uboat.net

  Front page - Fighting the U-boats - Allied Warships

Follow us on Twitter
@uboatnet

Notable events involving Khedive include:

The page of HMS Khedive was created in April 2023.

[Note: information regarding operations by the Fleet Air Arm (FAA) aircraft of HMS Khedive is not complete on this page. Further research from first hand sources, read original documents from the National Archives, will have to be undertaken in the (far) future.]

25 Aug 1943
At Seattle, Washington, USA, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) is turned over the the Royal Navy and commissioned. (1)

11 Sep 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Seattle for a period of trials and exercises. (2)

17 Sep 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) returned to Seattle from trials and exercises. (2)

20 Sep 1943
During 20/21 September 1943, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted trials and exercises off Seattle. (2)

23 Sep 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Seattle, Washington, USA for the Panama Canal Zone. (1)

23 Sep 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted trials and exercises off Seattle. (2)

5 Oct 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Balboa, Panama Canal Zone from Seattle. (3)

7 Oct 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Christobal for Norfolk, Virginia. (4)

12 Oct 1943
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at the Norfolk Navy Yard from the Panama Canal Zone. She was then taken in hand for voyage repairs. (5)

29 Oct 1943
With her voyage repairs completed, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed the Norfolk Navy Yard for trials in Chesapeake Bay. (5)

2 Nov 1943
Around 0915Q/2, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Norfolk for New York. (6)

3 Nov 1943
Around 1000Q/3, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at New York from Norfolk. (6)

5 Nov 1943

Convoy UT 4A.

The New York section of this convoy departed on 5 November 1943.

It was made up of the following (troop) transports; Brazil (American, 20614 GRT, built 1929), Examiner (American, 6737 GRT, built 1942), Frederick Lykes (American, 7773 GRT, built 1940) and Ocean Mail (American, 7842 GRT, built 1941).

The escort carrier (in an aircraft ferry role) HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) and the tanker USS Salamonie (T/Capt. L.J. Johns, USN) were also part of the New York Section of the convoy.

The New York Section of the convoy was escorted by the destroyers USS Frankford (T/Cdr. T.J. Thornhill, Jr., USN, with COMDESRON 18, T/Capt. W.K. Mendenhall, Jr, USN, on board), USS Carmick (T/Cdr. R.O. Beer, USN), USS Doyle (T/Cdr. C.E. Boyd, USN), USS Endicott (T/Cdr. W.S. Heald, USN), USS McCook (T/Cdr. S.C. Anderson, USN) and the destroyer escort USS Ira Jeffery (Lt.Cdr. R.A. Fitch, USNR).

The Boston section of this convoy also departed on 5 November 1943.

It was made up of the following (troop) transports; Explorer (American, 6736 GRT, built 1939) and General George W. Goethals (American, 12093 GRT, built 1942).

The Boston Section of the convoy was escorted by the destroyers USS Decatur (T/Cdr. J.B. Williams, USN, with COMDESDIV 53, T/Capt. B.S. Copping, USN), USS Clemson (Lt. W.F. Moran, USNR) and USS Greer (Lt. M.D. Cooper, USNR). These three destroyers did not join the convoy.

The two sections merged on 7 November 1943. Also joining on 7 November 1943 was the escort destroyer USS Lee Fox (Lt.Cdr. W.C. Jennings, USNR) which had been delayed due to engine trouble and could not sail with the New York Section on the 5th.

On 11 November 1943, USS Carmick and USS Lee Fox were detached to the Azores to fue. Refueling at sea had been impossible in the weather conditions that had been encountered.

On 12 November 1943, fuelling at sea was possible, so USS Doyle, USS Endicott, USS McCook and USS Frankford fuelled from USS Salamonie.

On 13 November 1943, USS Ira Jeffery fuelled from USS Salamonie.

The convoy arrived in U.K. waters on 16 November 1943. USS Carmick and USS Lee Fox had been unable to rejoin the convoy before it's arrival.

16 Nov 1943
Around 1730Z/16, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Liverpool where the aircraft that had been on board were to be offloaded. (6)

19 Nov 1943
Around 1500A/19, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Liverpool for Rosyth. (6)

21 Nov 1943
Around 1445A/21, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Rosyth from Liverpool. At Rosyth she was taken in hand for alterations. (6)

3 Feb 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) is docked in No.1 Graving Dock at the Rosyth Dockyard. (7)

16 Feb 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) is undocked. (7)

17 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted D/G trials off Rosyth. (8)

18 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted AA gunnery exercises off the Firth of Forth. (8)

20 Mar 1944
Around 1500A/20, the escort carrier HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Rosyth for the Clyde.

Around 1000A/21, the frigates HMS Berry (T/A/Lt.Cdr. C.S. Pirie, RNVR) and HMS Cooke (Lt.Cdr. L.C. Hill, OBE, RD, RNR) joined.

Around 1020A/21, the frigate HMS Duckworth (Cdr. R.G. Mills, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN) joined.

Around 1430A/21, the escort parted company.

Around 1310A/22, HMS Khedive arrived at Greenock. (8)

24 Mar 1944
Around 2000A/24, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Greenock for exercises in the Irish Sea. She returned to Greenock around 0725A/26. (8)

28 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

29 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

30 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted gunnery exercises in the Clyde area. (8)

31 Mar 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted gunnery exercises in the Clyde area on completion of which cousre was set for Belfast where she arrived later the same day. (8)

1 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

2 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Lamlash. (9)

4 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Lamlash to Bangor Bay. Flying exercises were not possible due to bad visibility. (9)

6 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

7 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

8 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

9 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

10 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

11 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

12 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

13 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel on completion of which she proceeded to Greenock where she arrived later the same day. (9)

15 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Bangor Bay. (9)

18 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

20 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

21 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

22 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

23 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

24 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

25 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (9)

27 Apr 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel on completion of which she proceeded to Greenock where she arrived later the same day. (9)

11 May 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Belfast. (10)

12 May 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (10)

13 May 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the North Channel. (10)

14 May 1944
Around 0730B/14, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Bangor Bay for Scapa Flow where she arrived around 0700B/15. (10)

19 May 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Scapa Flow. She was escorted by the destroyer HMS Wager (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN). (10)

19 May 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Scapa Flow. She was escorted by the destroyer HMS Wakeful (Lt.Cdr. G.D. Pound, DSC, RN). (10)

25 May 1944
At Scapa Flow, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted speed runs on the measured mile. These were followed by refuelling at sea exercises during which HMS Wager (Lt.Cdr. R.C. Watkin, RN) was fuelled. (10)

31 May 1944
At Scapa Flow HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted speed runs on the measured mile. These were followed by AA gunnery exercises. (10)

3 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Scapa Flow. (11)

4 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Scapa Flow. (11)

5 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Scapa Flow. (11)

7 Jun 1944
Around 0900B/7, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Scapa Flow for Rosyth. (11)

8 Jun 1944
Around 0830B/8, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Rosyth from Scapa Flow. (11)

9 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Methil. She was escorted by HMS Newport (Lt.Cdr. W.A. Grinham, RNVR) which also acted as target for aircraft attacks. (11)

10 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Methil. She was escorted by HMS Newport (Lt.Cdr. W.A. Grinham, RNVR) which also acted as target for aircraft attacks. (11)

11 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Methil. She was escorted by HMS Newport (Lt.Cdr. W.A. Grinham, RNVR) which also acted as target for aircraft attacks. (11)

12 Jun 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Methil. She was escorted by HMS Newport (Lt.Cdr. W.A. Grinham, RNVR) which also acted as target for aircraft attacks. (11)

24 Jun 1944
Around 1645B/24, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Rosyth for Scapa Flow. (11)

25 Jun 1944
Around 0800B/25, HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Scapa Flow from Rosyth. (11)

6 Jul 1944
Around 1510B/6, the escort carriers HMS Fencer (A/Capt. W.W.R. Bentinck, OBE, RN) and HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Scapa Flow for the Clyde.

