Berwick began the Second World War at Bermuda with the Eighth Cruiser Squadron in the West Indies. She shifted into ocean convoy escort and joined HMS York in Force F to hunt German surface raiders, narrowly missing some of the targets. The cruiser then served in the Norwegian Campaign and the British occupation of Iceland. Allocation to Force H in November 1940 placed her in the Mediterranean striking force that soon fought Operation Collar. This compressed itinerary shows how quickly a long-range County cruiser could be reassigned among trade protection, expeditionary operations, and fleet reinforcement.
Chapter · 42:36-43:18
Berwick from West Indies patrols to Force H
Berwick moved rapidly from West Indies patrols and ocean escort to raider hunting, Norway, Iceland, and Force H.