ON June 17 1940 the Lancastria, a converted troopship, was attacked by German dive bombers as it took part in the evacuation of 100,000 troops following Dunkirk.
With 7,000 people on board the pre-war liner sank in 20 minutes, the greatest maritime disaster in British history.
Today, 80 members of the Lancastria Association make a pilgrimage to France in memory of their loved ones and comrades.
Harry Pettit Lancastria survivor Barton on Sea, Hants
