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Submarine HMS Talisman (N 78)

26 Jun 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted trials off Liverpool. Upon completion of these she departed Liverpool Bay for Greenock. During the passage to the Clyde she was escorted by HMS Imogen (Cdr. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN). (1)

27 Jun 1940
Around 1125A/27, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Greenock for a period of trials and training in the Clyde area. (1)

28 Jun 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted trials in the Clyde area. These included speed trials on the measured mile. (1)

29 Jun 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted diving trials in the Clyde area during which she was escorted by HMS Imogen (Cdr. C.L. Firth, MVO, RN). (1)

30 Jun 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Greenock to the torpedo firing range at Arrochar. (2)

1 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in Loch Long. (3)

2 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in Loch Long. (3)

4 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in Loch Long. (3)

5 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

6 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

7 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

8 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

9 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

10 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (3)

11 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) left Arrichar for independent exercises in the Clyde area. Upon completion of these exercises she proceeded to Rothesay. (3)

12 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. Upon completion of these exercises she proceeded to Greenock. (3)

15 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Arrochar where she conducted torpedo discharge trials. (3)

16 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted minelaying trials off Arrochar. The mines were laid from the torpedo tubes. (3)

17 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted minelaying trials off Arrochar. The mines were laid from the torpedo tubes. (3)

19 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Arrochar to Greenock. (3)

20 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Rothesay. (3)

21 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Rothesay to Govan where she was docked in No.3 Dry Dock for examination of and repairs to her bow caps. (3)

22 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) is undocked. She then proceeded from Govan to Rothesay. (3)

24 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN) acted as the target. (3)

25 Jul 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Otway (Lt. G.C.I.St.B.S. Watkins, RN) and HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN) acted as the targets. (3)

27 Jul 1940
With her trials and training completed, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), departed Rothesay around 1945A/27 for her 1st war patrol. During the passage south through the Irish Sea HMS Talisman was escorted by the ASW trawler HMS Lord Hailsham (Skr. F.J.J. Cannon, RNR). She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay. (4)

27 Jul 1940
For the daily positions of HMS Talisman during her 1st war patrol see the map below.

29 Jul 1940 (position 50.06, -6.23)
At 1928A/29, while still under escort and near position 50°06'N, 06°23'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was bombed by three German Junker 88 aircraft west of Land’s End, she dived to 120 feet and escaped damage.

At 2200A/29, the escort, the ASW trawler HMS Lord Hailsham (Skr. F.J.J. Cannon, RNR), parted company. (4)

3 Aug 1940
Between 0045-0145A/3, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) carried out Special Operation A5/SL02, landing two SIS agents by canoe near Hourtin Light (Gironde estuary).

At 1314A/3, while still near the Gironde estuary, a merchant vessel of about 1000 tons was sighted. She was steering a course of 180°.

At 1426A/3, a merchant vessel of about 1200 tons was sighted. She was steering a course of 090°.

Both ships could not be attacked.

[We have been unable to identify these vessels.]. (4)

7 Aug 1940
While patrolling west of Ile d'Oleron, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted several merchant / fishing vessels during the day but none were / could be attacked.

Sightings were as follows;
At 0340A/7, a merchant vessel was sighted bearing 300°. She crossed from port to starboard.

At 0800A/7, a merchant vessel was sighted steering 310° coming out of Pertuis d'Antioche.

At 0950A/7, a small diesel trawler was sighed. She flew a white flag above the French ensign.

At 1230A/7, two small steamers, apparently in company, were sighted off Pertuis d'Antioche. They also flew a white flag above the French ensign. It was thought these were pilot vessels.

[We have been unable to identify these vessels.] (5)

8 Aug 1940
At 1227A/8, while patrolling west of Pertuis d'Antioche, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted three merchant of about 4000 tons. They were in company and proceeding on course 300°. They appeared to be escorted by an aircraft.

At 1400A/8, a small vessel, thought to be a pilot vessel was sighed.

[We have been unable to identify these vessels.] (5)

11 Aug 1940
At 1130A/11, while patrolling west of Ile d'Oleron, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted three merchant vessels of about 5000 tons which were flying the French flag and were proceeding on a course of 330°. They passed at a range of 4000 yards. They appeared to be escorted by an aircraft.

[We have been unable to identify these vessels.] (5)

12 Aug 1940
At 0915A/12, while patrolling west of Gironde estuary, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted a merchant vessel of about 7000 tons which was flying the French flag and was proceeding on a course of 330°. [We have been unable to identify this ship.]

HMS Talisman left patrol later this day. (5)

14 Aug 1940
Around 0845A/14, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 1st war patrol at Falmouth. She was escorted in by HMS Maid Marion (Capt.(Retd.) J.C.J. Soutter, RN).

Around 2020A/14, HMS Talisman departed Falmouth for Rothesay. During the passage north through the Irish Sea she was escorted by HMS St. Modwen (Cdr.(Retd.) W.A. Ford, RN). (5)

16 Aug 1940
Around 1215A/16, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Rothesay from Falmouth. (6)

23 Aug 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted D/G trials at Rothesay. (6)

26 Aug 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) and HrMs O 24 (Lt.Cdr. O. de Booy, RNN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN) acted as target. (6)

30 Aug 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) and HrMs O 24 (Lt.Cdr. O. de Booy, RNN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN) acted as target. (6)

31 Aug 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted D/G trials at Rothesay. (6)

2 Sep 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area with HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN). Also gunnery exercises were carried out on a target towed by HMS Alecto (Cdr. R.M.G. Gambier, RN). (7)

5 Sep 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted D/G trials at Rothesay. (7)

6 Sep 1940
At 0530A/6, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Rothesay for her 2nd war patrol. She was ordered to patrol West of the Hebrides on an anti-uboat patrol. On departure from Rothesay she was escorted by HrMs Z 6 (Lt.Cdr. A.C. Lunbeck, RNN).

