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Notable events involving Trenchant include:

The history of HMS Trenchant as compiled on this page is extracted from the patrol reports and logbooks of this submarine. Corrections and details regarding information from the enemy's side (for instance the composition of convoys attacked) is kindly provided by Mr. Platon Alexiades, a naval researcher from Canada.

This page was last updated in December 2018.

4 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Chatham dockyard for Sheerness. After some trails en route she arrived there later the same day. (1)

8 Feb 1944
After a few days of trials out of Sheerness HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) returns to Chatham Dockyard. (1)

13 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Chatham Dockyard for Sheerness. (1)

15 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Sheerness for Portsmouth. She made the passage in a convoy. (1)

16 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Portsmouth. (1)

18 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Portsmouth for Yarmouth. (1)

19 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Yarmouth for Plymouth. She made the passage together with the French submarine FFS Rubis (Lt.Cdr. H.L.G. Rousselot). They were escorted by HMS Darthema (T/Lt. C. Brunning, RNVR). (1)

20 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Plymouth for Falmouth. (1)

21 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Falmouth for Holy Loch. She was escorted by HMS Bridgewater (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN). (1)

23 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Holy Loch for a period of trials and training. (1)

24 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted full speed trials on the Arran measured mile. (1)

27 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (1)

28 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (1)

29 Feb 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Arrochar where she was to conduct her torpedo discharge trials. (1)

1 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

2 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

3 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

4 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

5 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

6 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

7 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

8 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted torpedo discharge trials off Arrochar. (2)

9 Mar 1944
Having completed her torpedo discharge trials, HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), shifted from Arrochar to Holy Loch. (2)

10 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted gunnery and S.T.U. (mine detection) trials in the Clyde area. (2)

11 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) both conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Sheffield (Cdr. G.M. Sladen, DSO, DSC, RN) served as the target. These included night exercises. (3)

12 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted noise trials in Loch Goil. (2)

16 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Campbeltown. (2)

17 Mar 1944
HMS Thorough (Lt.Cdr. J.G. Hopkins, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) both conducted A/S and attack exercises in the Clyde area with HMS Westcott (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) H. Lambton, RN) and HMS Inconstant (Lt.Cdr J.H. Eaden, DSC and Bar, RN). These included night exercises. (3)

18 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) returned to Holy Loch on completion of her exercises. (2)

21 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Sardonyx (A/Lt.Cdr. T.A. Easton, RNVR) served as the target. (2)

22 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Campbeltown with HMS Sardonyx (A/Lt.Cdr. T.A. Easton, RNVR), HMS Honeysuckle (T/Lt. J.A. Wright, RNR) and HMS Rhododendron (T/Lt. O.B. Medley, RNVR). These included night exercises. (2)

23 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) returned to Holy Loch on completion of her exercises. (2)

25 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Sardonyx (A/Lt.Cdr. T.A. Easton, RNVR) served as the target. (2)

26 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) shifted from the Campbeltown area to Larne escorted by HMS ML 239 (T/Lt. O.H.W. Richards, RNVR). (2)

27 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMCS Morden (T/Lt. E.C. Smith, RCNVR) and HMCS Fennel (A/Lt.Cdr. W.P. Moffat, RCNVR). (2)

28 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with Escort Group C 2. (2)

29 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMS Icarus (Lt.Cdr. R. Dyer, RN) and HMCS Chaudiere (A/Lt.Cdr. C.P. Nixon, RCN). (2)

30 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMS Flint Castle (T/Lt. N. Harrison, RNVR). (2)

31 Mar 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with HMS Flint Castle (T/Lt. N. Harrison, RNVR) and F.A.A. aircraft. (2)

1 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with aircraft from HMS Biter (Capt. L.A.K. Boswell, DSO, RN). (4)

5 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted independent exercises off Larne. (4)

6 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with group 201. These included night exercises. (4)

7 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted A/S exercises off Larne with group 201. (4)

9 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) shifted from Larne to Holy Loch. (4)

11 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Bridgewater (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN) served as the target. (4)

12 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted attack exercises in the Clyde area during which HMS Bridgewater (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN) served as the target. (4)

15 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted radar exercises in the Campbeltown area. Later the same day HMS Trenchant conducted attack exercises off Campbeltown during which HMS Bridgewater (Cdr.(Retd.) R.H. Mack, RN) served as the target. (4)

16 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) returned to Holy Loch on completion of her exercises. (4)

20 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) shifted from Holy Loch to Arrochar where she was to conduct special torpedo trials. (4)

21 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted special torpedo trials off Arrochar. (4)

22 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted special torpedo trials off Arrochar. (4)

23 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted special torpedo trials off Arrochar. Upon completion of these trials HMS Trenchant proceeded to Holy Loch. (4)

27 Apr 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (4)

4 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) is docked at Holy Loch in AFD 7. (5)

9 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) is undocked. (5)

12 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises in the Clyde area. (5)

14 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Holy Loch for the Far East. The first leg of the trip is to Gibraltar. Passage south through the Irish Sea was made together with the French submarine FFS Junon (Lt. E. Schlumberger). They were escorted by HMS Sardonyx (T/A/Lt.Cdr. E. Playne, RNVR).

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

(5)

14 May 1944

Combined convoy OS 77 / KMS 51.

This combined convoy was assembled off Oversay on 14 May 1944.

It was made up of the following merchant vessels; Afghanistan (British, 6992 GRT, built 1940), Amstelkerk (Dutch, 4457 GRT, built 1929), Badjestan (British, 5573 GRT, built 1928), Beckenham (British, 4636 GRT, built 1937), Belgian Trader (British, 2890 GRT, built 1942), Biafra (British, 5405 GRT, built 1933), City of Khios (British, 5574 GRT, built 1925), Cragpool (British 5133 GRT, built 1928), Defender (British, 8078 GRT, built 1915), Drakepool (British, 4838 GRT, built 1924), Dunelmia (British, 5207 GRT, built 1929), Eloy Alfaro (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944), Empire Caxton (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942), Empire Foam (British, 7047 GRT, built 1941), Empire Mariott (British, 5970 GRT, built 1941), Fort Tadoussac (British, 7129 GRT, built 1941), Gascony (British, 4716 GRT, built 1925), King Frederick (British, 5106 GRT, built 1920), Madras City (British, 5080 GRT, built 1940), Marquesa (British, 8979 GRT, built 1918), Menelaus (British, 10307 GRT, built 1923), Mount Rhodope (Greek, 5182 GRT, built 1919), Nairnbank (British, 5155 GRT, built 1925), New Brooklyn (British, 6546 GRT, built 1920), Norbryn (Norwegian, 5089 GRT, built 1922), Nordeflinge (British, 2873 GRT, built 1942), Pendeen (British, 4174 GRT, built 1923), Port Darwin (British, 8063 GRT, built 1918), Stad Arnhem (Dutch, 3819 GRT, built 1920), Stanhope (British, 2337 GRT, built 1919), Tiba (Dutch, 5239 GRT, built 1938) and Tjimanoek (Dutch, 5628 GRT, built 1911).

