HMCS Kitchener (K225)

HMCS Kitchener (K225) was a Flower-class corvette that served with the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) during the Second World War. She primarily saw action in the Battle of the Atlantic as a convoy escort.

Design and Construction:

The Flower-class corvettes were designed to be easily and quickly built, utilizing readily available materials and a simplified design. They were intended for coastal patrol and convoy escort duties, offering a more affordable alternative to larger, more complex warships. HMCS Kitchener was built by Morton Engineering & Dry Dock Co. in Quebec City, Quebec. Her keel was laid down on 21 November 1940, she was launched on 21 June 1941, and commissioned on 22 November 1941.

Service History:

Upon commissioning, HMCS Kitchener was assigned to the Western Local Escort Force (WLEF). She spent the majority of the war escorting convoys between North American ports and Newfoundland. Later in the war, she served with escort groups operating further into the Atlantic. Her primary role was to protect merchant ships from U-boat attacks. She participated in numerous convoy battles and contributed to the Allied war effort by ensuring the safe passage of vital supplies and personnel.

Fate:

Following the end of the Second World War, HMCS Kitchener was decommissioned on 27 June 1945 and paid off. She was subsequently sold for mercantile service.

Characteristics:

• Class: Flower-class corvette
• Displacement: Approximately 925 tons standard
• Length: 205 feet (62.48 meters) overall
• Beam: 33 feet (10.06 meters)
• Draught: 11.5 feet (3.5 meters)
• Propulsion: Single shaft, triple-expansion steam engine
• Speed: 16 knots (30 km/h; 18 mph)
• Armament: Typically one 4-inch (102 mm) gun, anti-aircraft guns, depth charge throwers, and depth charge racks. Actual armament configurations varied.
• Complement: Approximately 85 officers and men