PART III

OFFICIAL DISPATCHES

OFFICIAL DISPATCHES

I

DISPATCH OF THE ACTION OF H.M.S. "CARMANIA"

September 14th, 1914

The Secretary of the Admiralty communicates the following for publication. It is a narrative of the action in South Atlantic on September 14th, 1914, between H.M.S. _Carmania_ and the German armed merchant ship _Cap Trafalgar_:--

Shortly after 11 A.M. we made out a vessel, and on nearer approach we saw there were three vessels, one a large liner, the others colliers. The latter had derricks topped, and were probably working when we hove in sight. Before we had raised their hulls they had separated, and were making off in different directions. The large vessel was, apparently, about our own size, with two funnels painted to represent a Castle liner. After running away for a little while, the large steamer turned to starboard and headed towards us. She was then steering about south, and we were steering about south-west. The weather was fine and sunny, with a moderate breeze from the north-east. Our speed was 16 knots, and his apparently about 18. At 8,500 yards we fired a shot across his bows, and he immediately opened fire from his starboard after gun. We opened with all the port guns, and the firing became general. We were now well within range, and most of his shots went over. Consequently our rigging, masts, funnels, derricks, and ventilators all suffered. He was then well open on our port side. All our port guns and his starboard guns engaged, and firing became rapid. Owing to the decreasing range, his machine guns were becoming particularly dangerous, so the ship was turned away from him and the range opened. The ship continued to turn until the starboard battery was engaged.

Two of our hits were seen to take his deck steam pipes. He was well on fire forward, and had a slight list to starboard. One of his shells had passed through the cabin, under our forebridge, and although it did not burst, it started a fire which became rapidly worse, no water being available owing to the fire main having been shot through. The chemical fire extinguishers proving of very little use, the fire got such a firm hold that the forebridge had to be abandoned, and the ship conned from aft, using the lower steering position. At this time the enemy was on our starboard, with a heavy list to starboard, and at 1.50 P.M., or one hour and forty minutes from the firing of the first shot, she capsized to starboard and went down bows first, with colours flying. It was some time before we got the fire under, which necessitated keeping the ship before the wind, and consequently we could not go to the assistance of the survivors, some of whom got away in boats and were picked up by one of the colliers.

The enemy before sinking was in wireless communication with some German vessel, and as smoke was seen in the northern horizon and the signalman thought he could make out a cruiser's funnels, we went off full speed to the southward. When we were in touch with the _Cornwall_ all we asked him was to meet us, as the ship was unseaworthy and practically all communications and navigational instruments were destroyed, rendering the conning and navigation of the ship difficult and uncertain.

On the 15th, at 4.30 P.M., the _Bristol_ picked us up and escorted us until relieved by the _Cornwall_, who took us on to an anchorage to effect temporary repairs.

The following were decorated for their services during this engagement:

CAPTAIN NOEL GRANT, Royal Navy, awarded the C.B. He commanded and manœuvred the _Carmania_ throughout the action, and handled the ship with rare skill and judgment.

ACTING-COMMANDER JAMES C. BARR, Royal Naval Reserve, awarded the C.B. He was primarily concerned in getting the fire under, and prevented it spreading.

LIEUTENANT-COMMANDER E. L. B. LOCKYER, Royal Navy, awarded the D.S.O. Controlled the gun-fire in the most cool and efficient manner, after which he concentrated all his energy on extinguishing the fire.

CHIEF GUNNER HENRY MIDDLETON, Royal Navy, awarded the D.S.C. Did extremely well in charge of the ammunition parties, and encouraged his men by his personal behaviour and coolness.

ACTING SUB-LIEUTENANT G. F. DICKENS, Royal Naval Reserve, awarded the D.S.C. Saved vital parts of the Standard Compass when the bridge was abandoned, and then assisted in saving the charts.

MIDSHIPMAN D. N. COLSON, Royal Naval Reserve, awarded the D.S.C. Took the fire-hose into the Chart House, and in spite of being burned by falling wood, managed to pass the charts out to Sub-Lieutenant Dickens.

LIEUTENANT-COMMANDER W. J. O'NEIL and LIEUTENANT P. A. MURCHIE, of the Royal Naval Reserve, together with CHIEF-ENGINEER F. DRUMMOND and 2ND ENGINEER J. MCDONALD, were all specially mentioned in dispatches.

In addition to the above, twelve men were awarded the D.S.M. for various acts of gallantry.

II

DISPATCH OF THE ACTION FOUGHT OFF CORONEL

November 1st, 1914

THE NAVAL FIGHT OFF CHILE

The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that the following report has been received from H.M.S. _Glasgow_ (Captain John Luce, R.N.) concerning the recent action off the Chilean coast:--

_Glasgow_ left Coronel 9 A.M. on November 1 to rejoin _Good Hope_ (flagship), _Monmouth_, and _Otranto_ at rendezvous. At 2 P.M. flagship signalled that apparently from wireless calls there was an enemy ship to northward. Orders were given for squadron to spread N.E. by E. in the following order: _Good Hope_, _Monmouth_, _Otranto_, and _Glasgow_, speed to be worked up to 15 knots. 4.20 P.M. saw smoke; proved to be enemy ships, one small cruiser and two armoured cruisers. _Glasgow_ reported to Admiral, ships in sight were warned, and all concentrated on _Good Hope_. At 5 P.M. _Good Hope_ was sighted.

5.47 P.M., squadron formed in line-ahead in following order: _Good Hope_, _Monmouth_, _Glasgow_, _Otranto_. Enemy, who had turned south, were now in single line-ahead 12 miles off, _Scharnhorst_ and _Gneisenau_ leading. 6.18 P.M., speed ordered to 17 knots, and flagship signalled _Canopus_, 'I am going to attack enemy now.' Enemy were now 15,000 yards away and maintained this range, at the same time jambing wireless signals.

By this time sun was setting immediately behind us from enemy position, and while it remained above horizon we had advantage in light, but range too great. 6.55 P.M., sun set, and visibility conditions altered, our ships being silhouetted against afterglow, and failing light made enemy difficult to see.

7.3 P.M., enemy opened fire 12,000 yards, followed in quick succession by _Good Hope_, _Monmouth_, _Glasgow_. Two squadrons were now converging, and each ship engaged opposite number in the line. Growing darkness and heavy spray of head sea made firing difficult, particularly for main deck guns of _Good Hope_ and _Monmouth_. Enemy firing salvo got range quickly, and their third salvo caused fire to break out on fore part of both ships, which were constantly on fire till 7.45 P.M. 7.50 P.M., immense explosion occurred on _Good Hope_ amidships, flames reaching 200 feet high. Total destruction must have followed. It was now quite dark.

Both sides continued firing at flashes of opposing guns. _Monmouth_ was badly down by the bow and turned away to get stern to sea, signalling to _Glasgow_ to that effect. 8.30 P.M., _Glasgow_ signalled to _Monmouth_, 'Enemy following us,' but received no reply. Under rising moon enemy's ships were now seen approaching, and as _Glasgow_ could render _Monmouth_ no assistance, she proceeded at full speed to avoid destruction. 8.50 P.M., lost sight of enemy. 9.20 P.M., observed 75 flashes of fire, which was no doubt final attack on _Monmouth_.

Nothing could have been more admirable than conduct of officers and men throughout. Though it was most trying to receive great volume of fire without chance of returning it adequately, all kept perfectly cool, there was no wild firing, and discipline was the same as at battle practice. When target ceased to be visible, gunlayers spontaneously ceased fire. The serious reverse sustained has entirely failed to impair the spirit of officers and ship's company, and it is our unanimous wish to meet the enemy again as soon as possible.

III

OFFICIAL DISPATCH OF VICE-ADMIRAL COUNT VON SPEE

The following official report of the action fought off Coronel on November 1st appeared in the German Press, and is interesting in the light of being an accurate account as viewed by our enemies.

On comparing it with Captain Luce's account, it will be seen that the German clocks were about thirty minutes slow on our time. Other evidence also points to this conclusion:--

The squadron under my command, composed of the large cruisers _Scharnhorst_ and _Gneisenau_, and the small cruisers _Nürnberg_, _Leipzig_, and _Dresden_, reached on November 1st a point about twenty sea miles from the Chilean coast, in order to attack a British cruiser which, according to trustworthy information, had reached the locality on the previous evening. On the way to the spot the small cruisers were several times thrown out on the flanks to observe steamers and sailing ships.

At 4.15 P.M. the _Nürnberg_, which was detached on one of these missions, was lost sight of to the north-east, while the _Dresden_ remained about twelve sea miles behind. With the bulk of the fleet, I was about forty miles north of Arauco Bay. At 4.17 P.M. there were sighted to the south-west at first two ships, and then at 4.25 P.M. a third ship about fifteen miles away. Two of them were identified as warships, and were presumed to be the _Monmouth_ and _Glasgow_, while the third was evidently the auxiliary cruiser _Otranto_. They, too, seemed to be on a southerly course. The squadron steamed at full speed in pursuit, keeping the enemy four points to the starboard. The wind was south, force 6, with a correspondingly high sea, so that I had to be careful not to be manœuvred into a lee position. Moreover, the course chosen helped to cut off the enemy from the neutral coast.

About 4.35 P.M. it was seen that the enemy ships were steering to the west, and I gradually changed my course south-west, the _Scharnhorst_ working up 22 knots, while the _Gneisenau_ and the _Leipzig_ slowed down. The enemy's numerous wireless messages were 'jammed' as far as possible.

