• Home
• The U-boats
• The Men
• The Allies
• Maps
• Forums
• Articles
• Gallery
• Books
• Movies
• WWI

Allies in WWII

• Ships hit by U-boats
• Allied Warships
• Allied Commanders
  • Listing of officers
  • Decorations
  • Personal info
• Ships & Navies
• Aircraft & Air Forces
• Weapons & Techn.

Career information

We currently have no career / biographical information on this officer.

Destroyer HMCS Skeena (D 59)

17 Jul 1940
HMCS Skeena (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, RCN) picks up 65 survivors from the British merchant Manipur that was torpedoed and sunk by German U-boat U-57 8 nautical miles north-west of Cape Wrath in position 58°41'N, 05°14'W.

2 Sep 1940
HMCS Skeena (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, RCN) picks up 19 survivors from the British merchant Thornlea that was torpedoed and sunk by German U-boat U-46 about 200 miles west of Bloody Foreland in position 55°41'N, 14°20'W.

23 Nov 1940
HMCS Skeena (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, RCN) picks up 6 men from the Norwegian merchant Bruse that was torpedoed and damaged west of Ireland in position 55°04'N, 12°15'W by German U-boat U-100.

Skeena also picks up 9 survivors from the Norwegian merchant Salonica that was torpedoed and sunk by U-100 west of Ireland in position 55°16'N, 12°14'W.

3 Mar 1941
HMCS Skeena (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, RCN) arrived at Halifax for a refit.

Destroyer HMCS Iroquois (G 89)

2 Aug 1943
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) proceeded from Greenock to Troon where she is to be taken in hand for repairs. (1)

25 Aug 1943
With her repairs completed, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) proceeded from Troon to Greenock.

Also D/G trials were carried out of Helensburg.

Compass adjustment trials and gunnery exercises then followed on completion of which HMCS Iroquois left the Clyde to proceed to Scapa Flow. (1)

26 Aug 1943
Around 1415A/26, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Scapa Flow from the Clyde. (1)

1 Sep 1943
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted independent torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow. (1)

2 Sep 1943
In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted full power trials off Scapa Flow. (1)

6 Sep 1943
In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (1)

7 Sep 1943
In the morning, HMS Seadog (Lt. C.R. Pelly, RN) conducted A/S exercises at Scapa Flow with HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN). (1)

13 Sep 1943
At 1800A/13, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) went alongside HMS Duke of York (Capt. B.B. Schofield, CBE, RN, flying the flag of A/Admiral B.A. Fraser, KCB, KBE, RN, C-in-C Home Fleet) and embarked the Chief of Staff to take him to Scrabster.

HMCS Iroquois returned to Scapa Flow the following morning. (1)

15 Sep 1943
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), ORP Orkan (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) S. Hryniewiecki) and HNoMS Stord (Lt.Cdr. S.V. Storheill) conducted torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow. (1)

15 Sep 1943
In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Venus (Cdr. J.S.M. Richardson DSO, RN) conducted A/S exercises during which HMS Satyr (Lt. T.S. Weston, RN) acted as target. (2)

20 Sep 1943
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises at and off Scapa Flow. (1)

21 Sep 1943
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) acted as target for HNoMS Stord (Lt.Cdr. S.V. Storheill) which was conducting torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow.

During the night of 21/22 September, HMCS Iroquois carried out exercises off Scapa Flow. (1)

22 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
In the second half of the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) carried out gunnery exercises at Scapa Flow. (1)

25 Sep 1943
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMIS Kistna (A/Cdr.(Emgy) R.R. Caws, RIN) conducted HA gunnery exercises off Scapa Flow. (1)

27 Sep 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted speed trials on the measured mile at Scapa Flow.

These were followed by A/S exercises. (1)

1 Oct 1943
Around 1830A/1, the destroyers HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) departed Scapa Flow for Skaalefjord, Faroer Islands where they arrived around 0900A/2. (3)

11 Oct 1943
Around 0600A/11, the destroyers HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) departed Skaalefjord, Faroer Islands for Scapa Flow where they arrived around 1545A/11. (3)

25 Oct 1943
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) conducted torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow. (1)

25 Oct 1943
In the evening, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted gunnery exercises at Scapa Flow. (1)

26 Oct 1943 (position 0.00, 0.00)
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted range and inclination exercises (RIX) at Scapa Flow using HMS Duke of York (Capt. B.B. Schofield, RN, flying the flag of A/Admiral B.A. Fraser, KCB, KBE, RN, C-in-C Home Fleet), which was at anchor, as target.

In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois conducted exercises, including gunnery, off Scapa Flow. (1)

27 Oct 1943
Around 2215A/27, the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) departed Scapa Flow.

Around 2030A/28, the were joined by the destroyer tender HMS Tyne (Capt. C.T.M. Pizey, CB, DSO and Bar, RN) joined near the Clyde lightship. HMS Tyne had departed Greenock around 1135A/28 for Scapa Flow.

