HMS OBDURATE 1953
Flood relief after devastating UK storms, gunfire, mines and trainees as well as entertaining royalty onboard makes 1953 an interesting and varied year during which the ship goes a long way north and south of her usual operating area.
Flood relief after devastating UK storms, gunfire, mines and trainees as well as entertaining royalty onboard makes 1953 an interesting and varied year during which the ship goes a long way north and south of her usual operating area.
JANUARY
On the first day of 1953 the Captain, Lt Cdr C E M Thornycroft made a call on the Commander in Chief, Nore Command (Admiral The Hon. Sir Cyril Eustace Douglas-Pennant, KCB, CBE, DSO, DSC at Admiralty House while the ship's company got on with cleaning and painting. Painting continued through to Wednesday making the ship ready to receive the CinC on Thursday. On Saturday the 10th 13 ratings joined from the Command Gunnery School.
A Tug cold-moved the ship to the eastern end of Gillingham Reach on Monday the 16th ready to ammunition on Tuesday and Wednesday. Slipping at 0850 on Thursday exercises extended the time of arrival at Harwich to 1532. Leaving there just after 0900 on Friday the ship anchored off the Cork LV in thick fog from 1000 to 1130. Sheerness No1 was taken up at 1542 and soon after Weekend and Night Leave commenced. Log 136nm. Those in sister ship OBEDIENT were less fortunate as she came in at 1305 on Saturday and returned to sea at 1555.
Fog on Monday morning brought the ship to 30 minutes readiness for sea but otherwise a routine harbour day kept everyone busy. Leaving at 1200 on Tuesday the 20th fog came in again causing the ship to anchor for the night off the Cork LV at 1555. Underway on Wednesday at 0830 the day was used for Type285 gun control radar trials before securing on Harwich No2 just before 1600. Trials at sea continued on Thursday and another 49 GANGES Boys had their 'sea-day'. On Friday morning a Chatham Gunnery School Class arrived onboard to carryout 4" firings on the way to Sheerness where they disembarked for Chatham RNB. Log 243nm. They were replaced by another Class of 11 on Saturday ready for next week. W/E and Night Leave was granted from 1130.
Monday the 26th began routinely before leaving Sheerness at 1130 to carryout a minelaying exercise on the way to securing off GANGES at 1618. Underway at 0900 on Tuesday the days 49 Boys were able to see gun firings at a floating target launched and recovered from the ship. They were delivered back to Shotley soon after 1615. On Wednesday 32 Boys witnessed Radar Trials at sea and on Thursday a group of 36 did the same with the day's bonus of Bofors gun firings. On the way to sea again at 0821 on Friday Sheerness was passed on passage up-river to Gillingham where the ship was secured in time for LWE Leave. Log 277nm.
On the first day of 1953 the Captain, Lt Cdr C E M Thornycroft made a call on the Commander in Chief, Nore Command (Admiral The Hon. Sir Cyril Eustace Douglas-Pennant, KCB, CBE, DSO, DSC at Admiralty House while the ship's company got on with cleaning and painting. Painting continued through to Wednesday making the ship ready to receive the CinC on Thursday. On Saturday the 10th 13 ratings joined from the Command Gunnery School.
A Tug cold-moved the ship to the eastern end of Gillingham Reach on Monday the 16th ready to ammunition on Tuesday and Wednesday. Slipping at 0850 on Thursday exercises extended the time of arrival at Harwich to 1532. Leaving there just after 0900 on Friday the ship anchored off the Cork LV in thick fog from 1000 to 1130. Sheerness No1 was taken up at 1542 and soon after Weekend and Night Leave commenced. Log 136nm. Those in sister ship OBEDIENT were less fortunate as she came in at 1305 on Saturday and returned to sea at 1555.
Fog on Monday morning brought the ship to 30 minutes readiness for sea but otherwise a routine harbour day kept everyone busy. Leaving at 1200 on Tuesday the 20th fog came in again causing the ship to anchor for the night off the Cork LV at 1555. Underway on Wednesday at 0830 the day was used for Type285 gun control radar trials before securing on Harwich No2 just before 1600. Trials at sea continued on Thursday and another 49 GANGES Boys had their 'sea-day'. On Friday morning a Chatham Gunnery School Class arrived onboard to carryout 4" firings on the way to Sheerness where they disembarked for Chatham RNB. Log 243nm. They were replaced by another Class of 11 on Saturday ready for next week. W/E and Night Leave was granted from 1130.
Monday the 26th began routinely before leaving Sheerness at 1130 to carryout a minelaying exercise on the way to securing off GANGES at 1618. Underway at 0900 on Tuesday the days 49 Boys were able to see gun firings at a floating target launched and recovered from the ship. They were delivered back to Shotley soon after 1615. On Wednesday 32 Boys witnessed Radar Trials at sea and on Thursday a group of 36 did the same with the day's bonus of Bofors gun firings. On the way to sea again at 0821 on Friday Sheerness was passed on passage up-river to Gillingham where the ship was secured in time for LWE Leave. Log 277nm.
FEBRUARY
In the Forenoon of Sunday the 1st of February The Captain, Chief Engineer and First Lieutenant amongst others were recalled to the ship. The Captain returning onboard at 1710 brought the ship to 30 minutes notice for sea at 1730 as the storm that battered the West Coast yesterday was now creating 125mph winds and flooding on North Sea coasts. Monday was spent taking in emergency stores, oil and ammunition and making ready to provide aid if required later. The 30' notice for sea remained until 2230 and then went out to 4 hours. On Tuesday Lt Carter left the ship. On Wednesday RFA FORT BEAUHARNOIS passed in to the Dockyard having undoubtedly experienced an uncomfortable run up the English Channel. On Thursday DOVEY (in reserve) passed down river under tow and BARKIS came in. Friday was the Queen's Accession Day and the ship 'Dressed' overall.
In the Forenoon of Sunday the 1st of February The Captain, Chief Engineer and First Lieutenant amongst others were recalled to the ship. The Captain returning onboard at 1710 brought the ship to 30 minutes notice for sea at 1730 as the storm that battered the West Coast yesterday was now creating 125mph winds and flooding on North Sea coasts. Monday was spent taking in emergency stores, oil and ammunition and making ready to provide aid if required later. The 30' notice for sea remained until 2230 and then went out to 4 hours. On Tuesday Lt Carter left the ship. On Wednesday RFA FORT BEAUHARNOIS passed in to the Dockyard having undoubtedly experienced an uncomfortable run up the English Channel. On Thursday DOVEY (in reserve) passed down river under tow and BARKIS came in. Friday was the Queen's Accession Day and the ship 'Dressed' overall.
1953 FLOODS - Storms bring death and destruction afloat and ashore.
On the 31st January / 1st February 1953 Britain was battered by a storm centred to the NW of Scotland that was to move SE down the North Sea. In the first hours of Saturday the 31st wind in excess of 100 mph (45m/s) was blowing down the NW side of Scotland into the North Channel at the top of the Irish Sea. At sea the 125' (38M) Fleetwood trawler MICHAEL GRIFFITHS with a crew of 13 was the first to call for help radioing that she was full of water and without steam. Her position was estimated to be some 7-8 miles South of Barra Head but despite long and arduous searching by an RFA vessel with CASTLEBAY and ISLAY+ Lifeboats nothing was found of the trawler.
+During the search ISLAY lifeboat's 2nd Coxswain, A McNiel, and Assistant Mechanic John McTaggart both collapsed and died on board.
On the 7th of February the lifeboat from MICHAEL GRIFFITHS washed ashore empty on the Co. Donegal coast.
Things were to tragically worsen the next morning. At 0745 on the 1st of February the 309' British Railways Ferry PRINCESS VICTORIA, with 176 passengers and crew aboard sailed from Stranraer for Larne. Though a scheduled sailing those onboard were in no doubt that it was going to be a rough one. For the first few miles in the open sea all went well but then water on the vehicle deck led to an increasing list prompting the Master to send an 'Urgency' wireless (Morse) message to the GPO Coast Radio Station, Portpatrick, at 0945 asking for tug assistance. Soon after 1030 PRINCESS VICTORIA made a radio SOS call giving her position as four miles off Corsewall Pt with a heavy starboard list, flooded car deck and requiring immediate assistance. She was also 'Not Under Command' meaning she was unable to manoeuvre. PORTPATRICK Lifeboat launched and the Duty Destroyer (HMS CONTEST) was despatched from Rothesay. Soon after 1300 the true position of the PRINCESS VICTORIA was established off Belfast Lough and her last messages indicated that they were 'abandoning ship' which was then lying on its side. In 50' (15m) seas DONAGHADEE Lifeboat picked up 34 survivors whilst some nine more were picked up by other ships which had left the Lough to search.
The ferry's radio officer, David Broadfoot, was awarded posthumous awarded the George Medal; an officer and a rating in CONTEST each received the George Medal for entering the sea to aid a survivor; Donaghadee Lifeboat Coxswain was awarded the BEM and he and Portpatrick Lifeboat Coxswain were given the RNLI's Bronze Award. The Mechanics of both lifeboats also received awards.
It was later established that, from the ferry, a total of 44 people were saved and 133 lost their lives in the incident.
Many more were to die as the storm continued eastwards into the North Sea.
On the 31st January / 1st February 1953 Britain was battered by a storm centred to the NW of Scotland that was to move SE down the North Sea. In the first hours of Saturday the 31st wind in excess of 100 mph (45m/s) was blowing down the NW side of Scotland into the North Channel at the top of the Irish Sea. At sea the 125' (38M) Fleetwood trawler MICHAEL GRIFFITHS with a crew of 13 was the first to call for help radioing that she was full of water and without steam. Her position was estimated to be some 7-8 miles South of Barra Head but despite long and arduous searching by an RFA vessel with CASTLEBAY and ISLAY+ Lifeboats nothing was found of the trawler.
