Bruce John Bevis Andrew DSC, RN
| Born | 10 Jul 1919 | Newport, Salop | |
| Died | Dec 1985 | (66) |
| Ranks
Retired: 7 Aug 1969 Decorations
|
Warship Commands listed for Bruce John Bevis Andrew, RN
| Ship | Rank | Type | From | To |
| HMS H 43 (N 43) | Lt. | Submarine | 16 Sep 1942 | 30 Nov 1942 |
| HMS Unbroken (P 42) | Lt. | Submarine | 14 Apr 1943 | 8 Jan 1944 |
| HMS Subtle (P 251) | Lt. | Submarine | 15 Jan 1944 | Nov 1945 |
Career information
We currently have no career / biographical information on this officer.
Events related to this officer
Submarine HMS H 43 (N 43)
18 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Anemone (Lt.Cdr. P.G.A. King, RD, RNR), HMS Chelsea (Lt.Cdr. J.E.R. Wilford, RNR), HMS Sandwich (Lt.Cdr. H. Hill, RD, RNR), HMS Erne (Lt.Cdr. E.D.J. Abbot, RN) and two other vessels [unable to read these names in the log of HMS H 43]. (1)
19 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Chelsea (Lt.Cdr. J.E.R. Wilford, RNR) and HMS Sandwich (Lt.Cdr. H. Hill, RD, RNR). (1)
22 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Stork (Cdr. G.N. Brewer, RN), HMS Deptford (Lt.Cdr. H.R. White, RN), ORP Garland (Lt.Cdr. H. Eibel), HMS Inkpen (T/Lt. H. Vernon, RNR) and aircraft. (1)
23 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with ORP Garland (Lt.Cdr. H. Eibel), HMS Inkpen (T/Lt. H. Vernon, RNR), HMS Beagle (Cdr. R.C. Medley, RN) and HMS Birdlip. (1)
28 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Fleetwood (Cdr. W.B. Piggott, OBE, RD, RNR), HMS Philante (Capt. A.J. Baker-Cresswell, DSO, RN) and HMS Blackfly (T/Lt. A.P. Hughes, DSC, RNR). (1)
29 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Philante (Capt. A.J. Baker-Cresswell, DSO, RN), HMS Banff (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Evans, RN), HMS Pentstemon (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) J. Byron, DSC, RNR), HMS Egret (Cdr. C.R.S. Farquhar, RN) and aircraft. (1)
30 Sep 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Pentstemon (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) J. Byron, DSC, RNR), HMS Zetland (Lt. J.V. Wilkinson, RN), HMS Bicester (Lt.Cdr. S.W.F. Bennetts, RN) and HMS Bridgewater (Cdr.(Retd.) N.W.H. Weekes, OBE, RN). (1)
2 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Pentstemon (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) J. Byron, DSC, RNR), HMS Starwort (Lt. A.H. Kent, RNR) and aircraft. (2)
6 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Virginia (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J. Dobson, RNR), HMS Vetch (T/A/Lt.Cdr. H.J. Beverley, DSO, DSC, RNR), HMS Duncton (T/Lt. J.P. Kilbee, RNR), HMS Marigold (Lt. J.A.S. Halcrow, RD, RNR), HMS Sapphire (T/Lt. E.G.le G. Berry, RNVR), HMS Gardenia (T/Lt. M.M. Firth, RNVR) and HMS Convolvulus (A/Lt.Cdr. R.F.R. Yarde-Buller, RNVR). (2)
7 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Virginia (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J. Dobson, RNR), HMS Violet (Lt. C.N. Stewart, RNR), HMS Samphire (Lt.Cdr. F.T. Renny, DSC, RNR), HMS Gardenia (T/Lt. M.M. Firth, RNVR), HMS Vetch (T/A/Lt.Cdr. H.J. Beverley, DSO, DSC, RNR) and HMS Convolvulus (A/Lt.Cdr. R.F.R. Yarde-Buller, RNVR). (2)
8 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Lough Foyle with HMS Marigold (Lt. J.A.S. Halcrow, RD, RNR), HMS Samphire (Lt.Cdr. F.T. Renny, DSC, RNR), HMS Violet (Lt. C.N. Stewart, RNR) and HMS Gardenia (T/Lt. M.M. Firth, RNVR). (2)
10 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Londonderry for Rothesay. She was escorted by HMS Z 5 (T/A/Lt.Cdr. S.T. Wenlock, RNR). (2)
11 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Rothesay. (2)
13 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (2)
14 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (2)
15 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (2)
16 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (2)
17 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (2)
18 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) shifted from Rothesay to Campbeltown. (2)
19 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS La Cordeliere (Lt.Cdr. A.J.G. Barff, RNR) and HMS Carina (Lt. R.A.H. Lord, RNR). (2)
20 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS St. Modwen (Lt.Cdr. F.J. Webster, RNR) and HMS Bretwalda (Skr. J. Windram, RNR). (2)
21 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS La Cordeliere (Lt.Cdr. A.J.G. Barff, RNR) and HMS L' Atlantique (Skr. A. McKay, RNR). (2)
