HMS BERMUDA 1959
Different people, same ship! After the grandeur of Venice a new ship's company worked themselves up to go to Greenland and other Northern destinations as well as a return to the Colony.
Different people, same ship! After the grandeur of Venice a new ship's company worked themselves up to go to Greenland and other Northern destinations as well as a return to the Colony.
In HMS BERMUDA at Malta the first day of 1959 replicated the last day of 1958 - 'Paintship'. OK those not involved were busy in engine and boiler rooms, electrical and ordnance workshops, wireless & signals offices, sick bay, storerooms, ship's and other offices and in a warren of other dugouts and cabooses with the odd one or two wandering around looking busy a la Barrack Routine. A few were still preoccupied with a mouth resembling a parrots cage but most just wielded a paint brush or roller - such were the joys of shipboard life.
Next morning there was an interruption as the ship was cold moved to 7 Berth from where HMS VICTORIOUS was watched putting to sea about 1030. Painting then resumed and went ton through and beyond the weekend with some leave given to lighten the burden. By Wednesday the 7th various barges and lighters were coming alongside to replenish our stocks of victuals, water, oil etc. Maintenance, testing and inspecting continued to the weekend.. On Sunday No3's was the Dress of the Day for Divine Service on Sunday before we went off to seek entertainment ashore.
Leave expired at 0730 on Monday 12th January and we were leaving Grand Harbour astern by 0830 on our way to check that everything and everyone was working correctly. We used a meteorology balloon to check our 4" guns aligned correctly before watch officers practised manoeuvre the ship. The afternoon was taken up with gunnery and torpedo practice and on satisfactory completion we headed into St Paul's Bay to anchor at 1847. Tuesday had us underway at 0630 and into Defence Stations with rapid open fire shoots that, by 1030, had been replaced with bombardment of Filfla. Firing at a Battle practice Target came next and as the light went 'Darken Ship' was ordered before a 6" surface shoot completed the day's work and we went to anchor at 2000 in Marsaxlokk.
We were all up when the anchor was weighed at 0550 to enable us to arrive off Grand Harbour at 0645 to embark some Boy Scouts. They spent an exciting day watching us carryout anti-aircraft and long-range firings followed by a replenishment of ammunition from FORT LANGLEY before we returned them and the ship to GH 6 Berth. From Thursday 15th through to Monday 19th we stayed in and watched other ships come and go including HMY BRITANNIA that left at 0900 on Sunday. Cultural visits to Dirty Dicks, Egyptian Queen and other of Strait Street's alcoholic emporior made short work of harbour days though but going to sea was no bad thing as we needed that save some more money for the next time!
On Tuesday we were out of the harbour by 0730 with other ships and soon into an anti-submarine exercise with the submarine HMS SEA DEVIL which culminated with night torpedo firing and formation anchoring in St Paul's Bay a few minutes before midnight. The noise of 6" gunfire was echoing around soon after 0930 Wednesday before we went into equally destructive but much more furtive torpedo firing again. The ships of the 7th Destroyer Squadron and the frigate HMS BLACKPOOL joined us in the afternoon to race around in action during which we opened fire with our 4" guns and fired and recovered a (practice) torpedo. It was 1900 when we got to anchor again in St Paul's Bay. An 0815 start on Thursday got us abeam of RFA FORT DUQUESNE to exercise replenishment at 12 knots. White Watch went to Defence Stations at 1130, relieved by Blue an hour later and Red took it at 1600. At 1800 we had placed ourselves 120 feet abeam of RFA WAVE PRINCE to take oil. After that with ships darkened we 'convoyed' through the night, un-darkened at 0709 and were on GH No 8 Berth just before 1100 on Friday.
The ship was riding to Slip Ropes on Monday morning when CinC Med. arrived onboard at 1043 to address the ship's company. Twelve minutes later we were on our way to La Spezia in Italy where we fired a 15gun salute on our arrival on Banchina Scala at 0900 on Wednesday 28 January. The usual Naval & Civil courtesies combined with Sport and Leave took us through the weekend.
We had spent 139 hours at sea in January covering 1539 miles.
Next morning there was an interruption as the ship was cold moved to 7 Berth from where HMS VICTORIOUS was watched putting to sea about 1030. Painting then resumed and went ton through and beyond the weekend with some leave given to lighten the burden. By Wednesday the 7th various barges and lighters were coming alongside to replenish our stocks of victuals, water, oil etc. Maintenance, testing and inspecting continued to the weekend.. On Sunday No3's was the Dress of the Day for Divine Service on Sunday before we went off to seek entertainment ashore.
Leave expired at 0730 on Monday 12th January and we were leaving Grand Harbour astern by 0830 on our way to check that everything and everyone was working correctly. We used a meteorology balloon to check our 4" guns aligned correctly before watch officers practised manoeuvre the ship. The afternoon was taken up with gunnery and torpedo practice and on satisfactory completion we headed into St Paul's Bay to anchor at 1847. Tuesday had us underway at 0630 and into Defence Stations with rapid open fire shoots that, by 1030, had been replaced with bombardment of Filfla. Firing at a Battle practice Target came next and as the light went 'Darken Ship' was ordered before a 6" surface shoot completed the day's work and we went to anchor at 2000 in Marsaxlokk.
We were all up when the anchor was weighed at 0550 to enable us to arrive off Grand Harbour at 0645 to embark some Boy Scouts. They spent an exciting day watching us carryout anti-aircraft and long-range firings followed by a replenishment of ammunition from FORT LANGLEY before we returned them and the ship to GH 6 Berth. From Thursday 15th through to Monday 19th we stayed in and watched other ships come and go including HMY BRITANNIA that left at 0900 on Sunday. Cultural visits to Dirty Dicks, Egyptian Queen and other of Strait Street's alcoholic emporior made short work of harbour days though but going to sea was no bad thing as we needed that save some more money for the next time!
On Tuesday we were out of the harbour by 0730 with other ships and soon into an anti-submarine exercise with the submarine HMS SEA DEVIL which culminated with night torpedo firing and formation anchoring in St Paul's Bay a few minutes before midnight. The noise of 6" gunfire was echoing around soon after 0930 Wednesday before we went into equally destructive but much more furtive torpedo firing again. The ships of the 7th Destroyer Squadron and the frigate HMS BLACKPOOL joined us in the afternoon to race around in action during which we opened fire with our 4" guns and fired and recovered a (practice) torpedo. It was 1900 when we got to anchor again in St Paul's Bay. An 0815 start on Thursday got us abeam of RFA FORT DUQUESNE to exercise replenishment at 12 knots. White Watch went to Defence Stations at 1130, relieved by Blue an hour later and Red took it at 1600. At 1800 we had placed ourselves 120 feet abeam of RFA WAVE PRINCE to take oil. After that with ships darkened we 'convoyed' through the night, un-darkened at 0709 and were on GH No 8 Berth just before 1100 on Friday.
The ship was riding to Slip Ropes on Monday morning when CinC Med. arrived onboard at 1043 to address the ship's company. Twelve minutes later we were on our way to La Spezia in Italy where we fired a 15gun salute on our arrival on Banchina Scala at 0900 on Wednesday 28 January. The usual Naval & Civil courtesies combined with Sport and Leave took us through the weekend.
We had spent 139 hours at sea in January covering 1539 miles.
The citizens of La Spezia were welcomed onboard from 1400 to 1600 whilst the Shipwright had some more boat repair work to do, this time on the Admirals Barge. By 0715 next morning we were ready for sea and at 0900 running alongside FORT LANGLEY for another ammunition transfer at sea that ended at 1145. From then we ran a course of 195 at 19 knots before slowing to 12 to take oil from WAVE PRINCE in a 20 knot wind and lumpy sea. Soon after breaking away from her a destroyer came abeam to transfer by Jackstay a patient for our Dentist. After the ship was darkened 6" gun Control Parties were closed-up for a night encounter exercise that lasted through to 2130. WAVE PRINCE, HMS JUTLAND, DUNKIRK & TRAFALGAR were then detached and we spent a routine night.Tuesday started with the Electrical Branch being called to Action Stations at 0830 before we streamed a splash target to run at 15 knots during Air Direction and Damage Control Exercises that ended at 1100. Twelve minutes later we were rigging a Jackstay to FORT LANGLEY to transfer our Doctor to attend an injured seaman. That completed we streamed the splash target again for aircraft from HMS EAGLE to fire rockets at for half an hour. Our Doctor was then transferred back from FORT LANGLEY at the end of the Afternoon Watch.
