The Dunkirk Evacuation in 100 Objects

On 26 May 1940, the Admiralty issued the directive for Operation Dynamo, aiming to rescue the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) from Dunkirk. Initially, they expected to evacuate only 45,000 men within two days, anticipating that enemy action would soon end the operation. However, the outcome exceeded all expectations. Between 26 May and 4 June 1940, a fleet of naval and civilian vessels evacuated 338,682 men, a feat considered impossible. The scale of this success prompted The New York Times to declare Dunkirk a word of reverence. The British Army’s Quartermaster-General called it "unprecedented in the history of war." The Dunkirk evacuation has been immortalized in numerous books and films, becoming one of the defining moments of British history. Today, many artifacts from the operation remain, including shipwrecks, rifles, and photographs, each serving as poignant reminders of the event. Through 100 objects, this book tells the powerful story of The Miracle of Dunkirk, bringing the past to life by showcasing these historical remnants and memorials.