At 5.20 the arrival of another warship was reported which took the head of the line, and was identified as the _Good Hope_, the flagship of Rear-Admiral Cradock.

The enemy ships now got into battle formation, hoisted their mast-head flags, and tried slowly to approach a southerly course. From 5.35 P.M. onwards I held to a south-westerly course, and later to southerly course, and reduced speed to enable my own ships to come up. At 6.7 both lines--except _Dresden_, which was about one mile astern, and the _Nürnberg_, which was at a considerable distance--were on an almost parallel southerly course, the distance separating them being 135 hectometres (14,760 yards).

At 6.20, when at a distance of 124 hectometres, I altered my course one point towards the enemy, and at 6.34 opened fire at a range of 104 hectometres. There was a head wind and sea, and the ships rolled and pitched heavily, particularly the small cruisers, on both sides.

Observation and range-finding work was most difficult, the seas sweeping over the forecastles and conning-towers, and preventing the use of some guns on the middle decks, the crews of which were never able to see the sterns of their opponents, and only occasionally their bows. On the other hand, the guns of the two armoured cruisers worked splendidly, and were well served.

At 6.39 the first hit was recorded in the _Good Hope_. Shortly afterwards the British opened fire. I am of opinion that they suffered more from the heavy seas than we did. Both their armoured cruisers, with the shortening range and the failing light, were practically covered by our fire, while they themselves, so far as can be ascertained at present, only hit the _Scharnhorst_ twice and the _Gneisenau_ four times. At 6.53, when at a distance of 60 hectometres, I sheered off a point.

The enemy's artillery at this time was firing more slowly, while we were able to observe numerous hits. Among other things, it was seen that the roof of the fore double turret was carried away, and that a fierce fire was started in the turret. The _Scharnhorst_ reckons thirty-five hits on the _Good Hope_.

As the distance, in spite of our change of course, had now decreased to 49 hectometres, it was to be presumed that the enemy doubted the success of his artillery, and was manœuvring for torpedo firing. The position of the moon, which had risen about six o'clock, favoured this manœuvre. At about 7.45, therefore, I gradually sheered off. In the meantime, darkness had set in, and the range-finders in the _Scharnhorst_ for the moment used the reflections of the fires which had broken out in the _Good Hope_ to estimate the distances; gradually, however, range-finding and observation became so difficult that we ceased fire at 7.26.

At 7.23 a big explosion was observed between the funnels of the _Good Hope_. So far as I could see, the ship did not fire after that. The _Monmouth_ seems to have stopped firing at 7.20.

The small cruisers, including the _Nürnberg_, which came up in the meantime, were by 'wireless' at 7.30 to pursue the enemy and make a torpedo attack. At this time rain squalls limited the range of vision. The small cruisers were not able to find the _Good Hope_, but the _Nürnberg_ came upon the _Monmouth_, which, badly damaged, crossed her bows and tried to come alongside. At 8.58 the _Nürnberg_ sank her by a bombardment at point-blank range.

The _Monmouth_ did not reply, but she went down with her flag flying. There was no chance of saving anybody owing to the heavy sea, especially as the _Nürnberg_ sighted smoke, and believed that another enemy ship was approaching, which she prepared to attack.

At the beginning of the fight the _Otranto_ made off. The _Glasgow_ was able to keep up her harmless fire longer than her consorts maintained theirs, and she then escaped in the darkness.

The _Leipzig_ and the _Dresden_ believe that they hit her several times. The small cruisers sustained neither loss of life nor damage. The _Gneisenau_ had two slightly wounded. The crews went into the fight with enthusiasm. Every man did his duty, and contributed to the victory.

IV

DISPATCH OF THE BATTLE OF THE FALKLAND ISLANDS

December 8th, 1914

ADMIRAL STURDEE'S DISPATCH

_Admiralty, 3rd March, 1915._

The following dispatch has been received from Vice-Admiral Sir F. C. Doveton Sturdee, K.C.B., C.V.O., C.M.G., reporting the action off the Falkland Islands on Tuesday, the 8th of December, 1914:--

_Invincible at Sea, December 19th, 1914._

SIR,

I have the honour to forward a report on the action which took place on 8th December, 1914, against a German Squadron off the Falkland Islands.

I have the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient Servant, F. C. D. STURDEE, _Vice-Admiral, Commander-in-Chief_.

_The Secretary, Admiralty._

(A)--PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS

The squadron, consisting of H.M. ships _Invincible_, flying my flag, Flag Captain Percy T. H. Beamish; _Inflexible_, Captain Richard F. Phillimore; _Carnarvon_, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral Archibald P. Stoddart, Flag Captain Harry L. d'E. Skipwith; _Cornwall_, Captain Walter M. Ellerton; Kent, Captain John D. Allen; _Glasgow_, Captain John Luce; _Bristol_, Captain Basil H. Fanshawe; and _Macedonia_, Captain Bertram S. Evans; arrived at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, at 10.30 A.M. on Monday, the 7th December, 1914. Coaling was commenced at once, in order that the ships should be ready to resume the search for the enemy's squadron the next evening, the 8th December.

At 8 A.M. on Tuesday, the 8th December, a signal was received from the signal station on shore:

"A four-funnel and two-funnel man-of-war in sight from Sapper Hill, steering northwards."

At this time, the positions of the various ships of the squadron were as follows:

_Macedonia_--At anchor as look-out ship. _Kent_ (guard ship)--At anchor in Port William. _Invincible_ and _Inflexible_--In Port William. _Carnarvon_--In Port William. _Cornwall_--In Port William. _Glasgow_--In Port Stanley. _Bristol_--In Port Stanley.

The _Kent_ was at once ordered to weigh, and a general signal was made to raise steam for full speed.

At 8.20 A.M. the signal station reported another column of smoke in sight to the southward, and at 8.45 A.M. the _Kent_ passed down the harbour and took up a station at the entrance.

The _Canopus_, Captain Heathcoat S. Grant, reported at 8.47 A.M. that the first two ships were 8 miles off, and that the smoke reported at 8.20 A.M. appeared to be the smoke of two ships about 20 miles off.

At 8.50 A.M. the signal station reported a further column of smoke in sight to the southward.

The _Macedonia_ was ordered to weigh anchor on the inner side of the other ships, and await orders.

At 9.20 A.M. the two leading ships of the enemy (_Gneisenau_ and _Nürnberg_), with guns trained on the wireless station, came within range of the _Canopus_, who opened fire at them across the low land at a range of 11,000 yards. The enemy at once hoisted their colours and turned away. At this time the masts and smoke of the enemy were visible from the upper bridge of the _Invincible_ at a range of approximately 17,000 yards across the low land to the south of Port William.

A few minutes later the two cruisers altered course to port, as though to close the _Kent_ at the entrance to the harbour, but about this time it seems that the _Invincible_ and _Inflexible_ were seen over the land, as the enemy at once altered course and increased speed to join their consorts.

The _Glasgow_ weighed and proceeded at 9.40 A.M. with orders to join the _Kent_ and observe the enemy's movements.

At 9.45 A.M. the squadron--less the _Bristol_--weighed, and proceeded out of harbour in the following order: _Carnarvon_, _Inflexible_, _Invincible_, and _Cornwall_. On passing Cape Pembroke Light, the five ships of the enemy appeared clearly in sight to the south-east, hull down. The visibility was at its maximum, the sea was calm, with a bright sun, a clear sky, and a light breeze from the north-west.

At 10.20 A.M. the signal for a general chase was made. The battle-cruisers quickly passed ahead of the _Carnarvon_ and overtook the _Kent_. The _Glasgow_ was ordered to keep two miles from the _Invincible_, and the _Inflexible_ was stationed on the starboard quarter of the flagship. Speed was eased to 20 knots at 11.15 A.M. to enable the other cruisers to get into station.

At this time the enemy's funnels and bridges showed just above the horizon.

Information was received from the _Bristol_ at 11.27 A.M. that three enemy ships had appeared off Port Pleasant, probably colliers or transports. The _Bristol_ was therefore directed to take the _Macedonia_ under his orders and destroy transports.

The enemy were still maintaining their distance, and I decided, at 12.20 P.M., to attack with the two battle-cruisers and the _Glasgow_.

At 12.47 P.M. the signal to "Open fire and engage the enemy" was made.

The _Inflexible_ opened fire at 12.55 P.M. from her fore turret at the right-hand ship of the enemy, a light cruiser; a few minutes later the _Invincible_ opened fire at the same ship.

The deliberate fire from a range of 16,500 to 15,000 yards at the right-hand light cruiser, who was dropping astern, became too threatening, and when a shell fell close alongside her at 1.20 P.M. she (the _Leipzig_) turned away, with the _Nürnberg_ and _Dresden_ to the south-west. These light cruisers were at once followed by the _Kent_, _Glasgow_, and _Cornwall_, in accordance with my instructions.

The action finally developed into three separate encounters, besides the subsidiary one dealing with the threatened landing.

(B)--ACTION WITH THE ARMOURED CRUISERS

The fire of the battle-cruisers was directed on the _Scharnhorst_ and _Gneisenau_. The effect of this was quickly seen, when at 1.25 P.M., with the _Scharnhorst_ leading, they turned about 7 points to port in succession into line-ahead and opened fire at 1.30 P.M. Shortly afterwards speed was eased to 24 knots, and the battle-cruisers were ordered to turn together, bringing them into line-ahead, with the _Invincible_ leading.

