corchester (British, 2374 GRT, built 1927) joined. She should have joined with the Augusta section but had sailed late.
Around 2230A/17, in position 37°14'N, 10°29'E, the following merchant ships joined coming from Tunis; Abbazia (Italian, 3706 GRT, built 1912), Belpareil (Norwegian, 7203 GRT, built 1926), Boltonhall (British, 4824 GRT, built 1935), Harpalycus (British, 5629 GRT, built 1935) and Lyminge (British, 2499 GRT, built 1919).
Around 0140A/18, in position 37°20'N, 10°00'E, the following ships were detached to Bizerta; British Vigour, Christopher Gadsden, Horace H. Lurton and Odysseus.
Around 0200A/18, in position 37°20'N, 09°58'E, the following merchant vessels joined coming from Bizerta; Chloris (British, 1171 GRT, built 1910), Empire Harp (British (tanker), 861 GRT, built 1942), Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942) and Var (French, 7935 GRT, built 1931). Also joining from Bizerta were the LST's HMS LST 9 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.R. Windle, RNR), HMS LST 62 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. S. Rayer, DSC, OBE, RNR), HMS LST 65 (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) L.J. Smith, RD, RNR), HMS LST 322 ( A/Cdr.(Emgy.) D.S. Hore-Lacy, RN), HMS 401 (Lt.Cdr. T.M. Devitt, RNR), HMS 402 (Lt.Cdr. H.E. Sprigge, RNR), HMS 408 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R. Cook, RNR), HMS 409 (A/Lt.Cdr. G.M. Dixon, RANVR), HMS 416 (Lt.Cdr. H.E. Braine, RNR), HMS 419 (T/Lt. H.A. Standfield, RNR), HMS 423 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. W.M. Thomson, RNR), HMS 428 (T/Lt.Cdr. J.T. Hamlyn, RNR) and HMS 430 (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) W.H. Laws, RD, RNR).
Around 0430A/18, HMS Barova was detached to Bizera due to engine defects.
Around 1545A/18, in position 37°14'N, 07°52'E, the following ships were detached to Bone; Belpareil, Corchester, Empire Harp, Fort Frontenac, Lyminge, Samothrace, Serula and Stancleeve.
Around 2100A/18, in position 37°10'N, 07°00'E, the following ships were detached to Phillipeville; Fort Chesterfield and Fort Grant.
Around 0800A/19, in position 37°01'N, 05°07'E, the merchant vessel Empire Gareth (British, 2847 GRT, built 1942) joined the convoy coming from Bougie.
Around 2000A/19, in position 36°54'N, 03°11'E, the following ships were detached to Algiers; Abbazia, Boltonhall, British Chancellor, Chloris, Corstar, Felix Grundy, Iceland, James M. Wayne, James Turner, Kobad, Louis McClane, Nicholas Gilman, Norholm, Rhea, Salawati, Samtampa, Var and Winslow Homer. The King Salvor was also detached to Algiers.
Around 2100A/19, in position 36°53'N, 03°00'E, the following merchant vessels joined the convoy coming from Algiers. Baron Tweedmouth (British, 3357 GRT, built 1927), Coombe Hill (British, 7268 GRT, built 1942), Coxwold (British, 1124 GRT, built 1938), Fort de Troyon (French, 5131 GRT, built 1919), Imperial Monarch (British, 5831 GRT, built 1926), Ioannis Frangos (Greek, 3442 GRT, built 1912), Mont Everest (French, 5183 GRT, built 1918), Northleigh (British, 5450 GRT, built 1937), Sneland I (Norwegian, 1791 GRT, built 1922) and Ville de Djidjelli (French, 1132 GRT, built 1907).
Around 2130A/20, in position 36°00'N, 00°44'W, the following ships were detached to Oran; Daniel H. Lownsdale, Emma Willard, Empire Stour, Frances E. Willard, George F. Patten, Hannis Taylor, John C. Fremont, John Murray Forbes, Joseph Warren, Leland Stanford, Mont Everest, Pio Pico, R.C. Brennan, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thomas Stone, Ville de Djidjelli, Will R. Wood and William R. Davie. Also the patrol vessel RHS Vasilefs Georgios II was detached to Mers-el-Kebir.
Around 2200A/20, in position 35°51'N, 00°51'W, the following merchant vessels joined the convoy coming from Algiers. Fort Reliance (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942), Homer Lea (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Jade (British, 930 GRT, built 1938), Merchant Royal (British, 5008 GRT, built 1928) and Samos (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943). Also the French armed merchant cruiser Quercy and American naval tug USS ATR 47 (Lt.(jg) H.L. Lane, USNR) joined the convoy.
Around 2345A/20, the AA cruiser HMS Delhi (Capt. G.R. Waymouth, RN) joined the convoy coming from Mers-el-Kebir.
The convoy arrived in Gibraltar Bay in the early hours of 22 March 1944. (9)
9 May 1944
Convoy MKS 49.
This convoy departed Port Said on 9 May 1944.
On departure from Port Said the convoy was made up of the transports / tankers; Benrinnes (British, 5410 GRT, built 1921), Boskoop (Dutch, 5620 GRT, built 1927), City of Norwich (British, 6726 GRT, built 1913), Elise (Norwegian (tanker), 7910 GRT, built 1931), Empire Ballad (British, 6700 GRT, built 1942), Fort Turtle (British, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Hart Crane (American, 7207 GRT, built 1944) and Modasa (British, 9070 GRT, built 1921).
On departure from Port Said the convoy was escorted by the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR) and HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR).
At 2230C/9, the Elise and HMS Hyderabad collided between Port Said and Alexandria. HMS Hyderabad put into Alexandria but was later able to rejoin the convoy.
On 10 May 1944 the following transports departed Alexandria to join the convoy; Bialystok (Polish, 7174 GRT, built 1942), Fort Grant (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Gorjistan (British, 5888 GRT, built 1929), J.C. Osgood (American, 7207 GRT, built 1944), John A. Brown (British (tanker), 10455 GRT, built 1938), Nordnes (Norwegian, 4147 GRT, built 1932) and Ocean Stranger (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942).
The boom carrier HMS Kirriemoor (4970 GRT, built 1935, Cdr.(Retd.) H.M. Montague, OBE, RN) was also in company with the convoy.
Also the escort destroyer RHS Kriti, frigate HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF) and A/S trawler HMS Bream (A/Skr.Lt. S.C. Larner, RNR) joined coming from Alexandria.
On 11 May 1944, the Empire Ballad arrived at Alexandria after having been detached due to engine trouble.
On 15 May 1944, the Also on 15 May 1944, the following transports / tankers were detached to Augusta;
Bialystok,
Boskoop,
Fort Grant,
Fort Turtle,
Hart Crane,
J.C. Osgood,
John A. Brown,
Nordnes and
while the following transports joined the convoy coming from Augusta;
Domby (British, 5582 GRT, built 1932),
Edward Livingston (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Empire Beatrice (British, 7046 GRT, built 1943),
Empire Conrad (British, 7009 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Noble (British, 7125 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Wyclif (British, 6966 GRT, built 1941),
Esso Nashville (American (tanker), 7943 GRT, built 1940),
Fort de Douaumont (French, 5266 GRT, built 1918),
Fort Gaspereau (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943),
James Gordon Bennett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
John B. Hood (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942),
John Sullivan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Joseph Le Conte (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Ocean Gallant (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Traveller (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Richard Bassett (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
Samave (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samboston (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samnethy (British, 7210 GRT, built 1944),
Samoa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Sampan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Sampford (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samphire (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samwash (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samwye (British, 7219 GRT, built 1944),
Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942),
Stanwell (British, 5767 GRT, built 1914),
William Few (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942) and
William W. Campbell (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943).