22 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Bedlington (Skr. J.H.D. Dansie, RNR) and HMS La Cordeliere (Lt.Cdr. A.J.G. Barff, RNR). (2)
23 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Carina (Lt. R.A.H. Lord, RNR) and HMS Bedlington (Skr. J.H.D. Dansie, RNR). (2)
24 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS St. Modwen (Lt.Cdr. F.J. Webster, RNR) and HMS Bretwalda (Skr. J. Windram, RNR). (2)
25 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Valena (Lt.Cdr. E. Gleave, RNR), HMS Bedlington (Skr. J.H.D. Dansie, RNR),HMS Bretwalda (Skr. J. Windram, RNR) and HMS L' Atlantique (Skr. A. McKay, RNR). (2)
26 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Bedlington (Skr. J.H.D. Dansie, RNR) and HMS Tuscarora (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) K.W. Stewart, RN). (2)
27 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Shemara (Cdr.(Retd.) H. Buckle, RN) and HMS Bretwalda (Skr. J. Windram, RNR). (2)
28 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) shifted from Campbeltown to Tobermory escorted by HMS Whalsay (T/Lt. F.J.S. Crawford, RNVR). (2)
29 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Tobermory. (2)
30 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) participated in A/S exercises off Tobermory. (2)
31 Oct 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) participated in A/S exercises off Tobermory. (2)
1 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Vervain (Lt. H.P. Crail, RNR). (3)
2 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Fly (Lt.Cdr. R.B. Chandler, RN). Upon completion of these exercises HMS H 43 proceeded to Oban. (3)
3 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) proceeded from Oban to Tobermory. (3)
4 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Racehorse (Cdr. A.F. Burnell-Nugent, DSC, RN) and HNoMS St. Albans (Lt.Cdr. S.V. Storheill, RNorN). (3)
5 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Racehorse (Cdr. A.F. Burnell-Nugent, DSC, RN) and HMS Filla (T/Lt. T.C. Newth, RNVR). (3)
6 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Racehorse (Cdr. A.F. Burnell-Nugent, DSC, RN) and HMS Fly (Lt.Cdr. R.B. Chandler, RN). (3)
7 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Fly (Lt.Cdr. R.B. Chandler, RN) and HMS Eriskay (T/Lt. F.B. Cunningham, RNVR). (3)
10 Nov 1942
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Wear (Cdr. E. Wheeler, RD, RNR) and HMS Wensleydale (Lt. J.A. McClure, DSC, RN). (3)
11 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Eriskay (T/Lt. F.B. Cunningham, RNVR) and HMS Southern Spray (A/Skr.Lt. W. Martin, RNR). (3)
12 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Lord Plender (Skr. G.T. Lilley, DSC, RNR) and HMS Sheppey (T/A/Lt.Cdr. D. McNeil, RNVR). (3)
13 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Lady Sharazad and ML's. (3)
15 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Kingston Olivine (Lt. G.C. Crowley, RN) and HMS Fiaray (T/Lt. W.F. McAusland, RNVR). (3)
16 Nov 1942
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Kingston Olivine (Lt. G.C. Crowley, RN), HMS Wear (Cdr. E. Wheeler, RD, RNR), HMS Goathland (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Pumphrey, RN, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMS Fiaray (T/Lt. W.F. McAusland, RNVR). (3)
17 Nov 1942
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Wear (Cdr. E. Wheeler, RD, RNR), HMS Goathland (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Pumphrey, RN, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN), HMS Test (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) F.B. Collinson, RD, RN) and HMIS Carnatic (Lt. H.J.D. Hamilton, RIN). (3)
18 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMIS Baluchistan (Lt. D.A. McDonald, RIN) and HMS Goathland (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Pumphrey, RN, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN). (3)
19 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) proceeded from Tobermory to Oban. (3)
20 Nov 1942
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) proceeded from Oban to Tobermory. (3)
21 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Test (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) F.B. Collinson, RD, RN) and HMS Northern Gem (Skr.Lt. W.J.V. Mullender, DSC, RD, RNR). (3)
22 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Bern (T/Lt. E.S. Brookes, RNVR) and HMS St. Kilda (A/Skr.Lt. R.G. Utting, RNR). (3)
