HMS Protector – Multiple Contributors

Header Photo: Shackleton closest to Signy Base, Biscoe to the left and Protector furthest out, on a dull day over Coronation Island (Photo: Neil Marsden)
Protector moored off, and Royal Navy Whirlwind helicopter (Photo: Neil Marsden)
Two views of the “Grey Ghost” (Photos; Neil Marsden)
Terry Tallis (E- 1965) – I was being picked up by their helicopter to go and see the Doc on board as Ricky Chinn (BAS HQ) had sliced into my hand with a sealing knife while we were cutting up seal to feed the dogs. I had about 9 stiches in it! Still got the scars…!
Protector In Stanley Harbor, December 1961 (Photo: Mike Fleet)
Protector At Stonington, Summer 1962/63 (Photos: Mike Fleet)
bridge shows Capt Graham in the chair and the navigating officer, Barry Wilson, with his slide rule
(Photo: Peter Kennett)
 I was on board at times during the 1961/2 summer and again in 62/63 as liaision with the Shackleton during our two-ship seismic programme. Protector played a very valuable role, and laid charges of TNT ranging from 10 lb to a depth charge (around 300lb I think). The pictures show (left) a 10lb charge being laid with electrical firing and (right) a depth charge fired by water pressure. (Photos: Peter Kennett)
Protector at Stonington, 1963. Tragically, whilst I was on the Larsen Ice Shelf, two Royal Navy seamen were killed by a premature explosion (I think it was a 10lb charge). I gather that others were saved by the stacks of potatoes nearby on the net deck. (Photos: Peter Kennett)
Left – Whirlwind incoming, Right – Bathythermograph on net deck (Photos: Peter Kennett)