The range was about 13,500 yards at the final turn, and increased until, at 2 P.M., it had reached 16,450 yards.

The enemy then (2.10 P.M.) turned away about 10 points to starboard and a second chase ensued, until, at 2.45 P.M., the battle-cruisers again opened fire; this caused the enemy, at 2.53 P.M., to turn into line-ahead to port and open fire at 2.55 P.M.

The _Scharnhorst_ caught fire forward, but not seriously, and her fire slackened perceptibly; the _Gneisenau_ was badly hit by the _Inflexible_.

At 3.30 P.M. the _Scharnhorst_ led round about 10 points to starboard; just previously her fire had slackened perceptibly, and one shell had shot away her third funnel; some guns were not firing, and it would appear that the turn was dictated by a desire to bring her starboard guns into action. The effect of the fire on the _Scharnhorst_ became more and more apparent in consequence of smoke from fires, and also escaping steam; at times a shell would cause a large hole to appear in her side, through which could be seen a dull red glow of flame. At 4.4 P.M. the _Scharnhorst_, whose flag remained flying to the last, suddenly listed heavily to port, and within a minute it became clear that she was a doomed ship; for the list increased very rapidly until she lay on her beam ends, and at 4.17 P.M. she disappeared.

The _Gneisenau_ passed on the far side of her late flagship, and continued a determined but ineffectual effort to fight the two battle-cruisers.

At 5.8 P.M. the forward funnel was knocked over and remained resting against the second funnel. She was evidently in serious straits, and her fire slackened very much.

At 5.15 P.M. one of the _Gneisenau's_ shells struck the _Invincible_; this was her last effective effort.

At 5.30 P.M. she turned towards the flagship with a heavy list to starboard, and appeared stopped, with steam pouring from her escape pipes and smoke from shell and fires rising everywhere. About this time I ordered the signal "Cease fire," but before it was hoisted the _Gneisenau_ opened fire again, and continued to fire from time to time with a single gun.

At 5.40 P.M. the three ships closed in on the _Gneisenau_, and at this time the flag flying at her fore truck was apparently hauled down, but the flag at the peak continued flying.

At 5.50 P.M. "Cease fire" was made.

At 6 P.M. the _Gneisenau_ heeled over very suddenly, showing the men gathered on her decks and then walking on her side as she lay for a minute on her beam ends before sinking.

The prisoners of war from the _Gneisenau_ report that, by the time the ammunition was expended, some 600 men had been killed and wounded. The surviving officers and men were all ordered on deck and told to provide themselves with hammocks and any articles that could support them in the water.

When the ship capsized and sank there were probably some 200 unwounded survivors in the water, but, owing to the shock of the cold water, many were drowned within sight of the boats and ship.

Every effort was made to save life as quickly as possible both by boats and from the ships; life-buoys were thrown and ropes lowered, but only a proportion could be rescued. The _Invincible_ alone rescued 108 men, 14 of whom were found to be dead after being brought on board; these men were buried at sea the following day with full military honours.

(C)--ACTION WITH THE LIGHT CRUISERS

At about 1 P.M., when the _Scharnhorst_ and _Gneisenau_ turned to port to engage the _Invincible_ and _Inflexible_, the enemy's light cruisers turned to starboard to escape; the _Dresden_ was leading and the _Nürnberg_ and _Leipzig_ followed on each quarter.

In accordance with my instructions, the _Glasgow_, _Kent_, and _Cornwall_ at once went in chase of these ships; the _Carnarvon_, whose speed was insufficient to overtake them, closed the battle-cruisers.

The _Glasgow_ drew well ahead of the _Cornwall_ and _Kent_, and at 3 P.M. shots were exchanged with the _Leipzig_ at 12,000 yards. The _Glasgow's_ object was to endeavour to outrange the _Leipzig_ with her 6-inch guns and thus cause her to alter coarse and give the _Cornwall_ and _Kent_ a chance of coming into action.

At 4.17 P.M. the _Cornwall_ opened fire, also on the _Leipzig_.

At 7.17 P.M. the _Leipzig_ was on fire fore and aft, and the _Cornwall_ and _Glasgow_ ceased fire.

The _Leipzig_ turned over on her port side and disappeared at 9 P.M. Seven officer and eleven men were saved.

At 3.36 P.M. the _Cornwall_ ordered the _Kent_ to engage the _Nürnberg_, the nearest cruiser to her.

Owing to the excellent and strenuous efforts of the engine room department, the _Kent_ was able to get within range of the _Nürnberg_ at 5 P.M. At 6.35 P.M. the _Nürnberg_ was on fire forward and ceased firing. The KENT also ceased firing and closed to 3,300 yards; as the colours were still observed to be flying in the _Nürnberg_, the _Kent_ opened fire again. Fire was finally stopped five minutes later on the colours being hauled down, and every preparation was made to save life. The _Nürnberg_ sank at 7.27 P.M., and as she sank a group of men were waving a German ensign attached to a staff. Twelve men were rescued, but only seven survived.

The _Kent_ had four killed and twelve wounded, mostly caused by one shell.

During the time the three cruisers were engaged with the _Nürnberg_ and _Leipzig_, the _Dresden_, who was beyond her consorts, effected her escape owing to her superior speed. The _Glasgow_ was the only cruiser with sufficient speed to have had any chance of success. However, she was fully employed in engaging the _Leipzig_ for over an hour before either the _Cornwall_ or _Kent_ could come up and get within range. During this time the _Dresden_ was able to increase her distance and get out of sight.

The weather changed after 4 P.M., and the visibility was much reduced; further, the sky was overcast and cloudy, thus assisting the _Dresden_ to get away unobserved.

(D)--ACTION WITH THE ENEMY'S TRANSPORTS

A report was received at 11.27 A.M. from H.M.S. _Bristol_ that three ships of the enemy, probably transports or colliers, had appeared off Port Pleasant. The _Bristol_ was ordered to take the _Macedonia_ under his orders and destroy the transports.

H.M.S. _Macedonia_ reports that only two ships, steamships _Baden_ and _Santa Isabel_, were present; both ships were sunk after the removal of the crew.

I have pleasure in reporting that the officers and men under my orders carried out their duties with admirable efficiency and coolness, and great credit is due to the Engineer Officers of all the ships, several of which exceeded their normal full speed.

The names of the following are specially mentioned:

OFFICERS

Commander Richard Herbert Denny Townsend, H.M.S. _Invincible_.

Commander Arthur Edward Frederick Bedford, H.M.S. _Kent_.

Lieutenant-Commander Wilfrid Arthur Thompson, H.M.S. _Glasgow_.

Lieutenant-Commander Hubert Edward Danreuther, First and Gunnery Lieutenant, H.M.S. _Invincible_.

Engineer-Commander George Edward Andrew, H.M.S. _Kent_.

Engineer-Commander Edward John Weeks, H.M.S. _Invincible_.

Paymaster Cyril Sheldon Johnson, H.M.S. _Invincible_.

Carpenter Thomas Andrew Walls, H.M.S. _Invincible_.

Carpenter William Henry Venning, H.M.S. _Kent_.

Carpenter George Henry Egford, H.M.S. _Cornwall_.

PETTY OFFICERS AND MEN

Ch. P.O. D. Leighton, O.N. 124238, _Kent_.

P.O., 2nd Cl., M. J. Walton (R.F.R., A1756), O.N. 118358, _Kent_.

Ldg. Smn. F. S. Martin, O.N. 233301, _Invincible_, Gnr's Mate, Gunlayer, 1st Cl.

Sigmn. F. Glover, O.N. 225731, _Cornwall_.

Ch. E. R. Art., 2nd Cl., J. G. Hill, O.N. 269646, _Cornwall_.

Actg. Ch. E. R. Art., 2nd Cl., R. Snowdon, O.N. 270654, _Inflexible_.

E. R. Art., 1st Cl., G. H. F. McCarten, O.N. 270023, _Invincible_.

Stkr. P.O. G. S. Brewer, O.N. 150950, _Kent_.

Stkr. P.O. W. A. Townsend, O.N. 301650, _Cornwall_.

Stkr., 1st Cl., J. Smith, O.N. SS 111915, _Cornwall_.

Shpwrt., 1st Cl., A. N. E. England, O.N. 341971, _Glasgow_.

Shpwrt., 2nd Cl., A. C. H. Dymott, O.N. M. 8047, _Kent_.

Portsmouth R.F.R.B.-3307 Sergeant Charles Mayes, H.M.S. _Kent_.

F. C. D. STURDEE.

BATTLE OF FALKLAND ISLANDS,

December 8th, 1914.

MESSAGES OF CONGRATULATION.

H.M.S. _Invincible_. _11th December, 1914._

_Memorandum._

The following copy of a telegram received from the Admiralty, and the reply thereto, are forwarded for information. Both of these messages are to be read to the whole Ship's Company on the Quarter Deck of H.M. Ships under your command.

(Signed) F. C. D. STURDEE, _Vice-Admiral_, _Commander-in-Chief_.

_The Rear-Admiral and Officers Commanding H.M. Ships, South Atlantic and South Pacific Squadron._

_For_ ADMIRAL, _Invincible_. (_Date_) 9.12.14

_From_ ADMIRALTY.

