Layout of a Convoy

Heroes Remember

Layout of a Convoy

Transcript

The convoy was usually made up of columns of ships with the most important cargos being in the centre of the convoy. And on the centre column, they might have two more columns either side of it. And the convoy commander was in the lead ship of the centre column which contained the ships with ammunition, air plane parts, gasoline, diesel and all the important stuff was right in the centre. And the outer two were made up of food stuffs, clothing, maybe other materials and that. So, actually, basically, when you looked at it, they were expendable - to keep them away from the centre convoy. We were on outside the convoy on the zigzag course. We’d zig out for a certain length of time, all the time sweeping with our Aztec ahead. And then a certain length, you’d sweep back in. So the escort group were always ahead of the convoy and beside it and astern. And just trying to protect it, listen for the submarines and if they came up, try and drive them back down again because they were slower under water than they were on the surface, on the diesels.

Description

Mr. Irwin gives a detailed description of the layout and protection of a convoy.

Robert Irwin

Mr. Irwin was born in Toronto, Ontario on April 9, 1921. He lost his father in a car accident while a boy. Because his mother had to work, he and his brother were taken under the wing of the local YMCA, where they both became excellent competitive swimmers. Once old enough, Mr. Irwin worked on the lake boats on Lake Superior. Shortly before enlisting, he also worked for General Electric, where he was promised a job upon his return from active service. Mr. Irwin trained as a wireless operator and, after doing shore duty in the Halifax communications centre, joined the frigate HMCS Prince Rupert, which was assigned to convoy duty. Mr. Irwin spent his entire time at sea aboard this vessel. Notable events during his duty include a possible sub kill off Ireland and the rescue of survivors from a torpedoed British warship in the same action. After leaving the service, General Electric made good on its promise, and Mr. Irwin pursued a 40 year career with them. He now resides in London, Ontario.

Meta Data