大象传媒

June2nd 1944 Time 8pm
Just put to sea and being rather bored at "just another exercise" when the Commander comes on the broadcaster - "here is the Captain to speak to you " said he. Then we realised - this was something important. Was it about to begin at last? Our minds were soon set at rest for the old man recounted our various working up periods then gave us the "guff". "We are about to meet the enemy" said he in short. Followed by the statement that no further information could be given yet because the possibility of inclement weather might cause a postponement of the operation. As the full meaning of his words broke upon us, there was much speculation as to time, place, and importance of the great event. From Norway to S.France was the limit, generally no panic, no bragging, no anything out of the ordinary, Ah well, I've got the middle watch so it's head down.

Sat 3rd June Time 8am
Came on watch this forenoon and found the horizon thick with merchantmen and naval craft, but these were seen passed during the course of the day. Our squadron once more on its own, Pursuing its zig zag way, steadily, remorselessly. "wonder if Jerry has wind of our coming. Do you think it will be postponed after all?" Everybody will be thoroughly "chocker" if it is. Time 19.30pm Just had orders re action securing of messes etc. Action stations tomorrow night 2030 till - well - we'd all like to know!! Maybe we never will. By now the northern coast of France is favourite for the speculators. looks that way. I judge zero hour to be about 04.45am Monday 5th June. Place - Dieppe. Submarine stand-to short while ago. Nothing doing though.Everything is quiet and in perfect working order. Nothing to do except watch and wait. 21.10pm, getting cold up top now and windy. Foam crested waves showing everywhere. We all pray it will be suitable weather. Cherio till tomorrow. There's nothing really worth while to write about.

Sunday 4th June. 06.00am
Dawn, action stations sometime ago. Weather quite good not too cold.Our own squadron stretched out ahead. Another one in the rear. Just been browned off as Rocket Projector operator in case of need. What a fine time they do choose (to find new jobs). 08.45am The Captain has broadcast what we all feared would happen. Postponed! for 24 ours owing to the weather. Everybody disappointed but bearing up. About turn, back again.

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