At 1225A/6, escort was taken over by HMS White Bear (Cdr.(Retd.) C.C. Flemming, RN) which escorted the submarine to position 56°42'N, 07°54'E. They parted company at 0800A/7. (8)

6 Sep 1940
For the daily positions of HMS Talisman during her 2nd war patrol see the map below.

13 Sep 1940
At 2345A/13, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 2nd war patrol at Rothesay. The patrol had been uneventful. She was escorted in by HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A. E. Johnston, RN) which had joined her around 0605A/13. (8)

14 Sep 1940
Late in the morning, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Rothesay to Holy Loch. (7)

15 Sep 1940
Around 0600A/15, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) and HMS Tuna (Lt.Cdr. M.K. Cavenagh-Mainwaring, RN) departed from Holy Loch for Portsmouth and patrol respectively. They were escorted southwards through the Irish Sea by HMS Rosemary (Lt.(Retd.) H.V. Wheeler, RN). (7)

17 Sep 1940
Around 1700A/17, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Falmouth. (7)

18 Sep 1940
Around 1710A/18, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Falmouth for Portsmouth. She was escorted by HMS St. Kenan (T/Lt. H.J. Beverley, RNR). (7)

19 Sep 1940
Around 1100A/19, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Portsmouth. Before entering harbour she carried out D/G trials. (7)

20 Sep 1940
Around 1700A/20, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Portsmouth for her 3rd war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the English Channel off Cherbourg, France.

For the daily positions of HMS Talisman during this patrol see the map below.

(4)

23 Sep 1940
At 1910A/23, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted two westbound German Leberecht Maas class destroyers near Cherbourg, France. Range was 8000 yards so they could not be attacked.

The destroyers were the Z 5 / Paul Jacobi and Z 15 / Erich Steinbrinck which were on passage from Wilhemshaven (departed around 1700B/22) to Brest (arrived around 0920B/24). (9)

24 Sep 1940
At 1340A/24, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted two small merchant vessels of about 600 to 1000 tons close inshore proceeding westwards. [We have been unable to identify these ships.] (8)

25 Sep 1940
At 0930A/25, while still on patrol near Cherbourg, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighted three vessels thought to be two motorboats and a lifeboat searching the area presumably for survivors from downed aircraft. [We have been unable to identify these vessels.] (8)

26 Sep 1940
At 1425A/26, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) observed an enemy tanker of about 7000 ton rounding Cape Barfleur. She was escorted by two trawlers and aircraft. The tanker could not be attacked and passed out of range. The ships appeared to enter Cherbourg. This was however not the case.

The tanker was the German Belchen (6367 GRT, built 1932, former Norwegian Sysla) which was en-route to Brest. She was escorted by the auxiliary submarine chaser UJ 124 and at the moment she was sighted there were most likely also auxiliary patrol vessels from the 2nd VP flotilla present, most likely V 211 and V 212. Belchen and UJ 124 arrived at Brest around 1810B/27.

At 1900A/26, a motor torpedo boat was sighted stopped in position 49°52'N, 01°25'W. HMS Talisman went to 80 feet to evade.

At 2030A/26, HMS Talisman surfaced after a days of submerged patrol. She left patrol for Portsmouth around 2230A/26. (10)

27 Sep 1940
Around 1030A/27, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 3rd war patrol at Portsmouth. On entering harbour she made three runs on the D/G range.

HMS Talisman was escorted in by the patrol vessel Chasseur 13 (Lt. N.R.H. Rodney, RN) which had joined her around 0700A/27. (4)

2 Oct 1940
Around 1630A/2, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Portsmouth for Holy Loch. (11)

3 Oct 1940 (position 49.55, -4.53)
At 0720A/3, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) is machine gunned by a German Dornier 215 aircraft near position 49°55'N, 04°53'W. The Officer of the Watch T/S.Lt. P.S. Thirsk, RNR was wounded by a bullet in his left foot. At 1050A/3 he was transferred to an MA/SB to be taken to hospital.

At 1140A/3, HMS Talisman made rendes-vous with HMS Jasper (T/Lt. G.T.S. Clampitt, RNR) which escorted her north through the Irish Sea. (11)

5 Oct 1940
Around 1330A/5, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Holy Loch from Portsmouth. (11)

6 Oct 1940
At 0640A/6, in very bad weather, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) runs aground at Holy Loch. She is refloated after almost six hours. No damage is sustained. (11)

9 Oct 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted noise trials at Holy Loch followed by D/G trials on the D/G range at Helensburg which in turn were followed by independent exercises in Loch Long. On completion of these exercises she returned to Holy Loch. (11)

12 Oct 1940
Around 1930A/12, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Holy Loch for her 4th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay.

During passage south through the Irish Sea she was escorted by HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). The escort parted company around 2045A/14 near Bishop Rock, Scilly Islands. (4)

12 Oct 1940
For the daily positions of HMS Talisman during her 4th war patrol see the map below.

18 Oct 1940
At 0116A/18, in position 46°00'N, 02°16'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed a group of four armed trawlers patrolling. They were followed until around 0400A/18 but were not attacked. (12)

22 Oct 1940 (position 45.59, -1.43)
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) engages the Italian submarine Enrico Tazzoli with torpedoes and gunfire about 20 nautical miles North-West of the Gironde estuary. All six torpedoes fired missed their target. Four rounds were fired with the deck gun but these missed as well. Tazzoli meanwhile dived to safety.

0630A/22 - In position 45°49'N, 01°43'W sighted a black object bearing 240°. Soon after the object was identified as an Italian submarine steering course 123°. Started attack.

0644A/22 - Started firing a salvo of six torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3,4,7 and 8. Range was 3000 yards.

About 10 seconds after firing the first torpedo (and 3 seconds after firing the second torpedo) a violent explosion occurred close ahead of Talisman. The remaining torpedoes were fired with a 8 second delay. All torpedoes missed ahead as the speed of the target was over estimated.

0647A/22 - Dived. A bad leak was discovered forward. Talisman hit the bottom at 159 feet. Lt.Cdr. Francis decided to surface to reduce the pressure of the incoming water. There was also a possibility that Talisman was unable to submerge again so it was intended to get clear to the Westward before daylight.

0656A/22 - Surfaced. The enemy submarine was in sight bearing 165°, range 4000 yards. Engaged with the deck gun. Four rounds were fired before the enemy was seen to dive.