Around 1705B/6, they were joined by the destroyers HMS Milne (Capt. M. Richmond, DSO, OBE, RN), HMS Marne (Lt.Cdr. P.A.R. Withers, DSO, RN) and HMS Verulam (Lt.Cdr. W.S. Thomas, DSC, RN) which had been out on an A/S search for a reported enemy submarine near Cape Wrath.

Around 0315B/7, the destroyers were detached in the Minches.

The escort carriers arrived at Greenock around 1715B/7. (12)

8 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (13)

10 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area. (13)

11 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises in the Clyde area on completion of which she proceeded to Belfast. (13)

14 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Belfast to Greenock. (13)

15 Jul 1944
Around 2215B/15, the escort carriers HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) and the AA ship / fighter direction ship HMS Ulster Queen (A/Capt. M.H.J. Bennett, RD, RNR) departed Greenock for the Mediterranean.

Around 0645B, they made rendezvous with the battleship USS Texas (Capt. C.A. Baker, USN) and the destroyers USS Jeffers (T/Cdr. H.Q. Murray, USN with COMDESRON 17, T/Capt. A.C. Murdaugh, USN on board), Murphy (T/Cdr. R.A. Wolverton, USN), USS Butler (T/Cdr. M.D. Matthews, USN), USS Gherardi (T/Cdr. N.R. Curtin, USN), USS Herndon T/Cdr. G.A. Moore, USN) and USS Shubrick (T/Cdr. W. Blenman, USN).

Around 0615B, the sloop HMS Stork (Lt.Cdr. D.E. Mansfield, RN) and the frigate HMS Awe (Lt.Cdr. H.P. Carse, DSC, RNVR) joined.

Around 0945B/22, USS Texas, HMS Emperor, HMS Khedive, USS Jeffers, USS Herndon and USS Shubrick parted company with the other ships.

Around 1730B/22, USS Texas and USS Jeffers arrived at Mers-el-Kebir.

Around 1900B/22, USS Murphy arrived at Mers-el-Kebir.

Around 2245B/22, HMS Searcher, HMS Pursuer, USS Butler, USS Gherardi, HMS Stork and HMS Awe were joined by the destroyer escort USS Marsh (Lt.Cdr. R.A. Jordan, USNR) coming from Oran.

Around 0800B/23, HMS Emperor, HMS Khedive, USS Herndon and USS Shubrick arrived at Algiers. After having embarked stores, they departed again around 1130B/23 to join HMS Searcher and HMS Pursuer and their escort. With them the escort carrier HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), USS Herndon and USS Shubrick also joined.

Around 0930B/25, HMS Attacker, HMS Searcher, HMS Pursuer, HMS Emperor, HMS Khedive, HMS Ulster Queen, USS Butler, USS Gherardi, USS Herndon, USS Shubrick, USS Marsh, HMS Stork and HMS Awe arrived at Malta. (14)

26 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Malta. (13)

27 Jul 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Malta. (13)

1 Aug 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) conducted flying exercises off Malta. She was escorted by USS Marsh (Lt.Cdr. R.A. Jordan, USNR). (15)

2 Aug 1944
During 2/3 August 1944, the light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. J.G. Hewitt, DSO, RN, flying the flag of R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN), AA cruiser HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN) destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, DSO, MVO, RN, Capt. D.24), HMS Teazer (Lt.Cdr. A.A.F. Talbot, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. R.H. Mills, RN) and RHS Navarinon, USS Jeffers (T/Cdr. H.Q. Murray, USN with COMDESRON 17, T/Capt. A.C. Murdaugh, USN on board), Murphy (T/Cdr. R.A. Wolverton, USN), USS Niblack (T/Cdr. R.R. Conner, USN), USS Hilary P. Jones (T/Cdr. F.M. Stiesberg, USN) and the destroyer escort USS Marsh (Lt.Cdr. R.A. Jordan, USNR) conducted exercises off Malta.

6 Aug 1944

Operations of Task Force 88 during operation Preface.

Operation Preface was a rehearsal for the upcoming landings in Southern France.

Task Force 88, under R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN, was the Carrier Force for the upcoming landings in Southern France and was made up of the following Task Groups;
Task Group 88.1, under R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN, was made up the following ships;
Light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. J.G. Hewitt, DSO, RN, flying the flag of R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN), AA cruiser HMS Delhi (Capt. G.R. Waymouth, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, DSO, MVO, RN, Capt. D.24), HMS Teazer (Lt.Cdr. A.A.F. Talbot, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Tenacious (Lt.Cdr. D.F. Townsend, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, DSC, RN), HMS Tuscan (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. R.H. Mills, RN) and RHS Navarinon.
Task Group 88.2, under T/R.Adm. C.T. Durgin, USN, was made up the following ships;
AA cruisers HMS Caledon (Capt. R.F. Nichols, RN), HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), escort carriers USS Tulagi (T/Capt. J.C. Cronin, USN, flying the flag of T/R.Adm. C.T. Durgin, USN), USS Kasaan Bay (T/Capt. B.E. Grow, USN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN) and the destroyers USS Jeffers (T/Cdr. H.Q. Murray, USN, with COMDESRON 17, T/Capt. A.C. Murdauch, USN, on board), Murphy (T/Cdr. R.A. Wolverton, USN), USS Butler (T/Cdr. M.D. Matthews, USN, with COMDESDIV 34, T/Capt. W.L. Benson, on board), USS Gherardi (T/Cdr. N.R. Curtin, USN), Herndon (T/Cdr. G.A. Moore, USN) and USS Shubrick (T/Cdr. W. Blenman, USN).

Task Force 88 departed Malta on 6 August 1944 for exercises in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Excercises commenced around 0600B/7 and were completed around 1200B/7.

Around 1438B/7, USS Jeffers, USS Murphy and USS Shubrick parted company with TG 88.2 to proceed to Naples where they arrived around 1607B/7. The remainder of Task Force 88.2, minus HMS Caledon arrived at Naples around 1710B/7.

Around 1100B/8, TG 88.1 plus HMS Caledon arrived at Malta.

12 Aug 1944

Operation Dragoon, the landings in Southern France, operations by Task Force 88, the Carrier Force.