On 16 May 1944, the transports Edward Livingston and Sampan were detached to Bizerta while the transports
Capitaine Paul Lemerle (French, 4945 GRT, built 1925),
Empire Derwent (British, 4026 GRT, built 1930),
Fort la Baye (British, 7162 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Lennox (British, 7149 GRT, built 1943),
Harlesden (British, 7273 GRT, built 1943),
Josiah Bartlett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Lornaston (British, 4934 GRT, built 1925),
Luther Martin (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942) and
Roger Williams (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942) joined coming from Bizerta. Also the AA cruiser HMS Caledon (Capt. R.F. Nichols, RN) and salvage vessel USS Restorer (Lt. C.M. Boyd, USNR) joined the convoy.
On 17 May 1944, the transports Capitaine Paul Lemerle, Fort Lennox, Harlesden, Ocean Traveller and Sampford were detached to Bone while the rescue tug HMS Hengist joined the convoy.
On 18 May 1944, the transports and tanker
Empire Beatrice,
Empire Noble,
Empire Wyclif,
Esso Nashville,
Fort de Douaumont,
Fort Gaspereau,
James Gordon Bennett,
John Sullivan,
Joseph le Conte,
Lornaston,
Ocean Gallant,
Richard Bassett,
Samaye,
Samboston,
Samoa,
Samphire,
Samwash,
Stancleeve,
Thelma,
William Few and
William W. Campbell as well as USS Restorer arrived at Algiers while the transports / tanker
Empire Cavalier (British (tanker), 9891 GRT, built 1942),
Grodno (British, 2458 GRT, built 1919),
Jared Ingersoll (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
John Sergeant (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
Marrakech (French, 6179 GRT, built 1914),
Silverelm (British, 4351 GRT, built 1924) and
Tabitha Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942) joined the convoy.
On 19 May 1944, the transports
Empire Conrad,
Jared Ingersoll,
John Sergeant,
Josiah Bertlett,
Luther Martin,
Roger Williams,
Samaffric,
Samnethy,
Silverelm and
Tabitha Brown arrived at Oran having been detached from the Convoy. The transports / tanker
Belgian Sailor (Belgian, 7028 GRT, built 1942),
Benjamin Tay (British, 1814 GRT, built 1943),
Blackheath (British, 4637 GRT, built 1936),
Capitaine Saint Martin (French, 3441 GRT, built 1938),
Caudebec (French, 1471 GRT, built 1910),
Dartmouth (American, 9879 GRT, built 1943),
Empire Grebe (British, 5736 GRT, built 1918),
Fort Brandon (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943),
Fort la Traite (British, 7134 GRT, built 1942) and
Lookout Mountain (American (tanker), 10195 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy coming from Oran. With them were also the LST's USS LST-197 (Lt. J.E. Neal, USNR), USS LST-326 (Lt.(jg) G.R. Ambler, USCGR) and USS LST-381 (Lt. J.P. Houlihan, Jr, USCGR).
The convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 20 May 1944. 14 May 1944 This combined convoy was assembled off Oversay on 14 May 1944.
It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Afghanistan (British, 6992 GRT, built 1940),
Amstelkerk (Dutch, 4457 GRT, built 1929),
Badjestan (British, 5573 GRT, built 1928),
Beckenham (British, 4636 GRT, built 1937),
Belgian Trader (British, 2890 GRT, built 1942),
Biafra (British, 5405 GRT, built 1933),
City of Khios (British, 5574 GRT, built 1925),
Cragpool (British 5133 GRT, built 1928),
Defender (British, 8078 GRT, built 1915),
Drakepool (British, 4838 GRT, built 1924),
Dunelmia (British, 5207 GRT, built 1929),
Eloy Alfaro (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Caxton (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Foam (British, 7047 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Mariott (British, 5970 GRT, built 1941),
Fort Tadoussac (British, 7129 GRT, built 1941),
Gascony (British, 4716 GRT, built 1925),
King Frederick (British, 5106 GRT, built 1920),
Madras City (British, 5080 GRT, built 1940),
Marquesa (British, 8979 GRT, built 1918),
Menelaus (British, 10307 GRT, built 1923),
Mount Rhodope (Greek, 5182 GRT, built 1919),
Nairnbank (British, 5155 GRT, built 1925),
New Brooklyn (British, 6546 GRT, built 1920),
Norbryn (Norwegian, 5089 GRT, built 1922),
Nordeflinge (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942),
Pendeen (British, 4174 GRT, built 1923),
Port Darwin (British, 8063 GRT, built 1918),
Stad Arnhem (Dutch, 3819 GRT, built 1920),
Stanhope (British, 2337 GRT, built 1919),
Tiba (Dutch, 5239 GRT, built 1938) and
Tjimanoek (Dutch, 5628 GRT, built 1911).
The rescue ship Melrose Abbey (British, 1924 GRT, built 1929) was also part of the convoy.
On assembly off Oversay the convoy was escorted by the escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), frigates HMS Towy (Cdr. H.V. King, DSO, OBE, RN), HMS Anguilla (T/A/Lt.Cdr. C. Morrison-Payne, RNVR), HMS Antigua (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) D.F. White, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Knaresborough Castle (Lt. J.R. Freeman, RNR), HMS Tintagel Castle (Lt. R. Atkinson, DSC and Bar, RNR) and HMS Smilax (Lt. A. Branson, RNR). Additional escorts were the frigates HMCS Matane (A/Cdr. A.F.C. Layard, DSO, RN), HMCS Stormont (T/Skr.Lt. G.A. Myra, RCNR) and HMCS Swansea (A/Cdr. C.A. King, DSO, DSC, RCNR). These additional escorts remained with the convoy until 19 May.
The Stanhope was detached to return to the U.K. on the 16th being unable to keep up with the convoy.
On 15 May 1944, the frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy.
On 17 May 1944, the corvette HMS Leeds Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. W.T. Hodson, DSC, RNVR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy.
The escort oiler Esturia (ritish (tanker), 6968 GRT, built 1914) later joined the convoy at sea. She came from the combined convoy SL 157 / MKS 48.
On 24 May 1944, the convoy split into convoy OS 77 bound for Freetown and convoy KMS 51 bound for the Mediterranean.
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Convoy OS 77 towards Freetown was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Amstelkerk,
Dunelmia,
Marquesa,
Menelaus,
Mount Rhodope,
Nairnbank,
New Brooklyn and
Port Darwin.
On 23 May 1944, the following merchant vessels departed Gibraltar to join the convoy when it split up;
Domby (British, 5582 GRT, built 1932),
Empire Glen (British, 6316 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Guinevere (British, 7072 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Southey (British, 7041 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Paskoyac (British, 7134 GRT, built 1934),
Harmattan (British, 4558 GRT, built 1930),
Van Ostade (Dutch, 2890 GRT, built 1942) and
Zypenberg (Dutch, 4973 GRT, built 1920). They were escorted by the sloops HMS Leith (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) A.W. Preston, RN) and HMS Sandwich (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A.J. Clemence, RNR) which joined the convoy and took over from the original escorts.
On 23 May 1944, the following merchant vessels departed Gibraltar to join the convoy when it split up;
Empire Archer (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Dickens (British (tanker), 9819 GRT, built 1942)
Empire Duchess (British, 7067 GRT, built 1943),
Finistere (French, 1158 GRT, built 1909),
Fort Ash (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Glenora (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943),
Medie II (French, 5078 GRT, built 1922) and
President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935). They were escorted by the patrol vessel / sloop Amiral Mouchez, minesweeping sloops La Gracieuse and the patrol vessels USS PC-473 (Lt. A.W. Silverstein, USNR) and USS PC-482 (Lt. D.W. Hunter, USNR). These escorts did not join the convoy but set course to return to Casablanca. The six transports joined convoy OS 77 while the two tankers joined convoy KMS 51.
On 24 May 1944, the patrol vessel HMS Kilmartin (T/Lt. E.H.G. Hope, RNVR) departed Casablanca to join the convoy.
On 30 May 1944, the following transports departed Dakar to join the convoy;
Tynemouth (British, 3168 GRT, built 1940),
Vendome (French, 4192 GRT, built 1920) and
Vinriver (British, 3881 GRT, built 1917). They were escorted by the corvette Commandant Drogou and the minesweeping sloops Annamite and Chevreul. These escorts did not join the convoy but proceeded to Dakar taking the transports Empire Southey, Finistere, Medie II and Nairnbank with them.