Around 1530A/30, HMS Tyne and HMCS Iroquois arrived at Scapa Flow after HMS Tyne had carried out gunnery exercises in the Pentland Firth. HMS Impulsive had already parted company around 0915A/30 to enter Scapa Flow as she had a engine defect. (4)

7 Nov 1943
USS Ranger (Capt. G. Rowe, USN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral O.M. Hustvedt, USN) conducted exercises west of the Orkney Islands during which she was escorted by USS Forrest (T/Cdr. K.P. Letts, USN, with COMDESDIV 20, T/Capt. C.M. Jensen, USN on board), USS Corry (T/Cdr. L.B. Ensey, USN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN). (5)

15 Nov 1943
Around 1800A/15, HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Obedient (Lt.Cdr. H. Unwin, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) departed Scapa Flow for Seidisfjord, Iceland. (3)

17 Nov 1943
Around 1000A/17, HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Obedient (Lt.Cdr. H. Unwin, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) arrived at Seidisfjord from Scapa Flow.

Around 1800A/17, HMS Onslaught departed Seidisfjord together with the Russian minesweepers T 116, T 117 and the patrol vessels BO 205, BO 207 and BO 212. They were to join convoy JW 54A.

Around 2300A/17, HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Obedient, HMS Orwell, HMCS Haida, HMCS Huron, HMCS Iroquois and HMS Impulsive departed Seidisfjord also to join convoy JW 54A.

[For more info see the event ' Operation FT, passage of convoys JW 54A and JW 54B from the U.K. to Northern Russia as well as convoy RA 54B from Northern Russia to the U.K. ' for 15 November 1943.] (3)

24 Nov 1943
HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) arrived in the Kola Inlet with the Murmansk section of convoy JW 54A. (3)

28 Nov 1943
HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) departed the Kola Inlet to join convoy RA 54B.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Operation FT, passage of convoys JW 54A and JW 54B from the U.K. to Northern Russia as well as convoy RA 54B from Northern Russia to the U.K. ' for 15 November 1943.] (3)

4 Dec 1943
Around 1500A/4, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Seidisfjord from convoy escort duty. (3)

6 Dec 1943
Around 0245A/6, HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) departed Seidisfjord for Scapa Flow. (3)

7 Dec 1943
Around 1030A/7, HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Seidisfjord. (3)

16 Dec 1943
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is docked in the floating dock at Scapa Flow. (1)

20 Dec 1943
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is undocked. (1)

20 Dec 1943
Around 1700A/20, the destroyers HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMS Scourge (Lt.Cdr. G.I.M. Balfour, RN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) departed Scapa Flow for Skaalefjord, Faroer Islands where they arrived around 1000A/21. (3)

22 Dec 1943
Around 0001A/22, the destroyers HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMS Scourge (Lt.Cdr. G.I.M. Balfour, RN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) departed Skaalefjord to join convoy JW 55B.

[For more information, see the event ' Operation FV, passage of convoys JW 55A and JW 55B to Northern Russia and RA 55A and RA 55B from Northern Russia and the sinking of the German battleship Scharnhorst ' for 12 December 1943.] (3)

28 Dec 1943
Around 1200A/28, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) parted company with convoy JW 55B to proceed ahead of it to the Kola Inlet where they arrived around 2330A/28. (1)

31 Dec 1943
The destroyers HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN), HMS Whitehall (Lt.Cdr. P.J. Cowell, DSC, RN), HMS Wrestler (Lt. R.W.B. Lacon, DSC, RN), minesweepers HMS Halcyon (T/A/Lt.Cdr. L.J. Martin, RNVR), HMS Hussar (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Biggs, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Speedwell (Lt.Cdr. T.E. Williams, RD, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Honeysuckle (Lt. H.H.D. MacKillican, DSC, RNR), HMS Oxlip (Lt. C.W. Leadbetter, RNR) and HMS Rhododendron (T/Lt. O.B. Medley, RNVR) departed the Kola Inlet as escorts for convoy RA 55B.

[For more information, see the event ' Operation FV, passage of convoys JW 55A and JW 55B to Northern Russia and RA 55A and RA 55B from Northern Russia and the sinking of the German battleship Scharnhorst ' for 12 December 1943.] (3)

7 Jan 1944
Around 1215A/7, HMS Onslow (Capt. J.A. McCoy, DSO, RN), HMS Onslaught (Cdr. W.H. Selby, DSC, RN), HMS Orwell (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Hodges, DSO, RN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. P. Bekenn, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) parted company with convoy RA 55B to proceed direct to Scapa Flow.

Around 1430A/7, HMCS Huron (Lt.Cdr. H.S. Rayner, DSC, RCN) joined after having fuelled at Skaalefjord, Faeroer Islands.

