Training for Combined Ops: Shortly Before the Dieppe Raid (Parts 1 - 3)

Schuyt 1 and 2, Lady Helen and a Silent Pact

And Where is the Top Hat Pub Again, Dad?

RFA Ennerdale, Landing Ship Gantry. Photo Credit - Wikipedia

Introduction:

Exercise Schuyt I, an important training venture with important observers (PM Churchill, C.O. Cmdr. Louis Mountbatten, and King George VI!) took place near Irvine and Troon, Scotland prior to the Dieppe raid. My father recalls his experience aboard - and then not on board! - a landing craft that became stuck on sandbars during the exercise. Officers recall other events, and in-between, my father discovers a lovely pub and a lovely lady.

1. Shortly Before the Dieppe Raid - Part 1

A13228. Lord Louis Mountbatten (on right) watching a landing exercise

on the beach at the combined operations centre at Dundonald Camp.

Here the men making their way out of sandbagged emplacements.

Photo - Lt. S.J. Beadell, RN Official Photographer, IWM.

2. Shortly Before the Dieppe Raid - Part 2

Doug Harrison and Frank Herring (RCNVR and Combined Ops) find a

happy pub in Southend-On-Sea while training at HMS Westcliff, 1942

3. Shortly Before the Dieppe Raid - Part 3

Photo found in St. Nazaire to Singapore, The Canadian Amphibious

War 1941 - 1945, Volume 1, Page 50. NB Photo by Len Birkenes*

Please click here for more information about training experiences of Canadians who volunteered for Combined Operations - Photographs: Camps, Landing Crafts (Parts 1 - 15)

Questions and comments can be sent to gordh7700@gmail.com

Unattributed Photos GH