Continued to retire to the West. Soon after it was discovered that Talisman was not leaking forward but that a valve of one of the external torpedo tubes was leaking. (4)

26 Oct 1940
A 1900A/26, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) left patrol to return to Holy Loch. Besides the four armed trawlers seen on 18 October and the Italian submarine attacked on 22 October only fishing vessels had been sighted, almost every day. (4)

29 Oct 1940
At 0725A/29, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), made rendez-vous with HMS Jackal (Cdr. C.L. Firth, RN). At 1803A/29 escort duties were taken over by HMS Rosemary (Lt.(Retd.) H.V. Wheeler, RN). (11)

30 Oct 1940
Around 2330A/30, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 4th war patrol at Holy Loch. (4)

16 Nov 1940
For the daily and attack positions of HMS Talisman during her 5th war patrol see the map below.

16 Nov 1940
Around 0830A/16, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Holy Loch for her 5th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay. Passage south through the Irish Sea was made together with HMS Clyde (Cdr. D.C. Ingram, DSC, RN) which was to proceed to the Devonport Dockyard at Plymouth to refit. During the passage south through the Irish Sea they were escorted HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN).

They parted company around 0045A/18. (4)

20 Nov 1940 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0430A/20, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) entered her patrol area. (4)

21 Nov 1940
At 1325A/21, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed three armed trawlers west of Belle Ile, France, in position 47°19'N, 03°24'W. They were in line abreast 1500 yards apart. They were transmitting on Asdic on course 210°. They changed course to 020° at 1535A/21 and were subsequently lost from sight.

This were most likely ships from the 12th UJ-flotilla which were patrolling between Ile de Groix and Belle Ile during this day. Most likely it thus must have been three ships out of the following five; UJ 122, UJ 124, UJ 128, UJ D and UJ E. (13)

25 Nov 1940 (position 47.37, -3.51)
At 1015A/25, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed three westbound enemy torpedo boats of the ' Mowe-class ' in position 47°28'N, 03°44'W. Enemy speed was 20 knots. They were not attacked. These were the German torpedo boats Jaguar, Iltis and Wolf enroute to Brest from Quiberon Bay where they had been conducting exercises since 22 November. Before entering Brest they were ordered to proceed to Cherbourg instead where they arrived around 0400B/26.

Later the same day HMS Talisman attacked the German tanker Altengamme (5882 GRT, built 1916, former British Naptha Shipper) which was thought to be escorted by three A/S trawlers with six torpedoes about 10 nautical miles west of Ile de Groix in position 47°37'N, 03°51'W. The tanker was however not escorted by three but by two trawlers, these were the auxiliary patrol vessels V 703 and V 707. V 703 was screening ahead of the tanker and V 707 was behind the tanker. They had departed Brest around 1245B/24 for Lorient where they arrived shortly before 1900B/25.

The two patrol vessels had not noticed the torpedo attack except for some vibrations occurring. The crew of the tanker reported having seen two torpedo tracks passing ahead but they were not believed. V 707 had dropped one depth charge for good measure though. The Germans reported the position of the 'incident' as 47°38'5"N, 03°47'5"W.

1015A/25, In position 47°28'N, 03°44'W sighted three enemy torpedo boats of the ' Mowe-class ' bearing 080°. Enemy course was 090° at 20 knots.

1021A/25, The enemy passed at a range of 2000 yards. All three ships were camouflaged.

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

1415A/25 - Sighted smoke to the North-West.

1425A/25 - The mast and funnel of a tanker could be seen. The tanker was escorted by three A/S trawlers. Range was 11000 yards, enemy course was 090°. Started attack.

1501A/25 - In position 47°37'N, 03°51'W fired six torpedoes from 6000 yards (tubes 1,2,3,4,7 and 8. Went deep upon firing. Eleven seconds after firing the first torpedo (from No.1 tube) a violent explosion occurred. This was the second time this happened (see the attack on 22 October 1940). Lt.Cdr. Francis considered it likely that there was a problem with No.1 torpedo tube. Some minor damage was inflicted as a result of this explosion. No. 9 and 10. external torpedoes, were damaged in this explosion as the front doors of both tubes were open at the time of the explosion.

1507A/25 - Heard an explosion.

1510A/25 - Heard two more explosions.

1525A/25 - Came to periscope depth. Saw the tanker stopped. Only two A/S trawlers were seen instead of the three present before the attack.

1550A/25 - The tanker was still stopped when last seen. She did not appear to be lower in the water though. (14)

26 Nov 1940 (position 47.08, -3.49)
At 1920A/26, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) captured the French fishing vessel Le Clipper (40 GRT) in the Bay of Biscay near Lorient in position 47°08'N, 03°49'W.

Five SOE agents under Lt. Minshull, RN, boarded the vessel which was then used to observe U-boat movements off the Gironde estuary (operation Shamrock) before being brought into Falmouth.

The French crew of four of the Le Clipper were taken on board HMS Talisman. (4)

29 Nov 1940
At 1600A/29, in position 47°37'N, 04°04'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed three trawlers proceeding on course 110°. They were in line abreast about 1500 yards apart. Possibly this were just fishing vessels. (15)

30 Nov 1940
At 1315A/30, in position 47°20'N, 03°25'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed two trawlers proceeding on course 180°. They were in line abreast about 1500 yards apart. Possibly this were just fishing vessels. (15)

2 Dec 1940
At 1030A/2, in position 47°34'N, 03°51'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed three enemy A/S trawlers. They were patrolling in line abreast transmitting on Asdic. Enemy course was 150°. This were most likely UJ 124, UJ 122 and UJ E from the 2nd UJ Flotilla which were patrolling in the approaches to Lorient on this day.

Ten minutes later four more trawlers were sighted. These were also in line abreast and were proceeding on course 250°. These trawlers were not transmitting on Asdic. These were most probably fishing vessels.

At 1300A/2, in position 47°35'N, 03°59'W, a destroyer was sighted hull down proceeding on course 270°. This must have been the German torpedo boat Greif which had departed St. Nazaire at 0955B/2 for Cherbourg where she arrived around 0220B/3.