Around 2250A/7, These destroyers arrived at Scapa Flow. (6)

10 Jan 1944
Around 1700A/10, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Scapa Flow for Plymouth. But first, the Vice Admiral destroyers, Vice Admiral I.G. Glennie, CB, RN, which had embarked in HMCS Haida, was transported to Scrabster. (1)

12 Jan 1944
Around 1345A/12, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Plymouth from Scapa Flow. (1)

17 Jan 1944
Around 1145A/17, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth to patrol off the south-east coast of the U.K. / western part of the English Channel.

They returned to Plymouth around 0200A/18. (1)

18 Jan 1944
Around 1420A/18, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth to patrol off the south-east coast of the U.K. / western part of the English Channel.

They returned to Plymouth around 0050A/19. (1)

19 Jan 1944
Around 1530A/19, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMCS Athabascan (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Stubbs, RCN) and HMS Ashanti (Lt.Cdr. J.R. Barnes, RN) departed Plymouth to patrol off the south-east coast of the U.K. / western part of the English Channel.

They returned to Plymouth around 0530A/20. (1)

21 Jan 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is taken in hand for a few days of repairs and boiler cleaning at the Devonport Dockyard. (7)

29 Jan 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Ashanti (Lt.Cdr. J.R. Barnes, RN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (1)

2 Feb 1944
Around 1815A/2, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Ashanti (Lt.Cdr. J.R. Barnes, RN) departed Plymouth to patrol off the south-east coast of the U.K. / western part of the English Channel.

They returned to Plymouth late in the morning of the 3rd. (1)

4 Feb 1944
Around 0900A/4, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Athabascan (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Stubbs, RCN) departed Plymouth for Scapa Flow. (8)

5 Feb 1944
Around 2300A/5, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Athabascan (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Stubbs, RCN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Plymouth. (8)

13 Feb 1944
HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Athabascan (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Stubbs, RCN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow on completion of which they fuelled and then left Scapa Flow around 1800A/13. (8)

15 Feb 1944
Around 0950A/15, HMCS Haida (Cdr. H.G. De Wolf, RCN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Athabascan (Lt.Cdr. J.H. Stubbs, RCN) arrived at Plymouth from Scapa Flow. (8)

18 Feb 1944
Around 0930A/18, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth to proceed to Halifax via the Azores. (1)

21 Feb 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) fuelled at Horta, Azores before continuing her passage to Halifax. (1)

26 Feb 1944
Around 1000P/26, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Halifax where she is to refit. (1)

17 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is wiped and then conducted D/G trials at Halifax. (9)

18 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted D/F calibration trials at Halifax. (9)

19 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted post refit trials off Halifax. (9)

20 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted post refit trials off Halifax. (9)

23 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Halifax. (9)

24 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Halifax. (9)

25 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Halifax. (9)

26 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises / trials off Halifax. (9)

30 May 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Halifax. (9)

1 Jun 1944
Around 1000P/1, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Halifax for St. John's. (9)

2 Jun 1944
Around 1430OP/2, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at St. John's from Halifax. (9)

3 Jun 1944
Around 07150OP/3, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed St. John's for Liverpool. (9)

3 Jun 1944
Around 1030B/8, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Liverpool from St. John's. At Liverpool she was taken in hand to complete her refit. This was mainly to fit the latest radar types, this work not having been possible at Halifax. (9)

14 Jul 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conduced D/G and compass swing trials at Liverpool. (9)

16 Jul 1944
Around 0900B/16, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Liverpool for Scapa Flow. (9)

17 Jul 1944
Around 0945B/17, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Liverpool. (9)

19 Jul 1944
In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted gunnery exercises off Scapa Flow. (9)

21 Jul 1944
In the morning, and HMS Myngs (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted torpedo firing exercises at Scapa Flow.

HMCS Iroquois then conducted A/S exercises with HMS Sea Scout (Lt. J.W. Kelly, RN).

In the afternoon, HMCS Iroquois carried out exercises with HMNZS Achilles (Capt. F.J. Butler, CBE, RN) during which HMCS Iroquois was fuelled while underway by HMNZS Achilles and also HMCS Iroquois was taken in tow by HMNZS Achilles. (9)

22 Jul 1944
In the morning, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted gunnery exercises at Scapa Flow.

In the afternoon, A/S exercises were carried out together with HMS Myngs (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, RN) and the submarine HMS Sea Scout (Lt. J.W. Kelly, RN). (9)

24 Jul 1944
During the 24th and early hours of the 25th, HMS Myngs (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, RN), HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, RN), HMS Volage (Cdr. L.G. Durlacher, OBE, RN), HMCS Algonquin (Lt.Cdr. D.W. Piers, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. (10)

26 Jul 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Scourge (Lt.Cdr. G.I.M. Balfour, RN) conducted A/S exercises with HMS Sea Scout (Lt. J.W. Kelly, RN). (9)

