Surviving the Arctic Convoys: The Wartime Memoirs of Leading Seaman Charlie Erswell

During the Second World War, Leading Seaman Charlie Erswell served in the Arctic Convoys, escorting merchant ships to Russian ports. He was present at significant battles, including Operation TORCH, D-Day, and the liberation of Norway. His main area of operations was the Arctic Convoys, where he faced relentless U-boat and Luftwaffe attacks, extreme sea conditions, and appalling weather. Churchill described it as the worst journey in the world. Erswell survived and kept a record of his experiences, which is an inspiring tribute to his colleagues, many of whom were killed in action.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 18 June 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

During the Second World War, Leading Seaman Charlie Erswell witnessed a significant portion of action. He was present at the 1942 landing in North Africa (Operation TORCH), D-Day, and the liberation of Norway. However, his primary area of operations was the Arctic Convoys, where he escorted merchant ships carrying vital war supplies to the Russian ports of Murmansk and Archangel. In addition to facing relentless U-boat and Luftwaffe attacks, crews had to endure extreme sea conditions and appalling weather. This included clearing ice and snow in temperatures as low as minus thirty degrees Celsius.

This arduous journey, known as the Arctic Convoys, was described by Winston Churchill as "the worst journey in the world." Despite the challenges, Charlie, who served on two destroyers, HMS Milne and Savage, managed to document his experiences and is alive today to share them. His story, published to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the first convoy, is not just his account but also an inspiring tribute to his colleagues, many of whom lost their lives in action.

Reading Surviving The Arctic Convoys is a moving experience that showcases the bravery and endurance of the men who undertook this perilous mission. Charlie's firsthand accounts provide a glimpse into the hardships and sacrifices they faced, and the unwavering determination to deliver the war supplies to the Russian ports. The book also sheds light on the camaraderie and support that existed among the crews, as they faced the odds together and supported each other through the toughest of times.

The Arctic Convoys played a crucial role in the Allied victory in World War II, and Charlie's story is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who participated in this historic mission. His book serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during the war and the importance of never forgetting their contributions.

Weight: 516g
Dimension: 165 x 241 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399013031