In January 2008 the HMS Hunter was found lying at the bottom of the Narvik fjord in over 1000 feet of icy water by the Norwegian mine hunter Hnoms Tyr. 68 years after she was sunk, this is one survivor’s story of friendship, sorrow, hardship and life aboard a British destroyer during WW2, which was part of a flotilla honoured with the first Victoria Cross of the Second World War. I am very gratefull to Robin Ward for sending me this account of his father’s exploits in the First Battle of Narvik. Having dived on many of the ships that he mentions, his first hand account gives more meaning to those dives, and connects me (in a very small way) to those great events so many years ago. Without people like ‘Fred’ Ward and the rest of the crew of H.M.S.Hunter, the world would be a much poorer place.
At approx 10:00hrs on 9th April 1940 the HMS Hunter set sail from Scapa Flow in the Orkney’s along with its flotilla leader the HMS Hardy and three other British destroyers, HMS Hotspur, HMS Havock and HMS Hostile, their mission? To guard minelayers, which were mining the North Sea. While near the Skagerrak strait, a stretch of water, which runs between Norway and Denmark, the British flotilla witnessed the battle between the British battlecruiser the HMS Renown and the German Battlecruisers, Schamhorst and Gneisenau, as well as sinking a German U-Boat on their way. This was Fred’s first taste of war! Even though it was bitterly cold, the men were in good spirits; most of them firm friends by this time having trained together and only having each other as company. It was snowing and the sea was huge, at one point the Hunter was sailing down an enormous wave while the Hardy was sailing up another one, just in front. Fred could see down the funnel of the Hardy as they were opposite each other in this massive sea. This is one reality of war at sea that is hardly ever told. It’s not always plain sailing. At 04:30hrs on 10th April 1940 the British flotilla entered Ofotfjord in the Norwegian Sea, not knowing where they were going or what was to come, only being told to be ready for battle stations
They were in formation with the Hardy leading, Hunter following with Havock, Hostile and Hotspur closely behind. The Hardy stopped near a lighthouse and Fred watched as some of her crew sailed to shore in a small boat, he knows now that it was for intelligence on German destroyers and other ships in the area. When the Hardy’s Captain, Bernard Armitage Warburton Lee communicated back to HQ that there were more ships than expected and that the chances of going into battle and making it back out again were very slim, the admiralty told him that he had to make a decision. His decision was to carry on with the mission and gave the order to “Follow on”. Not knowing at the time, but this brave decision was to have a massive impact on Hitler’s Navy.
They proceeded up the fjord until they entered the port of Narvik, it was dark, snowing and visibility was very poor, but Fred could make out ships in the distance. They started weaving between German merchant ships, with German sailors walking around on the decks, but as the visibility was low they paid the British flotilla little notice, most probably thinking they were German ships. Fred watched as the Hardy closed in on some German destroyers, which were docked. They were: Willem Heidkamp (Flagship) Anton Schmitt Hans Ludemann Deiter Von Roeder The Hardy was searching for the Willem Heidkamp, the German flagship in Narvik. Warburton Lee’s objective was to take this ship out first; this would put the Germans on their back foot, damaging their morale. As they got closer the Hardy turned broadside into position and fired two torpedoes at the Willem Heidkamp, they were a direct hit and she went down almost immediately killing her Captain, Commodore Bonte. THEN ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE! The Germans did not know what had hit them, following closely in Hardy’s wake, Hunter and Havock opened up on Anton Schmitt with guns and torpedoes, sinking her, they then turned their attention to Hans Ludemann, badly damaging her, while Hostile scored two direct hits on Deiter Von Roeder.
Captain Warburton Lee gave the order to pull out and re-group, believing that there were only six destroyers in the area with 4 being accounted for. Going in for the second time they dodged torpedoes from the stricken Deiter Von Roeder while inflicting more damage on her and the remaining German destroyers as well as taking out merchant ships loaded with iron ore for Germany. Having completed the mission and nearly out of ammo, the British flotilla headed for open water. This is when things took a disastrous turn. In fact there were more German destroyers docked at nearby inlets. As the British destroyers raced by, the German destroyers gave chase. They were: Wolfgang Zenker Erich Giese Erich Koellner Hermann Kunne Up to speed, the British were outrunning the German destroyers and thought they were going to make it, but what they did not realise was that two larger German destroyers were racing head on towards them. They were: Georg Thiele Bernd Von Armin.
Knowing that they were outnumbered and outgunned, the Hardy turned and took the brunt of it from the German destroyers. Her bridge obliterated and out of control she headed to the far shoreline with her Captain, Warburton Lee mortally wounded. His courageous last words were, “carry on engaging the enemy”. The Hunter was next, hit in the engine room she lost power and due to smoke and poor visibility was then rammed by the Hotspur, disabling her. The Hotspur managed to pull away, she sailed close to the Hunter to try and help shield her, but there was nothing she could do and pulled away leaving the Hunter to take the Germans rage on her own.
Meanwhile the Hardy was on fire had beached on the far side of the fjord, her crew taking their Captain, Warburton Lee to shore, but sadly he passed away from his injuries, he would later be posthumously awarded the first Victoria Cross of the Second World War for this action. Havock and Hostile had run the gauntlet between the German ships and made it out to the open sea, as did the Hotspur, but the Hunter was a sitting duck with her engine room and propellers damaged! Sat in the middle of the fjord with gunfire and explosions all around, the brave men of the Hunter carried on engaging the enemy with everything they had left, knowing that this was the Hunter’s and most probably their own last moments.