28 Jul 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Scourge (Lt.Cdr. G.I.M. Balfour, RN) conducted A/S exercises with HMS Sea Scout (Lt. J.W. Kelly, RN). (9)

29 Jul 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and Whirlwind (Cdr. W.A.F. Hawkins, DSO, DSC, OBE, RN) conducted A/S exercises with HMS Sea Scout (Lt. J.W. Kelly, RN). (9)

30 Jul 1944
During 30/31 July, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow. These included a bombardment exercise. (9)

1 Aug 1944
During 30/31 July, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Scapa Flow on completion of which, around 1700B/1 course was set to proceed to Plymouth. (9)

3 Aug 1944
Around 1315B/3, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Plymouth from Scapa Flow. (9)

30 Aug 1944
Around 1130B/30, the destroyers HMCS Haida (Capt. H.G. De Wolf, DSO, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth to make rendezvous with the cruiser Jeanne d'Arc (Capt. J.E.C. Hourcade) in position (C); 46°00'N, 11°30'W around 1100B/31.

The Jeanne d'Arc, which had members of the French Provisional Government on board, had departed Algiers for Cherbourg on 28 August.

The Jeanne d'Arc was routed trough positions (B); 40°00'N, 11°30'W, (C); [see above], (D); 49°00'N, 06°00'W, (E) 180° - Start Point - 4 nautical miles. From there they were to proceed trough swept channels to Cherbourg.

The two Canadian destroyers indeed joined the French cruiser around 1100B/31. They arrived of Cherbourg around 1350B/1 and the cruiser then entered the harbour. Around 1430B/1, the two destroyers left Cherbourg roads for Plymouth where they arrived around 1945B/1. (11)

9 Sep 1944
Around 0645N/9, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Horta, Azores where they both fuelled.

Around 1320N/9, HMS Tartar had completed fuelling and proceded to sea followed around 1440N/9 by HMSCS Iroquois. They then set course to return to Plymouth. (9)

12 Sep 1944
Around 0915B/12, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived Plymouth from Horta. (9)

14 Sep 1944
From 14 to 18 September 1944, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) cleaned her boilers at Plymouth. (12)

21 Sep 1944
Around 1800A/21, ' Force 28 ', which was made up of the destroyer HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Urania (Lt.Cdr. D.H.P. Gardiner, DSC, RN) to patrol between Belle Ile and the Gironde.

During the night of 22/23 September 1944, ' Force 28 ' did not sight the enemy.

On 23 September 1944, HMCS Iroquois put a landing party ashore at Les Sables-d'Olonne to gather intelligence on the situation on land at La Rochelle and La Pallice. ' Force 28 ' patrolled off the Gironde between 1900A/23 and 2300A/23 and then they swept northwards towards Belle Ile but again nothing was seen.

During the night of 24/25 September 1944 they patrolled of the Gironde and yet again there was no sign of the enemy.

At first light on the 25th, ' Force 28 ' examined Audierne Bay after which they proceeded to Plymouth where they arrived around 1445A/25. (13)

29 Sep 1944
Around 0001A/29, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth to patrol between Ile de Yeu and the Gironde.

During the night of 29/30 September only a small French fishing vessel was sighted and examined. During daytime on the 30th a landing party was landed at Les Sables-d'Olonne to gather intelligence.

Around 1200A/30, ORP Blyscawica (Kmdr.por. (Cdr.) K.F. Namiesniowski) departed Plymouth to patrol between positions 45°51'N, 01°44'W and 45°40'N, 01°44'W, and then to make rendezvous with HMCS Iroquois forming ' Force 26 '.

At 0347A/1, HMCS Iroquois was joined by ORP Blyscawica. The Commanding Officer of ORP Blyscawica was the Senior Officer of ' Force 26 '. They then patrolled between positions 45°51'N, 01°44'W and 47°07'N, 01°44'W.

During the night of 1/2 October ' Force 26 ' patrolled off the Gironde after which they proceeded northwards.

' Force 26 ' arrived at Plymouth around 1520A/2. (13)

7 Oct 1944
Around 0700A/27, ' Force 27 ', made up of ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) T. Gorazdowski) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), departed Plymouth to patrol between Belle Ile and the Gironde.

During daylight on the 8th ' Force 27 ' patrolled between Les Sables d'Olonne and Belle Ile.

Around 0700A/9, south-west of the Gironde, in position 44°59'N, 02°16'W, two Spanish fishing vessels were boarded and inspected. Both were genuine fishing vessels and were ordered to proceed back to San Sebastian. ' Force 27 ' then swept northwards along the coast up to Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile.

During the night of 9/10 October, in an area with a 20 mile radius from position 45°35'N, 03°12'W (west of the Gironde), ' Force 27 ' intercepted no less then 20 Spanish fishing vessels. All had their nets out and were ordered back to their homeports of Vigo and San Sebastian.

