THE CRUISE OF THE H.M.S. EXETER 1936-1939. This book contains the many, very interesting, experiences of Exeter and her crew throughout her three year cruise on the North American and West Indies Station, based out of Bermuda. Commodore was Henry H. Harwood was in command of the Station during this cruise and, later, in December 1939 during the Battle of the River Plate, which is not included in this story due to war censorship.