+During the search ISLAY lifeboat's 2nd Coxswain, A McNiel, and Assistant Mechanic John McTaggart both collapsed and died on board.
On the 7th of February the lifeboat from MICHAEL GRIFFITHS washed ashore empty on the Co. Donegal coast.
Things were to tragically worsen the next morning. At 0745 on the 1st of February the 309' British Railways Ferry PRINCESS VICTORIA, with 176 passengers and crew aboard sailed from Stranraer for Larne. Though a scheduled sailing those onboard were in no doubt that it was going to be a rough one. For the first few miles in the open sea all went well but then water on the vehicle deck led to an increasing list prompting the Master to send an 'Urgency' wireless (Morse) message to the GPO Coast Radio Station, Portpatrick, at 0945 asking for tug assistance. Soon after 1030 PRINCESS VICTORIA made a radio SOS call giving her position as four miles off Corsewall Pt with a heavy starboard list, flooded car deck and requiring immediate assistance. She was also 'Not Under Command' meaning she was unable to manoeuvre. PORTPATRICK Lifeboat launched and the Duty Destroyer (HMS CONTEST) was despatched from Rothesay. Soon after 1300 the true position of the PRINCESS VICTORIA was established off Belfast Lough and her last messages indicated that they were 'abandoning ship' which was then lying on its side. In 50' (15m) seas DONAGHADEE Lifeboat picked up 34 survivors whilst some nine more were picked up by other ships which had left the Lough to search.
The ferry's radio officer, David Broadfoot, was awarded posthumous awarded the George Medal; an officer and a rating in CONTEST each received the George Medal for entering the sea to aid a survivor; Donaghadee Lifeboat Coxswain was awarded the BEM and he and Portpatrick Lifeboat Coxswain were given the RNLI's Bronze Award. The Mechanics of both lifeboats also received awards.
It was later established that, from the ferry, a total of 44 people were saved and 133 lost their lives in the incident.
Many more were to die as the storm continued eastwards into the North Sea.
BR Ferry PRINCESS VICTORIA (1947-1953)
As the deaths off the west coast mounted the same storm, with pressure dropping to a very rare low of 966 millibars, was moving down the North Sea. Pushing an ever rising wall of water south over an already very high Spring tide something had to give and it was the sea defences that did. At around 4.30pm the sea, now more than twice its predicted (normal) height, overtopped the defences at Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire and across in Holland. The death toll in both countries immediately started to mount as the wind and wall of water continued southwards pouring the sea over the defences of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Kent. The predicted High Water height at Harwich was 5.5ft but the height recorded exceeded 13.0ft. During the evening and early hours of Monday the sea surge reached the River Thames inundating Canvey Island and the Isle of Sheppey where the frigate BERKELEYCASTLE and submarine SIRDAR were rolled off their blocks in Sheerness Dockyard. By midnight flooding was occurring upriver in the East and SE of London.
HMS BERKELEY CASTLE (1943-1955) was scrapped following the floods. SIRDAR (1943-1965) was refloated and refitted.
As the deaths off the west coast mounted the same storm, with pressure dropping to a very rare low of 966millibars, was moving down the North Sea. Pushing an ever rising wall of water south over an already very high Spring Tide something had to give and it was the sea defences that did. At around 4.30pm the sea, now more than twice its predicted (normal) height, overtopped the defences at Mablethorpe in Lincolnshire and across in Holland. The death toll in both countries immediately started to mount as the wind and wall of water continued southwards pouring sea over the defences of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex and Kent. The predicted High Water height at Harwich was 5.5ft (1.7m) but the height recorded exceeded 13ft(4m). During the evening and early hours of Monday the sea surge reached the River Thames inundating Canvey Island and the Isle of Sheppey where the frigate BERKELEY CASTLE and submarine SIRDAR were rolled off their blocks in Sheerness Dockyard. By midnight flooding was occurring upriver in East and South East London.
Many properties and even hamlets, some together with their occupants, were swept away. In the final analysis it was estimated that the UK land death toll was around 307 and a further 30,000 people were displaced. The RN, Army and RAF Teams were sent to help but for affected populations still recovering from the damage and deprivations of war it was another nightmare that they had to take in their stride and cope with. In Holland nearly 2000 more lives were taken and still more were killed in Germany and Belgium by the North Sea's worst ever storm
Footnote: It has to be noted that in 1953 there was no 'Emergency Planning' as such. Instead the local police, ambulances, council workers and war-created Civil Defence Corps (often one and the same group of people) were called upon in a crisis. Few homes had telephones and in any case telegraph lines were carried away preventing warnings from being passed. 'Protective' clothing for most people, then, consisted of cotton overalls, a gabardine raincoat and perhaps a hat or headscarf.
The resultant flooding had OBDURATE sailing at 1037 on Saturday for Dartford on the Thames to provide aid ashore and accommodation for other Flood Working Parties (FWP). On Sunday the 8th FWP's totalling 155 men (Party 'Stone' from RN Barracks, Chatham and Party 'Orange' from the ship's company) landed at 0745 and again at 1245 after dinner. That routine was repeated on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Tuesday the Captain called on the Mayor of Dartford in the forenoon and at 1220 received onboard the Commanding Officer of Chatham Barrack's Commodore G Thistleton-Smith, GM, ADC. On Wednesday 23 Cadets from the Sea Training Ship WORCESTER made a visit the ship. Working Party 'Stone' alone landed at 0900 on Friday and OBDURATE sailed at 1300 for Sheerness arriving at 1645. After oiling on Saturday the 14th the ship moved upriver to Folly Point at 1245. Log 82nm.
Footnote: It has to be noted that in 1953 there was no 'Emergency Planning' as such. Instead the local police, ambulances, council workers and war-created Civil Defence Corps (often one and the same group of people) were called upon in a crisis. Few homes had telephones and in any case telegraph lines were carried away preventing warnings from being passed. 'Protective' clothing for most people, then, consisted of cotton overalls, a gabardine raincoat and perhaps a hat or headscarf.
The resultant flooding had OBDURATE sailing at 1037 on Saturday for Dartford on the Thames to provide aid ashore and accommodation for other Flood Working Parties (FWP). On Sunday the 8th FWP's totalling 155 men (Party 'Stone' from RN Barracks, Chatham and Party 'Orange' from the ship's company) landed at 0745 and again at 1245 after dinner. That routine was repeated on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Tuesday the Captain called on the Mayor of Dartford in the forenoon and at 1220 received onboard the Commanding Officer of Chatham Barrack's Commodore G Thistleton-Smith, GM, ADC. On Wednesday 23 Cadets from the Sea Training Ship WORCESTER made a visit the ship. Working Party 'Stone' alone landed at 0900 on Friday and OBDURATE sailed at 1300 for Sheerness arriving at 1645. After oiling on Saturday the 14th the ship moved upriver to Folly Point at 1245. Log 82nm.
The flood relief work had kept everyone busy so after tidying up on Monday the ship's company, except the Duty Watch, had a 'Make and Mend' (Rest and Recreation period). Red Watch had theirs on Tuesday. Wednesday saw spirits rise (pun intended) with the embarkation of 50 gallons of Rum and other (secondary!) victualling stores during the forenoon. At 1300 the buoy was slipped to return once again to Harwich. Thirty-one GANGES Boys were onboard before 0900 for their sea experience on Thursday returning to harbour at 1545. A 1049 departure on Friday the 20th enabled the ship to take up the buoys at Chatham just before 1630 where 5 ratings joined from RNB as weekend Leave began. Log 129nm.
On Monday the 23rd a Quarters Armourers Class from Chatham Gunnery School joined to exercise their skills in 4" gun firings on Tuesday whilst the ship made its way to Harwich arriving at 1645. Wednesday and Thursday was used to take more GANGES Boys to sea and on Friday the passage back to the Medway and Sheerness No25 Buoy was completed at 1312. Log 240nm.
On Monday the 23rd a Quarters Armourers Class from Chatham Gunnery School joined to exercise their skills in 4" gun firings on Tuesday whilst the ship made its way to Harwich arriving at 1645. Wednesday and Thursday was used to take more GANGES Boys to sea and on Friday the passage back to the Medway and Sheerness No25 Buoy was completed at 1312. Log 240nm.
MARCH
The first week of March at Sheerness, was taken up with all sorts of harbour and action drills culminating with Divisions on Saturday the 7th.
On Monday the 9th the four-hour passage to Harwich was completed by 1410 when the Captain HMS OBEDIENT paid an official call on the Captain. Log 53nm. At 1545 OBDURATE was on her way to sea again on night patrol to be attacked by fast patrol boats as usual before anchoring at 0200 off the Cork LV. Weighing anchor at 1600 the exercise was repeated before returning to anchor soon after 0100 on Wednesday. Following gunnery school firings on Thursday a third night patrol with OBEDIENT took place ending with a return to Harwich at 0230 on Friday the 13th. Log 329nm.
The first week of March at Sheerness, was taken up with all sorts of harbour and action drills culminating with Divisions on Saturday the 7th.
On Monday the 9th the four-hour passage to Harwich was completed by 1410 when the Captain HMS OBEDIENT paid an official call on the Captain. Log 53nm. At 1545 OBDURATE was on her way to sea again on night patrol to be attacked by fast patrol boats as usual before anchoring at 0200 off the Cork LV. Weighing anchor at 1600 the exercise was repeated before returning to anchor soon after 0100 on Wednesday. Following gunnery school firings on Thursday a third night patrol with OBEDIENT took place ending with a return to Harwich at 0230 on Friday the 13th. Log 329nm.
At 0600 on Saturday OBDURATE was on her way south to go down the English Channel. South of St Alban's Head at 2130 the Yugoslav Navy Ship GALEB (Right) and escorting RN destroyers ORWELL, ZEPHYR, GABBARD and another were passed. Onboard GALEB was the President of Yugoslavia, Marshal Tito, on his way to being the first ever communist leader to pay an official visit to London.
