Canada's Naval History

Second World War
Battle of the Atlantic - Sea Battle: HMCS Assiniboine vs. U-210

On 6 August 1942, the Canadian destroyer HMCS Assiniboine, escorting straggling ships at the rear of convoy SC 94, sighted German submarine U-210 on the horizon. In a pursuit that culminated in a running gun battle, Assiniboine, damaged and set on fire by U-210's guns, rammed and sank the submarine.

Artifact Record

Medal Set, Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays, HMCS Assiniboine

Max Bernays, a member of the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve, received the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal (left) for his "valour and dauntless devotion to duty" during Assiniboine's battle with U-210.

When the fire started by German shells began to surround the ship's wheelhouse, Bernays ordered his two telegraphers, who sent orders to the engine room, to leave. Alone and wounded, he operated both the helm and the telegraph, doing the work of three as the ship's commander, John H. Stubbs, gave complicated orders to him. Bernays continued to steer Assiniboine until it rammed and sank U-210.

Medal Set, Chief Petty Officer Max Bernays
Tilston Memorial Collection of Canadian Military Medals
CWM 19890018-001