Fred was a gunner and the noise from gunfire, explosions and the echo’s off the side of the mountains made it impossible to think, he once said it was like having your head compressed, you can not think, the training just takes over. One of Fred’s mates came up to him and asked if he could borrow his knife as he had lost his, Fred took his knife out of its sheath and handed it to him. A few moments later there was an explosion, Fred looked over and his friend was gone, this is when he knew the Hunter had to go down, the Germans were not going to stop until she was beneath the waves. Out of ammo, Fred was sat on the deck of the Hunter looking into the freezing water. This is when the order was given to abandon ship.
The chances of surviving in this freezing Arctic sea were very slim and Fred could already see bodies floating in front of him, from the smoke and fire their heads blackened and he recalled it as seeing black heads bobbing around everywhere. The Hunter was on her way down, she was listing badly, nearly on her side. Fred was watching her radio mast; it was almost touching the water. Something made him look behind him and the Hunter’s Captain, Linsey de Villiers was walking past. He looked at Fred and nodded as if to say over you go. The Captain then disappeared back inside the ship and was not seen again! Fred took off his boots and jumped in the freezing water! With his senses numbed and with the unfortunate ones floating nearby, Fred treaded water, waiting to either be picked up, or die. He turned to face the Hunter, which was now up on her end, sinking. Every ship has a name or number, the HMS Hunter’s was H35 and Fred was watching this slowly make its way towards the water line. He said that because of the sheer bulk of the Hunter, it looked as if she was sinking slowly, but as the H35 reached the water it disappeared very quickly and within a few seconds she was gone. There was a swell in the water and then nothing; it was as if she was never there.
The saddest part is that there were brave sailors trapped below decks, their exits buckled from the explosions and with no way out, they had to go down with her. When she left Plymouth for War, the Hunter had a compliment of 157; only 45 were pulled alive from the freezing Norwegian waters on 10th April 1940 and of these, some would die from exposure and injuries.
Just when Fred though he would not make it, he was picked up by a German ship. He was pulled from the water and remembers a German sailor walking towards him with a knife; this is when he passed out. When he regained consciousness, he was naked, in a bunk with only a blanked covering him. A German guard offered him some bread, which he took. He was marched on deck and watched as the remains of War smouldered in the fjord. He was freezing, in shock and did not know what lay ahead for him. He was then taken to shore as a prisoner along with the other survivors. The War had just started and Fred found himself in the hands of the enemy, but this would not be the first time he would be captured by the Germans!
They were marched through the town of Narvik with only their blankets for comfort until they reached a café called Iris, this is where they were given dry clothes and they were guarded day and night, while the Germans carried on with their campaign. On the 13th April 1940, Fred was aroused to the sound of commotion along with gunfire and explosions. The café Iris overlooked Narvik fjord and he could see British Warships engaging the German destroyers, not knowing it, but Fred was witnessing the second battle of Narvik. There was a large British Battleship in the fjord and she was picking off the German destroyers with ease. She was the HMS Warspite, a formidable weapon of the British Navy. The walls of the café shook to the gunfire from the Warspite and it was not long before she and her flotilla of destroyers left, leaving the German destroyers a mangled sinking wreck. The Germans had lost 10 destroyers plus merchant ships during the two battles of Narvik, this would hamper Hitler’s efforts during the rest of the War and even today many still say that the two battles of Narvik gave the British Navy victory in the War. The above is dedicated to my dad, for he helped secure our freedom, but also to the brave sailors that gave the ultimate sacrifice and never returned to their loved ones. Robin Ward
Trevor Auckland says
Thanks,it gives me some idea what my father went through ,sadly passed away in 2007 age 86,he was on HMS Havock
Mike Mitchell says
My dad was on Hardy he passed away in 1996.He is in the photo with Winston Churchill, he has a book in his pocket
Gerry Tudor says
Hi, If this message can get to Fred Ward, did you know my Grandfather Bertie Stevens, He was on HMS Hunter when it went down. I never met him, due to I was born after his death, I would be so greatfull for a reply, as I am building a family tree for my daughter
Patrick Duffy says
My late father PO stoker Patrick Joseph Duffy survived the sinking of HMS Hunter. He was eventually taken to germany as a pow for 5years.
patrick Duffy
David Goodey says
My father also was on HMS Havock (Stoker Albert Goodey – deceased 2006 aged 88). I have been working with a Norwegian author on the German Invasion of Norway. I was in Narvik in September 2009. You must read The German Invasion of Norway by Geirr Haarr (see Amazon). Published recently it is now recognised as the definitive book on the subject. The chapter relating to Narvik is the most accurate account you will find anywhere. I also have pre-war material on Hunter as I have traced Havock’s life.
Geirr is now looking for the wreck of HMS Glorious!!
David Goodey says
Trevor. I traced 50 of Havock’s crew in the 1980s. Do you have any Havock photos or material? I have a lot of stuff.
David
David Goodey says
Gerry. Did Bertie survive the War?
Rob Maclean says
Any crew photo’s or info ref HMS Hostile from Narvik up until her sinking would be most appreciated.
pw3s@hotmail.com
Ken Hartley says
My father Edgar Hartley (who died aged 69 in1988) served on Havock. Although he was at Narvik and with her throughout until she was lost in the Med (1942) he never said a great deal about his war time experiences.Only recently have I discovered that those few comments he did make seriously understated what happened to the ship and her crew.This very personal account of events at Narvik is so valuable.