At 2000A/2, HMS Talisman left patrol to return to Holy Loch. (16)

4 Dec 1940
At 0826A/4, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), near the Pendeen lighthouse made rendez-vous with her escort, HMS PC 74 (A/Cdr.(Retd.) C.E.H. White, RN). They then proceeded north through the Irish Sea towards Holy Loch. (17)

5 Dec 1940
Around 2200A/5, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 5th war patrol at Holy Loch. (4)

17 Dec 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) proceeded from Holy Loch to Ardrossan where she was immediately docked to examine the torpedo tubes. (17)

20 Dec 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) is undocked at Ardrossan. She then returned to Holy Loch. (17)

22 Dec 1940
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted torpedo firing trials off Arrochar on completion of which she returned to Holy Loch. (17)

26 Dec 1940
Around 1800A/26, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Holy Loch for her 6th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay to intercept U-boats west of the Gironde.

During the passage south through the Irish Sea she was escorted by HMS Surprise (Capt.(Retd.) E.Stubbs, RN).

They parted company near Wolf Rock around 0725A/28.

[No map of this patrol can be displayed as there are no logs available for HMS Talisman for this period.] (4)

6 Jan 1941
At 1100A/6, in position 45°55'N, 01°35'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed what is though to be an A/S trawler proceeding on course 360°. This may have been the German auxiliary patrol vessel V 410 which was on (listening) patrol off the Gironde on this day. (18)

11 Jan 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 1600A/11, in position 45°25'N, 01°49'W, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sighed what is though to be an A/S trawler proceeding on course 090°. This may have been the German auxiliary patrol vessel V 401 which was on (listening) patrol off the Gironde on this day. Also on patrol off the Gironde on this day were the UJ boats UJ E, UJ D and UJ 128 but these would most likely have operated in company with each other. (19)

13 Jan 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
At 0300A/13, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) left patrol to proceed to Plymouth unescorted. (4)

15 Jan 1941
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 6th war patrol at Plymouth. No enemy contacts were made during this patrol. (4)

17 Jan 1941
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) is docked at Plymouth.

[It is currently not known to us when she was undocked.] (20)

1 Feb 1941
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Plymouth for Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS La Capricieuse (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Dobson, RNR). HMS Taku (Lt. J.F.B. Brown, RN) coming from patrol also joined around 0820A/2 for the passage north through the Irish Sea. (20)

3 Feb 1941
Around 1700A/3, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Holy Loch from Plymouth. (21)

7 Feb 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), most likely, conduced exercises in the Clyde area. (22)

9 Feb 1941
Around 0900A/9, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed from Holy Loch for her 7th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Bay of Biscay west of the Gironde.

During the passage south through the Irish Sea she was escorted by HMS La Capricieuse (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Dobson, RNR). They parted company near Bishop Rock around 0200A/11.

[No map of this patrol can be displayed as there are no logs available for HMS Talisman for this period.] (4)

12 Feb 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 0300A/12, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) entered her patrol area.

At 2300A/12, HMS Talisman received FOS (Flag Officer Submarines) signal timed 1939A/12, ordering her not to proceed within 40 miles from the French coast. (4)

14 Feb 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
Around 2300A/14, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) left patrol to return to Holy Loch. (4)

16 Feb 1941
At 0800A/16, HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), made rendes-vous with her escort HMS La Capricieuse (Lt.Cdr. G.W. Dobson, RNR) near the Pendeen lighthouse. Both vessels then proceeded north through the Irish Sea towards Holy Loch. (4)

17 Feb 1941
HMS Talisman (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 7th war patrol at Holy Loch. No enemy contacts had been made during this patrol. (4)

Submarine HMS Proteus (N 29)

17 Jul 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her refit at Portsmouth. (23)

22 Jul 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted trials off Portsmouth. (23)

23 Jul 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted trials off Portsmouth. (23)

24 Jul 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises off Portsmouth. (23)

27 Jul 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Portsmouth for Holy Loch. She was initially escorted by HMS Arctic Pioneer (Skr. G. Bryan, RNR) and HMS Kingston Topaz (Skr. W.M. Smith, RNR). (23)

29 Jul 1941
At 1957 hours (zone -2), HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN), made rendez-vous off the Lizard with HMS Cutty Sark (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN) that was to escort her north through the Irish Sea towards Holy Loch. (23)

31 Jul 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Holy Loch to begin a training period. (23)

2 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted special RD/F trials in the Clyde area. (24)

3 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted special RD/F trials in the Clyde area. (24)

4 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted special RD/F trials in the Clyde area. (24)

6 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

7 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

9 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

11 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted noise trials in Loch Long. (24)

13 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted minelaying trials (from the torpedo tubes) in Loch Long. (24)

15 Aug 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area with HMS White Bear (Cdr.(Retd.) C.C. Flemming, RN), HMS Oberon (Lt.Cdr. E.F. Pizey, DSC, RN) and HMS Tuna (Lt.Cdr. M.K. Cavenagh-Mainwaring, DSO, RN). These included night exercises. (24)

16 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area with HMS White Bear (Cdr.(Retd.) C.C. Flemming, RN). (24)

23 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

24 Aug 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted independent exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

25 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted special RD/F trials in the Clyde area. (24)

27 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted full porwer trials on the Arran measured mile. These were followed by attack exercises with HMS Breda (Capt.(Retd.) A.E. Johnston, RN) as the target. (25)

31 Aug 1941 (position 0.00, 0.00)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (24)

3 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Holy Loch for Gibraltar. During the passage south through the Irish Sea she was escorted by HMS White Bear (Cdr.(Retd.) C.C. Flemming, RN).

For the daily positions of HMS Proteus during this passage see the map below.

(26)

10 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (26)

12 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was docked at Gibraltar. (26)

13 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was undocked. (26)

14 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Gibraltar for Malta.

For the daily positions of HMS Proteus during this passage see the map below.

(26)

15 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) returned to Gibraltar due to defective W/T equipment. After repairs she departed again for Malta later on this day. (26)

22 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Malta. (26)

27 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises off Malta. (26)

28 Sep 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Malta for her 7th war patrol (6th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol off the west coast of Greece.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(27)

1 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) attacked an unescorted enemy merchant vessel with three torpedoes in approximate position 38°03'N 20°21'E. No hits were obtained.

This was most probably the Italian passenger/cargo ship Donizetti (2428 GRT, built 1928) which reported missed by torpedoes in this area.

