Second World War (1939-1945)
The Navy in European Waters  - Coastal Operations: United Kingdom and European Waters

The Royal Canadian Navy, employed on coastal patrols, convoy escort duty, and support operations, made an important contribution to the naval war that raged in the waters around the United Kingdom and off the nearby European coast.

Rescuing German Survivors

HMCS Swansea and HMS Pelican, partners in the destruction of German submarine U-448, north of the Azores, rescued 42 German sailors from the water.

In this photograph, the crew of one of Swansea's boats reach into the water to pull German sailors to safety. Even in relatively calm seas, rescues like this could be a difficult task requiring skill and strength for success. The crew of one of Swansea's boats, commanded by Executive Officer Lieutenant Ian Macdonald, filled up their craft with survivors and then helped tow in yellow inflatable rafts carrying eight more.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19840120-002_p8c