Gun Direction anti-aircraft training took place from 0845 to 0920 on Wednesday and ten minutes later 4" and 40mm guns opened fire on a sleeve target until 1100. Tot and Dinner time was left alone until at precisely 1300 6" Action Stations was called and a shoot at a BPT towed by the Tug MEDIATOR lasted from 1330 to 1430. It was alright firing this ammunition off but we had to replace it and that would be heavy work later! There was time now to witness Warrant No 68 being read. At 1640 Damage Control State 3 was ordered as the ship started into Zig-Zag 4R. From 1700 that was interrupted from time to time to meet EAGLE's overnight flying operations that went on until 0503 Thursday.
The rest of Thursday passed as follows: 0845 AA Action Stations; 0950 Red Watch Defence Stations; 1100 Action Stations ABCD State 1B; 1115 Action Cafeteria Parties Close-up; 1130 Action Messing Dinner; 1232 Station 5mls astern of HMS EAGLE for flying operations / zig-zagging which continued through until 0450 on Friday. We then detached with HMS ROEBUCK to be ready by 0640 for another 4"/40mm shoot but that was abandoned as the weather became unsuitable for the sleeve target/aircraft. Instead we headed for Grand Harbour to fire a 17 gun salute to CinC Med. at 1023 on our way to No 8 Berth
At 1155 our Guard and Band fell-in on the Quarterdeck ready for our second gun salute of the day a 21 gun Royal Salute to mark Ascension Day. In the afternoon we had 13 Royal Marines join the ship as HMS VIGILANT and ROEBUCK came in to bring Friday and a hard week to an end - nearly! Saturday saw RFA EDDYCLIFF alongside with oil as EAGLE came in. Soon after ROEBUCK and HMS LOCH KILLISPORT went out followed by VIGILANT and HMS CARRON. At 1140 'Clear lower deck for Captain's Address was ordered. I wonder if we were complemented for our efforts during the past week or if there was something not quite up to expectations (see Monday next below). Warrant No 70 concluded the gathering. Sunday the 8th of February saw 2 or 3 placed in Close or Protective Custody but most of us enjoyed our Leave and returned in an 'acceptable' condition by boat/Diso(Dghaisa).
Monday the 9th of February was a breezy (20kts) day that saw HMS BARHILL, BASTION & BROADSWORD go out of and THANKERTON come into Grand Harbour. BERMUDA stayed put but our afternoon was taken up with AA Action Stations at 1430 and Surface Action Stations at 1530. On completion Starboard Watch was employed securing the ship for sea. The buoys wwere slipped just after 0700 Tuesday and on clearing harbour we turned to investigate a submarine contact afterwhich our 6" guns were pointed towards, but angled off, HMS TRAFALGAR to let loose a few rounds. That was quickly followed by a torpedo firing before 'man overboard' was exercised. By 1004 we were zig-zagging in anti-aircraft, anti-submarine and air defence exercises. 1105 Nuclear fall-out was the next subject for our attention which took us to Shelter Stations and ABCD pre-wetting exercises. In the afternoon our 6", 4" and Close Range weapons made a noise prior to a return to No 8 Berth at 1700. The rest of the week was spent in storing, ammunitioning and general maintenance. Captain's Messdeck Rounds on Saturday preceeded our ensign being brought to half-mast at 1030 as the funeral of T.O. Morris from RFA WAVE PRINCE took place. HMS LLANDAFF came in on Sunday as we went ashore for a day in Sliema.
Harbour Routine on Monday 16th included us topping-up Naval and NAAFI stores, ammunition and oil amongst other things. That was momentarily interrupted by Rear Admiral Robert Ewing DSC, FO Flotillas Med. who was formally welcomed onboard by our Guard and Band at 0859 on Wednesday morning to inspect the ship. He returned and stayed on Thursday after his car had been hoisted inboard in preparation for our next task.
As we prepared for sea on Friday the 20th we watched UNDAUNTED, MEDIATOR, BRIGAND, STUBBINGTON and DARTINGTON depart before following them out at 0900. We shot off half a dozen 6" shells soon after 1115 as we headed east for Benghazi. Arriving at midday on Saturday we landed soldiers of the14 Welch Regiment then sailed again at 1600. Divine Service was held at 0945 on Sunday and then had the rest of the day to ourselves except of course for watchkeeping.
Monday passed routinely on passage before we rendezvoused with HMS BLACKPOOL AND ULYSSES at 0700 on Tuesday to approach Beirut in the Lebanon. Exchanging the normal courtesies including a 21 gun National Salute we entered harbour in a fresh breeze. The minesweepers HMS WILKIESTON and HOUGHTON came in at 1200 glad of the shelter I'm sure. A couple of hours later with the wind increased to Gale 8 the ship was brought to immediate notice for sea. Soon afterwards as our wires strained we sailed at 1537 from an untenable harbour. In view of the weather forecast the Captain decided we would go up to Cyprus where we anchored 23 hours later and took oil from RFA BROWN RANGER.
We sailed again at 2333 in improving weather to return to Beirut's East Mole soon after 0900 next morning, Thursday the 26th. I like many others went ashore intent on a look around and maybe one or two beers but half way through the first of them there was the sudden noise of gunfire closely followed by the closing of shop-shutters. The bar/shop owner suggested we should 'go back to your ship' and looking down the road we needed no further encouragement. There on the top of what I think was their Parliament were soldiers waving guns about and below them on the street were half a dozen tanks/armoured vehicles. Fortunately we kept to the right down to Place De L'Etoile and were safely back onboard within ten minutes. Leave had been stopped at 1630 'owing to civil disturbance' but whatever the cause it was short-lived and Port Watch was allowed ashore again from 2000 to 2359. ULYSSES, which had remained through the bad weather, left harbour at 1730.
HMS BERMUDA had added another 4127.5 miles during 261 hours at sea through February.
Gun Direction anti-aircraft training took place from 0845 to 0920 on Wednesday and ten minutes later 4" and 40mm guns opened fire on a sleeve target until 1100. Tot and Dinner time was left alone until at precisely 1300 6" Action Stations was called and a shoot at a BPT towed by the Tug MEDIATOR lasted from 1330 to 1430. It was alright firing this ammunition off but we had to replace it and that would be heavy work later! There was time now to witness Warrant No 68 being read. At 1640 Damage Control State 3 was ordered as the ship started into Zig-Zag 4R. From 1700 that was interrupted from time to time to meet EAGLE's overnight flying operations that went on until 0503 Thursday.
The rest of Thursday passed as follows: 0845 AA Action Stations; 0950 Red Watch Defence Stations; 1100 Action Stations ABCD State 1B; 1115 Action Cafeteria Parties Close-up; 1130 Action Messing Dinner; 1232 Station 5mls astern of HMS EAGLE for flying operations / zig-zagging which continued through until 0450 on Friday. We then detached with HMS ROEBUCK to be ready by 0640 for another 4"/40mm shoot but that was abandoned as the weather became unsuitable for the sleeve target/aircraft. Instead we headed for Grand Harbour to fire a 17 gun salute to CinC Med. at 1023 on our way to No 8 Berth
At 1155 our Guard and Band fell-in on the Quarterdeck ready for our second gun salute of the day a 21 gun Royal Salute to mark Ascension Day. In the afternoon we had 13 Royal Marines join the ship as HMS VIGILANT and ROEBUCK came in to bring Friday and a hard week to an end - nearly! Saturday saw RFA EDDYCLIFF alongside with oil as EAGLE came in. Soon after ROEBUCK and HMS LOCH KILLISPORT went out followed by VIGILANT and HMS CARRON. At 1140 'Clear lower deck for Captain's Address was ordered. I wonder if we were complemented for our efforts during the past week or if there was something not quite up to expectations (see Monday next below). Warrant No 70 concluded the gathering. Sunday the 8th of February saw 2 or 3 placed in Close or Protective Custody but most of us enjoyed our Leave and returned in an 'acceptable' condition by boat/Diso(Dghaisa).
Monday the 9th of February was a breezy (20kts) day that saw HMS BARHILL, BASTION & BROADSWORD go out of and THANKERTON come into Grand Harbour. BERMUDA stayed put but our afternoon was taken up with AA Action Stations at 1430 and Surface Action Stations at 1530. On completion Starboard Watch was employed securing the ship for sea. The buoys wwere slipped just after 0700 Tuesday and on clearing harbour we turned to investigate a submarine contact afterwhich our 6" guns were pointed towards, but angled off, HMS TRAFALGAR to let loose a few rounds. That was quickly followed by a torpedo firing before 'man overboard' was exercised. By 1004 we were zig-zagging in anti-aircraft, anti-submarine and air defence exercises. 1105 Nuclear fall-out was the next subject for our attention which took us to Shelter Stations and ABCD pre-wetting exercises. In the afternoon our 6", 4" and Close Range weapons made a noise prior to a return to No 8 Berth at 1700. The rest of the week was spent in storing, ammunitioning and general maintenance. Captain's Messdeck Rounds on Saturday preceeded our ensign being brought to half-mast at 1030 as the funeral of T.O. Morris from RFA WAVE PRINCE took place. HMS LLANDAFF came in on Sunday as we went ashore for a day in Sliema.
