MV Derrycunihy 1943 Wreck and Aftermath

The MV Derrycunihy's wreck and aftermath were a significant event in 1943. The ship sank on April 16, 1943, after being torpedoed by a German U-boat.

The loss of the MV Derrycunihy was a devastating blow to the Allied forces, who were struggling to maintain supply lines during World War II. This event had a profound impact on the war effort.

The MV Derrycunihy was a significant loss, with over 5,000 tons of cargo and supplies on board. The ship was carrying vital goods, including food, fuel, and military equipment.

The MV Derrycunihy was involved in a devastating disaster off the Normandy coast on June 24, 1944.

High seas and enemy shelling prevented unloading for three days, and it was decided to move the ship to Juno Beach for disembarkation.

The ship detonated an acoustic or "Oyster" mine dropped by a Luftwaffe raider at 07:40 on the morning of June 24, 1944.

The mine exploded under the keel, splitting the ship in two, and the after part, packed with sleeping men of 43 Recce, sank rapidly.

A 3-tonner ammunition lorry caught fire, and oil floating on the water was set alight.

Landing craft and the gunboat HMS Locust quickly came alongside and picked up survivors.

Most of the survivors were evacuated to SS Cap Touraine, a former French liner.

Great gallantry was displayed by all troops in the two aft holds, according to the Regimental War Diary.

183 men of the 43rd (Wessex) Reconnaissance Regiment were lost in the disaster.

About 120 others were evacuated wounded.

25 of the ship's crew, including Army gunners, died in the disaster.

The disaster represented the biggest single loss of life off the Normandy invasion beaches.

The aftermath of the MV Derrycunihy's sinking was a challenging time for the British forces. Most of 43 Recce's vehicles were landed from the beached fore part of the ship.

The sinking of the Derrycunihy delayed the recovery of 43 Recce, which was unable to assist its parent division in the Battle for Caen until the end of July 1944.

The sunken after part of the Derrycunihy remains as a wreck site off Sword Beach, a poignant reminder of the ship's fate.