During daylight of the 10th, ' Force 27 ' patrolled in the approaches to the Gironde before proceeding towards the north and west on the way back to Plymouth where they arrived around 1200A/11. (13)

16 Oct 1944
Around 1830A/16, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth for Scapa Flow. (9)

16 Oct 1944
Around 0830A/18, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Plymouth. (9)

23 Oct 1944
Around 1845A/23, the destroyer tender HMS Tyne (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN) departed Scapa Flow for the Clyde. She is escorted by the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Nubian (Lt.Cdr. T.A. Pack-Beresford, RN). (14)

25 Oct 1944
Around 07005A/25, HMS Tyne (Cdr. D.P. Trentham, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and HMS Nubian (Lt.Cdr. T.A. Pack-Beresford, RN) arrived at Greenock from Scapa Flow. (14)

25 Oct 1944
Around 1800A/25, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Greenock to proceed towards Rosyth for escort duty. (9)

1 Nov 1944
During the night of 1 / 2 November 1944, HMS Caesar (Capt. G.N. Brewer, DSO, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted night encounter exercises off Scapa Flow. (9)

2 Nov 1944
In the morning, HMS Caesar (Capt. G.N. Brewer, DSO, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) carried out torpedo firing and range and inclination (RIX) exercises at Scapa Flow. (9)

6 Nov 1944
Around 1800A/6, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Scapa Flow for Plymouth, via the Clyde. (14)

7 Nov 1944
Around 1715A/7, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Greenock from Scapa Flow. (14)

10 Nov 1944
Around 0900A/10, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Plymouth. (9)

10 Nov 1944
Around 2100A/10, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Plymouth for Milford Haven where she arrived around 0830A/11. (9)

11 Nov 1944

Convoy TA 163A.

This convoy departed Liverpool on 11 November.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport USS West Point (American, 26454 GRT, built 1940). On board were 746 troops and other military personnel and 7 civilians.

The convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) which came from Milford Haven and joined in the St. Georges Channel.

Around 1415A/12, HMS Tartar and HMCS Iroquois parted company to return to Milford Haven. USS West Point then proceeded unescorted.

USS West Point arrived at Newport News, Virginia on 18 November 1944. (15)

11 Nov 1944
Around 1530A/11, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Milford Haven for escort duty with convoy TA 163A.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy TA 163A ' for 11 November 1944.] (16)

13 Nov 1944
Around 0815A/13, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Milford Haven from convoy escort duty. (16)

13 Nov 1944

Convoy TA 162.

This convoy departed the Clyde on 13 November.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport Queen Mary (British, 81235 GRT, built 1936).

The convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) which came from Milford Haven and joined in the St. Georges Channel [185° - Tuskar Rock - 20 nautical miles] around 0445A/14.

Around 1000A/14, speed had to be reduced from 28 to 25 knots due to the heavy weather conditions and the fact that the destroyers were sustaining weather damage. HMCS Iroquois had sustained more damage then HMS Tartar.

Around 1245A/14, the destroyers parted company, being unable to keep up in the current weather conditions without sustaining further weather damage.

The Queen Mary then continued on unescorted and arrived at New York on 19 November 1944. (17)

14 Nov 1944
Around 0145A/14, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) departed Milford Haven for escort duty with convoy TA 162.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy TA 162 ' for 13 November 1944.] (18)

15 Nov 1944
Around 0835A/15, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Milford Haven from convoy escort duty.

Around 2000A/15, HMS Tartar and HMCS Iroquois departed Milford Haven for Plymouth. (18)

16 Nov 1944
Around 0930A/16, HMS Tartar (Cdr. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) arrived at Plymouth from Milford Haven.

HMCS Iroquois was to be taken in hand at the Devonport Dockyard to repair the weather damage sustained on 14 November.

HMS Tartar later went on to the Humber where she is to refit. (19)

21 Nov 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is towed to the Devonport Dockyard where she is taken in hand for repairs. (9)

11 Dec 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is docked at the Devonport Dockyard. (9)

21 Dec 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) is undocked. (9)

24 Dec 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted D/G and compass adjustment trials in Cawsand Bay off Plymouth. (9)

26 Dec 1944
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

4 Jan 1945
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

5 Jan 1945
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

5 Jan 1945
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

5 Jan 1945
HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

6 Jan 1945

Convoy AT 179A.

This convoy departed New York on 6 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport USS Wakefield (24289 GRT, built 1931). On board were 6985, mostly US Army troops [American source, British source says 7002].

Around 0200Z/14, the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) joined.

The convoy arrived at Liverpool late in the evening of 14 January 1945. The destroyers did not enter Liverpool harbour until after noon on the 15th. (20)

8 Jan 1945
HMS Faulknor (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. C.S. Battersby, RN) and HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) conducted exercises off Plymouth. (9)

9 Jan 1945
Around 0800A/9, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN), HMS Eskimo (Lt. Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, DSC, RN), HMS Nubian (Lt.Cdr. F.C. Brodrick, RN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) departed Plymouth for the Clyde.

