John Swinfield: Pioneer Submariner and Legendary Sea Devil

Sea Devils: Pioneer Submariners

by John Swinfield

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6883 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	312 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Early Life and Naval Career

John Swinfield was born in Plymouth, England, on February 11, 1915. He joined the Royal Navy in 1931 at the age of 16, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. Swinfield initially served on surface ships, but his passion for submarines led him to transfer to the Submarine Service in 1936.

World War II and X-Craft

With the outbreak of World War II, Swinfield was assigned to the X-Craft Division, a top-secret unit tasked with developing and operating midget submarines for special operations. X-Craft were small, two-man vessels designed to penetrate enemy harbors and attack warships or other targets.

Swinfield quickly proved himself to be an exceptional submariner. He participated in the legendary Operation Source in 1942, which aimed to sabotage the German battleship Tirpitz in its Norwegian fjord base. Despite the extreme challenges and heavy German defenses, Swinfield and his crew managed to plant explosives on the hull of the Tirpitz, causing significant damage.

Operation Struggle and the Limpet Mines

In 1943, Swinfield led Operation Struggle, a daring mission to infiltrate Singapore harbor and attach limpet mines to Japanese warships. Limpet mines were timed explosives that could be attached to the hulls of ships and detonated remotely. Swinfield and his team successfully attached mines to multiple Japanese vessels, including the heavy cruiser Takao. The resulting explosions caused extensive damage and sank several ships.

Swinfield's exploits in Operation Source and Operation Struggle earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor for gallantry in the face of the enemy. He became a national hero and a legend within the Special Operations Executive (SOE),the organization responsible for coordinating covert operations behind enemy lines.

Post-War Career

After the war, Swinfield continued to serve in the Royal Navy, commanding various submarines and holding senior positions. He retired from the service in 1967 with the rank of Captain.

In his later years, Swinfield became an author and lecturer, sharing his experiences and insights on submarines and special operations. He also worked closely with veterans' organizations and supported the Royal Navy Submarine Museum.

Legacy and Impact

John Swinfield's pioneering work in submarines and his legendary exploits with X-Craft during World War II left an enduring mark on naval history. He was a fearless and innovative submariner who played a vital role in the development and success of special operations missions.

Swinfield's legacy continues to inspire generations of submariners and naval personnel. His courage, determination, and unwavering commitment to duty serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who serve beneath the waves.

Sea Devils: Pioneer Submariners

by John Swinfield

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6883 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	312 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE