Plaque 31st Canadian Minesweeping flotilla

by , KilroyTrip

Plaque text: Minesweepers vital to the success of the Allied landings in Normandy, paving the way for the Western Force that landed on Omaha and Utah beaches. Between early May and June 6, 1944, minesweepers of the Bangor class of the Royal Canadian Navy cleared passages across the English Channel. The NCSM Caraquet Commander A.H.G. "Tony" Storrs, RCNR, Cowichan, Malpeque, Fort William, Minas, Blairmore, Milltown, Wasaga, Bayfield and Mulgrave formed the 31st Canadian minesweeper flotilla. The NSCM Thunder, Vegreville, Kenora, Guysborough, Georgian and Canso were members of the 4th, 14th or 16th British flotillas. Just after midnight on June 6, they set about clearing corridors leading to Omaha and Utah beaches. Accuracy being essential, they relied on highly precise electronic navigational aids and were unable to use any evasive tactics. Their silent efficiency enabled them to accomplish their mission undetected, even though they were within range of German coastal artillery, part of the famous Atlantic Wall, and despite good moonlight. The 31st Canadian flotilla and the 4th and 14th British flotillas cleared the accesses to Omaha Beach. In memory of those who served the cause of freedom.

Plaque text: Minesweepers vital to the success of the Allied landings in Normandy, paving the way for the Western Force that landed on Omaha and Utah beaches. Between early May and June 6, 1944, minesweepers of the Bangor class of the Royal Canadian Navy cleared passages across the English Channel. The NCSM Caraquet Commander A.H.G. Tony Storrs, RCNR, Cowichan, Malpeque, Fort William, Minas, Blairmore, Milltown, Wasaga, Bayfield and Mulgrave formed the 31st Canadian minesweeper flotilla. The NSCM Thunder, Vegreville, Kenora, Guysborough, Georgian and Canso were members of the 4th, 14th or 16th British flotillas. Just after midnight on June 6, they set about clearing corridors leading to Omaha and Utah beaches. Accuracy being essential, they relied on highly precise electronic navigational aids and were unable to use any evasive tactics. Their silent efficiency enabled them to accomplish their mission undetected, even though they were within range of German coastal artillery, part of the famous Atlantic Wall, and despite good moonlight. The 31st Canadian flotilla and the 4th and 14th British flotillas cleared the accesses to Omaha Beach. In memory of those who served the cause of freedom.