Harbour Routine on Monday 16th included us topping-up Naval and NAAFI stores, ammunition and oil amongst other things. That was momentarily interrupted by Rear Admiral Robert Ewing DSC, FO Flotillas Med. who was formally welcomed onboard by our Guard and Band at 0859 on Wednesday morning to inspect the ship. He returned and stayed on Thursday after his car had been hoisted inboard in preparation for our next task.
As we prepared for sea on Friday the 20th we watched UNDAUNTED, MEDIATOR, BRIGAND, STUBBINGTON and DARTINGTON depart before following them out at 0900. We shot off half a dozen 6" shells soon after 1115 as we headed east for Benghazi. Arriving at midday on Saturday we landed soldiers of the14 Welch Regiment then sailed again at 1600. Divine Service was held at 0945 on Sunday and then had the rest of the day to ourselves except of course for watchkeeping.
Monday passed routinely on passage before we rendezvoused with HMS BLACKPOOL AND ULYSSES at 0700 on Tuesday to approach Beirut in the Lebanon. Exchanging the normal courtesies including a 21 gun National Salute we entered harbour in a fresh breeze. The minesweepers HMS WILKIESTON and HOUGHTON came in at 1200 glad of the shelter I'm sure. A couple of hours later with the wind increased to Gale 8 the ship was brought to immediate notice for sea. Soon afterwards as our wires strained we sailed at 1537 from an untenable harbour. In view of the weather forecast the Captain decided we would go up to Cyprus where we anchored 23 hours later and took oil from RFA BROWN RANGER.
We sailed again at 2333 in improving weather to return to Beirut's East Mole soon after 0900 next morning, Thursday the 26th. I like many others went ashore intent on a look around and maybe one or two beers but half way through the first of them there was the sudden noise of gunfire closely followed by the closing of shop-shutters. The bar/shop owner suggested we should 'go back to your ship' and looking down the road we needed no further encouragement. There on the top of what I think was their Parliament were soldiers waving guns about and below them on the street were half a dozen tanks/armoured vehicles. Fortunately we kept to the right down to Place De L'Etoile and were safely back onboard within ten minutes. Leave had been stopped at 1630 'owing to civil disturbance' but whatever the cause it was short-lived and Port Watch was allowed ashore again from 2000 to 2359. ULYSSES, which had remained through the bad weather, left harbour at 1730.
HMS BERMUDA had added another 4127.5 miles during 261 hours at sea through February.
At 0800 on Saturday WILKIESTON and HOUGHTON took themselves out leaving the place to BLACKPOOL and BERMUDA for another day. We sailed astern of BLACKPOOL around 0800 Sunday and zig-zagged through Divine Service before passing an hour turning in and out of each others wake then stopped to swim for an hour before resuming our passage. At 2011 we were illuminated by a patrolling Shackleton aircraft as we continued westwards overnight.
Monday the 2nd of March was spent practising various drills and evolutions that included station keeping and fuelling BLACKPOOL astern. Thursday was similar as we zig-zagged along first changing guide-ship duties between us and then carrying out a Jackstay transfer in the afternoon. Officer-of-the-Watch manoeuvres used up the Dog watches. We were ordered to 'Fall-in for entering harbour' at 1020 on Wednesday morning and were soon tucked up in Grand Harbour on No 8 Berth once more. Through the rest of the week we topped up on all the essentials as we watched the comings and goings of RFA BLUE RANGER, HMS REGGIO, MEON, SEA DEVIL and, on Friday morning, RFA FORT DUSQUESNE going as we heard Warrant No 75 read.
At 0615 on Saturday a boat came alongside from which we embarked ten soldiers (Other ranks) who were having the treat of coming with us on our next visit. They were all on deck with us as we slipped the buoys at 0800 on our way to meet HMS BLACKPOOL & UNDINE just outside the Breakwater. Together went into zig-zagging and changing leader during the next 48 hours enroute to our next port and a spectacular one at that!.
We slowed at 0800 on Monday embark a Pilot and at precisely 0907 on Monday 9 March 1958 we picked up Bouys B3 and 4 with the Doge's Palace close on our port beam and the Grand Canal and Santa Maria della Salute astern. Primo posizioni - Fantastico! There was, of course, all the courtesies and ceremonials to be gone through but there was also five full days in which to 'investigate' all that Venice had on display and hidden beyond St Mark's Square. We did that and so did those from the ships that accompanied us, HMS UNDINE (which had the second best Venice berth), BLACKPOOL and RFA FORT DUQUESNE.
Monday the 2nd of March was spent practising various drills and evolutions that included station keeping and fuelling BLACKPOOL astern. Thursday was similar as we zig-zagged along first changing guide-ship duties between us and then carrying out a Jackstay transfer in the afternoon. Officer-of-the-Watch manoeuvres used up the Dog watches. We were ordered to 'Fall-in for entering harbour' at 1020 on Wednesday morning and were soon tucked up in Grand Harbour on No 8 Berth once more. Through the rest of the week we topped up on all the essentials as we watched the comings and goings of RFA BLUE RANGER, HMS REGGIO, MEON, SEA DEVIL and, on Friday morning, RFA FORT DUSQUESNE going as we heard Warrant No 75 read.
At 0615 on Saturday a boat came alongside from which we embarked ten soldiers (Other ranks) who were having the treat of coming with us on our next visit. They were all on deck with us as we slipped the buoys at 0800 on our way to meet HMS BLACKPOOL & UNDINE just outside the Breakwater. Together went into zig-zagging and changing leader during the next 48 hours enroute to our next port and a spectacular one at that!.
We slowed at 0800 on Monday embark a Pilot and at precisely 0907 on Monday 9 March 1958 we picked up Bouys B3 and 4 with the Doge's Palace close on our port beam and the Grand Canal and Santa Maria della Salute astern. Primo posizioni - Fantastico! There was, of course, all the courtesies and ceremonials to be gone through but there was also five full days in which to 'investigate' all that Venice had on display and hidden beyond St Mark's Square. We did that and so did those from the ships that accompanied us, HMS UNDINE (which had the second best Venice berth), BLACKPOOL and RFA FORT DUQUESNE.
Who is not impressed on first visiting or indeed revisiting Venice ? At 20 I most certainly was and remain so upon returning even though it has to be to less spectacular 'Berths' that I have to pay for. In the presence of the Dignitories and citizens of Venice gathered in St Mark's Square our Royal Marine Guard and Band 'Beat the Retreat' at 1730 on Friday the 13th of March to bring our stay to a formal end in advance of our departure early on Saturday.
We were ready as FORT DUSQUESNE came down the Guidecca Canal and with the sides manned and Band playing we slipped at 0750, sad at the going. At 1000 and for the next one and a half hours we were on the Port beam of FORT DUQUESNE for replenishment with BLACKPOOL on our Port side for the same purpose. At 1215 BERMUDA was cutting a swathe in the Adriatic at 25 knots on the way up to full power that was sustained from 1300 to 1330 before we resumed a more sedate 16 knots at 1346. Everyone had enjoyed Venice with just four deemed to have done so excessively as a result of which they became the subjects of Warrants No's 76, 7, 8 & 9 read at 1700. There was of course a few other 'defaulters' but in a ship of some 650 men it was a very creditable performance.
Sunday was spent zig-zagging and Guide changing with BLACKPOOL as we had done on the way up to Venice and it continued overnight as we headed 270 at 16 knots with 24 knots of wind behind us until 0600 on Monday morning. Lower Deck was cleared of Seaman and Royal Marines at 0620 as we approached RFA TIDEFLOW to run alongside her for 90 minutes refuelling. Soon after 1045 we entered Grand Harbour playing a musical salute to CinC Med. on our way up to No 8 Berth. The rest of the week's highlights included a bit of painting, ammunitioning and stores embarkation as well as illuminating the ship from 1930 to 2359 on Wednesday. Oh yes, Sub Lieutenant W J Davis joined on Saturday.