Convoy OS 77 arrived at Freetown 2 June 1944. Some ships from the convoy did not enter Freetown but continued on to their destinations independently and some ships of the convoy had already been detached before reaching Freetown.
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Convoy KMS 51 towards the Mediterranean was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Afghanistan,
Bajestan,
Beckenham,
Belgian Trader,
Biafra,
City of Khios,
Cragpool,
Defender,
Drakepool,
Dunelmia,
Eloy Alfaro,
Empire Caxton,
Empire Foam,
Empire Mariott,
Esturia,
Fort Tadoussac,
Gascony,
King Frederick,
Madras City,
Melrose Abbey,
Norbryn,
Nordeflinge,
Pendeen,
Stad Arnhem,
Tiba and
Tjimanoek. The tankers Empire Dickens and President de Vogue had joined from Casablanca [see above].
The convoy was escorted by HMS Attacker, HMS Hunter, HMS Stalker, HMS Tovy, HMS Anguilla, HMS Antigua, HMS Knaresborough Castle, HMS Leeds Castle, HMS Tintagel Castle and HMS Smilax.
The entire convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 25 May 1944.
The convoy continued its passage on 28 May 1944. It was now made up of the following ships;
Afghanistan,
Bajestan,
Beckenham,
Belgian Trader,
Charles A. Wickliffe (American, 7218 GRT, built 1943),
City of Khios,
Cragpool,
Defender,
Eloy Alfaro,
Empire Caxton,
Empire Foam,
Empire Gareth (British, 2847 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Mariott,
Empire Strength (British, 7355 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Tadoussac,
Gascony,
Hopestar (British, 5267 GRT, built 1936),
King Frederick,
Madras City,
Norbryn,
Nordeflinge,
President de Vogue,
Robert Howe (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943),
Stad Arnhem,
Tiba and
Tjimanoek.
The submarines HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), HMS Vivid (Lt. J.C. Varley, RN), Junon and Atalante were also tanking passage eastwards in this convoy.
The convoy was now escorted by the frigate HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR), KB Nada [Yugoslavian corvette] and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF). The destroyer L'Alcyon was also with the convoy.
On 29 May 1944, the following ships were detached to Oran;
Empire Gareth,
Norbryn,
Stad Arnhem and the submarine Atalante while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran;
Albert A. Michelson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Askeladden (Norwegian, 2496 GRT, built 1920),
Dwight W. Morrow (American, 7225 GRT, built 1943),
Edward H. Crockett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
George W. McCrary (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942),
James Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John S. Casement (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John S. Pillsbury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John Sergeant (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
Palermo (British, 2797 GRT, built 1938) and
William Blount (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).
On 30 May 1944, the following ships were detached to Algiers;
Belgian Trader,
Cragpool,
Edward H. Crockett,
Empire Caxton,
Empire Foam,
Empire Strenght,
Palermo,
Mount Blount and the submarine Junon while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers;
Andrew Pickens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Campidoglio (Italian, 3702 GRT, built 1910),
Chiswick (British, 6006 GRT, built 1943),
Empire Clarion (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Gaspereau (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Marin (British, 7159 GRT, built 1943),
John Murray Forbes (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Louis McLane (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Marathon (Norwegian, 7208 GRT, built 1930),
Monte Grappa (Italian, 834 GRT, built 1943),
Ocean Gallant (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Samoa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samsteel (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942),
Star (Norwegian, 1531 GRT, built 1922) and
Titus (Dutch, 1712 GRT, built 1930).
On 31 May 1944, the convoy was attacked by 41 German Ju-88 aircraft from II./KG.76 I. and III./KG 77 operating from Southern France. The Nordeflinge was hit by bombs and sank in position 37°02'N, 03°47'E.
On 31 May 1944, the Montegrappa arrived at Bougie after having been detached from the convoy.
On 1 June 1944, the Askeladden arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bone;
Abel Stearns (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Iceland (British, 1236 GRT, built 1914),
Ocean Rider (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Traveller (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Sampan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943) and
Samphire (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943).
On 1 June 1944, the following ships were detached to Bizerta;
Badjestan,
John S. Casement,
John Sergeant,
Titus and the destroyer L'Alcyon while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta;
Facto (Norwegian, 1522 GRT, 1921),
George Davis (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John B. Hood (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942),
John Cropper (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
Kemp P. Battle (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Laurent Meeus (Belgian (tanker), 6429 GRT, built 1930),
Lincoln Steffens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Marion McKinley Bovard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942) and
Samuel Griffin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).
Early on 2 June 1944, the convoy merged with convoy UGS 42.
Convoy KMS 51 was at that moment made up of the following ships;
Abel Stearns,
Afghanistan,
Albert A. Michelson,
Andrew Pickens,
Beckenham,
Campidoglio,
Charles A. Wickliffe,
Chiswick,
City of Khios,
Defender,
Dwight W. Morrow,
Eloy Alfaro,
Empire Clarion,
Empire Mariott,
Facto,
Fort Gaspereau,
Fort Marin,
Fort Tadoussac,
Gascony,
George Davis,
George Handley,
George W. McCrary,
Hopestar,
Iceland,
James Jackson,
John B. Hood,
John Cropper,
John Murray Forbes,
John S. Pillsbury,
Kemp P. Battle,
King Frederic,
King S. Woolsey,
Laurent Meeus,
Lincoln Steffens,
Louis McLane,
Madras City,
Marathon,
Marion McKinley Bovard,
Ocean Gallant,
Ocean Rider,
Ocean Traveller,
President de Vogue,
Robert Howe,
Samoa,
Sampan,
Samphire,
Samsteel,
Samuel Griffin,
Stancleeve,
Star,
Tiba and
Tjimanoek.
The submarines HMS Traveller and HMS Vivid were also part of the convoy.
They were escorted by the frigates HMS Jed, HMS Usk, corvettes HMS Delphinium, HMS Hyderabad, HMS Smilax and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea and HMSAS Southern Sea. 20 May 1944 2 Jun 1944 This convoy was formed at sea, south of Sicily, on 2 June 1943 when the two convoys merged.