(All times are zone -2)
1343 hours - Sighted a 3000 tons merchant vessel at a range of 5 to 6 nautical miles. Started attack.

1404 hours - Fired three torpedoes from 2800 yards.

1415 hours - Went to 80 feet and retired to the south-west. Two explosions were heard and these two torpedoes were seen to explode on the shore. The target was by that time end on and retiring at high speed.

1500 hours - Returned to periscope depth. Saw an MA/SB coming approaching from Argostoli. Went to 150 feet. Was hunted for three hours by two MA/SB's that dropped four depth charges but these were not close.

1800 hours - HE disappeared. Returned to periscope depth. Nothing in sight. (27)

3 Oct 1941
While trying to attack an ememy convoy off the Levkas-Cephalonia Channel, HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was sighted. She had to dive and the attack had to be broken off. (27)

6 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) developed serious mechanical defects that resulted in that the patrol had to be abandoned. (27)

12 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 7th war patrol (6th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (27)

23 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises off Alexandria. (28)

25 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) conducted exercises off Alexandria with HMS Kipling (Cdr. A. St. Clair-Ford, RN). (28)

26 Oct 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 8th war patrol (7th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the Aegean, Gulf of Athens area.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(29)

2 Nov 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was detected while trying to attack an enemy convoy in the Gulf of Athens. She was depth charged but no damage was done to Proteus. Her position now compromised Lt.Cdr. Francis set course for a new patrol area.

The enemy ships consisted of Città di Alessandria (2498 GRT, built 1930), Città di Savona (2500 GRT, built 1930) and Città di Agrigento (2480 GRT, built 1930), escorted by the torpedo boats Sirio and Lupo and had left Piraeus for Crete. It was Sirio which had detected the submarine and dropped two patterns of seven depth charges then came back with ten more depth charges (three failed to explode), she then used a towing mine but without success. Proteus was later hunted by MAS 538 which claimed it as certainly damaged but this was not the case.

(All times are zone -2)
0025 hours - Whilst charging in position 160°, St.Giorgios lighthouse, 7 nautical miles, sighted three darkened ships. This was soon seen to be a convoy of three merchant vessels with two escorts. Proteus started an attack but at 0100 hours one of the escorts increased speed and came rushing towards. Proteus had been sighted.

0105 hours - Dived to 150 feet.

0110 hours - Depth charging commenced. A total of 14 depth charges were dropped. The first 6 were quite close.

0350 hours - Surfaced. As our position was now compromised set course for the Serpho Channel, the only channel within reach before dawn. (29)

3 Nov 1941 (position 37.53, 24.30)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and damaged the Italian tanker Tampico (4958 GRT, built 1908) east of Andros Island, Greece in position 37°53'N, 24°30'E. Proteus was depth-charged by the Italian torpedo boats Monzambano and Castelfidardo but managed to escape.

Tampico was carrying 4000 tons of oil, Castelfidardo took her in tow but the tow line broke. Towing was finally resumed with the arrival of the tug Arddenza. The two torpedo boats were short of fuel and were relieved by their consorts Cassiopea and Lira and the escort was reinforced by MAS 538 and the German patrol boats 11 V 1 and 11 V 4 and the tanker reached Piraeus.

(All times are zone -2)
0945 hours - When in position 190°, Mandilou Island, 3 nautical miles sighted a 5000 tons merchant vessel. She was escorted by two destroyers or torpedo-boats and one aircraft. The merchant was steering a course of 190° through the Doro Channel. Started attack.

1000 hours - The targets course was now 235°.

1025 hours - Fired three torpedoes from 1000 yards. An explosion was heard 48 seconds after firing the first torpedo. Two more explosions were heard after about 3 minutes later. Proteus had gone to 180 feet on firing and retired to the eastward.

1028 hours - Depth charging commenced. A total of 26 depth charges were dropped, the first 6 were unpleasantly close.

1305 hours - Returned to periscope depth. The target was stopped five nautical miles away in approximately the attack position. One of the escorts appeared to be taking her in tow, the other was circling the target at high speed. The target was lower in the water but on an even keel. Two aircraft were circling overhead.

1400 hours - The tow was slipped and both escorts and four aircraft were now circling the target. Decided to close to finish the target off. During the approach Proteus was detected and again depth charged. A total of 16 depth charges were dropped. The first 3 or 4 were very close.

1715 hours - Returned to periscope depth. The target was still afloat with the escorts and aircraft still patrolling. (29)

10 Nov 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and sank the German troop transport Ithaka (1773 GRT, built 1922) 2 nautical miles south-west of Milos, Greece.

This was the first attack of the war by a submarine using radar.

(All times are zone -2)
9 November 1941
2030 hours - When in position 090°, St. Georgios lighthouse, 8 nautical miles, sighted a darkened ship to the westward at a range of 7800 yards according to RD/F. On closing to 6000 yards a merchant vessel and two escorts were visible. As Proteus had been sighted during the last two surface night attacks Lt.Cdr. Francis decided to make an end around and to attack from periscope depth at dawn.

10 November 1941
0320 hours - Dived to attack.

0340 hours - HE was picked up.

0345 hours - The target was visible through the periscope.

0405 hours - Fired four torpedoes from 600 yards. It is thought that three hits were obtained.

No depth charges were dropped following the attack.

[Ithaka was transporting 507 German soldiers of which 469 drowned. She also had 80 tons of ammunition on board. As Ithaka sank in only two minutes only 78 survivors were picked up. Ithaka was escorted by the German patrol vessels 11 V 1 and 12 V 4.] (29)

15 Nov 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 8th war patrol (7th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (29)

28 Nov 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 9th war patrol (8th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the western Aegean.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(29)

29 Nov 1941
At 1750-1815 hours, twice HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) detected aircraft by radar at a range of about five miles. Perhaps the first instance of a submarine detecting a potentially enemy aircraft. The submarine dived after the second instance. (29)

7 Dec 1941 (position 36.41, 23.29)
During the night of 6 / 7 December 1941, HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was depth charged while closing an escorted enemy merchant vessel for a torpedo attack.

These were probably the German Bellona (1297 GRT, built 1929) escorted by the Italian destroyer Turbine on a trip from Piraeus to Suda.