The rescue ship Melrose Abbey (British, 1924 GRT, built 1929) was also part of the convoy.

On assembly off Oversay the convoy was escorted by the escort carriers HMS Attacker (Capt. H.B. Farncomb, DSO, MVO, RAN), HMS Hunter (Capt. H.H. McWilliam, RN), HMS Stalker (Capt. H.S. Murray-Smith, RN), frigates HMS Towy (Cdr. H.V. King, DSO, OBE, RN), HMS Anguilla (T/A/Lt.Cdr. C. Morrison-Payne, RNVR), HMS Antigua (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) D.F. White, RNR) and the corvettes HMS Knaresborough Castle (Lt. J.R. Freeman, RNR), HMS Tintagel Castle (Lt. R. Atkinson, DSC and Bar, RNR) and HMS Smilax (Lt. A. Branson, RNR). Additional escorts were the frigates HMCS Matane (A/Cdr. A.F.C. Layard, DSO, RN), HMCS Stormont (T/Skr.Lt. G.A. Myra, RCNR) and HMCS Swansea (A/Cdr. C.A. King, DSO, DSC, RCNR). These additional escorts remained with the convoy until 19 May.

The Stanhope was detached to return to the U.K. on the 16th being unable to keep up with the convoy.

On 15 May 1944, the frigate HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy.

On 17 May 1944, the corvette HMS Leeds Castle (T/A/Lt.Cdr. W.T. Hodson, DSC, RNVR) departed Londonderry to overtake and join the convoy.

The escort oiler Esturia (ritish (tanker), 6968 GRT, built 1914) later joined the convoy at sea. She came from the combined convoy SL 157 / MKS 48.

On 24 May 1944, the convoy split into convoy OS 77 bound for Freetown and convoy KMS 51 bound for the Mediterranean.

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Convoy OS 77 towards Freetown was made up of the following merchant vessels; Amstelkerk, Dunelmia, Marquesa, Menelaus, Mount Rhodope, Nairnbank, New Brooklyn and Port Darwin.

On 23 May 1944, the following merchant vessels departed Gibraltar to join the convoy when it split up; Domby (British, 5582 GRT, built 1932), Empire Glen (British, 6316 GRT, built 1941), Empire Guinevere (British, 7072 GRT, built 1942), Empire Southey (British, 7041 GRT, built 1942), Fort Paskoyac (British, 7134 GRT, built 1934), Harmattan (British, 4558 GRT, built 1930), Van Ostade (Dutch, 2890 GRT, built 1942) and Zypenberg (Dutch, 4973 GRT, built 1920). They were escorted by the sloops HMS Leith (Lt.Cdr.(Retd.) A.W. Preston, RN) and HMS Sandwich (T/A/Lt.Cdr. A.J. Clemence, RNR) which joined the convoy and took over from the original escorts.

On 23 May 1944, the following merchant vessels departed Gibraltar to join the convoy when it split up; Empire Archer (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942), Empire Dickens (British (tanker), 9819 GRT, built 1942) Empire Duchess (British, 7067 GRT, built 1943), Finistere (French, 1158 GRT, built 1909), Fort Ash (British, 7131 GRT, built 1943), Fort Glenora (British, 7126 GRT, built 1943), Medie II (French, 5078 GRT, built 1922) and President de Vogue (Norwegian (tanker), 9320 GRT, built 1935). They were escorted by the patrol vessel / sloop Amiral Mouchez, minesweeping sloops La Gracieuse and the patrol vessels USS PC-473 (Lt. A.W. Silverstein, USNR) and USS PC-482 (Lt. D.W. Hunter, USNR). These escorts did not join the convoy but set course to return to Casablanca. The six transports joined convoy OS 77 while the two tankers joined convoy KMS 51.

On 24 May 1944, the patrol vessel HMS Kilmartin (T/Lt. E.H.G. Hope, RNVR) departed Casablanca to join the convoy.

On 30 May 1944, the following transports departed Dakar to join the convoy; Tynemouth (British, 3168 GRT, built 1940), Vendome (French, 4192 GRT, built 1920) and Vinriver (British, 3881 GRT, built 1917). They were escorted by the corvette Commandant Drogou and the minesweeping sloops Annamite and Chevreul. These escorts did not join the convoy but proceeded to Dakar taking the transports Empire Southey, Finistere, Medie II and Nairnbank with them.

Convoy OS 77 arrived at Freetown 2 June 1944. Some ships from the convoy did not enter Freetown but continued on to their destinations independently and some ships of the convoy had already been detached before reaching Freetown.

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Convoy KMS 51 towards the Mediterranean was made up of the following merchant vessels; Afghanistan, Bajestan, Beckenham, Belgian Trader, Biafra, City of Khios, Cragpool, Defender, Drakepool, Dunelmia, Eloy Alfaro, Empire Caxton, Empire Foam, Empire Mariott, Esturia, Fort Tadoussac, Gascony, King Frederick, Madras City, Melrose Abbey, Norbryn, Nordeflinge, Pendeen, Stad Arnhem, Tiba and Tjimanoek. The tankers Empire Dickens and President de Vogue had joined from Casablanca [see above].

The convoy was escorted by HMS Attacker, HMS Hunter, HMS Stalker, HMS Tovy, HMS Anguilla, HMS Antigua, HMS Knaresborough Castle, HMS Leeds Castle, HMS Tintagel Castle and HMS Smilax.

The entire convoy arrived at Gibraltar on 25 May 1944.

The convoy continued its passage on 28 May 1944. It was now made up of the following ships; Afghanistan, Bajestan, Beckenham, Belgian Trader, Charles A. Wickliffe (American, 7218 GRT, built 1943), City of Khios, Cragpool, Defender, Eloy Alfaro, Empire Caxton, Empire Foam, Empire Gareth (British, 2847 GRT, built 1942), Empire Mariott, Empire Strength (British, 7355 GRT, built 1942), Fort Tadoussac, Gascony, Hopestar (British, 5267 GRT, built 1936), King Frederick, Madras City, Norbryn, Nordeflinge, President de Vogue, Robert Howe (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943), Stad Arnhem, Tiba and Tjimanoek.

The submarines HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), HMS Vivid (Lt. J.C. Varley, RN), Junon and Atalante were also tanking passage eastwards in this convoy.