That brought us to Sunday the 22nd of March 1959 and at Colours at 0800 we assumed the duties of Guardship AND also our Paying-off pennant. A year had passed since we came to Malta and going home time was nigh! We were all in No. 2's (uniform rather than the other stuff) when the Commander in Chief, Mediterranean Fleet came aboard at 1000 to address us. I feel certain he would have thanked us for the many functions we had performed in the name of the British Government and the Royal Navy in which we had brought great credit to the both of them. Let's be honest and say that that was exactly what we had been here for and tried (most of the time) to do individually and collectively throughout our year long membership of the Mediterranean Fleet and part-time citizens of Malta - thanks for looking after us! On a personal note it seems to me to be a great pity that we no longer have the facility, desire or means to be, or be seen as, anything more than 'big silver bird' short-term holidaymakers.
At 1015 Special Sea Dutymen closed-up and at 1050 the order 'Clear Lower Deck - Guard and Band muster on the Quarterdeck' was given. We were immaculate (dare I say) when, at exactly 1100 on Monday 23 March 1958, we slipped the Buoys to go down harbour Saluting and cheering Senior Officers as we went. Clear of St Elmo's Breakwater at 1109 we turned north increasing to 20 knots and came round to 320 degrees. We then had a 'Make and Mend' to see the eventful day off.
These pictures from the IWM Collection show HMS BERMUDA on her way home from Malta in March 1959
Our progress from then was:- Noon Tuesday 40nm N of Bone, 80nm NE of Oran at the same time on Wednesday and 42 Berth Gibraltar at 0910 on Thursday.
Between 0730 and 1000 on Friday the US Navy arrived in the form of USS SABLEFISH, TRUMPETFISH (Subs); PROTEUS (Sub Tender); JOHN PAUL JONES, DALY, GATLING, COTTON, BIGELOW, CASSIN YOUNG & VESOLE (Destroyers); EVERGLADES (Dest. Tender) that went onto the South Mole.
The weekend was used up with Leave and the inevitable 'mixing it' with the USN. Even more of their ships came in on Monday whereas our ship's company grew by just one - Sub Lieutenant Alan Tait, RN - who joined from HMS BIRMINGHAM for the passage home. That passage began on the last day of March, a Tuesday.
Our travels in March showed we had amassed 4127.5 miles during 261 hours seatime.
Between 0730 and 1000 on Friday the US Navy arrived in the form of USS SABLEFISH, TRUMPETFISH (Subs); PROTEUS (Sub Tender); JOHN PAUL JONES, DALY, GATLING, COTTON, BIGELOW, CASSIN YOUNG & VESOLE (Destroyers); EVERGLADES (Dest. Tender) that went onto the South Mole.
The weekend was used up with Leave and the inevitable 'mixing it' with the USN. Even more of their ships came in on Monday whereas our ship's company grew by just one - Sub Lieutenant Alan Tait, RN - who joined from HMS BIRMINGHAM for the passage home. That passage began on the last day of March, a Tuesday.
Our travels in March showed we had amassed 4127.5 miles during 261 hours seatime.
We were off Vigo at Noon on Wednesday and by the same time on Thursday about 100 mls SW of Ushant. By 0640 on Friday we had buried our anchor in Plymouth Sound. Nearly, but not quite, home! We now waited apprehensively to see how much money we would have to part with when HM Customs ferreted through our 'Rabbits' (gifts for our families etc). Whilst we queued to make our declarations Martin Harold John Lock was baptised in the Ship's Chapel. (Do you know where he is now?) We were 'free to go' by 1300 and so, with Paying-off pennant flying, we made musical salutes to Commander in Chief, Plymouth and to the Admiral Superintendent as we made our way up harbour to go onto No 8 Berth in Devonport Dockyard.
The 'splitting up of the home' started immediately with the first few ratings leaving on Draft on Saturday and in the opposite direction came Lt Urry on Sunday. As the first Leave & Draft party changed into their best uniforms on Monday storing and fuelling went on. 'First Leave Party muster for payment and tobacco coupons' echoed through the ship at 0905 and by 1000 they were on their way. At the end of the week Warrant No 81 - the last you would expect of the commission - was read.
I was amongst those leaving BERMUDA for the last time, sad to be leaving the ship after a fantastic commission but looking forward to my Leave and new Draft.
For the rest of April Dockyard Mateys worked with/around those left onboard to rectify faults and prepare the ship for the new commission. On the 24th Leave and Draft saw another 200 go ashore of which 3 returned under escort a couple of hours later having been caught smuggling by Dockyard Police. That resulted in a further three warrants, No's 82, 3 & 4, being added to the total on the 29th. After that, at 1015, the last 200 of the old ship's company went to Leave/Draft.
On Thursday the 30th of April 1959 Captain A D Robin RN, came up the brow of HMS BERMUDA at 0900 to take up his command appointment and at 0940 the new ship's company marched onboard from HMS Drake, Devonport Barracks. At 1000 the formal changeover was complete when Captain Richard R S Pennefather RN was piped ashore.
HMS BERMUDA's new ship's company held their commissioning ceremony in the afternoon.
April's 57 hours and 783 miles completed our homecoming and the commission.
The 'splitting up of the home' started immediately with the first few ratings leaving on Draft on Saturday and in the opposite direction came Lt Urry on Sunday. As the first Leave & Draft party changed into their best uniforms on Monday storing and fuelling went on. 'First Leave Party muster for payment and tobacco coupons' echoed through the ship at 0905 and by 1000 they were on their way. At the end of the week Warrant No 81 - the last you would expect of the commission - was read.
I was amongst those leaving BERMUDA for the last time, sad to be leaving the ship after a fantastic commission but looking forward to my Leave and new Draft.
For the rest of April Dockyard Mateys worked with/around those left onboard to rectify faults and prepare the ship for the new commission. On the 24th Leave and Draft saw another 200 go ashore of which 3 returned under escort a couple of hours later having been caught smuggling by Dockyard Police. That resulted in a further three warrants, No's 82, 3 & 4, being added to the total on the 29th. After that, at 1015, the last 200 of the old ship's company went to Leave/Draft.
On Thursday the 30th of April 1959 Captain A D Robin RN, came up the brow of HMS BERMUDA at 0900 to take up his command appointment and at 0940 the new ship's company marched onboard from HMS Drake, Devonport Barracks. At 1000 the formal changeover was complete when Captain Richard R S Pennefather RN was piped ashore.
HMS BERMUDA's new ship's company held their commissioning ceremony in the afternoon.
April's 57 hours and 783 miles completed our homecoming and the commission.
I went to HMS VICTORY, Portsmouth RN Barracks, in May 1959 after my Leave and 'BERMUDA' went on with her service quite indifferent to the change!
At 0900 on the 1st of May the new ship's company went to Divisions and then exercised 'Action Stations' which would begin to sort out who was to do what and where. In the next days the Captain went to call on Senior Officers and Civic Leaders whilst the rest got on with finding their way round the ship and training.
Things really got physical on Wednesday the 6th when Lighters arrived alongside containing a full outfit of ammunition. Emptying them started at 0715 and went on until 1950 - a long, hard day for those who couldn't get out of it! Next morning 'Emergency Stations' was exercised and then, just before midday lines were let go and the ship moved out to 'C' Buoy in Plymouth Sound to get ready for sea.
Friday started with the Captain addressing the ship's company before Departments continued familiarisation that included 6" & 4" Gun crew's training and ABCD Lectures. The buoy was let go at 1533 and soon after passing the Breakwater all 4 Watches had to deal with 'Man Overboard'. Saturday was spent in St Austell Bay where a Danbuoy was laid to enable Watch Officers to practice conning the ship. In the afternoon 'Darken Ship' was exercised and repeated after dark whilst the CO rounded the ship in a boat to check for light leaks before, in contrast, floodlights were tested., After Church on Sunday Sports Parties and spectators were allowed ashore.
The Ship's Company were at Divisions when, at 1415 on the 15th, Flag Officer Sea Training came aboard. First he inspected them and then, with his Staff, the ship, leaving few corners unseen. The attentive ship's officers and ratings were only too well aware that the Inspecting Team held the key to HMS BERMUDA achieving an 'Efficient and fit to join the Fleet' accolade or the misery of a 'Re-scrub' if they failed to measure up in the coming days.