Early in the evening of the 9th, the American merchant vessel Jonas Lie was damaged by an underwater explosion near Milford Haven. It was thought that the ship had either been torpedoed or mined. The four destroyers were ordered to participate in the hunt for the possible attacker. [In fact the Jonas Lie was torpedoed by the German submarine U-1055].

The destroyers arrived at Greenock, after an unsuccessful A/S hunt, around 0915A/11. (9)

13 Jan 1945
Around 0845A/13, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) departed Greenock for escort duty with convoy AT 179A.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AT 179A ' for 6 January 1945.] (9)

15 Jan 1945
Around 1330A/15, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) entered Liverpool harbour. (9)

18 Jan 1945

Convoy TA 179A.

This convoy departed Liverpool early in the afternoon of 18 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport USS Wakefield (24289 GRT, built 1931). On board were 1938 personnel, including POW's.

On departure from Liverpool the convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki).

Around 2230A/18, the destroyers were falling behind, being unable to keep up at high speed in the bad weather conditions.

The convoy arrived at New York late in the morning of 27 January 1945. (20)

18 Jan 1945

Convoy AT 183.

This convoy departed New York on 18 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport Pasteur (British (former French), 29253 GRT, built 1938). On board were 4461 military personnel.

Around 0830A/25, the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) joined.

Around 0155A/26, when off Liverpool, ORP Piorun was detached to proceed to Plymouth.

The convoy arrived at Liverpool on 26 January 1945. (21)

18 Jan 1945

Convoy AT 183.

This convoy departed New York on 18 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport Pasteur (British (former French), 29253 GRT, built 1938). On board were 4461 military personnel.

Around 0830A/25, the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) joined.

Around 0155A/26, when off Liverpool, ORP Piorun was detached to proceed to Plymouth.

The convoy arrived at Liverpool on 26 January 1945.

HMCS Iroquois did not enter harbour and patrolled in Liverpool bay until about 1400A/28 when she set course for Belfast Lough. (21)

19 Jan 1945
Around 2020A/19, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) arrived at Greenock from convoy escort duty. (9)

21 Jan 1945

Convoy TA 181.

This convoy departed Greenock in the evening of 21 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport Ile de France (British (former French), 43450 GRT, built 1926).

On departure from the Clyde the convoy was escorted by the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki).

Around 1330A/22, the destroyers parted company to return to the Clyde.

The convoy arrived at New York on 28 January 1945. (21)

23 Jan 1945
Around 0820A/23, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) and ORP Piorun (Kmdr.ppor. (Cdr.) J.A. Tchórznicki) arrived at Greenock from convoy escort duty. (9)

28 Jan 1945
Around 1930A/28, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) arrived in Belfast Lough. She proceeded to Belfast harbour the following day. (21)

31 Jan 1945
Around 1145A/31, the escort carrier HMS Puncher (Capt. R.E.S. Bidwell, RCN) departed Greenock for Scapa Flow.

On leaving the boom, she was joined by the frigate HMS Towy (Cdr. H.V. King, DSO, OBE, RN).

Around 1400A/31, they were joined by the destroyer HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) coming from Belfast which she had departed around 0915A/31.

Around 0655A/1, in the Minches, the escorts were relieved by the destroyers HMCS Algonquin (Lt.Cdr. D.W. Piers, DSC, RCN) and HMCS Sioux (A/Lt.Cdr. E.E.G. Boak, RCN) which came from Scapa Flow .

HMS Puncher, HMCS Algonquin and HMCS Sioux arrived at Scapa Flow around 1445A/1. (22)

31 Jan 1945

Convoy AT 187A.

This convoy departed New York on 31 January 1945.

It was made up of only one ship, the troop transport USS Wakefield (24289 GRT, built 1931). On board were 6950, mostly US Army troops [American source, British source says 7002].

Around 1430Z/7, the destroyers HMCS Iroquois (Capt. K.F. Adams, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. C.S. Battersby, RN) joined but about an hour later the fell behind being unable to keep up in the heavy seas.

Around 1615Z/7, the destroyers HMS Carron (Lt.Cdr. J.V. Wilkinson, DSC, RN) and HMS Cambrian (Lt.Cdr. H.T. Harrel, RN) joined.

Around 0350A/8, the original escort was able to rejoin and HMS Carron and HMS Cambrian proceeded to the Clyde arriving there later the same day.

The convoy arrived at Liverpool in the morning of 8 February 1945. (23)

1 Feb 1945 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 2100A/1, HMCS Iroquois (Cdr. J.C. Hibbard, DSC and Bar, RCN) arrived at Greenock from escort duty. (9)

5 Feb 1945

Convoy CU 57.