The convoy was now escorted by the frigate HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR), KB Nada [Yugoslavian corvette] and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF). The destroyer L'Alcyon was also with the convoy.

On 29 May 1944, the following ships were detached to Oran; Empire Gareth, Norbryn, Stad Arnhem and the submarine Atalante while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Oran; Albert A. Michelson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Askeladden (Norwegian, 2496 GRT, built 1920), Dwight W. Morrow (American, 7225 GRT, built 1943), Edward H. Crockett (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944), George W. McCrary (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), James Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John S. Casement (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John S. Pillsbury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John Sergeant (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), Palermo (British, 2797 GRT, built 1938) and William Blount (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).

On 30 May 1944, the following ships were detached to Algiers; Belgian Trader, Cragpool, Edward H. Crockett, Empire Caxton, Empire Foam, Empire Strenght, Palermo, Mount Blount and the submarine Junon while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Algiers; Andrew Pickens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Campidoglio (Italian, 3702 GRT, built 1910), Chiswick (British, 6006 GRT, built 1943), Empire Clarion (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942), Fort Gaspereau (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), Fort Marin (British, 7159 GRT, built 1943), John Murray Forbes (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Louis McLane (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Marathon (Norwegian, 7208 GRT, built 1930), Monte Grappa (Italian, 834 GRT, built 1943), Ocean Gallant (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Samoa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samsteel (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942), Star (Norwegian, 1531 GRT, built 1922) and Titus (Dutch, 1712 GRT, built 1930).

On 31 May 1944, the convoy was attacked by 41 German Ju-88 aircraft from II./KG.76 I. and III./KG 77 operating from Southern France. The Nordeflinge was hit by bombs and sank in position 37°02'N, 03°47'E.

On 31 May 1944, the Montegrappa arrived at Bougie after having been detached from the convoy.

On 1 June 1944, the Askeladden arrived at Bone after having been detached from the convoy while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bone; Abel Stearns (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Iceland (British, 1236 GRT, built 1914), Ocean Rider (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Ocean Traveller (British, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Sampan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943) and Samphire (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943).

On 1 June 1944, the following ships were detached to Bizerta; Badjestan, John S. Casement, John Sergeant, Titus and the destroyer L'Alcyon while the following ships joined the convoy coming from Bizerta; Facto (Norwegian, 1522 GRT, 1921), George Davis (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John B. Hood (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), John Cropper (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), Kemp P. Battle (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Laurent Meeus (Belgian (tanker), 6429 GRT, built 1930), Lincoln Steffens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Marion McKinley Bovard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942) and Samuel Griffin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).

Early on 2 June 1944, the convoy merged with convoy UGS 42.

Convoy KMS 51 was at that moment made up of the following ships; Abel Stearns, Afghanistan, Albert A. Michelson, Andrew Pickens, Beckenham, Campidoglio, Charles A. Wickliffe, Chiswick, City of Khios, Defender, Dwight W. Morrow, Eloy Alfaro, Empire Clarion, Empire Mariott, Facto, Fort Gaspereau, Fort Marin, Fort Tadoussac, Gascony, George Davis, George Handley, George W. McCrary, Hopestar, Iceland, James Jackson, John B. Hood, John Cropper, John Murray Forbes, John S. Pillsbury, Kemp P. Battle, King Frederic, King S. Woolsey, Laurent Meeus, Lincoln Steffens, Louis McLane, Madras City, Marathon, Marion McKinley Bovard, Ocean Gallant, Ocean Rider, Ocean Traveller, President de Vogue, Robert Howe, Samoa, Sampan, Samphire, Samsteel, Samuel Griffin, Stancleeve, Star, Tiba and Tjimanoek.

The submarines HMS Traveller and HMS Vivid were also part of the convoy.

They were escorted by the frigates HMS Jed, HMS Usk, corvettes HMS Delphinium, HMS Hyderabad, HMS Smilax and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea and HMSAS Southern Sea.

27 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (5)

28 May 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Gibraltar bound for Malta. She joins convoy KMS 51 for this passage. (5)

2 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Malta. (6)

2 Jun 1944

Combined convoy KMS 51 / UGS 42.

This convoy was formed at sea, south of Sicily, on 2 June 1943 when the two convoys merged.