The combined convoy was made up of the following ships;
Abel Stearns (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Afghanistan (British, 6992 GRT, built 1940),
Albert A. Michelson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Andrew Briscoe (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944),
Andrew Pickens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
A.P. Hill (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Arthur L. Perry (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Beckenham (British, 4636 GRT, built 1937),
British Confidence (British (tanker), 8494 GRT, built 1936),
British Tradition (British (tanker), 8443 GRT, built 1942),
Campidoglio (Italian, 3702 GRT, built 1910),
Charles A. Warfield (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Charles A. Wickliffe (American, 7218 GRT, built 1943),
Charles Nordhoff (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Chiswick (British, 6006 GRT, built 1943),
City of Durban (British, 5945 GRT, built 1921),
City of Khios (British, 5574 GRT, built 1925),
David F. Houston (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
David G. Farragut (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
David L. Swain (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943),
Defender (British, 8078 GRT, built 1915),
Dilworth (American (tanker), 7045 GRT, built 1920),
Dwight W. Morrow (American, 7225 GRT, built 1943),
Eli Whitney (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942),
Eloy Alfaro (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Clarion (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Mariott (British, 5970 GRT, built 1941),
Ezra Meeker (American, 7180 GRT, built 1942),
Facto (Norwegian, 1522 GRT, 1921),
Fort Frontenac (British, 7148 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Gaspereau (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Marin (British, 7159 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Tadoussac (British, 7129 GRT, built 1941),
Fort Venango (British, 7166 GRT, built 1943),
Frans Hals (Dutch, 6626 GRT, built 1941),
Gascony (British, 4716 GRT, built 1925),
George Davis (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
George E. Hale (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
George Sharswood (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943),
George W. McCrary (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942),
George Weems (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
Gylfe (Norwegian (tanker), 6129 GRT, built 1930),
Harrogate (British, 1029 GRT, built 1925),
Henry L. Benning (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943),
Hoegh Hood (Norwegian (tanker), 9351 GRT, built 1936),
Hoegh Silvercloud (Norwegian, 5287 GRT, built 1943),
Homer Lea (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Hopestar (British, 5267 GRT, built 1936),
Houston Volunteers (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Iceland (British, 1236 GRT, built 1914),
Isaac van Zandt (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944),
James B. Hickok (American, 7194 GRT, built 1943),
James B. Richardson (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
James Duncan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
James Harrod (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
James Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
James Otis (American, 7180 GRT, built 1942),
Jersey Hart (British, 7275 GRT, built 1943),
John B. Gordon (American, 7201 GRT, built 1943),
John B. Hood (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942),
John Cropper (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
John E. Schmeltzer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John Hathorn (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
John Ireland (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
John Murray Forbes (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
John S. Pillsbury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Joseph T. Robinson (American, 7196 GRT, built 1943),
Keith Palmer (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944),
Kemp P. Battle (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
King Frederick (British, 5106 GRT, built 1920),
King S. Woolsey (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Lafontaine Park (Canadian, 7131 GRT, built 1943),
Laurent Meeus (Belgian (tanker), 6429 GRT, built 1930),
Lincoln Steffens (American, 7176 GRT, built 194),
Louis McLane (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Lyman Abbott (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Madras City (British, 5080 GRT, built 1940),
Marathon (Norwegian, 7208 GRT, built 1930),
Marion McKinley Bovard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Maya (Honduran, 5528 GRT, built 1929),
Michael Pupin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Moses Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Nathaniel Macon (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943),
Nicholas Gilman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Nuculana (British (tanker), 8179 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Gallant (),
Ocean Rider (),
Ocean Traveller (),
Oregon (French, 7705 GRT, built 1929),
Pan-Delaware (American (tanker), 8128 GRT, built 1918),
Philander C. Knox (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
President de Vogue (),
Robert F. Stockton (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Robert Howe (),
Robert Lucas (),
Robert T. Hill (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943),
Samadre (British, 7219 GRT, built 1944),
Sambanka (British, 7219 GRT, built 1944),
Samclyde (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samdon (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samnid (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samoa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Sampan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samphire (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samspring (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samsteel (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samtweed (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samvannah (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samwash (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samuel Griffin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Simon Willard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942),
Star (Norwegian, 1531 GRT, built 1922),
Stephen T. Mather (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Tabitha Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Thomas R. Marshall (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943),
Tiba (Dutch, 5239 GRT, built 1938),
Tjimanoek (Dutch, 5628 GRT, built 1911),
William Cushing (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942),
William G. Fargo (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
William M. Stewart (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Winfred L. Smith (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943) and
Winslow Homer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).
The submarines HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) and HMS Vivid (Lt. J.C. Varley, RN) were also taking passage in the convoy.
The combined convoy was escorted by the frigates HrMs Johan Maurits van Nassau (Cdr. A. de Booy, RNethN), HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR), sloops HMS Deptford (Lt.Cdr. H.R. White, RN), HMS Amethyst (Lt.Cdr. S.C. Tuke, DSO, RN) and the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR), HrMs Friso (Lt.Cdr. L.J. Goslings, RNethN), KB Nada [Yugoslavian corvette] and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF).
Later on 2 June the following transports arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy;
Andrew Pickens and Star. Also HMS Trenchant, HMS Vivid and KB Nada were detached to Malta. the transports Eridan (French, 9928 GRT, built 1928) and Fort Grant (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy coming from Malta.
On 2 June 1944, the following ships departed Augusta to join the combined convoy;
Algonquin (British, 7229 GRT, built 1920),
Algorab (Dutch, 4938 GRT, built 1921),
Badarpur (British (tanker), 8079 GRT, built 1922),
Boskoop (Dutch, 5620 GRT, built 1927),
British Genius (British (tanker), 8553 GRT, built 1939),
British Lord (British (tanker), 6098 GRT, built 1922),
Empire Rosalind (British, 7290 GRT, built 1943),
Evviva (Norwegian, 1597 GRT, built 1921),
Fort Astoria (British, 7189 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Grahame (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Kootenay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942),
Fort la Prairie (British, 7138 GRT, built 1943),
Jan Lievens (Dutch, 7178 GRT, built 1942),
Kwai Sang (British, 2320 GRT, built 1917),
Limousin (French (tanker), 7619 GRT, built 1930),
Luminetta (British (tanker), 6159 GRT, built 1927),
Norfjell (Norwegian (tanker), 8129 GRT, built 1942),
Pan-Rhode Island (American (tanker), 7742 GRT, built 1941) and
Sampford (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943).
On 3 June 1943, the following ships arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the combined convoy;
Abel Stearns,
Albert A. Micholson,
Andrew Briscoe,
A.P. Hill,
Beckenham,
British Confidence,
British Tradition,
Campidoglio,
Charles A. Warfield,
Chiswick,
David G. Farragut,
David L. Swain,
Dilworth,
Dwight W. Morrow,
Empire Clarion,
Empire Mariott,
Ezra Meeker,
Facto,
Fort Frontenac,
Fort Gaspereau,
Fort Manin,
Fort Venango,
George Davis,
George E. Half,
George Handley,
George W. McCrary,
Gylfe,
Harrogate,
Henry L. Benning,
Hopestar,
Hoegh Hood,
Houston Volunteers,
Iceland,
James B. Richardson,
James Jackson,
Jersey Hart,
John B. Gordon,
John B. Hood,
John Cropper,
John E. Schmeltzer,
John Harhorn,
John Murray Forbes,
John S. Pillsbury,
Joseph T. Robinson,
Kamp P. Battle,
King S. Woolsey,
Laurent Meeus,
Lincoln Steffens,
Louis McLane,
Lymann Abbott,
Marathon,
Marion McKinley Bovard,
Maya,
Michael Pupin,
Moses Brown,
Nicholas Gilman,
Nuculana,
Ocean Gallant,
Ocean Rider,
Ocean Traveller,
Pan-Delaware,
Philander C. Knox,
Robert F. Stockton,
Robert T. Hill,
Sambanka,
Samoa,
Sampan,
Samphire,
Samsteel,
Samuel Griffin,
Samwash,
Simon Willard,
Stancleeve,
Tabitha Brown,
Thomas R. Marshall,
William Cushing and
William G. Fargo.
On 7 June 1944, the following ships arrived at Alexandria after having been detached from the convoy;
Algorab,
British Lord,
City of Khios,
Empire Rosalind,
Eridan,
Fort Astoroa,
Fort Grahame,
Fort Kootenay,
Fort la Prairie,
Gascony,
King Frederick,
Kwai Sang and
Nathaniel Macon.
Also the following ships of the escort arrived at Alexandria;
HrMs Johan Maurits van Nassau ,
HMS Jed,
HMS Usk,
HMS Amethyst,
HMS Hyderabad,
HrMs Friso and
HMSAS Protea.
The remainder of the convoy arrived at Port Said on 8 June 1944 escorted by
HMS Deptford,
HMS Delphinium and
HMSAS Southern Sea. 8 Jul 1944 This convoy departed Port Said on 8 July 1944.
On departure from Port Said the convoy was made up of the transports / tankers;
Arizonan (American, 5816 GRT, built 1920),
Badarpur (British (tanker), 8079 GRT, built 1922),
Clydebank (British, 5156 GRT, built 1925),
Empire Mist (British, 7241 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Outpost (British, 6978 GRT, built 1943),
English Prince (British, 7275 GRT, built 1943),
Ernebank (British, 5388 GRT, built 1937),
Falkefjell (Norwegian (tanker), 7927 GRT, built 1931),
Fort Connolly (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Ellice (British, 7129 GRT, built 1942),
Highland Prince (British, 7043 GRT, built 1942),
Horace Mann (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
James J. Pettigrew (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Pelgrim (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Verity (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942),
President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935),
Robert L. Hague (American, 7207 GRT, built 1944),
Samguadie (British, 7210 GRT, built 1944),
Samsette (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samuta (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943),
Samwash (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943) and
Thorshavn (Norwegian (tanker), 6869 GRT, built 1930).
