Hi, I’ve just got my grandfathers navy record back. It notes “HMS Europa” and “HMS Pourquai Pas”. Can anyone tell me more about HMS Pourquai Pas. Seems like a foriegn name. Apologies if I’m being stupid , I’ve just started to research Navy related topics. Thank you
Hi, I think it might be best for other members if you posted a copy of the queried document. You may be reading the entry incorrectly - believe it or not it happens quite frequently Steve
I heard a rumour he was on a minesweeper ship which blew up (he’s brother was on another ship in the fleet and witnessed it). He survived and was found at sea. I’m trying to confirm If there’s any truth in it. I find it unlikely.
Nore, Dover, Portsmouth and Plymouth Commands, January 1942 Armed Patrol Vessel - French POURQUOI PAS at Southampton laid up My be better to provide his name, and some details TD Operation Aeriel, June 1940 SUNDAY 21 JUNE 1940 (17--) arrived Cawsand Bay ARZENITH, A.D. 376, BLACIDAI, FAROULT, POURQUOI PAS, the later with three British soldiers. Just found his name
These photographs are all I have regarding his Navy Service. My mum lost contact with him when she was 9 and only new him as Jack Barker.
Hi, Pourquoi Pas was classed as a Motor Fishing Vessel (MFV). In May 1944 she was in Portsmouth Command. In Service 20/4/42 Out of service 8/11/45 Former name was “Andre”. A Belgian fishing boat. Regards Danny
Ah, so not "Porky Pies" then? Seriously, a famous name Pourquoi-Pas (1908) - Wikipedia also Secret Flotillas Andre may have been a different vessel if Secret Flotillas is correct
There are some mentions of a Porquoi Pas in this book - just checked the index Secret Flotillas by Brook Richards (author): Pen & Sword Military 2012-11-30, Barnsley, South Yorkshire 9781781590805 paperback - Blackwell's TD
Hi, Had another look at docs I have and there were two vessels named “Pourquoi Pas” in service. French vessel requisitioned 23/10/40. Out of service 8/11/45 Belgian vessel requisitioned 20/4/42. Out of service 10/9/46 - Ex “Andre” Regards Danny