23 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. K.W. Michell, RN) and HMS Northern Gem (Skr.Lt. W.J.V. Mullender, DSC, RD, RNR). (3)
24 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Wedgeport (T/Lt. G.L. Fetherstonhaugh, RNR) and HMS St. Marys (Lt. K.H.J.L. Phibbs, RN). (3)
26 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. K.W. Michell, RN) and HMS St. Marys (Lt. K.H.J.L. Phibbs, RN). (3)
27 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Test (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) F.B. Collinson, RD, RN) and HMS Wedgeport (T/Lt. G.L. Fetherstonhaugh, RNR). (3)
28 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Lord Austin (T/Lt. E.L. Wathen, RNR) and HMS Ayrshire. (3)
29 Nov 1942 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS H 43 (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Tobermory with HMS Lord Austin (T/Lt. E.L. Wathen, RNR), HMS Ayrshire, HMS Test (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) F.B. Collinson, RD, RN) and HMS Haarlem (Lt. H. Riding, RNR). (3)
Submarine HMS Unbroken (P 42)
18 Apr 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for her 16th war patrol (also 16th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol north of Sicily.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Unbroken during this patrol see the map below.
(4)
21 Apr 1943 (position 38.15, 12.43)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked an Italian submarine with four torpedoes off Cape San Vito. No hits were obtained. There were no submarines in this area, axis or allied, the attack was a bogus one.
(All times are zone -1) 1052 hours - After having been deep for a while due to patrolling aircraft returned to periscope depth. Sighted a submarine proceeding close inshore round Cape San Vito. Started attack.
1100 hours - In position 38°15'N, 12°43'E fired four torpedoes at an Italian submarine from 5800 yards. No hits were obtained.
1230 hours - The submarine disappeared from sight round Cape Gallo. (4)
22 Apr 1943 (position 38.10, 12.46)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked the Italian auxiliary minesweeper No. 17/Milano (379 GRT) off Cape San Vito, Sicily, Italy in position 38°11'N, 12°45'E. The torpedo missed but, while avoiding it, the minesweeper ran aground accidentally.
(All times are zone -1) 1411 hours - Set course to close a large schooner seen during the morning.
1600 hours - In position 38°10'N, 12°46'E fired one torpedo from 900 yards. The torpedo hit and the target disintegrated. Unbroken then retired to the north. (4)
26 Apr 1943 (position 38.13, 13.00)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked but missed an Italian transport with three torpedoes off Palermo, no hits were obtained. This was probably Anagni (ex French El Mansour, 5818 GRT, built 1933) escorted by the torpedo boat Antares. They had sailed from Palermo for Leghorn.
(All times are zone -1) 1545 hours - Sighted a 6000 ton merchant vessel escorted by a modern torpedo-boat and two aircraft leaving Palermo. Started attack.
1617 hours - In position 38°13'N, 13°26'E fired the last three torpedoes from 5500 yards. Unbroken went deep on firing. No hits were obtained. (4)
30 Apr 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 16th war patrol (also 16th in the Mediterranean) at Malta. (4)
13 May 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for her 17th war patrol (also 17th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol north of Sicily.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Unbroken during this patrol see the map below.
(4)
19 May 1943 (position 38.45, 16.00)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian pilot vessel (tug) F 20 / Enrica (269 GRT, built 1913) three nautical miles bearing 260° off Pizzo Calabro in position 38°45'N, 16°00'E. It was towing the pontoon Titano from Messina to Salerno. An Italian seaplane alighted and rescued the eight survivors, thirteen were killed or missing. Three minesweepers were sent to the scene and Titano was taken in tow.
(All times are zone -1) 1500 hours - Sighted a floating sheer-legs towed by a large tug close inshore proceeding north. Started attack.
1547 hours - Fired two torpedoes from 3000 yards. 2m 6s after firing a hit was heard followed swiftly by breaking up noises. On returning to periscope depth the tug had sunk. The sheer-legs appeared to be beached. The escorting seaplane landed and picked up the survivors.
