As Britain commemorates the 85th anniversary of the historic Dunkirk evacuation, one Kent town is making a heartfelt plea for recognition of its crucial role in rescuing thousands of troops. Sitting at the mouth of the River Thames, the seaside town of Margate played a vital part in Operation Dynamo – the famous mission to save stranded Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War II.
On May 26, 1940, the order was given for all British forces in France to withdraw to the coast and prepare for evacuation. The beaches of Dunkirk were soon filled with a sea of desperate soldiers, hoping for a chance to return home. Little did they know, their salvation would come from Margate – a small town with a big heart.
As the evacuation effort began, Margate’s harbor master, Captain Arthur Stanley, received a request from the Royal Navy to send every available vessel to help in the rescue mission. And without hesitation, the town’s residents answered the call.
Local fishermen, pleasure boats and yachts all answered Captain Stanley’s appeal and took to the treacherous waters of the English Channel. Despite the constant threat of German air attacks, these brave volunteers sailed to Dunkirk and back, bringing back exhausted and wounded soldiers to the safety of Margate’s shore.
One of the most notable vessels involved in the Dunkirk evacuation was the Margate lifeboat, the “Thomas McCunn”. The crew of this life-saving vessel carried out multiple trips to Dunkirk and back, rescuing over 2,000 men in total. This selfless act of courage and determination has left a lasting mark on the town and its people, and it is time for this remarkable story to be recognized and celebrated.
Sadly, the role of Margate and its residents in the Dunkirk evacuation has largely been overshadowed by the heroic efforts of the Royal Navy and the famous “little ships” that braved the rough seas. But the truth is, without the support and dedication of Margate’s community, the evacuation would not have been possible.
The people of Margate opened their homes and hearts to the rescued soldiers, providing them with food, shelter, and clothing. They also worked tirelessly at the harbor, helping to unload and care for the wounded. It was a true demonstration of compassion and humanity in the face of war.
As the 85th anniversary of the Dunkirk evacuation approaches, the town of Margate is calling for greater recognition of its role in this momentous event. Local historian Martin Easdown has been tirelessly campaigning for a monument to be erected in honor of the town’s contribution. He believes that such a tribute would be a fitting way to remember the acts of bravery and selflessness shown by the people of Margate during this critical time in history.
It is also important to note that Margate’s involvement did not end with the Dunkirk evacuation. In the years that followed, the town continued to play a crucial role in the war effort, with its harbor serving as a base for the RAF’s air sea rescue operations. This town truly went above and beyond in its support of the war and deserves to be recognized for its significant contributions.
As we remember the brave soldiers who risked their lives at Dunkirk, let us not forget the unsung heroes of Margate who played a vital role in their rescue. It is time for their courageous actions to be officially acknowledged and honored. So on this 85th anniversary, let us pay tribute to the town of Margate and its people for their unwavering support and bravery in the face of war.