The Wolf Rock Light was passed before Divine Service was held on Sunday as OBDURATE continued her passage to Rothesay.
After anchoring in Loch Striven off Ardbeg at 1100 on Monday the ship moved to secure on Rothesay SM3 Buoy at 1600. Log 748nm. An hour later a Lt Cdr White and four Admiralty Scientists joined the ship. Underway at 0800 on Tuesday the ship did as the scientific team required for their trials before returning to anchor soon after 1700. The first part of Wednesday was spent fuelling and on Thursday and Friday a full day with Fast Patrol Boat 5511 and unseen submarine(s) off the Isle of Arran allowed the scientists to continue their trials. Log 253nm.
During the weekend at Rothesay the Captain, 3rd Submarine Flotilla visited the ship and the Gangway Staff watched SAVAGE secure on the Depot Ship MONTCLARE on Saturday and depart with WOODBRIDGE HAVEN, CONTEST and the submarines ALARIC and ARTEMIS on Sunday the 22nd.
The submarine SCORCHER preceded OBDURATE and FPB 5511 to sea to continue trials through Monday afternoon before returning to Rothesay at 1720 to wash-up. Log 91nm. Lt Cdr White and Scientists disembarked at 0845 on Tuesday.
Flags throughout the RN were flown at half-mast on Wednesday following the death yesterday of H.M Queen Mary.
Just before noon OBDURATE got underway to pass her birthplace Denny's at Dumbarton on her way to fuel at Old Kilpatrick Jetty from 1430 to 1630. Turning off John Brown's Shipyard the run back to SM3 Rothesay ended at 1930. Log 54nm.
An 0700 departure on Thursday allowed the ship to pass Eddystone Lt at 1224 then Beachy Head at 2344 on Friday. The passage ended on arrival at Folly Point Chatham at 1111 on Saturday the 28th of March - just in time for Short Weekend Leave! Log 722nm.
The new week began with cleaning and maintenance interrupted on Tuesday by Divisions and a Memorial Service for H.M. Queen Mary.
The Wolf Rock Light was passed before Divine Service was held on Sunday as OBDURATE continued her passage to Rothesay.
After anchoring in Loch Striven off Ardbeg at 1100 on Monday the ship moved to secure on Rothesay SM3 Buoy at 1600. Log 748nm. An hour later a Lt Cdr White and four Admiralty Scientists joined the ship. Underway at 0800 on Tuesday the ship did as the scientific team required for their trials before returning to anchor soon after 1700. The first part of Wednesday was spent fuelling and on Thursday and Friday a full day with Fast Patrol Boat 5511 and unseen submarine(s) off the Isle of Arran allowed the scientists to continue their trials. Log 253nm.
During the weekend at Rothesay the Captain, 3rd Submarine Flotilla visited the ship and the Gangway Staff watched SAVAGE secure on the Depot Ship MONTCLARE on Saturday and depart with WOODBRIDGE HAVEN, CONTEST and the submarines ALARIC and ARTEMIS on Sunday the 22nd.
The submarine SCORCHER preceded OBDURATE and FPB 5511 to sea to continue trials through Monday afternoon before returning to Rothesay at 1720 to wash-up. Log 91nm. Lt Cdr White and Scientists disembarked at 0845 on Tuesday.
Flags throughout the RN were flown at half-mast on Wednesday following the death yesterday of H.M Queen Mary.
Just before noon OBDURATE got underway to pass her birthplace Denny's at Dumbarton on her way to fuel at Old Kilpatrick Jetty from 1430 to 1630. Turning off John Brown's Shipyard the run back to SM3 Rothesay ended at 1930. Log 54nm.
An 0700 departure on Thursday allowed the ship to pass Eddystone Lt at 1224 then Beachy Head at 2344 on Friday. The passage ended on arrival at Folly Point Chatham at 1111 on Saturday the 28th of March - just in time for Short Weekend Leave! Log 722nm.
The new week began with cleaning and maintenance interrupted on Tuesday by Divisions and a Memorial Service for H.M. Queen Mary.
APRIL
On Thursday the 2nd of April Lt Cdr Tattersall left the ship. Later in the day Lt Cdr Hewlett and Chambers RNVR with 47 RNVR Ratings joined the ship. Slipping at 0700 on Friday it was back up to the Gabbard area to carryout 4", Close Range and Small Arms firings and a night at sea before entering Dover Harbour at 1000 on Saturday. Log 267nm. An overnight stay permitted a run ashore - and temporarily a bit more space on the messdecks - before an Easter Day Service in the forenoon and a mid-afternoon departure to sea. Another night at sea allowed more yarn-spinning that no doubt helped to widen the knowledge and experience of the 'visitors' and ship's company alike.
Speed was increased to 25 knots for a time on Monday before the run up the Thames Estuary and Medway to reach Folly Point at 1600 where the RNVR Party disembarked. Log 320nm. Harbour Routine on Tuesday and a move by tugs into Chatham Dockyard No3 Basin on Wednesday put OBDURATE alongside OBEDIENT by 1000 ready for belated Easter Leave and maintenance. Flags flew at half-mast from 1400-1500 on Friday the 10th in memory of Petty Officer Stoker Mechanic James. Next day lower deck was cleared to witness the reading of Warrant No. 1.
OBEDIENT was 'extracted' on Monday the 13th letting OBDURATE get alongside the wall making it easier to get to and fro with stores etc. Main Leave (the majority of the ship's company) started on Tuesday the 14th leaving the ship in the charge of the Command Maintenance Party. Next morning tugs moved her into No8 Dock to dock down. Dockside lavatories etc were now in use enabling the ship's bathrooms, heads, sides and bottom to be cleaned and painted during the next week.
Long Leave expired at 1200 on Tuesday the 28th and on Wednesday Lt Cdr L A Edwards joined from BROADSWORD. The dock was flooded-up on the last day of April but the ship remained un-moved because of high winds.
On Thursday the 2nd of April Lt Cdr Tattersall left the ship. Later in the day Lt Cdr Hewlett and Chambers RNVR with 47 RNVR Ratings joined the ship. Slipping at 0700 on Friday it was back up to the Gabbard area to carryout 4", Close Range and Small Arms firings and a night at sea before entering Dover Harbour at 1000 on Saturday. Log 267nm. An overnight stay permitted a run ashore - and temporarily a bit more space on the messdecks - before an Easter Day Service in the forenoon and a mid-afternoon departure to sea. Another night at sea allowed more yarn-spinning that no doubt helped to widen the knowledge and experience of the 'visitors' and ship's company alike.
Speed was increased to 25 knots for a time on Monday before the run up the Thames Estuary and Medway to reach Folly Point at 1600 where the RNVR Party disembarked. Log 320nm. Harbour Routine on Tuesday and a move by tugs into Chatham Dockyard No3 Basin on Wednesday put OBDURATE alongside OBEDIENT by 1000 ready for belated Easter Leave and maintenance. Flags flew at half-mast from 1400-1500 on Friday the 10th in memory of Petty Officer Stoker Mechanic James. Next day lower deck was cleared to witness the reading of Warrant No. 1.
OBEDIENT was 'extracted' on Monday the 13th letting OBDURATE get alongside the wall making it easier to get to and fro with stores etc. Main Leave (the majority of the ship's company) started on Tuesday the 14th leaving the ship in the charge of the Command Maintenance Party. Next morning tugs moved her into No8 Dock to dock down. Dockside lavatories etc were now in use enabling the ship's bathrooms, heads, sides and bottom to be cleaned and painted during the next week.
Long Leave expired at 1200 on Tuesday the 28th and on Wednesday Lt Cdr L A Edwards joined from BROADSWORD. The dock was flooded-up on the last day of April but the ship remained un-moved because of high winds.
MAY
In better weather on May the 1st the move to No2 Basin was made. A Coder and a Stoker Mechanic joined on Monday the 4th. Locking-out on Tuesday the ship went moved down to Sheerness No17 Buoy just in time to see the cruiser SWIFTSURE come in. The compass was swung on Wednesday and on Thursday Harwich No2 Buoy was taken up at 1725. Log 63nm. The Captain made an official call on the Captain, HMS GANGES on Friday. On Saturday the ship's company was at Divisions at 1055 when a signal was received ordering the ship to sea to assist in the search for Motor Minesweeper 1586 reported missing on passage from Sheerness to Ostend, Belgium. Underway at 1145 speed was increased to 22kts on clearing Cork Spit at 1216. The search was called off at 1224 so OBDURATE returned to secure on No2 buoy at 1304. ( I guess MMS1586 had failed to send a position report).
Cricket Teams were landed to GANGES on Sunday afternoon to enjoy the facilities and challenge the incumbents. Others went ashore to sample the beers of Shotley Gate, Harwich or perhaps even Ipswich or Felixstowe.
While some in OBDURATE painted the Carley Floats on Monday the 11th they would have been surrounded by various warships some including the Minesweeper Depot Ship MULL OF GALLOWAY. The Tug WARDEN and Motor Launch 3053 were active and many others were in Reserve.
Fifteen RN Reserve officers had embarked before the ship sailed just before 0900 on Tuesday to carryout 4" firings in the Gabbard area before returning to Harwich at 1724. General Drills filled Wednesday forenoon before sailing at 1700 for North Sea Search and Rescue duties.
On Thursday 4" Control Parties closed-up for drills at 1040 as the ship approached her designated position at 55 20N 04 52E some 230nm east of the Tyne and 110 nm west of Esbjerg, Denmark. At 1300 Aircraft Lookouts were closed-up and at 1316 the Royal Flight aircraft carrying HRH Princess Margaret from London to Oslo was reported overhead at 23,000 feet. Course and speed was set to arrive at Sheerness at 1000 next day where 120T of fuel and a new Chief Petty Officer Coxswain were taken on. Log 558nm.