Jim Mackenzie says
Hi, my Grandfather CPO James Smail was a Gunner on HMS Hunter and was lost at Narvick. Any info would be welcome, we have reports that he went down with ship and reports he was taken prisoner but have never established what actually happened.
James Renshaw jnr says
Iwould like to think that this comment will reach Fred Ward,i am James Renshaw jnr ,eldest son of able seaman James Renshaw,also a gunner on H.M.S.Hunter,my father died just last year at the age of 90,we think that he was the final survivor of the crew,and i am so pleased that the whereabouts of the Hunter was found before he died.He was intervied by the t.v. and radio,and this made him feel very special.I have quite a lot of his photos etc;if anyone is interested.My e-mail address is jimbob1@f2s.com
Ron Cope says
I have found all the comments very interesting and moving. My father Cyril Cope was a leading torpedoman on Hms Hardy. He sadly passed away in 2003 but left audio recordings including a graphic account of the 1st Battle of Narvik. He was on the upperdeck throughout and therefore in the unique position to see first hand the fierce proceeding battle. Having survived and assited by the local communities of Narvik and Ballangen he was eventually repatriated with other survivors on HMS Ivanoe. Subsequently, in the 1970’s he instigated the 2nd Destroyer Flotilla of Narvik Association. When initially Hardy’s surviving members were joined by crews from other ships including ‘Hunter’. As a retired Chief Petty Officer he left me his personal records with the intention of our citizens never being allowed to forget the heroic deeds of all those sailors killed or the lucky ones who were fortunate to survive that momentous battle on 10th April 1940. Therefore I am in the throes of putting pen to paper. It may take time. However with the 70th anniversary ‘ fast steaming towards us’ it maybe that one form of media may have an interest. If you would like to contact me for any reason E Mail at roncope@btinternet.com or see comments on this site re HMS Hardy. Where in the near future Peter Mitchell will endeavour to summarise my father’s personal account. yours aye Ron Cope
Ron Cope says
In addition to my previous comments …I have recently had a query from Hugh Mantle’s family (Hugh was at the age of 18 the youngest sailor to be killed on HMS Hardy) as to whether there will be a 70th Anniversary Memorial Service on 10th April 2010. To my knowledge nothing has been arranged. However, if anyone knows of such an event could you give details on this and the Hardy website. Thanks Ron Cope (roncope@btinternet.com)
peter kerswell says
to gerry tudor,my late father was a petty officer on board hms hunter and he survied the sinking and taken prisioner.what imfo are you looking for.
yours
peter kerswell
David Goodey says
I have photos from Ballangen and Narvik of the graves of Hunter and Hardy crew (sadly none of those named aboyve). I have documented the history of HMS Havock. Please read The German Invasion of Noreay by Geirr Haarr. It will set you alight with onformation – particularly the Narvik chapter.
Regards
David Goodey
Ron Cope says
David, I have just noted your comments. I am collecting information on the Narvik Battles. Would you be so kind as to contact me ‘roncope@btinternet.com’ . Ron Cope (Chief Petty Officer Rtd)
Dorothy Swales says
My father,Charlie Swales was one of the survivals H.M.S Hunter.Charlie passed away in 1996. He escaped to Sweden and meet a swedish girl, my mother.After I was born in 1942 ,Charlie and his family return to Newport ,Wales until 1945. After the war my father with family settled down in Hälsingland.
Dorothy Swales
Ron Cope says
Message for Ken Hartley above comments. I would be interested in receiving any copies of Edgars ‘very personal accounts’.
In an attempt to write a book on personal accounts of those involved in the ‘epic battles’ I would appreciate you contacting me. I have so far received a number of stories from families associated to the five H Class destroyers but predominently ‘Hardy’.
Dorothy. It sounds an intriguing story of your father managing to escape to Sweden and the wonderful outcome. I am in the throes of making contact with the grandson of Mrs Petra Christiansen in Ballangen. It was her home where 100 survivors of ‘Hardy’ re-grouped.
On writing to numerous regional newspapers of the families associated with the Battles of Narvik last week features were published in the areas of Devon – Cornwall – Belfast -Middlesborough – Shropshire. Ron Cope (roncope@btinternet.com)
Trevor Auckland says
Hi David
Have just got back to this site and saw your reply,I have only one photo of the Havock taken in Malta,a service programme of the laying up of the battle ensign in 1951 signed by Cdr R E Courage which my father went to,and a commerative letter for the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Narvik signed by Frank Hall.
Josie Johnson says
I am the Grand daughter of Thomas Norton who was one of the few survivors from the Hunter that was sunk in Narvik. My Granddad died in July 1967 age 69. He was taken prisoner and then taken to Sweden. I understand that they were picked up by the Germans and held in a school building until they were taken to Sweden. I have been told that the survivors were planning to signal to the ships out at sea with a torch that they hid in the guttering of the building, but unfortunately it was knocked down the drain pipe. My Granddad had to sign papers to say that he would not take up arms against the Germans again before he was sent back home. He was also in WWI and was sunk twice in one day at the battle of the Dardanelles on the Irresistible and the Ocean which had rescued them.
If anybody has any photos of the crew of the Hunter and its survivors I would be grateful of a copy as we do not have any photos of Grandad during his Naval days
IAN MCLEOD says
Hi Everyone,
I am researching the Hunter,havock especially and the Hardy any information about their survivors would be appreciated and reciprocated I have a list on Excel and would share accordingly.
