Leaving Loch Ewe
tune - An Eala Bhan

They left the waters of Loch Ewe for Russia’s northern shore
Some of them conditioned to see dry land no more
High Command did order proceed what ere the cost
Unfortunately as convoys sailed men and ships were lost.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe the Minch it did them find
Soon those sheltered waters were to be left behind
They encountered heavy seas, fog, snow and ice and sleet
Orders were to carry on their journey must complete.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe strict orders did apply
A complete news blankout all ships crews must comply
Enemy planes did seek them out air power did prevail
Air attacks intensified yet northwards they did sail.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe no place for them to hide
Out of UK waters the gauntlet they did ride
Lurking in the northern seas wolf packs did them seek
Ready to attack the ships silent killers from the deep.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe now many years ago
Survivors scarred forever some a watery grave below
The perils and the hardships so bravely did endure
For generations following their freedom to secure.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe not much more can we say
Their tomorrow’s forfeited so we could have today
We honour all who lost their lives the sacrifice supreme
They served their country gallantly with dignity unseen.

The left the waters of Loch Ewe the years have all flown past
Their numbers now depleted a medal struck at last
The country now united recognition long o’er due
We never must forget the debt we owe to ships and crew.

They left the waters of Loch Ewe remember them we shall
We will remember them their honour to recall
We will remember them at setting of the sun
Grow old shall not, nor weary shall, nor ere the years condemn.