(All times are zone -2)
6 December 1941
2330 hours - When charging batteries in position 36°41'N, 23°29'E sighted two dark objects, thought to be destroyers bearing 020°, range 5 nautical miles. Enemy course was 160°. As it was bright moonlight dived and approached at speed to investigate.

2345 hours - The objects were identified as a merchant vessel escorted by a destroyer or torpedo-boat. Continued to close at high speed.

7 December 1941
0006 hours - Range to the merchant ship was now 4000 yards. Range to the escort was 2000 yards when this ship turned suddenly towards and increased speed. Went deep as he probably had picked up our HE.

0010 hours - Depth charging started. The first of these was dropped quite close. A total of four depth charges were dropped.

0050 hours - HE had faded away so surfaced. Nothing in sight. (29)

8 Dec 1941 (position 36.33, 23.34)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sank the Greek caique PI 908 / Giorgios with scuttling charges north-north-west of the Kythira channel.

The Greek captain and a member of the crew were picked up and the remainder of the crew were given provisions for a day as the coast was fifteen miles away.

(All times are zone -2)
0124 hours - In position 36°33'N, 23°34'E sighted a dark object bearing 140°. Dived to investigate.

0140 hours - The object was identified as a caique. She was northward bound.

0155 hours - The caique passed close. She was of about 50 tons and fully loaded. Decided to engage with the gun.

0200 hours - Surfaced and opened fire. One 4" round was fired but the gun failed to run out.

0205 hours - Opened fire with a machine gun.

0207 hours - The crew started to abandon ship. Ceased fire.

0215 hours - Sent over the demolition party.

0245 hours - The caique exploded and sank. (29)

12 Dec 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 9th war patrol (8th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (29)

14 Dec 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was docked at Alexandria. (30)

15 Dec 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was undocked. (30)

22 Dec 1941
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 10th war patrol (9th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol off the west coast of Greece.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(29)

30 Dec 1941 (position 38.02, 20.22)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and damaged the Italian merchant Città di Marsala (2480 GRT, built 1929) south-west of Argostoli in position 38°02'N, 20°22'E. Città di Marsala was escorted by the Italian destroyer Turbine.

Five men were missing and four were wounded and she was towed by schooners and beached at Argostoli. In July 1942 she was brought to Cattaro for repairs and resumed service in October of the same year.

(All times are zone -2)
0845 hours - In position 195°, Vardiani Island, 2.5 nautical miles, sighted one merchant vessel escorted by one destroyer leaving Argostoli. Enemy course was 180°, range was 3 nautical miles. Started attack.

0853 hours - The enemy had turned 90° to starboard.

0901 hours - Fired three torpedoes from 2000 yards. One hit was heard. Proteus had gone deep on firing.

0905 hours - The counter attack started. A total of 30 depth charges were dropped. Only the first 3 or 4 were close but caused no damage to Proteus.

1015 hours - Returned to periscope depth. The merchant vessel was still afloat. The destroyer was patrolling to her seaward. Also a flying boat was patrolling the area.

1105 hours - Had another look through the periscope, the target was very low in the water. The aircraft and the destroyer were still patrolling. When Proteus returned to the area shortly before dark the target was not seen and is thought to have sunk. This was however not the case as she was towed to Argostoli where she sank in shallow water the next day. (29)

5 Jan 1942 (position 38.33, 20.36)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian armed merchant cruiser Città di Palermo (5413 GRT, built 1930) off Cape Dukato, Greece in position 38°33'N, 20°36'E.

She was escorting Calino from Brindisi to Patras. Rescue efforts were immediately organised and the torpedo boat Montanari, the tanker Sesia and the steamer Tergeste were directed to the scene. But of her crew of 150 and 600 troops on board only 300 were rescued.

(All times are zone -2)
0740 hours - Just as it was getting light heard HE bearing 300°.

0741 hours - Sighted two merchant vessel on the same bearing. Range was 7000 yards. Enemy course was 140°. Started attack. The ships were seen to be modern passenger vessel of about 8000 tons.

0756 hours - Fired two stern torpedoes from 600 yards. Both hit. The ship immediately took a heavy list to starboard und turned onto her beam ends.

0802 hours - The target was seen to sink. (29)

12 Jan 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 10th war patrol (9th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (29)

29 Jan 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 11th war patrol (10th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol off the west coast of Greece.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(31)

8 Feb 1942 (position 38.41, 20.30)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) attacks ' what is thought to be ' an enemy submarine west of Lefkada Island, Greece in position 38°41'N, 20°30'E. It was however not a submarine but the Italian torpedo boat Sagittario. The ships collided and were both damaged.

(All times are zone -2)
0406 hours - In position 322°, Cape Dukato, 13.5 nautical miles, RD/F picked up a contact bearing 360°, range 2 nautical miles.

0408 hours - Sighted a dark object.

0410 hours - The object was identified as a submarine. As the range was now 1000 yards, decided to fire the stern tubes before turning round, as there was considerable risk of being sighted ourselves when we turned beam on.

0417 hours - Fired two stern torpedoes from 700 yards. Both torpedoes missed, turned hard to starboard to fire the bow tubes.

0422 hours - Fired tube 3 and 4. Range was 1000 yards. The gun crew was also standing by to close up.

0425 hours - The enemy turned towards. Lt. J. Nash, RN said that he thought it was a destroyer. Lt.Cdr. Francis now realized his mistake. Range was now only 300 to 400 yards. There was not enough time to dive and in a split second Lt.Cdr. Francis decided to turn towards the enemy in order to minimise the chance of being rammed by the enemy and to dive when the enemy had passed. When the ships met they passed only about 6 feet apart. The fore hydroplanes were turned out at the time and the port plane tore a very nasty hole in the destroyer's side before it snapped off. Proteus then dived to 180 feet.

0427 hours - Three muffled explosions were heard, most likely depth charges. The destroyers HE had stopped and as no depth charge attack developed it was thought that the destroyer must be badly damaged by the encounter. Proteus was also damaged the fore-planes were out of action and Lt.Cdr. Francis decided in the evening to abandon the patrol and return to Alexandria for repairs.