On departure from Port Said the convoy was escorted by the frigates HMS Evenlode (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR) and the corvette HMS Delphinium (T/Lt. S. Rule, RNVR).
On 9 July 1944, the transports / tankers
British Power (British (tanker), 8451 GRT, built 1936),
Buccinum (British (tanker), 5237 GRT, built 1910),
Elise (Greek, 1986 GRT, built 1919),
Empire Clarion (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Frobisher (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943),
Kyklades (Greek, 7157 GRT, built 1941),
Morialta (British, 1379 GRT, built 1940) and
Strategist (British, 6255 GRT, built 1937) joined the convoy coming from Alexandria. They were escorted by the corvette HMS Bergamot (A/Lt.Cdr. W. McInnes, RNR) and the A/S whaler HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF).
On 13 July 1944, the transports / tankers;
British Chemist (British (tanker), 6997 GRT, built 1925),
Cromarty (British, 4974 GRT, built 1936),
Empire Flame (British, 7069 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Moonrise (British, 6854 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Torrent (British, 7076 GRT, built 1942),
F.A.C. Muhlenberg (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Hall (British, 7157 GRT, built 1943),
Framlington Court (British, 4888 GRT, built 1924),
Gallia (Norwegian (tanker), 9974 GRT, built 1939),
Haym Salomon (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Henry Dundas (British (tanker), 10448 GRT, built 1937),
Henry W. Longfellow (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Isaac Sharpless (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
John H. Eaton (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Nailsea Moor (British, 4926 GRT, built 1937),
Oscar Underwood (American, 7207 GRT, built 1944)),
Peter Trimble Rowe (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Robert M.T. Hunter (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Samuel V. Shreve (British, 1813 GRT, built 1943) and
Steel Inventor (American, 5686 GRT, built 1920) departed Augusta to join the convoy.
On 14 July 1944, the transports / tankers;
Arizonan,
Badarpur,
Buccinum,
Empire Clarion,
Empire Mist,
Empire Outpost ,
Falkefjell,
Fort Frobisher,
Kyklades,
Morialta,
President de Vogue,
Samwash and
Thorshavn arrived at Augusta after having parted company with the convoy.
On 14 July 1944, the tanker British Power arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy.
On 15 July 1944, the transports
Clydebank and
Horace Mann arrived at Bizerta after having been detached from the convoy. Joining from Bizerta were the following transports
Baron Herries (British, 4574 GRT, built 1940),
Chateau Latour (French, 1912 GRT, built 1914),
Empire Gat (British, 871 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Planet (British, 4290 GRT, built 1923),
Orpheus (American, 8258 GRT, built 1944) and
Radmanso (Swedish, 4280 GRT, built 1914). Also joining from Bizerta was the AA cruiser HMS Caledon (Capt. R.F. Nichols, RN).
On 16 July 1944, the transports
Empire Planet and Steel Inventor arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy while the transports Lucia C. (Italian, 6123 GRT, built 1922), Middlesex Trader (British, 7421 GRT, built 1942) and Nicolaos Michalos (Greek, 4342 GRT, built 1913) joined coming from Bone.
On 17 July 1944, the transports / tankers
Baron Herries,
British Chemist,
The following transports joined the convoy off Algiers;
Fort Colville (British, 7153 GRT, built 1943),
Glaisdale (British, 3777 GRT, built 1929),
Gouverneur General Lepine (French, 3509 GRT, built 1923),
Jobshaven (Dutch, 3528 GRT, built 1916),
Jonathan Worth (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943),
Meyer Lissner (American, 7207 GRT, built 1943)
Sidi-Brahim (British (former French, 2427 GRT, built 1910) and
Ville d'Ajaccio (French, 2444 GRT, built 1929).
On 17 July 1944, the transports
Chateau Latour,
Empire Gat,
F.A.C. Muhlenberg,
Gouverneur General Lepine,
Haym Salomon,
Henry W. Longfellow,
Isaac Sharpless,
Jobshaven,
John H. Eaton,
Jonathan Worth,
Meyer Lissner,
Peter Trimble Rowe,
Robert M.T. Hunter,
Sidi-Brahim and
Ville d'Ajaccio arrived at Oran Bay after having been detached from the convoy. The transport Merchant Prince (British, 5229 GRT, built 1939) joined the convoy from Oran Bay.
On 19 July 1944, the following transports arrived at Gibraltar;
Empire Flame,
Empire Moonrise,
Empire Torrent,
Fort Colville,
Fort Connolly,
Fort Ellice,
Framlington Court,
Glaisdale,
Nailsea Moor,
Ocean Pelgrim and
Radmanso. With them were the escort vessels HMS Evenlode, HMS Usk, HMS Bergamot, HMS Delphinium and HMSAS Southern Sea.
The remaining transports joined convoy MKS 55G for further passage to the U.K. 13 Jul 1944 This combined convoy assembled off Oversay on 13 July 1944.
It was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Adrastus (British, 7905 GRT, built 1923),
Ashbury (British, 3901 GRT, built 1924),
Astrid (Norwegian, 2861 GRT, built 1942),
Bactria (British, 2407 GRT, built 1928),
Baron Tweedmouth (British, 3357 GRT, built 1927),
Benedick (British, 6978 GRT, built 1928),
Bestik (Norwegian, 2684 GRT, built 1920),
Bornholm (British, 3177 GRT, built 1930),
Capitaine Paul Lemerle (French, 4945 GRT, built 1925),
Clan Chattan (British, 7262 GRT, built 1937),
Empire Addison (British, 7010 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Clive (British, 7069 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Derwent (British, 4026 GRT, built 1930),
Empire Fal (British, 4880 GRT, built 1914),
Empire Melody (British, 2283 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Pakeha (British, 8115 GRT, built 1910),
Empire Peacock (British, 6098 GRT, built 1919),
English Monarch (British, 4557 GRT, built 1924),
Fort Lawrence (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943),
Fresno Star (British, 7998 GRT, built 1919),
Geologist (British, 6202 GRT, built 1944),
Glaucus (British, 7596 GRT, built 1921),
Harberton (British, 4585 GRT, built 1930),
Harpalycus (British, 5629 GRT, built 1935),
Maihar (British, 7563 GRT, built 1917),
Novasli (Norwegian, 3204 GRT, built 1920),
Pacheco (British, 1405 GRT, built 1927),
Samcebu (British, 7253 GRT, built 1944),
Samfinn (British, 7253 GRT, built 1944),
Silverlarch (British, 5064 GRT, built 1924) and
Tweedbank (British, 5627 GRT, built 1930).
The rescue ship Gothland (British, 1286 GRT, built 1932) was also part of the convoy.
On assembly the convoy was escorted by the escort carrier HMS Fencer (A/Capt. W.W.R. Bentinck, OBE, RN), destroyer HMS Hesperus (Cdr. G.V. Legassick, RD, RNR), frigates HMS Cotton (Lt.Cdr. I.W.T. Beloe, RN), HMS Gardiner (A/Lt.Cdr. W.G.H. Bolton, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Flint Castle (T/Lt. S.G. Wright, RNVR), HMS Oxford Castle (T/Lt. H.E. Holden, DSC, RNR), HMS Rushen Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R.C. Warwick, DSC and Bar, RNR) and HNoMS Tunsberg Castle (?).
On assembly the Empire Fal and Tweedbank collided and the returned to port.
On 21 July 1944, the merchant vessel Empire Chamois (British, 5684 GRT, built 1918) joined the convoy coming from the Azores.
Around 0615B/22, HMS Fencer parted company with the convoy to join the combined convoy SL 164 / MKS 55 which she did around 1945B/22. She was escorted by HMS Cotton which did not join this convoy but returned to convoy OS 83/ KMS 57.
On 23 July 1944 the convoy split into convoy OS 83 bound for Freetown and convoy KMS 53 bound for the Mediterranean.
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Convoy OS 83 was made up of the merchant vessels;
Adrastus,
Bactria,
Bornholm,
Clan Chattan,
Empire Chamois,
Empire Clive,
Empire Pakeha,
Fresno Star,
Harberton and
Silverlarch.