The combined convoy was made up of the following ships; Abel Stearns (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Afghanistan (British, 6992 GRT, built 1940), Albert A. Michelson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Andrew Briscoe (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944), Andrew Pickens (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), A.P. Hill (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Arthur L. Perry (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Beckenham (British, 4636 GRT, built 1937), British Confidence (British (tanker), 8494 GRT, built 1936), British Tradition (British (tanker), 8443 GRT, built 1942), Campidoglio (Italian, 3702 GRT, built 1910), Charles A. Warfield (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Charles A. Wickliffe (American, 7218 GRT, built 1943), Charles Nordhoff (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Chiswick (British, 6006 GRT, built 1943), City of Durban (British, 5945 GRT, built 1921), City of Khios (British, 5574 GRT, built 1925), David F. Houston (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), David G. Farragut (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), David L. Swain (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943), Defender (British, 8078 GRT, built 1915), Dilworth (American (tanker), 7045 GRT, built 1920), Dwight W. Morrow (American, 7225 GRT, built 1943), Eli Whitney (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), Eloy Alfaro (American, 7176 GRT, built 1944), Empire Clarion (British, 7031 GRT, built 1942), Empire Mariott (British, 5970 GRT, built 1941), Ezra Meeker (American, 7180 GRT, built 1942), Facto (Norwegian, 1522 GRT, 1921), Fort Frontenac (British, 7148 GRT, built 1943), Fort Gaspereau (British, 7134 GRT, built 1943), Fort Marin (British, 7159 GRT, built 1943), Fort Tadoussac (British, 7129 GRT, built 1941), Fort Venango (British, 7166 GRT, built 1943), Frans Hals (Dutch, 6626 GRT, built 1941), Gascony (British, 4716 GRT, built 1925), George Davis (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), George E. Hale (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), George Handley (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), George Sharswood (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943), George W. McCrary (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), George Weems (American, 7191 GRT, built 1942), Gylfe (Norwegian (tanker), 6129 GRT, built 1930), Harrogate (British, 1029 GRT, built 1925), Henry L. Benning (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943), Hoegh Hood (Norwegian (tanker), 9351 GRT, built 1936), Hoegh Silvercloud (Norwegian, 5287 GRT, built 1943), Homer Lea (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Hopestar (British, 5267 GRT, built 1936), Houston Volunteers (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Iceland (British, 1236 GRT, built 1914), Isaac van Zandt (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944), James B. Hickok (American, 7194 GRT, built 1943), James B. Richardson (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), James Duncan (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), James Harrod (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Jackson (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), James Otis (American, 7180 GRT, built 1942), Jersey Hart (British, 7275 GRT, built 1943), John B. Gordon (American, 7201 GRT, built 1943), John B. Hood (American, 7196 GRT, built 1942), John Cropper (American, 7177 GRT, built 1942), John E. Schmeltzer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), John Hathorn (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), John Ireland (American, 7247 GRT, built 1944), John Murray Forbes (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), John S. Pillsbury (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Joseph T. Robinson (American, 7196 GRT, built 1943), Keith Palmer (American, 7244 GRT, built 1944), Kemp P. Battle (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), King Frederick (British, 5106 GRT, built 1920), King S. Woolsey (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Lafontaine Park (Canadian, 7131 GRT, built 1943), Laurent Meeus (Belgian (tanker), 6429 GRT, built 1930), Lincoln Steffens (American, 7176 GRT, built 194), Louis McLane (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Lyman Abbott (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Madras City (British, 5080 GRT, built 1940), Marathon (Norwegian, 7208 GRT, built 1930), Marion McKinley Bovard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Maya (Honduran, 5528 GRT, built 1929), Michael Pupin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Moses Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Nathaniel Macon (American, 7177 GRT, built 1943), Nicholas Gilman (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Nuculana (British (tanker), 8179 GRT, built 1942), Ocean Gallant (), Ocean Rider (), Ocean Traveller (), Oregon (French, 7705 GRT, built 1929), Pan-Delaware (American (tanker), 8128 GRT, built 1918), Philander C. Knox (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), President de Vogue (), Robert F. Stockton (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Robert Howe (), Robert Lucas (), Robert T. Hill (American, 7244 GRT, built 1943), Samadre (British, 7219 GRT, built 1944), Sambanka (British, 7219 GRT, built 1944), Samclyde (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samdon (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samnid (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samoa (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Sampan (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samphire (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samspring (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samsteel (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samtweed (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samvannah (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samwash (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943), Samuel Griffin (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Simon Willard (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Stancleeve (British, 5970 GRT, built 1942), Star (Norwegian, 1531 GRT, built 1922), Stephen T. Mather (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), Tabitha Brown (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Thomas R. Marshall (American, 7200 GRT, built 1943), Tiba (Dutch, 5239 GRT, built 1938), Tjimanoek (Dutch, 5628 GRT, built 1911), William Cushing (American, 7181 GRT, built 1942), William G. Fargo (American, 7176 GRT, built 1943), William M. Stewart (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942), Winfred L. Smith (American, 7191 GRT, built 1943) and Winslow Homer (American, 7176 GRT, built 1942).

The submarines HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) and HMS Vivid (Lt. J.C. Varley, RN) were also taking passage in the convoy.

The combined convoy was escorted by the frigates HrMs Johan Maurits van Nassau (Cdr. A. de Booy, RNethN), HMS Usk (Lt.Cdr. R.M. Pattinson, DSC, RD, RNR), HMS Jed (Lt.Cdr. R.S. Miller, DSC, RNR), sloops HMS Deptford (Lt.Cdr. H.R. White, RN), HMS Amethyst (Lt.Cdr. S.C. Tuke, DSO, RN) and the corvettes HMS Delphinium (Cdr. V.F. Smith, DSO, RD, RNR), HMS Hyderabad (Lt. G.H. Taylor, RNR), HrMs Friso (Lt.Cdr. L.J. Goslings, RNethN), KB Nada [Yugoslavian corvette] and the auxiliary A/S whalers HMSAS Protea (Lt. A. Thomas, DSC, SANF) and HMSAS Southern Sea (Lt.Cdr. M.R.J. Terry-Lloyd, SANF).

Later on 2 June the following transports arrived at Malta after having been detached from the convoy; Andrew Pickens and Star. Also HMS Trenchant, HMS Vivid and KB Nada were detached to Malta. the transports Eridan (French, 9928 GRT, built 1928) and Fort Grant (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943) joined the convoy coming from Malta.

On 2 June 1944, the following ships departed Augusta to join the combined convoy; Algonquin (British, 7229 GRT, built 1920), Algorab (Dutch, 4938 GRT, built 1921), Badarpur (British (tanker), 8079 GRT, built 1922), Boskoop (Dutch, 5620 GRT, built 1927), British Genius (British (tanker), 8553 GRT, built 1939), British Lord (British (tanker), 6098 GRT, built 1922), Empire Rosalind (British, 7290 GRT, built 1943), Evviva (Norwegian, 1597 GRT, built 1921), Fort Astoria (British, 7189 GRT, built 1943), Fort Grahame (British, 7133 GRT, built 1943), Fort Kootenay (British, 7133 GRT, built 1942), Fort la Prairie (British, 7138 GRT, built 1943), Jan Lievens (Dutch, 7178 GRT, built 1942), Kwai Sang (British, 2320 GRT, built 1917), Limousin (French (tanker), 7619 GRT, built 1930), Luminetta (British (tanker), 6159 GRT, built 1927), Norfjell (Norwegian (tanker), 8129 GRT, built 1942), Pan-Rhode Island (American (tanker), 7742 GRT, built 1941) and Sampford (British, 7219 GRT, built 1943).

On 3 June 1943, the following ships arrived at Augusta after having been detached from the combined convoy; Abel Stearns, Albert A. Micholson, Andrew Briscoe, A.P. Hill, Beckenham, British Confidence, British Tradition, Campidoglio, Charles A. Warfield, Chiswick, David G. Farragut, David L. Swain, Dilworth, Dwight W. Morrow, Empire Clarion, Empire Mariott, Ezra Meeker, Facto, Fort Frontenac, Fort Gaspereau, Fort Manin, Fort Venango, George Davis, George E. Half, George Handley, George W. McCrary, Gylfe, Harrogate, Henry L. Benning, Hopestar, Hoegh Hood, Houston Volunteers, Iceland, James B. Richardson, James Jackson, Jersey Hart, John B. Gordon, John B. Hood, John Cropper, John E. Schmeltzer, John Harhorn, John Murray Forbes, John S. Pillsbury, Joseph T. Robinson, Kamp P. Battle, King S. Woolsey, Laurent Meeus, Lincoln Steffens, Louis McLane, Lymann Abbott, Marathon, Marion McKinley Bovard, Maya, Michael Pupin, Moses Brown, Nicholas Gilman, Nuculana, Ocean Gallant, Ocean Rider, Ocean Traveller, Pan-Delaware, Philander C. Knox, Robert F. Stockton, Robert T. Hill, Sambanka, Samoa, Sampan, Samphire, Samsteel, Samuel Griffin, Samwash, Simon Willard, Stancleeve, Tabitha Brown, Thomas R. Marshall, William Cushing and William G. Fargo.

