Thomas Buchanan Russell

Died on the 25/05/1915 when H.M.S. "Triumph" was torpedoed by U-21 off Gallipoli

Thomas died when his ship H.M.S. "Triumph" was struck by a torpedo fired from the U-21 off Gallipoli on the 25/05/1915. "Triumph" supported the main landing by the Anzac forces at Gaba Tepe on the 25th April, and continued to support them through May. On the 25th May, the ship was underway off Gaba Tepe, firing on Ottoman positions, with torpedo nets out and most watertight doors shut, when she sighted a submarine periscope 300 to 400 yards (270 to 370 m) off her starboard beam at about 12.30 hours. It belonged to the U-boat U-21 under the command of Lieutenant Otto Hersing. "Triumph" opened fire on the periscope, but was almost immediately struck by a torpedo, which easily cut through her torpedo net, on her starboard side. A tremendous explosion resulted, and "Triumph" took on a list 10° to starboard. She held that list for about five minutes, then it increased to 30°. The destroyer "Chelmer" evacuated most of her crew before she capsized ten minutes later. She remained afloat upside down for about 30 minutes, then began to sink slowly in about 180 feet (55 m) of water. 3 Officers and 75 ratings died in her sinking. Thomas is also remembered on the Clifton Church Roll of Honour (see photos). See photos for Thomas' name CWGC Grave Registration, his name on the Plymouth Memorial Panel List, his Navy Birth, Marriage, Death Record, his Royal Navy Register of Seaman's Services, his name on the Plymouth Memorial and the Royal Navy Cap Badge.