[On 30 October 2020 information was published in the newspaper Il Quotidiano Del Sud that the wreck of the Erica had been dived and positively identified. For the identification proces the divers had been assisted by Platon Alexiades, Lorenzo Colombo and Franco Vallone.] (4)
20 May 1943 (position 39.14, 16.01)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked a tug with two torpedoes north-west of Longobardi, Cosenza, Italy. No hits were obtained. This was the tug Costante (100 GRT, built 1914) towing dockyard machinery. She opened fire on the periscope.
(All times are zone -1) 1030 hours - Sighted tug towing a large square object proceeding south close inshore. Closed.
1117 hours - In position 39°14'N, 16°01'E fired two torpedoes at the tug. These missed ahead. The tug's crew manned their gun forward and fired at the periscope so gun action was not considered practical.
1129 hours - Withdrew to the north-west. (4)
21 May 1943 (position 38.34, 15.44)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian merchant Bologna (5439 GRT, built 1917, former French Monaco) 8 nautical miles bearing 210° of Cape Vaticano in position 38°34'N, 15°44'E. She was proceeding from Naples to Messina with Siena (ex French Astrée, 2147 GRT, built 1921) and Polluce (1949 GRT, built 1917) escorted by the torpedo boats Groppo and Orione.
(All times are zone -1) 1655 hours - Sighted smoke of a convoy made up of three merchant ships and two destroyers. Closed.
1744 hours - Fired four torpedoes from about 3500 yards at a 4000 tons (the largest) merchant vessel. An explosion was heard 2m 21s after firing. Unbroken had gone to 120 feet on firing.
1753 hours - Depth charging commenced but they were dropped a good way off. Withdrew to the north-west.
1834 hours - Returned to periscope depth. Saw one of the destroyers stopped in the position of the attack, possibly picking up survivors. The other destroyer was hunting. The two smaller merchant vessels could still be seen but there was no sign of the larger one.
26 May 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 17th war patrol (also 17th in the Mediterranean) at Malta. (4)
6 Jun 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for her 18th war patrol (also 18th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the Gulf of Squillace and the Gulf of Taranto.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Unbroken during this patrol see the map below.
(4)
16 Jun 1943 (position 39.04, 17.17)
In the morning HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked an A/S schooner with one torpedo. It missed. This was the armed schooner Misuraca.
In the evening Unbroken attacked what was thought to be a medium seized tanker with four torpedoes off Crotone. No hits were obtained and it was later thought that the target was an A/S vessel instead of a tanker. Possibly this was the naval ammunition transport Vallelunga (1071 tons, built 1924) escorted by the torpedo boat Sagittario, they had sailed from Crotone for Messina.
(All times are zone -1) 0715 hours - Sighted an A/S schooner. Closed.
0940 hours - The schooner was seen to be stopped in position 39°19'N, 17°21'E. Fired one torpedo from 850 yards. The torpedo ran under and exploded at the end of its run. The target was not considered worth another torpedo.
---------------------------------------
1943 hours - Sighted smoke to the northwards.
2052 hours - Sighted a torpedo-boat (a modern one) steering south towards Crotone. About 3 nautical miles off the harbour stopped and was joined by what was thought to be a medium seized tanker. The torpedo-boat joined up ahead and both ships moved south towards Unbroken. Started attack.
2114 hours - In position 39°04'N, 17°17'E fired four torpedoes at the tanker from about 2500 yards. It was almost dark and the target was not very clear. No hits were obtained. Unbroken had gone deep and retired from the scene. After the attack it was thought that the target was not a tanker but a much smaller A/S vessel. (4)
20 Jun 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 18th war patrol (also 18th in the Mediterranean) at Malta. (4)
27 Jun 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was docked at Malta. It is currently not known to us when she was undocked.
3 Jul 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for her 19th war patrol (also 19th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the Gulf of Taranto as part of a patrol line of five submarines to provide cover during Operation Husky, the Allied landings on Sicily.
For the daily positions of HMS Unbroken during this patrol see the map below.
(4)
18 Jul 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 19th war patrol (also 19th in the Mediterranean) at Malta. It was uneventful. (4)
30 Jul 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Gibraltar. Passage was partly (until Algiers) made in the 'Nitwit' convoy. From Algiers to Gibraltar Unbroken was escorted by HMS Coltsfoot (T/Lt. G.W. Rayner, RNVR).
