Themes

Article Highlights

• Introduction

• Supplies carried
  

• How submarines transported the stores

• The role of HMS Rorqual

• HMS Clyde, the mail carrier

HMS Clyde, the mail carrier

Between May and October 1942 HMS Clyde undertook seven submerged trips to Malta. The vessel carried substantial quantities of mail from Britain and other Allied countries. This was an important morale booster for the people of the island as they were able to keep in touch with their friends and families. The crew of HMS Clyde made a special Jolly Roger flag to celebrate its role in delivering mail during the Magic Carpet operation. On the flag they painted a crown, post horn and the words 'Royal Mail'.

Discover more about the role of Royal Navy submarines in the Mediterranean during World War Two

HMS Clyde's Royal Mail Jolly Roger (RNSM)