On 7 June 1944, the following ships arrived at Alexandria after having been detached from the convoy; Algorab, British Lord, City of Khios, Empire Rosalind, Eridan, Fort Astoroa, Fort Grahame, Fort Kootenay, Fort la Prairie, Gascony, King Frederick, Kwai Sang and Nathaniel Macon. Also the following ships of the escort arrived at Alexandria; HrMs Johan Maurits van Nassau , HMS Jed, HMS Usk, HMS Amethyst, HMS Hyderabad, HrMs Friso and HMSAS Protea.

The remainder of the convoy arrived at Port Said on 8 June 1944 escorted by HMS Deptford, HMS Delphinium and HMSAS Southern Sea.

9 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Malta bound for Port Said. (6)

14 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Port Said. (6)

15 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) transits the Suez Canal and afterwards departed from for Aden. (6)

20 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Aden. (6)

22 Jun 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Aden for Trincomalee. Later she was ordered to proceed to Colombo instead. (6)

1 Jul 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Colombo. (7)

2 Jul 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Colombo bound for Trincomalee. (7)

4 Jul 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) arrived at Trincomalee. (7)

24 Jul 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) conducted exercises off Trincomalee. (7)

25 Jul 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 1st war patrol. She was ordered to patrol off the West coast of Sumatra. She is also to perform a special operation.

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

(8)

5 Aug 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) makes a torpedo attack on a Japanese convoy. No hits were obtained.

(All times are zone -6.5)
2111 hours - The Officer of the Watch sighted a vessel fine on the port bow bearing 347°. Range was about 4000 yards.

2112 hours - Dived in position 02°19'5"S, 100°46'E.

2118 hours - The asdic operator reported 85 revs. reciprocating engine.

2121 hours - Came to periscope depth. Sighted what appeared to be a small three-island merchant vessel escorted by a torpedo boat or submarine chaser. The escort was on the merchants starboard quarter.

2127 hours - Fired three stern torpedoes. No hits were obtained and no counter attack followed.

The next day the same vessels were sighted again and identified as a coaster escorted by a ML. The torpedoed must have missed due to the small size of the target. Lt.Cdr. Hezlet wanted to attack with the gun upon sighting them again but this was not possible due to the heavy swell. (8)

9 Aug 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) sank a Japanese coaster and it's escort a Motor Launch with gunfire off the south-west coast of Sumatra in position 03°04'S, 101°16'E.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1515 hours - Sighted same small coaster and ML. They were Northbound.

1519 hours - Surfaced and engaged with the 4" gun from 3000 yards. Both ships were sunk. Picked up 14 Japanese survivors. (8)

10 Aug 1944
During 10 and 11 August 1944 HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) performs a special operation. She is part of 'Operation Boomerang'. American B-29 bombers are dropping mines in Japanese occupied territory. Terrapin is to act as beacon for planes proceeding towards Palembang. If needed she is also to carry out air/sea rescue duties. No planes were lost during this raid. (8)

17 Aug 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) ended her 1st war patrol at Trincomalee. (8)

25 Aug 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) is docked at Trincomalee in AFD 26. (9)

28 Aug 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) left dock. (9)

1 Sep 1944
During 1/2 September 1944, HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), conducted exercises off Trincomalee. These included night exercises. (10)

1 Sep 1944
Around 0800FG/1, the destroyers HMS Quilliam (Capt. R.G. Onslow, DSO and 2 Bars, RN), HMAS Quickmatch (Lt.Cdr. O.H. Becher, DSC, RAN) and HrMs Tjerk Hiddes (Lt.Cdr. N.W. Sluijter, RNethN) departed Trincomalee for exercises. In the afternoon and evening they conducted A/S exercises with the submarine HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN).

Around 1145FG/1, the light cruiser HrMs Tromp (A/Capt. F. Stam, RNethN) departed the harbour for exercises.

Around 1345FG/1, the destroyer HMS Redoubt (Lt.Cdr. N.E.G. Ropner, DSO, RN) departed the harbour for exercises.

Around 1815FG/1, the destroyer HMS Rotherham (Capt. H.W. Biggs, DSO, RN) departed the harbour for exercises.

HrMs Tromp returned to harbour around 0850FG/2.

HMS Quilliam and HMAS Quickmatch returned to harbour around 1030FG/2.

HMS Rotherham, HMS Redoubt and HrMs Tjerk Hiddes were joined by the battleship Richelieu (Capt. G.M.J. Merveilleux du Vignaux) around 1000FG/2. They entered harbour around 1630FG/2. (11)

5 Sep 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 2nd war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Straits. She is also to perform a special operation and a mine laying operation.

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

(8)

11 Sep 1944
During the night of 11-12 September 1944 HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) launches a team of commando troops in folbots to sabotage a railway bridge over the river mouth near Peudada, Northern Sumatra (Operation Spratt Baker). Due to the heavy swell the commando troops can't make a landing and the operation had to be abandoned.

(All times are zone -6.5)
11 September 1944
1900 hours - Surfaced in position 05°18'N, 96°35'E and opened the fore hatch to get the folbots on deck.

1930 hours - All folbots now on deck, ran in towards the river mouth.

2023 hours - Launched the folbots from position 358°, Peudada river mouth, 2 nautical miles.

2345 hours - Ran inshore to the recovery position and stopped.

12 September 1944
0325 hours - Picked up the folbots. The effort to blow up the bridge had failed due to the strong currents and due to that, lack of time. No opposition was encountered. Set out to sea. (8)

12 Sep 1944
During the night of 12-13 September 1944 HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) again launches a team of commando troops in folbots to sabotage the railway bridge over the river mouth near Peudada, Northern Sumatra (Operation Spratt Baker). This time they were successful.

(All times are zone -6.5)
12 September 1944
Surfaced in position 05°23'N, 96°32'E and proceeded inshore and got the folbots on deck.

2030 hours - Launched the folbots in position 006° Peudada river mouth 1.6 nautical miles. Withdrew to seaward to charge.

13 September 1944
0030 hours - Ran inshore to recovery position and stopped.

0338 hours - A heavy explosion and flash ashore was observed in the direction of the railway bridge.

0340 hours - Embarked 2 folbots and their crews. No sign of the other 2 folbots.

0430 hours - Retired to seaward as daylight was approaching.

0500 hours - Sighted the other to folbots to seaward. They must have passed Trenchant in the dark.

0514 hours - Dived in position 05°18'N, 96°34'E and set course towards the river mouth for observation.