42 Ratings from Chatham RN Electrical School arrived onboard at 1600 on Saturday and within the hour the ship was bound for the North Sea again to give them sea experience. Off the Suffolk/Norfolk coast during the night seaboats crews were exercised at 0200 and 0425, emergency oil navigation lights were placed and, after daybreak, a steering-gear breakdown was exercised. Prayers were said at 1120 followed by Pipe-Down. At 1700 Damage Control Stations was ordered as the ship returned to the outward cover position for Princess Margaret's homeward flight which passed overhead at 1716 on Sunday.
During the return south on Monday the 18th the Taut Wire Measuring Gear was streamed before the ship made her way in to Folly Point at 1617. Log 576nm. The Electrical School trainees escaped the ship but the day was not yet over for everyone. At 1630 the pipe 'Blue Watch to paint ship' was made and they, with a short supper break, continued painting until 2100. Painting through to 2100 continued throughout the week and, for the Duty Watch, through the weekend as well.
In better weather on May the 1st the move to No2 Basin was made. A Coder and a Stoker Mechanic joined on Monday the 4th. Locking-out on Tuesday the ship went moved down to Sheerness No17 Buoy just in time to see the cruiser SWIFTSURE come in. The compass was swung on Wednesday and on Thursday Harwich No2 Buoy was taken up at 1725. Log 63nm. The Captain made an official call on the Captain, HMS GANGES on Friday. On Saturday the ship's company was at Divisions at 1055 when a signal was received ordering the ship to sea to assist in the search for Motor Minesweeper 1586 reported missing on passage from Sheerness to Ostend, Belgium. Underway at 1145 speed was increased to 22kts on clearing Cork Spit at 1216. The search was called off at 1224 so OBDURATE returned to secure on No2 buoy at 1304. ( I guess MMS1586 had failed to send a position report).
Cricket Teams were landed to GANGES on Sunday afternoon to enjoy the facilities and challenge the incumbents. Others went ashore to sample the beers of Shotley Gate, Harwich or perhaps even Ipswich or Felixstowe.
While some in OBDURATE painted the Carley Floats on Monday the 11th they would have been surrounded by various warships some including the Minesweeper Depot Ship MULL OF GALLOWAY. The Tug WARDEN and Motor Launch 3053 were active and many others were in Reserve.
Fifteen RN Reserve officers had embarked before the ship sailed just before 0900 on Tuesday to carryout 4" firings in the Gabbard area before returning to Harwich at 1724. General Drills filled Wednesday forenoon before sailing at 1700 for North Sea Search and Rescue duties.
On Thursday 4" Control Parties closed-up for drills at 1040 as the ship approached her designated position at 55 20N 04 52E some 230nm east of the Tyne and 110 nm west of Esbjerg, Denmark. At 1300 Aircraft Lookouts were closed-up and at 1316 the Royal Flight aircraft carrying HRH Princess Margaret from London to Oslo was reported overhead at 23,000 feet. Course and speed was set to arrive at Sheerness at 1000 next day where 120T of fuel and a new Chief Petty Officer Coxswain were taken on. Log 558nm.
42 Ratings from Chatham RN Electrical School arrived onboard at 1600 on Saturday and within the hour the ship was bound for the North Sea again to give them sea experience. Off the Suffolk/Norfolk coast during the night seaboats crews were exercised at 0200 and 0425, emergency oil navigation lights were placed and, after daybreak, a steering-gear breakdown was exercised. Prayers were said at 1120 followed by Pipe-Down. At 1700 Damage Control Stations was ordered as the ship returned to the outward cover position for Princess Margaret's homeward flight which passed overhead at 1716 on Sunday.
During the return south on Monday the 18th the Taut Wire Measuring Gear was streamed before the ship made her way in to Folly Point at 1617. Log 576nm. The Electrical School trainees escaped the ship but the day was not yet over for everyone. At 1630 the pipe 'Blue Watch to paint ship' was made and they, with a short supper break, continued painting until 2100. Painting through to 2100 continued throughout the week and, for the Duty Watch, through the weekend as well.
On Monday the 25th finishing touches to painting and cleaning up were made. A spontaneous fire in cleaning rags in the tiller flat at 0545 on Tuesday started the day badly but it was quickly extinguished. The polishing and tidying continued through the working day from 0730 to 2100.
Also on Tuesday the Captain reported sick resulting in the First Lieutenant, Lt Cdr B H Wainwright assuming command of the ship in his absence. Lt Sherwood RNVR joined the ship.
At 0910 on Wednesday the 27th the Command Inspection of HMS OBDURATE began with the arrival onboard of the Torpedo and Anti-submarine and Navigation Department Teams. They had done it all before so it was best to answer their questions truthfully and without flannel! Whilst that went on the Gangway Staff watched a Siamese Navy frigate come in and after that logged the arrival onboard at 2240 of a Naval Escort with two prisoners. Perhaps they had extended their Easter Leave!
On Thursday the ship's company fell-in at 0630 for Inspection and the start of another busy day. Various Departmental inspecting officers arrived onboard and at 1020 the Chief of Staff to the Commander-in-Chief, Nore Command was piped aboard. The buoy was slipped at 1150 for passage down river under watchful eyes to pick-up Sheerness No2 Buoy an hour later. Log 8nm. With the Ship's Log duly signed the COS and Staff left the ship in the afternoon. Lower Deck was cleared on Friday for the 1st Lieutenant's (Temp Capt) address. Hopefully he expressed thanks and conveyed the delight of the Inspecting Staff in both the ship's performance and appearance!
There was no overnight Leave instead 'Call the Hands' was piped at 0400 on Saturday to get underway an hour later to run round to Dover's Prince of Wales Pier arriving at 1012. Log 54nm. Divisions and Prayers were held on Sunday and the ship opened to visitors from 1400 to 1800 drawing a big crowd as usual.
Also on Tuesday the Captain reported sick resulting in the First Lieutenant, Lt Cdr B H Wainwright assuming command of the ship in his absence. Lt Sherwood RNVR joined the ship.
At 0910 on Wednesday the 27th the Command Inspection of HMS OBDURATE began with the arrival onboard of the Torpedo and Anti-submarine and Navigation Department Teams. They had done it all before so it was best to answer their questions truthfully and without flannel! Whilst that went on the Gangway Staff watched a Siamese Navy frigate come in and after that logged the arrival onboard at 2240 of a Naval Escort with two prisoners. Perhaps they had extended their Easter Leave!
On Thursday the ship's company fell-in at 0630 for Inspection and the start of another busy day. Various Departmental inspecting officers arrived onboard and at 1020 the Chief of Staff to the Commander-in-Chief, Nore Command was piped aboard. The buoy was slipped at 1150 for passage down river under watchful eyes to pick-up Sheerness No2 Buoy an hour later. Log 8nm. With the Ship's Log duly signed the COS and Staff left the ship in the afternoon. Lower Deck was cleared on Friday for the 1st Lieutenant's (Temp Capt) address. Hopefully he expressed thanks and conveyed the delight of the Inspecting Staff in both the ship's performance and appearance!
There was no overnight Leave instead 'Call the Hands' was piped at 0400 on Saturday to get underway an hour later to run round to Dover's Prince of Wales Pier arriving at 1012. Log 54nm. Divisions and Prayers were held on Sunday and the ship opened to visitors from 1400 to 1800 drawing a big crowd as usual.
JUNE
Hands were called at 0600 on Monday the 1st to clean ship and spread quarterdeck awnings. Guests came and went throughout the day before the ship left harbour at 1600 to anchor off.
At 0800 on Tuesday the 2nd of June 1953 the ship was Dressed Overall for the Coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth the Second. More guests visited during the day and at 2230 the ship was darkened to give a 15 minute fireworks display before being illuminated until midnight.
A return to POW Pier on Wednesday made it easier for visitors and Libertymen. Passage back to Sheerness No25 Buoy was made on Thursday. Log 57nm. There other ships moving around included the cruiser SUPERB, minelayer APOLLO, destroyers CORUNNA, AGINCOURT, SOLEBAY, DEFENDER, BARKIS and boom defence vessel BARKIS and BARSOUND. On Friday Commander in Chief, The Nore paid a visit to the ship at 1100 as MANXMAN passed inwards.
On Sunday the 7th one Sub Lieutenant Robb joined the ship. He would still be there at my arrival in the ship two years hence.
On Monday those onboard lined-up around the deck edges at 1020 to practice 'Cheer-Ship' and at 1150 the Captain returned from Sick Leave. The two events, though both operationally important, were entirely coincidental as you will see. At 2010 the Depot Ship FORTH went to sea. OBDURATE was underway out of Sheerness at 1530 on Tuesday and on her way down the Channel passing the Russian cruiser SVERDLOV off Dungeness at 2036. At 0500 on Wednesday the 10th OBDURATE and CAMPERDOWN together carried out manoeuvres and practiced coming to anchor in Freshwater Bay at the western end of the Isle of Wight. Both ships then joined the line of other destroyers being led by BATTLEAXE into the Needles Channel towards Spithead.
Hands were called at 0600 on Monday the 1st to clean ship and spread quarterdeck awnings. Guests came and went throughout the day before the ship left harbour at 1600 to anchor off.
At 0800 on Tuesday the 2nd of June 1953 the ship was Dressed Overall for the Coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth the Second. More guests visited during the day and at 2230 the ship was darkened to give a 15 minute fireworks display before being illuminated until midnight.
A return to POW Pier on Wednesday made it easier for visitors and Libertymen. Passage back to Sheerness No25 Buoy was made on Thursday. Log 57nm. There other ships moving around included the cruiser SUPERB, minelayer APOLLO, destroyers CORUNNA, AGINCOURT, SOLEBAY, DEFENDER, BARKIS and boom defence vessel BARKIS and BARSOUND. On Friday Commander in Chief, The Nore paid a visit to the ship at 1100 as MANXMAN passed inwards.
On Sunday the 7th one Sub Lieutenant Robb joined the ship. He would still be there at my arrival in the ship two years hence.
