22 October 1944 Part 37

Operational order: mining operation against the St Malo approaches

1. Task. S 112 is to mine the St Malo approaches during the night of 22/23 October 1944, departing Peter Port at 22:00.

2. Barrage position. (a) Three IMF [mine type retained as in original] across the St Malo approach, Chenal de la Grande Porte, abeam of the Les Buharats buoy and extending 600 metres eastwards. (b) Alternative position: covering bearing of the Chenal de la Grande Porte between the Les Buharats buoy and a point 0.75 nautical miles west. (c) Minimum spacing between mines: 280 metres.

3. Enemy information. (a) St Malo Bay is regularly patrolled by a corvette, or since 20 October by a motor vessel making 14 knots, within the triangle 48°45′ N, 1°52′ W / 48°44′ N, 2°12′ W / 48°52′ N, 2°21′ W. (b) An enemy signal station on the Îles Chausey is connected with the mainland. Employment of M.T.B. or M.G.B. groups following signal traffic and the showing of fire from Jersey has been observed from St Malo. (c) French fishermen may be encountered near Les Ardentes. (d) Enemy convoy traffic to St Malo proceeds approximately along 3°05′ W to Basse Maurice, then approaches Vieux Banc on a bearing of 145°. (e) Outpost position: one enemy destroyer in grid squares B.F. 2932 and B.F. 2933.

4. Own situation. (a) Maîtresse Island, Plateau des Minquiers, is occupied by our observation post and radio station; optical signalling is possible. (b) Our own mine barrage (controlled-line mines) extends approximately from 48°56′ N, 2°24′ W to 48°54′ N, 2°28′ W.

5. Outward route. From Martins Point steer west close inshore to 3°10′ W; then south to the latitude of Basse Maurice; then east to Basse Maurice and approximately 115° to off St Malo. Passage speed 30 knots; silent/creeping speed in the sea area off St Malo.

6. Return passage. (a) After completing the operation, return to Peter Port; diversion to St Helier is permitted. The route home is otherwise left to circumstances. (b) On passing 49° N, transmit the following short signal: if intending to enter Peter Port, ‘qqpe’; if intending to enter St Helier, ‘qqhl’ (see paragraph 7 of the communications order).

T-1022 Roll 2423, PG 37998, Commander of Sea Defences, Channel Islands. Source scan 0032 — Annex 1