Task Force 88, under R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN, was the Carrier Force for the upcoming landings in Southern France and was made up of the following Task Groups;
Task Group 88.1, under R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN, was made up the following ships;
Light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. J.G. Hewitt, DSO, RN, flying the flag of R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN), AA cruiser HMS Delhi (Capt. G.R. Waymouth, RN), escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, DSO, MVO, RN, Capt. D.24), HMS Teazer (Lt.Cdr. A.A.F. Talbot, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Tenacious (Lt.Cdr. D.F. Townsend, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, DSC, RN), HMS Tuscan (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. R.H. Mills, RN) and RHS Navarinon.
Task Group 88.2, under T/R.Adm. C.T. Durgin, USN, was made up the following ships;
AA cruisers HMS Caledon (Capt. R.F. Nichols, RN), HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN), escort carriers USS Tulagi (T/Capt. J.C. Cronin, USN, flying the flag of T/R.Adm. C.T. Durgin, USN), USS Kasaan Bay (T/Capt. B.E. Grow, USN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN) and the destroyers USS Jeffers (T/Cdr. H.Q. Murray, USN, with COMDESRON 17, T/Capt. A.C. Murdauch, USN, on board), Murphy (T/Cdr. R.A. Wolverton, USN), USS Butler (T/Cdr. M.D. Matthews, USN, with COMDESDIV 34, T/Capt. W.L. Benson, on board), USS Gherardi (T/Cdr. N.R. Curtin, USN), Herndon (T/Cdr. G.A. Moore, USN) and USS Shubrick (T/Cdr. W. Blenman, USN).

Task Force 88 departed Malta for the operations area on 12 August 1944.

Early on the 14th, Task Force 88 arrived in the operations area and around 0700B/14, flying operations commenced.

Around 1130B/14, the escort destroyer HMS Wheatland (Lt. H.A. Corbett, DSC, RN), coming from Naples, joined TG 88.1 and relieved HMS Tumult which then proceeded to Ajaccio.

Around 0650B/16, RHS Navarinon and HMS Wheatland were detached by TG 88.1 to fuel. They rejoined around 1330B/16.

Around 1445B/16, HMS Caledon and HMS Colombo were detached to fuel at Ajaccio. After fuelling HMS Caledon rejoined TG 88.2 around 1700B/17. HMS Colombo, which had already rejoined TG 88.2 around 0745B/17, was then ordered to join Task Force 87 operating close inshore. She left TG 88.2 around 1925B/17.

Around 0700B/17, HMS Troubridge and HMS Tenacious were detached by TG 88.1 to fuel. They rejoined around 1335B/17.

Around 0700B/17, USS Butler and USS Murphy were detached from TG 88.2 to fuel at Ajaccio. They returned around 1800B/17.

Around 1700B/17, USS Shubrick was detached from TG 88.2 to fuel at Ajaccio. She returned around 0600B/18.

Around 1800B/17, HMS Delhi parted company with TG 88.1 and proceeded to the Gulf of St. Tropez. Around the same time HMS Tumult rejoined TG 88.1.

Around 0630B/19, USS Gherardi was detached from TG 88.2 to fuel at Ajaccio. She returned around 2115B/19.

Around 1900B/19, HMS Searcher and HMS Teazer were detached by TG 88.1 to proceed ahead of the main force to La Maddalena.

Around 2115B/19, USS Herndon was detached from TG 88.2 to fuel at Ajaccio. She returned around 1900B/20.

Around 1930B/19, HMS Khedive, HMS Tuscan and HMS Tyrian were detached by TG 88.1 to join TG 88.2 which they did around 0625B/20. HMS Tuscan then parted company to proceed to La Maddalena.

On 20 August, the bulk of TG 88.1 fuelled at La Maddalena and then departed again to return to the operations area.

Around 0700B/20, USS Jeffers was detached from TG 88.2 to fuel at Ajaccio. COMDESRON 17, T/Capt. A.C. Murdauch, USN, temporary transferred to USS Murphy. She returned around 0130B/21. After dawn COMDESRON 17 transferred back to her.

Around 2200B/20, HMS Khedive and HMS Tyrian parted company with TG 88.2 to proceed to La Maddalena to fuel. They arrived at La Maddalena around 1130B/21. On completion of fuelling they departed around 1800B/21 and joined TG 88.1 around 0730B/22.

Around 1130B/21, USS Jeffers parted company with TG 88.2.

On 22 August, the TG 88.2 arrived at La Maddalena from the operations area to re-fuel and re-arm. They departed to return to the operations area the next day.

Around 1445B/23, HMS Delhi joined TG 88.1.

Around 2300B/23, HMS Delhi was detached from TG 88.1 to join TG 88.2 which she did around 0745B/24.

Around noon on 24 August 1944, TG 88.1 arrived at La Maddalena.

Around 1930B/24, HMS Colombo joined TG 88.2 from having operated in the Gulf of St. Tropez. At 2000B/24, she was ordered to join TG 88.1 at La Maddalena and proceeded accordingly. She arrived at La Maddalena around 0910B/25.

Around 0730B/26, HMS Delhi parted company with TG 88.2 and proceeded to the Gulf of St. Tropez.

Around 2050B/27, HMS Hunter, HMS Stalker, HMS Caledon, USS Murphy and USS Shubrick parted company with TG 88.2 to proceed to La Maddalena where they arrived the following morning. USS Murphy and USS Shubrick did not enter the harbour though but proceeded to Ajaccio where they arrived early in the afternoon.

On 29 August 1944, the remainder of TG 88.2 arrived at Ajaccio from the operations area.

29 Aug 1944
Around 1600B/29, the escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed La Maddalena for Alexandria. They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, DSO, MVO, RN, Capt. D.24), HMS Teazer (Lt.Cdr. A.A.F. Talbot, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Tenacious (Lt.Cdr. D.F. Townsend, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, DSC, RN), HMS Tuscan (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR) and HMS Tyrian (Cdr. R.H. Mills, RN). On the 30th, the destroyers HMS Termagant (Lt.Cdr. J.P. Scatchard, DSC, RN) and HMS Terpsichore (Cdr. A.C. Behague, DSC, OBE, RN) joined coming from Naples.

The Force arrived at Alexandria around 0900C/2. (16)

9 Sep 1944
Between 0730C/9 and 0830C/9, ' Force A ' of the ' British Aegean Force' departed Alexandria to operate of Crete and the Dodecanese Islands to attack the (retiring) German forces in the area.

The Force was made up of the light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. J.G. Hewitt, DSO, RN, flying the flag of R.Adm. T.H. Troubridge, DSO and Bar, RN), escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN), HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) and the destroyers HMS Troubridge (Capt. C.L. Firth, DSO, MVO, RN, Capt. D.24), HMS Teazer (Lt.Cdr. A.A.F. Talbot, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Tenacious (Lt.Cdr. D.F. Townsend, RN), HMS Termagant (Lt.Cdr. J.P. Scatchard, DSC, RN) and HMS Terpsichore (Cdr. A.C. Behague, DSC, OBE, RN), HMS Tumult (Lt.Cdr. N. Lanyon, DSC, RN), HMS Tuscan (Lt.Cdr. E.N. Wood, DSC, RNVR), HMS Tyrian (Cdr. R.H. Mills, RN), ORP Garland (Kmdr.ppor.(Cdr.) B.J. Biskupski) and RHS Navarinon.

On 10 September 1944, ' Force A ' operated south of Crete during the entire day.

On 11 September 1944, ' Force A ' remained to the south of Crete.

On 12 September 1944, ' Force A ' remained to the south of Crete and starting around 0700C/12, some ships were fuelled,HMS Royalist and RHS Navarinon were fuelled by HMS Hunter and HMS Tuscan by HMS Searcher.

At 1445C/12, HMS Tenacious and HMS Tumult were detached to Malta.

