At 0855 on 14 Dec, 1940, the unescorted Western Prince (Master John Reed) was hit in the forward part by a torpedo from U-96 about 400 miles from Cape Wrath. The U-boat had encountered a small freighter during the night and missed it twice before the bigger ship was spotted. While the ship settled by the bow and stopped, the U-boat dived to reload the torpedo tubes and then waited until the crew abandoned ship in lifeboats. An hour later, another torpedo struck the forward part of the vessel again, causing her to sink within one minute. The master, eight crew members and six passengers were lost. 98 crew members and 55 passengers were picked up by the Baron Kinnaird, and one crew member by HMS Active.
Commemorate the SS Western Prince, and the Battle of the Atlantic.
About the Convoy Cup Foundation.
The Convoy Cup recognizes the historical contribution of the port of Halifax to the convoy lifeline to Europe during World War II, and perpetuates the memory of the courageous men and women of the merchant marine, navy and air force.
We continue to honour the sacrifices made by veterans of past and present conflicts, who contributed so much to the peace and security we enjoy today.