Most newly commissioned warships came to Portland to 'Work-Up' during which any set of circumstances that a ship was likely to be called upon to perform could be tested. BERMUDA was about to start hers but first there was the weekend's Navy Days to contend with. 'Open to visitors' from 1230 to 1730 over the three days of Easter allowed sailors and visitors to meet and friendships to develop and perhaps continue ashore afterwards but not too many lasted long! On Sunday the 17th Electrical Mechanic 1st Class Russell's daughter was christened onboard - she won't remember of course but I hope her Dad is still here, fifty years on, to remember the day. Monday ended with the Duty Part of Watch 'Preparing for sea'
At 0816 on Tuesday the last line had been let go and BERMUDA was on her way to round Drake's Island and start the 'battle'. Officer of the Watch manoeuvres lead on to a Replenishment at Sea with BATTLEAXE, then with RFA BLACK RANGER. The yacht KISHTI, seen showing distress signals, was investigated and found to require food and water. Mast damage meant she had to be taken in tow which was later transferred to the frigate MURRAY. Fuel was being taken from BLACK RANGER when the frigate LLANDAFF came up on the other side to transfer Mail. After detaching the ship carried out a Range and Inclination exercise before taking the destroyer DARING in tow until 2015. The anchor was dropped at 2230 allowing almost everyone to fall into their hammocks/bunks for 'all-night in'
Wednesday saw them underway at 0802 heading into CASEX 52 chasing and evading submarines for a couple of hours. Then a Tracking exercise led to 4", 40mm guns and small arms repelling aircraft attacks with an added extra of steering from the Lower Steering Position. Dropping a single anchor is routine and simple but mooring uses two anchors, takes longer and needs practice and that is what they had to do next before undoing it all and coming to a single anchor at 1950.
Thursday the 21st had that anchor weighed by 0730 and BERMUDA taking station on DARING and into a 6" shoot using all turrets. After that it was back onto BLACK RANGER but instead of running in a straight line they were made to alter course together. That was done safely and well in 5 degree steps. Disconnected at 1434 the ship now had to deal with torpedo attacks and evasions with DARING. The night was spent darkened with other ships in a Night Encounter Exercise.
From 0722 station keeping and manoeuvring with DARING concentrated the minds of Bridge and Wheelhouse crews for two hours before DARING came up the side to carryout a Jackstay transfer. Next a Lifebuoy was thrown over the side and a shout of 'Man Overboard' sent crews running to get the seaboat away to recover it in the shortest possible time. In amongst the afternoon's evolutions the 2nd Part of Starboard Watch had to lay out towing gear on the Quarterdeck. Meanwhile closed close astern of BLACK RANGER to fuel from astern whilst the frigate REDPOLE fuelled on the tankers port side. As BERMUDA continued to fuel REDPOLE dropped back for a Jackstay transfer. When BERMUDA disconnected REDPOLE was taken in tow until 1900. Next stop was Portland Harbour where the ship secured alongside at 2036 for a full Friday nights sleep.
The challenges on Saturday started with Landing Parties going ashore at 0815 to give 'Aid to the Civil Powers'. Exercised in those duties they returned at 1120. Meanwhile divers were reported 'seen' off the Port Quarter of BERMUDA at 0905 which prompted upper deck lookouts, scare charge dropping, searches and ship's divers redied. At 1643 three ratings were discharged 'in an emergency' to REDPOLE as she left for sea at 1650. At 2110 a signal from FOST reported 'Large Oil Fire at end of 'Q' Pier' to which Fire and Emergency Parties were landed. Finally, the 2nd Motor Boat was called away at 2215 'to the assistance of a boat firing flares'.
Sunday the 24th of May was Empire Day so the ship 'Dressed Overall' (A line of flags and pennants strung over the ship from stem to stern via the mast(s) that have additional Ensigns at their heads). Cricket and Football Teams landed in the afternoon otherwise the day passed quietly.
At 0900 on Monday morning Divers and Upperdeck Sentries were again placed in Operation Awkward. Inboard various exercises were carried out by all Departments as had and continued to be the case throughout the work-up period. Warrant No 2 & 3 were read when hands fell in after dinner. At 1700 Another Fire and Emergency exercise was called. At 2110 the ship was darkened and 5 minutes later over the Tannoy came "Assume Awkward State 3 - Away all boats". The situation was upgraded at 2130 to State 1 with Damage Control Parties at their stations, the ship secured throughout and ready to proceed. Stand-down was ordered at 2250 prior to divers going into the water to search the bottom.
Tuesday the 26th began at 0700 with Uncover guns, Hoist boats, Prepare for sea. By 0803 all lines were let go and OOW manoeuvres preceded the ships forming a screen at 0915 ready for another anti-submarine convoy defence exercise. After dinner Close-range weapons defended the ships against aircraft attacks. At 1630 alarms sounded and the ship went to Action Stations. Later Royal Marines mustered to prepare for landing and at 2030 DARING was taken in tow before the ships darkened for the night.
Landing preparations continued through the Middle Watch and at 0423 the anchor was dropped. Minutes later both Motor Boats and Whalers were lowered to land the Marines. They returned at 0654 and as the boats were hoisted in at 0754 Warrant No 6 was read - someone had got fed up with Work-up! The anchor was weighed at 0818 and after a quick Jackstay transfer the ship was defending itself against and pursuing submarines until 1200. In the afternoon the eight 4" guns were firing at an aircraft-towed sleeve target. A party was transferred to the target-towing tug RESTIVE at 1605 before the nine 6" guns made a noise for an hour which was repeated in darkness from 2200.
Most of Thursday forenoon was spent coming to and slipping from A2 Buoy in Portland Harbour before returning to sea and anchoring at 1255. After dinner 6" Control and A & B Turret Crews closed up for a shoot. With the ship underway again they switched to bombardment before returning to A2 Buoy for the night at 1703.
The ship was on her way to sea just after 0800 on Friday and at Emergency Stations at 0900 prior to firing 4" guns until 1130. Manoeuvres with DUNKIRK, GRAFTON and PELLEW added to the tension as the day continued with Surface Action Stations, further prolonged 4" firings and recovery of torpedoes fired by DUNKIRK. When another 6" shoot came to an end at 1749 HMS BERMUDA headed west.
At 0020 Saturday Wolf Rock Light was sighted followed 20 minutes later by Longships and at 0700 the Focsle Party were mooring the ship at Pembroke. There another 'threadbare' matelot was the subject of Warrant No 9. The First Lord of the Admiralty was saluted as he passed in a boat just before the Mayor and Councillors of Pembroke came aboard at 1230. The ship's company were fallen in by Divisions to receive onboard the 1st Lord accompanied by the Naval Secretary at 1250. After they left at 1430 Leave was granted to 2330.
Sunday was a rare day of quiet with Church on the Quarterdeck at 0930 and Leave from 1030 to 2300. The Duty Watch had the task of looking after the 250 people who came during the three-hour 'Open to Visitors' in the afternoon.
May added a further 1812 miles during 139 hours at sea.
Monday the 1st of June was a day of Harbour Routinely with the Duty Part of Watch and Boys scrubbing decks and spreading awnings at 0615. After that everyone went to work in their parts of ship. Unmooring started at 0445 on Tuesday and after a day of evolutions at sea returned to anchor in Dale Roads at 1748.
Lt Edwards plus 4 ratings were landed at 0615 to RNAS Brawdy (Haverfordwest) to fly in Venom aircraft that would later exercise with the ship. By 0645 the anchor was clear of the water as the ship headed out of Milford Haven for some more practice that included dropping and recovering a Danbouy and OOW manoeuvres. Elsewhere in the ship cleaning, washing and painting was the primary task until anchoring at 1805 and allowing Recreational Leave from 1915 to 2125.
Next morning 34 Wrens from the nearby RN Air Direction School (HMS HARRIER) embarked just before the ship got underway at 0715. They witnessed a day of Venom aircraft attacks on the ship and various other exercises before returning ashore after the ship returned to anchor off Dale at 1730.
The anchor was weighed at 0741 on Friday the 5th and Action Stations sounded at 0900 before Gun crews were sent to Shelter Stations in advance of one of the ship's boats laying a Gas cloud
upwind. Bridge and Engine Room Crews then changed and Pre-Wetting (Water wash sprays) carried out before Action Stations secured. Most of the afternoon was taken up fuelling from BLACK RANGER and then she was taken in tow from 1930 to 2100. A night fuelling exercise had the tanker and ship connected abeam from 0038 to 0130 and fuelling astern from 0800 to 0900 before securing to Portland's A2 Buoy at 1025 on Saturday. Sunday saw painting and cleaning continuing after Church.
