Dunkirk

Today Erskine Veterans Charity marks a significant historical event: the anniversary of the Dunkirk evacuation, famously known as the Miracle of Dunkirk. This operation, which took place from 26 May to 4 June 1940, was a crucial moment during World War II. During the six-week Battle of France, a substantial number of Belgian, British, and French troops found themselves surrounded and cut off by advancing German forces.

On the first day of the evacuation, only 7,669 Allied soldiers were rescued. However, by the end of the operation, a staggering 338,226 troops had been safely evacuated. This remarkable feat was accomplished by an impromptu fleet of over 800 vessels. The rescue effort involved a diverse array of boats, including merchant marine vessels, fishing boats, pleasure craft, yachts, and lifeboats, which collectively became known as the Little Ships of Dunkirk. These vessels played a vital role in ferrying soldiers from the beaches to larger ships, often under heavy fire.

The operation's success hinged on the bravery and coordination of those involved, including soldiers who endured hours in shoulder-deep water, waiting for rescue. The Dunkirk evacuation remains a testament to resilience and the extraordinary efforts of both military personnel and civilians.

Today Erskine remembers all involved and their bravery.

To find out more about Erskine Veterans Charity’s work please visit our website at www.erskine.org.uk, follow on twitter @ErskineCharity via Facebook www.facebook.com/ErskineVeteransCharity or listen to Erskine Veterans Radio at Erskine.org.uk/radio. To donate directly to Erskine, please visit Erskine.org.uk/donate.

Erskine Veterans Charity | Company No. SC174103 | Registered Charity No. SC006609 | The Erskine Home, Erskine Veterans Village, Bishopton, PA7 5PU