These were joined by the merchant vessels
Beckenham (British, 4636 GRT, built 1937),
Empire Flame (British, 7069 GRT, built 1941),
Empire Moonrise (British, 6854 GRT, built 1941),
Nailsea Moor (British, 4926 GRT, built 1937) and
Radmanso (Swedish, 4280 GRT, built 1914) coming from Gibraltar which they had departed earlier that day.
These ships had been escorted by the frigates HMS Aire
(A/Lt.Cdr. N.K. Boyd, DSC and Bar, RNR), HMS Odzani (Lt.Cdr. L.A. Sayers, RD, RNR), corvette HMS Bellwort (T/A/Lt.Cdr. L.V. Banks, RNVR) and the patrol vessel HMS Kilmington (T/Lt. D.D. Humphreys, RNVR) which now formed the escort of this convoy towards Freetown.
on 24 July 1944, the merchant vessel Samstrudy (British, 7210 GRT, built 1944) departed Casablanca to join the convoy. She was escorted by the patrol vessel / sloop Amiral Mouchez. On this ship joining the convoy, the Hamberton parted company to proceed to Casablanca escorted by the Amiral Mouchez. They arrived at Casablanca on 25 July.
On 31 July 1944, the Bactria and Empire Clive arrived at Dakar having been detached from the convoy while the merchant vessel Slesvig (British, 3098 GRT, built 1938) had joined the convoy coming from Dakar.
The convoy arrived at Freetown on 2 August 1944. Some ships of the convoy did not enter Freetown but proceed directly to other destinations.
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Convoy KMS 57 proceeded towards the Straits of Gibraltar. This convoy was made up the merchant vessels
Ashbury,
Astrid,
Baton Tweedmouth,
Benedick,
Bestik,
Capitaine Paul Lemerle,
Empire Addison,
Empire Derwent,
Empire Derwent,
Empire Melody,
Empire Peacock,
English Monarch,
Fort Lawrence,
Geologist,
Glaucus,
Harpalycus,
Maihar,
Novasli,
Pacheco,
Samcebu and
Samfinn.
The rescue ship Gothland was also with them.
Escort was provided by the escort from combined convoy OS 83 / KMS 57.
On 25 July 1944, the Baron Tweedmouth, Benedick, Pacheco and Gothland arrived at Gibraltar together with the original escort of the convoy.
Off Gibraltar the merchant vessels
Alexandre Andre (Belgian (tanker), 5261 GRT, built 1928),
Antonio (British, 5225 GRT, built 1918),
Empire Highway (British, 7166 GRT, built 1942),
Fort Colville (British, 7153 GRT, built 1943),
Parame (French, 2337 GRT, built 1918) joined the convoy as did a new escort which was made up of the AA cruiser HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), frigates HMS Evenlode (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Bergamot (A/Lt.Cdr. W. McInnes, RNR), HMS Delphinium (T/Lt. S. Rule, RNVR) and the A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF).
On 26 July 1944, the Empire Derwent and Parame arrived at Oran after having been detached from the convoy while the merchant vessels
Aztec (Hunduran, 5511 GRT, built 1929),
Chateau Latour (French, 1912 GRT, built 1914),
Dromus (British (tanker), 8036 GRT, built 1938),
Elias Boldinot (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943),
James E. Howard (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943),
Joel Chandler Harris (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
Silverster Gardiner (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Smith Thompson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
William H. Wilmer (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943) and the net tender USS Pepperwood (Lt. E.F. McLaughlin, USNR) and the self propelled fuel barge USS Gauger (Lt. G.V. Davis, USNR) joined the convoy.
On 27 July 1944, the Alexandre Andre, Astrid, Capitaine Paul Lemerle, Chateau Latour, Empire Highway, Empire Melody, Fort Lawrence, Silverster Gardiner, Smith Thompson and William H. Wilmer arrived at Algiers after having been detached from the convoy while the merchant vessels
Avon Coast (British, 1036 GRT, built 1923),
Empire Tern (British, 2479 GRT, built 1919),
Fort Grahame (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Hall (British, 7157 GRT, built 1943) and
James J. Maguire (British (tanker), 10525 GRT, built 1939) joined the convoy.
On 28 July 1944, the Empire Tern arrived at Algiers after having been detached from the convoy while the merchant vessel Kola (British, 1538 GRT, built 1924) joined the convoy.
Around 0555B/29, HMS Colombo parted company wth the convoy and set course for Malta where she arrived around 1850B/29.
On 30 July 1944, the Antonio, Aztec, Dromus, Joel Chandler Harris and Novasli arrived at Bizerta after having been detached from the convoy while the merchant vessel George F. Patten (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy.
On 30 July 1944, the Bestik arrived at Tunis after having been detached from the convoy.
On 30 July 1944, Avon Coast and Fort Colville arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy.
On 30 July 1944, the merchant vessels
Albert G. Brown (American (tanker), 7218 GRT, built 1943),
Destro (British, 3553 GRT, built 1920),
Evviva (Norwegian, 1597 GRT, built 1921),
Fort Clatsop (British, 7157 GRT, built 1943),
James J. Hill (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942),
Ocean Vulcan (British, 7174 GRT, built 1942),
Samconon (British, 7210 GRT, built 1944), and
Zaanstroom (Dutch, 1646 GRT, built 1920) departed Augusta to join the convoy. With them was also the frigate HMS Awe (Lt.Cdr. H.P. Carse, DSC, RNVR) which also joined the convoy.
On 31 July 1944, the
Ashbury,
Elias Boldinot,
Empire Peacock,
English Monarch,
Fort Grahame,
Fort Hall,
George F. Patten,
Harpalycus,
James E. Howard,
James J. Maguire,
Kola and
Samcebu,
Samfinn,
Silvester Gardiner and
Smith Thompson as well as USS Pepperwood and
USS Gauger all arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the convoy.
On 3 August 1944, the Fort Clatsop, James J. Hill, Ocean Vulcan and Zaanstroom arrived at Alexandria after having been detached from the convoy. With them the HMS Awe, HMS Evenlode and HMS Usk also arrived at Alexandria.
The remainder of the convoy arrived at Port Said on 4 August 1944. 25 Jul 1944 [For more info on this convoy see the event ' Combined convoy OS 83/ KMS 57 ' for 13 July 1944.] 13 Dec 1944 6 Feb 1945 The Channel section of this combined convoy sailed on 5 February 1945 from Southend.
This section was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Bertram G. Goodhue (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
Briarwood (British, 4019 GRT, built 1930),
Elijah Cobb (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Canning (British, 6997 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Caxton (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942),
English Prince (British, 7275 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Musquarro (British, 7130 GRT, built 1944),
Henry L. Benning (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943),
Irving Babbitt (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
Isipingo (British, 7069 GRT, built 1930),
James D. Trask (American, 7210 GRT, built 1944),
Jenny (Norwegian, 4706 GRT, built 1928),
La Pampa (British, 4149 GRT, built 1938),
Louis Bamberger (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944),
Stephen W. Kearny (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943) and
Rigoletto (Swedish, 2465 GRT, built 1923).
This section was later joined by the merchant vessel Empire Ganges (British (tanker), 3744 GRT, built 1944) coming from Cowes roads, Joshua L. Chamberlain (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943) coming from St. Helens Roads, President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935) (also to serve as escort oiler) and Alfred I. DuPont (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944) coming from Plymouth. Also joining later were the landing ship HMS LST 368 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J Livingston, RNR) which came from Portsmouth and the landing ships HMS LST 410 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. C.C. Page, RNR), HMS LST 413 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R.L. Phillips, RNR), HMS LST 427 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. V. Elsom, RNR) and HMS LST 538 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. W.D.W. Wright, RNR) which joined coming from Falmouth as did the USN tugs USS Owl (Lt.(jg) J.H. Thomas, USNR) and USS Cormorant (T/Lt. W.T. Davern, USN).
On departure from Southend they were escorted by the destroyer HMS Vimy (Lt.Cdr. K.H.J.L. Phibbs, RN) and the corvette HMS Loosestrife (Lt. W. Atkinson, RNR).
