Help! HMS Coventry / HMS Dulverton / Tobruk

[Maddie]

I am have in my possession my Grandfathers (Bryant Alec Moyle Robison aka. BAMER, Bunts, Robbie, Lofty) rather amazing war diaries, photos galore, memorabilia etc. of his war years.

He was RNVR Signalman called up August 1939, served on Archeron, Coventry (Narvik & Med) until July 1941, Tobruk Admiralty House until March 1942 (during seige), Dulverton July 1942 to June 1943 (lifting of the Malta siege), Home, Queen Mary summer 1943 and I think (?) ended up signaling at Weymouth harbour for the Americans as D-day approached. Diaries end late 1943 - know most ships he was on sunk (!) soon after he left them... - have eye witness report and photos of the sinking of the Coventry (he was aboard Dulverton at time). God knows what he was doing with a camera - always a rebel...

Anyway would love to know more about Alexandria and naval base during war, tour companies that would take me to Tobruk, and anyone who might have known him or why he ended up at the Tobruk garrison during the 9 months of the siege. Would he have been 'seconded' to the Americans? No-one to ask now unfortunately.

Thanks for any help.

[herakles]

There is a UK company that specialises in tours to that part of the world. I seem to recall a figure of about 1800 pounds.

There are also Libyan companies but my advice on them is not to bother. Having spent 6 weeks once just trying to make proper contact with them

[stewart mcloughlin]

The only Americans in Tobruk were in Holywood!
Stewart

[tim lewin]

Dear Maddie, this find sounds as though it would be of interest to the Imperial War museum who in return would probably be able to help you in your research. As luck would hasve it i need to sdpeak to them today so will ask who would be the most appropriate person for you to speak with. Additionally, I would suggest that if there is enough material you might consider a dedicated internet site afiliated or linked to one of the sites specialising in memories of this period. The next HMS Coventry, 1974, and sunk in the Falklands in 1982 was launched by my mother!
Back later
tim

[Maddie]

Thanks for your help - when I re-read my post it did sound bit ambiguous - I meant the Americans at Weymouth! Researched Tobruk quite alot - still want to know why RNVR posted there!

Any idea of name of company? Interested in war sites in Libya rather than ancient history - anyone know of anyone who sails down the Libyan coast from Alexandria?

Thanks Tim - I think I know this stuff needs to go to the Imperial War museum, grateful for any information. Have loads on the Coventry (Old!) if you need any pictures etc. Lots of original naval signals etc. too- loads of my grandfather looking very important in press photos etc.

Regards