During the night of 12/13 September 1944, (Group 1) HMS Royalist with RHS Navarinon, (Group 2) HMS Troubridge and HMS Tuscan and (Group 3) HMS Tyrian and HMS Teaser conducted anti-shipping sweeps in the Aegean.

Group 1, drew blank.

Group 2, encountered a convoy of one cargo ship, two escorts and three caiques between Santorin and Candia. The entire convoy was destroyed. Among these ships were the transport Toni (638 BRT, built 1911) and the caiques Specht / PI 17 and Agios Demitrios / PI 687. HMS Tuscan sustained some minor damage in the action.

Group 3, conducted a sweep from Pigadia Bay on Karpathos and then along the east side of Rhodes. They sighted nothing.

At 0630C/13, Groups 1 and 2 made rendezvous in position 35°30'N, 25°36'E and then set course to rejoin the remainer of ' Force A '. Fighter cover was provided by aircraft from HMS Pursuer.

Around 0930C/13, HMS Tuscan parted company with ' Force A ' to return to Alexandria where she arrived around 0700C/14.

Around 1330C/13, HMS Termagant, HMS Terpsichore and ORP Garland commenced fuelling from HMS Searcher, HMS Pursuer and HMS Khedive respectively.

Around 1830C/13, HMS Khedive was detached to proceed to the vicinity of position 37°30'N, 19°30'E. She was escorted by ORP Garland. They were then to make rendezvous on the 15th with the landing ship HMCS Prince David (T/Cdr. T.D. Kelly, RCNR) and the destroyers HMS Tenacious and HMS Tumult and provide air cover for these ships. HMCS Prince David was to land a force which were to establish a coastal forces base on Kythira Island.

During the night of 13/14 September 1944, (Group 1) HMS Tyrian with HMS Teazer and (Group 2) HMS Termagant and HMS Terpsichore conducted anti-shipping sweeps in the Aegean. Both groups sighted nothing.

Around 0730C/14, Groups 1 and 2 rejoined ' Force A '.

Around 0930C/14, a small caique was sighted in the vicinity of position 35°25'N, 26°15'E. HMS Termagant boarded and remover 1 German officer and 23 German naval ratings as well as 2 Greeks. The caique was then sunk. The prisoners stated that they were evacuating from Scarpanto to Crete.

Around 1445C/14, the escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Emperor (A/Capt. T.J.N. Hilken, DSO, RN), light cruiser HMS Black Prince (Capt. D.M. Lees, DSO, RN) and the destroyer HMS Tuscan departed Alexandria to join ' Force A '.

Around 1730C/14, HMS Searcher, escorted by HMS Tyrian and RHS Navarinon were detached to proceed to the vicinity of position 35°40'N, 22°20'E.

Around 2000C/14, HMS Hunter and HMS Troubridge were detached to Alexandria where they arrived around 1400C/15.

During the night of 14/15 September 1944, HMS Royalist and HMS Teazer conducted an anti-shipping sweep in the Aegean. HMS Royalist also directed night fighters. These two ships sank two German transports around 20 miles north-east of Suda Bay around 0400C/15. These were the transport Erpel (834 GRT, built 1944, former KT 26) and the auxiliary submarine chaser UJ 2171 / Heidelberg (former transport KT 4).

On 15 September 1944, HMS Searcher and HMS Khedive provided air cover over the Kythira area.

Around 0900C/15, a number of dinghies were sighted near position 35°37'N, 25°52'E. HMS Teazer then was sent to this location and picked up 10 Germans. These were survivors from the action during the night of 12/13 September.

Around 1200C/15, HMS Attacker, HMS Emperor, HMS Black Prince and HMS Tuscan joined ' Force A ' in position 35°02'N, 26°28'E. But 15 minutes later, HMS Black Prince, which had refridgerator trouble was ordered to return to Alexandria where she arrived around 0700C/16.

Around 1300C/15, HMS Termagant and HMS Terpsichore commenced fuelling from HMS Emperor and HMS Attacker.

Around 1800C/15, HMS Teazer and HMS Tuscan commenced fuelling from HMS Emperor and HMS Attacker.

At the same time HMS Termagant and HMS Terpsichore were detached for an anti-shipping sweep in the Aegean.

Around 1900C/16, the light cruiser HMS Aurora (Capt. G. Bernard, CBE, DSO, RN) and the destroyer HMS Troubridge departed Alexandria to join ' Force A '.

Around 0630C/16, HMS Termagant and HMS Terpsichore rejoined ' Force A '. They had sighted nothing.

Around 1215C/16, HMS Aurora and HMS Terpsichore joined from Alexandria.

Around 1230C/16, HMS Aurora and HMS Terpsichore parted company to bombard Milos around 1600C/16. Fighter protection and air spotting would be provided by aircraft from HMS Pursuer.

Around 1700C/16, HMS Teazer was detached to Alexandria where she arrived around 0730C/17.

Around 1820C/16, HMS Aurora and HMS Terpsichore were ordered to remain in the Aegean to patrol off Milos.

Around 2000C/16, HMS Royalist, HMS Troubridge and HMS Termagant were detached to the Aegean. HMS Royalist was to direct night fighters, HMS Troubridge was to patrol off Candia and HMS Termagent was to patrol off Suda Bay.

Around 0700C/17, HMS Troubridge and HMS Termagant rejoined. They had sighted nothing.

Around 0950C/17, HMS Royalist, which had now also rejoined ' Force A ' commenced fuelling from HMS Attacker.

Aircraft reported the the German minelayer Drache had arrived at Milos. HMS Aurora then opened fire on the harbour with HMS Terpsichore blockading the harbour entrance. The target however proved to be elusive but shore istallations, including the radar station, were hit.

HMS Troubridge bombarded caiques seen in Santorin harbour.

Around 1500C/17, the escort destroyers HMS Zetland (Lt. C.R. Bax, RN) and HMS Brecon (Lt. N.R.H. Rodney, RN) departed Alexandria to join ' Force A '.

Around 2030C/17, HMS Khedive and ORP Garland rejoined.

During the night of 17/18 September 1944, HMS Troubridge and HMS Tuscan blockaded Suda Bay and Standia respectively.

On 18 September, HMS Aurora and HMS Terpsichore carried out a harassing bombardment of W/T and radar stations on Milos with the assistance of air spotting.

HMS Troubridge, HMS Termagant, HMS Terpsichore, HMS Tuscan and ORP Garland fuelled from HMS Attacker and HMS Khedive.

15 Enemy flying boats were seen in Suda Bay and an air strike of 16 dive bombers attacked them but the results are unknown due to the weather conditions did not made it possible to conduct a photographic reconnaissance after the attack.

At 1730A/18, ORP Garland sighted a schnorkel from a submerged U-boat. She was joined by HMS Troubridge, HMS Terpsichore and the escort destroyers HMS Zetland and HMS Brecon. These last two ships had just joined ' Force A '. This U-Boat was subsequently destroyed after a long hunt and 48 prisoners were taken.

During the night of 18/19 September 1944, HMS Aurora bombarded Candia harbour and Heraklion airfield.

On 19 September, HMS Terpsichore, HMS Teazer and HMS Zetland fuelled from HMS Attacker, HMS Emperor and HMS Khedive respectively.