Unbroken was to proceed to the U.K. to refit.
For the daily positions of HMS Unbroken during this passage see the map below.
(4)
4 Aug 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (4)
8 Aug 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Gibraltar for passage to the U.K. En-route she was ordered to patrol off the north-west coast corner of Spain and later to conduct an anti U-boat patrol in the Bay of Biscay making this passage her 20th war patrol.
For the daily positions of HMS Unbroken during this patrol see the map below.
(4)
25 Aug 1943
At 0815 hours rendez-vous was made with FFS Rubis (Lt.Cdr. H.L.G. Rousselot) and escort Chasseur 11. They then proceeded to Dartmouth where the arrived later the same day. (4)
26 Aug 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) shifted from Dartmouth to Portsmouth where she ended her 19th war patrol. She was escorted by Chasseur 11. (4)
15 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) shifted from Portsmouth to Yarmouth. (4)
16 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Yarmouth for Holy Loch. She made the passage together with HMS Safari (Lt. R.B. Lakin, DSO, DSC, RN). They were escorted by Chasseur 5. In the evening they were joined by HMS Whalsay (T/Lt. F.J.S. Crawford, RNVR) and HMS Mangrove (T/Lt. J.K.M. Warde, RNVR) who took over the escort. (4)
19 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Holy Loch. (4)
21 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Holy Loch for Scapa Flow. She made the passage together with HMS Stoic (Lt. P.B. Marriott, DSO, RN) and HMS Varangian (Lt. J. Nash, DSC, RN). They were escorted by HMS La Capricieuse (Cdr. G.W. Dobson, RNR). (4)
23 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow. She departed later the same day for Blyth. Passage was made together with HMS Uther (Lt. P.S. Beale, RN) that was to proceed to Dundee. They were escorted by HMS Scalby Wyke (A/Skr.Lt. C.A. Grimmer, RNR). (4)
24 Sep 1943
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Blyth where she was to refit. (4)
29 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Unbroken (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) commenced refit at the Blyth Dry Dock Co.
Submarine HMS Subtle (P 251)
14 Apr 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed her builders yard for Holy Loch. (5)
15 Apr 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Holy Loch to begin a period of trials and training. (5)
23 Jun 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Holy Loch for her 1st war patrol. This was a work-up patrol East of the Shetland Islands.
Subtle made the passage North along the West coast of Scotland together with HMS Supreme (Lt.Cdr. T.E. Barlow, RN) that was to proceed to Scapa Flow. The submarines were escorted by HMS Sardonyx (A/Lt.Cdr. T.A. Easton, RNVR).
For the daily positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 1st war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
10 Jul 1944
At 1000 hours, HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN), made rendez-vous with herescort, HMS Shikari (Lt. E.H.U. Cautley, RNVR), in position 59°00'N, 01°00'W. They then both proceeded to Holy Loch. (6)
11 Jul 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 1st war patrol at Holy Loch.
22 Jul 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Holy Loch for Malta. She made the passage in convoy KMS 58.
This was the first leg of the trip to the Far East.
For the daily positions of HMS Subtle during this passage see the map below.
HMS Subtle passage Holy Loch - Trincomalee click here for bigger map (6)
7 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Malta. (6)
15 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Port Said. (6)
20 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Port Said. (6)
22 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Port Said for Aden. (6)
27 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Aden. (6)
30 Aug 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Aden for Colombo. (6)
10 Sep 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Colombo. (6)
13 Sep 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Colombo for Trincomalee. (6)
15 Sep 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Trincomalee. (6)
5 Oct 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 2nd war patrol (1st in the Far East). She was ordered to patrol in the Andaman Sea.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 2nd war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
11 Oct 1944 (position 5.52, 95.24)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked a Japanese minesweeper with three torpedoes off Sabang. This was most likely the Japanese minesweeper W 34 (offsite link) which was not hit.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0603 hours - Sighted masts and funnels of two ships to the Southward. Started attack. Later another escort was seen astern of these two ships. There was a very bad mirage effect, and it was not possible for a long time to identify the targets or to estimate range or course. When they got closer the ships were identified as a small coaster of about 300 tons escorted by a minesweeper which was weaving on the Starboard beam and followed, about a mile astern, by a submarine chaser. The coaster was rather small and the minesweeper was chosen as the main target.