Best regards Ian
Ron Cope says
Ian ..I am not sure if you are associated as a family member to any of the five destroyers.. however I am in the throes of putting my own research together to hopefully pen a narrative approach to write a book. I have gathered a significant amount of information from a number of contacts. If you contact me on ‘roncope@btinternet.com’ perhaps we could compare relevant notes. Look forward to hearing from you. regards Ron
Gavin Holt says
My Grandfather was killed aboared HMS Hunter in 1940, My Father was only 9 months old so I have no information about him and only 1 photograph of him in uniform. My Grandfather was Able Seaman Alfred Holt any info at all will be greatly appreciated.
Richard Gleed-Owen says
Hello Dave Goodey – trying to get back in touch with you about the Havock as my father Griff ‘Jess’ Owen, who died last month aged 94 served aboard for the 1st commission (1937 to 1939). I have lost your email address so would appreciate being back in touch. Been googling to find your name, hence coming across this Narvik campaign website. Regards, Richard Gleed-Owen: richardgleedowen@yahoo.co.uk (ex RN 1961-70)
David Goodey says
Ron, Richard and anyone else on this subject. My email address is david@goodey1.plus.com
David Goodey says
Trevor Auckland and Ken Hartley please contact me. I have info and photos for you. david@goodey1.plus.com
David Goodey
Chris Cameron says
Hi,
My Uncle was onboard HMS Hunter (Able Seaman Robert Blower). My mother always assumed he had gone down with the ship, but having done some research in 2000 I discovered that his wargrave has his date of death was I believe the 23rd April. So the question remains, was he injured and died from his wounds? Would be nice for any info/pics as my mother knows very lilttle of what happened to her brother as her parents were not very talkative about it (understandably so).
Coincidentally my birthday is April 10th.
Contact me on c.cameronwilton@btinternet.com
Brendan Sheridan says
Thanks I am named after my uncle Brendan Mulhall who was a Chief Petty Officer from Ardglass Co.Down a small fishing port in N.Ireland my mother is still alive aged 96 would anyone have any phots of the crew.
Thanks again R.I.P.
Ron Cope says
Message for Jim Mackenzie I have a list (although not complete) of Hunter’s crew..where it lists names / ranks / service numbers / killed in action / wounded in action / POW (Fatality or not) Your grandfather James Smail is on the list . Ron Cope ‘roncope@btinternet.com’
Ron Cope says
Message for Brendan please contact me I have not yet found a picture of Hunter’s full crew at the time of Narvik ..may be one was never taken. However, I have information about Hunter and the Battle Of Narvik’ on that fateful day. I have a list which has your Uncle Brendan on it ‘John Brendan Mulhall D/JX 126598’ – ‘Missing’ 10th April 1940.
Anyone reading this section of the website who has an interest or is in some way assoicated with any of the ‘fighting five’ ships Hardy, Hunter, Havock, Hotspur and Hostile. , please contact me to assist in writing my book. Ron Cope – ‘roncope@btinternet.com’
fred ward says
I am fred ward last survivor of the ‘hunter’ I am aged 92
Please contact me on e.mail
fred ward
Pamela Jauncey says
My late father William James Kirk Brown (known as Jock Brown) was at the battle of Narvik but I have no idea which ship/s he served on. I know he was on the Bleasdale in 1942 but have no record of which destroyer he was on at Narvik. Does anyone out there have any info. I do remember he went to the 50th anniversary in Narvik with I believe Cyril Cope. Any info would be appreciated.
Ron Cope says
Hi Pamela did Jock have a magnificent moustache and used a walking stick. I was at the 50th Anniversary with my dad Cyril and know of a ‘Bill’ Brown. Get in contact as I have information on him and his ship. Regards Ron Cope ‘roncope@btinternet.com’
JOHN LAWTON says
Hi enjoying your site….Does anyone have any onfo on Surgeon LieutenACE GARNER EVANS of HMS Hunter, who is buried in Ballangen New cemetery, I am Treasurer of the Royal Naval Association in Llangollen North Wales and Horace Garner Evans came from our Town
JOHN LAWTON says
RETYPE HORACE GARNER EVANS…..Surgeon Lieutenant in HMS Hunter
Julie says
Looking for information about James Smail who was supposed to have been on board the Hunter. I live in Canada and would like information as he is my mother’s uncle.
Ron Cope says
Julie
I have information on Chief Petty Officer James Smail who was lost on ‘Hunter’. I have had contact with a relative in Dundee who was James Grandson, Jim MacKenzie. My father Cyril Cope was a survivor on ‘Hardy’ and in his documents are letters from 1971 sent to him by James’ sister Mrs G Watson who lived in Galashields, Scotland. The account I have from her letters was that James, a strong swimmer, stay behind to assist others who had to be encouraged to jump into the very cold fjord. James was also on ‘Hunter’ prior to Narvik, during the Spanish Civil War when the ship was mined. A number of crew were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal whilst James was presented with the OBE. a very brave and experienced Chief Petty Officer. I have mentioned James in my forthcoming book. It may be you have additional information which can be added to the contents. Either way please contact me. Ron Cope ‘roncope@btinternet.com’.
Donald Lancaster says
@ Ron Cope
My uncle, Peter Lancaster, was a Sub-Leutenant serving on HMS Hunter, and was lost at Narvic. I have two differing accounts and wonder if either can be commented on:
It was thought that Peter was lost when HMS Hunter was sunk in Ofotfjord during the first of the two Battles for Narvik. Now it is believed that Peter was secretly landed in a recce detail, (possibly linked to the Hardy landing party referred to above??), was caught behind enemy lines, his small group of 4 or 5 men engaged in fighting for two days (against many, many Germans in the area?) before being captured and shot.
