The Escape of the 2nd MTB Flotilla

Arthur Pittendrigh from Newcastle, temporary lieutenant, Royal Naval Reserve; HMS Tamar.
During the siege of Hong Kong this officer performed the duties of Lieutenant of the Dockyard at Aberdeen.  He displayed exceptional utility and zeal and was cool and unshaken under repeated shelling and bombing. He is an excellent leader of men, resourceful in overcoming difficulties, and cheerful and resolute under trying circumstances.
He was one of the party which escaped from Hong Kong. It is recommended his further employment should be such as to fully utilize his excellent qualities. - Commander Hugh Montague RN.

Arthur was Mentioned in Despatches For skilful and courageous services which enabled a party to make a daring escape from Hongkong. [ 2646 SUPPLEMENT TO THE LONDON GAZETTE, 16 JUNE, 1942 ]

 

 

 

Photo from Ron Ashby's collection ©

 

 

 

Lt Pittendrigh RNR, Lt-Cmdr Yorath RN, & Sub-Lt Brewer HKRNVR relaxing at Kukong

Lt Kennedy met Arthur Pittendrigh in Hong Kong in 1945 after the Japanese surrender to find him a Lt-Colonel in the Civil Affairs Aministration along with Lt-Colonel Owen-Hughes under Brigadier Colonial Secretary David MacDougall.