0627 hours - In position 05°52'N, 95°24'E fired three torpedoes from about 4000 yards. During the attack HMS Subtle lost trim and was taken deep. 1 Minute and 45 seconds after firing a torpedo explosion was heard giving a running range of 2800 yards. It was thought the target had been hit and sunk but this was not the case. Subtle was taken to 350 feet. 17 Depth charges were dropped following this attack. They were reasonably close but no too close to cause damage. (6)
15 Oct 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked a convoy of 5 coasters with 5 torpedoes aboout 5 nautical miles to the East of Nancrowy. The results were unclear.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0915 hours - Sighted numerous masts and funnels approaching Nancrowy. Closed to investigate. Owning to the swell it was very difficult to identify the targets at first. They were later seen to be 5 coasters of about 300 to 400 tons in line ahead escorted by 3 submarine chasers. Started attack.
1023 hours - Fired 5 torpedoes at the 5 coasters that were so close together that they formed almost a single target. Three torpedo explosions were heard but the results could not be observed as Subtle had been taken deep on firing.
(6)
16 Oct 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was ordered to perform air/sea rescue duties during the next three days. (6)
29 Oct 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 2nd war patrol (1st in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
23 Nov 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was docked at Trincomalee. (7)
27 Nov 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was undocked. (7)
29 Nov 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. (7)
1 Dec 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 3rd war patrol (2nd in the Far East). She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Strait.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 3rd war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
12 Dec 1944 (position 6.25, 99.32)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges off Langkawi.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1802 hours - Surfaced in position 06°25'N, 99°32'E. Boarded and sank a 10 tons junk with demolition charges. The junk was in ballast. The crew left in a small boat. (6)
13 Dec 1944 (position 5.52, 100.08)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges between Langkawi and Penang.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1801 hours - Surfaced in position 05°52'N, 100°08'E. Boarded and sank a 10 tons junk with demolition charges. The junk was carrying oil. The crew left in a small boat. (6)
14 Dec 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges off Langkawi.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1634 hours - Surfaced. Boarded and sank a 14 tons junk with demolition charges. The junk was carrying sugar. The crew was taken on board and put on board a small fishing boat early the next morning. (6)
20 Dec 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was ordered to perform air/sea rescue duties off Northern Sumatra. (6)
24 Dec 1944
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 3rd war patrol (2nd in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
17 Jan 1945
During 17 and 18 January 1945 HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. These included night exercises. (8)
19 Jan 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 4th war patrol (3rd in the Far East). She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Strait.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 4th war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
31 Jan 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was ordered to perform air/sea rescue duties between Langkawi and Phuket. (6)
1 Feb 1945 (position 7.00, 98.59)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges between Langkawi and Phuket.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1920 hours - In position 07°00'N, 98°59'E sank a 20 tons junk with demolition charges. She was carrying a cargo of oil. Took of 4 Chinese crew members. They were transferred to a sampan the next day. (6)
2 Feb 1945 (position 6.01, 99.59)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges off Langkawi.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0550 hours - In position 06°01'N, 99°59'E sank a 15 tons junk with demolition charges. Took of 5 Chinese crew members. They were transferred to a sampan several hours later. (6)
3 Feb 1945 (position 6.05, 100.09)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges off Langkawi.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1614 hours - In position 06°05'N, 100°09'E sank a 10 tons junk with demolition charges. The cargo was soap and cement. Took of 4 Chinese crew members and transferred them to another small junk. (6)
4 Feb 1945 (position 6.09, 99.40)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges off Penang.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0250 hours - In position 05°09'N, 99°40'E sank an empty 25 tons junk with demolition charges. The crew was placed in their small boat and given provisions. (6)
7 Feb 1945 (position 6.28, 94.55)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) possibly torpedoed and sank one or more coaster(s) North-West of Sabang in position 06°28'N, 94°55'E.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1745 hours - Sighted a convoy of six 400 tons coasters escorted by two armed trawlers. Decided not to attack with the gun because of the two trailers.