Peter is buried in Ballangen New Cemetery, Nordland County, Norway, Plot: British Plot IV. A. 11.
Any info that anyone has would be greatly welcome.
Wynne Jones says
Very interesting series of stories about HMS Hunter – my father served on Hunter from 1939 as an oerlikon gunner – my grandmother had a telegram to advise that her son was posted missing, presumed dead, following the First battle.
Fortunately, Dad had been posted off ship some weeks before, to play rugby for the Navy & served the rest of the War on HMS Albrighton.
He passed away some years ago, but strangely, some of the surnames included within these articles are familiar – he didn’t speak much about what had happened but often regaled us with stories of the men he served alongside.
Hunter had been captained by a gentleman called Villiers & Dad settled in Villiers Road, Ammanford after the war.
lesley edwards says
I am wondering if there are any living survivors of the HMS Hunter still alive who knew my mums cousin John Flynn who died on the Hunter.He was only 20 years I believe and came from Liverpool.I would like to know if anyone remembers him or if any photos of him are available .Thank you
Trevor Baker says
This message is for Josie Johnson regarding her grandfather Thomas Norton. I have your grandfather’s signature in a visitors’ book, which he signed on 30 August 1941, the day he landed in Scotland after his flight from Stockholm. If you send me your email address, I will send you a photo of the page he signed and give you some more information.
Ron Cope says
Donald Lancaster, Wynne Jones and Lesley Edwards above comments, I have a lot of information about ‘HMS Hunter’ gathered for my forthcoming book on the ‘First Battle of Narvik’ and thereafter. Ron Cope, son of Cyril Cope torpedoman on HMS Hardy roncope@btinternet.com
Ron Cope says
Thanks Trevor (Baker) for the briliant information you have provided about Thomas Norton James ‘Stormy’ Renshaw and Stan Cook. I have already passed info to Jose Johnson. Ron Cope
Submerged Comment says
Gordon Lees (lees_gordon@hotmail.com) wrote:
Anyone know Chief Petty Officer George Arthur Sutton who went down on HMS Hunter.He came from Oldham,Lancs. and was a big mate of my dad when a youth.I think he joined up at the end of the 1st WW.
Paul Yeoman says
My Uncle, Harold Charles Webber, was a telegraphist on board HMS Hunter, and he is listed as MPK.
It would be wonderful if Fred Ward perhaps knew him on board?
I personally believe that my Uncle would have been trapped below, and sadly did not make it off the ship. My mother, Harold’s sister, sadly died just before they found the last resting place of the Hunter.
Ron Cope says
Paul please contact me on ‘roncope@btinternet’ should you want more information on the tragic sinking of HMS Hunter. As I have made contact with many families associated with the ship. Ron Cope
Lesley Ferguson says
Hello,
I have just discovered this website and was really interested to read this very personal account. My father Charles (John) Coutts was a survivor from HMS Hunter. He never really spoke about his experiences although I know that he too signed a paper to say that he would not take up arms against the Germans again. It would be very nice to have any more information. Unfortunately my dad passed away in 2005 aged 88 years.
Geoff Webber says
To Paul, its your cousin Geoff, its been a long time. Did you find out anything about Harold as dad didn’t really know much about him given his age at the time the Hunter went down. Get in touch if you see this. My email is ‘geoffwebebr@blueyonder.co.uk’
RON COPE says
Lesley, I found your father had left a message on a Dorset website. I tried to get in touch with him as he wanted to make contact with any HMS Hunter survivors. I am finishing my book on the demise of ‘Hunter’ and the experiences of the 45 survivors who were interned in Sweden. I am sure you would be interested from my research the accounts of quite a few, most finally making their way back to Britain. You can contact me through this website. Ron Cope.
Gerry Tudor says
I am again searching for information on my Grandfather Bertie Stevens Stoker, on HMS Hunter, my email is gerry@door2doorfinance.co.uk, if Fred Ward is still with us, Please get in touch
Christine Gibbens says
I too am related to Bertie Hale Stevens who went down with HMS Hunter. I would like to make contact with anyone who could tell me more about him and the sinking please.
clement milligan says
MY UNCLE BRENDAN JOHN MULHALL WAS ON THE HUNTER , I HAVE NO INFORMATION ON HOW HE DIED AND WOULD BE GRATEFUL FOR ANY THING . I WAS BORN IN 1947 AND WHEN I WAS GROWING UP MY MOTHER HAD A PHOTO ON DISPLAY IN OUR LIVING ROOM AND I USED TO ADMIRE HIM.
RON COPE says
Message to readers of this website.Message from Ron Cope. I have spent six years following up from my father’s documents / audio tapes of his experience in the First Battle of Narvik. This led to making a significant number of contacts with other families associated with the crewmen of the other ships. A lot of these came by way of this website and kindly assisted by the owner Peter Mitchell Subsequently, my book ‘Attack at Dawn’ is published in April the 75th Anniversary of the both the First and Second Battles. If anyone would like to purchase a copy then ISBN 978-1-909477-97-1 from Amazon or Waterstones. Or contact me for a signed copy (roncope@btinternet.com) Thanks Ron.
