The passage captures the transition from monotonous Atlantic escort work to a carefully concealed offensive raid on the Lofoten Islands. Commandos seized the town while destroyers sank German shipping and helped destroy facilities producing oil used in explosives. Secrecy shaped preparations, from removing confidential papers to emptying pockets of anything useful to an enemy if a sailor was captured. Personal details about cold, clean clothing intended to reduce infection in battle wounds, and the crew's excitement make the operation visible from the shipboard perspective.
Chapter · 45:57-58:09
HMS Tartar and the Lofoten raid
Ludovic Kennedy's wartime account follows HMS Tartar into Operation Claymore, from secrecy and Arctic preparations to the destruction of German shipping and fish-oil facilities.