Around 0430A/7, the corvettes HMS Alisma (Lt. G. Lanning, RANVR), HMS Delphinium (T/A/Lt.Cdr. S. Rule, RNVR) and HMS Stonecrop (T/A/Lt.Cdr. P.N.F. Appleyard, RNVR) joined off Portland. They came from Plymouth which they had departed on 6 February.
On reaching position 180° - Bishops Rock - 8 nautical miles the convoy split into convoy ONA 283 and OS 109 / KMS 83.
ONA 283 (the Channel section of convoy ON 283) was made up by the following merchant vessels;
Alfred I. DuPont,
Bertram G. Goodhue,
Elijah Cobb,
Empire Canning,
Fort Musquarro,
Henry L. Benning,
Irving Babbitt,
James D. Trask,
Joshua L. Chamberlain,
La Pampa,
Louis Bamberger and
Stephen W. Kearny. They were escorted by HMS Vimy, HMS Loosestrife and HMS Stonecrop and this section was to make rendezvous with the Irish Sea section of Convoy ON 283 (ONB 283) in position 50°00'N, 10°00'W. The escorts of ONA 283 were then to part company and join convoy HX 335.
The Channel section of the combined convoy OS 109 / KMS 83 was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Briarwood,
Empire Caxton,
Empire Ganges,
English Prince,
Isipingo,
Jenny and
Rigoletto. They were escorted by HMS Alisma and HMS Delphinium and were to make rendezvous with the Irish Sea section of this combined convoy in position 50°24'N, 08°02'W. These two corvettes were to join convoy MKS 81 later.
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The Irish Sea section of this convoy was made up of three sections, from the Clyde, Liverpool and Milford Haven.
The Clyde section of this combined convoy sailed on 6 February 1945.
This section was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Amastra (British (tanker), 8031 GRT, built 1935),
Boreas (Norwegian, 2801 GRT, built 1920),
Empire Addison (British, 7010 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Industry (British (tanker), 8203 GRT, built 1943),
Fort Frederick (British, 7135 GRT, built 1942),
King James (British, 5122 GRT, built 1925),
Macharda (British, 7998 GRT, built 1938),
Nyhorn (Norwegian, 4494 GRT, built 1929) and
Pozarica (Italian (tanker), 7799 GRT, built 1940).
The MAC ship (Merchantile Aircraft Carrier) Empire MacMahon (British (tanker), 8856 GRT, built 1943), rescue ship Empire Rest (British, 1333 GRT, built 1944) and ecort oiler British Energy (British (tanker), 7209 GRT, built 1931) (she came from Londonderry which she had departed on 6 February) were also part of this section.
The submarine HrMs O 24 (Lt.Cdr. P.J.S. de Jong, RNN) and landing ship HMS LST 421 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. T.F. Penney, RNR) were also part of this section.
The Clyde section was later joined by the merchant vessel Empire Spey (British, 4292 GRT, built 1929) coming from Belfast.
The Amastra however soon had to return to the Clyde due to engine defects. She arrived there later on the 6th.
On departure from the Clyde they were escorted by the frigates HMCS Lanark (A/Cdr. B.D.L. Johnson, OBE, RCNR) and Hawkesbury (Lt.Cdr. H.J. Weston, RANR(S)). The corvette HMCS Owen Sound (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.M. Watson, RCNR) joined coming from Londonderry
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The Liverpool section of this combined convoy sailed on 6 February 1945.
This section was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Backhuysen (Dutch (tanker), 8194 GRT, built 1942),
Balteako (British, 1328 GRT, built 1920),
Emma Bakke (Norwegian, 4721 GRT, built 1929),
Empire Ortolan (British, 4970 GRT, built 1919),
Gdynia (Swedish, 1636 GRT, built 1934),
Inchanga (British, 7069 GRT, built 1934),
James Whitcomb Riley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942),
John T. Holt (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Lalande (British, 7453 GRT, built 1920),
Macuba (Dutch (tanker), 8249 GRT, built 1931),
Manchester Progress (British, 5620 GRT, built 1938),
Marija Petrinovic (Yugoslavian, 5684 GRT, built 1918),
Morris Hillquit (American, 7210 GRT, 1944),
New Brooklyn (British, 6546 GRT, built 1920),
Niso (British (tanker), 8273 GRT, 1944),
Port Halifax (British, 5820 GRT, built 1937),
Prometheus (British, 6095 GRT, built 1925),
Thomas B. King (American, 7198 GRT, built 1942),
Thomas J. Lyons (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944),
Thomas Stone (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942),
W.S. Jennings (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944) and
Zane Grey (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943).
On departure from Liverpool they were escorted by the sloop HMS Wren (Cdr. S.R.J. Woods, DSC, RD, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Oakham Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A.H. Lyons, RNVR) and HMS Aubretia (A/Lt.Cdr. G.D. Fowler, RNR).
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The Milford Haven section of this combined convoy sailed on 7 February 1945. Some ships joined coming directly from the Bristol Channel.
This section was made up of the following merchant vessels;
A.J. Cermak (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Abraham Rosenberg (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
Arthur R. Lewis (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944),
Cavina (British, 6907 GRT, 1924),
Celtic Monarch (British, 5824 GRT, built 1929),
David G. Burnet (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943),
Edmond Mallet (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
Edward G. Janeway (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
Empire Galahead (British, 7046 GRT, built 1942),
Empire Pennant (British, 7043 GRT, built 1942),
F. Southall Farrar (American, 7200 GRT, built 1944),
Fort Romaine (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943),
Henry D. Lindsley (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
Hugh M. Smith (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Isaac Mayer Wise (American, 7240 GRT, built 1944),
Ivan Topic (Yugoslavian, 4943 GRT, built 1920),
James B. Miller (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943),
Jesse H. Metcalf (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944),
K.I. Luckenbach (American, 7822 GRT, built 1918),
Kaia Knudsen (Norwegian (tanker), 9063 GRT, built 1931) (also to serve as escort oiler),
Kelmscott (British, 7053 GRT, built 1943),
Minor C. Keith (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944),
North King (Panamanian, 4934 GRT, built 1903),
Taron (British (tanker), 8054 GRT, built 1936),
Ward Hunt (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943) and
William Windom (American, 7194 GRT, built 1943).
The RFA tanker Distol (1174 GRT, built 1916) was also part of this convoy.
On departure from Milford Haven they were escorted by the A/S trawler HMS Huddersfield Town (Skr. C.B. Scott, RNR) and the A/S whaler HMS Southern Breeze (A/Skr.Lt. W.S. Flowers, RNR).
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Early on 7 February, Force 36 supported the Irish Sea section of the combined convoy. Force 36 was made up of the frigates HMS Bligh (T/Lt. W.B. de Quincey, RNVR), HMS Grindall (T/A/Lt.Cdr. D. Turquand-Young, RNVR, with the Commanding Officer of the 5th Escort Group, Cdr. B.W. Taylor, RN, on board), HMS Keats (T/A/Lt.Cdr. N.F. Israel, DSC, RNR), HMS Kempthorne (Lt. H.J.A. Wilson, RN) and HMS Tyler (A/Lt.Cdr. C.H. Ranking, RN).
Around 0300A/7, the Clyde and Liverpool sections joined company.
Around 0900A/7, the frigate HMCS St. Therese (T/Cdr. J.E. Mitchell, RCNVR) joined coming from Londonderry.
Around 0930A/7, Force 33 joined as temporary reinforcements. Force 33 was made up of the sloop HMS Wild Goose (Cdr. D.E.G. Wemyss, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN) and the frigates HMS Dominica (Lt.Cdr. H.N. Lawson, RD, RNR), HMS Labuan (T/A/Lt.Cdr. V.D.H. Bidwell, DSC, RNR), HMS Tobago (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.H.L. May, OBE, RNVR), HMS Loch Fada (Cdr. B.A. Rogers, RD, RNR) and HMS Loch Ruthven (A/Lt.Cdr. R.T. Horan, RNR).
