
The Heroic Battle of HMCS Assiniboine
HMCS Assiniboine’s encounter with German U-210 during World War II remains a stirring example of naval courage and persistence. On July 31, 1942, Convoy SC-94 left Sydney, Nova Scotia, for Europe with Assiniboine serving as one of its escorts. As part of their perilous journey, the convoy was shadowed by German U-boats. Five days into the mission, one freighter was torpedoed, exposing their position and drawing the attention of 18 additional U-boats.
The pivotal clash began at 11:25 a.m. on August 6, when Assiniboine spotted U-210. Through rough seas and dense fog, the Canadian destroyer increased speed to engage. U-210 dove quickly, prompting Assiniboine to deploy depth charges with limited success before resuming convoy duties. Hours later, U-210 reappeared, and an intense game of cat-and-mouse ensued, with the submarine using fog cover to evade precise targeting. The engagement grew so close that Assiniboine had to rely on .50-caliber machine gun fire, enduring a hazardous gasoline fire below the bridge.
In a decisive moment, Assiniboine rammed U-210 just aft of the conning tower. The battered submarine surfaced briefly, only to be rammed again before sinking within minutes. The skirmish claimed six German lives, including U-210’s captain, while one Canadian perished and others were wounded. The bravery of Assiniboine’s crew earned high commendations: Captain LCdr John Hamilton Stubbs was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, First Lieutenant Ralph Hennessy received the Distinguished Service Cross, and Acting Chief Petty Officer Bernays was honored with the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal for maintaining control despite intense smoke and fire.
HMCS Assiniboine’s valor exemplifies the Royal Canadian Navy’s resolve during the Battle of the Atlantic, with this iconic battle commemorated in a 2003 mural at CFB Halifax Officer’s Mess, reminding all of Canada’s vital role in North Atlantic defense.