Association of Dunkirk Little Ships

I wonder if anyone can shed any light on where i can trace a story that was written about a mariner who rescued people during the evacuation....it seems it is a well known folk story and includes a bird..., the mariner dies...someone dies and the bird flies on..it is a powerful story about human inner strength...i am not sure of the details but am trying to locate this story..can anyone help?
thankyou
Alyson Auckland NZ