Around 0815C/19, the escort destroyers HMS Farndale (Cdr. E.G. Roper, DSO, DSC, RN) and HMS Haydon (Lt. R.G.R. Clay, RN) departed Alexandria to join ' Force A '. At sea they joined the AA cruiser HMS Colombo (Capt. C.T. Jellicoe, DSO, DSC and Bar, RN) which had already departed around 0630C/19 and had first conducted exercises.

Around 1020C/19, an air strike force of 45 fighter bombers was sent to Rhodes. They destroyed several enemy ships and caused damage to the harbour facilities.

Around 0500C/20, HMS Colombo, HMS Farndale and HMS Haydon joined.

HMS Terpsichore, HMS Termagant, HMS Zetland and HMS Brecon then fuelled from HMS Attacker and HMS Emperor.

Around 1340C/20, HMS Colombo and HMS Termagant were detached to blockade Candia, HMS Teazer and HMS Farndale to blockade Suda Bay and HMS Zetland to blockade Santorin.

Around 1910C/20, the remainder of ' Force A ' set course for Alexandria.

Around 1400C/21, HMS Attacker, HMS Pursuer, HMS Emperor, HMS Khedive, HMS Royalist, HMS Troubridge, HMS Terpsichore, HMS Tuscan, HMS Brecon arrived at Alexandria.

Around 1815C/21, HMS Searcher, HMS Tyrian and RHS Navarinon arrived at Alexandria.

Around 1930C/21, HMS Colombo, HMS Teazer, HMS Termagant, HMS Farndale, HMS Haydon and HMS Zetland arrived at Alexandria.

During the entire time ' Force A ' had been off Crete aircraft from the escort carriers had attacked numerous enemy targets. (17)

1 Oct 1944
Around 0900C/1, the escort carriers HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Alexandria for Malta. They were to proceed to the U.K. (18)

1 Oct 1944
Around 0800A/4, the escort carriers HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Malta from Alexandria. (18)

5 Oct 1944
Around 0700A/5, the escort carriers HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) departed Malta for Gibraltar. (18)

8 Oct 1944
Around 0700A/8, the escort carriers HMS Searcher (Capt. G.O.C. Davies, RN), HMS Pursuer (A/Capt. H.R. Graham, DSO, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Gibraltar from Malta.

They departed for the U.K. around 1315A/8. They were now escorted by the destroyers HMS Kempenfelt (Capt. E.G. McGregor, DSO, RN), Whirlwind (Cdr. W.A.F. Hawkins, DSO, DSC, OBE, RN) and Wrangler (Lt.Cdr. D.W. Austin, RN).

Around 0500A/10, the destroyers HMCS Chaudiere (A/Lt.Cdr. C.P. Nixon, RCN), HMCS Assiniboine (A/Lt.Cdr. R.P. Welland, DSC, RCN), HMCS St. Laurent (Lt.Cdr. G.H. Stephen, DSC, RCNR) and HMCS Skeena (A/Lt.Cdr. P.F.X. Russell, RCN) joined. The original escort then parted company to return to Gibraltar.

Around 0930A/12, HMS Pursuer parted company to proceed to Greenock where she arrived around 1415A/8.

HMS Searcher and HMS Khedive arrived in Bangor Bay around 1030A/12.

The Canadian destroyers arrived at Londonderry on the 12th. (18)

13 Oct 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded to Belfast. (19)

14 Oct 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Belfast to Greenock. (19)

15 Oct 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from Greenock to Glasgow. (19)

20 Oct 1944
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) proceeded from Glasgow to Greenock. (19)

21 Oct 1944
Around 1125A/21, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Greenock for Sheernes where she arrived at 1800A/23. (19)

25 Oct 1944
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) proceeded from Sheerness to North Woolwich where she is taken in hand for refit and a docking at the Harland & Wolff Shipyard. (19)

14 Dec 1944
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) is docked at North Woolwich. (20)

21 Dec 1944
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) is undocked. (20)

31 Dec 1944
HMS Khedive (Capt.(Retd.) H.J. Haynes, DSO, DSC, RN) proceeded from North Woolwich to Tilbury. (20)

1 Jan 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) proceeded from Tilbury to Sheerness. (21)

5 Jan 1945
Around 1230A/5, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Sheerness for Belfast. (21)

7 Jan 1945
Around 1645A/7, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) arrived at Belfast from Sheerness. Before arrival at Belfast D/G trials were carried out in Bangor Bay. (21)

9 Jan 1945
Around 0910A/9, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Belfast for Greenock where she arrived around 1620A/9. (21)

11 Jan 1945
Around 1800A/11, the escort carriers HMS Slinger (Capt. B.L. Moore, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and HMS Speaker (A/Capt. U.H.R. James, RN) departed Greenock for the Far East. They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Volage (Cdr. L.G. Durlacher, OBE, RN), HMS Eskimo (Lt. Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, DSC, RN) and HMS Whitehall (Lt. J. Monroe, RN).

At 0620A/16, the destroyer HMS Wolverine (Lt.Cdr. I.M. Clegg, RN) joined. HMS Whitehall had already been detached at this time as she arrived in the Clyde on 18 January.

Around 1515A/16, the destroyers were detached to Gibraltar.

Between 1650A/16 and 1800A/16, the escort carriers were in Gibraltar Bay before continuing their passage.

Around 1230A/17, HMS Volage and HMS Eskimo rejoined. Later HMS Venus also rejoined.

In the afternoon of the 19th, HMS Slinger made a short stop at Malta before rejoining the other ships.

At 2245A/20, HMS Eskimo was detached.

Around 0830B/22, HMS Slinger, HMS Khedive, HMS Speaker, HMS Venus and HMS Volage arrived at Alexandria. (22)

22 Jan 1945
Around 1645A/22, the escort carriers HMS Slinger (Capt. B.L. Moore, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and HMS Speaker (A/Capt. U.H.R. James, RN) departed Alexandria for Port Said and the Suez Canal. The destroyer HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN) also joined.

The escort carriers arrived in the Great Bitter Lakes in the afternoon of 23 January. (22)

24 Jan 1945
The escort carriers HMS Slinger (Capt. B.L. Moore, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and HMS Speaker (A/Capt. U.H.R. James, RN) departed the Great Bitter Lakes for Aden. Off Suez the destroyers HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN) and HMS Eskimo (Lt. Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, DSC, RN) joined.

Around 1500C/26, the destroyer HMS Volage (Cdr. L.G. Durlacher, OBE, RN) joined. She had departed Suez on the 25th.

Around 1145C/26, they all arrived at Aden. (22)

26 Jan 1945
Around 1730C/26, the escort carriers HMS Slinger (Capt. B.L. Moore, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and HMS Speaker (A/Capt. U.H.R. James, RN) departed Aden for Colombo (HMS Khedive was to proceed to Cochin). They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Volage (Cdr. L.G. Durlacher, OBE, RN) and HMS Eskimo (Lt. Cdr. E.N. Sinclair, DSC, RN).

In the afternoon of 28 january HMS Eskimo was fuelled by HMS Slinger.

Around 2215E/2, HMS Khedive parted company to proceed to Cochin where she arrived around 1630F/3.