On Monday those onboard lined-up around the deck edges at 1020 to practice 'Cheer-Ship' and at 1150 the Captain returned from Sick Leave. The two events, though both operationally important, were entirely coincidental as you will see. At 2010 the Depot Ship FORTH went to sea. OBDURATE was underway out of Sheerness at 1530 on Tuesday and on her way down the Channel passing the Russian cruiser SVERDLOV off Dungeness at 2036. At 0500 on Wednesday the 10th OBDURATE and CAMPERDOWN together carried out manoeuvres and practiced coming to anchor in Freshwater Bay at the western end of the Isle of Wight. Both ships then joined the line of other destroyers being led by BATTLEAXE into the Needles Channel towards Spithead.
HMS DEVONSHIRE (1929-1953) and Russian Cruiser SVERDLOV (1950-1983). Both ships were present at the 1953 Coronation Review. For DEVONSHIRE it marked the end of her service as she was de-commissioned later in the year. SVERDLOV, on the other hand, was in her early years of service and making the first UK visit by a Russian warship since war ended in 1945.
At Spithead each ship had a designated anchoring position and at 0920 OBDURATE very precisely dropped her anchor with 5 shackles (135M) of cable in 10 fathoms(18.3M) of water on a Bearing of 221° from Lookout No2 on Browndown Ranges at a distance of 5,750 yards (5,255M). Log 204nm. Around her ships of all descriptions from around the world were amassing. At 1615 the giant liner SS UNITED STATES passed on her way up to Southampton. From Thursday all ships were 'Dressed-overall' from Colours (0800) to Sunset. During the afternoon it was the turn of HM Submarines to arrive in force to anchor in their Lines. You could almost smell the 'Bluebell' as brightwork was polished and polished again through the weekend as the final participants took up their positions in the extremely crowded Solent.
By the time HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh boarded HMS SURPRISE at South Railway Jetty in Portsmouth on Sunday more than 300 British, Commonwealth and Foreign warships with Merchant and Fishing vessels had filled Spithead. Their crews and many thousands of people ashore were each sharing an unrepeatable spectacle which must have been every bit as exciting for our young Queen and her sailor husband.
At 1500 on Monday the 15th of June 1953, beneath the stem-to-stern flags and pennants, the Fleet manned-ship. In OBDURATE at precisely 1550 the ship's company raised their caps in unison and cheered HM The Queen as she passed the ship waving in acknowledgement from HMS SURPRISE. The Trinity House Vessel PATRICIA by custom led SURPRISE followed by the frigates REDPOLE, STARLING, FLEETWOOD and HELMSDALE carrying Dignitaries and Senior Officers. Following on from the surface fleet review an impressive Flypast by more than 300 Fleet Air Arm aircraft began at 1745 and in the evening there was a Firework Display with the Fleet illuminated from 2330 to 2359
By the time HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh boarded HMS SURPRISE at South Railway Jetty in Portsmouth on Sunday more than 300 British, Commonwealth and Foreign warships with Merchant and Fishing vessels had filled Spithead. Their crews and many thousands of people ashore were each sharing an unrepeatable spectacle which must have been every bit as exciting for our young Queen and her sailor husband.
At 1500 on Monday the 15th of June 1953, beneath the stem-to-stern flags and pennants, the Fleet manned-ship. In OBDURATE at precisely 1550 the ship's company raised their caps in unison and cheered HM The Queen as she passed the ship waving in acknowledgement from HMS SURPRISE. The Trinity House Vessel PATRICIA by custom led SURPRISE followed by the frigates REDPOLE, STARLING, FLEETWOOD and HELMSDALE carrying Dignitaries and Senior Officers. Following on from the surface fleet review an impressive Flypast by more than 300 Fleet Air Arm aircraft began at 1745 and in the evening there was a Firework Display with the Fleet illuminated from 2330 to 2359
An enormous amount of paint, fuel, preparation, enterprise, determination, effort and money ashore and afloat had gone into Her Majesty's Coronation Review of the Fleet but even in times of continuing austerity and rationing their were few who would have argued against it. For those able to watch it from the shores of Hampshire or the Isle of Wight it was an uplifting and unforgettable experience. Millions of others able to see it on a 9 or perhaps even a 12 inch (23/30cm) black and white television screen were equally thrilled.
Tuesday was a bit of an anti-climax as the review gear was stowed away and the ship readied for sea again. At 1145 Commander-in-Chief Mediterranean Fleet in the Cruiser GLASGOW led his ships from the anchorage. At 1230 DEVONSHIRE, PROTECTOR and the Indian Navy Ship DELHI amongst others moved out. At 1303 OBDURATE weighed to go down to Portland. The Queen had ordered 'Splice the Mainbrace' (An additional tot of rum to each man) and that was issued at 1800 as the ship approached Portland and RFA EDDYFIRTH for fuel before moving off to secure on B3. Log 54nm. Underway at 1330 on Wednesday three hours on the De-gaussing Range checked the ship's magnetic neutrality before she turned to run up the Channel to anchor in the Downs off Deal at 0508 on Thursday. At 0915 the 1st Lt and Postie landed by whaler at Deal returning at 1155. Passage to Chatham resumed at 1330 where OBDURATE secured alongside SOLEBAY at Folly Point at 1728. Lt Cdr Martin left the ship on appointment to HENGIST. Weekend Leave was granted.
The ship left the side of SOLEBAY at 1032 on Monday the 22nd with a Gunnery School Class onboard which carried out a shoot on the way to Harwich where S/Lt Pugsley joined the ship. Leaving at 0855 on Tuesday the day started with Action Stations followed by ASDIC training runs. In the afternoon Close Range firings preceded a dummy minelaying exercise before returning to Harwich at 1700. Log 141nm.
Wednesday was spent doing harbour training. The Gunnery School Class disembarked before the ship sailed at 0845 on Thursday to exercise on the way to secure on Dover POW Pier at 1645. Log 65nm. From there on Friday the ship's whaler and sailing dinghy went to the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club to compete in their afternoon races. The whaler's crew returned triumphant and the dinghy's crew, satisfied, with third place in their race. The ship was illuminated from 2130 to 2359 through the weekend and opened to visitors in the afternoon.
Departing at 0930 on Monday the 29th the ship was back on the Folly Point moorings at Gillingham by 1520
JULY
Wednesday the 1st was a day of stocking up on water and stores and the issue of tobacco coupons (allowing 600 cigarettes per man per month or tobacco equivalent).
The ship's company were also addressed on Wednesday by the Captain (Lt Cdr Thornycroft) on the eve of his departure on appointment to HMS SEA EAGLE. His relief and new CO was Lt Cdr J K Martin.
On Sunday Lt Cdr B T Wortley RCNR joined the ship.
At 0930 on Monday the 6th 24 choirboys from Vanbrugh College* embarked before the ship sailed to carryout an anti-submarine exercise on the way to Harwich arriving at 1507. The weather the choirboys and everyone else had was W-SW Force 3-4 and 6/8ths cloud. Log 57nm On Tuesday the buoy was slipped just before 0900 after 65 GANGES Boys had embarked for a day at sea that included a full power trial. A return to harbour at 1541 had the GANGES Boys and the ship's 'Backward Swimmers' (not proficient) ashore to GANGES for training. Soon after Vanbrugh College choirboys went ashore to return to Greenwich. Log 43nm. Next morning 68 Boys were taken out this time to watch and help to moor ship off the Cork Lightvessel. Log 38nm. On Thursday another 56 Boys did the same and on Friday another 65 had their day at sea. Log 62nm. After that the ship fuelled and finished the day on No2 Buoy. The Whaler and Dinghy went afloat over the weekend for recreation.
* Vanbrugh College - Vanbrugh House was built and occupied by Sir John Vanbrugh in 1719 when he was Surveyor to the Royal Naval Hospital Greenwich. In 1953 it was a Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund run college educating the sons of RAF personnel killed in service. That ended in 1975 and it is now converted into private dwellings. (Pic. Greenwich Guide)
Wednesday was spent doing harbour training. The Gunnery School Class disembarked before the ship sailed at 0845 on Thursday to exercise on the way to secure on Dover POW Pier at 1645. Log 65nm. From there on Friday the ship's whaler and sailing dinghy went to the Royal Cinque Ports Yacht Club to compete in their afternoon races. The whaler's crew returned triumphant and the dinghy's crew, satisfied, with third place in their race. The ship was illuminated from 2130 to 2359 through the weekend and opened to visitors in the afternoon.
Departing at 0930 on Monday the 29th the ship was back on the Folly Point moorings at Gillingham by 1520
JULY
Wednesday the 1st was a day of stocking up on water and stores and the issue of tobacco coupons (allowing 600 cigarettes per man per month or tobacco equivalent).
The ship's company were also addressed on Wednesday by the Captain (Lt Cdr Thornycroft) on the eve of his departure on appointment to HMS SEA EAGLE. His relief and new CO was Lt Cdr J K Martin.
On Sunday Lt Cdr B T Wortley RCNR joined the ship.
At 0930 on Monday the 6th 24 choirboys from Vanbrugh College* embarked before the ship sailed to carryout an anti-submarine exercise on the way to Harwich arriving at 1507. The weather the choirboys and everyone else had was W-SW Force 3-4 and 6/8ths cloud. Log 57nm On Tuesday the buoy was slipped just before 0900 after 65 GANGES Boys had embarked for a day at sea that included a full power trial. A return to harbour at 1541 had the GANGES Boys and the ship's 'Backward Swimmers' (not proficient) ashore to GANGES for training. Soon after Vanbrugh College choirboys went ashore to return to Greenwich. Log 43nm. Next morning 68 Boys were taken out this time to watch and help to moor ship off the Cork Lightvessel. Log 38nm. On Thursday another 56 Boys did the same and on Friday another 65 had their day at sea. Log 62nm. After that the ship fuelled and finished the day on No2 Buoy. The Whaler and Dinghy went afloat over the weekend for recreation.
