Orkney Image Library

I think I have already mentioned on this site this Lifeboat was stationed at Clacton from 1929 until coming to Stronsay. The "Edward Z Dresden" took part in the Dunkirk evacuation in on the 31st of May 1940 and took troops from Dunkirk Harbour out to waiting ships. She was operated by the Clacton crew, unlike some of the other south coast Lifeboats that were comandeered by the Navy as the crews refused to run their boats onto the beaches as they knew they would not refloat loaded with troops. The Navy did just that and all the boats stuck fast. This type of vessel has a deep keel and was never for taking the bottom in such a way. I believe most of the comandeered Lifeboats never returned to their Stations.
The Edward Z Dresden was strafed by gunfire on the way back across the Channel and needed extensive repairs but as can be seen in Eddy's photograph she lived to serve Stronsay until I think 1955.

Forgot to Say "Edward Z Dresden" is the same model as the "Thomas McCunn" that was stationed at Longhope and is now in our splendid Musuem at Brims, do come and visit. (Thank you for the free advertising).

Hi
I have been told that my Grandfather served on the Edward z Dresden at Clacton on sea in the war and sailed to Dunkirk his name was Archer Cattermole can you shed any light.

Hi
If anyone still looks at this thread my grand dad was the bow man (Stumper Griggs) and my Great grandfather was the Coxswain (Charlie Ellis) who took the Lifeboat to Dunkirk. My mother remembers their return.