This convoy departed New York on 5 February 1945.

On departure it was made up of the following ships (New York Section);
Alden Besse (American, 8258 GRT, built 1944), Arawa (British, 14462 GRT, built 1922), Athos II (French, 15276 GRT, built 1927), Cape Corwin (American, 5124 GRT, built 1943), Cape Nome (American, 5124 GRT, built 1944), Carnifex Ferry (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1945), Chatterton Hill (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Chickamauga (American (tanker), 10195 GRT, built 1943), Esso Camden (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1944), Examiner (American, 6737 GRT, built 1942), Fort Fetterman (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Fort Stevens (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Grand River (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Hubbardton (American (tanker), 10296 GRT, built 1944), Java (Dutch, 9250 GRT, built 1939), Karsten Wang (Norwegian (tanker), 10296 GRT, built 1944), Marine Eagle (American, 11500 GRT, built 1943), Marine Panther (American, 11758 GRT, built 1944), Mobile Bay (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1945), Ocala Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1945), Pit River (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1945), Rangitata (British, 16737 GRT, built 1929), Raphael Semmes (American, 6165 GRT, built 1942), Rosemont (Panamanian, 4956 GRT, built 1938), Sandy Creek (American (tanker), 10297 GRT, built 1944), Santa Rosa (American, 9135 GRT, built 1932), The Yakima (American (tanker), 10172 GRT, built 1944), Yellow Tevern (American (tanker), 10296 GRT, built 1944) and York (American (tanker), 10448 GRT, built 1943).

The following ships were also part of the convoy; escort carrier (in an aircraft ferry role) HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN) and naval troop transport USS Hermitage (23254 GRT, built 1925) (T/Capt. J.T. Talbert, USN).

On departure from New York the convoy was escorted by the destroyers USS McDougal (T/Cdr. E.W. Logsdon, USN, with COMTASKGR 61.5, T/Capt. E.D. Poole, USN, on board), USS Simpson (Lt.Cdr. L.W. Sedgwick, USNR) and the destroyer escorts USS Robert E. Peary (Lt. D. McKinlay, Jr., USNR), USS Blair (Lt. W. Gadsby, Jr., USNR) and USS Sturtevant (Lt.Cdr. J.M. Mertz, USNR).

On 6 February the Boston Section of the convoy departed that place, it was made up of the following ship;
Brazil (American, 20614 GRT, built 1929), Cape Borda (American, 5124 GRT, built 1944), Cape Race (American, 5124 GRT, built 1944), Excelsior (American, 6737 GRT, built 1943), Kokomo Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1945), Oneida Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1944), Pachaug Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1944), Sea Tiger (American, 7886 GRT, built 1944) and Thomas H. Barry (American, 11250 GRT, built 1930).

On departure from New York this section was escorted by the escort destroyers USS Jacob Jones (Lt. Frank L. Sullivan, USNR, with COMCORTDIV 3, T/Cdr. C.W. Musgrave, USN, on board), USS Brough (Lt. M.A. Stein, USNR), USS Roy O. Hale (Lt. H.C. Pogue, Jr., USNR) and USS Dale W. Peterson (Lt.Cdr. A.S. Bigelow, USNR).

Around 1015Q/7, the Boston Section of the convoy joined the main convoy. USS Simpson then parted company to proceed to Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Around 1800O/9, the merchant vessel Waiwera (British, 12435 GRT, built 1934) joined the convoy coming from the Panama Canal.

Around 0950O/10, the destroyer escorts USS Hammann (Lt.Cdr. C.L. Gould, USNR) and USS Martin H. Ray (Lt. H.V. Tucker, Jr., USNR), which had been delayed in sailing with the convoy due to the need for repairs, joined the convoy.

Around 1915N/11, the merchant vessels Hororata (British, 13945 GRT, built 1942) and Westerley Victory (American, 7607 GRT, built 1944) joined the convoy coming from the Panama Canal and Horta, Azores respectively.

Around 1530N/12, the merchant vessel Empire Rawlinson (British, 9912 GRT, built 1944) joined the convoy coming from Ascension.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Around 1700N/12, the Irish Sea / west coast section of the convoy parted company. This section was made up of the following merchant vessels;
Arawa, Carnifex Ferry, Chatteron Hill, Empire Rawlinson, Esso Camden, Fort Stevens, Grand River, Hororata, Mobile Bay, Pit River, Rangitata, Sandy Creek, The Yakima, Waiwera and York. HMS Pursuer was also part of this section. They were escorted by USS Jacob Jones, USS Hammann, USS Robert E. Peary, USS Brough and USS Roy O. Hale.

Around 1245Z/13, the merchant vessel Empire Grace (British, 13478 GRT, built 1942) joined the Irish Sea / west coast section. She came from the Panama Canal.

