24 November 1944 Part 5

Continuation: 24 November 1944

15:45 — Casquets

On the south-east side of the Casquets there was such heavy surf that a landing appeared impossible. At first the north-east side also seemed impracticable. As the base commander nevertheless considered a landing possible, it was made on the north-east side after the south-east side had again been found unsuitable.

While landing, a heavy breaker swept over the inflatable dinghy. One man was thrown into the surf, but was rescued by a radio operator who jumped into the water. I subsequently awarded five Iron Crosses to the garrison. The soldiers were very grateful and receptive to my remarks.

After re-embarkation and circling the rocks, F.K. 01 was out of action for one and a half hours because of water in the fuel. Four attempts by F.K. 04 to tow her failed after short periods owing to the towlines or anchor chain parting. At 19:00 F.K. 01 was serviceable again.

T-1022 Roll 2423, PG 37998, Commander of Sea Defences, Channel Islands. Source scan 0090 — original page 266