At 0827 on Monday the 8th HMS BERMUDA was underway and soon forming screen with TEAZER, MURRAY and KEPPEL. Later a fuelling hose was streamed astern for MURRAY to grapple and connect as exercises and evolutions continued. Just before darkness fell Shelter Stations was exercised before going into a CASEX that included torpedo attacks and evasions. The 6" guns had a brief action just after 2300 before connecting to BLACK RANGER first abeam and then astern until 0200. The CASEX continued on Tuesday plus OOW manoeuvres and Man Overboard. As the Afternoon Watch drew to a close the task of escort to the Royal Yacht and a Jackstay transfer took place. A transfer with CROSSBOW was squeezed in before arriving at A2 Buoy just after 1800. Wednesday was spent firmly attached to the buoy with a Royal Salute fired at 1200 otherwise hands were employed preparing the ship for FOST Inspection. All the practice and training would was about to be tested to the full.
Lt Edwards plus 4 ratings were landed at 0615 to RNAS Brawdy (Haverfordwest) to fly in Venom aircraft that would later exercise with the ship. By 0645 the anchor was clear of the water as the ship headed out of Milford Haven for some more practice that included dropping and recovering a Danbouy and OOW manoeuvres. Elsewhere in the ship cleaning, washing and painting was the primary task until anchoring at 1805 and allowing Recreational Leave from 1915 to 2125.
Next morning 34 Wrens from the nearby RN Air Direction School (HMS HARRIER) embarked just before the ship got underway at 0715. They witnessed a day of Venom aircraft attacks on the ship and various other exercises before returning ashore after the ship returned to anchor off Dale at 1730.
The anchor was weighed at 0741 on Friday the 5th and Action Stations sounded at 0900 before Gun crews were sent to Shelter Stations in advance of one of the ship's boats laying a Gas cloud
upwind. Bridge and Engine Room Crews then changed and Pre-Wetting (Water wash sprays) carried out before Action Stations secured. Most of the afternoon was taken up fuelling from BLACK RANGER and then she was taken in tow from 1930 to 2100. A night fuelling exercise had the tanker and ship connected abeam from 0038 to 0130 and fuelling astern from 0800 to 0900 before securing to Portland's A2 Buoy at 1025 on Saturday. Sunday saw painting and cleaning continuing after Church.
At 0827 on Monday the 8th HMS BERMUDA was underway and soon forming screen with TEAZER, MURRAY and KEPPEL. Later a fuelling hose was streamed astern for MURRAY to grapple and connect as exercises and evolutions continued. Just before darkness fell Shelter Stations was exercised before going into a CASEX that included torpedo attacks and evasions. The 6" guns had a brief action just after 2300 before connecting to BLACK RANGER first abeam and then astern until 0200. The CASEX continued on Tuesday plus OOW manoeuvres and Man Overboard. As the Afternoon Watch drew to a close the task of escort to the Royal Yacht and a Jackstay transfer took place. A transfer with CROSSBOW was squeezed in before arriving at A2 Buoy just after 1800. Wednesday was spent firmly attached to the buoy with a Royal Salute fired at 1200 otherwise hands were employed preparing the ship for FOST Inspection. All the practice and training would was about to be tested to the full.
All the pictures on this page came from Graham Warrener son of the late PO Frank A Warrener D/MX718677 pictured above. Frank served from 1939 to 1949 and re-engaged 1950 to 1963. He was In the Pacific 1945 (LST SAINFOIN); on Naval Intelligence Duties in Germany in the late 40's; in HMS UNICORN during the Korean War and HMS GIRDLE NESS towards the end of his service
(Below) A jackstay transfer with either HMS MURRAY or KEPPEL. The pictures, seen from the guardrails of BERMUDA, capture the challenges and risks of replenishment at sea (RAS) operations.
(Below) A jackstay transfer with either HMS MURRAY or KEPPEL. The pictures, seen from the guardrails of BERMUDA, capture the challenges and risks of replenishment at sea (RAS) operations.
The ship went to Action Stations at 0725 under the watchful eyes of FOST and his Staff to begin the 'Work-Up Inspection'. Here's what they had to do:-
0810 Slipped, 0910 In a Screen with other ships the cat and mouse anti-submarine exercise started, 1035 Submarine surfaced to end exercise, 1127 6" Shoot, 1130 Closing to fire three torpedoes at Tug target, 1155 Recovering torpedoes, 1200 Cafeteria (Action) Messing dinner, 1300 AA Defence firings, 1340 Seaboat dropped and recovered, 1400 For exercise, Both steering motors broken down - steer by emergency hand pump, 1400 Commenced Damage Control exercise, 1500 Hands fall in for replenishment (fuelling) evolutions, 1530 Load Test Jackstay to CROSSBOW,1617 Pumping ceased and ship disengaged, 1635 Prepare to and tow CROSSBOW, 1730 Recovered towing gear, 1815 Stopped outside Portland Harbour to disembark FOST Staff, 1835 Picked up A2 Buoy, 1905 Flag Officer Sea Training disembarked on completion of the Inspection. It was done and done well enough for HMS BERMUDA to join the Fleet. A departure at 0717 next morning allowed BERMUDA to enter the Needles Channel soon after 0900 on her way to pick up families from a Tug at Spithead and take them in to South Railway Jetty. Long Weekend Leave started at 1145 and the Part of Watch remaining on board had a well earned Make and Mend. Over the weekend of June 13th and 14 of June the ship marked the Queen's Official Birthday and welcomed on board Lieutenant Henson but apart from that not much happened.
Monday was used by the Captain hosting a visit by the Captain of HMS TIGER then going ashore to call on CinC Portsmouth whilst the rest onboard stored and cleaned in preparation for tomorrow which would see them at sea again.
Clearing the jetty at 1500 they were 4 miles off Dungeness at 2200 and at Noon on Wednesday off Cromer on their way up the North Sea and into a Full Power Trial an hour later. The estimated maximum speed achieved was 28.9kts. Speed was back to 12kts by 1530 as they passed Flamborough Head. A stop was made at 0800 to embark some schoolboys before going under the Forth Bridge and onto the South Arm at Rosyth an hour later.
When the Captain returned from calling on Flag Officer Flotillas, Home (FOFH) Vice Admiral R H Wright CB DSC preparations were underway for 'Paintship' which was began the next morning. It was briefly interrupted at 1432 by a 'highly charged' (I couldn't resist that) alarm of 'Suspected fire in 'B' Magazine'. 'No fire' was, thankfully, confirmed at 1445 but what everyone did in the meantime is not recorded and I don't suppose the Commander was best pleased at having the painting interrupted! Painting had continued over the weekend and was still going on when the submarine GRAMPUS secured - carefully - on the Starboard side on the Monday the 22nd.
It has to be said that all 8000 tons of HMS BERMUDA shone when the Flag of FOFH was broken out at Colours on Tuesday just before he embarked. General tidying and cleaning used Wednesday and Thursday up.
His Excellency Sir Roderick Barclay, British Ambassador Copenhagen, embarked on Friday accompanied by his Secretary, Mr Higgins, and Commander Buckeridge RN. Departing at 0900 on Saturday in Moderate Visibility all went well until running into thick fog in the afternoon and after running out again the ship was at the top of the Orkneys off North Ronaldsay Light at 2350.
A 21 Gun National salute was fired at 1650 on Sunday on arriving at Thorshavn the Faroe Islands Capital. HE The Ambassador, FOFH and Captain Robin went to call on the Landsstyre (Government) and Leave was granted from 1800 to 0130. Official visitors came and went on Monday and Leave started at 1315. Members of the Government, the Danish High Commissioner and HBM Vice Consul came aboard at 0750 on Tuesday prior to the ship sailing first south to Trangisvaag, Suderoy and then north to Klagsvig where Leave was limited to 1700 -1930 with the ship sailing again at 2030.
During June the ship had travelled 3200nm and spent 173 hours at sea.
0810 Slipped, 0910 In a Screen with other ships the cat and mouse anti-submarine exercise started, 1035 Submarine surfaced to end exercise, 1127 6" Shoot, 1130 Closing to fire three torpedoes at Tug target, 1155 Recovering torpedoes, 1200 Cafeteria (Action) Messing dinner, 1300 AA Defence firings, 1340 Seaboat dropped and recovered, 1400 For exercise, Both steering motors broken down - steer by emergency hand pump, 1400 Commenced Damage Control exercise, 1500 Hands fall in for replenishment (fuelling) evolutions, 1530 Load Test Jackstay to CROSSBOW,1617 Pumping ceased and ship disengaged, 1635 Prepare to and tow CROSSBOW, 1730 Recovered towing gear, 1815 Stopped outside Portland Harbour to disembark FOST Staff, 1835 Picked up A2 Buoy, 1905 Flag Officer Sea Training disembarked on completion of the Inspection. It was done and done well enough for HMS BERMUDA to join the Fleet. A departure at 0717 next morning allowed BERMUDA to enter the Needles Channel soon after 0900 on her way to pick up families from a Tug at Spithead and take them in to South Railway Jetty. Long Weekend Leave started at 1145 and the Part of Watch remaining on board had a well earned Make and Mend. Over the weekend of June 13th and 14 of June the ship marked the Queen's Official Birthday and welcomed on board Lieutenant Henson but apart from that not much happened.