Around 1000A/7, Force 36 (5th Escort Group), parted company.
Around 1600A/7, the corvette HMCS Copper Cliff (T/Lt.Cdr. F.G. Hutchings, RCNR) joined coming from Milford Haven.
Around 1800A/7, the Milford Haven section joined the Clyde / Liverpool sections. Both escorts of this section
did not join the combined convoy.
Around 1900A/7, Force 33 (2nd Escort Group) parted company. [sources are conflicting, one source states that HMS Wild Goose, HMS Labuan and HMS Loch Fada remained with the convoy during the night of 7/8 February.
Around 1900A/7, the combined convoy split but the combined convoy OS 109 / KMS 83 remained in rather close company trailing behind convoy ON 283 during the night until turning southwards around 0700A/8.
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Convoy ON 283 was made up of the following merchant vessels;
A.J. Cermak,
Abraham Rosenberg,
Arthur R. Lewis,
Backhuysen,
British Energy (escort oiler),
Cavina,
David G. Burnet,
Edmond Mallet,
Edward G. Janeway,
Emma Bakke,
Empire Industry,
Empire MacMahon (MAC ship),
Empire Rest (rescue ship),
F. Southall Farrar,
Fort Romaine,
Gdynia,
Henry D. Lindsley,
Hugh M. Smith,
Isaac Mayer Wise,
James B. Miller,
James Whitcomb Riley,
Jesse H. Metcalf,
John T. Holt,
K.I. Luckenbach,
Kaia Knudsen (escort oiler),
Kelmscott,
Macuba,
Manchester Progress,
Marija Petrinovic,
Minor C. Keith,
Morris Hillquit,
Niso,
North King,
Nyhorn,
Port Halifax,
Prometheus,
Taros,
Thomas B. King,
Thomas J. Lyons,
Thomas Stone,
W.S. Jennings,
Ward Hunt,
William Windon and
Zane Grey.
They were escorted by HMCS Lanark, HMS Hawkesbury, HMCS St. Therese, HMCS Copper Cliff and HMCS Owen Sound.
Around 1500A/9 the Channel section of the convoy joined company [for it's composition see above]. HMS Vimy, HMS Loosestrife and HMS Stonecrop then parted company.
Around 1200 hours on 10 December, in position 48°46'N, 12°35'W, HMCS St. Therese parted company to proceed to St. John's, Newfoundland where she arrived on 17 February.
On 13 February the USN tugs and the escorts fuelled from the British Energy and the President de Vogue. Also on this day the corvette HMCS Merrittonia (T/Lt. F.K. Ellis, RCNVR) joined the convoy. She had departed St. John's, Newfoundland on 7 February.
Around 1230 hours on 14 February [time zone not given] the Taron dropped out of the convoy with engine trouble. She rejoined the next day around 1830 hours.
On 15 February HMCS Merrittonia fuelled from the Kaia Knudsen.
At 0748 hours on the 18th, an SOS was received from the
Alfred I. DuPont which was already struggling since the 14th with the heavy weather conditions the convoy encountered. She detached from the convoy and was able to reach the Azores on 20 February.
Also USS Cormorant had two holds flooded and HMCS Merrittonia was ordered to stand by the tug but the flooding was brought under control.
At 1620 hours on 18 February the Niso was detached to proceed independently to New Orleans (Good Hope) where she arrived on 4 March.
Around 1100 hours on 21 February, in position 44°46'N, 47°40'W, the current escort, minus HMCS Owen Sound parted company with the convoy to proceed to St. John's, Newfoundland where they arrived on 22 February. At the same time a new escort joined which had departed St. John's on 20 February. This new escort was made up of the minesweeper HMCS Kapuskasing (A/Lt.Cdr. A.H. Rankin, OBE, RCNVR), corvettes HMCS Barrie (T/Lt. W.D. Stokvis, RCNVR), HMCS Buctouche (T/Skr.Lt. H.E. Young, RCNR), HMCS Sherbrooke (T/Lt. D.A. Binmore, RCNVR) and HMCS Vancouver (T/Lt. G.C. Campbell, RCNVR).
On 22 February the Kelmscott was detached to St. John's where she arrived the following day.
At 1740 hours on 23 February the following merchant vessels were detached to Halifax;
British Energy,
Cavina,
Empire MacMahon,
Empire Rest,
Manchester Progress and
Nyhorn. HMCS Owen Sound went with them as escort.
On 25 February the Fort Musquarro was ordered to proceed independently to Baltimore and the Thomas Stone was ordered to proceed independently to Philadelphia.
On 26 February the following ships were detached to Boston (via the Cape Cod Canal) where they arrived the following day;
David G. Burnet,
Edmond Mallet,
Elijah Cobb,
Henry L. Benning,
Hugh M. Smith and
Jesse H. Metcalf.
Also the Empire Industy was ordered to proceed to Baltimore.
The remainder of the convoy arrived at New York on 27 February.
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The combined convoy OS 109 / KMS 83 was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Balteako,
Boreas,
Celtic Monarch,
Distol,
Empire Addison,
Empire Galahad,
Empire Pennant,
Empire Spey,
Fort Frederick,
Ivan Topic,
King James,
Macharda,
New Brooklyn,
Pozarica,
HrMs O 24 and HMS LST 421. They were escorted by HMS Wren, HMS Oakham Castle and HMS Aubretia.
Around 1700A/8, the Channel section of the convoy joined company. [for it's composition see above]. Their escorts, HMS Alisma and HMS Delphinium also joined the convoy.
Around 1430A/9, HMS Wren was detached to return to Liverpool and HMS Alisma, HMS Aubretia and HMS Delphinium were to join convoy MKS 81 and had already parted company A.M. on the 9th.
Around 1800A/9, in position 48°00'N, 08°30'W, the ships belonging to convoy OS 109 were detached. They were to proceed independently to their destinations. This were the following merchant vessels;
Briarwood (arrived at Dakar on 20 February),
Celtic Monarch (arrived at Freetown on 23 February),
Empire Galahad (arrived at Buenos Aires on 5 March),
Empire Pennant (arrived at Montevideo on 5 March),
Isipingo (arrived at Takoradi on 23 February),
Ivan Topic (arrived at Dakar on 20 February),
Jenny (arrived at Freetown on 21 February but made a short stop at Dakar to land an injured crew member on 19 February) and
New Brooklyn (arrived at Takoradi on 26 February).
The Rigotello (arrived at Freetown on 21 February) parted company on the 10th.
Convoy KMS 83 continued towards Gibraltar with the remaining vessels escorted by HMS Oakham Castle.
Around 0800Z/13, in position 42°17'N, 13°36'W, the patrol vessels HMS Kilmelford (Lt. W. Harold, RNZNVR) and HMS Kilmington (T/Lt. D.D. Humphreys, RNVR) joined.
Around 0800Z/14, in position 39°00'N, 13°29'W, the frigate HMS Ballinderry (Lt.Cdr. E.F. Aikman, RNR) joined.
The convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 16 February but some of the merchant vessels immediately proceeded into the Mediterranean to continue their voyage independently and unescorted. (12) Sources ADM numbers indicate documents at the British National Archives at Kew, London.Combined convoy OS 77 / KMS 51.
HMS Caledon (Capt. R.F. Nichols, RN), RHS Kriti, frigate HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR), HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF) all arrived at Gibraltar with convoy MKS 49. (10)Combined convoy KMS 51 / UGS 42.
Convoy MKS 55.
Combined convoy OS 83 / KMS 57.
The AA cruiser HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), frigates HMS Evenlode (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Bergamot (A/Lt.Cdr. W. McInnes, RNR), HMS Delphinium (T/Lt. S. Rule, RNVR) and the A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF) departed Gibraltar to join convoy KMS 57.
HMS Vampire (Lt. C.W. Taylor, RNR) conducted A/S exercises off Gibraltar with HMS Stork (Lt.Cdr. D.E. Mansfield, RN), HMS Delphinium (T/Lt. S. Rule, RNVR) and aircraft. (11)Combined convoy ON 283 / OS 109 / KMS 83.