The Kent proceeded to Coronel to coal, informing the Glasgow and Orama. A search was organised, and, as a result of a wireless signal from the Glasgow, the Kent rejoined her not far from where the Dresden had been sighted. The Glasgow, Kent, and Orama caught sight of their quarry at 9 A.M. on March 14th, 1915, near Juan Fernandez Island. Smoke was seen to be issuing from the Dresden's funnels as our ships closed in on her from different directions. She was taken completely by surprise, and it was evident that there was no possible escape for her. As our ships approached she kept her guns trained on them, but did not attempt to open fire. Then all three British ships fired together, to which the German replied. The official statement tersely reports: "An action ensued. After five minutes' fighting the Dresden hauled down her colours and displayed the white flag."
Immediately the white flag was hoisted, all the British ships ceased firing. The crew of the Dresden then began to abandon her in haste, and were to be seen assembling on shore. Just as the last party of men were leaving the ship, the Germans made arrangements to blow up the foremost magazine. Not long afterwards there was a loud explosion, and the ship began to sink slowly, bows first. The Dresden's officers and men had all got well clear of the ship. An hour later, at a quarter-past twelve, she disappeared below the surface, flying the white flag and the German ensign which had been re-hoisted at the last. All the surgeons and sick-berth staff of the British ships now attended to the German wounded, who were afterwards conveyed in the Orama to Valparaiso, where they were landed and taken to the German hospital.
Such a tame finish to their labours naturally caused disappointment amongst our ship's companies, who expected the enemy to uphold the traditions of Vice-Admiral von Spee by fighting to the last. The main object, however, had been achieved, the victory gained by Admiral Sturdee at the battle of the Falkland Islands had at last been made complete, and our ships in South American waters were now free to proceed on other useful service.
[Part III]
OFFICIAL DISPATCHES
OFFICIAL DISPATCHES