Endeavour sails to Dunkirk to commemorate the 85th anniversary of WW2 Operation Dynamo

May 22, 2025

On Wednesday 21st May Endeavour Leigh-on-sea's very own Dunkirk Little Ship and cockle boat sailed to Dunkirk from Ramsgate to commemorate the 85th anniversary of WW2 Operation Dynamo. It was part of a fleet of 66 'little ships' sailing to Dunkirk to commemorate the rescue of British soldiers trapped on the beaches from 26th May to 4th June 1940. More than 338,000 British and Allied troops were safely brought home by around 1,000 vessels.

In May 1940, as the British Navy began commandeering small civilian vessels for one of the greatest rescue missions in history, the Leigh cockle boats were among those called to action. The goal was extraordinary: to cross thirty perilous miles to Dunkirk and bring stranded soldiers home.

On 31st May 1940, six cockle boats — manned by local fishermen, often referred to as "the labourers of the sands" — set out on their dangerous mission of mercy:

Renown – Crew led by Harry Noakes

Reliant – Crew led by Tony Meddle

Endeavour – Crew led by Robinson

Leticia – Crew led by Arthur Dench

Resolute – Crew led by Harry Osborne

Defender – Crew led by Harvey, accompanied by Sub-Lieutenant RMVR Solomon

These men showed immense courage not only in battle but in their decision to undertake the journey at all. Most had never ventured beyond the estuary into the unpredictable waters of the English Channel. Yet for nearly eight hours, they ferried hundreds of soldiers from the beaches and harbours of Dunkirk to safety. Only when they could give no more did they begin the return voyage. During this journey, the Renown suffered engine failure. The Leticia came to its aid, and eventually, a larger trawler took on the rescued troops and began towing both cockle boats. Tragically, the Renown struck a mine and was lost with all hands.

Leigh-on-Sea mourned the loss of four of its own:

Frank Osborne

Leslie Osborne

Harry Noakes

Naval Rating Harold Graham Porter