The following message has been received for you from His Majesty:--

I heartily congratulate you and your officers and men on your most opportune victory.

GEORGE R.I.

2. Our thanks are due to yourself and to officers and men for the brilliant victory you have reported.

_Reply to_ HIS MAJESTY:

Your Majesty's gracious message has been received with pride and satisfaction by myself, the Rear-Admiral, Captains, Officers, and Ship's Companies under my command.

We hope soon to have the privilege of completing our mission by disposing of the remaining cruiser.

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, _Invincible_.

_Reply to_ THEIR LORDSHIPS:

Admiralty congratulations not received till to-day. Myself, officers and men desire to thank their Lordships for the approbation of our efforts.

_From_ C.-IN-C. HOME FLEETS, H.M.S. _Cyclops_.

(_Date_) 10.12.14. 1.14 A.M.

With reference to your telegram 485[10] may I be permitted to offer my sincere congratulations on the splendid success attending your dispositions.

_From_ ADMIRAL, _Marseillaise, Brest_. (_Date_) 10.12.14.

_To_ NAVAL ATTACHÉ.

I beg to express to the Admiralty how fully I share their joy at the brilliant revenge taken by the British Navy at the Falklands.

F.N.A. OFFICE.

_From Petrograd._

_To_ VICE-ADMIRAL STURDEE, _Admiralty, London_.

(_Date_) 12.12.14. 3.0 A.M.

Please accept Heartiest Congratulations from the Russian Navy for the Brilliant Action of your Squadron in fighting the Enemy and sweeping out the oceans.

VICE-ADMIRAL ROUSSIE NOMER.

_From_ C.-IN-C. HOME FLEETS, H.M.S. _Cyclops_.

(_Date_) 11.12.14. 4.58 A.M.

Submit the hearty congratulation of the Grand Fleet on his victory may be conveyed to Admiral Sturdee.

Messages exchanged between H.E. the Governor of the Falkland Islands and C.-in-C. South Atlantic and Pacific:

GOVERNOR _to_ VICE-ADMIRAL:

_11th December, 1914._

Warmest congratulations from self and Colony on your Victory.

VICE-ADMIRAL _to_ GOVERNOR:

May I thank you and the Colony for myself, the R.A., Captains, Officers and men of the Squadron for your congratulations on our success, which will not be complete until _Dresden_ is accounted for. We wish to convey our thanks for the early warning of the approach of the enemy due to the good lookout from Sapper's Hill.

We feel the honour that the _Canopus_ and the Squadron were in a position to prevent an old British Colony from being insulted or injured in any way, and hope that the enemy will have been taught a lesson not to repeat such action against any other part of the British Empire.

This Memorandum is to be read to whole Ship's Company on the Quarter Deck.

_Invincible, at Port William,_

_11th December, 1914._

_Memorandum._

The Commander-in-Chief wishes to congratulate all the ships of the squadron on the success of their main encounter with the enemy's squadron, and to thank the Rear-Admiral, Captains, Officers and Men for their individual assistance in attaining this great result. The zeal and steadiness under fire of all hands were most noticeable.

2. The victory will not be complete until the remaining cruiser is accounted for, and directly the squadron is coaled a further organised search will be made.

3. One of the greatest merits of the action is the small list of casualties due to the able handling of the ships by their Captains, who utilised the power of the guns and the speed of the ships to the best advantage. Further, the effective fire at long range and the thorough organization were very evident and enabled the action to be fought with success against a foe who displayed splendid courage, determination and efficiency.

4. The excellent way in which the Engine Room Departments responded to a sudden and unexpected demand reflects great credit on the officers and the whole engine room complements--this demand was made at a time when ships were coaling and making good defects during the few hours the ships were in harbour.

5. The successful disposal of the two powerful cruisers, two of the three light cruisers, and two colliers, will be of great advantage to the Naval Strategy of the British Empire.

6. Therefore all concerned can feel that they have performed a National Service on the 8th December, 1914, off the Falkland Islands.

(Signed) F. C. D. STURDEE, _Vice-Admiral_, _Commander-in-Chief_.

_The Rear-Admiral, Captains, Officers, and all concerned, South Atlantic and South Pacific Squadron._

GALLANT SERVICES

"KENT" SERGEANT'S BRAVE DEED

_Lord Chamberlain's Office, St. James's Palace, S.W., 3rd March, 1915._

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the following appointment to the Most Honourable Order of the Bath in recognition of the services of the undermentioned Officer mentioned in the foregoing dispatch:--

_To be an Additional Member of the Military Division of the Third Class or Companion:_

CAPTAIN JOHN LUCE, Royal Navy.

_Admiralty, S.W., 3rd March, 1915._

The KING has been graciously pleased to give orders for the award of the _Distinguished Service Cross_ to the undermentioned officers in recognition of their services mentioned in the foregoing dispatch:--

CARPENTER THOMAS ANDREW WALLS. CARPENTER WILLIAM HENRY VENNING. CARPENTER GEORGE HENRY EGFORD.

The following awards have also been made:--

_To receive the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal:_

Portsmouth R.F.R.B.-3307 Sergeant Charles Mayes, H.M.S. _Kent_. A shell burst and ignited some cordite charges in the casemate; a flash of flame went down the hoist into the ammunition passage. Sergeant Mayes picked up a charge of cordite and threw it away. He then got hold of a fire hose and flooded the compartment, extinguishing the fire in some empty shell bags which were burning. The extinction of this fire saved a disaster which might have led to the loss of the ship.

_To receive the Distinguished Service Medal:_

Chf. P.O. D. Leighton, O.N. 124238. P.O., 2nd Cl., M. J. Walton (R.F.R., A1756), O.N. 118358. Ldg. Smn. F. S. Martin, O.N. 233301, Gnr's Mate, Gunlayer, 1st Cl. Sigmn. F. Glover, O.N. 225731. Chf. E.-R. Artr., 2nd Cl., J. G. Hill, O.N. 269646. Actg. Chf. E.-R. Artr., 2nd Cl., R. Snowdon, O.N. 270654. E.-R. Artr., 1st Cl., G. H. F. McCarten, O.N. 270023. Stkr. P.O. G. S. Brewer, O.N. 150950. Stkr. P.O. W. A. Townsend, O.N. 301650. Stkr., 1st Cl., J. Smith, O.N. SS 111915. Shpwrt., 1st Cl., A. N. E. England, O.N. 341971. Shpwrt., 2nd Cl., A. C. H. Dymott, O.N. M. 8047.

The following officers subsequently received recognition:--

Vice-Admiral Sir F. C. Doveton Sturdee, K.C.B., C.V.O., C.M.G., was honoured with a Baronetcy of the United Kingdom.

To be made Companions of the military division of the Bath:--

Captain John Luce (H.M.S. _Glasgow_). Captain J. D. Allen (H.M.S. _Kent_).

Engineer-Commander E. J. Weeks was promoted to Acting Engineer-Captain.

The 1st Lieutenants of the _Invincible_, _Inflexible_, _Cornwall_, _Kent_, and _Glasgow_ were all promoted to the rank of Commander in the next batch of promotions on December 31st, 1914:--

Lieutenant-Commander J. Wolfe-Murray (_Cornwall_). Lieutenant-Commander H. E. Danreuther (_Invincible_). Lieutenant-Commander W. A. Thompson (_Glasgow_). Lieutenant-Commander E. L. Wharton (_Kent_). Lieutenant-Commander R. H. C. Verner (_Inflexible_).

Engineer Lieutenant-Commander J. F. Shaw, the senior officer of his rank in the squadron, was promoted to Engineer Commander.

LIST OF BRITISH CASUALTIES AT THE FALKLAND ISLANDS

The following is the complete revised casualty list of the action off the Falkland Islands on December 8th, 1914:--

H.M.S. "GLASGOW"

_Killed._--Martell, E. H., stoker petty officer, Po./310682.

_Dangerously wounded._--Bridger, M. J. E., A.B., Po./J7095.

_Severely wounded._--Ford, H. B. S., signalman, Po./J4597; Major, P. E., shipwright 2nd class, Po./344489; Scotchmer, A. D., A.B., Po./232275.

H.M.S. "INFLEXIBLE"

_Killed._--Livingstone, N., A.B., (R.F.R., Ch./B3593), Ch./190790.

_Slightly wounded._--Hasler, T., ord. seaman, Ch./J18032; Mayes, A., seaman, R.N.R., 4754A; Spratt, G. F., A.B., Ch./237219.

H.M.S. "KENT"

_Killed._--Kelly, S., pte., R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., A366), Po./3793; Kind, W. J., pte., R.M.L.I., Po./15049; Titheridge, A. C., pte., R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., B1254), Po./11220; Wood, W., pte. R.M.L.I., Po./16920; Young, W., seaman, R.N.R., 2543C.

_Died of wounds._--Duckett, G. A., officers' steward 1st cl., Po./L2428; Snow, G., pte., R.M.L.I., Po./16858; Spence, T., sergt., R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., A811), Po./5674.

_Wounded._--Arnold, W. P., R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., B860), Po./8302; Brewer, G. S., stoker petty officer (R.F.R., A3572), Po./150950; Day, F. T., pte., R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., A1008), Ch./6517; Lindsey, H., stoker 1st cl. (R.F.R., B3754), Po./SS101403; Joy, E., lance-corporal R.M.L.I. (R.F.R., B659), Po./10568; Pear, J., stoker 1st cl. (R.F.R., 4172), Po./SS102840; Restall, J., stoker 1st cl. (R.F.R., B4055), Po./291073; Sheridan, A. P., pte., R.M.L.I., Po./13708.