0730 hours - Made periscope reconnaissance and sighted that the railway bridge was destroyed. Proceeded to seaward. (8)

16 Sep 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) lays mines in the Straits of Malacca, near position 04°11'N, 98°24'E.

(All times are zone -6.5)
2015 - 2018 hours - Laid 1st row of 4 mines.

2018 - 2038 hours - Reloaded.

2040 - 2043 hours - Laid 2nd row of 4 mines.

2043 - 2109 hours - Reloaded.

2112 - 2115 hours - Laid 3rd and last row of 4 mines.

When the minefield was laid several coasters were anchored nearby. It was decided to engage them with the deck gun so at .....

2214 hours - Opened fire on one of the coasters. One hit was obtained but it was extremely difficult to see the target due to the dark night. It was also not possible to get any closer due to the shallow depth so the action was broken off. (8)

19 Sep 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) sank two sailing vessels through ramming east of Sumatra.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1215 hours - Sighted 2 small 20 ton junks in position 03°01'N, 100°34'E.

1425 hours - Surfaced and fired 2 practice rounds through the sail of the first junk to get the crew to abandon ship. No sign of the crew whatever.

1426 hours - Fired a HE shell, which hit amidships. Paused to allow the crew to abandon ship. No crew seen at all. Re-opened fire.

1430 hours - Ceased fire. The junk would neither catch fire nor sink.

1435 hours - Rammed and sank the junk.

1438 hours - Saw the crew of the other junk abandon ship in their sampan.

1451 hours - Rammed and sank this second junk.

1500 hours - Dived in position 03°03'N, 100°34'E. (8)

23 Sep 1944
German U-boat U-859 is sunk north-west of Penang in the Straits of Malacca, in position 05°46'N, 100°04'E, by torpedoes from the British submarine HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN). Trenchant was positioned to patrol off the Penang North Channel due to ULTRA code breaking information.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1055 hours - Sighted a vessel bearing 296°. This was soon identified as a large German submarine. Started attack.

1105 hours - Fired a stern salvo of 3 torpedoes from 650 yards. One hit amidships near the conning tower was obtained. The U-boat quickly sank on an even keel.

1119 hours - Surfaced to pick up survivors that were seen in the water. 11 were picked up before a Japanese escort vessel was sighted an Trenchant had to dive leaving 6 other survivors in the water. (8)

1 Oct 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) ended her 2nd war patrol at Trincomalee. (8)

17 Oct 1944
During 17-19 October 1944, HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), conducted exercises off Trincomalee, these included night exercises. (12)

20 Oct 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 3rd war patrol. She is to launch Chariot human torpedoes for a raid on Phuket Harbour. Afterwards she was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Straits.

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

(8)

27 Oct 1944
Chariots released by HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) destroy the hulks of the former Italian merchants Sumatra (6126 GRT, built 1927) and Volpi (5292 GRT, built 1931). These ships were scuttled by the Italians on 8 December 1941 and were under salvage by the Japanese).

(All times are zone -6.5)
27 October 1944
2200 hours - 6.5 nautical miles from Phuket harbour two Chariots slipped for an attack on two former Italian merchant vessels that were under salvage in Phuket harbour. Chariot Tiny (T/S.Lt. A.W.C. Eldrige, RNVR, T/A/Petty Officer S. Woollcott), her target was the former Sumatra. Chariot Slasher (T/Petty Officer W.S. Smith / Ordinary Seaman A.F. Brown, her target was the former Volpi. Both Chariots successfully placed the charges on their target and proceeded back out of the harbour to return to HMS Trenchant.

28 October 1944
0303 hours - Re-embarked the crews of both Chariots. The Chariots themselves had to be scuttled as a Japanese MTB was heard to be patrolling in the immediate area.

0630 hours - Heard an explosion but as the periscope was down at that moment the effect could not be observed. Shortly afterwards another explosion followed. The Sumatra was seen to settle on the harbour bottom. (8)

9 Nov 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) attacks a Japanese convoy in the Malacca Straits. Five torpedoes were fired but no hits were obtained.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0842 hours - Sighted smoke bearing 301°.

0916 hours - Commenced attack on convoy, which consisted of one merchant vessel of about 3000 tons (in ballast), a 500 tons tanker (laden) and two coasters. They were escorted by two large submarine chasers.

0953 hours - In position 02°59'N, 100°05'E fired 5 torpedoes at the merchant vessel from 2700 yards. No hits were obtained.

1000 to 1015 hours - The submarine chasers counter attacked with 11 depth charges. None were very close so no damage was sustained. (8)

10 Nov 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) sank a sailing vessel with gunfire in the Malacca Straits.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1030 hours - Sighted a junk approaching.

1045 hours - Surfaced in position 03°06'N, 100°06'E to sink the junk with gunfire. Upon surfacing two submarine chasers were seen to the Eastward. Sank the junk with 12 rounds. The submarine chasers closed at high speed.

1055 hours - Dived and proceeded Northwards.

1114 hours - The submarine chasers were seen to pick up the crew of the junk from their sampan. They then proceeded on an A/S sweep westwards after dropping one depth charge. (8)

16 Nov 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) ended her 3rd war patrol at Trincomalee. (8)

4 Dec 1944
During 4/5 December 1944, HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), conducted exercises off Trincomalee, these included night exercises. (13)

10 Dec 1944
During 10/11 December 1944, HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN), conducted exercises off Trincomalee, these included night exercises. (13)

11 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 4th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Straits together with HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN).

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

(8)

20 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) is fired upon and depth charged by a Japanese ship in the Malacca Straits.

(All times are zone -6.5)
2029 hours - An unseen vessel opened fire from the direction of the land.

2030 hours - Dived in position 03°18'N, 99°47'E. The vessel attacked with 3 depth charges, but did not alter speed or stop to listen. It was also not using Asdic.

2151 hours - Surfaced. (8)

21 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) sank two Japanese landing craft (probably 46-foot Daihatsu type) with gunfire off the eastern coast of Sumatra.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0951 hours - Sighted two landing craft.

0957 hours - Surfaced in position 03°23'N, 99°43'E and gave chase. A Jake aircraft was sighted in the distance.

1013 hours - Opened fire on the landing craft. The aircraft was seen to turn towards.

1020 hours - Both landing craft were sunk after 37 rounds.

1021 hours - Dived.

1024 hours - The Jake aircraft dropped one bomb fairly close on the Port side. (8)

25 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSC, RN) and HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN) sink the Japanese auxiliary minesweeper Reisui Maru (219 GRT). They also claim a coaster destroyed and three coasters driven ashore.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1555 hours - In position 03°18'N, 99°42'E sighted 4 coasters escorted by a trawler and one bomber aircraft overhead. Ordered, by SST, HMS Terrapin to close.

