Re: HMS Beaumaris Castle Escorts Captured U-Boat.

[Nick Clark]

In reply to questions previously posted by Adrian Wyles relating to two recently acquired photographs (see first two images below) and George Smith's story see:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/ww2peoples ... 9923.shtml

Both these photographs can actually be seen in the Imperial War Museum photographic Archive. I seem to remember sending copies of these to George myself a couple of years ago?

First image:
Catalogue number A 28524

Description
An air view from a naval aircraft of one of HM armed trawlers escorting a surrendered U-boat into the area where she was met by armed guards from HM escort ships.

Photograph by LT C H Parnall (Royal Navy official photographer)

Second image:
Catalogue number A 28521

Description
U 1009, the first U-boat to surrender, arrives at Loch Eriboll, Scotland after a voyage from Bergen. With her black surrender flag flying, U 1009 approaches escort ships of the Royal Navy. In the background is the Captain class frigate HMS BYRON of the 21st Escort Group.

Photograph by LT C H Parnall (Royal Navy official photographer)

See my attachments for clearer detail.

Also note that both the trawler and the U-boat in the second image are not named. The trawler is identical to a 'Castle Class' ( HMS Harlech Castle, Beaumaris Castle etc) I think this image shows U-1009 and HMS Harlech Castle.

I have also added another showing a boarding party along side a U-boat. This was sent to me from someone who had served with HMS Byron and I understand this photograph was actually taken from the frigate. Also note the very same 'Castle Class' type trawler in the background.

HMS Harlech Castle is credited as being the first RN vessel to accept the surrender of a U-boat after Germany had finally capitulated. HMS Harlech Castle took the surrender of U-1009 and then escorted her into Loch Eribol and handed the U-boat over to HMS Byron. A lot of historical sources still credit HMS Byron for taking the surrender of U-1009 which is not the full story and therefore incorrect.

There's still a lot unexplained facts surrounding George's story and believe we still need some more hard evidence. However, I've always believed there is something in his claim.

Hope this is useful to you.

Nick Clark
http://www.rnpatrolservice.org.uk
(http://www.harry-tates.org.uk)