Around 1645A/15, ' Force 33 ' (21st Escort Group) reinforced the escort. This were the frigates HMS Conn (Lt.Cdr. R. Hart, DSC and Bar, RN), HMS Byron (Lt. J.B. Burfield, DSC, RN), HMS Deane (T/Lt.Cdr. F. Brock, RCNVR), HMS Fitzroy (Lt.Cdr. O.G. Stuart, RCNVR), HMS Redmill (Lt. J.R.A. Denne, RN) and HMS Rupert (Lt. P.C.S. Black, RN).

Around 1730A/15, HMS Redmill was detached for other escort duties.

Around 1945A/15, ' Force 37 ' (31st Escort group) joined and took over from ' Force 33 ' which then parted company. ' Force 37 ' was made up of the corvettes HMS Berkeley Castle (Cdr. N.W. Duck, DSC and Bar, RD, RNR), HMS Carisbrooke Castle (T/Lt. W.H. Forster, RNR), HMS Dumbarton Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. R.C. Heron, RNVR) and HMS Lancaster Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. W.S. Joliffe, RNR).

Around 2140A/15, the Esso Camden parted company to proceed to the Clyde. USS Brough went with her as escort. They arrived in the Clyde the following morning.

Around 2225A/15, HMS Pursuer was detached to Belfast Lough where she arrived around an hour later.

Around 0200A/16, ' Force 37 ' parted company having been relieved by the 19th Escort Group which was made up of the frigate HMS Loch Shin (Cdr. J.P. de W. Kitcat, RN), HMS Loch Insh (T/A/Lt.Cdr. E.W.C. Dempster, RNVR), HMS Anguilla (T/A/Lt.Cdr. C. Morrison-Payne, RNVR), HMS Cotton (Lt.Cdr. I.W.T. Beloe, RN) and HMS Goodall (Lt.Cdr. J.V. Fulton, RNVR).

Around 0300A/16, the Bristol Channel section of the convoy parted company. This was made up of the following merchant vessels; Arawa, Chatterton Hill, Empire Grace, Fort Stevens and Pit River. They all arrived at Avonmouth on 16 / 17 February 1945. USS Robert E. Peary and USS Roy O. Hale went with them as escorts and they arrived at Cardiff in the evening of 16 February. This section of the convoy was supported by ships of the ' 25th Escort Group ' from 0700A/16 until the vicinity of Milford Haven. The 25th Escort Group was made up of the frigates HMCS Orkney (A/Cdr. V. Browne, RCNR), HMCS La Hulloise (Lt.Cdr. J. Brock, RCNVR), HMCS Strathadam (A/Lt.Cdr. H.L. Quinn, DSC, RCNVR) and HMCS Thedford Mines (Lt. J.A.R. Allan, DSC, RCNVR).

The remaining ships of the Irish Sea / west coast section arrived off the Bar light ship off Liverpool around 1030A/16 and the ships then started to enter the harbour.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The remaining ships made up the Channel / east coast section.

Around 1200A/15, the destroyers HMS Faulknor (Cdr. D.E. Holland-Martin, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), HMCS Iroquois (Capt. K.F. Adams, RCN) and escort destroyers HMS Tanatside (Cdr. B.J. de St. Croix, DSC, RN) and HMS Brissenden (Lt. D.D.E. Vivian, DSC, RN) joined.

Around 0355A/16, the Java suffered a steering defect and collided with the Westerly Victory. HMS Tanatside was ordered to standby them. They arrived at Plymouth later on the 16th. Java being towed into port by the rescue tug HMRT Allegiance.

Around 0730A/16, the Fort Fetterman and Yellow Tavern were detached to Weymouth Bay where they arrived later the same day.

Around 1000A/16, HMS Faulknor, HMCS Iroquois and HMS Brissenden parted company after the destroyer HMS Vidette (T/A/Lt.Cdr. G.S. Wooley, RNVR), frigates HMS Hargood (Cdr. P.G. MacIver, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Kingsmill (Lt. G.H. Cook, RN) and L'Escarmouche joined.

Around 1400A/16, the ' London ' Section of the convoy parted company. This section was made up of the following merchant vesssels;
Chicamauga, Hubbardton and Karsten Wang. HMS Vidette went with them as escort.

The remaining ships arrived in Le Havre Roads in the evening of 16 February. (24)

6 Feb 1945
Around 1130A/6, HMCS Iroquois (Capt. K.F. Adams, RCN) and HMS Impulsive (Lt.Cdr. C.S. Battersby, RN) departed Greenock for escort duty with convoy AT 187A.

[For more info on this convoy see the event ' Convoy AT 187A ' for 31 January 1945.] (9)

You can help improve officers James Calcutt Hibbard's page
Click here to Submit events/comments/updates for this officer.
Please use this if you spot mistakes or want to improve his page.

• Front page
• About
• Contact us
• FAQ
• Glossary
• What's new

 © 1995 - 2025 Guðmundur Helgason