1627 hours - The aircraft was seen to disappear to the Northwards. Surfaced and engaged the trawler. Terrapin also surfaced and engaged the trawler. Trenchants fourth round hit the trawler on the bridge, the sixth round hit the forecastle under the gun. When the trawler was badly on fire Trenchant shifted target to the back of the trawler while closing the coasters at full speed. The trawler then blew up and sank. Three of the coasters beached themselves on the shore. The other one stopped. He was set on fire and burned out. Due to the shallow water it was not possible to close the other three to finish them off. (8)

29 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sank two Japanese sailing vessels by ramming in the Malacca Strait.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1207 hours - Surfaced in position 03°35'N, 100°46'E for a sweep to the North along the coast.

1329 hours - Rammed and sunk a 20 tons junk in position 03°47'N, 100°46'E.

1350 hours - Rammed and sunk another 20 tons junk one mile further inshore in only 4 fathoms of water.

1553 hours - Dived in position 03°41'N, 100°48'E. (8)

30 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Lt.Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sank a Japanese sailing vessel through ramming in the Malacca Strait.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0325 hours - Sighted a large 50 tons junk at anchor.

0345 hours - Sank the junk by ramming after firing 4 rounds with the deck gun without effect.

0512 hours - Dived in position 02°48'N, 100°14'E. (8)

31 Dec 1944
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sank three Japanese sailing vessels in the Malacca Strait.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1139 hours - Surfaced in position 02°51'N, 100°13'E to sink two motor junks. A 30 tons junk was sunk after being set on fire with Oerlikon gunfire. A 20 tons junk, that was being towed by the 30 tons hunk, was sunk through ramming.

1215 hours - Rammed and sunk a 15 tons junk.

1250 hours - 02°51'N, 100°13'E. (8)

4 Jan 1945
While operating together HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) bombard a Japanese lookout post on Pulau Pandang.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1715 hours - Surfaced in position 03°19'N, 99°45'E and set course for Pulau Padang.

1802 hours - Opened fire on Japanese lookout post. In all 16 rounds were fired.

1832 hours - Withdrew. (8)

10 Jan 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) ended her 4th war patrol at Trincomalee. (8)

23 Jan 1945
The Japanese tanker Hozan Maru nr. 1 (868 GRT, built 1943) and the Japanese merchant Nikkaku Maru (1946 GRT, built 1943) sank on mines in the Malacca Straits in position 04°08'N, 98°15'E. These mines were laid on 16 September 1944 by HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN).

28 Jan 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) is docked at Trincomalee in AFD 26. The date she undocked is currently not known to us (No logs are available for February - April 1945). (14)

18 Feb 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) departed from Trincomalee for her 5th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Malacca Straits together with HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN).

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

(8)

24 Feb 1945
While operating together HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sink three junks with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca.

Trenchant herself had also sunk one 80 tons coaster and two 20 ton lighters earlier on the day.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0810 hours - Sighted a 80 tons coaster towing two 20 tons leighters.

0825 hours - Surfaced in position 03°57'N, 100°33'E and sank all three with gunfire. In all 15 rounds were fired. 14 survivors were picked up.

0915 hours - While still picking up survivors sighted three coasters inshore. They were Northbound.

0920 hours - Set course to cut the coasters off from the mouth of the Perak river.

0930 hours - All coasters beached themselves.

0952 hours - Stopped in position 03°56'N, 100°39'E and opened fire on the most Northerly coaster. After 87 rounds, for 17 hits, the coaster was still afloat and had not caught fire. Target was now shifted to the second coaster. This one soon burst into flames. 8 rounds were fired for 3 hits. Target was now shifted to the third coaster. This was burst into flames after 4 hits, out of 7 rounds. HMS Terrapin in the meantime had destroyed the first coaster.

1033 hours - Withdrew to seaward and overtook another junk to transfer survivors.

1051 hours - Transferred 8 of the survivors to this junk. Buried another one at sea, he had died from a splinter wounds to a lung. Sighted two enemy aircraft approaching from the south. One of these, an Oscar was attacking HMS Terrapin as she dived. The other one, a Val, attack Trenchant. It was decided to remain on the surface to transfer the remainder of the survivors and fire was opened with the AA guns. The Val turned away. He made two more approaches but was driven off with AA gunfire. When transfer of the survivors was completed Trenchant withdrew into deeper water at full speed.

1107 hours - Both aircraft were now astern and too far off to attack so dived in position 03°55'N, 100°36'E. (8)

25 Feb 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) makes a torpedo attack on a convoy of coasters in the Malacca Strait in position 03°08'N, 99°57'E. No hits were obtained.

(All times are zone -6.5)
0953 hours - Received an SST report from HMS Terrapin about the sighting of a convoy of coasters escorted by an MTB and an aircraft.

1013 hours - Sighted masts bearing 287°.

1111 hours - In position 03°08'N, 99°57'E fired four torpedoes against a group of three overlapping coasters. One explosion was heard shortly afterwards but this was not thought to be a hit.

1113 hours - Grounded forward in 6.5 fathoms of water. Turned to seaward and withdrew. No counter attack followed by either the MTB nor aircraft. (8)

4 Mar 1945
While operating together HMS Terrapin (Lt. R.H.H. Brunner, RN) and HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, RN) sink the Japanese submarine chaser Ch-8 (offsite link) with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca some 85 miles south of Penang in position 04°04'N, 100°35'E.

Trenchant by herself later also sank a sailing vessel.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1445 hours - Sighted mast and smoke bearing 260°.

1450 hours - Received enemy report on SST from HMS Terrapin. She had sighted a submarine chaser approaching.

1500 hours - Surfaced in position 04°09'N, 100°37'E and closed at full speed. Opened fire at 6000 yards.

1525 hours - The submarine chaser sank. Trenchant had fired 98 rounds.

1630 hours - Dived in position 04°08'N, 100°37'E.

1758 hours - Surfaced in position 04°10N, 100°36'E and sank 30 tons motor junk with 6 rounds.

1808 hours - Dived. (8)

9 Mar 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sank a Japanese tug and a barge with gunfire in the Strait of Malacca.

(All times are zone -6.5)
1255 hours - Sighted 20 tons steam tug towing a 40 tons leighter.

1309 hours - Surfaced in position 03°15'N, 99°49'E and sank both with gunfire. 50 rounds in all were used.

1337 hours - Sighted a Betty bomber to the seaward.

