The crew of "C 11" were all below, asleep, when the crash came; and
the boat rolled sideways, and then sank down under water almost
immediately. On the turret were Sub.-Lieut. Watkins and Able-Seaman
Stripes, who were navigating the vessel.
Lieut. Brodie, the commander, was below at the time; but at the
collision he at once realised the danger, and first shook up some of
the sleeping men, and then sprang up the hatchway to see what was
wrong. Few were able to follow him before the vessel sank heavily
down.
The next minute the survivors found themselves in the water swimming
for their lives.
Sub.-Lieut. Watkins, being fully clothed and in his big sea-boots, had
great difficulty in keeping afloat, and was in immediate danger of
drowning, when Lieut. Brodie came to his assistance and held him up
until, fortunately, their plight was seen from neighbouring vessels,
and they were picked up just in time--both being completely exhausted.
But Lieut. Brodie never let go of his comrade in order to get a better
chance of saving himself. He had the true spirit of a Scout in him in
Being Prepared to give up his own life in the attempt to save another.
If ever you find yourself in a position of difficulty or danger, keep
your head, think what is your duty, and do it: remember how it was
done in the case of "C 11." When sudden death and darkness were all
around, the officer kept cool and full of courage.
* * * * *