THE "DRESDEN": ACTION WITH "KENT" AND "GLASGOW"

The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following announcement:--

On 14th March, at 9 A.M., H.M.S. _Glasgow_, Captain John Luce, C.B., R.N.; H.M. Auxiliary Cruiser _Orama_, Captain John R. Segrave, R.N.; and H.M.S. _Kent_, Captain John D. Allen, C.B., R.N., caught the _Dresden_ near Juan Fernandez Island.

An action ensued. After five minutes' fighting the _Dresden_ hauled down her colours and displayed the white flag.

She was much damaged and set on fire, and after she had been burning for some time her magazine exploded, and she sank.

The crew were saved. Fifteen badly wounded Germans are being landed at Valparaiso.

There were no British casualties, and no damage to the ships.

APPENDIX

A LIST OF OFFICERS SERVING IN THE ACTIONS RECORDED IN THE NARRATIVE

APPENDIX

A List of Officers serving in the Ships that took part in the Actions recorded in the Narrative.

H.M.S. "CARMANIA"

Armed Merchantman

_Captain_ Noel Grant _Com. R.N.R._ James Barr _Lieutenant_ Edmund L. B. Lockyer _Lieut.-Com. R.N.R._ Wm. J. O'Neill _Lieut. R.N.R._ Peter A. Murchie E. B. Dalby Walter C. Battle J. Henessey M. F. Murray William V. Ogley (_act._) A. Parnis (_act._) _Ch. Eng. R.N.R._ Francis Drummond _Sen. Eng. R.N.R._ James Mcdonald _Eng. R.N.R._ Robert Craig Alexander Lindsay Claude Shore Robert Wilson John O. Teare James Duncan Harold Kendall Charles Rennie Walt Fraser James McPherson _Fleet-Surgeon_ A. Cropley (_ret._) _Tempy. Surgeon_ E. Maynard Harry Clough _Ch. Gunner_ Henry Middleton _Act. Sub-Lieutenant_ G. F. Dickens _Asst. Eng. R.N.R._ Joseph Verdin Albert E. Brittlebank Percival J. Thompson _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ (_in charge_) Walter H. Ramsden _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Arthur H. Burden Ernest W. Turney _Midshipman R.N.R._ William Man D. N. Colson E. R. Linger-Burton (_proby._) J. R. Bane (_proby._) W. Barr (_proby._) R. P. Nisbet (_proby._) J. B. Mein (_proby._)

H.M.S. "GOOD HOPE"

Armoured Cruiser

_Rear-Admiral_ Sir Christopher G. F. M. Cradock, K.C.V.O., C.B.

_Personal Staff_

_Secretary_ George B. Owens _Flag Lieut.-Com._ George E. Cumming

_Lieut. R.M._ Harold S. Walker _Clerk to Sec._ John Egremont Edward C. Webber _Captain_ Philip Francklin, M.V.O. _Commander_ Arthur T. Darley Walter Scott _Lieut.-Commander_ Percival Van Straubenzee Gerald B. Gaskell Godfrey B. J. Benyon _Lieutenant_ Lancelot A. Montgomery Gordon E. E. Gray John M. H. Fisher Douglas C. Tudor Arthur G. Smith _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Edward J. French _Eng. Com._ Arthur Brown _Eng. Lieut.-Com._ Herbert W. Couch _Major R.M._ Frederick C. Edwards _Chaplain_ Rev. Arthur H. J. Pitt _Fleet Surgeon_ James J. Walsh, M.B. _Fleet Paym._ Alfred H. Veitch _Surgeon_ Francis C. Searle _Surgeon_ (_Reserve_) Ferdinand L. J. M. de Verteuil, M.B. _Sub-Lieutenant_ (_act._) Francis J. A. Cotter _Asst. Paym._ John E. Tizard Stuart Watson _Ch. Gunner_ George F. Organ _Ch. Sig. Boatswain_ William Penny _Boatswain_ Franklyn F. Stephens John W. Bushell _Warrant Officer_ (_act._) Robert C. T. Roe _Gunner_ William D. Wright Francis A. G. Oakley Robert J. Page (_act._) William W. Kingdom (_act._) _Carpenter_ Albert J. Hellyer _Artif. Eng._ Richard M. Healy William R. Henon Joseph Duckworth _Wt. Mechanician_ William A. Bass _Mid. R.C.N._ W. A. Palmer F. V. W. Hathaway A. W. Silver M. Cann _Mid. R.N.R._ Graham Trounson (_proby._) Henry K. D. Cuthbert (_proby._) Geoffrey M. Dowding (_proby._) _Asst. Clerk_ Charles G. Cook (_tempy._) _Naval Cadet_ G. Coffin I. M. R. Campbell S. M. Raw D. A. Willey R. A. Macdonald

H.M.S. "MONMOUTH"

Armoured Cruiser

_Captain_ Frank Brandt _Commander_ Spencer D. Forbes _Lieut.-Commander_ Bertie W. Bluett Hugh D. Collins Hon. Peter R. H. D. Willoughby _Lieutenant_ John A. Lees Thomas Stapleton Harry P. Rogers Alfred Edgar Wilfred D. Stirling Maurice J. H. Bagot _Eng. Com._ John B. Wilshin _Eng. Lieutenant_ Bernard C. Child Lionel B. Wansbrough _Captain R.M._ Geoffrey M. I. Herford _Chaplain_ ------ _Staff Surgeon_ Henry Woods _Fleet Paym._ John Cooper _Surgeon_ Albert J. Tonkinson _Sub-Lieutenant_ Hanway Cooper _Asst. Paym._ Douglas B. Lee _Ch. Gunner_ Robert T. H. V. Lee _Ch. Carpenter_ Frederick G. Hartland _Gunner_ James Bennett _Boatswain_ William J. Barrett Thomas B. Ireland (_act._) _Artif. Eng._ George H. Farebrother Alfred T. Johns William Day _Wt. Mechanician_ Alfred Start _Wt. Eng. R.N.R._ Charles Driver _Clerk_ Basil St. M. Cardew _Asst. Clerk_ Cecil T. Martin (_tempy._) _Naval Cadet_ K. A. M. Somerville G. R. Bruce J. F. Boulton V. G. E. S. Schreiber J. R. Le G. Pullen F. A. Cooper C. Musgrave J. M. Pascoe G. W. Muir P. S. Candy

H.M.S. "GLASGOW"

Light Cruiser

_Captain_ John Luce _Lieut.-Commander_ Wilfred A. Thompson Charles L. Backhouse Maurice P. B. Portman _Lieutenant_ Herbert I. N. Lyon Charles G. Stuart _Lieut. R.N.R._ Walter M. Knowles T. W. F. Winter _Sub-Lieutenant_ Frederick B. Alison _Eng. Lieut.-Com._ Percy J. Shrubsole _Eng. Lieut._ John S. Machan _Fleet Surgeon_ Robert T. Gilmour _Staff Surgeon_ Alexander T. Wysard (_ret._) _Staff Paymaster_ Francis E. Adams _Asst. Paym._ Lloyd Hirst Norman H. Beall _Gunner_ Arthur G. Foreman William R. Heilbroun George H. Bartlett _Carpenter_ Sylvester G. Pawley _Artif. Eng._ Charles A. Palser James Milne (_act._) _Midshipman R.N.R._ George W. Wilson

H.M.S. "OTRANTO"

Armed Merchantman

_Captain_ Herbert M. Edwards _Commander R.N.R._ Walter de M. Baynham, R.D. _Lieutenant_ Julian M. Ogilvie _Lieutenant R.N.R._ T. B. Storey H. W. Woodcock H. G. Thompson R. M. Ward F. R. O'Sullivan A. W. Clemson _Ch. Eng. R.N.R._ David Montgomery _Sen. Eng. R.N.R._ William J. Philip _Engineer R.N.R._ William Mackersie Robert Pittendrigh Andrew Allen Adam A. I. Kirk _Tempy. Surgeon_ W. Meikle S. Robertson _Sub-Lieutenant R.N.R._ G. F. Willdigg R. Roscoe _Asst. Eng. R.N.R._ Alan Cameron Peter Brown Thomas R. Blellock Alexander C. Mearns John Gemmell Aymer. R. McDougall William McL. Allan _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Roland H. Draper Thomas B. Wildman _Gunner_ W. J. Drew (_ret._) _Midshipman R.N.R._ Charles E. F. St. John Herbert J. Anchor George D. Scott George E. D. Billam D. N. White C. C. Lawrence

H.M.S. "CANOPUS"