1859 hours - The last four ships of the convoy formed an unbroken target so fired six torpedoes from 2000 yards. Three explosions were heard at the correct running range. The results could not be observed as Subtle went to 300 feet upon firing. One of the escorts dropped three depth charges but these were way off. (6)
11 Feb 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 4th war patrol (3rd in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
28 Feb 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. (9)
4 Mar 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 5th war patrol (4th in the Far East). She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Strait.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 5th war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
10 Mar 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was ordered to perform air/sea rescue duties during 10 - 12 March 1945. (6)
14 Mar 1945 (position 3.55, 100.39)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank three sailing vessels with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca South-East of the Sembilan Islands. Four others were damaged.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1719 hours - Surfaced in position 03°55'N, 100°39'E and gunned seven junks at anchor. Each junk was about 30 tons. Three were sunk, the other four were damaged. In all 50 rounds were fired. (6)
21 Mar 1945 (position 2.52, 100.01)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with demolition charges in the Malacca Strait.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0725 hours - Surfaced in position 02°52'N, 100°01'E and sank a 30 tons junk at anchor with demolition charges. The cargo was rice. The crew of 3 made off in their small boat. (6)
29 Mar 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 5th war patrol (4th in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
20 Apr 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was docked at Trincomalee. (10)
23 Apr 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was undocked. (10)
24 Apr 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 6th war patrol (5th in the Far East). She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Strait.
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 6th war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
10 May 1945 (position 3.09, 100.47)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) sighted the Japanese heavy cruiser Haguro (offsite link). A torpedo attack was started but had to be broken off at the last moment when the target altered course away.
(All times are zone -6.5) 1320 hours - Sighted three Jake seaplanes patrolling the area from now on. This might indicate that some big prey is coming our way.
1402 hours - Sighted two submarine chasers proceeding South.
1615 hours - The submarine chasers returned to our area.
1640 hours - In position 03°09'N, 100°47'E sighted a Japanese Nachi-class heavy cruiser. She was escorted by the two submarine chasers sighted earlier as well as a destroyer. Started attack.
1704 hours - When about to fire a salvo of torpedoes the target turned away. Five distant depth charges were dropped. The attack was broken off. (6)
12 May 1945 (position 3.13, 100.39)
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) attacked but missed the Japanese heavy cruiser Haguro (offsite link) with 6 torpedoes in the Malacca Strait.
(All times are zone -6.5) 0640 hours - In position 03°13'N, 100°39'E sighted a Japanese Nachi-class heavy cruiser escorted by a destroyer. Also 3 Jake seaplanes were patrolling the area. Started attack.
0704 hours - Fired 6 torpedoes from 2000 yards. 2 Explosions were heard more than 6 minutes after firing but the results could not be observed as Subtle was taken deep after firing. 2 A/S vessels immediately started a counter attack.
0730 hours - An A/S vessel passed directly overhead dropping 9 depth charges extremely close.
0750 hours - An A/S vessel passed directly overhead dropping 4 depth charges. Again very close. Considerable minor internal damage was caused by these attacks, mostly electrical.
1015 hours - Returned to periscope depth to find nothing in sight except 3 patrolling Jake aircraft. Withdrew to the North-West. (6)
13 May 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) had to jettison her stern torpedo as it was found to be half out of the tube, most likely due to yesterday's depth charging. (6)
24 May 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 6th war patrol (5th in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
29 May 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) was docked at Trincomalee to inspect damage to the pressure hull inflicted by the depth charging of May 12th.
The date of undocking is unknown to us as there is no log available for June to August 1945. (11)
21 Jul 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for her 7th war patrol (6th in the Far East). She was ordered to perform a weather reporting mission to the North-West of Sumatra.
For the daily positions of HMS Subtle during this patrol see the map below.
HMS Subtle 7th war patrol click here for bigger map (6)
15 Aug 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) ended her 7th war patrol (6th in the Far East) at Trincomalee. (6)
1 Sep 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for Aden. This was the first leg of the trip back to the U.K. (5)
13 Sep 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Aden. She departed for Port Said later the same day. (5)
19 Sep 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Port Said. (5)
20 Sep 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Port Said for Alexandria. (5)
21 Sep 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Alexandria. (5)
1 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Alexandria for Malta. (5)
4 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Malta. (5)
7 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Gibraltar. (5)
11 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (5)
12 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) Gibraltar for Portsmouth. (5)
16 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Portsmouth. (5)
24 Oct 1945
HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) arrived at Harwich where she was placed in reserve around mid November. (5)
Sources
- ADM 173/17253
- ADM 173/17254
- ADM 173/17255
- ADM 199/1826
- ADM 199/2571
- ADM 199/1873A
- ADM 173/18883
- ADM 173/19769
- ADM 173/19770
- ADM 173/19772
- ADM 199/1918
ADM numbers indicate documents at the British National Archives at Kew, London.
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