Monday was used by the Captain hosting a visit by the Captain of HMS TIGER then going ashore to call on CinC Portsmouth whilst the rest onboard stored and cleaned in preparation for tomorrow which would see them at sea again.
Clearing the jetty at 1500 they were 4 miles off Dungeness at 2200 and at Noon on Wednesday off Cromer on their way up the North Sea and into a Full Power Trial an hour later. The estimated maximum speed achieved was 28.9kts. Speed was back to 12kts by 1530 as they passed Flamborough Head. A stop was made at 0800 to embark some schoolboys before going under the Forth Bridge and onto the South Arm at Rosyth an hour later.
When the Captain returned from calling on Flag Officer Flotillas, Home (FOFH) Vice Admiral R H Wright CB DSC preparations were underway for 'Paintship' which was began the next morning. It was briefly interrupted at 1432 by a 'highly charged' (I couldn't resist that) alarm of 'Suspected fire in 'B' Magazine'. 'No fire' was, thankfully, confirmed at 1445 but what everyone did in the meantime is not recorded and I don't suppose the Commander was best pleased at having the painting interrupted! Painting had continued over the weekend and was still going on when the submarine GRAMPUS secured - carefully - on the Starboard side on the Monday the 22nd.
It has to be said that all 8000 tons of HMS BERMUDA shone when the Flag of FOFH was broken out at Colours on Tuesday just before he embarked. General tidying and cleaning used Wednesday and Thursday up.
His Excellency Sir Roderick Barclay, British Ambassador Copenhagen, embarked on Friday accompanied by his Secretary, Mr Higgins, and Commander Buckeridge RN. Departing at 0900 on Saturday in Moderate Visibility all went well until running into thick fog in the afternoon and after running out again the ship was at the top of the Orkneys off North Ronaldsay Light at 2350.
A 21 Gun National salute was fired at 1650 on Sunday on arriving at Thorshavn the Faroe Islands Capital. HE The Ambassador, FOFH and Captain Robin went to call on the Landsstyre (Government) and Leave was granted from 1800 to 0130. Official visitors came and went on Monday and Leave started at 1315. Members of the Government, the Danish High Commissioner and HBM Vice Consul came aboard at 0750 on Tuesday prior to the ship sailing first south to Trangisvaag, Suderoy and then north to Klagsvig where Leave was limited to 1700 -1930 with the ship sailing again at 2030.
During June the ship had travelled 3200nm and spent 173 hours at sea.
Heading now for Greenland a few rounds of 4" were fired and fuel was taken from RFA WAVE BARON before land was sighted 70 miles to the north at 1915 on Friday and so to was 'Occasional Ice'. At 0900 the ship was ready to anchor at Godthab to undertake the same courtesies as before and to also 'Open to Visitors' for the usual three hours in the afternoon. Leave was from 1300-0100. Lt Urry plus 25 Ratings went off on Sunday for a days climbing followed by Lt Piper, S/Lt Jones and 16 on an overnight Sherpa Expedition.
the ships Motor Boat and Cutter were called away at 1150 to search for two missing ratings. The search continued until 1730 without finding either. Sadly, a week later, it was declared that DUNN, James Frederick, Age 20, RO2 and NORTH, Arthur, Age 18, M(E)2 were 'Missing Presumed Drowned in Godtharb Fjord on 6 July 1959'.
At 1245 The Governor of Greenland and Guests arrived and stayed until 1520. I guess some if not all of them returned onboard to a Cocktail Party in the evening. The anchor started dragging at 2300 and then the Port Cable holder failed leaving the ship drifting NW with the anchor clear of the bottom at times. By 0317 Tuesday it became necessary to get underway and the rest of the night was spent hauling the Port anchor in by hand - a time consuming and labour intensive task that those concerned were probably pleased not to have practiced at Portland! The ship re-anchored 2mls SE of Godtharb in 39 fathoms (428M) at 0740 to end an eventful night.
Shoreline search parties landed at 1435 to search until 1815 without finding any trace of the missing ratings.
the ships Motor Boat and Cutter were called away at 1150 to search for two missing ratings. The search continued until 1730 without finding either. Sadly, a week later, it was declared that DUNN, James Frederick, Age 20, RO2 and NORTH, Arthur, Age 18, M(E)2 were 'Missing Presumed Drowned in Godtharb Fjord on 6 July 1959'.
At 1245 The Governor of Greenland and Guests arrived and stayed until 1520. I guess some if not all of them returned onboard to a Cocktail Party in the evening. The anchor started dragging at 2300 and then the Port Cable holder failed leaving the ship drifting NW with the anchor clear of the bottom at times. By 0317 Tuesday it became necessary to get underway and the rest of the night was spent hauling the Port anchor in by hand - a time consuming and labour intensive task that those concerned were probably pleased not to have practiced at Portland! The ship re-anchored 2mls SE of Godtharb in 39 fathoms (428M) at 0740 to end an eventful night.
Shoreline search parties landed at 1435 to search until 1815 without finding any trace of the missing ratings.
Remembrance Parade and Visitors at Godthab. Great smiles and the knitting looks equally special doesn't it!
HMS BERMUDA (Length: 555ft (169m)) and Iceberg (????)! Boats away to pick-up mail dropped from a Shackleton
Best suits and a 21 Gun Salute announced the arrival of HMS BERMUDA and her VIP's to the citizens of Gronnedal on Sunday. It was also the day that Captain Robin had to sign the Death Certificates of RO2 Dunn and M(E)2 North. On a happier note visitors were welcomed onboard between 1400 and 1700 and 500T of fuel was also taken on. Both events were made easier by the ship being secured stern-to in the port. On Monday a Sherpa Party went off at 1315 and returned at 2330. Onboard the Starboard Watch had the unenviable task of washing down the funnels but at least the temperature had moved above freezing point in Light Airs.
Recreational Leave by Request was granted during the Forenoon on Tuesday and His Excellency & Lady Barclay said their thanks and farewells before formally disembarking for the last time at 1500.
Recreational Leave by Request was granted during the Forenoon on Tuesday and His Excellency & Lady Barclay said their thanks and farewells before formally disembarking for the last time at 1500.
The Greenland visits ended with BERMUDA on her way to sea again at 1600 heading for St John's, Newfoundland. The 15th and 16th were taken up with painting and cleaning before the ship went alongside Imperial Oil Jetty at St John's at 0820 on Friday. The fuelling-stop lasted until 1730 and by Noon on Saturday the ship was clearing the Grand Banks into deep water on her 1200 mile passage to Bermuda.
Sunday and Monday were taken up spreading more paint around in increasing temperatures and securing alongside at Ireland Island, Bermuda a few minutes before 1900 on Monday. Tuesday was 'Paintship' that meant the sides and anything else that had not already been covered.
Underway at 0715 on Wednesday it was less than two hours across to St Georges to anchor there. Leave was given from 1315 to 0700. The ship opened to visitors on Thursday and left for Hamilton at 0910 next morning arriving at No 6 Wharf at 1600 after a stop for swimming on the way round.
This was only the second time the ship had been to Bermuda and in the capital, Hamilton, she was seen by most and visited by many over the weekend. Leave from 1230 to 0700 each day allowed the generous hospitality that was always afforded to RN sailors to be taken up and appreciated. The Captain and Officers welcomed their Guests onboard at a Cocktail Party on Monday evening and on Tuesday the ship Dressed Overall and landed a party to take part in the Somers Day Parade. The last chance to step ashore in Hamilton came on Wednesday as the ship went back to Ireland Island on Thursday. There Miss Bermuda came aboard for an hour and the 5th Frigate Squadron had gathered.
Departure northwards with the other ships started at 0832 on Friday the 31st of June and ended HMS BERMUDA's second visit to the Colony. After a replenishment at 1730 the 5th FS was detached.
In July the miles totalled 4300 in 135 hours at sea.
Sunday and Monday were taken up spreading more paint around in increasing temperatures and securing alongside at Ireland Island, Bermuda a few minutes before 1900 on Monday. Tuesday was 'Paintship' that meant the sides and anything else that had not already been covered.
Underway at 0715 on Wednesday it was less than two hours across to St Georges to anchor there. Leave was given from 1315 to 0700. The ship opened to visitors on Thursday and left for Hamilton at 0910 next morning arriving at No 6 Wharf at 1600 after a stop for swimming on the way round.