_Captain_ Heathcote S. Grant _Commander_ Philip J. Stopford _Lieut.-Commander_ Andrew Kerr (_ret._) Philip Hordern _Lieutenant_ Harry T. Bennett Henry N. Lesley Owen W. Phillips _Lieut.-Com. R.N.R._ Arthur H. Bird _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Charles T. Keigwin. R.D. Clarence Milner David M. Clarke (_act._) William A. Williamson (_act._) Malcolm C. Powell _Eng. Commander_ William Denbow _Eng. Lieut.-Com._ Sydney P. Start _Captain R.M.L.I._ Gerald S. Hobson _Fleet Paymaster_ Albert Greenwood _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Charles C. Cartwright William J. Donohue _Staff Surgeon_ August J. Wernet _Tempy. Surgeon_ Michael Vlaste _Surgeon R.N.V.R._ Charles H. F. Atkinson _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Harold E. W. Lutt _Chaplain_ Rev. James D. de Vitre _Ch. Boatswain_ John Myers _Gunner_ James Irish _Boatswain_ William Evans William E. T. Honey (_act._) _Ch. Artificer Eng._ Walter G. Morris _Art. Eng._ Ernest E. Moorey _Wt. Eng. R.N.R._ T. W. Greenwood _Ch. Carpenter_ Albert Hughes _Midshipman_ C. R. O. Burge R. T. Young P. R. Malet de Carteret J. L. Storey H. M. L. Durrant R. H. L. Orde R. K. Dickson B. R. Cochrane L. H. P. Henderson L. H. V. Booth _Mate_ R. C. T. Roe (_act._), left by _Good Hope_ on an island at Vallenar Roads, Chile _Clerk_ Jean le Jeune _Midshipman, R.N.R._ Lawrence H. Faragher

H.M.S. "CARNARVON"

Armoured Cruiser

_Rear-Admiral_ Archibald P. Stoddart _Secretary_ Thomas R. Waterhouse _Flag Lieutenant_ Hon. Humphrey A. Pakington _Clerk to Sec._ H. Guy Pertwee _Captain_ Harry L. d'E. Skipwith _Commander_ Thomas A. Williams Ronald E. Chilcott _Lieut.-Commander_ Arthur S. Burt Arthur G. Leslie Ralph Leatham _Lieutenant_ A. M. Donovan David B. Nicol _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Bertram Shillitoe Bertram H. Davies _Eng. Commander_ Alfred T. P. Read _Eng. Lieutenant_ Edward Iliff _Maj. R.M._ Edmund Wray _Captain R.M._ Arthur J. Mellor _Chaplain_ Rev. John Beatty _Fleet Surgeon_ Edward Cooper _Fleet Paym._ Albert E. B. Hosken _Surgeon_ Arthur G. Valpy French _Surgeon R.N.V.R._ William H. Condell _Sub-Lieutenant_ Philip F. Glover Frederick W. F. Cuddeford _Asst. Paym._ Herebert E. Symons _Gunner_ William H. Hunt Sidney C. Woodriffe John F. Hannaford W. H. Ellis _Boatswain_ Alfred Hill Albert E. Pearson _Sig. Boatswain_ Herbert H. Hunwicks _Carpenter_ Norman O. Staddon _Artif. Eng._ Harold E. Oyler Claude B. King James Telford Charles Hill William S. Branson _Clerk_ Charles H. Doubleday _Midshipman_ J. R. Warburton P. M. S. Blackett P. J. M. Penney S. P. Broughton A. C. Jelf R. M. Dick R. G. Fowle C. J. M. Hamilton J. C. E. A. Johnson M. S. Graham R. Mandley L. H. Peppe

H.M.S. "CORNWALL"

Armoured Cruiser

_Captain_ Walter M. Ellerton _Commander_ Herbert A. Buchanan-Wollaston _Lieut.-Commander_ James Wolfe-Murray Henry E. H. Spencer-Cooper, M.V.O. _Lieutenant_ Mansel B. F. Colvile Edward W. Sinclair Kenneth B. Millar Norman Whitehead John S. Hammill Robin E. Jeffreys _Sub-Lieutenant R.N.R._ Desmond A. Stride William H. Richardson _Eng. Commander_ Archibald W. Maconochie _Eng. Lieutenant_ Douglas G. Campbell Cecil J. Meggs _Captain R.M._ Herbert R. Brewer _Chaplain and N.I._ Robert McKew, B.A., B.D. _Fleet Surgeon_ Malcolm Cameron _Fleet Paymaster_ Harry G. Wilson _Naval Inst._ Chas. S. P. Franklin, B.A. George H. Andrew, M.A. _Surgeon_ Cecil R. M. Baker _Asst. Paym._ Henry Rogers _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Joseph H. Wilson _Ch. Art. Eng._ Thomas R. I. Crabb Edwin C. Edwards _Gunner_ Ernest Stone Richard F. Hall Edward W. Pearne (_T._) _Boatswain_ Ernest H. Gearing _Carpenter_ George H. Egford _Art. Eng._ Percy S. Walkey Edwin Foster _Midshipman_ Philip F. Armstrong Arthur H. Ashworth Hugh E. Burnaby John Bostock Douglas M. Branson Lycett Gardiner Jocelyn S. Bethell Morice Blood Richard F. Carter Willoughby N. Barstow Nigel D. Bury William S. Batson

H.M.S. "BRISTOL"

Light Cruiser

_Captain_ Basil H. Fanshawe _Commander_ Harry L. Boyle _Lieut.-Commander_ Ernest G. H. Du Boulay _Lieutenant_ Robert F. U. P. Fitzgerald Archibald B. Cornabé Edward G. G. Hastings _Lieutenant R.N.R._ James A. Hodges _Eng. Commander_ James D. W. H. F. Cranley _Eng. Lieutenant_ Edward G. Sanders _Staff Surgeon_ Leslie M. Morris _Staff Paym._ Tom Henley _Sub-Lieutenant_ Cyril A. H. Brooking Charles H. L. Woodhouse _Gunner_ Stephen W. Duckett George W. Callaway _Boatswain_ Frank Box _Carpenter_ William L. Harfield _Artif. Eng._ William Tearle Joseph L. Wagstaff _Clerk_ John G. B. Collier James Hogg

H.M.S. "MACEDONIA"

Armed Merchantman

_Captain_ Bertram S. Evans, M.V.O. _Commander R.N.R._ Edwin P. Martin _Lieut.-Commander_ Valentine D. English _Lieut.-Com. R.N.R._ Henry G. Westmore, R.D. W. F. Pollard _Lieutenant R.N.R._ W. C. Young T. C. W. Thompson F. Cross _Ch. Eng. R.N.R._ James G. Crichton _Sen. Eng. R.N.R._ Thomas S. Ferguson _Eng. R.N.R._ William C. O. Taylor Walter J. Hickingbotham James Finnecy George R. R. Cushing Edmund J. Caws Frederick P. Voisey _Tempy. Surgeon_ A. M. Russell _Sub-Lieutenant R.N.R._ Alfred W. Drew E. F. Hannan O. Taylor Jeffery Elliott _Surg. Prob. R.N.V.R._ Harold Williamson _Asst. Eng. R.N.R._ Oliver J. R. Pinkney F. C. Masters Joseph Neale William G. Cheeseman _Asst. Paym. in charge_ Herbert W. Landon _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Percy Selwin _Gunner_ James W. Drew _Midshipman R.N.R._ H. J. Miller G. V. Thomas F. H. E. Firmstone Gordon D. Brown B. V. Rutley W. G. Hiscock

H.M.S. "ORAMA"

Armed Merchantman

_Captain_ John R. Segrave _Commander R.N.R._ John F. Healey, R.D. _Lieut.-Commander_ Joseph W. L. Hunt _Lieut. R.N.R._ Geoffrey G. Thorne Edward S. Carver Henry T. Heale (_ret._) Allen Fielding Frederick W. Willsden (_ret._) T. P. Webb W. A. Assenheimer _Ch. Engineer_ John Robertson _Sen. Engineer_ Donald McL. McWilliam _Engineer_ J. R. Dowling James Imrie H. P. Jack Alexander S. Hall _Asst. Engineer_ Alexander Manson Neil H. T. Hill Charles W. Howil Donald Matheson David A. Sheeby David M. Johnston William Turner William Houston James Piggott James McAdam George Herd _Tempy. Surgeon_ Herbert E. Scowcroft Sydney Welham _Sub-Lieut. R.N.R._ M. W. Cooksey _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Herbert Newman John F. Cooper _Ch. Gunner_ Arthur J. Burstow _Midshipman R.N.R._ Edward Roberts Stuart F. Pocock Leonard E. Fordham Bernard K. Berry S. S. Adley H. Schofield H. C. C. Forsyth G. E. G. Sandercock

H.M.S. "INVINCIBLE"

Battle-Cruiser

_Vice-Admiral_ Sir F. C. Doveton Sturdee, K.C.B., C.V.O., C.M.G. _Secretary_ Cyril S. Johnson _Flag Lieutenant_ Reginald W. Blake _Clerk to Sec._ Arthur D. Duckworth _Captain_ Percy T. H. Beamish _Commander_ Richard H. D. Townsend _Lieut.-Commander_ Hubert E. Dannreuther Hon. Edward B. S. Bingham John C. F. Borrett Lionel H. Shore Edward Smyth-Osbourne _Lieutenant_ Cecil S. Sandford Cameron St. C. Ingham Hugh H. G. Begbie _Lieutenant R.N.R._ George ff. H. Lloyd _Eng. Commander_ Edward J. Weeks _Eng. Lieut.-Commander_ James F. Shaw _Eng. Lieutenant_ Francis L. Mogg _Major R.M._ Robert C. Colquhoun _Captain R.M._ Charles H. Malden _Temp. Lieut. R.M._ John T. Le Seelleur _Chaplain_ Rev. Arthur C. Moreton, M.A. _Fleet Paym._ Ernest W. Mainprice _Fleet Surgeon_ Walter J. Bearblock _Surgeon_ Ernest MacEwan Clarence E. Greeson, M.B. _Sub-Lieutenant_ Alexander P. McMullen Robert R. Stewart _Asst. Paym._ Gordon Franklin _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ Clement A. Woodland _Gunner_ William C. Hunt Robert Connolly Mark W. Cameron Ernest J. Read Sydney C. Kennell _Boatswain_ Frederick Luker Philip J. Warrington Wilfred Turner _Sig. Boatswain_ William F. Raper _Gunner R.M._ Albert E. Nixon _Carpenter_ Thomas A. Walls _Artf. Engineer_ Walter H. Bull John Dews Frederick C. Fry _Clerk_ William R. C. Steele _Midshipman_ Gordon T. Campbell Edwin T. Hodgson Douglas A. C. Birch John M. Shorland John H. G. Esmonde Allan G. McEwan Rupert C. Montagu Lionel D. Morse Duncan G. Reid