The other ships arrived at Colombo around 1230FG/4. (22)

5 Feb 1945
Around 0735FG/5, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Cochin for Colombo where she arrived around 0825FG/6. (23)

7 Feb 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying operations off Colombo. At total of 30 Hellcat fighters were flown off. (23)

10 Feb 1945
Around 1200FG/10, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Colombo for Trincomalee where she arrived around 1130FG/11. (23)

13 Feb 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted D/F calibration trials at Trincomalee. (23)

16 Feb 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted compass swing and radar calibration trials off Trincomalee. (23)

17 Feb 1945
In the afternoon, the escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by the frigate HMS Swale (A/Lt.Cdr. P.V. Collings, DSC, RNR). (23)

18 Feb 1945
The escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by the frigate HMS Plym (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A. Foxall, RNR). (23)

19 Feb 1945
The escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted gunnery and flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by the frigate HMS Spey (T/Lt.Cdr. A. Harrison, RNR). (23)

20 Feb 1945
The escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted refuelling at sea exercises off Trincomalee during which the destroyer HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, RN) was refuelled. (23)

24 Feb 1945
Around 1915FG/24, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Trincomalee for Colombo where she arrived around 1630FG/25. (23)

1 Mar 1945
The escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Colombo for Calcutta. On board were troops. It seems likely she was escorted by the frigate HMS Awe (Lt.Cdr. H.P. Carse, DSC, RNVR) which also departed Colombo on 1 March 1945.

HMS Khedive arrived at Calcutta on 4 March 1945. HMS Awe arrived at Chittagong on 5 March 1945. (24)

5 Mar 1945
Around 1230FG/5, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Calcutta for Trincomalee where she arrived around 0745FG/8. (25)

8 Mar 1945
Around 1830FG/8, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Trincomalee for Colombo where she arrived around 1930FG9. Before entering harbour at Colombo flying exercises were carried out. During the passage she was escorted by HMS Trent (T/A/Lt.Cdr. J.G. Rankin, DSC, RNR). (25)

10 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

11 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

17 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

18 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

19 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

20 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Colombo. (25)

22 Mar 1945
Around 1715FG/22, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN) departed Colombo for Bombay where they arrived around 1030FG/25. (26)

27 Mar 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying operations off Bombay. (25)

29 Mar 1945
Around 1920FG/29, the escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Bombay for Colombo. She was escorted by the escort destroyer HMS Blackmore (Lt. J.S. Kerans, RN).

They arrived at Colombo around 0830FG/1. (27)

2 Apr 1945
Around 1700FG/2, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Colombo for Trincomalee where she arrived around 1630FG/3. (28)

8 Apr 1945

Operation Sunfish.

Photographic reconnaissance of the west coast of Sumatra and air attacks on northern Sumatra.

On 8 April 1945, ' Force 63 ' made up of the battleships HMS Queen Elizabeth (Capt. R.M. Ellis, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Vice Admiral H.C.T. Walker, CB, RN), Richelieu (Capt. G.M.J. Merveilleux du Vignaux), escort carriers HMS Emperor (A/Capt. C. Madden, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN), heavy cruisers HMS Cumberland (Capt. P.K. Enright, RN), HMS London (Capt. S.L. Bateson, RN) and the destroyers HMS Saumarez (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Verulam (Lt.Cdr. D.H.R. Bromley, DSC, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN) and HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee.

The original intention was to carry out the planned photographic reconnaissance, beginning on 12th April from a flying off position west of Padang. Anti-shipping strikes would follow later.

This programme unfortunately had to be re-cast when HMS Emperor's catapult broke down, necessitating the postponement of the photographic reconnaissance for two days.

Accordingly, on 11 April 1945, HMS Queen Elizabeth, Richelieu and HMS London bombarded Sabang, while HMS Saumarez HMS Verulam and HMS Vigilant bombarded Ulee Lhoe. No shipping was present at Sabang, but the destroyers damaged a small coaster, which was already beached.

' Force 63 ' was subsequently attacked by a force of ten enemy aircraft, two of which were shot down by the Combat Air Patrol.

On 12 April 1945, ships from ' Force 63 ' refuelled from ' Force 70 ' (RFA tanker Easedale (8032 GRT, built 1942) escorted by the frigate HMS Lossie (Lt.Cdr. A.F. MacFie, OBE, RNR)) and HMS London was detached to proceed to Simonstown, South Africa where it had been arranged for her to refit. She was first to return to Trincomalee though.

' Force 63 ' then proceeded to operate off the west coast of Sumatra, and photographic reconnaissance was carried out as planned on 14th and 15th April with almost complete success. One of our aircraft was lost. One enemy aircraft was shot down by the Combat Air Patrol.

An air strike was made on Emmahaven on 16 April, hits being scored on a 4000 ton merchant ship and workshops in the harbour. Our fighters shot down one more enemy aircraft and three were claimed to have been damaged on the ground. Destroyers HMS Venus and HMS Virago, meanwhile made a sweep between the outlying islands and the mainland, from Ayerbangis Bay to Natal Road. A total of six junks were sunk.

' Force 63 ' arrived back in Ceylon, either at Trincomalee or Colombo on 20 April 1945. (29)

23 Apr 1945
The light cruisers HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), HMS Phoebe (Capt. S.M. Raw, CBE, RN), escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. A.D. Torlesse, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. Sir C. Madden, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Saumarez (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN) and HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN) departed Trincomalee for Akyab where they arrived on the 26th.

HMS Phoebe parted company around mid-morning on the 26th and proceeded to Kyaukpyu where she arrived around 1115FG/26. (29)

29 Apr 1945
The light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. A.D. Torlesse, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. Sir C. Madden, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN) and HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN) proceeded from Akyab to Kyaukpyu. (30)

30 Apr 1945
Around 0630FG/30, the light cruisers HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. A.D. Torlesse, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. Sir C. Madden, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Saumarez (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN) and HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN) departed Kyaukpyu to provide cover for convoys approaching the Burmese coast for operation Dracula (the landings at Rangoon).

Troops were landed on 1 May 1945 and the entered Rangoon, which had been evacuated by the Japanse, on 3 May.

The cover force anchored off Rangoon in the early evening off 3 May 1945. (30)

4 May 1945
Around 0530FG/4, the light cruisers HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. A.D. Torlesse, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. Sir C. Madden, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Saumarez (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN) and HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN) departed Rangoon to continue flying operations off the Burmese coast in the Mergui Archipelago area until the afternoon of 6 May 1945 when they set course for Trincomalee. During the air attacks on 5 and 6 May, five barges were claimed sunk. Two junks, believed to be carrying oil, were left in flames. Jetties and warehouses at Mergui were bombed and strafed.

The force arrived at Trincomalee in the late morning of 9 May 1945. (31)

10 May 1945

Operation Dukedom.

Intercepting Japanese surface ships trying to evacuate troops from the Andaman Islands.