Hayley Williams says
My grandad, James Gordon Williams, was on the HMS Hunter and survived when the ship was sunk. I believe he was an electrician but I’m afraid I know very little about his time in the Navy. He wrote a diary during the time he was held captive in Sweden – written in tiny, neat handwriting, it seems to say that they were treated decently and it’s actually a fairly uneventful account – no dramatic escapes or incidents described. Having said that, he never spoke about it to us so none of us know very much at all about his time in the war.
My grandma of course received a letter saying that he was missing, presumed dead – I can’t imagine how she must have felt when she discovered he was alive!
He was always called Gordon by us, never James (unless he was in trouble with my gran…!) and he was originally from Liskeard. My gran was in the Timber Corps and was stationed in Cornwall, and that’s when she met this auburn-haired Cornishman. Sadly he died in 1999, aged 83.
I don’t know if anyone would know of him but it would be great to hear from anyone with any information, however general. There’s a picture on this site of the survivors in the camp and my grandad is on the back row, 3rd from the right.
Christine Priestley (Norton) says
Hi my grandad Thomas Norton serviced on the HMS Hunter and was on the boat when it was sunk he was taken prisoner off war we have a photo off all the prisoners that was on the boat that day I. The camp they where taken to. I believe some one is writing a book about the HMS Hunter he has got some information from two off my sisters.
Ron Cope says
Hayley, we are now in contact and provided you with information on your Grandad. There is more I can offer having subsequently visited the National Archives at Kew. This relates to how he managed to return back to Britain and the date, as well as the files of his debriefing by the Naval Intelligence Service. All of which will be included in my next book “Doomed Destroyer”. Ron Cope
TerenceFlannery says
My father Surgeon Captain Alfred Edward Flannery OBE RN served on H.M.S. Hunter at different times (I believe). He was the Medical Doctor (Lt Cdr) and was on board when H.M.S. Hunter was mined off the coast of Spain in May 1937 – In the Admiralty letter to my Father (Retirement letter) it was mentioned “…. My Lords recall that early in your Service, whilst a Surgeon Lieutenant Commander, the Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean reported that you behaved with great coolness and efficiency under most trying circumstances on the occasion of the mining of H.M.S. Hunter off the coast of Spain in May, 1937. ….”
My Father was also on board when H.M.S. Hunter was sunk off Narvik. One story that I know of: My mother was an American (Elizabeth Flannery nee Duffy) and she left the USA (NYC) to marry my father in Malta on 16th. November 1937. One of the things she brought with her was her deep freeze (I did say she was an American :) Well, somehow, my father managed to convince my mother to let him take it on board (H.M.S. Hunter) for the purpose of keeping medications cold. My mother was very happy when my father survived the sinking of H.M.S. Hunter but never let him forget that her deep freeze was now at the bottom of a Fjiord. I heard that story very often.
After the sinking of H.M.S. Hunter, my father was in Norway for a while and whilst there he was awarded the Haakon VI Liberty medal for services rendered.
I have a photo of HMS Hunter H35 in Malta for repairs.
Thank you for maintaining this website/forum.
Regards,
Terence Flannery
terry_flannery@verizon.net
Christine Gibbens says
Hello Ron, thank you for the clippings you sent me about HMS Hunter. I have obtained a record card for Bertie Hale Stevens and know he had three medals, which my brother had. Unfortunately, he died recently and despite my attempts to secure those and my father’s, they were never recovered. You mentioned a book you wrote. Does it mention anything about Hunter. I do have a picture of him but any information anyone may have I would be interested in. I know about the memorial in Plymouth and have a copy of the inscription on the side with Bertie’s name. If anyone else can help would appreciate it
Evelyn Hosford says
My uncle, Daniel Joseph Murphy (Joe), is in the group photograph – back row, second from the left. He came from Skibbereen, Co. Cork in Ireland.
Ron Cope says
Hi Christine, sorry for the delay in replying. My book ‘Attack at Dawn’ does mention HMS Hunter as part of the 2nd Destroyer Flotilla of five ships that were involved in the First Battle Of Narvik. (Available Amazon / Kindle and all good bookshops)
However, the second book to be published in April / May 2016 ‘Doomed Destroyer’is predominantly about ‘Hunter’ and her crew. I have gathered many personal accounts and the book goes onto to explain how the 45 survivors managed to escape back to Britain. Hope that helps you and anybody else interested. Thanks Ron Cope.
Terence Flannery says
Hi Ron, I look forward to the publishing of the Doomed Destroyer. My father Lt. Cmdr A.E. Flannery was a survivor and he received the Haakon VI Freedom medal whilst in Narvik for services rendered. I had sent in a post a while back but I don’t see it here? Thanks Terence Flannery
RON COPE says
Terence, you may want to contact me if you would like your father mentioned in the sequel. Hear from you soon. Ron (‘roncope@btinternet.com’)
Philip King says
My Grandfather, Vic Phillips, was on the Havock, I have some photos of him and other shipmates in their internment camp after running aground.
