Robert Hempenstall MTB 09 of the 2nd MTB Flotilla, Coastal Forces Hong Kong

**/**/1919 - 07/11/1946

A/B: Robert Hempenstall D/JX143024 (Highgate North London)

Bob Hempenstall was killed in an explosion while serving with HMS St Angels 7th Nov 1946

A/B Bob Hempenstall at Waichow 30th Dec 1941

Photo from Buddy Hide's collection ©

Remembered with Honour

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Some of the crew of MTB 09 taking a smoko in Aberdeen Channel 9th December 1941
From the left Stoker A/B Charlie Foster, Coxswain Bill Schillemore, and A/B Bob Hempenstall

Photo from the Ashby collection ©

The Crew of MTB 09 at Waichow on 30th December 1941

MTB 09 Crew at Waichow,

Back Row: A/B Penny, A/B Leslie [Lofty] Gurd, Tel Harold.P. Hill, A/B Robert Hempenstall

Middle Row: Stoker Charles Foster, L/S Coxswain William Schillemore,MiD; S.P.O. Ronald J.C. (Jez) Priestley, MiD;

Front Row: Sub-Lt Tommy Brewer HKRNVR, Lt; Alexander Kennedy [OC] MiD RNVR

Photo from Lt Ashby's collection ©

MTB 09 was scuttled along with the remaing 2nd MTB Flotilla off Nan'ao, Mirs Bay, China 26th December 1941.

Photo from Lt Collingwood's collection ©

Hiding in Telegraph Bay

MTB 07 alongside the stone pier with 09 covered in straw and branches hiding from enemy aircraft in Telegraph Bay on the day of the escape, Christmas day 1941. 07 still has a full complement of depth charges on deck.

Photo from Lt Ron Ashby's collection ©

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Escape from Hong Kong - The Final Hours

Robert Hempenstall MTB 09 of the 2nd MTB Flotilla, Coastal Forces Hong Kong