On 8 May 1945 a report was received from two British submarines on patrol in the Malacca Strait (HMS Statesman (Lt. R.G.P. Bulkeley, RN) and HMS Subtle (Lt. B.J.B. Andrew, DSC, RN) that they had sighted a Japanese heavy cruiser and a destroyer proceeding to the north-west. The Eastern Fleet was already on alert due to intelligence and ships from the Eastern Fleet immediately (around 0700 hours) put to sea from Trincomalee, Ceylon for operation Dukedom. These ships formed Task Force 61. This task force was, at that moment, made up of the following ships;
British battleship HMS Queen Elizabeth (Capt. R.M. Ellis, DSO, RN, flying the flag of Vice Admiral H.C.T. Walker, CB, RN), the French battleship Richelieu (Capt. G.M.J. Merveilleux du Vignaux), the British escort carriers HMS Hunter (Capt. A.D. Torlesse, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN), HMS Shah (Capt. W.J. Yendell, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. Sir C. Madden, RN), the British heavy cruiser HMS Cumberland (Capt. P.K. Enright, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral W.R. Patterson, CB, CVO, RN), the British light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), the Dutch light cruiser HrMs Tromp (A/Capt. F. Stam, RNN) and the British destroyers HMS Saumarez (Capt. M.L. Power, CBE, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Venus (Cdr. H.G.D. De Chair, DSC with Bar, RN), HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN), HMS Virago (Lt.Cdr. A.J.R. White, DSC, RN), HMS Rotherham (Capt. H.W. Biggs, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Nubian (Lt.Cdr. F.C. Brodrick, RN) and HMS Penn (Lt.Cdr. A.H. Diack, DSC and Bar, RN). This latter destroyer however had to return due to defects.

The British destroyer HMS Verulam (Lt.Cdr. D.H.R. Bromley, DSC, RN) sailed at 1700 hours to overtake and then join the Task Force. She was joined by HMS Tartar (Capt. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) as substitute for HMS Penn whose defects could not be repaired in time. HMS Verulam and HMS Tartar eventually joined the Task Force at 1505FG/11.

Most ships of the Task Force had only returned from the previous operation the day before and for instance HMS Queen Elizabeth had only 50% ammunition for her 15” guns on board. Also HMS Emperor and HMS Khedive were not fully fueled.

The same day the tanker Easedale (8032 GRT, built 1942) departed Trincomalee escorted by the British destroyer HMS Paladin (Lt. H.R. Hewlett, RN) (Force 70) to provide fuel for the smaller ships of Force 61.

At 1940FG/11 a fast attack force, made up of Richelieu, HMS Cumberland and the destroyer of the 26th Destroyer Flotilla; HMS Saumarez, HMS Venus, HMS Verlulam, HMS Viliglant and HMS Virago were ordered to proceed ahead to about 50 miles from the Task Force to be in a better position to intercept the reported Japanese heavy cruiser.

In the early afternoon of the 12th an air strike with four Hellcats was carried out against airfields on Car Nicobar Island. One Japanese aircraft was seen to go up in flames.

Also on the 12th submarine HMS Statesman reported that the Japanese cruiser and it's escort were returning to Singapore most likely to Force 61 being sighted the previous day by a Japanese aircraft.

During the 13th all destroyers of the Task Force fueled from HMS Emperor, HMS Hunter and HMS Shah. Besides that Task Force 62 was sent out from Trincomalee. This Task Force was made up of the British light cruiser HMS Nigeria (Capt. H.A. King, DSO, RN) and the British destroyers HMS Roebuck (Cdr. C.D. Bonham-Carter, RN), HMS Racehorse (Cdr. J.J. Casement, DSC, RN), HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN) and HMS Rocket (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Acworth, OBE, RN), which was escorting a convoy, was ordered to leave her convoy and then join this Task Force. Also sailed was Task Force 67, made up of Royal Fleet Auxiliary oiler Olwen escorted by HMS Penn, which by now had completed repairs on her defects.

On the 14th HrMs Tromp was sent ahead to fuel from Task Force 70. Late in the evening the remainder of Task Force 61 arrived at the rendez-vous with Task Force 70.

On the 15th the enemy cruiser and destroyer were sighted by an aircraft from HMS Shah. They were again proceeding to the south-east. Shortly afterwards the enemy was also sighted by a patrolling Liberator aircraft which began shadowing the enemy. At 1500 hours three Avenger aircraft attacked the cruiser.

The 26th destroyer flottila, made up of HMS Saumarez, HMS Venus, HMS Verulam, HMS Vigilant and HMS Vigaro were ordered to intercept the enemy after dark. At 1500 hours they were 85 miles from the position of the enemy.

Around midnight the destroyers made radar contact on the cruiser. They then attacked from all directions with torpedoes. About eight hits were scored and the cruiser was sunk. During the attack HMS Saumarez was hit three times with 8" shells. Two ratings were killed on one boiler room was put out of action. The destroyers rejoined the task force at 1000/16. HMS Virago had only 17% fuel left, the other destroyers between that and 30%. HMS Virago and HMS Venus had to fuel from the escort carriers as they could not make it to the oiling force without doing so.

In the evening of the 16th the Task Force was attacked by Japanese aircraft. HMS Virago was near missed and suffered four ratings killed, five ratings severely wounded and thirteen other casualties. She was also listing slightly due to splinter damage.

At 1000/17 the following ships were detached to return to Trincomalee; Richelieu, HMS Nigeria, HMS Royalist, HrMs Tromp, HMS Khedive, HMS Shah and HMS Racehorce. They arrived at Trincomalee on the 18th, minus HMS Khedive and HMS Shah which went on to Colombo where they arrived on the 19th.

1740 hours, the 26th Destroyer Flotilla was also detached to return to Trincomalee where they arrived late in the afternoon on the 18th. By this time all the destroyers of this flotilla had fueled from Force 70.

The remaining ships were ordered to return to Trincomalee at 2130/19. They arrived back at Trincomalee on 21 May. (32)

11 Jun 1945
Around 1345FG/11, the escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Colombo for Trincomalee where she arrived around 1845FG/12. She was escorted by the destroyer Carbiniere. (33)

14 Jun 1945

Operation Balsam

Photographic reconnaissance of Southern Malaya and fighter strikes on airfields in Northern Sumatra.

On 14 June 1945, ' Task Force 63 ' departed Trincomalee. It was made up of the light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Commodore G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), heavy cruiser HMS Suffolk (Capt. D. Gilmour, RN), escort carriers HMS Ameer (Cdr. P.D.H.R. Pelly, DSO, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN) and the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. H.W. Biggs, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Racehorse (Cdr. J.J. Casement, DSC, RN), HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN), HMS Relentless (Lt.Cdr. G.B. Barstow, RN) and HMS Roebuck (Cdr. C.D. Bonham-Carter, RN).

On the 16th, HMS Royalist and the destroyers were topped off with fuel. HMS Suffolk fuelling HMS Rotherham and HMS Racehorce. HMS Ameer fuelling HMS Redoubt and HMS Relentless. HMS Stalker fuelled HMS Royalist and HMS Redoubt. HMS Khedive did not fuel any of the other ships.

From flying off position in the northern approaches to the Malacca Straits, aircraft of 888 Squadron, from HMS Ameer made successful photographic reconnaissance flights over southern Malaya from 18 to 20 June.

At 2044FG/18, in position 07°15'N, 97°28'E, the submarine HMS Thrasher (Lt.Cdr. M.F.R. Ainslie, DSO, DSC, RN), which was steering 076°, sighed a darkened ship bearing 300°. The submarine then turned and commenced closing. The ship proved to be a destroyer heading south. Other destroyers were then sighted and about 2055FG/10 aircraft carriers came in sight. This was obviously ' Task Force 63 '. Thrasher then set course to open the range not wishing to make contact and flash recognition signals so close to the enemy coast. A destroyer on the port side of the screen appeared to obtain radar contact on the submarine and commenced closing. Just as Thrasher was about to identify herself the destroyer turned away at a range of about 6000 yards.

