Hi
My father was the Chief Engineer PO on MTB 07 of the 2nd MTB Flotilla in Hong Kong 1938-41
MTB 07 Log book 9th Dec 1941: Aberdeen 09.38 Secured on Lighter 261. Opened fire several times on dive-bombers attacking APV’s & “Cornflower.” Bombs dropping near dock, “Frosty Moller” & "Cornflower”

Cdr Hugh Montague RN (rtrd) was the senior Navy Officer (SNO) Aberdeen and in his report dated 11th Feb 42 he states for 19th Dec 41: 14) The Commodore also ordered by signal that all ships except CICALA and effective M.T.Bs were to be scuttled. CORNFLOWER and all A.P.Vessels REDSTART and EBONOL were scuttled in Deepwater Bay. At Aberdeen I ordered Lieutenant HASLEHURST in ROBIN to disregard the order and keep the ship in action as long as possible. I also ordered Lieutenant PITENDRICH, R.N.R. (1st Lieutant of the Dockyard) to keep afloat the waterboat WAVE, 2 small fuel lighters, and 2 small petrol lighters. TERN, BARLIGHT, ALDGATE and WATERGATE were scuttled, as were ALLIANCE and PORT Chauser and other yard craft and lighters. The crews of TERN and B.D. Vessels were sent to reinforce the Canadians holding BENNETT'S HILL. Later it was found that the report of the Japanese approach was unfounded, and the D.D. Corps and Commander PEARS' party came back to the Industrial School.