The Dunkirk Evacuation: Operation Dynamo

The Miracle of Dunkirk

Between 26 May and 4 June 1940, over 338,000 Allied soldiers were evacuated from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk in northern France. Operation Dynamo, as it was code-named, became one of the most remarkable military operations in history and a defining moment of the Second World War.

The Retreat to Dunkirk

Following the German breakthrough at Sedan and the rapid advance of Panzer divisions across France, the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) and large numbers of French and Belgian troops found themselves trapped in a shrinking pocket around the port of Dunkirk. On 26 May, the decision was made to evacuate.

The Little Ships

While Royal Navy destroyers and larger vessels carried the bulk of evacuees, hundreds of civilian vessels — fishing boats, pleasure craft, Thames barges, and lifeboats — crossed the Channel to help. These "Little Ships of Dunkirk" became a powerful symbol of British determination.

The Rearguard

The evacuation was only possible because of the courage of rearguard units who held the Dunkirk perimeter against overwhelming German forces. Many of these soldiers were killed or captured. The Immortal Regiment UK registry includes veterans who fought in the rearguard at Dunkirk, including members of the Royal Norfolk Regiment who were among the last to leave.