On 20 June, fighter strikes against the airfields at Lhoksemawe, Medan, and Binjai (all in Northern Sumatra) were made by aircraft of 804, 808 and 809 Squadrons. The runways at Medan and Binjai were put out of action. Attacks on grounded enemy aircraft resulted in three being destroyed, seven left burning and probably destroyed and nine was claimed to have been damaged. Aerodrome buildings, locomotives, and rolling stock were also effectively strafed. Off Medan two junks, one of which was obviously carrying oil, were attacked and set on fire.

Own losses were only one Hellcat shot down by enemy AA fire.

It looked like that ' Force 63 ' had not been detected by the enemy throughout the operation.

In the morning/early afternoon of 21 June, HMS Rotherham fuelled from HMS Ameer, HMS Racehorce, HMS Roebuck and HMS Redoubt fuelled from HMS Khedive, HMS Royalist fuelled from HMS Stalker and HMS Relentless fuelled from HMS Suffolk

At 1340GH/21, HMS Ameer, HMS Stalker, HMS Rotherham and HMS Relentless parted company with the remainder of the force.

At 1510GH/21, HMS Royalist, HMS Roebuck and HMS Racehorce parted company with HMS Khedive, HMS Suffolk and HMS Redoubt.

At 2200GH/21, HMS Ameer parted company with HMS Stalker, HMS Rotherham and HMS Relentless.

At 1200GH/22, HMS Rotherham and HMS Relentless parted company with HMS Stalker.

HMS Rotherham and HMS Relentless arrived at Trincomalee at 0700FG/23.

HMS Royalist, HMS Roebuck and HMS Racehorce arrived at Vishakhapatnam around 1115FG/23.

HMS Ameer arrived at Madras around 1600FG/23.

HMS Khedive, HMS Suffolk and HMS Redoubt arrived at Trincomalee around 1700FG/23.

And finally HMS Stalker arrived at Cochin around 1915FG/25. (34)

3 Jul 1945
Around 1430FG/3, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Trincomalee for Colombo where she arrived around 1345FG/4. On entering the harbour she ran over the D/G range. (35)

5 Jul 1945
Around 0900FG/5, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Colombo for Trincomalee where she arrived around 0730FG/6. On leaving Colombo harbour she ran over the D/G range. (35)

9 Jul 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee. HM ML 850 (?) was stand-by as plane guard. (35)

10 Jul 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee. HM ML 899 (?) was stand-by as plane guard. (35)

12 Jul 1945
Around 0800FG/12, the light cruiser HMS Phoebe (Capt. S.M. Raw, CBE, RN), escort carriers HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN) and HMS Rocket (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Acworth, OBE, RN) departed Trincomalee for Cocanada where they arrived around 1800FG/13. (36)

15 Jul 1945
The escort carriers HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Cocanada. They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN) and HMS Rocket (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Acworth, OBE, RN).

The light cruiser HMS Phoebe (Capt. S.M. Raw, CBE, RN) conducted independent exercises off Cocanada during the night of 15/16 July on completion of which course was set for Trincomalee. (36)

16 Jul 1945
The escort carriers HMS Stalker (Capt. L.C. Sinker, DSC, RN) and HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Cocanada. They were escorted by the destroyers HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN) and HMS Rocket (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Acworth, OBE, RN).

Around 1730FG/16, the exercises were completed. HMS Khedive and HMS Rocket then returned to the anchorage while HMS Stalker and HMS Redoubt set course for Colombo where HMS Stalker arrived around 0730FG/19. HMS Redoubt had been detached en-route and arrived at Trincomalee around 0910FG/18. (37)

17 Jul 1945
Around 1955FG/17, the escort carrier HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyer HMS Rocket (Lt.Cdr. H.B. Acworth, OBE, RN) departed Cocanada for Trincomalee where they arrived around 0945GFG/19. (35)

21 Jul 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN). (35)

23 Jul 1945
Around 0745FG/23, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) departed Trincomalee for Colombo where she anchored off the port around 0650FG/24. She then entered harbour around 1100FG/24 and entered a graving dock around 1140FG/24 after which she was docked down in the afternoon. (35)

28 Jul 1945
In the afternoon, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) was undocked at Colombo. She then left for Trincomalee around 1835FG/28. (35)

29 Jul 1945
Around 1830FG/29, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) arrived at Trincomalee from Colombo. (35)

2 Aug 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted AA gunnery exercises off Trincomalee. (38)

4 Aug 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted D/F calibration trials at Trincomalee. (38)

5 Aug 1945
In the moring, HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) briefly conducted flying operations off Trincomalee during which aircraft were landed on. (38)

7 Aug 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by HMS Raider (Lt.Cdr. J.C. Cartwright, DSC, RN). On completion of the flying exercises around 1500FG/7, HMS Raider returned to harbour while HMS Khedive remained out a little longer for some AA gunnery exercises. (38)

8 Aug 1945
HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee. (38)

10 Aug 1945

Operation Carson.

The object of this operation was to attack enemy shipping and airfields in Penang and Medan areas (Sumatra).

Around 1600FG/10, ' Force 61 ', which was made up of the light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Ameer (Cdr. P.D.H.R. Pelly, DSO, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. C. Madden, RN), HMS Empress (Capt. J.R.S. Brown, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN), HMS Shah (Capt. W.J. Yendell, RN) and the destoyers HMS Tartar (Capt. B. Jones, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN, Capt. D.10), HMS Penn (Lt.Cdr. A.H. Diack, DSC, RN), HMS Verulam (Lt.Cdr. D.H.R. Bromley, DSC, RN) and HMS Vigilant (Lt.Cdr. L.W.L. Argles, DSC, RN).

Air strikes were planned for 14 and 15 August but due to the ongoing negotiations with the Japanese about their surrender these were postponed and eventually cancelled and the ships returned to Trincomalee around 1130FG/15. (29)

22 Aug 1945
Around 1630FG/22, the light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Ameer (Cdr. P.D.H.R. Pelly, DSO, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. C. Madden, RN), HMS Empress (Capt. J.R.S. Brown, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Rotherham (Capt. H.W. Biggs, DSO and Bar, RN), HMS Racehorse (Cdr. J.J. Casement, DSC, RN), HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. F.W.M. Carter, DSC, RN) and HMS Relentless (Lt.Cdr. G.B. Barstow, RN) departed Trincomalee for a few days of exercises. They returned to Trincomalee around 1415FG/24. (39)

30 Aug 1945
HMS Khedive (Capt. A.R. Pedder, RN) conducted flying exercises off Trincomalee during which she was escorted by the escort destroyer HMS Calpe (A/Lt.Cdr. N.F.R. Gill, RNR).

Around 1050FG/30, a man was reported overboard by HMS Khedive. Despite searches by both ships he could not be found an was presumed drowned. (38)

31 Aug 1945
The light cruiser HMS Royalist (Capt. W.G. Brittain, CBE, RN, flying the flag of Rear-Admiral G.N. Oliver, CB, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), escort carriers HMS Ameer (Cdr. P.D.H.R. Pelly, DSO, RN), HMS Emperor (Capt. C. Madden, RN), HMS Empress (Capt. J.R.S. Brown, RN), HMS Khedive (A/Capt. D.H. Magnay, RN) and the destroyers HMS Myngs (Capt. P.G.L. Cazalet, DSC, RN) (Capt. J.H. Allison, DSO, RN) and HMS Penn (Lt.Cdr. A.H. Diack, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. (39)