H.M.S. "INFLEXIBLE"

Battle-Cruiser

_Captain_ Richard F. Phillimore, C.B., M.V.O. _Commander_ Ernest Wigram John W. Carrington _Lieut.-Commander_ Rudolf H. C. Verner Hon. Patrick G. E. C. Acheson, M.V.O. Frederic Giffard Ralph B. Janvrin _Lieutenant_ Edward C. Denison Kenneth H. D. Acland Arthur W. Blaker Brian L. G. Sebastian _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Herbert J. Giles _Eng. Commander_ Harry Lashmore _Eng. Lieut.-Commander_ Arthur E. Lester _Eng. Lieutenant_ Rey G. Parry _Major R.M._ John B. Finlaison _Captain R.M._ Robert Sinclair _Chaplain_ Rev. Ernest S. Phillips, M.A. _Fleet Surgeon_ Edward H. Meaden _Fleet Paym._ Henry Horniman _Surgeon_ John H. B. Martin, M.B., B.A. Martyn H. Langford _Sub-Lieutenant_ (_act._) Thos. H. Welsby Alexander C. G. Madden Leicester St. J. Curzon-Howe Robert D. Oliver Alfred E. B. Giles John H. Macnair George T. Philip Terence H. Back _Asst. Paym._ John F. Stephens _Ch. Gunner_ Edward Fox _Ch. Boatswain_ Alfred M. Cady _Ch. Artf. Eng._ George E. Martin _Gunner_ John H. Moore Frederick W. Furmadge _Boatswain_ John A. Brander _Sig. Boatswain_ Phillip J. Jones _Gunner R.M._ John Cameron _Carpenter_ William A. Cawsey _Artf. Engineer_ Charles A. Richards _Artf. Eng._ (_act._) William S. Barnes _Bandmaster R.M._ Herbert Reely _Midshipman_ Rupert E. Bethune John D. Chapple Regd. G. France-Hayhurst David D. Mercer _Clerk_ Crichton F. Laborde

H.M.S. "KENT"

Armoured Cruiser

_Captain_ John D. Allen _Commander_ Arthur E. F. Bedford _Lieut.-Commander_ Eric L. Wharton James R. Harvey _Lieutenant_ Victor H. Danckwerts _Lieut.-Com. R.N.R._ Charles M. Redhead, R.D. _Lieutenant R.N.R._ Harold T. Dunn Frederic C. Howard William G. B. Jones Walter R. Tilling James Marshall John L. S. G. Lilley _Eng. Commander_ George E. Andrew _Eng. Lieutenant_ Victor O. Foreman (_ret._) _Captain R.M._ Robert W. J. Laing _Chaplain_ Rev. Norman B. Kent, B.A. _Fleet Surgeon_ Edward B. Pickthorn (_ret._ ) _Paymaster_ Sydney G. Andrews _Temp. Surg._ Ronald E. B. Burn _Surgeon R.N.V.R._ Thomas B. Dixon _Asst. Paym. R.N.R._ William G. Stewart _Gunner_ Thomas P. Collins Claude H. Griffiths _Boatswain_ William T. Dunning Walter H. Speed _Sig. Boatswain_ Leonard C. Croucher _Carpenter_ William H. Venning _Artf. Engineer_ William Muirhead _Wt. Engineer R.N.R_ John Garrow John W. Scott Donald Campbell _Midshipman R.N.R._ Robert L. Burridge John D. Ross David T. M. Williams George C. B. Liley Cecil B. Hogan Harold W. S. Wright _Midshipman R.N.R._ Frederick E. Valentine George W. Barker Edgar H. Cowan _Clerk_ Reginald H. Kitchin

INDEX

Allardyce, the Hon. William, Governor of Falkland Islands, 138

Allen, Captain J. D., of _Kent_, 27 a tribute to crew of _Kent_ by, 131 created a C.B., 191

America (South), apprehension in, 24 Germans in, 16, 68 scenery of, 159

_Asama_ in eastern Pacific, 46

Atlantic (South), battle in, 9, 26, 35, 169

_Australia_ joins North Pacific squadron, 72

_Baden_ sunk by _Bristol_, 92

Barr, Acting-Commander James C., awarded C.B., 171

Battle-cruiser action, a, 96, 181

Beamish, Captain P. H., of _Invincible_, 27

Boarding parties and their work, 29

Brandt, Captain Frank, of _Monmouth_, 21

Brazilian ports, enemy shipping at, 25

Brewer, Stkr. P.O. G. S., a D.S.M. for, 191

_Bristol_, officers of, 211 opens fire on _Karlsruhe_, 9

British casualties in the Falklands, 193-4 men-of-war off South America, 19-27

Canada purchases submarines, 7

_Canopus_, an amusing incident on, 90 converted into a floating fort, 63, 85 fine work of, 58 good shooting by, 90 officers of, 205 skilful navigation of, 58

_Cap Trafalgar_, sinking of, 9, 26, 35 official dispatch on action, 169

_Carmania_, a conflagration on, 38 decorations for officers and men, 171 heroism of crew, 44 officers of, 197-8 sinks _Cap Trafalgar_, 9-10, 26, 35 _et seq._, 169

_Carnarvon_, a German's toast, 108 a valuable capture by, 24 chases the enemy, 93 officers of, 207

Chilean coast, action off the (_see_ Coronel, battle of)

China, German squadron in, 4

Coaling, the "delights" of, 30, 140

Colson, Midshipman D.N., awarded D.S.C., 171

Concentration, necessity of, 61, 64

_Cornwall_ chases enemy, 110 decorations for crew, 121-3 escorts _Carmania_ to base, 42 officers of, 209 opens fire on _Leipzig_, 114

Coronel, battle of, 45 _et seq._ enemy torpedo attack at, 55 official dispatches on, 172-7 outstanding features of, 59 unreliable accounts of, 60 vessels engaged in, 46 visibility conditions advantageous to enemy, 52 von Spee's report on, 52, 174

Cradock, Rear-Admiral Sir Christopher, a tribute to, 58 goes down with his ship, 56 his command reinforced, 23 his objective at Coronel, 50 hoists his flag, 20 sights and chases _Karlsruhe_, 8, 20

_Crown of Galicia_, German prisoners on, 139

Danreuther, Lieut.-Com. H. E., promotion for, 192

_Defence_ essays to join southern command, 27 sails for Cape Town, 79

Dickens, Acting Sub-Lieut. G. F., awarded D.S.C., 171

_Dresden_, a vain search for, 136, 158 arrives at Orange Bay, 7 chase of, 110 eludes her pursuers, 114 hoists the white flag, and sinks, 165, 166 joins von Spee, 8 sinking of: Admiralty announcement on, 194

Dymott, Shpwrt. A. C. H., awarded D.S.M., 191

Easter Island, German squadron at, 6, 45

_Edinburgh Castle_, deck hockey on, 26

Edwards, Captain H. McI., of _Otranto_, 21

Edwards, Mr., of Easter Island, 45

Egford, Carpenter G. H., receives D.S.C., 121, 190

Ellerton, Captain W. M., of _Cornwall_, 21, 113 efficient handling of his ship, 119

_Emden_, exploits and sinking of, 11-12, 15, 63

England, Shpwrt. A. N. E., a D.S.M. for, 191

Evans, Captain B. S., of _Macedonia_, 21

Falkland Islands, battle of, Admiral Sturdee's dispatch on, 178 battle-cruiser action, 96 _et seq._, 181 British casualties in, 138, 193-4 commercial importance of, 151 congratulations on, 138, 186-9 decisive nature of, 135 enemy sighted, 87 light cruiser action, 110, 183 the prize bounty, 139 contemplated seizure of, 74, 75, 89, 119, 152 land and sea defences of, 63, 85 topography of, 81 why chosen as base, 18

Fanning Island, British cable station destroyed at, 6

Fanshawe, Captain B. H., of _Bristol_, 21, 23, 24

Felton, Mrs., her services recognised, 88

Food problem in wartime, 30

Francklin, Captain Philip, of _Good Hope_, 20

French colonies, Germans and, 13

German barbarity, a typical instance of, 108 casualties in the Falklands, 138, 139 4.1-inch gun, range of, 47, 126 light cruisers, chase of, 110 men-of-war in foreign seas, 1 _et seq._ sailors buried at sea, 109

Germans abandon colonies in Polynesia, 14 in South America, 16, 68

Germany, her responsibility for the war, 156, 157

_Glasgow_, a duel with _Leipzig_, 112 casualties in Coronel battle, 56 chases enemy cruisers, 110 officers of, 203 sights enemy, 49

