HMS Vesper (F39) in action ?

[Wingerdave]

My Grandfather, Thomas Lewis - J45991, served on the Vesper (after his stint with Revenge) from 15 February 1918 through to 9 June 1919.

Now, we know that he was injured and carried shrapnel in his shoulder until his death in 1994, aged 98. I also know he was treated in the Naval Auxiliary Hospital in Truro.

What I would like to ask is if anyone knows what actions the Vesper was involved in between Feb 1918 and June 1919. It's the only period we're a little uncertain of.

Dave.

[Wingerdave]

Okay, I've found some information myself. The Baltic Campaign. The flotilla consisted of, amoungst others, V and W Claas destroyers (Vesper was one such destroyer) and there were certainly shells lobbed at each other (Allies on one side and the Bolsheviks on the other).

I'm going to bet thats where he was wounded, beginning of 1919.

Dave.

[seaJane]

Here's a link to the Baltic Campaign Memorial in Portsmouth Cathedral:

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=pv&GRid=57051803&PIpi=31846123

VESPER came out safely, unlike VERULAM and VITTORIA.

[Wingerdave]

So the Vesper was in the Baltic ? !!!

That is so cool (literaly, probably). Getting closer to some really interesting information. Now i'll just have to get the ADM 53 logs to get the rest of the missing pieces. Obviously i'll try and get (afford) the logs for Sandhurst as well.

Thanks,

Dave.

[seaJane]

Hold the line and I'll see if I can track down the Medical Officer's Journal for the ship - if it has survived.

I have Lewises in my family too - from Somerset... ?

[sotonmate]

ADM53/67313 to 67323 are the logs for VESPER 1918-1919.

[Wingerdave]

@seaJane,

That would be fantastic.

... and no, not from Somerset. Our Lewises are from Breconshire (now Powys).

@sotonmate,

Thanks, I've found them. Should make interesting reading when I get them (saving up as we speak).

Dave.

[seaJane]

Dave,

Rats. Can't trace the MOJs. So sorry (they should be at TNA, ref. ADM 101, since they are not at the other source I tried, but - no luck).

sJ

[Wingerdave]

Jane,

Don't worry about it, I still have one more shot at it.

I'll have to ask my mothers sister, as she is the oldest living relative (then it's me) in the bloodline. We could try though the Royal Navy to get his medical records. It's a pain and takes a lot of time but maybe worth a shot.

Thanks anyway,

Dave.