LANCASTRIA - Cunard White Star Line; 1922; W. Bearamore & Co.: 16,243 tons: 552• 8x70•4x38•8; 2,527 n.h.p.; 16•5 knots; turbine engines.

On June 17th, 1940, the liner Lancastria, Capt. J. Sharp, was lying off St. Nazaire taking on board British troops who were being evacuated from France. The embarkation began at 8 a.m. and continued until 4 p.m., by which time the liner was ready to weigh anchor. In addition to the soldiers there was a small party of about 50 civilians, and their wives and children.

As far as can be ascertained there were 5,310 persons on board, of whom 300 were crew. The first attack by aircraft came about 2 p.m., followed after a short interval by a second raid. In these attacks the Orient liner Oronsay, 20,000 tons, also engaged in the embarkation of troops, was hit and damaged, but still remained seaworthy.

At about 4.30 p.m., in a third attack the ship was struck by a salvo of bombs, one of which passed right through the dining saloon and burst in the engine room. The damage to the Lancastria was vital and she took a heavy list, and although the lifeboats were got out with all possible speed, it was evident from the outset that there was no hope of rescue for thousands of those on board.

Only two lifeboats managed to get away, the others capsizing owing to difficulties with the falls or through being overloaded. Tugs and other small craft were quickly on the scene and picked up hundreds of men in the water.

The Lancastria remained afloat for barely 30 minutes, turning gradually over to port so that those still on board were able to walk upon her side as she lay. After floating on this position for some time she capsized completely and went down by the head.

Meanwhile the German airmen occupied themselves by firing their machine-guns at the men in the water, and by firing incendiary bullets which set fire to the oil floating on the surface.

Of those on board 2,477 were saved, including Capt. Sharp, who was picked up some hours later. and most of the civilian passengers. There was also a small number of people who came ashore singly or in very small parties, some of whom were captured by the Germans and interned.

This story commemorates Corporal R. R. Bodden Royal Air Force, held in honour as one who served King and Country in the world war of 1939-1945 and gave his life to save mankind from tyranny.

May his sacrifice help to bring the peace and freedom for which he died.

THE RUNNYMEDE MEMORIAL AIR FORCES OF THE COMMONWEALTH N° 13060 Admit Bearer to THE RELATIVES ENCLOSURE at the CEREMONY OF UNVEILING by HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN on Saturday, 17th October, 1953 TICKET HOLDERS ARE REQUESTED TO BE IN THEIR PLACES BY TWO O'CLOCK