David McKay says
I am looking for information on James Smail he was my grandmother brother and served on the Hms hunter I see a Jim Mckenzie also was looking for info on james I would be interested in getting in touch with him as well email me at dsmckaycontracting@hotmail.com
RON COPE says
Update on my book about ‘HMS Hunter’ and both Battles of Narvik 10/04/1940. I have found more important accounts (Mayor of Narvik Broch) that describes life in Narvik at the time of the Battles, including under the occupying German Forces. Also, Captain Nicholas Master of S/S Blythmoor who was the senior merchant navy officer imprisoned by the Germans and incharge of all British survivors. I have also been assisted by Geirr Haarr The renowned Norwegian naval history author, by when using some of his thorough research on the Battles of Narvik. Not forgetting a nephew of the great man himself Winston Churchill, who at the age of 22 was a reporter for the Daily Express and captured at Narvik, becoming a fellow prisoner with the rest. Hope to publish June 2016. watch this space. Ron Cope (Author ‘Attack at Dawn’ – Amazon/ Kindle. or signed copies from Ron) ‘roncope@btinternet.com’
RON COPE says
David McKay, I have information on your Great Uncle James Smail, he will be featured in my next book “Doomed Destroyer” hopefully published soon. I can be contacted on ‘roncope@btinternet.com’ Ron Cope
Harry Knowles says
Harry Knowles says message to Philip King
Please can the gentleman who wrote this message contact me, My father known as Jerry Knowles real name Harry Knowles was a gunner on the Havoc and was also interned as a result of the running aground, I would appreciate any photos linked to the internment, He also served on the Erridge. Sadly he passed away at the age of just 67 in 1988.
April 12, 2016 at 6:43 pm
My Grandfather, Vic Phillips, was on the Havock, I have some photos of him and other shipmates in their internment camp after running aground
Ron Cope says
I have many contacts from readers of my book “Attack at Dawn” the popularity has been shown in the received royalties, where donations will be made to the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity. The last six months have been hectic having received more relevant information from contacts and other authors for my next book “Doomed Destroyer”.
The manuscript is now with the publisher and editing and proof reading completed. The book cover will be a copy of the painting by the renown WW2 artist John Hamilton. Permission kindly given by his daughter Jane Hamilton.
The new book has 25% more words and 100 photographs, some have never been published before. I have been humbled to be asked by so many people to send a signed copy. Anyone wanting to purchase a signed copy leave a message here and I will ask ‘webmaster’ owner Michael Mitchell to send me your E Mail address.
Finally, I have some strange experiences whilst writing both books where contacts have turn up out of the blue. The last one, occurred when about to sending off the manuscript came from Victor Wallwork in Toronto, Canada. He was searching the internet for information about the Battles of Narvik, and came across a feature in the Falmouth newspaper “The Packet” I made in 2010, and he made contact. To my great surprise his stepfather Percy Danby was an Engineering Artificer on HMS Hotspur [which collided with HMS Hunter – subject of my second book] and the welcoming news that at the age of 98 he is still with us, with full facilities. Publisher had to wait until I got Percy’s amazing story of his experiences. Best Wishes Ron [Cope]
Ron Cope says
Just an update about the publishing of “Doomed Destroyer”, it appears I have set ‘Authoright/ Clink Street’ publishers quite a task. As previously mentioned there are almost 200,000 words [in fact brought down from 10,000 more] also 100 photographs, which are from different printing sources / media. Having purchased the original ‘As Fitted’ Admiralty Ships Architect drawing of the ‘H’ Class Destroyer [Infact HMS Hardy] I have enlarged the print to show six sections to allow a Key of140 relevant parts of ship. This could be on seperate pages or produced in a ‘concertina’ type pullout. A first for the publisher. The ‘Front Cover’ for the book has been completed. Watch this space. Ron Cope.
A Levis says
My grandfather was a stoker on HMS Hunter. Percy Daniel Beckford. My father was not yet born when when we believe he died or was missing. Would love to find out so I can tell my dad anything about his father
Terry Orford says
My Uncle Edward Orford was a stoker on HMS Hotspur at the first battle of Narvik
Does anyone have photo’s of Hotspur crew?
David Goodey says
My book ‘Destroyer at War’ is the history of Havock with input from over 30 of her crew. You can buy it through Pen and Sword publishers, Amazon or order through a book shop. Whole life history, eleven battle honours, a curious demise, internment in Laghouat Algeria for the crew and the subsequent court Marshall of Watkins her Captain.
Regrads
to all
David Goodey, son of Albert Goody of Havock.
RON COPE says
Message for A. Levis . I have had contact with a family member Danny Beckford who supplied me a lot of personal information on his Grandfather Percy Daniel Beckford. Most is included in my new book “Doomed Destroyer” to be released on the 78th Anniversary of the First Battle of Narvik on the 10th April 2018. I have a number of pre-media copies of the book wich are signed and can have a personal written dedication. Unfortunately , Danny has not answered my E Mail posts recently. Best Wishes Ron Cope
Gail millard says
Hi I have just ordered the book “the doomed destroyer” as my aunty informed me that my grandfather was one of the survivors of HMS Hunter.stanley kerswell…I can’t wait to read it…
Barry Clark says
My father, Ronald Clark, was serving on HMS Havock when she was scuttled and spent time at the internment camp. I would be very interested to know if anyone has any information about him or any photographs of the crew.
Rebecka Rehnstedt says
Hi. We have a picture taken in Gunnarn 1940, of 32 survivors from HMS Hunter (H35).
See the link below.
We hope to get the names of these men.
https://www.storumansfotoarkiv.se/items/show/3977?sort_field=added&sort_dir=d&ref=%2Fitems%2Fbrowse%3Flayout%3Dlist
Michael Marsh says
Hi, my late Dad’s father, Leonard Percy Marsh was a stoker and went down with the ship. His name is on the Plymouth Hoe war memorial wall. I have no idea what he looked like as my Dad was 12 at the time and orphaned and farmed out to various family members.