* Vanbrugh College - Vanbrugh House was built and occupied by Sir John Vanbrugh in 1719 when he was Surveyor to the Royal Naval Hospital Greenwich. In 1953 it was a Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund run college educating the sons of RAF personnel killed in service. That ended in 1975 and it is now converted into private dwellings. (Pic. Greenwich Guide)
Monday the 13th was spent cleaning and maintaining. Petty Officer Electrician Jennings left on Draft. On Tuesday About 90 GANGES Boys visited the ship in two separate groups during the Forenoon Watch. Underway at 1730 the ship darkened at 2110 for a night encounter exercise with BARROSA until 0054. It was 0340 Wednesday by the time Harwich No5 Buoy was taken up and 0550 when BARROSA came in. Log 163nm. After a Make and Mend both ships left harbour again just after 1900 to repeat the exercise returning to Harwich again around 0300 on Thursday morning. Log 95nm. During the Forenoon Watch two groups of 24 GANGES Boys each spent an hour in the ship. The Captain of BARROSA called from 1200 to 1230. At 1943 both ships were on their way to sea to defend themselves against E-Boat attacks which again ended soon after midnight allowing them to get back in at 0300 on Friday the 17th. Log 147nm Commodore Brown called on the Captain for half an hour at 1200. The ship's company went to Divisions at 1100 on Saturday and on Sunday the Captain HMS GANGES and Guests were entertained onboard at lunchtime.
At 0815 on Monday the 27th Commander in Chief, Nore Command was piped aboard and seven minutes later the ship was underway down the Medway. Securing in Harwich at 1220 the CinC disembarked. Log 65nm. On Tuesday the 4th Minesweeping Flotilla went to sea and Lt Richards RNVR joined OBDURATE. Returning to the ship at 1343 on Wednesday the CinC was taken back to disembark at Sheerness at 1804. Log 50nm. Lieutenant Commander G J Risdon RN joined the ship as Executive Officer (1st Lt) on Friday the 30th. Sailing at 1800 Dungeness was rounded at 2230 as the ship headed back to the Solent again this time to anchor off Cowes just after 0730 on Saturday. Log 162nm. A Shore-Patrol was landed at 2100 to encourage good behaviour ashore!
AUGUST
Throughout 'Cowes Week' ships were dressed overall during the day and illuminated in the evenings.
On Saturday the 1st of August Tobacco Coupons were issued; the Captain USS SPERRY called on the Captain and Leave was granted. Nineteen members of the 1st Newbury Scouts with a further 22 from the King Alfred School, Berkshire spent an hour onboard from 1245. The Captain left in the afternoon to call on the French, Belgian and US ships present before returning onboard to host a Cocktail Party from 1815 to 1945. A Patrol landed later. The ship opened to visitors from 1400 to 1800 on Sunday during which Cunard's SS CORONIA passed inwards for Southampton. At 1845 a body was recovered from the sea by the ship's motor boat and passed to the Police ten minutes later.
Throughout 'Cowes Week' ships were dressed overall during the day and illuminated in the evenings.
On Saturday the 1st of August Tobacco Coupons were issued; the Captain USS SPERRY called on the Captain and Leave was granted. Nineteen members of the 1st Newbury Scouts with a further 22 from the King Alfred School, Berkshire spent an hour onboard from 1245. The Captain left in the afternoon to call on the French, Belgian and US ships present before returning onboard to host a Cocktail Party from 1815 to 1945. A Patrol landed later. The ship opened to visitors from 1400 to 1800 on Sunday during which Cunard's SS CORONIA passed inwards for Southampton. At 1845 a body was recovered from the sea by the ship's motor boat and passed to the Police ten minutes later.
HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh arrived at Cowes in the Motor Yacht FAIRWOOD on Monday the 3rd. The escorting Fast Patrol Boat GAY FENCER then secured alongside OBDURATE. The Captain called on the Duke of Edinburgh at 1000 on Tuesday. Some BBC representatives came onboard at 1020. At 1150 the Commander in Chief, Portsmouth, Admiral Sir John Edelsten GCB GCVO CBE with Lord Camrose visited the ship. The ship's Cricket Team landed at 1340 and 401 visitors came aboard between 1400 and 1800. Although commonplace for Isle of Wight natives those visiting today were able to get a closer than normal look at the Cunard Liner RMS MAURETANIA as she headed for Southampton.
On Wednesday the ship's company were given a Make and Mend and Leave was granted from 1230 leaving the Duty Watch to deal with visitors again from 1400 to 1800. Both the Whaler and Dinghy went sailing on Thursday afternoon though there is no record of their events or placings.
The Captain, Officers, Quartermaster and Boatswains Mate were immaculate in their dress and procedures at 2025 when HRH The Duke of Edinburgh accompanied by the Commander in Chief and others was entertained on board. They left again at 2250. At 2310 GAY FENCER slipped to return to HMS HORNET at Gosport.
Divers were landed at 1345 on Friday returning at 1705. I don't know why but perhaps it was probably to aid the recovery of a regatta participant vessel or its contents. The CinC and Guests were onboard again through the evening. He also came back again at 0930 on Saturday this time for the departure of HRH at 1015 in the Royal Barge. On Sunday the 9th S/Lt Doulton and S/Lt Corder left the ship. For the last time the Shore Patrol landed at 2100.
On Wednesday the ship's company were given a Make and Mend and Leave was granted from 1230 leaving the Duty Watch to deal with visitors again from 1400 to 1800. Both the Whaler and Dinghy went sailing on Thursday afternoon though there is no record of their events or placings.
The Captain, Officers, Quartermaster and Boatswains Mate were immaculate in their dress and procedures at 2025 when HRH The Duke of Edinburgh accompanied by the Commander in Chief and others was entertained on board. They left again at 2250. At 2310 GAY FENCER slipped to return to HMS HORNET at Gosport.
Divers were landed at 1345 on Friday returning at 1705. I don't know why but perhaps it was probably to aid the recovery of a regatta participant vessel or its contents. The CinC and Guests were onboard again through the evening. He also came back again at 0930 on Saturday this time for the departure of HRH at 1015 in the Royal Barge. On Sunday the 9th S/Lt Doulton and S/Lt Corder left the ship. For the last time the Shore Patrol landed at 2100.
The Boom Defence Vessel BARNSDALE arrived early in the Forenoon on Monday the 10th to begin the removal of temporary moorings. At 1600 OBDURATE unmoored to come to a single anchor which was weighed at 2000 for the ship's return passage to Chatham. Arriving at Sheerness at 0820 they later moved up-river and locked into the Dockyard soon after 1400. Log 155nm. After Payment First Long Leave Party mustered at 1200 leaving those remaining onboard to set about cleaning and maintaining the ship with the help of Shore and Dockyard Staff. Moved into No 1 Basin on Friday the ship then docked down in No 8 Dock on Tuesday the 25th. The Captain, Chatham Gunnery School visited on the 26th. At Noon on the same day First Leave expired. Second Leave began on Thursday and on Saturday 11 Sea Cadets visited on an otherwise quiet routine home-port weekend.
SEPTEMBER
Tuesday the 1st saw Tobacco Coupons issued as usual and Midshipman Card RNR join the ship. On Wednesday the task of painting boot-topping - the black bit twixt the waterline and grey painted ships side - was the days work for some. In summer not too bad a job but definitely one to be avoided in the depths of winter! At 1130 a prisoner and escort landed and at 1415 the ship moved out into No2 Basin North wall with some 50 visiting RNVR officers and ratings onboard. Maintenance etc continued.
On Monday the 7th OBEDIENT was moved from No2 to No1 Basin as OBDURATE took on provisions and Naval Stores and continued towards completion of essential tasks and tidying. The Captain returned from Leave at 0900 on Friday and at 1150 Admiral Superintendent, Chatham visited the ship. That was a sure sign that shoreside assistance was coming to an end.
More stores, this time frozen, arrived on Monday the 15th and on Tuesday amidst lots of coming and going S/Lt Coward and Pugsley left the ship. In the middle of preparing for sea on Wednesday the ship's company was mustered at 1115 to be told the details of 'Exercise Mariner' that they were about to embark upon. At 1315 the ship was moved to South Lock then, stopping to pick-up a Hong Kong Target, continued down to secure on Sheerness No1 Buoy. Thursday was spent on the buoy running through drills etc. Underway at 0800 lines were secured on Parkeston Quay at 1220 and 24 mines were embarked through the afternoon. Log 43nm.
Commodore Harwich visited the ship on Saturday and on Sunday Divisions and Prayers took place
Tuesday the 1st saw Tobacco Coupons issued as usual and Midshipman Card RNR join the ship. On Wednesday the task of painting boot-topping - the black bit twixt the waterline and grey painted ships side - was the days work for some. In summer not too bad a job but definitely one to be avoided in the depths of winter! At 1130 a prisoner and escort landed and at 1415 the ship moved out into No2 Basin North wall with some 50 visiting RNVR officers and ratings onboard. Maintenance etc continued.
On Monday the 7th OBEDIENT was moved from No2 to No1 Basin as OBDURATE took on provisions and Naval Stores and continued towards completion of essential tasks and tidying. The Captain returned from Leave at 0900 on Friday and at 1150 Admiral Superintendent, Chatham visited the ship. That was a sure sign that shoreside assistance was coming to an end.
More stores, this time frozen, arrived on Monday the 15th and on Tuesday amidst lots of coming and going S/Lt Coward and Pugsley left the ship. In the middle of preparing for sea on Wednesday the ship's company was mustered at 1115 to be told the details of 'Exercise Mariner' that they were about to embark upon. At 1315 the ship was moved to South Lock then, stopping to pick-up a Hong Kong Target, continued down to secure on Sheerness No1 Buoy. Thursday was spent on the buoy running through drills etc. Underway at 0800 lines were secured on Parkeston Quay at 1220 and 24 mines were embarked through the afternoon. Log 43nm.