1339 hours - Dived in position 03°15'N, 99°48'E. (8)

16 Mar 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) ended her 5th war patrol at Colombo. (8)

21 Apr 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) departed from Colombo bound for Fremantle. It is likely Trenchant was docked at Colombo before departure. No log of this period is available. Therefore no map of this passage can be displayed. (15)

5 May 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) arrived at Fremantle, Australia. (15)

11 May 1945
During 11/12 May 1945, HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN), conducted exercises off Fremantle, these included night exercises. (16)

13 May 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) departed from Fremantle for her 6th war patrol. She was ordered to patrol in the Java Sea. Later she shifts to the South China Sea.

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

(8)

25 May 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) sank the Japanese auxiliary minesweeper Wa 105 (175 tons, former Dutch Grissee) east of Mandalika Island in position 06°23'S, 110°55'E.

(All times are zone -9)
1205 hours - In position 010°, Mandalika lighthouse, 3.3 nautical miles, sighted an eastbound coaster of about 550 tons and one escort vessel bearing 221°, distance 3 nautical miles.

1245 hours - Surfaced in position 031°, Mandalika lighthouse, 3.6 nautical miles to engaged the escort vessel with gunfire from 4000 yards. The escort immediately increased speed and turned towards opening fire with automatic weapons. When range had decreased to 2500 yards a number of hits were scored on the escort resulting in it to decrease speed and turn away. The 4" gun then refused to eject and empty cartridge so Trenchant turned away to clear the gun. Firing with the Oerlikon nonetheless continued. After a few minutes the gun was cleared. The escort was now out of control and on fire abaft the bridge. Fire with the 4" gun was re-opened. Shortly afterwards the enemy was seen to abandon ship.

1302 hours - The escort was now stopped , range was 400 yards. Fired a torpedo from nr.4 tube. The torpedo was set to 4 feet but did not reach this depth due to the short range.

1306 hours - The escort was seen to sink. About 15 survivors were left in the water. In all 115 rounds of 4" were fired. The coaster meanwhile had beached herself. She was taken under fire from 6000 yards but after 12 rounds fire was checked as she proved very difficult to hit at that range and it was considered wise to withdraw to deeper water before aircraft arrived at the scene.

1352 hours - Dived in position 024°, Mandalika lighthouse, 4.4 nautical miles.

1445 hours - Sighted the first aircraft arrive on the scene of the sinking.

The coaster must have been have been the Japanese naval auxiliary Kamisihima Maru (556 GRT, built 1941) (8)

8 Jun 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) torpedoed and sank the Japanese heavy cruiser Ashigara (13000 tons, offsite link) in the northern entrance of Bangka Straits in position 01°59'1S, 104°57'E.

(All times are zone -9)
0400 hours - A contact report from USS Blueback was received. The report stated that the Japanese heavy cruiser Ashigara and destroyer Kamikaze were sighted northbound from Batavia.

0423 hours - A destroyer (Kamikaze) was spotted approaching. At 0436 hours Trenchant was taken under fire by Kamikaze. One minute later Trenchant fired a stern torpedo against the enemy destroyer. Kamikaze turned away and the torpedo missed.

0616 hours - Cdr. Hezlet positions Trenchant off the minefield at the northern entrance to Banka Strait. At 0702 hours Trenchant dives.

0955 hours - Kamikaze was seen again northbound along the ten fathom on the Sumatra side of Banka Strait. At 1030 Kamikaze was out of sight.

1148 hours - Masts and upper works of a Haguro class heavy cruiser were seen bearing 177, distance 12000 yards, course 330. Position 01°59'3S, 104°58'7E.

1209 hours - A full bow salvo of eight torpedoes was fired. Three minutes later no less than five torpedoes were seen to hit. Trenchants exposed periscope (Cdr. Hezlet's allowed a great number of his crew to have a look through the periscope) was briefly taken under fire by Ashigara's AA guns.

1224 hours - Cdr. Hezlet fires his remaining two stern torpedoes against Ashigara. But as the cruisers manages to get underway briefly on one engine the torpedoed miss. At 1226 hours Kamikaze was seen to close the scene at full speed.

1239 hours - Ashigara was seen to capsize to starboard and sink in position 01°59'1S, 104°57'E.

1241 hours - Kamikaze dropped three patterns of depth charges at least three miles away. (8)

20 Jun 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) ended her 6th war patrol at Subic Bay, Philippines. (8)

26 Jun 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO, DSC, RN) departed from Subic Bay for her 7th war patrol. She is to patrol in the Java Sea.

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

(8)

13 Jul 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) sank a schooner with gunfire in the Northern part of the Gulf of Boni, Netherlands East Indies in position 02°50'S, 120°33'E.

(All times are zone -9)
1209 hours - A small schooner of about 15 tons was stopped. The native crew abandoned ship as the submarine approached. A boarding party was sent aboard the ship. In the hold they discovered four Japanese soldiers and one officer. When they were ordered out there was no response. The boarding party then tried to smoke them out but now the Japanese opened fire through the hatches and the deck planking. The boarding party was withdrawn and the schooner (with the Japanese still on board) was sunk by gunfire. (8)

18 Jul 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) sank a small submarine chaser, a tug and a barge with gunfire north-east of Lombok Strait in position 08°22'S, 116°02'E. She also bombards a lookout post.

(All times are zone -9)
1153 hours - Surfaced in position 08°24'S, 116°03'E to engage a small submarine chaser with gunfire.

1158 hours - The chaser sank. Opened fire on a tug that had already beached itself.

1229 hours - Ceased fire on the tug that was by now completely wrecked.

1247 hours - Opened fire on a barge.

1303 hours - By now the landing barge was considered destroyed so ceased fire.

1310 hours - Bombarded an observation post on the top of a hill.

1323 hours - Dived for an aircraft in position 08°24'S, 116°02E.

1334 hours - The aircraft dropped a bomb fairly close but no damage was sustained. (8)

25 Jul 1945
HMS Trenchant (Cdr. A.R. Hezlet, DSO and Bar, DSC, RN) ended her 7th war patrol at Fremantle. (8)

21 Sep 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Fremantle bound for the U.K. for a refit. The first leg of the trip is to Aden. (15)

12 Oct 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Aden. En-route from Fremantle she had suffered engine problems. (15)

15 Oct 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Aden for Port Said. (15)

21 Oct 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Port Said. (15)

23 Oct 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Port Said bound for Alexandria. (15)

24 Oct 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Alexandria. (15)

10 Nov 1945
After some repairs HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Alexandria bound for Malta. (15)

13 Nov 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Malta. (15)

16 Nov 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Malta bound for Gibraltar. (15)

20 Nov 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Gibraltar. (15)

21 Nov 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) departed from Gibraltar bound for Portsmouth. (15)

26 Nov 1945
HMS Trenchant (Lt. J.C. Ogle, DSC, RN) arrived at Portsmouth. (15)

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