Gerrard Tudor says
Message to Christine Gibbens, Please could you contact me at gerry@door2doorfinance.co.uk regarding my Grandfather Bertie Hale Stevens, he married my Grandmother Jessie Maud Stevens, I would love to see a picture of him, I was not born when he left to go to sea, and what is your relationship to him or is this my cousin from Oxford Christine Stevens?
James says
My grate grandad was on HMS hunter, He was one of the 46 survivors, was a prisoner in Sweden. Loved reading his first letter home, and what happened in his words
Alexander Hunter says
My great uncle,Tom Hunter, served as a gunner on HMS Hunter. He died in action at Narvik.
Jan Sandgren says
I am Jan Sandgren and I am born in 1945 in Storuman up in the north of Sweden.
Here https://storumansfotoarkiv.se/items/show/3977?sort_field=id&sort_dir=d&record_types%5B0%5D=Item&record_types%5B1%5D=Collection&record_types%5B2%5D=SimplePagesPage&query=H.M.S+Hunter&query_type=keyword&ref=%2Fsearch we have a photography taken in Gunnarn about 30 km from Storuman showing 32 survivors from the sinking of H.M.S. Hunter in the battle of Narvik 1940. I have no names except for three names – David Johnson, Josef Duffy and Charles Stanley Swales.
A photography without names does not say much. With the names, individually, the photography “becomes something else”.
The photography, with all names, will be a pearl in Storumans communal photograph album.
Is there a way in achieving that?
I thank you in beforehand for assistance!
Jan Sandgren
Terence Flannery says
My Father (at the time Surgeon Lt. Cdr A.E. Flannery) Served on HMS Hunter – I erroneously stated that he was on HMS Hunter (H35) at the Battle of Narvik, he wasn’t. I was misled by the the fact that he received the VI Haakon Award – I now know that this was for services rendered whilst he was stationed at Skegness. My mother’s deep freeze and their wedding gifts are still down there – I can still hear echoes of my mother going on about it. Terence Flannery
Lesley FERGUSON says
Hi Jan
My father, Charles Stanton Coutts (John) was a survivor of HMS Hunter, unfortunately I cannot open tgd photograph link.
Regards
Lesley Coutts Ferguson
Lesley Coutts FERGUSON says
Ron Cope
I would be very interested in finding out about HMS Hunter. I had put up a message before which I have just seen you had replied to regarding Charles Coutts
Thanks Lesley
Louise says
For Jan Sandgren and Rebecka Rehnstedt
I can identify in your photo my grandfather, Charles Stanton Coutts (known as John) in the back row, third from the left. It’s amazing to see him there so thank you so much for adding to this photo.
I would love to know if you have any more information about him- I see some people here have mentioned first letters home?
Gavin Derek Holt says
Mr. Ron Cope,
It’s been a while since we last communicated regarding HMS Hunter, I have in fact moved to the US in that time. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for including a photo of my Grandad in your book and seeing his name remembered is an honour.
Thank you again Sir.
Gavin Holt, Grandson of Able Seaman Alfred Holt.
Mary Tucker says
My Dad Edward Eaton born 9.11.1902 was CERA on the Hostile during the battle of Narvik. He was twice Mentioned in Despatches and was awarded the DSM.
Margaret Branson says
Good afternoon Sir,
I have just discovered your emails on line. My Uncle, Leonard William Heal, was a Chief Petty Oficer on HMS Hardy and he lost his life on 10th April 1940. I have one photograph of him in his Naval Uniform on his Wedding Day. Did your Father ever mention him, I wonder? I visited Narvik in 2003 to see the site of the battle. Whilst there, I also visited the nearby Cemetary and took various photographs. I have one particular photograph of the Headstone for Able Seaman A. HOLT, HMS Hunter. I note that his Grandson, Mr Gavin Holt, has written about his Grandfather and if he wished me to, I would endeavour to send the photograph to him.
Tina Reed (nee Marsh) says
This is a message for Michael Marsh :
My Great Grandfather is Leonard Percy Marsh who was a Stoker on the HMS Hunter, I believe that your father and my grandfather are brothers. As my Grandfather passed away in 1974 there is very little information passed on. I would love to make contact as I do not know anything of my Grandfathers family in England. I am from Australia.
ctreed_5@yahoo.com.au
Michael Marsh says
April 18, 2019 at 8:46 pm
Hi, my late Dad’s father, Leonard Percy Marsh was a stoker and went down with the ship. His name is on the Plymouth Hoe war memorial wall. I have no idea what he looked like as my Dad was 12 at the time and orphaned and farmed out to various family members.
Lorraine says
My uncle Carmel Falzon from Malta was on the HMS Hunter and survived when the ship sank. I believe he was the canteen manager and was taken a prisoner. From the stories my father told me he tried escaping twice. First he was spotted by a spotter plane and shot at but kept going underwater to avoid the bullets. He survived and was caught by the Germans again. He had to be carried in sheets due to the freezing water.
The second tentative escape he was caught again with some other crew after having dug a tunnel. They were caught, made to dig their graves and stand in front of the grave, but the Germans instead shot at the ground. He was taken back to prison with the rest. Third time round he managed to escape.
My uncle died in Malta in 1952 aged 39, recounting only to my grandmother what he went through.
Appreciate if anyone can confirm that he was part of the crew list. Also pictures would be greatly appreciated maybe there’s one of my uncle and we can put his picture on his grave.
I can be contacted on lorraine.falzon@yahoo.com