Commodore Harwich visited the ship on Saturday and on Sunday Divisions and Prayers took place
Monday the 21st was spent in harbour. Before sailing at 1300 on Tuesday for 'Mariner' some BBC Observers were embarked. At midnight the ship was 50nm East of Flamborough Head. Log 125nm. Continuing north through Wednesday they were some 40nm east of the Orkneys by midnight. Log 289nm. At 0840 on Thursday OBDURATE took station astern of APOLLO off the northern tip of the Shetland Islands. 'Mariner' began after OBDURATE closed the stern of Apollo to receive a Letter at 1500. Log (2359 Thursday) 221nm Darkened overnight and manoeuvring together at speed the exercises took the ships variously to Action and Defence Stations with Shackleton aircraft in the area as they advanced during Friday to the minelaying positions. Log (2359 Friday) 243nm. At Action and Minelaying Stations the first line of Mines was laid at 1400-1448 on Saturday. The next line was laid between 2100 and 2139. On completion speed was increased to 25kts to clear the laying area and Action Stations stood down at 2359. Log 152nm. At 0147 Sunday the 'enemy' was engaged with Starshells. A shadowing Avenger aircraft was engaged with Main and Bofors armaments at 0820 and the ships then had to defend themselves as strike aircraft attacked at 0945. Action Stations fell out to be replaced by Defence Stations at 1045 but at 1241 they were back at Action Stations until 1340 and again at 1420 fending off further air attacks. Cruising Stations was piped at 1530 as the ships made for the next mining position where laying continued from 2205 to 2300. OBDURATE was now released to act independently of APOLLO. Log 390nm.
HMS APOLLO (1944-1962) Fast (40kts) minelayer able to more than 150 mines and prepare them in the warm & dry rather than on the upper deck as in OBDURATE.
Special Sea Dutymen closed up at 0700 on Monday the 28th to enter the Dutch Naval Base at Den Helder to fuel. Log 87nm. Slipping at 1835 they arrived at Imperator Quay No7 at Cuxhaven the next morning. Log 124nm. Underway at 0705 on Wednesday the task was to lay another protective line of six Mines.
OCTOBER
Minelaying was completed by 0425 on Thursday the 1st of October and the ship headed back to Den Helder arriving at 1015 to oil, store, water, and get some rest. Log 369nm.Tobacco Coupons were issued on Friday before sailing at 2000. 2230 Action Stations, 2333 Speed 22kts reduced to 10kts at 2356 in thick fog. At 0012 on Saturday blind bombardment of the 'enemy' commenced and recommenced after changing position. By 0332 the ship was at Minelaying Stations NW of Flushing where a final line of mines was laid before heading back up to secure in Den Helder at 0900 on Sunday. Log 251nm. 1900 Underway to sea. At 2115 the ship was caught in an aircraft's searchlight beam and went to Action Stations until 0120 Monday.
At 0130 'Exercise Mariner' was completed. Then in position some 50nm West of Ijmuiden course was altered to 225 degrees and speed increased to 20kts. By 0900 OBDURATE had secured to No3 Buoy Sheerness. Log 176n. HM Customs boarded at 0925. "Anything to Declare"? They had been 'foreign' but had hardly had time to sleep never mind bring back 'rabbits' (presents/gifts) nevertheless Customs didn't leave the ship until 1050!
Minelaying was completed by 0425 on Thursday the 1st of October and the ship headed back to Den Helder arriving at 1015 to oil, store, water, and get some rest. Log 369nm.Tobacco Coupons were issued on Friday before sailing at 2000. 2230 Action Stations, 2333 Speed 22kts reduced to 10kts at 2356 in thick fog. At 0012 on Saturday blind bombardment of the 'enemy' commenced and recommenced after changing position. By 0332 the ship was at Minelaying Stations NW of Flushing where a final line of mines was laid before heading back up to secure in Den Helder at 0900 on Sunday. Log 251nm. 1900 Underway to sea. At 2115 the ship was caught in an aircraft's searchlight beam and went to Action Stations until 0120 Monday.
At 0130 'Exercise Mariner' was completed. Then in position some 50nm West of Ijmuiden course was altered to 225 degrees and speed increased to 20kts. By 0900 OBDURATE had secured to No3 Buoy Sheerness. Log 176n. HM Customs boarded at 0925. "Anything to Declare"? They had been 'foreign' but had hardly had time to sleep never mind bring back 'rabbits' (presents/gifts) nevertheless Customs didn't leave the ship until 1050!
22 officers and 15 ratings from the Gunnery School arrived onboard five minutes before the ship sailed at 1015 on Monday the 5th. The target was dropped at 1326 and 4" shoots were carried out until 1620. Recovering the target the ship headed back to pick up No5 Buoy Sheerness at 2002 and land the trainees. Log 105nm. Tuesday and Wednesday were spent on the buoy cleaning and maintaining. On Thursday Warrant No3 was read. Ammunition barges arrived on Friday but it was also payday and LWE Leave was given. On Saturday 206T of fuel oil and 6T of diesel was taken in as SWE Leave began leaving the Duty Watch to look after things.
Underway at 0954 on Monday the 12th the ship's own gun crews used them this time before arriving at No1 Harwich at 1655. Log 64nm. The customary 0900 sailing on Tuesday gave 65 GANGES Boys a taste of ship life that ended just after 1530. On Wednesday 69 Boys watched gun firings before anchoring at 1345 then a return to harbour at 1530. A similar number of Boys on Thursday witnessed X gun and the Bofors gun on the quarterdeck fired before anchoring for an hour prior to returning to harbour as usual. Log 125nm. Sailing at 0900 Friday the ship made No1 Sheerness at 1256 to take oil and water and give Starboard Watch Long Weekend Leave and 2nd of Port Watch Night Leave. Log 40nm. Lt J Reid RNR(PS) joined the ship on Sunday.
0952 Monday the 19th slipped on passage to Dover arriving Prince of Wales Pier at 1438. Log 35nm. The Captain made an official call on the Mayor in the afternoon. On Tuesday the Mayor visited the ship. 1550 STEEPHOLM entered harbour. 1700 Leading Steward Jones S/BX136779 was placed in the charge of a Sentry and later under close arrest. On Wednesday the Mayor and Mayoress were entertained to Lunch onboard. At 1430 the ship's own Boy Seamen went to 4" Gun Drill on 'B' gun. Fuel and water on Thursday set the ship's draught down to 12' Forward and 15'6" Aft before sailing at 1149 for Sheerness where No1 Buoy was picked up at 1610. Log 40nm.
On Friday Hands were employed cleaning ship. It was also Payday and the Captain carried out Messdeck Rounds. The Tug SAMSONIA came in on Saturday as OBDURATE went to Divisions in No2's with Medals. Short WE Leave was granted from 1200. At 2200 the ship's Motor Boat towed and assisted a Thames Barge in difficulties off Grain Spit. Sub Lieutenant D C Lee left the ship on Sunday.
0952 Monday the 19th slipped on passage to Dover arriving Prince of Wales Pier at 1438. Log 35nm. The Captain made an official call on the Mayor in the afternoon. On Tuesday the Mayor visited the ship. 1550 STEEPHOLM entered harbour. 1700 Leading Steward Jones S/BX136779 was placed in the charge of a Sentry and later under close arrest. On Wednesday the Mayor and Mayoress were entertained to Lunch onboard. At 1430 the ship's own Boy Seamen went to 4" Gun Drill on 'B' gun. Fuel and water on Thursday set the ship's draught down to 12' Forward and 15'6" Aft before sailing at 1149 for Sheerness where No1 Buoy was picked up at 1610. Log 40nm.
On Friday Hands were employed cleaning ship. It was also Payday and the Captain carried out Messdeck Rounds. The Tug SAMSONIA came in on Saturday as OBDURATE went to Divisions in No2's with Medals. Short WE Leave was granted from 1200. At 2200 the ship's Motor Boat towed and assisted a Thames Barge in difficulties off Grain Spit. Sub Lieutenant D C Lee left the ship on Sunday.
Underway to sea again at 1010 on Monday the 26th for more gun firings Harwich No1 Buoy was picked up at 1800. Log 64nm. GANGES Boys sea training on Tuesday (73), Wednesday (70) and Thursday (67) followed the usual pattern of departing about 0900 and returning about 1530. Tasks demonstrated in addition to anchoring included firings, seaboat launching and towing. Log 85nm. An 0800 Friday sailing got the ship back to Sheerness No3 just after 1200 to top up ammunition. Log 46nm. Lt Reid left the ship. Night Leave granted Friday and on Saturday the 31st.
NOVEMBER
Church on Sunday the 1st and Pipedown at 1200 started the day as usual. Then the Pipe 'Special Sea Dutymen close-up, close all 'X' & 'Y' openings' heralded another departure to sea at 1950.
The anchor was dropped at 1115 on Monday for dinner. On completion OBDURATE weighed to head for the exercise areas off the Isle of Wight to carryout gun firings at a target towed by the Portsmouth Tug ALLIGATOR.
Completed at 1832 the ship entered harbour to secure on VERULUM at 2019. Log 224nm. Slipping at 0557 Tuesday was spent chasing and avoiding HM Submarine ARTFUL in anti-submarine exercises which included practice torpedo firings before anchoring for the night in Spithead at 1826. Log 84nm. The process was repeated from 0530 to 1200 on Wednesday. In the afternoon the Bofors (40mm) gun was used to fire at an aircraft towed sleeve target between 1330 and 1520. Arriving alongside BOXER in Portsmouth Dockyard at 1700 Wing Commander Hamilton RAF joined. Log 117nm. An 0630 sailing on Thursday led into another anti-submarine exercise this time with Sub ACHERON that ended at 1115. Returning to harbour a short stay followed. Log 40nm. Underway again at 2000 thick fog was encountered but by midnight the ship was SW of the Needles heading down Channel to anchor in Plymouth Sound just before 0800 on Friday. Log 90nm. Surgeon Lt R W O'Brien joined here and the ship's company mustered for fortnightly pay. Leaving harbour at 1430 Officer of the Watch manoeuvres took place during the Dog Watches.