[Sagittario was indeed damaged to her bow. Temporary repairs were made at the Bay of Guiscardo (Fiscardo, north Cephalonia), she remained there until 5 March when she sailed at for Samos (Sami in Cephalonia, not the island of Samos) where she arrived later the same day. She left Sami at on 7 March and arrived at Argostoli later the same day. She sailed from Argostoli 8 March for Patras.

Full repairs were carried out at Teodo (now called Tivat, Montenegro) from 11 March to 2 May when she sailed for Brindisi and the next day to Taranto. She was fully operation again by mid-June.] (31)

13 Feb 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 11th war patrol (10th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (31)

26 Feb 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for Port Said. (32)

27 Feb 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) arrived at Port Said where she was docked. As there is no log available for March 1942 the dates are not known to us at the moment. (32)

9 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Port Said for Alexandria. (33)

10 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for Port Said. (33)

12 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 12th war patrol (11th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol off the west coast of Greece.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(31)

16 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) turned back towards Alexandria as her Commanding Officer had serious health problems for several days and they continued to deteriorate. (31)

17 Mar 1942
As the commanding officers health had improved HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) resumed course towards her patrol area. (31)

18 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was ordered to patrol in the Gulf of Taranto by Capt. S.10 (Malta). (31)

25 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was ordered by Capt. S.1 to patrol in the Straits of Otranto. (31)

26 Mar 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was ordered by Capt. S.1 to patrol off the west coast of Albania and north-west coast of Greece. (31)

27 Mar 1942 (position 40.04, 19.33)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) attacked what was thought to be a naval auxiliary with three torpedoes north of Corfu. No hits were obtained.

This was the auxiliary G 48 / R. Monfalcone (218 GRT, 1914) which spotted the three torpedo tracks [our thanks to Francesco de Domenico, Corto Maltese and Loligo of the AIDMEN forum for their help in identifying this vessel].

(All times are zone -2)
0840 hours - When in position 40°04'N, 19°33'E sighted smoke bearing 087° coming from Palermo. It was then seen to move up the coast towards Valona. Set course to intercept.

0910 hours - The ship was identified as a 1000 tons naval auxiliary. Started attack.

0940 hours - Fired three torpedoes from 1000 yards. All missed and exploded on the beach beyond. No counter attack followed but as Palermo was nearby and A/S craft would most likely be sent to hunt the submarine Proteus retired to the westward. (31)

28 Mar 1942 (position 39.04, 20.05)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian troop transport Galilea (8040 GRT, built 1916) 9 nautical miles south-west of Antipaxo, Greece in position 39°04'N, 20°05'E.

She was in a convoy with Piemonte (15209 GRT, built 1918), Francesco Crispi (7464 GRT, built 1926), Viminale (8657 GRT, built 1925), Italia (5203 GRT, built 1905) and Aventino (3794 GRT, built 1907) escorted by the armed merchant cruiser Città di Napoli (5418 GRT, built 1929), the destroyer , Sebenico and the torpedo boats Antonio Mosto, Angelo Bassini and Catelfidardo and they were on a trip from Patras to Brindisi. Of the 1275 men on board, only 284 were saved. The Gemona battalion alone lost twenty-one officers and 630 other ranks.

(All times are zone -2)
2120 hours - When in position 38°55'N, 20°21'E sighted several dark objects bearing 200°, range 5 nautical miles. Turned stern on to investigate. The objects were identified as a convoy made up of seven merchant vessels escorted by two or more destroyers. Due to moonlight a surface attack was out of the question.

2225 hours - Dived to attack.

2232 hours - Five ships could be seen through the periscope.

2242 hours - Fired two torpedoes at one of the merchant vessels from a range of about 2000 yards.

2243 hours - Fired four torpedoes at two of the merchant vessels that were overlapping. Ranges were 1000 and 2000 yards. Proteus then went deep. It is thought that two hits were obtained.

2253 hours - Three depth charges were dropped but they were not close. It is also thought that a ship was heard breaking up.

0040 hours/29 - On surfacing a merchant vessel was sighted stopped in the position of the attack, four nautical miles to the eastward. Proteus retired to the westward to charge the batteries and reload the torpedo tubes. (31)

30 Mar 1942 (position 36.38, 21.15)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian merchant Bosforo (3648 GRT, built 1929) off Sapienza, Greece in position 36°38'N, 21°15'E.

She was escorted by the destroyer Strale which dropped four depth charges before returning to search for survivors. Some men had already abandoned ship but Bosforo was still afloat and Strale attempted to tow her but this was not possible. Marimorea had informed her that the tugs Teseo and Valente were on the way but at 0740 hours Bosforo slid beneath the waves. In all thirteen men were killed or missing and ninety survivors were picked up.

(All times are zone -2) 2034 hours - When in positon 36°25'N, 21°16'E sighted a merchant vessel and a destroyer bearing 140°E. Range was 4.5 nautical miles. Started attack.

2120 hours - Dived to complete the attack from submerged.

2149 hours - Fired two stern torpedoes from 450 yards. Went deep on firing and started to retire to the westward. Two explosions were heard, both thought to be torpedo hits. After the second torpedo explosion another loud explosion was heard. It was hoped that something inside the merchant vessel blew up. HE of the target ceased immediately.

2155 hours - The first of five depth charges was dropped. None were close.

2230 hours - All HE had faded.

2315 hours - Surfaced about three nautical miles from the scene of the attack. Nothing in sight. Set course to return to Alexandria. (31)

4 Apr 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 12th war patrol (11th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (31)

11 Apr 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was fumigated. (34)

18 Apr 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 13th war patrol (12th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the Ionian Sea and the west coast of Greece.

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(31)

26 Apr 1942
At 1500 hours HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was in approximate position 36°35’N, 19°40’E when she was informed of the passage of a 3000-ton southbound tanker [this was Proserpina (4870 GRT, built 1926) escorted by the destroyer Emanuele Pessagno]. She moved westward to intercept but nothing was seen. (31)

28 Apr 1942 (position 36.20, 18.21)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) attacked an escorted merchant vessel with two torpedoes in the Ionian Sea. No hits were obtained.

This was probably Capo Orso (3149 GRT, built 1916) which was on passage from Benghazi to Taranto escorted by the destroyers Ugolino Vivaldi and Freccia. The attack was unobserved.

(All times are zone -3)
2220 hours - In position 36°20'N, 18°21'E sighted three darkened ships bearing 165°, range was about 4.5 nautical miles. Turned stern on while investigating.