Glover, Signalman Frank, awarded D.S.M., 123, 191

_Gneisenau_, a gallant fight by, 102 accurate shooting by, 53 end of, 104 her commander rescued, 107

_Good Hope_ becomes Admiral Cradock's flagship, 20 loss of, 54-5 officers of, 199-200

Grant, Captain Heathcoat, of _Canopus_, 21, 23

Grant, Captain Noel, of _Carmania_, 26, 37 awarded C.B., 171

Great Britain and German colonies, 14 enters the War, 4

Hague Conference and the law of neutrality, 152

High explosives, curious examples of damage by, 121

Hill, Chief Engine Room Artificer, awarded D.S.M., 122, 191

_Hizen_ in the Pacific, 46, 72

_Idzuma_ in the Pacific, 46, 72

_Inflexible_, a fine run by, 66 first shot in Falkland Islands battle, 93 officers of, 217

_Invincible_ and Falkland Islands battle, 93 damaged, 105, 106 joins Admiral Stoddart's squadron, 66 lost in Jutland battle, 140 officers of, 215

Japan declares war, 13, 14

Japanese cruisers in the eastern Pacific, 46

_Karlsruhe_, chase and escape of, 8 end of, 9, 62

_Kent_, anxiety regarding fate of, 132 casualties on, 132 chases German cruisers, 110 duel with _Nürnberg_, 128 ensign of, 133 officers of, 219 opens fire on _Leipzig_, 114 sights _Dresden_, 164

_Königsberg_ blocked up and destroyed, 12, 63

_Kronprinz Wilhelm_, escape of, 8 internment of, 11

Leatham, Captain E. La T., of _Defence_, 26

Leighton, Chf. P.O. D., a D.S.M. for, 191

_Leipzig_, a running fight by, 115 chase of, 110 eludes her pursuers, 45 end of, 110 _et seq._, 118 joins von Spee's squadron, 7, 45 on fire, 117 stories of survivors, 119

Life at sea in 1914, 28 _et seq._

Lockyer, Lieut.-Commander E. L. B., awarded D.S.O., 171

Luce, Captain John, of _Glasgow_, 21 and Falkland Islands battle, 113, 114 awarded C.B., 191 report on Coronel action, 52, 172

Lyddite shell in warfare, 105, 116, 128

_Macedonia_ conveys German prisoners, 139 officers of, 212

Magellan, Straits of, 161

Maltzhan, Baron von, 155

Martin, Ldg. Smn. F. S., awarded D.S.M., 191

Mas-a-Fuera, temporary headquarters of German squadron, 71

Mayes, Sergt. Charles, brave deed recognised, 129, 130, 190

McCarten, E.-R. Artr. G. H. F., awarded D.S.M., 191

_Mera_, voluntary internment of, 155

Merchant ships, increased enemy sinkings of, 24

_Mersey_ destroys _Königsberg_, 12

Middleton, Chief Gunner Henry, awarded D.S.C., 171

_Monmouth_ in Coronel action, 53 loss of, 56 officers of, 201-2

Murray, Lieut.-Com. J. Wolfe, promotion for, 192

Napier, Captain W. R., of _Edinburgh Castle_, 26

Naval actions, tactics of modern, 50

_Navarro_ sunk by _Orama_, 63

Navy, the, life at sea, 28 _et seq._ postal arrangements of, 32 work in wartime, 28-34

Newbolt, Sir Henry, on Admiral Cradock, 58 on Falkland Islands battle, 135

_Newcastle_ in the North Pacific, 72

_Nürnberg_, chase of, 110 duel with _Kent_, 128 joins von Spee's squadron, 6 sinking of, 131 sinks _Monmouth_, 56

_Orama_, officers of, 213 sinks a German storeship, 63

_Otranto_, officers of, 204 under enemy fire, 57

Pacific (Western), the, German squadron in, 4

Papeete, bombardment of, 21 French gunboat sunk at, 6

_Patagonia_, internment of, 155

_Pegasus_, sinking of, 12

Phillimore, Captain R. F., of _Inflexible_, 27

Port Stanley, arrival of _Canopus_: the scene, 84 description of, 82

Port William, British squadron in, 85

Postal arrangements at sea, 32

_Princess Royal_ in North American waters, 155

_Prinz Eitel Friedrich_, internment of, 10, 164

_Professor Woermann_, capture of, 24

Royal Naval Reserve, efficiency of, 132

Sailors, the psychology of, 141 _et seq._

_Santa Isabel_, sunk by _Bristol_, 92

_Scharnhorst_ badly hit, 99, 100 good marksmanship of, 53 sinking of, 101

Segrave, Captain J. R., of _Orana_, 21

Serajevo tragedy, the, 157

_Severn_ and the end of _Königsberg_, 12

_Seydlitz_, escape of, 123

Shark fishing as a pastime, 31

Shaw, Eng. Lieut.-Com. J. F., promotion for, 192

Skipwith, Captain H. L. d'E., of _Carnarvon_, 24

Smith, Stoker John, a D.S.M. for, 122, 191

Snowdon, Act.-Chf. E.-R. Artr. R., a D.S.M. for, 191

South America (_see_ America, South)

Spee, Vice-Admiral Count von, and his command, 4 aims and hopes of, 151 _et seq._ contemplates seizure of Falklands, 74, 75, 89, 119, 152 death of, 105 movements of his squadron, 67 policy of, considered and analysed, 13-18 refuses to drink a toast, 139 report on Coronel battle, 52

Stoddart, Rear-Admiral and a rescued kinsman, 108 commands British squadron, 159 reinforcements from England for, 65 succeeds Admiral Cradock, 60 transfers his flag, 63

Sturdee, Vice-Admiral F. C. Doveton, 27 a Baronetcy for, 191 dispatch on battle of Falkland Islands, 178 _et seq._ his strategic victory, 135 in command of British squadron, 79, 80 ordered to Gibraltar, 159

Submarines purchased by Canadian Government, 7

_Suffolk_ chases _Karlsruhe_, 8

_Sydney_ in action with _Emden_, 11

Thompson, Lieut.-Com. W. A., promotion for, 192

_Titania_, enemy auxiliary cruiser, 6

Townsend, Stoker P.O. W. A., awarded D.S.M., 122, 191

Tsingtau, German base at, 4

Turner, Maj., commands Falkland Island Volunteers, 86

Venning, Carpenter W. H., awarded D.S.C., 190

Verner, Lieut.-Com. R. H. C., promotion for, 192

Walls, Carpenter T. A., awarded D.S.C., 190

Walton, P.O. M. J., a D.S.M. for, 191

Weeks, Engineer-Com. E. J., promotion for, 191

Wharton, Com., and sinking of _Nürnberg_, 133 promotion for, 192

Wireless stations, German, 16

PRINTED BY CASSELL & COMPANY, LIMITED, LA BELLE SAUVAGE, LONDON, E.C.4 F20.519

FOOTNOTES:

[1] _Note._--This book was completed in May, 1917, but was withheld from publication on account of the many omissions prescribed by the Naval Censor.

[2] The German Chancellor had publicly declared the intention to capture the French colonies.

[3] _See_ Map, p. 5.

[4] _Carmania_, Cunard S.S. Co.--19,524 tons, 650 feet long, triple screw turbines.

_Cap Trafalgar_, Hamburg-Sud-Amerik S.S. Co.--18,710 tons, 590 feet long, triple screw turbines.

[5] According to "Brassey's Naval Annual."

[6] German wireless system.

[7] "Tales of the Great War" (Longmans).

[8] "Blackwood's Magazine."

[9] The _Seydlitz_--the German auxiliary that escaped--took in the wireless signal announcing the victory and actually heard the firing of the _Cornwall_ and the _Glasgow_ on her beam about four miles off. She managed to escape under cover of the fog by steering to the south, but it was a near thing.

[10] Reporting sinking of three German ships.

TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE

Italic text is denoted by _underscores_.

A superscript is denoted by ^{x}; for example, 8^{th}.

The format of time in the original text has been retained. For example, 10.30 A.M. or 7.3 P.M.

Gun caliber in the original text is of the form 9.1" or sometimes 9·1". For consistency all calibers have been changed to the 9.1" (or 9.1-inch) form.

Obvious typographical errors and punctuation errors have been corrected after careful comparison with other occurrences within the text and consultation of external sources.

Except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the text, and inconsistent or archaic usage, have been retained. For example: flagship, flag ship; midair, mid-air; conning tower, conning-tower; skilful; inanition.

Pg 19, 'Chili' replaced by 'Chile'. Pg 22, 'Chilian' replaced by 'Chilean'. Pg 37, 'ricochetting' replaced by 'ricocheting'. Pg 43, 'poms-poms' replaced by 'pom-poms'. Pg 55, 'we jamming' replaced by 'were jamming'. Pg 60, 'Rear Admiral' replaced by 'Rear-Admiral'. Pg 85, 'the follow-morning' replaced by 'the following morning'. Pg 90, 'ricochetted' replaced by 'ricocheted'. Pg 92, 'Seidlitz' replaced by 'Seydlitz'. Pg 94, 'Carvarvon' replaced by 'Carnarvon'. Pg 96, 'line ahead' replaced by 'line-ahead'. Pg 98, 'ricochetting' replaced by 'ricocheting'. Pg 141, 'fight our' replaced by 'fight in our'. Pg 157, 'Chilian' replaced by 'Chilean'.