This was only the second time the ship had been to Bermuda and in the capital, Hamilton, she was seen by most and visited by many over the weekend. Leave from 1230 to 0700 each day allowed the generous hospitality that was always afforded to RN sailors to be taken up and appreciated. The Captain and Officers welcomed their Guests onboard at a Cocktail Party on Monday evening and on Tuesday the ship Dressed Overall and landed a party to take part in the Somers Day Parade. The last chance to step ashore in Hamilton came on Wednesday as the ship went back to Ireland Island on Thursday. There Miss Bermuda came aboard for an hour and the 5th Frigate Squadron had gathered.
Departure northwards with the other ships started at 0832 on Friday the 31st of June and ended HMS BERMUDA's second visit to the Colony. After a replenishment at 1730 the 5th FS was detached.
In July the miles totalled 4300 in 135 hours at sea.
Normal sea routine, punctuated by the reading of Warrant No's 15-17, passed the first 4 days of August. On the 5th AA Defence, 6" Guns Crews, Ship Handling and Emergency Stations were all exercised. The next day AA Defence Stations, 4" Gun firings and various Evolutions were the subjects of attention. Routine then returned until the Bishop Rock Light was raised at 0444 on the 10th. Plymouth's C Buoy was taken up and a 17Gun Salute fired around 1300 from when HM Customs took less than three hours to 'Clear' the ship. An early move up to 5-6 Berth next morning meant Summer Leave could start. On the 14th FOFH left the ship for his 14 days leave; on the 17th a Party of Combined Cadet Force members joined the ship; on the 30th Commander K B Clark joined and on the 31st FOFH returned from Leave. In and around all that Leave Parties changed over, Dockyard maintenance was undertaken and general cleaning and storing went on as usual.
August miles were 2790 in 244 hours seatime.
Second Leave and maintenance kept the ship firmly alongside until 'Preparations for sea' on the 10th heralded a return to exercises, visits and courtesies once more. Sailing with HMS TIGER at 1230 on Friday the 11th they and SAINTES, CAMPERDOWN, ARMADA, TRAFALGAR, JUTLAND, PALLISER, MONTROSE, TIRELESS and RFA TIDEFLOW were engaged in Screening and Night Encounter exercises on their way up to Invergordon. Home Fleet exercises and evolutions sharpened everyone up from the 15th to 18th before they set off for Scandinavia on the 19th. On the 22nd JUTLAND and TRAFALGAR were detached to search when an aircraft from VICTORIOUS failed to return - I don't know whether or not anything was found! After a quick stop at Trondheim they exercised, including Landings with the Norwegians at Andoya and Torsken in the Lofoten Islands until the 27th. Leave, the first since leaving UK, was given from 1400-1600 on the 27th and they sailed the next day for Rosyth.
They travelled 5738nm and were virtually at sea from the 11th to 30th of September.
August miles were 2790 in 244 hours seatime.
Second Leave and maintenance kept the ship firmly alongside until 'Preparations for sea' on the 10th heralded a return to exercises, visits and courtesies once more. Sailing with HMS TIGER at 1230 on Friday the 11th they and SAINTES, CAMPERDOWN, ARMADA, TRAFALGAR, JUTLAND, PALLISER, MONTROSE, TIRELESS and RFA TIDEFLOW were engaged in Screening and Night Encounter exercises on their way up to Invergordon. Home Fleet exercises and evolutions sharpened everyone up from the 15th to 18th before they set off for Scandinavia on the 19th. On the 22nd JUTLAND and TRAFALGAR were detached to search when an aircraft from VICTORIOUS failed to return - I don't know whether or not anything was found! After a quick stop at Trondheim they exercised, including Landings with the Norwegians at Andoya and Torsken in the Lofoten Islands until the 27th. Leave, the first since leaving UK, was given from 1400-1600 on the 27th and they sailed the next day for Rosyth.
They travelled 5738nm and were virtually at sea from the 11th to 30th of September.
From Thursday the 1st to Friday the 9th one or two runs ashore were had whilst continuing day-to-day care of the ship. On the 10th a 2000 sailing enabled the ship to arrive in Hamburg on Monday morning for a 'Courtesy Visit'. The City's Civil and Military leaders came and went and in the afternoon the sailors made the kids laugh when they came to a Children's Party.
BERMUDA sailed at 1400 on Friday the 16th to go south passing by the Thames and Sheerness Dockyard, the Solent and Portsmouth Dockyard and even Plymouth Sound and Devonport Dockyard before rounding Lands End. She then headed up the Bristol Channel and into the Lock at Newport in South Wales on Monday the 19th to repeat the local exchanges. This time Sea Cadets came and looked round. I wonder how many later went on to join the Navy! The visit also brought good business to the local hostelries from 1630 and one or two doubtlessly found good reason to stay ashore until the expiry of Leave at 0715 each morning. An overnight run back to Devonport on the 22nd/23rd took the ship back to Harbour Routine for the remainder of the month while FOFH received the Commanding Officer's of his ships.
October running took the ship another 1570nm in 120 sea hours.Plymouth Breakwater was passed on the 3rd of November with the ship on her way to Belfast then Lamlash, Port Charlotte, & Moville, Eire. 'Exercise Sharpshooter IV' through the weekend of the 21st to 23rd had some multi-navy ships rattling round the oceans darkened again. Being unlit was always a risky business and this was no exception for the following log entry was made in 'BERMUDA' on the 23rd - " 0300 Narrowly averted collision with 'LINBERG' while attempting to regain station - switched on navigation lights. 0305 switched on 974 (radar). 0335 switched off 974". The logged weather was Wind:180/20, Wx: Cloudy, Vis: 5, so not a bad night! The 24th saw her back in Belfast for the wash-up before leaving on Friday evening for Portland arriving in time to entertain Flag Officer Sea Training to Sunday lunch. Passage continued the next day to Portsmouth where a berth outboard of H.M.S. TYNE on South Railway Jetty was as close to the Dockyard Gate as you could get. During November time underway was 235.5 hours in which 3071.9 nautical miles were added.
The whole of December was spent alongside at Portsmouth allowing Christmas Leave to start a little earlier than usual as preparations were made for the ship's docking-down in January. There was no seatime in December 1959.
On a personal note I must say that as pleasant as the 1959 visits were I am grateful that I was in the ship during the preceding two years (1958-1959) further south and therefore warmer climes.
BERMUDA sailed at 1400 on Friday the 16th to go south passing by the Thames and Sheerness Dockyard, the Solent and Portsmouth Dockyard and even Plymouth Sound and Devonport Dockyard before rounding Lands End. She then headed up the Bristol Channel and into the Lock at Newport in South Wales on Monday the 19th to repeat the local exchanges. This time Sea Cadets came and looked round. I wonder how many later went on to join the Navy! The visit also brought good business to the local hostelries from 1630 and one or two doubtlessly found good reason to stay ashore until the expiry of Leave at 0715 each morning. An overnight run back to Devonport on the 22nd/23rd took the ship back to Harbour Routine for the remainder of the month while FOFH received the Commanding Officer's of his ships.
October running took the ship another 1570nm in 120 sea hours.Plymouth Breakwater was passed on the 3rd of November with the ship on her way to Belfast then Lamlash, Port Charlotte, & Moville, Eire. 'Exercise Sharpshooter IV' through the weekend of the 21st to 23rd had some multi-navy ships rattling round the oceans darkened again. Being unlit was always a risky business and this was no exception for the following log entry was made in 'BERMUDA' on the 23rd - " 0300 Narrowly averted collision with 'LINBERG' while attempting to regain station - switched on navigation lights. 0305 switched on 974 (radar). 0335 switched off 974". The logged weather was Wind:180/20, Wx: Cloudy, Vis: 5, so not a bad night! The 24th saw her back in Belfast for the wash-up before leaving on Friday evening for Portland arriving in time to entertain Flag Officer Sea Training to Sunday lunch. Passage continued the next day to Portsmouth where a berth outboard of H.M.S. TYNE on South Railway Jetty was as close to the Dockyard Gate as you could get. During November time underway was 235.5 hours in which 3071.9 nautical miles were added.
The whole of December was spent alongside at Portsmouth allowing Christmas Leave to start a little earlier than usual as preparations were made for the ship's docking-down in January. There was no seatime in December 1959.
On a personal note I must say that as pleasant as the 1959 visits were I am grateful that I was in the ship during the preceding two years (1958-1959) further south and therefore warmer climes.
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This HMS BERMUDA 1959 section first published online 2000 and since revised.