Flotilla Of Dunkirk Little Ships Takes To The Thames

Hundreds of veterans took to the Thames this weekend as part of a flotilla of Dunkirk Little Ships.

The 34th annual veterans cruise was a rare opportunity to pay tribute, not only to the people who fought in past conflicts, but to admire the boats that helped saved so many at Dunkirk’s beaches.

Alfred Smith, a Dunkirk and D-Day veteran said:

“I came home on a paddle-steamer. I was on the beach for 48 hours; no food, no water, nowhere to hide and nowhere to go. You just sat there and hoped that the boat you went for didn’t get hit.”

Alfred went on to describe seeing the Little Ships of Dunkirk bravely coming to the troop’s aid as ‘terrific’.

He said: “You were just so lucky that you managed to get onto a ship that wasn’t hit – it was your lucky day”.

In total, 21 Little Ships made their way from Hampton Court to Weybridge, many of which participated in Operation Dynamo and Cycle in May and June 1940.

But, it was not just Dunkirk veterans who were celebrated at the event. Ian Gilbert, ADLS Event organiser said:

“We’ve got veterans from Normandy, from Far East prisoners of war, from RAF Bomber Command, coastal forces and Arctic convoys. Obviously they didn’t all connect with the Little Ships, but they appreciate that these Little Ships are veterans too.”

The day was a special opportunity to reminisce, revel and get out on the boats, described as the ‘ubers of 1940’ by Gilbert.

The journey culminated in Weybridge with a reception by Union Jack clad supporters on the banks and a 1940's themed party.