2224 hours - The ships were identified as a merchant vessel of about 3000 tons escorted by two destroyers.

2225 hours - Dived to attack.

2240 hours - Trim was lost. Proteus went to 60 feet.

2250 hours - Returned to periscope depth. A new attack set up was made.

2254 hours - Fired the first of two torpedoes but steering control was lost on firing this torpedo. Range was 3000 yards. Three minutes later a second torpedo was fired. Range was now 2000 yards. Both torpedoes missed.

2307 hours - A loud explosion was heard. This was possibly a depth charge but no counter attack developed.

2320 hours - Surfaced and set off in pursuit. Contact had not been regained by 0400/29 and the pursuit was then abandoned. (31)

2 May 1942 (position 38.41, 20.24)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and damaged the German merchant Otto Leonhardt (3682 GRT, built 1911) west of Lefkada, Greece in position 38°41'N, 20°24'E.

She was in company with the German Hans Arp (2645 GRT, built 1926) escorted by the destroyer Solferino and motorboat Cariddi. Solferino laid a smoke screen to protect the stricken vessel from further attack and carried out a search towing an antisubmarine mine but it was fruitless.

(All times are zone -3)
0740 hours - While in position 38°39'N, 20°22'E sighted smoke bearing 350°.

0822 hours - Masts and funnels of a convoy of two merchant vessels escorted by a destroyer and a trawler were sighted. They were approaching Cape Dukato on a mean course of 150°. Started attack.

0910 hours - Fired five torpedoes at the leading merchant vessel from about 2000 yards. The merchant vessel was heavily laden and of about 2500 yards. Went deep on firing and retired to the northward. Two torpedoes were heard to explode and these are thought to the hits.

0913 hours - Depth charging started. A total of 51 were dropped during the next 40 minutes. The first 3 were very close.

1010 hours - Returned to periscope depth. The destroyer was seen to steam up and down in the area of the attack. Nothing else was in sight.

1230 hours - The destroyer could no longer be seen. (31)

3 May 1942
At 1320 hours (zone -3) HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) was detected at periscope depth by an ememy aircraft and bombed. Two bombs were dropped but they caused no damage. Position of the attack was to the north-west of Levkas Island. (31)

5 May 1942 (position 37.29, 21.33)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) sank the Greek sailing vessel KAL 95 / Evangelistria (21 GRT) in the Gulf of Kyparissa in position 37°29'N, 21°33'E.

(All times are zone -3)
1415 hours - In position 37°29'N, 21°33'E sighted the sail of a small schooner northward bound up the coast. Closed to investigate. She was seen to be heavily laden and of about 60 tons.

1545 hours - Surfaced. A burst of Bren gun fire across her bow made the crew abandon ship as was hoped.

1548 hours - Opened fire with the 4" gun from a range of 500 yards.

1553 hours - After having fired 12 rounds the schooner sank.

1555 hours - Dived and set course towards Alexandria. (31)

10 May 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 13th war patrol (12th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (31)

24 May 1942
After exercising with a trawler and a “homing aircraft” [ROOSTER exercise], HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) departed Alexandria for her 14th war patrol (13th in the Mediterranean). She was ordered to patrol in the Gulf of Sirte. Later she patrolled in the central Mediterranean to provide cover during a convoy operation to Malta (Operation Vigorous).

For the daily and attack positions of HMS Proteus during this patrol see the map below.

(31)

30 May 1942 (position 32.21, 18.54)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) torpedoed and sank the Italian merchant Bravo (1570 GRT, former Yugoslavian Junak, built 1921) west of Bengasi, Libya in position 32°21'N, 18°54'E.

She was in company with the German Savona (2120 GRT, built 1934) on a trip from Tripoli to Benghazi escorted by the torpedo-boat Generale Marcello Prestinari. Escorting aircraft machine-gunned the area where the submarine was presumed to be and one dropped two bombs, the torpedo-boat dropped depth charges before returning to pick up thirty-nine survivors, two men were missing.

(All times are zone -3)
0626 hours - When in position 31°51'N, 19°26'E sighted two dim objects through the periscope bearing 225°.

0630 hours - The ships were identified as two merchant vessels escorted by a destroyer. Started attack on the leading merchant vessel.

0722 hours - Fired three torpedoes on the second ship as the first ship had already passed. Range to the second ship was 3000 yards.

0724 hours - Heard one explosion of a torpedo hitting. This was followed by noises from a ship breaking up. Proteus meanwhile was at 180 feet and retired to the westward.

0728 hours - The counter attack commenced. A total of 20 depth charges was dropped but none were close. As the sea was very calm and aircraft were also patrolling the area Proteus remained deep until well clear of the area of the attack. (31)

31 May 1942 (position 32.28, 18.52)
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis) torpedoed and sank the Italian merchant Gino Allegri (6836 GRT, built 1941) west of Bengasi, Libya in position 32°28'N, 18°52'E.

She was on a trip from Taranto to Benghazi escorted by the destroyer Euro. Only twenty-one survivors were rescued by Euro and by the torpedo boat Generale Marcello Prestinari which had sailed from Benghazi to reinforce the escort.

(All times are zone -3)
0520 hours - When in position 32°28'N, 18°52'E sighted two darkened ships bearing 300°.

0522 hours - Turned tail on and dived. It had been decided to attack from submerged due to the bright moonlight.

0530 hours - Sighted the enemy through the periscope. The two ships were seen to be a merchant vessel escorted by a destroyer.

0541 hours - Fired two stern torpedoes from 1500 yards. Went deep on firing and retired to the north-west. The target was the merchant vessel, a modern ship of about 6000 tons.

0542 hours - Heard two loud explosions of torpedoes hitting.

0548 hours - Heard a very loud explosion of ammunition blowing up. Proteus was badly shaken and this caused some minor defects.

0620 hours - Returned to periscope depth. The destroyer was seen laying stopped in the position of the attack, 2 nautical miles off. The merchant was not seen. The area was covered by black smoke. (31)

22 Jun 1942
HMS Proteus (Lt.Cdr. P.S. Francis, RN) ended her 14th war patrol (13th in the Mediterranean) at Alexandria. (31)

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