Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:35:12-1:38:04

World War I Flower sloops still served in World War II

About two World War I Flower-family sloops reached World War II service, with HMS Foxglove surviving German air attack and remaining useful in a support role.

Accommodation ShipsBomb DamageChina StationDive BombingFlower Class SloopsHarbour DefenceHMS FoxgloveIsle Of WightShip RepairWorld War II
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Question

Did any World War I Flower-class sloops remain in service during World War II?

Short answer

Yes. About two did, including HMS Foxglove, which survived severe 1940 bomb damage and continued in support duties rather than returning to front-line escort work.

Notes

About two World War I Flower-family sloops remained in service during World War II. HMS Foxglove was badly damaged by German dive bombers in July 1940 but stayed afloat and could have been repaired. Newer escorts were already arriving, so the Royal Navy chose not to return her to front-line service. She became an accommodation, base, and harbor-guard ship for the rest of her career.