The aircraft carrier HMS GLORY was met on Saturday morning and at 1030 flew off aircraft which then became the attacking enemy keeping everyone busy until exercise completion at 1530. OBDURATE took up guardship station on GLORY through the night. At 0800 on Sunday the ship closed up on GLORY for a fuel replenishment which continued until 0942. A Light Jackstay transfer with the carrier was made in the late afternoon as the ships headed south.
Church on Sunday the 1st and Pipedown at 1200 started the day as usual. Then the Pipe 'Special Sea Dutymen close-up, close all 'X' & 'Y' openings' heralded another departure to sea at 1950.
The anchor was dropped at 1115 on Monday for dinner. On completion OBDURATE weighed to head for the exercise areas off the Isle of Wight to carryout gun firings at a target towed by the Portsmouth Tug ALLIGATOR.
Completed at 1832 the ship entered harbour to secure on VERULUM at 2019. Log 224nm. Slipping at 0557 Tuesday was spent chasing and avoiding HM Submarine ARTFUL in anti-submarine exercises which included practice torpedo firings before anchoring for the night in Spithead at 1826. Log 84nm. The process was repeated from 0530 to 1200 on Wednesday. In the afternoon the Bofors (40mm) gun was used to fire at an aircraft towed sleeve target between 1330 and 1520. Arriving alongside BOXER in Portsmouth Dockyard at 1700 Wing Commander Hamilton RAF joined. Log 117nm. An 0630 sailing on Thursday led into another anti-submarine exercise this time with Sub ACHERON that ended at 1115. Returning to harbour a short stay followed. Log 40nm. Underway again at 2000 thick fog was encountered but by midnight the ship was SW of the Needles heading down Channel to anchor in Plymouth Sound just before 0800 on Friday. Log 90nm. Surgeon Lt R W O'Brien joined here and the ship's company mustered for fortnightly pay. Leaving harbour at 1430 Officer of the Watch manoeuvres took place during the Dog Watches.
The aircraft carrier HMS GLORY was met on Saturday morning and at 1030 flew off aircraft which then became the attacking enemy keeping everyone busy until exercise completion at 1530. OBDURATE took up guardship station on GLORY through the night. At 0800 on Sunday the ship closed up on GLORY for a fuel replenishment which continued until 0942. A Light Jackstay transfer with the carrier was made in the late afternoon as the ships headed south.
By 0400 on Monday the ships were rounding Cape St Vincent. Flying operations through the day didn't end until 2000 and two hours later OBDURATE was approaching No47 Berth in Gibraltar where she had last visited in 1943. Log 974nm. Leave was given on Tuesday and Wednesday enabling most to get a run ashore in. The Captain of the survey ship DALRYMPLE visited the ship on Wednesday and the submarines AMBUSH and THERMOPYLAE were amongst the vessels moving around.
At 0800 on Thursday OBDURATE had recovered her lines and was leaving harbour on her way back up to the UK and Harwich. On the way Damage Control exercises with smoke and gas were carried out.
Arrival at Harwich at 0810 on Monday the 16th had HM Customs officers onboard within 15 minutes to clear the ship. Log 1131nm. Once that was done Wg Cdr Hamilton and Surg Lt O'Brien left the ship and so too did Lt Cdr Soper as fuel, water and fresh provisions were taken on. The Captain of CROSSBOW came onboard at 1120 and left again at 1250 and at 1435 OBDURATE was on the way once more to Patrol unlit and to defend herself against E Boat attacks. 'Battle' ended with Action Stations standing down and lights being switched on at 2240 but it was 0240 Tuesday before the ship got to anchor off Cork LV. After staying there through the Forenoon they then made Harwich No1 at 1330. Log 205nm. Wednesday was, gratefully, a harbour day of cleaning and maintaining.
At 0800 on Thursday OBDURATE had recovered her lines and was leaving harbour on her way back up to the UK and Harwich. On the way Damage Control exercises with smoke and gas were carried out.
Arrival at Harwich at 0810 on Monday the 16th had HM Customs officers onboard within 15 minutes to clear the ship. Log 1131nm. Once that was done Wg Cdr Hamilton and Surg Lt O'Brien left the ship and so too did Lt Cdr Soper as fuel, water and fresh provisions were taken on. The Captain of CROSSBOW came onboard at 1120 and left again at 1250 and at 1435 OBDURATE was on the way once more to Patrol unlit and to defend herself against E Boat attacks. 'Battle' ended with Action Stations standing down and lights being switched on at 2240 but it was 0240 Tuesday before the ship got to anchor off Cork LV. After staying there through the Forenoon they then made Harwich No1 at 1330. Log 205nm. Wednesday was, gratefully, a harbour day of cleaning and maintaining.
Trinity House Flagship PATRICIA (1938?-1983) and the GALLOPER Lightship a frequent Thames Estuary reference beacon for OBDURATE though not the neighbour that CORK and OUTER GABBARD lightships so often were.
Back to sea again at 1430 on Thursday for another E Boat exercise, this time with aircraft as well, meant variously Action and Defence Stations until 2315. The anchor was dropped off the Shipwash LV at 0325. Log 151nm. Weighing at 1620 on Friday to repeat the exercise a return to Harwich No1 Buoy was made at 0145 on Saturday. Log 100nm. Half an hour later CROSSBOW overshot as she came alongside and fouled her rudder/propeller on the buoy. Immediate efforts between 0215 and 0350 failed to clear it but CROSSBOW's diver did so later. On Sunday OBDURATE slipped at 0800 to head south to Patrol in the Sandettie area anchoring there on completion at 2300. Log 134nm.
Weighing anchor at 0715 on Monday the 23rd the ship continued her patrol before making her way back to arrive on Harwich No4 at 2024. Log 129nm. Tuesday's Patrol area off the Suffolk coast ended with the ship anchoring off the Cork LV at 2215. At 0900 on Wednesday the ship got underway to carry out 'Leader (or Header) Cable' trials. (*Any knowledge please?). 0946 Steering by 'cable'. Cable lost and then another run made before Bridge steering at 1018. Special 'cable' trials - electrodes carried away.
1640 'Cable' trials completed. 1830 'Garage' convoy exercise until 2025 then to anchor off the Cork LV at 2330. Log 264nm. Weighed anchor at 0843 on Thursday to go in to Parkeston Quay for fuel from 0930 before moving to No4 Buoy at 1125. Leaving at 1310 on Friday No3 Buoy at Sheerness was picked up just after 1700. Log 83nm. On Saturday OBDURATE provided the Shore Patrol at 1920. Sunday followed the normal pattern of Clean, Prayers and Pipe-down.
On Monday the 30th the tug GRAPESHOT brought two ammunition-laden Lighters alongside and chain-gangs were formed to bring ammunition inboard.
Weighing anchor at 0715 on Monday the 23rd the ship continued her patrol before making her way back to arrive on Harwich No4 at 2024. Log 129nm. Tuesday's Patrol area off the Suffolk coast ended with the ship anchoring off the Cork LV at 2215. At 0900 on Wednesday the ship got underway to carry out 'Leader (or Header) Cable' trials. (*Any knowledge please?). 0946 Steering by 'cable'. Cable lost and then another run made before Bridge steering at 1018. Special 'cable' trials - electrodes carried away.
1640 'Cable' trials completed. 1830 'Garage' convoy exercise until 2025 then to anchor off the Cork LV at 2330. Log 264nm. Weighed anchor at 0843 on Thursday to go in to Parkeston Quay for fuel from 0930 before moving to No4 Buoy at 1125. Leaving at 1310 on Friday No3 Buoy at Sheerness was picked up just after 1700. Log 83nm. On Saturday OBDURATE provided the Shore Patrol at 1920. Sunday followed the normal pattern of Clean, Prayers and Pipe-down.
On Monday the 30th the tug GRAPESHOT brought two ammunition-laden Lighters alongside and chain-gangs were formed to bring ammunition inboard.
DECEMBER
OBDURATE slipped the buoy at 0810 on Tuesday the 1st to lock- in to Chatham Dockyard. No more sea time now in the run up to Christmas but a maintenance period instead. That translated to a lot of chipping and painting of masts, funnels, gun shields, decks and fittings. Heads and bathrooms as well as messdecks and store rooms were always given a good freshen up during these dockyard periods. Below decks mechanical and electrical care and maintenance went on in sometimes dark and cold and confined spaces. First Christmas Leave Party went away on the 14th. On the 17th the ship's anchors and cables were landed and laid out for inspection. First Leave came back on the 29th and the next day Second Leave went home.
On New Years Eve the Duty Watch spent an hour on essential tasks, had a couple cans of beer and looked - optimistically as matelots always do - forward to 1954. What they didn't then know was that I was about to join the RN!
OBDURATE slipped the buoy at 0810 on Tuesday the 1st to lock- in to Chatham Dockyard. No more sea time now in the run up to Christmas but a maintenance period instead. That translated to a lot of chipping and painting of masts, funnels, gun shields, decks and fittings. Heads and bathrooms as well as messdecks and store rooms were always given a good freshen up during these dockyard periods. Below decks mechanical and electrical care and maintenance went on in sometimes dark and cold and confined spaces. First Christmas Leave Party went away on the 14th. On the 17th the ship's anchors and cables were landed and laid out for inspection. First Leave came back on the 29th and the next day Second Leave went home.
On New Years Eve the Duty Watch spent an hour on essential tasks, had a couple cans of beer and looked - optimistically as matelots always do - forward to 1954. What they didn't then know was that I was about to join the RN!
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This HMS OBDURATE 1953 section first published online 2000 and since revised.